The Necropolis Library Atrium.


Grigoloth arrives from the south.

You flash Grigoloth a joyous smile.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee nods towards you, standing by her side quietly.

Sthai inclines her head politely to those around her.

Sthai Oubliette, Amaranth's Petal says, "If you'll pardon me..."

Sthai leaves to the in.

Softly, almost a whisper, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "What's
going on?"

Grigoloth gives Vena a respectful salute.

You say to Grigoloth, "Marquessa Sthai was telling us about the Patrons."

Trooper Vena Feyranti, Operations Trainee says, "Where did the lady go?"

In a dulcet sibilant slurred lilt, Sister Quilis, Handmaiden of the Heresiarch
murmurs, "She had other matters to attend to I believe."

Trooper Vena Feyranti, Operations Trainee says, "Ah."

Demia arrives from the northeast.

Nodding in agreement, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Excellent."

Vena removes a ghoulish angel skin half-mask.

Demia leaves to the south.

Vena removes an embellished draconic great helm.

You put your hands on your hips and go "Hmmm!"

Trooper Vena Feyranti, Operations Trainee eyes the people in the library with
her dark eyes, holding her helm under one arm.

Trooper Vena Feyranti, Operations Trainee says, "What did you think of the
lady?"

Mechanical clankings rumble from deep beneath the ground, as though some great
clockwork engine lay beneath your feet.

Continuing to speak lightly from crimson lips, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee
says to you, "Here, take a look at this, Kiriwe."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Vena, "I'm afraid I haven't yet had a
chance to hear her speak."

You ask Grigoloth, "Look at what?"

Grigoloth gives an iron tome bound in gold and crimson to you.

read tome
"The Catechism of Lord Fain", By Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent
(Page 1)

THE WORDS OF THE HIGH PRIEST


The Basin is the Lord's, and anyone or
anything who challenges that claim is
an enemy who must be destroyed.


Blessed is the mind too small for doubt


An open mind is like a fortress
with its gates unbarred and
its doors swung wide open.

Grinning, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "That."

Comprehension flashes across your face.

You nod your head emphatically.

Brightly, you say to Grigoloth, "It seems familiar, I think I've read this
before."

Lips curling into a wide smile, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you,
"It's a good read, yes."

Grigoloth gives the world a smart salute.

You say, "Mhmm."

You say, "I learned a lot from it."

You ponder the situation.

You ask Grigoloth, "How is your ...idea coming along?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I have been a little pre-occupied
with things, Kiriwe."

You ask Grigoloth, "With what?"

Softly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "With Mother, among other
things."

You crease your brow in a frown.

Quietly, you say to Grigoloth, "Anything you want to talk about? I'm always here
for you, you know."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee fumbles with his fingers silently.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Well....."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Mother and I spoke recently, things
are a little better I guess."

You crease your brow in a frown.

Confused, you say to Grigoloth, "There was something wrong? I thought she was
just mad at me."

You sit yourself down on a broad iron couch and make yourself comfortable.

Shaking his head, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "No.....I ran away
for a bit."

You blink.

Eyes widening, you ask Grigoloth, "You... you ran away?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I did, yes."

You have emoted: Kiriwe pats the empty space next to her.

You say to Grigoloth, "Why would you do that?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Because I hurt her..."

You whisper to Grigoloth, "You hurt her? Did you hit her? Why would you do
that?!"

Grigoloth sits himself down on a broad iron couch and makes himself comfortable.

Speaking softly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I don't know,
something just came over me. Sometimes when I feel a certain way I don't have
control over it."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee clears his throat.

Shaking her head slowly, you say to Grigoloth, "I... I don't know what to say.."

Softly, you say, "You can always come stay with me and mom, if you don't have
anywhere to go."

Nodding to himself, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I'm not too
sure what's going on next."

You have emoted: Kiriwe fidgets with her hands, clasping and unclasping them as
she stares at her lap.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I seen Lady Luciden today, Kiriwe."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Did you see her walk by?"

You nod your head emphatically.

You say, "I saw her when you said hi to me in the Aetherplex."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "We spoke about Mother. She opened a
few things up to me."

You ask Grigoloth, "What do you mean?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "About me being too hard on myself
all the time."

You nod your head emphatically.

You say, "I'm not sure I know what you mean... You work really hard to do your
best!"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I try to hard to please, I think."

You say, "Oh."

Turning to you, you say to Grigoloth, "Then... you should worry about yourself
first!"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "When I do that, I feel guilty."

You say to Grigoloth, "Why should you feel guilty?"

You ask Grigoloth, "It is one of His teachings that we should worry about
ourselves first, right?"

Softly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I think you should
understand that."

You have emoted: Kiriwe worries at the hem of her dress absently.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Do you...understand now?"

You shake your head.

You ask Grigoloth, "I don't understand... Why do you feel guilty?"

Grigoloth gets up off a broad iron couch.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee carefully brushes himself off.

You get up off a broad iron couch.

Shrugging to himself, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Maybe there
isn't nothing to feel guilty over."

Grigoloth leaves to the northwest.

You tell Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee, "I'm still confused... I wish you would
tell me, but you don't have to if you don't want to."

Grigoloth tells you, "I will come around, Kiriwe."

You tell Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee, "I know you will. Do what's best for you,
Grigoloth."

Marble arch before the Necropolis.
The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. The
large gap in the outer Necropolis wall here is bridged by a massive marble arch.
The marble arch, a rare black colour, has been adorned with strange glowing
runes all along the underside. The top of the arch is embellished with a large
stone skull, fiery rubies fitted in its eye sockets. To the west lies the main
building of the Necropolis, black and sinister, with its four spires rising up
out of each corner. The outer wall leads away from the arch in either direction,
zigzagging as it makes its way around the eastern towers. A statue of an
Ur'Guard Grand Marshal stands here, memorializing her noble spirit. A shuttered
glass gas lamp lies dark and unlit atop a tall, ornately gilded post. A huge,
grey speckled mare ambles about here.
You see exits leading northeast, east, southeast, and west.

Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent looks you up and down, her face a masque of well-composed indifference.

Voice wracked with embarrassment, you say to Nariah, "Hello, Heresiarch."

Looking down the street and then up towards the sky, Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani,the Benevolent says, "Rather windy today.."

Grigoloth's feet slide out from underneath him, due to the many pounds of lubricated oils smeared onto his body.

Weakily, you say to Nariah, "Yes, it is Heresiarch...."

Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent stands rigid, regarding you sternly still with a tinge of curiosity.

Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent asks, "The message?"


Crossing his arms over his chest, shivering, you say to Nariah, "I've been ordered to do a couple more things before I deliever the message, Heresiarch."

Nariah raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Grigoloth begins to flex his muscles, as he begins to lift his arms he slips in a pool of his own oil, falling awkwardly to the ground.

You stand straight up.

Grigoloth clears his throat.

You say to Nariah, "That is to you, from Lord Jigan."

Grigoloth fumbles with the bottle, almost dropping it from his lubricated hands as he passes it to you.

Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent's lips twitch in contained amusement and her eyes glitter with humour.

Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent takes the bottle lightly, careful to avoid your hands.

You say to Nariah, "And now, for the message Heresiarch."

Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent looks you over once before she looks up the bottle against the crystal-blue sky, examining the contents.

Turning his head off to the side while he speaks, voice crackling with embarrassment, you say to Nariah, "Jigan wishes to apologize for his boorish manner these past few months. He thanks you for helping him learn his duties, even though he has acted poorly. Please accept this wine as a small gift in apology."

Nodding once as her eyes light up when she recognised the contents, Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent says, "Convey that they are accepted, and the champagne pleasing."

Grigoloth's chest does a little dance as he flexes each muscle rythimatically with the sounds in his head, face burning from embarassment.

Staring at the ground, you say to Nariah, "Of course, Lady Nariah."

Quickly and shamefully, you say to Nariah, "May I be excused, Heresiarch?"

Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent tilts her head to the side letting her golden tresses tumble down her shoulder, her eyes fixed on you.

With quiet amusement, Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent says, "I see you are doing fabulous since we last spoke, quite fabulous."

Covering her eyes daintily, Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent says, "Yes, now do get out of my sight, your oiled body is reflecting all the light on me, it is blinding."

Heresiarch Nariah d'Iasani, the Benevolent winces with displeasure as she shields her eyes.

You say to Nariah, "Of course, Heresiarch. Of course."

You give Nariah a respectful salute.

Centre of the Necropolis.
Rubescent lambency emits from amidst crimson petals of the weeping amaranth
suspended from a magnificent gemwork chandelier. Rising up from cracks in the
floor, the Megalith of Doom towers above everything here, polluting the air with
its foul fumes. A painting of Supreme Master Luciphage is proudly exhibited on a
nearby wall. There are 2 wights here. Swirling eddies of chaotic ether dance
around a marble shrine to Morgfyre that holds a crystal model of the
planispheres. The Keeper of the Megalith stands here radiating a tainted
presence. Wrapped in billowing black robes, an illithoid reaver waits,
motionless. In the shape of an open palm, a metallic sigil lies here. There are
10 writhing plates of maggoty meat here. Kyoodai Yukari Feyranti is here. She
wields a viciously barbed iron chain with both hands. Trooper Grigoloth, Ops
Trainee is here. He wields an ancestral klangaxe with both hands. Shadowbound
Ravindil, Watcher of Shadows is here. He wields a nature talisman in his left
hand. Geophyte Nemoria, Wielder of the Earthen Flame is here. She wields a
blood-red sling in her left hand.
You see exits leading north, east, south, and west.

You flash Grigoloth a joyous smile.

You tug urgently on Grigoloth's sleeve.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Hello, Kiriwe."

You exclaim to Grigoloth, "I have something to show you!"

Smiling softly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Oh really?"

You nod your head emphatically.

Nodding, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Well, lets see it then."

Excitedly, you say to Grigoloth, "Something I made!"



You portal to Red Orchid Cakes and Pastries Bakery.
Grigoloth follows you ether.

A sunlit bakery.
A sign here suggests you READ SIGN! Lying flat on the ground is a key-shaped
sigil. You see a sign here instructing you to use the PORTAL command to enter
the aetherplex system. You see a sign here instructing you that WARES is the
command to see what is for sale.
You see exits leading north, northeast, and down (closed door).

You put your hands on your hips and go "Hmmm!"

You say, "I better show you the one on my balcony."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Agreed."

You say, "Mom's at the frog pond."



You open the oak door to the out.

Grigoloth follows you out.
A rain-kissed balcony of cherry wood lined with mirrors.
A cherry wood bench sits here invitingly, mother of pearl hearts inlaid in the
surface.
You see a single exit leading in (open door).

You beam broadly.

You ask, "See my bench?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee runs his fleshy fingers down the cherry wood,
nodding to himself agreeably.

Playfully, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "You did not make this."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee touches your shoulder lightly.

Puffing out her cheeks, you say to Grigoloth, "I did so!"

Continuing his playful protest, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you,
"Lies."

You say, "I not only made it, I designed it too!"

Folding his arms over his chest, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Oh
really?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee raises an eyebrow.

You have emoted: Kiriwe wrinkles her nose along with her puffed cheeks, a
portrait in childish pouting.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I'm going to talk to your Mother
and tell her your lying!"

You crease your brow in a frown.

Balling her hands into little fists, you exclaim to Grigoloth, "I am not lying!"

Softly tickling your side, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I'm
playing around, Kiriwe. It is absolutely wonderful."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee chuckles dryly.

You have emoted: Kiriwe beams up at you, pride in her work and happiness in your
praise etched into her face.

Grigoloth sits himself down on a cherry wood bench inlaid with mother of pearl
and makes himself comfortable.

You sit yourself down on a cherry wood bench inlaid with mother of pearl and
make yourself comfortable.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee wiggles his bottom into the wood.

Your eyes sparkle with amusement.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "And comfortable, too."

You hum a happy tune.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance yells, "MIHEWI."

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance yells, "Heeelp."

You ask Grigoloth, "Speaking of stuff we've been working on... how is your plan
coming along?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "What was that?"

Grigoloth gets up off a cherry wood bench inlaid with mother of pearl.

You crease your brow in a frown.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says, "I shall return."

You say, "Don't worry about it!"

You say, "Mom will take care of Grandmama."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says, "It's mother, Kiriwe."

You have emoted: Kiriwe reaches out to catch your arm.

You see Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee yell, "Mother, are you ok?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee glances at your hand, his face assaulted with an
expression of worry.

You have emoted: Kiriwe latches her hand onto your wrist, tugging at you, trying
to get you to stay.

You say to Grigoloth, "She'll be fine... she was calling for Mom anyway."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "She could be being eaten alive."

You give a trillingly melodic laugh.

Grigoloth leaves to the in.

You glare about you, upset with the world.

You get up off a cherry wood bench inlaid with mother of pearl.

Grigoloth arrives from the in.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says, "I can't find her, Kiriwe."

You see Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee yell, "Mother, please respond."

Soothingly, you say to Grigoloth, "She'll be fine! I promise!"

Confectioner Mihewi y'Kaliath, Dark Swamp Dweller yells, "She's dead and it's
all your fault!"

You yell, "Mom! Don't say that!"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Let's go check it out!"

Grigoloth searches the air in front of him, then tugs upon an invisible strand
of force.

You have emoted: Kiriwe casts her glance aside and sighs.

You begin to follow Grigoloth.

You have recovered balance on all limbs.

You follow Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee ether to A sunlit bakery.

Somaria wrinkles her nose and sniffs.

Confectioner Mihewi y'Kaliath, Dark Swamp Dweller says, "Because you couldn't
just come down the stairs like people normally do..."

Mihewi shifts her eyes suspiciously from side to side.

Hurrying to your side, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "Are you
ok, Mother?"

A hint of irritation in her voice, you say, "He was very worried about
Grandmama.."

Slumping, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says to Grigoloth, "Your
sister's yelling at me."

Softly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Mihewi, "Please be kind, Mother
is in pain."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "What is it, Mother? Where does
it hurt?"

Pointing her nose straight into the air, Confectioner Mihewi y'Kaliath, Dark
Swamp Dweller says, "Her fault for not eating more often!"

Grigoloth gives a platter of tangy barbeque cherub wings to Lady Somaria
y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance.

Smiling, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "Eat, Mother. Replenish
your strength."

Confectioner Mihewi y'Kaliath, Dark Swamp Dweller says to Grigoloth, "Already
gave her some. No need to fatten her up even more!"

Confectioner Mihewi y'Kaliath, Dark Swamp Dweller points at Somaria's belly.

Almost in a whisper, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "Do not
listen, Mother. You have a beautiful belly."

You say to Grigoloth, "See? She's fine!"

Glancing towards Kiriwe, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "Are
you fine, Mother?"

Your stomach notifies you that it is beginning to feel hungry. Perhaps you
should find yourself some food.

Glancing towards Kiriwe, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "Are
you fine, Mother?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee's nostrils flare, an expression of worry rooting
itself upon his features.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance ponders her son before dramatically
collapsing, her hand over her ankle. "Ow!"

Kneeling beside her and grabbing her ankle, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says
to Somaria, "Mother!"

You ask Somaria, "What happened, Grandmama?"

Lifting her leg slightly, holding it up to you, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of
Sinful Radiance says to Grigoloth, "It hurts so much, Grigoloth.. Kiss it and
make it better."

Placing his lips upon her ankle with hesitation, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee
says to Somaria, "Is that better, Mother?"

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance lifts a hand to her lips, feigning a
soft sob.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "Kiriwe and I were so worried."

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance whispers, "Again!"

Lowering his head and placing his lips upon your delicate ankle once again,
Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "Like that, Mother?"

Pathetically, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance whines, "Can you carry
me home?"

Frustrated at being ignored, you ask Somaria, "What happened?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to Somaria, "Of course, Mother. Of course."

Peering at Kiriwe, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance whines to
Grigoloth, "She's upsetting me.."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee sweeps his Mother gently from the ground, holding
Somaria against his chest firmly.

You blink.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee lowers his head softly.

You say to Somaria, "I... wha? I'm just worried about what happened!"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I will come play after Kiriwe."

Showing that you understand, you nod your head slowly towards Grigoloth.

Sniffling, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance exclaims to you, "You seem
angry at me!"

You say to Somaria, "I'm not angry! You just didn't answer my question!"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I will come back, Kiriwe. Mother is
really hurt right now."

You say to Grigoloth, "I.. I understand. Go take care of Grandmama."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee smiles.

Somaria leaves, following Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee.
Grigoloth leaves to the ether.

You grumble angrily.



You sit yourself down on a heart-shaped ruby bed and make yourself comfortable.

You have emoted: Kiriwe pulls a pillow over to sit in her lap, worrying absently
at a corner seam.



Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee yells, "Kiriwe, where are you?"

You tell Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee, "Shh! Or mom's gonna take my door away
again!"

You tell Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee, "I'm in my room."

Grigoloth arrives from the east.

You have emoted: Kiriwe looks up from the pillow in her lap.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Hello, Kiriwe."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee smiles softly.

You say to Grigoloth, "Is Grandmama alright?"

Grigoloth closes the reinforced door to the east.

You rub your eyes tiredly.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Hello, sleepy pants."

Yawning, you say to Grigoloth, "I got sleepy waiting for you.."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Yes, and Mother is fine it seems."

You say to Grigoloth, "I'm glad."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Actually, after I brought her home
it seemed to magically heal. The God's are funny that way, it would seem."

Brightly, you say to Grigoloth, "Well, that's good to hear! I'm glad she's all
better!"

More to herself than to you, you say, "Where were we again.."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I think you asked me about my
plan."

You nod your head emphatically.

You say to Grigoloth, "That's right! How is it coming along?"

Sighing, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "A little slow, Kiriwe."
Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "But it is close to done, I need to
reword a few things."

You nod your head slowly in understanding.

You say, "I wish I was good at that sort of thing, or I would help you."



Struggling to make conversation, you ask, "Um... how are you doing in the
Ur'guard?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Excellent. I am really close to
becoming a Drill Sergeant."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee smiles softly.

You ask, "Ooh, what does that mean?"

Chuckling, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Can I practice on you,
Kiriwe?"

Eagerly, you exclaim to Grigoloth, "Sure!"

Screaming, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "On your feet, SOLDIER!"

You have emoted: Kiriwe hops off the bed to stand at attention, hands at her
side, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee circles around you, hands placed firmly behind
his back sneering angerly.

Jamming his finger into the middle of your back, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee
says to you, "I said stand, not slouch damnit!"

You have emoted: Kiriwe straightens her back, arms clamped tightly to her sides,
her neck almost stretching to stand tall and straight.

You ask Grigoloth, "Like this?"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee snorts under his breath with displeasure.

Finishing his circle, standing inches from your face, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops
Trainee hisses at you, "Don't you eyeball me Grunt! So help me Fain if you dare
eyeball me one more time!"

You have emoted: Kiriwe quickly casts her eyes downwards, avoiding looking at
you.

Yelling, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Look at me Grunt while I'm
talking to you! Don't you dare look away from me!"

You have emoted: Kiriwe shakes her head a moment, confused, then looks up at you
again, her wide-eyed gaze resting upon your animated features.

His eyes consumed with anger, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee screams at you,
"NOW WHY THE HELL DID A GRUNT LIKE YOU EVER DECIDE TO THINK HE WAS EVEN REMOTELY
CAPABLE OF ACCOMPLISHING ANYTHING IN THE UR'GUARD!"

Her face conveying a little fright, you say, "I.. I want to serve the Engine!"

His voice lowering, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Perhaps the
Engine doesn't want you. Have you ever thought of that?"

Her voice shaky, you say to Grigoloth, "The Engine needs bodies, sir! Even if
only to die first!"

His face appearing half pleased, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you,
"And you are, willing to die for the Engine Grunt?"

Gaining a little confidence, you say to Grigoloth, "Sir, yes sir!"

You give Grigoloth a respectful salute.

Placing his hands on his hips, staring off to the side with a dramatic pose he
speaks softly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Excellent, Grunt.
Excellent."

Excitedly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "How did I do?"

You beam broadly at Grigoloth.

Enchanted, you say to Grigoloth, "You were great! Scary, but I wanted to make
you pleased!"

Eyeing you with a curious look, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "You
did, Kiriwe."

Confused, you ask Grigoloth, "I did what?"

Smiling devilishly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Please me."

You have emoted: Kiriwe beams up at you, obviously bathing in the praising
words.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Do you think they will be pleased
with that though?"

You say to Grigoloth, "Of course! What else could they be! You are perfect!"

Doing his dramatic pose one last time for added affect and a laugh, Trooper
Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Excellent."

You feel that Grigoloth deserves some congratulations and you clap wildly.

Grabbing your hand softly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Thanks
for the help, Kiriwe."

You have emoted: Kiriwe clasps your hand gently, curtseying in as ladylike a
manner as she can muster.

You say to Grigoloth, "Oh! Speaking of advancing... I was favoured in the Order
recently!"

Eyes lighting up, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Oh really? What
for?"

You shrug helplessly.

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "We are of the same rank, it would
seem."

You say to Grigoloth, "I think for offering, because I do that quite a bit. But
Lady Sthai didn't specify..."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Excellent. He must be happy with
your progress."

You have emoted: Kiriwe trails off, her face suddenly changing from smiling to
an almost frown.

Tilting his head off to the side, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you,
"What's wrong?"

Quietly, you say, "She.. she said something that made me wonder, though."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Do you care to talk about it?"

You nod your head emphatically.

Looking up at you, her murky emerald eyes full of almost hurt confusion, you say
to Grigoloth, "She said that... that if I show that I take after Grandmama...
she would rip me apart."

Nodding softly, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "I have been told
the same thing, as well."

You ask Grigoloth, "What does it mean?"

Smiling, running his fleshy fingers through your hair, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops
Trainee says to you, "Nothing, Kiriwe. Just be yourself, and you shall be just
fine."

You have emoted: Kiriwe leans her face against the cool metal of your armor.
Murmuring softly, she says, "If you say so, I know it's right."

Placing his hand gently on the back of your head, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee
says to you, "Our family isn't so....respected to say the least. It will be up
to us to change that outlook."

Nodding, you say to Grigoloth, "We have to earn their respect, right?
Show that we live for Fain!"

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "Yes, Kiriwe. And much, much more."

You ask Grigoloth, "More? Like how?"

Smiling, looking down at you, Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "But
we'll take it one step at a time."

Trooper Grigoloth, Ops Trainee says to you, "No need to clutter the mind."

You have emoted: Kiriwe nods her head agreeably.

That's a wonderful picture of you, Gregori. At least now we know what Dylara's getting her jollies from these days.

you!

1. Dylara never got her jollies from me.

2. Dylara and Gregori are old news

3. Dylara is virtually inactive and has been for months.

4. How's Thoros?

Auria arrives from the west.

You blink.

You have emoted: Somaria looks up suddenly at Auria.

Auria stares implacably at you.

Yawning slightly, you say to Daedalion, "That's the one your son is always
muttering over."

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains smirks slightly, gripping
the hem of her dress briefly as she inclines herself politely.

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains says, "So I am."

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains says to you, "And you, Lady
Somaria, must be the Mother that Grigoloth speaks of so."

Lifting a hand to adjust and remove her mask, you say to Auria, "A pleasure, I'm
sure."

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains says to you, "What brings
you to the Engine of Transformation, Somaria?"

Waving her hand, holding the mask between her middle finger and thumb, you ask
Auria, "The sights within, certainly. What grander place is there?"

Grinning, Lord Deathchord Daedalion y'Kaliath, the Prince of Mourning says to
Auria, "That and she was following me and I happend to take a rest."

Irritably, you say to Daedalion, "I'm exhausted and we aren't walking another
foot until I rest a bit."

Plumes of foul chemical smoke rise up from the many factories across the
sprawling cityscape, blackening the skies.

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains smirks softly, carmine lips
laced with subtle allure as she absentmindedly brushes her fingertips between a
cascade of her ebon hair.

Muttering slightly, you say to Auria, "He's a slave driver."

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains says, "Certainly Lady
Somaria would know the sights of the Basin. You have been everywhere..."

Looking up in thought, tiredly lifting her hand to shift her fingers through her
own hair, you say, "One becomes more educated when they are exposed to different
perspectives and other cultures."

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains says, "The Wailing Woman
Inn, though often inhabited by rowdy drunks, serves a decadent plate of raw
fish. A Magnagorean delicacy, I assure you. Merian flesh splashed with spiced
brines and layed out raw upon a platter with herbs."

Lowering her hand to her lips and tappig them thoughtfully, you remark, "I'm
certain there is vacancy there.. And I am horribly tired."

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains says, "In Geomantic theory,
those without strong roots who are constantly placed here and there often find
it difficult to adjust to environmental changes. I would advise caution, Lady
Somaria. You might find it difficult to settle comfortably after so many
transitions..."

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains says, "But regardless, I
will let the two of you away."

Frowning slightly, Lord Deathchord Daedalion y'Kaliath, the Prince of Mourning
says to you, "You don't want to sleep in a public place, dear.. it's
disgusting."

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains lets the bolt of hair fall
back down her side as she inclines herself again.

Daedalion ponders Auria thoughtfully, looking her up and down.

Resuming her conversation with an air of obvious dismissal, you exclaim to Daedalion,
"You've been dragging me around all day!"

You struggle to stay awake as your eyelids shut repeatedly of their own accord.

You rub your eyes tiredly.

Your exhausted mind can stay awake no longer, and you fall into a deep sleep.

Daedalion gives a pained sigh.

You open your eyes and yawn mightily.

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains smiles softly again, closing
her milky white eyes.

You have emoted: Somaria groans, lifting a hand to her head and peering up at
her husband as her vision clears.

Earthen Seer Auria d'Murani, The Maker of Mountains says, "Good day,
travellers... Enjoy your stay within the Dominion."

Auria chuckles long and heartily.

Auria leaves to the west.

Shadows grow longer in anticipation for the return of their dark mistress as
Father Sun's chase brings him closer to the world's edge.

A gas lamp suddenly flares alight as if by magic, casting pale, ghostly
luminescence across the city streets.

Peering off towards the west, Lord Deathchord Daedalion y'Kaliath, the Prince of
Mourning says to you, "Strangly that felt like mocking."

Kneeling to the ground beside you, Lord Deathchord Daedalion y'Kaliath, the
Prince of Mourning says to you, "Come dear.. I'll take you to bed."

A long, grand hall.
Lying flat on the ground is a key-shaped sigil. Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance is here. You see exits leading north, east (closed door), southwest (closed door), and down.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "Tau."

You blink.

You say, "H-Hey there."

Somaria yawns suddenly and mightily.

Lifting a hand to adjust her mask, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance asks, "Come with me for a little while?"

Tau swallows and glances about, stroking her throat as though searching for an escape.

You say, "I... Um... Yeah, okay."

Looking concerned, you say, "Where are... we going?"

You begin to follow Somaria.

Turning towards the north, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "My dressing room. I miss doing certain things with you."


A starlit boudoir.
Painted a soft blue, this room captures the essence of a starlit night sky, with hazy shades of blues trailing downwards in a dark wash to a purple-veined marble floor. Delicate pinpricks of gilt leaf shimmer from the dusky walls, glowing beneath the chamber's soft candlelight in a scattered fall reminiscent of the ember-like illumination of distant stars. Overhead, the roof cuts away in a dramatic skylight of azure-tinted glass, giving an uncompromised view of the sky overhead. Supporting this translucent feat of engineering at each corner are simple and graceful Corinthian columns, while directly beneath stands an elegant fountain. Chiseled from alabaster, a statue in the form of a sylph-like nymph rises from this small pool, with water pouring from the urn in her hands to softly splash in the pond below. Carved marble benches have been fit beneath the window panes, their cushioned faces serving as a comfortable spot for one to sit in repose and admire the distant mountains beyond the estate. A chest paneled in dark veneer stands here, its lid wide open. With doors wide open, an armoire of carved black marble stands here. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance is here. You see a single exit leading north.

You look about yourself, rubbing your chin thoughtfully.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance steps towards a small stool set before the vanity near the window. Light streaming in over the too-young looking woman, she lifts a hand to beckon you closer. Taking a seat, she motions to the floor in front of her.

Tau chews her lip, doing her best to appear calm. She was getting better, she realized, sitting quaintly on her knees in front of her Mother. "..How are things, lately? It seems I am not around enough to get the news." She attempts to strike up friendly, pointless conversation.

Opening the drawer of the vanity and twirling her finger slightly to motion for you to turn around, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "Things are quiet. Peaceful, for once."

You have emoted: Tau shifts about rather slowly, staring straight ahead at the door. Her eyes wanted to wander, to turn her head a little to see what was going on, but she refused herself the option. "Lovely. Seems all too often there's something intense going on."

Lowering her hand to lift a section of your blackened tresses, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "Mmhm. Of course, you've been missed. Daedalion and I often wonder what you're up to and where you are. If you're safe." She shuffles through the drawer, finally lifting a lavender colored ribbon, the fabric long, and polished to a silken sheen. Draping it over her wrist, she begins to comb her fingers through your hair gently, murmuring, "I worry."

Her ears perking slightly, she turns her head, momentarily forgetting what was going on. Her eyes appearing wide, Tau says, "Daedalion, really? I would have never guessed... Th-that pleases me."

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance very carefully begins to separate your hair into five sections, tying the ribbon upon the top of the middle one. She begins to braid your hair quietly, birds chirping outside the window. Weaving your hair, in and out, she smiles and sighs, "How are things for you in Glomdoring?"

Tau appears thoughtful, her head returning straight forward. Her mother's fingers felt pleasant in her hair, making her significantly less stressed. "Disappointing, as usual... I Wonder just how much more I can stand."

Continuing to braid calmly, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance asks, "Did you want to talk about it?"

You say, "I dunno, What do you think of Rika?"

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance looks thoughtful and says to you, "I really don't have an opinion on her. She likes to act as if she can scare me but I really don't see what there is to fear."

Your mouth turns up as your face breaks into a smile.
Appearing lost in the clouds, you say, "I like her, She's got this. Rough exterior, but, I think I really know her... Anyways, they drove her to the point of leaving."

Suddenly, you exclaim, "Oh! And Sadhyra, Ciaran wants to make Sadhyra a candidate for Vernal Ascendant!"

Nearing the end of the complex braid, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "Rika and Sadhyra both dislike me... But I hope Rika is alright and you know I want nothing but the best for your sister."

You roll your eyes.

You say, "Kepheran Scum."

You spit on the ground in disgust.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance pulls the braid slightly as she twists the ribbon around the ends of your tresses, clearing her throat and eyeing the spit. "Tau, you know better. Let's not do such things, hm?"

Wincing, you say, "Sorry Mother... Glomdoring is Glomdoring anyways."

You wave your hand dismissively.

Reaching into the vanity again and pulling out a handkerchief, offering it to you, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "Would you mind cleaning it up?"

You have emoted: Tau mumbles slightly, pulling away from your grasp momentarily to clean the mess she had made. "S-sorry..."

Shaking her head and taking the cloth back from you only to toss it aside for some servant to pick up later, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says to you, "No need to apologize, I never took the time to really enforce how I feel about such things with you. Maybe that's a good thing though."

Thoughtfully, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "After all, you turned out wonderfully. Strong and independent."

Tau flushes bright crimson. "You tried. Always busy with other things, I suppose."

Stroking her fingers over your braid, admiring her own work, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "Busy with things less important. An err' on my own part. Family should always come first, shouldn't it, my dear?"

Tau whispers quietly, folding her hands neatly in her lap. "Y-yes mother, family first." She lied, though not so obviously, trying to keep from disappointing her mother.
Not buying it, but letting it go easily, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says to you, "Well, for most of us. I'd do anything for you, after all."

Tau blushes bright red again. "R-really? After...” She suddenly mumbles, casting her eyes downward.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance rises, releasing your new braid quietly, the design slipping away from her hand, a pained expression crossing her eyes. "Of course. I love you more than anything, dear. Come now, I won’t keep you from your duties. I know how busy you are."

You say, "N-No! I mean... That is... I'm f-free."

Glancing towards her bedroom, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says to you, "You seem tired anyway. Like I said, I worry. What sort of mother would I be to let you pass out in my dressing room simply to ease my loneliness?"

You shake your head.

You say, "I...um... Well...”

Tau swallows loudly, her hands fidgeting in her lap. It was clear that her mother didn't remember anything, and so she considered her words. "J-just, enjoying your presence."

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance looks down, her gaze considerably heavy. "Is there something you need to tell me, Tau?"

'No...no... I admit I have been cautious in your presence though
You say, "No...no... I admit I have been cautious in your presence though."

Curiously, a flicker of concern upon her lips as they pout delicately, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance asks, "Why, dear?"

Somaria gives a pained sigh.



Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance kneels down to you, placing her hand upon your shoulder before rising in search of something...

Swallowing, and lying again, you mumble, "I f....r y... .ometimes."

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance steps towards the armoire, reaching inside.

Distractedly shuffling around the clothes inside the large armoire, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance asks, "What was that?"
Somaria takes a plush red blanket from an armoire of carved marble.

Somaria strokes a plush red blanket tenderly.

You murmur, "I fear you, sometimes...”

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance turns towards you and lifts the warm cloth to drape it over your shoulders comfortingly.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "I can understand why. Let's get you to bed, in any case."

Somaria gives a plush red blanket to you.

You nod your head emphatically.

You inch bashfully over to a plush red blanket and nuzzle it tenderly.

In a swift, fluid motion, you spring up from your hands to land crouched on your feet.



Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance steps towards the bed to turn back the blankets before you climb in, folding them back over you gently and closing her eyes briefly before turning back towards the door. "Sleep well, Tau."

Somaria opens the walnut door to the northeast.

The door to the northeast slams shut.



A private athenaeum.
A dark wood polished bookshelf inlaid with a silver five-pointed star sits against one wall here. A sinuous divan couch rests here, gleaming with silver embroidery. A large black pillow chair rests here invitingly. A painting of a small blackthorn petal is proudly exhibited on a nearby wall. Lying flat on the ground is a key-shaped sigil. Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance sits here upon a sinuous brocade divan couch. You may use the BOOKSHELF commands here.
You see exits leading east, southwest, and northwest (closed door).

You blush furiously.

You say, "S-sorry, for that."

Waving her hand, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says to you, "You were tired."

Your mouth turns up as your face breaks into a smile.

You give a plush red blanket to Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance.

Smiling softly, Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says to you, "I'm going to be a bit distracted, catching up on my reading... Come home more often."

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance asks, "Please?"

You wrinkle your nose and sniff.

You say, "Okay..."

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance lifts a hand, beckoning you.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says, "Come here."

You have emoted: Tau moves forward, getting close to you. "Y-yes, Mother?"

Somaria leans close to you and gently lays a kiss upon your forehead.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance says to you, "Stay safe, lovely."

You say, "C-can I idle here?"

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance exclaims to you, "Of course!"

You inch bashfully over to Somaria and nuzzle her tenderly.

Somaria chuckles long and heartily.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance pats the seat next to her, opening her book quietly.

Tau hops up in it, almost acting like a little girl as she leans against you, glancing at the pages with muted interest.

Lady Somaria y'Kaliath, of Sinful Radiance looks up slightly, lifting her arm to hold you in a motherly manner as she reads calmly.