Vale of Mysteries: A Wizard Exhale Quest

[Kandarin]

Beneath Chorazin - a Heist Fulfilled

Gandledore was indeed the best mind to call for the task. An old, wise and contemplative wizard, he had not come to wield the Seal of the Unconquered Sun by accident, and had deep insight into the workings of flames old and new. He set his mind and considerable arcane resources to the work of unraveling the mystery.

- Gandledore furrows his brow in thought, a shadow passing over his face. “Ah, taking a flame before the flame takes you. It is... possible." (2025-07-08 01:50:20).
- Gandledore said, "All flames, even those of a magical nature, need a fuel source. Something to feed on, to consume. Without that, the flame will die. But not all fuel sources are created equal. Some are more vibrant, more energetic, more essential in their nature than others. That is what we need." (2025-07-08 01:50:38).
- Gandledore said, "If we secure such a fuel item and place it on the dais, the flame will take to it like the all- consuming thing it is. With the flame securely distracted by its meal, we will be able to carry it wherever we wish. Give me a moment..." (2025-07-08 01:50:51).
- Gandledore takes a moment to collect himself. Eyes closed, deep in reverie, the old wizard abruptly raises his staff and raps it loudly on the floor. An echoing sound, reverberating around, over, and through everything in the chamber, hangs in the air. The dais- bound flame ripples in reply, almost dancing like an ember caught in too strong a wind. (2025-07-08 01:51:05).
- Gandledore mumbles in a language that defies description. The heat of his words chaps lips, the harshness of his phrasing dries and cracks skin, visions of deserts and arid wastelands overtake the mind. (2025-07-08 01:51:17).
- Gandledore leaves his staff to hover in the air, slowly spinning about itself. With one hand he takes out the Chalice of Everburning Flame, a sparkling work of burnished metal and delicate chasing. The air above the cup shimmers and wavers with an invisible heat. With his other hand he delicately plucks unseen sparks and embers from the air, dropping them into the Chalice. (2025-07-08 01:51:31).
- Gandledore approaches the dais, carefully. With great care and greater respect he scoops the Chalice through the flames then quickly retreats back to the group. (2025-07-08 01:51:42).
- Gandledore watches with great interest as the Chalice smokes and crackles, pops and sparks. The aromatic scents of burning things fill the air, bringing memories flooding back to all. A forest campfire under a sky full of stars. A simmering pot of a grandmother’s winter stew. The final remains of a life- long home, torched by the hands of villainy. The acrid tang of jet fuel. Meat left too long on the spit. Pinecones roaring as they burst into light. (2025-07-08 01:51:56).
- Gandledore harrumphs, bringing himself back to himself. "You can lose yourself in those memories, if you’re not careful. Now, for the truth. For what the flame desires." (2025-07-08 01:52:29).
- Gandledore passes his hand over the Chalice, murmuring again in that strange language. He brings the vessel to his lips and drinks it down quickly. He holds his breath, fighting back burps, hiccups, and his own breath. He struggles, but he cannot hold back the magic forever, and before long he relaxes as wisps of smoke drift from his mouth. Looking satisfied, he smiles as he blows a great waft of smoke out his mouth and looks on as it hangs in the air. (2025-07-08 01:52:46).
- Gandledore regards the smoke for a fair amount of time: considers it, weighs it, measures it. Finally, he speaks, "Ah, yes. This does make sense. We have a bit more work ahead of us. (2025-07-08 01:53:03).
- Gandledore said, "What would a flame, a Stygian flame, desire above all else? Something sweet, something delicate, something beautiful. Something it could not have, and should not burn." (2025-07-08 01:53:13).
- Gandledore looks at each of the assembled in turn. “This flame can be captured, held in our hands and carried where we will it, if we secure the one fuel it craves above all other things: a flower of surpassing beauty and delicate grace. The kind of flower that only Elysium can create, and only Elysium can preserve. A stone flower, from the Stone Garden. (2025-07-08 01:53:23).
- Gandledore said, "If we can find such a flower, we can coax the flame from the dais." (2025-07-08 01:53:33).

Jorus and Isabel each, separately, set out shortly to seek the flower.

- You say, "Ah, the old Sisyphean trick. Getting it to chase a thing it can't catch. I like it." (2025-07-08 03:02:03).
- You have changed your vote for the direction that the Council of Keys will apply to the Weave of Magic. Your new vote is: Hidden Pathways (2025-07-08 03:02:15).
- You say, "Of course, we'll need to leave the door open so we can get back in...but that seems a worthy goal." (2025-07-08 03:03:52).
- You say, "Didn't you Coven mages set up not far from there?" (2025-07-08 03:04:10).
- You emote, " taps the side of her head. You vaguely remember that that's where she keeps her Badge of Office. "I will go looking for your haven, and from there begin my search. I trust your knowledge of the flame."" (2025-07-08 03:14:12).
- The wickedness of this evil place tears at your very essence. However, the effect feels unusually mild here. You take 1 points of damage. (2025-07-08 03:14:15).
- The oppressive weight of the wickedness that constitutes this place tears at your very essence. You take 3 points of damage. (2025-07-08 03:14:17).
- You step through the gate and return to the Nest. (2025-07-08 03:14:17).
...
- You step into the pool and the world turns upside down. You find yourself in the vision reflected in the pool, under the sky of a different world. (2025-07-08 03:14:28).
...
- You seep through the cracks in the door to arrive inside Saint Dominic's Cathedral. (2025-07-08 03:14:42).
- You walk into the forest and find yourself enveloped in the sights and scents of another, more beautiful world. (2025-07-08 03:14:44).

Upon arriving at the Garden of Memories, Isabel was fortunate enough to find a flower almost immediately. Even more fortunately, she found a repository where others had stored such flowers for safekeeping - a good reserve in case the fragile bloom was broken.

- You search and find a Rock. You drop it since you are not interested in this kind of item. (2025-07-08 03:14:56).
- Amidst the garden stands a vividly realistic stone statue of a young boy and girl dancing together. You find a hidden niche at the base of the statue that can be opened. It occurs to you that you could stash things here. (2025-07-08 03:14:56).
- You search and find a Stone Flower. (2025-07-08 03:14:57).
- You retrieve your Stone Gear Flower from the Statuary Stash. (2025-07-08 03:15:10).
- You retrieve your Stone Flower from the Statuary Stash. (2025-07-08 03:15:15).
- You seep through the cracks in the door to arrive inside Idyllic Treehouse. (2025-07-08 03:15:22).
- Jorus said, "Oh, hello there" (2025-07-08 16:29:11).
- Jorus said, "I came back to grab a few more flowers, just in case" (2025-07-08 16:29:42).
- Jorus said, "And then head back to Stygia" (2025-07-08 16:29:58).
- You say, "I, too, found some of the illusory blooms." (2025-07-08 17:12:41).

Holed up in the Coven's Elysian haven, Isabel waited for the Weave of Magic to once again unlock the Hidden Pathways that would secure her return to the tunnels. When at last the gates opened, she entered the tunnels again to present her prize. Fortunately, between her finds and Jorus', this left the master of flame plenty of options to choose from.

- You seep through the cracks in the door to arrive inside The Nest. (2025-07-08 18:10:30).
- You emote, " returns laden with a few of the illusory flowers. She fades into the shadows to evade detection." (2025-07-08 18:10:56).
- The Council of Keys has opened a secret network of portals throughout the Nexus, their workings known only to Archmages! (2025-07-09 00:00:02).
- You stand in the center of the ring of runes and find yourself elsewhere. (2025-07-09 00:25:15).
- The wickedness of this evil place tears at your very essence. However, the effect feels unusually mild here. You take 1 points of damage. (2025-07-09 00:25:17).
- You emote, " steps back into the chamber. "I have returned, and I believe Jorus' search bore fruit as well."" (2025-07-09 00:25:47).
- You say, "Or flowers, as it were." (2025-07-09 00:25:53).
- (2 times) You give your Stone Flower to Gandledore. (2025-07-09 01:38:21).
- You give your Stone Gear Flower to Gandledore. (2025-07-09 01:38:25).
- You emote, " sees that Jorus has already delivered, but she still offers the master of fire her finds - a stone lily, a stone orchid, and a gear-like flower with no counterpart in any recent Breath world." (2025-07-09 01:39:12).

However, no sooner had the flowers been delivered than the Wizards were surprised by another threat - one outside of their context or expectations.

- There is a crackle of magic, and the faint but discernable sound of a message. You are somehow aware that it originates from Cordillera, but that some force tied to the magicks of this place has pulled it closer to listen in. (2025-07-09 17:50:12).
- "Attention, Cordilleran rebels. This is Carousel Station Commander Symic Gallus of the Synbiotic Fleet." (2025-07-09 17:51:43).
- "I must admit, I’m somewhat taken aback. When we first swept through your city months ago, I was certain our victory was complete—and I reported as much to Earth. The asynilation was swift; we gained new hosts for the clade, and a continued conversion of the dwindling, meager population you vessels clung to life with. Once we crushed your feeble security forces, your downfall was inevitable. They made fine soldiers, by the way…" (2025-07-09 17:51:52).
- "We cleared your cramped homes, where you had foolishly confined yourselves like vermin. Need I remind you? How far your kind let humanity sink—despicable. We offered you a fresh start, a return to Earth, our rightful home. What little resistance remained was irrelevant, and one vessel after another was honored with a Syndermata host. We were rebuilding the homeworld, free from the wretched dome. Don’t you see? We were doing you a favor." (2025-07-09 17:52:02).
- "And yet, here I am, unable to contact the Synbiotic Fleet, thanks to some new geomagnetic attack you’ve somehow concocted for one last desperate stand. How any of your stragglers managed to coordinate such an attack after all this time is beyond me. It should have been beyond your capabilities. I actually commend your ingenuity. You've earned my respect—no small feat, I assure you. Some of you may yet prove capable of becoming fine officers." (2025-07-09 17:52:10).
- "But know this: I am sending my forces once more to subjugate your inferior population. Do not resist asynilation. It may be a painful process—death and rebirth—but my soldiers can be far more merciless to those who fight back. Keep that in mind." (2025-07-09 17:52:21).

It was clear that the time in which to work was short, and that whatever the Council sought had better be achieved quickly - and in more seclusion than this. Armed at last with the right talisman, Gandledore set to work.

- Gandledore said, "Well done, friends. And so quickly, which, perhaps, may be the difference. It would seem other forces are now in play, and they have declared themselves against us." (2025-07-09 19:10:29).
- Gandledore said, "Let us begin the working. Steady yourselves, for while I have confidence in my abilities I am equally confident that if things go wrong, they will go *spectacularly* wrong." (2025-07-09 19:10:39).
- Gandledore walks towards the dais, staff in his right hand. His back now to those assembled, his raiment seemingly sparkles brilliant white. Slowly he continues, and slowly he begins to speak again in that searing, torching language he used before. The burning heart quivers at the sound, a slow dance upon its emplacement. (2025-07-09 19:10:50).
- Gandledore releases his staff as he did before, and as before it hangs in the air near to its master's side. The old wizard extends out his left hand and in it is the Chalice of Everburning Flame. Power that cannot be seen - only felt - radiates from the cup in waves, pressing against the skin. Gandledore releases the cup as he did his staff, and the shining gold vessel holds proudly in the space to the wizard's left. (2025-07-09 19:11:00).
- Gandledore now spreads wide both arms and in his right hand is a Stone Flower. Being presented with such a prize, the burning heart of Stygia reacts immediately. Waves of heat radiate off the flame, and it is as if facing the desert winds and furnace blasts. Hair is thrown back and clothes threaten to be torn loose. As the storm of wind and blistering heat grows greater and greater still, the steady voice of Gandledore can be heard over all. (2025-07-09 19:11:09).
- Gandledore continues to chant in the fiery tongue. Fire and flame, gale and gust, assail him and those who are here. With one step, then another, then a third and a fourth, the bearer of the Unconquered Sun approaches the flame on the dais. Now grown larger, now grown towering, now grown hungry beyond hunger, the twisting fire and roping flame threatens to consume the elder mage completely. (2025-07-09 19:11:18).
- Gandledore stands tall and rebukes the inferno! Shouting words of great power he continues his advance, brandishing the Stone Flower before him. Slowly at first, the roaring blaze seems to lessen, to decrease, to shrink. Gandledore continues his advance, continues to tame the fire, continues to work his will upon that which he has long since mastered. (2025-07-09 19:11:27).
- Gandledore stands upon the highest level of the dais, the flame now restored to its former shape and size, but still burning brightly and fiercely. He extends the Stone Flower towards the flame, directing his magic with his free hand. Hungrily, yearningly, greedily, the flame leans forward and closer and nearer to the flower until, in a moment that passes in a flash, it leaps from its position and grabs onto the ornament! (2025-07-09 19:11:35).
- Gandledore staggers back but keeps his feet! Magical commands issued in the fiery language echo through the chamber until all soon comes to quiet. Gandledore turns to face his comrades and his countenance is greatly altered. His eyes, once kindly and sparkling, are wreathed in flame and limned with fire. Sparks and embers dance from his beard and his face carries a ruddy glow. As he begins to speak, a heat and warmth issues forth. (2025-07-09 19:11:45).
- Gandledore said, "The deed is done and the flame is captured." (2025-07-09 19:11:58).
- Gandledore presents the Stone Flower so all can see it. Tiny flames race along the edge of the flower and a great deal of uncomfortable heat radiates from it. "The flame wishes to consume this thing, but it cannot. It is all- determined to burn it to ash and thus sate its hunger, but it cannot. Its attention is now elsewhere and it can inflict no harm so long as we are careful. So, do not be careless... (2025-07-09 19:12:07).
- Gandledore has spoken, and having spoken, the flame in his eyes fades and the heat from his body lessens. He is soon restored to his former self, and the effort of his working hangs heavily upon him. (2025-07-09 19:12:15).
- Gandledore said, "What now is the next step?" (2025-07-09 19:12:24).

Above and around them, the darkness of Stygia shook. The power had gone out of once of its ancient dominions, eroding the foundations of a place whose surface angels had long assailed. Matter and metaphysics shifted as the last real potency pushing back at the invasion stilled, vanished into the treasure that the Council spirited away. This was still Stygia, but the land of Chorazin was now bent to the angelic claim far more easily. Perhaps the invaders would never fully understand the cause of their good fortune, nor would its demonic neighbors fully understand the tremors that briefly shook their land. But it was neither angels nor demons that the Wizards now had to trick.

- You say, "Well done, flame-master. It is done." (2025-07-09 19:31:37).
- You emote, " feels something moving that you cannot, at first. A slight tremor, and then a mighty one. Something primal and deep shifts in the air around you, and for a moment you wonder if the entire chamber will shatter. The flames on the wall flicker - blue, gold, one by one - until they all go out, leaving the only light a faint glow from above over the dais." (2025-07-09 19:32:52).
- A quaking of energy echoes over the plane from Chorazin in the south, the feeling of great magicks tumbling into ruin. Something of lasting power has gone out of this place, and the roots of Stygia tremble. (2025-07-09 19:34:19).
- You say, "That would have been felt. The angels push against very little, now." (2025-07-09 19:40:37).
- You say, "Our portal should endure, but I do not know how much longer this place will endure." (2025-07-09 19:41:10).
- You say, "I will go to the Vale and begin preparations. You may bring the flower there, or I can bear it there if you wish to join the group investigating with my sister." (2025-07-09 19:42:05).
- Gandledore said, "I will go to the Vale, and hopefully see many of you there. The easternmost, newly discovered land, Isabel? If not, send me word and I will meet you elsewhere." (2025-07-10 00:37:39).
- Gandledore said, "Be safe and be well, friends! The Breath nears its end, and it would be well indeed to see such fine wizards again!" (2025-07-10 00:38:49).
- You say, "Farewell, and good luck on your endeavours. Meet me in the Vale when the remainder of the Book has been gathered." (2025-07-10 02:13:18).
...
- You step inside The Protagoras. (2025-07-10 02:14:29).
- You use your surgeon skills to tend to Assistant Professor Chaos and heal them for 15 points of damage. You gain 15 experience points. (2025-07-10 02:14:37).
- You use your surgeon skills to tend to Assistant Professor Chaos and heal them for 10 points of damage. You gain 10 experience points. They are now fully healed. (2025-07-10 02:14:40).
- You say, "You are in league with our foes, but today I am generous." (2025-07-10 02:14:50).
- You emote, " appears to step into a painting in the gallery, and disappears!" (2025-07-10 02:15:07).
- You sense a greater magical force at work in the painting and set your mind to identifying and mastering it. You feel a pull toward the painting and find yourself inside the scene that it depicted. (2025-07-10 02:15:20).
- You emote, " lays out her notes in the study. The space appears quite a mess soon enough, and she occasionally rearranges pieces or recites incantations off them in Hasheen." (2025-07-10 02:17:25).
- Jorus gave you a(n) Stone Flower. (2025-07-10 02:37:21).
- Jorus hands out extra flowers to commemorate the moment of stealing power from Stygia itself (2025-07-10 02:38:52).

[Kandarin]

Beneath Ash Harbor, Purgatorio

Katerina returned from a significant outing pulling her slain allies out of the void to continue investigating the catacombs. Upon her arrival, she found Frigidaris passed out from some sort of poisoning.

- You say, "...is he all right?" (2025-07-09 01:49:13).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane smiles--or perhaps it would be more aptly described as an amiable teeth-baring. "Oh, ay, he will be. Jus' had a sip of somethin' that didn't agree with him. He'll pop back up once his liver gets over the shock." The wizard continues fanning, the brim of his woodsy-green wizard hat flopping back and forth. (2025-07-09 02:21:36).
- You say, "Ah. I imagine you drink the stuff in question by the liter with no ill effects?" (2025-07-09 02:42:16).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Wouldn't say *no* ill effects, but I manage to keep my feet under me." (2025-07-09 02:52:34).
- The Arena round has now concluded, with a victory for the Forces of Good! Thanks to everyone who participated in the event on any team or none! We hope you have enjoyed the challenge, and that you will enjoy the coming Exhale and the new world to come. (2025-07-09 02:58:43).
- You say, "You do seem to still be standing." (2025-07-09 03:30:12).
- You say, "An accomplishment that would probably be helped by not drinking more of it." (2025-07-09 03:30:33).

With some further experimentation with the coffin-slot, it became apparent that it would accept just about anything magical.

- You pick up the Runesword. (2025-07-09 03:37:55).
- You emote, " looks at the various things lying around. "Ooh, a Runesword." She points it into the slot and it surprisingly is absorbed into the stone with a slight SHUNK sound, as if she'd stabbed it into something more viscous." (2025-07-09 03:38:48).
- You place your Runesword into the Ossuary Vessel. (2025-07-09 03:38:55).
- You say, "...but that said, I've come a long way too. Hopefully everyone will be better in the morning. Not that we can tell when it's morning down here, of course." (2025-07-09 03:51:30).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Whew. Okay, got a usable MR." (2025-07-09 04:22:28).
- Frigidaris opens his eyes and looks around blearily, then clutches his head and stands up. (2025-07-09 07:10:42).
- Frigidaris said, "...morning, people..." (2025-07-09 07:10:52).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Welcome back to the world of the living, Frigidaris. Might not want to look in any mirrors anytime soon." (2025-07-09 08:24:48).
- Atrele Kasha tucks her marker back into her dress. (2025-07-09 08:25:06).
- Atrele Kasha said, "So any magical object might work, hm." (2025-07-09 08:26:26).
- Atrele Kasha said, "So if anyone has a gold ingot and some celestial bronze, I'll have a set of magic recoveries. That should do wonders if it's hungry for mana." (2025-07-09 11:56:47).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane jogs back upstairs, returning with the requested components. "There ya go. They were just collectin' dust in the tower--feel free to ask for anythin' you need. Whole place is about to be sheared to pieces when the Breath rattles through, anyway. Might as well use it rather than lose it. (2025-07-09 15:10:33).
- Atrele Kasha said, "OOoo thank you . And very good point. Which is why I basically ate all the reagents I could." (2025-07-09 16:55:15).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Anyways!" (2025-07-09 16:55:19).
- (5 times) Atrele Kasha gave you a(n) Potion of Magic Recovery. (2025-07-09 16:56:12).
- Atrele Kasha said, "And there we go. I'll start working on more if needed" (2025-07-09 16:56:23).

It was at this point that the Purgatorial crew too was made aware of the urgency of the matter.

- There is a crackle of magic, and the faint but discernable sound of a message. You are somehow aware that it originates from Cordillera, but that some force tied to the magicks of this place has pulled it closer to listen in. (2025-07-09 17:50:27).
- "Attention, Cordilleran rebels. This is Carousel Station Commander Symic Gallus of the Synbiotic Fleet." (2025-07-09 17:51:43).
- "I must admit, I’m somewhat taken aback. When we first swept through your city months ago, I was certain our victory was complete—and I reported as much to Earth. The asynilation was swift; we gained new hosts for the clade, and a continued conversion of the dwindling, meager population you vessels clung to life with. Once we crushed your feeble security forces, your downfall was inevitable. They made fine soldiers, by the way…" (2025-07-09 17:51:52).
- "We cleared your cramped homes, where you had foolishly confined yourselves like vermin. Need I remind you? How far your kind let humanity sink—despicable. We offered you a fresh start, a return to Earth, our rightful home. What little resistance remained was irrelevant, and one vessel after another was honored with a Syndermata host. We were rebuilding the homeworld, free from the wretched dome. Don’t you see? We were doing you a favor." (2025-07-09 17:52:02).
- "And yet, here I am, unable to contact the Synbiotic Fleet, thanks to some new geomagnetic attack you’ve somehow concocted for one last desperate stand. How any of your stragglers managed to coordinate such an attack after all this time is beyond me. It should have been beyond your capabilities. I actually commend your ingenuity. You've earned my respect—no small feat, I assure you. Some of you may yet prove capable of becoming fine officers." (2025-07-09 17:52:10).
- "But know this: I am sending my forces once more to subjugate your inferior population. Do not resist asynilation. It may be a painful process—death and rebirth—but my soldiers can be far more merciless to those who fight back. Keep that in mind." (2025-07-09 17:52:21).
- You say, "...That's alarming. All the more reason for you all to get to the Vale, I suppose." (2025-07-09 18:30:56).

Over time, a logic to the coffin became apparent. Death-aligned things, already attuned to whatever entropy engine it drove, were best - but potions of any kind were valuable. After some consideration, Katerina decided that the risk of introducing demonic magic exceeded the urgency of the task.

- (5 times) You place your Potion of Magic Recovery into the Ossuary Vessel. (2025-07-09 18:39:45).
- You place your Runesword into the Ossuary Vessel. (2025-07-09 18:40:00).
- You retrieve your Blood Ice from the Ossuary Vessel. (2025-07-09 18:40:06).
- You emote, " sets Atrele's potions - and a few more, plus another sword - into the slot. After some consideration and more effort, she yanks out the Blood Ice before it could fuse more deeply to the wall." (2025-07-09 18:40:46).
- (6 times) You place your Potion of Death Affinity into the Ossuary Vessel. (2025-07-09 18:54:35).
- You emote, " retrieves the candy bar while she's there and offers it to Frigidaris as a post-hangover snack." (2025-07-09 18:56:23).
- Frigidaris said, "Thanks, I'm feeling better already. A shame about our fast-approaching deaths, but oh well." (2025-07-09 18:59:48).
- Frigidaris said, "At least I have candy to soothe the pain." (2025-07-09 19:07:13).
- Atrele Kasha feels her hair stand on end as she hears the announcement. "Ah shit, shit's gotten real for some reason? This sounds like it's going to make itself our problem." (2025-07-09 19:37:42).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Everything is about to be our problem, an' then nothing is. Would be nice to have this Vale situation squared away for the next go-round, but really... we already know the next Breath is set to be a dark one, and we already know we're gonna die at the end of this one. Everythin' else is just details." (2025-07-09 21:41:47).
- Frigidaris said, "Regardless, I'm staying. I dragged you into this, and I'll be damned if I scurry away now that we're making progress. The others are counting on us and we're gonna make it on time, Syndermata invasion or not." (2025-07-09 22:20:32).
- Frigidaris said, "After all, we're wizards; we don't have an excuse for being late." (2025-07-09 22:20:41).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane nods and hoists his smoldering pipe. "Hear hear! To be honest, Cordillera is doomed anyway. Either the Syndermata get it, or the Breath shatters it to pieces. there's nothin' to save there. An...well, I'm not sure where you all live, but I don't keep anythin' important to me on that plane." (2025-07-09 22:26:46).

Over time, the runes on the coffin began to light up more and more. And Nirvanyos, on closer investigation, found reasons to believe that it was indeed connected to that door...and whatever was the cause of their quest.

- You emote, " lowers a Death spellgem into the Ossuary and it fuses to the wall with a flash. She has found the most success with death-aligned items, but nearly anything innately magical appears to work - after a careful prune of the one demonic item." (2025-07-09 23:34:26).
- You emote, " steps back and looks at the coffin. The runes seem brighter now, and actually throw off a slight illumination on the side of the stone not brightly lit by Eguzki." (2025-07-09 23:34:59).
- You say, "I hope this is having some impact on that door. If door it is." (2025-07-09 23:35:15).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane | Without giving warning, Nirvanyos strips out of his wizard robes, folding them neatly and setting his hat atop. He snags a water breathing potion and chugs it, limbering himself up. "I'll go have a swim over and see. Back shortly." (2025-07-09 23:49:10).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane | The wizard's return is heralded by the slap of wet feet on flagstones. It is a sodden Nirvanyos who rounds the corner, his beard swinging back and forth and flinging drops of water in either direction. His expression, however, is excited. "Well! The onyx barrier IS changin'. There's a bit of light around the border and bisectin' it vertically, now. Think we're makin' progress." (2025-07-09 23:54:13).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane begins shoving a bunch of death-aspected magic gear into the slot. In goes a full set of death spellgems, more death potions, and a Rod of Doom. This last is inserted head-first and gently pushed in, not unlike a pencil going into an electric sharpener. (2025-07-09 23:58:34).
- You say, "That is encouraging. I had wondered if any mechanism down here still worked. Like the Citadel above, this place is more resilient than it appears." (2025-07-10 02:22:05).
- You emote, " takes a moment to eat a snack she'd saved from Elysium." (2025-07-10 02:24:20).
- You give your Potion of Healing to Nirvanyos the Arcane. (2025-07-10 03:11:49).
- You emote, " passes Nirvanyos a healing potion. "That swim looks like it took a toll on you. Have a drink of this. With or without your cordial."" (2025-07-10 03:12:25).

At this point the adventurers scrounged at a frenetic pace, the lights growing brighter with each inserted item. Some choices had to be made, of course.

- You catch a glimpse of a faint vision: the dome of Cordillera under the haze of an alien sky, seen through the magical scrying of some force present in this plane. Several lights swoop down from the sky with a roar, only to swoop upward again. (2025-07-10 15:32:38).
- You say, "Looks like things are heating up even more back there." (2025-07-10 15:35:42).
- Frigidaris said, "Oh, I found another death spellgem. Into the hole it goes!" (2025-07-10 22:45:36).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane nods. "Something about havin' a deadline helps me get my best work done. Heh. Like I said--what happens down there is gonna happen with or without us. What we're doin' here might have an impact that lasts beyond the end of this Breath. That's worth something." He sighs, stopping to have a long draw off his pipe. (2025-07-11 00:43:24).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Kat, think I should chuck the Codex in there?" (2025-07-11 00:43:39).
- You say, "From what you’ve told me, it sounds like something we don’t want to lose. I’m not sure a gas tank gets to keep the gas." (2025-07-11 02:37:35).
- Atrele Kasha promptly starts taking her spare potions and reforming them into death affinities. "Well, if we're on a time crunch, I better get my ass poppin'." (2025-07-11 04:10:54).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Let's see, I have no moss, what can I... well, no work without sacrifice." (2025-07-11 04:12:02).
- Atrele Kasha heedlessly throws several potions into the pit, not even bothering to look after them. She's a bit focused. (2025-07-11 04:12:51).
- Atrele Kasha said, "A little more mixing, and..." (2025-07-11 04:13:24).
- Atrele Kasha said, "By the way, thank you again, Katerina~" (2025-07-11 04:13:46).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Oh, I'm finally true neutral. Thank you all for the books." (2025-07-11 04:13:59).
- Atrele Kasha does a little swapping here and there... no point in holding onto those spellgems anyways... and seven more potions go into the hole. (2025-07-11 04:15:02).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Huh. I did not know Conduits were unionized." (2025-07-11 04:17:42).
- Atrele Kasha looks at one of the books. Squints at it. Turns it to the side where a long sheet of paper unfolds. She looks at the paper, frowns, and literally kicks the book into the water. "Conspiracist trash." (2025-07-11 05:12:45).
- Atrele Kasha reads the next, looking over it. "Mmhmm, oh that would... oh right!" And then she reaches the end. ANd the pages are blank. She stares at the book. "Oh har har. Very funny." That gets punted into the water as well. (2025-07-11 05:16:56).
- Frigidaris empties out his bag. Roots, minerals and several skulls pile on the floor. (2025-07-11 07:43:29).
- Frigidaris said, "I'm not a potionmaker, but maybe one of you can put those to good use." (2025-07-11 07:44:00).
- Atrele Kasha promptly drops all of the books she scooped up in favor of the reagents. She's on her knees (of course), sorting through them. "Oh, thank you, I certainly can, I think!" (2025-07-11 08:56:30).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Let's see... Sprig of Nightshade, check. Skull, check. Mandrake root, check. Moss... Gold or Silver will sub in. Can use the bones for paradise water and roses. Perfect. One moment, loves!" (2025-07-11 08:58:42).
- Atrele Kasha swiftly finishes and sets six pale white vials aside. She ignores them, as she's already starting on her second batch. (2025-07-11 09:00:34).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Just give me a bit of time, and I'll have you six more~" (2025-07-11 09:00:57).
- Atrele Kasha goes back to reading until she's recovered enough to finish the transmutations and actually *present* the batch. (2025-07-11 09:03:27).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Honestly, I'd be doing this for the Front, but yanno, this is pretty interesting, I want to see where this goes~" (2025-07-11 09:05:10).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Still have every intention to murder Juanita with my mostly bare hands, but I have to catch her first, so you know, worry about that later. It'll happen~" (2025-07-11 09:14:22).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Which is a shame, because those are pretty much my favorite books. Ah well." (2025-07-11 09:14:46).
- Atrele Kasha flumps over. "New batch done. I think I can eke one more set out of what I currently have if we need?" (2025-07-11 11:01:19).
- Frigidaris said, "And another death gem! Hope it fits..." (2025-07-11 13:21:55).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Nice find~" (2025-07-11 13:22:35).

At last, stuffed to the brim, the slot closed - and the party discovered that which it hid.

- You emote, " sets a last few potions into the ossuary. The humming in the room grows stronger." (2025-07-11 15:14:37).
- You emote, " pulls her hands out of the ossuary just as it snaps shut abruptly." (2025-07-11 15:14:57).
- The stone coffin begins sinking into the floor with a thick, heavy rumble. The runes on it flash dramatically, then dim again to a constant illumination that - for once - lights up the room. (2025-07-11 15:20:13).
- Frigidaris nods. "Couldn't have said it better myself". (2025-07-11 15:20:21).
- You say, "I think that's as good as it's going to get!" (2025-07-11 15:20:49).
- You emote, " downs a Water Breathing potion. "Let's see what we accomplished."" (2025-07-11 15:21:05).
- You feel much more at home in the water. You will be able to move freely through water tiles while under the influence of the Water Breathing potion. (2025-07-11 15:21:07).
- An immense lethargy overtakes your limbs as you slowly swim through the cold, heavy water. You feel a great sense of apathy, as if the easiest thing to do would be to give up and sink. You take 7 points of death damage! (2025-07-11 15:21:11).
- An immense lethargy overtakes your limbs as you slowly swim through the cold, heavy water. You feel a great sense of apathy, as if the easiest thing to do would be to give up and sink. You take 7 points of death damage! (2025-07-11 15:21:12).

When Katerina and Frigidaris emerged from the cold, clammy water that seemed to consciously drag at them, they found a portal chamber far more illuminated. Nothing Hasheen shone brightly, but the great stone door linked to the coffin they had filled was lit - and now, open.

- You emote, " sets her hand on the now-open door. "Our suspicions were confirmed."" (2025-07-11 15:23:00).
- Frigidaris said, "Looks like it was a door after all. Shall we see what's beyond?" (2025-07-11 15:25:34).
- You emote, " puts a hand to the door for a moment, pauses, takes a breath, and steps through." (2025-07-11 15:43:22).
- You step through the door and find yourself elsewhere. (2025-07-11 15:43:24).

[Kandarin]

The Inverted Tower of Terminus - far beneath Ash Harbor
Enlightenment Found and Enlightenment Shared

Description
You are standing inside of Terminus. This place is a maze of narrow tunnels and passages with walls of cracked black stone. Occasional windows make it clear that this building hangs somehow from the Purgatorial rock above. It is lit by rare candles of greenish light and interspersed with claustrophobic rooms cluttered with glimmering, unknowable artifacts. The layout is mazelike and frustrating, but the lowest room in the building is a rounded space with a vaulted ceiling and an altar of black stone, encircled with wall niches containing softly glowing green crystals.

At the highest level of the tower you can find, an open door leads back to the catacombs.

As Katerina had long suspected, the door they had opened was a true portal and no mere door - one long dead, but whose magicks they had reawakened. The dark and dusty stone corridor in which she now walked seemed familiar but she had not been here, or at least not in the last few thousand years. It was lit only by a few scarce candles, and the shadows within it were deep and dark. It was only when she came to one of the few windows that she looked out upon the Purgatorial void below. Feeling about via the local voidnet revealed they indeed hadn't gone far. They were now under Ash Harbor, in a building that extended down below its rock, walking the halls of a tower that had seen no visitors in many any age. A tower whose steps only went down.

Atrele and then Frigidaris followed closely, also examining their surroundings - though the former was eager, it seemed, for the treasures that this place might contain.

- You say, "Symmetry." (2025-07-11 15:51:44).
- You say, "A second citadel, counterpart to the one above." (2025-07-11 15:52:08).
- You quaff the potion. As you do so, you feel its magic flow through you, mending flesh and bone for 14 points of healing. (2025-07-11 15:52:12).
- You emote, " inhales the stale, musty air, intermingled with the occasional breezes of the Purgatorial void. "I don't think anyone's been here in...a very, very long time."" (2025-07-11 16:05:27).
- You emote, " slowly begins descending the tower, pausing often to examine this chamber or that carving, running her hands over rocks on a regular basis." (2025-07-11 16:06:00).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Well hello there" (2025-07-11 20:24:18).
- You emote, " examines the candles closely. They show signs of long melting and significant decay, but on close examination they are made of some sort of hard ceramic and the flame just floats above them." (2025-07-11 20:31:35).
- You say, "I'm glad you found your way." (2025-07-11 20:31:46).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Only other way but up honestly...." (2025-07-11 22:29:42).
- Atrele Kasha peers out the windows. "Nice to have this view when it's not rapidly disappearing from you. Always wondered how gravity worked here. Or if the elder powers actually did something instead of setting an out of bounds region... Mmmh." (2025-07-11 22:31:27).
- Atrele Kasha has attained the second Degree (Degree B)! (2025-07-11 22:32:47).
- Frigidaris said, "Hey, congratulations!" (2025-07-11 22:34:51).
- Atrele Kasha starts rooting through the accumulated junk/magical items/artifacts. (2025-07-11 22:37:45).

At long last, the tower had a dead end - a final room, a sanctum sanctorum of the Power that kept this place. Katerina took in everything about it, approaching it with a quiet awe while she gathered her sense of what to do next.

- You emote, " finally meanders her way to the bottom of the tower, after numerous switchbacks, false entrances, dead ends and just plain going in circles." (2025-07-12 03:57:32).
- You emote, " makes her way to the simple black altar. She looks around, almost dancing and spinning as she takes in her surroundings." (2025-07-12 03:58:03).
- You emote, " says nothing at first, with an expression of reverence. The rooms leading to the chamber are full of all sorts of magical bits and bobs, but the lowest room - the lantern - is plainly, starkly, clean of clutter and treasure." (2025-07-12 03:59:01).
- (5 times) With a soft, melodious chime, a light appears, flicking and flitting about the area. An Aethersprite manifests itself to assist you. (2025-07-12 04:00:16).
- Your pet is now known as Áƞpo Wic̣aƞḣpi. (2025-07-12 04:00:30).
- Your pet is now known as Aldebaran. (2025-07-12 04:00:33).
- Your pet is now known as Mu Cephei. (2025-07-12 04:00:36).
- Your pet is now known as Eta Carinae. (2025-07-12 04:00:38).
- Your pet is now known as Tianyi. (2025-07-12 04:00:43).
- You emote, " whispers a long prayer in Hasheen, and you see all five of her Aethersprite companions pop into existence around her. Here they glow not a pale and sickly off-white, but green, hard green, the color of the crystals in the chamber, the color of spellgems and her family's eyes." (2025-07-12 04:02:00).

Gradually, the rest of the group made their way into the chamber, gathering this and examining that.

- Atrele Kasha is somehow both lost and yet reaching her destination, her intuitions and interest inexorably leading her to the altar. Albeit with frequent stops along the way. One stop she seems to be triggered by something, promptly vanishes, and comes back with a black cloak in hand. She sniffs at it, as if she might determine its significance. Then another cloth gets her attention, and both eyesbrows shoot off of her head when she withdraws a very fine--and ancient--black wedding dress. Not magical, but... "Interesting fashion sense..." (2025-07-12 06:58:48).
- Atrele Kasha has acquired an array of books--which is promptly tossed into 'to-read' pile, which is pretty much anything she can get her paws on at this point, but leaving the clothing in a visible spot. (2025-07-12 07:00:51).
- Atrele Kasha also pulls out her portable alchemy set again, this time trying to refine her Oil of Death recipe. Although she has managed to acquire a couple of bottles of SOMETHING on the way and may have unwisely drank one of them. Someone might want to talk to her about alchemical experiments near places bot A) close to a source of magical power, and B) is above an existence with literally no bottom should any of the magical sources catastrophically fail. On the other hand, she hasn't blown up the tomb, mostly herself and a slew of poisonings. (2025-07-12 07:05:01).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Well! How bou' that. The tunnels led to more tunnels." (2025-07-12 13:34:59).
- Atrele Kasha said, "HOARDERS tunnels at that" (2025-07-12 14:28:02).
- You say, "This chamber does appear to be the end of the line. The counterpart to the lantern above." (2025-07-12 18:02:16).
- You emote, " walks around the outside of the chamber, running her hands along the crystals." (2025-07-12 18:10:37).
- You say, "This is the place of power we sought." (2025-07-12 18:11:02).
- Frigidaris said, "Why, that's fantastic news! Now, how do we put it to good use?" (2025-07-12 18:17:42).
- Frigidaris said, "Sadly, though I know the workings of frost and stone, death magic is virtually unknown to me. Do any of you have insight on how to harness it?" (2025-07-12 18:20:51).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane shakes his head. "Nope. I'm a rocks and trees guy. That's why we tagged in Kat." (2025-07-12 19:17:22).
- You say, "That is why I am here." (2025-07-12 19:20:06).
- You say, "There is motion in death magic, power, but it is all in the form of one thing decaying into another." (2025-07-12 19:21:07).
- (2 times) You say, "Every one of its cycles ends in dissolution, but there is meaning and life in the cycle." (2025-07-12 19:21:56).
- You say, "To master another school is to build, to cement a stone wall, hone a blade, stoke a fire. To master death magic is to know where you are in the disintegration and make the best use of it." (2025-07-12 19:23:03).
- You emote, " gingerly removes her braille notebook of the Hasheen Book of the Dead from her bags. She takes care to have a snack first as well." (2025-07-12 19:23:47).

Katerina concentrated her mind and body and arranged her knowledge as best as she could. That was why they were here, after all - because there was too much for her to teach than could be jotted down and passed over. That would have been true for anyone who gathered any fraction of the knowledge in the true Book of the Dead. But she had held it centuries ago, Breaths ago, before Cordillera, before even Saint Germaine. And she had learned - and seen - so much since. She had journeyed to a far vestige plane and witnessed its unintended demise, caused by one who had once been one of its saviors. She had dug about in the liminal spaces of planes old and new. She had beheld Alonai's Laivan Sanctuary, a gift no Hasheen had ever before been granted. She had spent years - deep, formative years - in both the Laurentia of the Nexus and the Laurentia of its deep past, with friends who had done so much to shape the person she was today. From there she had learned to break free of Hashaa's curse, to challenge her Patron's assumptions from within the Hasheen cult, to push forth the first blossoms of the notion that the Mercy of entropy could truly be an integral part of Goodness.

All of that seemed worth mentioning.

- You emote, " pulls a metal pin out of the binding and tucks it into her hair. Not having long enough hair for that, she sets it behind her ear. The book unspools and its pages she lays flat on the stone altar, one after another, until its whole surface is covered." (2025-07-12 19:25:55).
- You emote, " says a single word in Hasheen. This is not a whisper, but as close to a shout as you can imagine the language having. The green crystals around the room abruptly flare to bright, green light. Outside the tower, for the first time in a very long time, the beam of the lantern spirals throughout Purgatorio." (2025-07-12 19:27:36).
- You emote, " places a hand on the first page, on the lower right end of the altar. She works slowly up and left, speaking in Hasheen all that she reads on the pages. Her hissing words are amplified by the echoing room until it sounds as if a windstorm has filled the space." (2025-07-12 19:30:39).
- You emote, " speaks of many things. Some, oddly enough, you briefly feel that you understand here, though she makes many divergences into long speeches that you do not." (2025-07-12 19:31:51).
- You emote, " speaks of young seeds in old soil becoming old trees whose leaves litter young soil. The tree is cut down and dies, and on its stumps fresh flowers grow." (2025-07-12 19:32:36).
- You emote, " speaks of dying worlds under the deadly light of ancient stars, housing the last last survivors of universes run too long." (2025-07-12 19:33:22).
- You emote, " speaks of vibrant worlds cut short by cosmic cataclysms, of lives taken too soon, of universes too short." (2025-07-12 19:33:57).
- You emote, " speaks of the winding and unwinding of worlds, of breaths, of the equation by which planes and people and treasures and threats shear off and yet the new creation remains the same - seeming - whole." (2025-07-12 19:35:06).
- You emote, " speaks of the great cycle of Breaths, of the cycle of inhales and exhales and the recycling of matter and meaning, but also of smaller orbits, lesser cycles, by which matter and meaning seemingly lost will be one day returned, like the orbit of some far, far comet" (2025-07-12 19:36:07).
- You emote, " occasionally takes her hand off the pages and continues, adding words and details that she did not have when she made the book. All the while, the green crystals crack and flicker and shine, illuminating the room. Her sprites orbit her head, twirling and spinning." (2025-07-12 19:37:41).
- You emote, " speaks of many such asides: of a family formed in ambition and severed by abundance, then bonded too late by hardship." (2025-07-12 19:38:47).
- You emote, " speaks of the mercy of rest, the beauty of finality, of freedom from one's cares." (2025-07-12 19:39:31).
- You emote, " speaks of lovers united and separated many times, their loyalty unbroken, united at last in the end." (2025-07-12 19:40:33).
- You emote, " speaks of memorials and honors of things past, things present, and perhaps even of things to come." (2025-07-12 19:41:03).
- You emote, " looks very weary at various points, and while listening you realize that some hours have probably passed. And at last after what feels like a truly long time, she reaches the end of the pages and says one more loud singular word." (2025-07-12 19:43:37).
- You emote, " gathers up the book in its binding again, and slips in the pin. The book returns to her bag. The room is silent for some time. If you have a means of checking time, you realize that she had been talking for ten hours." (2025-07-12 19:56:45).

When Katerina finished speaking she was quite tired and hungry, yet oddly fulfilled. There was so much she had waited to say to someone - even to herself. It helped that Hasheen is a language that tends not to inflict hoarseness. When she switched back to the common tongue, it felt like a dramatic change. But the message had been spoken - and thanks to the power of this place, recorded.

- You emote, " finally speaks in a language you understand. "This is a place of memory. I have recorded this memory here." (2025-07-12 19:57:21).
- You emote, " walks around the edge of the room. Every so once in a while she puts a hand to one of the green crystal formations and detaches a piece. It seems rather like picking fruit." (2025-07-12 19:58:21).
- You say, "I have four of these. They should have all the information my sister may need for...whatever it is she's trying to do. That is, if the information was something I ever had. That's a big if." (2025-07-13 00:59:11).
- You say, "Even if the cycle shears it away. I think I'll hold onto one. That means there should be one for each of you. At least one of you will, I hope, find my sister." (2025-07-13 01:00:07).
- You give your Record Gem of the Book of the Dead to Atrele Kasha. (2025-07-13 01:00:13).
- You give your Record Gem of the Book of the Dead to Frigidaris. (2025-07-13 01:00:19).
- You give your Record Gem of the Book of the Dead to Nirvanyos the Arcane. (2025-07-13 01:00:25).
- You say, "One caution you should heed- your desire to expand your haven is admirable, if a haven it truly is." (2025-07-13 01:01:16).
- You say, "But the Nexus pulls importance and meaning to itself. A plane sufficiently populated by Nexals risks being drawn into the Nexus, one day." (2025-07-13 01:02:25).
- You say, "Alonai once expelled my friends and I from her home plane to prevent just such an event. And out of no malice, certainly." (2025-07-13 01:03:03).
- You say, "Succeed well enough in building a safe haven and you may find yourself drawing more attention than just Wizards seeking safety." (2025-07-13 01:03:44).
- You say, "And perhaps I worry too much. May all good fortune go with your endeavours." (2025-07-13 01:04:13).

One by one the Wizards filed out - to the Vale, to their havens, to the four winds, each with a parting message of thanks. At last, Katerina too left, with one last glance at the lantern-chamber.

- Atrele Kasha accepts the gem with a bowed head, before looking around, wondering if there's anything else of interest in this old place. The jewel itself--the record--sinks into the catwoman's palm for safekeeping. "You do not worry too much, honestly. I can imagine there's already eyes upon this project, as nothing is every really as truly hidden as one believes. But then, are those the eyes we should be worried about?" A glance at Katerina, before shrugging. "Dpm (2025-07-13 04:45:04).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Don't mind me, just thoughts that come to mind." (2025-07-13 04:45:15).
- Atrele Kasha said, "In any case, I am again very eager to see where this leads, but I think I shall look into stygia and take care of some personal affairs. I intend to go to Elysium later anyways. In any case, I ramble. If any of you need an alchemist, well. I will be happy to answer. This has been fun~" (2025-07-13 04:47:22).
- Atrele Kasha said, "But before I do~" (2025-07-13 04:48:01).
- Atrele Kasha said, "Small gift, from one mage to another. Freshlyt made <3 Not much, but~" (2025-07-13 04:50:09).
- (2 times) Atrele Kasha gave you a(n) Potion of Magic Recovery. (2025-07-13 04:50:27).
- Atrele Kasha bows--low enough that she's at strong risk for a "wardrobe malfunction", before making her way through the bric-a-brac. (2025-07-13 04:51:32).
- Frigidaris envelops the Record Gem in several layers of fur, before stowing it safely in his satchel. (2025-07-13 09:17:52).
- Frigidaris said, "Thank you for everything, Katerina: the Record, the adventure and the Aethersprite. Your aid has been instrumental, and hopefully one day I'll be able to repay you. Until we meet again!" (2025-07-13 09:18:24).
- Frigidaris takes off his wizard hat and bows, then takes his leave. The scent of fresh snow and pine leaves hangs in the air where he once stood. (2025-07-13 09:18:42).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane doesn't seem to be in a hurry to vacate the space. He is--after all--in his own basement's sub-basement. The wizened wizard takes a moment to re-light his pipe. The flicker of spellflame casts stark shadows across his face, highlighting the seams and lines formed over many long lives. The black stone walls catch the light, tossing and distorting bright refractions of it around the chamber. (2025-07-13 12:32:51).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Well... thanks for another one, Kat. Hope the chaos, warfare, and strife have been treatin' ya well. S'pose we'll probably catch you again the next time the world ends, eh?"" (2025-07-13 12:46:22).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane rasps a gravelly chuckle, streams of smoke coiling from his nostrils. (2025-07-13 12:46:51).
- You say, "It is always good to adventure with you again. I'm sure our paths will cross...I'm here for the long game." (2025-07-13 13:35:04).
- You say, "That's what it's going to have to be, if my plan is to stand my ground and wait for Hashaa to blink first. She doesn't blink often." (2025-07-13 13:35:39).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Can't imagine she has much need for eyelids in the first place. But, heh. That's a gutsy plan, and I can only wish ya the best with it." He nods, re-seating the hat upon his head and sweeping his grey-brown hair back over his shoulder. "Well. I'm sure one o' our friends will be makin' it out to your sister, but I figure I'll go ahead and join 'em. Somebody needs to play chaperone."" (2025-07-13 15:57:33).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Might as well be the most irresponsible of the lot." He winks and makes his way for the exit. "Ta!" (2025-07-13 15:58:19).
- You step through the door and concentrate on returning to the ancient tunnels. After what feels like a long journey in the dark, you find yourself in the Catacombs. (2025-07-13 17:42:19).
...
- You climb the stairs for what feels like a very long time and return to the cellars of the lighthouse. (2025-07-13 17:43:04).
- You say, "Thank you for your hospitality. I would advise you to check out your new basement." (2025-07-13 18:04:11).
- You step outside of Ancient Lighthouse. (2025-07-13 18:04:13).
...
- You step inside Saint Dominic's Cathedral. (2025-07-13 18:05:00).
- You walk into the forest and find yourself enveloped in the sights and scents of another, more beautiful world. (2025-07-13 18:05:20).
...
- You step inside The Gourmet Bard. (2025-07-13 18:05:34).
- You emote, " glides in the door, flanked by all five of her Spritely allies. You notice they glow a shimmering green and not pale white this time." (2025-07-13 18:06:00).
- You say, "Well that was quite a journey." (2025-07-13 18:06:08).

After so long in the darkness of the Purgatorial catacombs, Katerina's eyes adjusted to the shimmering, glorious light of Elysium. There was no sunset here, but the sun was setting on the Breath as she walked into the Ragged Philanthropists' warm and inviting tavern with its familiar sights and smells. For now, she was home, once again a part of the rhythms and stories of home. And with that, Katerina Hasheen left the pages of this story.

[Kandarin]

The Vale battens down the hatches

This neighborhood is permeated by the transcended ethos of Free Will. You sense that the land is gripped by the power of the Council of Keys, ruler of this place.

The scene at the Vale's Pivot Peak was jubilant, briefly, but there was much to be done. In truth, for all her confidence, Isabel didn't understand the mechanics of what she was trying to do half as well as she would have liked. By now, she was far too into the plan to back down.

- You emote, " feels a shift in the land, no less than the shift they felt in Stygia when the flame was taken. Something of the essence of lordship is about this place now instead, a dominion wielded by the Council where once was only a suggestion." (2025-07-10 02:54:25).
- You say, "Ah. That is well, in service to our plans. And hopefully should mask us from the master of the new world." (2025-07-10 02:54:51).
- You emote, "́sips a glass of wine in celebration. You're not sure you've seen her drink anything before." (2025-07-10 03:35:55).

The news from Cordillera - by whatever of the Vale's old, poorly understood mechanics they were understanding it - grew more dire. Whatever it was, the Wizards wanted it to not come to the Vale. Not now.

- You catch a glimpse of a faint vision: the dome of Cordillera under the haze of an alien sky, seen through the magical scrying of some force present in this plane. Several lights swoop down from the sky with a roar, only to swoop upward again. (2025-07-10 15:32:29).
- You say, "I guess we left that scrying on? Good job, past us. Still, something alarming is happening back in Cordillera. We may really need this haven in the end." (2025-07-10 15:37:43).
- Gandledore looks contemplative from under his bushy eyebrows and behind his substantial beard. "We have done all that could have been done, which is more than most have tried. Our preparations are done, and well done. I too can feel the movements on the mortal plane. (2025-07-10 18:06:15).
- Gandledore said, "I have hope and great faith that the Council will exist in this new Breath to come. I have no reason to believe it, but yes, my faith is strong." (2025-07-10 18:06:56).
- Gandledore said, "I do wonder, though, are we secure in our belief that only we can use the Hidden Pathways? There is no way for the invaders to breach the seals and force themselves here?" (2025-07-10 18:08:01).
- Gandledore said, "In other words, should we direct the Council elsewise?" (2025-07-10 18:08:29).
- Gandledore said, "Perhaps one last call to those who would see refuge here, then we close the door? But if we are certain this realm is safe, then I am just an old man with an old man's worry about getting even older." (2025-07-10 18:09:49).
- You say, "It may be wise, once those currently with my sister are inside. Cordillera thought itself secure too, once." (2025-07-11 02:42:37).
- You say, "Wise to close the gates, I mean. Besides - we may need the weave for our great work." (2025-07-11 02:42:59).

The scattered crew from Purgatorio began to trickle in, or announce that they would, just before the gates would close. But there were signs that not all was at peace among the Archmagi.

- Jorus said, "Frigidaris has contacted me. He is hopeful his work in Purgatorio will be finished soon. I think we might want to keep the ways open a bit longer so he and his fellows may join us with what they find" (2025-07-11 13:33:18).
- Perrick said, "oh, this is new" (2025-07-11 13:39:12).
- Perrick said, "Going to find that damn ice wizard, one of these days" (2025-07-11 13:39:25).
- Jorus said, "I think perhaps as this breath wanes, we have more pressing matters than that" (2025-07-11 13:40:55).
- Jorus said, "Factional infighting and power struggles when we are so close to harnessing greater power and security for all Wizards moving forward seems counterproductive" (2025-07-11 13:43:34).
- Perrick said, "He didn't steal your seat, did he?" (2025-07-11 15:33:00).
- You say, "The time is coming when all seats will be vacated. When all will have to choose - to return to Wizardkind, or not? But the Council, and its decisions, will endure the shearing." (2025-07-11 16:07:07).
- You say, "What matters is that we have the Seals committed to the cause, more than who wields them." (2025-07-11 16:07:36).
- You emote, " probably comes off as a bit hypocritical saying that, given the low chance of another Slashing master coming out of the stonework and assassinating her." (2025-07-11 16:08:07).
- Gandledore said, "I am ready to change my vote when our preparations are ready. Perhaps Cracked Threshold, since there are others of our number already so inclined?" (2025-07-13 02:04:47).

Frigidaris arrived first, bearing news of success - and Katerina's recording, an item to which Isabel took a fascination immediately.

- Frigidaris enters the room, trailed by an Aethersprite shining like the winter sun. (2025-07-13 09:21:21).
- Frigidaris said, "Good news, the Purgatorial expedition was a success! Katerina, Atrele, Nirvanyos and myself unearthed a way to the top of the Lighthouse, and then Katerina used the beacon for a ritual." (2025-07-13 09:25:21).
- Frigidaris carefully unwraps a package from his satchel, revealing a glowing green gem. (2025-07-13 09:25:57).
- Frigidaris said, "She managed to record the memory of the Hasheen Book of the Dead in this trinket. It's yours now, Isabel." (2025-07-13 09:26:24).
- Frigidaris gave you a(n) Record Gem of the Book of the Dead. (2025-07-13 09:26:37).
- You say, "That is sage and fortunate news." (2025-07-13 17:59:49).
- You emote, " holds up the gem in her hands and peers into it. You notice that the flesh and skin of her hand touching the gem - perhaps the closest twenty centimeters or so - goes transparent as she does this, creating the illusion of a skeletal hand pondering the gem." (2025-07-13 18:00:53).
- You emote, " taps it with the other hand, which briefly mirrors the illusion for the touch only to return to its old appearance afterwards. You hear Katerina's voice relaying something in Hasheen for a few minutes." (2025-07-13 18:01:47).
- You emote, " does this several times. It plays a different four minutes or so each times, but after a few such attempts Isabel chances onto a shared passage between two runs." (2025-07-13 18:02:17).
- You say, "The interface isn't great, but the file - so to speak - is secure. This, I can work with." (2025-07-13 18:02:35).
- You say, "Some of it speaks to truths I had hoped to find a witness for." (2025-07-13 18:03:05).
- You emote, " begins jotting down her own notes from the recordings, adding to the clutter on her desk which she would insist all makes sense." (2025-07-13 18:03:45).
- Gandledore said, "We are largely in your capable hands, Isabel. I did not understand what was spoken, but as for a witness, I think we have all seen many things. Do you have clarity as to these truths? Hopefully it is something we can divine from this location, because I think I shall now change my vote as well." (2025-07-13 18:11:14).
- The Council of Keys has applied the discovery made by Gandledore in the Vale of Seers to allow Archmages to bypass barriers. All Archmages may now seep freely through doors and Glyphs of Protection. Attacks made against barriers and defenses of any kind will be considerably more magically efficient. (2025-07-14 00:00:02).
- Gandledore said, "Now that the way has been shut, I am going to check the Vale for hidden and invisible visitors. Perhaps there are some surprises here, but I hope to blunt that possibility as much as possible." (2025-07-14 02:27:53).
- Gandledore said, "I Revealed and Sixth Sensed from [7, 7] to [9, 9]. Nothing to be found." (2025-07-14 02:31:05).
- You say, "Nirvanyos did message me, hoping to come in. If we have him, we have a majority of the Council." (2025-07-14 03:51:22).
- You emote, " has been obsessively tapping the gem and listening to her sister's commentary for some hours now. The pile of papers derived from it is quite large." (2025-07-14 03:52:11).
- You say, "I believe it is coming together. A way it all fits." (2025-07-14 03:52:35).
- Gandledore has directed the Seal of the Unconquered Sun to vote differently on the Council of Keys. They are now voting for the Weave of Magic to be: Hidden Pathways. (2025-07-14 06:52:57).
- Frigidaris said, "Oh, if we're sealing the Vale I'll change my vote too. Is it relevant that we vote for Cracked Threshold?" (2025-07-14 10:29:53).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "llo there, folks. Back together at last, eh?" (2025-07-14 11:48:47).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane gave you an item that was once the possession of your other character Katerina Hasheen! (2025-07-14 11:48:58).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane gave you a(n) Record Gem of the Book of the Dead. (2025-07-14 11:48:58).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane was flying and has now landed. (2025-07-14 12:22:01).
- You say, "Five Councillors, a clear majority. Was anyone else coming?" (2025-07-14 15:58:31).
- You say, "If not, I would suggest sealing the Vale. We know not what the invaders intend, but we can guess from their words." (2025-07-14 16:05:23).
- Frigidaris said, "I sent a warning to Atrele, in case she wants to be here." (2025-07-14 16:17:33).
- Frigidaris cast a small talisman of bone to the ground. It expands rapidly and a skeleton rises to serve its maker! (2025-07-14 17:53:47).

No sooner had Frigidaris fired up a basic means of protection than it was suddenly needed. A ferocious wizard duel broke out - and by the end of it Frigidaris' guardian was slain, Perrick was dead, and unfortunate-bystander Femlak was caught in the crossfire.

- Gandledore said, "I will wait a day longer, then change my vote. There was no pressing reason for Cracked Threshold, other than it is the second most popular choice currently, and we would need just a few votes to sway the decision instead of many votes." (2025-07-14 20:51:07).
- Gandledore said, "With many of us here already, I am happy to vote for something else if the group so decides." (2025-07-14 20:51:40).
- Frigidaris said, "Very well, then I shall do that too." (2025-07-14 20:56:20).
- Frigidaris said, "Although, since the majority of the Council is here, we could choose what to vote for." (2025-07-14 20:58:23).
- Jorus said, "I had voted for Cracked Threshold solely for the expediency of sealing the way in" (2025-07-14 21:57:25).
- Jorus said, "If there is another more desired set to the weave I am more than willing to vote for that" (2025-07-14 21:58:03).
- Bone Guardian, belonging to Frigidaris was killed by a defensive aura projected by Perrick! (2025-07-14 22:40:32).
- Perrick said, "Ugh. I tried to take my seat back, but i literally cannot hurt this fucking wizard" (2025-07-14 22:42:25).
- Frigidaris said, "You would strike at me, Perrick? How disappointing." (2025-07-14 22:42:38).
- Perrick said, "Literally the only thing i've ever cared about in this breath. This is miserable." (2025-07-14 22:42:48).
- Perrick said, "You stole the fucking throne from me! It's my one reason for existance" (2025-07-14 22:42:59).
- Frigidaris attacked Perrick with an ancient spell that split the earth, burying them under a pile of stones. Ice grows over the mound, sealing their grave! (2025-07-14 22:43:30).
- Frigidaris said, "I vow on this fool's grave: I won't be trifled with." (2025-07-14 22:46:47).
- Frigidaris said, "Unfortunately, I'm sure he'll be back to try again. If my fellow councillors are fine with it, I'd like to seal the Vale now." (2025-07-14 22:48:35).
- Frigidaris has directed the Seal of Wind and Wave to vote differently on the Council of Keys. They are now voting for the Weave of Magic to be: Cracked Threshold. (2025-07-14 22:48:43).
- Frigidaris disappeared from view. (2025-07-14 22:48:50).
- Jorus said, "Well that is disappointing that violence should break out at this point" (2025-07-14 22:51:25).
- Jorus said, "But, if you resort to violence and then complain that you can't win through it, then obviously the stronger claimant has the seat" (2025-07-14 22:52:28).
- Jorus said, "The way is shut currently" (2025-07-14 22:54:25).
- Frigidaris suddenly appeared out of thin air. (2025-07-15 00:04:08).
- You have changed your vote for the direction that the Council of Keys will apply to the Weave of Magic. Your new vote is: Cracked Threshold (2025-07-15 02:05:26).
- You say, "That's enough reason for me." (2025-07-15 02:05:42).
- (3 times) You use your surgeon skills to tend to Femlak and heal them for 15 points of damage. You gain 15 experience points. (2025-07-15 02:05:58).
- You say, "Given the forces we are now trifling with, I hate to think what would happen if a blood sacrifice had gotten on things after we began." (2025-07-15 02:06:29).
- You emote, " holds up one page of her notes and peers at it. "I have several theories as to the effect. You probably don't want to deal with any of them." (2025-07-15 02:06:57).
- You say, "Sorry you got caught in the crossfire, Femlak. I'll help as I can." (2025-07-15 02:07:15).

[Kandarin]

As the dust settled and the gates of the Vale closed at last, Isabel took some time to canvas the area. While there were hopefully no invaders coming nor duels waiting to happen, the Vale did have other inhabitants - Archmages who had taken up long-term residence for one reason or another - often solitude. It would be prudent to loop them in on the plan.

- You seep through the cracks in the door to arrive outside of Pivot Peak. (2025-07-15 02:07:34).
...
- You give your Potion of Water-Breathing to Cabbage Man. (2025-07-15 02:08:54).
- You give your Potion of Water-Breathing to Doom Guy. (2025-07-15 02:08:58).
- You say, "I believe we, above, have found that which you seek. Join us on the Pivot Peak above. Here is a way out." (2025-07-15 02:09:22).
...
- You seep through the cracks in the door to arrive outside of Altostratus. (2025-07-15 02:09:37).
- You search and find Patrucio. They were hiding. (2025-07-15 02:10:37).
- You say, "Ah, hello, my furtive friend. The Council is making strides on the great work. The time may be short, but our plan is promising. Join us atop the peak to the east, in the cave within it." (2025-07-15 02:11:46).
...
- You seep through the cracks in the door to arrive inside Pivot Peak. (2025-07-15 02:11:57).
- You say, "I found Patrucio somewhere nearby and invited him. Hopefully he joins us. That would make six. But five is ample." (2025-07-15 02:12:32).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane sighs. "Shame, that. Ye'd think the matters of the moment would be more important than ego. I like to think we're more civilized than demons, but I often fear we're not. Ah well. Gates are closed; hopefully no more surprises." (2025-07-15 02:13:03).

As further dire news seeped in from Cordillera, Isabel had finally read enough. She had the pieces of a plan and a reason to believe it could work - and it was time to lay it out.

- You catch a glimpse of a faint vision: a seemingly endless succession of shadowy figures rushing through a familiar airlock. (2025-07-15 02:17:36).
- You say, "Whatever that was, the wisdom of closing the gates now feels even sounder." (2025-07-15 02:25:12).
- You emote, " sets the gem down amidst her notes. It hasn't left her hand all day. "I believe I have parsed enough of my sister's manifesto to confirm my theory."" (2025-07-15 02:30:29).
- You say, "We can infuse more power - or at least more space - into our land and the Weave. But the process is not without risk." (2025-07-15 02:31:03).
- You say, "The Planes have gravity, not unlike the gravitational constant of Goros' worlds - so often imitated by others. They are held together not by mass of matter, but mass of meaning." (2025-07-15 02:31:52).
- You say, "Like the star of a solar system, the vast majority of that meaning - and thus, that pull - belongs to the Source, to the cycle, to the material world, when a material world there is. The vast, lopsided majority." (2025-07-15 02:32:48).
- You say, "This is all basic cosmology stuff, of course. You're Wizards, you knew it when you were still Sorcerers. But the Source and the cycle does something a star does not. It is reborn from death." (2025-07-15 02:33:54).
- You emote, " holds up some drawings on her notes as if they mean something. "If we align this plane's path with the arc of the death of the universe, line it up right, it should be possible for it to slingshot back into rebirth, rejuvenated in its own smaller way just as the universe millions of times larger is rejuvenated." (2025-07-15 02:35:39).
- You say, "There are risks, of course." (2025-07-15 02:35:58).
- You say, "We'd be flying the plane into a massive cycle of death, hoping we planned it right." (2025-07-15 02:36:24).
- You say, "We'd be going into an Exhale steered by, quite possibly, the *worst* being in the entire universe. Now, he'll probably think we're some demon prince of his now, but some of the magicks that get thrown around might be...quite fearsome to behold, and dangerous to even be near." (2025-07-15 02:37:38).
- You say, "And it's entirely possible, given the ending of the cycle, that we won't be onboard - or conscious - when the critical moment happens." (2025-07-15 02:38:21).
- You say, "These are all risks I'm willing to take, if you are." (2025-07-15 02:38:37).

The reception among the assembled Council majority was one of eagerness. These were not people who had gotten where they were entirely by being heedless of caution. But at the moment, the risk seemed worth it.

- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Eh. I'm in. What's the point of living through an eternity of endless death and warfare if y' aren't willing to take some risks to change yer lot? I say we push the ante in and roll the damn dice." (2025-07-15 02:54:23).
- Jorus said, "Well said Nirvanyos." (2025-07-15 03:12:32).
- Jorus said, "And who knows, perhaps we can manage to stack the deck in our favor so to speak" (2025-07-15 03:12:58).
- Gandledore said, "Agreed, agreed, and well said. Perhaps with enough of a push along the proper arc, the momentum of it all may move things along favorably even if we are not around to guide it." (2025-07-15 04:44:41).
- Gandledore said, "Though, I very much hope we are around." (2025-07-15 04:44:51).
- Gandledore takes a long puff off his pipe, and thinks. (2025-07-15 04:45:05).
- You say, "We all go quiet eventually, in the cycle. Where that'll be relative to our voyage...we shall see." (2025-07-15 04:53:09).
- Doom Guy blinked into the location. (2025-07-15 15:06:26).
- You say, "That's the spirit. The fabric of reality may take some ripping and tearing." (2025-07-15 15:49:09).
- You write an elaborate series of many circles of runes emanating from the study table in blue chalk. (2025-07-15 15:49:33).
- You emote, " spends some time writing an elaborate series of runes around the study table. Her notes seem oddly organized now, into a few surprisingly neat stacks after the bedlam that was their organization before." (2025-07-15 15:50:43).
- Doom Guy gestures towards the runes with his shotgun, tilting his head. (2025-07-15 16:27:54).
- You say, "We're not summoning demons. Regardless of what the aura in the area may suggest. Good instincts, though!" (2025-07-15 17:02:10).
- You emote, " walks along the pattern. You see it is not circles per se but a spiral, probably representing the strategy that she outlined. You can't make sense of what she's saying in Hasheen." (2025-07-15 17:06:55).
- Doom Guy settles into an at ease position, watching cautiously. (2025-07-15 17:31:48).

The ritual in motion and the plan explained, the time had come to get up and go. With what and to where? All that remained to be said.

- You say, "The plane is deeply, cleverly rooted. We're anchored in several points to a...constellation...of vestige planes that works for triangulation while not floating too close to the main planes. It would decay eventually, of course, but that was quite a ways off. I'm not sure I can replicate that, but if we're asking that question with more power, maybe we won't have to." (2025-07-15 19:16:26).
- You say, "We *are* attached to a larger mass than just what we see here, and there's a working planar foundation orb in there - a natural one or cobbled together, I don't know. So when we get moving we'll still be able to breathe the air and such." (2025-07-15 19:26:54).
- You say, "I probably sound like an auto mechanic. But the gist of it is, it took quite a bit of power to get us wedged into where we are, and it'll take quite a bit of power to get moving again." (2025-07-15 19:27:59).
- You say, "Fortunately, we are the Council. We *have* "quite a bit of power"." (2025-07-15 19:28:16).
- You say, "Therefore." (2025-07-15 19:29:22).
- You have changed your vote for the direction that the Council of Keys will apply to the Weave of Magic. Your new vote is: Mobilize the Vale (2025-07-15 19:29:30).
- Frigidaris has directed the Seal of Wind and Wave to vote differently on the Council of Keys. They are now voting for the Weave of Magic to be: Mobilize the Vale. (2025-07-15 19:50:27).
- Frigidaris said, "Excellent! In that case, by the power of the Seal I represent, let us shift the scales." (2025-07-15 19:52:26).
- Jorus has directed the Seal of Dust and Bone to vote differently on the Council of Keys. They are now voting for the Weave of Magic to be: Mobilize the Vale. (2025-07-15 20:03:04).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane has directed the Seal of Stone and Silt to vote differently on the Council of Keys. They are now voting for the Weave of Magic to be: Mobilize the Vale. (2025-07-15 21:41:50).
- Nirvanyos the Arcane said, "Y' had me at 'risk'. By the power vested in this ugly, heavy staff--I add my vote to yours." (2025-07-15 21:43:04).
- You say, "Everyone may need to hold onto something. Or not. I don't quite know how this will go." (2025-07-15 21:59:11).
- Juanita has directed the Seal of the Singularity to vote differently on the Council of Keys. They are now voting for the Weave of Magic to be: MObiLIZe tHe vALE. (2025-07-15 22:32:14).
- An True has directed the Seal of the Ionization Constant to vote differently on the Council of Keys. They are now voting for the Weave of Magic to be: Mobilize the Vale. (2025-07-15 22:45:07).
- Jorus said, "In times like this it is important to remember, we are but leaves on the wind" (2025-07-15 23:15:03).
- Jorus said, "But the nature of the leaf can help determine it's course" (2025-07-15 23:15:48).
- Jorus said, "The wind will have it's say, but so shall we" (2025-07-15 23:17:27).
- Doom Guy loudly racks his shotgun. This may constitute agreement, eagerness, or an open threat - it's anyone's guess. (2025-07-15 23:29:08).

After strange eons, the Vale and its mystery mechanisms at last set into motion, shaking off dust, giving off lightning and fire, and rumbling ominously.

- The Council of Keys has voted to disconnect their hidden Vale from its planar moorings and set it in motion, putting its survival at risk in hopes of finding a way to enhance its power! (2025-07-16 00:00:02).
- The Vale shakes and there is an audible series of large, almost mechanical chunks. The river roils and old snow tumbles down high mountains in avalanches. Unsecured items on shelves rattle and sometimes fall. (2025-07-16 01:10:15).
- Gandledore has directed the Seal of the Unconquered Sun to vote differently on the Council of Keys. They are now voting for the Weave of Magic to be: Mobilize the Vale. (2025-07-16 01:36:51).
- Gandledore said, "It's a dangerous business, my friends, going out of your door." (2025-07-16 01:38:20).
- Gandledore said, "Home is behind, the world is ahead." (2025-07-16 01:38:51).
- Gandledore said, "I am excited for the journey!" (2025-07-16 01:39:05).
- You emote, " scrambles to save her notes!" (2025-07-16 02:19:00).
- You emote, " bundles them together in a few large bundles and clasps them together with rings of bone from...somewhere." (2025-07-16 02:20:17).
- The area has a sense of deep rumbling, as if some old machinery has woken up after all. (2025-07-16 02:27:23).
- A confusing feeling, though not entirely unpleasant, echoes through the by-now familiar magical resonance that has haunted Wizards for some time. You have a faint inkling that it is like a message, but without any clear content. (2025-07-16 02:29:57).
- You say, "All sorts of systems back online. Maybe." (2025-07-16 02:38:05).