Difference between revisions of "Road to Revolution 5"

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<pre>Shielded Bank of the Hyloth River
+
<pre>Players near you:
−
  Spreading from the western ridge to the rapids to the east, this small
+
(PK) Vaeshir                      Inside a Dark, Muddy Hut
−
sliver of snow-covered earth is shielded from the erosive waters of the
+
(PK) Shasarik                    A Turn In An Old, Muddy Road
−
Hyloth by a raised bank made of hard rock.  The high grey ridge-face is
+
(PK) Aziath                      Inside a Dark, Muddy Hut
−
dotted with small ledges, each covered with fresh, white snow, almost
+
−
appearing as a giant staircase.  A collection of arranged sticks and
+
−
branches pokes out over a ledge high on the ridge-face. 
+
  
−
[Exits: south]
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'True.'
−
    A shimmering black gate rises from the ground, leading to parts unknown.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He seeks freedom however.'
−
    A large eagle's nest sits precariously balanced on a stone ledge.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Yet is terrified you will find out.'
−
Padraic the Hero of the Shadows is here.
+
−
Shasarik the Thane of Battle is here.
+
−
A weak, newly hatched eagle sits warm within the nest, squeaking piteously.
+
−
Using the nest as insulation against the winds, an eagle preens herself.
+
  
−
Your passage through the void maims you!
+
Vaeshir chuckles dryly.
−
A raven has arrived through a shimmering gate.
+
−
A raven's passage through the void decimates it!
+
  
−
Shasarik lowers his gaze from the sky.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Expecting sudden death.'
  
−
The sun slowly disappears in the west.
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Is that so?'
−
Clouds move into the area, obscuring the sky.
+
  
−
Shasarik peers about his surroundings quietly before resting his gaze on the river.
+
Aziath nods.
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He fears you, strong enough to feed upon his fear.'
  
−
Vaeshir touches his mouth in rememberance.
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Who tells you this?'
  
−
Shasarik says 'I have been here before.'
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Even if you would loosen the bonds.'
−
Shasarik says 'Yes. Only by your... gates... this may not even be Avendar from what I know.'
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He speaks with us.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'And we are obliged to listen.'
  
−
Vaeshir whispers 'Isn't it wonderful?'
+
Vaeshir casts a sharp glance westward.
  
−
Shasarik looks at an eagle hatchling.
+
Aziath peers intently west.
  
−
Padraic rolls his eyes diffidently.
+
Inside a Dark, Muddy Hut
 +
  The muddy walls inside this hut are a dark charcoal, and covered with
 +
faded white illustrations showing early srryn wielding the void. Runic
 +
markings, drawn in the same white chalk, pulse and glow faintly, bathing the
 +
small room in a pale aura.  A sickening stench of carrion and disease drifts
 +
freely amid the hut, contaminating the air around you.  The putrid odor
 +
seems to emanate from the northern wall, where a large circle is drawn in
 +
white chalk. 
  
−
Shasarik looks at the eagle.
+
[Exits: west]
−
Shasarik turns to face Padraic.
+
(Invis) (Charmed) A massive skeletal figure looms above the lake, hissing and writhing in fury.
−
Shasarik lowers himself to his knees, tucking his tail under himself.
+
(Invis) Aziath the Dweller in the Dark Eve, Scourge of the Skies is here.
−
Shasarik sits down on the ground.
+
(Invis) Usthriykss, Potentate of the Thissa Sept, rests within the shadows.
−
Shasarik swiftly sheathes his weapons with the grace of a student swordmaster.
+
−
Shasarik stops using an axe made from tempered steel.
+
−
Shasarik stops using a long steel foil.
+
  
−
A mask of indifference settles itself upon Padraic's face.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Let us rephrase.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Breaking the bond, and basing it solely on fear, you would loose little.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Yet gain..'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Well.'
  
−
Padraic says 'Such trust.'
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'When the price is paid the formal bond will be dissolved.'
  
−
Vaeshir says softly 'Trust has little to do with it.'
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Your .. patron'
  
−
Shasarik nods, a saddened trace to his expressions.
+
Aziath nods.
  
−
With a flip of the wrist, Padraic slides a jewel-encrusted dagger up his sleeve.
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'spoke to me when the time was right. We struck a deal.'
 +
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'I am not the only one who lusts for the souls of the weak.'
  
−
Padraic stops using a jewel-encrusted dagger.
+
A faint trail of chilling mist trickles out of Aziath's sleeves, slowly circling his stature.  
−
Padraic says 'Perhaps.'
+
−
Padraic says 'But we have yet to cease our bush beating.'
+
  
−
Vaeshir says softly 'Enough is clear.'
+
Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly.  
  
−
Shasarik says 'Avendar is a stage, yes?  And we are players... some with a house and some that travel for the clinking of coins... but in these plays all wear their masks. Only those who feel they have a mastery of this artform are empowered to hide their masks aw'
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'True.'
−
Shasarik says 'away behind a thin veil of shadow.'
+
Aziath utters the words 'armor'
  
−
Chill winds dance about, assailing you from all directions.
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Information regarding this ritual is to be delivered to me when it is obtained.'
 +
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'In exchange,'
  
−
Padraic says 'Eloquently spoken, dear boy.'
+
Vaeshir nods to the west.
−
Padraic applauds slowly.
+
  
−
Shasarik draws his cloak more tightly around himself in vain attempt to shield his body from the winds.
+
Aziath nods.
  
−
Padraic says 'But you still wonder at my involvement. And I still wonder about yours.'
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'We've delivered the task to someone.. capable.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He will find what is known about this ritual.'
  
−
Shasarik says 'Indeed.'
+
Vaeshir traces his fingers idly across the scales covering his neck.  
−
Shasarik says 'Until this time I... knew not... of your involvement.'
+
−
Shasarik turns slightly to Vaeshir.
+
  
−
Padraic reaches into a satchel, pulling out a sheet of withered parchment, folded neatly into quarters.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Besides what Usthriykss is willing to share.'
 +
Aziath glares at Usthriykss.
 +
Aziath nods thoughtfully.
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Ask no more of Shasarik until this ritual has been.. completed.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'This we ask of you.'
  
−
Shasarik restores his northward gaze.
+
Vaeshir runs his fingernail along the point where the scales of his neck and the smooth black skin of his torso meet.
  
−
Padraic says 'I suppose that I should take that as a compliment.'
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'A bond beyond with us might disturb..'
  
−
Vaeshir's lips part slowly.
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Why are you so intent on this?'
  
−
Shasarik smiles thinly.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'We've spoken with two.'
−
Shasarik blinks and his face is emotionless.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Familiar with rituals as strong as these.'
  
−
Padraic slowly unfolds the sheet, slowly reading it over.
+
Vaeshir jerks his hand away, drawing blood.
  
−
Vaeshir, moving nothing more than his arm, holds it out towards the sheet of parchment calmly.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Al be it different ones.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'There lies danger in them.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'A bond outside the ritual.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Might disturb it.'
  
−
Shasarik watches this actively.
+
A thin dark line of blood flows down Vaeshir's chest.
  
−
Padraic smiles grimly.
+
A faint symbol, carved in Aziath's skull, pulses briefly with darkened light.  
  
−
Vaeshir gasps with mock surprise.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'The effects..'
  
−
Shasarik drinks water from a large leather water skin.
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'You know nothing of this bond?'
  
−
Vaeshir says softly 'Would you prefer to wear the mask longer?'
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Any oath or bond in general..'
  
−
Shasarik chuckles darkly.
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'The bond outside the ritual.'
  
−
The winds lessen to a brisk breeze, sending fingers of chill air curling about you.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'binds part of the spirits together.'
  
−
Padraic quietly folds the sheet again.
+
Vaeshir inclines his head slightly.  
  
−
Shasarik whispers 'So...'
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'A spirit distracted..'
  
−
Padraic says 'I have seen no undonning from your camp.'
+
Shasarik tells the group 'I have held position for a night and a day with only my thoughts.  I shall remain until your mouthes give word.'
  
−
Vaeshir says softly 'The questions are not clear.'
+
Aziath peers intently west.
 +
Aziath tells the group '(whispering)' You do well.'
  
−
A triumphant screech echos from afar, as a predatory bird finds a meal.
+
Vaeshir tilts his head, smiling to himself.
  
−
Padraic says 'An answer can be provided without a question to induce it.'
 
  
−
Shasarik moves his mouth quickly, no words coming forth.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He will obey you, no doubt.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Yet do not call your right of the bonding upon him.. for now.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'After the ritual.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Things lie.. different.'
  
−
Padraic places a finger upon Shasarik's lips.
+
Aziath nods.
  
−
Vaeshir tilts his head slightly 'You showed no surprise at my appearance.'
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'One we cannot unclose.'
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Yet do believe this.'
  
−
Shasarik closes his mouth.
+
You frown.
  
−
Padraic drinks water from an everfull chalice.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Taking the advice is.. advantageous.'
−
Padraic stops using a string of dragon-bone hair beads.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'The gains..'
−
Padraic wears a pair of runed spectacles on his head.
+
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'are mutual.'
−
Padraic stops using a pair of runed spectacles.
+
−
Padraic wears a string of dragon-bone hair beads on his head.
+
  
−
Padraic says 'I haven't, have I.'
+
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'I trusted you once when I chose to participate in the Ritual. The benefits have been unexpected, but consistent.'
  
−
Vaeshir shifts his gaze towards the parchment 'You protest that you are in contact with the Gods, or a God, yet my question has gone, thusfar, unaswered.'
+
Aziath nods.
 +
 
 +
Vaeshir waves a clawed hand across his surroundings, in shuddeni, 'Until this is completed I will trust you again.'
 +
 
 +
Aziath nods his head slowly.
 +
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'This will be .. appreciated.'
 +
Aziath nods.
 +
 
 +
### Later, in the Crystal-filled Cave
 +
 
 +
You tell the group, in shuddeni, 'I go to speak with him.'
 +
 
 +
Shasarik joins your group.
 +
 
 +
A shimmering gate rises up before you.
 +
 
 +
Khastygr tells you 'Watch out for Padraic.'
 +
 
 +
Shasarik nods slowly.
 +
 
 +
You enter a shimmering gate.
 +
 
 +
A Crystal-filled Cave
 +
  The subterranean tunnel comes to an abrupt end at this point, the cave
 +
walls formed of a dark brown sedimentary stone.  Sprouting from this stone
 +
are dozens of naturally-formed crystals, whose intricate shapes line the
 +
walls in shimmering patterns.  Broken shards and whole shafts of crystal lay
 +
about the floor of the cave, the smaller pieces filling the various cracks
 +
and variations in the stone floor. 
 +
 
 +
[Exits: west]
 +
    A shimmering black gate rises from the ground, leading to parts unknown.
 +
Your passage through the void maims you!
 +
Shasarik has arrived through a shimmering gate.
 +
Shasarik's passage through the void wounds him.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik has arrived.
 +
 
 +
Players near you:
 +
(PK) Padraic                      A Crystal-filled Cave
 +
(PK) Vaeshir                      A Crystal-filled Cave
 +
(PK) Shasarik                    A Crystal-filled Cave
 +
 
 +
Now key one flips to Padraic.
 +
You peer intently east.
 +
=== 1 east ===
 +
Padraic the Hero of the Shadows is here.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik says 'This place...'
 +
Shasarik grabs his midsection in appearant pain.
 +
 
 +
You give a menacing hiss.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik says 'Vaeshir... spare a bit of bread?'
 +
Shasarik ponders the question.
 +
 
 +
Vaeshir says softly, in arcane, 'The thief was here.'
 +
 
 +
Padraic steps out of the shadows.
 +
Padraic says 'Is.'
 +
 
 +
Shasarik says 'Thief?'
 +
Shasarik says 'Ah.'
 +
 
 +
Shasarik nods at Padraic.
 +
 
 +
Vaeshir tosses his head contemptuously.
  
 
Shasarik looks at Padraic.
 
Shasarik looks at Padraic.
  
−
Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly.
+
Vaeshir says softly 'What is it?'
  
−
Shasarik stares at Padraic's pendant intently.
+
Padraic says 'Long ago, there were three.'
  
−
Padraic tilts his head slightly to the side.
+
Shasarik drinks water from a large leather water skin.
  
−
Vaeshir raises an arm slowly, leveling it with Padraic's face.
+
Padraic spreads his hands about him.
−
Vaeshir says softly 'You are not the first to call for Shasarik's freedom.'
+
Padraic says 'And lo, there are but two now.'
  
−
Padraic says 'I have not made that call, I am afraid.'
+
Vaeshir says softly 'The strong have survived, the weak fallen from us.'
  
−
Shasarik gasps quickly but catches himself.
+
Shasarik nods slowly with widened eyes.
  
−
Padraic says 'I merely asked about his wishes.'
+
Padraic turns his eyes to Shasarik, then back to you.
−
Padraic turns his eyes towards the sky.
+
  
−
Vaeshir says softly 'The nature of the questioning combined with the unusual timing have made your intent clear enough.'
+
Shasarik sheathes his axe upon his back, awed.
 +
Shasarik stops using an axe made from tempered steel.
  
−
Shasarik draws his hands behind his back to keep them from shaking.
+
Padraic says 'And will the culling continue?'
−
Shasarik flexes his tail off the ground before letting it drop with a loud echo.
+
  
−
Padraic stifles a smirk.
+
Vaeshir says softly 'The third was not broken from us by force.'
  
−
OOC to Padraic: 'have made' --> 'has made'
+
Shasarik tells the group 'Grant me a loaf?'
−
OOC to Shasarik: 'have made' --> 'has made'
+
Shasarik nods quickly.
  
−
[OOC] Shasarik: noted.
+
Padraic says 'Interesting. You have grown since I left you last.'
  
−
Padraic says 'The nature of your answers is providing me with a clearer picture than I could have hoped for.'
+
Shasarik says 'I remember, Padraic.'
 +
Shasarik says 'In part I have you to thank.'
 +
Shasarik says 'Your aid that day in the caves.'
 +
Shasarik says 'Do you not remember?'
  
−
[OOC] Shasarik: if that's the worst slip that happens tonight consider yourself lucky... look at me...
+
Padraic sips quietly at an everful chalice.
 +
Padraic drinks water from an everfull chalice.
 +
Padraic says 'But of course.'
  
−
Padraic says 'Something is unravelling about you, Vaeshir, that you do not fully understand.'
+
Shasarik relaxes his tail slightly, eyes unblinking.
  
−
[OOC] Shasarik: esays instead of emotes... heh
+
Padraic says 'There are things one does not forget.'
  
−
Padraic says 'Shadows are coming to life, and you are not sure which ones will remain still, and which ones will pounce.'
+
Shasarik nods slowly.
  
−
Vaeshir shrugs his shoulders indifferently 'I have been the first to begin removing my mask.'
+
Padraic fingers his pendant idly.
  
−
Padraic suddenly turns his attention to the raven.
+
Shasarik whispers 'Indeed...'
  
−
Shasarik whispers to himself 'the light... to what end?'
+
The crysmal has arrived.
  
−
Padraic says 'A pretty specimen.'
+
Shasarik says 'Everything has changed and everything has remained.'
  
−
Vaeshir holds his arm level with his shoulder.
+
Translation: 'Y'er onel.'
 +
OOC to Padraic: I'll bite.
  
−
Shasarik chants 'There were three....'
+
Tall and striking in appearance, Padraic carries himself with an air of
 +
utmost confidence. Precise and composed in his movements, he seems to bear
 +
himself with constant reservation and consideration. Fastidiously kept
 +
locks of silken, jet, black hair are parted evenly about his crown, casting
 +
a darkening shadow upon his luminous brow. His dark, brooding eyes glimmer
 +
lustrously from their lofty perch, like black pearls set upon a moonlit
 +
bank. Smooth to the touch, his pale skin seems to glow radiantly with an
 +
inner light. 
 +
A dark cloak, tailored to accentuate the breadth of his shoulders, hangs
 +
loosely about Padraic's figure.  The heavy folds seem to swallow his lank
 +
form, leaving little in view.  A fine silver chain, bearing a pendant of
 +
jade, hangs loosely about his neck. 
 +
Padraic is in excellent condition.
  
−
A raven shifts to pirch on your shoulder.
+
Padraic is using:
 +
<worn on finger>    (Glowing) (Humming) a golden insignia ring
 +
<worn on finger>    (Humming) a golden insignia ring
 +
<worn around neck>  a necklace of bone shards
 +
<worn around neck>  (Glowing) (Humming) an elder's amulet of strength
 +
<worn on torso>    the chitinous black armor
 +
<worn on head>      a string of dragon-bone hair beads
 +
<worn on legs>      a pair of blue dragonscale leggings
 +
<worn on feet>      an old pair of iron-capped leather boots
 +
<worn on hands>    (Humming) a pair of mud-covered gauntlets
 +
<worn on arms>      a pair of scalemail sleeves
 +
<worn about body>  a wolfskin cloak
 +
<worn about waist>  (Glowing) a jade belt with a skull-shaped buckle
 +
<worn around wrist> (Glowing) a bracelet of carved marble
 +
<worn around wrist> a stiff white leather bracer
 +
<wielded>          (Glowing) (Humming) an ancient sword forged by Thethtil
 +
<dual wielded>      a jewel-encrusted dagger
  
−
Shasarik continues 'and now... there are two...'
+
A fine chain, cut from white silver, is strung about Padraic's neck. At
 +
its base is a spider-shaped pendant, carved from a frostily clouded jade.  
 +
No larger than a standard gold coin in size, the spider's legs curve
 +
outwards in sheltering arcs, curling themselves about the bulbous green
 +
body. Twin slivers of cloudless ruby are set into its head, the luminous
 +
eyes gazing quietly out from their perch.
  
−
Padraic says '... And then there were none.'
+
[OOC] Padraic: Everyone does, sooner or later.
−
Padraic says 'That's how the poem finishes, you know.'
+
  
−
You are thirsty.
+
Shasarik says 'My form has changed, as has Vaeshir's. My Oathbindings remain.'
−
You are feeling extremely dehydrated!
+
−
You DISEMBOWEL yourself!
+
  
−
Shasarik nods, understanding.
+
Padraic looks at you.
 +
Padraic says 'Do you remember, truly, what happened Shasarik?'
  
−
Padraic says 'Another drink, Vaeshir?'
+
Vaeshir places the back of his hand against Shasarik's cheek lightly.
  
−
Vaeshir says softly 'Yes.'
+
Padraic turns his head away slightly, smiling quietly to himself.
  
−
Padraic gives you an everfull chalice.
+
Shasarik takes a step back instinctively.
  
−
You drink water from an everfull chalice.
+
Padraic chuckles softly 'Yes. That day.'
−
You drink water from an everfull chalice.
+
−
You give an everfull chalice to Padraic.
+
  
−
Shasarik says 'But... there shall be those... those who remain...'
+
Shasarik whispers 'Not entirely... no. I believe I may have thought you were...'
−
Shasarik says 'Those who need not trouble themselves with meat and drink.'
+
Shasarik says 'whispers someone else...'
 +
Shasarik shuts his eyes for a moment.
 +
Shasarik opens his eyes slowly, adjusting them to the dark.
  
−
Clouds move into the area, obscuring the sky.
+
Padraic traces a finger lightly against his lips, smiling quietly to himself.
  
−
Padraic says 'Or those who need not worry about the ravages of time, or those who need not ponder over the blades of mortal men...'
+
Shasarik says 'I often mistake shadows about me for... something else.'
  
−
Shasarik says 'Those whose minds alone suspend countless strings.'
+
Padraic says 'You asked for things, Shasarik.'
  
−
Padraic holds up the folded parchment.
+
Shasarik nods hesitantly.
  
−
Shasarik says 'Those whose masks entwine with skin entwine with soul.'
+
Padraic slowly begins to circle about Shasarik.
  
−
Padraic says 'This letter was sent to me by my superior.'
+
Shasarik says 'I-indeed.'
−
Padraic says 'Mind you, there is but one who can claim such a thing upon me.'
+
Shasarik says 'Yes... a... club or sorts...'
 +
Shasarik says 'A large club that I could not use...'
 +
Shasarik says 'I remember now...'
  
−
Vaeshir makes a quick gesture.
+
Padraic leans in close, speaking in a hushed whisper 'Do you still ask for more?'
  
−
Shasarik offers a quick nod.
+
Shasarik shudders briefly.
  
−
A raven flies quickly over to land on Padraic's shoulder.
+
You tell Shasarik 'You do not.'
  
−
Shasarik grazes himself.
+
Shasarik snaps his eyes open wide.
 +
Shasarik says 'No.  I do not.'
  
−
Chill winds whip about your body, tearing at loose accoutrements.  
+
Padraic chuckles softly to himself.
−
A forceful gust of freezing air bites into your exposed flesh!
+
Padraic says 'And so he has grown, so that he is no longer in need.'
  
 +
Vaeshir withdraws his hand from Shasarik's trembling cheek.
  
−
Shasarik chokes a moment as few drops of blood fly from his mouth.
+
Shasarik stares ahead, an almost souless look 'cross his face.
−
Shasarik wounds himself.
+
Shasarik nods slightly.
−
Shasarik sways slightly on his feet and then is well.
+
−
Shasarik looks from Padraic to Vaeshir.
+
  
−
Padraic says 'Why I have chosen to reveal myself at this time, is now clear to you, I assume.'
+
Eyeing you carefully from the corner of his eye, Padraic continues to circle about Shasarik.
  
−
Vaeshir inclines his head slightly.  
+
Shasarik says 'I... require... nothing you can... grant, Padraic.'
 +
Shasarik closes his eyes, unsure.
  
−
Padraic taps the note lightly.
+
Padraic says 'And yet, you tremble, you quiver.'
  
−
Shasarik says 'P-padraic... might I... petition you for a loaf?'
+
Vaeshir Moves to stand behind Shasarik, his eyeless gaze indifferent to Padraic.
−
Shasarik injures himself.
+
  
−
Padraic says 'I'm afraid I'm fresh out.'
+
Shasarik says 'I... have wants, yes...'
 +
Shasarik says 'A want... a...'
  
−
Shasarik shakes his head.
+
Padraic says 'Your... master?  He comforts you with a hand upon the cheek.'
−
Shasarik says 'Very well.'
+
−
Shasarik says 'Continue.'
+
  
−
You get a cake of Nendorian waybread from a large hide bag.
+
Vaeshir exhales slowly, softly, his face inches from Shasarik's neck.
  
−
Shasarik grazes himself.
+
Shasarik shuts his eyes tightly.
  
−
You give a cake of Nendorian waybread to Shasarik.
+
Padraic says 'Or am I mistaken?'
  
−
Shasarik turns the bread over in his hands.
+
Shasarik moves one hand to the other to keep it from reaching behind his back.
−
Shasarik gives you a cake of Nendorian waybread.
+
Shasarik opens his eyes quickly.
−
Shasarik says 'Continue, Padraic.'
+
Shasarik says 'What is your wish, Padraic of the moving shadows?'
  
−
Shasarik misses himself.
+
Padraic suddenly steps away towards the east, his back turned in your direction.
 +
Padraic eats a bowl of beef broth.
  
−
Vaeshir turns his gaze sharply to Shasarik.
+
Shasarik continues 'What have you that I stand here before you barely able to parry the thrusts of your tongue?'
  
−
Shasarik locks his eyes with Padraic's.
+
Resting his head against Shasarik's back, Vaeshir moves his hands to settle on Shasarik's shoulders.
−
Shasarik grazes himself.
+
  
−
Padraic says 'I am stepping in, for others who have bungled, and for others that may have shifted their positions.'
+
Padraic says 'Thrusts?  I merely make conversation.'
  
−
Shasarik maims himself!
+
Shasarik says 'I have, as you might not be abled to ascertain, not just grown in size.'
−
Shasarik mauls himself.
+
  
−
Padraic says 'A portion of my mask has been revealed. It is your turn again.'
+
Padraic smiles from beneath the shadows.
  
−
Shasarik sways slightly.
+
Shasarik says 'My wits are about me, Padraic.  What have you to gain?'
 +
Shasarik spins quickly to lock eyes with Vaeshir.
 +
Shasarik peers into the shadows but cannot look past the cloak of the invisable.
  
−
The sun slowly disappears in the west.
+
Padraic says 'Entertainment, Shasarik. Entertainment.'
  
−
Shasarik scratches himself.
+
Shasarik suddenly looks as though he has remembered something.
−
Shasarik looks up at Padraic.
+
Shasarik lowers his head slightly.
  
−
The sun slowly disappears in the west.
+
Padraic throws his hands up towards the cavern ceiling exultantly.
  
−
Shasarik injures himself.
+
Shasarik turns slowly to face Padraic once again.
−
Shasarik says 'I have either been chosen.  Or I have been marked as a slave.'
+
Shasarik says 'Surely one of your profession can obtain entertainment enough for the correct price.'
  
−
Padraic eyes you with a slight smirk.
+
Padraic says 'The world is a stage, with the gods pulling the strings, my dear boy.'
 +
Padraic says 'But for some of us, it is possible to watch, and not be drawn.'
 +
The crysmal leaves east.
  
−
Shasarik says 'At this time it matters little.'
+
Shasarik says 'But... it is because they see things in us we do not see...'
  
−
Vaeshir purses his lips 'Or both.'
+
Vaeshir trembles slightly.
  
−
Shasarik hits himself.
+
Shasarik says 'There are reasons...'
−
Shasarik says 'I... have found a way that I can be free from my bondage to Lor-Archmage Vaeshir.'
+
Shasarik says 'The questions... they have answers...'
−
Shasarik says 'And at the same time no blood will touch blade nor earth.'
+
Shasarik spins to face Vaeshir.
−
Shasarik decimates himself!
+
Shasarik says 'You know some of those answers... you...'
  
−
Vaeshir taps a finger against his cheek idly.
+
Padraic says fervently 'They have designs.'
  
−
Shasarik closes his eyes, lost in a brief dream.
+
Shasarik halts suddenly.
−
Shasarik mauls himself.
+
  
−
Vaeshir turns his gaze toward Padraic.
+
Padraic says 'They have ambitions, they have desires.'
  
−
Shasarik says 'Father... he has promised my... release.'
+
Shasarik turns to face Padraic.
−
Shasarik devastates himself!
+
Shasarik says 'Yes...'
−
Shasarik says 'It has been written in the dust of the stars, in the essense of the dreams, in the notation of the spheres.'
+
Shasarik says 'Designs...'
  
−
Vaeshir holds up a hand before Shasarik.
+
Padraic says 'They are men, like you and I, with flesh and bone removed from the equation.'
  
−
Padraic drinks water from an everfull chalice.
+
Shasarik says 'Power... the... power...'
  
−
Shasarik closes his mouth.
+
Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly.  
−
Shasarik hits himself.
+
−
Shasarik whispers ''tis true, My Lord, 'tis true this not yet Is.  This that shall be.'
+
−
Shasarik hits himself.
+
−
Shasarik says 'I shall still close my mouth at the wave of your hand... my blood runs with the taint of the Bindings...'
+
−
Shasarik closes his mouth.
+
  
−
Vaeshir says softly 'I believe you will find it is in your best interest.'
+
Shasarik says 'Padraic, it is not that simple...'
  
−
Shasarik hits himself.
+
Padraic claps his hands together.
−
Shasarik bursts from closed lips 'ssssssoon.'
+
Padraic says 'Of course not!'
−
Shasarik grazes himself.
+
−
Shasarik says 'There, the mask that is a smiling frown is half-revealed.'
+
−
Shasarik says 'I have, Padraic of the shades, paid my ante.'
+
−
Shasarik wounds himself.
+
−
Shasarik looks at an eagle hatchling.
+
−
Shasarik wields an axe made from tempered steel.
+
−
Shasarik dual wields a long steel foil.
+
−
Shasarik stands up.
+
  
−
Shasarik's mighty cleave *** DEMOLISHES *** an eagle hatchling!
+
Shasarik says 'If you shared my... dreams?'
−
An eagle hatchling is DEAD!!
+
Shasarik shivers violently for a moment.
−
An eagle hatchling's leg is sliced from his dead body.
+
Shasarik shakes his head.
−
Shasarik sacrifices the corpse of an eagle hatchling to the gods.
+
  
−
Shasarik gets the leg of an eagle hatchling.
+
Vaeshir holds up a hand before Shasarik.
−
Shasarik skins the leg quietly with his axe as he listens.
+
−
Shasarik scratches himself.
+
−
Shasarik eats the leg of an eagle hatchling.
+
  
−
Padraic smiles lightly.
+
Shasarik says 'Not simple... no...'
  
−
Shasarik sits down on the ground.
+
Padraic turns his head away, as if listening to something.
−
Shasarik stops using an axe made from tempered steel.
+
−
Shasarik stops using a long steel foil.
+
  
−
Padraic says 'Nothing is unbreakable, is it.'
+
Vaeshir takes several steps towards Padraic, closing the distance between them.
 +
Vaeshir whispers 'You are a messenger.'
  
−
The clouds begin to disperse, clearing the sky.
+
Padraic purses his lips, then nods slowly in a growing smile.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik says 'You...?'
 +
 
 +
Padraic says 'I am what you make of me.'
 +
Padraic says 'A messenger, a thief, an actor...'
  
 
Shasarik drinks water from a large leather water skin.
 
Shasarik drinks water from a large leather water skin.
  
−
Padraic muses 'Not the strongest of men, the strongest of gods, nor the strongest of bonds...'
+
Vaeshir whispers 'A puppet.'
  
−
Shasarik says 'If my body pulsed with water or wine such ease would be my toil.'
+
Shasarik says 'A child... like me...'
−
Shasarik says 'But not so, on the contrary, my heart beats the constant drumming of bloodflow.'
+
  
−
A raven shifts, stretching its wings.
+
Padraic says 'A player, who controls his own pieces.'
  
−
Padraic says 'And yet, Vaeshir watches on contentedly?'
+
Vaeshir tilts his head, amused.
  
−
A triumphant screech echos from afar, as a predatory bird finds a meal.
+
Padraic says 'The imagination is a wonderful tool.  Wonderful, but dangerous.'
  
−
Shasarik says 'He has what he wishes. Soon he will have more.'
+
Shasarik says 'No, no... you... you yourself don't quite understand it all yet... I do not either... but...'
  
−
Vaeshir inclines his head slightly.  
+
Padraic says 'Suppose that I knew absolutely nothing?'
 +
Padraic grins broadly.
  
−
Padraic says 'He sits at the trade table then.'
+
Vaeshir turns his eyeless gaze to face Shasarik.  
  
−
Shasarik says 'And yet expects that to elude us.'
+
Padraic says 'Suppose that I... simply knew how to talk the talk?'
  
−
Padraic's gaze falls lightly upon your neck, then moves on.
+
Shasarik lowers his eyes to the crystal-covered ground.
  
−
The dull roar of the wind abates a moment, the ensuing quietude unusual to the ear.  
+
Vaeshir says softly 'Not possible.'
  
−
Padraic says 'I must consult with my... superior.'
+
Shasarik says 'Yes, Lord Vaeshir.'
  
−
Vaeshir opens his mouth as if to speak, then shuts it.
+
Padraic says 'I am what you make of me, good sirs.'
  
−
Padraic smiles craftily.
+
Shasarik says 'Ill-phrased, methinks.'
  
−
Shasarik ponders this silently.
+
Padraic drinks water from an everfull chalice.
  
−
Padraic says 'When the time comes, we will speak again. Make no mention of me to the others.'
+
Vaeshir reaches towards the chalice, palm held upwards.
  
−
Shasarik nods.
+
Padraic sighs softly.
 +
Padraic says 'You wish a drink from my cup, shuddeni?'
  
−
Padraic says 'They are not to know of my appearance yet.'
+
Shasarik says 'How else can one more completely deny his own statement of complete control than by stating that they are what those tho surround them make of them?'
  
−
The sun rises in the east.
+
Shasarik says 'Padraic, it is an illusionist's game you play.'
  
−
Shasarik says 'It shall be as you wish.'
+
Vaeshir says softly 'A certain amount of trust is required to speak as we do now. I take the next step.'
−
Shasarik stands up.
+
  
−
Vaeshir says softly 'I desire the note.'
+
Padraic extends the chalice towards you.
−
Vaeshir says softly 'Just payment for silence.'
+
Padraic says 'Take care.  Not all may find the taste... pleasing.'
 +
Padraic gives you an everfull chalice.
  
−
Padraic says 'In good time, Vaeshir.'
+
It's about half-filled with  a clear liquid.
  
−
Shasarik eyes Vaeshir caustiously.
+
Vaeshir raises the chalice to his lips.
 +
You drink water from an everfull chalice.
 +
You drink water from an everfull chalice.
 +
Your thirst is quenched.
  
−
Padraic says 'You will get your payment, soon enough.'
+
Shasarik remains motionless.
  
−
Shasarik looks at Padraic.
+
You give an everfull chalice to Padraic.
  
−
Padraic quaffs a potion of transportation.
+
Padraic circles a finger about the edge of the chalice, then tucks it into the folds of his cloak.
−
Padraic disappears.
+
  
−
Shasarik quaffs a potion of transportation.
+
Padraic says 'You are correct gentlemen.  It is a game I play.'
−
Shasarik disappears.
+
Padraic says 'And in every game, there are rules which must be abided by.'
 +
Padraic says 'And there are prizes to be won.'
  
−
You step into the void, crossing space with your magics.
+
Shasarik says 'And stakes to be lost.'
−
The magical winds of the void tear at you!
+
−
Your passage through the void mauls you.
+
−
Near a Rocky Peak
+
−
  A thin path of fragments of white stone winds its way upward and westward
+
−
around the side of a high, round hill, whose rocky peak looms just to the
+
−
north.  The path drops away quickly to the east, into a narrow valley
+
−
between the arms of the hills.  Far to the east, beyond the valley and
+
−
beyond yet more hills, a wide, grey plain stretches away into the distance.
+
−
To the west the path winds deeper into the hill country, whose craggy peaks
+
−
rise high above the southern forest.
+
  
−
[Exits: west down]
+
Padraic says 'And you must ask yourself, what these rules are, and what are the prizes.'
−
A shaggy mountain goat picks its way along the stony ground.
+
−
A raven follows right behind, through the opaque portal.
+
  
−
A Rising Valley
+
Vaeshir traces his fingers idly across the scales covering his neck.  
−
  A narrow valley, which winds southward between the out-flung arms of two
+
−
hills, ends its northward climb at the face of an outcrop of sheer granite.
+
−
A narrow path, nothing more than a twisting line of whitish pebbles, winds
+
−
upward to the west, criss-crossing its way toward the peak of that hill.
+
−
Far to the south a broad forested valley is visible, stretching away into
+
−
greyness.
+
  
−
[Exits: south up]
+
Padraic eyes the remains of the crysmal.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
Padraic says 'And of course, the losses.'
  
−
Near a Rocky Peak
+
Shasarik runs 'his clawed hands across a chipped section of his scales.'
−
  A thin path of fragments of white stone winds its way upward and westward
+
Shasarik runs his clawed hands across a chipped section of his scales.
−
around the side of a high, round hill, whose rocky peak looms just to the
+
−
north.  The path drops away quickly to the east, into a narrow valley
+
−
between the arms of the hills.  Far to the east, beyond the valley and
+
−
beyond yet more hills, a wide, grey plain stretches away into the distance.
+
−
To the west the path winds deeper into the hill country, whose craggy peaks
+
−
rise high above the southern forest.
+
  
−
[Exits: west down]
+
You think 'It has already begun.'
−
A shaggy mountain goat picks its way along the stony ground.
+
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
Upon a Barren Hillside
+
Shasarik exhales slowly and silently.
−
  Upon the western slopes of this high round hill, the great extent of the
+
−
hill country can be seen. Rampart upon rampart rise into the distance, ever
+
−
northward toward the dimly visible shadow of the Brintor Mountains.  Like
+
−
rows of blackened teeth, the crests cut their way southward, ending suddenly
+
−
as a great forest begins.  The narrow path here bends eastward, around the
+
−
southern face of the hill.  To the north it winds toward an out-thrust
+
−
ridge. 
+
  
−
[Exits: north east]
+
Padraic eyes your neck carefully, a slight frown upon his face.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
Padraic gestures towards you with a beckoning finger.
 +
Padraic stops using a string of dragon-bone hair beads.
 +
Padraic wears a pair of runed spectacles on his head.
 +
Padraic stops using a pair of runed spectacles.
 +
Padraic wears a string of dragon-bone hair beads on his head.
  
−
Upon a Barren Hillside
+
Shasarik catches himself turning his head to look at Vaeshir and stops.
−
  Upon the western slopes of this high round hill, the great extent of the
+
−
hill country can be seen.  Rampart upon rampart rise into the distance, ever
+
−
northward toward the dimly visible shadow of the Brintor Mountains.  Like
+
−
rows of blackened teeth, the crests cut their way southward, ending suddenly
+
−
as a great forest begins.  A narrow path of shattered white stone begins
+
−
here and winds southward around the western face of the hill.  A pathless
+
−
ridge stretches out from the hill to the northwest.
+
  
−
[Exits: north south west]
+
Padraic murmurs 'Come closer.'
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
A Spiny Ridge
+
Vaeshir takes the remaining steps towards Padraic.
−
  A shale-covered ridge stretches to the northwest from a high, round hill
+
−
which rises in the southeast.  Facing the gradually descending march of the
+
−
ridge, you can see its end some distance away, where it disappears into an
+
−
unseen precipice.  In this direction the jagged granite spine of the ridge
+
−
is to your left, while to the right a slope leads down into a
+
−
northward-running valley.
+
  
−
[Exits: south down]
+
You now follow Padraic.
−
A shaggy mountain goat picks its way along the stony ground.
+
−
A great red stag walks through the hills.
+
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
The Beginning of a Broad Valley
+
Shasarik keeps his vision centered between Padraic and Vaeshir.
−
  A broad valley is embraced by lines of jagged hills the the east and
+
−
west, and is cut off to the south by a diagonal ridge.  The shaley slopes of
+
−
this ridge make an awkward but achievable climb.  To the north the valley
+
−
opens, its wide, stony floor broken with drifts of earth, from which sprout
+
−
thickets of glossy-leaved spruce.
+
  
−
[Exits: north up]
+
Padraic places a hand upon your head and pushes it forward, exposing the scaled neck.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
A Broad Valley
+
Shasarik blinks once.
−
  Here a deep, rounded valley is embraced by hilltops to the east and west,
+
−
climbing into a narrower valley to the south, and stretching away to the
+
−
north. The shaley slopes of the facing hills rise to craggy peaks topped
+
−
with weather-torn growths of dark pine.  Here on the stony floor drifts of
+
−
earth sprout thickets of resinous spruce.  Cold wind from the higher reaches
+
−
swirls down into the valley whistling in the evergreen leaves.  Like craggy
+
−
waves, the hills march to either side, their sharp peaks and curving saddles
+
−
too steep to climb. 
+
  
−
[Exits: north south west]
+
Vaeshir winces slightly, amazed at the pain.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
A Broad Valley
+
Shasarik stops using a long steel foil.
−
  Here a deep, rounded valley is embraced by hilltops to the east and west,
+
Shasarik wields an axe made from tempered steel.
−
climbing into a narrower valley to the northwest, and stretching away to the
+
Shasarik dual wields a long steel foil.
−
south. The shaley slopes of the facing hills rise to craggy peaks topped
+
Shasarik turns the axe over in his hands.
−
with weather-torn growths of dark pine. Here on the stony floor drifts of
+
−
earth sprout thickets of resinous spruce. Cold wind from the higher reaches
+
−
swirls down into the valley whistling in the evergreen leaves.  Like craggy
+
−
waves, the hills march to either side, their sharp peaks and curving saddles
+
−
too steep to climb.
+
  
−
[Exits: south west]
+
Padraic runs a finger along the scaled surface, murmuring quietly to himself.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
A Broad Valley
+
Shasarik says 'Are you well, my Lord?'
−
  Here a deep, rounded valley is embraced by hilltops to the east and west,
+
−
climbing into a narrower valley to the north, and stretching away to the
+
−
south. The shaley slopes of the facing hills rise to craggy peaks topped
+
−
with weather-torn growths of dark pine.  Here on the stony floor drifts of
+
−
earth sprout thickets of resinous spruce.  Cold wind from the higher reaches
+
−
swirls down into the valley whistling in the evergreen leaves.  Like craggy
+
−
waves, the hills march to either side, their sharp peaks and curving saddles
+
−
too steep to climb. 
+
  
−
[Exits: north east south]
+
Vaeshir exhales quietly.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
The Beginning of a Broad Valley
+
Padraic murmurs to himself 'It moves more quickly than I had expected.'
−
  A broad valley is embraced by lines of jagged hills the the east and
+
Padraic removes his hand.
−
west, and ends to the north where the arms of two hills are thrust together.
+
−
A rising crevice is formed between these spurs, down which trickles a tiny
+
−
stream of water.  To the south the broad valley opens up, its wide, stony
+
−
floor broken with drifts of earth, from which sprout thickets of
+
−
glossy-leaved spruce.
+
  
−
[Exits: south up]
+
Shasarik grabs his midsection suddenly as a dull pain grows stronger within him.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
Shasarik says 'A loaf, Lord Vaeshir?'
 +
Shasarik breaks the cake in two before eating the halves.
 +
Shasarik eats a cake of Nendorian waybread.
  
−
A Spiny, Fir-Clad Ridge
+
Padraic says 'You are living the life of a pauper, srryn, and yet you say that you have no more wants?'
−
  Formed by the out-thrust spurs of two southward hills, this jagged, rocky
+
Padraic says 'You two are in an interesting position.  I should not have left you as unattended as I have.'
−
ridge extends northward, deep into the rugged hill country.  Interspersed
+
−
with the knife-like granite outthrusts, thickets of dark-leaved fir bend in
+
−
the bitter wind.  The weather-torn branches of these mishappen trees are
+
−
clad in weeping veils of dark needles, and their shallow roots cling to the
+
−
tenuous soil.  To the south the ridge ends, and a cleft between the hills
+
−
drops away into a broad valley.
+
  
−
[Exits: north down]
+
Shasarik frowns slightly, flexing his tail off the ground.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
A Spiny, Fir-Clad Ridge
+
Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly.  
−
  Formed by the out-thrust spurs of two distant southward hills, this
+
−
jagged, rocky ridge extends to the northwest, deep into the rugged hill
+
−
country. Interspersed with the knife-like granite outthrusts, thickets of
+
−
dark-leaved fir bend in the bitter wind.  The weather-torn branches of these
+
−
mishappen trees are clad in weeping veils of dark needles, and their shallow
+
−
roots cling to the tenuous soil.  A kink in the northward march of the ridge
+
−
sends it in a westward arc around the shore of a wide, still lake.  A cleft
+
−
in the side of the ridge channels a trickle of water into lake, and provides
+
−
a means of descent. 
+
  
−
[Exits: south down]
+
Shasarik eyes the crysmal passively as it moves into the other room.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
A Narrow Cleft
+
Padraic says 'I think it would be in your best interest if you began to explain yourselves.'
−
  Cutting a straight passage down the side of a northwest-running ridge, a
+
Padraic looks at Shasarik.
−
narrow cleft channels a trickling stream from the craggy, fir-clad heights
+
−
into a wide, still lake to the north. As the ground levels the cleft
+
−
widens, only to meet the steep, shear walls of the cliffs bounding the lake.
+
−
Here the tumbled rocks from the crags above choke the stream, and mosses and
+
−
tiny ferns grow amongst the crevices.
+
  
−
[Exits: north up]
+
Shasarik says 'To you, Padraic?'
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
By the Shore of a Still Lake
+
Padraic says 'Or to your gods.  Whichever you prefer.'
−
  A narrow shelf of pebbly ground forms the shore of a wide, still lake.
+
−
The lake stretches away to the northeast, surrounded in all directions by
+
−
high, grey cliffs whose serrated peaks are reflected in the still waters
+
−
against a dim sky.  In the very center of the lake is reflected the highest
+
−
crag, a lofty bluff over the eastern shore whose spiney peak of jumbled
+
−
black stone floats serenely in the lightless deep. Here at the southwest
+
−
corner of the lake a tiny stream trickles across the pebbly shore from a
+
  
−
narrow cleft in the southern cliff.
+
Shasarik smiles slightly.
  
−
[Exits: north east south]
+
Padraic says 'Either way, it shall return to me.'
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
By the Shore of a Still Lake
+
Vaeshir walks swifly towards Shasarik.
−
  A narrow shelf of pebbly ground forms the shore of a wide, still lake.  
+
−
The lake stretches away to the north, surrounded in all directions by high,
+
−
grey cliffs whose serrated peaks are reflected in the still waters against a
+
−
dim sky.  In the very center of the lake is reflected the highest crag, a
+
−
lofty bluff over the eastern shore whose spiney peak of jumbled black stone
+
−
floats serenely in the lightless deep.  The shelf continues along the
+
−
southern shore beneath an eroding granite face. 
+
  
−
[Exits: east west]
+
Shasarik says 'You know a bit less than I thought, it seems, gentle thief.'
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
By the Shore of a Still Lake
+
Padraic says 'Do I?'
−
  A narrow shelf of pebbly ground forms the shore of a wide, still lake.
+
−
The lake stretches away to the north, surrounded in all directions by high,
+
−
grey cliffs whose serrated peaks are reflected in the still waters against a
+
−
dim sky.  In the very center of the lake is reflected the highest crag, a
+
−
lofty bluff over the eastern shore whose spiney peak of jumbled black stone
+
−
floats serenely in the lightless deep.  The shelf continues along the
+
−
southern shore to the west, but directly to the east the shore is blocked by
+
−
great toppled splints of stone, which rise, step-like, to the cliffs above.
+
  
−
[Exits: west up]
+
Shasarik turns quickly in attempt to face Vaeshir.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
A Stair of Toppled Granite
+
Vaeshir takes his place behind Shasarik, his hands resting on Shasarik's shoulders.
−
  A natural stair is formed here of great pillars of granite, eroded and
+
−
toppled from the cliff face to the south. The stair overlooks a wide, still
+
−
lake, which stretches away to the north.  At the base of the stair a narrow
+
−
shore stretches eastward around the lake, while upward the stair meets the
+
−
craggy cliff-tops. 
+
  
−
[Exits: up down]
+
Shasarik says 'Of my explainations at least, aye.'
−
A large hawk circles in the cold winds above the hills.
+
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
Overlooking a Still Lake
+
Vaeshir's left hand gently strokes one shoulder, the other firmly resisting the turn.
−
  This craggy cliff-top forms a high stone girdle about a wide, still lake.
+
−
Jutting upward from a narrow shore, the cliff's serrated peaks are framed
+
−
against the sky above, and against the deeper blue of the reflective depths
+
−
far below.  Just to the west the face of the cliff has fallen in a series of
+
−
jumbled pillers, eroded by the harsh, cold wind of the heights.  Eastward
+
−
the cliff continues about the southern edge of the lake.
+
  
−
[Exits: east down]
+
Padraic says 'An explanation is more than a collection of chance statements.'
−
A raven has arrived.
+
Padraic says 'It provides a full picture, where there once were only pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.'
  
−
Overlooking a Still Lake
+
Answering your call, a raven arrives to bond with you.
−
  This craggy cliff-top forms a high stone girdle about a wide, still lake.
+
−
Jutting upward from a narrow shore, the cliff's serrated peaks are framed
+
−
against the sky above, and against the deeper blue of the reflective depths
+
−
far below.  Here the brink curves northward, around the southeastern edge of
+
−
the lake, and marches eastward, where the cliff-face is scored and broken
+
−
with erosion.
+
  
−
[Exits: north west]
+
Padraic says 'And'
−
A raven has arrived.
+
Padraic says 'As your friend so astutely pointed out, a measure of trust is needed.'
 +
Padraic gestures towards you.
  
−
Overlooking a Still Lake
+
Shasarik says 'Now always.'
−
  This craggy cliff-top forms a high stone girdle about a wide, still lake.
+
Shasarik says 'Er, not.'
−
Jutting upward from a narrow shore, the cliff's serrated peaks are framed
+
Shasarik says 'Not when one is bound by an oath of blood.'
−
against the sky above, and against the deeper blue of the reflective depths
+
Shasarik says 'Trust becomes irrelivant.'
−
far below. To the south the precipice bends around the southeastern edge of
+
−
the lake, while to the north the ground rises.  At the peak of the rise,
+
−
mounted upon the highest spire, a jumble of ruined black stone squats
+
−
darkly. Some ancient work of men, the remnants of its toppled towers thrust
+
−
like crooked fingers against the sky.
+
  
−
[Exits: south up]
+
Vaeshir, silent, holds a hand out to the raven.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
  
−
Before the Ruined Gates
+
Padraic steps out of the shadows.
−
  The jumbled ruin of an ancient fortress sits atop the high peak of this
+
Padraic says 'Do you really think that blood is all that is on the line, dear boy?'
−
ridge. Its once-lofty towers are now shattered and in ruins, with only
+
−
hollow shards of wood and stone left to recall their splendour.  The wall of
+
−
the fortress is broken in many places, and the collapsed arch of a gaping
+
−
gateway lies directly to the north.  To the west a sudden brink overlooks a
+
−
wide, still lake far below.  The reflective, blue waters stretch to the
+
−
north and south, and above the looming cliffs of the western shore the
+
−
rising ridges of the hill country can be seen marching, spine upon jagged
+
−
spine, into the distance.  Just to the south the edge of the cliff drops
+
−
steeply. 
+
  
−
[Exits: north down]
+
Shasarik flinches.
−
A raven has arrived.
+
Shasarik drinks water from a large leather water skin.
  
−
A Blackened Courtyard
+
A raven lands lightly on your hand.
−
  Wracked by some great violence of fire and force, the wide courtyard of
+
−
this fortress lies in blackened desolation. Scorched flagstones have been
+
−
heaved from their places, and lie strewn amongst the scattered fragments of
+
−
the broken walls.  A few small buildings line the courtyard - a smithy, a
+
−
stable, a servant's quarters - all now roofless and tumbled.  To the north
+
−
lies the main keep of the fortress, its towers and high halls cast into
+
−
ruin. 
+
  
−
[Exits: north south]
+
Padraic says 'If so, you know fewer rules than I have given you credit for.'
−
A raven has arrived.
+
 
 +
Shasarik says 'There is more, yes...'
 +
 
 +
Vaeshir strokes the bird's feathers lovingly, a smile resting on his face.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik says 'These are the... Other Things.'
 +
 
 +
Padraic fingers his pendant idly, then tucks it beneath his tunic.
 +
Padraic drinks water from an everfull chalice.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik says 'They elude me...'
 +
 
 +
Padraic eats a bowl of beef broth.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik says 'But they are here... around us.'
 +
Shasarik closes his eyes.
 +
Shasarik says 'And in my dreams... that is where they show themselves the most.'
 +
Shasarik says 'More than blood, yes.'
 +
Shasarik slowly removes his gauntlets to show his sharpened nails.
 +
Shasarik stops using a pair of blue dragonscale gauntlets.
 +
Shasarik whispers 'more... than blood.'
 +
 
 +
Vaeshir casts Padraic a knowing glance.
 +
 
 +
Padraic quietly watches on, his eyes darting quickly about the cave.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik chants 'Below... deep below the surface... 'neath the most ancient hill... dwell my children...'
 +
 
 +
Padraic says 'These crystalline beasts are beginning to irk me.'
 +
 
 +
A shimmering gate rises up before you.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik snaps out of his altered state.
 +
 
 +
Padraic gestures for Shasarik to enter first.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik blinks.
 +
 
 +
Vaeshir motions towards the gate 'Trust.'
 +
 
 +
Shasarik touches the gate hesitantly.
 +
 
 +
Padraic holds up a finger.
 +
 
 +
Shasarik steps into a shimmering gate.
 +
 
 +
Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly.
 +
 
 +
Padraic says 'An interesting toy.'
 +
Padraic says 'How long has he been this way?'
 +
 
 +
Vaeshir says softly 'It took only days to weave this one's web.'
 +
Vaeshir says softly 'He has been with me for most of his life.'
 +
 
 +
A Crystal-filled Cave
 +
  The subterranean tunnel curves to the north and east at this point, the
 +
cave walls formed of a dark brown sedimentary stone.  Sprouting from this
 +
stone are dozens of naturally-formed crystals, whose intricate shapes line
 +
the walls in shimmering patterns.  Broken shards and whole shafts of crystal
 +
lay about the floor of the cave, the smaller pieces filling the various
 +
cracks and variations in the stone floor.
 +
 
 +
[Exits: north east]
 +
    A shimmering black gate rises from the ground, leading to parts unknown.
 +
(Charmed) A raven with coal black feathers circles around this place.
 +
Padraic the Hero of the Shadows is here.
  
−
A Ruined Hall
 
−
  The broken walls of an ancient hall of men surround a fire-blasted and
 
−
desolate space, now open to the bleak sky above.  Charred beams of wood and
 
−
fragments of the stone walls still pierce sky with harsh angles, and in the
 
−
center of the room a once-great spiral staircase lies crumbled.  Its
 
−
blackened marble steps rise several feet above the ground still, before
 
−
dropping into a jumbled mass of broken stone and shattered wood.  The steps
 
−
do, however, continue downward, through the floor of the hall and into a
 
−
gaping hole whose bottom is beyond the blackness of its depth.  To the south
 
  
−
[Exits: south down]
+
Padraic says 'The srryn are not known for their fortitude.'
−
A raven has arrived.
+
Padraic says 'But he is waiting.'
 +
Padraic steps into a shimmering gate.
  
−
Vaeshir casts a glance downward into the abyss.</pre>
+
You enter a shimmering gate.</pre>
  
 
[http://www.ender.com/~jolinn/avendarbible/wiki.pl?Road_to_Revolution_1 1][http://www.ender.com/~jolinn/avendarbible/wiki.pl?Road_to_Revolution_2 2][http://www.ender.com/~jolinn/avendarbible/wiki.pl?Road_to_Revolution_3 3][http://www.ender.com/~jolinn/avendarbible/wiki.pl?Road_to_Revolution_4 4][5]
 
[http://www.ender.com/~jolinn/avendarbible/wiki.pl?Road_to_Revolution_1 1][http://www.ender.com/~jolinn/avendarbible/wiki.pl?Road_to_Revolution_2 2][http://www.ender.com/~jolinn/avendarbible/wiki.pl?Road_to_Revolution_3 3][http://www.ender.com/~jolinn/avendarbible/wiki.pl?Road_to_Revolution_4 4][5]
  
 
Return to: [[The Apocrypha]] See also: [[Vaeshir]], [[Shasarik]], [[Padraic]]
 
Return to: [[The Apocrypha]] See also: [[Vaeshir]], [[Shasarik]], [[Padraic]]

Latest revision as of 22:49, 21 January 2003

Players near you:
(PK) Vaeshir                      Inside a Dark, Muddy Hut
(PK) Shasarik                     A Turn In An Old, Muddy Road
(PK) Aziath                       Inside a Dark, Muddy Hut

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'True.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He seeks freedom however.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Yet is terrified you will find out.'

Vaeshir chuckles dryly.

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Expecting sudden death.'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Is that so?'

Aziath nods.
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He fears you, strong enough to feed upon his fear.'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Who tells you this?'

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Even if you would loosen the bonds.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He speaks with us.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'And we are obliged to listen.'

Vaeshir casts a sharp glance westward.

Aziath peers intently west.

Inside a Dark, Muddy Hut
  The muddy walls inside this hut are a dark charcoal, and covered with
faded white illustrations showing early srryn wielding the void.  Runic
markings, drawn in the same white chalk, pulse and glow faintly, bathing the
small room in a pale aura.  A sickening stench of carrion and disease drifts
freely amid the hut, contaminating the air around you.  The putrid odor
seems to emanate from the northern wall, where a large circle is drawn in
white chalk.  

[Exits: west]
(Invis) (Charmed) A massive skeletal figure looms above the lake, hissing and writhing in fury.
(Invis) Aziath the Dweller in the Dark Eve, Scourge of the Skies is here.
(Invis) Usthriykss, Potentate of the Thissa Sept, rests within the shadows.

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Let us rephrase.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Breaking the bond, and basing it solely on fear, you would loose little.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Yet gain..'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Well.'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'When the price is paid the formal bond will be dissolved.'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Your .. patron'

Aziath nods.

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'spoke to me when the time was right. We struck a deal.'
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'I am not the only one who lusts for the souls of the weak.'

A faint trail of chilling mist trickles out of Aziath's sleeves, slowly circling his stature. 

Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly. 

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'True.'
Aziath utters the words 'armor'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Information regarding this ritual is to be delivered to me when it is obtained.'
Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'In exchange,'

Vaeshir nods to the west.

Aziath nods.

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'We've delivered the task to someone.. capable.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He will find what is known about this ritual.'

Vaeshir traces his fingers idly across the scales covering his neck. 

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Besides what Usthriykss is willing to share.'
Aziath glares at Usthriykss.
Aziath nods thoughtfully.
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Ask no more of Shasarik until this ritual has been.. completed.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'This we ask of you.'

Vaeshir runs his fingernail along the point where the scales of his neck and the smooth black skin of his torso meet.

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'A bond beyond with us might disturb..'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'Why are you so intent on this?'

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'We've spoken with two.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Familiar with rituals as strong as these.'

Vaeshir jerks his hand away, drawing blood.

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Al be it different ones.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'There lies danger in them.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'A bond outside the ritual.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Might disturb it.'

A thin dark line of blood flows down Vaeshir's chest.

A faint symbol, carved in Aziath's skull, pulses briefly with darkened light. 

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'The effects..'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'You know nothing of this bond?'

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Any oath or bond in general..'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'The bond outside the ritual.'

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'binds part of the spirits together.'

Vaeshir inclines his head slightly. 

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'A spirit distracted..'

Shasarik tells the group 'I have held position for a night and a day with only my thoughts.  I shall remain until your mouthes give word.'

Aziath peers intently west.
Aziath tells the group '(whispering)' You do well.'

Vaeshir tilts his head, smiling to himself.


Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'He will obey you, no doubt.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Yet do not call your right of the bonding upon him.. for now.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'After the ritual.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Things lie.. different.'

Aziath nods.

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'One we cannot unclose.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Yet do believe this.'

You frown.

Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'Taking the advice is.. advantageous.'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'The gains..'
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'are mutual.'

Vaeshir says softly, in shuddeni, 'I trusted you once when I chose to participate in the Ritual. The benefits have been unexpected, but consistent.'

Aziath nods.

Vaeshir waves a clawed hand across his surroundings, in shuddeni, 'Until this is completed I will trust you again.'

Aziath nods his head slowly.
Aziath whispers, in shuddeni, 'This will be .. appreciated.'
Aziath nods.

### Later, in the Crystal-filled Cave

You tell the group, in shuddeni, 'I go to speak with him.'

Shasarik joins your group.

A shimmering gate rises up before you.

Khastygr tells you 'Watch out for Padraic.'

Shasarik nods slowly.

You enter a shimmering gate.

A Crystal-filled Cave
  The subterranean tunnel comes to an abrupt end at this point, the cave
walls formed of a dark brown sedimentary stone.  Sprouting from this stone
are dozens of naturally-formed crystals, whose intricate shapes line the
walls in shimmering patterns.  Broken shards and whole shafts of crystal lay
about the floor of the cave, the smaller pieces filling the various cracks
and variations in the stone floor.  

[Exits: west]
     A shimmering black gate rises from the ground, leading to parts unknown.
Your passage through the void maims you!
Shasarik has arrived through a shimmering gate.
Shasarik's passage through the void wounds him.

Shasarik has arrived.

Players near you:
(PK) Padraic                      A Crystal-filled Cave
(PK) Vaeshir                      A Crystal-filled Cave
(PK) Shasarik                     A Crystal-filled Cave

Now key one flips to Padraic.
You peer intently east.
=== 1 east ===
Padraic the Hero of the Shadows is here.

Shasarik says 'This place...'
Shasarik grabs his midsection in appearant pain.

You give a menacing hiss.

Shasarik says 'Vaeshir... spare a bit of bread?'
Shasarik ponders the question.

Vaeshir says softly, in arcane, 'The thief was here.'

Padraic steps out of the shadows.
Padraic says 'Is.'

Shasarik says 'Thief?'
Shasarik says 'Ah.'

Shasarik nods at Padraic.

Vaeshir tosses his head contemptuously.

Shasarik looks at Padraic.

Vaeshir says softly 'What is it?'

Padraic says 'Long ago, there were three.'

Shasarik drinks water from a large leather water skin.

Padraic spreads his hands about him.
Padraic says 'And lo, there are but two now.'

Vaeshir says softly 'The strong have survived, the weak fallen from us.'

Shasarik nods slowly with widened eyes.

Padraic turns his eyes to Shasarik, then back to you.

Shasarik sheathes his axe upon his back, awed.
Shasarik stops using an axe made from tempered steel.

Padraic says 'And will the culling continue?'

Vaeshir says softly 'The third was not broken from us by force.'

Shasarik tells the group 'Grant me a loaf?'
Shasarik nods quickly.

Padraic says 'Interesting.  You have grown since I left you last.'

Shasarik says 'I remember, Padraic.'
Shasarik says 'In part I have you to thank.'
Shasarik says 'Your aid that day in the caves.'
Shasarik says 'Do you not remember?'

Padraic sips quietly at an everful chalice.
Padraic drinks water from an everfull chalice.
Padraic says 'But of course.'

Shasarik relaxes his tail slightly, eyes unblinking.

Padraic says 'There are things one does not forget.'

Shasarik nods slowly.

Padraic fingers his pendant idly.

Shasarik whispers 'Indeed...'

The crysmal has arrived.

Shasarik says 'Everything has changed and everything has remained.'

Translation: 'Y'er onel.'
OOC to Padraic: I'll bite.

Tall and striking in appearance, Padraic carries himself with an air of
utmost confidence.  Precise and composed in his movements, he seems to bear
himself with constant reservation and consideration.  Fastidiously kept
locks of silken, jet, black hair are parted evenly about his crown, casting
a darkening shadow upon his luminous brow.  His dark, brooding eyes glimmer
lustrously from their lofty perch, like black pearls set upon a moonlit
bank.  Smooth to the touch, his pale skin seems to glow radiantly with an
inner light.  
A dark cloak, tailored to accentuate the breadth of his shoulders, hangs
loosely about Padraic's figure.  The heavy folds seem to swallow his lank
form, leaving little in view.  A fine silver chain, bearing a pendant of
jade, hangs loosely about his neck.  
Padraic is in excellent condition.

Padraic is using:
<worn on finger>    (Glowing) (Humming) a golden insignia ring
<worn on finger>    (Humming) a golden insignia ring
<worn around neck>  a necklace of bone shards
<worn around neck>  (Glowing) (Humming) an elder's amulet of strength
<worn on torso>     the chitinous black armor
<worn on head>      a string of dragon-bone hair beads
<worn on legs>      a pair of blue dragonscale leggings
<worn on feet>      an old pair of iron-capped leather boots
<worn on hands>     (Humming) a pair of mud-covered gauntlets
<worn on arms>      a pair of scalemail sleeves
<worn about body>   a wolfskin cloak
<worn about waist>  (Glowing) a jade belt with a skull-shaped buckle
<worn around wrist> (Glowing) a bracelet of carved marble
<worn around wrist> a stiff white leather bracer
<wielded>           (Glowing) (Humming) an ancient sword forged by Thethtil
<dual wielded>      a jewel-encrusted dagger

A fine chain, cut from white silver, is strung about Padraic's neck.  At
its base is a spider-shaped pendant, carved from a frostily clouded jade. 
No larger than a standard gold coin in size, the spider's legs curve
outwards in sheltering arcs, curling themselves about the bulbous green
body.  Twin slivers of cloudless ruby are set into its head, the luminous
eyes gazing quietly out from their perch.  

[OOC] Padraic: Everyone does, sooner or later.

Shasarik says 'My form has changed, as has Vaeshir's.  My Oathbindings remain.'

Padraic looks at you.
Padraic says 'Do you remember, truly, what happened Shasarik?'

Vaeshir places the back of his hand against Shasarik's cheek lightly.

Padraic turns his head away slightly, smiling quietly to himself.

Shasarik takes a step back instinctively.

Padraic chuckles softly 'Yes.  That day.'

Shasarik whispers 'Not entirely... no.  I believe I may have thought you were...'
Shasarik says 'whispers someone else...'
Shasarik shuts his eyes for a moment.
Shasarik opens his eyes slowly, adjusting them to the dark.

Padraic traces a finger lightly against his lips, smiling quietly to himself.

Shasarik says 'I often mistake shadows about me for... something else.'

Padraic says 'You asked for things, Shasarik.'

Shasarik nods hesitantly.

Padraic slowly begins to circle about Shasarik.

Shasarik says 'I-indeed.'
Shasarik says 'Yes... a... club or sorts...'
Shasarik says 'A large club that I could not use...'
Shasarik says 'I remember now...'

Padraic leans in close, speaking in a hushed whisper 'Do you still ask for more?'

Shasarik shudders briefly.

You tell Shasarik 'You do not.'

Shasarik snaps his eyes open wide.
Shasarik says 'No.  I do not.'

Padraic chuckles softly to himself.
Padraic says 'And so he has grown, so that he is no longer in need.'

Vaeshir withdraws his hand from Shasarik's trembling cheek.

Shasarik stares ahead, an almost souless look 'cross his face.
Shasarik nods slightly.

Eyeing you carefully from the corner of his eye, Padraic continues to circle about Shasarik.

Shasarik says 'I... require... nothing you can... grant, Padraic.'
Shasarik closes his eyes, unsure.

Padraic says 'And yet, you tremble, you quiver.'

Vaeshir Moves to stand behind Shasarik, his eyeless gaze indifferent to Padraic.

Shasarik says 'I... have wants, yes...'
Shasarik says 'A want... a...'

Padraic says 'Your... master?  He comforts you with a hand upon the cheek.'

Vaeshir exhales slowly, softly, his face inches from Shasarik's neck.

Shasarik shuts his eyes tightly.

Padraic says 'Or am I mistaken?'

Shasarik moves one hand to the other to keep it from reaching behind his back.
Shasarik opens his eyes quickly.
Shasarik says 'What is your wish, Padraic of the moving shadows?'

Padraic suddenly steps away towards the east, his back turned in your direction.
Padraic eats a bowl of beef broth.

Shasarik continues 'What have you that I stand here before you barely able to parry the thrusts of your tongue?'

Resting his head against Shasarik's back, Vaeshir moves his hands to settle on Shasarik's shoulders.

Padraic says 'Thrusts?  I merely make conversation.'

Shasarik says 'I have, as you might not be abled to ascertain, not just grown in size.'

Padraic smiles from beneath the shadows.

Shasarik says 'My wits are about me, Padraic.  What have you to gain?'
Shasarik spins quickly to lock eyes with Vaeshir.
Shasarik peers into the shadows but cannot look past the cloak of the invisable.

Padraic says 'Entertainment, Shasarik.  Entertainment.'

Shasarik suddenly looks as though he has remembered something.
Shasarik lowers his head slightly.

Padraic throws his hands up towards the cavern ceiling exultantly.

Shasarik turns slowly to face Padraic once again.
Shasarik says 'Surely one of your profession can obtain entertainment enough for the correct price.'

Padraic says 'The world is a stage, with the gods pulling the strings, my dear boy.'
Padraic says 'But for some of us, it is possible to watch, and not be drawn.'
The crysmal leaves east.

Shasarik says 'But... it is because they see things in us we do not see...'

Vaeshir trembles slightly.

Shasarik says 'There are reasons...'
Shasarik says 'The questions... they have answers...'
Shasarik spins to face Vaeshir.
Shasarik says 'You know some of those answers... you...'

Padraic says fervently 'They have designs.'

Shasarik halts suddenly.

Padraic says 'They have ambitions, they have desires.'

Shasarik turns to face Padraic.
Shasarik says 'Yes...'
Shasarik says 'Designs...'

Padraic says 'They are men, like you and I, with flesh and bone removed from the equation.'

Shasarik says 'Power... the... power...'

Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly. 

Shasarik says 'Padraic, it is not that simple...'

Padraic claps his hands together.
Padraic says 'Of course not!'

Shasarik says 'If you shared my... dreams?'
Shasarik shivers violently for a moment.
Shasarik shakes his head.

Vaeshir holds up a hand before Shasarik.

Shasarik says 'Not simple... no...'

Padraic turns his head away, as if listening to something.

Vaeshir takes several steps towards Padraic, closing the distance between them.
Vaeshir whispers 'You are a messenger.'

Padraic purses his lips, then nods slowly in a growing smile.

Shasarik says 'You...?'

Padraic says 'I am what you make of me.'
Padraic says 'A messenger, a thief, an actor...'

Shasarik drinks water from a large leather water skin.

Vaeshir whispers 'A puppet.'

Shasarik says 'A child... like me...'

Padraic says 'A player, who controls his own pieces.'

Vaeshir tilts his head, amused.

Padraic says 'The imagination is a wonderful tool.  Wonderful, but dangerous.'

Shasarik says 'No, no... you... you yourself don't quite understand it all yet... I do not either... but...'

Padraic says 'Suppose that I knew absolutely nothing?'
Padraic grins broadly.

Vaeshir turns his eyeless gaze to face Shasarik. 

Padraic says 'Suppose that I... simply knew how to talk the talk?'

Shasarik lowers his eyes to the crystal-covered ground.

Vaeshir says softly 'Not possible.'

Shasarik says 'Yes, Lord Vaeshir.'

Padraic says 'I am what you make of me, good sirs.'

Shasarik says 'Ill-phrased, methinks.'

Padraic drinks water from an everfull chalice.

Vaeshir reaches towards the chalice, palm held upwards.

Padraic sighs softly.
Padraic says 'You wish a drink from my cup, shuddeni?'

Shasarik says 'How else can one more completely deny his own statement of complete control than by stating that they are what those tho surround them make of them?'

Shasarik says 'Padraic, it is an illusionist's game you play.'

Vaeshir says softly 'A certain amount of trust is required to speak as we do now. I take the next step.'

Padraic extends the chalice towards you.
Padraic says 'Take care.  Not all may find the taste... pleasing.'
Padraic gives you an everfull chalice.

It's about half-filled with  a clear liquid.

Vaeshir raises the chalice to his lips.
You drink water from an everfull chalice.
You drink water from an everfull chalice.
Your thirst is quenched.

Shasarik remains motionless.

You give an everfull chalice to Padraic.

Padraic circles a finger about the edge of the chalice, then tucks it into the folds of his cloak.

Padraic says 'You are correct gentlemen.  It is a game I play.'
Padraic says 'And in every game, there are rules which must be abided by.'
Padraic says 'And there are prizes to be won.'

Shasarik says 'And stakes to be lost.'

Padraic says 'And you must ask yourself, what these rules are, and what are the prizes.'

Vaeshir traces his fingers idly across the scales covering his neck. 

Padraic eyes the remains of the crysmal.
Padraic says 'And of course, the losses.'

Shasarik runs 'his clawed hands across a chipped section of his scales.'
Shasarik runs his clawed hands across a chipped section of his scales.

You think 'It has already begun.'

Shasarik exhales slowly and silently.

Padraic eyes your neck carefully, a slight frown upon his face.
Padraic gestures towards you with a beckoning finger.
Padraic stops using a string of dragon-bone hair beads.
Padraic wears a pair of runed spectacles on his head.
Padraic stops using a pair of runed spectacles.
Padraic wears a string of dragon-bone hair beads on his head.

Shasarik catches himself turning his head to look at Vaeshir and stops.

Padraic murmurs 'Come closer.'

Vaeshir takes the remaining steps towards Padraic.

You now follow Padraic.

Shasarik keeps his vision centered between Padraic and Vaeshir.

Padraic places a hand upon your head and pushes it forward, exposing the scaled neck.

Shasarik blinks once.

Vaeshir winces slightly, amazed at the pain.

Shasarik stops using a long steel foil.
Shasarik wields an axe made from tempered steel.
Shasarik dual wields a long steel foil.
Shasarik turns the axe over in his hands.

Padraic runs a finger along the scaled surface, murmuring quietly to himself.

Shasarik says 'Are you well, my Lord?'

Vaeshir exhales quietly.

Padraic murmurs to himself 'It moves more quickly than I had expected.'
Padraic removes his hand.

Shasarik grabs his midsection suddenly as a dull pain grows stronger within him.
Shasarik says 'A loaf, Lord Vaeshir?'
Shasarik breaks the cake in two before eating the halves.
Shasarik eats a cake of Nendorian waybread.

Padraic says 'You are living the life of a pauper, srryn, and yet you say that you have no more wants?'
Padraic says 'You two are in an interesting position.  I should not have left you as unattended as I have.'

Shasarik frowns slightly, flexing his tail off the ground.

Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly. 

Shasarik eyes the crysmal passively as it moves into the other room.

Padraic says 'I think it would be in your best interest if you began to explain yourselves.'
Padraic looks at Shasarik.

Shasarik says 'To you, Padraic?'

Padraic says 'Or to your gods.  Whichever you prefer.'

Shasarik smiles slightly.

Padraic says 'Either way, it shall return to me.'

Vaeshir walks swifly towards Shasarik.

Shasarik says 'You know a bit less than I thought, it seems, gentle thief.'

Padraic says 'Do I?'

Shasarik turns quickly in attempt to face Vaeshir.

Vaeshir takes his place behind Shasarik, his hands resting on Shasarik's shoulders.

Shasarik says 'Of my explainations at least, aye.'

Vaeshir's left hand gently strokes one shoulder, the other firmly resisting the turn.

Padraic says 'An explanation is more than a collection of chance statements.'
Padraic says 'It provides a full picture, where there once were only pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.'

Answering your call, a raven arrives to bond with you.

Padraic says 'And'
Padraic says 'As your friend so astutely pointed out, a measure of trust is needed.'
Padraic gestures towards you.

Shasarik says 'Now always.'
Shasarik says 'Er, not.'
Shasarik says 'Not when one is bound by an oath of blood.'
Shasarik says 'Trust becomes irrelivant.'

Vaeshir, silent, holds a hand out to the raven.

Padraic steps out of the shadows.
Padraic says 'Do you really think that blood is all that is on the line, dear boy?'

Shasarik flinches.
Shasarik drinks water from a large leather water skin.

A raven lands lightly on your hand.

Padraic says 'If so, you know fewer rules than I have given you credit for.'

Shasarik says 'There is more, yes...'

Vaeshir strokes the bird's feathers lovingly, a smile resting on his face.

Shasarik says 'These are the... Other Things.'

Padraic fingers his pendant idly, then tucks it beneath his tunic.
Padraic drinks water from an everfull chalice.

Shasarik says 'They elude me...'

Padraic eats a bowl of beef broth.

Shasarik says 'But they are here... around us.'
Shasarik closes his eyes.
Shasarik says 'And in my dreams... that is where they show themselves the most.'
Shasarik says 'More than blood, yes.'
Shasarik slowly removes his gauntlets to show his sharpened nails.
Shasarik stops using a pair of blue dragonscale gauntlets.
Shasarik whispers 'more... than blood.'

Vaeshir casts Padraic a knowing glance.

Padraic quietly watches on, his eyes darting quickly about the cave.

Shasarik chants 'Below... deep below the surface... 'neath the most ancient hill... dwell my children...'

Padraic says 'These crystalline beasts are beginning to irk me.'

A shimmering gate rises up before you.

Shasarik snaps out of his altered state.

Padraic gestures for Shasarik to enter first.

Shasarik blinks.

Vaeshir motions towards the gate 'Trust.'

Shasarik touches the gate hesitantly.

Padraic holds up a finger.

Shasarik steps into a shimmering gate.

Vaeshir licks his lips gingerly. 

Padraic says 'An interesting toy.'
Padraic says 'How long has he been this way?'

Vaeshir says softly 'It took only days to weave this one's web.'
Vaeshir says softly 'He has been with me for most of his life.'

A Crystal-filled Cave
  The subterranean tunnel curves to the north and east at this point, the
cave walls formed of a dark brown sedimentary stone.  Sprouting from this
stone are dozens of naturally-formed crystals, whose intricate shapes line
the walls in shimmering patterns.  Broken shards and whole shafts of crystal
lay about the floor of the cave, the smaller pieces filling the various
cracks and variations in the stone floor. 

[Exits: north east]
     A shimmering black gate rises from the ground, leading to parts unknown.
(Charmed) A raven with coal black feathers circles around this place.
Padraic the Hero of the Shadows is here.


Padraic says 'The srryn are not known for their fortitude.'
Padraic says 'But he is waiting.'
Padraic steps into a shimmering gate.

You enter a shimmering gate.

1234[5]

Return to: The Apocrypha See also: Vaeshir, Shasarik, Padraic

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