Celebration of the Destroyer

[Jancis]

[align=center]Little Ala Mhigo was a bustle of activity as pilgrims arrived. Refugees watched with quiet reserve, children growing closer than the adults as everyone hovered towards the Destroyer's stone tucked on the upper ledge of the rocky shelf. Light shined down in hazy streams to illuminate the room along with torches, just enough to bring life up around Rhalgr's symbol.[/align]

 

[align=center]Jancis Milburga raises a hand bell over her head. "Welcome Pilgrims! Thank you for coming all this way!"[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]J'maaira stands to the back. Reiner hushes slightly and moving back to his place. "I shall speak to you after my Sister." "Well, whatever is happening seems to be starting now." "As am I, mein Herr-- but it seems we're starting. I'd best be quiet, seems like." "Perhaps the rekindling will inspire the younger generation. That lass has a way of bringing odd folk together." Lysha nods and goes quiet to listen. "That she does."[/align]

 

[align=center]"Today we honor and celebrate the Destroyer! I have heard so much from dear friends and acquaintances alike about their feelings and more so their confusion. A myriad of emotion can be invoked; an entire culture inspired by the same."

[/align]

 

[align=center]"Truth is ever to be found in simplicity, and not in the multiplicity and confusion of things." She smiles and looks about the crowd. "In this I ask you to share your emotions with those around you. To think of what has changed for you and what to see going forward."[/align]

 

[align=center]"Today we are graced by many who understand these feelings well and will share words and song."[/align]

 

[align=center]Jancis bows to the crowd, welcoming them to sit and make themselves comfortable. Underneath the ledge drums and flutes start with a steady and empower beat. The song of women and men rising to match their fervor. [/align]

 

[align=center]http://tinyurl.com/ptduheh[/align]

[align=center]QIkx1bwtETI [/align]

[Jancis]

[align=center]"At this time I would like to start out our Celebration by welcoming Lady Wulf to share words and bring some perspective to why we have gathered here today."[/align]

 

[align=center]Brynhilde Wulf bows and steps forward, the strength of her form not diminished by the dark cowl.[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]“We are the children of Ala Mhigo, and Rhalgr is our Lord. Ever do we walk in your thunderous steps, O Breaker of Worlds. Grant us the strength to turn our fists toward destruction where we must, and our hands toward mercy where we can.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“ … Oft have those of other nations asked me what kind of a life can be lived in the worship of destruction. And oft have I replied that there can be no good life lived without it.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“But that we shall get to shortly. First, we shall have a tale. ‘Tis a glorious tale of bravery and battle, courage and suffering on an unimaginable scale. ‘Tis a tale of war most terrible, of death, of shattered lives and sundered dreams. ‘Tis a tale of destruction.”[/align]

 

[align=center]Brynhilde pauses, a wide smile stretching over her lips. “Enjoy.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“The scene; the western banks of the Velodyna river, five-score cycles past. The Ala Mhigan king, driven by avarice, sought to conquer parts of the Shroud for Ala Mhigo. The Kingdom began mobilizing for war, and Gridania scrambled to bolster its defenses.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“Thus came the start of the Autumn War, a war of great and terrible destruction. To the field took two bold leaders, each beloved by their people.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“Leading the ‘Mhigan charge was the great General Gylbarde, brave and true, loyal to the Fist of Rhalgr and ready to see King Manfred’s will done.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“To save them from the ‘Mhigan onslaught, the renowned lancer Vainchelon, a man of cunning and patience, rose to lead Gridania.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“These two great men and their troops clashed time and again at the border, with neither side yielding an ilm.”[/align]

 

[align=center]Brynhilde raises her staff, and slams it hard against the stone before her feet. Are the shadows stirring at the corners of your eyes, or is it a trick of the light?[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]"To break the stalemate, Vainchelon devised a plan; feign a retreat to the Nine Ivies and lure the ‘Mhigans into territory that would better favour the Gridanians.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“But fate dealt the forest nation a cruel hand, and malady struck Vainchelon low before he could see his strategy to fruition.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“In his place rose Osbern, an inexperienced yet ambitious officer. Lacking Vainchelon’s patience for a long, defensive war, he disregarded his predecessor’s plan and instead ordered a full assault on the ‘Mhigan position.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“But Gylbarde learned of this. He ordered his men to take up positions along the path the Gridanians would take in their attack, and ambushed them as they moved in. Like wolves among the herd the ‘Mhigan forces tore through Osbern’s lines. The Gridanians suffered terrible losses.”[/align]

 

[align=center]The shadows stir once more, becoming briefly the forms of men falling. When you look, they vanish from sight.[/align]

 

[align=center]“Osbern stubbornly pushed forward, ordering his beleaguered soldiers onward on a long and exhausting march through enemy-held territory. Eventually they reached a hilltop,  where they entrenched themselves and prepared to hold the ‘Mhigans off.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“... But this had been Gylbarde’s plan all along. Encircling the Gridanians on their hilltop camp so as to deprive them of food and water, the Mhigans rained a relentless hail of arrows upon them, slaughtering many of their number.”[/align]

 

[align=center]Brynhilde slams her staff once more against the stone. A pained cry rings from the shadows.[/align]

 

[align=center]“Thus ended the First Battle of Tinolqa, with countless dead littering the banks of the river and a crushing Ala Mhigan victory. However, the tide of battle was about the change…”[/align]

 

[align=center]“Fate, as if to make up for robbing Gridania of Vainchelon, ordained that the Holy See of Ishgard should intervene. Appealing to Limsa Lominsa and Ul’dah to see that the defense of Gridania was in their shared mutual interest, the See convinced each of them to join with in saving Gridania in their bell of need.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“Thus was the first Eorzean Alliance born.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“The four nations together joined forces against Ala Mhigo, and after a long and bitter war of move and counter move, of death and turmoil and a sea of blood, Gylbarde was slain and Ala Mhigo’s war of conquest was ended.”[/align]

 

[align=center]Brynhilde drums her staff once more. The dark seems to lift slightly.[/align]

 

[align=center]“Treaties were signed and borders were drawn. Agreements were settled, and the realm entered a tenuous peace thereafter. The nations signed a pact; to co-exist in independence, and never to encroach upon another’s lands.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“... You may wonder why it is that I offered you a tale that I called ‘glorious’, and yet is a tale of my own homeland’s defeat. The truth is, this story - a history lesson, if you will - tells us much of what we should know of Rhalgr’s philosophy.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“In the raging fires of destruction were the bonds of Eorzea’s nations tested, and in those fires did they hold true. Amidst death and chaos did rise something new; the Eorzean Alliance, which of course would be revived when the cycle of destruction inevitably repeated with the arrival of the Empire much later.”[/align]

 

[align=center]“Although Ala Mhigo fell to the invaders twenty cycles passed, the legacy of its aggression generations ago preserved the rest of Eorzea in the face of another invading aggressor.”[/align]

 

[align=center]Brynhilde bows her head. “ ... Thus have our Shamans always taught; a life lived without destruction will only ever be life devoid of creation.”[/align]

 

[align=center]"Thank you." The crowd erupted in applause and some deep cheers as Brynhilde stepped back down to join the group, nodding as she passed. "Thank you. Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."[/align]

[Jancis]

[align=center]"In following with the history of many, I am very blessed to have a story passed down from generations before. Lady Cliodhna, would you be so kind as to share your tale now?"[/align]

 

[align=center]Cliodhna Eoghan nods at Jancis, climbing down from her perch a tad slowly and walks to the center, clearing her throat a moment before speaking. Though soft, the echo loud enough to carry her words.[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]"I'll admit...I Was rather young when I was forced from my home. I may not have the memories some of you have or they may not be as clear...But I do have a story my mother once told me when I was small and...Well Frustrated to the point of a tantrum in my lack of skills she was trying to pass on. I was unable to break a board at the time, I had tried so many times and gotten so angry; I grabbed it from her and flung it far as I could before running off. She found me later; pouting and tearing up grass still frustrated. I had expected her to yell at me; but instead she started to tell me this story..."[/align]

 

[align=center]♣♣♣[/align]

 

[align=center]Long ago in the hills of Gyr, lived a lone monk named Strongfist, He had two young students both opposite in nearly every way but as close as brothers. They were eager for their training and followed their masters orders, no matter the request. They grew strong and proud, both absolute in their training and their devotion to Rhalgr.[/align]

 

[align=center]Years passed and both boys were of a point Strongfist deemed they needed to travel the wilderness to hone their skills; though one pupil, know as Fafnir for his strong heart, protested greatly. These protests fell on deaf ears as their master ordered them to go out as far as they could to train or never return again.[/align]

 

[align=center]The pair quickly gathered their things and set out, traveling and training as they went. Living off the land and furthering eachother's skill. After what felt like moons, they were suddenly approached by a stranger in their current camp. Fafnir welcomed their unexpected guest but wary of them all the same. Though they were no mark or symbol identifying them as one of their brothers; he could feel a power well within the stranger. [/align]

 

[align=center]They shared a meal and polite conversation but too soon the strangers intentions were known; like lighting were his strikes as he took both on at the same time, seemingly enjoying the brutal attack with a sick passion. Fafnir's friend was quick to fall but life still clung to him, seeing this enraged the boy and he struck back harder to the stranger. It was in the midst of this battle Fanfir felt the surge of power; similar to his chakra but different. Staring into the eyes of the stranger it was clear he had felt the same. Sensing the tide of the fight had quickly shifted, the stranger tried his best to hold the advantage but was quickly overthrown by this new power welling in Fafnir, a darkly tainted chakra. Near killing him, Fafnir used his rage and fueled it into his punches leaving the stranger a mangled mess on the forest floor.[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]Gathering up his brother, Fafnir dragged him back to their home, expecting a reprimand or confusion from their master in their current state but instead they arrive to find the home in shambles and Strongfist dead on the floor. The unknown rage again swelled in Fafnir, causing his dark chakra to manifest as he swore vengeance on who had done this. Leaving his oath brother to care for himself; Fafnir struck out once more intent to chase own the murderer of their master. [/align]

 

[align=center]For months he traveled with no word of who was behind it, carrying the rage inside him and close to his heart the entire time. Then as fate would have it; Ubel made it a point to seek out Fafnir and openly admitted killing his master, lips pulled into a sneer as he did so. This caused Fafnir to fly into a rage, barreling down on Ubel as he egged him on; encouraging their fight. Time stretched on as they fought neither one giving an inch, the ground below their feet shook as their strikes clashed with the shattering noise of thunder. Finally as if satisfied; Ubel released a powerful attack, reducing the ground to rubble and leaving Fafnir in a giant crater, laughing as he departed.[/align]

 

[align=center]In time, Fafnir was able to make his way from the scene of their battle and home once more to his brother, but something had changed. He had carried and relied on his destructive power for so long, he was losing the light of his chakra from his teachings. Arriving at their Strongfist's home, Fafnir found his brother in the yard training. Intent to center himself, he challenged him to a friendly match, but all too soon that force of destruction took hold once more of Fafnir. His hits landing hard, striking points vital as his mind raged it's own war. This was his brother! He shouldn't be fighting with so much hatred in his heart towards him, the intent to kill should be quelled. Not wishing to kill the only form of family he has left; Fafnir inner struggle was quickly shown to outwardly, stopping the match.[/align]

 

[align=center]Sitting in the dirt; he recounts everything that had happen since taking up his quest for vengeance. Deeply troubled by this, his brother slowly unties a strip of crimson cloth he had been wearing on his writs. It was a piece torn from their master's garments and tying it around Funfair's own wrist, reminds him of their most important lesson. "Unfocused anger, mindless aggression does nothing but destroy the self. Focuses it and you'll destroy that which plagues you." Fafnir nodded grimly, a new-found resolve to focuses his feelings toward his task of avenging Strongfist.[/align]

 

[align=center]"At the time I didn't understand it, but my mother was trying to explain that if I continued to give into my frustrations, it would only continue hindering my attempts..."[/align]

[align=center]"There are many things in all our lives that deserve destruction in one form or another, don't let that anger towards them consume you, focus it and remove the problem."[/align]

 

[align=center]Cliodhna softly trails off, nodding once more to Jancis before slipping back into the crowd near Erik. Zachary clapped loudly and cheered. "Go Clio!" Cliodhna hides her face one Erik's chest, shoulders shaking slightly.[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

[Jancis]

[align=center]"Lady, you are never one to be lost for words. Pray share some of your insight with us now."[/align]

 

[align=center]"Certainly." Ciel Sauveterre comes up in front of the crowd, bowing. "Hello again, my friends."[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]"Mayhap it seems peculiar that one such as myself - who enjoys peace and prefers to bring cheer and hope to those who need it - ought to be here speaking fondly of the Destroyer."[/align]

 

[align=center]Ciel raises a hand, "As a bard, I mean not to romanticize destruction but to again offer some perspective on Rhalgr's purpose as one who considers all of the Twelve with fondness. This perspective may be considered mild compared to tales already told, but He has intervened in mine own life, as He has with all of you."[/align]

 

[align=center]"His work is most often recognized as bold.  One cannot deny the brutality of war, the chaos wrought by Primals and other forces upon the land and the lives which dwell thereupon, and in this way His presence is the most obvious and immediately felt.  'Tis easy to forget the truth and overlook what occurs before us every sun."[/align]

 

[align=center]"Without destruction, nothing would change."[/align]

 

[align=center]"We know change is normal, and constant.  Everything ends, the weather shifts and a bright, sunlit morn is ruined by the rising of a summer thunderstorm.  But this, too, has its purpose and it does eventually end.  In this way, we know destruction is consistent and yet it still manages to surprise us when we least expect it."[/align]

 

[align=center]"We go through life thinking we have a plan for everything, we know where we are going, yet there are times when we have to change our plans or take a different road when something unforeseen crosses our way.  And sometimes we drift until we have no choice but to stand still and acknowledge what impedes us, and then destruction becomes our own tool with which to remove said obstacle."[/align]

 

[align=center]"Rhalgr places His power in our hands, and Nymeia leaves it up to us to determine what fate will be wrought of our actions -with- that power. It changes us as we change the world and lives around us."[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]"Of course, there is just cause to fear Rhalgr but also to embrace Him, for without Him Byregot would lack materials to work with.  You have to destroy a tree to create firewood, and that firewood is burned to keep a hearth going. You must overturn packed soil and fold in the ashes from the hearth to sow and nurture crops. You have to take the produce from those crops and cut them into pieces, and slay a buffalo from your herd to get meat to make a stew."[/align]

 

[align=center]"Destruction and creation are, in and of themselves, a tenet of alchemy... a fundamental rule of exchange: Nothing is gained without sacrifice."[/align]

 

[align=center]"On a more personal level... one might sacrifice the freedom of wandering for the anchor of home.  A wanderer like me may say that all the world is home, not realizing something could ever happen to redefine what home means. Sometimes we don't realize just how lonely our chosen path is until we have someone standing beside us, come to us like a levinbolt out of the blue.  Our loneliness is thus destroyed, and a different future is crafted."[/align]

 

[align=center]"This leaf has spent many cycles blowing in the wind only to be swept up in someone else's storm for a while, and then caught and held between the pages of a tome yet to be writ in full.  The point is... whether we expect it or not, everything changes. What we thought we knew, what we thought we understood, is destroyed and a new path is revealed in its place.  This is the truth of His purpose. We should never fear what Rhalgr is trying to teach us."[/align]

 

[align=center]Ciel bows. "Thank you, Lady Ciel!" Chachanji watches Ciel leave, the first actual focused action of the afternoon. Brynhilde comments, "There's a lass who understands."[/align]

[Jancis]

[align=center]"It is a personal privilege for me to introduce the next person to share a story this sun. Lady Ridah, please the floor is yours to share your tale."[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]Jana Ridah takes the "stage", standing somewhat uneasily before the crowd, her eyes still rimmed by the dark circles of sleeplessness. She scans the crowd as she begins to speak.[/align]

 

[align=center]"Hello. My name is Jana Ridah, career adventurer... And today, I'd like to impart a tale. One I first read when I was studying in Ul'dah with the Thaumaturgists, in their library. Some of you may have heard it before, though I hope my telling is a bit different from the text."[/align]

 

[align=center]Jana clears her throat before beginning her story. [/align]

[align=center]"Once upon a time, in La Noscea, there was a farmer who raised cattle. He was of modest means and made a modest profit, all in all not a bad way to live."[/align]

 

[align=center]This farmer had a brother, a brother who had left the farm at a young age to pursue his true calling of... Of painting. He'd made a name for himself in Gridania with his lifelike paintings, said by many to be close to the real thing.[/align]

 

[align=center]At one point, the painter traveled to meet with his brother the farmer, to eat and drink and share stories of their youths. But the farmer had come to resent the painter, whom he saw as living a frivolous life free of hard work.[/align]

 

[align=center]When the painter arrived, the brothers ate and drank and made merry, but he noticed that his brother the farmer had been acting somewhat distant, so he told him a story of his success, thinking it'd cheer him up.[/align]

 

[align=center]The painter told his brother about a painting he'd sold recently, one that had turned enough profit on its own to pay for his trip to La Noscea and back again, and more besides. This painting was of one of the bulls on the farm.[/align]

 

[align=center]"Isn't it great, brother? That one of the bulls on your farm now hangs over a noble's mantle so that I could see you?"[/align]

 

[align=center]The farmer, belly heavy with mead, lost all pretense of calm. "You ran off to live your easy life and now you credit -my bull- that I raised with my own two hands for your success?!"[/align]

 

[align=center]The enraged, drunken farmer began chasing his brother around, fists raised over his head. The painter ran and ran around the house, until he was out of house to run through, and climbed out an open window...[/align]

 

[align=center]Into the pen of the farmer's prize bull.[/align]

 

[align=center]

[/align]

 

[align=center]The painter, remembering how easily bulls are surprised by sudden movement, suddenly found himself being charged by the object of his masterpiece![/align]

 

[align=center]As the bull charged, the farmer arrived at the window the painter had jumped from and with a strong yank, pulled him inside by his collar, just in time for the bull to clip the painter with its horns![/align]

 

[align=center]As the painter panted and bled on the farmer's floor, and as the bull outside whirled about angrily, the farmer began to treat his brother's leg with a gentle hand, wrapping it in ointment and bandages and carrying him to his finest bed to rest.[/align]

 

[align=center]The painter was stunned, and wept with joy that his brother had grown kind. And the farmer joyously laughed, claiming he was happy his brother was still alive. But... The farmer was lying.[/align]

 

[align=center]He laughed and hooted and hollered, his rancor sated... The painter's bull may have sold for whatever amount of gil in the world, but only his bull actually had the power to maim a person![/align]

 

[align=center]Jana laughs a bit to herself as she reaches the "punch line" of her story, but settles down. "Um..."[/align]

 

[align=center]"The power to destroy is the power to affect the real world with change, and to do so quickly."[/align]

 

[align=center]"In a sense, it is the realest way a person can change the world with their own two hands. And while it may not be the best option all of the times..."[/align]

 

[align=center]"It is often the simplest. Thank you for listening."[/align]

 

[align=center]Jana slowly wanders off the stage, wiping her brow as she's finally out of the public eye.[/align]

[align=center][/align]

[align=center]((This was a retelling of the short story "The Bull," by Saki!))[/align]

[Jancis]

[align=center]"Sir Armstrong you have taught many with both word and, particularly action. Would you please honor us with some of your teachings."[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]Berrod Armstrong stepped forward; his stride brimmed with confidence and physical power -- and yet there was reverence and appreciation in the manner he regarded the crowd once he had come to a stop. "There are precious few left who walk the Destroyer's path," He began. All traces of his Ul'Dahn street brogue had evaporated, replaced by a clear Ala Mhigan accent. Formal speech for the occasion, likely. "So it gladdens me to see so many here today, even those who are just visitors, or curious."[/align]

 

[align=center]The highlander didn't smile to demonstrate his words, but he pressed on nonetheless. "My people, my nation, were once conquerors. Aside from the wars and grudges of old, the lessons of the destroyer were a core part of our strength. Often is it whispered that those who worship a destroyer are doomed to destruction themselves -- but this is not so. We were destroyed because our leader strayed from Him."[/align]

 

[align=center]"A man who could not destroy his doubts, as those who served him had long destroyed their own. A man who could not destroy his fear, as those around him had learned well enough to do. A man who could not destroy his selfishness, and refused to join hands with those who had torn down the barriers between them. A man who could not destroy his foolishness, as those at his counsel strove every day to do. So in the end, he destroyed himself, and our way of life."[/align]

[align=center]J'maaira closes her eyes in quiet reverence and Tiergan nods.[/align]

 

[align=center]Berrod paused for a moment to give those gathered a moment to process it all. When he spoke, his voice carried power -- not just the power of words, but...something else, something aetheric that radiated from his throat with enough intensity to carry what he said high above the stone walls in a nigh reverberating echo.[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]"None of us here are kings. We are mostly simply men and women, living and surviving in this realm. Yet it is no less important to hold the purpose of destruction in your hearts and let it guide you. Destroy your doubts! Destroy your fears! Destroy your selfishness; Destroy your greed. Destroy your hatreds! Harness destruction. Control it, direct it, and it is a force of improvement with equal only in the Builder."[/align]

 

[align=center]"The old scriptures say that Rhalgr ceaselessly strikes at the Builder's great spire; but instead of reducing it to rubble, the lightning serves only to power it. We are, all of us, alike to that spire. Let His levin fall upon us and smite away all that holds us back; let it destroy the things that make us wretched and limited -- and in so doing, let us find power and strength in it."[/align]

 

[align=center]Berrod paused again before offering a blessing by way of closing words. "Like His levin, I hope that my words have struck your minds and hearts. Walk in His light, and may He smite your foes -- including the ones within yourselves. Thank you."[/align]

[align=center]"Well said!" "Exceptional."[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

[Jancis]

[align=center]"And now to bring our celebration to a close, Master Telluride you have a song that is worthy of Rhalgr?"

 

[/align]

[align=center]Nathan Telluride steps up "I believe I do!"[/align]

 

[align=center]Brothers, sisters, devoted of Rhalgr, who could fail to be moved by the words of our speakers, they who honor the god tonight?[/align]

[align=center]Before I make my own offering to you and the Destroyer, I am compelled to take a form more fitting for it....[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

[align=center]J'maaira laughs at Nathan Telluride while Lottie struggles to breath. Nathan's voice becomes deep and gravelly. "Hear me! First, the god sends a missive to you all."[/align]

 

[align=center]Children of Calamity! You feel that night’s terror yet linger. You have seen fire, and you have seen pain. But I make an honorable demand of you.[/align]

 

[align=center]Don't hide away. Don't give in to fear, despair, or the threat of death, when you see injustice. Don't hide away, just for the illusion of safety. Don't hide away, or there will be no end to subjugation.[/align]

 

[align=center]The world awaits your courage. Decide, lest others decide for you, and let Rhalgr’s wrath be directed upon the unjust.[/align]

 

[align=center]With tonight's tribute of your will and power, we will preserve the memories of the last battle of old Ala Mhigo, with a song of war: "Rhalgr's Pride!"[/align]

[align=center]

But as I give to you this tribute to the Destroyer's chosen, I ask a boon of every monk, every disciple of the fist. At the end of each line of my song, I ask of you, to help me honor Ala Mhigo with a stomp of power, like so![/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

[align=center]Nathan points to the crowd, and begins to stomp the beat.[/align]

 

[align=center]♪ Look to the sunrise, dust on the horizon, the first sign of Garlemald's coming attack. ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Wards of the temple, our numbers have dwindled, but gather we will, to send those bastards back. ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Open your chakras and take your positions; steady your forms, for there's no time to spare ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Gathering speed as we charge the invaders, blood and cacophony hang in the air ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Running, leaping, striking, ♪[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]♪ Spinning, whirling, dodging, charging again ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Monks.... live to fight, fight to live, win or die, ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Strive.... dare to fight, fight to win, for Rhalgr's pride! ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Engage the flank of the enemy's column; break their positions and then move aside. ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Strike when disorientation's upon them; Crumble the magitek, humble their pride. ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Armor approaches with sunset behind it: entire companies of striding steel. ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Strike to the last, oh, my brothers and sisters; for Ala Mhigo, we die ere we yield. ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Diving, sweeping, striking; ♪[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]♪ Whirling, breaking, twisting, charging again; ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Monks... live to fight, fight to live, win or die, ♪[/align]

[align=center]♪ Strive... dare to fight, to the last, for Rhalgr's pride! ♪[/align]

 

[align=center]Nathan stretches out his arms, and sends a final, cacophonous growl into the air; he then falls forward, as his form shifts back to a more, familiar outline, shaking his head as if he were a hound shedding water.[/align]

 

[align=center]The crowd erupts in cheers and applause! “huzzah” "Thank you! Master Telluride!" "I have never experienced anything like that... " "By and far, this was an exceptional event."[/align]

 

[align=center]ZO6giM9UAv0 [/align]

[Jancis]

"Pilgrims! Pray lend your voices to another cheer for these stories! These songs! Such inspiration and strength!"

Jancis motions to Rhalgr's stone, "Sir Armstrong will be over here to hear your words, your feelings, to share and receive back so please do not hesitate to approach. Master Adalhaid is also here to give blessings and hear your call. He will be on just opposite."

 

Adalhaid Rask: "Good evening. Thank you for coming."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

 

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Uh--Excuse me--? You're blessin' folks too, right?"

Adalhaid Rask looks up at the new arrival, smiling from beneath her mask. "I am, yes."

Adalhaid Rask: "If you would care to receive a blessing, or ask more regarding Rhalgr, I would be happy to perform either."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Uh I know I ain't--well, you know---look it's kinda weird but..." He looked over his shoulder. "Could you maybe bless me? An'--my moogle friend?" He hooked a thumb to the moogle perched on his shoulder.

Adalhaid Rask nods. "Of course. Sit, if you would, so that we may begin."

Adalhaid Rask removes the beads from around her turban, clasping them in her hands as she bends down, touching her forehead to the dirt before pulling back up.

Adalhaid Rask: "As Rhalgr clears the way for Byregot, so too must those that wish to walk in Rhalgr's footsteps carry burdens for those too week to lift their own. We are both the shield and the sword, for those that are capable of lifting neither."

Adalhaid Rask: "It is for this purpose that we seek strength in Rhalgr's name, so that we, like him, may clear the way for the weak, so that they may grow strong in times of calm. In Rhalgr's name, for what purpose would you seek his strength?"

Sebastian Sun'dai: "I--I wanna be stronger for the Boss. He's given me a lot--a lot more than I really deserve an'--well, I wanna return the favor. I'm strong now, sure, but I wanna be even stronger so that he can always rely on me."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "So everyone can rely on me."

Adalhaid Rask smiles from underneath her mask. "Then may Rhalgr give you the strength to grow past your current self, outward and upward, like a strengthened seed taking root among ground scorched by fire. May he cultivate your inner strength, so that no debt may go unpaid, and so the energies expended in service of one another come into balance."

Adalhaid Rask holds her hands palm-up, still wrapped in the beads, before nodding for him to place his hands atop her own.

Sebastian Sun'dai smiled wide, jumping to his feet.  -and then subsequently sitting back down again--the excitement was very plain. "Oh right--!" He put his hand on top of hers.

Adalhaid Rask 's smile widens slightly at his enthusiasm. "Just as Rhalgr grants his strength to those that walk His path, so, too does He grant that same strength to those that would ask him of it." Up, through her palms and into the Au Ra, comes a brief surge of aetheric energy, tingling, warm, and energizing. "May He forever strike with you, until the time when you must return His strength to Him."

Adalhaid Rask nods, lowering her hands, before motioning for the man to stand.

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Th-Thank you!" He looked all blushing cheeks and smiles as he got up. "I promise not to waste the blessing! You just watch! This time next year I'll be able to pay him back ten-fold!"

Adalhaid Rask: "I do not doubt it. However, as a parting, remember that the strength that Rhalgr gives is not merely the sum of what you feel. The way that it is used, may multiply it a hundredfold."

Adalhaid Rask: "Thank you again for attending the ceremony."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "And thanks again for the blessing! You bet I'll be back next year just see I won't!"

 

Jancis Milburga: "Master Adalhaid is free if you wish to share words with her for blessings and insight!"

 

Kale Aideron having made his presence known to Jancis and conveying his thanks, Kale steps off to depart.

Kale Aideron reconsidered his departure, "Hm..."

Adalhaid Rask shakes her head. "In Rhalgr's name, I carry burdens. It is not my place to ask of others."

Adalhaid Rask: "Sit, so that we may begin, if you would."

Kale Aideron looked down to her sitting, "Hm, all right..."

Kale Aideron: 'ow this work, then?

Adalhaid Rask nods, removing the beads around her turban, and clasping them in her hands. "As Rhalgr clears the way for Byregot, so do Rhalgr's followers clear the way for the weak. We are the guiding hand for those with no strength, the blocking shield for those with no fortitude. In His name do we seek power with the purpose of clearing the old away, so that the weak may build and grow stronger in the future." She pauses, bowing her head to the dirt, before raising again and continuing.

Adalhaid Rask: "In Rhalgr's name, for what purpose today do you seek his Strength?"

Kale Aideron saw the way she conducted this particular alm, repositioning himself upon feeling compelled to sit more appropriately, "Ah...I..." he hesitated for a moment, awkwardly coming up with something on the spot, "I 'ave long fought for the nation of Ul'dah...'nd the future of our people 'ere...us grandsons 'nd granddaughters of Gyr 'bania who seek to build a legacy 'ere"

Adalhaid Rask nods at that. "To lay the groundwork so that others may build is a burden that many believe transcends any one man. However, through inner strength, it is possible for one man to influence the many that it would take to fulfil this goal. Through the strength of one man, blessed through Rhalgr, may the strength of many men be cultivated."

Adalhaid Rask holds out her hands, palm-up, the beads still wrapped around them. She nods for him to place his hands atop her own.

Kale Aideron was a bit stiff, and awkward at this, but complied all the same. Gingerly, he closed his hands around Adalhaid's, remaining silent.

Adalhaid Rask nods once more. "Through Rhalgr, may your own strength grow, and may you carry it with the intent of fulfilling your goal, and inspiring many more to take it upon themselves to better this land for themselves and one another." Up, through her palms, and into Kale came a brief aetheric jolt, warm, tingling and energizing. "May He strike with you until the time you are called upon to return His strength to Him."

Adalhaid Rask nods one more time, lowering her hands before motioning for Kale to stand.

Kale Aideron feels a very faint jolt, finding himself leaning back slightly before correcting. There is a set of blinks, then a furrowing of his brow as he seemed to register what was given unto him, "Through Rhalgr...," Kale felt compelled to say, bowing his head to the woman in gratitude.

Adalhaid Rask nods to him, smiling. "If there is anything else I may do, I am willing and able."

Kale Aideron kept his brow knitted, mind elsewhere for a moment, "Ah, no, that is quite all right...I thank you for your blessin'...". Smiling to her, he rises to his feet.

Adalhaid Rask: "Of course. Thank you again for attending."

Kale Aideron feeling somewhat fulfilled, moreso than earlier, he gave a bow to Adalhaid, then stepped off to allow the next person to receive their blessing.

 

[align=center][/align]

 

 

Adalhaid Rask: "Thank you for coming, both of you. What may I do for you this evening?"

Caleb Agron took his place with Cerina at his side. "Ey uh, this is actually only the second one of these gatherings I've come to an my friend here is new to the twelve. " He rubbed the back of his neck. "But I'm a follower of all twelve, so wanted to pay my respects to the Destroyer."

Cerina Dotharl gave a polite nod. "I'm here... out of curiosity." The Au ra shifted her weight, looking a bit out of place.

Adalhaid Rask smiles, nodding to her. "I see. Welcome, in that case. If you have questions, I would be happy to answer them."

Adalhaid Rask: "And you, are you too here for curiosity, or is there something else you would like?"

Caleb Agron: "She seemed a bit confused as to why we would celebrate destruction, and what role it had to play in life. But I learned somethin new here today, that destruction of your fears is also the realm of the god ey?"

Adalhaid Rask nods at that. "The destruction of fears is as well. Another way, perhaps, of celebrating the idea of Destruction, is celebrating the idea of Change. Just as Rhalgr oversees the destruction of worlds and nations, so that new bonds and realms may be created from them, so too does he oversee the destruction of the barriers within ourselves, so that we may change and grow."

Adalhaid Rask: "His actions are the first step of the cultivation of the new."

Cerina Dotharl: "It seemed strange to me. The way the stories were told, it's as if one was trying to rationalize destruction with the reason that it's done for creation... It doesn't make sense to me. When something is destroyed or killed, it's gone. The reason for it isn't relevant." She scratched her head as she gathered her thoughts, the woman seemed to have a hard time expressing herself.

Caleb Agron gave a nod to Adalhaid's response glancing over at Cerina to see if she too understood what was being said. "That make sense, never thought about exactly what role each of the twelve played in our lives, think this is going to be something I need to look into a little more deeply."

Adalhaid Rask: "Destruction, though done for the sake of creation, does not suit only that purpose. There are things that must be destroyed solely because they are not meant to be, or because their existence will cause only suffering. Alternatively, some things may be destroyed because they block the way to a greater state of being."

Adalhaid Rask: "Destruction, on its own, means nothing. The fact that Rhalgr attends to Nymeia, goddess of Fate, shows this. It is what is destroyed that indicates its purpose. Similar to a hammer, the use of Destruction is but a tool. It is the ends to which one destroys that determines whether or not it should be done."

Cerina Dotharl tipped her head and seemed to look even more confused. "I understand the purpose, the actions is what I question, and the need to celebrate such." She shook her head. "I don't think I'll understand."

Adalhaid Rask shakes her head. "There is always a way to understand. Perhaps here is a way to think of it."

Caleb Agron smiled at the woman before his attention shifted to Adalhaid once more.

Adalhaid Rask: "Through the celebration of Destruction as an Action, noting more, we remove ourselves from the reasons why one may destroy, which in turn clouds our judgement, and the way that we perceive destruction."

Adalhaid Rask: "To his country, a general is seen as a hero. To the people he kills, he is nothing more than a monster. Therein lies the perceived duality of destruction, dictated by our own thinking."

Adalhaid Rask: "Destruction as an action is tainted by neither, it is merely what it is. Through the celebration of it, with no further connection, we are capable of seeing it as something neither good, nor evil. Do you understand?"

Cerina Dotharl: "I... Think so."

Adalhaid Rask nods. "To celebrate destruction is to fight against intuition. Coming to terms with destruction may take many moons. My advice to you is to continue reflecting on what you have heard here."

Caleb Agron: "It might make more sense the more you get to know the other eleven, and see where the Destroyer fits in with them."

Adalhaid Rask nods at Caleb's words. "He is right."

Cerina Dotharl: "I'll have to find out more about them, then.."

Adalhaid Rask: "Of great importance is his son, Byregot, the Builder. Just as fathers clear the way for their sons, so, too, does Rhalgr destroy, so that his son, Byregot, may build."

Caleb Agron gives a nod to Adalhaid's words "I'll try an help her out with that, could use a little learning myself to be honest."

Cerina Dotharl nodded a few times. "I see."

Adalhaid Rask: "She whom He attends, Nymeia, the Weaver of Fate, has a hand in each of His actions, by Her very nature. Nothing is destroyed without consequence."

Adalhaid Rask: "We see through whom Rhalgr is tied to, that nothing is destroyed without greater purpose, and that through destruction, we make way for the creation of greater things."

Caleb Agron: "Aye, Destruction has every bit a place in this world as creation, for there would be no creation without destruction." He thought to himself for a moment as if making sure what he said made any sense. "Yer words speak true lass, thanks fer helpin my friend out."

Cerina Dotharl nodded again. "This way of thinking is unfamiliar to me, it'll take some time to... understand, I think. But thank you for explaining." The Au ra still wore the somewhat confused expression, but at least she tried to wrap her head around it.

Adalhaid Rask: "Of course. I am glad that I may have helped you begin to understand."

Adalhaid Rask: "Thank you for bringing her."

Caleb Agron: "Aye, my duty as a follower. Come Cerina, let us away."

Cerina Dotharl gave a few faint nods and followed Caleb away.

 

Adalhaid Rask: "Thank you for coming. What may I do for you this evening?"

Ashmira Honzen steps up, something clutched tight in her palm. "I am not here for a blessing, but something else. If you would..?"

Ashmira Honzen beckons for her hand.

Adalhaid Rask tilts her head to the side curiously, yet holds out her hand nonetheless.

Ashmira Honzen slips an item into her palm, seemingly small but quite heavy.

Adalhaid Rask pulls her hand back, gazing at the object through her mask for a moment, before smiling widely. She clasps it between her palms, and bows for a long moment. "I was born in Her month. This means much to me."

Ashmira Honzen purses her lips, exhaling slowly. "Mm... the sixth heaven called its delivery, though I know not what purpose it has now. As the astral heavens wish it, it shall come."

Adalhaid Rask nods again. "It would seem I was the one that was blessed this time," she says with a smile. "I cannot thank you enough."

Ashmira Honzen tips her head. "May the stars watch upon you. Have a pleasant eve."

Adalhaid Rask: "Same to you. May Rhalgr strike with you, until you must return your strength to His own."

 

Adalhaid Rask: "And what may I do for you this evening?"

Jana Ridah: Um, hello, miss Monk. I'd like to ask your counsel.

Adalhaid Rask: "Of course. Sit, please, so we may speak."

Jana Ridah: I- Oh, okay.

Jana Ridah moves to sit before she continues.

Adalhaid Rask smiles, nodding to her.

Jana Ridah: I'd like to ask a bit about clearing one's mind to meditate. I spoke with ser Monk over there and he gave me some good advice, but I'd like to hear another's thoughts on the matter?

Adalhaid Rask nods, considering her words. "Before I speak my own thoughts, I must know your own, should you have them."

Jana Ridah: Ah, I have read about the Fists of Rhalgr and their techniques. I do not know that I could come to use such myself, but even meditating feels beyond me. I fear I may enjoy destruction for its own sake too much, and can't keep my mind clear.

Adalhaid Rask nods again, considering her words. "Meditation is a way to focus oneself. Many see it as a way to gain calm, but this is not the case. It is a way to gain peace. Before peace can be gained, you must calm yourself first and foremost. I would say that therein lies your trouble."

Jana Ridah: Calm... I'll try it, I guess. Thank you for your counsel.

Adalhaid Rask nods at that. "To be calm is to be in control of emotion and body. To be peaceful is to seek understanding not only inside of the self, but outside. I hope that my words will allow you to see the connection between these two things."

Adalhaid Rask nods her head calmly.

Jana Ridah nods back, mostly just imitating the monk before her. "Alright, I'll keep it in mind." She slowly stands back up.

Adalhaid Rask: "Thank you for speaking. I am sure your story moved many."

Jana Ridah: Ah- I keep hearing that, though it was kind of a silly story. I'm glad people liked it.

Adalhaid Rask smiles. "In times of difficulty, a lighthearted smile can be the difference between forging forward, and lying down to die."

Adalhaid Rask: "I believe that a story, therefore, is worth much, much more."

Jana Ridah seems a bit embarrassed by the praise. "Well, I'm happy for that, then. Thanks for your time."

Adalhaid Rask: "And thank you for spending your time with us."

 

Saga Bearclaw approaches her sister and the miqo'te. "Little sister." She said, giving a silent nod to the miqo'te. The woman was long since calmed down from the earlier jubilee.

Adalhaid Rask smiles, nodding again, before looking to Saga.

Adalhaid Rask: "...Ah, you're back. Did you go home?"

Saga Bearclaw: "My apologies for my outbursts at the ceremony. Especially to you, miqo'te. When I see so many of our people I go with the tides of their fervor. It overwhelms me."

Adalhaid Rask: "Sis is a little, ah...Fervent sometimes."

Jana Ridah: Hm? I'm not sure I know what you're talking about, sorry.

Saga Bearclaw: "Never mind then."

Saga Bearclaw let out a grunt, looking away as she felt she lost a bit of her pride.

Adalhaid Rask frowned for a moment, then smiled.

Adalhaid Rask: "I'm sure it's nothing, either way."

Jana Ridah: It's fine either way, no one is hurt, yes? I'll take my leave for now.

Jana Ridah: Good day.

Adalhaid Rask: "Of course. Thank you again for your contribution."

Saga Bearclaw returns her attention to Adalhaid. "Now, little sister." She said, going closer, looking down at her with a nod. "I'm proud." She said, looking down with little emotion influencing her tone.

Jana Ridah continues to salute, inappropriate as it may  be.

Adalhaid Rask: "Proud of what?"

Saga Bearclaw: "You."

Saga Bearclaw pulls Adalhaid into the patent pending Bearclaw Bearhug™. Thankfully her magitek armor was deactivated.

Adalhaid Rask winces a bit, but hugs back anyway, smiling. "Thanks for c-coming," she manages to say through the strain.

Saga Bearclaw nods. "I'd never miss it. You did a good job. You'd make your mother proud."

Adalhaid Rask sighs a little bit. "Yeah...I'd hope that I would. But you're here, so it's alright."

Saga Bearclaw nodded. "I hope I didn't embarrass you too much."

Adalhaid Rask: "I think you did...Alright."

Saga Bearclaw releases the grip and returns to standing away a bit.

Adalhaid Rask: "Nothing to worry about, I don't think."

Saga Bearclaw chuckled. "So many strangers at this celebration. I'm just blessed my fervor didn't start a fight with one of their quips as the trigger."

Adalhaid Rask looks over at the other Monk across the way. "...Well, I think the guards could have handled a fight."

Adalhaid Rask: "Plus there's us if they can't, I guess."

Saga Bearclaw chuckles. "I suppose. My apologies for leaving early. I had a near blackout of a headache after the ceremony."

Adalhaid Rask: "...Celebrated a little too hard, huh?"

Saga Bearclaw shook her head. "No, just my headaches getting worse."

Saga Bearclaw scratches her hair. "By Rhalgr I swear I am seeing things."

Adalhaid Rask frowns. "Seeing?"

Saga Bearclaw nods. "Indeed. I must be going mad from all the concussions."

Adalhaid Rask: "What are you...Seeing?"

Saga Bearclaw shrugs. "Nothing important."

Adalhaid Rask: "Can we talk about it later at least?'

Saga Bearclaw: "Maybe later." Saga said with a grunt.

Adalhaid Rask: "Well...If you're sure."

Adalhaid Rask: "I'll have to thank Brother Armstrong for his words once he's done."

Saga Bearclaw: "You do look good in purple, sister."

Saga Bearclaw: "The color suits you."

Adalhaid Rask: "Really? I still think I liked the red more."

Adalhaid Rask: "...Though I guess they're not -too- far off anyway."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

 

Adalhaid Rask: "...Ah. I meant to come to you, first."

Saga Bearclaw gives a quiet nod to Berrod as her sister walks forward, remaining back.

Adalhaid Rask smiles, and bows.

Adalhaid Rask: "Thank you for your words this eve."

Berrod Armstrong: "It was an honor to have the opportunity to speak them. I heard your teachings, you are very wise. Much more so than I. I actually came to humbly ask for your blessing."

Adalhaid Rask tilts her head to the side in curiosity, but nonetheless nods. "I'm...Humbled by your praise. I would be honored to bless you, Brother Armstrong."

Berrod Armstrong tipped forward a bit on his waist in order to keep his head bowed before her.

Adalhaid Rask takes the beads from her turban one last time, clasping them in her hands as she begins.

Berrod Armstrong remained poised and rather reverent.

Adalhaid Rask: "As a Fist, we must accept that we are among a privileged few. Rhalgr has blessed us time and time again, at each and every stage of our being. It is for his continued blessing that we strive forward, bettering ourselves so that we may grow closer to him, and take up the burden which he selflessly carries, the burden of bringing change, and destroying so that others may create."

Berrod Armstrong murmured a respectful phrase of assent and acceptance in turn.

Adalhaid Rask presses the beads to her forehead, then to Berrod's. "As we grow strong, it is to Rhalgr's example that we turn, seeking His balance, just as we seek His strength, so that the power he gifts us does not stray us from the very path which we would walk. In his name, for what purpose do you seek Rhalgr's strength today, Brother Armstrong?"

Berrod Armstrong spoke more clearly. "I seek it so that I may carry it to all those in need, for I have seen many, and wish to aid Him in His work."

Adalhaid Rask nods, clasping the beads once more, as she turns her palms upward, motioning for him to place his hands atop her own. "And it is for this purpose that all His followers, from Fists to Pilgrims, seek to follow in his footsteps. Through the betterment of ourselves, we may become Pillars, embodied with the very core of Rhalgr's being, that we may press upwards against those that would crush not only us, but those that cannot stand on their own."

Berrod Armstrong reached forward and placed his large hands atop hers, as reverent as ever, with just a mild hint of emotion in his presence.

Adalhaid Rask closes her eyes, and for the last time, sends a pulse of aether, a brief opening of her Chakra, up through her arms and into Berrod, passing her energy from her to him. "Those that lean upon us and become our burden, become the burden of Rhalgr by relation. It is His strength that embodies us, and allows us to carry forever onward, until we return our strength to him. May He forever Strike with you, guiding blows, and guiding balance."

Adalhaid Rask takes a deep breath, and lowers her hands, before bowing again. "You honor me with this opportunity, Brother Armstrong."

Berrod Armstrong looked a bit glassy eyed, and he smiled. "The honor is mine," He remarked hoarsely. He bowed quite low. "Blessed are they who attend to His work."

Adalhaid Rask: "Your words moved many this day. I am sure that Rhalgr smiles upon you just as readily."

Berrod Armstrong smiled wide, the emotion was very nearly brimming. "I'm glad. And so, I go in peace." He bowed once more and turned to walk away. He swiped a forearm on his face idly, and took a position by the railing -- facing away from the group.

Adalhaid Rask: "I'm glad he came. I believe his words were the most moving."

Adalhaid Rask quietly tucks her beads back into her turban, letting them dangle as they clink together lightly.

Adalhaid Rask: "I hope I see him again someday."

Berrod Armstrong wiped at his face again and took a deep breath before turning around to present his usual, stern mein.

 

Saga Bearclaw: "I'm sure you will. You are a young up and coming fist, after all."

Adalhaid Rask rubs the back of her head for a moment, smiling in slight embarrassment. "Well, I try, I guess. I'm sure he knows more than I do, though."

Saga Bearclaw shrugs. "You'll do fine." Her tone became rather level.

Adalhaid Rask takes a deep breath, and finally takes her turban off, holding it as she crosses her arms. "So what was your favorite speech?"

Saga Bearclaw taps her chin, thinking in contemplation. "Berrod's. The dance was also good."

Adalhaid Rask nods. "We agree, but I'm not surprised."

Adalhaid Rask shrugs, and grins.

Saga Bearclaw nods. "Indeed. I fight in the name of our people, and everything we believe in. Only fitting that our people give the most devotion in their sermons."

Adalhaid Rask looks over at her shoulder at the stone for a moment, before turning back. "...Do you think we'll ever go back?"

Saga Bearclaw nods. "We will. I have many debts to collect."

Adalhaid Rask: "...Maybe some of what was said here will bring more to the cause."

Adalhaid Rask: "...Maybe just wishful thinking I guess, but, perhaps."

Saga Bearclaw nods. "We can only hope. It does not change my oath whether they do or not."

Adalhaid Rask: "Not just -your- oath, okay? If you start throwing yourself at the gates and I don't hear about it, I'll make sure to be mad about it, okay?"

Adalhaid Rask grins.

Saga Bearclaw laughs. "We'll have an army at our back."

Adalhaid Rask nods. "We'll get to see the day. I'm sure you were promised that just as I was."

Adalhaid Rask nods firmly.

Saga Bearclaw nods. "Only until my oath is fulfilled can I feel complete. And protecting our people means returning home. There is no real life for our people here."

Saga Bearclaw looks around Little Ala Mhigo with a bit lip, melancholy in her appearance.

Adalhaid Rask: "From what I saw today, I think there are more people than I thought there would be that are looking to see that through."

Saga Bearclaw: "Perhaps. Some preferred to gossip over the people running than pray."

Adalhaid Rask: "Mm? What do you mean?"

Saga Bearclaw shoots a look to Berrod before returning to Adalhaid. "Don't burden yourself with useless gossip of the Ul'dah rats."

Adalhaid Rask frowns. "Sounds disrespectful to me."

Adalhaid Rask: "I don't think this was the time or place for that."

Saga Bearclaw: "It was not. But they had the audacity to silence me for my fervor."

Adalhaid Rask: "Well...You might have been a -little- into it, I think."

Adalhaid Rask: "But it's alright."

Saga Bearclaw: "Looks like another is seeking a blessing."

Saga Bearclaw moves to place herself against the wall.

 

Adalhaid Rask nods, slipping her turban back on, nodding. "Of course, what can I do for you this eve?"

Aedan Steelweaver approaches the pair and nods slowly. "Aye, if ye don mind. Wouldn't wanna interrupt the two of you."

Adalhaid Rask motions for the man to come closer, sitting as he does. "Sit, so that we may begin."

Aedan Steelweaver nods, moving to take a seat. "O'course."

Adalhaid Rask smiles, taking the beads from her turban, and clasping them between her hands. "Through all aspects of life do we see evidence of Rhalgr's strength, and in these aspects, both his power, and his restraint. It is the same delicate hand that guides the sweetness of incense from the burning of its home that guides the meteor to strike down and decimate a mountain. As we seek strength, so do we seek Rhalgr's restraint and balance as well." She pauses, dipping her head low into the ground.

Adalhaid Rask raises her head, taking a breath. "His strength flows through to us as we call upon it, giving us power to protect those who cannot protect themselves, clear what cannot be cleared, and break boundaries that cannot be broken. In his name, for what purpose do you seek Rhalgr's strength today?"

Aedan Steelweaver inhales slowly and closes his eyes as he listens. "Mm, might be selfish heh, but for myself, my work." He pauses for a moment before adding on, "an for old friends, found again."

Adalhaid Rask nods, wrapping her hands in the beads, before holding her hands out, palms-up, motioning for Aedan to place his hands on her own. "The only way one may be selfish in a quest for power, is if they seek to needlessly destroy. Work that brings happiness to others, or that protects and nourishes the weak is welcome in His eyes. For it is through the betterment of ourselves that the salvation of others may come. Never has this been, and never will it be, selfishness."

Aedan Steelweaver gives a low chuckle. "Sounds like you'd know better than me, sage." He dips his head in deference then reaches out to place both his palms in hers.

Adalhaid Rask nods. As few moments after he places his hands atop hers, a jolt of aether, warm, tingling, and energizing, washes upwards from her palms into Aedan. She lowers her arms afterwards, and motions for him to stand. "May He forever strike with you, guiding both blows and balance, until the day you return your strength to him."

Aedan Steelweaver inhales sharply at that and smiles wide, nodding as he rises to his feet. "Thank ye, truly."

Adalhaid Rask: "No thanks needed. This is a duty I am happy to perform. Thank you for coming for blessings."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Tis a pleasure. Glad to have, late though it may be."

Aedan Steelweaver: "I'll not take up more of yer time, but be well."

Adalhaid Rask: "Lateness is of no concern. You came. That is what is important."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Yeah heh...can't argue that."

Aedan Steelweaver gives a wave, backing away with a smile.

Adalhaid Rask smiles and nods to Aedan in parting.

 

[align=center][/align]

 

 

Saga Bearclaw: "Good to see you here, Worren. Better late than never, I suppose."

Worren Tigre: "Yeah.  I didn't really know nothin' about it til you mentioned it.  So we're at the tail end of this, then?"

Saga Bearclaw: "Indeed. My little sister is still blessing if you wish for one."

Worren Tigre: "Where's your sister?"

Saga Bearclaw: "The young woman in purple behind me."

Saga Bearclaw: "Looks like its your turn."

Saga Bearclaw: "Sister, this is Worren. A friend I met at a festival. A lightweight as well."

Worren Tigre: "Not all of us can be alcoholics, Miss Bearclaw."

Adalhaid Rask: "Worren. It is nice to meet you, I am Adalhaid Rask, of the Fist. What may I do for you this evening?"

Worren Tigre: "I've just found out about this ceremony, so my friend an I just got here.  However, your sister mentions that you're giving blessings?"

Adalhaid Rask: "I am. The ceremony itself is over, but I will be here to give blessings until all others have left."

Worren Tigre: "I would like that very much.  Maybe it'll help give me peace of mind, something I sorely need."

Adalhaid Rask: "If peace of mind is what you seek, then perhaps more than a simple blessing would be in order. We may talk at the stone, if you wish."

Worren Tigre gives a sidelong glance to Maruud Alfayesh in inquiry.

Adalhaid Rask: "Do you wish for services as well?"

Maruud Alfayesh bids Worren go "She may have insight that I do not Worren. Perhaps it best that you do, yes?"

Worren Tigre: "Whatever you can offer, I'll gladly accept."

Adalhaid Rask: "Come, then. Your friend may come too, if they wish."

Adalhaid Rask nods quietly, letting the air settle for a moment. "What is it that troubles you?"

Worren Tigre: "It's more a question what doesn't trouble me these days.  My mind hasn't been right in over six cycles now.  Mental issues, anger, depression, disappointment.  You name it I've been through it.  A lot of it seems to be unreasonable and self imposed.  I've sought professionals... I even have a regular doctor.  My body's in great shape, but my mind can never be mended, it feels like."

Adalhaid Rask: "And from where do these stem? Is it frustration with actions, with the world, or are they centered around yourself?"

Worren Tigre: "I want to say mostly people.  But, I realize it's more with myself.  I live to serve the people.  That's all I really care about.  As long as those who can't protect themselves are taken care of.  I can't stand to feel useless.  And this, I realize, comes to me unreasonably, but no matter how much I think logically about it, the voice in the back of my head is constantly sowing the seeds of discontent within me."

Adalhaid Rask nods. "Perhaps it is because you fear that helping others is not only something that is temporary, but also a means to an end for your own satisfaction. The question, then, would be why you help others, truly?"

Worren Tigre: "Why not?  It's easy for anyone to serve and look after themselves.  But for those who can't, who can be the bigger person to step up for these people?  Though, maybe it's for my own self satisfaction, so that others can rely on and look up to me.  Maybe."

Adalhaid Rask nods. "This in and of itself is not a bad thing. The betterment of the self is no evil venture. Through self-fortification, we in turn become stronger for others. Asking Rhalgr for power comes with acceptance of this."

Adalhaid Rask: "Rather than finding a new answer, I believe you must come to accept the answer you already have."

Adalhaid Rask: "This is, of course, a road within itself. But I believe it is the road that will bring you lasting peace."

Worren Tigre: "I see... "

Adalhaid Rask: "It seems to me that you already have an idea of your answer. It is coming to terms with it that frustrates you. Are there any other answers you can think of?"

Worren Tigre: "I guess I just don't want to be temperamental anymore.  Heh, and maybe make some more friends and all.  I'm not the most social butterfly anymore.  Not since losing my command long ago.  Too much anger being carried, even when I try not to think about it."

Adalhaid Rask: "View it not as a loss, but as an opportunity to find what you are now seeking. With the passing of one era, you open yourself up to the ability to find others that you would not otherwise have a chance to meet."

Adalhaid Rask: "If you hold on to this turning point, you will not be able to make the most of the new opportunities presented to you."

Worren Tigre: "I figure, if I can keep my mind and emotions in check, I can control my aether a bit better.  My body's been learning new things."

Adalhaid Rask nods at that. "You can. But in order to make the most of your body, you must first find calm within your mind. From what you said, speaking with others, and leaving your old life behind, may help you the most in this respect."

Adalhaid Rask: "You must spend less time looking to yourself for rage. Rage brings power, but only for a time. It will eventually damage you beyond repair. Seek elsewhere, and beyond your old life, for better things."

Worren Tigre: "This is the reason why I never fully followed the teachings of the monk, like my friend over there.  I knew I couldn't with my mind the way it is.  Maybe if I can find more people to look to, to serve, then maybe I could do just that.  I guess I'm just impatient.  Or tired."

Adalhaid Rask: "You are very patient. Anyone who tolerates such harsh judgement by themselves -upon- themselves has patience beyond measure."

Adalhaid Rask: "What you need is not patience, it is control. You must reign in your mind, and take control of those thoughts, and stop claiming them as your own."

Adalhaid Rask: "When you can control your own thoughts, you will be ready to walk Rhalgr's path. Strength without control is meaningless. Rhalgr breaks mountains with the same steady hand that he burns a candle."

Worren Tigre: "Thank you.  Is there anything else I can do here?"

Adalhaid Rask smiles, standing, and motioning for Worren to stand as well. "The Ceremonies have concluded, and most others have gone home. If you wish some time alone with the Stone, you may have it. Nothing is required of you here, this is a place for others to give."

Worren Tigre: "Do you normally come here, or just for the ceremony?  Or rather, if I need to seek your counsel again, where would I find you?"

Adalhaid Rask: "I do come here to meditate in the evenings, yes. If you wish to talk to me, you can find me here some days."

Worren Tigre: "All right, thanks.  Or maybe I could ask your sister."

Adalhaid Rask smiles, nodding. "She would know where I am better than anyone else would."

 

Adalhaid Rask: "I will join you all in a moment. I must thank the organizer."

Adalhaid Rask: "I am sorry to interrupt. I wanted to thank you deeply for the time you spent bringing us together here."

Jancis Milburga bows deeply, before going to a knee to be just the same depth. "You are very welcome. You have done much for everyone here to restore hope and strength as much as open others to it. I am very honored to play a small part in that, Lady."

Adalhaid Rask: "I believe the part you played to be greater than any other. I can only imagine the time you put into the creation of this ceremony."

Adalhaid Rask: "If there is anything that I may do for you in thanks, I would be honored to know of it."

Jancis Milburga looks thoughtful for a few minutes, her head bowed a bit as she pondered, "Such hope and words need not be shared one Sun because of one Moon. There are many who were unable to be here, surely they would be grateful for your time and words regardless."

Adalhaid Rask: "If there are any that wish to partake in the words we shared this sun, you may direct them to me. I would be honored to share what you have done here."

Jancis Milburga nods, "I will gladly. Thank you. What of yourself, Lady, are you taking something back with you?"

Adalhaid Rask nods. "I have learned that there are many more that are willing to pass on our traditions than I had thought, and that they come from creeds beyond my own."

Adalhaid Rask: "The idea that those with no connection to Rhalgr would form one is something I will treasure deeply going forward."

Adalhaid Rask: "I believe we will see it if we try.  This ceremony has made me resolve to try my hardest."

Adalhaid Rask: "I...Mustn't keep my sister waiting, however. Again, thank you for all you have done."

Jancis Milburga: "You are welcome. Travel safe and well, Lady Adalhaid."

Adalhaid Rask: "And I have not forgotten about your gift, as well. I will treasure it always."

Adalhaid Rask: "May both of you travel safely as well. May Rhalgr strike with you."

[Jancis]

Berrod Armstrong smiiiiled.

Brynhilde Wulf smiles at Berrod. "It's been a while since I did this."

Berrod Armstrong nodded. "The same, only ever used ta do it back at the desert camp. I'm glad y'could share that wit' everyone." Oh dear, the lug's accent was back to normal.

Brynhilde Wulf: "Your word were truly inspiring, Berrod. It gladdens my heart to know that one such as you preserves our ways."

Brynhilde Wulf: "A blessing if you will, bruder?"

Berrod Armstrong nodded once. "It's an honor." He looked at the crowd, and seemed a bit taken aback by the LINE. Still, he nodded, and reached forward in a bid to clamp her firmly on the shoulder.

Brynhilde Wulf does likewise.

Berrod Armstrong: "Feel you pain and understand that it is the very water of transition. The wellspring is destruction, and like any raging torrent, with control you can carve a destiny of your own, and leave a channel for others to follow. May he smite your foes."

Berrod Armstrong released and bowed.

Brynhilde Wulf: "And yours, bruder."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Nathan Telluride: "Ser Armstrong... I wished to know that the Destroyer found my offering worthy, and know of no other man who would better know his will."

Berrod Armstrong: "There's power in yer voice, brother. Moreso, much moreso than mine. The cavern rumbled, but did not fall, so too do our own souls shake with each change we make."

Berrod Armstrong added a little more quietly. "An' it was fun as all hells, it's been a while since I've seen somethin' like that."

Nathan Telluride bows his chin. "Be it so, and be it true. As we find sorrow, so should we find joy, and honor them equally, in my philosophy. I appreciate your bid of confidence."

Berrod Armstrong: "I can tell that you're already blessed. But one more won't hurt. Let your words strike like his lightning and may your song echo like thunder. Go in his light, and change the world around you."

Nathan Telluride: "Thank you, brother of the Destroyer." He bows, and makes way for the next supplicant.

 

Saga Bearclaw kneels immediately before the man, her head lowered as she murmurs. "Bless this one woman so that she may fight for our people in the name of the Destroyer and protect our fellows from the greed of others."

Berrod Armstrong: "Please stand, we're both equals as He strikes."

Saga Bearclaw rises, as was to be expected.

Berrod Armstrong: "Conviction radiates from you, you are the picture of strength. Fight well, fight true, and may you see his Lightning upon your blade as you fight in his name. May Rhalgr smite your foes."

Saga Bearclaw: "My oath as a free paladin was sworn to protect our people.  Blessed be His name so that justice may come for our people."

Berrod Armstrong smiled.

Saga Bearclaw removes herself from the line after her exchange to pray before the stone for but a moment in silence.

 

Tiergan Vashir: It was an honour to hear your words this day, my friend.

Berrod Armstrong: "The honor was to speak them, and to have them heard by so many -- especially one such as you who was built in his principle."

Tiergan Vashir smiles faintly, though the respect and admiration was clear in the mercenary's gaze.

Tiergan Vashir: Hearing songs of Him ringing through this cavern along with the tales spoken made me feel closer to home than ever.

Berrod Armstrong: "May your every step be lit in His levin, and may your arms carry it to those in need. You are a force of change in this world, and I pray that He guide you well. Walk to the bolts on the horizon, my friend."

Tiergan Vashir: Rhalgr guide your steps.

 

Berrod Armstrong smiled -- and it was a proud smile. "I'm glad to see you here."

Chiyo Hoshi: "Berrod, I... " Four of Chiyo's charka almost instantly opened as she'd approached him, though she seemed uncontrollable from the sudden surged on energy.

Chiyo Hoshi: "Dammit, dis again..."

Berrod Armstrong offered a hand -- he didn't look alarmed at all -- clearly he had seen it before.

Chiyo Hoshi: "I have no control over dis. When yer free, I could use yer help."

Chiyo Hoshi: "I guess fer now, I could use one of them blesses I guess."

Berrod Armstrong nodded once. "I'll help. Until the time comes, let His light give your seats of power peace. You are a thundercloud; rising to the heavens while still yet remaining near the earth. The time will come for you to strike the ground in fury, and when you do, He will smile."

Chiyo Hoshi: "I jus' hope I don' accidently 'destroy' anythin' important.,,, Anyroa', thanks..."

 

Berrod Armstrong: "I stand here as your servant, speak and I shall listen."

Rosalinde Thorne gives Berrod a faint smile as she approaches. "Your words honored and touched me, though you are a stranger. I wish only for a blessing that I might destroy the one foe that I have yet to fully face - my own fear." She bows her head.

Berrod Armstrong smiled. "Fear is a funny thing," He began. "But through Him, may you find the strength to strike at it; and from its scintillation may you glean wisdom, clarity and strength. I have faith in you. Walk in his light and power."

Rosalinde Thorne gives a stronger smile and murmurs a quiet word of thanks, stepping aside for the next in line.

 

Berrod Armstrong: "I am your servant, speak and I shall listen."

Virara Wakuwa approaches. She has a sharp gaze, and immediately sizes him up the moment she steps within arm's reach, clearly on reflex. She doesn't have the same sort of reverent gaze, but she seems still quietly respectful.

Virara Wakuwa: "... Big man. I wish to burn away my distractions. I need strength. Give those things to me. That focus."

Virara Wakuwa muses quietly.

Berrod Armstrong smiled. "If I give them to you, then they will only be useful so long as I am around. But, I will not be. So instead, take my lesson of destruction. Rend your old distractions asunder and build from it strength of your own making. Struggle. Sacrifice. Temper yourself. Forge strength of your own making, and with it, conquer all. Do it in His name."

Virara Wakuwa: "... You are not as she said they were. Interesting."

Virara Wakuwa gives Berrod an elaborate bow.

Berrod Armstrong: "I probably am, but I have to behave." He winked.

Virara Wakuwa blinks, very perplexed, but politely removes herself from the line.

 

Berrod Armstrong: "Speak, Flamesman, and know that I hold gratitude to you for what you have done for my people."

Cyneler Fenrir: I wish a Blessing for my  Adoptive Father who was ala mhigan for  peace.

Berrod Armstrong nodded once. "Your bond with him may not be one of blood, but from this day let it be one of lightning. Walk you two together in the light of His levin and destroy all that would see you laid low."

 

P'kohta Tia steps to the side, Val was in front of him after all.

P'kohta Tia: "I think it's your turn Val."

Valentinoix Thibault: Hail to thee.

Berrod Armstrong: "Speak, and this servant shall listen."

Valentinoix Thibault: Mayhap may I inquire of thee, art thou a monk, aye?

Berrod Armstrong: "I am, yes."

Valentinoix Thibault focuses on Berrod in the dark, but not quite able to discern his dark clothing against the dark wall.

Valentinoix Thibault: My comrade, Kohta here, and I were curious of the art. We did fear that monks may no longer exist to possibly answer our inquiries.

P'kohta Tia flips up his ears at mention of his name and decides to step forward. He shows the monk a broad grin and follows it with a deep respectful bow.

Berrod Armstrong thought for a moment. "We exist a scattered few. All but recently there appeared one in Mor Dhona as well, much more knowledgeable than I." He paused to bow to the other, "But I also do what I can to teach in Thanalan. Is your curiosity practical or theoretical?"

Valentinoix Thibault: Mayhap both. Thy words afore were quite striking.

Berrod Armstrong: "Hrm. In that case, perhaps a meeting after this would do. If you frequent the Pugilist's guild, you'll be sure to find me on one of your visits. We can talk at length, and I will be happy to teach you what I know."

Valentinoix Thibault: I do frequent Ul'dah, aye, occasionally training within the guild. I shall quite enjoy meeting with thee in a more quieter location so that I may hear thy movements.

Berrod Armstrong: "Then it will be done. Until that time, walk in His lightning!"

Valentinoix Thibault: Go thee well.

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Zachary Evans took a deep breath and walked forward. Instead of his usual shifting, he bowed. "May I receive a Blessing of Rhalgr, Mister Armstrong?"

Berrod Armstrong: "You are already blessed and highly favored," He pointed out sternly, "Now it is up to you, with that power to direct it in the path of His light."

Zachary Evans nodded solemnly and turned to leave, keeping an eye on Berrod. "I..would like to talk with you in the coming days Mister Armstrong. We can both talk...and I can listen like I did today. Hear things I didn't before."

Zachary Evans: "Have a good day Mister Armstrong. Rhalgr keep you, and may Oschon guide your feet."

Berrod Armstrong: "Good. I was afraid that you'd used your blessing of destruction to destroy your eardrums. Go in His light, and we'll talk soon."

 

Berrod Armstrong smiled.

Jana Ridah gives Berrod a salute, though it might not be appropriate. "Ser Monk, it's good to see you again."

Berrod Armstrong: "Speak and this servant shall listen."

Jana Ridah: I have read the scrolls you gave to me, and much more besides. And I am having trouble clearing my mind when I try to meditate. I do enjoy, um... Reading about Haler and the monks, but I don't know if I'm cut out to really take in the teachings...

Berrod Armstrong: "Destroy that doubt, and give it time. If a dullard like me can learn enough to write on my own accord, then I have every faith that you can learn as much to at least teach what you have read."

Jana Ridah: I can't help but wonder though, if I like destruction -too- much. What do you think?

Berrod Armstrong smiled lightly. "Whether you favor it or not...that's no one's place to judge. It is how you -use- it, how you direct it and what you build in its wake. That is where the importance lies."

Jana Ridah: I suppose... I'll try not to leave empty spaces when I remove things. Thank you for your counsel.

Berrod Armstrong: "Walk well in levin."

 

Ashmira Honzen steps up sharply, her hand curled about something.

Berrod Armstrong: "Speak, and this servant shall listen."

Ashmira Honzen: "I came not for a blessing, but... a different matter."

Ashmira Honzen holds out her small pale hand, fingers curled about something.

Berrod Armstrong nodded, then looked down to inspect her hand.

Ashmira Honzen makes a gesture as if to indicate to hand something to him.

Ashmira Honzen: "If you would..?"

Ashmira Honzen tips up her other palm meaningfully.

Berrod Armstrong opened his hand under hers to receive it.

Ashmira Honzen tucks something smaller but surprisingly heavy in his palm and makes to curl his fingers about it.

Ashmira Honzen lowers her hand, exhaling shortly.

Berrod Armstrong did not let go of the object, but he -did- blink in astonishment. His free hand reached to clasp the area just below his chest, as if out of instinct. "Is this a blessing?"

Ashmira Honzen: "Mm. A calling I was to deliver. It may not have proper meaning now, but I believe it shall at some time, in the third gate's intent."

Berrod Armstrong smiled. "I see. Until that time, walk in His lightning."

Ashmira Honzen bows her head. "And you as well."

 

Berrod Armstrong stowed the item away before nodding the other forward. He smiled in recognition. "Speak, and this servant shall listen."

Sounsyy Mirke moves closer to Berrod, "Yeh are... of the Order, yes? From our homelands?"

Berrod Armstrong tilted his head diagonally. "Yes and no. I was born in the Heights, yes, but I am too young to know much more of it than what I was taught. Only three cycles did I spend there, and no memories remain. However, those who escaped raised me and poured every ounce of their blood into my veins, to be the soul of what once was. My master was of the order, and he taught me what he knew."

Sounsyy Mirke goes down on both knees and bows her head deeply. "Then... forego the blessing. I would seek forgiveness fer my father's actions late in his life. He... he were among those lancers who... burned the temple under our King's command. I did not know how many yet still lived in these southern lands."

Berrod Armstrong made a slightly pained face. "Please stand -- that old sin is long and gone, done by our fathers...so we must remove the stains on us. Many a man did what he had to do that day, for his King. Many were conflicted, many did it only to make sure that their families, their children remained safe under the King of Ruin's wrath." He smiled at her slightly. "Go in peace, and know that this servant of Destruction works to destroy those grudges of old."

Sounsyy Mirke nods her head slowly. "Thank yeh. It were years ago, but it paved the way fer so much of our people's suffering. I 'ave carried that burden since his death."

Berrod Armstrong lifted a fist in her direction. "Let His lightning strike that burden! Let it rend it to rubble, and from the ruins build yourself a place of comfort. I will pray for him, and for you."

Sounsyy Mirke bows her head again and mutters out a quiet, "Thank yeh," before retreating back down the rock. A small smile forms on her face as she breaths in the dust of this place and nods to Leanne as she passes on her way out.

 

Berrod Armstrong: "Speak, and this servant shall listen."

Leanne Delphium quietly walks towards Berrod before politely bow her head to the man. "Ah, that will be a...highly unorthodox request, but, uhm..." she frowns while pulling from her back an elegant journal with a hat engraved on the cover. Opening the book, she flips through several pages, eventually stopping on one with a rather detailed drawing of the highlander. She offers a pen. "...Could I have your autograph, Mr. Berrod?" she grins embarrassedly.

Berrod Armstrong blinked. "My..." He squinted at the book, and for a moment, his usual Ul'Dahn brogue came out, "Autograph? Er-- you want me ta' sign that thing? Uh --" He cleared his throat, then took the pen. In a formal tone he acquiescence. "I shall, but know that the honor is mine, and remember -- do not revere the man, but the God he serves."

Leanne Delphium smiles sheepishly, bowing once more while mouthing a thanks. "My gratitude, Mr. Berrod." she snickers, closing the book afterwards. "Pardon if that seemed random. I just...always had some for admiration towards you ever since my first moons at the Grindstone. And I ever regretted the fact I never had the chance to talk with you...!"

Leanne Delphium: "So, uhm...taking the chance to correct that...!"

Berrod Armstrong smiled warmly. "I live at the Goblet, ward three, plot twenty four. Come by anytime, and we can talk as long as you like. Until then, walk in His levin."

Leanne Delphium tips her hat and bows. "Thank you...!" she grins and saunters away, quite happy.

 

Berrod Armstrong: "Speak, and this servant shall listen."

Leggerless Hanzou turns her gaze to the rock behind him. "Rhalgr; the breaker of worlds... god of destruction. A fascinating member of the Twelve." She looks back at him now. "I ask only a blessing from Rhalgr's servant to Nald'Thal's follower."

Berrod Armstrong: "A follower well respected; for it is in their embrace do those who do not survive destruction remain. May his light strike true and light your way; o servant and keeper of the gate."

Leggerless Hanzou returns a bow to Berrod. "Thank you, Servant of Rhalgr."

Berrod Armstrong glanced about, but he maintained his station nonetheless.

 

Berrod Armstrong smiled wide. "Speak, and this servant shall listen."

Caleb Agron: "Ey uh, know yer busy" He glanced back to make sure no one was waiting to be seen. "Jus wanted to say Rhalgr would be proud, ye helped a lot of these people learn a bit more bout The Destroyer." He smiled at the man and gave a nod.

Berrod Armstrong nodded. "I'm honored," He continued in his formal manner of speech, "And I want you to know that you yourself are blessed and Highly Favored, because to many you are the lightning that destroys their fears, doubts and apprehension. You power the spire, Caleb, and never forget it. Go in peace."

 

Berrod Armstrong: "Speak, and this servant shall listen."

Ryanti Veanysus approached the man in purple that stood before him, superior in height and in breadth. He scratched underneath his ear in a bit of awkwardness, not really used to this. "Hello, umm.. pardon my inadequacy at conversation like this, but I had wanted to ask if you could talk about me about the God you serve."

Berrod Armstrong nodded. "I would be happy to. He is Rhalgr, the Destroyer, the Breaker of worlds, depicted in robes with a staff of levin and represented by the sign of a streaking meteor. He  is the God of my nation and an agent of change and reckoning among the Twelve."

Ryanti Veanysus took it upon himself to kneel on one knee, closing his eyes for a brief moment. "I've.. come here because I have a circumstance in my life that will call upon great change and great challenge in the near future. I heard of this ceremony, and understood that your God is that of destruction. I will need this ability now more than ever. If you would be so kind as to perform a blessing, I would be.. honored by it."

Berrod Armstrong nodded. "The honor is mine. Change may bring destruction. Some of it you can control, some of it you cannot.  Destruction of old ways, of old times, for ways and times anew. May you remain in his light, and be given the power to direct it to make things all the better for your future."

Ryanti Veanysus held those words still in his mind. The man in purple before him spoke truth, more than he perhaps would ever know. Ryanti deemed fit to mention this. "It's... painfully accurate, the words you describe to me." He returned from his kneeling position, eyeing the stone behind him before the man himself. "Your God is wise. As are you."

Berrod Armstrong: "You honor me, and Him with your praise."

Ryanti Veanysus smiled weakly, a weight in his heart needed faith to keep it afloat for now. "Let us hope He listened, then." He said with a quiet, yet hopeful voice, spinning on his feet to turn and leave, but looking back as he did so. "By the way, what is your name?"

Berrod Armstrong: "Berrod Armstrong. And yours?"

Ryanti Veanysus slowly turned back to partial face him, blinking and then bending his neck downwards once more, in a small yet polite bow. "Ryanti Veanysus. It's a genuine pleasure to meet you, Berrod. You seem like a really good man. As are all of your people for hosting this event."

Berrod Armstrong: "Miss Jancis is the one who brought it all together. May Rhalgr smite your foes, Ryanti. Go in peace."

Ryanti Veanysus smiled, keeping the name in mind for any kind of future thanks. "Thank you. May He. And.. do you mind pointing her out? I wish to thank her too."

Berrod Armstrong indicated toward the hooded woman not too far away. "There she is."

Jancis Milburga misses the two men talking by the stone, her eyes on Ashmira attentively.

Ryanti Veanysus glanced behind himself where the man pointed, spotting a peculiar woman in a robe. It must be here. "Oh.. how convenient. Once again you have my thanks." He said with a warm smile, taking the steps down the slope of the rock, heading towards the woman.

 

Berrod Armstrong: "As always, you have the stamina of an army."

Jancis Milburga bows deeply, "That I could match yours, you have given a lot to many this sun. Dare say even Thaliak must be moved at the amount of understanding and clarity given on something that is... very emotional."

Berrod Armstrong: "It was an honor to...I'm glad I could." He dropped the formal speech and let the brogue loose. "Been trainin' my whole life fer this."

Jancis Milburga it taken with a quick smile, "A goal then? You aim high; as anyone should. As... as much as you said and gave to others did you find anything for yourself?"

Berrod Armstrong looked aside to Adalhaid. "Hope," He declared confidently. "Hope that I'm not fightin' a losin' battle, or the only one tryin' ta bring back what was lost."

Jancis Milburga follows Berrod's glance for a moment, looking curious a moment as she repeats his words. "... We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope." She turns back, "Being here, having my old corrupted views changed. I would agree. The battle will have renewed vigor and many more will come and make what once was even stronger than before."

Berrod Armstrong: "At th'very least, people got ta see that it ain't all mindless savagery. Everythin' has ta start somewhere." He regarded her closely. "I'd thought ta bless ya, but yer more blessed than us all, in all of Them. Don't forget it, an' don't put it aside when this pilgrimage is over. Keep it, use it, know it, an' take pride in it."

Jancis Milburga looks up at Berrod, "Keep it, use it, know it." Taking a deep swelling breath, she nods purposefully, eyes wide in sincerity. "I will do my best to." She adds quickly, "Thank you."

Berrod Armstrong: "A pleasure t'serve."

Jancis Milburga: "There was another, a friend to me. Sir Armsbreaker. Could not be here with the other pilgrims; would be remiss if I could not ask for your time another sun to speak with him. He is a man of few words but of action and he could use some of that hope."

Berrod Armstrong 's lips tugged in a slight smile. "Of course."

Jancis Milburga squints happily, "I shall look for you, then. Cannot be that hard to find. Until then, be safe and well? Your kin, too, I think of them often."

Berrod Armstrong: "As we do o'you. I'll be around here still if y'need. I brought some supplies an' medicine fer those in need. I'll be goin' about distributin' an' makin' sure everyone who needs some gets some."

Jancis Milburga nods, stepping back, "The men who learn endurance, are they who call the whole world, brother."

[Jancis]

Eric Rosethorn settles in next to a crate, eyes scanning first the people in front of him and then settling on the symbol etched into the rock.

 

Ciel Sauveterre: "Greetings, lady."

Jancis Milburga: "A very fond greeting. Is truly a remarkable day."

Ciel Sauveterre smiles, "Any day which celebrates one of the Twelve is remarkable, aye."

 

Cyneler Fenrir sighs while looking at the symbol on the rock

Cyneler Fenrir grabs his  sword and mutters I still miss ya Father

Cyneler Fenrir looks at the stone and says  Damn it Father why did ya have to die in the Calamity

Cyneler Fenrir looks up at the sky

 

Rosalinde Thorne leans slightly against the barrels behind her, gaze unfocused, though she seems to be looking at the rock etched with Rhalgr's symbol.

 

Berrod Armstrong deadpanned at Oscare. "Yer not gonna sit there behind me like a vagrant the entire time, are ya?"

Oscare Iono: "I've... been here for a while."

Berrod Armstrong: "That ain't what I asked."

Oscare Iono bites his lower lip. "Oh, sorry. Uh, I don't plan to, no..."

Berrod Armstrong offered a bright smile. "Awright."

Oscare Iono stands up and nervously skitters away. Nyaaaaah.

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Leanne Delphium pokes Oscare. Eorzea to Oscare, Eorzea to Oscare..

Oscare Iono: "Hello."

Leanne Delphium: "Still lurking around the corners...!"

Oscare Iono: "Yeah, sorry."

Leanne Delphium smiles sheepishly. "No need to apologize. Ah...how are you holding?"

Oscare Iono: "Doing better. Yourself?"

Leanne Delphium: "Better than never, as usual...!" she giggles, full of energy.

Oscare Iono: "That's great to hear."

Leanne Delphium: "How are the chances of me dragging you to be social?

Oscare Iono: "High. I'm just standing here because I didn't wanna interrupt anyone's flow."

Leanne Delphium: "Then come on! Go be social! Ms. Clio is there!"

Oscare Iono nods in reassurance... but doesn't move.

Leanne Delphium purses her lips. "You ain't moving, are you..."

Oscare Iono: "Hm?"

Leanne Delphium: "You know! Walk! Into the crowd. To be social!"

Oscare Iono: "I was waiting for you make a move so I can follow."

Leanne Delphium: "Ah...oh...! I see. Uhm.."

Leanne Delphium clears her throat, and moves...then stops to look over her shoulder to see if Oscare was following.

Leanne Delphium: "Ms. Clio!"

Cliodhna Eoghan Looks behind her. "Oh....Hello Leanne, Boots."

Leanne Delphium: "I brought Oscare with me. Trying to get him to be social."

Cliodhna Eoghan: He chats when he's in the mood...Which tends to be rarely....

Leanne Delphium: "He's in the mood! I guess? He said my chances are high this time..."

Nathan Telluride directs a quick quip behind him. "Oscare... social? By the gods, it is a miracle of the Twelve!"

Leanne Delphium: "Mr. Telluride! That's mean..!"

Cliodhna Eoghan Smiles softly, thankful for the sunglasses. "That's good,  you should take the chance when you have it then to chat with him."

Leanne Delphium: "I'm doing that! I just think that, uhm...the more, the merrier...!"

Nathan Telluride: "Oh, it's only mean for the second it takes for me to greet you both." He smiles warmly at Leanne and Oscare.

Leanne Delphium sticks her tongue at Nathan before snickering.

Oscare Iono seems to be just... scratching at his head, hand dug under his bandana. He smiles awkwardly, which is at least an advancement.

Leanne Delphium smiles sheepishly. "Is it weird I consider that smile an achievement..?"

Oscare Iono: "I... I-I dunno? Is it?"

Leanne Delphium: "You seldom smile! Unless you're making jokes at my expense."

Oscare Iono he smiles again. That's twice in less than ten [minutes]. The world was about to explode.

Leanne Delphium puffs her cheeks.

Leanne Delphium giggles and fist pumps. She got Oscare to smile. Yay!

Oscare Iono smiles awkwardly again, thrice in a row, even thought he's not sparing a lot of words.

Leanne Delphium laughs awkwardly. "Now that's getting a tad awkward."

Oscare Iono: "What?"

Nathan Telluride looks to Oscare. "You best have been giving a few good stomps, sir." A grin follows.

Oscare Iono: "Stomps?"

Leanne Delphium nods. "Yeah! From Mr. Nathan...performance."

Leanne Delphium grimaces. First thing she remember is the strip tease, of course.

Oscare Iono: "What... does he mean be 'stomps'?"

Nathan Telluride: "Yes. Even something as brutal as that can tighten the bonds, sir..." He looks to Clio. "Oh, no one knew what I was up to. Besides, pride in one's form is a tenet of the Destroyer, no?" He looks back to Oscare, as if expecting him to answer.

Leanne Delphium stomps the ground in front of Oscare, trying to silently explain him.

Nathan Telluride chews his lip. "There WAS a collar I could have worn, you know, but it ruined the effect."

Oscare Iono: "... I'm not sure if I follow."

Leanne Delphium: "Gaah, if you stomped the floor, dummy!"

Oscare Iono seemed to be TOTALLY lost at both Nathan's question and Leanne's demonstration.

Oscare Iono: "But... he meant that literally?"

Leanne Delphium: "Yes!"

Oscare Iono: "I didn't get any stomps though."

Leanne Delphium: "Were you daydreaming all day?"

Oscare Iono: "Just a little. What happened?"

Nathan Telluride glances at Oscare. "You might not want to spread it around that you did not get enough stomps for one day."

Oscare Iono: "-- What's /that/ mean?"

Leanne Delphium laughs nervously. "I will leave the explanation to Mr. Telluride."

Nathan Telluride: "Lift foot. Lower foot with speed and a large amount of force. Bottom of boot hits ground. Dust flies, air is disturbed, silence is destroyed... you know, that sort of thing."

Leanne Delphium: "Dust flies, and glues to my clothes..."

Leanne Delphium gingerly pats her top.

Oscare Iono: "I meant more of the 'don't spread it' part, but thank you for actually explaining it."

Nathan Telluride: "I think that's a hint to look there, is it?"

Leanne Delphium laughs sheepishly. "Wish I had a answer for that one. And yet, I don't...also, I don't think it would be normally be necessary to explain what stomping means...!"

Oscare Iono: "You meant it literally, when I didn't get stomped by anything."

Leanne Delphium: "Oh Oschon. Naay. You. Stomping. Ground."

Leanne Delphium stomps. "Like that!"

Oscare Iono: "I didn't stomp anything either."

Leanne Delphium sighs. "Question answered. Aah..." her ears flicks. "Hm?"

 

Oscare Iono looks up at the stone ceiling, tapping his chin. "I should probably head off. Stayed too long. Have a good time folks -- and spread that to everyone in here for me."

Leanne Delphium: "...And he's off like that."

Sharla Blackheart: "Hmmmm." *watches as Oscare leaves and looks back to Leanne* "Yeah...he still does that..."

Leanne Delphium sighs. "I will work on that sometime...To the line...!"

[Jancis]

[align=center][/align]

 

Chachanji Gegenji stares straight ahead, his thoughts obviously elsewhere. Shoulders slumped, he looks more like a stand for his armor than any actual sort of guard.

Locke Fairwind: "Chanji, Jancis." He nodded to the two in greeting. "So we meet again."

Chachanji Gegenji flinches a little at his name being mentioned, his violet eyes refocusing as he looks up at Locke. "H-huh? What?"

Locke Fairwind: "Was just saying hello is all." He smiled.

Chachanji Gegenji: "O-oh. Hi."

Chachanji Gegenji 's gaze drifts off to nothing again.

Chachanji Gegenji shakes his head and pulls his helm on. The most distracted bunny.

 

Chachanji Gegenji remains silently stalwart, eyes looking unseeing over the line. As Bryn moves away, he turns almost mechanically and motions for the next in line to step forward.

Tiergan Vashir: Are you in line, friend?

Chachanji Gegenji looks up at Tiergan at his question, his gaze not really "seeing" him. At the question, he just shakes his head and moves back into position.

Virara Wakuwa averts her eyes as Tiergan addresses Chachanji, frowning silently.

 

Chachanji Gegenji moves slowly up to Jancis' side. His gaze turned downward, that jovial accent of his drained to a simple Doman one. "Do you... need me for anything else, Ms. Jancis?"

Jancis Milburga reaches over to Chachanji. "Everything is going very well. Is there anything you need, though?"

Chachanji Gegenji mumbles something quietly, but then shakes his head. "... No. I'm fine."

Jancis Milburga gives Chachanji a concerned look. "You should go now. I will find you later on? Will you be okay to travel?"

Chachanji Gegenji stiffens a little at her words, but nods obediently. "Okay."

Virara Wakuwa watches Chachanji retreat silently.

Chachanji Gegenji stumbles around the tent, lost both physically and mentally.

 

Jancis Milburga bows deeply, "Thank you for coming, Lady."

Brynhilde Wulf approaches Jancis. She says nothing, but inclines her head in a gracious nod.

Jancis Milburga: "We are just letting other pilgrims catch up and shall start at the high bell."

Brynhilde Wulf nods once more.

Brynhilde Wulf offers Berrod a small smile, but remains silent.

Berrod Armstrong nodded in turn and allowed himself a small smile -- he too remained without words.

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Brynhilde Wulf pauses and casts her eyes over the crowd, searching.

Brynhilde Wulf: "Herr Dorn. How fare you?"

Reiner Dorn extending his hand to Wulf. "I am tired, and worse for wear. These past few days have been...turbulent. There was an attempt upon my life for political reasons I imagine."

Brynhilde Wulf takes Dorn's hand in a firm shake. Her expression is grim. "Do you know the culprits?"

Reiner Dorn shakes his head. "No, but my estate was burnt to the ground, I fear many do not like the prospect of Ala Mhigan Nobles still being about. It makes keeping the rest under boot heel far easier, but no more. To many have forgotten -what- we were and who we -still- are."

Brynhilde Wulf nods slowly. "I share your sentiment, to say the very least."

Brynhilde Wulf: "I was told you were looking for me recently."

Reiner Dorn bows to her. "Though, that is my own woes, aye. I held a meeting of four surviving members of the Fist. To talk of the idea of reformation. And You are among many I wished to personally speak to of a roundtable, an open invitation to all who wish a voice to speak of their wish for a New Reclaimed Ala Mhigo."

Reiner Dorn: "And to ask you a favor."

Brynhilde Wulf regards Dorn for a long moment in scrutiny. " ... Yes."

Arcian Martell sidles up behind Brynhilde and Reiner, waiting quietly.

Reiner Dorn: "I wish to formally invite you and yours to my wedding, it is short time, just two weeks from now."

Brynhilde Wulf: "I would be greatly honoured to attend, Bruder."

Reiner Dorn: "Thank you Wulf, I am honored, and on this matter of the conference, I know there is many ill thoughts and fears. Many have even laid the idea I wish for a repeat of history. Please allow me some time to speak with you about my view, and to learn more of you beyond what I do."

Brynhilde Wulf: "You are welcome to attend Cliffperch whenever you so wish, if that would suit you. Otherwise I am happy to come to you. I'd like to learn more of you also, Herr Dorn. Your ambitions... Intrigue me."

Reiner Dorn: "If it is not an intrusion I shall happy make time to your lands. The loss of my own has me prone to travel as of late."

Brynhilde Wulf: "I am sorry for the loss of your home. We have spare beds if you need somewhere to stay in the short term."

Reiner Dorn: "I...I am a proud man, but I will never turn down such hospitality. I am indebted."

Brynhilde Wulf offers Dorn a smile of genuine warmth. "Think naught of it. Anything for kin."

Reiner Dorn: "I feel there is much we could speak of with each other. Your presence today has amazed me."

Brynhilde Wulf: "You flatter me, but thank you. I am simply pleased to feel the stirring resurgence of our culture. It brings back many happy memories for me, as I've no doubt it does for you, also."

Reiner Dorn: "Aye, next moon, I hope to put together a festival of our people, one of arguably less reverence, but to teach the young why we are proud, and to teach the others. that we do exist and that are proud."

Brynhilde Wulf: "A superb idea. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to assist with such an event."

Reiner Dorn: "Seems when I arrive at Cliffperch we shall have much to discuss. I thank you again Sister. I should say my peace to the others before moving to the Runestone."

Brynhilde Wulf: "But of course. Be well, Herr Dorn."

Brynhilde Wulf nods to Arcian. "I'll see you back home later?"

Arcian Martell: "'Course."

 

Brynhilde Wulf: "What's going on over here?" She smiles.

Bharfyst Elilstyrmsyn: "Ember's askin' people about their gods."

Brynhilde Wulf: "Oh." A chuckle.

Flickering Ember: Wulf!

Brynhilde Wulf: "Hello, Ember."

Brynhilde Wulf: "Did you enjoy the stories and song?"

Flickering Ember: I hear your story! It was very good! I liked it.

Flickering Ember: I like the story. The song was.....loud.

Brynhilde Wulf: "I'm glad you did, love."

Bharfyst Elilstyrmsyn: Very well told. An' y'made a good point.

Brynhilde Wulf: "I should thank Jancis."

Brynhilde Wulf: "I'll be back in just a moment."

Flickering Ember: I am going be more like Destroyer too.

 

Brynhilde Wulf: "Sorry to disturb." She smiles at the Sea Wolf.

Tausenadel Geispyrsyn steps back with a smile and wanders into the crowd.

Brynhilde Wulf: "Jancis, allow me to thank you for hosting this pilgrimage today. It meant a lot to many of us to have this all-too-rare opportunity to celebrate our culture."

Jancis Milburga: "Lady Wulf. You did bring history to life! Thaliak as much as Rhalgr must have been beaming."

Jancis Milburga bows her head. "It is not heard nearly enough from what I discovered today. Thank you. In future Moons hopefully more will be understood and shared."

Brynhilde Wulf: "You truly are too kind, Jancis. But thank you nonetheless."

Brynhilde Wulf: "I understand that Herr Dorn is looking to organize something of a 'Mhigan cultural faire. I'd be thrilled if you could attend."

Jancis Milburga: "I could never be too kind! That would be lying. I could see you from the others; do you feel more people did grasp  all that was said this sun?"

Brynhilde Wulf: "I believe so. I know Rhalgr's can be one of the more difficult philosophies to grasp, however."

Brynhilde Wulf: "I will let you be, Jancis. But thank you again."

Jancis Milburga nods in agreement. "Emotions so strong are often hard to... ah... yes." She looks awkward and bows, "You are welcome."

 

Brynhilde Wulf: "You know what I could do with right now? An Aldgoat roast and far too much ale."

Bharfyst Elilstyrmsyn: I think that's doable.

Brynhilde Wulf: "Aye? Do you think we should invite everyone?"

Flickering Ember: Food yesterday was very good.

Bharfyst Elilstyrmsyn nods. "Up t'you... unfortunately... I have t'work."

Brynhilde Wulf looks a mite disappointed. "Oh. Another night then, perhaps."

Bharfyst Elilstyrmsyn nods, looking disappointed. "I can make it t'cliffperch after m'shift if y'like."

Flickering Ember: I need go too. I am helping find Draco. I have more ideas. It was nice hear about your god person.

Brynhilde Wulf: "That would be nice, my love." She smiles and rises to kiss him.

Bharfyst Elilstyrmsyn leans down and gives Bryn a quick kiss. "I'll see ya then."

Flickering Ember: Goodbye, Bar Feast! Wulf!

Bharfyst Elilstyrmsyn: Good luck, Em. I'll talk t'ya later about that thing.

Brynhilde Wulf: "I'm going to go wash the woad off. I'll see you later, handsome."

Bharfyst Elilstyrmsyn: Not if I see y'first.

Brynhilde Wulf smirks.

[Jancis]

Nathan Telluride steps quietly towards the growing group, taking a moment to adjust his hat, lowering its brim.

Nathan Telluride rubs his chin. "Somber here, but it is appropriate, for the moment..." He speaks lowly, mostly to himself, before offering a polite bow to Jancis.

Jancis Milburga widens her eyes and bows to Nathan, "Verily. An odd amount of tranquility for now."

Nathan Telluride tilts his head, eyes darting about, talking softly to himself. "Acoustics are good... unexpectedly so."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Leanne Delphium tips her hat with a grin. "Mr. Telluride. Mr. Beautiful Eyes. Ms. Jancis..!"

Locke Fairwind: "And if it aint the champion of the shots contest. I heard from Nathan that you had a second liver in your tail. How you lost the one before is beyond me." He mused.

Nathan Telluride turns, and flashes a smile at Leanne. "Two titles for me, Leanne? I'm flattered..." He grins at Locke. "Oh, she meant you. How can people tell, behind those glasses?"

Leanne Delphium smirks. "Maybe the sake this time was just to my tastes." she laughs.

Leanne Delphium: "Such is the mystery, Mr. Telluride!"

Locke Fairwind: "Honestly, I think it's just a ploy to butter me up in order to get them off. Unfortunately for Leanne here, I don't give in that easily." He flashed a cheesy little grin her way.

Nathan Telluride clucks his tongue. "I bet if he takes off those glasses, we all turn to stone. Maybe mush. Mushy stone?"

Leanne Delphium tsks before raising her nose up high. "Or we will be so charmed that even Althyk will lose the concept of 'time'."

Locke Fairwind: "So you've discovered my secret." He gasped, feigning surprise in an all too exaggerated expression. "I fear the world must never know what truly lies behind them. I doubt they'd be prepared for it."

Nathan Telluride looks between Locke and Leanne. "Sir, I don't know how many more signals you need before you make a move..." The sentence is cut off by a cheerful laugh.

Locke Fairwind: "Signals?" He quirked a brow in confusion.

Leanne Delphium: "A thousand more, Mr. Telluride!" she sticks her tongue before shaking her head amusedly.

 

Nathan Telluride bats some rock dust from his boots, smiles to himself, and steps to the line.

 

Shinorah Nightsbane: "Begging your pardon sir, but I wished to thank you for the song.  It's been a long time since I heard something of home and ...well, thank you."

Nathan Telluride: "Ah, pardon my slowness, love." HE says to Shinorah. "I was simply hoping to have a few words with wonderful people. Do you fit in that category?"

Shinorah Nightsbane: "I had just wished to convey my appreciation, is all."

Nathan Telluride tilts his head. "Is this not one? Nathan Telluride, at your service. On behalf of our hosts, I hope you enjoyed the show."

Shinorah Nightsbane: "Forgive my lack of manners.  Shinorah Nightsbane, formerly of Ala Mhigo."

Shinorah Nightsbane: "There were parts I enjoyed greatly.  Others, well....it's complicated, one might say."

Shinorah Nightsbane: "Faith has never been a strong point of mine, even in better circumstances."

Nathan Telluride: "Ah, so another with true heritage. I myself have no... provable claim to the deserts, but it is my calling to give a voice to those who might lack one otherwise. Sometimes it is Faith, sometimes is it a way of making life better. I do hope we were able to do some of that for you."

Shinorah Nightsbane: "Oh I was raised in the mountains.  I struggle with these deserts, in truth."

Shinorah Nightsbane: "The scenery is lacking, to be certain."

Shinorah Nightsbane: "I imagine you could construct many fine songs, were you to see Mhigo's beauty firsthand."

Nathan Telluride nods, sniffing a bit. "I beg forgiveness if the finale rose up a bit too much dust.  It's a local hazard, I'm afraid."

Shinorah Nightsbane: "I should not look to take up too much of your time, though.  If you have other songs, please do feel free to stop by Cliffperch, I would be glad to hear then."

Shinorah Nightsbane calls out, "Ember?"

Nathan Telluride: "Cliffperch.... that would be a story in itself... but I will take heed."

Shinorah Nightsbane: "If you will all excuse me - I may return to the city to collect my thoughts and such."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Nathan Telluride looks to Clio. "You told quite the fine tale, there."

Cliodhna Eoghan "It was an interesting song, Nathan.....Though I'm surprised Lottie let you wear that outfit." The statement failing to bring a smile to her lips though she tried.

Nathan Telluride glances back to Clio. "Still feeling somewhat off, my dear? You did have quite a bit of heart to share today."

Cliodhna Eoghan Smiles slightly. "Thought I'd be a bit stronger than I ended up being...Bit shamed to admit that."

Nathan Telluride lowers his chin. "Strength isn't always winning right off. Sometimes, it's an act of divine will to stand when all else says she would remain down."

Cliodhna Eoghan Nods lightly. "Yes....I'm going to go find Erik. Apologies for not being as upbeat today."

Nathan Telluride puts on a crooked smile. "I'll send a bit of Jack's regards to you, my dear, to make the next few days more pleasant."

Cliodhna Eoghan "Thanks for the thought but I still have a few bottles left. Don't want you to drain your entire supply after all.."

Nathan Telluride bows his chin. "For every party, there is a morning after, and sometimes it simple lasts a while. Give him and your company my fondest regards?"

Cliodhna Eoghan: I will..Thank you.

 

Jancis Milburga squints a smile at Nathan, "You have achieved such music that the very ground is moved by it."

Nathan Telluride bows, and throws Jancis a smile fit for a boy. "And you, my dear, have pleased the gods and moved all of us, as you always do with your efforts."

Jancis Milburga: "One person would not make the Twelve smile, so. But thank you. Where did you find such a song if I may be bold enough to ask."

Nathan Telluride clucks his tongue. "Not all of the devout are obvious, and destruction has many fans. I managed to sneak a looking into an old songbook from the great library in the north. I will say, though, that the walls still stand, and hope that your previous concerns are now lessened."

Jancis Milburga rubs her cheek at Nathan's words, "Forgive me, that I ever doubt a bard of your expertise again. You were quite right."

Nathan Telluride chuckles. "My dear Lady Milburga, it was a compliment that you thought me capable of being a true and reckless avatar of Rhalgr! Your concern was as a buoy to my spirits. However, I maintain the respect and focus due to these ceremonies, as you prefer."

Jancis Milburga: "It is the skill of a bard to know how to bring out emotion! You maintain it well! Were you equally as moved by the other words this sun?"

Nathan Telluride: "Of course! It was a potent and inspired group you assembled today. Though, I, too, should leave you to your devoted, Lady Milburga, and wish you the blessings of all of the Twelve, until we meet again under fair skies."

Jancis Milburga: "You too, Master Telluride!"

 

Locke Fairwind: "Chanji, Jancis." He nodded to the two in greeting. "So we meet again."

Jancis Milburga beams warmly at Locke, "We do. And you look quite well. Quite bright really."

Locke Fairwind: "Might be the new coat. It's grown on me. Shame it didn't come in red though, but ya take what ya get." He glanced around the cavern and then back toward Jancis. "Seems like we have quite the crowd. The turn out to these events never fail to impress."

Locke Fairwind: "And if it ain't one of the prettiest officers of the Harbingers. Glad to see you could make it, Jay."

J'maaira Tuhl sees Locke Fairwind and blushes with embarrassment.

Locke Fairwind: "Guard duty, I take it?"

Jancis Milburga: "Lady J'maaira. Your presence is always comforting. Oh. is there a prettier officer Locke?"

J'maaira Tuhl: "Oh please." she rolls her eyes at Locke and turns to Jancis. "He only has eyes for the prettiest Lady Jancis, himself."

Locke Fairwind: "If there was, they'd have a hard time topping Jay here. It's reassuring to know you'll be watching over the event this time around. I imagine some of the others in the martials are coming too?"

J'maaira Tuhl: "Too my knowledge, no. A fair number of us are still recovering from last night. I believe Kasaris is here as back-up."

Jancis Milburga gives Locke an apologetic look, "Pretty words too... I suppose you have a lot of tending to do when returning to the Beds. Rhalgr Willing, it will only be boisterous actions and not attacks."

Jancis Milburga: "Would be quite the ignorance one to give it an attempt."

Locke Fairwind: "Seeing the lack of Harbingers at one of these will certainly be a first. All the same, I'm sure we have more than enough able bodied guards watching over us. Jancis here always did a good job preparing things beforehand."

J'maaira Tuhl: "As she always does." she smiles at Jancis.

Locke Fairwind: "Aye, we've got our work cut out for us back at home. This will be a well deserved break before getting back to it."

Jancis Milburga: "Thalia would have it no other way... knowledge is the first step to any battle really."

Jancis Milburga: "And you will bring back stories and songs! You can sing for them, Locke!"

Locke Fairwind: "They do say that knowing is half the battle."

J'maaira Tuhl nods at Locke's statement.

J'maaira Tuhl: (G.I. JOE!~)

Locke Fairwind: "Oh please, I think my singing will only make things worse." He chuckled.

J'maaira Tuhl: "I'll do it in his stead." she chuckles.

 

Locke Fairwind: "So we mark the end of another pilgrimage. Hard to believe we've only got one more left to go."

Leanne Delphium flaps her hat with a hum.

Leanne Delphium: "After Rhalgr...Zeya."

Locke Fairwind: "I've only started attending these just a few moons ago. Never thought I'd stick with so many."

Leanne Delphium smiles sweetly, scratching a twitching ear. "I've been around since the first one. Couldn't stick to all of them, but...was fun all around."

Locke Fairwind: "You'll still drop by to say hello even after the pilgrimages end, won't you? It'd be nice to see one of my favorite bards stopping by on their busy journey."

Leanne Delphium sticks her tongue. "Of course! It is not like I'm around only because of the pilgrimages." she grins cheekily before roughly patting Locke's back. "Gotta be sure my friends are not spending their time in an infirmary."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Locke Fairwind nodded toward Jay in greeting.

J'maaira Tuhl nodded to Locke in turn.

Leanne Delphium elegantly tips her hat to J'maaira with a polite smile.

J'maaira Tuhl smiles and nods to Leanne in greeting.

Leanne Delphium casts her golden gaze back to Locke and his glasses. "Anyway, I shall leave you to your friend. Perfect opportunity to catch up with a few people. Shouldn't lose it."

Locke Fairwind: "Aye, don't be a stranger now. Let's chat another time."

Leanne Delphium nods with perky ears and lively tail, tipping her hat once more. "Assuredly! Be well, talk to you soon...!"

Locke Fairwind: "The only Harbinger guard around. As far as I could see anyway. This is certainly a first that I've seen at one of these."

J'maaira Tuhl: "Well, I feel I'm likely the only able bodied and of sound mind." she looks around at the crowd before looking back to him. "How does Anadl fair?"

Locke Fairwind: "Ana is doing alright. Her wounds were bad, but not too severe. I've gotten her patched up and all, but it's her mental state I'm worried about. Gonna have to keep an eye on her until things calm down within the company."

J'maaira Tuhl: "Has she spoken to Barios or a mental health professional?"

Locke Fairwind: "Not since last night. A visit would be recommended once she's fully recovered though. Hmm, if you'll excuse me then. I think I'm going to step away for now. It's getting a bit too hectic here for my liking."

J'maaira Tuhl: "Of course, I'll see you back at the estate."

Locke Fairwind: "Aye, don't wait up on me. Have a safe trip back, Jay."

J'maaira Tuhl: "Yours as well Locke."

 

Locke Fairwind: "Another success, Jan." He smiled softly. "Then again, I can't say I'm surprised with how well the others have gone. I'm taking my leave for the evening. Do take care of yourself. Perhaps I'll even drop by the Mist sometime to say hello."

Jancis Milburga: "I would like that, Locke! Are many other stories to share. Pray do not wear yourself out too much with caring for your wards. I will try to stop in and bring something nice for everyone."

Locke Fairwind: "I'm sure they'd look forward to that. I'll even try to pick a time when you're not busy indulging in your unusual habits." He teased, no doubt referring to the little event with poison he stumbled into last time. "Farewell until then."

Jancis Milburga: "My... unusual habits?"

Jancis Milburga looks up at Tausen, "Are my habits that unusual?"

Tausenadel Geispyrsyn: Unusual, mayhaps. But not in a bad way, nay. Nothin' but positive. Ain't naught but good feelin's comin' from each an' ev'ry'un o' these.

Jancis Milburga nods, "Yes. A good kind! That Locke is always teasing me. I will have to think of something twice as good to say to him next we meet!"

J'maaira Tuhl: "Lady Jancis, thank you once again for allowing the Harbingers to serve as your guard. I should head back to the Estate however and assist with our wounded."

Jancis Milburga smiles at J'maaira, "Thaliak only knows how you sort out his truths."

Tausenadel Geispyrsyn: Ye tell him to speak to ME! We'll see who's teasin' then.

J'maaira Tuhl: "He's a mystery she smiles. I shall take my leave lady Jancis, thank you."

Jancis Milburga: "Yes! We shall see!"

Jancis Milburga bows. "Travel safe and well, my best to your kin for a speedy recovery Lady J'maaira."

J'maaira Tuhl: "I shall, please be safe as well."

Jancis Milburga: "Ah. Tausen? I could ask for your counsel in that? Teasing, I mean."

Tausenadel Geispyrsyn 's brow furrows and he suddenly looks serious. "...o' course ye can, lass. Any time, I mean that."

Jancis Milburga looks up at Tausen gratefully.

[Jancis]

[align=center][/align]

 

Franz Renatus approaches slowly. "It's been a while, Mirke."

Sounsyy Mirke nods to Franz. "Too long. But... I could not forego such an event. Fer obvious reasons. Sad, this place is, isn't it?"

Franz Renatus: "Suppose it can be at times. But isn't its purpose also one of hope? Of a wish to rebuild?"

Leanne Delphium lightly pats Franz back with a smile before crossing past him, not without tipping her hat to Sounsyy.

Sounsyy Mirke thins her lips as if holding back what she really thought of 'new hope'. "Perhaps, twenty years ago. That was the hope. Now, it is the lichyard of my culture and my people. Perhaps this pilgrimage will do some good - in so much as we can share what few of our memories of our glories remain."

Franz Renatus nods slightly. "Don't they say 'home is where the heart is'? Of course, the actual physical space is quite important too...", he trails off. "I would hope the event instills a renewed belief in hope. Or at least some of the livelihood in the people. Can't wallow forever, right?"

Cliodhna Eoghan Glances sideways, overhearing Franz's voice. Is surprised a moment but relaxes into Erik when pulled closer.

Sounsyy Mirke nods absently. "Perhaps the rekindling will inspire the younger generation." She turns at the sound of the bell and looks at Jancis. "That lass has a way of bringing odd folk together."

Franz Renatus nods against, smiling. "That she does."

 

Sounsyy Mirke shrugs at Franz. "Well, a small bit of home."

Franz Renatus: "A small flame can still kindle a fire. Was it enjoyable?"

Sounsyy Mirke: "It is good... to see some who remember the old ways. The greatest tragedy is that Ala Mhigo's youth may never witness the birthplace of their heritage. When this generation passes and Ala Mhigo is not reclaimed, much will be lost. I put some hope in these stories."

Franz Renatus: "Isn't it up to the old to teach the young, no matter how stubborn? A culture is not destroyed so quickly. I'm sure there things that can be done to help it burn brightly."

Sounsyy Mirke shakes her head at Franz. "The youth seemingly adopt only the anger and the suffering. Many fathers laid their burdens upon their children and laid down to die. It is... sad. Those feelings once had direction and a common enemy. But many are not so willing to give their lives fer a promised land they've never seen. Not when food is a more palpable urge."

Franz Renatus: "That is true. One cannot focus on culture and history without first being able to survive. But perhaps with Ishgard opening its gates, there will be renewed attempts to reclaim Ala Mhigo from the Empire. A land united is stronger. Isn't that what someone said in one of the stories?"

Sounsyy Mirke nods to Franz. "Winds of change are stirring in these lands. Twenty years Ishgard's gates have been sealed. Twenty years our city has been walled off from Eorzea. There is still hope. I juss hope it happens within my lifetime. Yeh will see me leadin' a column - even if I'm gray."

Franz Renatus chuckles slightly. "I'd imagine no less. If they can use a shield even half as good, I think you'd have quite a chance. They may be good at what they do, but I would imagine there are plenty of ways to overcome the Garleans."

Sounsyy Mirke nods. "We have the means, now we must needs amass the numbers. We tried once, in meh youth. The Resistance fought to retake Gyr Abania while our convictions were still strong as our shields were thick. But there were no Eorzean Alliance in those days. No aide came. Ishgard came to Gridania's aid in years past. Mayhaps they'll come to ours when the time is right. But pray- forgive me, I should join the line. Will you come as well?"

Franz Renatus: "I think I'll pass on the blessing, but I can join in line. No need to let a conversation die."

Sounsyy Mirke smiles at Franz and moves her way to find the back of the line.

Franz Renatus: "So what does a blessing of Rhalgr entail?" He seems amused.

Franz Renatus simply nods a little. "I see. Can't say I know much about them, but I would take it that they are quite important?"

Sounsyy Mirke: "Quite. They... united our nation in a way and brought it into the glory it now remembers. But, in my early youth, our king went mad and tore our nation apart. He outlawed Rhalgr and the monks were slain. It is not our nation's most glorious tale. I grew up in Ala Mhigo during the king's rule. My father told me, 'we worship Nymeia now.' But it would not last, as yeh can see."

Franz Renatus: "Huh....", he mused. "It sounds like a complicated time."

Sounsyy Mirke: "Trying. So much so that our nation never had the chance to recover."

Franz Renatus: "All we can do is try. Isn't that the most we can do?"

Sounsyy Mirke: "It's that or continue sufferin' under Ul'dahn discrimination. The latter prospect I ain't entirely keen- forgive me!"

Franz Renatus walks over to the side a bit, out of the way

Franz Renatus watches a little surprised at the grovel

 

Franz Renatus: "Apologies, I overheard some. But it is good, isn't it?"

Sounsyy Mirke looks at Franz as she draws up beside him. "As I said before, not our nation's proudest moment." She gives a short, sharp sniff and sighs. "It is good. I'd always hoped that one day my father could sleep at peace with his people."

Franz Renatus finds himself not able to pick out the best words. "Then it sounds as if much good has been achieved." He can't bring himself to speak about family, given the nature of his own.

Ryanti Veanysus wiped some excess dust off of his biluad, quietly approaching the brunette woman, his eyes briefly glancing up at the amethyst-clad individuals. "Those are the Fists, aren't they?"

Sounsyy Mirke lets out a breath now that she was sure her eyes weren't going to water and she'd have to make up an excuse like the dust. "Fer one day, enough, yes." She turns to the new arrival in a slight shock, and nods with her mouth a bit open. "Yes, yes they are. Speak with them, they have words of comfort."

Ryanti Veanysus smiled warmly at the sight. Shock? Was he someone that inspired such emotion? "I had a feeling you would be here." he said, noting that Rhalgr was an attendant to the deity Ryanti valued most. "I was contemplating about the idea of speaking with them... but I'm not sure what I would say. I am only mildly familiar with all this. I suppose I'm rather timid about it."

Franz Renatus just glances between the two miqo'te, perhaps eavesdropping on hat he can.

Sounsyy Mirke nods to the Miqo'te. "There is nothing to fear from the man behind me. He will hear yer words or... even give a blessing." She passed a side glance at Franz watching the pair. "My friend can attest to that."

Ryanti Veanysus eyed the Captain for a moment. There was a bit of trepidation in his eyes. It seemed that he was seeking a kind of faith. That he needed this. He looked a little stressed, but kept in control. Anyone with experience would know that it seemed like the young man was preparing for a great journey. "I see. That reassures me. Thank you Sounsyy." He said calmly, before eyeing the friend she described. "Where are my manners. My name is Ryanti Veanysus, and you are..?" he extended a hand.

Franz Renatus: "Franz. No surname." He reached out to shake with a firm grip.

Ryanti Veanysus nodded in clarity, matching his grip in firmness although his skin was empty of scars and callous. "Franz then. A pleasure. If I had lesser of a purpose being here, we could converse more, but there's a conversation waiting that I need at the moment." With a small smile, he dismissed his presence, eying the Captain one more time before turning his head to the man in purple.

Franz Renatus: "A friend or acquaintance?"

Sounsyy Mirke: "I met the boy at the Grindstone. So I guess either label is appropriate?"

Franz Renatus: "It is quite a good place for that, yes. I can say I've met many through it."

Sounsyy Mirke shrugged and looked over her shoulder at the Miqo'te. "He were rather keen to fight a champion. He 'as skill with a blade, despite his disposition. I can say that much."

Franz Renatus: "Can't say I've seen him in action. I have no attended the last few tournaments. The journey back northwest will likely be long."

Franz Renatus: "To return to something I was asked to do. This has only been a short visit to warming climates, and travel via aetheryte is not feasible at the moment. I'm glad to have made it, however," as he smiled.

Sounsyy Mirke nods a bit at Franz. "Then I'll pray fer yer safe journey. As I should make ready one of my own. I've lingered in Thanalan over-long."

Franz Renatus: "Where are you off to? La Noscea?"

Sounsyy Mirke: "Aye, fer Limsa to resupply. My levy is being deployed to the Cieldaeles. Word of pirates amassing on the isles in the south."

Franz Renatus: "Pirates? Sounds as if there will never cease to be work to be done. Be safe on your travels then. Although, the sea does sound much more appealing than Coerthas' unending winter."

Sounsyy Mirke gives a short laugh, "That it is. When yer raw from the cold winds, trouble meh fer a trip to the southern breezes. They're far more appealing. But, I should be off. Many miles still across sand to travel first."

Franz Renatus: "That is true. Be safe on your travels. I'll try to do the same for mine." He made a bit of a smirk. "...and maybe after both we'll have a good evening at a pub or so."

Sounsyy Mirke nods and begins heading out of the dusty settlement. "I'll look forward to that, Franz."

 

Franz Renatus approached the rock, staring at it a little.

Ashmira Honzen stirs and glances at Franz. "-- ah. I apologize, did you want to get closer?" Her hand falls away.

Franz Renatus speaks quietly to the other person. "Oh no, this is fine. I'm simply not seen this one before."

Ashmira Honzen nods a little, fingers quivering briefly. "Mm, very well." Another moment and she steps away, rubbing at her palm thoughtfully.

Franz Renatus seemed to be content enough looking at the stone for a while.

Franz Renatus looks to stir after an extended time of contemplation, heading towards a path back up towards the desert.

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Reiner Dorn bows his head to Sharla with a smile.

Sharla Blackheart: "Brother Reiner, glad to see you here."

Reiner Dorn: "And always a pleasure to see you Sharla."

Roni Oni waves to Reiner Dorn.

Reiner Dorn: "Excuse me a moment."

Sharla Blackheart: "Of course."

Reiner Dorn bows.

 

Sharla Blackheart: "Asura."

Asura Ananta: "Sharla."

Sharla Blackheart smiles slightly. "I would say I'm surprised to see you here, but I'd be lying then. It's good to see you."

 

Sharla Blackheart slowly stands and puts her turban back on. "Hmmmm...."

Kale Aideron: "Ah, miss Sharla?"

Sharla Blackheart growls lowly and blinks as she looks to Kale. "Hmm? Ah...Mr. Aideron."

Kale Aideron pinched his mask to lift it up onto his turban, a little frown to her growl, "Is aught amiss?"

Sharla Blackheart shakes her head and smiles faintly. "No...everything's fine, just...some old thoughts resurfacing..."

Kale Aideron smiled a bit, then, albeit a little hesitant, "Splendid, then. You still in with the royal guard?"

Sharla Blackheart: "Aye, I am. For as long as they see fit to keep me around."

Kale Aideron: "A lot 'as 'appened since we last spoke...no need to repeat it 'ere, I reckon, but I'm glad to see y'well, considerin' everythin'"

Sharla Blackheart shakes her head and looks back to Kale. "Indeed, and you as well. A lot has most certainly happened..."

Kale Aideron up-nodded towards the shrine, gesturing with a lazy right hand. He lowered his volume slightly, "I am not...so inclined to all this. I came 'cause a dear friend was performin', as was a fellow Flame...the song was...bombastic, but sung like those who 'ave never seen the battlefield, alas. Bards are wont to glorify such atrocious things"

Sharla Blackheart: "Hmm, I wasn't sure if I would show up myself, but...something told me that I should."

Kale Aideron canted his head curiously, "Yea'? 'nd what's that?"

Sharla Blackheart: "I...honestly wish I knew. Either way, I'm pleased I did take the time to come here, even more pleased to see so many others here as well."

Kale Aideron lifted his hand to cup his jaw, stroking pensively, "It is good to see the pious...I remain not so sold on the teachings of the Destroyer...even if some of it resonates with me. Strength through adversity, or what 'ave you"

Sharla Blackheart shrugs. "Strife and conflict...have and always will make us stronger. Better than what we were before."

Kale Aideron nodded slowly, uneasily agreeing. He glanced around the crowd, "Some of these Eastern tribals are in attendance, too...I'm surprised they 'ave any interest in foreign gods..."

Sharla Blackheart glances around the area, noting the various people about. "Hmmm, perhaps not so much of a surprise."

Sharla Blackheart: "Though I wonder how many here are..." *smiles and shakes her head* "Never mind...more old random thoughts again."

Kale Aideron sighed out tersely, looking to his right momentarily to see who sat, "I find unease with all this, I don't know why"

Sharla Blackheart: "Hmmm, that reminds me of something someone said to me once. If I wished to be at peace, if I wished my..desires to be silent for just a moment..."

Kale Aideron gave a slight tilt to his head, curious to the other half of what she was to say.

Sharla Blackheart: "My response? I am at ease, at peace....that's what bothers me most...."

Kale Aideron pursed his lips deeply, running his palms together. He stared ahead for a moment after pausing for several moments, "I'm sorry...I 'ave naught to say to that"

Sharla Blackheart smiles slightly. "No words are needed, Mr. Aideron. Being at unease...can be a preferable state..."

Sharla Blackheart: "Makes one more...careful, aware..vigilant."

Kale Aideron did half-smile at that, "I 'spose...'ere, then...I 'ave the Mythril Scales upon my back, 'nod the griffin of Gyr Abania. When I encounter so many of my kin caught up in the legacy of Ala Mhigo, 'nd I feel naught for it, then I find myself...disturbed"

Sharla Blackheart: "Hmmm, perhaps not. Still...your carrying of it now does mean something."

Sharla Blackheart: "Ah...I can relate in a way. Not often I'm found wearing such mementos of the homeland."

 

Sharla Blackheart blinks and turns to Asura and nods.

Kale Aideron opened his mouth to add more, but saw Asura approach, looking to her from Sharla.

Asura Ananta: "I'll meet you there then, Sharla."

Kale Aideron: "Ah, a friend?"

Sharla Blackheart turns from Asura and looks back to Kale. "Aye, one of quite a few who have helped me a great deal recently."

Kale Aideron hopped to his feet, in which case, smiling in a friendly manner, "Well! Per'aps a good cue to leave you be...I'll see if I ought to say 'ello to 'nyone else 'fore leavin'. Cheers for the chat, 'ey?"

Sharla Blackheart: "Of course, was a pleasure to see you well again."

Sharla Blackheart glances around and frowns slightly. "Crofte? Where the....dammit girl..."

Leanne Delphium: "Can I help you miss?"

Sharla Blackheart smiles and removes her turban. "Hmmm, ye might be able to..."

Leanne Delphium widen her eyes. "Oh! Ms. Shas! You're well!"

Sharla Blackheart: "That I am, and...just Sharla now. Had to, well...I'll explain later..."

Leanne Delphium: "Where have you been?"

Leanne Delphium: "Ya vanished even before I went to the north..!"

Leanne Delphium hums a melody before waving her thought off. "Nay, nothing. Just...pondering." she quickly flashes a smile. "Glad to see you're fine though, Ms. Shas."

Sharla Blackheart: "Leanne..." *Sighs and shakes her head as she smiles* "Aye...it's good to see you well again."

Leanne Delphium nods, flashing her a grin. "Now, if you all excuse me...! I wish to join the line...!"

Leanne Delphium: "Gosh.."

Leanne Delphium giggles and jumps into mentioned line.

 

Sharla Blackheart: "Ms. Jancis, a pleasure to see you again. This was a most wonderful event."

Jancis Milburga smiles at Sharla, "Lady Shas. Thank you for coming. Was it to your expectation? How your emotions coincide?"

Sharla Blackheart: "Aye, it was...more than I could have imagined. It has certainly given me much more to think on and consider."

Jancis Milburga: "As I. Dare say sometimes it takes a lot of time to sort out what does not have words to go with it. Feelings. Have you seen Lady Crofte of late?"

Sharla Blackheart: "I...thought I saw her here not earlier. I was hoping you or someone else had seen where she went off to..."

Sharla Blackheart: "If not...most likely headed back up north."

Jancis Milburga nods, "She was here to watch over everyone briefly. I did not get to speak with her. Quite moved by the words surely; a lot of it is from her own homeland."

Sharla Blackheart: "Hmmm...seems she's starting to pick some of my less desirable habits then..."

Jancis Milburga: "Your habits, Lady?"

Sharla Blackheart sighs and shakes her head. "Running off into potential trouble solo..."

Sharla Blackheart shrugs and gives a polite bow to Jancis and Nathan. "I should be off. Good to see you again, Ms. Jancis."

Jancis Milburga furrows her brow at Sharla's words, "As you wish. Travel safely, Lady Shas."

Sharla Blackheart: "I'll try, the things we do. Old man always said a woman would be the death of me...."

[Jancis]

[align=center][/align]

 

Zachary Evans waves to you.

Zachary Evans: "Excuse me, pardon me..."

Jancis Milburga beams and lifts her heels waving.

Jancis Milburga: "Zachary! Is good to see you! Quite so."

Zachary Evans: "Good to see you as well Miss Milburga! It's been far too long."

Jancis Milburga nods vigorously in agreement. "Far too long, ah, Sir Evans."

Zachary Evans: "I'm glad I was able to come. Seems I've been spending too much time focusing on, well...'other things', that I haven't made time for friends."

Zachary Evans looks away from you, sulking.

Jancis Milburga pulls a hand bell from her robe. "those other things must needs be very important... Alas I cannot really talk at the moment. I shall speak to you more later?

Zachary Evans: "Of course! I didn't meant to steal you away from your duties! I'll talk to you again soon, Miss Milburga."

Zachary Evans looks around.

Jancis Milburga: raises a hand bell over her head. "Welcome Pilgrims! Thank you for coming all this way!"

Zachary Evans: "So many unfamiliar faces...."

 

Zachary Evans: "By and far, this was an exceptional event."

Zachary Evans: "I'm glad I got to meet all of you, and if you want, I can make those introductions for y'all."

Arcian Martell: "If you wouldn't mind."

Zachary Evans: "Who would y'all like to be introduced to first?"

Leggerless Hanzou: "...There's multiple people?"

Arcian Martell: "Your call."

Zachary Evans: "Well... lemme see here..."

Zachary Evans:  "Erik's closer, and less crowded currently."

Zachary Evans: "Does that sound fair?"

Leggerless Hanzou: "Fair enough."

Arcian Martell: "Aye."

Zachary Evans: "Follow me!"

Cliodhna Eoghan Scrubs her eyes under her sunglasses, still leaving them on in a poor attempt to hide her now tearstained makeup.

Zachary Evans scratched the back of his head. "Sorry to bother you Captain, Clio. Am I interrupting something?"

Cliodhna Eoghan Gives him a blank look. "It's fine Zac...." Murmurs softly.

Zachary Evans: "These women wanted to speak to the pair of you for your part in arranging the festivities."

Zachary Evans: "May I introduce Arcian, Alice and Lynx."

Arcian Martell bows politely. "A pleasure. Heard you were to thank for the Royal Ball a few moons ago."

Erik Mynhier: I know Lynx from the Royal Ball I think.

Leggerless Hanzou: "Aye, that you may."

Alice Lancaster manages a slight wave as she tries to fight back a yawn, "I've no idea why we're being introduced. I'm just here because I went along with it. I'm Alice."

Leggerless Hanzou: "Never did properly thank you for the event."

Erik Mynhier: Not at all. How can I be of help?

Zachary Evans: "Erik is a good man, the Ball he helps put together are a little uptight, but fun none the less. A touch to high-class for my tastes, though."

Cliodhna Eoghan Stares at her boots.

Erik Mynhier: I take it you ladies want to set a booth up or some event during the festival?

Arcian Martell: "Me? No. Just thought I'd convey my thanks t'you for doing what you do."

Leggerless Hanzou glances over at the two on her right, then back at Erik. "No, Erik. It was a simple thanks for the last one. Makyn would likely do the same, were he here as well."

Zachary Evans: "Thank you for taking time for introductions, Captain."

Zachary Evans: "Please excuse me. If you'd like to be introduced to anyone else, come find me."

Zachary Evans: "Thank you for your time Captain. Clio."

Cliodhna Eoghan Nods again in Zac's direction.

 

Zachary Evans: "It's good to see you here, Sebastian."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Same! Though it's weird seein' you without your armor!"

Zachary Evans: "It's traditional garb, and I'm proud of it, thought it's not always good for every event."

Sebastian Sun'dai: Huh?"

 

Zachary Evans: "OH! Miss Jana, right?"

Jana Ridah: Huh- Oh! You are... Sorry, I don't recognize you, sir.

Jana Ridah: Oh, that's how you- Thank you, I wasn't sure just how well it'd fit the theme, but it seems to have gone over well.

Zachary Evans: "It touched me, same with most of the things I've heard today. To be honest, I never felt much of a connection to Rhalgr-Oschon has always been the one to guide me feet-but I feel closer to Him now. I had honestly never thought of Destruction to be a catalyst for Change."

Zachary Evans glances at Reiner before sighing and returning his attention to Jana.

Jana Ridah: Oh, I've always kind of... Destroyed, I guess.

Jana Ridah: Rhalgr was a good fit.

Zachary Evans: "Well, as I said, your words touched me, and made me glad I came."

Jana Ridah: I'm glad my words touched someone, even if I didn't really expect them too. It was generous of Jancis to let someone like me perform, especially after I, um... Kinda said some blasphemous things in the Shroud.

Zachary Evans: "Jancis isn't the type to hold a grudge, and I feel she knows it takes various opinions to form something great."

Zachary Evans: "Ummm...Excuse me a moment, Miss Jana."

 

Jancis Milburga reaches out to touch Zachary's sleeve.

Zachary Evans: "This was a good gathering, Miss Milburga!"

Zachary Evans: "Once again, as always from what I hear, you've gone above and beyond."

Jancis Milburga lowers the hood. "Above what? The cavern is built this way. I am very glad you were able to come; did much of it speak to you? You know well the Destroyer's ways it seems."

Zachary Evans: "As I told Miss Jana earlier, I've never felt a strong connection to Rhalgr. Oschon has always guided me to new horizons, but after hearing everyone, I feel something. Not exactly a kindship... a resonance, maybe?"

Jancis Milburga repeats "resonance" quietly and nods. "Each is part of the whole, so it makes sense be He your guardian or not. I would think it was more your passion that is evoked in the same way."

Zachary Evans: "I feel that. Oschon may have brought me here, but the was through Destruction my journey came to be. As taboo as this may seem, I believe the Calamity made it possible for me to leave home. To come to Eorzea and meet so many good people."

Jancis Milburga widens her eyes at Zachary, her face growing guilty as she confesses, "As I do. Such pain and all... were it not for it I would be lost. A tool; I would gladly accept it back knowing the cost now, but that is not how things are."

Zachary Evans put hands on Jancis' shoulders, looking her in the eye. "You're no tool. A tool is something base, and commonplace. You're an instrument. An instrument of change for the better. Look at all these events you've held. All the people who've come. They've all learned something, grown as people and become much better for it. And that happened because of you."

Jancis Milburga gawks a bit as Zachary's words sink in, standing still. "That makes me useful still." She repeated the words quietly before looking back up. "Thank you."

Jancis Milburga: "Am still useful by my own choices."

Zachary Evans smiled as he did something surprising, pulling Jancis into a hug. "If being useful is what you call it, useful is what it is. I'd call it inspirational instead."

Zachary Evans: "I have to be going, but I want to see you again soon. Maybe, we could go to the Bismarck again?"

Jancis Milburga still looks quite a bit internal and insighted, blinking to refocus as she nods, "As you like. More popotos? Aldgoat?"

Zachary Evans: "I...could ask if they could make some Dodo and dumpling soup from a family recipe. You might enjoy it."

Jancis Milburga perks up instantly, "Yes. Yes I would like to try that. Very much so."

Jancis Milburga: "I will, ah, will find a recipe too. Something... I will think of something."

Zachary Evans: "Then I'll write home, see if I can't get Auntie to send me the recipe."

Zachary Evans: "I'll see you soon...Jancis."

Jancis Milburga beams, "Soon. Be well and travel safe, Zachary."

Zachary Evans: "Gods Bless you."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Cliodhna Eoghan Reaches back and grabs Erik's hand.

Erik Mynhier pulls free of Clio's grip and wraps his arm instead around her shoulder, pulling her close.

Cliodhna Eoghan Murmurs softly. "I think I'm suppose to stand over there....."

Erik Mynhier: Alright, I'll be close.

 

Cliodhna Eoghan Looks back at Erik nodding.

Erik Mynhier: I will go and see the stone, then I will be ready Clio.

Cliodhna Eoghan "Alright dear, I'll be there shortly." Gives his hand a quick squeeze.

Cliodhna Eoghan Gaze drifts over to Berrod's direction a moment before going back to quietly watching the remainder as a whole.

Erik Mynhier: There you are.

Cliodhna Eoghan: Wanted to sit down for a bit...Still feeling a bit sore.

Erik Mynhier: Yes, I feel it too to be honest.... Listen, I had planned to give you a gift tonight, sort of a pre-wedding gift. But I am unsure if I should now.

Cliodhna Eoghan Lowers her sunglasses a little to look at him over the top of them. "You did? Well I won't tell you no if you still want to dear. I didn't intend to have these feelings afterwards; I had hoped for the opposite but you know how a painful memory can be." Smiles softly.

Erik Mynhier: I know.... it is just.... It took a bit of doing to get it for you. I am unsure how it will effect you. I was not aware you would take the night so hard.

Cliodhna Eoghan Holds her hand out, still resting on her leg but wanting his touch. "I'm sure it's wonderful whatever it is...Please don't doubt giving it because of tonight, I had been a bit nervous about sharing earlier and that combined with the story....It just affected me more than I had planned. I'm sure I'll be fine in a little while."

Erik Mynhier sighed, still unsure as he draws out the package, "When I my fath... when Ulrich and I last spoke, I had asked him to get something for me. He had a way of finding things lost. Of seeking out the past.... I asked him to find this and he did."

Cliodhna Eoghan Looks at the package curiously, not quite understanding what Erik had meant. "....What did he find?"

Erik Mynhier: I know you have not earned it in the old way, it was your mother's after all.... and at the risk of offending Rhalgr or his followers.... I never followed that path so I do not know the rules... But it was hers and I feel should be yours. It would be right I think in the hands of the Daughter of Swiftstrike.

Erik Mynhier: Shows what I know... I always thought they came in yellow. I understand that after they left the Order they could and often would dye them?

Cliodhna Eoghan Hands trembling at Erik's words, she gingerly took the package and slowly tore off the paper the long lost sight of her mother's temple clothes greeting her. Dyed black as she had done so many years ago, the feather of the circlet frayed but it was hers without a doubt, the lingering smell of honeysuckle greeted her senses. "S-she did....She dyed it black once she left." Voice barely above a whisper as it shook.

Erik Mynhier: I had some closure with my father there I think. I thought maybe you would like some such for your mother.

Cliodhna Eoghan Nods quietly, the material held close to her face. "Thank you..."

Erik Mynhier: As I said I do not know the rules, if it is sacrilege or not, but maybe you should try it on?

Cliodhna Eoghan "Maybe....I don't think it would be. She had intended me to follow in her footsteps; it just didn't happen that way...." Looks around, intent to duck into the tent behind her if allowed. "I don't know if it will fit, she seemed so much taller than I am but I was a lot smaller in those memories."

Erik Mynhier: Seems to fit you well.

Cliodhna Eoghan Nods. "The tops a little long...." Takes a slow breath.

Erik Mynhier: Funny is it no?

Cliodhna Eoghan: Why is it funny?

Erik Mynhier: No matter how far we go and what we fight..... We are always children, watching the heroes that made us do the impossible. No matter how far I pass him I always see my father on the field of battle and see him as so much greater then myself.

Erik Mynhier: He found something else.

Cliodhna Eoghan Smiles softly, fingers brushing over the decorative cord on the cyclase. "I guess so....Always trying to keep up with and chase their shadows..." Hugs her arms across her torso gently. "I was surprised you were able to find this....The way she had been carried off; I didn't think father had kept it..." Head jerks up. "What else did you find?"

Erik Mynhier: It is at home, it was much to large to bring here. It was a large bound book, thousands of pages. I think it came from the Temple Library. There was a letter stashed under the cover addressed to you. I did not read it.

Cliodhna Eoghan Places a hand over her mouth. She knew, she must have planned in case something happened to her before.... "Thank you Erik, I'll...I'll look at it once we're home...."

Erik Mynhier: Of course, honestly I was saving it all as a wedding gift but the event here and what happed to us these last few weeks.... I felt it could not wait.

Cliodhna Eoghan Nods, closing the distance between them. "Of course...I-Thank you...." Arms slipping around his waist under his jacket

Erik Mynhier wrapped her in his arms and smile as she lay against his chest.

Cliodhna Eoghan Grips the back of his shirt tightly, mindful to keep from pushing her forehead on his chest too hard. "I never thought I'd see these again...Thank you Erik..."

Erik Mynhier: Let us go home Love.

Cliodhna Eoghan: I'm going to change back first....I don't want to wear these long term just yet....

Cliodhna Eoghan Gently folds the garments, holding them close to breath in her mother's lingering scent once more; squeezing her eyes against the tears threatening to spill again. Takes a slow breath and comes back out, clothing held close to her chest.

Erik Mynhier: Let us go and visit before going.

Cliodhna Eoghan Nods. "I like to give her time to see everyone else first anyway....So many line up after theses..." Looks down at the garments in her arms again. "Thank you, I had wondered where you went off to earlier; you had these in Fury's bag, didn't you?"

Erik Mynhier: Yes, I took great pleasure knowing they were right there and you did not know. Not often I can sneak something past you.

Cliodhna Eoghan Shakes her head, light smile on her lips. "I was a bit preoccupied today."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Gareth Evershield 's gaze falls on the Captain, before stumbles forward towards him, reaching into his pouch to pull out a piece of parchment, breathing out. "There... we go... Captain...." He holds out the piece of paper, standing up as straight as he can with his rising and falling chest.

Erik Mynhier: May have beaten the record there Gareth.

Gareth Evershield lets out a breathy chuckle, placing his hands on his knees once more. "Not... fast enough... to make it here... on time..."

Cliodhna Eoghan Shifts back onto the barrel she had been sitting on; giving Erik a moment with Gareth.

Erik Mynhier: How was the run?

Erik Mynhier takes the paper.

Gareth Evershield holds up a thumb. "A challenge much like the Fifty Laps of Ul'dah..." He coughs before standing up straight. "I ran to the house, then told you were here."

Erik Mynhier: Glad you made it. I will file it away and start the next step.... tomorrow. You look exhausted.

Gareth Evershield waves a hand dismissively. "Walk in the... park, Captain..." He breathes out. "Give me but an hour and.... I will be ready for the next trial..."He takes in a deep breath. "If naught else, I'd like to begin training with Tellah, sir."

Erik Mynhier: Tellah has gone to Ishgard for a few days, I plan to join him tonight and travel back with him tomorrow.

Gareth Evershield sets his jaw in thought, but nods slowly. "I will make well use of the time I am given then, Captain." His eyes shift to the left, before he looks back at him. "Permission to.... be excused, sir?"

Erik Mynhier: Of course, enjoy the night.

 

Gareth Evershield grits his teeth, turning and dropping his bag as he moves slowly towards Jancis. "Ms. Milburga."

Jancis Milburga looks up at Gareth and his fatigued state instinctively holds out her hands, "Sir Gareth."

Gareth Evershield 's face falls, slowly taking to his knees, bowing his head. "I must apologize for my late arrival. I spoke with much earnest to be present, yet dishonored that by being the last one to appear." He narrows his eyes, sweat beading from forehead. "I'm sorry."

Ashmira Honzen tilts her head, studying the man curiously.

Jancis Milburga: "Forgive me. I am not sure what you are apologizing for. Did even get to say it to another, 'It is never too late to be what you might have been."

Jancis Milburga pulls a handkerchief from her robe and offers it. "I can get some water. It is good to see you. For me you are right on time."

Gareth Evershield 's eyes shift to the side, a small grin on his face. "And what might that be?" He runs a hand through his face. "Regardless, this was something I wished to be present for. I suppose this is my way of lamenting." He takes the handkerchief with a nod. "Thank you."

Jancis Milburga: "I am not sure how to make it up to you. Ah! Can visit Sir Armstrong sometime! He would gladly share his words again."

Gareth Evershield wipes his face slowly, pushing himself back to his feet, though he didn't look solid in his footing. "Who is this Sir Armstrong?" His eyes turn, eyeing the stone for a moment, before looking back at Jancis, then the Au Ra before him, nodding his head to her respectfully. "Ma'am."

Jancis Milburga: "Oh. Forgive me this is Lady Ashmira. She is quite versed in the heavens and bodies above. Sir Armstrong is a fist. Does lead the Agents; has overseen the Grindstone before. Is like one of Rhalgr's hands."

Gareth Evershield: I see. I will have to seek him out, when time permits...

Gareth Evershield turns to Ashmira. "A pleasure, my lady. Corporal Gareth Evershield of the Red Wings, at your service." He sets his jaw. "Aaaaaand resident groveler, apparently." He grins slightly.

Ashmira Honzen laughs quietly. "A pleasure meeting you, I've no doubt."

Ashmira Honzen: " 'twas an impressive entrance, all the same."

Cliodhna Eoghan Steps off the box, hoping Jancis sees her wave before climbing behind Erik on Fury.

Jancis Milburga manages to see some and waves!

Gareth Evershield lets out a soft chuckle. "A trait I hear I possess well." He tilts his head at Jancis. "She met me after watching me get carried into the med bay with courel and voidsent claw marks all over my body."

Jancis Milburga: "It is true! Luckily that smile of his was not harmed in his training."

Ashmira Honzen: "Ah, bitterly determined to the last, hm?"

Ashmira Honzen chuckles.

Jancis Milburga: "He is like Rhalgr, nothing will hold him back."

Gareth Evershield laughs, nodding. "So I've been told." He grins at the both of them, before his eyes turned to the stone. "Hm... A bit more stretched in that comparison..." He looks back at Jancis. "No paintings or philosophical chips for the pilgrims, this eve?"

Jancis Milburga: "Afraid not. Alas, this time was more suitable to have blessings and words given personally. Sir Armstrong and Lady Adalhaid took out many bells with people personally."

[Jancis]

[align=center][/align]

 

Ashmira Honzen: "Well. The song was quite delightful."

Ashmira Honzen fishes in her pockets with a thoughtful frown, rummaging through a satchel.

Ashmira Honzen watches the line of people curiously, studying each.

Ashmira Honzen looks curiously to Angora, lips quirking up. "Ah, how fare you?"

Angora Khilo looks over to Ashmira. "I am well. Much better then when we last met. The wound is nearly completely healed thanks to your help, Ms. Ashmira. And you? How are you?"

Ashmira Honzen smiles crookedly. "I am well enough. I had thought to ask whether you would like more of the oil to assist with any lingering aches or tension in your flesh..."

Angora Khilo tilts her head. "I'd certainly be happy to have more of it if you have some to offer."

Ashmira Honzen: "Of course. I use it quite often myself."

Ashmira Honzen rummages in her satchel, taking out a small vial of golden oil that just barely catches the dim light. She holds it up to Angora.

Angora Khilo smiles and takes the vial, tucking it away into her pocket. "There really is no way I can thank you enough for what you've done for me, Ms. Ashmira. If you ever need anything, I am sure Mr. Tiergan can help you get in contact with me."

Ashmira Honzen: "I haven't need for much, in frankness. It seems you and yours are oft beset by trouble, and I would be keen to continue to offer my efforts in assistance."

Angora Khilo nods. "And I do hope we will continue to be lucky enough to have your help in the future. Mr. Tiergan and Brother are about as bad, if not worse, then me when it comes to getting into trouble."

Ashmira Honzen: "So I have noticed... I encountered your brother before I knew what had occurred between them."

Ashmira Honzen frowns a little. " 'twas... an odd situation."

Ashmira Honzen: "In truth, we may need to speak on it."

Angora Khilo scratches her ear. "Yes...Though I believe it is resolved. For now at least. I am always willing to speak with you, Ms. Ashmira. Just tell me when and where."

Ashmira Honzen: "It is more on your brother's condition than the situation with he and Tiergan."

Ashmira Honzen: "I have... some concerns."

Angora Khilo frowns and shifts. "...I see. Then I suppose that would be better talk for somewhere...private."

Ashmira Honzen: "Mm, mayhaps. One might hope I am mistaken in my worry. But, you are about him more than I. Perhaps soon?"

Angora Khilo nods. "Of course. I believe those...moogles are able to find me anywhere. So send me word when you wish to speak."

Ashmira Honzen: "I will, yes. Though for now I think I shall join the line."

Ashmira Honzen smiles and murmurs absently, "Some fashion of calling."

Angora Khilo nods and bows. "I will see you soon, then."

Ashmira Honzen: " 'til then. Let me know if aught should go amiss."

Ashmira Honzen: "Stars watch you."

Ashmira Honzen shifts into the line, tugging something from her pocket and holding it tight in her palm.

Ashmira Honzen glances at those ahead of her, then beyond to the monk at the end. She shifts a little, eyes bright.

 

Ashmira Honzen glances over her shoulder. "Ah, are you here for a blessing? You may proceed ahead of me if you so wish, I am not quite seeking such."

Ashmira Honzen shivers a little, straightening again.

Ashmira Honzen waits patiently, fingers encircling something.

Ashmira Honzen breathes out slowly, adjusting her clothes with a quick glance up at the 'roof' of the cave.

Ashmira Honzen smiles quietly. "Good day, Jancis."

Jancis Milburga smiles and reaches out to squeeze Ashmira's arm with both hands, "Thank you for coming."

Ashmira Honzen squeezes Jancis' shoulder in turn. "Of course, dear devout. I find myself quite impressed by your vigor in these endeavors."

Jancis Milburga: "That I keep upon my feet while people share their heart before everyone? It is a blessing every time. Have things been well? There has been words of you helping others with their own vigor and health."

Ashmira Honzen: "Have there? I do what I can. I came in part tonight for the heavens' call."

Jancis Milburga: "Was it what you expected, then?"

Ashmira Honzen: "Mm, by most parts. I did offer what I felt the astral strings tugged... and how fare you, dear Jancis? Your health was not the best at the last we spoke."

Jancis Milburga bows her head a minute before letting it bob. "You speak of vigor and I have taken quite a bit of time to regain it. Sir Eruantien has been in some duress himself and I have come to understand a new... link? Between others I am close to and complete strangers. The true cost of it has been my distance. Forgive me."

Ashmira Honzen: "Is there aught you've need of, then? I am aware of some of the circumstances surrounding him, though not all."

Jancis Milburga: "Only that he was called away from helping Caen. He would not say otherwise, which I have come to understand is a habit of his."

Ashmira Honzen smiles wryly. "Ah, is that so? Alas. All the same, we shall lend what we can, mm?"

Jancis Milburga: "Yes! Agreed. Sometimes it is more needed when people are quiet about it. Particularly him."

Jancis Milburga: "What of things on your side? Any luck with your explorations? And with your brother?"

Ashmira Honzen: "We are... mostly well. I found myself entangled in some matters of the Shroud's wellbeing. Edda was injured and is yet not wholly well. I have done what I can, but..."

Ashmira Honzen frowns and fidgets with a ring.

Ashmira Honzen: "Circumstances I am unaccustomed to. All the same, I must do what I can."

Jancis Milburga looks concerned, "Has she used her own abilities to tend to those wounds?"

Ashmira Honzen: "The wounds are knit, but the strain on her lungs is... mending, slowly."

Jancis Milburga closes her eyes a minute, "Lady Edda will grow pale and develop a fever if she tries too hard. Am glad you shared it with me; hopefully your help will not let it come to that. Surely, more so." She tries to encourage herself. "Yes, surely. Has been Moons since that and much has changed."

Ashmira Honzen: "She has been resting and I have been attending to her, I assure you."

Jancis Milburga: "I am beyond grateful. What is that ring you wear?"

Ashmira Honzen: "Hm? Which?"

Ashmira Honzen looks down at her hands which, as always, are covered in rings.

Jancis Milburga points to one in particular, "This one. You were moving it about."

Ashmira Honzen: "Ah, that one. It has been imbued and at times the aether within it stirs."

Jancis Milburga: "A keepsake, then? I have heard of such rings."

Ashmira Honzen: " 'tis one I designed in part. Many of them have been altered at my hand for various purposes."

Jancis Milburga smiles, "Master Vann has spoken about such. He is a great crafter, mayhaps he would be happy to hear of your work sometime. Your touch is a bit more delicate in ways. Do you, ah, consider them instruments then, or tools?"

Ashmira Honzen: "Mmm... enhancements, shall we say? Aetherial gilding, in a fashion."

Jancis Milburga nods, repeating her words quietly. "Brings out the best in you. Though, dare think you do that well enough on your own. Cards must be in like then. What about yourself? How do you see that? As either instrument?"

Ashmira Honzen: "How I see the cards..? Mm, it--"

 

Ryanti Veanysus: "Pardon the sudden intrusion, I just merely wanted to thank you for doing good for Eorzea and her people."

Ashmira Honzen murmurs to Jancis, "We can speak in a moment," and slips away.

Jancis Milburga follows Ashmira's eyes and bows politely, "You are very welcome, Lord. I am glad you stayed. Initially you seemed fairly annoyed at the time you arrived. 'It is never too late to be what you might have been.' Or , ah, or so it is said."

Ryanti Veanysus shifted a little bit awkwardly at the mentioning of his frustration. "Yes, I.. am sometimes tardy. It can be difficult to avoid self-loathing if it is your own fault for missing on the performances you look forward to. But I suppose everything happens for a reason. Rhalgr would not attend to Nyemia if he did not believe such things either."

Jancis Milburga smiles with some awe, "Well said, Lord! Is a honor to be with some well spoken. These, ah, times Rhalgr would be remiss if all we did was not reflect on them together. This sun was not free to be had; always a much higher cost. So thank you, even though not here others will have stories."

Jancis Milburga: "In fact, it would be nice to have more, even if it only one here or there, to spread to those who could not make it at all. Do you share your own thoughts and tales just as well as your reflection?"

Ashmira Honzen extends a hand, palm just barely touching the stone, simply standing there.

Ryanti Veanysus couldn't help but chuckle a little bit at her assessment. Blood became fresh in his cheeks as those words had an effect on him coming from an equally well-spoke woman. "I am a many of many thoughts, and those thoughts often form words. If you are the kind to spread faith, than accept my own, and be reassured that my speech is shared as lovingly as my reflection."

Jancis Milburga: "Thank you. That is a wonderful thing. I think. I, ah, it is a lot to move people so to walk in a Moon where some of these feelings can be shared daily. Will gladly accept yours and your words; has only been a short time that I have been able to hear others and their thoughts. Dare say it is quite wondrous to talk."

Ryanti Veanysus beamed a smile at her, sharing the same passion for expressing words and feelings as she did, and one could see it through his eyes. He placed a hand upon his heart as he spoke further. "Then accept this; I was touched by the words of the people here, and I will spread them as far and wide as I can."

Jancis Milburga: "I did glimpse you spoke with Sir Armstrong. If I may be so bold to ask, what are you to take with you from here? Did you have any expectation?"

Ryanti Veanysus nodded in response to her statement about Armstrong, a heavy breath leaving him. Whatever it was, it mattered greatly. "I am to take with me the faith that I am strong. That I am capable to handle any challenge before me, and bring destruction to both my enemies that stand before me, and my own weaknesses that stand to sabotage me. I wish I could explain it further, but I'm afraid I cannot."

Jancis Milburga: "Does seem He works more in emotion than pure words; you said it far better than others could. You were standing with Sir Armsbreaker, yes? He mostly speaks the same way."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Ashmira Honzen smiles at Jancis, tilting her head.

Jancis Milburga: "Will you be heading back to the Mist shortly? Or still time to talk?"

Jancis Milburga looks over to Jana, "Have you met Ashmira, Lady Ridah? Or you have need of something? If there is anything I can get for you, would be happy to."

Jana Ridah gives Jancis a little wave. "I've not met her, was just going to give my farewells."

Jancis Milburga: "Where do you travel to now?"

Ashmira Honzen squints at Jana. "Bronco Juice," is all she says. "That purple was rather nice on you."

Jana Ridah: Back to the city... Ul'dah, I mean. Need to prepare some supplies for a dangerous job tonight-

Jana Ridah sputters. "I was just in the background!"

Jana Ridah: It was- Oh!

Ashmira Honzen arches her brows.

Jana Ridah: Your shoes! Did ser Chachanji return them to you?

Ashmira Honzen: "He did, yes."

Ashmira Honzen smiles wryly.

Jana Ridah: Ah, I'm glad. I didn't recognize you right away... This is a much different setting than when we first met.

Jancis Milburga smiles at the term, clearly showing a bit of naive wonder. "I have seen the pictures. It was quite wonderful to see you. I did keep it. With you and Sir Gegenji. Shall always treasure it; it must be a wonderful elixir."

Jana Ridah: Ah, um. You'll have to ask one of Verad's company to try it sometime.

Ashmira Honzen laughs quietly. "I did the makeup and hair for Jana and Edda's pictures."

Jancis Milburga: "I surely will."

Jancis Milburga: "Did bring out Menphina's Grace! To glow like the moon.

Ashmira Honzen chuckles. "My vanity has its benefits."

Ashmira Honzen: "But do continue your conversation with Jancis!"

Ashmira Honzen grins.

Jancis Milburga brings her hand up, blurring the smile on her face, and nods. "Well with the ease of this reunion I trust the dangerous job is not alone or out of your abilities. They have honed well, after all."

Jana Ridah: Ah, this is true. Hopefully, an airship crash doesn't make the paper tomorrow morning.

Jana Ridah: ...Or at least not two airship crashes.

Jancis Milburga frowns with concern at the news. "That is, ah, half better? Regardless take extra care. Shall linger about the Jewel for the night as it is, mayhaps there will be word on the streets of it."

Jana Ridah: I suspect it will take time, as we're not setting out from the city, but over Mor Dhona. Airship crashes are rare now since Operation Archon, though... Especially ones in aerial dogfights.

Jancis Milburga: "Thaliak's Grace... "

Jana Ridah: I went and helped design a new type of artillery shell, and with my tome, am going to act as artillery myself. I'll just have to hope our defenses are enough to handle the enemy's shot.

Jancis Milburga: "Rhalgr willing, it will be."

Jana Ridah: I'm not sure which of the Twelve was the shie- Oh, it's Halone, isn't it?! We're going to have an Ishgardian Dragoon on-board, maybe that will help.

Jancis Milburga nods and corrects herself, "Quite right. Thaliak, too, you have knowledge about such things. Not to panic. Keep others safe. Someone that can be trusted." She reaches out, "Have proven it many times over."

Jana Ridah tenses up, but doesn't recoil. "I'm not the most suited to act as a shield, but I will try to keep it in mind this time."

Jancis Milburga: "More to not shoot blindly; trust the shield and when your work goes off might not even have need for one. I should not delay your preparation, forgive me."

Jancis Milburga: "Pray return safe."

Jana Ridah: it's not a big deal, just need to pick up the shells I had commissioned. It's not regulation, but hopefully they work well tonight and I can show the design to some of my contacts in the Immortal Flames... What about you? What've you been up to?

Jancis Milburga takes a slow breath, "Is an Ala Mhigan man I have been assisting with a peculiar kind of corruption. Not voidsent, something to bring out his weakness. The shadows be it men or magic hampers me of late." She lifts her shoulder, "Forgive me it has been mostly recovery. Suns like these are paid for with great costs on all sides. Oh, and Ashmira here has shown me something of the stars. Althyk willing, can learn more from her on understanding them."

Ashmira Honzen: "If you are interested, I would be happy to show you."

Jancis Milburga: "I would be! Very much so. Thaliak knows I will not have such a grasp as you, but it is important to pursue knowledge."

Jana Ridah starts digging about in her small side bag. "I actually developed a method to transfuse clean aether into a person to purge the taint of the void once. I'm not sure you'll have the materials for it, though. Needs a lot of fresh blood that still has the aether in it, so you need aethertight containers..."

Jancis Milburga: "Fresh blood? I am use to making antivenoms... does sound like a slow process but I am not un-use to it if the idea is the same. Shall have to look into these containers..."

Jana Ridah digs out a small notebook and flips through it, ripping out some pages and offering them to Jancis. "I have copies of the notes I made, maybe this will help you. I'm not sure if your conjury will work as well with it as my arcanima, though... I'm used to working with the flow of aether in a body."

Jancis Milburga takes the pages with a murmured 'thank you' her eyes quick to look at them over with interest. "I will see what I can do. If not, shall seek you out! This knowledge might make the difference needed." She folds up the sheets and carefully tucks them away. "The only other part is getting Barengar to attempt it; he is, ah, fairly stubborn."

Jana Ridah: Ah, the name is unfamiliar with me. My method is a bit... Unorthodox, though. I wish you good luck.

Jancis Milburga nods in agreement, "Good luck."

Jana Ridah: Nice seeing you again, miss Ashmira. Good day to you both.

Ashmira Honzen: "And to you as well. Stars look upon your path."

Jancis Milburga: "Until we see one another again."

Jana Ridah: -Ah, right! Dunno if it's proper, but... "Rhalgr guide your blows."

Jana Ridah gives a last wave as she turns to leave.

Jancis Milburga smiles.

Ashmira Honzen chuckles quietly.

 

Jancis Milburga looks at Ashmira curiously.

Ashmira Honzen quirks a brow back, smiling.

Jancis Milburga: "You always find a reason to smile."

Ashmira Honzen: "Oh, I do try."

Ashmira Honzen: "Are you not the same, dear Jancis?"

Jancis Milburga admits, "There is so much to smile for. 'Let my soul smile through my heart and my heart smile through my eyes, that I may scatter rich smiles in sad hearts.' ... read that once and now out here with everyone the words come to life."

Ashmira Honzen: "There you have it. And always with kind words for others."

Jancis Milburga: "They are not always kind! Many a time the truth cannot be; much as I wish it so."

Ashmira Honzen: "Yet a kindness, though. Some refuse to be honest and that is a cruelty unto itself and others."

Jancis Milburga concedes, "Well said."

Ashmira Honzen laughs merrily, grinning at Jancis. "And yet you strain yourself so... mayhaps I shall find some way to ease your burden in a small way."

Jancis Milburga: "My burden... Ashmira if I knew what to ask in help, would gladly share it. You have special sights though, mayhaps you will find something I cannot. Like something on my back for example."

Ashmira Honzen smiles faintly, peering Jancis over. "Perhaps a reading would elucidate in some fashion... though I've notions of my own."

Jancis Milburga: "Either way I trust your judgement...I do not mean to tax you."

Ashmira Honzen: "I would rather be taxed than do naught."

Ashmira Honzen waves a hand with a grin.

Jancis Milburga beams at Ashmira, "Taxed than do naught."

Ashmira Honzen: "I suppose we are of a mind on that, hm?"

Jancis Milburga: "Verily."

Ashmira Honzen: "But, as I said, I will see if aught can be done to offer you some small comfort. But do come to me if you have any manner of ailment. I would do what I can to relieve it."

[Jancis]

Tausenadel Geispyrsyn throws his hands in the air, shouting out. His index and pinkie fingers are thrust forward, this feels natural. "THAT WAS SODDIN' INCREDIBLE!"

Virara Wakuwa covers her ears and winces. "... Animal keeper..."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Jana Ridah: ...Virara.

Virara Wakuwa glances coldly at Jana Ridah. "What?"

Jana Ridah: We are wearing the same shirt. It's cute.

Virara Wakuwa pinkens. "I'm busy."

Jana Ridah: I was also busy, still am in a sense.

Virara Wakuwa attempts to occupy herself, squirming awkwardly under the attention.

Chachanji Gegenji bristles a little at Virara's voice, a modicum of emotion creeping into those violet eyes as he actively looks away from where he heard her speak.

Jana Ridah continues, ignoring the fact that Virara was ignoring her. "I do hope you were able to hear the tale I told today."

Virara Wakuwa: "I do not understand it."

Virara Wakuwa muses quietly.

Jana Ridah: What's not to understand? A painting of a bull cannot maim like a real one. Only real change will affect the world.

Virara Wakuwa: "Being an artist and being a farmer are different things."

Virara Wakuwa seems to have taken the story too literally.

Jana Ridah: The artist and farmer were brothers, they came from the same place.

Jana Ridah: So it is in real life, that we often come from the same places and our paths diverge and come together and wind all about.

Jana Ridah: Anyway, I think I'll get in the back of the line with everyone else. Maybe the monk's blessing will help you more than a little story.

Virara Wakuwa nods.

 

Valentinoix Thibault: Kohta. Hail to thee

Valentinoix Thibault: Look yonder by the stone. I do believe I have found a veritable monk, one who doth practice the art.

P'kohta Tia: "Oh! Hiya Val! How's the erm...Pilgrimage been? Oh! Really? I was really hoping there would be one here!"

P'kohta Tia giggles softly. "It looks like there's a little bit of a line."

Valentinoix Thibault: The pilgrimage was quite unique. Much chanting and songs of strength.

Valentinoix Thibault: And stomping for a reason

P'kohta Tia sighs deeply. "I wish I had made it here sooner."

Valentinoix Thibault: For a moment, I did feel as though I had stepped within the ring of the blood sands, yet so distant from it. 'twas quite the experience.

P'kohta Tia: "Oh! Also Hello again Vira! Heheheh, I was so swept up in the excitement I almost didn't notice you!"

Valentinoix Thibault: Verily so? Quite the competitor he must be.

P'kohta Tia exhales a long sigh, folding his ears against his head. "Ahh...I think I missed your meaning Val, so many voices in such a small place! It's hard to pick out just one voice."

Valentinoix Thibault: Mayhap I have missed such as well. 'tis difficult to discern in such noise. I do dislike crowds greatly.

P'kohta Tia nods slowly. "Yeah, that's a sentiment I share I think."

Valentinoix Thibault: 'tis a might difficult to navigate while mine ears do ring.

P'kohta Tia: "It's really exciting though! I never thought it would be so easy to find a real monk to talk to! Maybe there's more around too?"

Valentinoix Thibault: Aye, what fortune hath found us. I do hope we may speak with him in a less noisy location so that I may hear his movements as well as his words.

Valentinoix Thibault shifts a bit uncomfortably with so many people so close, but perhaps the excitement is balancing this out.

P'kohta Tia giggles softly. "We can only hope to get the chance! Ah...does this mean you're actually considering such a path for yourself as well? I always thought you'd favored the sword."

Valentinoix Thibault: I am. I do quite enjoy the art and its practicality, yet I cannot simply forsake the blade. I do not see why I must choose one or the other.

Virara Wakuwa: "It would be interesting. To speak with him. Master, she was disappointed to hear they collapsed. 'The world became less interesting,' she said."

P'kohta Tia: "I suppose you don't have to, but a day only has so many hours! If you were choose to split your time evenly between both disciplines I think both would suffer."

Virara Wakuwa shakes her head at Val. "One way. One Master."

Valentinoix Thibault peers over at Vira.

Valentinoix Thibault: I had not considered the need for choosing. A hunter may be skilled in several arts, yet mayhap one should monopolize the time over the others.

P'kohta Tia offers a small, uncertain shrug. "Maybe there's more to gain from mastering two arts...I've always shied away from picking up something new though, I'd rather spend my time on thing I love most."

Virara Wakuwa: "That, I can understand."

Virara Wakuwa nods towards P'kohta.

Chachanji Gegenji 's gaze flits almost briefly to Virara... and then, in a dejected motion, he retreats from his post.

Virara Wakuwa: "Ah!"

Valentinoix Thibault: Originally I did train solely with blades short and long. The shield was an addition much later.  Yet I do find both blade and hora feel natural within my hands.

Virara Wakuwa moves to speak to him, but the words catch in her throat. She allows her head to droop silently.

P'kohta Tia: "Well, maybe getting to chat with the monk will lend some additional insight! Heheh, do you find anything particularly enlightening about the sermons today? I'd bet an affinity toward Rhalgr would be a clear sign!"

Valentinoix Thibault: They did speak of strength and lack of fear. Mayhap such words did strike me more than usual.

P'kohta Tia flips up his ears, quickly glancing over between the Virara and the monk, wondering at what she'd ask. He grins, chuckling softly then quickly stifling himself for fear of being heard. He quickly refocuses on Val. "I think the Destroyer was my Father's god too. He wasn't ever a monk, but I bet the teaching resonate with anyone who builds their life around fighting with their hands."

P'kohta Tia finally decides to climb the slope in order to avoid risking any neck injuries.

Valentinoix Thibault: Fighting is but a part of my life, a weight upon the balance. Yet as one who doth fight within the blood sands and hunting, mayhap such words shall prove beneficial regardless.

P'kohta Tia: "Heheh, I'm probably just talking nonsense! I've never really been much for religion I guess...I'll reconsider once I see a god walking around among us."

Valentinoix Thibault: Mostly I was taught to fear and revere the Elementals, for good reason I do assure thee.

P'kohta Tia: "No argument there! I've seen those huge animate trees for myself."

Valentinoix Thibault: Such trees were the least of the worries of those who dwelt within the wood.

Valentinoix Thibault: Shall we? I desire a might respite for mine ears.

Valentinoix Thibault: Until we cross paths once again.

P'kohta Tia: "I really look forward too it! It was nice to speak to you!"

P'kohta Tia looks up to Val and nods. "Yeah, mine too I think."

Valentinoix Thibault sticks a finger in his ear to attempt to stop the ringing.

Valentinoix Thibault: Mayhap the house or art thou desiring aught to eat?

P'kohta Tia: "Heheh, we can do both at the house I think! Unless you had a different thing in mind...Oh! Being here...I've just remember that I missed our day for hunting."

Valentinoix Thibault: The hunt hath not yet occurred. Shinjo has been quite preoccupied.

P'kohta Tia frowns deeply. "Ahh...still I should say sorry. I'll prostrate myself and beg your forgiveness once we've relocated somewhere a bit more peaceful though."

Valentinoix Thibault: Such shan't truly be necessary

Valentinoix Thibault: Shall we?

P'kohta Tia: "Of course! Lead on!"

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Virara Wakuwa: "Jancis Lady."

Jancis Milburga: "Lady Virara."

Virara Wakuwa nods to you.

Virara Wakuwa: "Thank you for leading these people here. Once more, I learn something about the Eorzeans."

Virara Wakuwa: "... This Rhalgr. I can understand him."

Jancis Milburga nods slowly with Virara, "Close to the heart."

Virara Wakuwa is impassive. "I wouldn't know. But hearing the story made me remember. It is as she said."

Kale Aideron stepped up to Jancis. Not wanting to interrupt her conversation, he places his hand on her upper arm to indicate his presence, as well as nonverbally communicate his gratitude for the event.

Jancis Milburga: "I have seen you try. Were passion is best is from your own choice."

Virara Wakuwa removes herself quietly as Jancis addresses the newcomer.

Jancis Milburga looks up at Kale, smiling lightly. "Where is your passion come from?" She motions to Virara, "We were speaking of what drives it."

Kale Aideron having made his presence known to Jancis and conveying his thanks, Kale steps off to depart.

Jancis Milburga turns back... realizing Virara is gone.

Jancis Milburga waves, "Travel well."

[Jancis]

J'maaira Tuhl steps out of line and instead opts to give a silent prayer on her own.

J'maaira Tuhl pats the stone in an almost loving gesture and goes to the crowd.

 

Tyonis Magstrom: "Well, that was entertainin'. Back to the cantina."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Miss Lottie--Caleb?"

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Oh an' Miss Crank too!"

Lottie Forsaidh seems out of elements and frowns when she observes Sebastian, "Ah, good evening." Her voice murmured distractedly.

Caleb Agron: "Ye just get here Sebastian?"

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Y-Yeah! I didn't know what was happening..."

Sebastian Sun'dai looks away from Caleb Agron, sulking.

Caleb Agron: "Missed a few good stories an blessings for the Destroyer."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Huh--? Oh! Rhalgr--uh--Rhalm--?That guy?"

Caleb Agron: "Was tryin to explain the god to Cerina here, but Berrod's better at teachin than I."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "I only really know Halone--"

Lottie Forsaidh places a palm against Caleb's shoulder, "I'm feeling a bit away from my element, I believe it's time for a quick rest - it's been pleasant to see you all."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Be safe miss Lottie!"

Caleb Agron: "I follow all the twelve, don't think one is more important than the other."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Oh well I know they all are--I just only really was taught Halone's stuff--doctrines..." he corrected himself idly.

Sebastian Sun'dai: "Caleb--people seem to really want to get back to Ala Mhigo."

Sebastian Sun'dai: "I mean--isn't that the idea of the destroyer? Destroy an' rebuild a new--?" He seemed to be talking to himself at this point. "I don't see why you'd wanna go against what looks like the stuff a god wants..."

Caleb Agron: "Looks like Berrod's got his hands full of followers, you wanna join them an get the gods blessin?"

Cerina Dotharl: "I don't believe in your gods. Wouldn't that be wrong ?"

Caleb Agron: "Nothing wrong with learning about them. An doesn't mean you gotta believe, if the gods see fit they will work their way into your heart, so long as you are willing of course."

Cerina Dotharl: "I suppose not." She shrugged. "Ah, why not.. Are you coming too ?"

Caleb Agron: "Sure, gotta show my respects as well right?" He smiled at the woman before gesturing for her to join him

 

Caleb Agron: "Learning experience ey? Know this stuff is a bit odd fer someone just learning about the twelve, but give it time, and learn about the others too. Maybe once you do, more of it will make sense."

Cerina Dotharl: "I did learn a few things, yes. But very little of it makes sense. It felt like another one of my brothers' long talks about his 'path'."

Cerina Dotharl: "Maybe, as you and that woman said, if I learned more about the rest of your deities... I might understand." She shrugged her shoulders. "I don't like this god."

Caleb Agron: "He might seem like a..angry god. But again everything is connected. You can't have light without dark if that makes any sense."

Cerina Dotharl scratched her head. "Seems like a strange god. But, I'll continue pestering you with more questions later. I need to go back to my tribe."

Caleb Agron: "Be seein you around then Cerina. M'sure the boss appreciate yer comin."

Cerina Dotharl nodded a few times. "Good bye."

 

Tausenadel Geispyrsyn: Ye done it 'gain, lass.

Jancis Milburga: "Thaliak's Grace! Tausen! One day I will hear those words, not now. Is there water in your eye?"

Tausenadel Geispyrsyn shakes his head, wiping his eyes. "N-nay, jus' moved by that last'un. I've punched a lad in the gob more than once but I nev'r felt like that! Like bloody cannons goin' off, they were."

Jancis Milburga: "Tausen you are the most curious in sensitive men."

Tausenadel Geispyrsyn: Didn't ye feel it! Gods. Jus'...a-anyroad. Thank ye for havin' this, yet 'gain!

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Asura Ananta places her fist into her open palm, and raises of her clasped hands respectfully "Well spoken! The youthful passion you have surely burns brightly in us all ! You received my message? "

Berrod Armstrong grunted in affirmation rather than bowed -- and it was an enthusiastic sound. "Sister."

Berrod Armstrong: "I have, and stand ready to meet at your convenience."

Asura Ananta: "Perfect, I will make an effort to meet with you in say.. four suns time?"

Berrod Armstrong nodded. "Indeed. Until then. Walk in His light and strike with His fury."

Asura Ananta: "You as well, Berrod."

 

Chiyo Hoshi: "Ey, Eligor. Fancy runnin' into ya."

Eligor Abigor: I was following someone for work but I lost him.

Chiyo Hoshi gazes upon Eligor Abigor in deep reflection.

Chiyo Hoshi: "Who?"

Eligor Abigor: It doesn't matter anymore, I will find them either way.

Nazeru Auronas: Interesting gathering we have here.

Chiyo Hoshi: "Oh, hey, Naz."

Nazeru Auronas: I had no idea anything of this sort was going on today. It's.. surprising.

Chiyo Hoshi: "It started a li'l over a bell ago. There were a few Ala Mhigan an' Rlager stories tol' as well as a song abou' 'im."

Nazeru Auronas: I'm always the last to find out.

Chiyo Hoshi: "If ya wan', you can receive a blessin' over therefrom a man name Berrod."

Eligor Abigor: Blessing?

Nazeru Auronas: Of Rhalgr.

Eligor Abigor: Blessing for what?

Nazeru Auronas: He's our people's guardian. The God of Destruction.

Nazeru Auronas: Protection. Health. Power.

Eligor Abigor frowns.

Chiyo Hoshi: "I nee' ta figure ou' why my charka keeps opennin' an' how I can control it."

Nazeru Auronas: Yes you do.

Eligor Abigor: You never did come to eat.

Nazeru Auronas: My aid is still available, for whatever it is worth to you.

Chiyo Hoshi: "I'm gonna see Berrod abou' it when he an' I get some free time."

Nazeru Auronas: I'm sure that will be better. It will keep you from having any connection to me.

Chiyo Hoshi: "Yeah. Later on, I'm goin' over ta Eligor's fer dinner."

Nazeru Auronas chuckles.

Eligor Abigor: ....I'm going to get back to work.

Chiyo Hoshi: "If Berrod doesn' help, you be the nex' I turned too, Naz."

Nazeru Auronas: I think we both know that's not true.

Nazeru Auronas: And I don't appreciate the bullshit.

Nazeru Auronas: Do as you will. I can't stop you.

Chiyo Hoshi: "'ell, he was one of the first tha' helped me ou'..."

Nazeru Auronas: If he is your old master than you should go to him. It matters not to me. My only concern is to see your ailment mended.

Chiyo Hoshi: "I nee' ta leave for now... gotta clear my head."

Nazeru Auronas: Mm.

Chiyo Hoshi: "Thanks though."

Nazeru Auronas: I -gotta- find a new company.

Nazeru Auronas clicks her tongue and glances back down the ramp. "Whelp... looks like it's winding down here."

[Jancis]

[align=center][/align]

 

Asmodean Gaidin looked over his shoulder at Ciel. "May I help you?"

Ciel Loradeux: You sit alone, isolated from the giant amalgamation of people just in front of us. Why is that, stranger?

Asmodean Gaidin: "I am not too keen of large crowds and being apart makes it far easier to keep an eye on the little one here."

Ciel Loradeux: I see, indeed it's a curse when so many people decide to sit around one another and gab their heads off, is it not? Personally I did not ever know Little Ala Mhigo was this popular.

Asmodean Gaidin bows. I'm Asmodean."

Ciel Loradeux: Indeed. Suffice to say, it shows the level in which Eorzea's recovering from it's recent and blighted past.

Ciel Loradeux looks towards Asmodean and extends a robed hand to handshake him. "I am Ciel Loradeux. And a pleasure Asmodean."

Ciel Loradeux: Though, I must profess, you remind me of someone in terms of appearance. A Hyurian warrior who perished during the flames of Bahamut's rage. Interestingly enough, if only your hair were darker.

Asmodean Gaidin reaches out and shakes Ciel's hand. "Very true...." Asmoden paused. "I have been told that a lot odd as it may sound."

Ciel Loradeux: Indeed you likely have.

Ciel Loradeux: In a sense, you're almost look like Thancred of the Scions, though I'd hope you not to be as...unbearable, as he is.

Asmodean Gaidin: "I'd say your the.... fifth person to say they had seen me or some like me..  " Asmodean shakes his head. "I would never be like that... man."

Ciel Loradeux: Indeed! "Oh, I'm an Archon! However, I'm also feeble minded enough to allow Ascian possession." oh how blank my face went....

Asmodean Gaidin: "Well... I should be on my way. I wish you luck in whatever it is you search."

Ciel Loradeux: You are to depart already?

Asmodean Gaidin: "Ay... Need to feed the little one here before she starts biting random people."

Ciel Loradeux: What is it that she eats?

Ciel Loradeux motions to his multiple sacks and bags around his waist. "I may possess the herbs on me already."

Asmodean Gaidin: "Mostly fruit for now. Anything else and she just stares at me."

Ciel Loradeux: One moment.

Ciel Loradeux opens up the white pouch on his right side. Looking through it to pull out some apples he had collected in the Shroud. Taking two out and holding them to Asmodean. "These will suffice?"

Asmodean Gaidin takes the apples and nods." It will. My thanks Ciel." places one of the apples away and pulls out a knife to start cutting the first apple in small pieces.

Ciel Loradeux: Come, shall you accompany me to the surface? I wish to discern more about your appearance honestly. T'is a curio!

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Jana Ridah wanders back over to Jancis.

Jancis Milburga perks up again at Jana returns.

Jana Ridah: Thank you for allowing me to speak. I wasn't sure how well it tied into the theme, but I've already been told it went well. So.

Jancis Milburga looks apologetic, "I believe everyone else is correct, or that I agree with them, Lady Ridah. It brought out a place of passion and emotion for you; I think it fit well. Dare say it means a lot to me that you offered to speak."

Jana Ridah: Thanks then, that's good. ...You're generous.

Jancis Milburga: "You are welcome. I would never have a chance to be so if you were not first."

Jana Ridah stammers a bit as she turns around. "Ah, that's um, kind of you to say. To me. I think. Have a good day, miss Jancis."

Jancis Milburga: "You as well, Lady Ridah. Be safe and well. Mayhaps we shall see each other again soon."

Jana Ridah: Maybe, I do find myself in the Mists more often lately. Good day...

 

Jana Ridah taps Leanne's shoulder!

Leanne Delphium: "Hmm...?"

Jana Ridah: Hey, you. Did you hear my story?

Leanne Delphium smiles gently. "Yes, I did. Was...interesting."

Jana Ridah: What'd you think? Come on, tell me you were touched by the... The stirring of the Destroyer in your heart!

Jana Ridah seems to be exaggerating her gloating, but she does give Leanne a genuine smile.

Leanne Delphium laughs awkwardly. "Aah. Yes...! You could say so.."

Jana Ridah: Ho-ho, maybe I have to become a bard now, and nurture my newfound talents!

Jana Ridah: -I'm kidding!

Leanne Delphium smirks and flicks her nose either way. "A few steps away from such, dummy."

Jana Ridah lets out a small yowl as she holds her nose. "Meany~ I think you're up, so I'm gonna get in the other line!"

Leanne Delphium tips her hat while sticking her tongue. "Aye aye. Don't be a stranger~"

Jana Ridah flicks the tip of Leanne's hat, moving it out of place just a bit as she turns to walk away.

Leanne Delphium chuckles while adjusting her headwear back into position.

Leanne Delphium smiles sheepishly, choosing not to bother Jancis. Rather, she elegantly tips her hat to the woman before making her way out.

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Ryanti Veanysus stomped the heel of his foot upon the dirt in a rather annoying manner. "Late again.." he murmured underneath his breathe. "I swear that is all the luck I ever seem to posses.." He gingerly approached the group in front of him. "Pray pardon, but I hope the event went well?"

Jancis Milburga nods to Ryanti, "Forgive me, Pilgrim. The songs are over but there are blessings to be given still if you wish."

Barengar Armsbreaker flicks his gaze over in the direction of those receiving blessings, his lips pressed into o a thin line and an uncertain expression upon his face.

Ryanti Veanysus approached Barengar from behind, placing his hands upon his hips. "I didn't think you to be a religious man."

Barengar Armsbreaker grunts once as the familiar voice called out from behind, "I ain't." he answered without turning to face Ryanti.

Ryanti Veanysus folds his arms, raising an eyebrow briefly, before trying to match his gaze with Barengar's, curious at what he was looking at. "Then why are you here?"

Barengar Armsbreaker keeps his attention vaguely upon the gathering of those seeking blessings, another low grunt escaping the man as he finally glanced over to look at the miqo'te, "Why's it matter ta ya?" he asks with a quirked brow.

Ryanti Veanysus shrugged a little, knowing how the man he was speaking to could sometimes be a little private about his business. "Just curious. I'm not so religious myself, but I came here with the thought that maybe I could understand a little bit more. It seems a lot of people I knew value Rhaglr, and would stand in line to be blessed.. you think there's anything to that?"

Barengar Armsbreaker shrugged a single shoulder, shifting his attention away from Ryanti. His gaze lingered upon Jancis for a moment before returning to the Rhalgr stone, "That people are lookin' fer blessesin' or that they're lookin' fer 'em from Rhalgr?"

Ryanti Veanysus gazed upon the stone alone with Barengar, observing the attendant, and a woman dialoguing with him that he found to be very familiar. "Well.. both, I guess. Seeking wisdom from an immortal deity. Using faith as something to keep you going. The idea that whomever is watching over you.. all that."

Jancis Milburga: "Sir Armstrong stands alone if anyone has words to share with him, now is the time."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

Maruud Alfayesh looks around "Crowd seems to have tapered off, if there was more here. I suppose we missed the bulk of it."

Worren Tigre: "Maybe it'll help ease my mind.  You think, Maruud?"

Maruud Alfayesh: "There is no harm in trying Worren. Go ahead."

Saga Bearclaw: "Bah."

Saga Bearclaw spits to the side as she looks to Aedan. "I don't believe I've had the honor to meet you yet. I assume you are one of our people?"

Aedan Steelweaver chuckles low and offers his hand. "Depends on what ye mean by that. Name's Aedan an you are?"

Saga Bearclaw nods. "Saga. And I mean of Ala Mhigo. Most that remain here or come late are our own people."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Saga it is, then. An my family can trace back there but I'm not, no. Dunno if that makes me of the people or no then. What ya think?"

Saga Bearclaw shrugs. "Depends. You at least came to the ceremony. So that is something. My little sister was born in Ul'dah."

Aedan Steelweaver looks from Saga back to Adalhaid and nods. "Ah. Then no, I'd bet. Limsa's where I call home these days."

Saga Bearclaw chuckles. "Any who wishes to take back Ala Mhigo from the Garleans is a brother to me, no matter where they call home."

Aedan Steelweaver grins and claps Saga on the shoulder. "Well then, that settles that!"

Aedan Steelweaver: "I can't say I know much of it, but I'd like to learn. You an yer sister, are ye usually around Ul'dah?"

Maruud Alfayesh approaches Saga with a bow of the head "I did not expect you followed Rhalgr's teachings as well. You are from Ala Mhigo as well?"

Saga Bearclaw lets out an eye roll towards Jana before returning attention back to Aedan and Maruud. "She is more than I. I am a free paladin in service to all refugees."

Saga Bearclaw: "I am, yes. It was but shortly after my twelfth name day my home was taken from me."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Well then, I know who to ask when I wanna know more."

Maruud Alfayesh half grins "Ah...some fifty-three cycles ago, I was born there, but did not stay. I did not begin my path as a disciple until well into my early adulthood."

Saga Bearclaw nods. "My service to Rhalgr is but another extension of serving the people. Our will towards him, our hope is often what guides my blade."

Saga Bearclaw let out a chuckle. "But that's enough spiritual talk. I am certain to be drinking heartily tonight."

Maruud Alfayesh: "I grew up around Thanalan and mostly Ul'dah. It is an honor to finally meet more followers of the way. My master died in the goals after passing what he knew on to me. Seems kinship with other followers seemed to be right under my nose and I did not even realize."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Seems a proper way to celebrate."

Maruud Alfayesh: "How often are these ceremonies held?"

Saga Bearclaw: "Where you stand is the temple of our people and the destroyer. It may not appear as much, but to the devout, the fervor and prayer is a cathedral."

Aedan Steelweaver slowly looks around.

Maruud Alfayesh looks around after hearing Saga's statement "Seems just a good a temple as any to me."

Saga Bearclaw: "I of course will be here until the last pilgrims come. My little sister has the honor of being the last blesser here."

Saga Bearclaw: "Any who stays until she is done I will be glad to buy a round for."

Aedan Steelweaver turns to look back at the stone, nodding. "There's somethin to the place, to be sure."

Saga Bearclaw rubs her head. "Considering my bloody headache. It'll most likely be at my apartment. I keep a fully stocked bar with a good four stools."

Aedan Steelweaver: "I feel like I owe yer sister one for the blessin at least. Would be rude not to."

Saga Bearclaw nods. "The invitation of course goes out to you and my friend Worren."

Maruud Alfayesh hums a bit, "Then I will seek this blessing, once she has finished with my friend over there." He nods in Worren's direction.

Aedan Steelweaver: "I'll admit, was nervous bout comin, but I'm glad I did."

Saga Bearclaw let out a chuckle. "You came at a far easier time. It was much more busy earlier."

Saga Bearclaw: "If there were any more pilgrims, I feared the rock beneath us would have given."

Aedan Steelweaver laughs warmly at that. "Well, if this group was enough for blessin and questions alike, I can only imagine what the larger whole was like."

Saga Bearclaw: "Unfortunately not all were devout. Some came out of curiosity more than anything to judge the less fortunate of us."

Aedan Steelweaver scoffs, "Nothin better to do with their time? Sounds like a buncha shite to me."

Saga Bearclaw shrugs. "They're lucky I was restrained enough not to bearhug them on the spot."

Saga Bearclaw: "Can't spew shite if you can't breathe. Not out of your mouth at least."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Not that I'ma sage or anythin near devout myself but hrmph."

Aedan Steelweaver eyes Saga and laughs. "A bearhug to shut em up eh?"

Maruud Alfayesh chuckles "Becoming a sage would be a path lifelong. I'm not sure any of us are that devout. But I could be wrong."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Heh, I know I sure as hells ain't."

Saga Bearclaw lets out a stretch. "Sorry if I'm not one for much talking right now. Just waiting and I don't want to get too angry at a holy site."

Aedan Steelweaver: "S'alright. Lots ta think about. But humor me, what's got ya angry right now?"

Saga Bearclaw lets out a sigh. "Nothing important."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Well ya can't jus go bringin it up then brushin it off like that."

Aedan Steelweaver motions for her to go on.

Saga Bearclaw: "Mostly the poor 'pilgrims' that came and showed disrespect earlier. A few other small reasons. I need a drink."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Heh, I'll be sure to buy ya an extra round then."

Maruud Alfayesh: "It's a given I suppose. The refugees often feel there's little to be thankful for, and so they lash out."

Saga Bearclaw let out a laugh. "Maybe another night. We'll be drinking from my private stock tonight in my apartment."

Saga Bearclaw: "It was my little sister's big day, after all."

Saga Bearclaw: "Doubt I'd be much happier unless its her eternal bonding day."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Oh? Ya said a bar before. But ain't gonna be picky."

Flameson Hammersmith: "Course the fucker isnae 'ere.  Figures."

Flameson Hammersmith grunts, moving off with a smoke trail rolling in his wake.

Aedan Steelweaver nods, turning to look over at Adalhaid. "She's good at what she does."

Saga Bearclaw: "Don't tell her that. And I'd rather not make my headache worse."

Saga Bearclaw: "Thus my apartment works better."

Aedan Steelweaver smirks confidently at Saga Bearclaw.

Aedan Steelweaver: "Well then, since it's yer place, I'll try not to trash it much."

Aedan Steelweaver stretches.

Maruud Alfayesh scratches the back of his head. "Ale might work in the short term for headaches, but a find a good shisha pipe and a strong cup of coffee is good for what ails you."

Saga Bearclaw scratches her head. "Feel kind of bad overhearing Worren's little blessing."

Maruud Alfayesh: "Ah, it'll do him good."

Aedan Steelweaver nods to Maruud. "Not a bad idea, that."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Well, if yer feelin that bad, plenty more space around here. We can move a bit."

Maruud Alfayesh chuckles a little waving a hand a bit "I've plans to open a lounge in future. Time permitting. Till then, work is tantamount to that goal."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Yeah? Well least ya got a goal. Heh, once you do you lemme know. I'll come by there."

Saga Bearclaw: "I'll drink you out of business."

Maruud Alfayesh: "My father owned an estate in the Goblet some years ago. After the housing boom and the new laws concerning people from Ul'dah owning land there. The place was of course, bought out."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Course."

Maruud Alfayesh: "I'll be sure to ship in triple the amount of ale then."

Aedan Steelweaver: "An rum, don't forget to bring plenty of that for folks like me that roll through."

Aedan Steelweaver nods sagely.

Saga Bearclaw: "Or some good rectified spirits."

Saga Bearclaw: "Good for cleaning too."

Maruud Alfayesh: "If it is within my power, then I will make that so."

Maruud Alfayesh: "Quite ambitious, but I am not getting any younger. When I am no longer able to fight, whenever that may be. I am more than comfortable to provide leisure to those who seek it."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Well there ya go, plenty of ideas jus from the two of us."

Saga Bearclaw looks behind over her mention, noticing the blessing was over. "You getting a blessing too, pardon what was your name again?" She said to the roe, having forgotten.

Adalhaid Rask: "We can join her and your friend now, should you want to."

Maruud Alfayesh nods between Saga and Aedan "Indeed. I will have to query friend and associates alike for ideas as well. Though I do have  a broad spectrum of what I want to do."

Worren Tigre is unsure if he should give a hand shake or what, so he just gives an awkward bow.  "...thanks.  I'll see you later then."

Saga Bearclaw punches her open palm in gesture. "Worren, you want to come to the celebration I'm hosting tonight at my apartment?"

Aedan Steelweaver offers a nod to Worren as he approaches.

Worren Tigre: "House warming party?"

Saga Bearclaw: "Oh no. Just a poorly planned surprise party for my little sister."

Saga Bearclaw: "Not much of a surprise anymore though."

Saga Bearclaw: "I'm bad at surprises."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Won't be much of one now, yeah."

Aedan Steelweaver grins sidelong at Saga.

Saga Bearclaw: "She will be surprised though."

Worren Tigre: "I'll see you there."

Saga Bearclaw gestures intimidatingly at her sister.

Worren Tigre: "Maybe have a giant cake with a naked man jumping out of it?  That'd be quite the surprise for her."

Maruud Alfayesh places his open palm in his fist at his side, extends both in front of him in a clandestine bow, and nods his head "I have business I'll need to attend to shortly." He nods to Worren, Adalhaid and the others. "I will try to attend any future ceremonies."

Saga Bearclaw: "Hope to see you there."

Aedan Steelweaver: "Was good talkin with ya if nothin else."

Maruud Alfayesh drops his hands to his side. Not before patting Worren on the shoulder "I will see you soon. Take care friend."

Worren Tigre: "I'll be in touch."

Maruud Alfayesh turns on his heel and walks off, giving a small wave as he does.

Worren Tigre: "Good luck."

Saga Bearclaw: "Oi little sister, see you at our apartment."

Saga Bearclaw: "Don't be too late."

Adalhaid Rask: "Mm? Ah, I'll be along in a moment."

Adalhaid Rask: "I won't be, I promise."

Aedan Steelweaver gives a nod. "Guess I'll be seein yall there."

Worren Tigre: "I'll need to go get changed before the party."

Aedan Steelweaver looks to himself then back to Worren. "Mm...mebbe not a bad idea."

 

Jancis Milburga: "Sir Armstrong is of the same mind. That the return to a home will be with more people and stronger than before. Can only wonder if we will see it with our own eyes here, or if Thal's grace will let us see what the trade our payments have been upon the other side of the thread."

Jancis Milburga takes a slow breath, "Either way, I am very blessed to be here and grow a new understanding; a better one."

 

[align=center][/align]

 

[align=center]And so the cavern cleared out in Little Ala Mhigo, the regular bustle soon to return. Thank you for an amazing experience.[/align]

 

[align=center][/align]