:In-CharacterSeptember 11, 2004
A Journal Entry
Hello, Book..
Once again I've neglected you, my apologies. It's been unpleasantly quiet in the Tabernacle with Nikola and Mandolus gone, I've been spending more time in Kjeldoran and always forget to take you with me..
Many peculiar stirrings as of recent, some I have yet to act on as I lay wait to see how they play out. There have been returns to the lands and a bit of news from the two High Priests.
Kamenoko has returned. At first when I saw him there was a flare of anger at his actions of the past. The truth is often not a pretty picture and simply because he did not like the truth doesn't make it any less true. What I said I said based on cold hard facts and his reaction annoyed me tremendously. But to live in the past is to dance with regret and ghosts so once the initial flare cooled, I went to him. His choice of clans surprised me but aside from a minor situation where he had to be reminded that he is a guest in the lands, it is a good thing to see him back. Before there was trouble I held a high opinion of him, something rare for me when dealing with mortals.
And even stranger than Kamenoko, I was awoken the other night by the strangest vision of Exodus of all beings. Exodus. He wasn't the same but he was still very much Exodus. He seemed to be in the Church of Shadows, come back to see how what he created had become. I immediately grabbed my scrying glass and honed in and it was in fact Exodus.
I didn't watch for long, it would be impossible to conceal my scrying if I kept it up, no matter what shape he was in he is still Exodus and I would be felt. I don't know what he was doing or when he arrived but the watchers have been dispatched, there has to be a reason for this...
And then there is this Sarantus, a newcomer. For reasons I can't grasp he has caught my attention. He reminds me a bit of Exodus but maybe it's just what I saw that has me confused.
I'm going to close this now, I have much to write of Nikola and Mandolus but the chime rings downstairs, Oaklore is at the door and there are things to be discussed, changes and plans to be gone over.
More later, cherished book..
Posted by Strega at 12:24 AM | Comments (0)
August 25, 2004
Find Him...
It is the hour before dawn; the darkness hanging on dearly for its last respite, not yet willing to yield control to the light. In the house on the hill there has been no sleep this evening. Instead there has been a meeting of the minds and circle after circle has been cast. The ever-faithful Nikola and Mandolus have been here the entire night, assisting Her when requested and offering their own strength in will as She goes about her task. Coyote is here as well, the Trickster who set the ball in motion. The room is charged with energy as the Tabernacle Priests maintain a soft chant of prayer to Morakai. Tonight has been about work.
"There is one thing we have left to try. I admit to not wanting to go this route, I'm not sure I'll be happy with what I see but this seems to be the only way to handle this. Yes, Nikola. I do understand. The orb is not eternal, to use it this way is to drain it of what it has left before fully understanding what it is. Coyote, if you wouldn't mind parting with your toy for a moment?" Snorting at her sarcasm, Coyote flicks the orb in her direction. Catching it with a smirk she stares into it, looking at the opalescence. "There really is nothing to be considered. I'm going to make use of this thing, even drained of its energy it makes a wonderful *coughs* dog toy. What use is it to have a home full of virgin trinkets if they can serve an actual purpose?"
With eyes honed in on the statue of Morakai in the corner of the room, She sits in the circle and rolls the orb back and forth between Her hands. Chanting softly, She looks from the statue into the orb, asking to be granted the gift of visions for a moment so that he may be found.
At first, nothing. Only the murky interior of the orb as it rolls across the floor. Nothing, it seems like an hour when in fact it has been only a few minutes. All eyes are glued to the orb and the melodic chanting seems to grow louder. Patient and skilled, She sits and watches, unblinking. Quietly She speaks, "Lord Morakai, my Father and my Deity. I ask that you grant me access to the energies of this Orb. I ask that you allow me to see where it is he has gone to and what his state of mind is. It would mean a great deal to your daughter if you would find it within you to grant me what I ask..."
The murky nothing lingers a moment longer and then seems to split down the middle like curtains as an image appears. The orb no longer seems a small ball, the image inside is large and clear. She is caught off guard, a small gasp escaping from Her lips. Coyote stands to the side, his tail swishing quickly back and forth as he contemplates what trickery is afoot and even the unfaltering Tabernacle Priests seem intrigued. "Nikola, Mandolus," She whispers as if afraid of chasing the image away, "Is that what has become of him and what is he saying? Who is he talking to? What in the name of God and Goddess has happened to him?"
The image in the orb is a disturbing one. A male figure walks through what appears to be a world of nothing. A flat landscape decorated with horrific cries from unseen sources and a frenzied chaotic feel to the air. What would look to the untrained eye to be whirling clouds of dust or sand are recognised by the skilled immediately as scattered auras, trapped essences in a bad place.
The figure at first seems to be deeply engrossed in a heated conversation, his eyes blaze and his motions are strong. It takes a moment to realise there is no one there with him. Bits of his words can be made out, sixteen and sixteen are thirty-two and .. "Is he counting? Nikola, look closely please. He appears to be counting an endless count..." The Priest stares into the orb, sixty-four and sixty-four are one-twenty-eight, the count continues. "Look in his eyes, he's fighting a battle of some sort regardless of whether we see anyone there. This is bad, my friends. This is very bad. I've read of this place in the Annals, his being sent here was akin to a mental death sentence. He hasn't been beaten yet though, there is something cohesive in the counting."
He continues his walk, wings beating furiously and then stopping dead still, his gait steady and tenuous at the same time. One-thousand-twenty-four and one-thousand-twenty-four are two-thousand-forty-eight... Silence followed by a flash of rage in his eyes followed by a look of despair, both come and go in the blink of an eye..
"Enough! I can't watch this anymore, I can't stand to look at him like that! Thank you, God Morakai, for allowing me to glimpse into the heart of darkness and see the horror. It angers me, it saddens me, it bloody well disturbs me!" Looking away from the orb She scans the eyes of those in the room and sees agreement in all. There never really was any question at all.
"You have to find him, Nikola. Take Mandolus and a Dominion sentinel, all will be well within the Tabernacle. Zayne is learning quickly, this will be a good test of what he has picked up. The lore will be recorded. I don't care how long it takes or who you might have to slaughter on the way, Dominion will be paid their usual fee and they won't disappoint." With that, She passes a hand over the orb and the image is no more and the murky interior has returned. Shaking Her head sadly as She rises from the circle, She tosses the orb back to Coyote and looks at Her Priests.
"There ya go, Dog. Nikola, Mandolus. I ask of and entrust to you a great favour and a task. I ask that you and a Dominion sentinel go and find him. Enter the netherworld of chaos and find him. I ask that you remain clear of purpose and mind in this world of chaos and are able to withstand its pull. I ask that once you find him you bring him back here immediately, if necessary by force. I understand if he has to be subdued, we don't know what his state of mind is. This is not right, this is not what he is meant for. Go. Find him and bring him home."
Walking over to the Priests, She kisses each of them on the mouth and whispers a few ancient words of safety to them. "Be safe, my Priests. Be safe and find him. Please."
to be continued
Posted by Strega at 08:02 PM | Comments (0)
July 07, 2004
Changes Upon Us
A quiet night in Norlondar, the winds blow just enough to call for open windows and night air through the city and surrounding areas. Night creepers are out and about, some to patrol for the safety of the Norlondarians and others in search for just the right victim. Alone in the large home on the top of the hill the Kitten Goddess sits on the large wooden porch. The home is devoid of all presence of life save for the feline female and the ever-present hawk. Nikola and Mandolus have left Her alone for a rare change of pace, work is needed in the Tabernacle and only they can see to it. A meeting in the ink of night with a Priest of the Shadows, She will be told of it after it occurs.
She has enjoyed this wonderful night of blessed solitude. A long bubble bath by candlelight, roast pheasant with fresh rolls and corn and a glorious blueberry pie made with love by the Tabernacle Cook. She sits now in the lounge chair on the deck, looking out into the darkness and breathing in the wind. Open in Her lap is a large book bound in something that looks eerily to be tanned flesh. The plumed fountain pen She writes with is suspended in mid stroke as She thinks carefully on Her next words. History is being recorded for the Lore Keepers, the Tabernacle legacy continuing as all that matters in the lands is recorded with accuracy and honesty, never the lessons of the past be forgotten. Once filled, the book will be read by Nikola, Mandolus and the Higher Circle of the Tabernacle and then locked away in a place no Lore Keeper will ever reveal.
Taking a deep puff from her Pipe of Clarity, She reaches over and strokes the Hawk, no words needed as for once the beast is keeping his thoughts and his squawks to himself and is content just to be stroked. Savoring the often-overlooked power and beauty of a perfect night and clarity of thought, She begins once again to write.
On this day and as a representative of the Lore Keepers, I do write the following and swear to its truth. - Kalilyn Roanairre, Daughter of Morakai and Overseer of Norlondar.
What was is no more. Gone are the familiar halls of the clans they have formed. Gone are the assurances of fighting alongside friends, gone are the alliances and tenuous trusts formed over ale and bloodshed. How confusing it must be for them to wander into the Lands and discover all has changed. How confusing to wake up one morning, leave the home and discover your meeting place has a new banner flying from the roof.
How uneasy we all felt as we met with the delegates from the new organisations. We knew we would be changing their lives and their friends and making them re-think all they believe in. It wasn't an easy choice to approve the takeovers, it was difficult and draining and by the time it was done even the ever-energetic and adventurous Oaklore looked exhausted.
After the delegates spoke it was up to us and I truly believe we made the right decisions. There are some things even we cannot control, the ball they set in motion with their arrogance, greed and cruelty continues to roll down the hill and we are bound by covenant not to stop it. Yet there are some things we can control and this decision was one of them.
Loyalties became convoluted, the sense of purpose that is supposed to walk hand in hand with belonging to a clan has been replaced by greed and the mob mentality. The individuals have become part of the masses and alliances have been formed on tainted blood. We did the right thing.
We went through so many scrolls, so many proposals, so many offers. Having vowed not to emerge from the room until the decision had been made we sat and talked for what seemed an eternity. Finally it was done, we all stopped talking at the same time as realisation set in, we were done.
The thirteen were chosen and word sent to each delegate. The thirteen new organisations that would replace what was and challenge the loyalties of all. We spent more time pondering which of these groups we wished to sit as Patron of and which were best suited without Patronage.
We questioned the purity of a Chapel of Prevailing Peace. How long before the same greed that permeated the Circle of Peace creeps into the Chapel? We accepted the Chapel of Prevailing Peace based on the sincerity of its delegate and decided to let Loky try and run the Chapel, its fate is in his hands now.
We questioned the attraction of a Covenant of the Golden Dawn. All one has to do is look around to see that the majority prefer the lure of the darker side and fighting against Chaos is a constant challenge few are fit for. We accepted the Covenant of the Golden Dawn based on the integrity of its delegate and the intensity of its cause. Good must be protected. We have yet to find a suitable leader.
We questioned the necessity of a Keepers of the Prism. How easy it is to be lured away from battle for a quick orgy or communal nude bath? How easy it is to be swayed by lust and Bacchanalian joy and to lay the sword down. We accepted the Keepers of the Prism based on the strong individuality of its delegate and the Goddess Savitri's interest in Patroning this group. Although should the Goddess Savitri not be able to Patron them as they are for various reasons, an alternate delegate spoke up for allowing the group to kill alongside the Covenant in the defense of the light. This intrigued us. We have yet to find a suitable leader.
We questioned the honesty of a Tradewind. It was greed and the love of the material that acted as catalyst for the impending doom that hangs over all of our heads. Merchants with nothing to sell because their time was spent drinking ale or frequenting Nayra's wenches. We accepted the Tradewind based on the convincing speech of its delegate and the simple fact that commerce between the three major cities and all in between is a necessity for survival and growth. We have yet to find a suitable leader.
We questioned the acceptability of an Adventurer's Banner. To fight with one group alone and to be truly neutral and not swayed by greed or religious zeal is a strong calling few can answer. The true Adventurer's spirit is a dying breed as people choose to cling to their security blankets and safety zones. We accepted the Adventurer's Banner based on the spirit of its delegate and the God Oaklore's apparent yet unspoken Patronage. The Adventurer's spirit is something we celebrate. We have yet to find a suitable leader.
We questioned the compatibility of a Tabernacle of Forgotten Lore. Would a fairly secretive and devoutly religious group of self proclaimed "benevolent intellocrats" fit in in the lands. They're neither particularly inviting or friendly and are concerned only with recording lore. We accepted the Tabernacle of Forgotten Lore based on the bond between the delegate and Kali, Nikola has served as the Tabernacle High Priest forever and as Kali herself came out of this group, she gladly Patrons this group. We have yet to find a suitable leader.
We questioned the strength of a Stygian Temple. Many groups claim to be strong in their secret magicks, only two of the other groups, Tabernacle and Dominion, have knowledge of the Stygians and they honour the commitment not to share secrets. We accepted the Stygian Temple based on the wisdom of its delegate and the way they have of combining white, grey and black magicks; theirs is a goal of overall magickal power rather than for good or evil. This intrigued us and the God Dulthail was interested enough to offer to Patron this group. We have yet to find a suitable leader.
We questioned the chaos of a Den of Iniquity. Granting them entrance was akin to opening all women to attack, all children to kidnapping, all adults to be slaughtered. It is an open invitation to Chaos to enter into the Lands and have free run. Those so completely lacking in basic compassion and conscience can be a dangerous group to be around. We accepted the Den of Iniquity based on the reputation of its delegate, he had personally done some work for Kali in the past and she spoke for him. Careful thought was given and we chose Squiggy to lead this group.
We questioned the morals of a Dominion. Does it really do the citizenry well to know that the smiling person next to them in the cafe would quickly and effortlessly slip a blade into their side if the price was paid? This breed of stealth assassin is a deadly one and allowing them to set up shop in the Lands can only guarantee contracts will be signed and carried out within the Lands as grass grows, borne of blood. We accepted the Dominion based on the professionalism of its delegate and the knowledge that sometimes we all need a guaranteed assassin. It didn't take us long to place Skippy in the leader spot for this group.
We questioned the secrecy of a Church of Shadows. Their love of making pig-feed out of betrayers was something made clear to us right away, along with very little else. We were shown the torn and bloodied journal of Taja Deskrov and I believe we were all immediately sucked into the words and wondering at the rituals. Even Kali knows little of this group although what she knows was shared. We accepted the Church of Shadows based on the mystery appeal of its delegate and the fact that perhaps if the Church is within the Lands, some information about them might finally be gained. We have yet to find a suitable leader for this group.
We questioned the egos of an Infernal Order of D'Sar. The name alone connotes fanatical devotion and loyalty bordering on idolatry. The Lands don't need a band of murderous sycophants running around killing the living in the name of Darkstar and the undead. We accepted the Infernal Order of D'Sar based on the charisma of its delegate and the close ties Darkstar has formed with those already willing to follow him. We have yet to find a suitable leader for this group.
We questioned the deity of a Ninth Circle. While we have all heard talk of this "Satan" they proclaim to worship, none of us can ever recall actually seeing proof of such a deity. Evil as we know it does not come from anyone called "Satan" and their maniacal devotion to a deity we cannot even be sure exists is a bit odd. We accepted the Ninth Circle based on the holiness of its delegate and the obvious fact that whether or not this "Satan" is real, his followers are willing to kill and die for him and as with the Church of Shadows, if there is something to be learned it is best learned within the Lands. We have yet to find a suitable leader for this group.
We questioned the coldness of an Order of the Tainted Shade. True apathy is a plus to any assassin and to combine it with the powers of the dark makes for an order of murderous knights. Complete lack of morals makes the kill even easier and killing for the sake of killing alone is a sobering thought. We accepted the Order of the Tainted Shade based on the chivalry of its delegate and the strong feeling of loyalty so many have to Ahriman, Patron of this group. It only seemed natural to appoint Demerol and Farg as leaders of this group.
And so it shall be, and so it is. Things are still very new as I write this, they are settling into their new groups and some seem engergised by the changes. There is a vitality flowing trough the air as they are finding niches they never knew existed for them.
I shall write more frequently now as the evolution continues, let the lessons learned in today's world serve tomorrow's well. For now, there is an uneasy sense of excitement and newness to the Lands and it seems to be getting to everyone.
I leave this book for now, Morakai bless.
Posted by Strega at 03:15 AM | Comments (0)
February 24, 2004
Of Reuinions, Battles, Birds, Bats & Banter
It is snowing in Norlondar, the sort of heavy snow that lights up the evening skies with a deep reddish tint. It is late now, the streets of the city are silent and empty save for the nightwalkers who roam unseen in the shadows. The snow is quickly turning the grand city into a picture-perfect vision of nature's beauty. For a few hours more until the morning brings the merchants out into the streets, there is a virginal feeling to Norlondar as the snow falls untouched and everything seems to sparkle.
Standing on Her balcony watching the world beneath Her turning white and listening to the bubbles in the jacuzzi, She has stopped thinking for a few moments just to admire the powers of nature. The hawk sits on the railing to Her left, not overly fond of the cold snow on his wings but not altogether displeased. She holds a hand out as if to catch a snowflake and turns Her face to the sky, mouth open to taste the cold invigorating snow. Taking a deep breath of the crisp Winter air, She looks into the house to the two Tabernacle Priests quietly sipping tea and speaking to each other without words. Turning once again to admire the full view of Norlondar, She walks back into the house to the Priests.
"Nikola, Mandolus. You would both do well to go outside and enjoy this glorious gift of nature. Even a High Priest of the Tabernacle is allowed a bit of fun here and there." Snickering softly at their confirmations that they do indeed take time to have fun, She sits on the large sofa across from the fireplace and takes a deep puff from Her Bong of Clarity.
"I think it's time the Den released Alfred. I saw him the other day, wearing a horrid pair of antlers and dragging a ridiculously large wheelbarrow full of ale back to the Den. It's going to take Darkstar quite some time to bring the poor bugger out of his current emotional trauma, anymore and I fear it will be too late. I don't think Darkstar will be bringing any dead whores back to life again anytime soon." The Priest called Mandolus rose from the sofa and left the room, off to send word to the Den that it was time to release the butler. A Dominion sentinel would soon be arriving at the Den to accompany Alfred back to Darkstar and to make sure he gets there safely. "Well, Nikola. I suppose I've done my karmic good for the day with that one and the day has just begun. Karma is on my side today. How silly of him to think he can barter with the servitude of Squiggy. I don't need a bill of sale to make a willing slave out of Squiggy, I merely need a purr. However, I am impressed with Darkstar's plans and it is time Alfred went home."
Another deep puff from the pipe and a moment of silence as She savours the taste of the freshly grown blend of three different nips She received as a gift from the Gnome gardener. "So tell me again, all of it. I'm sorry I wasn't there to see the look on Coyote's face. I was wondering where that thing went, I should have known." Puffing silently as the Priest retells the story of the great battle and the sudden burst of light that blinded all for a few minutes and when it subsided, left a confused Darkstar and a missing bird. "And I thought cats were the ones who liked sparkly things" She said as She looked to the spot on the shelf where the orb should have been.
"So where is he, does anyone know?" Mandolus returned to the room and nodded Her way to let her know Alfred would soon be home. "Good, thank you Mandolus. Now sit and tell me where he went." She listened intently as Mandolus explained that while it was impossible to pinpoint his exact location, he could only be in one of four nether-worlds, unable to break free of the magical barriers keeping him confined.
"Perhaps it is for the best for now, things in the lands are touchy as it is without the Gods battling each other to extremes. The air blows change into the lands and if it is meant to be that one of our own is to spend time confined then it is for a higher reason." Pausing for a moment as Emerond the Dwarven Bartender brings Her a mug of warm cider and rum, She takes a swig and looks into the fire. "And remind me to leave my orbs in safer places" She giggles, "I can imagine the look on Darkstar's face, he must have thought HE did it! Oh, Morakai bless me, I can imagine the puzzlement so vividly! The orb is a powerful tool, I've only used it a few times myself. It's strange to think justice can be dispensed by an orb but I've learned not to question. I'm impressed Coyote got it to work for him but since he did and it did indeed send Navarre off to the nether-worlds, there had to be a reason."
She looks into the fire, seemingly distracted as She thinks to herself, fingers slowly stroking the hawk. "I'm afraid the Governess will need to be put on ice for a bit. If he can't control his playthings then control shall be taken for him. Weak or not, if Navarre had wanted he could have turned the Governess into ghoulash." She rises and looks at the statue of Morakai, concentrating deeply on its power. With a call to the God in the Olde Tongue and a swish of Her tail, there is a brief flash of light that quickly fades. She sits once more. "There. She's not dead but she won't be attacking any more Gods anytime soon. Silly bat, silly Governess. How sad he cannot see his own creation has discovered the human emotion of love and offers it willingly to his oblivious self. Just like a man, eh, Nikola?" Grinning as the Priest attempts the ever-tactful answer, She waves him quiet.
"No more for now, let us return to the Tabernacle. There are some things I wish to discuss with the Priestess and a call has been issued for one of the Virgins to connect with Sevarius, higher magic is needed for whatever ails him." As the two Priests rise, She startles them both by encompassing them in a strong hug. "I don't often tell you both how important you are to me, especially in these changing times. You are my eyes and ears and deeply appreciated. Now come, let us go home and learn what we can. Let us glance in the scrying pool and watch as Alfred tells the horror story of the Den. Let us revel in all we have and those we love. And perhaps we can learn more of the Nether-world now holding the Raven in its grasp. Come." Fluttering his wings, Rutger lands softly on Her shoulder as She walks out the door and into the silent snow-covered streets of Norlondar, a Priest at each side. "It really is a beautiful place here, isn't it?"
And thus all is quiet for the moment. With Alfred soon to be released, the Governess on ice, the slaves all sold and the strange changes Coyote will only speak cryptically about, life in the lands is in quiet chaos. Somewhere above, the Elder God known as Morakai is smiling, allowing these minutes of quiet before the storm ensues.
Temporarily.
Posted by Strega at 12:23 PM | Comments (1)
November 19, 2003
And From the Caves She Comes
Days have gone by, more than a few but less than a lifetime. The Dominion sentinels have performed their duties as expected and none have disturbed the caves. The Guard has changed a few times as the days went by but Dominion as a collective never wavers in their commitment to getting the task done. The two Tabernacle Priests, Nikola and Mandolus, have left the firepit only once while She was inside. The nameless faceless Lore Trackers have kept them abreast of all they would need to inform Her of when She emerged. Their faces were devoid of expression as they felt the change in the air. The 11th Rite was over. Exchanging quick glances, their attention turned fully to the mouth of the cave and the sudden silence that surrounded them. Nikola places one small candle in the center of the pit, silently praying that Morakai appeared to His daughter in a kind spirit. The feel of witchery in the air is intense and even the Dominion assassins are soaking it in.
After what seems an agonisingly long period of silence, there can be heard from inside the cave the fluttering of wings. Making the sign of Morakai, Nikola and Mandolus rise in unison, chanting quietly. As all eyes stare at the cave opening, they emerge. First the hawk, looking none the less for worse but hawks are resilient beasts. Following the hawk She appears.
Her hair hangs limp over her shoulders, her clothing dusty and speckled with dried blood. A crusted over wound in the mark of the Norlondarian Witch stands out on Her chest, proof that the 11th Rite is not a painfree one. Yet She is alive and walking and Her eyes are crystal clear and alert. She walks slowly to the firepit, nodding Her thanks to the Dominion sentinels and holding Her hands out to the Tabernacle priests as She approaches the pit.
Taking first the hand of Nikola, She presses his palm against the wound, causing it to open slightly and release a few drops of blood. Nikola bows before Her and rubs Her blood from his hand to his chest. Repeating the gesture with Mandolus, She seems weakened as She sits on a rock. Weakened yet perfectly lucid.
Her voice is raspy from chanting, hoarse and tired sounding but still She speaks. "Well, my dear Priests. As far as I can tell I am still sane, although I felt the pull more than once, I believe I was able to resist it. Now please, before I tell you what I learned, share with me what the Lore Trackers have made you aware of while I was in the caves. I am anxious to know what I have missed."
The more loquacious of the two, Nikola begins to inform Her of all She has missed. "They did WHAT?!?!? How long have they had him now, for the love of Morakai?" Nikola tells Her of the butlernapping, the taking of Alfred. Despite Her exhaustion, She can't help but snicker as She listens and thinks of the helpless God of the Undead. "How deliciously nasty, The Den must be rewarded well for their work. I'm glad they didn't harm him, I can imagine having to spend time in the Hall of Iniquity alone would be enough to cripple a stodgy butler like Alfred. When I return to the city I shall set the poor old chap free and let Darkstar return to the pampered priss that he so enjoys being. Ah, I do love that Den. Please, go on.."
With only the slightest hint of nervousness Nikola quickly tells Her how Mount Doom is no more and of Navarre's brush with eternity. "He did WHAT!?!?!?? What the bloody Hell got into his mind, what you describe seems almost an attempt at suicide." Finding it best to get it all out at once, Nikola brings Her up to date with the doings of the Seraph of Fate. "He went WHERE??? To do WHAT?!??" Speaking quietly under her breath in the olde tongue of Norlondar, She looks to the skies as if to demand they answer Her at once. "Alright, I never thought much of Mount Doom to begin with, such a bleak and depressing place. I shall have to don a warm cloak and traverse these chilled lands, this place borne of a hatred for chaos so deep it can manifest itself in significant geographical changes or (as it would seem)the attempt of a God to self destruct. He and I will have to sit and have a rather lengthy talk when he returns. Now tell me again, when and why did he go THERE?" Relaying to the best of his abilities what the Lore Trackers shared, he spoke of Navarre and his determination to penetrate the Tower. " He never knew he was being followed? Something else to remind me when I return to the city, Stravorius has earned a promotion if he is such a skilled tracker even a God doesn't see him. He has earned the right to full Priesthood. But back to Navarre. Continue to monitor his actions, if need should arise use the full scope of Norlondar but it would be preferred if we remained unseen. Let him do what he needs to do, I'll connect with him soon enough. Oy, Pigeon.." Allowing a tiny chuckle, Nikola continues his talk of the lands.
"So much going on and who would have thought Kaiko had it in him to lead the Brethren to bloodshed, will the wonders of Morakai never cease.. But now let us speak of the Rite, what it showed me and what it did to and for me. Come close and let me whisper of the secrets revealed..." Speaking in the olde tongue in a voice barely above a whisper, the Dominion sentinels can only make out a word here and there; "monolith...Crusaders....chaos....InfernalOrder....cleansing...godly battles....light.....dark....morakai....oaklore?.....catharsis" Whispered words of answers learned and why Her chest bleeds the mark of Morakai.
"And so you see, there are only a few possible ways we may allow things to go. It seems Oaklore has some insight into this, I shall have to spend some time alone with him as well and hear what he has learned. Yet now you see why there has to be drastic change, to sit quietly and let it continue will only result in our being written by the Lore Trackers as the lazy gods in the annals. It is far past the time of action, I am sad to say. At least the grand gates or Norlondar will not be........." Her words break off as a noise is heard and the Dominion sentinels spring into action like hungry lions after an elk.
Rising quickly, She turns her attention to one of the smaller caves to the west of the firepit. Reaching into Her bag and removing some herbs and small jars, She makes the sign of Morakai, rubs Her fingers against the mark on Her chest and brings Her finger to Her lips for a kiss. "Enough talk of that for the moment. The scroll Mandolus gave me was correct, the Drow has in fact survived and found his way here, I was right in my assessment of him. Let us tend to his ailments and stop the Dominion sentinels from slicing his throat and when he heals he will learn of what the loom of Fate has woven for him."
Seeming to glow ever so slightly as She walks towards the caves with the hawk on Her shoulder, She is followed by the Priests to where an injured Drow is about to be given over to the Underworld.
Although the residents of the lands don't know it, the ball has begun to roll down the hill and when it reaches the lands of Kjeldoran it will be so large that it could easily destroy all in its path. Life in the lands has begun to change, one era begins to fade and a new one lurks in the near future. What is is soon to become what was and what will be shall become what is and what is will be what should be and what was will be recorded forever in the annals by the faceless Lore Trackers
Posted by Strega at 05:42 AM | Comments (2)
October 20, 2003
Going Home to Norlondar
The night is a deep one, the stars taking the night off to regenerate leaving the sky a dark inky hue. The glow of the torches only works to make the already ever-present shadows appear even more ominous. There is a charge in the air; somewhere someone is working with some strong arcana and it permeates the air with intensity. The sounds coming from the tavern are happy sounds, people drinking and debating and enjoying each other's company. A few members of The Den sit outside the tavern in the shadows, waiting for the right inebriated patron to stagger out of the bar and into their waiting hands. A figure walks by; slow and confident, face hidden away under a hood. Long shapely legs betray the figure is a female one, causing The Den members to stop their planning and look over with interest. As one starts to move from the shadow to approach and perhaps accost the stranger, the figure turns and stars deep into the shadows, finding her mark in seconds and conveying to him a powerful message. Recognition sets in amongst the others and the figure is left in peace to her business.
A flutter of wings and from the sky comes a golden-brown hawk, landing flawlessly upon the figure's shoulder, squawking a few notes. Chuckling in response, the figure pulls the hood from over her head and takes a deep breath of the crisp night air. "I know, Rutger. Good to know the Den of Iniquity remains solid in its commitment to defile every stranger it sees and yes, a bit of appreciative whistling at the state of my legs does indeed boost my ego, what of it?" Bantering back in forth in human-speak and hawk-squawk, the figure passes through the western gate of Norlondar and heads towards the Sacred Caves.
"It's been far too long, hawk. I've turned my back for too long on the goings-on in Kjeldoran and it's time to open my eyes. Damn Darkstar and his foolish notions, what in the name of Morakai himself was he thinking when he attempted to use Norlondarian Magicks to restore the life of a common whore? Chaos has become the strongest force in the lands and those who should be fighting have instead turned into fatcats admiring their attire or strength while reclining in the bar or their halls. Loyalties are betrayed for a price and those who control the light are losing the battle badly."
As the caves come into sight, there appear from the shadows two Tabernacle high priests. Warm hugs are exchanged and even the hawk seems pleased to see these two. "Nikola, Mandolus, how good it is to see you both! And I thank you for bringing my robes and trinkets, I might have to spend more time in the caves than I intended and I'll need all I have. Come, let us sit by the fire pit for a few moments and you can tell me what the Lore Trackers have uncovered and what I have missed." Nodding in agreement, the priests follow the Kitten Goddess to the fire pit, bringing her up to date on all the actions of the Tabernacle, Dominion contracts fulfilled and the murmurings of the commoners about the events in Kjeldoran.
"Just as I feared, word has spread as far as Rystia of the troubles in Kjeldoran. And I suppose there is much whispering about Darkstar's little soiree this weekend. No, I won't interfere, I'll watch from a distance and if need be, the strength of Morakai will be felt. I won't stop him, let the Den take Alfred for a few days to make my point, that will do." Looking into the mouth of the cave, she feels an involuntary shiver run from her toes to her head. "You would think by now I wouldn't feel the apprehension entering into His caves yet I do. He trusted me with the fate of the lands, I'm not succeeding as I should be and I know he's aware of this." Nods of agreement and a moment of silence betray the gravity of the situation and the tenuous position she finds herself in.
"What was that, Nikola? I intend to cast the runes and gain a clearer perspective of what's really afoot in Kjeldoran. I intend to cast the circle and perform the 11th Rite...." Now it was the priest's turn to shiver, he had suspected she was planning the 11th Rite but until he actually heard her say it, he held hope. "I know what you're thinking, my friend. It's been a long long time since the 11th Rite was performed and if I saw another way I would take it but there is no other way, it's that bad there."
Not giving the doubting priest any more time to worry, she rises and takes the shoulder bags full of what she will need to perform one of the most sacred, powerful and potentially destructive rituals in Morakaiian Arcana. If done correctly, the ritual would provide to her all the answers on what to do with Kjeldoran and the problems. If even the slightest detail is off, the possibility for a lasting state of dementia is a strong one. To a Witch of Morakai, not having complete control over your own mind is akin to not being alive. Dementia is a death sentence for a Witch of Morakai.
"Let me waste no more of your or my time. I could easily sit here by the fire pit all night and listen to your words of wisdom but the fate of Kjeldoran and its citizens is something that must be resolved. I don't intend to go insane, I intend to do all as it is meant to be and emerge with some answers. Dominion will be watching the caves, I won't be disturbed. Come, Rutger. The time is upon us." A kiss on the forehead of both priests and she walks slowly into the Sacred Caves of Morakai, followed by the hawk. Her determination filling her aura as the darkness of the caves seems to consume her and she is no longer in the eye range of the priests. Nodding to the Dominion members they knew were watching, the priests say a few prayers and scatter some herbs before the cave entrance. Making the sign of the Tabernacle, they chant softly for the Favourite Daughter of Norlondar and wish her strength and clarity and a smooth time with the 11th Rite. Together they turn and walk away from the caves, sombre and ready to return to the Tabernacle and report the events to the Lore Trackers. Whether the outcome be good or bad, it will nonetheless alter the shape of the lands and must be recorded.
The night is a deep one, the stars taking the night off to regenerate leaving the sky a dark inky hue. Strange sounds are heard in the thick darkness, Dominion signals to make their presence known. Inside the Sacred Caves, the Kitten Goddess prepares to dive head first into the strongest of Morakai's magicks to seek answers and strength. The situation in Kjeldoran has prompted this, its gravity finally hitting her like a sledgehammer. Back outside the Caves, a Dominion Seneschal snaps to attention, blade appearing as though an extension of his hand, only to realise what he hears is chanting in the Olde tongue of Norlondar.
It has begun.
Posted by Strega at 05:58 AM | Comments (2)
August 30, 2003
Changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes
I've had company as of late at my home, besides the usual crew whose company I have come to cherish and need so very much. This is a different sort of company and I purr a different purr when he arrives. Who would have guessed that the Kitten Goddess of Kjeldoran could indeed be enamoured with anyone.. Lorr was a wonderful man and I am eternally grateful for his allowing me to use his name to keep the wolves at bay but this is something completely different. Lorr's name was all we shared, never the same bed or intimate moments or that tricky little emotion known as love.
Yet as I sit now, alone and far away from everyone, the smile on my face is real and the purr in my heart an affectionate one.
He is not of these lands, I've known him for what seems like a lifetime and I know much of his world. Yet until recently there was none of the connection that somehow formed itself and adhered my tail to it. When he is near there is a feeling of security that comes over me. Odd, security. Why would I possibly need security? I fear nothing yet at the same time I feel safer with his arms around me and it's a sensation I have come to cherish.
So many males have wandered in and out of Kjeldoran, some I've gotten close to while some have tried with all their gumption, to no avail. While my eyes might have turned in the direction of one or two, never in all my time here have I encountered someone I want to be with, want to hug and purr against, want to shout from the heavens that I have been graced by Morakai in the sweetest way. Morakai who has allowed his Daughter to be swept off her feet by a quiet and intense man with the spirit of a God, the wit and mind of a Bard, deep-running emotions and an uncanny ability to understand me and how my mind works. Thank you, Father.
Look at me, gushing like a mortal. That's alright, my thoughts here are my own. I speak not his name, I leave to him the ifs and whens of whether he chooses to make himself known. The feline in me is selfish by nature, I don't want to share him yet at the same time I want to yell from the highest tower in Norlondar that I, Kalilyn Roanairre, have found my smile. It wasn't buried forever as I thought it was when a Tree fell in Kjeldoran, it was simply hiding in a treasure chest for me to find the right source to light it.
And now it blazes.
How odd, this waking up happy. I wouldn't trade it for all of Beltanshy's wealth, though.
I shall close now, trusted journal. The hawk sits here looking at me, his eyes filled with amusement at my giddiness. Silly bird. I shall go now to the quiet caves on the Norlondarian shore and present Morakai with a ceremony he will be beyond pleased to see, sending him appreciation and thanking him for allowing this new light into my life.
May there be many more entries in my dear journal about this wonderful man, may Morakai's blessings shine upon us for eternity and may none attempt to ruin what is true and strong and built on emotion. Great Goddess, I sound like Savitri all full of gush and warmth.
............and I like it.
Posted by Strega at 12:49 PM | Comments (1)
August 13, 2003
It Continues
So much nothing, it's amazing how much nothing one can surround one's self in and get lost in it.
I haven't seen Beltanshy in too long, I hope he is well and comes back with pouches full of sparklies. Efficent and funny looking, I've grown accustomed to him being around. The jacuzzi is empty enough as it is these days. But I'll not go there.
I've seen some interesting new faces wandering Kjeldoran the past few days. One or two in particular have struck me as worth observing further. The best Immortals are those who ascend from the ranks, I've developed a keen eye for spotting early potential.
The skies over Norlondar are a bit bluer than they have been lately but there is still an empty feel. I no longer sit amongst the trees and feel at ease or at peace and this saddens me. Even I will never understand why certain events play out the way they do, what's the lesson learned if all the end results are pain and sadness?
Navarre has done an amazing job with the housing for the residents, I hope they appreciate his effort. Never let it be said that we want our residents to live in less than glorious surroundings.
Rivalus impressed me the other day, so much I was compelled to do a favour for the Hellfire clan. There should be more such as Rivalus who know the proper way to petition the Gods for a favour.
I close now, time is against me and I'm lucky I was able to steal a few moments to jot this down. Until next time, book of truths.. Be well and Morakai protect.
Posted by Strega at 04:38 AM | Comments (0)
June 30, 2003
Troubled Times in Norlondar
These men are driving me crazy, I swear the only man who will ever share my heart again is Rutger, my trusted hawk. So many promises made and so few honoured, it's most disheartening.
It's difficult to keep up a smile for the people of Kjeldoran and its surrounding areas, it is so amazingly difficult. Each took a little piece of my heart and my spirit with them when they packed their bags and left and it takes every essence of everything taught to me by Morakai not to break down completely. Yet the citizens of the lands must see none of it.
I wonder if even I am strong enough to face these latest obstacles. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.
Morakai guide your daughter and grant her strength and stability.
Posted by Strega at 03:45 AM | Comments (0)
