[Theren Keep, Great Hall]
Seven columns span the chamber in a vast semi-circle of burnished black marble, the middle three curving around a broad dais while the outer pairs brace high, spectacular balconies. Striking blue-gold banners and silken tapestries proclaim the royal colors of Therengia, but these minor ornaments pale before the tiled dome ceiling and a massive, seven-sided table which dominates the great hall.
You also see an ornate gilded birdcage on a jewel-encrusted stand, a well-lit corridor, a swinging deobar door, some scissor chairs positioned around the table and a flower arch of fairy fern twined with white roses, orange blossoms and stephanotis.
Obvious exits: out.
Zhirrisk and Rileos followed.

You frown.
>
Rileos casually observes the area.
>
You say, "I thought this was the place."
>
Zhirrisk says, "They upped the security..."
>
Provincial Guard Galti just arrived.
>
You glance at Galti, a male Human.


You see Provincial Guard Galti Veremoud, a Human Paladin.
Galti has gold-flecked hazel eyes. His russet hair is short and straight, and is worn in a simple, loose style. He has fair skin and an athletic build.
He is tall for a Human.
He appears to be in his prime.
He has some light stubble on his face.
He is in good shape.

He is wearing a polished steel helm, a kyanite gwethdesuan, a jadeite gwethdesuan, a shoulder-slung ebony leather haversack, a black leather spear harness, a white swordsman's shirt with flowing sleeves and long tapered cuffs, some finely polished plate armor etched with a charging lion over a royal blue crest, a sterling silver shield engraved in gilt with a roaring lion's face, a bracelet of vivid blue glass beads, some polished steel gauntlets, a wide leather Therengian war belt riveted with decorative silver plates, some deep blue doeskin breeches with black piping along the seams and some supple black leather boots.


Zhirrisk fidgets nervously.
>
Galti asks, "This is all?"
>
Rileos scratches distractedly at his stubble.
>
Rileos asks, "All what?"
>
Galti asks, "Do you know if the advisor is nearby this day?"
>
Galti fixes Rileos with a frank, even stare.
>
Rileos looks at Galti and shrugs.
>
You say, "The Grand Inquisitor? I could not reach him."
>
Rileos says to you, "Shame."
>
You say, "It is."
>
Galti says, "Ahh we hoped to have him as witness."
>
Zhirrisk rummages about his person, looking for something.
>
Rileos says, "He's old. Probably nappin."
>
Your mind hears Galti thinking, "Any officers of the Theren Guard near by?"
>
You say, "I wished to speak to him about the matter earlier and I could not reach him then, either."
>
Rileos runs his fingers through his hair.
>
Galti nods.
>
Rileos says to you, "Okay, sleepin then, not nappin."
>
Rileos nods.
>
Galti says, "I do not know if you have ever attended one of his graces audiences before..."
>
Rileos says, "Nope."
>
You hold your hand up before your lips, trying desperately not to laugh. Maybe your choking noises will be mistaken for a swallowed fishbone.
>
Galti says, "But we expect and will have courtesy."
>
Rileos says to Galti, "Explain."
>
Rileos says to Galti, "I talk to everyone like folk."
>
You make casual circles in the air with the tip of your tail.
>
Galti asks, "You do not speak common?"
>
You say, "It would seem that he has a firm grasp of it."
>
Galti says, "Very well then I need not explain the word."
>
You get an odd feeling that someone is watching you. It quickly passes.
>
Rileos says to Galti, "I'm meanin I ain't gonna be an ass, but I don't know no flowery words to make y'all feel better."
>
Galti says, "You will simply be silent then unless spoken to."
>
Zhirrisk smirks at Rileos.
>
Rileos waves dismissively.
>
Galti asks, "That will make it a non-issue yes?"
>
You "<to Rileos>" "Now look here, you made them call in reinforcements."
You project your thoughts to Rileos.
>
Rileos says, "Less I got somethin I gotta say."
>
Your mind hears Kristalline thinking, "{faintly}" "Galti, I am around"
>
Galti says, "No you will be silent or be left here."
>
Black Fox Xionara just arrived.
>
Xionara angles her ears forward in curiosity.
>
Galti says, "Simple as that."
>
Rileos rolls his eyes.
>
Rileos says to you, "You get invited to the best parties, lemme tell ya."
>
Zhirrisk raises his palms skyward, chanting.
>
You nod.
>
Your mind hears Galti thinking, "Come to the keep as quick as you can?"
>
Your mind hears Kristalline thinking, "{faintly}" "Yes, I am on my way."
>
You say, "The burden of popularity is one I bear with some difficulty."
>
Zhirrisk says, "Er... there are some folk looking for entrance... If I may..."
>
Rileos chuckles.
>
Zhirrisk gestures.
In a blazing fountain of red-gold sparks, a red Moongate blazes into life.
>
You peer through the Moongate...

[Theren Keep, Approach]
A timeworn gatehouse rises to the north, its twin towers bearing conspicuous scars from a long-standing siege. The stone and mortar look patched in key places where catapult stones bombarded the stout facade, but there's no indication the gates have ever been breached. A stagnant semi-filled moat impedes further progress towards the Keep, and the sickly-green slime bubbling inside looks and smells like it dates back to the Old Empire.
You also see a tri-bolt ballista, a narrow ledge descending into the moat, a cable barrel, a tri-shot munitions crate and an ironwood drawbridge.
Also here: Wanderer Kelneth and Nomad Klejotogars.
Obvious paths: south.

Your mind hears Caidie thinking, "{faintly}" "Oh no stranger danger in the keep.. Run ya'll!"
>
Galti says, "We will wait for the witness."
>
Wanderer Kelneth came through a red Moongate.
>
Kelneth says, "Couldn't drag him."
>
Xionara softly says to Zhirrisk, "I was hoping to catch up with you after hosting the Campfire games, but I guess this is a poor time..."
>
Zhirrisk angles his ears forward, gazing curiously at Xionara.
>
Xionara softly asks Zhirrisk, "What is going on, anyway?"
>
Nomad Klejotogars came through a red Moongate.
>
Zhirrisk says to Xionara, "Ummm..."
>
Xionara angles her ears forward in curiosity.
>
You notice a cloaked figure on one of the balconies, eyeing you intently. Before you discern so much as race or gender, the mysterious stranger fades away like an elusive wraith, dropping a white rose which floats to the ground.
>
Zhirrisk gazes at a long-stemmed white rose.
>
Xionara studies the faces around her.
>
Xionara's tail undulates lazily through the air.
>
Xionara shifts her weight.
>
Galti says, "If these newcomers are going to the dais I will repeat what I said previously, courtsey and speak when spoken to."
>
Xionara glances at Galti.
>
Rileos folds his arms across his chest.
>
You gaze upward.
>
A red Moongate collapses in on itself.
>
Klejotogars nods to Galti.
>
Xionara softly asks, "The dais?"
>
Kelneth nods to Galti.
>
Galti points at a broad dais.
>
Xionara frowns.
>
Xionara softly says to Galti, "Pardon but your er.. servant won't let me past."
>
Xionara scratches one ear, looking bemused.
>
Galti says, "No casting no familiers no spells."
>
Healer Cristalyn just arrived.
>
Klejotogars whispers something to Zhirrisk.
>
Galti says, "I will escort."
>
Zhirrisk tips his hat to Klejotogars with a courteous nod.
>
Rileos exclaims to you, "Oh!"
>
Xionara nods to Galti.
>
Galti says, "In a moment."
>
Kelneth joins Galti's group.
>
Xionara joins Galti's group.
>
You cock your head.
>
Rileos says to you, "Don't forget. Yeehar. I wanna eat some after this."
>
Klejotogars joins Galti's group.
>
Zhirrisk says, "Ah... Liurilias..."
>
You nod to Rileos.
>
Rileos nods to you.
>
You say, "I have not forgotten."
>
Cristalyn softly says to Galti, "Speaker Kristalline is on her way from Crossing."
>
Galti nods.
>
Galti says, "We have time."
>
Xionara shifts her weight.
>
Cristalyn softly asks Galti, "Might I join?"
>
Xionara raises an eyebrow.
>
Rileos grasps his chin roughly and jerks it to the side. You hear a loud pop and see him visibly relax.
>
Galti nods.
>
Cristalyn joins Galti's group.
>
The bandages binding Cristalyn's right leg soak through with blood as it begins bleeding again.
>
Cristalyn screams and falls to the ground grasping her mangled right leg!
>
You "<to Liurilias>" "Ah, Grand Inquisitor! I was trying to get in touch with you for some time. The baron is prepared to carry his sentence it would seem."
You project your thoughts to Liurilias.
>
You edge away from Cristalyn.
>
General Kristalline just arrived.
>
Cristalyn stands up.
>
Klejotogars glances at Cristalyn.
>
Galti says, "Might want to fix that before we go up."
>
Cristalyn deftly traces an arcane pattern as a subtle breeze begins to swirl around her.
>
Kristalline throws back her shoulders, snapping to attention and with a sharp click of her heels, renders Cristalyn a crisp salute.
>
Cristalyn snaps to attention and hails Kristalline with a crisp hand salute.
>
Cristalyn gestures.
Gushing streams of bright blue and white energy spring up from under Cristalyn's feet, enwreathing her body with a cool glow. Her body twists and shakes as flesh and bone regrow immediately, leaving Cristalyn immensely healed. She seems drained and weak afterwards.
>
Your mind hears Liurilias thinking, "<to you>" "Ah, I see. I apologize that I have been out of reach. I will arrive at the Keep shortly."
>
Galti says, "Weapons will stay sheathed or the consenquences will be swift and painful."
>
Guard Triage Lieutenant Kiriti just arrived.
>
Xionara glances at an ornate gilded birdcage on a jewel-encrusted stand.
>
Kristalline nods to Galti.
>
Rileos rests his hand on the hilt jutting from a golden scabbard tied with braided black cord.
>
Cristalyn nods to Galti.
>
Rileos says, "Already handled."
>
Xionara sniffs at an ornate gilded birdcage on a jewel-encrusted stand.
>
Klejotogars tugs at the strap on his wyvern-hide baldric.
>
You adjust your Drogorian trident into place.
>
Xionara stands near an ornate gilded birdcage on a jewel-encrusted stand.
>
Zhirrisk raises his palms skyward, chanting.
>
Xionara gazes at an ornate gilded birdcage on a jewel-encrusted stand.
>
Galti says, "Those birds are royal property."
>
Xionara softly says to Galti, "Oh."
>
Xionara clears her throat.
>
Zhirrisk gestures.
>
Flickering yellow-orange radiance erupts from seemingly nowhere, forming a jagged rift in the air. Liurilias steps out from within the light, followed by a gust of chill winds. The rift vanishes as swiftly as it appeared.
>
Zhirrisk shifts uneasily, avoiding eye contact with Liurilias.
>
Rileos raises two fingers to his brow in a quick hand salute.
>
You nod to Liurilias.
>
Rileos says to Liurilias, "Heya, boss."
>
Xionara softly says to Galti, "What species is that? They look tast.... er... they have beautiful plumage."
>
Liurilias nods politely.
>
Rileos says to you, "I'm gettin over it."
>
Cristalyn nods politely to Liurilias.
>
Liurilias says, "Good evening."
>
Galti asks, "Everyone here who wants to be?"
>
Xionara tilts her head to one side.
>
Kristalline frowns at Xionara.
>
Liurilias snaps to attention and hails Galti with a crisp hand salute.
>
The mouth-watering aroma of seafood gumbo wafts from the kitchen.
>
Galti says, "Ahh advisor."
>
Xionara blinks at Kristalline.
>
Zhirrisk says, "Some more outside the drawbridge..."
>
Kristalline winks at Xionara.
>
Galti says, "I will wait."
>
Xionara nods politely to Liurilias.
>
Kristalline smiles at Xionara.
>
Kristalline says to Galti, "We have some Guard coming up."
>
You ask Rileos, "What are you getting over?"
>
Kristalline nods to Galti.
>
Liurilias says to Galti, "Good to see you, Guardsman."
>
Galti says, "By the way advisor Lord Shillat is up there."
>
Rileos says to you, "Callin him boss."
>
You say, "Ah, right."
>
Zhirrisk brushes his tail across a long-stemmed white rose.
>
Liurilias chuckles at Rileos.
>
Zhirrisk gazes upward.
>
You pick up a long-stemmed white rose.
>
Rileos flashes a quick grin at Liurilias.
>
Xionara sniffs at an ornate gilded birdcage on a jewel-encrusted stand.
>
You gaze upward.
>
Rileos says to Liurilias, "Glad ya made it, though."
>
Rileos says to Liurilias, "I ain't got the propers for this and it's already rubbin folk wrong."
>
Liurilias pats Rileos on the back.
>
Xionara tilts her ears forward playfully.
>
Xionara gazes at an ornate gilded birdcage on a jewel-encrusted stand.
>
Galti seems to be trying to figure out how to turn a bracelet of vivid blue glass beads.
>
Xionara's tail undulates lazily through the air.
>
Liurilias says to Rileos, "Courteousy and self-restraint go a long way."
>
You try hard not to grin.
>
Liurilias's tail undulates lazily through the air.
>
Galti says, "As he says."
>
You put your rose in your tapestry cassock.
>
Rileos says to Liurilias, "I'm good at...really neither of those."
>
Rileos frowns.
>
Liurilias gets a golden lunchbox marbled with lapis lazuli from inside his hitman's backpack.
>
The well-oiled hinges of Liurilias's golden lunchbox slide silently and easily as he opens it.
>
Liurilias moves a golden lunchbox marbled with lapis lazuli to his left hand.
>
Liurilias gets a striped woodpecker from inside his golden lunchbox.
>
Xionara chuckles at Rileos.
>
Liurilias offers Xionara a striped woodpecker.
>
The well-oiled hinges of Liurilias's golden lunchbox slide silently and easily as he closes it.
>
Liurilias puts his lunchbox in his hitman's backpack.
>
Xionara blinks at Liurilias.
>
Xionara accepts Liurilias's striped woodpecker.
>
Rileos says to Liurilias, "If I do somethin I ain't supposed to, just tell me to shut up. I can abide that."
>
Liurilias says to Xionara, "Eat this and quit eying the lovebirds."
>
Rileos nods to Liurilias.
>
Cristalyn grins at Liurilias.
>
Liurilias grins at Xionara.
>
Xionara softly says to Liurilias, "I wonder if this is appropriate to eat next to these companion birds."
>
Galti says, "The future baroness would be less than pleased if you did."
>
You squint at Xionara.
>
Xionara softly says, "I'll wait until we reach the dais, i think."
>
Rileos grasps his chin roughly and jerks it to the side. You hear a loud pop and see him visibly relax.
>
Kristalline smiles at Liurilias.
>
Xionara smiles at Liurilias.
>
Liurilias says to Xionara, "I'm sure they'll avert their eyes or something equally well avian."
>
Kristalline nods to Galti.
>
Galti says, "I would not eat that on the dais."
>
Liurilias nods to Galti.
>
Apotheosis Toreakas just arrived.
>
Zhirrisk raises his palms skyward, chanting.
>
Xionara ponders.
>
Kristalline snaps to attention and hails Toreakas with a crisp hand salute.
>
Toreakas raises his battle longbow in an awkward salute and manages to nearly poke his eye out!
>
Cristalyn snaps to attention and hails Toreakas with a crisp hand salute.
>
Xionara puts her woodpecker in her hitman's backpack.
>
Liurilias says, "Better to eat now than make a scene on the dais."
>
Xionara pats a worn grey hitman's backpack with fraying straps.
>
Kiriti nods to Toreakas.
>
You say to Xionara, "At least not without bringing enough to share with everyone."
>
Xionara softly says, "It will keep until after."
>
Kristalline quietly says to Toreakas, "Weapons away."
>
Zhirrisk gestures.
In a blazing fountain of red-gold sparks, a red Moongate blazes into life.
>
You peer through the Moongate...

[Theren Keep, Approach]
A timeworn gatehouse rises to the north, its twin towers bearing conspicuous scars from a long-standing siege. The stone and mortar look patched in key places where catapult stones bombarded the stout facade, but there's no indication the gates have ever been breached. A stagnant semi-filled moat impedes further progress towards the Keep, and the sickly-green slime bubbling inside looks and smells like it dates back to the Old Empire.
You also see a tri-bolt ballista, a narrow ledge descending into the moat, a cable barrel, a tri-shot munitions crate and an ironwood drawbridge.
Also here: Colonel Kailiana, Herald Navesi, Wind Walker Raggard and Guardsman Rairken.
Obvious paths: south.

Toreakas raises an eyebrow.
>
Herald Navesi came through a red Moongate.
>
Colonel Kailiana came through a red Moongate.
>
Toreakas grumbles.
>
Navesi says, "Well. Thank you."
>
You say, "Goodness."
>
Navesi yanks her black coat down, fixing the fit.
>
Cristalyn snaps to attention and hails Kailiana with a crisp hand salute.
>
Toreakas says to Kristalline, "You never let me shoot anyone."
>
Liurilias waves to Navesi.
>
Toreakas unloads his battle longbow.
>
Kelneth waves to Navesi.
>
Rileos says to Navesi, "Look what you made me do. I had to come up here to get yeehar myself."
>
Navesi nods politely.
>
Toreakas slings a silverwillow battle longbow shaped with a draconic visage over his shoulder.
>
Rileos flashes a quick grin at Navesi.
>
Toreakas puts his arrow in his spidersilk belt quiver.
>
Navesi frowns at Rileos.
>
Xionara blinks at Rileos.
>
Navesi says to Rileos, "No patience."
>
Kristalline says to Toreakas, "You'll have more than me to answer to, Lt."
>
Rileos chuckles.
>
Y'Shai Aspirant Aysta came through a red Moongate.
>
Rileos pats Navesi on the back.
>
Xionara softly asks Rileos, "Why do you keep saying yeehar?"
>
Navesi says to Rileos, "And this does NOT let you out of our deal."
>
Kailiana raises her hand in a quick salute.
>
Xionara angles her ears forward, gazing curiously at Rileos.
>
Wind Walker Raggard came through a red Moongate.
>
Liurilias chuckles.
>
Kiriti snaps to attention and hails Kailiana with a crisp hand salute.
>
Galti says, "Alright now."
>
Navesi traces a curving sigil in the air.
>
Raggard joins Galti's group.
>
You hear a bump from a swinging deobar door.
>
Kiriti joins Galti's group.
>
Galti asks, "Who here actually has an intrest in these proceedings and who is here to make a scene?"
>
Navesi gestures.
Navesi's cambrinth manacle emits a loud snap.
A myriad of disjointed sounds seem to linger aimlessly in the air for a few moments before blending inaudibly into the background noise.
>
Zhirrisk joins Galti's group.
>
Cristalyn snaps to attention and hails Kiriti with a crisp hand salute.
>
Toreakas chuckles at Galti.
>
Xionara blinks.
>
Zhirrisk twitches an ear at a swinging deobar door nervously.
>
A red Moongate collapses in on itself.
>
Klejotogars says, "I just wish to watch."
>
Galti says, "I will kick you out now to beat the rush."
>
Kristalline says to Galti, "I came because you called for an officer, sir."
>
Liurilias joins Galti's group.
>
Xionara softly says to Galti, "I am interested."
>
You join Galti's group.
>
Dragon Shielder Hammerfist just arrived.
>
Toreakas joins Galti's group.
>
Kailiana nods at Kristalline, obviously agreeing with her views.
>
Galti nods to Kristalline.
>
Kristalline joins Galti's group.
>
You say, "I suppose I will attend."
>
Xionara waves to Hammerfist.
>
Rileos laughs!
>
Kailiana says, "As did I."
>
Liurilias gives you a little prod between the shoulder blades.
>
Rileos flashes a quick grin at you.
>
Xionara chuckles at you!
>
Hammerfist joins Galti's group.
>
Kristalline nods to Hammerfist.
>
Navesi joins Galti's group.
>
Rileos joins Galti's group.
>
Raggard snaps to attention and hails Kristalline with a crisp hand salute.
>
Kristalline snaps to attention and hails Raggard with a crisp hand salute.
>
Raggard snaps to attention and hails Kailiana with a crisp hand salute.
>
Galti says, "Is that everyone."
>
You realize there are some important matters you should tend to . . . later.
>
Raggard snaps to attention and hails Galti with a crisp hand salute.
>
Xionara waves to Navesi.
>
Klejotogars says, "But that gumbo does smell fantastic."
>
Navesi's fearsome determination inspires you to stand fast and strong against all that assails you. The chaos of the outside world seems to fade into nothingness as a detached calmness settles over you, the sound of your heartbeat reverberating within you, pounding with conviction and unwavering resolve.
>
You say, "I did not expect this much of a crowd."
>
Kailiana joins Galti's group.
>
Galti says, "I am provincial guard Galti, I do not usually work audiences."
>
Galti says, "There for I am not courtly and tender."
>
Kristalline nods to Galti.
>
Liurilias says to Galti, "Don't worry, you're doing splendid so far."
>
Galti says, "I will kick you out painfully."
>
Kristalline nods at Liurilias, obviously agreeing with his views.
>
Xionara softly says to Galti, "Sounds like you can handle a crowd just fine."
>
Galti says, "So remember the rules."
>
Zhirrisk raises his palms skyward, chanting.
>
Cristalyn nods to Galti.
>
Zhirrisk gestures.
In a blazing fountain of red-gold sparks, a red Moongate blazes into life.
>
You peer through the Moongate...

[Theren Keep, Approach]
A timeworn gatehouse rises to the north, its twin towers bearing conspicuous scars from a long-standing siege. The stone and mortar look patched in key places where catapult stones bombarded the stout facade, but there's no indication the gates have ever been breached. A stagnant semi-filled moat impedes further progress towards the Keep, and the sickly-green slime bubbling inside looks and smells like it dates back to the Old Empire.
You also see a Baronial guardsman, a tri-bolt ballista, a narrow ledge descending into the moat, a cable barrel, a tri-shot munitions crate and an ironwood drawbridge.
Also here: Stargazer Mistanna and Guardsman Rairken.
Obvious paths: south.

Galti asks, "Everyone joined?"
>
Stargazer Mistanna came through a red Moongate.
>
Liurilias waves to Hammerfist.
>
Raggard nods.
>
Aysta joins Galti's group.
>
Xionara hugs Mistanna, who wraps her arms around Xionara with a warm smile.
>
You study the area...

Mistanna is a female Human. She appears to be in her prime.
Hammerfist is a male Gor'Tog. He appears to be middle-aged.
Raggard is a male Elf. He appears to be young.
Aysta is a female Rakash. She appears to be mature.
Kailiana is a female Elf. She appears to be young.
Navesi is a female Kaldar. She appears to be an adult.
Toreakas is a male Halfling. He appears to be mature.
Liurilias is a male Prydaen. He appears to be elderly.
Kiriti is a female S'Kra Mur. She appears to be in her prime.
Kristalline is a female Elothean. She appears to be in her prime.

You lose track of those in the crowd you have already looked at.
>
Galti says, "Last chance to join."
>
A red Moongate collapses in on itself.
>
Mistanna joins Galti's group.
>
Zhirrisk tips his hat to Mistanna with a courteous nod.
>
Klejotogars grins at Mistanna.
>
Galti says, "Put away pets rats and weapons."
>
Kelneth hugs Mistanna, who wraps her arms around Kelneth with a warm smile.
>
Galti says, "We are moving now."
>
A servant nods deferentially as you follow Galti out of the room.


[Theren Keep, Dais]
A few steps or so above the polished marble deck, this raised platform nevertheless grants a commanding presence over the great hall. Glowing braziers flank the Baron's throne, infiltrating the chamber with feeble, reddish light and the pungent smell of burning herbs. Gazing downwards, the hall seems barren and quiet despite its restoration, mourning the ancestral knights, ladies, battle songs, and ballads that echoed through the keep so long ago.
You also see a padded ebonwood armchair, a padded ebonwood armchair, a padded ebonwood armchair, a padded ebonwood armchair, a padded ebonwood armchair and a stone pedestal with several things on it.
Also here: Shark Zhirrisk, Paladin Rileos who is shining with a dark golden glow, Black Fox Xionara, Wanderer Kelneth, Nomad Klejotogars, Healer Cristalyn, General Kristalline who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Guard Triage Lieutenant Kiriti, Pantheonic Condemner Liurilias who is shrouded in ghostly flames, Apotheosis Toreakas, Herald Navesi, Colonel Kailiana, Y'Shai Aspirant Aysta, Wind Walker Raggard, Dragon Shielder Hammerfist, Stargazer Mistanna, Lord Astenad, Lord Chamberlain Isleif and Baron Gyfford who is sitting.
Obvious exits: down.


You see Baron Gyfford Theren, a Human Paladin.
Curly, ash-blonde hair has been pulled back and tied with gold cord. A few sun-streaked strands that refuse to be tamed, escape to frame his ruggedly handsome face. Deep-set sapphire eyes are flecked with gold, glinting like the reflected rays of a setting sun on a calm blue sea. His chiseled jaw supports a regal nose and generous mouth. He has an athletic build, carrying himself with the confidence of one used to bearing the burdens of a province on his broad shoulders.
He is tall for a Human.
He is in his prime for a Human.
He is in good shape.

He is wearing a hammered gold circlet set with a single cabochon bloodgem, a finely woven white stormsilk shirt, a royal blue velvet tunic embroidered with a subtle pattern of entwined lions along the edges, a suit of gold-washed field plate armor, an ornate white gold ring with the Baronial seal of Therengia carved into a massive square cut bloodgem, a double-wrapped black leather sword belt riveted with wrought gold stars and lion head medallions, a black spidersilk hip pouch with a gold knotwork clasp, some black leather pants fastened with gold buckles and some supple black leather riding boots.

[People kneel before the Baron.]

Xionara shifts her weight.
>
Gyfford says, "Let us dispense with the formalities."

[People stand up again.]

Gyfford says, "Advisor."
>
Gyfford nods.
>
Liurilias says to Gyfford, "Good to see you well, my lord."
>
With a graceful movement of her hands, Cristalyn lowers her head and sinks into a formal curtsy before Gyfford.
>
Cristalyn softly says, "M'Lord."
>
Gyfford says, "I have heard from my Lord Shillat that in spite of my objections an altar was built on my lands without my sanction."
>
You say, "That is so."
>
Cristalyn blinks.
>
Gyfford says, "I seem to remember telling you no."
>
You say, "I am but one of many. I am a single arm of the Gods. I act not out of maliciousness, nor out of spite. I simply do what must needs be to see that the Mighty Drogor's will be done."
>
Gyfford nods.
>
Gyfford says, "I see."
>
Gyfford asks, "You know the history of these lands?"
>
You say, "To some degree."
>
Gyfford says, "Then you know we have had bad fortune from tose claiming ...well what you claim."
>
You say, "This altar is not the same as the chrysallis."
>
You say to Gyfford, "There is something you must see."
>
Gyfford says, "And certainly you must have known I do not make such an order because I just want to."
>
Astenad shifts his weight.
>
Toreakas ponders.
>
You gravely say, "Some time ago, after the altar was made and the grounds outside the gates of Riverhaven consecrated... the anger of the Gods was shown to all. Many envisioned in their mind's eye a lion weeping blood. Blood would fall from the sky if a great wrong was not made right."
>
Gyfford says, "I am responsible for an entire provinces safety."
>
Mistanna nods in agreement.
>
You say to Gyfford, "Thirty Nine voices cried out as one and spake thusly - 'All that is Holy is Holy.'."
>
Astenad says, "Your Grace this woman babbles and does not answer you."
>
Xionara frowns.
>
Rileos raises an eyebrow.
>
You urgently say, "While the storm raged around us, a great bolt of the Exalted One's divine lightning smote the ground beside His altar. Three of these were discovered in the ashes."
>
You get a softly glowing Drogor's Wrath sapphire shaped into a stylized shark from inside your tapestry cassock.
>
(Whiteburn strides forward toward the baron.)
>
You offer your Drogor's Wrath sapphire to Gyfford, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer. Type CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer.
>
You reverently say, "His Wrath, crystallized into His form. Look upon it and you will see that it has been made sacrosanct by the Divine."
>
Galti says, "Uh no no."
>
You blink.
>
You ask, "No?"
>
Galti says, "No handing my Baron things."
>
(Whiteburn steps back.)
>
You offer your Drogor's Wrath sapphire to Galti, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer. Type CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer.
>
Galti has declined the offer.
>
Gyfford says, "Advisor..."
>
Liurilias cocks his head.
>
Liurilias asks, "Yes, Your Grace?"
>
Gyfford says, "What is your opinion of this item."
>
Xionara angles her ears forward, gazing curiously at Liurilias.
>
Astenad says, "Careful your grace.."
>
Liurilias says, "From my own inspection, my senses only perceive the Blessings and intent of the Divine in its creation."
>
Gyfford says, "I see."
>
You unflinchingly exclaim to Gyfford, "They were given to us for a purpose. The Dark must not be chased from Therengia! The sanctified places of all the gods must be honored!"
>
Gyfford asks, "Are you saying I do not honor them?"
>
Liurilias frowns slightly and lays a hand briefly on Whiteburn's shoulder while giving her a brief glance.
>
Kristalline frowns.
>
Kristalline sighs.
>
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.
>
You say, "I make no such accusation."
>
Gyfford nods.
>
You say, "I only say this. Drogor's presence here is harmony. Son, mother, and daughter as one. This altar is in balance with all others here. Hereafter, there will be peace... so long as we continue to remember."
>
The glowing image of a massive lion appears behind the throne, it rests one paw on Gyffords shoulder before slowly fading away.
>
The thrill of alarm creeps up your spine, and your tail lifts to stand against your back.
>
Zhirrisk twitches his ears in agitation.

>stare throne
No matter how hard you stare, it's not going to do anything.
>
Kristalline ponders.
>
Gyfford says, "I will tell you this."
>
Cristalyn frowns.
>
You gaze at Gyfford.
>
Gyfford says, "I honor all immortals and I honor all their altars."
>
Gyfford says, "But if any harm comes to me or mine because of you..."
>
Gyfford shrugs.
>
Gyfford says, "My Lord Shillat the altar stands."
>
Astenad frowns.
>
Gyfford says, "However..."
>
Gyfford says, "I agree with Lord Trigomas."
>
Gyfford says, "It is best if you confine yourself to the tending of that altar while in my province."
>
You solemnly say to Gyfford, "So be it."
>
Gyfford asks, "Do you understand me?"
>
You give a slight nod.
>
Gyfford asks, "Therengian officers?"
>
Xionara frowns.
>
Kristalline nods to Gyfford.
>
Kristalline asks, "Yes, your Grace?"
>
Hammerfist says, "My lord."
>
Kailiana says, "Your Grace."
>
Gyfford says, "The altar remains and those who worship there may do so freely."
>
Kristalline says, "As you say, your Grace."
>
Kristalline nods to Gyfford.
>
Kristalline bows.
>
Kailiana says, "Yes, your Grace."
>
Gyfford says, "Whiteburn will stay close to there to ensure it's continued upkeep."
>
Kristalline nods.
>
Gyfford says, "Which means I do not expect to see her any where else."
>
Kristalline nods to Gyfford.
>
Gyfford says, "Until I lift the ruling."
>
Hammerfist says to Gyfford, "Yes my lord."
>
Kristalline says, "Yes, my Lord."
>
Gyfford says, "And there will be no harassment."
>
Liurilias cocks his head at Zhirrisk.
>
Kristalline smiles.
>
Gyfford says, "We worship and honor all immortals."
>
Kristalline nods at Gyfford, obviously agreeing with his views.
>
Kailiana nods.
>
You say, "Indeed."
>
The great lion flickers into view behind the throne and gives a great roar of approval before disappearing in a blinding flash of light.
>
You gaze upward.
>
Liurilias whispers something to Gyfford.
>
Astenad blinks.
>
Zhirrisk holds his breath.
>
You kiss your fingertips, then lightly touch your shark pin.
>
Gyfford asks, "Well my lord of Chadatru has spoken yes?"
>
Kailiana nods in agreement.
>
Astenad says, "With all due respect my Baron you may regret your kindness."
>
Astenad fixes you with a frank, even stare.
>
You gaze at Astenad.
>
Astenad bows to Gyfford.
>
Xionara frowns at Astenad.
>
Lord Astenad goes down.
>
Kiriti gazes at you.
>
You say to Gyfford, "I've but one question for you."
>
Isleif ponders.
>
Kristalline raises an eyebrow.
>
Gyfford nods to you.
>
Gyfford says, "A bit soon for favors...but go on."
>
Liurilias nods to Gyfford.
>
You firmly say, "I am my Lord's three-pronged storm of judgment. I hunt His enemies and bring them death, no matter where they be. This includes the demonspawn beneath the Zaulfung."
>
You ask Gyfford, "I would continue to see to their extermination. If this is acceptable?"
>
Gyfford says, "Very well."
>
You bow your head in acknowledgment.
>
You say, "That is all, then."
>
Zhirrisk's ears relax for a moment in obvious enjoyment.
>
Gyfford says, "As you know I am not blind or deaf to what goes on in my province."
>
Kristalline nods.
>
Gyfford says, "Do not stray again."
>
Gyfford nods to you.
>
Liurilias whispers, "Well said, Inquisitor."
>
You say, "It will be even so."
>
Gyfford says, "This matter is closed."
>
You whisper to Liurilias, "I somehow managed to keep my head."
>
Gyfford asks, "Advisor is there any thing else of note?"
>
Liurilias says, "Mm, Kristalline of the Theren Guard has a report to share with you."
>
Gyfford nods.
>
Liurilias whispers, "I'm impressed."
>
Kristalline smiles at Gyfford.
>
Kailiana glances at Kristalline.
>
Gyfford says, "Proceed."
>
Kristalline says, "My Lord, I actually just got this information shorly before coming here. I was on my way to write a letter regarding it."
>
Isleif opens his hip pouch.
>
Isleif gets a black leucro hide journal from inside his hip pouch.
>
Isleif opens his hide journal.
>
Isleif jots down some notes.
>
Klejotogars glances at Isleif.
>
Kristalline says, "I have reports that a former member of the Guard, Tarlof, has declared war against us. I only bring this to your attention so that you know of it, and that we will handle it, my Lord."
>
Kristalline bows.
>
Gyfford asks, "Another one?"
>
You pull on your shark pin impatiently and roll your eyes upward.
>
Gyfford chuckles.
>
Xionara frowns.
>
Hammerfist raises an eyebrow.
>
Cristalyn grins.
>
Rileos raises an eyebrow.
>
Kristalline nods to Gyfford.
>
Gyfford says, "Thank you for the report."
>
Kristalline peers quizzically at Cristalyn.
>
Gyfford says, "I am sure that later I will lose sleep."
>
Kristalline asks Cristalyn, "Was there something I missed, Lt?"
>
Liurilias chuckles at Gyfford.
>
Raggard smiles.
>
Kristalline smiles at Gyfford.
>
You make casual circles in the air with the tip of your tail.
>
Gyfford says, "But in a serious note...thank you for your attentions to detail and keeping me informed."
>
Kristalline nods to Gyfford.
>
Gyfford says, "I may thake this threat lightly but not your service."
>
Gyfford nods.
>
Kristalline says, "Always, my Lord. And thank you for giving me a time. I'll still send the full report to Lord Isleif."
>
Kristalline nods.
>
Kristalline says, "Thank you, my Lord."
>
Gyfford says, "I am not as short spoken as my Lord Trigomas the Hand..but in his style...we are done here."