The Ice Shrine - The Final Encounter with the Vvrael

By Thomasl TheMarvelous

Well hello folks, this is Thomasl TheMarvelous. I'm sure you all are interested in the events that took place in Pinefar concerning the chosen, the vvrael, terate, the dragon shrine, and the new areas. I luckily scribed down most of what happened these couple of days and decided to show you the main events. As follows is a list of intersting actions that occured, I'm sure I missed a couple of the stones being placed but I was having a hard time staying in the lands that eve. At the first part I tried to show you the events leading up to the opening of the shrine. Unfortunately due to the enormous amount of events that took place I had to cut out quite a bit but I tried to leave the most important parts.

[Top of the World, Aenatumgana]
Whirling snow is tinted an incongruous rose color by the low arctic light. Then, a lull in the wind offers a breathtaking vision! Mantled by the storm's flurry, a monument perches on the mountain's top, immense in size and of extraordinary beauty. Columns march across the facade, their tops almost lost in the clouds, framing a colossal door. Beside the door, a shining gold crown is mounted in bas-relief, erratically throwing out brilliant reflections as light fights through the fog to caress it. You also see a sweetfern potion.
Also in the room: Lord Krackenstar, Lord Kerl, Lord Mnar, Lord Omnirus, Lord Challen, Lord Decaine, Lord Ragni, Lady Teliana, Lady Kythyn, Lady Leanness, Lord Tzarrakyn, Lord Tens, Lord Ohr, Lord Setzier, Lord Terate, Lady Tedra, Lady Jylli, Lord Beldin who is lying down, Lady Risper, Lord Jala, Lady Merry, Lord Galaed, Lord Berr, Lady Heathyr, Lady Jecquelynn, Lady Silkie, Lord Nighthawk, Lord Chemial, Lord Truekillr, Lady Arwen, Lady Nyte, Lady Rayyne, Lord Thalior, Lord Karhl, Lord Kinshack

The granite door is so monstrous, it's difficult to imagine anything strong enough to open it. It is framed by jambs and transverse beam hewn of a darker stone. Their surfaces are densely carved with a tangle of winged serpents which intertwine and cavort in lifelike complexity. It is impossible to tell in which direction the door opens, if it opens at all.

Fashioned of solid gold, the bas-relief crown is a magnificent piece of craftsmanship. Its ring is decorated with the images of winged drakes that have been rendered in exquisite detail. Precise etching breathe life into them, adding the texture of scales and subtle lines of tensed muscles. Between each of the the dragons, words have been engraved into the diadem's glittering surface. Starting at the d continuing clockwise, they read: Truth, Piety, Humility, Faith, Courage and Honor. Aligned with each of these is a heavy golden tine extending from the edge of the crown.

Heathyr puts a flawless silver stone in the setting atop the tine aligned with the word 'Faith'. It fits perfectly, locking in place with an audible click.

Merry puts a clear crystal stone in the setting aligned with the word 'Truth'. It fits perfectly, locking in place with an audible click.

Nyte puts a dull grey stone in the setting atop the tine aligned with the word 'Humility'. It fits perfectly, locking in place with an audible click.

Tedra puts a reflective glass stone in the setting atop the tine aligned with the word 'Honor'. It fits perfectly, locking in place with an audible click.

Terate puts a veil iron stone in the setting atop the tine aligned with the word 'Courage'. It fits perfectly, locking in place with an audible click.

Beldin puts a milky white stone in the setting atop the tine aligned with the word 'Piety'. It fits perfectly, locking in place with an audible click.

In an instant, the aura surrounding the crown explodes, sending a dazzling wave of light streaming outward. Before you can blink, the light envelops you, leaving you momentarily blinded!

As your vision clears, you notice the chosen have disappeared.

Suddenly, the crown and the tines around it begin to spin in opposite directions. They whirl around in a blur for a few rotations before coming to rest in new positions.

As you can guess we were quite surprised to find ourselves standing in front of a seemingly unopenable door that lead to the wonderful shrine we had all been looking for. We began to brainstorm, trying to open this door to find what was inside and to perhaps aid the chosen. It took us awhile to figure out what we had to do so I'll just sum it up quickly. All the stones were in place in the crown and when it was turned it would land on "Humility" but each time on a different one of the stones. We finally decided on which stone was the correct one to line up with Humility. With a little prayer and a lot of sending of mana and energy to the crown the doors finally opened. Here are a few excerpts:

You gaze upon the crown and begin chanting. Suddenly, a small bolt of energy arcs between you and the crown.

The aura surrounding the crown brightens.

You blink, breaking your focus upon the crown, but confident that you were able to pass some of your magical energy into it.

Titaniia gazes upon the crown and begins chanting. Suddenly, a small bolt of energy arcs between her and the crown.

The aura surrounding the crown brightens.

Blinking, Titaniia turns away from the crown looking slightly drained.

Truekillr gazes upon the crown and begins chanting. Suddenly, a small bolt of energy arcs between him and the crown.

The aura surrounding the crown brightens.

Blinking, Truekillr turns away from the crown looking slightly drained.

Earedsil gazes upon the crown and begins chanting. Suddenly, a small bolt of energy arcs between him and the crown.

The aura surrounding the crown brightens.

Blinking, Earedsil turns away from the crown looking slightly drained.

[After a lot of this were were excited to see that the crown became brighter so we continued. Also we found that touching it helped put more energy in it. During this process several small waves of invasion critters dropped by such as: Vvrael witches, Vvrael warlocks, rotting banshees, decaying vruul, wight lords, and many more nasty critters. We continued despite these and finally the doors opened.]

[Antechamber, Hill of Ice]
An anteroom is flanked with arches to the left and right. The walls are dark stone, rising overhead to a peak that follows the curve of the vaulting. Footing is hazardous, owing to the sheet of ice coating everything with its brittle, glistening veneer. Through the arches, courses of stairs can be glimpsed, composed of the same dark stone and filled with shadows. You also see a huge stone door and a brass ring attached to a chain hanging from the ceiling.
Also in the room: Lord Setzier, Lord Kerl, Lady Leanness, Lord Artuero, Lady Rayyne, Lord Nighthawk, Lord Truekillr, Lady Aries, Lady Titaniia, Lady Arwen, Lord Ohr, Lord Tens, Lady Silkie
Obvious exits: northeast, northwest.

[As we came into the shrine we were all almost in awe. We had been searching for it, and later trying to get in it, for a very long time and had finally achieved both. Since this was a new area and I didn't know what to expect I decided to join up with the famous wizard Lord Dartaghan. The following is how we made our way through the shrine in search of where the chosen were and you will be able to see many of the beautiful rooms. Also I included other key events, such as the deaths of the chosen.]

* Nyte just bit the dust!

Lord Dartaghan's group just went northeast.

[East Stair, Hill of Ice]
The stairs curve up toward the west, dark with shadow and treacherous with ice. The stone of the outside walls is heavily carved in bas-relief. Overhead, the ceiling is a distant, shadowy pool of darkness, but the intricate detail of the carved walls can be glimpsed reaching past the point of sight in a rich landscape of embellishment.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: southwest.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went southwest.

[Antechamber, Hill of Ice]
An anteroom is flanked with arches to the left and right. The walls are dark stone, rising overhead to a peak that follows the curve of the vaulting. Footing is hazardous, owing to the sheet of ice coating everything with its brittle, glistening veneer. Through the arches, courses of stairs can be glimpsed, composed of the same dark stone and filled with shadows. You also see a huge stone door and a brass ring attached to a chain hanging from the ceiling.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Rasulis, Lord Rayzor, Lord Kerl, Lady Arwen
Obvious exits: northeast, northwest.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went northwest.

[West Stair, Hill of Ice]
The stairs curve up toward the east, dark with shadow and treacherous with ice. Along the outside wall, friezes follow the ascent, providing a rich panorama of dense detail that adds to the menace of the ice, adding the temptation of studying the carved stone instead of the ice-covered steps.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Setzier
Obvious exits: southeast.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went southeast.

[Antechamber, Hill of Ice]
An anteroom is flanked with arches to the left and right. The walls are dark stone, rising overhead to a peak that follows the curve of the vaulting. Footing is hazardous, owing to the sheet of ice coating everything with its brittle, glistening veneer. Through the arches, courses of stairs can be glimpsed, composed of the same dark stone and filled with shadows. You also see a huge stone door and a brass ring attached to a chain hanging from the ceiling.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Setzier, Lord Rayzor
Obvious exits: northeast, northwest.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went northeast.

[East Stair, Hill of Ice]
The stairs curve up toward the west, dark with shadow and treacherous with ice. The stone of the outside walls is heavily carved in bas-relief. Overhead, the ceiling is a distant, shadowy pool of darkness, but the intricate detail of the carved walls can be glimpsed reaching past the point of sight in a rich landscape of embellishment.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: southwest.

Lord Dartaghan's group went up a flight of icy stairs.

[Domed Entry Hall, Hill of Ice]
The stairs culminate in an entry hall, little more than a glorified landing replete with sculpted stone. Stairwells curving down to the southeast and southwest converge at a double column surmounted by capitals carved in high relief. Opposite the trumeau, two arches, crafted of alternating dark and reddish-toned granite blocks, open to the northeast and northwest. Over every surface, the relentless sheath of ice gives a reflective coating that is as lovely as it is precarious. You also see a flight of icy stairs leading southeast and a flight of icy stairs leading southwest.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: northeast, northwest.

[At this point I should tell you about Lady Rayyne. She and Terate had a special bond, she was one of the very few that could get through to him and many will say they were in love.

Rayyne exclaims, "Terate!"

Titaniia rubs Rayyne gently.

Artuero asks, "What about Terate?"

Dartaghan just hugged Rayyne.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went northeast.

[Sunrise Alcove, Ice Shrine]
The octagonal alcove is surrounded by a row of double columns. On the west wall, between an arch of alternating red and black stone and a high doorway, stands a frieze of carved felines. Three pairs of lions rampant, each with hind paws planted on the ground and forepaws on the back of his companion stand in the icy shadows like silent guardians. They depict an attitude of strength at first glance, but the curling tongues of ice-covered flame licking at their backs impart a whiff of evil.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: northeast, northwest, southwest.

Rayyne says, "I saw a pool."

[Sunrise Alcove, Ice Shrine]
The octagonal alcove is surrounded by a row of double columns. On the west wall, between an arch of alternating red and black stone and a high doorway, stands a frieze of carved felines. Three pairs of lions rampant, each with hind paws planted on the ground and forepaws on the back of his companion stand in the icy shadows like silent guardians. They depict an attitude of strength at first glance, but the curling tongues of ice-covered flame licking at their backs impart a whiff of evil.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: northeast, northwest, southwest.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went northeast.

[Vaulted Aisle East, Ice Shrine]
The colonnaded aisle traverses the central nave. Rectangular windows set high in the tall exterior walls throw oval pools of light down onto the frozen flagstones. On either side, rows of columns stretch away into the shadowy interior like silent guardians made of ice. To the west, glimpses of the huge frozen formation alternate with the double row of columns.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Kerl, Lady Arwen
Obvious exits: north, west, southwest.

Aries asks, "a pool?"

Jylli rubs Rayyne gently.

Rayyne says, "Terate is calling me."

You ask, "something wrong with Terate?"

Dartaghan just tried to pull Rayyne towards him!

Artuero nods to Rayyne.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went north.

[Vaulted Aisle East, Ice Shrine]
The vaulted hallway veers to the northwest, marked by an increase of shadow in that direction as the reflections from the ice behemoth are less ambient. This part of the hallway is notable for its rich frescos that alternate with the columns on the aisle's exterior walls. Overhead, the ceiling's elevated arch is as graceful as a heron's wing poised for flight.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Kerl, Lady Arwen
Obvious exits: south, northwest, southwest.

Titaniia says, "Rayyne, be carefull"

Rayyne nods.

* Beldin just bit the dust!

You say, "we have to find him"

Lord Dartaghan's group just went northwest.

[Dragon's Hoard, Ice Shrine]
Although the octagonal chamber isn't small, the aisle through it is crowded and difficult to navigate. The room's center is dominated by a large sculpture depicting a pile of treasure so lifelike, only the dull surface of the stone reveals it as a fabrication. Piles of exactingly carved coins spread in all directions, punctuated with stands of pearls and all manner of jewelry and fanciful armor. On its summit rests a drake, rendered in a lazy and contented repose.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: southeast, southwest.

Dartaghan says, "ahh"

Artuero raises an eyebrow.

Artuero says, "Coins, just what I need."

Dartaghan exclaims, "da loots rooms!"

Mnar says, "Drake.."

Dartaghan starts jumping around like a twelve-year-old.

Mnar points at a carved drake.

The dragon is well crafted, reflecting the level of artistry that exemplifies this entire monument. Its wings are folded around its body in graceful tucks and in one clawed appendage, it holds an impossibly large diamond that appears to be more than just a stone representation. A large snowy owl perches on its shoulder, within the protection of the wyrm's furled wing. When the bird suddenly swivels its head to gaze right at you, you abruptly realize it's alive.

Artuero taps a carved drake.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went southwest.

[Platform of Ice]
To the northwest, a flight of steps leads up, so icy that climbing their hazardous incline seems an impossible feat. Above the course of steps, a dais is visible below a ridge. Strange flickers of reflected light bounce off the icy walls above and around the dais, as if the low light were rebounding off water. To the south, the huge, sculpted mountain of ice exudes a constant wave of brutal cold, as if it was exhaling the wilderness of rime encasing the ancient edifice.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: south, west, northeast.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went northeast.

[Dragon's Hoard, Ice Shrine]
Although the octagonal chamber isn't small, the aisle through it is crowded and difficult to navigate. The room's center is dominated by a large sculpture depicting a pile of treasure so lifelike, only the dull surface of the stone reveals it as a fabrication. Piles of exactingly carved coins spread in all directions, punctuated with stands of pearls and all manner of jewelry and fanciful armor. On its summit rests a drake, rendered in a lazy and contented repose.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Kerl, Lady Arwen
Obvious exits: southeast, southwest.

* Tedra just bit the dust!

You say, "the chosen droppin"

Lord Dartaghan's group just went southwest.

[Platform of Ice]
To the northwest, a flight of steps leads up, so icy that climbing their hazardous incline seems an impossible feat. Above the course of steps, a dais is visible below a ridge. Strange flickers of reflected light bounce off the icy walls above and around the dais, as if the low light were rebounding off water. To the south, the huge, sculpted mountain of ice exudes a constant wave of brutal cold, as if it was exhaling the wilderness of rime encasing the ancient edifice.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: south, west, northeast.

Rayyne exclaims, "They are dying!"

Lord Dartaghan's group just went west.

[Platform of Ice]
The ice coating the platform flows unbroken into the nave's huge iceberg, a seamless sweep of graceful spirals that eventually merge with a monumental figure towering above. There, a dragon plummets from the sky, its wings trailing behind it like tattered streamers. Icy shafts protrude from the drake's neck and body and rivulets of ice seep from the wounds. The form hovers moments before impact, its features a study of agony and at the same time, resignation to the finality of its endless fall. You also see a flight of icy steps.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: east, west.

Artuero asks, "Who's dying Rayyne?"

Artuero says, "The people with the stones/"

Rayyne says, "The chosen."

Jylli says, "One by one the chosen 're fallin"

Lord Dartaghan's group climbed up a flight of icy steps.

[Stairs of Ice]
The stairs grow more pitched and hazardous with each step. To each side, sheer walls rise up toward the arched ceiling, their surfaces covered with archaic sigils punctuated with pictographs. Many of these portray drakes, in a multitude of postures. You also see a flight of steps, a flight of steps, a flight of steps and a flight of steps.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: none.

Artuero nods.

Lord Dartaghan's group climbed down a flight of steps.

[Platform of Ice]
To the northeast, a flight of steps leads up, so icy that climbing their hazardous incline seems an impossible feat. This platform is totally encased in a frozen sheet that muffles sound and reflects light in a glistening shimmer. Above the treacherous ascent, a ledge is visible - and towering above that, a monstrous, serpentine figure reclines, its head and tail forming a protective curve around the ice-sheathed dais.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Truekillr
Obvious exits: south, east, northwest.

Rayyne says, "Please, Terate. Wait."

Lord Dartaghan's group just went east.

[Platform of Ice]
The ice coating the platform flows unbroken into the nave's huge iceberg, a seamless sweep of graceful spirals that eventually merge with a monumental figure towering above. There, a dragon plummets from the sky, its wings trailing behind it like tattered streamers. Icy shafts protrude from the drake's neck and body and rivulets of ice seep from the wounds. The form hovers moments before impact, its features a study of agony and at the same time, resignation to the finality of its endless fall. You also see a flight of icy steps.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: east, west.

Titaniia rubs Rayyne gently.

Rayyne asks, "Where's the pool?"

Titaniia says, "Rayyne, I doan want you to be th' lady I saw in that vision.."

Titaniia says, "be carefull."

Rayyne asks, "Vision?"

Lord Dartaghan's group climbed up a flight of icy steps.

[Stairs of Ice]
The stairs grow more pitched and hazardous with each step. To each side, sheer walls rise up toward the arched ceiling, their surfaces covered with archaic sigils punctuated with pictographs. Many of these portray drakes, in a multitude of postures. You also see a flight of steps, a flight of steps, a flight of steps and a flight of steps.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Kerl, Lady Arwen
Obvious exits: none.

Rayyne says, "Terate is in the pool."

Rayzor rubs Rayyne gently.

Artuero says, "The pool."

Lord Dartaghan's group climbed down a flight of steps.

[Platform of Ice]
To the northwest, a flight of steps leads up, so icy that climbing their hazardous incline seems an impossible feat. Above the course of steps, a dais is visible below a ridge. Strange flickers of reflected light bounce off the icy walls above and around the dais, as if the low light were rebounding off water. To the south, the huge, sculpted mountain of ice exudes a constant wave of brutal cold, as if it was exhaling the wilderness of rime encasing the ancient edifice.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: south, west, northeast.

Mnar says, "Ugh"

Mnar shivers.

Mnar says, "Visions.."

Jamousii says, "no visions"

Mnar furrows his brow.

Artuero furrows his brow.

Mnar says, "I saw myself... ugh..."

Mnar shivers.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went south.

[Dance of the Drakes, Sunrise]
The aisle works its way around the glacial mass, growing narrow then wide with the permutations of the ice. The single, massive drake guarding the nave's approach has transmuted into a large adult, surrounded by a brace of smaller wyrms flying in perfect symmetry beneath the adult's outstretched wings. The three spiral up towards the ceiling high above in a silent, joyful dance, looking as if they are caught in the space of a heartbeat, frozen for the ages.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: north, east, northeast, southwest.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went east.

[Vaulted Aisle East, Ice Shrine]
The colonnaded aisle traverses the central nave. Rectangular windows set high in the tall exterior walls throw oval pools of light down onto the frozen flagstones. On either side, rows of columns stretch away into the shadowy interior like silent guardians made of ice. To the west, glimpses of the huge frozen formation alternate with the double row of columns.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: north, west, southwest.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went north.

[Vaulted Aisle East, Ice Shrine]
The vaulted hallway veers to the northwest, marked by an increase of shadow in that direction as the reflections from the ice behemoth are less ambient. This part of the hallway is notable for its rich frescos that alternate with the columns on the aisle's exterior walls. Overhead, the ceiling's elevated arch is as graceful as a heron's wing poised for flight.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: south, northwest, southwest.

Mnar says, "Maggots and hooks..."

Mnar shudders.

Rayyne shudders.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went northwest.

[Dragon's Hoard, Ice Shrine]
Although the octagonal chamber isn't small, the aisle through it is crowded and difficult to navigate. The room's center is dominated by a large sculpture depicting a pile of treasure so lifelike, only the dull surface of the stone reveals it as a fabrication. Piles of exactingly carved coins spread in all directions, punctuated with stands of pearls and all manner of jewelry and fanciful armor. On its summit rests a drake, rendered in a lazy and contented repose.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: southeast, southwest.

Lord Dartaghan's group just went southwest.

[Platform of Ice]
To the northwest, a flight of steps leads up, so icy that climbing their hazardous incline seems an impossible feat. Above the course of steps, a dais is visible below a ridge. Strange flickers of reflected light bounce off the icy walls above and around the dais, as if the low light were rebounding off water. To the south, the huge, sculpted mountain of ice exudes a constant wave of brutal cold, as if it was exhaling the wilderness of rime encasing the ancient edifice.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: south, west, northeast.

I should also go ahead and explain the interesting words we hear, these are from the Vvrael I'd guess, askin Terate to open the rift for them.

"...AH SWEET TERATE...YOU HAVE COME TO FEED US...BRING THE SOULS TO US NOW...OPEN THE RIFT WIDER OUR PRECIOUS ONE..."

Rayyne asks, "What?"

Jylli's face turns slightly pale.

Rayyne sighs.

Dartaghan says, "oh oh"

Titaniia says, "ack"

Thalior says, "goodie"

Thalior chuckles.

Rayzor gulps.

Jamousii blinks.

Leanness sighs.

Mnar frowns.

Jamousii yells, "close the rift terate!"

Rayyne exclaims, "Terate!"

* Beldin was just obliterated!

* Beldin just bit the dust!

Lord Dartaghan's group climbed up a flight of icy steps.

[Stairs of Ice]
The stairs grow more pitched and hazardous with each step. To each side, sheer walls rise up toward the arched ceiling, their surfaces covered with archaic sigils punctuated with pictographs. Many of these portray drakes, in a multitude of postures. You also see some silver coins, a flight of steps, a flight of steps, a flight of steps and a flight of steps.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lady Aries, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Truekillr Obvious exits: none.

Truekillr blinks.

Rasulis says, "You are stronger than them Rayyne"

Jylli sighs.

Rayyne says, "Hurry! We need the pool."

Titaniia says, "Rayyne, we need you to be strong."

Rayyne asks, "Where is the pool?"

* Krackenstar was just obliterated!

* Krackenstar just bit the dust!

* Risper just bit the dust!

Titaniia groans.

"...FEED US...FEED US...TERATE...OPEN THE RIFT WIDER..."

Artuero shudders.

Aries shudders.

* Heathyr was just obliterated!

* Heathyr just bit the dust!

Thalior says, "Terate seems to be the happen'n guy tonight"

You say, "we must find him, Terate needs Rayyne to fight against the vvrael"

A flurry of wings heralds the arrival of several small winged lizards! They roll over and under each other in mid-air, chittering and whirring excitedly. Then, almost quicker than the eye can follow, they streak away, flying in a perfect diamond formation.

You say, "she makes him stronger"

Titaniia exclaims, "lizards!"

Dartaghan exclaims, "oh!"

Rayyne shivers.

Lord Dartaghan's group climbed down a flight of steps.

[Platform of Ice]
The ice coating the platform flows unbroken into the nave's huge iceberg, a seamless sweep of graceful spirals that eventually merge with a monumental figure towering above. There, a dragon plummets from the sky, its wings trailing behind it like tattered streamers. Icy shafts protrude from the drake's neck and body and rivulets of ice seep from the wounds. The form hovers moments before impact, its features a study of agony and at the same time, resignation to the finality of its endless fall. You also see a flight of icy steps.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan
Obvious exits: east, west.

"...FEED US...FEED US..."

Lord Dartaghan's group just went east.

[Platform of Ice]
To the northwest, a flight of steps leads up, so icy that climbing their hazardous incline seems an impossible feat. Above the course of steps, a dais is visible below a ridge. Strange flickers of reflected light bounce off the icy walls above and around the dais, as if the low light were rebounding off water. To the south, the huge, sculpted mountain of ice exudes a constant wave of brutal cold, as if it was exhaling the wilderness of rime encasing the ancient edifice.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan, Lord Nighthawk, Lord Setzier, Lady Silkie
Obvious exits: south, west, northeast.

Titaniia yells, "We will ne're feed you!"

Lord Dartaghan's group climbed up a flight of icy steps.

[Stairs of Ice]
The stairs grow more pitched and hazardous with each step. To each side, sheer walls rise up toward the arched ceiling, their surfaces covered with archaic sigils punctuated with pictographs. Many of these portray drakes, in a multitude of postures. You also see some silver coins, a flight of steps, a flight of steps, a flight of steps and a flight of steps.
Also in the room: Lady Rayyne, Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lord Dartaghan, Lady Jecquelynn, Lord Nighthawk, Lord Setzier, Lady Silkie
Obvious exits: none.

"...WE HUNGER FOR THE SOULS..."

Rayyne grows indistinct. Slowly it dawns on you that she isn't there anymore.

Jamousii blinks.

Lord Dartaghan's group climbed up a flight of steps.

[Altar of the Elder]
The ledge is more generous than it appeared from the lower stone platform, which now looks extremely narrow and far below. The view from here of the monumental ice sculpture reveals its top to be as superbly detailed as its other aspects. Incongruously, a pool of clear, sapphire-colored water lies between the ledge and an immense statue of a sleeping drake, its recumbent body curled around a large throne on the pool's northern edge. You also see a flight of steps.
Also in the room: Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lady Jecquelynn, Lord Dartaghan, Lady Rayyne
Obvious exits: up.

You say, "Pool"

You say, "bingo"

[Altar of the Elder]
The ledge is more generous than it appeared from the lower stone platform, which now looks extremely narrow and far below. The view from here of the monumental ice sculpture reveals its top to be as superbly detailed as its other aspects. Incongruously, a pool of clear, sapphire-colored water lies between the ledge and an immense statue of a sleeping drake, its recumbentbody curled around a large throne on the pool's northern edge. You also see a flight of steps.
Also in the room: Lord Decaine, Lord Artuero, Lady Jylli, Lord Mnar, Lord Thalior, Lady Leanness, Lady Titaniia, Lord Jamousii, Lord Rayzor, Lord Rasulis, Lady Jecquelynn, Lord Dartaghan, Lady Rayyne
Obvious exits: up.

Rayyne blinks.

You point at a pool.

Jylli blinks at Rayyne.

Artuero taps a pool.

Rayyne nods.

You say, "les go"

Holding your nose, you leap out over the pool. You strike the water with a great splash, completely submerging before kicking upwards to break the surface.

You splutter noisily.

[Pool]
The water is a startling shade of cerulean blue, edged with deeper blue shadows. It moves vigorously, tossing itself over and under, and throwing sprays of drops high into the air at the command of hidden currents. Above the pool, a large finger of stone extends over the pool, casting a shadow on the waves below it. Standing behind the pool's rim, a throne can be seen, sitting silently as if meditating on the movement of the water. Also in the room: Lord Thalior
Obvious exits: down.

Rayyne exclaims, "Terate!"

You swim down, diving under the water's surface.

[Pool]
The depths churn with ferocious tenacity, tossing everything within its embrace like leaves caught in a wind. Directions are difficult to ascertain, and even the brave beams of light filtering down into the morass seem to bend and stretch in response the currents' vicious onslaught. Through a momentary lull in the flux, the rough surface of the rock wall of the pool is revealed, scarred by pits and depressions.
Also in the room: Lady Jecquelynn, Lord Thalior, Lord Decaine, Lady Jylli, Lady Titaniia, Lord Artuero, Lord Ohr Obvious exits: up.

* Risper was just obliterated!

* Risper just bit the dust!

* Jala was just obliterated!

* Jala just bit the dust!

The lack of light requires you to use your sense of touch to search the rock wall. Running your fingers over its rough and uneven surface, you manage to find a small crevice just barely big enough for you to enter.

"...THE RIFT...OPEN IT NOW..."

You swim through a small crevice.

[Water Tunnel]
The roar of water crashing against the rock walls of the tunnel is deafening, its voice a low rumble that penetrates the rock where the water, for all its fury and force, cannot reach. At each end of the watery maelstrom, low light filters in. However, the violent cascade filling the passageway obscures what little illumination can be seen.
Also in the room: Lord Setzier, Lord Rasulis, Lord Artuero, Lord Mnar
Obvious exits: northeast, northwest, southeast, southwest.

[From here was a maze of water tunnels that after a short period I was lucky enough to find my way out. I came out on the other side and soon found myself with the chosen.]

* Berr just bit the dust!

* Tedra just bit the dust!

* Nyte just bit the dust!

* Risper just bit the dust!

* Risper's soul has been lost to the demonic.

* Jala just bit the dust!

* Krackenstar just bit the dust!

"...THE RIFT...OPEN IT NOW...BE DONE WITH THE HUMAN...JOIN US..."

"...KILL THEM ALL..."

You swim northwest and finally emerge from the tunnels.

[Lake of Tears]
Currents roil the tepid water, with bits of debris and sand caught in a hectic dance. Overhead, light filters down in shifting beams, which flicker at the mercy of the water's movement. A shadowy opening creates a fissure in the rock walls, and below that, the lake descends into darkness.
Obvious exits: up, down.

You break through the surface of the lake and take a deep breath of air.

[Lake of Tears]
The warm water of the lake churns in the grip of strong currents. Tossed by the confluence, water droplets spray into the air above the waves, creating shimmering rainbows in the low cavern light. The bank of the lake beckons with its promise of solid ground, while below, the depths descend into shifting shadows.
Obvious exits: down.

You swim over to the bank of the lake and pull yourself out of the water.

[Heated Sands, Cavern of Ages]
After the bitter, numbing cold of outside, the luxuriousness of warm air is all encompassing. Then the surroundings creep upon one's consciousness, like a panoramic view emerging as fog lifts. Red stone walls arch in ridges overhead, reminiscent of an immense rib cage. The cavern's higher regions are remote and dark, however, soft light radiates from a fine, ivory- colored carpet of sand that stretches from wall to wall. Heat rises from the sand as well, lending a shimmering quality to the air. You also see a dark lake bordering the cavern's southern expanse.
Obvious exits: northeast, southeast.

[Birthing Sands, Cavern of Ages]
This part of the cavern seems intimate after the expansiveness just around a bend of the red stone. Recesses all along the east wall give the rock a filigreed appearance which belies the vast size of each enclosure. The fine sand is a constant carpet, however, the light it expends is much dimmer here, fading to a soft twilight within the eastern niches. To the south, the walls swirl to create an oval passageway into another cavern where more of the recesses can be glimpsed.
Obvious exits: south, southwest.

"...KILL THEM ALL...NOW...WE MUST CONSUME..."

"...OPEN THE RIFT..."

[As I moved through this deserted cavern I wondered if I was on the right track. As I walked a few paces south I soon found what I had been looking for. I scribed down about everything that happened here since it is the most important part of my story.

[Breach, Cavern of Ages]
The chamber's walls are modulated with the same large recesses that pocket the walls of the chamber to the north. Inside each, the red stone is polished to an indulgent surface that highlights the striations in the rock. On the cavern's eastern wall however, something went horribly wrong. The undulating niches are blasted into shambles around a central oval just behind a golden pedestal. There, the rock looks like it has melted, running down the side of the cavern in eddies of molten stone. You also see a golden pedestal with a nebulous sphere hovering above it.
Also in the room: Lord Artuero, Lord Rasulis, the body of Lord Jala who is lying down, the body of Lord Krackenstar who is lying down, Lady Rayyne, the body of Lord Berr who is lying down, the body of Lady Tedra who is lying down, the body of Lady Merry who is lying down, Lord Terate
Obvious exits: north.

Artuero says, "Okay."

Rayyne says, "Love me back."

Artuero asks, "I think it may be spin and then something else?"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "we love you Terate!"

A loud howl pierces the air, reverberating through the cavern. Turning in the direction of the sound, you see a hideously deformed face within the sphere. Its lipless mouth is spread in a hideous grin, revealing a set of sharpened teeth. It regards you for a moment, then disappears.

Rasulis tries to manipulate the sphere.

The sphere swells with power, leaving the air crackling with static! As the sphere's flare subsides, you notice that it has not changed in size.

Terate points at Artuero.

* Artuero just bit the dust!

* Artuero drops dead at your feet!

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "LOVE"

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "the Lady love ye Terate"

Rayyne just tried to pull Terate towards her!

Terate glows with black power!

Rayyne tries to manipulate the sphere.

The sphere swells with power, leaving the air crackling with static! As the sphere's flare subsides, you notice that it has not changed in size.

Terate growls ferociously!

Terate lifts up his arms and unleashes waves of dark anti-mana!
You are buffeted by waves of black anti-mana, forcing you to the ground!
Rasulis is buffeted by waves of black anti-mana and knocked to the ground!
Rayyne is buffeted by waves of black anti-mana and knocked to the ground!

The nebulous sphere continues to pulsate, growing larger with every moment.

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "the Lady will help ye"

Suddenly, Terate whirls, the anti-matter ricocheting around the cavern in a furious blast. He faces the pulsating orb, his body a thin silhouette against the malignant sphere.

Terate yells, "I DEFY thee! I WILL SEE YE IN HELL BEFORE I DO THIS!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry ask, "where is the elf Terate? the golden son?"

Rasulis stands up.

Movement from within the sphere catches your eye. Inside of it, you see strange forms moving restlessly.

You hear the ghostly voice of Berr exclaim, "Yes!"

Rayyne says, "Terate!"

You see a wave of energy emanate from Krackenstar toward Artuero. It coalesces around his body and then seeps in, leaving a glow around the body.

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra exclaim, "yes!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "Nae Terate, stay with us"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "we love you Terate!"

Rayyne exclaims, "Yes!"

Rasulis exclaims, "Good Terate. You are nobody's puppet!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jala exclaim, "Yes, Terate, fight it!"

Terate swiftly raises his arms, throwing black anti-mana streaming into the nebulous sphere!

The anti-mana strikes the sphere with a flash, sending a deafening blast of sound through the cavern! With a rending shriek of alien fury, the sphere suddenly billows, contorting as it seems to turn in upon itself. The hideous forms visible within it writhe in response to the distortions.

The surface of the sphere distends, as if something on the other side were straining to push through.

Rayyne exclaims, "Stay with me, Terate!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Don't let it through."

Rayyne just hugged Terate.

You hear a chorus of a thousand voices screaming "NOOOOOOO!"

Rayyne exclaims, "I can't bear to lose you!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "LOVE!"

You bow to Terate.

Rayyne just hugged Terate.

A loud howl pierces the air, reverberating through the cavern. Turning in the direction of the sound, you see a hideously deformed face within the sphere. Its lipless mouth is spread in a hideous grin, revealing a set of sharpened teeth. It regards you for a moment, then disappears.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Humility."

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "there is love all around you!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Krackenstar say, "kiss him , tel him you love him "

Rayyne says, "Look at us. We are you."

Terate raises his arms again, sending another arc of anti-mana towards the nebulous sphere!

Suddenly, the sphere pulses violently, reflecting the bolt of anti-mana from it like a flash of lightening! The energy strikes Terate full in his chest, throwing him against the wall of the cavern like a rag doll! He falls to the sand without a sound.

The anti-mana crackles and then disappears. Although the orb still pulses with an unearthly light, it has shrunk considerably in size. The dreadful forms are no longer visible within its iridescent circumference.

Rayyne just kissed Terate.

You exclaim, "you sealed it!"

Rayyne pants.

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "yes Terate!"

Rayyne just kissed Terate.

Rasulis grins.

You throw your head back and howl!

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "You did it you wonderful person!"

Rayyne leans on Terate.

Glowing softly with a subtle radiance, the sphere hovers above a golden pedestal near the center of the chamber. Formed of a wispy cloud-like mass, it does not appear to have any solid structure. Looking into its depths, you can only see a swirling grey ether.

You hear the ghostly voice of Berr say, "Damn"

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "Thank ye Terate"

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "damn, I knew he'd come through in the end"

Rayyne just hugged Terate.

You say, "well done Terate"

Rasulis says, "I would kiss you also Terate, but Rayyne would kill me"

You hear the ghostly voice of Berr say, "He aint gonna make it"

Rayyne laughs!

You hear the ghostly voice of Berr say, "Lookit him"

Rayyne nods to Rasulis.

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "yer alright in my book, elf"

You nod to Rasulis.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Someone heal him."

Rayyne tries to pull Terate to his feet, but he is too heavy.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "He is very bad."

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "oh no!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "He is near death. All blood and guts."

Terate coughs.

You see Lord Terate Niebelun the Fallen One.
Terate lies in a pool of dark blood, his body broken and a grievous wound cleaving through his side. His features are pale from his injuries, and the elf's luminous eyes glow with a fierce light, as if defying death to approach any closer. His long silver hair is stained crimson red where it falls across his back and chest.

Terate groans.

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "oh Terate!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "no!"

Rasulis says, "I can not help him"

Terate coughs, "Rayyne.."

Rayyne begins a careful examination of Merry -- she takes her pulse, checks her temperature, and checks for broken bones or any other ailments.

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "We stand by ya Terate"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "the goddess said one and Risper was lost"

Rasulis begins a careful examination of Terate -- he takes his pulse, checks his temperature, and checks for broken bones or any other ailments.

Terate coughs.

Rayyne says, "Terate"

Rayyne kneels down.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jala say, "Terate, your sacrifice will never be forgotten, I'll be sure of that."

Terate crawls toward Rayyne.

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "oh Terate"

Rayyne just kissed Terate.

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "Terate, you can pull through this"

Terate removes a void blade from inside his scaled scabbard.

Terate says, "Rayyne..."

Rayyne exclaims, "Oh, Terate!"

Rasulis sighs.

Rasulis kneels down.

Rayyne says, "You are bleeding awfully."

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "sheese, don't die, Terate."

Terate says, "Rayyne.. we.."

Terate coughs.

Rayyne asks, "Ras, can you help merry?"

You kneel down.

Rayyne exclaims, "Terate!"

(Rasulis turns his head away)

Rayyne says, "Hold on."

Rayyne says, "We will heal merry."

Terate falls back exhausted in Rayyne's arms.

Terate coughs.

Suddenly, Rayyne bursts into tears!

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "hold on Terate!"

Terate says, "Rayyne.."

Terate sighs.

(Rayyne holds Terate close to her heart.)

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Kiss him Rayyne."

Terate says, "Take.. this.."

Rayyne just kissed Terate.

Terate offers Rayyne a void blade.

Rayyne says, "don't leave me."

Terate says, "Take it.."

Rayyne accepts Terate's void blade.

Suddenly, Rayyne bursts into tears!

You gaze heavenward.

Rayyne says, "Don't leave me."

Rayyne exclaims, "Please!"

Rayyne just kissed Terate.

Terate says, "Rayyne.. we wanted.. you as our princess."

You hear the ghostly voice of Berr say, "Safe travels Sorc"

You hear the ghostly voice of Krackenstar say, "strike the void Rayyne ? "

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "Terate, we can help you, hold on."

Rayyne says, "Hold on just a while."

You hear the ghostly voice of Berr say, "Until we meet again"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "Rayyne will always be a princess"

Terate says, "Rayyne.. you were the rock that held us."

Terate says, "us.. me."

Rayyne rubs Terate gently.

Terate laughs softly, then coughs.

Rayyne says, "Terate, you are my love."

Rayyne rubs Terate gently.

Terate coughs.

Terate shudders.

Rayyne says, "I can't stand to lose you."

Terate glows with black power!

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "damn"

Rayyne says, "Please."

Rayyne rubs Terate gently.

The nebulous sphere pulses with a violet light.

Rasulis bows.

(Rayyne holds Terate close to her heart.)

You hear the ghostly voice of Krackenstar say, "use the blade on the void ? "

Terate says, "Rayyne.. dear one. You were loyalty and love. I.. claim you as my princess."

Rayyne sobs.

Terate says, "Kiss me love."

Rayyne asks, "What void?"

Terate glows with black power!

You rub Rayyne.

Rayyne just kissed Terate.

You hear the ghostly voice of Krackenstar say, "meant the sphere "

Terate coughs.

Merry say, "this is so heartbreaking"

Rayyne sighs.

Rayyne stands up.

Terate sighs.

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "I can't stand it"

Suddenly, a bolt of radiant energy streams from the sphere! It strikes Rayyne square in the chest, sending her sprawling to the floor...

* Rayyne just bit the dust!

* Rayyne drops dead at your feet!

You hear the ghostly voice of Jala say, "oh my"

Terate's last breath escapes his lips as a peaceful smile crosses over his face.

* The distant cry of Terate's death echoes in your mind, slowly receding to a quiet whisper carried off on a cool breeze.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "He has peace."

With great effort the spirit of Rayyne gives a keening cry, spectral tears falling to the ground.

Terate glows with black power!

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "Aye."

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "Aye"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Perhaps he did not know that in life."

Terate glows with black power!

Terate glows with black power!

Rasulis just hugged Rayyne.

Terate glows with black power!

Terate glows with black power!

Terate glows with black power!

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry exclaim, "oh Terate!"

Terate's body suddenly seems to shimmer. Then, with a faint whisper of a sigh, it falls away to ashes, leaving nothing but an outline in the sand.

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne ask, "Terate?"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "He is an elf like me again."

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "it wasn't you, it was the vrreal"

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "My gods."

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "damn, damn, damn"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jala say, "He is gone."

You say, "Rasulis we got a mess here"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "forever"

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "He is gone."

You chuckle.

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "he saved us all"

You rub Rayyne.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Rayyne, I am sorry for you loss. But for him, I think it was good."

Rasulis says, "I think I can WoR all of us back"

You ask, "I wonder if foggin out is an option?"

Rasulis stands up.

You nod to Rasulis.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "He was no longer fallen."

You hear the ghostly voice of Krackenstar say, "no Rasulis "

Rasulis says, "we can try"

You join Rasulis.

You ask, "no Krackenstar?"

You hear the ghostly voice of Krackenstar say, "we need to make sure its over"

Rasulis says, "I see"

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "there sphere is still here"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "You are right Krackenstar."

You say, "les get some clerics here"

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "Aye it is"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jala say, "Heh, get me up, I'm a cleric "

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, ""

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Pray, then clerics."

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "I'm so sorry, sweetie"

You hear the ghostly voice of Berr say, "Dont seem much like a victory ta me none"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "there are a bunch trying to get in here"

You say, "aye Merry"

Lady Jecquelynn just arrived.

Lord Jamousii just arrived.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "See if you can call upon Eissa to raise one of you."

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "Agreed, Berr"

Jamousii gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry ask, "see?"

Jamousii gestures and utters a phrase of magic.

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "I don't feel like leaving."

You say, "Cleric"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "there they are"

Jamousii says, "okies"

You poke Jamousii in the ribs.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jala say, "ahh, another cleric."

The nebulous sphere pulses with a red light.

Jamousii asks, "ya all kept?"

You say, "they all are life kept"

Jala's body suddenly grows darker.

Jala blinks.

Jala stretches.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Well, I was the last person Terate killed. Not sure why he did that."

Jamousii gestures at Jala.
Nothing happens.

Jala stands up.

Jala says, "I appear to be alive"

Jecquelynn says, "yup"

Nyte's body suddenly grows darker.

Jecquelynn hugs you.

Jala says, "thank you, Terate."

Jamousii says, "shall I start rasing"

Jala smiles.

You hear the ghostly voice of Krackenstar say, "watch the lifekeep folks"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero ask, "Did you pray for life, Jala?"

You chuckle.

Jamousii asks, "or better for ya to stay dead?"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "Nyte needs lifekeep"

You nod to Jamousii.

Rasulis says, "We were trying to destroy the sphere"

Jala says, "No, I was just ... .. risen"

You hear the ghostly voice of Tedra say, "aye, I'm not bleeding, just a head wound"

Jala asks, "send me mana, anyone?"

Jecquelynn asks, "how is it sealed?"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "But I think it is even. He raised me once and killed me once."

Jamousii gestures at Tedra.
Jamousii suddenly looks very drained.

A bolt of soft white light streaks down from the sky bathing Tedra in it.

A brilliant glow forms around Tedra, lingers for a moment, and finally fades. Tedra awakens looking somewhat confused and seriously drained.

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "thanks Krack"

Jecquelynn furrows her brow.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "She has to live for that to happen."

You say, "Jammy les get Merry up so she can heal"

Rasulis says, "The sphere is dead now Krack"

Jamousii says, "she got a bad head"

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "I tried to attack it."

Krackenstar's body suddenly grows darker.

Lord Decaine just arrived.

Merry's body suddenly grows darker.

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "That is how I died."

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero ask, "Is that how you perished?"

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "Krack needs lifekeep"

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "It still lives"

A warm glow begins to emanate from Krackenstar's body.

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero say, "Ah."

Jala chuckles.

Rasulis says, "I think you killed it Rayyne"

You hear the ghostly voice of Krackenstar exclaim, "Hail Voln !"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero ask, "Perhaps you didn't hit it hard enough?"

Jamousii gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Jamousii gestures at Krackenstar.
Jamousii suddenly looks very drained.

A bolt of soft white light streaks down from the sky bathing Krackenstar in it.

A brilliant glow forms around Krackenstar, lingers for a moment, and finally fades. Krackenstar awakens looking somewhat confused and seriously drained.

Krackenstar's body suddenly grows darker.

Jala says, "thank ya"

Tedra stands up.

Tedra says, "thanks for the life"

Rasulis says, "No more power in it"

Krackenstar exclaims, "The void blade , use it !"

You hear the ghostly voice of Artuero ask, "What do I know. But the sphere remains. Can you turn it?"

Jamousii says, "welcomes"

Krackenstar stands up.

Rasulis says, "Not anymore"

Lord Nighthawk just arrived.

You see Lady Rayyne Gold the Elf Sorcerer.
She appears to be in her 100's, has very long golden blond hair, green eyes, and tanned skin. She appears to be DEAD!
She has deep gashes and serious bleeding from her chest.
She has developed slurred speech.
She is bleeding badly from the chest.
She is holding a void blade in her right hand.
She is wearing some close fitting black leather pants, some supple black hunting leathers, a deep black silky bodice, a circlet of snapdragons tied with a long green silk ribbon, a thin rift- silver band, a long tiger-skin cloak, a gold ring, a glass amulet, a golden pendant in the form of an eagle's claw, a sleek scaled black satchel, some dark leather gloves, a translucent spidersilk backpack, and a black diamond-studded shield.

Jamousii gestures at Artuero. Jamousii suddenly looks very drained. A bolt of soft white light streaks down from the sky bathing Artuero in it.

A brilliant glow forms around Artuero, lingers for a moment, and finally fades. Artuero awakens looking somewhat confused and seriously drained. Artuero's body suddenly grows darker.

Artuero sits up.

Rasulis just gave Rayyne a smooch.

You hear the ghostly voice of Merry say, "everyone says it's too big"

Rasulis says, "Very brave act girl"

Jamousii smiles at Jala.

You say, "well done chosen, ye have saved us from the vvrael and swayed Terate to do the right thing"

You rub Rayyne.

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "Thanks."

Artuero says, "Listen. I also had a head wound, but I am not bleeding for some reason."

Tedra says, "Risper......"

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "I feel so...flat..right now."

Tedra says, "Gods"

Artuero nods to Rayyne.

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "me toos"

Rasulis rubs Rayyne gently.

Artuero asks, "Rayyne, did you see him before he departed?"

Artuero says, "He was an elf again, and peaceful."

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "I did not."

Lord Tens's group just arrived.

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "I was so worried about what I might be missing."

The nebulous sphere pulses with a green light.

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "That I did not."

[Well it seemed it was over at this point. It was a bittersweet victory for everyone but we all felt for Rayyne and her loss. Things seemed to be winding down until a young lass wandered in.]

A young lass just arrived.

You hear the ghostly voice of Nyte say, "Lass"

Jamousii bows to the young lass.

Tens bows to the young lass.

It is your typical young lass.
It is in good shape.
It has a small black satchel (worn) and some voluminous black and white robes (worn).

Jala exclaims, "ahh, the lass!"

Heathyr appears in a flash of light, looking slightly disoriented.

Tzarrakyn bows to the young lass.

Krackenstar exclaims, "Hello Lass !"

You bow to the young lass.

You hear the ghostly voice of Rayyne say, "Hello, Lass."

Tedra says, "Lady"

Merry says, "Hail, Lass"

Heathyr kneels down.

Krackenstar bows to the young lass.

Tedra bows to the young lass.

Heathyr bows to the young lass.

Rasulis bows to the young lass.

Nyte comes out of hiding.

Nyte sits up.

Nighthawk nods to the young lass.

Artuero smiles at the young lass.

Jala says, "I'd pray to you lass, but I'm busy tending a wound. My apologies."

A young lass touches Rayyne.

Jala smiles at the young lass.

Rayyne smiles.

You say, "ello, good eve young lass"

Jecquelynn smiles at the young lass.

Jamousii beams happily at Rayyne!

Artuero says, "Just what I need."

Heathyr says, "My Goddess....."

Artuero waves to the young lass.

Jamousii pulls Rayyne to her feet.

Rayyne exclaims, "Thank you!"

Heathyr says, "...is it...is it truly....."

Rayyne smiles.

Artuero smiles at Rayyne.

Jamousii asks, "the warrior as well Lass?"

Jamousii smiles at the young lass.

Jamousii just touched Berr.

Merry asks, "Lass, could you get Beldin?"

Jecquelynn says, "id curtsy M'Lady, but i am tending Rayyne still."

A young lass touches Berr.

Jala bows to the young lass.

Jamousii tries to pull Berr to his feet, but he is too heavy.

Jala smiles.

Jamousii pulls Berr to his feet.

Rayyne says, "I haven't cried this hard in a long time."

Jamousii just tried to pull Berr towards him!

Krackenstar exclaims, "tell us its over lass !"

Jala kneels down and begins to recite prayers.

Berr says, "uhh"

Jamousii bows to the young lass.

Nyte rubs Rayyne gently.

Jamousii kneels down.

Nyte just hugged Rayyne.

You kneel down.

Artuero says, "Rayyne, maybe if you attack the pedastal with the sword."

Tedra nods to Rayyne.

You bow to the young lass.

Rasulis says, "I have to thank you for all the debt that I have owed you in the past my lady"

Tedra says, "me either"

Tedra sighs.

You gaze heavenward.

Rasulis bows to the young lass.

Artuero says, "Maybe not."

Jala asks, "is it over, my Lady?"

Rayyne says, "I think I'll leave it alone."

Jala peers quizzically at a young lass.

(Heathyr stares ahead blankly, beckoning with her eyes to the Goddess....)

Artuero begins chuckling at Rayyne.

Rayyne just touched a golden pedestal with a nebulous sphere hovering above it.

Artuero just hugged Rayyne.

Rayyne grins.

Jecquelynn curtsies to the young lass.

Merry asks, "Lass, could you get Beldin?"

Rayyne just hugged Artuero.

Nyte asks, "how are ye feelin, Lass?"

(Rayyne hugs the lass.)

A young lass smiles.

Nyte asks, "Betta?"

Merry curtsies to the young lass.

Artuero says, "I still wonder why Terate killed me."

Merry asks, "Lass could you get Beldin?"

Nyte says, "please, sit..ease our minds"

A young lass says, "My children...this morning has brought the dawn of a new day, a day that we can live without the fear of the Vvrael"

Beldin appears in a flash of light, looking slightly disoriented.

Tedra says, "Gods, finally"

You throw your head back and howl!

A young lass smiles.

Tens slings an onyx-inlaid golden vultite shield off from over his shoulder.

A young lass glances at the sphere.

Beldin bows to the young lass.

A young lass says, "But..."

Nyte asks, "It be safe nows?"

Artuero says, "Thank you for the news lass."

Jala glances at a young lass.

A young lass says, "The Vvrael still exist..."

Artuero says, "Why is there always a but."

Nyte nods to the young lass.

Rayyne shudders.

A young lass says, "This sphere..."

A young lass says, "Leads to worlds unknown."

Heathyr nods to the young lass.

Jala nods to the young lass.

Jecquelynn nods to the young lass.

Rasulis says, "Listen to your Goddess first Beldin"

A young lass says, "Only the bravest and strongest should even dare attempt to enter the Eye of the Drake"

A young lass says, "Many have crossed the circles only to go mad"

Merry asks, "Like Terate?"

A young lass smiles at Merry.

(Heathyr trembles visibly, leaning forward apprehensively. )

Heathyr says, "My goddess...."

Berr asks, "What of Risper?"

Heathyr asks, "...does...does my soul lie beyond the Eye?"

Jala blinks at Berr.

Merry says, "Risper was lost"

Heathyr bites her lip.

A young lass says, "Risper was a brave soul who sacrificed herself so that the world would live on has been lost."

Artuero nods to the young lass.

Jecquelynn nods to the young lass.

Merry says, "Terate bled to death in Rayyne's arms"

Jamousii says, "Tis the Ultimate sacrifice. Ones self for ones people and friends."

Rayyne says, "I don't think I can take all this."

(Heathyr appears utterly drained from the battle that raged so long. But...she looks terribly dejected, too.)

Tedra says, "that's no greater sacrifice, to prove his love"

Rayyne nods.

A young lass says, "Risper and Terate's sacrifice should never be forgotten"

Heathyr says, "Aye. Their sacrifices shall live on forever in time, through our people, and our children."

Dartaghan says, "That was truely a noble sacerfice."

(Rayyne cries softly at the loss of Terate.)

Silkie rubs Rayyne gently.

Krackenstar rubs Rayyne gently.

You rub Rayyne.

Merry says, "it had to be, Rayyne."

Rayyne says, "I still can't believe it."

Rayyne nods.

Merry says, "he's at peace now."

(Rayyne wipes at her tears.)

A young lass says, "I will leave you now to explore this most magnificent Shrine. "

Heathyr says, "Elanthia is safe from the terror that is the Vvrael..."

A young lass says, "Be careful through the sphere..."

Heathyr says, "...Lorminstra...."

A young lass curtsies.

A young lass just went north.

Well that about brings an end to my story. Couple of other things I wanna throw in though, the drake's eye which is the new area is only open for adventurers of, or over 90 trainings. It also isn't a piece of cake to get to the shrine, lots of climbing and nasty critters around so be careful. I hope you all enjoy this tale and I'm glad I could bring it to you.

Lord Thomasl TheMarvelous Dwarven Warrior Member of the Warrior Guild Member of the Order of Voln Member of the House Rising Phoenix

End. By Lord Thomsal TheMarvelous