The Crown of Chaos

[Gifnab]

This log captures the events culminating from an ongoing roleplay plot with the Knights and Eledhwen, wherein they are seeking to destroy the Crown of Chaos. They have already sought the crown once, only to have it turn out to be a decoy, the real crown slipping through their fingers...

 

[PRAETORIAN]: 'Praetorian Avrael has joined the fray.'

[KNIGHT]: 'Squire Sedros has joined the fray.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Welcome, Squire.'

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Sedros: 'Hello. To both of you.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Commander, my apologies, I hadn't noticed.'

[KNIGHT] (Regent) Eledhwen: 'What? Oh...hello.'

[KNIGHT] (Regent) Eledhwen: 'My apologies, I was a bit lost in thought myself....'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'What of, if I may inquire?'

Among shimmering gates
  Colors of all different shades, varieties, and types surround you blinking
on and off and moving around all at the same time.  Several surreal gateways
to unknown planes are here.  Within the gateways is a dull-black color ...
seemingly sealed off forever as the Gorgon heads upon the gates have their
eyes closed - resting.  When the time comes that an intruder tries to 
trespass, they will once again awaken.  

[Exits: west]
An elf stands upright, surrounded by a soft white aura.

[KNIGHT]: 'Squire Rellein has joined the fray.'

[SIGIL]: 'Oracle Talindra has joined the fray.'

[KNIGHT] (Regent) Eledhwen: 'Something...is not right.'

[SIGIL] (Oracle) Talindra: 'Ah such a wonderful sight to see all of you!'

[SIGIL] (Oracle) Talindra: 'Does the gate still hold?'

For the slightest of moments your vision blurs.

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Sedros: 'What was that?'

Rellein bows deeply, saying, 'It is good to see you all.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Knights!'

Your vision blurs again, and a vision of moons shudders before vanishing.

Sedros rubs his eyes again.

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Report to the Citadel of Kaer Banor immediately!'

Atria says 'Yes. Quite a few of our guild.'

Avrael draws his weaponry before slowly inching back towards the shadows, his white feather folding
slightly in front of him.

[KNIGHT] (Regent) Eledhwen: 'We do... come.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Aabahran will require your aid.'

The gorgon head shifts slightly again, as its eyes open.

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'The eyes have opened... They're awake!'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Oracle Talindra, I ask you move yourself to Ammodean then summon
the others...'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'We are deep within, near the gates past Ammodean.'

Avrael runs a hand through his hair, parting it out of habit.

Sedros bows before Eledhwen.

Avrael nods.

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Atria has arrived as well.'

You feel the earth rumbling and shaking, the ground shifting underfoot.

Avrael looks up to the supporting pillars, 'Hm...

Talindra's Knight Avatar walks in.

Talindra bows deeply.

Avrael nods.

Sedros pats his horse on the neck, attempting to hold it steady and calm him down.

Sedros says 'What is this place?'

Avrael says 'A prison.'

Among shimmering gates
  Colors of all different shades, varieties, and types surround you blinking
on and off and moving around all at the same time.  Several surreal gateways
to unknown planes are here.  Within the gateways is a dull-black color ...
seemingly sealed off forever as the Gorgon heads upon the gates have their
eyes closed - resting.  When the time comes that an intruder tries to 
trespass, they will once again awaken.  

[Exits: west]
     A magical spring flows from the ground here.
Sedros the Holy Knight is here.
(Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
An elf stands upright, surrounded by a soft white aura.

Atria walks in.

Avrael says 'One that houses the great evils of Aabahran and beyond this gate, this... cell...
something far worse.'

Atria nods.

Sedros glances up at the gorgon heads.

The massive Gorgon's eyes glow deep hues of violet and a strange energy begins to crackle in
the air, driving your hair to stand on end.

Rellein walks in.

Talindra nods.

Avrael says 'Everyone, form up on me.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'I highly suggest everyone prepare for combat soon...'

[PRAETORIAN]: 'Lord of Battle Aegreus has joined the fray.'

A wind begins to blow through the stone passageway, sharp and icy despite the fortified walls
that surround you.

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'I don't know what is to come, but whatever awaits... cannot be
good.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Lord of Battle!'

[SIGIL] (Oracle) Talindra: 'Ah Aegreus, I am glad to see you!'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Kaer Banor... the Gorgons wake!'

The massive Gorgon's mouth opens, and you hear a dull thrumming noise, low and steady, begin
to pulsate through the air.

Eledhwen places a hand on the gate, then quickly withdraws it with a grimace of pain.

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'Ammodean...what news have we from him? Something stirs?'

Eledhwen says 'This wasn't supposed to happen...'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Come!'

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'I ride out immediately.'

[KNIGHT] (Regent) Eledhwen: 'Come quickly, Lord of Battle.'

[KNIGHT] (Regent) Eledhwen: 'Or...close your eyes a moment.'

Aegreus arrives from a puff of smoke.

Talindra smiles happily.

Aegreus bows his head, and looks up, smiling.

Sedros bows before Aegreus.

Aegreus peers around himself, eyeing random places in the room.

Avrael turns to Eledhwen, 'Commander, what lies beyond these gates... what has woken the Gorgons?

Eledhwen says 'The Crown is inside.'

Eledhwen says 'I hoped we had more time.'

Aegreus turns to face the Gorgon as he runs his hand down the haft of his starstone glaive.

Atria gasps in astonishment.

The guttural humming coming from deep within the Gorgons grows louder, filling your ears. You
can feel the quivering of the noise inside your bones. Inside your heart.

Eledhwen looks at the gate, then turns and faces all of you.

Aegreus sighs, nodding at Eledhwen. 'How's your hand, Commander?

Eledhwen says 'Knights, we no longer have the privilege of patience.'

Eledhwen says 'Where we go, no mortal...or immortal, has gone in eons.'

Talindra nods.

Eledhwen says 'There is no telling what has been housed in the prison.'

Eledhwen says 'But those inside...were twisted long before they arrived.'

Eledhwen says 'And they are likely even more so now from their torment.'

Eledhwen sighs heavily.

Aegreus turns back to the group and, bowing his head, begins chanting a small prayer.

Eledhwen says 'What I ask of you...is not without heavy heart.'

Avrael says 'Their time within a cell has ended. Their attempted escape has only stirred their
sentence of execution.'

Eledhwen says 'But we most go inside.'

At the word 'inside', the Gorgon's head stirs. The noise reaches a fevered pitch and the
freezing wind begins to howl angrily.

Talindra nods.

Eledhwen says 'We MUST destroy the Crown.'

Atria says 'Is destruction the best answer?'

Eledhwen says 'Sirs...Ladies...prepare yourself.'

Aegreus finishes the chant with a large sweeping hand movement. He appears to be blessing the entire
group.

Eledhwen says 'And stand guard while I work on these runes.'

Rellein closes his eyes and breaths deeply, adjusting his armors and weapons, before nodding.

Eledhwen says 'Tell me...when you are ready.'

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'What do we know the gorgons?'

Avrael says 'Prepare yourselves!'

Avrael says 'The time for questions has passed... we are out of time.'

Aegreus turns back to the Gorgon. 'Everyone....keep your head on a swivel.'

Sedros says 'I am ready.'

Sedros says 'Everyone else?'

Talindra kneels and says a prayer to the gods for their guidance.

Eledhwen says 'Very well then.'

Rellein looks around, before briefly exhaling, and saying, 'Is there anything we need to know about
the crown or the gorgons?'

Avrael nods.

Aegreus says 'Keep a watchful eye on one another.'

The gorgon's head lifts and the air ripples for a moment before you. Something is coming. You
see a faint silhouette through the hazy shimmer.

Talindra nods.

Avrael says 'Prepare!'

Avrael says 'Here they come!'

Eledhwen approaches the gate as it flashes in return.

Eledhwen says 'Whatever comes out...hold them back Knights!'

Aegreus moves into a defensive guard, his stance set wide, and his glaive held at the low ready.

Rellein flips a small scroll from his hip, takes a note, and returns his hand to the blade.

Eledhwen lays his hands on the gate and cries in torment, though his face remains determined.

Aegreus says 'Commander!'

Avrael lands beside Aegreus with a nod.

Eledhwen yells 'Stay back! Stop whatever comes out!'

The gate flashes in protest again, as reality seems to bend around it and the commander.

The elven commander focused on the gate ahead, something massive springs into existence through the hazy ripple in the air.

Avrael nods at Talindra.

Atria yells 'Help! I am being attacked by a winged Chaos Demon!'

Demons begin to pour into the area.

Sedros yells 'Help! I am being attacked by a winged Chaos Demon!'

Eledhwen yells 'Hold them back!'

Eledhwen yells 'AHHHHHHHHHHH!'

Atria says 'Where is Eledhwen?'

The portal grows wider...

Aegreus shrieks, 'COMMANDER!'

Rellein notes on his hip scroll, 'Barbed tail', then 'Teeth-- painfully sharp'.

Avrael says 'Damn it!'

Eledhwen says 'Stay....BACK!'

Atria blinks innocently.

Avrael says 'Knights! The Commander knows what he is doing! Focus on the demons!'

Rellein tilts his head, and then writes down...'Wings-- weak'

Talindra nods.

Swinging wide like a windmill, Aegreus begins moving closer to Eledhwen, deflecting some of the
blows from the elf's body.

Rellein takes his rapier and attempts to charge through the membrane between the wings of demon!

Flashes of energy continue to flow through the room.

Aegreus about faces and quickly surveys the scene. 'Is everyone ok?'

Atria nods.

Talindra nods.

Avrael nods.

More and more demons flow through the ripple into the air as the energy pulsates wildly.

Another sharp cry of pain falls from the elf at the gate.

Avrael says 'Get reaaaadyyy!'

Atria says 'Sedros has a cut.'

Aegreus yells 'Help! I am being attacked by a winged Chaos Demon!'

Aegreus moves closer to Eledhwen, a look of dismay on his face.

Aegreus says 'Commander...'

Avrael thanks Talindra heartily.

Talindra says 'I will keep an eye out for your aura's but let me know if I miss it.'

A pale creature, clothed in rags steps out from the portal, looking around at the pile of demon corpses.

Aegreus sets his gaze on the pale creature.

A pale creature, clothed in rags says 'Well...what do we have here?'

Avrael says 'Well... he looks pleasant...'

The creature looks down at the elf on his knees, and scoffs.

A pale creature, clothed in rags says 'You...you cannot open this gate elf.'

Aegreus glances down at Eledhwen, a look of worry on his face.

Eledhwen growls.

Eledhwen says 'I can do so much more....'

A pale creature, clothed in rags cackles, as energy begins to pour from the portal once more.

The energy continues to pulsate wildly, arcs of light sparking through the room and blasting
into the stone walls, scattering shrapnel into the air.

A pale creature, clothed in rags says 'You...and your little Knights.'

Avrael smirks.

A pale creature, clothed in rags says 'And you too...you little avatar...'

The creature's voice drips with acid and vitriol as it spits the last word.

A pale creature clothed in rags calmly walks over to the elf.

Eledhwen grimaces, glaring back at the humanoid.

Eledhwen says 'You....you cannot hide forever.'

A pale creature, clothed in rags says 'Oh, but I can. '

A pale creature clothed in rags says 'For you know what it takes to open this portal fully. And you
will not do that.'

Mad laughter echoes through the passage as the creature tosses back its head with a maniacal
cackle.

A flash of chaos nearly blinds you all, then begins to focus on the elf at the gate.

The wind suddenly reverses, the cold flow of air now replaced with a humid warmth blowing
ferociously out of the gate.

A pale creature, clothed in rags raises his staff, and bangs it against the ground. Shards of rock fly through the air as he continually slams it into the floor.

Eledhwen cries out 'Knights...you...must hold steady!

Hot and musty, the fetid air blows with a torrential power, forcing you back a step.

Eledhwen closes his eyes, as an aura of pure light radiates slowly from around him.

Eledhwen says 'Aegreus....MOVE!'

A pale creature clothed in rags snarls at Eledhwen.

Eledhwen says 'Talindra...my Oracle...be free!'

Aegreus begins to take a large step back, his footing unsure.

Eledhwen says 'Blood of my blood...Avrael....'

A flicker of light detaches itself from Eledwhen's form as the chaotic energy surrounds him.
The light bolts westward, arcing through the passage at a blinding speed, and then vanishing.

Eledhwen says 'MOVE!'

Aegreus raises his hands to shield himself from the blazing heat flowing forth.

Avrael twitches slightly, then suddenly bursts with movement. His speed finally restored to that of the Avatar.

Aegreus says 'Commander!'

Eledhwen says 'Rel....'

Eledhwen says 'Re....'

Avrael says 'Commander!'

Eledhwen coughs, and a splatter of blood hits the floor.

His eyes wide, Aegreus suddenly has a look of understanding. He stretches his arms wide, trying to
shield everyone. 'No!'

The air continues to blow, blasting you in the face with a putrid stench.

Eledhwen says 'Rellein...b...be freed.....'

The smell of rot and death intermingled with the metallic scent of... fresh blood.

Avrael covers himself with his wings, shielding himself from the strong winds.

Aegreus shakes his head vigorously. 'There has to be another way!'

Talindra says 'Aegreus watch yourself!'

A pale creature, clothed in rags says 'Well isn't this just comical....'

Talindra peers at a pale creature.

Suddenly the light that cascaded off the elven commander's body bounces back into view. It twinkles brightly for a moment over Eledhwen, before reattaching itself to the glowing aura that surrounds him.

Aegreus grits his teeth. He is breathing hard, now. His eyes fixed on Eledhwen, the half-giant looks frozen to the floor as he looks on.

Eledhwen a sound comes from the lips of the elf, hands still pressed firmly against the gate... a guttural sound of pure rage as the aura of light expands even more.

A pale creature, clothed in rags says 'You wouldn't....'

Eledhwen growls back, 'I would....

Aegreus raises his arms and squints his eyes at the blinding light. 'No! Eledhwen, NO!'

From far off, you hear the roar of the seas. Surely it must be your imagination. A salty smell fills the air, mingling with the scent of decay. All the while, the light glows brighter.

Avrael says 'Aegreus!'

The elf's voice begins to take on a firmer tone. 'ATRIA...MOVE!

Avrael says 'Trust in your Commander.'

Atria mutters something quietly to herself.

Eledhwen plants a foot under his knee, as if he were trying to stand.

Atria says 'Quick.'

Eledhwen says 'SEDROS....BE FREE!'

Rellein whispers to himself, a mantra, 'Let not there be weakness...let not there be
weakness... only strength.'

Sedros groans and holds his head in his hands.

Looking around frantically, Aegreus looks around for... something! Anything!

The air pushes you back even further, creating several steps of distance between you and the bleeding elf. All the while, the commander struggling to his feet.

Flash after flash of pure white light radiates from the elf, as he hits his feet.

A pale creature clothed in rags twitches nervously.

Fighting as much as he can, Aegreus tries to close the gap to Eledhwen. 'Commander! Please!'

Aegreus says 'There has to be another way! PLEASE!'

A bolt of chaotic lightning strikes the creature, and he is gone before your eyes refocus.

Eledhwen says 'Knights...'

The Gorgon's eyes change from deep violet to a bright purple tinged with crimson. The air
hums with unfathomable energy as the chaotic force swells.

Rellein pulls his hair, looking around for any sign that all is well...

All of the gorgon heads turn to face Eledhwen, eyes wide open, maws gaping.

His face beat red, Aegreus pleads with Eledhwen. '...Please, Eledhwen....tell us what we can do...'Eledhwen says 'Sir Aegreus....'

Eledhwen says 'You can...'

Eledhwen coughs, splattering blood against the gate.

Eledhwen says 'Succeed where I have failed.'

Eledhwen says 'You must... destroy the crown.'

Suddenly a massive beam of purple light lances forward out of the Gorgon's mouth, the glowing shaft of pure chaos slamming directly into the Elf's chest.

His face awash with seething rage and anguish, Aegreus lets out a bellowing scream that reverberates in your very gut. 'ELEDHWEN!'

Eledhwen groans in pain yet refuses to faulter.

Talindra turns her head to the side.

The aura from around the elf fades, as he channels energy directly into the portal.

The other Gorgons face Eledhwen, and identical beams of chaotic energy spew out, stabbing at the elf's bleeding form.

Eledhwen yells 'AHHHHHH!'

Avrael says 'Commander!'

Aegreus lets loose a guttural roar, and he raises his glaive high. 'NO!'

Avrael says 'Oracle!'

Talindra falls to her knees.

Avrael says 'Heal him!'

Pinning him against the wall of the passage, pure chaos shoots like arrows, piercing the elf's body one by one.

Avrael picks Talindra up from her knees, 'Heal his wounds!

A final pulse of pure light flows through Eledhwen's body, as chaos erupts, and the gate breaks free.

Eledhwen falls to a knee.

Eledhwen says 'Knights...'

Avrael rushes past the others, trying to get to Eledhwen, just as he nears the gate bursts open, throwing him back.

Eledhwen says 'I...I can't...'

Talindra falling to her knee's again... 'I am not strong enough'

Eledhwen falls to the ground, unmoving.

Sedros says 'Is...'

Sedros says 'No....'

As he watches the horrific scene unfold, Aegreus looks petrified. '...no...no no no no...'

The smell of the sea mingles once more with the musty air and the fragrant rot spilling out of the now-open portal.

You hear the thunder of hooves pounding through the cavern to the west.

Rellein goes rigid, before pulling out a scroll and writing a few simple words, which he drops into his pack, as he snaps the quill in his fingers.

Sedros turns in circles, not sure which way to face.

Aegreus rushes to Eledhwen and nearly dives onto the ground next to him as he takes a knee. 'Commander....'

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'Our orders are still to destroy the crown. Can we
enter the gate?'

Ammodean the Elf Hero sits down and thinks deeply.

Aegreus shakes his head rapidly as his attempt to heal Eledhwen fail.

You yell 'OI! WHAT'S ALL THIS?!'

Among shimmering gates
  Colors of all different shades, varieties, and types surround you blinking
on and off and moving around all at the same time.  Several surreal gateways
to unknown planes are here.  Within the gateways is a dull-black color ..
seemingly sealed off forever as the Gorgon heads upon the gates have their
eyes closed - resting.  When the time comes that an intruder tries to 
trespass, they will once again awaken.  

[Exits: west]
(White Aura) Ammodean the Elf Hero is here, investigating the area.
Sedros the Holy Knight is here.
(Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here, sitting astride a
warhorse.
(White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here, sitting astride a white charger.
An elf stands upright, surrounded by a soft white aura.

Rellein kneels a moment, finding it difficult to stand fully upright.

A massive behemoth of a man thunders into the room astride an equally enormous horse.

Ammodean the Elf Hero kneels, patting away dried blood from the elf.

Talindra stands behind Aegreus with her hand on his shoulder.

Avrael says 'Knights... Be wary...'

'Eledhwen, I got yer message, damn sparkle fairies,' the man thunders loudly. 'Whaddya wan...' He cuts off abruptly.

Kneeling, Rellein says, 'His orders were clear. We must destroy the crown at all costs...'

His focus completely on the fallen elf, Aegreus runs his hands down Eledhwen's arms, rubbing them and shaking them. 'Eledhwen....wake up.'

Sedros says '...sparkle fairies?'

Avrael says 'And who might you be, Dwarf...'

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'Though...greater cost perhaps cannot be paid.'

[52 Titan (Storm) AVA] [PRAETORIAN Lord of Battle(E)] <PK> [Male] Bragos the Admiral of the Light,
Protector of the Seas

With a tremendous roar, the titan heaves forward, shoving everyone out of the way. He scoops Eledhwen into an upright position, one massive palm cupping the elf's neck.

Talindra kneels next to Aegreus and whispers 'We need you now Sir, you must lead us'

Avrael stumbles to the side from the massive dwarf's rush.

'What did you do?' the titan turns, glaring out you, his eyes crackling with lightning.

Rellein struggles to stand, placing a hand on his knee and wiping his face, saying, 'He impressed upon us the importance of a single task because he knew we would not have him at our side.'

Pushing himself to his feet, Avrael eyes the dwarf, 'We defend!

Aegreus stands and takes a step forward, his eyes still fixed on Eledhwen. He speaks, his voice
raspy and fierce. 'Drop him! NOW!'

Avrael says 'Now, unhand the Commander before we remove your other leg.'

Talindra says 'And who are you to ask what I did?'

'Knights! An officer asked you a question!' The titan stands up, straightening to his full
height, towering over the lot of you.

Eledhwen lurches suddenly, blood flying from his mouth as he tries to speak.

Eledhwen says 'H...hah! ... Bragos you fool...you actually came....'

Atria says 'You know this ... giant?'

The whites of his eyes fully visible, Aegreus looks up at Eledhwen. 'Commander!'

Eledhwen says 'Aegreus...your worry is commendable...'

Turning back to the injured elf, Bragos scowls. 'These idiots... what the hell are you doing traipsing about these parts without a proper guard?!'

Eledhwen coughs again, 'Had you not been late, it wouldn't be a problem...but there is a more
pressing problem...

Talindra looks at Aegreus.

The portal hums.

Eledhwen says 'I..I can't...'

'Bunch of landlocked ninnies, by the look o' it,' Bragos rants, then pauses. 'Wh-- eh?'

Eledhwen says 'You'll have to.'

You say 'What in the hell are you trying to do here, mate?'

Eledhwen says 'Aegreus...trust this one.'

Eledhwen says 'But, you'll have to go without me.'

Aegreus nods at Eledhwen, 'Yes, sir...'

Eledhwen says 'And Aegreus....'

'Trust,' the titan exhales sharply, blowing out his mustache. 'Clams and cockles, mate! Where are we going, anyway? Not Hell and back again, I hope...'

Eledhwen coughs as he looks Aegreus directly in the eyes.

Eledhwen says 'Destroy that crown....'

Aegreus looks eyes with Eledhwen, unblinking and unflinching.

Talindra looks at Aegreus.

A final flash of light, and the titan is left holding...nothing.

A look of steely resolve washes over Aegreus. His eyes are glossy now, his cheeks flush. He stands
silently for a moment, perfectly still.

Climbing to his feet, the titan surveys the assembled crowd. 'Attention, Knights!'

The bellowing voice of the titan reverberates around the room. Aegreus does an about face, looking
up.

'My name is Bragos. Commandant of the One King's navy and lieutenant to that scrawny elf,' the titan's voice booms loudly.

Avrael looks up at you, his earlier assumptions fading after he sees you in full.

His eyes still glossy, Aegreus looks up at you, listening.

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'It’s not a dwarf... just so you all know... ahem...'

'Now... I got no idea what in the seven hells is going on here...' Bragos snorts loudly. 'So, you--' he points to Aegreus. 'Yer in charge.'

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Sedros: 'I think...we knew that.'

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Sedros: 'Some of us at least.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Yeah well... Dust in the eyes... his accent and all...'

Aegreus straightens himself up, squares his shoulders, and nods. 'Yes....yes sir.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Ask him about his wooden leg...'

Looking between Aegreus and the open gate, the titan puffs up his chest. 'Now then, officer. What'll it be? Certain death? Or cowardly retreat... and then certain death, with my boot up your arse?'

You now follow Aegreus.

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Bragos: 'OI! I HEAR YOU, SHRIMPY!'

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Sedros: 'Well...'

Talindra snickers softly.

Atria snickers with Avrael about their shared secret.

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Rellein: 'How do we destroy the crown? Do we know how, as yet?'

Aegreus lowers his head, his eyes fixed on the gate. 'That damn crown is going to get shattered.
They are going to pay for what happened this day.'

Avrael swallows hard, looking around sheepishly...

Talindra nods.

Sedros says 'I agree.'

Talindra nods.

Sedros says 'Where you go, I go, Sir Aegreus.'

Talindra says 'As do we all.'

'Attaboy,' Bragos claps Aegreus on the back with a massive palm, sending him stumbling. 'Attaboy, indeed.'

Aegreus reaches up and swiftly rubs his eyes, which are now red and bloodshot. He grits his teeth. 'Every. Last. One of them.'

Avrael nods at Aegreus.

Talindra nods.

Rellein whispers to himself, a mantra, 'Let not there be weakness... let not there be fear... let not there be doubt... in life or death'

Avrael says 'Everyone... Prepare.'

'Well then. Let's... get... a... move... on!' With each punctuated word, Bragos pushes another of you through the portal.

Aegreus disappears in a mushroom cloud.

Rellein stands and straightens his armor, nodding and placing his hands on his weapons.

Avrael disappears in a mushroom cloud.
Sedros disappears in a mushroom cloud.
Talindra disappears in a mushroom cloud.
Atria disappears in a mushroom cloud.

You say 'Oi, you too!'

Rellein disappears in a mushroom cloud.

Aegreus quickly surveys the area, pausing as his eyes fall upon the void surrounding the path.

Atria mutters something about a stupid horse.

A Broken Stone Road
  A broken, battered road of ancient cobblestone stretches to the north and
south, extending as far as the eye can see.  The air feels rarified here,
and the sky is a dark and angry bluish-purple color.  Crackling with a
strange energy, your hair stands on end as though an electric current passes
through you with every breath.  To the left and right of the precarious
path, the ground simply drops away.  Beyond the edge, you see a stormy void,
roiling black clouds thrashing angrily below.  

A shimmering, hazy presence blocks the way back, preventing passage to the
south.  

[Exits: north]
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.

'Now t'en,' Bragos grins broadly as he appears beside you all. 'What's next?'

Rellein chips a piece of the cobblestone road off and places it in a small bag.

Avrael says 'We advance forward.'

Aegreus quickly reaches into his leather sack and pulls out a brightly glowing ball of light. He lets out a small sigh of relief, and shoves it back in.

Talindra nods.

Sedros says 'Then forward we go...'

Talindra nods.

Avrael says 'Lord of Battle, lead us northward.'

Barking loudly, Bragos roars. 'You ‘eard 'im! KNIGHTS, ADVANCE!'

Rellein says 'There is a shade on the path ahead.'

Aegreus hesitates for a moment, bowing his head and closing his eyes. He shakes his head, and looks
up.

An Abandoned Courtyard
  The paving stones here are cracked and shattered, with large gaps where
the rock has split apart.  In some places, the cobblestone has been brushed
aside by gnarled roots and sickly plants, while in other spots there are
simply gaps for no evident reason.  Peeking between the slits in the
sundered walkway, you see boiling black cloudy thrashing angrily in the
violet atmosphere far below.  

To the north, a massive gate has been erected out of what appears to be a
single slab of polished onyx stone.  The heavy looking barricade has a
small, circular opening at the center.  

[Exits: (north) east south west]
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(White Aura) A black-cowled shade stands vigil, watching over the entrance to the Well.

The shade of Leothyre raises its head, its eyes piercing from beneath its cowl.
It says 'You would enter the Well of Oblivion?'
The shade scoffs, shaking its head.
It says 'Only the most stalwart defenders of the Light may pass.'
Raising its arms, the shade points east and west.
It says 'If you would enter, seek the guidance of my brethren.'
It says 'Should you be deemed worthy, I will open the gate.'
Sighing softly, the shade lowers its head once more.

Rellein picks up a piece of moss and places it into a bag in his pack.

Avrael says 'Sir.. Leothyre...'

Aegreus lets out a small gasp, but steels himself and approaches the shade of the elf.

'OI! WHAT'S ALL THIS?! LEO, WHAT IN THE KRAKEN'S GUTS ARE YOU DOING HERE?!' Bragos shouts,
running over to clap the shade on the back.

Sedros says 'We have to get inside...'

Avrael sits down and thinks deeply.

Sedros says 'His brethren, are they nearby?'

Sedros says 'Should we split up and search, or stay together?'

Avrael attempts to request from the shade of Leothyre.
The shade of Leothyre places a shard of Nercuros on the ground before Avrael and mutters a blessing.
The shade of Leothyre says 'May Erelei find you worthy of my gift.'
Avrael sits down and rests.
Avrael begins to meditate in deep prayer.

Rellein writes on his hip scroll, 'Full armor', adding a dash and 'Antique Armor'

Talindra says 'I believe we should stay together.'

A spirit of Leothyre says 'You...you haven't found my brethren.'

Rellein mutters and writes, 'Banner of the White Wolf'

Avrael gets a shard of Nercuros.
Avrael stands up.

A spirit of Leothyre says 'You are not ready, young one.'

A shard of Nercuros flies from Avrael into the hands of A spirit of Leothyre.

Aegreus nods. He suddenly begins to looks more and more like his confident self. He speaks, his tone more sure and resolute. 'We need to explore the causeways to the east, and west.'

Talindra nods.

Avrael nods at Aegreus.

'Oi!' Bragos snorts. 'Sounds like we got some walking to do.'

Avrael says 'Eastward.'

Aegreus turns and nods at everyone. 'We'll move west, first. Be sure the flanks are secure,
Praetorians.'

Avrael nods at Aegreus.

Avrael says 'West it is.'

Aegreus nods at Sedros. 'Watch our tail, Sedros.'

Aegreus says 'We move west.'

The Tower of Agony
  Cresting the stairs, you reach a platform at the top of the tower, only
to find yourself that much closer to the snarling clouds that hang overhead.
A sense of unease fills you as the violet haze looming above seems to press
inward, and the tension is only made worse by what appear to be large chunks
blown out of the turreted perimeter of the tower, presumably by the raging
lightning that lashes out from above.  

Looking out to the east, you can see the massive onyx gate, and beyond that
another tower.  

[Exits: down]
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(White Aura) A black-cowled shade stands vigil, watching over the entrance to the Well.

The shade of Sylf looks up at you upon entering, its face obscured by shadow.
It says 'Greetings, brave one. You would enter the Well?'
With a heavy sigh, the shade looks at the fragment in its hand.
It says 'For many long years, I have guarded this place.'
It says 'To open the gates now...'
It says 'I worry we shall unleash evil into the world.'
The shade looks up at you, shaking its head.
It says 'And yet, has evil not already been unleashed?'
It says 'We know what lurks within. But do you? Are you ready?'
It says 'You cannot be. But you may try.'
The shade seems torn, and a hint of uncertainty lingers momentarily.
You wonder if the shade of Sylf will grant you what you seek...
Nodding, the shade seems resolved. It clenches the palm tightly in its fist.
It says 'You may request the shard, and the Light will judge your worth.'
It says 'Or you may take it by force. The choice is yours.'
It says 'But only the worthy may enter the Well.'

Sedros says '...Sylf?'

Aegreus bows his head. 'Starkholm...'

Sedros says 'I've read countless stories of this one...'

Avrael says 'Sir Starkholm..'

Avrael says 'I humbly request the shard from you..'

Avrael attempts to request from the shade of Sylf.
The shade of Sylf places a shard of Dyphreties on the ground before Avrael and mutters a blessing.
The shade of Sylf says 'May Erelei find you worthy of my gift.'
Avrael sits down and rests.
Avrael begins to meditate in deep prayer.

A shade of Sylf says 'And you shall have it, if you merely ask.'

Aegreus nods at the shade of Sylf. 'Bless you, Sylf. I pray your soul is at peace with God.'

A shade of Sylf says 'My soul is at peace while they are kept at bay.'

'Oi, they?!' Bragos exclaims. 'They who?!'

Aegreus scans the surrounding tower, his eyes darting around, surveying.

Avrael gets a shard of Dyphreties.
Avrael stands up.

A shade of Sylf says 'Who are you? '

A shade of Sylf peers at you intently.

Avrael says 'Thank you, Sir Starkholm..'

'You don't recognize me, mate?' Scowling, the titan mutters. 'I swear, you spend a few centuries at sea, and everyone forgets...'

A shade of Sylf says 'You've much to do. Hurry.'

Rolling his eyes, Bragos nods. 'Off we go, then.'

Avrael nods at Aegreus.

Aegreus lets out a very small, faint half smile. 'Thank you, Sylf.

The Tower of Agony
  Cresting the stairs, you reach a platform at the top of the tower, only
to find yourself that much closer to the snarling clouds that hang overhead.
A sense of unease fills you as the violet haze looming above seems to press
inward, and the tension is only made worse by what appear to be large chunks
blown out of the turreted perimeter of the tower, presumably by the raging
lightning that lashes out from above.  

Looking out to the west, you can see the massive onyx gate, and beyond that
another tower.  

[Exits: down]
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(White Aura) A black-cowled shade stands vigil, watching over the entrance to the Well.

The shade of Urist raises its hooded face, its dark gaze meeting yours.
It says 'So, you have met my brethren and obtained a shard.'
It says 'Very well. You know then what must be done.'
Nodding, the shade seems resolved. It clenches the shard tightly in its fist.
It says 'You may request the shard, and the Light will judge your worth.'
It says 'Or you may take it by force. The choice is yours.'
It says 'But only the worthy may enter the Well.'

Avrael says 'I suppose I will ask...'

Atria snickers with the shade of Urist about their shared secret.

Aegreus bows his head. 'Urist...'

Avrael attempts to request from the shade of Urist.
The shade of Urist places a shard of Lysenties on the ground before Avrael and mutters a blessing.
The shade of Urist says 'May Erelei find you worthy of my gift.'
Avrael sits down and rests.
Avrael begins to meditate in deep prayer.

A Shade of Urist says 'Lord of Battle. Aegreus...'

A Shade of Urist says 'Do not faulter inside.'

Aegreus scans around the area once more.

'Oi, if it ain't ol' glitterbeard!' Bragos harrumphs loudly.

A Shade of Urist says 'You and your Knights will be tested.'

Aegreus turns to the shade of Urist. 'Yes...yes sir. We cannot fail. Too much has been sacrificed this day, already.'

Avrael gets a shard of Lysenties.
Avrael stands up.

Avrael beams a smile at the shade of Urist.

A Shade of Urist says 'Be careful. And keep your shields held high.'

Talindra bows deeply.

Avrael says 'Thank you, Sir Urist..'

Aegreus pauses a moment as his eyes grow very distant for a split second. 'Eledhwen....'

Aegreus nods, shaking his head to clear his thoughts. 'Thank you, Urist.

Avrael places a hand on Aegreus, his body clearly worn from prayer, 'We must do this for the Commander...

'Oi!' Bragos shouts. 'Let's get on wit' it!'

Aegreus nods at Avrael. 'You ok?'

An Abandoned Courtyard
  The paving stones here are cracked and shattered, with large gaps where
the rock has split apart.  In some places, the cobblestone has been brushed
aside by gnarled roots and sickly plants, while in other spots there are
simply gaps for no evident reason.  Peeking between the slits in the
sundered walkway, you see boiling black cloudy thrashing angrily in the
violet atmosphere far below.  

To the north, a massive gate has been erected out of what appears to be a
single slab of polished onyx stone.  The heavy looking barricade has a
small, circular opening at the center.  

[Exits: north east south west]
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(White Aura) A black-cowled shade stands vigil, watching over the entrance to the Well.

The shade of Leothyre looks up, locking eyes with you from the shadows of its cowl.
It says 'Ah. I see my brethren have given up their shards.'
It says 'If they deem you worthy, then I suppose I must do the same.'
Heaving a sigh, the shade of Leothyre extends a hand, revealing a small sliver of stone.
The shard of Nercuros floats into the air above the pale palm.
The shards of Lysenties and Dyphreties leap from your hands.
All three fragments begin to orbit each other, spinning faster and faster.
Suddenly, your vision blurs as the shards collide with a thundering CRACK.
Ears ringing, your eyesight begins to return.
Hovering above the shade of Leothyre's palm, a small orb looms ominously.
It says 'It is done. The Lunar Triad is complete and the way shall open.'
It says 'Be steadfast, for once inside the Well, there is no turning back.'
As the shade intones its final words, the orb flies toward the massive onyx gate.
Nestling snugly in the circular groove, the sphere pulsates once. Twice. Three times.
And then the gates swing silently, the path forward opening.
Heaving a sigh, the shade of Leothyre steps to the side and gestures you forward.

Aegreus takes a long, deep breath. 'Thank you, Leothyre. I pray your soul is a peace, and with our
Lord above, now.'

Avrael proffers a brisk salute to the shade of Leothyre.

Avrael nods at Aegreus.

Avrael says 'On your order, Lord of Battle.'

Aegreus turns his head, his eyes resting on each one of you for a moment.

Aegreus smiles a small smile as he looks at each of you. 'The Lord is good....'

Talindra smiles happily.

Avrael nods.

Talindra nods.

A shade of Leothyre says 'Darkness is inside...'

Aegreus turns back to the Gateway. 'Knights....you ready?'

Talindra says 'We are the light.'

Atria says 'Darkness is everywhere.'

Avrael says 'Never more.'

Aegreus narrow his eyes. 'For the Crown.'

Talindra nods.

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'Let not there be doubt. We shall win this day.'

Rellein proffers a brisk salute to Aegreus.

A Crackling Barrier
  As you carefully step around rubble and debris, you nearly bump nose
first into a glowing barrier of yellowish-white energy.  The crackling field
of arcane force buzzes and hums steadily, and arcs of light occasionally
shoot across the surface.  

Overhead, the dark haze occasionally presses inward toward the barrier, but
quickly recoils as if shocked as the barrier sizzles with a crackling hiss. 

[Exits: north up]

Avrael nods.

Aegreus yells 'Form the line!'

Avrael lifts his weapons..

Aegreus raises up in an offensive stance, his glaive held high.

Sedros says 'We've landed in it now....'

Avrael says 'For ELEDHWEN!'

Entering the Well
  A few grayish-black stairs are all that separate the hill to the south
from the courtyard to the north.  You can see the outline of the Well from
here, a floating platform carved in an oblong rectangle with four ragged
corners.  The barrier of energy continues around the perimeter of the
platform, the softly glowing yellow force forming a dome-like cap over the
entire structure.  High overhead, black clouds boil in a violent purple sky,
sparks and arcs of lightning flying between the haze overhead and the
barrier that protects the floating courtyard.  

[Exits: north south]
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
A winged Chaos Demon hovers here, searching for something.

'Oi, you whelps 'eard 'im!' Bragos shouts. 'LINE UP, YOU SCRAWNY LANDLUBBERS!'

You yell 'Help! I am being attacked by a winged Chaos Demon!'
You turn a winged Chaos Demon's attack against it.
You trample around loudly again.
Your counter LACERATES a winged Chaos Demon!

Aegreus yells 'KEEP IT UP!'

Aegreus sits down and thinks deeply.

Avrael says 'Stay northward.'

Aegreus nods at Avrael. 'We ride north!

Sedros examines the forge.

Aegreus circles the forge, eyeing it closely.

Avrael says 'To the west..'

Aegreus says 'To the west.'

Aegreus nods.

The Fires of Justice
  The main platform of the Well dips inward slightly, and at the center of
that recessed section is a massive forge.  The huge contraption is built
entirely of onyx stone, the well-tempered edges glimmering softly by with
the orange light of the flames within, speckled intermittently with the
yellow glow of the dome far overhead.  

The blazing inferno within the forge is intense, forcing you to shield your
face and eyes from the heat as you draw near.  The fiery geyser roars upward
from a single jet in the center of the platform, ignited by an unknown force
below.  

[Exits: north east south west (down)]
      (Glowing) A massive forge built from pure onyx is here, an eternal flame roaring
within.
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.

Aegreus says 'We ride west!'

Aegreus narrows his eyes as he stares at the pedestal.

Aegreus says 'Admiral!'

Aegreus narrows his eyes. 'We ride west. Be ready.'

Avrael nods.

A Crumbling Walkway
  You find yourself stepping carefully amid broken rock and debris,
surrounded to your left, right, and above by the glimmering yellow-white
barrier.  With the wall of energy overhead and to each side, the path has an
almost tunnel-like feel to it.  All around you, the arcane shield crackles
and hisses constantly as the purplish haze presses inward against it.  

[Exits: east west]
Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
A twisted spirit wanders about, its face barren of distinguishing features.
A twisted spirit wanders about, its face barren of distinguishing features.

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'Is this...a prison?'

Rellein tells the group 'They are weak to holy weapons.'

The howling of spirits fills the room around you, the moaning forms of the faceless crying in despair.

Avrael nods at Aegreus.

Aegreus whips around, scanning the area.

Avrael says 'Move past if able.. they are spirits of the damned...'

Avrael says 'Lost and tormented..'

Atria says 'Evil twisted thing.'

Sedros says '.....'

A Broken Island
  A completely barren island made of stone floating over the purple void,
this sizable area is unembellished by any other structure.  The barrier of
yellow energy extends the length of the platform, a smaller version of the
dome covering the main section of the Well.  At the center of the island,
the stone has been rent by some terrific force, resulting in a gaping,
jagged crack running lengthwise through the rocky surface.  

[Exits: east]
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride a warhorse.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(Dark Aura) A twisted spirit hovers before you, shrouded in an aura of black.

The fractured edges of the island crumble away as you set foot on the platform.
The twisted spirit of Raemus looks up at you and glowers sullenly, its eyes ablaze with anger. 
As you meet its gaze, you notice the spirit's wrists are cuffed in gleaming white.
An ephemeral chain extends from the bands to the floor, restraining the spectre.
It says 'What are you doing here? You don't belong here.'
It says 'Then, none of us belong in this hellhole.'
The spirit moves toward you, straining against its bonds.
It says 'Get out of here. You shall not find what you seek.'
The twisted spirit of Raemus slumps forward, lowering its head dejectedly.

Silver bangs dangle over a face that rivals the most beautiful of hand 
maidens, yellow eyes peer through with a still glare that takes 
attention away from an extremely vain grin.  A slender neck leads 
down to a bare torso and scrawny arms ending in black hands tipped 
with very sharp nails.
 
Further upon expectation, the lower portion is that of a giant spider, 
with a sleek, black abdomen covered in various tribal designs and 
tattoos.  It almost seems to give off a very durable appearance as if 
covered in a hard casing.  Attached all around the lower abdomen 
are eight gigantic legs, varying in size but also symmetrical on each 
side.  Every joint of each leg is covered with a smooth plating topped 
with a sharp black spike.
The twisted spirit of Raemus is in excellent condition.

the twisted spirit of Raemus is using:
<floating nearby>      a virescent gem

Aegreus says 'Hand it over!'

The spirit looks up once more, a furious scowl on its face.
It says 'You are still here? I told you to go.'
Staring at you, the twisted spirit of Raemus throws its head back in frustration.
The twisted spirit of Raemus shouts 'LEAVE! ME! BE!'
With a howling scream, the spirit lunges toward you.
The chains holding the twisted spirit of Raemus strain and sizzle... and then snap!
A malevolent grin crosses the spirit's face and a shadowy blade appears in its hands.
Without another word, the twisted spirit of Raemus charges toward you.

The twisted spirit of Raemus spills his guts all over the floor.

Aegreus says 'Hah!'

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'A prison...guarded by the shades of Knights long past...'

Avrael gets a virescent gem.

Aegreus spits in disgust. 'Serves it right.

Avrael nods at Aegreus.

Sedros says 'What is that gem?'

Avrael says 'It must go to the forge..'

Aegreus says 'Let's explore the eastern hallways, now, and then revisit the forge.'

Avrael nods.

Aegreus sits down and thinks deeply.

Aegreus yells 'Bring them all!'

Rellein tells the group 'Deakon, another Syndicate.'
 
Pounding a massive ham-sized fist against the solid onyx wall, Bragos gives a wordless shout... but nothing happens.

Aegreus sits down and thinks deeply.

You say 'Oi! I think there be a bridge to the north!'

Avrael says 'Bound forever..'

Aegreus nods at you. 'Yes sir, Admiral. We'll head that way.

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'A prison in the afterlife? Guarded by Knights? Syndicate is shackles?'

A Huge Metal Door
  As you reach the foot of the stairs leading down from the dais, you come
face-to-face with a towering door.  Built of thick, reinforced metal, the
massive barricade is striped with rivets and bands of steel that ensure
breaching its closure will be no simple task.  Clearly whoever built this
door did not want anyone getting in...  Or perhaps they did not want anyone
to get out.  

At the center of the door, a massive slab of onyx has been fixed, with a
small section cut out.  This appears to be some kind of locking mechanism.  

[Exits: (north) up]
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
Sedros the Holy Knight is here.
(Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
A twisted spirit wanders about, its face barren of distinguishing features.
A twisted spirit wanders about, its face barren of distinguishing features.
A twisted spirit wanders about, its face barren of distinguishing features.

Avrael nods.

Aegreus nods.

Aegreus says 'We are after the Crown of Chaos...This place is wrought with chaotic energies.'

Sedros says 'Thank you.'

Aegreus says 'Bless his soul....Eledhwen was right. This HAS to be the place.'

Avrael says 'Chaos swarms this prison.. The shades that stalk here must never seen Aabahran again.'

Aegreus moves in unison with Avrael, bobbing and weaving in and out of attacks.

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'Who has been imprisoning dark souls? and to what purpose?'

Rellein says 'It is a strange place, this.'

Avrael darts in and out of range of the spirits, slashing and swiping with divine fervor.

Avrael gets a solid bar of onyx.

Aegreus says 'Ready yourselves, Knights.'

A Bone-Littered Island
  Beyond the door, you find yourself stepping onto a small stone island,
floating amidst the same sea of angry purple haze as the rest of the Well. 
On all sides, the island is capped by a dome of yellow energy, the soft glow
of the protective barrier casting a dim light over the platform.  With every
step forward, you feel a crunching underfoot.  Upon closer examination, it
appears that the island is littered with a carpet of bones in varying states
of decay, each one picked completely clean.  

[Exits: south]
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(Dark Aura) A twisted spirit hovers before you, shrouded in an aura of black.

Sedros says 'We can't stop now.'

The island shifts and trembles as you set foot on the floating platform.
Its fur ragged and matted with blood, the spirit rests on all fours.
The twisted spirit of Ekhurift barely glances upward at your approach.
An ephemeral collar of pure white is clasped around the twisted spirit of Ekhurift's neck.
It growls 'What do you want? You should not be here.'
The twisted spirit of Ekhurift looks up at you and bares its teeth, grinning.
It growls 'Your flesh stinks of the living, but I am sure it tastes fine.'
It growls 'Best escape while you still can.'
The spirit snaps its powerful jaws, gnashing its teeth at you.
The twisted spirit of Ekhurift cackles with mad laughter before lowering its head once more.

With legs spread mildly beyond shoulder width apart a slender man stands
before you.  A stance of casual indifference to the world around him, eyes
of black stare out into Aabahran.  Framed by an array of black hair, the
follicles fall before his vision in a tangled mess, locking his vision in a
cell of hair.  Lower left half of his face covered by a high collared cloak,
the garb black in nature.
 
With a slight hunch, his body is pushed forward by the natural shifting of
his spine.  His entire body is covered in a large cloak, the silk-like
material mildly expensive and designed with an odd decoration.  Starting at
the collar before his face, a thin red line of stitching weaves its way down
the fabric.  Shifting from thin to thick and back again, the thread is
stitched almost haphazardly.  It spirals down the cloak and around his body
in a religious symbolism that clearly defines him and his faith.  Stopping
at his ankles, the fine material allows his bare feet to be seen.  Groomed
to some extent, his feet are roughly calloused and claw-like nails dig into
Aabahran's harsh terrain.  A thick rope is tied around his waist in a giant
upside- down bow, the rope's material a deep purple.  Despite the simplicity
of its make, it harbors a sense of regality to it.
 
Hands left bare from weaponry, they hang absently at his waist.  His cloak
pulled off the right side of his body, it allows for that side to be seen in
full.  Arm flickering with the light of crimson ink.  The colors flashing
and dimming randomly as the red ink blazes around his arm in a spiral from
wrist to shoulder.  Slowly pulsing off his body, stray shadows fall from his
tanned skin.  The tendrils last but mere seconds before being eradicated by
whatever light is present.  His left side covered, only his fingertips can
be seen extending from under the cloak, nails sharpened to a point and
painted with a deep red polish.  Hanging around his neck, a brilliant gold
key shines in whatever light provided.  The metal flickering slightly, it is
an easy draw of the eye as it contrasts greatly against the black attire.
The twisted spirit of Ekhurift is in excellent condition.

the twisted spirit of Ekhurift is using:
<floating nearby>      a bloodred gem

The spirit stares at the ground, unmoving.
Suddenly, the collar pops open and falls away, disappearing as it hits the ground.
The twisted spirit of Ekhurift grins at you, licking its lips as they curl up into a snarl.
It growls 'You should have left when you had the chance.'
Stepping forward, the spirit moves toward you like a wolf stalking its prey.
The twisted spirit of Ekhurift throws back its head and howls, sending a chill down your
spine.
The spirits stride lengthens and it leaps at you with lightning speed.

Aegreus lets out a roar, and charges.

Sedros says 'Twisted creature....'

You yell 'OI!'

Aegreus says 'Like Eledhwen said...this place hasn't been seen or touched by beings, in a long time.'

You yell 'TAKE THAT, YA BUGGER!'

Avrael gets a bloodred gem.

Aegreus scans the room. 'Everyone alright?

Atria says 'Yes.'

Avrael nods.

Aegreus yells 'We're coming for you!'

Crossing An Endless Chasm
  Every step is riddled with anxiety as you proceed carefully across the
narrow rope bridge.  The planks groan underfoot and the thick strands of
woven cable creak as they adjust to the shifting weight.  The experience is
made claustrophobic by the oppressively close presence of the yellow barrier
overhead.  In the ravine below, lightning explodes violently against the
protective enclosure, and the maw of the purple mist-filled chasm hungrily
waits for even the slightest misstep.  

[Exits: north south]
A twisted spirit wanders about, its face barren of distinguishing features.
A twisted spirit wanders about, its face barren of distinguishing features.
A faceless spirit yells 'Bragos!  Now you die!'

Aegreus says 'Admiral!'

Rellein tells the group 'I am fine, but be careful, the spirits are shamans and know the art of blasphemy.'

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Rellein: 'It feels as if time almost slips faster here.'

Drawing a pair of swords from the air, Bragos grins. 'I knew that squirrelly
Elf was hiding the good stuff.

You wield the Sword of Vengeance in your off-hand.

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Sedros: 'I'm not sure time is even real here....'

Avrael says 'Is that all of them?'

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'There is something...dark...beyond this dimension, here. I
feel it, too.'

Aegreus eyes the forge.

You say 'Oi, What's going on with that wall to the east? Still standing?'

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Rellein: 'Kema, another bounty hunter.'

Aegreus sits down and thinks deeply.

Avrael says 'Deakon..'

Avrael says 'Eastward.'

The Well of Oblivion
  As you walk around the perimeter of the floating platform, you hear the
near-constant hissing of discharging energy, as the clouds overhead bubble
over with electrical force that in turn collides with the barrier. 
Meanwhile, a roaring heat stems from the center of the platform, accompanied
by a reddish-orange glow.  The Well is warm and humid, an odd dampness
hanging in the air.  

[Exits: north east south west]
     (Glowing) A massive pedestal of gleaming onyx is planted firmly in the ground.
(White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.

Rellein says 'This is a prison for assassins.'

Aegreus nods. 'There we are...'

Atria says 'Look at the pedestal'

Rellein says 'Or so it seems.'

Aegreus says 'That was the key to opening that door.'

Avrael nods.

You yell 'ARRRR! GET THESE FILTHY, WET-NECKED BASTARDS!'

Atria says 'Can't the lock be broken?'

Aegreus frowns. 'What are they trying to keep IN, I wonder..'

Sedros winces in agony.

A Heavy Wrought Iron Gate
  A small walkway links the strange spiral staircase to the west with the
small island to the east.  Through the gaps in the metal, you can see the
rounded platform of the island is shrouded in darkness, a heaviness hanging
in the air all around.  An odd metallic scent tickles at your nose,
triggering a memory in your brain, though you cannot quite place it.  

[Exits: (east) west]
      (Humming) A twisted key made of an unknown metal lies here.
(White Aura) Rellein is here, fighting a faceless spirit.
(White Aura) Atria is here, fighting a faceless spirit.
(White Aura) Talindra is here, fighting a faceless spirit. 
(White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael is here, fighting a faceless spirit.
(White Aura) Sedros is here, fighting a faceless spirit.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Aegreus is here, fighting a faceless spirit.

Avrael gets a twisted metal key.

Avrael unlocks the heavy wrought iron gate.

Aegreus turns to everyone. 'Status report. Everyone doing ok? Major injuries?'

Avrael opens the heavy wrought iron gate east of you.

Avrael shakes his head.

Avrael says 'Capable of pressing onward.'

Sedros says 'I'm fine.'

Aegreus nods as he turns back around. 'Good. 

Rellein nods, and says, 'I am well.'

Aegreus says 'We push forward.'

A Lonely Island
  Your steps no longer squelch as your feet land on the solid stone of this
raised section of the lower platform.  The pure black stone gleams brightly,
reflecting the yellow light cast by the energy of the dome overhead.  Like
the rest of the Well, you can hear the constant hiss and sizzle of the
barrier as the violent swirls of purple haze press inward against the
protective force.  The crackling energy results in an eerie display of
sparking light, as the clash is reflected in the gleaming stone underfoot.  

[Exits: south west]
(White Aura) Sedros the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here, sitting astride the Goliath.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(Dark Aura) A twisted spirit hovers before you, shrouded in an aura of black.

Aegreus growls at Deakon. 'No wonder they kept this one behind locked doors.'

Your feet shed some of the thick, viscous red liquid as you step onto the platform.
In the far corner, you see a proud form turned away, staring into the void.
As you approach, the twisted spirit of Deakon turns to face you.
An ephemeral mask of white energy is clamped around the spirit's face.
In a muffled voice, the twisted spirit of Deakon begins to speak.
It says 'Who are you? Why have you come here?'
The twisted spirit of Deakon frowns, its fangs jutting down over its lower lips.
It says 'This is a dark place. Only those of darkness belong.'
It says 'If you know what's good for you, you will leave now.'
The spirit glances at you once last time, before turning away.

You hear a soft clatter near the spirit, but cannot see anything.
Suddenly, the spirit moves with incredible speed.
Before you can blink, the twisted spirit of Deakon is standing before you...
... and the mask is gone.
A hush falls over the Well in anticipation of the twisted spirit of Deakon's next move.
The spirit shrugs, grinning at you with hunger in its eyes.
It says 'No point in wasting fresh blood.'
And then, in a blur, the twisted spirit of Deakon leaps toward you!

The twisted spirit of Deakon hits the ground ... DEAD.

Avrael gets a jetblack gem.

Aegreus spits in utter disgust!

Avrael nods.

Aegreus says 'We have....three, gems?'

Avrael nods.

Aegreus turns to Avrael. He nods.

You say 'Oi, let's check the corners!'

Aegreus nods at you. 'Yes, Admiral.'

Aegreus sits down and thinks deeply.

Sedros says 'That door below the forge?'

The Fires of Justice
  The main platform of the Well dips inward slightly, and at the center of
that recessed section is a massive forge.  The huge contraption is built
entirely of onyx stone, the well-tempered edges glimmering softly by with
the orange light of the flames within, speckled intermittently with the
yellow glow of the dome far overhead.  

The blazing inferno within the forge is intense, forcing you to shield your
face and eyes from the heat as you draw near.  The fiery geyser roars upward
from a single jet in the center of the platform, ignited by an unknown force
below.  

[Exits: north east south west (down)]
     (Glowing) A massive forge built from pure onyx is here, an eternal flame roaring
within.

The fires in the forge blaze up, almost in response to your approach.
The ground begins to tremble, the earth quaking underfoot.
You hear hinges grind as an onyx slab at the back of the forge slides open.
As the massive stone opens, a passage downward is revealed!

Sedros says 'Have we gone down ...'

Sedros says 'Ahh'

Sedros scans down.

Avrael nods.

Sedros nods.

Aegreus circles the forge, examining it.

Avrael says 'Seems we're on the right path...'

The Burning Heart of Oblivion
  Your world is on fire.  The blazing heat of the inferno that surrounds
you is almost too much to bear.  Yet though the fire gives off incredible
heat, it does not burn your flesh to the touch.  Clearly there is some
strange magic at work here, yet your mind cannot comprehend whatever spell
is causing this odd phenomenon, as the incredible heat pushes lingering
thoughts on the matter out of your consciousness.  

At the center of the flames, an onyx rack has been constructed, and tethered
to it are two chains of glowing white.  

[Exits: up] 
(Translucent) (White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(Translucent) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(White Aura) Sedros is here, fighting the twisted spirit of Tkanzhar.
(Dark Aura) A twisted spirit hovers before you, shrouded in an aura of black.

As you step into the passage you are immediately hit with an oppressive heat.
Climbing down a short spiral staircase, you quickly reach the bottom...
... only to find yourself face to face with the twisted spirit of Tkanzhar!
You are only slightly relieved to see that a cage of fire separates you and the demon.
The spirit glares at you, its sightless eyes smoldering.
[Tkanzhar] 'I know why you are here.'
[Tkanzhar] 'I can see into your heart. Into your mind. Into your soul...'
The demonic voice seethes with anger as it penetrates your thoughts.
[Tkanzhar] 'You should not have come. But then, you knew that.'
[Tkanzhar] 'Didn't you?'
A mirthless laugh fills your mind as the twisted spirit of Tkanzhar grins cruelly.

Aegreus says 'Tkanzhar, the fiend...'
 
Sedros says 'Demons...'
 
Aegreus narrows his eyes. 'We have to be getting closer.'

Thirteen feet tall, this hulking menace stands a head taller 
than the tallest of giants. Dark oily scales cover its entire 
muscular body, from the bestial head to the clawed fingers, 
to the grotesque feet, with two great leathery bat-like 
wings sprouting from its back. The head bears a striking 
resemblance to that of a ram, with two great horns puncturing 
its forehead, curved backwards only to complete a full circle 
and finish with their pointy end ahead. Venom drips from its
gaping maw full of oversized fangs, sending up streams of
smoke wherever it falls. Tied around its waist is a belt
of a dozen shrieking angel heads, their necks neatly severed 
by the massive flaming sword the creature holds in his clawed 
fist. Its legs again similar to that of a large animal, end 
in cloven hooves. Every fiber of the beast's body ripples with 
dark and otherworldly energy. Strange bluish-black tattoos are 
present on different parts of its body, seemingly crawling to 
form a strange mystic pattern, alas, somewhat incomplete.
The twisted spirit of Tkanzhar is in excellent condition.

the twisted spirit of Tkanzhar is using:
<worn on head>         a barren metal crown

Head down, the twisted spirit of Tkanzhar's eyes suddenly pop open.
The cage of fire fades away, leaving nothing between you and the spirit.
The twisted spirit of Tkanzhar stares at you, its face devoid of emotion.
[Tkanzhar] 'You are not worthy of this crown. I will destroy you.'
And then the demon lunges at you.

Aegreus snarls at the twisted spirit of Tkanzhar.

You say 'Oi. That crown... it looks familiar, but it's missing something!'

Sedros says 'Crown? He has the crown!'
 
Aegreus yells 'BE BANISHED!’

Aegreus says 'Weaken it!'

Aegreus says 'Praetorians!'

The twisted spirit of Tkanzhar is DEAD!!
The twisted spirit of Tkanzhar's fingers are severed from his hand.
Rellein gets a barren metal crown from the corpse of the twisted spirit of Tkanzhar.
Rellein sacrifices the corpse of the twisted spirit of Tkanzhar in the name of Knowledge.

Avrael says 'The crown..'

Aegreus turns to Rellein. 'Careful!'

Aegreus watches Rellein closely.

You say 'Toss the crown and the gems in the forge. DESTROY THEM!'

Avrael says 'Give it here..'

Aegreus looks at Rellein.

Atria says 'It may be tainted.'

Avrael nods.

The Fires of Justice
  The main platform of the Well dips inward slightly, and at the center of
that recessed section is a massive forge.  The huge contraption is built
entirely of onyx stone, the well-tempered edges glimmering softly by with
the orange light of the flames within, speckled intermittently with the
yellow glow of the dome far overhead.  

The blazing inferno within the forge is intense, forcing you to shield your
face and eyes from the heat as you draw near.  The fiery geyser roars upward
from a single jet in the center of the platform, ignited by an unknown force
below.  

[Exits: north east south west down]
     (Glowing) A massive forge built from pure onyx is here, an eternal flame roaring
within.
(Translucent) (White Aura) (Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(Translucent) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.

Rellein puts a barren metal crown in the Forge of Oblivion.

Avrael puts a jetblack gem in the Forge of Oblivion.

Avrael puts a bloodred gem in the Forge of Oblivion.

Avrael puts a virescent gem in the Forge of Oblivion.

Aegreus takes a step back.

Avrael attempts to use the Forge of Oblivion.
As the gems and crowns are placed into the forge, you feel uneasy.
Steeling yourself, you watch as the metal and stones begin to heat up.
The forge roars, the bluish-orange flame flickering higher as the bellows work.
Suddenly the earth underfoot begins to tremble and shake.
... and the fires of the forge have turned black!

Atria says 'Would the "Crown of Chaos" be a so barren?'

Atria sits down and thinks deeply.

Avrael sits down and thinks deeply.

Avrael says 'Gone...'

The Forge of Oblivion holds:
     Nothing.

You say 'Destroyed?'

Rellein says 'Why a forge?'

Sedros says 'Did...we win?'
Avrael says 'Seems to be.. destroyed..'

The earth begins to quake more violently.
As you are tossed about, the sense of apprehension grows.
And all the while the midnight flames roar higher and higher.
You hear a wailing scream swelling over the roar of the fire.

Sedros says 'Oh no...'

Rellein says 'Are we...building the crown of chaos?'

Aegreus narrows his eyes. 'Something...somethings not right...'

Avrael says 'You can not destroy that which is not completed..'

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'A barren crown and shards....and a forge...'

The screaming crescendos, reaching a fevered pitch.
Pressure begins building behind your eyes and you start getting dizzy.
The ground sways wildly underfoot and you struggle to stay standing.
As the tension mounts, you feel as though your head is going to burst.

Avrael says 'Be ready...'

Sedros says 'I blame the dwarf-giant....'

Atria nods in enthusiastic agreement with Rellein.

Avrael glares at Sedros.

Atria says 'But should we forge the crown?'

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'We should consider whether or not this is a
trap.'

Your vision turns red and then begins to fade to black.
You feel faint and your knees buckle, sending you crashing to the ground.
The end is surely approaching...

Aegreus turns to Sedros. 'No, sir... Eledhwen vouched for him.'

Talindra says 'Careful!'

Aegreus says 'This....we are doing what must be done.'

Atria says 'After that... thing do things to him.'

And then without warning, the screaming stops.
The earth settles and you rise unsteadily to your feet.
Looking about, your eyes land on the furnace and...
The gems and barren crown are gone!
Praise the Light! The Crown of Chaos has been destroyed!
You have completed your...

... you pause, the uneasy feeling returning.
Suddenly, a booming voice echoes in your mind.
YOU FOOLS THOUGHT YOU COULD DESTROY WHAT IS MINE?
THE CROWN OF CHAOS BELONGS TO ME ONCE MORE!
That's not good...

Aegreus grabs the side of his helmet, grimacing.

The air shimmers and a hazy form steps forward through the illusory curtain.
The psychic medium of chaos emerges, finally showing herself...
... and the crown, with all three gems attached, rests atop her head!

Sedros says 'You...'

Aegreus rests his eyes on the psychic medium.

Sedros says 'You're the one that we saw at the portal, aren't you!'

Avrael tells the group 'Prepare!'

His eyes wide, Aegreus steps toward the medium. His face changes to sheer rage.

Aegreus says 'Time to PAY!'

Before you hovers a human man shrouded in an aura of Darkness.
He is Laidar Krynn, and is named Verudant, the High Lord of
Chaos, and servant only to Chaos. He is used as a means
of communication between the realms of reality and the Chaos
Nexus, where Chaos resides. His skin is covered in thick
runes, and his eyes remain closed as he speaks.

the psychic medium of Chaos is using:
<worn on head>         the Reforged Crown of Chaos

The psychic medium of Chaos smirks at you, his grin dripping with condescension.
He says 'Thank you. It was so good of you to do my dirty work for me.'
He says 'After all, it would have taken quite the effort to do it myself.'
With a cruel laugh, the psychic medium of Chaos shakes his head.
He says 'But now I am afraid your usefulness is at an end.'
Grinning maliciously, the psychic closes his eyes. He concentrates deeply.
Then his eyes snap back open. They have turned solid black!
He says 'Time to die.'
And then without another word, he lunges at you.

Aegreus screams loudly at the psychic medium of Chaos.  Better leave before Aegreus blames you, too!!!

Aegreus says 'This is for ELEDHWEN!'

Aegreus yells 'In the NAME of GOD, we STRIKE you down, and BANISH you!'

The psychic medium of Chaos gasps for air, his hands shaking furiously.
Blood oozes from wounds all over his body as the psychic crumples to his knees.
The booming voice echoes in your mind once more:
YOU FOOLS! THE CROWN IS MINE. MINE! AAGGHHHHH!
Suddenly, the Reforged Crown of Chaos begins to glimmer and smoke.
The psychic medium of Chaos clutches at his head and screams in pain.
The light of the Crown grows brighter and brighter, blinding you.
And then with a final scream, the voice falls silent.
As your vision returns, you see the psychic is gone. The crown hangs in the air...
... and then clatters to the ground, cracking as it lands.
Several large fractures run down the crown's surface, and the glow flickers and goes out.
You have defeated the psychic medium and destroyed the Crown of Chaos!
You feel inspired by your triumphant deeds!

Aegreus yells 'BEGONE!'

The Fires of Justice
  The main platform of the Well dips inward slightly, and at the center of
that recessed section is a massive forge.  The huge contraption is built
entirely of onyx stone, the well-tempered edges glimmering softly by with
the orange light of the flames within, speckled intermittently with the
yellow glow of the dome far overhead.  

The blazing inferno within the forge is intense, forcing you to shield your
face and eyes from the heat as you draw near.  The fiery geyser roars upward
from a single jet in the center of the platform, ignited by an unknown force
below.  

[Exits: north east south west down]
     The corpse of the psychic medium of Chaos is lying here.
     (Glowing) A massive forge built from pure onyx is here, an eternal flame roaring
within.
(Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
Sedros the Holy Knight is here.
Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.
(White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
(Translucent) (White Aura) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.

The corpse of the psychic medium of Chaos holds:
     the Sundered Crown of Chaos

Avrael gets the Sundered Crown of Chaos from the corpse of the psychic medium of Chaos.

His face awash with fury, Aegreus begins taking deep breaths, attempting to calm down.

Sedros says 'Aegreus....'

Aegreus looks down at the corpse, his eyes wide with anger.

You say 'Oi... give it 'ere.'

Avrael presents the crown to you..

Avrael gives you the Sundered Crown of Chaos.

Aegreus fiddles around with something in his leather sack.

Bragos draws his sword. 'Stand back, mates...'

Avrael says 'To you.. TITAN.'

Avrael glares at Sedros.

Talindra takes a step back.

Aegreus produces a small, bright ball of light from his leather sack.

Avrael shields his face with his wings..

Aegreus takes a knee near the back of the group, and braces himself with his hands on the ground as
he looks up at you.

Tossing the crown up into the air, Bragos gives a wordless shout. 'AIIII!'

He swings the MASSIVE blade through the air and slams the edge directly into the crown,
causing it to SHATTER into a million pieces.

Sedros sighs.

Sedros says 'It's over...'

Aegreus smiles, bowing his head. He murmurs a small prayer.

As a fine dust of dull metal settles over the ground, Bragos nods in satisfaction. He
sheathes the sword and bows formally. 'Ye did well... ya runts.' He adds the last bit with a laugh.

Talindra smiles happily.

Rubbing a small wound on his hand, Aegreus, still kneeling, holds a palm up, allowing the small ball
of light to roll around in his palm for a moment.

The ground begins begin to quake.

Sedros steadies himself.

Sedros says 'What's that? I thought we destroyed it?'

Talindra drinks water from a magical spring.

Sedros bows his head and is filled with a virtuous light.

Aegreus speaks, his eyes fixed on the ball. 'This...this little thing..' He chuckles to himself.

Stone and rubble begin to fall about you as the ground begins to split.

Aegreus says 'This was a gift... nothing major, just a little ball of light.'

Talindra stands to one side.

Avrael snaps his head over to the rubble falling, 'Time to go.

Talindra nods.

Aegreus rolls the ball out on the floor. 'Commander Eledhwen gave it too me.'

Shadow and smoke begin to emit from the broken floor as bellows of infernal laughter echo through
the area.

Aegreus snorts, chuckling.

Avrael says 'Something.. comes...'

Avrael says 'Or rather.. someone...'

Damned spirits fly wailing from below.

Aegreus slowly stands and backs away.

A voice rings out from the shadows. 'Well done...'

Razozuul slowly fades into existence.

Atria says 'You!'

Avrael says 'You...'

Atria points excitedly at Razozuul!

Talindra looks at Razozuul.

[Razozuul] 'This makes our work much easier.'

Aegreus lowers his head and peers at Razozuul.

Aegreus looks at Razozuul.

Avrael says 'The medium thought so as well..'

Sedros glares at Razozuul.

Aegreus tilt his head. 'Explain?'

The haunting cackle of legions rings through the area.

Frowning, Aegreus backs up near Talindra.

Sedros says 'The Crown has been destroyed. Don't let this creature taint our victory....'

[Razozuul] 'There is no more binding to this place, you have set them free...'

Aegreus narrows his eyes. 'Set WHO, free?'

Stands amid spirits escaping from the cracked ground.

Aegreus quickly scans the room.

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'The...assassins?'

'Oi, whatsat?' Bragos' eyes narrow, the air crackling with electricity as he glowers at the
demon.

Razozuul tips his hat and vanishes into shadow.

An Immortal slowly fades into thin air.

Talindra sits down and thinks deeply.

Rellein says 'This is a prison...have we...opened the door to a prison?'

Aegreus watches as the spirits continue to rise through the room, wailing loudly.

'GET BACK HERE, YA SCRAWNY BASTARD!' Bragos howls loudly, shaking his fist.

 Avrael scans all around.

Vile spirits pour form the cracked ground.

Aegreus shakes his head. 'No....no..NO! It has to be a lie...it's a bluff. Commander Eledhwen's
intel was good.

Aegreus continues. 'It's a feint....surely.' His voice trails off.

Avrael nods.

Atria says 'Is it?'

Avrael says 'A ploy to convince us of our failure in victory.'

Bragos' eyes glow white and he begins to shimmer with a bright light.

Rellein looks around, and in a raspy voice, says, 'We need to find out who built this prison and
why.'

Sedros says 'It was built to hold these things in....'

Sedros says 'Are we sure....are we positive that we dispatched of them all?'

Sedros frowns.

A lightning bolt lashes out of the sky and strikes the nearest spirit just as it wrenches
free of the ground underfoot.

Aegreus recoils from the blast.

Avrael says 'Bragos..'

Rellein says 'Let not there be pride, we cannot assume we are above coercion.'

The wailing spirits escape as rapidly as you can see them, their course chaotic and destination unknown.

More lightning rains down all around you, rapidly striking the ground all around. Spirit after spirit is torn asunder by the powerful blasts.

Aegreus raises his arms and backs away, attempting to shield himself from the blasts.

The wailing begins to fade with each lightning strike.

His eyes squinting, Aegreus reaches up and closes his visor.

Your hair stands on end, the electric current pulsing through the air sending a shiver down your spine. With every breath, a dozen lightning blasts strike the spirits as they rise.

Aegreus says 'Wha....what's going on? What's happening?'

Aegreus turns to you. 'Admiral?'

'Get out of here!' Bragos shouts, waving his hands, his body glowing brightly. 'I will hold them off as long as I can!'

Aegreus springs into action. 'Knights!

A small line of white light pops into existence, lightning still raining all around.

The line begins to rotate even as the bolts continue, raining hell down upon the ground.

Aegreus says 'Admiral! What can we do to help!?'

Atria says 'Leave?'

Sedros says 'As crass as it sounds...'

'YOU CAN RUN!' Bragos shouts. Suddenly the line snaps open, forming a gateway.

Sedros says 'I tend to agree.'

Through the portal, you see... the castle!

Atria nudges Aegreus.

Aegreus hesitates for a moment, and then turns toward the portal.

Aegreus says 'Everyone! Through!'

'GO!' Bragos shouts, his voice a loud rumble as the lightning continues to rain down on the
spirits.

Atria jumps through the gate.

Atria disappears in a mushroom cloud.

Aegreus sighs, hesitating, and steps through.

Avrael says 'Go! Quick!'

Sedros looks around, nervously.

Aegreus disappears in a mushroom cloud.

Sedros says 'Go...go!'

Avrael says 'Bragos..'

'GO!' Bragos shouts.

Avrael disappears in a mushroom cloud.
Sedros disappears in a mushroom cloud.
Talindra disappears in a mushroom cloud.
Rellein disappears in a mushroom cloud.

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Bragos: 'Take care of the commander, you landlubbers.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'Sail the seas with Erelei's light, Admiral Bragos, Titan of his
Light.'

The roaring of a Titan can be heard from far off, bellowing in pain, but perhaps victory.

[PRAETORIAN] Bragos: 'For the King!'

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'For the King!'

A Courtyard
  A pristine courtyard greets the person entering the castle, gleaming
white bricks covering the middle, while a double row of scratched, scorched
flagstones rim the courtyard on all sides, memorial to the times when the
Castle was nearly destroyed.  The eastern and western wall bear dozens of
dented shields in neat row upon row, all showing the signs of past battle,
some nearly broken in half, while others look like deformed hammered out
metal sheets.  A few still show the Knight's sigil.  Between the rows of
shields, a line of nicked swords, axes and other weapons rim the exits to
the east and west.  

[Exits: north east south west]
(White Aura) Rellein the Holy Knight is here.
(White Aura) Talindra the Holy Matriarch of Healing is here.
Sedros the Holy Knight is here.
(Bright Aura) Avrael the Acolyte of Gihen is here.
(Translucent) Aegreus the High Cavalier of the Crusades is here.
(White Aura) Atria the Holy Lady is here.

Talindra says 'I do not believe dead, wounded perhaps, but not dead... at least I hope.'

Aegreus stands, his head still bowed low.

Atria nods at Talindra.

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'All hail Sir Eledhwen....Commander of the Righteous.'

PRAETORIAN] (Praetorian) Avrael: 'All hail Commander Eledhwen.. All hail Admiral Bragos!'

Talindra says 'There has always been evil in the world, this will not change it, perhaps make it a
bit more complicated, but we will find a way.'

Avrael says 'Knights..'

Avrael looks at each of you.

Atria says 'I don't think we have unleashed anything Rellein. It was already almost getting out when
we arrived.'

Talindra smiles happily.

Avrael says 'This evil was coming regardless..'

Sedros says 'The portal...Eledhwen said something was wrong.'

Avrael says 'I am proud of each and every one of you.'

Sedros says 'It was coming, I agree.

Talindra nods.

Avrael says 'What we did thwarted their plans..'

Aegreus nods at Atria, and then Avrael. 'You two are right.

Rellein says 'I fear I shall not sleep well knowing there is a place such as that, full of such
evil, with a door that might be ajar.'

Avrael says 'Though we may not have seen a full success, Chaos now knows the Knights of the Crown
will rise.'

Talindra smiles happily.

Talindra says 'Rise we did!'

Aegreus continues. 'Without Eledhwen's sacrifice to see to it that we could enter...who knows what
would have happened. Sedros bows his head and is filled with a virtuous light.

Avrael says 'Lord Eledhwen would be.. will be.. proud of us all.'

Talindra nods.

Avrael says 'The Crown of Chaos is shattered.. broken.. destroyed.'

Avrael says 'And it was because of the men and women in this room.'

Aegreus lets out a long sigh. 'It was enough that the Commander would lay his life down... and put
supreme faith in us, to see it through.

Avrael says 'Through the dedication of those here, the Commander, and the Admiral...'

Avrael says 'Aabahran knows no greater evil than it currently does.'

Avrael says 'Lord Erelei watches and deems our actions valiant and with fervor.'

Avrael walks to Aegreus, 'Lord of Battle, do not lower your head... Keep it raised to the horizon so
you may lead us.

Talindra nods.

Avrael says 'Talindra..'

Sedros nods at Avrael.

Avrael says 'Aegreus will need your wisdom, as we all do...'

Avrael says 'Rellein, Sedros, Atria, and myself..'

Aegreus nods at Avrael. 'Without the likes of you all...' He trails off momentarily. 'My heart longs
for the Commander. I pray I can be -half- the Knight he was, at least.'

Avrael says 'We look to you two for our orders.'

Talindra nods.

Avrael says 'Knights!'

Talindra smiles happily.

Rellein says 'The destruction of the crown is an unmitigated victory. But much follow up now...much
new...information...and still some, to be gained.'

Avrael says 'Salute!'

Avrael proffers a brisk salute to Aegreus.

Aegreus stands at attention and gives a brisk salute.

Talindra stands at attention and gives a brisk salute.

Rellein proffers a brisk salute to Aegreus.

Sedros says 'I need to take some time to pray, Sirs and Madaams.'

Sedros bows deeply.

Sedros excuses himself.

Talindra bows deeply.

Avrael snaps to Talindra..

Avrael proffers a brisk salute to Talindra.

Atria nods.

Talindra hugs Aegreus.

Talindra says 'Well done Sir.'

Aegreus nods. 'Remember this day. Thank you, brothers and sisters. Truly.'

Talindra nods.

Aegreus says 'I am blessed. God is certainly with us, there is no doubt.' 

Talindra smiles happily.

Atria says 'I must leave you for now.'

Atria waves happily.

Aegreus says 'I am thankful each of you is safe...the Commander would be proud.'

Talindra nods.

Aegreus says 'I know it.'Aegreus thanks Atria heartily.

Talindra smiles happily.

Talindra says 'As do I.'

Aegreus turns to the south, his eyes trained on the portcullis.

Aegreus slowly turns in a circle, examining the castle up and down.

Talindra says 'A moment.'

Talindra smiles happily.

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'That little ball of light...Eledhwen found me cold, naked,
and alone, near the Nexus fortress.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'Unable to enter into the plains of Winter as a ghost, he
twiddles his thumbs, made that little ball of light, and then led me into the cold, to retrieve my 
body.'

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'I've held onto that little thing for....years, now, I
guess?'

[PRAETORIAN] (Lord of Battle) Aegreus: 'Such a small, seemingly insignificant thing, but such an
embodiment of the Commander himself, I thought.'

[KNIGHT] (Squire) Rellein: 'Perhaps its continued glow can serve as a symbol of hope. It glows
bright in the darkness.'