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RoE Archive => Legends of the Hero-Kings => RoE2 Archives => Grey they Named Him, but Black was His Blood => : DM B June 09, 2010, 08:11:56 PM
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Kaleiman has entered the water: "There is no need. The stairs protect us - from magic and current alike. Just follow them and we'll meet on the other side."
Shortly thereafter you are all walking up the very same stairs you are descending...it makes no sense, but here you are, in the Shadow World, dripping wet in the moonlight, but otherwise unharmed. Rashid, Elamien, Gaerred and Kaleiman have crossed thus far...
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Rashid crouches and looks around. Identifying the High Hierophant, he indicates for him to also remain quiet as can be.
He then tries to look in the direction of the battlefield and catacombs, to see if there are any trace of enemies.
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Gaerred carefully looks around the cave mouth, looking for signs of the passage in the cave mouth, or some sign that long-ago the Paladins of Avani passed this way. Failing that he looks for the valleys central building and focal point.
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"Stay down, all of you," Baron Bellamie's voice murmurs from the dripping heroes' left. "Landen's men travel to the other side. Once they have gone, we can make haste to find our path again." Crouched and quiet, he slides around a rock on the stream's bank to come alongside them. "My search party waits in the catacombs, if none of our soldiers yet follow you. But our time may be short should Landen's men return, whether in victory or fleeing defeat; we shall need to find our path quickly. How goes the battle on the other side?"
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"Very poorly," he says.
"They are likely under the influence of magic. I know of no man who would willing follow the Ogre," he says.
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Elamien is also here.
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Ten minutes later the Pontiff of All Anuire, his sidhe and the old man the HA sent appear as well.
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"Our supporting units are doing their job. Some of our comrades are stuck in the melee, the Ogre has arrived."
"I suspected the catacomb would allow passage by now. I am glad you are here Tristan. Did Rashida make it through to you? - I sent her to find you, half hoping she'd end up here."
"There are no full units coming down the stairs. Perhaps when... " Rashid pauses as more people come up the stream, seeing the Pontiff and his men. "... the Pontiff comes, more men will follow?" He changes pitch to a question and looks to the Pontiff.
He then repeats the question as the Pontiff gets his bearings, offering a hand to lead them up the last steps of the stairs. "Your Holiness, have the enemy been defeated, are units on their way?"
Assuming the reply is "No, orogs came from the catacombs and we know not if we will win, but the main column has been alerted and is on their way."
The team then take in the valley, wait for the last of the enemy to vanish into the daylight world or for another path to sneak out of here and on to where ever the tomb may be located.
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"No, orogs came from the catacombs and we know not if we will win, but the main column has been alerted and is on their way." [ ;)]
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IC:
At some point, Elamien slips quietly off into the darkness, not straying too far, but searching for some clue, which might lead them to their ultimate destination.
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Elamien discerns the road forward - but to reach the Tomb you must first get past the Osoerdan army...and they just stopped crossing over to the other side. There are perhaps five hundred men still here...way too many.
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"Unless someone feels like making a distraction, that can move all 500 men, I suggest that we begin making our way carefully around their position by means of stealth."
Unless there are any objections, the plan is set into motion. Elamien is likely the best at this discipline, barring the elf of course, and Rashid knows the value of stealthy approach too.
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"The Shadow World is like no where else. Here things interact with us in a mystereous and not alltogether reasuring way. By forming a thought the strong willed can sometimes impose their will on the enviroment. Give me but a moment and we will find out"
[Wallac has seen the SM do this in the SW under Ilien and been explained the theory]
Wallac sets his mind to change the fabric of the ground where we walk slightly. To make the sound of our steps absorbed and if it works very well and seems not too difficult he might create something to make us harder to spot for the soldiers
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IC:
As the Pontiff concentrates, Elamien speaks, "I agree that this is perhaps the most prudent strategy available to us; but I would recommend that the Marshal remain with the men in yon catacomb. They should not be left abandoned or leaderless; and I believe that he will be a comfort to them, in this place.
"I will lead the way along the bank of the stream; and I would ask Lannelah to take the middle place and Tristan to bring up the rear. For we ought to proceed in single line, with each of you following in the footsteps of your predecessor, as perfectly as you might."
And she looks at the Pontiff, only waiting for a sign, in indication of his readiness, before setting forth.
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Gaerred goes along but is not the least bit sneaky.
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"Wait." Bellamie catches Gaerred's shoulder, pulling the line to a momentary halt. Elamien turns to glare at him, but sees his face turned towards the skies. Looking up, the party sees what he has seen - a cloud bank creeping towards the bright moon. Bellamie looks back to the others, murmuring "The darkness here may hold dangers, but at least it will help us move unseen. If we are quick."
As the clouds slowly cover the moon, the valley darkens... but not as it should. The light does not fade - instead, the shadows seem to grow and deepen, until every stone, hill, and tree casts waves of impenetrable blackness across a still-dimly-lit landscape, turning a quiet rolling valley into a nightmare of half-imagined shapes and pits. The air becomes heavy and thick, difficult to breath, and even the sounds of the river and the heroes' passage seem muted and swallowed.
Finally, Elamien takes a deep breath and nods, stepping forward with great care. The heroes begin to slowly pick their way through the now-unfriendly landscape, carefully watching the ground to avoid missteps... and perhaps to avoid gazing around them into the beckoning darkness.
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Indeed. Clouds ARE gathering. Perhaps in response to the Pontiff's desperate attempt to impose his will on his surroundings. His intent was to hid you...even if the details were different. A few minutes later the moon is almost covered - and it starts to drizzle. You move forward and - despite Gaerred's attempts to the contrary - manage to make it past the enemy army.
(am I correct in that you're leaving the IHH templars AND sending the poor Marshal over to them, after dragging him in here?)
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(am I correct in that you're leaving the IHH templars AND sending the poor Marshal over to them, after dragging him in here?)
"Marshal, you better come with us."
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At the Patriarchs words Wallac nods his consent
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With the old man in tow you proceed. You pass by the enemy army and come into the far end of the valley...only to find that things are not like they are in the Daylight. Majestic portals lead into the hillsides and everywhere are the mammoth constructions build my the giants of ages past. Before the ice scoured it clean. Elamien is leading your forward, between towering columns, past great temples. On the far side her path leads to series of steps cut into the walls of the steep gorge into which the river flows white and foaming.
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Lachlan, the Siddhe, turns to Gaerred, quickly look for the Pontiffs consent and whispers in his ear
"I believe thou are not really making an effort moving unnoticed. If one is seen likely all meet doom. Thou will make an effort with or possible without my help. If not I suggest you wait for the rest to be safe before moving further."
[If Gaerred want his help LL will cast a minor spell to make Gaerred harder to spot. If Gaerred refuse help and persist making noise LL will insist and possible use magic to detain Gaerred untill the others are far far away and safe]
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Lachlan, the Siddhe, turns to Gaerred, quickly look for the Pontiffs consent and whispers in his ear
"I believe thou are not really making an effort moving unnoticed. If one is seen likely all meet doom. Thou will make an effort with or possible without my help. If not I suggest you wait for the rest to be safe before moving further."
[If Gaerred want his help LL will cast a minor spell to make Gaerred harder to spot. If Gaerred refuse help and persist making noise LL will insist and possible use magic to detain Gaerred untill the others are far far away and safe]
Gaerred will accept any help. It isn't that he isn't trying to sneak, it is just that he is not very good at sneaking about.
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It soon becomes a moot point - the honeymoon is over. Following the path you face repeated attacks by vampire spawn - from here in it will be a tough fight!
---
Weathering the attacks you arrive at the entrance of the tomb of Manethander - you can tell because although it is grand in every sense of the word its scale is human, not gargantuan. It might strike you as odd through, that a awnshegh like the Grey Duke, said to lie entombed, has found someone to build him such a fine mausoleum. But matters of architecture are probably not foremost in your minds as you ascend the stairs, pass through the colonnade, defeat another three spawn - these ones arrayed in the gear of temple knights - and pass into the mountain...
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"We enter now into the heart of the Duke's power," Bellamie warns. "This is no tomb - it is a temple to his own pride and power, raised from the Seeming by his very will. It will obey his commands still; trust nothing you see, take nothing for granted. Keep your eyes open and your wits sharp, and fix what is around you firmly in your mind. It will not stop his power from changing things, but it may at least impede it. Patriarch, have you any knowledge now of where we go? Or perhaps the Pontiff can seek the Book of Law by Haelyn's power."
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“Baron Bellamie your words give reason to the greatest caution and I can certainly confirm the wisdom in trying to fix what is around you in your mind. Not only will that impede his power it will likely also give you warning that he is trying to influence you or your surroundings.”
“I will pray for guidance from Haelyn about the location of his holy Book of Law. Please give me a moment to open myself to his celestial influence “
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"The book is with the Maetheander and from here the way points to him," he says drawing the Scimitar of the High Hierophant while ditching his spear, now made useless in the confines of the mausoleum. He puts his hand upon the shoulder of the Patriarch and smiles.
"Have faith, fedayeen," he says.
“When you have come to the edge of all Light that you know and are about to drop off into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing One of two things will happen: there will be something solid to stand on or you will be taught to fly," he squeezes gently and steps into the unknown.
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Rashid gives a small sigh and his face remains unreadable.
"We will likely need to use the Book against Manethander. Much like he has used its power to try and break free, so its power must be possible to use against him. It may in fact be the missing piece that my forefather did not have, when he imprisoned instead of destroying him."
He then brandish the Sunsword, lettings its energy light the way.
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Divinations are notoriously fickle in the Shadow World...and so it must be now...for Haelyn reveals that the Book is far and away from here.
Then you continue into the structure...Tristan is right, this is more palace and temple than it is a tomb. Nor is it dark and gloomy - it is rich and brightly lit. So richly appointed it would be fitting for an Emperor.
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Gaerred makes note of the direction of the Great Hall and begins to press forward with the group. "I assume we are expected."
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"Patriarch, must the ritual to release Manethander be done here? If we are in the wrong place entirely, all these sacrifices will be wasted!"
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"Sacrifice is never wasted. Merely misguided at worst. The Gods recognize your intent, not the result alone."
"All our moves have been predictable, be prepared and see where we can make our path diverge from the fate Manethander has planned for us."
Rashid indicates the straightforward corridor ahead. "For one, do we really have to cater to his desire to play benevolent host?"
"We have done that once before, and it benefited us not at all. I say we move into the servants corridors and approach a little more discreetly."
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IC:
Elamien, who has been walking with rapier in hand for some time,—ever since the first of the recent attacks by vampire spawn,—follows the others into the interior of the palace. She pays especial attention to the party's wake, invisible though it may be, lest attack should come from behind; and she therefore largely ignores the splendour, which surrounds her. However, when the others pause, engaging in conversation or whatnot, she allows herself to admire, appreciatively, some of the architecture and objets d'art, which lend a rather handsome, if, in some instances, a somewhat gaudy or extravagant, appearance to the place. But she voices not a word . . . or, rather, has not voiced a word, since entring the Tomb of Manethander.
It may seem, to her companions, that Elamien is intently focused upon the task at hand; that she is preoccupied with her private thoughts; or, even, that she is struggling with a ponderous fear. But who knows, really, other than she? . . . None, it would seem, but she. . . .
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As he looks for a side corridor, still leading in the direction they suspect goes to the center of the structure, Rashid makes conversation.
"I have a question. One that may be answered by your Holinesses. If we find Manethander, and bring him in a situation where he can be slain, but only by a blow through the heart."
"What odds would you deem the would be stabber has, of avoiding to receive the taint of Manethander?"
"Is there not a great risk, to one who slays awnsheglien by blows to the heart? - The more powerful they be, the greater the risk?"
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"Is not Manethander a vampire and thus will only die from cutting of his head or exposure to direct sunlight, possible the blessed blade of your forefathers? A stab to the heart would merely render him helpless? Surely he will not be easier to kill than his spawns”
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Gaerred scowls slightly.
"No," he says. "There is not, I fear."
"His taint is powerful and runs deeps. While the blood of the Daoutas is strong, I do not think it can weather the taint of Elin and survive unchanged," he says.
"Remove his head, Patriarch," he says.
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At the words of the High Hierophant, Rashid nods and with a glance backwards he persists. "And these vampires who retain their bloodline in death. Their blood is tainted too, yes? - And a risk if consumed by heart piercing?"
Looking then to the Pontiff who spoke first, the Patriarch says; "Manethander is not undead. He may have properties of a vampire, but he is very much alive. Not an undead. And his vampires carry blood too, if they had it in life."
"High Hierophant, might exposure to such blood give one a connection to the source of the taint, while not corrupting one?"
Rashid looks behind some drapes and sees a service door. He looks back at the group, then back to the door where he carefully inspects its lock and sides. "Unlocked." Rashid opens the door and goes through.
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IC:
As Rashid crosses the threshold, the voice of his wife follows him: "If you have some thing to say, my love, then say it."
At the back of the party, she stands, staring directly at her husband and ignoring any other eyes, which may be upon her.
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Rashid takes a half-step back and leans back. Seeing Elamiens expression he turns fully, standing in the doorway looking out on the stunned faces of the others, and Elamien's unbearable stare.
"My love... We should move on. Find Manethander and get the Book."
As the group turns to Elamien, to see if she replies, Rashid makes an almost imperceptible shake of his head. His eyes are pleading as if he is saying, without words and for Elamien alone; "Not now. Not now."
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"You pick a curious time for delicacy, Patriarch. If you could call it such." Bellamie's tone is disgusted; his stance is wary. "Caution, though, would have served you better. Caution would have had you speak privately with those who could educate you. Caution would have had you hold your tongue until you were certain you understood matters. Which you still do not." He shakes his head. "Gods." He looks to the proudly defiant Elamian. "My lady... you know we cannot continue after that. Will you explain to him, or must I?"
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IC:
Elamien holds her fixèd gaze upon Rashid, looking mysteriously into his eyes, until the Baron has concluded. She then turns her eyes to Tristan, at which point the muscles in her face and her form relax to some extent, and replies, "I have no thing to say, at the moment. I am . . . upset, for the lack of a better term. If you would speak, then I should urge you to do so."
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Wallac ponders if Manethanders influence have infected some or all three. It seems out of order, in this place of everywhere, to have this kind of exchanges. Are they mad or are their souls stained beyond redemption
"Remember where we are and focus. Make an effort of will and stay sane"
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Gaerred looks to from the Baron to Elamien and then to the Patriarch. He surveys the assembled audience and can only exhale deeply as if debating whether to speak.
"Did you think my opposition without thought or consideration? The ravings of a High Hierophant desirous of old tenets, times and traditions?" he says quietly with a scoffing sigh.
"I pray that I am wrong," he says emphatically looking at the Patriarch.
He looks again to Kalieman and then back to the Patriarch.
"One must wonder: was it that Adaliz truly retained the blood of the Daouta's or was something else at work? If Mantheander fed upon the blood of Adaliz then there should not have been any left within her to manifest the blood. Yet, as Maester Kalieman stated, master and child are irrevocably bound, a bond which cannot be severed. Is that not true of all families? Whether or not there is love or hate amongst siblings?" he says.
"I wondered why you would take such a strong interest in the blood of the Grey Duke. It didn't seem to make sense but as I thought on it..." he says.
"Master and child are bound. Yet, it was not through the blood of the Daouta's that this is made manifest, but rather through the Master's. The blood is transferred in blood-theft, therefore, it stands to reason, though I pray I am wrong, that when Elamien stabbed Adaliz through the heart, it was the Blood of the Grey Duke that was transferred," he says.
"And if this is true, then there is a 'ghoul' amongst us," he concludes.
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Rashid turns his face away as High Hierophant Gaerred puts words to the worry that has been gnawing inside the Patriarch for months.
He clenches his fists and before he can stop himself, he has taken a step forward towards Gaerred. He stops, looking at the High Hierophant with smoldering eyes.
"You know there is risk, not certainty. And for you Baron," Rashid points an accusing finger. "I will know what other secrets you might have that involves Elamien, later."
"For now," The Patriarch turns to Elamien. "no one will lay hand upon my wife."
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"What if the High Hierophant speaks the truth?"
"Your peculiar exchanges of late seems almost as if admitting there is something to worry over. Now if you allready had that thought why did you bring your wife here in the first place?"
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The Baron sighs, unmoved. "Patriarch, control yourself."
"Your wife is not the problem."
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"I have a feeling a few of you hold back on things best not to keep from me or do you fear the justice of Haelyn and the vengeance of the Lady?"
"Here we are at the very test of our being and yet we bring with us our own fears or even worse!"
"I beseech you speak up or be forever silent. Now is not the time to test my patience. I have no rack but I have other means and if I must the means at disposal will get to bear right here and right now"
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Rashid visibly relaxes, once he senses that no one is about to do anything rash.
He then address the Baron of Southhold; "Then you better enlighten me, on what can be more critical than my wife possibly being infected with taint."
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And here it is the Patriach is wrong. Wallac require some quick answers or stuff will begin to happen real fast.
"Well what part in 'Now is not the time to test my patience' was unclear?"
Lachlan with complete calm move to stand next to Wallac
"What is it with your wife? Did the High Hierophant speaks the truth about Bloodtheft? Quickly we have not much time standing here. Dont elaborate but to the points."
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"Your Holiness, the final blow to Adaliz the Vampire was indeed through the heart. There are but two ways to slay a vampire, by staking or decapitation, and as Elamien was wielding a rapier it would be rather difficult for her to take off the head!"
"At the time, I did not know that the bloodline had been preserved into undeath. The intent was never the theft. Such base desires are not something either I or my wife suffers from."
"The worry is, knowing what we do now, that part of the taint may or may not have traveled into Elamien. Some connection that is not full taint, or nothing at all."
"I have been with Elamien for months," Rashid finds Elamiens eyes and hold them with his. "and I have found no reason to mistrust her."
"If you feel you are fully up to speed, perhaps the Baron could speak next?"
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Tristan looks to Elamien, but she remains silent, watching him challengingly. He sighs again. "Patriarch, your wife is not bound as a ghoul, else she would have been discovered long since. But neither is she untouched by the Shadow. For there is another being who travels with her, and whispers in her ear, and I know not whether she uses it...
... or it her."
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Turning to Tristan the fire in his eyes diminishing as he remembers the Barons great sorrow
"And the obvious question would be what other being, apparently of the shadow, travels with her and how do you know?”
Not forgetting the Patriarch Wallac quickly continue asking and before Tristan get a chance to reply.
“And Your Grace will kindly answer the Barons unspoken question too as soon the Baron have replied”
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The baron ignores the Pontiff completely. He only looks at the guildmistress - gently, almost sadly. "Elamien?"
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IC:
Elamien studies the Baron of South Hold for several seconds before replying, nodding her head slowly and biting the inside of her lower lip, ever so softly, in apparent thought. Then, says she, "If you would listen to a whisper, Guildmaster, then I shall reveal it: believe not a thing, which you hear in this place. For falsehood is strong, in the Shadow; and none of us ought to believe any word, from the mouth of an other, until the daylight has reminded us of truth. And there is more", she adds, pausing for a moment; then concluding in a whisper: "tarry not; for the hour is late."
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Wallac ignoring Elamien in turn speaks again
“Do not ignore me Baron Bellamie. These matters are of grave importance and it was not be who brought it up of all places down here. Ignoring me will bring us nowhere. I ask not to spite nor to find out where to put the blame but to get ready for striking into the heart of darkness. She either can not or will not answer those questions now. Wether or not you are right in your assumptions I need to and want to hear what it is!”
Ignoring Wallac is not an option which will only too soon become apparent. Righteous fury simmers under the apparent calm. IHH may not be the monsters of Haelyn, OIT, but they do have an inqusition..
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Tristan looks at Elamien for a long moment, then smiles crookedly and without humor. "I see. True enough for now." He looks over at Wallac. "Pontiff, you yourself gave me entry into the Heart's libraries to learn of the Shadow and how it might be fought. Discovering its passage and presence was the first purpose I set myself to, else I should be of no value whatsoever to your quests. As for her companion, inquire of her if you must. For the moment, I am satisfied of its safety."
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"I asked you and reply you will or so help me the All Father"
Drawing his sword for the first time Wallac steps closer to Tristan justice of the true believe burning in his eyes.
"THIS IS THE LAST TIME I SHALL ASK"
Gone is what remnisens of stealth there was. Only furious anger remains [OoC Divine Wrath Major + Divine Aura Major]
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IC:
Not unaware of the actions of the Pontiff or the tone of his voice, Elamien cautiously circles away from Wallac and the Baron, around the party, toward the door, which the Patriarch opened some minutes ago.
"Rashid", she states, on her way, "you must stop him; or we must leave Tristan to fend for himself. There is no time for this!"
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Rashid nods, then whispers, barely audible but enough for the elf to hear. "Lachlan, your friend needs you now. Calm him or all may be lost."
He then backs to the door, waving the old Marshal in after Elamien and waits to see if Tristan can evade the irate Pontiff.
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Thoughts running through Lachlan’s head since the first veiled hints start flowing through the air.
First they have hinted things and danced around the real issue nobody wanting to speak it out first but neither wanting to let the others avoid the issue. Then they stop being just throwing hints about the real issue but actually speak it straight and when the matter becomes revealed, that the thing is Elamien stabbed the sister of of the Patriarch through the heart - that she absorbed that vile creatures bloodline they suddenly want to speak no more.
Baron Bellamie knows something and he seems not to have forgotten entirely who assisted him by giving lessons in shadow lore. Lessons given a little more than a year ago. The Baron should be aware that Wallac knows things. That Elamien and her answers is not really helpful given her situation – the Pontiff needs to know what Bellamie by coincidence or research have become aware of. These answers he need before they can find out how to best deal with Elamien.
Then Elamien begin to circle away, leaving and the Patriarch clearly blind with love speaks to distract. Words that are ignored. Oh yes Wallac need his friend and Lachlan is ready to act though not as the blinded Patriarch seems to hope.
“Lady please stop where you are. While the Pontiff indeed requires some answers from the Baron we are not going to ignore you entirely. This is not a matter of putting you on the rack which clearly some of those present seems to think but you will please desist leaving before we can find out what meaning this have”
Lachlan moves a little toward Elamien and motions for her to stop.
[OoC: This really is going too far. I suggest we take a break until Bjørn takes action one way or the other]
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A wide door further down the hall opens and a man in the traditional garb of a Khinasi freedman emerges. He stops to watch your little argument, then speaks, in heavily accented Anuirean:
"Lords, ladies. This is most unbecoming. The master is expecting you. Please join him."
You can't see the room from which he emerged, but you hear the sounds of laughter and music, and the scents of fine foods and good drink.
It feels unreasonably not to agree to his request - you are, after all, misbehaving like little children.
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"Saved by the Shadow spawn eh?"
with clearly forced calm
"I guess now is not the time to rip those answers, not given willing, from the esvery sence of your beings. The holy inquisition will deal with all 3 of you. Be it actual crimes done or withholding informations regarding shadow spawn from the inquisition. Haelyns justice shall be served though now it seems I have other matters to attend. Divided you made us by disclosing these matters this grave hour and not even having the guts to spill it all out"
"And you Tristan in particular, you disapoint me sorely for I had held great trust and hope in you, and thus it was I helped you learning about the shadow. That I now understand was a mistake but believe a mistake I will not repeat"
calming further as the words gets spoken out loud as if putting things aside, possible for later? Who can know?
"Lachlan make sure we dont leave any of Elamien, His Grace or Tristan behind our unprotected back for such it is now. We can not know if they are enemies of the light or just of the IHH. Or merely the biggest fools I have ever set my eyes upon and wasted valuable time in the most grave hour where the resolve of the brave will be tested"
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The Khinasi steward smiles broadly as he holds the door open for you. Within is a great banquet hall, filled with long tables where guests sit in their finery, partaking in the bounty of the table. There are dancers and music and other entertainment as well. There must be at least a hundred people inside. At the head of the table, near the end of the hall sits your host - the great Duke Manethander - surrounded by his court. He's every bit of what you could expect from such a renowned noble.
Seeing you enter he rises from his seat, showing your far more courtesy than you deserve:
"Ah, you have finally arrived. I had expected there to rather more of you, but as I have always said - it is not the amount of blood you drink that is important, but the quality of it." Spotting the Sidhe: "I had hoped you would appreciate the trouble I've gone through to separate the weak from the strong...and yet you bring a bloodless sidhe to my halls?" Turning to Balter: "And you are perhaps strong in blood, but you looks are not up to standards." General laughter around the table. You see a lot of fangs. "And the Sword Mage, where is she? Did she die or did she grow afraid?" Pause. "Never mind. Welcome you are anyway. After all, you ARE the main course..."
The hall explodes with laughter and barred fangs. Need I say that you feel a little...exposed?
-
(now would be a good time to describe some reactions etc. - keep in mind that a hundred vampires are not really fightable or flightable for that matter)
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Tristan shrugs, smiling. "We've done our best with Lady Marya, but I'm afraid she's still not fit to bring into polite company. When becoming a Cuiraceanite is a step up in your table manners, after all, you know you have a long way to go. We do appreciate you finding her some other children to play with while the adults converse."
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Rashid scowls at Wallac when the steward appears. He mutters while they go with him, into the big hall ahead.
"Listen to me now. This is exactly what happened before, he will bring us in, gloat with glee and then try to make us feel defeated. None of this matters. Find the pieces that do not fit, break free."
As they enter and Rashid sees the massed vampires he grits his teeth and as Manethander speaks, he scans the faces of the people there, looking for faces he recognizes, faces from court, from paintings, for similarities, are they all unique or a glamour - Perhaps people long dead, style of dress?
Then, when Manethander mentions that he expected the SM, but did not know she hadn't entered the tomb, the Patriarch feels the first rush of hope. To himself he whispers, almost inaudible; "He is not omnipotent, with all these servants, he still does not have eyes outside the tomb. Are they real then, or merely another figment invested with some power, to keep us in thrall instead of acting?" He muses.
Rashid lets Tristan speak and stall for time, his eyes row the room again, looking for anything that might represent the Book of Law.
The Patriarch knows that this dreamworld can be altered, his reasoning mind is searching for evidence that the world is not skewed in favor of Manethander. For one, Rashid has never spoken of this evil by title. This creature is not a Duke of the Empire.
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Always they try of reason these humans...when in the Shadow World there is none...
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"By Avani..." Gaerred says quietly looking throughout the room with an aghast scowl, which slowly dissolves to his normally calm demeanor.
"Your Grace," he says to the Grey Duke.
"May I ask a question? The Book of Laws means nothing to you - it was simply a way to bring us to you, no?"
-
"At least it seems Your Grace is not a spawn of our great enemy though foolish it was the way you tried to alert us to the peculiar fact we eh discoused earlier. I will heed the words you just spoke"
[Spoken to Rashid and I assume the Divine Wrath, Major and Divine Aura, Major just activated right before we where "invited" into the hall of Mathander still works.]
In his mind Wallac repeat this mantra while he set his will to penetrate the shadows and locate the holy book of his Lord: "I am Wallac Isilviere, High Prefect for the Impregnable Heart of Haelyn, Pontiff for the Conclave of Temples but before anything else I am the servant of Haelyn and I can feel the presence of the All father within the essence of my soul. His book has been lost and must be found again. The Book of Law, most blessed relic of my Lord, and I must find it, for here is not its place to rest.”
-
Tristan suddenly jerks aside, turning to face the doors that the heroes had entered, seizing at his sword hilt. Even as the others start to react, he swears darkly, releasing the sword undrawn.
As the others turn, they see the steward that had opened the doors, now grasping weakly at his throat while his blood drains away through the gaping slash in it. The tips of fangs show past his lips as he collapses to the ground. Bellamie turns back to them, looking around furiously. "Illusions, shadows and nothing else! Patriarch, this is not the place where we must be!"
The hysterical laughter of the assembled guests echoes mockingly through the empty, barren hall, filled with nothing but cobwebs and mist.
-
Old he may be, but Marshal Edwin Balter steels himself - he will not go down silently. If he can slay but one of these fiends he will be content.
-
...and then his enemies turn to nothing. Same with the Pontiff of All Anuire - he is positively radiating divine wrath and is poised to snap at any moment.
...the wind: "Fools. I have not your book..."
-
IC:
Elamien walks to the doorway, through which she and her companions entred the banquet hall.
-
The corridor is empty - as it was before. You continue.
Soon you stand before a large circular portal, barred by a mighty bronze disk some fifteen feet across. Three broad stone steps lead up to it, columns flank it, ornamentation is heavy, and great braziers light up the area.
From out of the shadow a giant shape steps; literally giant shape. It is an anachronism, one of Cerilia's near-extinct species of giant. This particular fellow stands taller than the bronze disk. He seems quite...real somehow.
"None shall pass!"
-
Rashid holds up a hand, to request the others stop.
"Greetings Guardian."
"I am Rashid ibn Daouta, Patriarch of Elinie. What lies beyond this door?"
Rashid is trying to discern if this guardian might be someone ancient indeed, perhaps even an agent placed here by his forefather, Daouta ibn Hammoud.
Rashid draws the Sunsword slowly. Holding it up before him, not to strike but presenting it for the Guardian to see. He then ignites it, letting the flame play along its length. "This is the sword of my forefather, Daouta ibn Hammoud. Have you seen this before?"
"The wards are weakening. That which you guard is breaking free of his bonds. I have to strengthen the wards once more or to destroy that which is held."
"Did my forefather not prepare for this day?"
-
"The way is shut" he booms, his voice echoing down the hall..."it was closed long ago to mortal man. None shall pass."
-
Gaerrad wants to inspect the disk (from afar if necessary), what is on it, anything familiar. While do so, he speaks to the giant.
"But who closed the way?"
-
Rashid tries to look past the giant, to the disc and walls. Are there any drawings or writings on the walls?
"How is it opened again?" He yells. Simply to keep the giant talking.
-
"Do not question, Patriarch!" hisses Bellamie under his breath. "Command! Who know how little time remains to us. If this beast will obey you, so be it; if not, we must dispose of it, and quickly."
-
Rashid eyes Baron Tristan. Then nods.
"Very good!" Rashid steps closer to the giant.
"You have passed my test and have not forgotten your duty."
"Now stand aside for your Master. I have returned and have business inside. In my name, stand aside for Daouta ibn Hammoud!"
-
A ten-foot spear now points at the Patriarch's throat.
"None may pass but those immortal. So it was decreed. But since you are of the blood of the Creator - you may have passage if you pay the price of blood. One life for the lot of you."
It's not a real giant. It is something made to resemble one. A golem.
The bronze door/disk is covered with runes and symbols of warding. Those of you with high spellcraft skill (or something like that) can tell that any person trying to open the door will be struck dead. Repeatedly. Utterly.
-
IC:
Elamien looks at those, who stand, with her, some small distance behind the Patriarch, searching each countenance for some indication of intent. Then, she states, "I reckon that we are, all, willing enough to die in this place. But now is the time for the weakest, amongst us, to act. Short of that, the descendent of Daouta ibn Hammoud must make this decision for us", she concludes, an unreadable expression upon her face as she directs a sidelong glance at Rashid.
-
IC:
After a pause, Elamien adds, "Of course, there is a corpse in the banquet hall, if no thing more should be needed than that."
-
Rashid takes a step back from the spear. And raises an eyebrow at Elamiens suggestion, then glance furtively at the Marshal before continuing.
"Lets think a second. If the gate is wrought with magics that slay anyone trying to open it, then the life required might indeed be for grounding the energy of the gate, making it possible, for a time, to pass it."
"If we destroy the guardian, we cannot replace it. So even if we succeed, we will have lost this one."
"We do not know if we can defeat the gate, if we even manage to pacify the golem."
"Thus, Maester Kaleiman, and indeed the rest of you, can you come up with a replacement theory on how to meet the payment in blood/way to discharge the gate and satisfy the task?"
-
IC:
"If you hesitate to choose at this time", replies Elamien, "then perhaps you could swear that the payment of blood shall be made, upon our return . . . even designating the victim, if necessary, in advance. That is a formidable oath, as a matter of course; but it would seem to be preferable to losing one of our number, so soon."
-
"A life is needed to open the actual portal, the golem to move the warded iris."
Gaerred carefully looks at the portal and then to the Patriarch and then to the golem.
"Patriarch, this portal is better left unopened," he says quietly.
"To open it, could very well release the Grey Duke."
-
IC:
"That may be true", says Elamien, "but,—gate or no gate,—Manethander will soon be free.
"We have heard the words: 'None may pass but those immortal'; and there is but one immortal, here present. So, should Lannelah step forward and attempt, somehow, to lead us through the gate? Or should the price of blood be paid?"
-
Lannelah steps forward.
"I am immortal golem. Would you let me pass?"
-
Hissing to High Hierophant Gaerred, Rashid says; "There is nothing for it, this is the path we have found and there are no other visible ways."
"Elamien is correct, Manethander will break his prison soon or indeed, will not have to, if his influence is what we have seen so far."
"If the golem would allow the elf to pass, then he can scout ahead. Lannelah, if it allows passage, make sure you can get back here."
At the words, Lannelah gives a small nod but still awaits for the golems reply.
-
The golem lets the sidhe pass - nothing happens with the gate, but then Lannelah nods in understanding and steps through the bronze disk, as if it was not there.
-
IC:
Elamien steps forward and addresses the golem: "I am immortal. May I pass?"
-
"You are not. Though you carry a divine spark you are not immortal. You may not pass."
-
"Guardian, why does it cost a life to pass?"
"And when you say we may not pass, do you refer to not passing You, or not passing the Portal?"
-
IC:
"Rashid, I believe that the portal is an illusion . . . unlike this guardian", says Elamien. "In the banquet hall, too, there was mostly illusion, with the exception of the steward."
She pauses; then adds, looking deeply into his eyes, as her hand tightens upon the hilt of her sword, "Do you see what our course must be?"
[[[OoC: Subsequent Edit: Spelling of "banquet" corrected, in the above IC content.]]]
-
"I do not."
In frustration Rashid decides to try something. Its a well tested and tried method, honored by adventurers throughout the ages. One thing is certain, the result is either very predictable or very dangerous:
Rashid picks a fat silver coin out of his pocket and toss it at the bronze door.
-
IC:
As the coin leaves the hand of her husband, Elamien closes her eyes for a moment; whispers, "Not a golem", almost as if attempting to convince herself of this statement; then, opening her lids, spins toward the gigantic figure, striking swiftly and fiercely with her rapier.
-
The coin goes straight through - maybe it's immortal...
The golem doesn't seem to appreciate the attack - the thunders "None shall pass" again and swings at Elamien, who dodges the blow, but does not pursue her.
-
Gaerred intones quietly while holding his holy symbol.
A small pin prick light slowly pulses with his rhythmic intonation and as he finishes it flashes and he says,
"O Lady, let thy light reveal!"
The flash of light races away from Gaerred to dispel illusions.
-
As Elamien dodges the golem's blow, Tristan steps forward and abruptly seizes her arm, pitching her unceremoniously away from the guardian. Stepping back, he regards it warily, but it merely returns to its own position and stance. He looks back at Elamien, already back on her feet. "My apologies, Guildmistress, but I'd not see the Patriarch suffer your loss. This defender is too quick, too strong for us, and well-warded against magic and the Seeming's variances." He looks now to Rashid, in turn. "Our options narrow, Patriarch. If we cannot find another path, we may be forced to submit to its demands. Its Creator was your ancestor, presumably, whom you know better than we. Was he truly the kind of man who would impose such a test upon those who would pass?"
-
"No. He was not."
"He believed in the rule of Law, and in reasoning. He was a warrior and a magic user."
"Having to offer a life here, to cross, would be wasteful if it was given freely, and if taken against someone's will it would be unlawful if the victim was innocent, and if not innocent, this death would be cruel."
"I do not believe my forefather to have been cruel. He served the people of this land, for many years before he was recognized by the Emperor and granted the Duchy. This golem was created early, when he defeated Manethander."
"Do you hear me golem? - I will not pay a life to pass this gate!"
"My life is paid already, to the service of Avanalae and the people of Elinie. They own me."
-
IC:
Elamien speaks: "The price is not a cruel one, Rashid. It is a safeguard . . . against casual attempts to reach the other side. For only in the presence of a Daouta might the sacrifice even be made; and only a righteous man would consent to make it.
"I am not that righteous man; and I wager that one rogue is as unrighteous as the next", she adds, glancing briefly at the man, who recently threw her to the floor. "But perhaps—"
She does not finish that statement but adds, after a pause, in a tone of voice, which sounds almost weary, "But how long shall we wait for the sidhe to return?"
-
Gaerred intones quietly while holding his holy symbol.
A small pin prick light slowly pulses with his rhythmic intonation and as he finishes it flashes and he says,
"O Lady, let thy light reveal!"
The flash of light races away from Gaerred to dispel illusions.
Before the light of Avani all falsehood must flee; there is no bronze portal before you. The golem is real enough, but not the disk. As if on cue the golem raises its spear and returns to its initial position. Booming voice: "You may pass, sons and daughters of light, into the tomb of Manethander."
It would appear they you have passed its test...and you can be sure that if blood had been sacrificed, that would not have helped you.
-
Lachlan having scouted just a little ahead returns as the heroes enters the tomb
"I see you found out the disk was but an illusion. Steady your mind because it would seem there are more of those to contest up ahead. Look at how the ceiling meets the walls where the frescos style changes into something resembling early imperial"
The pontiff on an inner journey keeps searching. He attempt to let his soul resonance with the Book of Law repeating the mantra in his attempt to penetrate the shadows.
"I am Wallac Isilviere, High Prefect for the Impregnable Heart of Haelyn, Pontiff for the Conclave of Temples but before anything else I am the servant of Haelyn and I can feel the presence of the All father within the essence of my soul. His book has been lost and must be found again. The Book of Law, most blessed relic of my Lord, and I must find it, for here is not its place to rest.”
-
The Patriarch gives Elamien a relieved smile "Be not so quick to comply with unreasonable requests."
As the party proceeds, Rashid lets his mouth continue running.
"If there was truly a closed gate here, then how would the minions gain access to the cursed blood?"
"I had hoped to find some kind of verbal or emotional trigger, but it seems the use of brute magic was the fastest solution." He indicates Gaerred. " - That can also explain how our enemies are able to penetrate here, the guardian is easily satisfied once you know the correct trick."
"If Maester Kaleiman is correct, that magical things come in threes, then I expect there will be one more challenge before the tomb." Rashid seems to consider something, then adds. "Of course, Manethander himself might have added additional safeguards or guards too."
-
"Brute magic, or perhaps proof of our abhorrence of human sacrifice" says Edwin pondering, "I had wondered if perhaps proof of willingness to sacrifice would prove worthiness but could not fit such a fell test with my understand of Avani's creed."
"We are past two of our foes defences now, with luck our enemies reliance on the guards of others, and deception will prove he lacks the force of body and soul necessary to stop us."
"Let us proceed, 'ere the foes without follow us within - or our enemy have more time to respond to our entrance."
"And let us not fall into dissent again - anger, pride, suspicion - such feelings can only be turned against our cause, all here have proved themselves, all here are share the same cause, we can discuss matters of pride and precedence latter should such truly be required."
With that he lapses into prayer and contemplation as he walks forward. If there is deception before them the light of faith will dispel it; if there is fear, love of ones god will overcome it; if there is fury, skill and strength will strike it down - and the heroes bear all qualities in abundance.
-
Kaleiman: "The Marshal is right. We must stand fast and we must stand together - so far we have been our own worst enemies...had not the steward come there would have been blows...but tell me, who or what killed that vampire, and to what end? I cannot believe that that it was done simply to make a point...so what did happen? Anyone?"
But there is no answer, for you all had your backs turned - oh what a sight it must have been, to see you turn your back to the real vampire to gawk at the illusion of Manethander and a hundred more!
Lannelah: "I think we are now truly within the crypt...or the prison if you will. The halls and corridors we have seen thus far...I think they may have been some sort of guard post, long abandoned. Tell me Rashid, did the blood of ibn Daouta keep vigil here after the tomb was built?"
The bronze disk is now at your back - or it should have been, but it is not. Only empty air behind you. Peculiar.
You are standing within a dome with an arched roof some 100 feet across. Columns line the walls, creating a colonnade the runs along the perimeter of the room. To each column has been fixed a spear that is tipped with a shining spearpoint that creates light without fire. The light cast by these spears are reflected by numerous polished mosaics and countless strands of silver and crystal that hangs from the roof like chandeliers. The colonnade is broken in eight places, each to allow a great arched doorway to lead out from the chamber. To Gaerred, who has just returned from the East it feels like he has been transported to an ancient temple of Avani, such is the architecture and ornamentation. It is very majestic. And it feels quite real.
In the center of the great room is a great stone sarcophagus. It is completely without ornamentation, in star contrast with everything else.
-
the Marshal frowns, "too easy, too empty - where are the guards, the traps, the defences that our foe would have placed - or is this the only place we are expected to believe out of his reach? This is doubtless another test of some sort."
The Marshal steps forward and speaks boldly, "well, here we are! You didn't cause all this trouble to bring us here and intend to sleep through our greetings did you?"
Quietly to the others "wait a moment while I step forward to examine the tomb , let the trap snare but the one of us for we cannot ignore it - should it be real and not merely another illusion that is"
Without fear the Marshal steps forward to discover what greeting their foe has prepared...
-
...and is rewarded by...clapping...slow and scornful...it comes from the shadow reaches of the colonnade...
The a voice, so soft and sweet, your strong and deep: "From the moths of old men..."
A figure emerges, clad in fine robes of a forgotten age. His dark hair is carefully combed back and bound in a tail. His jewelery is plentiful and exquisite. He is very pale.
He looks quite a bit like the visage in the diving hall...could it be...him?
"Yes, there were numerous traps and wards, but they have been dealt with by those that came before you. Long before. They had to, before they could free me.
I can tell you all about it if you want - I so rarely get visitors."
He has a book in his hands. Could it be...the Book?
-
He looks at Rashid: "Hello Rashid. How good to see you again."
And at Elamien: "And you my dear, must be Rashid's wife. How lovely to meet you. How is Karlaf these days?"
-
To Edwin: "And the great Marshal Balter...one final glorious charge, then glory everlasting in the afterlife, eh?"
To the Pontiff: "And the holiest man in Anuire come to do violence against me. What a dubious honor."
To Lannelah: "I have heard of you, Prince. Tell me, for I have always wondered, is it better to live in torment and shame for eternity than face the final sleep?"
And Tristan: "And there you are...Tristan...which is the darker heart? Yours or mine?"
He ignores Kaleiman entirely.
-
Kaleiman, who is clearly focusing or straining against something: "Do not listen to it. Whatever it is it reads your minds and tries to use it to play mind games. Stand fast comrades!"
-
The pale man's face turns to regard Kaleiman...then he seems to glide across the floor, to stand before Kaleiman. It takes but an instant. Then he slaps Kaleiman. Not with his fist, but with an open hand. Not hard, just a little sting.
Lannelah's blade is suddenly out and poised between the pale man and Kaleiman.
"Be silent wretched wizard. You know the least of all those here assembled. The ignorant remain silent when they betters speak."
There is magic in the air...
-
"Trust nothing. Believe nothing it speaks. Believe not that this figment is all there is, test the sarcophagus." Rashid says for his friends.
"As for you," The Patriarch draws the Sunsword, "we are not come to listen to your tales or bragging on how wide your net of information gathering has penetrated. Like any weed, it will dissolve when the root is cut."
"Listening to its foul words will but ensnare, trick and deceive until the eventual victory of Light is but a pale thing slightly better than defeat."
With that, the Patriarch of Elinie springs to the attack. He makes his first few swings short jabs, trying to get Manethander to skip backwards, losing balance.
Then he follows up with a wide sweep where the instinctual response would be to spread arms wide for balance and move yet further backwards.
This would leave the Book in just one hand... And the last stroke is a bullrush for the center of Manethanders mass, making him move his arms back in, to defend.
And thus, move the Book into reach of Rashid, where it was the true target all along, to be hit hard! - Sending it back to the others for recovery. - Step two, of course, is disentangling one self from the vampire's grasp.
It all makes perfect sense in Rashid's mind... And all it hinges on, is that Manethander is too cocky, too secure in his power, that he plays along with the first few feints before revealing how terribly fast he truly is.
-
Kaleiman seems to have lost his voice...Lannelah moves to interpose himself between the two of them, his blade at the ready, but he has not yet attacked...
As Rashid rushes forward with his blade the pale man deflects his blow by skewering the book he holds on the Patriarch blade. It immediately catches fire! Then he smashes Rashid with a naked fist. It's like being hit by the hoof of a warhorse.
Lannelah joins the attack - he has held back thus far, not wanting to be the one to strike the first blow.
-
Pain! - Can't focus! - Sword hit book, weight on sword, sword stuck... in Book! - Falling! - Must hold on to sword, must get Book out of his hand!
Rashid fights to lets his bodyweight fall on the sword, wresting the Book from Manethander's grip. When the sword gives way and Rashid hits the floor, he releases the Sunsword knowing that its flame douses when not held.
Hopefully, the Book is still on the tip of the blade and recoverable by one of the others while Rashid gets his bearings...
-
"And what your purpose Shadow?" Called Edwin seeking to distract the man as the Patriarch struck, "what gain sought you from the mayhem and the slaughter? Your time is past in the world of Light, what purpose return?"
The Marshal moves towards the tomb as he speaks, if the enemy that has stood forth is a decoy or another foe awaits he will reveal the truth - and if not then he will wait for an opportunity to snatch the book.
-
Gaerred calls out to the Lady, a subtle spell intended to preserve the sanctity of minds and to hedge out such dark powers, to shroud those around him, as best he is able.
He looks to the Grey Duke.
"You are not free. If such were the case, why would you inhabit your prison still? You are nothing more than a projection - a very powerful projection indeed," he surmises.
"Why don't you tell us why we are here?" Gaerred says while he presses onward with Marshal Balter towards the sarcophagus.
-
Bellamie laughs, a proud, vicious sound, and spins his sword from its sheath. The blade smokes, leaving trails of faint light as it hisses through the air. "This is supposed to be the great Blight of Elinie? An old man whispering tired words and scrabbling, whimperlingly, at the gates of our hearts?" He lunges forward, dropping to one knee as he skids acorss the tiles, and jams his blade into the floor. The vampire - or whatever it might be - jerks oddly, and the party sees the blade sticking out of the shadow of its left arm, which seems oddly immobile... Tristan has pinned its shadow to the ground?
-
It lets go of the book.
The backhand blow nearly shatters Tristan's skull as it knocks him to the floor. He's unconscious even before he hits the ground. Lannelah puts his blade through its chest at the same time. For his trouble he is slashed across the face - not by the creature, but by its shadow - losing one eye as a result. He staggers backwards.
Tristan's blade is still stuck in the floor. It draws the blade free, releasing it's own shadow from Tristan's spell.
"Bloodsilver? How did a nobody like you get hold of that?"
It leaps into the air, frustrating any further attacks on it, landing on the great stone sarcophagus. It smiles at Edwin and Gaerred.
(I'm sure it would readily speak with Gaerred...only it's busy fighting right now)
Rashid? Elamien? Wallac?
-
Rashid collects himself and picks up the book, clapping out the lingering embers. Blood dripping from his nose helps douse the flames.
"This is not Manethander." With the book in one hand, and the Sunsword in the other, Rashid backs carefully away from the sarcophagus.
"A vampire's blow by hand is powerful, but it is also life-sapping. While I felt the strength, I feel no weakening as I once did."
"Hold it at bay, but its slaying is secondary. See these 8 doorways? - Are they not the rays of the sun? - Are there wards here that are damaged?"
Rashid comes close to the High Hierophant, who is much closer to him than the Pontiff, and hands off the Book to him. "Use it if you can. Or find out why this being wanted it."
He then continues to cast about, searching for clues.
-
Edwin frowns, "what manner of demon are you" he whispers, jumping back with surprising speed for his age Edwin casts a vial at the ground covered by the demon's shadow, the shattered vial sends gouts of flame across the demon's shadow...
-
IC:
As the pale man glides toward Kaleiman, Elamien slides away from her companions, to examine, as subtly as possible, the shadowy areas along the colonnade. When the mêlée commences, she proceeds more overtly, searching for any sign of movement or peculiarity of form.
However, when the word, 'Bloodsilver', reaches her ears, she immediately turns her attention, again, to the pale figure. Seeing him land upon the sarcophagus, she moves a little further along the colonnade, that she might approach him from behind, whilst his attention is focused upon the Marshal and the High Hierophant. But she does not forget the shadows, as she moves along the wall, ever searching,—ever ready,—for a second threat.
-
Gaerred carefully takes the book - the most holy of artifacts - the very thing the god clamor to be returned; the very thing the Anuirean spirit calls and beckons to.
He opens it and...
-
Gaerred carefully takes the book - the most holy of artifacts - the very thing the god clamor to be returned; the very thing the Anuirean spirit calls and beckons to.
He opens it and...
Finds holy scripture...in Old Andu, stabbed by a flaming sword, partially singed. What did you expect?
-
Gaerred takes the time to hand the Book of Laws to the Pontiff, while speaking.
"Hold!" he calls out, holding up his hand and moving to back from the Grey Duke to deal within Lannelach's bleeding and hopefully, Kalieman's silence.
"Maetheander, why are we here!?"
-
"You ask me? I thought you were here to take the book and put me to rest!?"
-
Rashid moves with Gaerred to Tristans prone form, covering them both.
"Fine, maybe this is the guy..."
-
"Why did you take the Book of Laws?" Gaerred says while stopping Lannelach's bleeding.
-
IC:
At some distance behind the pale figure on the sarcophagus, Elamien can be seen slipping cautiously through the doorway, directly opposite the one, through which the party entred the large, domed, room.
-
On and on has he chanted the words "I am Wallac Isilviere, High Prefect for the Impregnable Heart of Haelyn, Pontiff for the Conclave of Temples but before anything else I am the servant of Haelyn and I can feel the presence of the All father within the essence of my soul. His book has been lost and must be found again. The Book of Law, most blessed relic of my Lord, and I must find it, for here is not its place to rest.”
In reality he has charged himself with the essence of the divine and is already brimming with holy energy when he receives the Book of Law from Gaerred.
And overflows.. Something goes off within the Pontiff when he opens the Book of Law and he suddenly seems larger than normal [a kin to triggering Divine Wrath and Divine Aura at same time, as if the Andu bloodline of Wallacs respond to the touch of the book.]
-
"It's a long story - which I have already offered to tell...only you wanted to play at swords."
Looking at Kaleiman: "If he tries to spell me again I kill him instead. And Elamien...I can hear your hair growing at a hundred paces...it's impolite to snoop. Not befitting a lady of your station."
-
"A thief I name you and may you be struck down with Haelyns holy might come his Justice!"
Holding the Book of Law Wallac Smite their enemy with holy energy (could be something similar to Holy Smite Cleric lvl 4, possible boosted by the overflow of holy energy in my last post)
-
Kaleiman uses the opportunity to conjure forth a sphere of pure sunlight - for he is not so helpless as he has led you to believe, having prepared several of his spells for just such a situation.
The pale man screams - partly in anguish, but mostly in anger.
"You will pay for this in blood!"
-
IC:
Elamien returns to the large chambre, at a slow run, her rapier at the ready. She closes with Manethander from behind, careful to avoid any energy surging from the Pontiff in her general direction and noting the positions of her other companions, now that she is about to entre the fray.
"I would no sooner touch your belongings than your pale and ancient skin", says the woman, with disgust apparent in her voice. "But my blade is far less squeamish."
-
Seeing Elamien come running, and the vampire turning away from Kaleiman and the burning light. Then seeing her, preparing for her charge...
Rashid springs forward, raising the Sunsword in both hands and with a loud yell he activates the Sunswords daylight ability too, making Elamien able to finish her charge while the vampire is blinded.
He then closes to melee to help flank the beast. Since he has been told that Manethander is not a true undead, perhaps he does still have organs to be pierced by a crafty rogue.
-
Marshal Balter run to the side of the Pontiff, though how would stop the demon if it sought to attack the pontiff is unclear.
-
Gaerred rush towards the conjured sphere.
"I am the Light of Avani!"
And Gaerred, reaches into the searing light, the Lady made manifest, and calls out to the Her drawing in the essence of Her Divinity, and turning it outward in which to smite the Grey Duke, with Her Holy might.
"Creature of Shadow, be undone!" He calls out, the smell of burning flesh filling his nostrils.
"Now, fedayeen, now!"
-
Lannelah feint high as for the neck and instead stab at the heart of the creature
-
The Patriarch swings low, a wide sweep, forcing the vampire to jump or get a nice disabling cut.
Incidentally, jumping will also unbalance it, for the others strikes to easier hit.
-
"Damn it" muttered Balter, "get up boy, no time to sleep we need you, you have no brains to stun anyway at your age" - Edwin prays [OOC: casts minor healing spells, gives a potion of healing of two] over the stunned Baron Bellam before moving to the side of the Pontiff to aid his prayers.
-
There is light, there is holy energy, there are slashing blades. The pale man is not unaffected - the light stings in his eyes and pains him, the power of the gods sear across his skin and touch upon his souls also - nut he does not succumb. He is dazzled, but not blinded, he is stung, but does not burn, he is discomforted, but not turned. And no more blades touch his skin.
Standing upon the sarcophagus with bloodsilver in hand he not only keeps your blades away, he pins Lannelah's sword with his own and then kicks the sidhe in the head with great force, sending him reeling. The sun sword fares little better, for as soon as the blade touches the bloodsilver its light and flame go out! Rashid is left terribly exposed...
For Brandon:
Arriving at the sarcophagus, just as Manethander strikes the sidhe with an unmerciful reply of tighmaevril and undead flesh, Elamien springs upon the stone coffin, only to see the same bloodsilver threateningly raised above the head of Rashid, whose wide sweep has left his own defenses rather open to attack. Whatever target she may previously have had in mind, the thoughts of Elamien, now, focus entirely upon the finely clad swordarm of her foe; and she practically dives forward, in order to strike without delay, the point of her rapier piercing the flesh of the Grey Duke and appearing, again, through the garb at the front of his shoulder . . . at the very moment, when he slashes down at the Patriarch. Her own momentum and the tremendous torque of his præternatural swordplay, as she vainly attempts to maintain her grip upon the rapier, send Elamien flying forward, well over the heads of those, who stand facing Manethander, below; and she crashes, sliding, into one of the many columns, with the crack of ribs and the intense pain of nearly immediate bruising dominating her consciousness. But, in spite of so much dolourous hurt, she manages the faintest of smiles, as she realises that the sharp noises, which accompanied her fall, were, not the sound of her own sword, but the ringing sound of tighmaevril, clanging against the mosaicked tiles of the floor. And, a new hope consoling her in the stark realisation of her weakness and her mortality, she wipes away the blood, which has begun to stream from a cut forehead into the corner of her left eye and begins pulling herself, with the aid of the column, to her feet . . . as she scans the floor about her for the location of that blade.
Sorcerous fire engulf the pale man, a jet of destruction pouring from the hands of Kaleiman the Archmage. His garb catches fire and burns, weathering the beast in flames and smoke...
Lannelah has recovered and drawn a long dagger - his own blade out of reach.
At Balter's position the Baron Tristan finally stirs, and looks about.
Gaerred and Wallac stand ready to renew their assault.
Rashid recovers also.
-
"They say, that the great wizards of the Basarji could place their liver in a jar and could not be slain while it was intact... " Marshal Batler mutters at the sight of the invincible man.
"What lies in the tomb, or the rooms from which he called back Elamier? Revered Pontiff prepare to flee, for you must carry the Book back to the lands of the living"
The Marshal moves back to the sarcophagus and peers inside, perhaps hoping to find a second true body, an amulet or other beloved item that might hold clue to bringing down the foe...
[OOC: if they got to look inside the sarcophagus before and it was empty, he will go straight to the door opposite the one where they entered - the one that Elamier was slipping down when the man called her back]
-
Rashid is reeling, from more than the cut over his shoulder. Most of the force of the blow was diverted by Elamien's rapier sticking through the foe's shoulder.
Rashids armor took some too, but the blow was still heavy enough to draw blood.
"Why can't I remember what I need to. There is a reason... There must be a reason." Feeling blood trickling down his sleeve, the Patriarch cups his hand to gather it. On a whim he spins in place and throws the handful of blood at the vampire.
He then grips the Sunsword with both hands yet again, point down. "Great Avanalae, guide me in this hour, let your Light shine for me, that my enemies be clear and their wounds searing by your great justice!" His blood trickling down the blade, Rashid attempts to rekindle the flame with Faith and Blood.
Regardless, once collected and focused again he rejoins the melee and shouts to Marshal Balter "There can be no flight from this struggle, Book or no Book, his reach goes all the way to Deismaar already. It ends or all is lost!"
-
"They say, that the great wizards of the Basarji could place their liver in a jar and could not be slain while it was intact... " Marshal Batler mutters at the sight of the invincible man.
"What lies in the tomb, or the rooms from which he called back Elamier? Revered Pontiff prepare to flee, for you must carry the Book back to the lands of the living"
The Marshal moves back to the sarcophagus and peers inside, perhaps hoping to find a second true body, an amulet or other beloved item that might hold clue to bringing down the foe...
[OOC: if they got to look inside the sarcophagus before and it was empty, he will go straight to the door opposite the one where they entered - the one that Elamier was slipping down when the man called her back]
The sarcophagus remains closed - a great slab of granite covers it. It would take twenty men, or preferable a crane, to move it.
Besides, there is a burning vampire standing on top of the lid, so you'll have to remove him first...
-
The flames die down a bit - leaving a stark named man standing before you. He seems surprisingly whole considering the treatment he has gotten - no wounds are visible on his pale skin and save for the burned clothes he does not seem affected by the fire at all...save that he is perspiring a bit...perspiring blood, like a man would sweat. It's just a little, enough for a faint reddish sheen to cover his skin.
Kaleiman does another invocation, but this time the pale man is ready - the arcane energy doesn't touch him, but instead spends itself harmlessly on some unseen barrier.
Then Rashid flicks blood on him he looks at him, incredulously: "You would offer blood to a vampire? What lies have been whispered to you poor man? What lies?"
(feel free to resume your attacks)
Then he tips his head back and shouts to no one in particular: "Karlaf! Show you ugly face. I know you are here!"
-
Opening the Book of Law seemingly at random Wallac finds a passage undamaged by the Patriarchs sword and begins to chant.
“The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the iniquities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he who in the name of charity and goodwill shepherds the weak through the valley of darkness, for he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know my name is the Lord when I lay my vengeance upon thee.”
-
The High Hierophant draws close to Maester Kalieman, unleashing another barrage of divine light and fire upon the Grey Duke, largely intended to temporarily distract and blind him to the happenings of the others.
-
Seeing the unharmed vampire, Rashid realises that something different is in order. And if Karlaf is really here...
"Cease your attacks!"
"This is not how we end this. I do not know if it is the sarcophagus giving him strength, but cutting him to pieces seem not to be the way."
Rashid then moves into one of the darkened corridors. Seeking whatever may lay there, or perhaps, give Karlaf an opportunity to leave a clue.
-
Another voice, from somewhere: "Do not listen to him! His words are sweet like honey, but they are also poison. Let ignorance be your armor and faith your sword. Waver, and be undone."
-
Gaerred does not stop. He does not heed the Patriarch; he does not relent in the face of the Shadow. He begins his attacks anew.
Calling on the very rays of the Lady - they stretch out before him like thin spears of luminance, arcing out towards the Grey Duke.
-
Tristan's eyes remain a touch unfocused, but the rage and hate in them in enough to sear flesh. Gone is the wit and false cheerfulness with which he mocked his foes before; he has not the concentration for masks after the blow he took. "Suffer, damn you. You turned upon my blood - I will take yours." He hands move in a complicated pattern, and suddenly a black swarm of buzzing insects explodes from his palms and pours over the vampire, stinging and biting, seeking the sweet blood they hunger for.
(OOC: Summon Swarm usually calls bats or rats, but I don't see why it can't summon mosquitoes and equivalents. We were talking about Vampire the other day, so let's see if draining his blood pool a bit doesn't cut him down to size!)
-
Gaerred's light is as ineffective as Klaiman's fire - it hits a magical barrier and goes to waste. Tristan's swam does a little better - they reach the pale man and attack him.
Manethander: "You call upon insects to fight me? Very well, let there be insects!"
His mouth opens and flying insects pour forth. Wasps, fat flies, locusts. From above tiny spiders start falling. And from ever crack and crevasse scorpions and other stinging creatures.
Manethander: "You are weak Tristan. You will take nothing."
Suddenly he is upon you, crushing you in his embrace, wicked fangs deep in your neck. The pain. The bliss. Its excruciating!
It could not halve lasted longer than a few seconds before his is torn away from you by something falling down on top of him. It nearly tears your neck apart. Blood is fountaining from torn vessels.
To the others: With the insects and his sorcerous speed you hardly see him move. Suddenly he's upon Tirstan. And suddenly a Khinasi male falls down from above, knowing him to the floor. They are now rolling across the floor...
-
Lannelah using the distraction goes for his lost sword
-
The pale man having moved off the sarcophagi and now distracted by his with the unknown Khinasai, gives Wallac a chance to attempt to open it. Quickly he hands the Book of Law to Balter and cast “Divine Power” to go along with the already activated Divine Wrath and Divine Aura. Thus empowered with strength beyond normal for a mortal, the Pontiff goes to the sarcophagi and begins to push the lid off
-
Gaerred is going to save Tristan's life.
-
"By all that is Holy! Can't you see that he is hiding behind some kind of spell-turning shield? - The spells bounce, but summoned beings pass!"
And, seeing nothing at all down the mysterious very obscure corridors, Rashid has no choice but to return to the room, covering Gaerred as he tries to stem Tristan's bleeding and taking a potshot into the furious melee on the floor. - Aiming not for the Khinasi, only for Manethander.
-
Lots good one-liners here now :o
Since you're squandering your temporary advantage anyway...LL is next to the coffin already so he might as well help out with the lid.
To Rashid: There are no strange corridors - there are rooms. Living rooms. Sleeping chamber. Library. Stuff a nobleman would require if he was to stay locked up for quite a while.
-
The Sunsword finally comes to life again, its flame being a kind assistance in swatting and scorching bugs.
The Patriach sees the attempt to open the casket and hurries over to join in!
-
IC:
"Rashid", calls Elamien, "there is no thing in the shadows, except—"
As she sees the Khinasi falling from above, she cuts the statement short; then, grabbing the sword, upon which she has come, she approaches the rolling figures as quickly as her damaged frame allows, tighmaevril in hand.
-
The Sunsword finally comes to life again, its flame being a kind assistance in swatting and scorching bugs.
The Patriach sees the attempt to open the casket and hurries over to join in!
None of the bugs come close to you with the Sunsword in hand - it's not that they veer away, they just turn to nothing as soon as they get near the blade.
The old Marshal stands guard over Gaerred. Kaleiman is doing something - suddenly there is a brief flash of light and he is gone.
The lid thunders to the floor. The sarcophagus is empty.
-
Wallac pour holy water into the empty sarcophagi
-
Lannelah with his sword back furiously attack the pale man still on the floor and Wallac comes after to join him
-
Rashid spots Elamien coming and moves to assist her attack and cover her.
-
By the time Elamien reaches the two vampires the naked one has gained the upper hand. He twists the neck of the other violently, then sinks his fang into its neck, savaging it. The vampire is remarkably similar in appearance to Karlaf Nathal, one of Rashid's lesser vassals. But it is not him. A relative perhaps? As he feeds of his kin he keeps watching Elamien, who finds her head spinning, and not solely out of pain...but the image of Karlaf's face somehow prevents her from falling under his spell...
-
Elamien presses the attack, as does Rashid and Lannelah...all three well armed with magic blades...
The naked vampire suddenly drops it's prey - and for the first time you see something other than smug confidence in his eyes. Does he fear you now?
He brings his had to his mouth. It looks like he might be ill. "Karlaaaf..." he mutters "you foul beast..."
-
In the name of HAELYN I command you to die vile thing!
And then Wallac attack in earnest followed by Lannelah
-
Gaerred rushes foward to place a hand, searing with the Lady's light, upon the Grey Duke, channeling the might of the Lady to destory creatures of the Shadow.
OOC: Lets try some turning with the sun domain?
-
IC:
"Rashid! Lannelah!" Elamien shouts. "Dive upon him! I would strike at his neck; but he moves far too quickly!"
-
At Elamien's cry, Tristan raises one hand weakly from where he lies, whispering in a voice that bubbles and falters. His head droops back to the ground as he gasps the last syllables - but then the shadows of the sarcophagus seems to rise up and pour down over Manethander, weighting him down with intangible force, wrapping about his limbs and chest.
DM Edit:
(OOC: Web plus style. Then unconsciousness again. It's been a long day.)
-
Wallac aims for the neck of the wretched creature and take a big swing
-
The book has many passages, but there can only be one to read now; the Marshal summons up his faith and pours it forth at the vampire as he reads the sermon of the casting out of the shadow from the book of law:
"And the shadow came upon man, and the gods saw that the shadow was foul, and did cast it out"
"And the shadow was wracked and torn asunder and cast from the world of men...."
"Praise Haelyn that is highest, praise Erik lord of life, praise Nesirie guardian of the fallen, praise Avani lady of light, praise..."
OOC: Not quite an exorcism, but the casting out of the Shadow World from Aebrynis (bound to be covered in the book of law and ascribed to the gods - basically trying to weaken the vampire /support the others)
-
For the first time Manethander actually appears vulnerable - you all have at him, three enchanted blades, two high priests and their holy power...and one archmage that appear out of nowhere behind the vampire. Or at least you think its Kaleiman. Hard to tell since he looks like he's made from smoldering metal. He grabs the Grey Duke, pinning him with sourcerous strength...
---
Tristan is alive - and reasonably well. He's yet to join the fight. He is standing back, with Marshal Balter helping to steady him.
A man, looking much like the slain vampire, stands behind them now: "You must act quickly heroes, before he recovers."
Balter readies his blade and charges, like a young and unblooded knight having been ordered into the attack by Haelyn himself...
Only Tristan remains uncommitted.
-
...and Tirstan clearly isn't feeling too well, despite the ministrations of the High Priest of Avani.
-
...many blades hack and stab at Manethander...
-
...Tristna's web of shadows helping pin him...
-
“Dark is your soul light it I will. Let the purifying flame consume your dark deeds, scorch your frame and boil your blood”
Gripping his sword with both hands and whispering into the pommel Lannelah plunge it into the wretched creature
-
Just before delivering the the final strike, Rashid recalls the; "Curse! - The Curse will live on in the one who slays him!"
Rashid deflects his blow into a parry on Balter's enthusiatic attack. "Hold old man! - Hold!"
"Whomever slays Manethander will themselves be cursed forever! - Who is willing to perform that sacrifice? - Lets get him into his casket!"
-
Rashid inexplicably halts his attack, then physically restrains old Balter (who has that half-mad zealous look on him)...has the Patriarch gone mad?
-
IC:
At Rashid's words, Elamien ceases her attacks; then speaks, through her heavy breathing, "Has Karlaf already slain him? . . . Where is Karlaf?"
And she searches the chambre, with her eyes, for any sign of his presence.
-
The voice, much louder this time:
"Elamien, now is the moment - kill him before he recovers!"
The voice is frantic...and heavy with power...
-
"Karlaf you bastard! - If you are here, know this! I remember! You would have me cursed by slaying Manethander, so that you would be free!"
Struggling with Balter, realising that something is not right with him. "If there is anything sense in your black heart, step forth and take the curse for yourself!"
"We will inter you and your heirs will keep their holdings. If you do not, then we you too will be destroyed!"
Trying to get a firmer grip on the wiry and way too motivated Balter, Rashid gasps; "Be still Marshal! - This is not you!"
"Somebody, find Karlaf, surely he is here?"
-
"You fool! I care not who kills him - as long as the deed is done. And it cannot be me - he is my sire and I am powerless to harm him! For the love of the light...KILL...HIM...NOW!"
-
Gaerred kicks the hand of the Patriarch to toss the sunsword into the air, he grabs for it with deadly intent to finally be rid of the meance of Grey Duke.
-
Rashid, distracted by Baltar as he is loses hold on the sword.
As Gaerred picks it up and advance on Manethander, he yells; "You can contain him, not slaying him! Stake him to the floor with the Sunsword... It is how they had time to build the Tomb!"
-
Wallac being vaguely aware something bad may happen to him should he slay Manethander is charged with holy zeal and purpose. The Book of Law is recovered and now the threat to the living, to all Anuire it seems lays at his feet.
“Judgment is upon you. On behalf of my LORD I sentence you to utter destruction. In the name of HAELYN come your destruction. May your soul yet be saved but die you must”
“My LORD in your hands I command my body and soul for now I will pass on a judgment that will likely also spell my own doom and in the end for falling on my own sword”
Before the last word has left his mouth Wallac begin the swing that will cut off the head of Manethander his plan is then to pin him to the floor through his heart. [intended killing blow]
-
Gaerred plunges the sword into the heart of the Gray Duke, with as much force as he can muster.
-
Fools, you are all young with much left to give, let one done with all but the glory of Haelyn take the curse with him to the grave! pulling free as the Patriarch is distracted by Gaerred's attack Balter charges on, blade gleaming like blazing fire in the summoned light of Avani, and aimed straight for the vampire's black heart.
-
(it's better to do it like Kasper - describe your intent, not necessarily the outcome)
I'm sure that Karlaf approves of the eagerness shown by the two high priests...
Despite the Pontiff's divinely enhances strength the sword he wields fails to cut of the offending head...or maybe it was because Manethander is struggling more now, straining to break free of Kaleiman's grasp. No, likely it is the flesh of the accursed...Lannelah has stabbed him a dozen times, but he does not fall...truth be told only the Sun Sword and Tristan's blade have made any real wounds upon him. Clearly more than brute strength is needed...but the Pontiff hacks again with all his might...but Manethander drags Kaleiman out of balance and the pontiff's blade breaks in twain upon the iron skin of the wizard.
Gaerred has a better weapon, but he is no warrior and his blow is a clumsy one. Manethander is skewered, but not in the heart, and moreover he manages to injure Kaleiman as well.
The Grey Duke breaks free...
"NOOOOO!!!"
-
Tristan has pulled himself to his feet, the priests' healing magics still restoring his strength, watching the struggle. As Manethander starts to pull free, he curses vilely, turns, and wrenches at the spear hung on the column behind him - with his blade stolen, he is otherwise unarmed. Perhaps these weapons, if he can free one, will serve better against the creature's defenses...
-
Manethander rips out Gaerred's throat with one clawed hand. With the other he fractures the Pontiff's skull, sending him into oblivion (which is NOT necessarily = dead).
...then Balter's blade strikes true, but does not have the desired effect...the beast roars in agony and blood pours out of the wound, but it does not fall paralyzed to the ground...
-
Metal squeals as Tristan pulls the spear free, then turns and levels it in as much of a charge as he can manage.
-
Wallac attempt to pull out the Sunsword of the chest of the vampire and then use it to finish it off [in his dreams as he seems to be out cold]
-
The Grey Duke would flee now, were it not for the strands of shadow clinging to him...
Karlaf: "The Sun Sword. Or the Bloodsilver one. Take his head!"
-
Wallac attempt to pull out the Sunsword of the chest of the vampire and then use it to finish it off [in his dreams as he seems to be out cold]
Wallac is lying senseless on the floor. Read post above.
-
Tristan runs Manethander through with the spear. He's now got two swords and one spear sticking out of him.
Kaleiman has recovered and clobbers him with both fits, sending him to the floor.
-
Manethander drags Lannelah down with him, half tearing of his arm in the process....
-
Lannelah realizing only the right weapon will do the trick attempt to grip the Sun Sword from Manethanders chest and cut his head before the terrible bloodloss from his lost arm make him die
-
Releasing the spear, Tristan grabs for the hilt of the Patriarch's blade. It's only fair, his wife stole mine! The half-crazed though almost makes him laugh as he yanks on the sword, falling backwards as Lannelah crashes into his legs, and thrusting forward again over the elf's body for the beast's heart.
-
IC:
Elamien, throwing caution aside, takes a deep breath and slashes at the throat of Manethander, ready to follow this attack, if necessary, with an other to the heart.
-
...Lannelah tries, to his credit, but before he can grasp the hilt another hand closes around the Sun Sword...
-
Manethander jerks upright again - and suddenly the Sun Sword is free...but not in Tristan's hand. In the chaos of battle, the half-shadows and the stinging insects...he's drawn the blade of Marshal Balter! The injustice is almost too much to bear!
Manethander is a mess. He's bleeding all over, his skin scorches, his hair ashes...but he's up and his hands are on the spear...which he pushes through himself an into Kaeliman's body! The wizard goes limp and turns into flesh and bone again...
Then Elamien opens up he Grey Duke's throat...and the Marshal, driven mad by some spell put on him by Karlaf, raises the sword in his hand - the Sun Sword - and plunges it into the gaping wound left by his previous strike...
-
Tristan flings himself away from the melee and potential explosion of dark power - who KNOWS what will happen now?!
-
Lannelah with his remaining functioning arm cradle the broken head of his friend. Only to discover he is not quite dead yet. Quickly for a man his condition he uncork a bottle and pour it into Wallac.
-
IC:
Elamien backs,—or stumbles,—away, looking to Rashid, as she does so, and attempting to direct herself toward him.
-
Quickly someone! The Pontiff is not dead yet but it is close if he do not get some quick healing
-
(let Niels have an opportunity, then I'll describe what happens after)
-
Meanwhile... With Gaerred kicking and Baltar regaining his senses and pushing Rashid off of him, the noble Patriarch smacks his face into the stone floor and is momentarily dazed while many crazy things happen.
When he comes to, Baltar has just finished his swing, dead bodies are in motion towards the floor and apparantly Elamien is coming right at Rashid... He decides to duck and cover with her.
-
...a power dark and terrible pours out of Manethander's two mortal wounds. The bloodsilver sword seems to just suck it into itself, rendering it impotent. It is the heart wound that deserves mention...old Marshal Balter is engulfed by it...and then it washes out across the entire room, touching upon everything...blowing out every source of light, dispelling every magic spell, shattering the thousands of crystals above...leaving you all in utter darkness.
A voice in the dark: "Thank you Elamien...and farewell."
-
Lying still, for just a moment, hugging Elamien tight. Then pulling a Sunrod from his belt, he ignites it and slowly gets to his feet to take in the scene.
Baltar, is he still holding on to the Sunsword? - How does he seem to be feeling?
Gaerred, looks quite dead... Damn.
Elamien, bruised and battered, not dead, joy!
The Pontiff, not dead but out cold and being tended by Lannalah. Nice and quiet then.
And Tristan... Where is he?
Karlaf, presumably the voice in the dark, is long gone...
Kaleiman! - He went down, Rashid moves forward to find the old wizard, and if possible mend his wounds.
-
Reconsidering, Rashid recalls a basic truth of managing resources; secure the flow of more.
With that in mind, he walks over to the fallen Pontiff and heals him first. In the hopes that he will be able to save who can be saved with his superior divine magics.
"Marshal Baltar, may I please have the Sunsword for a moment?" he says, eyeing the man cautiously.
-
IC:
Elamien rises to her feet and approaches the sidhe. "Hold still, whilst I bandage that arm", says she.
Later, she walks to the place, where her rapier lies; picks it up; wipes it off; and slides it into a thin, dark, scabbard. Then, she walks over to the Baron of South Hold, the other blade still in her hand, and asks, "How did a nob—"
She pauses, then starts anew, "How did a noble like you get hold of this?"
-
At the blessed touch of the Patriarch Wallac open up his eyes. His head is a mess and the headache like a thunderstorm. He lies in the arms of Lannelah, or rather in one of Lannelahs arms and the ruin of the other.
“Lannelah my friend you are gruesomely hurt!"
Realizing the Patriarch just healed him [somehow he just know it was him] he yell a quick question after him as he goes to tend to others
"Patriarch is it done? Is Manethander destroyed?”
-
"Manethander is destroyed, and others need aid before Lannalah, if you are able. Maester Kaleiman is down over here, and Gaerred is bleeding from a nasty cut to the throat. I cannot heal its sort, but perhaps there is still time with your magic?"
Rashid looks down at Gaerred, blood still pumping albeit slowly, out the wound. In vain trying to reach the brain. "So much hurt, for so few grievances..." He then pulls off his gloves and does the best he can to save Gaerred's life, waiting for the Pontiff to come and assist.
-
Gaerred isn't dead quite yet. In fact the bleeding has all but stopped and he' still breathing. The Pontiff is coming around and you got Lannelah patched up. Kaleiman is a bit trickier - but once you remove the spear from his body and heal him a bit he too recovers. Everyone seems to be doing well. Remarkable.
-
With everyone on the mend, Rashid goes more aggressively looking for the Sunsword. Where is the blasted thing? - And did Balter make a runner?
-
Balter has it - and of course he hands it back to Rashid.
-
With everyone on their feet, Rashid takes the sword and sheathe it. He then looks over Balter.
"How are you feeling Balter?"
Given the circumstances, Rashid then lets his paladin powered gaze study Balter.
-
IC:
Meanwhile, Elamien, whether Tristan answers her or not, hands him the sword, with the hint of a smile, and thereafter addresses all of her companions, in a plain voice: "There is no thing of especial value in the adjacent rooms, although I imagine that a petty thief would find some articles of interest. So, let us depart. This place still has the feel of evil or of shadow; and I like it not."
And she begins to exit the room, limping slightly and glancing over her shoulder at her husband, to whom she directs these several words: "Please, walk with me. I need your strength."
-
Marshall Balter sighs and reels slightly as though drunken. "How do I feel? I feel old lord Patriarch, abruptly very very old. I would like to feel the sun on my skin again, for abruptly I am chilled and...hollow.. somehow. I have spent months preparing for this day, but to tell the truth did not expect to survive. I do not spurn His mercy but feel spent and weary."
"Let us leave this place and see if we cannot win past whatever remains of Manetheander's forces. Our return with the holy Book should rally our forces in Cerilia and banish any darkness should it yet linger in the waking world."
The Marshall turns and walks slowly towards the exit. Taking a flag-pole from the wall he uses it as a staff to walk with, clearly feeling weary from his exertions...
-
The pale man having moved off the sarcophagi and now distracted by his with the unknown Khinasai, gives Wallac a chance to attempt to open it. Quickly he hands the Book of Law to Balter and cast “Divine Power” to go along with the already activated Divine Wrath and Divine Aura. Thus empowered with strength beyond normal for a mortal, the Pontiff goes to the sarcophagi and begins to push the lid off
Fight over Wallac turns to Balter. He would like to attempt to mend the damage done to the book on the spot survey what damage it has taken
"Marshall Balter now is a good time for you to return the Book of Law to me if you would be so kind. I would really like to see if those tears in the paper can be mended"
-
IC:
Elamien rises to her feet and approaches the sidhe. "Hold still, whilst I bandage that arm", says she.
Later, she walks to the place, where her rapier lies; picks it up; wipes it off; and slides it into a thin, dark, scabbard. Then, she walks over to the Baron of South Hold, the other blade still in her hand, and asks, "How did a nob—"
She pauses, then starts anew, "How did a noble like you get hold of this?"
Tristan grins crookedly at the half-spoken thought. His clothes have been shredded, revealing the pink weals of burns still present on his body - especially his hands, previously gloved in softest leather, now shown to have been seared with some terrible heat. Covered in blood, cuts, smoke, and sweat, the expression is a frightful sight. "How many places do the heirloom blades of a House usually come from, Elamien? Handed down through the years." He coughs - his voice is gravelly, torn. "This one is... not to be fully wielded without great necessity. For obvious reasons. Against the wrong foe, it is as much a danger to the wielder as the foe." Now his voice turns dry. "And I begin to suspect it may be cursed - since I awoke it, I've yet to wield it through a full battle without it being taken from my hands. But perhaps that is simply its wielder's incompetence." He takes the weapon back, sheathing it with careful, jerky movements. "With Manethander dead, the need is gone, I suppose. To tell you the truth, I'm not entirely certain how to render it a more normal blade again. I'll be spending some time in the histories again, no doubt." The clever, light facade is back in place - as a fellow professional, she has to admire the speed of its recovery. Only his eyes show the aftereffects of his rage and, now, utter exhaustion as he looks back to her. "And you - are you well, after... all this?"
-
"Petty thieves perhaps... But I also spied a nicely appointed library. I believe I was gifted with a vision of the past... Manethander was never in the sarcophagus. He was set free to roam these halls for all time."
"It was never intended that the outside should come in here, to him, and get tainted all over again. I will have this place bricked up, but those books has been placed there for hundreds of years. Their existence a treasure in their own right, even if they prove to be cooking recopies."
"My forefather, Daouta ibn Hammoud, staked Manethander to the floor... In fact here is the place where the point went into the stone. - But he must have used more than simply the blade to hold him, I think he fueled the imprisonment with years of his own life."
"While the evil was held contained, these halls were built. To contain him forever."
With that, Rashid has said all he feels like saying and joins Elamien heading for the exit.
-
Marshal Balter hands the Book back to Wallac.
Despite the light conjured by the paladin of Avani it's still quite dark...Kaleiman adds a mage-light to Rashid's divine...now you've enough to see by (I suppose you might have other resources as well - and of course Lannelah can see quite well in almost no light at all).
-
Speaking of the exit - where IS the exit?
-
(rather than cut the interesting scene inside the crypt short I've moved what happens AFTER you leave to a separate thread - thanks to Kasper for pointing out the obvious)
-
Wallac being vaguely aware something bad may happen to him should he slay Manethander is charged with holy zeal and purpose. The Book of Law is recovered and now the threat to the living, to all Anuire it seems lays at his feet.
“Judgment is upon you. On behalf of my LORD I sentence you to utter destruction. In the name of HAELYN come your destruction. May your soul yet be saved but die you must”
“My LORD in your hands I command my body and soul for now I will pass on a judgment that will likely also spell my own doom and in the end for falling on my own sword”
Before the last word has left his mouth Wallac begin the swing that will cut off the head of Manethander his plan is then to pin him to the floor through his heart. [intended killing blow]
The most pressing needs for healing taken care of Wallac’s mind wander.
Flashbacks to the fight. Glimpses of violence. No colour only black and white. The Book used as shield and then in then so sudden in his own hand. Taking turns getting butchered by Manethander. Loosing the fight. Something dropping out of the shadows, down from the ceiling. Respite and rekindling of hope. The Grey one going down. Wallac commencing himself to the LORD before the final stroke. Duty. Glimpse of failure. Then poor Ghaereds neck riped open and the white pain oh so sudden. Darkness. Waking up, head spinning and colours returned being cradled in the arms of Lannelah, while the patriarch moves away from them.
Finding himself so utterly spend next to Lannelah, Lannelah whos arm he have just healed as best he can. Wallac looks dizzily at Lannelah and ask him what happened after he found himself so suddenly in the sable of the night, the void? Lannelah gives a brief explanation and concludes with the almost explosion like end. The Old Marshall Balter the hero. But also the damned.
Wallac: “My friend he is not damned. Thrice blessed is my brother. “
Wallac: “First he found HAELYN. Secondly he led a long life in the devoted service of our LORD. Third almost on the threshold of paradise he was tested and found worthy beyond everyone else and thus he made the greatest service for all Anuire. He killed the Grey Duke and possible took upon him the curse of his. Where I failed he took over and as you said, charged as a young bull into battle.”
Wallac still not too sure on his feet walks over to Balter and bows to him.
Wallac: “Brother I salute you and thank you for no greater deed have any single man alive done. Where I and others failed you carried through the charge against the creature of shadow. Will you pray with me to our LORD HAELYN to give thanks for our success in the battle.?”
[OoC: My aim and intend is we end up as the next thread begin. Possible Wallac has offered Balter not only his sympathy but also help and/or advice (but I assume the old geezer knows best though he may as courtesy to the Pontiff take council from him). Wallac will also offer to bring a message to HA and/or CoT for Balter. Wallac had commenced himself to Haelyn before he attempted to make the killing blow - he believed that he was to kill himself or something after the killing stroke as to stop the curse for good and thus he is really emotionally and I guess also on a spiritually level deeply touched by the old Marshalls faith. How Balter shall deal with it Wallac don’t tell unless possible if asked]
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OOC: I'm going to make a leap to a conclusion, before we leave, if thats not ok, I'll edit.
"Marshal Balter, if you have absorbed the curse, then perhaps this prison will forbid you from leaving."
"I do not know how the curse will manifest in your outlook. Manethander was an evil man, with a terrible agenda already before he got tainted."
"Your heart could not be further from his. And you have a full life of experiences and reinforcements of good and righteous to draw strength from."
"I will not barricade the tomb. I will go home and describe what took place here, and ensure that knowledge is passed to my heirs for as long as you remain."
"I will find a way to send you updates on the world outside, and to help keep you winning the battle with the inner darkness I suspect you are about to face."
"Of course, your brethren of Haelyn's Aegis will receive access as well."
"Your sacrifice will never be forgotten."
Rashid looks to his companions, "Nor will I ever forget you who are here in this room with me, nor the ones fallen before we got here. I give thanks from the bottom of my heart. If you call, I will answer this service in kind."
-
Gaerred quietly speaks.
"I am afraid, Patriarch," he says.
"The way must be barred again to the Tomb of the Gray Duke and to the Shadow World as well," he says.
"While I have faith in Marshal Balter, time has a way of bringing all things to pass, both triumphs and follies. In time, lessons learned are forgotten and all virtues are reasoned away," he continues.
"This duty, you bear, is not yours to bear - it is of Elinien making and it should be our crux to bear. In 30 years, I will return to bear it for you and to send you on your way to the gods," he says.
"And after me, another shall that no one who bears the curse must do for eternity."
-
"No man, who sacrificed so much for so many undeserving, should be denied heaven," Gaerred continues.
"It is a burden to be carried as its guardian, and then to be passed to a new guardian, until such a time as it can be undone."
-
"Perhaps making some sort of order charged with such a task would be the prudent thing to do? Or what do Your Grace think?"
-
IC:
Elamien rises to her feet and approaches the sidhe. "Hold still, whilst I bandage that arm", says she.
Later, she walks to the place, where her rapier lies; picks it up; wipes it off; and slides it into a thin, dark, scabbard. Then, she walks over to the Baron of South Hold, the other blade still in her hand, and asks, "How did a nob—"
She pauses, then starts anew, "How did a noble like you get hold of this?"
Tristan grins crookedly at the half-spoken thought. His clothes have been shredded, revealing the pink weals of burns still present on his body - especially his hands, previously gloved in softest leather, now shown to have been seared with some terrible heat. Covered in blood, cuts, smoke, and sweat, the expression is a frightful sight. "How many places do the heirloom blades of a House usually come from, Elamien? Handed down through the years." He coughs - his voice is gravelly, torn. "This one is... not to be fully wielded without great necessity. For obvious reasons. Against the wrong foe, it is as much a danger to the wielder as the foe." Now his voice turns dry. "And I begin to suspect it may be cursed - since I awoke it, I've yet to wield it through a full battle without it being taken from my hands. But perhaps that is simply its wielder's incompetence." He takes the weapon back, sheathing it with careful, jerky movements. "With Manethander dead, the need is gone, I suppose. To tell you the truth, I'm not entirely certain how to render it a more normal blade again. I'll be spending some time in the histories again, no doubt." The clever, light facade is back in place - as a fellow professional, she has to admire the speed of its recovery. Only his eyes show the aftereffects of his rage and, now, utter exhaustion as he looks back to her. "And you - are you well, after... all this?"
IC:
By way of reply, Elamien only shrugs her shoulders, although the expression on her face seems to betray a considerable amount of internal pain.
IC:
Meanwhile, Elamien, whether Tristan answers her or not, hands him the sword, with the hint of a smile, and thereafter addresses all of her companions, in a plain voice: "There is no thing of especial value in the adjacent rooms, although I imagine that a petty thief would find some articles of interest. So, let us depart. This place still has the feel of evil or of shadow; and I like it not."
And she begins to exit the room, limping slightly and glancing over her shoulder at her husband, to whom she directs these several words: "Please, walk with me. I need your strength."
Speaking of the exit - where IS the exit?
IC:
Finding no exit, where she thought to find one, Elamien stops, shaking her head. "The Shadow World is ever a frustrating place", she comments.
-
"Elamien! You are in pain! - Please, can someone heal my wife?" Rashid seems way more concerned than the immediate injury would seem to warrant.
-
IC:
Elamien smiles warmly at her husband's apparent concern.
Then, turning her attention to the Pontiff and the High Hierophant, says she, "Although I am not so versed in religion as your reverend selves and frankly have no idea of the ultra-fine distinctions, which may be drawn between murder and euthanasia in the very Book of Law, which I see before me, I none the less find myself rather shocked to hear the suggestion, that, every so many years, a man ought to cross the Veil, entre this tomb of shadow, and slay its occupant. And I am not even referring to shock over the moral implications: rather, I am shocked at the imprudence, which seems inherent in the idea. This place ought rather to be sealed; and, if I had dealt the killing blow,—which, in the end, I was more than ready to do,—I would not tolerate any suggestion to the contrary, howsoever based in the sympathetic pity of most pious priests. . . .
"Although especially difficult to utter, in the presence of Marshal Edwin,—who, in my opinion, is a veritable hero,—no individual ought ever to lay eyes upon his face again. For we must face fact: melancholy is the sensible end of our adventure."
-
Balter stops he walk and peers at the wall where once the door stood. "Ah, I feel it now, this tomb is mine and shall not let me leave. A pity, I should have liked to see sunlight one last time after touching such evil, but the burden was taken willingly, and none better than me of all of us to bear it for you all have much living to do."
He turns to Gaerred, "nor should such living be done in the shadow of doom - even if such a line of martyr's would not inevitably yield a rogue given mortal frailty, to leave the tomb open for entrance would inevitably beg another of lower morals to enter. Not to mention the cost to those left behind as the Martyrs left the waking world. I do not recall whether your order permits marriage foolish and greedy though such a ban ever is, but to leave children would be crime - even if leaving nephews and nieces not sons and daughters for Robhan speaks of you and your brothers as though you were his own and such bonds cannot be forsaken."
"I have faith in Him and our Lady Mercy and a thousand bright memories in which to dwell. I will not be alone for all that you have gone for they shall rest beside me always. Lord Patriarch, recover whatever you wish from these halls for I read no Khinasi and Laerme's treasures should always be shared. Then seal the tomb and hide all record of its existence as was done before, that none of foul heart may learn of it once memories fade - should your children have need of its location then the gods will reveal the truth to them as they did to us."
He walks to the Pontiff and clasps his shoulders. "You have love for Him, and hate for His foes, such is right and necessary. But know the wisdom that came to me only with age. No mortal can understand everything of anything - such perfect understanding is given to the gods alone. Never consider someone opposed to you or wrong simply because they disagree, or distrust you for they cannot have perfect understanding either - even after you have taught them all you can they will remain mortal and thus imperfect. Think also of this, regardless of mortal resolution He will set all right in Heaven - it is not given to mortal men be they nobles, priests, or even those so high as you to right all wrongs."
Edwin takes off his cloak and folds it around his signet ring and a badge before handing the tight bundle to the Pontiff. "Please take those to Robhan, he will know what it means for I am dead to the living world now and it is time for another to guide Ghoere. And wish him well for me, the Aegos will not hold me but I am Aegis nonetheless and will pray that he and Mhoried emerge from the trials ahead strong in faith and body.
He sighs, "and now you have friends waiting above that wish to learn if you are alive, or who perhaps yet need your aid. It is time for you to return to the land of the living. Farewell."
After they had gone Edwin sat silently, and slowly cleaned and resharpened his blade, hammered flat the rivets in his chain, and neatly laid out the remaining flasks of oil and holy water to his side. Shadow ever sought Shadow, and whatever fell power not dwelt within him would neither corrupt him nor be taken from him by one seeking it. He smiled, if the tomb was completely forgotten, then Manetheander's corruption would never again threaten the people of Cerilia. If not, then evil would waste its energy seeking him out and, Haelyn willing, die on his blade never again to threaten the land. As you will it my Lord, let it be.
-
[OoC: Please consider to move this post. Changed my mind and would like to post my reply as a flashback in the new thread. Andys answer is simply too good for me to match and for all I care a nice ending to this thread.]
IC:
Leaving the crypt Wallac have a flashback. Oh he will remember the Marshal. Brother Edwin will forever hold a special place in his heart. In that special place and close to where he feels the presence of the All Father. A valuable reminder that for Wallac, that a follower of HAELYN is a brother in faith before anything else. Before considering if he belongs to one or another Haelyn temple. Faith in HAELYN they all share.
“Brother your wise words spoken as a true saint humble me and I will take them to my heart, carry them there and treasure them for the rest of my life. All though I find it hard to believe your wisdom come from high age alone I am sure it contributed to it as well. I praise HAELYN that I got the chance to meet you and see the high example you set for those who follow after. You touch my heart and words feel so poor and inadequate for my reply. Rest assured that I will attempt learn from them as best I can. “
“Let me assure you I personally see to bringing your cloak, signet ring and badge to Robhan and wish him well for you. If you don’t mind I’ll also tell Robhan of your deed and pure sacrifice.”
“ Perhaps you will honor me and pray together with us before we leave?”
Wallac accept the bundle of Edwin with a deep bow.
“Perhaps you will honor me and pray together before we leave for the land living, the land of daylight?”
In the end they all prayed together and afterwards Wallac had thought, nah had been convinced, they somehow where bound together by destiny harsh words exchanged or not, married or not. They all knew they had to keep the secret and not write it for others to read. To keep Anuire safe.
-
Gaerred nods at Marshal Balter and with and embrace of brotherly affection.
"Go in peace, fedayeen," he says.
Gaerred at the the body of the Grey Duke, now dead and naked.
"Patriarch, his body should be taken from here and burned before you people that they might know he is defeated and purged from the world - and give credence to his defeat and the need for this place to be forgotten," he says.
He kneels down next to the other dead vampire? to inspect his face and close his eyes.
"Patriarch, we should not leave him either, it seems wrong given the sacrifice made. He deserves a funeral pyre, according to Avanlaen tenets," he says.
He conjures light and for a few moments wanders into the others looks, as if looking for something. [OOC: Bjorn look for my PM]
After that he returns to the carrying a few books, but he seems eerily pensive as the group leaves, though partway back he speaks softly with Kalieman.
-
Looks like this one is over...time to move on.
-
Gaerred nods at Marshal Balter and with and embrace of brotherly affection.
"Go in peace, fedayeen," he says.
Gaerred at the the body of the Grey Duke, now dead and naked.
"Patriarch, his body should be taken from here and burned before you people that they might know he is defeated and purged from the world - and give credence to his defeat and the need for this place to be forgotten," he says.
He kneels down next to the other dead vampire? to inspect his face and close his eyes.
"Patriarch, we should not leave him either, it seems wrong given the sacrifice made. He deserves a funeral pyre, according to Avanlaen tenets," he says.
He conjures light and for a few moments wanders into the others looks, as if looking for something. [OOC: Bjorn look for my PM]
After that he returns to the carrying a few books, but he seems eerily pensive as the group leaves, though partway back he speaks softly with Kalieman.
Rashid takes a moment to look at books too, and indeed, he expects to look at the ones picked out by Gaerred too.
In the end he selects a few that seem interesting or rare, for the Elinien library. Gaerred can keep what he selected, barring exceptional or troublesome books.
-
"Others more pressing matters is to be dealt with first but eventually I will have to decide if there is to be some sort of ceremony celebrating the return of the Book of Law or if its something the faithfulls will celebrate just in their hearts."
-
"I believe a formal ceremony, where those present here and representatives of our other allies today, are present to formally give the Book back to OIT will be both uplifting and good for the morale of all of Anuire."
"When I think of how diverse this flock is, it can be a powerful statement, that all scions of Anuire stand united against true darkness."