Chapter 26 The Great Dome
Copyright © 2004 by the players of Emerald Sphere of Sighs.

From: Game Master [2004-03-11 15:43:03]
Subject: E ticket please.
Ssrivans head, still as large as any of the monolithic statue faces you have seen in you past, looks down, his eyes not cast toward the floor in that large iron box, but rather at whatever he sees before him on the panel. You watch as the muscles in the left side of his neck flex to help push his arm forward to reach his intended goal. You watch as his eyes widen in that perplexed and inquisitive look that he show several times before, as this image of his face takes on several different colors, obviously reflections from what he is peering into, and again, that voice. That sweat, melodic, female voice that has been speaking softly, yet cautiously through your underground travels mentions a brief statement that no one can understand. All that any of you know is that this voice precedes an action of some sort, and you brace yourself for what is to come.

All you can feel is the box floating on, what seems to be water as best you can guess. The ride is smooth and very calming, in a bazaar fashion, hardly what one would expect.

As quickly as it began, it ended. Actually the only way that any of the party knew that it had ended was the fact that Ssrivans over life sized head on the wall told you that you had come to the end of your journey. Directly after his words, the voice mentioned something again, still in unfamiliar words and tones and noises could be heard that one could only assume were items attaching themselves to the container to stabilize it. With that, Ssrivans head vanishes and after about two minutes the lid to the box slides open, above you can see stars on a clear dark night.

Then, without warning, a light emits from the places in the floor where the pillars and tiles had disappeared into, but not just a light, it seems to be a clear, square object, similar to the pillars yet, see-through and casting off a bright blue light. They rise to the top of the box, and once they are in place, the floor begins to rise up to meet them. The night sky becomes larger and grander as you rise up from within the pit, and there are more stars there than you can remember ever seeing in your own night sky.

As the floor brings your heads finally up to the level of the top edge of the box you can look from side to side and at this point realize that night sky is actually painted or represented in some fashion on the interior of an enormous dome. One the floor of this dome shaped room you can also see Ssrivan standing, gazing up into this night's sky and pondering something of importance, at least to him anyway.

Once the bottom of the box reaches the floor level of the room, it stops, the blue crystal style pillars are at three feet above the ground, just as they were at your departure point.
Ssrivan calmly reminds everyone NOT to touch them because there may still be something to do as a part of an arrival ritual that would be important not to get wrong.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-03-11 18:21:58]
Subject: My God, it's full of stars!!!
In an awed tone looking upwards ...

"This is an image of the sky before the stars went out tens of thousands of years ago! Oh Mighty Worm, what beauty we have lost."

Shih looks down to make sure he's not on metal, casts his most powerful POE, and looks around the domed room for themes of 12 and for amber, red, green and blue. He also looks at the rocks to see which is now glowing. If it's the same one, then we're deep under the mountain. Shih waits in place, though he longs to explore the wonders here.

From: Jenge [2004-03-11 23:06:58]
Subject: Twinkle, Twinkle
Jenge looks at the depiction of "stars." He tries to see if the appropriate moons appear, and if the color of the sun is what he would expect. In other words, is this 'his' sky, with the fabled 'stars' added in, or might this be the sky of another world?

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-03-12 03:37:39]
Subject: Patterns
As always, Ssrivan is looking for the patterns buried in everything we've seen so far. This station will have other clues to its purpose buried in the details--and Ssrivan will find them, given enough time.

He continues his reverie, occasionally moving around to investigate something of interest, but says little other than to call his scribe back to his side.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-03-12 11:15:49]
Subject: Look at the lights
Dlarumei pulls her gaze from the heavens and turn to Shih.

"I would hold off on casting anything just yet, if I were you. I know that you long for the Worm lords company and solace but we are still standing on the floor of the metal box we were just traveling in so I would wait until we are instructed to move away from before you try casting anything. Plus, with this rooms shaped the way it is, though massive, who knows how a spell gone array will bounce around in here."

She then turns back to the stars and also begins looking for something she could recognize.

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-03-12 14:37:06]
Subject: what's there?
Churisan looks around him. Are we on the same floor as Ssrivan? Is there anything else in the room? How large is it (roughly?). Is there any light besides the blue pillars and the little lights in the roof?

From: Game Master [2004-03-12 16:26:46]
Subject: just a quick peek.
The rooms overall size is the second thing that takes your breath away, after the star lit sky, its floor is the base of the dome making it round all the way around, not a corner in sight. This leaves the room naked to the viewers eyes, nothing can be hidden within this massive dome. It seems to be made of some smooth black stone and seamless to boot. Your best estimations make the rooms floor 1000 meters across from one end to the other, thought in a round room where does one start?

The dome is devoid of light save for the stars and the blue crystals, yet you can see quite clearly. Perhaps your journey here in the dark box has allowed your eyes to adjust. The lack of bright light simply adds to the overall beauty of the dome as well as to its mystery.

The party has come up about one third of the way across the floor. Quickly picking the direction you were facing when you arrived as north (for no other reason that to create a reference point) there is nothing to the west, south or north of you but bare, shiny black floor softly reflecting the stars from above.

To the East, however, you can see a slight depression encircled by chairs of some sort in, what you believe to be, the center of the room. Beyond that, several Azure colored crystals, like those you have next to you, sit in almost a mirrored position from where you are.

The room is cool, very cool in temperature with very little humidity. It is inviting to the skin though makes for a very strange sensation based on what you are used to.

There is no echo here, though all that you see would indicate there should be. Sound travels quite nicely and easily as though in a more intimate surrounding.

The starts seem to twinkle as you gaze at them and through the thousands of little spots of light in the sky you can make out those celestial bodies that you have come to recognize. They do, however, take on a different appearance with all of the rest of the lights surrounding them, but they are defiantly recognizable to you as you soak in the ancient sky.

From: Defunct Player [2004-03-12 21:28:55]
Subject: Star Gazing
The scholar priest takes in the total environment, experiencing his world as his ancestors must have. He is content to wait for Ssrivan's advice before leaving his spot. "Could it be that we are to perform a ceremony dictated by the position of these heavenly elements? There was a science, now lost, involving the positions of the 'stars.'"

From: Deshnah [2004-03-15 07:07:48]
Subject: Looking around
Desh, who has for much of his life known the world through much smaller vists of forest and clearing, takes a few moments to adjust. "Well at least no one can complain about feeling all couped up in this place" He comments softly.

After glancing across the sky he focuses his attantion on the chairs...

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-03-17 08:46:07]
Subject: Time and transition
"Everyone, the stones now tell me that we've moved, but where is quite interesting. The stone that's now shimmering is changing shape and contours as though the place we're in is moving rapidly through time. We've all seen canyons cut by rivers. From my journeys in various tsuru'um, particularly under Jakalla, I can tell you that that area has changed much over the ages. Lastly, I can tell you that I was once sent down a special tubeway that moved me back in time to avert a calamity. I did no more than deliver a message and return by a different tubeway, but it pointed out the possibilities as well as the nature of the timeline."

Oh mighty GM, examining the stone, am I looking at erosion in reverse or something else? If the stone is changing radically in shape, it may suggest that we're in some pocket dimension; a kind of special transition point.

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-03-17 14:43:25]
Subject: Motion
Churisan looks blankly at Shih, he obviously doesn't understand. "I think we should go over to those chairs" he says.

From: Neshkriuma Kharsama [2004-03-17 16:49:50]
Subject: I'm with him
To Churisan (and loudly enough so others may hear):
I agree with you, Noble Churisan. We should collect our wits, people and belongings together where we may see them all at once. Let the scholars mumble on about time and ancient wonders.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-03-17 17:00:25]
Subject: Lights in the sky
OOC: Instead of stars, I probably refer to lights in the sky. The concept of a star would, in all likelihood, be too alien. Still, as I can identify the normal celestial objects, it seems reasonable to me that I might conclude that we're seeing a very old depiction of the sky before the lights went out.

IC: "Under Jakalla, quite deep, lies the Domed City, besides the River of Silence. This dome is composed of some indestructable "substance" and dates back to I'm guessing the same period. I must wonder if its composition is the same. Ssrivan, can we move?"

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2004-03-17 20:27:14]
Subject: What he said...
Urutlen exclaims "I'm with Nesh and Churisan. I'm very intrigued by the chair setting as well. As soon as we are cleared to do so, we should go investigate the chair area."

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-03-19 19:45:42]
Subject: A Preoccupied Locksmith
"My initial investigations noted nothing of obvious inimical intent, so I would say it is safe to move about carefully."

He snaps his fingers to get his scribe's attention and begins pointing out items of interest for her to put into her notes. The two of them slowly drift about the huge room, oblivious to the actions of the rest of the group.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-03-20 07:09:34]
Subject: Clues
"Ssrivan, a moment before you go your way. I'm guessing that we're all interested in hearing what occurred after we descended into our box and, most especially, what happened after you pressed the button from your perspective. For our part, it felt like we were floating in water in a small boat. What you saw is probably key to understanding where we are."

From: Almodhim Harisaya [2004-03-21 09:45:10]
Subject: What a relief it is!
Almodhim feels a great burden lifted from her as she notes the grand scope of the new area the party has entered. She takes delight in looking above at the lights that seem to twinkle. She feels that she can take on any new adventure, any new enemy as long as she has the space to move about in. She moves closer to Urutlen to hear what is being spoken of the chair. As she does this, she tries to catch Hrissu's eyes to give him a look of gratitude.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-03-21 20:02:11]
Subject: Tunnels??
Ssrivan starts at Shih's question.

"The tunnel to get here? It was surprisingly short. There were a lot of blue energy discharges as I pressed the green button and the conveyance was hurled forward at great speed. They made an intricate pattern and showed the wall that we would soon be impacting. There was a bright flash and we entered a place of nothingness. Soon a small hole opened within the void and we entered it, to the return of the flashing lightnings--but this time they were green. The rest you know."

Ssrivan the does drift off into the depths of the great dome, as originally planned.

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-03-23 15:31:53]
Subject: moving
Churisan gestures to a couple of guards to attend the drifting Ssrivan. The rest of the guards arrange themselves around the party.
"What a strange and enormous space. Does anyone know what this place is about? Are we any closer to the Emerald Sphere?" Churisan checks that the bearers have their parcels in hand, and announces: "Learned ones, I will take the bearers to the chairs there, in the center of things. Please join us there when you are done with your contemplations." Then he walks slowly towards the chairs, leading the porters. He'll check that one or two guards attend any who do not stay with the group.

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2004-03-23 17:07:51]
Subject: moving out
Orun moves off in the direction of the chairs as well, though his goal is more to the opposite side where he imagines there will be another device like the one that the party has just arrived in, sitting there. He walks slowly and cautiously across the cold floor, listening for unordinary sounds and continuously looks to the ceiling, fascinated by the starts.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-03-23 17:09:21]
Subject: Mmmemendgblkdke s.
Dlarumei also heads to the chairs, on Churisan's heels, hoping to find some thing there that would unlock this rooms hidden meanings. She spends a lot of the time muttering to herself, not in the fashion of spell casting but as one would when trying to recall things deep within ones mind.

She pauses every once in a while to regard the heavens above and to make some sort of mental notation. To watch her from a simple perspective is to believe that she has gone mad, but to view her from a more learned perspective is to see her mind aflame with ideas and notions all being assembled in some sort of cognitive block of information that, hopefully, she will be able to decipher.

From: Game Master [2004-03-23 17:13:06]
Subject: spooky
The party begins to fan out in different directions, all keeping a close eye on the other for safeties sake but exploring the massive chamber. The Livyani Priest heads to, what seems to be, a specific spot, lays down on his back and gazes at the lights above. He breaths a heavy sigh and solidifies his gaze, absorbing all that he can of the sight he has never seen.

The floor is cool to the touch, smooth, hard and all one piece, as far as any of you can tell. It is black and reflective as if it were highly polished marble, but it is softer that such a stone, almost like a lacquer finish would be on an exquisite wooden object.

The chairs are arraigned in a circle in the exact center of the chamber. There are twelve seats all facing the center of the circle, all reclined seats with very comfortable looking padded backs and leg rests poised on a single shaft running up from the floor to the spot where one would sit. There are padded arm rests on either side of the chairs and at the end of each armrest is small console that is easily operated by one fingers from sitting in the chair.

In the very center of the circle is a round orb shaped object on a large, upraised dish of sorts. It has a black center but is surrounded by a clear sphere with etched lines and symbols. As one ventures closer, it becomes clear to a few that some of the representations etched onto the sphere are those of your known world. An area resembling your continent, though larger in land mass, or at least larger than what any of you are aware of, seems to have key locations that make it easy to recognize certain areas, like the inland see that you saw from the hallway in the mountain, and the crook where Sarku city now is nestled under the mountains. Even the spot where Jakalla should be seems there along with more land that you can even understand. Other continents and perhaps even the southern hemisphere, though it is blocked by the fact the bottom third of the sphere is inside the dish shaped pedestal for support.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-03-24 07:04:59]
Subject: A holographic map?!
After briefly kneeling down to examine the floor, Shih moves to the center area with the chairs.

"Everyone, please be careful what you touch. Things this old tend to turn to dust easily."

Carefully, Shih gently presses on the surface of one of the chairs near the base. If it seems solid, he'll move to different areas. If there is no apparent order to the seats and they seem solid, he'll sit in the one furthest North.

From: Game Master [2004-03-24 16:43:32]
Subject: have a seat
Shih's finger finds the surface of the chair hard to the touch, yet willing to give a little as he applies pressure. When he removes his finger a small dimple remains and slowly fills back in until it disappears completely.

Seeing this, he moves to a chair in, what he believes to be the northern part of the circle of chairs. There he looks at the chair for a brief moment, gathers his robes around to the front of him and slowly sits down. From there he leans back into the chair in its reclined position and brings his legs up and onto the chair. It is an interesting position and one can see his body relax as he looks up into the night sky of ancient times, completely supported by the chair.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-03-24 18:34:55]
Subject: Oops, I'm missing a spell
"Unfortunately, we worshipers of Sarku do not know the spell that allows us to understand the operation of ancient devices. While I can certainly manipulate the controls, I fear that my actions may produce undesired results. Would one of our worshipers of Ksarul or Thumis be so kind as to demonstrate the correct use of these controls? Ssrivan, do you feel that there's a button sequence that acts like a lock?"

From: Game Master [2004-03-25 12:23:46]
Subject: FYI
Additional information for all of you.

There are no buttons on the two hand panels. They are flat and dark until Shih sat down. Now the two on either side of his chair are lit with blue lines and dots, along with other geometric shapes and symbols. The panels seem ready to accept his touch.

From: Neshkriuma Kharsama [2004-03-25 20:42:20]
Subject: It's full of... stars
Nesh herds the porters and remaining slaves along toward the chairs. He will investigate an appropriate seat.

From: Defunct Player [2004-03-26 20:52:51]
Subject: A Picture's Worth

The scholarly follower of Thumis seems lost in thought. He is going over notes, and sketching intently. He drifts over to the chairs, follows Shih to a chair, then moves over to the center globe. He is oblivious to Shih's request for magical assistance, at least initially.

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-03-29 14:59:32]
Subject: more motion
Churisan has the porters sit and rest about 20 meters "east" (towards our point of origin) from the circle of chairs. He leaves a body of guards there too, to attend the priests and locksmith. He moves around the circle and continues "west", joining Orun, and heading towards the other set of glowing blue pillars that resemble the ones that we entered by. He is peering into the dark, trying to see if the room is really empty, or just too dark to see the edges. Do the lights in the "sky" continue all the way down to the "horizon"?

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2004-03-31 13:14:56]
Subject: Just out for a stroll
Orun, still marching onward, greets Churisans arrival with a smile and a nod and keeps up his steady pace towards the blue pillars. His words are short and to the point, but conveyed in a pleasant tone.

"I believe that if one is an entrance this other one must be an exit. I don't know if things work like that here, but I want to check it out."

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-03-31 16:08:20]
Subject: Wandering around the dome
Ssrivan continues his wanderings, now quite far from the rest in their chairs, slowly working his way out towards the outer walls of the domed room.

From: Game Master [2004-03-31 16:20:48]
Subject: Hello
As the party examines the building it becomes more and more apparent that it is a simple design with perhaps a single purpose. Just exactly what that purpose is, or was, seems to elude most at this moment.

Churisan and Orun meet up just past the center globe and continue to the blue pillars, a trek that will take only a bit longer.

Shih is looking extremely relaxed in his chair as Jenge examines the globe in the center of the circle.

Other party members slowly ponder the significance of such a place and look deeply into anything that might prove of interest.

Everyone notices a slight dimming effect of the stars and then they return to normal, just a flicker. But those who are looking, or who look towards the center of the circle see Jenge looking interestingly at the chair directly opposite of where Shih is reclining.

From: Deshnah [2004-04-01 05:19:05]
Subject: putting his feet up
Desh,
Notices the interesting blue lights on the pads beside the chair, and carefully selects a chair at right angles to Shih.
If it appears solid he settles carefully into it - avoiding touching any flat surfaces just in case!!

From: Jenge [2004-04-03 08:39:16]
Subject: Put 'er There

Jenge notices Desh heading for a chair, and says "Good companion, if you would be so kind, could you recline in _this_ chair over here?" He gestures to one that is opposite Shih's position.

From: Almodhim Harisaya [2004-04-04 11:24:21]
Subject: Lending an ear
Almodhim listens carefully to Jenge to have a better understanding of what's happening in this room. She gets as close as she can to the action with an inquiring mind.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-04-05 15:33:43]
Subject: Hang on there!
"Wait! STOP!!! Nobles, please! These are not meant for reclining, they have a purpose and who knows what you are putting into play but sitting in them."

Dlarumei makes haste towards the center circle where Deshnah is about to sit. She seems a bit out of sorts and stops before Jenge.

"It is fine to investigate noble priest but let us not experiment with our own."

She takes a look over in Shih's direction and asks with some concern.

"How long has the Worm Priest been resting like that? I don't think that he is merely sleeping. Has any one done anything to these panels??"

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2004-04-05 21:56:47]
Subject: Be Careful ...
Urutlen addresses Jenge and everyone near enough to hear."Companions, I have looked more intently at this room and have noticed some important things. First, Shih is not reclining, he is unconcious. Second, the "lights" on the roof of this dome are being emitted from the sphere in the middle. Third, there appear to be four very flat disks at the outlying edges of this room. I don't know what all of this means, but this think it warrents further investigation before anyone else passes out. There is more still that I do not understand and is difficult to explain." He then looks to the others for a response.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-04-06 10:35:25]
Subject: Be very Care fulllllll
"Noble Urutlen, if what you say is true, it may be too late and things may have already been set in motion."

Dlarumei addresses all those who are near to her and who are listening.

"Comrades, it is my belief that this point is a station, similar to a tubway station yet not in a place that can understand. It has many similarities to some of the scripts that we have in Monru but it is not at all what we have visualized. It's size and construction go far beyond our wildest imaginations. I personally have had visions of this place when I have been near the Azure Sphere for long periods of time. Till this day I never knew how to interpret them or what they meant, but we are in a place that I doubt even our long lost ancestors could have even dreamt about. This is truly a place of the ancients and a place of powers beyond our comprehension. If Shih is already lost outside this place, then it is important that some of us join him. Deshnah must be one, as he is the keeper of an ancient orb, I will be another, and we will need at least one more to even out the circle. Noble Jenge, I need to know exactly what you did to cause Shih to fall into his state."

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-04-06 17:37:56]
Subject: Alarmed Voices??
Ssrivan notes the commotion near the center of the room and breaks off from his measured study of the room. He heads towards the group at a relatively rapid clip to try and figure out what had gone wrong this time. "Children playing with toys they don't understand," he thinks to himself.

From: Defunct Player [2004-04-06 18:21:52]
Subject: C'est Moi
"I? My good lady, I have done nothing, not to the worm priest nor to any device. I have been merely observing and sketching. Priest Shih lay down a few minutes ago at most, closing his eyes and relaxing. I do not believe that he depressed any of the sigils near unto his hands. As I observed good Deshnah intent on taking a seat, I merely asked that he take this particular one over here. There is a light, see, coming from this globe, that shines onto the chair opposite where Shih reclines so quietly. And there is a pattern like the one near Shih. It would seem that having one person sitting where Shih sits, we should have another sitting over here."

The priest of Thumis hums quietly to himself, then speaks a bit more quietly. "It's fascinating, really, the things I've noticed." He's paging through a notebook, but then looks up again. "I'd be happy to experiment as one of your group of four, if you like. If you don't mind though, I'd like to be seated last of the four. That way my notes will be complete up until that point." He smiles engagingly, caressing his notes.

From: Almodhim Harisaya [2004-04-07 08:03:37]
Subject: Back in action
Almodhim, hearing Dlarumei's distress, automatically puts her hand to her sword and makes ready for whatever action is called for. She approaches Dlarumei and asks "Lady, I have noticed your agitation. What may be done to set things to rights? While chaos is a necessity, perhaps we do not need it at this moment..."

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-04-07 16:12:25]
Subject: Bluster buster
Responding to Almodhim

"Almodhim, noble one, I thank you for your attention and your offer, and I may need your assistance shortly, but as for this moment I have simply made a fuss over something that may have little to do with any of us."

She bows deeply to Almodhim and then Dlarumei takes a deep breath and calmly speaks to Jenge.

"Please excuse my hast in confronting you and my tone noble colleague and I am sure that it is as you say, most noble priest of Thumis, but in you recollections or your ponderings or contemplations did you make any signs with your hands or head, or any thoughts about ancients things? What we are within may have higher powers than we can even comprehend. Please, I ask you to consider carefully, most learned one."

From: Defunct Player [2004-04-07 18:01:47]
Subject: C'est Moi Indeed
"Well, well," says the priest, quite pleased at the change in Dlarumei's tone. "It is quite forgotten, I assure you." He assumes a thoughtful mien. "Let's see, what was the exact sequence of events, hmm, thus, and thus, and..." His eyes grow wide.

"La! I have it! I have a bad habit, which I believe may have been picked up by the device. You see," and here he leans in conspiratorially towards Dlarumei, "Whilst reading or sketching, I often move my fingers about, so," and he demonstrates a habit that you have, in fact, observed on several occasions. "Why, I believe I may have 'sketched' a design from my notes 'in the air' whilst I was giving it some thought. I was rather close to Shih's chair, and in fact, my hands were rather close to this pad, here. Apparently, my gesture in mid-air must've been sensed in some way by the device, for I can see it depicted here now in glowing light! Fascinating!"

His look of triumph is transformed rather quickly and comically (if you are so inclined) into one of remorse. Which is then quickly transformed once more, into one of wry amusement, perhaps. Jenge says, "It would appear that I am responsible for placing the worm priest into a deep sleep. I had no intention of doing so, and for that reason I must tender my apologies." He sighs. "I regret the precipitous action, which is not my way." He bows. "I meant no disrespect to any involved."

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-04-09 19:54:05]
Subject: Moving around
Ssrivan is still distant, but busily returning to the zone of the group's attention.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-04-11 16:47:27]
Subject: Leap of faith
Dlarumei looks deeply into the image that is being reflected onto the chair before her. She peers deeply into Jenge's eyes and with a large sigh she pulls her hood back, her dark black hair shining in the starlight. She speaks softly to Jenge as she slowly removes the ebony mask of her order, reveling for the first time, her true face to him, and Deshnah who is standing right there. She loosens the confining collar of her robes to open up her neckline some and once again speaks to Jenge in a soft tone. Untying her belt and slipping completely out of her robes she pauses and speaks again and then sits in the chair next to where Jenge and Deshnah are standing.

From: Game Master [2004-04-11 16:53:06]
Subject: Let's start it then...
As Dlarumei sits in the chair there is a shift in the stars. They blink and rotate just a touch in the sky.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-04-12 06:13:23]
Subject: Somebody's home, but the lights are out
Shih's body twitches a bit as though dreaming.

From: Almodhim Harisaya [2004-04-12 09:22:43]
Subject: At the ready
"I'm still watching," Almodhim mumbles to herself. She keeps her hand gripped on her sword, stays a few paces from Dlarumei and narrows her eyes.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-04-12 19:29:58]
Subject: Hurried Arrival
Ssrivan bustles up to the pod of chairs sometime after Dlarumei sits in the chair. He will observe the actions within the pod for a short while before proceeding, unless Dlarumei directs otherwise.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-04-15 14:41:30]
Subject: Peaceful
Shih's body is quite relaxed. Perhaps those watching see it twitch in a dream, finger extended, gesturing for other members of the group to take the freak'n seats offered so that we can proceed. Then again, perhaps you just imagined it. ;)

From: Defunct Player [2004-04-15 19:55:13]
Subject: Now I Lay Me Down

Jenge Varion stands facing Dlarumei as she sighs and begins speaking quietly to him. His posture changes, and his eyes widen as she begins disrobing. Far from immune to her, his greatest reaction is engendered when she removes her mask. His fingers begin twitching, he gasps audibly, and then he mumbles a quiet oath. There are wheels and wheels turning in his head, and it is obvious that he is at a loss. Finally, he replies in a very low voice, carefully concealing his lips from the sight of the others (with the exception of Desh, of course, who is with them).

As the lady reclines, the priest of Thumis bends slightly as though to aid her.

As the stars shift, so does Jenge. He turns and beckons to Ssrivan, then takes him aside for a quiet consultation.

After a few moments, the priest joins Desh and speaks quietly to him as well.

Then the two men move to a third couch, where Jenge assists Desh in reclining.

Finally Jenge moves to a fourth couch. To anyone else in the immediate vicinity, he says briefly, "We hope to trigger a useful outcome, but must move with haste. Please remain outside the ring of chairs, refrain from activating anything, and we should awaken after a not-overlong period." The scholar-priest reclines with great anticipation, fingers twitching. He then relaxes into a trance.

From: Neshkriuma Kharsama [2004-04-15 20:46:39]
Subject: Okay, then... go on and have your fun
Nesh had been making his way carefully toward the circle of chairs when the commotion started and Shih hit the fan, so to speak. He watched from outside the circle as the priests and scholars have made their speeches and taken their (probably) momentous actions.

He takes care for a moment to note whether Orun, Churisan and Almodhim are aware of the actions of Dlarumei and the other scholars and priests. Seeing that most of the major players in our drama are about to engage in some "slumber", Nesh backtracks to the area inhabited by the guards and remaining slaves. He confers with the guards and maintains vigilance on his side of the circle.

From: Almodhim Harisaya [2004-04-16 08:57:50]
Subject: Grumble Grumble
"La, at least something may begin to happen," Almodhim says under her breath as she follows Nesh's example and walks outside of the circle. She stands next to Nesh, waiting quietly, though not exactly patiently.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-04-16 19:33:42]
Subject: Note time
Ssrivan carefully investigates each of the sleepers from outside the confines of the circle, dictating notes to his delectable scribe at a furious pace. He seems to be trying to get as much detail onto paper as possible before it changes somehow.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2004-04-16 21:06:43]
Subject: Checking our seats...
Urutlen checks to see if there are still seats that need to be filled and will fill one if need be. If not, he will stay on the perimiter with the others.

From: Game Master [2004-04-21 16:10:29]
Subject: for your eyes
It is only a matter of moments from the time that Jenge falls into unconscienceness till the party notices a change in the stars above. At first they flicker just a bit and then they start to rotate, turning thought the night sky in a soft, almost hypnotic pattern. They travel, you surmise, as they did thousands of years ago, shifting as Tekumel travels through their midst. Many of the slaves and porters move down as close to the floor as possible, afraid of this unknown and yet still awed by it as well.

Everyone in the room, no matter how close or far they are from the sphere at its center notice that the sphere has started to glow. At first Blue, then Red, then Green and finally White and deep Yellow. The colors are strong as they burst forth, shooting streaks of bright colors across the glossy floor. But after their initial onset, the sphere quiets down to a low soft mixture of the five colors and they intertwine and move around each other in a fluid manner within the sphere itself.

After about two or three minutes have passed the stars start to move towards the center of the sky directly above the sphere until they have become one massive star directly over the circle of chairs. Then, without a sound the light vanishes and in its place is a blue symbol of a half circle with a straight line running though it. (I will attempt to create it and pass it along to Tim for the web site within the next few days) Then, one by one, the pieces of the night sky that you have known all you life, the one without stars, begins to enter your vision. The images rotate until they resemble exactly what you have grown up with.

From: Deshnah [2004-04-23 12:14:03]
Subject: Zzzzzz
Desh remains reclined - asleep or simply away?

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-04-24 15:52:49]
Subject: returning to the center
Orun and Churisan can be seen in the distance, beyond the other set of blue pillars, apparently at the edge of the dome. They examined something on the floor, and now have stood up, looking back toward the sphere.

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-04-27 10:10:52]
Subject: returning to the center
Orun and Churisan are walking briskly back to the center of the dome. It will take them several minutes to return, as they are a long way away.

From: Game Master [2004-04-27 14:39:05]
Subject: And...
The room is still as it was, the sphere is still altering its color and the sky is still emblazoned with the symbol. Orun and Churisan are returning from the farthest regions of the room, Ssrivan is quickly dictating his impressions of the things that he is absorbing. Others seem to be captivated by the happenings and drawn into the magic of the moment.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2004-04-29 05:01:29]
Subject: What's up...urr, down?
Urutlen turns and asks, "Noble Churisan, what did you find over on the outskirts of this room? I noticed something over there earlier and wanted to investigate myself, but all of the happenings here have caused me to lose my focus."

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-04-29 20:42:40]
Subject: Investigate?
"What exactly were you trying to look at Urutlen? Churisan will be an his way for a short while yet, but tou have definitely piqued my curiosity."

Ssrivan awaits an answer as he looks to see how long it might take for Churisan and Orun to return.

He will continue to dictate to his scribe in any case.

From: Game Master [2004-05-02 13:21:06]
Subject: Magic carpet ride.
Churisan and Orun jog back up to where the rest of the party stands just as the sky changes once again. It draws the attention of all in the room as it expands, once again, out into a night sky. Only this time it seems much different. The stars are smaller and more distant, and larger spheres are dotted about the ceiling. Slowly, one very large sphere fades in and appears above your heads, directly over the circle of chairs. It hovers there for a moment and then the whole rooms seem to move.

Many of those standing loose their balance and fall to the floor, as the scene overhead seems to move around the side of the sphere and then speed away from it. The sphere moves off to the far left of you field of vision. (I am going to assume for ease of description that you are all facing the same direction) and another appears to your right. As the one on your left gets smaller and smaller the further away it moves from you, the one on your right becomes larger as it draws nearer. The room seems to speed around this sphere, drawing ever closer as it circles around pale figure. So close, as a matter of fact, that it fills up the entire ceiling with its ashen white color. You can see impressions on its surface, dents, if you will, with dark shadows to the one side of them accentuating their depth.

You seem to linger here for a moment, a chance to take in the view, slowing in speed only for a few seconds, before the pace quickens again and you begin to pull away from this object. Dark black creeps in from your right as you turn away from the ashen object, until the entire sky is dark overhead. There is, however, enough light in what you see to still give you the sense of movement, and you fell yourself picking up speed in a slow right banking turn.

Several of the servants and porters have offered up what little bits of their last meal remained, while others, even some of the nobles, look a bit ashen themselves. This, of course, means nothing to anyone when the right edge of the ceiling shows a bit of blue. The edge of something large appears and all eyes are drawn to it. Blue mixed with white streaks and wisps of circular flowing patterns begins to emerge. This sphere is thousands of time larger than the ashen one you just left and it slowly, and ominously works its way across the sky, even though you have this sense that you are traveling even faster than before, this giant takes its time to fully come into view.

Once the sky is full of the marvelous blue and white sphere you seem to head directly toward it, moving faster and faster all the time. Your are pointed directly at its heart and you make no bones about it, you know you're being thrust directly into its center. But somehow, the closer you get, the more you notice that you are still a long way off. You begin to travel through the white wisps, passing through them as though they have no solid form, a mist of some sort, an illusion perhaps. Shortly after you breach the other side of these floating mists you see small specs of darker colors on the blue surface ahead of you. It is not long before you see large masses, but only on the perimeter of your vision and very far off. The specs become larger and larger until you recognize them as landmasses in the water. You seem to speed up directly towards one of them; its size become larger and its detail of trees and volcanic mountaintop become painfully clear.

You hear groans and screams, mixed with prayers from your party as you narrowly miss the top of the volcano, pass down along its rocky and shrub dotted side and then shoot out across the water from between the trees. To look to your right, you can see the water of the ocean moving quickly beneath you as you speed along its surface. A quick look to the left and you can see the island shrinking away in the distance. Overhead, clear blue sky and as you speed forward dusk begins to set in.

Just as you were beginning to relax to the wide-open view and the water flashing past you, and the even, steady movement a high-ridged sea cliff appears before you in the distance. Ever growing and ever closer it comes, and then just like last time, at the last minute, you veer your way around it, through a crevasse in its side and up out of the rock face to skim the top of the land mass above. You travel across a grassy plane and directly over the housetops of a rather strange looking village and then beyond, you head directly towards a short, yet steep sided mountain. You hug its side, moving ever towards its peak and then launch yourselves off the top, up into the evening sky, rolling over in your view to the point where you feel as though you should all fall to the ceiling. Looking straight up over your head is now looking down on the surface of the land. You soar up into the sky, but not too high, and looking down you can see other small villages and roads that connect them. You recognize these things for what they are, but they are unfamiliar to you in their design and patterns. As the darkness of nigh moves across the land, small lights appear on the surface below you. At first only a few and then several more in small clusters as you imagine them to be small villages below you, until finally you come up on a massive amount of small lights nestled against a mountain base. Here the lights also form a grid pattern below, small squares of light that seem to connect the rest of the lights together forming the highest concentration of lights at its center while the edges are more sparsely decorated. It almost appears as a spring would, with it's up flow in its center spreading out in all directions as the land allows.

You pass over this spectacle and high up over the mountain that cradles this fountain of lights until you stop over the highest peak. There you seem to settle down over the peak and come to standstill, turning over so, once again, the sky is above you. Remarkably you are able to see below you as well. There you can see and inland sea, and it comes to you that it is exactly the same view that you had for several nights whilst in the mountains top solving the iron door dilemma! Only this view is festooned with lights of villages and even some lights out on the water of the inland sea.

You sit in this spot for several minutes until you see yourselves move again. North you move, allowing yourself a direction related to what you know, as you float high above the inland sea and then start to descend as you cross over dry land again. You travel for quite some distance until you settle in the middle of a large open plane of grass and low rolling hills. If things haven't changed much directionally from on the mountaintop, to your east stands a pair of rough-hewn stone columns. They are not rounded by any means, but they stand taller than they are wide and the stand on end. To your west is another pair, similarly stood on end with a space between them as well. Here your journey has seemed to come to an end, nestled between these standing paired monoliths, and you sit in the dark of night looking up once again to a star filled sky. There is a gentile breeze blowing across you, one that you can actually feel as well as see in the grass of the field all around you. It is calming and serene and you notice, after some time, that there are many who have fallen asleep.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-05-04 11:52:10]
Subject: Mmmm, what's that smell?
Those standing near Shih's reclining body might catch a wiff of something that smells like burned hmelu haunch. Some might even look to his ears expecting to see a small trace of smoke. Alas ...

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-05-05 18:40:33]
Subject: Drawings
Ssrivan has his scribe sketch a quick drawing of the pillar area for his notes and dictates a lot more data to her. Fun all around, though it seems that the sleepers have not moved yet.

From: Game Master [2004-05-09 23:31:31]
Subject: and then...
Several hours have passed and most of the slaves and porters are fast asleep. The gentile breeze continues to blow soft and cool across the area you sit at. While you can see the grasses bending slightly as the breaths of wind whisper across them, you yourself are sitting still on the hard black stone floor. It is then, when sleep seems to call you to draw near most fervently that you see the glimmer of the morning sun strike atop the two pillars to the east. It slowly lights up the center of the two casting a beam of light to the top of the other pillars to you west.

Then, a most peculiar thing happens, a heavy beam of bright light shines down from both pillars to a spot between them, not quite in the center, where they light up a crystal just under the sod of the plane. It remains there for only a few moments and then vanishes, but the crystal stays lit for a moment of two more before it fades again to darkness.

The sun continues to rise until its strength is full upon the party. However, it provides no warmth, there is no comfort from its radiant light and it does not chase away the cool breeze. It is then that the sky changes once again, back to the night sky, with its multitude of stars for you to marvel at, and Deshnah stirs.

From: Deshnah [2004-05-11 05:56:55]
Subject: from stillness...
Desh, blinks, and takes a sudden gasp of air.

You hear him musing " I always say watch that first step - it's a big one" Then he grins to himself and swings his legs off the couch and sits up.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-05-11 19:46:36]
Subject: A very tired locksmith
Ssrivan makes sure his delectable scribe has successfully noted the correct position of the crystal in relation to the pillars. He starts with pleasure at the movement of Deshnah from his couch, looking carefully to the others to see if they too are stirring. Either way, now that someone who appears to have rested is up, he will sink down into the welcome embrace of sleep, carefully curled up with his scribe for warmth.

From: Game Master [2004-05-11 20:26:13]
Subject: What? no snooze button?
Dlarumei is the next to wake. There is a gasp of air, like that from one being held beneath water for too long, her head tilts back arching her back and her eyes open wide. There is a pause and then she lets out a long slow breath and relaxes. She sits up slowly and without a word stands and waits as Orun holds her robes up behind her as he has many a morning after her devotionals. Her arms fill the sleeves of the draping material and she wraps it slowly around her. There are a few of you who noticed that a couple of the tattoos on her body seem to glow a bit or are now bordered in a light blue tone, and the symbol tattooed on her face is defiantly a bright iridescent blue.

Once wrapped and situated in her robe she turns and speaks to the party.

"Colleagues, we will rest here for a few more hours and when Jenge and Shih return we will depart to further our quest for the Emerald Sphere of Sighs."

Her voice sounds a bit strange, not its normal lilting tone. It almost sounds as thought there is a second voice behind the first, something a bit tin like, not really settled in.

"We still have a long path to follow, but now we are aware of the journeys end point and the various paths that we will need to take to get th, th, there."

A strange repeat of that word. Dlarumei has never stuttered before. She holds her throat with her hand and tilts her head up and to the left as though something is lodged in her windpipe.

From: Deshnah [2004-05-13 09:22:09]
Subject: Heading over towards Dlarumei
Desh, Stands up right and walks towards the second returned person. "You have travelled further than all of us - are you OK?"
Desh looks concerned at the movements and stuttering

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-05-14 08:32:05]
Subject: This area under construction
One of the slaves, sitting on the floor near Shih's reclining form, might notice a sound reminiscent of thousands of tiny bugs slowing eating a bloated carcass. Still, with the other sounds, he can't really be sure. Just as he's about to point this out to someone, it stops, so that he's really not sure he heard it at all. Hmmm, he says to himself. Probably just the sound of the wind. Once again, he relaxes.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-05-14 15:56:05]
Subject: um, yea.
Dlarumei turns slowly to Deshnah and smiles. It is a pleasant smile that lights up her face, a face that one can now see as she has yet to put her mask back on at this point. She looks at him with her soft eyes and pushes the few loose strands of jet black hair away from her cheek and behind her ear.

"You are always so kind Deshnah," she says with a voice that is almost like the one you have become accustomed to. "Thank you for your concern, but I assure you that I am fine and well. There are some things that I will need to get used to, but I am quite well."

She then turns to the rest of the party and speaks softly as someone would from a long sleep. Her voice adjusting itself as she speaks to find the tone and quality from before her nap.

"My fellow travelers, Deshnah, Shih, Jenge and myself have experienced something that has not been seen in millennia. We stand in a place created by, and used exclusively by the ancients, and we have been honored by their counterparts left to guard and guide those who have the abilities to reach this place. The path to the Emerald Sphere of Sighs has been reveled to us and soon we will be on our way. We still have a ways to go, but at least we understand the path and know how it is that we must access our goal."

Her look is genuine and her face quite beautiful. Many look at shock to actually see her face, which has remained hidden for so long under the ebony adornment of the followers of Ksarul. Her eyes are large and just slightly upturned at the corners. Her high cheekbones and her softly rounded chin are joined nicely together by her stylish nose and full lips. If though this were not enough to keep one interested in looking at her, the glowing symbol tattooed on her left cheek certainly draws your attention.

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-05-18 15:07:51]
Subject: Glaring
Churisan watches Dlarumei and appears to be listening closely. He looks angry, and glares at her, but says nothing and keeps his distance. After she speaks to Deshnah, Chur seems to divide his attention between the shaman and priestess.

From: Game Master [2004-05-18 19:59:31]
Subject: Signs of the times
As Orun makes a motion to one of the Guards the porters and slaves get up and prepare to move. You also hear a few moans coming from Shih as he moves slightly. Jenge still seems still and out for now.

The Livyani Priest comes to where Dlarumei is standing and takes her by the hand to catch her attention. She turns and smiles at him and you watch as his face studies hers and his hand feels her wrist and fingers. His look is quizzical and deep and you can almost see the thoughts running around in his head. Finally, after what seems like a long time, his lips turn up in a strange smile and he says.

"You have been touched by the ancients, have you not?"

She simply nods in the affirmative

"That is too bad, my dear, for nothing good ever happen to one who has been in communion with the ancients. It sometimes takes many years but I know of no good fortune befalling anyone who has had your experience. For that reason I find it hard to say that it's a blessing, but we have gained much needed information and it all serves our purpose in locating the Sphere. If that is the only good that comes of your experience here we can except that, but for me, I shall stay ever vidulent in my promise to your father."

He smiles a knowledgeable smile and bows slightly to her and takes a step back.

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2004-05-18 20:06:31]
Subject: Huh? why negative?
Orun looks at the Livyani Priest, clears his throat and speaks to him in a semi jovial manner.

"Are you not rather ancient yourself?" He says with a smile. "And yet you do not bring us ill fortune. I would believe that there can be much good from the ancients and what they have to offer. Dlarumei and those in Monru have studied them for years and I see no ill effects. Besides we have proven ourselves to be a rather formidable opponent in our many challenges thus far. I have great faith in our abilities."

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-05-18 21:24:02]
Subject: still watching
Churisan looks at Orun with scorn. Then he steps closer to Shih and Jenge, watching them intently.

From: Neshkriuma Kharsama [2004-05-19 12:50:25]
Subject: watching, too
Nesh will allow himself to be drawn into the discussions, moving toward the center of activity, watching carefully. His face can be seen to show some concern, or even alarm, at Churisan's conduct. He is also watching beyond the immediate group, checking that the porters, slaves, etc. are moving appropriately. Nesh is obviously concerned that Churisan is being distracted by the situation at hand.

Nesh will angle in Churisan's direction and speak in moderated tones: "Noble Churisan, concerns are written large upon your countenance, but they are not obvious to us all. Maybe you would care to enlighten us as to the source of your distaste?"

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-05-19 16:36:14]
Subject: Light sounds
A light sussuration comes from the area where Ssrivan has curled up to sleep. The sound is soon identified as a light snoring sound coming from an obviously exhausted locksmith swiftly falling into a deep sleep.

From: Almodhim Harisaya [2004-05-20 08:46:17]
Subject: Curious.....
Almodhim moves closer to the discussion trying to get a better idea of what this place means. She lightly rocks from side to side as she listens intently...

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-05-20 13:08:24]
Subject: possession is nine tenths of...
Churisan, well away from Dlarumei, mutters in response to Neshkriuma: "There's something wrong with Dlarumei. It reminds me of some of the lost ones at Neáb. I want to see if the others who sat on the couches are like her."

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-05-24 16:04:18]
Subject: It's alive ... ALIVE!!!
On his couch, Shih opens his eyes and, after a brief pause, sits up. Looking at the central globe, he walks with purpose over to it and opens a compartment in its base to retrieve its contents.

From: Game Master [2004-05-27 17:44:45]
Subject: open minded?
You watch as Shih fumbles around the base that the globe is nestled in. He is looking for something in particular and is so intent that he has failed to greet anyone or make any kind of comment or utterance upon his return. Determined is he, as he pushed and pulls, pries and taps various parts of the base. Suddenly his eyes light up as a small section of the base hisses and pops open. Though be it a fraction of an inch in separation Shih pries at it with his fingers, his nails chipping and pulling hard to slide the ancient drawer open. It pull open to the point where he can get his hands into the top for greater purchase in opening the drawer. But he pauses as Orun reminds him that treasure sometimes comes with a price. Traps!

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-05-28 03:37:03]
Subject: Interesting
Shih briefly considers the potential for traps. However, he was told that he would be able to retrieve the item within. Also, the item really couldn't be better hidden! However, he begins to smell something foul. He does NOT believe that those who provided him clearance would forget anything. Which either means that the person who retrieves this item must be either me or Jenge, or that something is amiss. Dlarumei is setting us up! Proceeding without doing due diligence is a BAD idea!

As he rises from his knees, he comments, "Interesting! Ssrivan, I'm a bit surprised that this was this hard to open; it shouldn't have been given what I was told. I have evidently not proceeded so far that a trap was activated. This could just have been luck. Please do your magic."

From: Game Master [2004-05-28 07:37:24]
Subject: Zzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Ssrivan stirs in his sleep only slightly, but does not waken.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-05-28 08:49:47]
Subject: Natural sleep?
"You there scribe, is Ssrivan's sleep natural? Please awaken your master or, if you cannot, we must know it."

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-05-28 12:10:02]
Subject: If not me, then who?!
Shih purses his lips and makes a fateful decision. Uttering a quick silent prayer to Sarku, he reaches down and takes the device from the drawer.

From: Game Master [2004-05-28 15:56:59]
Subject: ahum, yawn.
Ssrivan's scribe and back warmer looks to Shih with some annoyance yet gently wakens the Master Locksmith, as the Worm worshiper's request seems urgent enough.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-05-28 18:57:35]
Subject: Set visual orbs on groggy
Ssrivan rolls over slowly, taking a while to respond to the ministrations of his patient scribe. He makes a slight croaking sound reminding many of those present from the beginning of the trip just how raw his voice was when he regained it on the road from Monru.

"What have they done now?"

The croaking sound snaps back into silence like the closing of a pair of massive temple doors. He waits.

From: Jenge [2004-05-28 20:35:30]
Subject: He Who Hesitates
Tends to live past breakfast.

Sighing quietly, the scholar-priest's eyelids flutter, and his nimble fingers begin twitching. His sighing mumble clarifies into a low chant, as his eyes open and he brings his hands together over his chest. Then, Jenge carefully sits up. Eyes scanning the group, they widen as he spots Shih pulling an object out of the platform. He struggles to his feet.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-05-29 00:32:49]
Subject: Gizmo
"Noble Ssrivan, as we will move nearer our destination soon, I didn't think you would want to sleep through the experience. Sorry to have woken you. On reflection, I didn't need your services quite as urgently as I thought."

"This device is what Jenge and I requested and were granted for communication. After we leave, it may be useful to us then."

Shih moves over to Jenge to speak quietly and inquire about how he feels.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-05-29 14:21:14]
Subject: From one who just returned.
Dlarumei looks in the direction of Shih and Jenge as they confer over the object recovered from the secret drawer under the globe. Her face gives away nothing to show her feelings with their find, nor does she seem to have any concerns about the object. She turns back and speaks with Orun in a calm and caring tone.

From: Game Master [2004-05-29 14:30:41]
Subject: Pic and save?
Though Shih has quickly pulled the object out of the drawer, it does not seem as though he is deliberately trying to conceal it, though his robes do seem to block it from view as he studies the object. Most of those able to see what he is holding notice that it is a dark blue in color, shiny and lustrous, almost seeming to provide its own light though you see nothing shinning on Shih's robes. It is odd in shape and not much bigger than a medium bowl. It seems to have a handle and a rounded end with an impression that makes it look like a large spoon of sorts but there are many other smaller sections what stick out and glance off flashes of color as Shih rolls it in his hands to study.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-05-30 11:27:31]
Subject: Understanding
"Everyone, Jenge, Dlarumei, Deshnah and I have had a wonderous journey where we learned many things. We now know the location of the Emerald Sphere and, more importantly, how to get there. If I'm right, we are all about to see something ... amazing. We must enter the hatch over there. Please prepare to move."

Shih gazes up at the fantastic view depicted all around him. Quickly, he directs his slaves to prepare to leave. The device he stores away carefully in an inner pocket of his robe.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-05-30 22:20:01]
Subject: A worm of a different color
Ssrivan grunts his general displeasure at having been wakened too soon and begins looking towards the worm worshipper's "hatch." He will gather his things and direct his scribe to accompany him, but he is definitely still quite groggy with sleep.
From: Churisan Soruna [2004-05-31 08:58:03]
Subject: on the road again...
Churisan watches Shih carefully. When he's done speaking, Chur quickly turns and gives orders to the porters, making sure they will be ready to move soon.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-05-31 22:13:09]
Subject: Slight of hand?
"Noble Priest of Sarku," Dlarumei says in a calm and measured manner. "We are not in haste here, there is plenty of time to gather our things and move towards the exit point." She points to the several blue pillars of glass opposite of the ones that you arrived at. "We should defiantly make our way out of here, but perhaps a bit more organized and ready for what we will meet on the other end of our journey."

"Perhaps it is too presumptuous of me," she continues. "But I would appreciate it greatly if you were to allow Ssrivan to inspect the item you removed from the pedestal before we leave here, I do not wish to invite any ill effects of carrying an unknown item without our standard procedure of first examining new finds."

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-01 01:16:05]
Subject: Slight
"As you well know Noble Lady, our hosts have granted Jenge and me certain knowledge. Based on that knowledge, I am comfortable that the device is not dangerous. The risk is mine."

"I have not suggested that we rush, just that we are now ready to proceed. Your quest for the Emerald Sphere is approaching an end. You should be quite happy. Given all that we have seen and learned, I'm also quite excited about the prospect of continuing. By the way, as this is not the first time that you've been in such an ancient's device, may I ask you where this occured and how you came by the decorations you now bear? Clearly, you still keep a number of secrets. What more do you know about where we're going? You were uniquely prepared for this place despite never being here before."

From: Deshnah [2004-06-01 02:37:05]
Subject: a hatch - without a catch?
Desh has spent the time quitely watching from aside - almost forgotten by some, as he almost blends back towards the slaves and porters.

We seem to be about to travel in confined spaces yet again he sighs - his recent travel and moemory of it begins to fade as if some dream.
"Are we all happy to proceed, or are there more mysteries yet to be discovered here?"

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-06-01 18:15:43]
Subject: With open eyes
With a pleasant, yet emotionless look to her face Dlarumei speaks softly to Shih in tone, but it is easy for all to hear.

"Most noble of Worm Lord Priests," she bows in Ernest. "I am aware of the gifts bestowed upon the two of you and your requests made to our ancient hosts, but I would like to point out to you, that any risk you take is also taken by all of us. I trust, and believe you feel that the device is not dangerous, and I also have never had cause to feel that you would endanger our party, but, for the sake of continuity and peace of mind for this noble group assembled here, Ssrivan has been designated to examine any new items that we find or are given. His science is his guide and his motives never questionable, for these reasons he was chosen by the elders of Monru out of thousands of possible candidates. His talents should, therefore, not go to waste with regards to our quest or our safety. So, I would entreat you, as is our custom, to allow our esteemed and noble locksmith to examine the artifact that you have been given before we leave here."

She turns to gather her things, but then turn back to Shih with a bit of ice in her voice and the pleasant tone missing.

"I have been preparing myself for this journey for decades, studying and sacrificing many things for the success of this venture, my noble Worm worshiper. The day when we open up your chest, of secrets will be the day when I will consider letting you into my world. Until then, do not ask me to do what you are not willing to do yourself, or are not willing to question others about, especially in public. We ALL harbor parts of our live that are our own, and this is no temple."

With that she turns and picks up her belt and small pack and begins walking in the direction of the exit port.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-01 22:36:59]
Subject: Eyes that can truly see
Addressing Dlarumei ...

"Noble Raameil, as you say, we ALL have secrets. The difference IS that YOUR secrets almost got ME killed. Had I been a tad less mentally adroit, you would have enjoyed a less than warm welcome and my mind would have been ripped out and destroyed. I had the pleasure of listening to this conversation about my fate before I was able to determine how to communicate and properly announce YOUR arrival. As you say, we ALL have secrets and we ARE far from a temple!"

"I do not want to know ALL your secrets or the extent of your blessings from the Azure One. But, I would be interested in hearing about our destination. The Ormuz on your face, those things that you've given up, and your applied studies for decades argues for you having secrets critical to the survival of us all. We are rapidly approaching a place that could easily be better protected than anything we've seen so far. What should we expect?"

Shih pauses momentarily, wrestling briefly with whether to say more, but concluding that things need to come to a head sooner rather than later.

"My companions, our Ancient hosts are aptly named. When reclining, the four of us saw a place as real as this one, but created in our minds. This transport station was built tens of millennia ago! It is one of Tekumel's moons! The Gods themselves used this station, so perhaps this IS a temple of sorts. From here, we have the ability to visit places on Tekumel unexplored since long before Llyan of Tsamra built his empire 15,000 years ago."

"But, you knew this before we came. As a true daughter of your Lord, I now grow concerned that you will go to any lengths to protect these secrets so that you and yours alone may use them to best advantage. For you, this would be noble action! Those of us who are lucky can expect to be mind-barred, all memories about what we've seen and done locked away forever. For the rest of us, a convenient accident is much more likely. Perhaps that's what your silence about this place intended."

"The humorous side of this is that I believe you have no concrete plan for how to accomplish this given all of our diverse and expanding abilities. Perhaps this is where your Livyani companion comes in. THINGS would certainly be easier if Deshnah, Jenge and I died."

"Of all of us, Deshnah is the biggest problem for you. His sphere will protect him from anything you overtly try and his clan and the Empire will certainly learn of it. He has his insurance, and now, so do I. The device I just retrieved is part of my insurance that some of us will live. Sharing the knowledge of what I believe you have planned is the rest of that insurance. That said, I'm now prepared to see this quest completed and over. I won't be the first to break my oath."

"If we all make it home to our clans and temples, then I will beg your forgiveness and happily explore the wonders of Tekumel with as many of you as want to participate. We represent an unusually capable team."

"Which reminds me ... our Ancient hosts have requested that one among us stay here so that they can learn how we have changed over time. That individual will enjoy knowledge, abilities and experiences that rival the Gods. You probably will never die. Any volunteers? I have family commitments that prevent me from exploring this option."

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-06-02 20:27:31]
Subject: Perhaps clearer minds
Dlarumei keeps walking as though to ignore Shih. After a few steps she stops, perhaps thinking better of her decision, or perhaps because she has never had much tolerance for those who question her motives. Either way, she turns slowly and dramatically and steps slowly back towards the gathering her eyes set on Shih and her emotions held in check.

"Let me set something perfectly straight with you Noble Shih," she utters through clenched teeth. "If there was to be a plan to eliminate you or any of the party, it would have happened as soon as we entered this place, and certainly before you entered into the inner most holy of holies. Did you not feel the surge in energies when you stepped into the chamber? Did you not notice that all metal is hidden, providing an excellent casting arena? Great pains have gone into creating this chamber, and by the way, it is one of four such chamber held within the second, smaller, moon of Tekumel. Just a fraction of the total sum. No Shih, to have wiped you out then or even right now, would prove no great task, and believe what you will but there is no trinket or artifact that would prevent such a thing from happening, accept for my word and promise. The same as what you gave, the same as what we all gave. We are all bound by our honor and our word, and that is all we have from any one of us! Who is to say that your plan is to murder us all as we sleep? Certainly Sarku would find such and offering most Lan indeed!"

"You Shih," Dlarumei points to him and walks slowly to one side as she speaks. "Are a man of great knowledge and wisdom, you have great experiences that we gladly draw from and your questioning mind is, in most cases, welcome and honored. Though here we see a different side of that welcome coin, a side that breed distrust and questions of honor. Do you think that you received gifts from the ancients because of what YOU said in there? No, you were blessed because you were associated with me and I agreed to it. I could have just as easily had you pulled apart as to have you blessed with enhancements. The choice was mine noble Shih, so put away your conspiracy theories and your doubts for I have neither plot not plan to do away with anyone in this party and they only breed discontentment and fear."

"That which you call "secrets", noble priest can also be referred to as knowledge. Do you ask Ssrivan to explain his knowledge of devices or how he has come about such information? No, yet we place our lives in his hands repeatedly without question. Nor do you repeatedly question noble Jenge about his past and how his presence came to be in our midst. Or what of Deshnah? I see no theories from you of how he has worked his way into our group only to thwart us later with a most powerful object that he has kept hidden from us for much of our journey. And what of Neshkriuma? He is very skilled at sword and fighting for a battle mage, or had you not noticed that? We all have things that can be construed as secrets Shih, even you harbor many things for which no one inquires. So is there some reason why you hound me so? Is it fear? Or envy? Or distrust? Speak the one true question you guard so dearly to me Shih, the one that lies deep within you, the kindling behind this fire and I will answer it openly and honestly so we can put all this to rest."

"I tell you now, that there is only one master plan, and that is to find the Emerald Sphere of Sighs no matter where that journey takes us. And yes I have been preparing for this for a long time, as has Orun, the Livyani Priest and many in Monru. And each of these nobles present are not here by accident, including yourself. Providence, choice, destiny, the gods, take your pick as to how we have been assembled, but we are a force to be reckoned with in any account because of our differences and histories. But we must also reach out beyond our innate mistrust of each other to accomplish our task, and perhaps that is our largest barrier to be scaled. But we cannot be divided in our task by any temptations, so let us settle this and be done with it."

She pauses, the apparent anger left her early in her speech but she remains solid in her opinions and dealings, and make no mistake, she has firmly assumed her role as group leader at this point. A task that has been floating around from the beginning to those who felt inclined to take the mantel upon themselves for a while.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-02 21:47:36]
Subject: Clear as mud
Shih crosses his arms and gives a brief tight smile.

"A common misconception. It is no more lan for a worshipper of Sarku to commit murder than it would be for you. We who worship the Worm Lord ... I won't bore you. Going to ANY ends to protect a secret, that would be lan for many Ksarul worshipers. I've learned that the best way to defuse the deadly potential of certain secrets is to get them out in the open. I have had ... EXPERIENCES, yes that's the word ... with some of your more zealous adherents to the inner doctrines of Lord Ksarul (ooc: Refulgent Blue Curtain). They came near to destroying our plane in their selfish pursuit of knowledge and power. That's another story for another time. . This experience no doubt colors my perceptions of you and your motives. And yes, it IS amazing that I'm alive! There are some who would pay dearly for my head or more dearly for other parts of my anatomy."

"We now pursue something of the same magnitude, but that I hope is sought for more noble purposes. My experiences though are why I was chosen to take my good friend Kurnur's position on this quest. Still, I find that I have come to like and admire you from many perspectives. You, noble lady, are extraordinary! I find myself foolishly wanting to believe you."

"While you are undoubtedly more knowledgeable and powerful than I, we could each have killed the other many times over. I concede that you could have had me destroyed while in the ancient's device. Our collective use to you though is not quite over. I cannot unsay what I have said. Again, I am not an oath breaker. Let us continue."

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-06-03 11:02:15]
Subject: time for the tale
Churisan addresses the group: "Noble priests and scholars, we have a moment while the porters prepare their burdens. Perhaps you would tell us what you learned while you rested on the couches? No doubt much would be beyond our ignorant minds to comprehend, but perhaps a brief summary, or an overview, would be within our means? For instance, did I understand Lady Dlarumei to say that we have been transported to one of the moons?

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-03 13:54:30]
Subject: Tale
Shih looks to Dlarumei, Deshnah and Jenge to respond to Churisan; he feels that he's spoken enough.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-06-03 18:00:45]
Subject: Tales and Worms
"Well, since you seem to have started on tales, Shih, you may as well continue and let the others fill in the details as they go. You have sown much discord in the last few moments, it seems it is time that you return the balance to equilibrium. That too, is Lan. You claim primacy by being the first to mount the lounges of the Ancients--and claim it a second time by claiming to have taken action to save Dlarumei from the ministrations of those same Ancients. That makes you the start of the story--so begin and let the others fill in their portions as they come onto the Den-Den board."

Ssrivan then moves quite ostentatiously to the side of Dlarumei to await further developments.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-03 18:37:49]
Subject: The end ... oh no no no
"Noble Ssrivan, one does not arrive at the end game in Den-Den without first playing the opening and middle games."

"I believe that this tale began long ago when those in Monru or The Temple of Ksarul learned of a legend that pressaged the coming of Raameil. Perhaps, this is spelled Raumeil, which AMAZINGLY is almost an anagram of the name Dlarumei. I'm guessing that they decided to tailor the background of one of their own to successfully fulfill this legend. No doubt, this took quite some time."

"Dlarumei, it's your opening. Perhaps you should tell it." :)

From: Neshkriuma Kharsama [2004-06-03 20:46:42]
Subject: An epic tale, to be sure...
Neshkriuma slowly raises both hands over his head...
"Nobles: we may start this game at the beginning, but this story seems to start uncomfortably close to the beginning of time itself. If we are telling it, even mightily condensed, it will take some long time. Now, I am the LAST one to complain about the telling of tales [a sly grin on Nesh's face at this point should harken the party back to The House of Tranquil Repose in Monru] but most of us have not truly rested nor eaten in much time. If we are now to be regaled with a historical drama, can we not do so in comfort?"

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-04 05:40:31]
Subject: Comfort
"Nesh, though they're comfortable, I would avoid reclining on those couches ... unless of course you want to explore the opportunity offered by our ancient hosts." =)

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-06-05 10:50:42]
Subject: Again I ask
Churisan raises his voice, just a bit. He seems tense, and his hand has slipped to the hilt of his sword. "Colleagues, I ask again. Please tell us what happened. Shih, you seem to weave elaborate tapestries from sparse threads: legends that may or may not exist, names that may or may not be anagrams, they tell us little. Your argument against secrecy though, that strikes home.

Jenge, please, can *you* give us a simple recounting of events?

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-06-05 18:49:45]
Subject: some answers, but for who?
"Yes Shih," Dlarumei responds. "Let us hear from you on what happened in our outer reality. You seem to have plenty to say, why deprive us of this opportunity to hear the truth, as you see it. Or do you wish to keep it a secret?"

She pauses for a second with a grin on her face, and then speaks to Shih softly, without malice.

"It is not so easy to explain what you now know, is it? The question remains whether our colleagues will understand at all what you are going to describe or will they think you've gone mad? Before your experience, what would you have thought of my explanations with the Azure Sphere? An experience similar yet completely different to the one you just had. My experience with the Azure One was logical, kind, even sensual and romantic at times, and all very understandable to me because the Azure One allows me to understand it. But the curse is that no one else can, unless they have been there and have been blessed in such a fashion. The understanding of what you have experienced is not from your own knowledge or experiences. The ancients give you the understanding and the knowledge, things that are gibberish to the rest of the world, yet perfectly understandable to you."

"So, are they secrets? Yes and no, noble priest of Sarku. Secrets that you cannot tell. Not because they must remain so, but because they have no understanding to anyone but you. And is a secret a secret if it cannot be told to someone who will understand it? How could I have ever explained to you that I knew that this place existed without any proof or having never been here before? I knew that it existed, but I had no idea how to get here. When we arrived here, it was as much a surprise and a marvel to me as to any of you, even though my mind knew what to do once inside. I knew similarly of the great hall and the tubway station, but knew nothing of the inside of the mountaintop nor the guardians in the nexus pool before the tubway. How these places actually function are also a mystery to me, but possible limited by my understanding of what I have as knowledge. Similarly, you now know how the transit system works to get us out of here. You have that understanding, but no practical experience, and I imagine that you will have great doubts when it comes time to apply this knowledge or trust it. But if you like, please try and explain to all of us how the system works, and watch the reactions. Do you see the dilemma finally?"

Dlarumei turns to the group and in a loud and pedantic voice says.

"That which you saw earlier was the path to the Emerald Sphere of Sighs. You have seen where it lies and how to get there. Jenge, Deshnah, Shih and myself have seen the same only with more detail. So we now have a visual representation of our path, it is the same sort of thing that I received in Monru from the Azure Sphere that got us to the underground and finally to the mountaintop and then here. Though, as you can see, the representation is vague in certain areas and impossibly hard to follow in others. How we interpret these visions will determine our fate and the fate of our journey."

"Noble Churisan, I know that this does not answer your questions or those of the party in general, and Shih is welcome to try to answer in greater detail if he desires. And if, after that, you have more explicite questions, I will be happy to try and answer them for you."

She makes a gentile bow towards Churisan and pauses for a moment.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-06 23:20:20]
Subject: Time
"Noble warrior, stay your sword; what Dlarumei says is true. But still, I can fill in the gaps better. I will do this, but at the end, while you will know the highlights of what happened to us when our minds were taken to visit the Ancients, it will not have significant bearing on what we all really need to know. We need to hear the legend of Raumeil and, in particular, what she is destined to do and where then we must go. While you Dlarumei may not have known the specifics of this place, still you could have warned us."

"Ssrivan, I did not usurp any roles and, as it turned out, my actions had the appropriate outcome. We were lucky or perhaps all of this was truly foreseen! More about that from Jenge and me once we hear from Dlarumei. Desh will no doubt have a valid perspective that he should share as well."

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-06-11 13:01:55]
Subject: Another turn of the Worm
"Shih you seem to twist around the basis of things like the coilings of your vermiform lord. My comments had nothing to do with usurpation and everything to do with primacy of action. You were in the web of the ancients first--and you claimed to have taken action to shield those that followed. That is the story we need to hear now, the rest will follow in its own time, as ordained by the Skeins we follow."

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2004-06-11 15:57:09]
Subject: hummmm
"I too would like to hear your tail Noble Shih, you speak much of not having secrets, and yet here we see a reluctance to produce the story that has been requested of you. Neither have you produced the item you harbor for Ssrivan to inspect, as has been requested of you. I am with Churisan on this matter and request that there be some compliance here on this issue. The rest of us grow impatient with words that bring little results."

Orun too, reaches up over his right shoulder and slowly places his had on the pommel of his sword in similar fashion with Churisan.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-12 00:30:19]
Subject: P-K4
Shih looks over at Orun, Ssrivan and Churisan.

"Evidently, nothing I've said has struck home. Orun and Ssrivan I can understand. Nesh, your stomach must wait a few more minutes. I'll give you my part of the tale. Afterwards though, I will yield the rostrum to our Noble Dlarumei, for her tale must exceed my own."

"As you all saw, I sat down to look at the ceiling and was careful not to touch the buttons on the panel. Unfortunately (here Shih looks over at Jenge), someone either touched those buttons or gestured in a way that activated this ancient device. My Hlakme (conscious mind) was launched on a journey into a different realm of existence ... a realm of thought. As I said before, this was every bit as real as anything you can see, hear, feel, touch or smell. There, I encountered beings that lived and controlled that realm. Imagine, if you can, ru'un that live as pure thought. I was later to learn that they were constructs of the Ancients, as is everything we now see around us and have experienced on this quest."

"Initially, I perceived another world. Imagine being surrounded by a thick sheet of gudru cloth, but that you had a tube of parchment through which you could look beyond that cloth into another world. This is what I saw. It was … magnificent … amazing. A world completely different from our own composed of ... created by the thoughts of this ancient device ... this moon. Perhaps, this is the world that many of the Ancients retired to."

"There were initially three ru'un that I perceived as disembodied voices. They were aware of me, but for some reason thought that I could not perceive them. They initially thought that I was an intruder and were about ready to destroy all of us. My contact with Deshnah's orb, the 7th holy one, while in Krehnalis saved me. The orb attached some kind of key to me that gave them pause. Before they destroyed us, I finally figured out how to communicate with them with mental images. While I've had rudimentary exposure to telepathy at my temple, this was well beyond anything I've ever experienced."

"These ru'un argued over whether to destroy my Hlakme and all of you. Their abilities in that other world are vast … virtually godlike. I sent images of where we had been and what we had done, desperate to somehow avert all of our untimely deaths. They were surprised by my ability to communicate with them, but one of the three persisted in the thought that I, at least, should be destroyed. After 20,000 years without a visit from our realm, one thought I was a stray thought pattern. Regardless, it seems that I was missing certain necessary marks in order to pass muster."

"Once it mentioned these marks, I then guessed that these ru'un had to be waiting for Dlarumei. I didn't know what they expected, but hoped that her ormuz held the key. Once I mentioned her, they then concluded that I had entered before her to announce her impending arrival. This I affirmed, seizing upon the role of He Who Goes Before."

"For a period, I was shut off from contact until Dlarumei, Jenge and Deshnah joined us. While members of our group could have filled all 12 couches, four was also an acceptable number. Like points on a compass, we were positioned to fulfill the requirements of fully activating this device to obtain information."

"We sought and were shown the path and location to the Emerald Sphere. Also, we were shown how to activate this station to go to destinations throughout Tekumel and, possibly, elsewhere. Jenge and I asked to have a device whereby we could establish contact with this Ancient device. You've all already heard this from me. That is the device that I continue to hold to protect our safety. I learned things about Tekumel and why it circles Tuleng. Tuleng is vast and holds Tekumel around it with … force … I don't know how to explain it. The thoughts are piled in my head … they unsettle almost everything I've taken for granted about our world, space, time, and the planes. It's like a vast impenetrable wall in my mind through which I can glimpse things, wondrous things, but then the view closes. So much has been lost! Deshnah was not able to partake in most of this … his orb prevented it."

"We must once again use this ancient station to continue our journey. I believe I know how to do this. But, this place bears exploration. We have passed muster and I, for one, intend to see this wonder created by the Ancients. Our forebears as well as most of the races on our world created this moon. The Gods themselves sometimes use this station. I have never doubted their physical existence. I know it's heresy, but I now must wonder at their true nature."

"There, you have the bones of what I learned. The others can contribute their perspectives on this. No doubt I've missed things. Ask your questions and I'll do my best to answer."

From: Almodhim Harisaya [2004-06-13 09:02:16]
Subject: Ears at the ready
Almodhim fingers her sword absently as she listens to the tale unfolding...

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2004-06-14 17:18:36]
Subject: Here I am...
Urutlen is also very interested in hearing the goings on of late.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-06-14 23:36:17]
Subject: Welcome to my Castle
Dlarumei raises one eyebrow at Shih's story, something that no one has ever seen before, obviously due to the ebony shield that she has worn for so long. Her look is quizzical and has a touch of humor behind it, but her voice is true and earnest when she speaks.

"Oh follower of Sarku, lurker of the shadows of death, holder of secrets from the Tomb, friend to my once lover Kunur, there are things that I know of you and about your ways that let me understand that you still have much to learn. Your interpretations of what you saw, though not entirely accurate, were a good and noble start down the path of trying to explain dealings with the ancients. It is not easy to explain encounters with the ancients or the wisdom that they impart to those who, through no fault of their own, have not the capacity to understand. Even yourself, with enhancements, cannot understand even the smallest portion of what you have received. With time you will learn to trust and use the knowledge you have, but it is not all there yet. Well, it IS all there; it's just that you do not have the capacity to fit it all together. And chances are that you will not have that ability until you actually need it."

"For example, you know that you understand how these nexus transports operate, you even understand how they are created and what the principals are that cause them to function, but you lack the understanding of how to put it all together, or the ability to communicate these technical insights to anyone who could help you. Not through any fault of your own, but through the very fact that the ideals are so foreign, to present them makes you out to be the insane old rambling temple priest that gets locked away in the deepest darkest recesses of the inner most sanctuary while scholars try and decipher meaning out of your wall art and inane ramblings. The fact that you came out of it as well as you have, with little to no apparent defects, speaks well for you capacity to learn and to be flexible of mind, something I was not sure your ilk could obtain. But I am pleased that you are apparently unharmed. Jenge's silence gives me cause to wonder, however, but sometimes it takes one a while to readjust and mentally align the two within. Knowledge of the ancients always comes at a price."

"As I said, when we enter the transports again, you will take the control station at the front of the ship and you will know exactly what you need to do to get us all where we need to go safely and in the best comfort available. But not all wisdom is as exact as what you will experience. When we were inside the mountain top, I knew what would happen were we able to get the door to function, but the technical process to operate the door was lost in my personal ignorance. As each piece was put into place it became clear what the next step was along the way, but not all of that knowledge was available to me all at once. I also knew that to get there we needed to find that special tubeway station and the great hall and the cavern before it, but just how to do that still was lost to me, as many of the items will be to you, until you are standing before them and are being assisted by this most noble and tolerant assemblage that we travel with. And THAT is the reason why we are not a group of all one clan. In Monru we have found that singular clan work is too focused on "clan" interests and thus ignore things that don't fit into place. That is the reason why we have created the consortium of temples, a body with representation from each of the gods available to us, and yes, even the Livyani. They work together without clan or temple interests or ties to wholly understand what the technologies of the ancients and their writing really have to offer. And in a way, that is what this party represents as well. No one thought pattern or religious commandment. No single agenda for temple or religious betterment. We have to work together with our various talents to move forward and trust that the others, through their history and accumulative knowledge, know that which the rest of us do not to complete this task."

"You ask to hear the legend of Raumeil, Worm worshiper, so I shall give you a quick version of a tail that would normally be days in the telling." Dlarumei looks around to include all in the recounting, in the same manner that a storyteller would gather listeners around the rug or fire pit to be enchanted by tails of great explorations. You notice that whenever the word Raumeil is mentioned the symbol on her left cheek seems to glow a pulse or two.

"Raumeil was a name that those in Monru came across while in the temple of the Azure One. It was inscribed on the back of the claw type hand that held the Azure Sphere aloft and it was found in some of the writings that were brought back with the sphere. As best as could be pieced together, Raumeil was somehow connected to the Azure One in a special relationship, as daughter, lover, wife, concubine, no one could tell. At least that was the feelings until I was born. For centuries, children born in Monru have been brought to the Azure Sphere in the hopes of being accepted as the rebirth of Raumeil. Somehow I was chosen and this mark upon my face is a kiss from the Azure Sphere."

"It has been over two hundred years since the death of my father and I have discovered that Raumeil is not a lover, nor daughter, wife, nor concubine to the Azure One, but a guide and confident, and moreover a go between for its relationship with the Emerald Sphere of Sighs. Dlarumei is the name given to me by the Azure One, and it is all the letters but one of the name Raumeil for a reason. There are many reasons for many things that I cannot share or simply, I do not know. Why can't the Azure One simply communicate with Emerald One for example? Why do they need a go-between? I don't know, but I do know that it has been an important part of their existence for a very long time. I would guess that it is similar to the relationship that Deshnah has with his holy orb, but I have no solid answers. Perhaps it will become clear when we reach the Emerald One."

"As you can see, there are no easy or short answers to some of your questions, but I will endeavor to answer those that I can, but perhaps not all at once." There is a slight chuckle that she breaths up at the end of that sentence and then she takes a step back.

"Oh, and Shih," She says as an afterthought. "Please offer the item to Ssrivan for examination, while I trust you that YOU feel safe holding the item without inspection, I doubt that anyone else here feels the same and I think that it would go a long way in easing tensions were you to abide by our agreements. Thank you, noble Worshiper of the Worm Lord."

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-15 07:56:29]
Subject: Annnhhhh ... wrong answer
"Noble Dlarumei, you hint as solutions I am only now beginning to puzzle out. It's good to know that what I've learned may resolve itself over time. You also speak of a consortium of temples acting for the common good. But, by the Livyani's self-serving acts with the hluss, it's clear that all is not quite the perfect Teretane that you suggest. By the way, where is our Livyani companion?"

Shih looks around to try to find him.

"Despite the Concordat, each temple, particulary Ksarul, serves its own interests. It is by that conflict that so elequently reflects the spirit and essence of our Gods that we petty humans move towards perfection. And certainly, there are times when purposes and interests align, such as this quest, where the superordinate goal takes precidence. (Here, Shih gets a haunted look in his eyes that speaks to the genuine belief in what he's about to say.) But, knowing as I do that your Lord Ksarul was aligned with the Pariah Gods on the Dormoron Plain and that formidable individuals in your temple seek the reestablishment of that hegemony, you'll understand my reluctance to fully endorse the consortium idea. I myself was part of a group that thwarted a fateful attempt to bring onto this plane an aspect of The One Who Is. I felt the destructive purpose of that monstrous being."

(OOC: What Shih has just suggested is akin to saying that Jesus was affiliated with Beelzebub and Azmodius and runs counter to the official story promulgated by the Temple of Ksarul.)

"You serve the Azure One that I believe is somehow affiliated with Ksarul. The Emerald One could have affiliations that are not in the best interest of humanity, much less The Golden Empire. I am not here to thwart you, but to understand if you must be thwarted. I suspect that many here share that perspective."

Shih gazes over at Orun to make sure that he can cast to stop him if he attacks. He also takes in Jenge's position and readiness … when will that man join this discussion?!?

"The device you keep coming to was given to Jenge and me. I've stated my thoughts and concerns that are born out by the actions of those in your temple. At such time as I understand that your interests Dlarumei are pure, then I'll share this and we'll explore Tekumel together. Until then, you'll have to trust Jenge and me."

From: Churisan Soruna [2004-06-15 09:30:56]
Subject: irresolute
Churisan has been watching and listening closely. He looked surprised when Dlarumei named the elderly Kunur as a former lover, and startled when Shih claimed that Ksarul had been in league with the Pariah Deities in ancient times. He seems frustrated and a little worried, and he keeps glancing at Jenge inquiringly.

From: Neshkriuma Kharsama [2004-06-15 12:59:16]
Subject: He's... around
"The Livyani Priest is nearby, I am sure. He was speaking to me recently"

Nesh's hands are at ease, in front of him, not near any of his weapons.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-06-15 19:42:10]
Subject: The impetuous Worm
"I have no doubt that your bauble functions as you were told it would Shih. That is actually unimportant, no matter what you might think on the matter. I worry more about the other things that it will do--things which you now have no knowledge of because you neither knew the right questions to ask nor received implicit knowledge addressing those points from the Ancients who gifted you. You claim trust as a requirement--yet give no indication that you can be trusted. You disparage the apparent unity of Monru--yet are a prime source in this group of the discord you claim they must have. "

"Are you so sure of your spotty knowledge of the Ancients that you trust your bauble not to harm you and all around you as a side effect of its action? Are you sure it has no other functions, functions which might make the difference between success and failure of our endeavour--and that by playing your games of power your actions have a good chance of guaranteeing the latter outcome? I expected a much longer viewpoint from one of your ilk--and attempting to stir the pot with baseless heresies to draw attention away from your real purpose was a poor ploy at best. Use the wisdom granted you by your vermiform Lord and allow me to inspect it before it really does harm you. Dusty sepulchres are your demesne--mine are the traps and tools of our illustrious Ancient forbears. Do not try and claim primacy in this--I won't abide it."

Ssrivan then smiles a very cold smile and extends his hand in Shih's direction, palm up.

From: Game Master [2004-06-16 14:36:33]
Subject: A post for Jenge
Jenge shakes his head and looks around as though coming out of a trance. He clears his throat and speaks rather weakly at first, but his voice grows stronger and, once again, more pedantic as he progresses.

"It is my understanding, after my encounter with the ancients, and I apologize profusely for my absence in this conversation, but I was having difficulty adjusting to my return to this stream of consciousness, that the object that Shih has in his position is an item that he requested, and while I have heard all that you have said and am only now able to respond, and once again I apologize. I am still a bit foggy from my latest journey but I also believe that Dlarumei requested something as well, though I don"t know what and I am unsure if she has retrieved it or not."

Realizing that he seems to be running on a bit, he stands erect, takes a deep breath, looks directly as Ssrivan and speaks.

"Noble Locksmith, perhaps, as the newest member of the party, I have neglected to realize you station amongst the assemblage, for which a beg a thousand pardons."

He bows deeply and with extreme respect.

"Shih and I had felt that the fewer who touched this item the better, as it somehow recognizes the one that will do the summonsing of the transports. Though we have no proof of this, it is what we were lead to believe, and perhaps by our own exuberance, yet, none-the-less, we meant no harm nor disrespect."

He then turns to Shih.

"Perhaps it is best, that given the present circumstances, we allow our Noble Locksmith that opportunity to put to rest any misgivings on our behalf and allow him the chance to examine the artifact, as is the custom with this party. But perhaps we could request at the same time that no others handle the object as, if what we believe to be true, may indeed be so, it would be detrimental to the party as well if there are too many hands feeding the object. Like a pet with too many masters, one day some one, and perhaps all, will be bitten, though it be without malice on the pets behalf, bitten none-the-less."

Looking back to Ssrivan, then Dlarumei and finally Orun, Almodhim and Churisan.

"Would this be an acceptable compromise?"

"We can, of course, speak of our political and religious views, divorced from this object, can we not?"

He then motions to Shih that he should hand the item over to Ssrivan.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-16 14:44:01]
Subject: Go ahead ... touch it
Shih gives a slight almost menacing smile and bows to Jenge, acknowledging the wisdom of the Thumis worshiper.

He walks purposefully over to Ssrivan, his eyes and face expressionless. Reaching into his robe, he withdraws the device from the inner pocket and holds it out, "Go ahead then. Examine it as you will. I must trust that your intent is to protect the party, an objective we evidently both share."
From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-06-17 17:05:00]
Subject: Masques all Around
Ssrivan's face remains in the sardonically smiling pose of his lord and master as he nods slightly at Shih during his approach. He extends his hand to carefully remove the proferred item from Shih's outstretched hand and carefully settles into a comfortable sitting position.

"Thank you for seeing the wisdom of my reasoning, Shih. Now to see what other secrets the Ancients imbued in your most useful bauble. Jenge, your support in this matter is also appreciated."

Ssrivan then signals his scribe to attend him as he settles in to carefully investigate the item Shih handed him.

From: Game Master [2004-06-17 22:49:51]
Subject: Jenge's trip
Still posting for Jenge as the new player is brought up to speed.

Jenge walks slowly, almost as if it is difficult to exercise this right, and winds up standing next to Ssrivan and address him in a polite tone.

"Ssrivan, most noble locksmith, I was wondering if you would see fit for me to join you in examining this artifact, for as I am sure you noticed, that all the while it was in Shih's possession I was not really, well, shall we say, available to view much of this item, and, of course, I would be willing to offer you any assistance that you might need, though I am sure that your abilities far outreach my own humble studies, but nonetheless, sometimes two persons can combine their strengths to counter any... gaps, shall we say... that, though unlikely on your behalf, might arise."

He watches to see if there is any sign from Ssrivan, even the slightest of motions that would indicate he was welcome. If he see nothing, he will kneel down next to Ssrivan anyway in the opinion that perhaps Ssrivan was so engrossed that he failed to hear his words, and examine the artifact with him.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-06-17 23:36:59]
Subject: Some words
"Noble Worm Lord Worshiper," Dlarumei starts. "I am glad for all of us that you have seen fit to allow our expert to examine the object. The trust you put into this assemblage at this moment will not be forgotten nor will it be trampled upon. I hope as well, that it is a step forward for us and our unity. I can understand the mistrust that you might have once had but assure you that it has no place amongst this party. Surly Kunur spoke to you of his and my relationship, and though Kunur is an unusual yet devout Sarku priest he trusted me implicitly. I doubt that I can expect that same level of trust from you, nor would I expect it, but certainly your intellect must overcome these biases given our shared history."

"As to the Livyani priest, who has endured much from you without complaint, his venture with the Hluss was organized in Monru, a field test, if you must know. They, the Hluss, were also in possession of a few ancient items that we did not feel comfortable just taking from them. I am sure that you can understand the political ramification of such and act. So the Livyani priest aided them, in a venture that they had already started, obviously for much different concerns. He worked with them to help them reach their goal, as is fitting and in line with noble action, and, unfortunately, as he has already explained, the stubborn and malcontented Hluss party failed to heed his concerns and perished in their mission. However, their loss, though regrettable, gave us insights into our own efforts and brought this group success in that same predicament. It was never our intent to have such an accident occur, we were hoping for information, nothing more, but at the same time, if you are given a gift..."

"I would request on small favor from you, and that would be that you refrain from making theological connection between the Prince of the Blue Room, our Lord Ksarul and the Pariah gods. If you wish to have such discussions I am very pleased to partake in them with you, but not in the manner that you seem to cast them out. Out of respect for our differences and our common goal, such accusations only create unnecessary tension and descent. If you feel the need to espouse dogma, please wait till we have arrived in a venue that can accommodate such heated debates and theories."

Her last comment, though still in the realm of polite, was a bit terse.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-18 06:57:05]
Subject: Lustrous Blue Steel Chlen Droppings
When Dlarumei gets to the part of her dialog speaking to the political ramifications of taking something from the Hluss, he can barely restrain himself from gails of laughter.

"Noble Dlarumei, you make my case before this august court for me. The Hluss are giant bugs living in a hive colony. They terrorize the seas with impunity and enjoy feeding humans to their queen and her larvae. If by politics, you mean that they might attack humanity, they do so now. While they love devices of the ancients as much as you or I, their ability to share political aims is ... a stretch." Here Shih can't help smiling.

"As to your sensitivity to discussing any religeous affiliation between Lord Ksarul, The Goddess and The One Who Is, I can understand that. I did not share this information lightly, but thought it important to frame the context of my continuing concerns. You have kept your secrets well, but we now reach a stage in our quest where we must each recognize that the powerful interests represented here have plans within plans within plans. I say this not to cause division. As our noble worshiper of The Lord of Wisdom can attest, to know the nature of a thing is the first stage in understanding that thing."

Shih again looks around for the Livyani priest. He'll also cast POE to help.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-06-18 11:23:36]
Subject: Worm food indeed
"Noble Shih, there is no case to make before anyone as there is a general lack of knowledge on your behalf and yet you speak as though you have supreme sight. Have those who sit in royal reflection anointed you with powers that we are unaware of, or do you take it upon your person to be the sole purveyor of truth? Usually when one is ignorant of something they choose to remain silent about it, rather than expound upon and amplify their ignorance."

"My "sensitivity" to discuses any religious affiliation on anyone's behalf is out of courtesy to their beliefs and for harmony of this group, two things that seem to be lost on you at this moment. Thus far, they have not furthered our venture nor have any of our previous discussions seemed to have quenched your thirst at any level. One would begin to believe that this is more of a sport for you than any sort of fact-finding mission."

"It is a deadly game to play factions against each other within a contingent sworn to work together, ask any warrior about that! There is much, much more involved with our being together than just profit or religious ideals, and if we intend to survive this and return to our clan houses in victory then we must put aside these petty and mundane differences and continue on with an atmosphere of cooperation and trust. We have lost two Noble individuals to the worm lord from the onset of this journey, and I don't intend to lose any others!"

She pauses, then tosses in a final thought.

"Kunur warned me that you have the ability to be opinionated to the point extreme annoyance, but he also warned me that you have the ability to be an enormous asset to our cause and a trusted ally. You obviously seem to have our parties best interest in mind, but do not confuse my loyalty with any other ambition, I am dedicated to the success of finding the Emerald Sphere of Sighs AND insuring that we all return to tell these stories to our grandchildren. No matter what you possess as biases with regards to those who worship Ksarul, you will need to put them aside and learn to abide each of us as we have done already."

She does not take her eyes off of Shih, but speaks quietly to Orun, who is standing next to her, and he removes his hand from his sword and relaxes in his posture.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-18 13:33:10]
Subject: Epiphany and quandary
Shih watches unmoving as the Livyani Priest steps from immediately behind him. After a bit, he cocks his head and narrows his eyes all the while following his movement. Shih is neither angry nor surprised, which is surprising in itself. From the intense look on his face, you can almost hear the thoughts chunking into place as his understanding of things takes an unexpected twist with vast unknowns before him.

"Dlarumei, I make no claims to knowing all. What little I do know has certainly colored my perception of certain Ksarul worshipers. YOU are an unusual individual who I evidently can't judge by this past experience. Perhaps you are one of the ever-living. Kunur clearly did not know you as I now do, though I'm certainly willing to expand my understanding. :) I welcome the opportunity to apologize to you at the end of our quest."

Looking at both the Livyani Priest and Dlarumei, "The cautions I have are not easily laid aside, but I will try."

Shih is clearly introspective, eyes darting about from thought to thought.
Addressing Ssrivan, "So, master of devices, what have you learned?"

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2004-06-18 19:46:36]
Subject: Uh What!?!?!?

At the sound of Shih's voice and in hearing the words uttered by the Worm Priest, Orun places his hand back on the hilt of his sword and casts a rather odd look at the Sarku worshiper.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2004-06-18 19:49:40]
Subject: Um, okay...
Dlarumei, as well, casts a perplexing look at the vermiform Lord worshiping priest, and with a cocked head she slowly reaches for Orun's arm and signals for him to, once again, relax his pose and release his sword hilt. She also throws a look to the Livyani Priest of a questioning nature, but soon lets that slid and then address Shih.

"Shih, as we seem to be on a first name basis now, and I welcome such directness from you and offer you the same entitlement, I am glad that you have thought through your position here and have reached a decision that will foster harmony and trust among us. Your words are true, we can't judge each other by past experiences, good or bad, we must value what we bring to this assemblage and make our judgments based on what we have experienced from the onset of this journey."

"As to your ever-expanding understanding of me, perhaps, once the moons align in proper sequence and the scents of wild flower waft through the Monru apartments unfettered by the winds of change, I might entertain an offering from you to become more in touch with the Ksarul side of things. Until then, I look forward to the end of this quest and the apology that comes with it. But as for now, let us be content that we have reached a noble agreement that will carry us through to the end of our endeavors. Not that we cannot disagree within our ranks, but that it is of an intellectual nature and not with religious or historical backgrounds."

From: Game Master [2004-06-22 17:17:44]
Subject: wait for it...
As Ssrivan inspects the object you see him mutter to himself and focus intently on the object in his hands. After a few moments his scribe, who is no longer receiving dictation from him, taps him on the shoulder several times in a precise and methodical manner that stirs the locksmith and has him sitting up and taking a deep breath. Then still without words he looks about the room, taking note of each person in the party as well as the slaves and porters until he focuses on the globe in the center of the circle of chairs. He seems to be squinting all the while, as though the brightness of the room, which is actually extremely dim, is too much for him.

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-06-22 19:21:08]
Subject: Ssrivan's Observations
Ssrivan carefully hands the artifact back to Shih.

"You were lucky that this was attuned to you Shih, as it has sufficient power to make its displeasure well known to any foolish enough to handle it without sufficient knowledge to operate it. You were luckier with the pedestal of the sphere--it is trapped, and quite nastily. Your Lord of Worms seems to have shielded you from a messy, and most untimely end."

Ssrivan then stands up slowly, as he continues to scan the room. He seems to have a bit of difficulty focussing on things, as he is continually squinting. It was probably not a good thing to wake him from his well-deserved rest.

He walks over to his pack and rummages in it for a bit, eventually pulling out a flat case that has been in his keeping for several days. He examines the outside of the carven case carefully before carefully touching the front in a lightning-fast series of finger-taps. He will then open it, lokk within for a short time, and close it once more before replacing it in his pack. He will then pull out a small vial, look at it, nod his head ruefully, and place it back into his pack as well.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-22 22:39:53]
Subject: OK, I'll bite
"Ssrivan, we were told by those within that the device would be accessible. Perhaps they made it so once we passed muster."

Shih stores the device away.

"I thought that that box was packed away. Think you that now is the right time for its use? From your tapping, it seems to have an intricate lock. It always amazes me that worshipers The Blue Room's Master can utilize such devices, even if they've never studied them before. Is this key then the way to use the rods within without the reaction that I felt the first time?"

"Also Noble Ssrivan, I would inquire again about the trip to this Ancient's moon. What did you see on the way here?"

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-06-23 18:39:45]
Subject: Accessibility isn't Without Cost
"Though you were given the location of the device, and told that you could access it--that does not imply free access. None of the tests passed to date on this journey came without some danger of significant loss, even when we knew the proper activation sequences. You must attune yourself to the thought that no gift of the Ancients comes without price, and that many times, the cost only becomes clear once it has been exacted from the recipient. The Ancients have gifted you with knowledge that you cannot share--how much of your original potential was lost in the transaction? I cannot answer the question yet--and neither can you. As to the rods, unfortunately, you appear to be anathema to them, as are most members of this group. I seem to be better in tune with them than expected, and as to the method of the closure, I worked it out the first time I played with the case."

"The trip to this place was nothing special--streaks of light in a strange grid, a long fall in darkness, and a final lighted grid before we came to a stop here."

Ssrivan then completes the closing of his pack and signals to his scribe as he shoulders it and begins to wander around the chamber again.

From: Shih Nacunya [2004-06-24 11:47:09]
Subject: Bobble head
Shih tips his head back and forth a few times indicating acknowledgement and acceptance of what Ssrivan has said.

"And your reason for examining these rods now?"

From: Ssrivan Tlokhar [2004-06-24 20:58:22]
Subject: Reasons
"I was curious to see if this place had an effect on them, as I know already that the rods have some form of affiliation with the Spheres. As this is a place of the Ancients, it was just another automatic check. Unfortunately, I gained no new information from the exercise."

Ssrivan then looks to his scribe and spits out a series of dimensions, directions and a string of numbers to her as he slowly heads over towards the wall of the chamber. It is obvious that the locksmith is once again lost in his craft.