second volume

In the wake of discovering the first of the legendary Leonaus Grimoire, Basil and Osiris follow the rumor given by the dark spirit Virgil. The Whisperpeeks, a village that exists on the outskirts of Theria and atop one of it's mountains. The climb is cold and dangerous, but after hours of ascending do the two finally see it.

Stone houses and buildings with spires that manage to pierce the mist of the mountain, lit with fire and abuzz with activity. Carts move in and out of it's single gate, with felinae exchanging greetings.

Compared to Moyaya, this almost seems like a small city.

There is only but a short path towards the gate, and towards the rumor of another piece of cosmic history.

[This is a CoD event. I would like everyone to give me their /vit at the start of the event. Loose 100 vit, and you are in danger of death. Take three perms, and you will also be at risk. You can use a single lax, healing elixer, and surgery during this event. Injuries can be tanked by another party member once per encounter. Prepare yourself, and have fun.]
[Narrate]

There would be nothing that can stop Basil on his quest.

Truthfully, he imagines that there would be a lot more to this, a lot more that he has to explore before he could truly be done with Grimoires.. but without work, you cannot truly hope to make a change on entirety of Esshar.

And that's what he's here for.

The climb is dangerous- but the fit body of the Rhoynish makes the task much easier; the heat radiates around his frame almost naturally, warding off the cold atmosphere of the mountains. For even now, despite wearing relatively light cloth as befitting to the High Lord of the Rhoynur, he seems entirely unafraid of the weather. Instead..

His gaze drifts towards Osiris as they make their way through.

"You should speak to them. They're Felinae as well, it seems."

"Keep in mind they're usually wary of strangers. I will walk alongside you, but I imagine they might view me as a threat."
(Basil)


The cart they stop is one carrying cut stone, lead by an elderly felinae with a pipe in his mouth. The most notable feature about him, however, are the blackened marks the right side of his face and arm. Every so often, a shimmer of yellow starlight runs through them, though he pays no mind to it. While driving his cart, he wasn't showing any sign of pain.

He laughs, calms his horses down, and casts his gaze amicably at the two of them. "This be Whisperpeek Summit, friend. I live 'ere with m' wife and take care o' me grandkids. You've never been?"

He pats the side of his cart, giving room for the two of them to climb aboard, if desired.

"Come, you'll catch yer death if y'stay too long out 'ere. I got'ta head inside anyway and drop this off."

The option was there, for the two of them to take it.

The familiar presence.

The wisp of yellow cosmic mana that he's all too familiar with.. for while his eyes narrow upon such, he can't help but feel as if there's a lot more to it than he initially anticipated. Perhaps, it is meant to be their way of getting through, but..

"Pleasure meeting you."

"I am Basil. The king of Alabastre and rightful High Lord of the Rhoynur." But the arm-rings, the torc, and the tapestry that he possessed.. it was truly telling of such about Basil, wasn't it? For while one arm-ring signifies him as part of the Rhoynish, another is filled with brilliance and beauty unmatched.

An arm-ring that once belonged to High Lord Shar, in the bygone era of Rhoynish independence.

"Worry not."

"It's nigh impossible for me to freeze to death." After all, Basil was a rather powerful fire magi. Certainly, he was more than capable of keeping himself warm- and the radiating heat is a testament to that. But..

"We came here seeking what this place is all about."

"Do you have a church nearby? The followers of celestial, perhaps?"
(Basil)

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kcw8xNxkZtM)

"Ah, you're 'ere for th'trial!"

With a crack of his reigns, the horses trot along the stone path towards the gate. A man and a woman in intricate armor and spears standing beside the gate. With a wave from the elder, the two step to the side and allow their passage.

"I remember my trip down there... 'ad to be almost fifty years ago on th'date. Went in with m'wife and ol' Steelcutter Dan. Back when I could punch a hole straight through that training dummy down there!"

The interior of the village was magnificent. Large stone buildings surrounding what seemed to be a... fighting pit. Steps and seats were filled with a small amount of felinae, cheering on a man and a woman sparring in the middle. At the edge of the pit looked to be a massive set of stone doors.

The buildings looked to be like large apartments, with familes going through the day to day. At the back of the village was a more homey-looking Tavern who's walls were adorned with massive stone statues of various felinae.

"We do our prayers in the Pit at night, since thats where we can all congregate. Dunnae where our Orator is, y'might want t'check Saint's Rest."

The elder points to the tavern, where a congregation of people were coming and leaving. He stops his cart next to a open pile of stones, where others walked up to start unloading.

"If yer looking to start yer Trials, go seek out the Orator. Y'cannae miss 'em; Blond hair, white robes, and a blue sash. He'll give y'the scoop, since..."

Smiling, the elder sticks out his tounge towards the two of them. There was what looked to be... a seal?

"...I cannae! Bahahahaha!"

So, the Elder gets off the cart, and leaves the two to explore the village.
[Narrate]

What an odd place.

To an extent, it almost reminded him of the ruins of the old Ilburg, and whereas the old man explains all these things, he can't help but let his gaze wander about. This felt more.. established, more solidified- and no doubt, they possessed the Leonaus Grimmore around here.

No doubt it was here. He could almost feel it.

After all, the connection to the Alph of his own was a powerful one, was it not? An exceptional cosmic magi, surprisingly skilled for someone who's not a Felinae- for Rhoynish are rarely associated with cosmic magic at all. And yet, his gaze turns towards the old Felinae after he explains where they ought to locate the Orator.

"We'll check Saint's Rest."

"If we don't find him there, I suppose checking Pit might be reasonable." Or maybe they might as well ask for more directions in the tavern, but to digress..

Where he wanted to ask for the trials and whatthey contain, it was quickly revealed that the old Felinae cannot speak of them. A seal? He idly hums.. if a seal on tongue is what these trials entailed, that might be a bit of an issue..

He isn't looking to be marked in any way.

"Thank you for the information."

"And Osiris, let's go."

Already he gets off, if only to intend to walk towards the Saint's Rest; the place could potentially have the Orator, after all. And..

He looks around.

Maybe he's here, as he explores about?
(Basil)

The doors of the tavern open to a host of sights and smells. The bar is circular, where two stations of people serve food and drink. Tables are lined with youths making merry, and the elderly watching sagely. There are dancers, guardsman throwing axes against targets, and most strangely the head of a one-eyed lion hanging over the center bar.

The search for the Orator, however, is quickly ended. Sitting at a table, with two ladies in each arm is a younger blond felinae, wearing his priestly robes in the bar. He seemed to be... having more fun than the others.

"...an' then, the door opened, and what was behind it..?"

Telling a story, beyond deep in his cups to any who would listen. He looked the part as described by the elder, but certainly didn't carry the same respect for the cloth as what one would think a priest would have.
[Narrate]

What makes appearance is perhaps an oddity of itself.

But then again.. Basil is no less of an enigma; for while the kingdom of Alabastre was particularly young one, only the most ignorant of fools have never heard of the Rhoynish culture or what belonged to them- for while he walks in, the tapestry he wears is always a testament to what he is, as well as the two arm-rings. Perhaps, he wears it for show..

But deep on the inside, he knows that such titles command authority, one way or another - because people know whom they're dealing with.

And while he looks over at the described figure to him, he tilts his head a little bit. It was certainly not the priestly kind.. or at least, that's not the way he could expect him to be. But.. Basil doesn't judge - he knows that his own people are rather 'wild' in this regard as well.

And they're not as quick to shy away from such a thing either- for where Basil makes his approach to the table with Orator, he speaks out.

"Orator, was it?"

"Apologies for interruption. My name is Basil, the king of Alabastre and High Lord of the Rhoynur." The appearances are often deceiving - but in this case, Basil's own appearance only supports such claim.

"We came here to ask about the Trials, and afraid this can't really wait. The war wages across Esshar, and Barsburg is sitting on Theria's border - the mountains you occupy as well."

"Should we stall and wait, your own home may be swarmed by the enemy empire that has invaded us in the past."

Is he the bringer of bad news, a liar, or both? It's up to Orator to judge - but the Rhoynur are often direct, and Basil has no reasons to lie here.

"Because this is of utmost importance, we need your time."
(Basil)

The Orator's story is disrupted by Basil's proclamation of Kingship, and he stops his speaking. The two girls to his side look to each other, and leave the booth. The dissapointment on the Orator's face is immesurable, and his day is beyond ruined.

"...well, don't you know how t'make a stunning entry, kingy."

He rises from his slump, wiping his face with his hands, and exchanging gazes between the both of them. His speech was... slightly slurred. But, the Orator gave his best effort to speak clearly.

"Yes, I am the Orator. I'm th'one who opens th'gate fer people like you to go into th'Temple and get yer markin's. I'm also th'one who you'll complain to when y'loose and get banged up."

He looks to his cup, which was about half empty, and sighs.

"Not a single bandit camp, mercenary company, or nation has ever managed to even get close'ta Whisperpeek. T'be honest? I'd doubt they'd know we're here. But I'm willin' 'ta let you try later tonight when it's time, and when I can finish enjoying my day off"
[Narrate]

Markings.

There's something about this that was unpleasant to Basil, if only due to fact that their kind experienced slavery and appropriate markings of the past- and the association never really died off. But.. the clan insignia also exists, does it not? At the very least, this is something that he just might be able to cope with, albeit temporarily.

"Do not underestimate Barsburg. The magitech they're in possession of is formidable weapon - and it will lay waste to anything in their path." To say that they couldn't find this place is far-fetched.. if only because of the fact that Barsburg Empire is actually fairly vast and wealthy.

"And worry not. I can handle myself."

Although, he can tell of the Orator's frustrations, to which he shakes his head.

"Come, now."

"I'm sure even tipsy like this, you realize the merit behind our words. Besides, would it not make a good story for you later on? That you saved this place by making a wise decision, a good decision?"

"The ladies surely seemed impressed. One more story won't hurt - and you don't have to do that much."

Perhaps it's the attempt of the King to encourage the Felinae before them, to incite him further into action.

"But.."

"Tell me more of these trials, these markings. How does it go, what exactly happens within?"
(Basil)

The Orator continued to look between the two of the outsiders, and gave out another sigh, sitting down.

"I told you, later tonight. I can't even open th'doors until the stars are out. Can't a guy get a day off?"

Wiping his head again, he looks towards Osiris. "Usually, groups'a people designate a single one'ta be th'one that recieves th'Trial marks, but should y'fail, then you all'l be marked t'nae speak what y'see. T'preserve the sanctity a'our Saint's effort."

Basil's seriousness about Barnsburg was taken, resulting in the Orator's slight sobering. "Even though I've passsed th'trials, I cannae speak much more'a this. Part'a my office as th'Orator. No one else has come'ta me t'run through the temple today, so yer th'only ones goin' in. Why don'tya-"

He looks to the rest of the bar, and beyond through the window.

"...why don'cha let me enjoy my drink, you sample our fine village, and when it's time that I can open'tha doors, y'come to the pit in th'center a th'village. That sound ok?"
[Narrate]

As much as he can understand the complains like these, truthfully, the High Lord didn't feel like resting around too much, but.. he was used to the fact that the rituals such as these are only done beneath the stars.

It's much like the other place too.

"Don't feel so discouraged."

"We're not here to keep pestering you or keep bothering your way of life. We came here for purpose, and we'll leave as soon as that purpose is fulfilled."

"But you must understand - this matter isn't a light one, nor it should be taken as one. I'm sure if I took you on a tour around Esshar, you'd realize that much on your own, but.."

"To not waste time, you'll just have to take my word for it."

With that said, however, he was going to wait until the night- there isn't that much issue about it, save for the fact that he was placing a reminder upon Orator not to forget about it.

Because this was important.

"You'll have all the days off you want afterward."

His gaze turns towards Osiris for a moment.

"Let's go."

"We've seen the pit on our way here, and it's in the center of village. Can't be difficult to find it again."

"We'll check the rest of the place in the meantime."

On that note, he intends to leave Orator to his own business, if only to go about exploring.
(Basil)

The two leave the Orator, leaving the bar and heading out into the center of the village.

There are multiple places to visit that seem interesting. Due to the weather, there are no outdoor markets. Only indoor shops built into the larger apartment complexes. Judging by the time, they have enough time to visit one of them before entering the Temple.

Besides the Pit, there is a general store, a blacksmith, what looks to be a stone engraving store, and a bakery.

Which one will the two visit?
[Narrate]


The general store, the stone engraving store, and bakery..

While normally he would visit them at some point, due to how short they are on time, he imagines that there won't be that much to see in stone engraving store- if only because the runework is often revealed in Grimmore, as well as the complex runes that are involved within Wonders.

Keeping that in mind, there isn't much purpose visiting it. Bakery? Too simple.. and even if it has something special, he wasn't one to look at cooking too much - same goes for general store.

"Feel free to visit any other place."

"I'm going to visit blacksmith. I'm sure Mars would like to hear what sort of weaponry her people possess."

"We can split up for now, and meet at the Pit later."

On that note, the Rhoynish begins making his way towards blacksmith. He's surely decisive..

And quick to make up his mind.
(Basil)

Basil walks to the Blacksmithery, located on the right side of the village. Inside is a collection of felinae working on custom-made pieces of equipment, along with some premade pieces adorning the walls. There were some made for display; spearheads and pieces of plate armor menacing with steel spikes and engraved beautifully.

Every piece of flat metal had some sort of engraving, with the more expensive pieces looking more like works of art than killing implements. There were few with any true gold or gems, rather steel and mythril were the two most used metals.

"Oy'. Y'got an order t'pick up, or y'just browsing?"

Along the wall of weapons were some very interesting tools. A pair of mythril gloves that ended in two-inch spikes, a flamberge who's metal seemed to wave along with the undulating blade, and steel greeves with built-in snowshoes. While not the best blacksmiths, they certainly had their niche.
[Narrate]

While Basil enters and takes a look around the store, he seems intrigued by the design of the weaponry that is presented before him- and while he takes a look around in such manner, he can't help but note the intricate designs.

Eventually, his gaze turns towards blacksmith.

"No. I haven't ordered anything."

"Just decided I'd browse."

There's no doubt that the Rhoynish was a warrior himself, from his stature alone- for it is something that becomes very obvious by looking at him, but.. while he explores the designs, he briefly remarks.

"The designs seem rather unique. It is of Felinae culture, I assume."

Although, he would probably not have much time before having to go to the Pit.
(Basil)

"Th'designs were passed down from m'dae, and his dae before 'em. Most'a th'weapons were made from what th'first Saints used when th'village was bein' built."

One of the blacksmiths, a younger black-haired felinae, speaks up while hammering away at a spear. These weapons were being made in-mass, possibly to outfit the rest of the village.

"Since w'dunnae have anything real fancy, we learned the noble art'a engravin'. It ain't just fer show, either."

The felinae picks up one of the spears, and the engravings begin to glow red-hot with fire.

"The best engravers can make anythin' channel yer mana, with th'right amount'a work n' love put int'a it."

He places the spear down, and the spearhead releases the mana. "I've got'ta get back ta'me work, but feel free'ta buy something, 'er just look."
[Narrate]

He listens in.

And it is something that he paid attention to, if only because of the fact that this could always be passed down to the artificers that he knows, and perhaps the designs of such kind used in the workings of their own. Although, when the question is asked as to whether he would be looking around or buying..

"Afraid I'm not here to stay for long."

"Your Orator awaits us at the Pit, I believe. Although, I may return here at the later date."

Perhaps he might even send someone here to purchase something, for now they know the path to this place. But with that being said, he remarks.

"Thanks for this insight. Perhaps we'll meet again."

With that said, Basil heads towards the exit, and to the Pit. As much as the town was pleasant..

They came here for different purpose altogether. Hopefully, the Orator didn't forget either.
(Basil)

Time passes, the two reunite with Osiris carrying multiple bottles of Sourdough Starter and a tucked-away recipe for bread. They meet in the pit, sitting on the stairs while the entire town gathers. Entire familys, couples, and groups of children find their spot on the outside of the Pit, while the Orater makes his way to the bottom.

He looks incredibly hungover, but his two attendants makes sure to keep him looking as priestly as possible. When he reaches the center, a hush falls over the crowd. The sky clears, and the stars become visible.

"We welcome all who come to us tonight, to prove themselves before Leonaus and the first Saints who came to our village. Tonight, two outsiders have wished to partake in our trials, and we shall give them our blessing as they enter."

The crowd is still silent, but out of respect. Their views of outsiders seems to be much better than of Moyaya.

"Join me in prayer, as I recite the Words of Opening."

One by one, the villagers bow their heads and bring forth whatever cosmic magic they can. The warriors and stongest shine their light the brightest, while even the elderly and young contribute their blessing of the stars towards this ritual. The Orator moves to the door, casting his hands to the sky, and whispers towards it. There is a silence, before slowly...

The doors creek open, letting forth a small cloud of dust. The light of the combined cosmic magic casts their way clearly- a set of spiral stairs going directly down. The Orator looks towards the two of them, giving them a light smile.

"Remember what I have told you, and good luck. You will be tested for your devotion to the Stars, and properly rewarded should you prove yourselves worthy."

The door is open for the two of them to move in.
[Narrate]

It is time.

Truthfully, he had expected them to be far less welcoming, but.. perhaps, they have not suffered at the hands of strangers as much, and because of that, they do not frown upon the presence of those that come from outside. While he watches the ritual, and the way that they contribute cosmic magic in order to activate the mechanism in such manner, he wonders..

Perhaps, he can replicate this somewhere else?

After all, not only he intended to create the star-gate, but he also intended to create many more things with the help of Grimmore and other. While he makes his way inside, he casts but a single glance back at the Orator, a nod given to him.

"Thank you."

"And we'll come out victorious."

Here, the light of rosegold already begins to shine.. and the Felinae of the crowd are made witness to it - the beautiful presence of the rosegold constellation, with myriad sparkles of the cosmos itself surrounding him.

The blessing of the Center Star, Alph.

For he is not only the King of Alabastre, not only the High Lord of the Rhoynur.. but an emissary of the Center Star as well; the sole man that would guide the Rhoynish back to their prosperity, from the slavery and nothingness that awaited them in the future otherwise.

Basil doesn't dream that he can save but one man.
He'll save it all.

"Do not fail me now, Osiris."

"This is of more importance to me than you imagine."

The Felinae isn't the only one who wishes to see the greatness of the Grimmore, after all.
(Basil)

The two walk down the steps, and find themselves in a dark chamber. The darkness stays only for a moment before a massive beam of cosmic light descends from the top of the room to a recepticle in the bottom. The light shines on four other rooms- one at each cardinal direction.

A closed door to the north, and three open ones at the east, south, and west. The closed door has a engraving of a handprint on it, while the others have various artistic engravings.

Investigation is key to unlocking the secret behind these trials.

(You may inspect any of the doors or the pillar of cosmic light, and enter any of the open ones. This room is considered safe- you can heal in her after encounters)
[Narrate]

A puzzle.

There's something about these which was all too amusing to him.. and yet, he can't help but shake his head to that; for while he examines the room, the presence of the light, as well as the fact that they remain closed, it seems rather.. odd to him, to an extent.

"It's funny."

"When I entered Cathedral of Njorun, beneath the Ilburg.. many others failed the tests of wit - including Asta, Regulus, Pariah, Basten, and many others who were helping us back then, to get rid of Nethradin invasion."

"I was the only one to solve the problem at hand and allow us to advance." Something that the rest had to admit, and praise Basil for that all the same, but..

"Let's see if I can do that again."

Already he begins to examine the engravings. He idly hums.. but when he sees the engraved handprint on the closed door, he tilts his head a little bit.

"Osiris."

"Because we share the light of same constellation, try to press your hand on the engraving on the closed door. But beware - be ready to jump away, in case it has a trap."

"I will investigate the rest of engravings."

For now, he goes on to check upon the artistic engravings of the opened ones. Perhaps, there was something he'd seen before?

And perhaps, the opened chambers lead somewhere in particular.
(Basil)

There is a slight reaction in the door at Osiris' invocation of starlight- the mana flowing into it. Osiris would note, however, that there is no way a single person can fill the entire thing with just their normaly capacity. The moment he takes his hand away, the mana fades back out.

Basil's investigation of the artistic engraving on the doors reveals this much.

The east door depicts a felinae carrying a torch, going into the unknown.

The south door depicts a felinae walking across a lake

The west door depicts a felinae, sitting and surrounded by symbols.

(Basil, roll a D20 and add the highest tier of cosmic magic you have (basics are a +1, intermediates are a +2, etc) to see if you identify the symbols on the west door)
[Narrate]

"Hrm.."

How odd. But these are supposed to be trials, right? More than likely this depicts what exactly awaits them behind these doors, or what they could be expecting, but.. these are all theories within his mind for now.

What seems to catch his attention the most, however, is the west door.

These strange symbols. Were they of particularly any meaning? Where he tries to listen to the signs of his star, much like it guided him before, there's an attempt to borrow a bit of wisdom from the star of judgment.

Perhaps, it will help him judge here as well - as to what meaning these symbols carry.

"These seem to describe trials. But these symbols? I'm unsure. You might want to take a look at it as well."

"Any progress over there, Osiris?"
(Basil)

Basil's investigation of the symbols gives him some slight insight, but the symbols used are ancient. He can only idenitfy a few as being precursor signs to those used in the modern-day Leonaus Constellation.

His attempt on the door also proves to be futile. He just doesn't have enough mana to open the door.

Osiris, however, is able to discern the connection between these old symbols and the ones more commonly used.

A line with two dots is identified as a precurser to the symbol for Giest

A triangle within a square is identified to be the symbol for Biblos

Two lines parrallel crossing a square is identified as the symbol of Twe
[Narrate]

The familiarity of those signs..

But whereas he tries to discern them, for the most part, it seems to be a futile endeavour. Yet, as his gaze narrows upon these, it's almost as if he expects Osiris to try his part in this. And yet, only when he elaborates on this..

"Geist, Biblos and Twe.."

"The house of vision, passion and.. bankers?"

How odd. Of all things, Twe was one that is used the least- but soon enough, he continues to speak out.

"Hrm.."

Perhaps.. just maybe, he has an idea. While he ponders about the door that didn't budge with a single stream of cosmic mana from Osiris, he can't help but think of an entirely different method of opening the door.

Is it unorthodox? Maybe, but it just might work.

"I think they represent the energy of the separate stars necessary to open the last door. And I think these glyphs may just channel connection to these stars, letting us tap into their mana temporarily."

A pause, to which he adds.

"Perhaps, we can direct the celestial energy from the glyphs on these doors and onto the closed one. With these three linked up, and our own, it might just open."

"If not.. then perhaps, the necessary keys can be found within the chambers. The ways to draw upon their strength, or further insight?"
(Basil)

Basil should note that these symbols are just engravings- a probe of mana reveals that they do not have any direct power behind them.

When Osiris removes his hand, the flow of cosmic power to the door ceases. It seems a single person must power the door, as it only has room for a single hand.
[Narrate]

"Perhaps not."

"But let's return to the door."

A single hand. How quaint.. but they just might be able to push through this otherwise; for while Osiris remarks of this, he's soon to speak further.

"Let's get back to the door."

"Press your hand onto it, and begin channelling your own celestial energy. In turn, I will give you supply of my own. It would be two of us working as a link - while you direct it towards the door."

And already the shimmering starlight resurges once more, if only to be directed towards the Felinae this time; it's made to invigorate him, to empower him with all that the cosmic magi might need. A common technique..

Because they sometimes even heal people- or rather, make their recovery easier- by giving them a taste of celestial energy.

"Go on."
(Basil)

With the combined cosmic might of Basil and Osiris, their twin manas flow into the door. But they can both feel it- while their combined effort filled more of it, there is still so much left to go. A true herculean effort for even these two magi.

No, they need more strength. A lot more than just two people even with a greater connection to their stars.

Maybe the key was further in the open rooms?
[Narrate]

They try, and try, and try..

But it seems that there's no success in that; for as much as they give off mana for that, there's but a sigh in return, and soon enough his gaze cants towards the western door - one that has depicted the symbols of the stars.

Perhaps, this borrowed strength would be found within.

"..Won't budge."

"Let's head to the room with those symbols. We're more likely to find something needed there, than the rooms that depict walking with torch and walking over a lake."

Or at least, that's what logic suggested.

With that said, however, he begins to walk off to the open room- gesturing for Osiris to follow.

They still had much to do.
(Basil)

The group enters the West door, the sconces on the walls light with magical fire as they step in. In the room, there are a multitude of tablets laying strung across the ground, and on the wall completely opposite of them is a depiction of a Lion.

There is a slot for a tablet under it's head, body, and hind paws.

The tablets all have different precurser symbols on them.

(You may investigate the room as you like, and slot in tablets when you are ready.)
[Narrate]

"It is fun, yes."

"I also wonder what secrets to cosmic magic would lie in here.. if any." This is the place of Felinae, after all.. and the last time that he's visited the place of his ancestors, it was practically filled with all that belonged to the culture of Rhoynur. Though, while he observes the room..

He can't help but feel that this is somewhat of a room that is there to ensure whoever visits it would have awareness about cosmic constellations.

"The body of a Lion.."

He takes a look upon tablets. Already he associates it with appropriate constellations, and..

"Yellow for the body, blue for the head, red for the paws."

That's what the knowledge of the stars dictated - and he didn't see any reason why it would be any different here. Instead, he collects upon the tablets..

And after double-checking the signs, he fits it into appropriate slots; the stars of yellow constellation to its body, blue to the head, and red to the paws.

Surely, Osiris would help out too.
(Basil)

As they are placed in, there is a slight rumble. Jutting out of the wall is another handprint slab, though this one seems to be more for 'giving' than 'recieveing'

Along the Lion, golden letters are revealed when the correct order of slabs are placed in.

"WE REMEMBER NOT ONLY THE COSMOS, BUT THOSE WHO CAME PRIOR."

Upon the slabs, the images of three felinae. Twe's is one in robe, carrying scales and proclaiming. Biblios is a warrior, bathed in cosmic light. Geiest is of a felinae, teaching to a crowd.

Three figures of renown, that both of them could recognise from the stone statues by the Tavern. This trial was complete, all that was left to do was to have one of them place their hand in the receptacle.
[Narrate]

There are ways to learn from this.

The ways in which the cosmic magic is practiced upon his form, bearing the witness of the ancient history that came by, that granted the power unmatched over the stars and cosmos alike- yet, where he reads the golden inscription upon the wall, he can't help but ponder..

Is there more to this, that is tied to such past?

Here, while he watches the hand to be placed upon the receptacle, he figures that this is the strength that they were looking for- his gaze briefly turns towards Osiris, if only to remark.

"You can do it."

"If you do not wish to, then I will."
(Basil)

To Osiris, there would be a strange feeling as- rather than pushing mana into the handprint, mana is pushed back into Osiris. Lines of mana, like artificial circuitry, is writ into the flesh of Osiris.

A sprawling tattoo of the Cosmos upon his right arm, flowing up near the shoulder. These lines of artificial circuitry do seem temporary, and they are lacking in any mana of their own. But when the ancient machine is finished, Osiris is able to inspect this writing.

(If anyone has levels in Artificery, they can attempt to make a further inspection beyond surface-level information)

Osiris can note that these circuits are not connected to his own internal circuits, and he cannot cast from them like he does normally.
[Narrate]

He notes down these glyphs.

And truthfully, it is something that might actually come useful for him in the future- here, while they remain in this chamber, he speaks out towards Osiris.

"I doubt it, but.."

"This power might just be enough for us to open the door. I'm not sure what lies behind the doors related to Felinae crossing the lake and the one holding the torch."

"As this chamber seemed most attuned to celestial energy."

With that said..

"Let's move?"
(Basil)

Osiris' next attempt on the door leads to the same result. He's not able to channel any more mana through circuits that arn't holding any mana at the moment.

There are still too rooms left, and potentially two more sets of circuits to be added than just for the right hand.
[Narrate]

"It appears we'll need to visit both rooms, then."

"And I suppose it doesn't matter too much which one we choose to be first."

Already his gaze sets upon the room where the Felinae carries a torch- maybe it's his preference with the fire, or perhaps it's because he was looking to learn more of it in general, but..

"We'll visit this one first."

"Be on the lookout. This trial, I imagine, was merely an introduction to the rules of cosmos and the connection of constellation."

"I imagine other may be more difficult."

As he advances, already he looks about the room, trying to discern what lies ahead.
(Basil)

The two enter the door to the East, and they are met with darkness. The light of the cosmic pillar does not reach here, and even the aura of pure starlight is unable to light beyond a tile at a time.

There are echoes in the chamber- pitfalls no doubt. Rocks that tumble down and create echoes as they do. A maze where the sense of sight is completely deprived from them.

As long as they look out, they can only see the shadow in front of them.

How will the two move forward?
[Narrate]

No light..

And as far as he can tell, the starlight here would be snuffed out entirely, without much to be seen. Although, when he remembers the Felinae with the torch.. maybe that's exactly what they could use? For while he tries to spark the flame- the actual flame- within his hand, he briefly remarks.

"If the flame won't work.."

"Then I believe the torch may represent letting the stars guide us."

He reaches out to the constellation above. To his connection, to tug upon the link that he has with Alph- perhaps, it could help him where the natural flame would not.

But it remains to be seen, doesn't it?
(Basil)

Basil's faith in his star guides him beyond the realm of physical sight, and every step brings him closer to his goal. With determination, he walks.

Eventually, the texture of the stones changes, prompting his eyes to open and another recepticle, along with a new string of golden text.

"THERE IS NO DARKNESS THAT OBSCURES THE STARLIGHT."

Underneath, another artistic engraving of a scene, where twelve felinae are marked with another of the precurser sigils by a radient light- one that is unable to be deciphered.

Basil will recognise three of them from the East room.

But, a single door remains, and Osiris is prompted to recieve the second third of the extra circuitry.
[Narrate]


Is it really surprising that the faith guides him?

For he became all too connected to the star of his own- Alph, the Star of Judgment. The Center Star. Perhaps, it is thanks to that, which allows him to walk through this unharmed - and eventually, when he arrives to the destination..

There's a smile on his features when he sees this.

The truth is something that he takes in- and while he allows the Felinae to gather the starlight from this glyph, soon enough, he speaks out.

"These lessons are.."

"Valuable. I always wondered what exactly was not letting me progress any further with my own cosmic magic for a while, but.."

"Maybe I just didn't listen well enough."

Something to reflect upon. After all, this connection is something that has been established thanks to meditative practices before, wasn't it?

For now, he intends to walk towards the last room.

The last challenge.
(Basil)

The second set of mana circuits are placed on Osiris, and the gang moved back to the center area. There was one final door remaining, one that depicted a person walking atop water. Sure enough...

When they enter, there is a massive divide between the third recepticle, and the enterence. An underground lake seperates the two, one that is devoid of any life inside of it.

Swimming would be a natural solution, but the depiction showed otherwise.

(You may roll a D20 plus your highest cosmic spell to see if you can focus your energy strong enough to walk on the water.)
[Narrate]

After the last trial, he was more than convinced that the stars are the answer to this. Here, perhaps, it is the opportunity for him to bond with his star more than ever.. for him to connect to the Alph in a manner that would allow him to be a lot more by the end of this trial, but..

Here, already he channels the cosmic mana- this time, upon his own feet to ensure that he can walk across the body of water. For where the depictions display that this is clearly a threat, he would not find himself drowning easily.

For it was more than that.

"Guide me, Alph."

A single step.. and already he begins to make his way over, guiding Osiris along to make sure that he could take in the final bits of necessary mana to unlock the final chamber. Without it, they cannot leave.

Without it, they wouldn't leave either.
(Basil)

click click click click

Basil's feat of water-walking is certainly a boon, not only in aiding a non-wet movement towards the other side, but for being able to avoid the massive metal claw that shot out of the water!

Scuttling from the depths, a massive crab emerges from the underground lake. Adorned on it's shell are a plethora of spears and scraps of armor, all welded to the beast. It clicks it's mandibles together- such a fight atop the water would be a bit harder for the crab.

Turning sideways towards Basil and Osris, the crab attempts to charge. In it's wake does it leave a quagmire of suds, thick enough to slow anyone down!

Crab battle!
[Narrate]

A monstrosity, here?

Whether it is a festering beast that was not meant to defile this place with its presence, or a guardian that sought to block away the unworthy, it remains unknown.. but whatever the case, when it surfaces and attempts to strike away at Basil, naturally, he evades the attack.

For he knew that it could wound him severely if he's not careful.

And where the light shines across his form, his gaze narrows upon the beast ahead of him; it proves to be difficult to move in the environment such as this, but while one could be slowed down by such a thing..

There's a war cry of the Rhoynish.
A signature of the time when their blood boils.

Already he finds himself clashing against the beast, the explosive flames and overcharge of rosegold mana intended to burn away and eviscerate the beast in a manner that it may not even expect. But..

It's also a fight for survival, isn't it?

"Die, beast."
(Basil)

A clash of metal, sand, a roaring waters is brought to bear against searing plasma and rightous stardust. Basil, in his strength however, overpowers the beast in a contest of strength. A decisive bolt of plasma rends off a large piece of it's shell, still adorned with the melted spears and armors of those who have gone previously.

It scuttles back, but is barely able to keep itself afloat. Basil has the oppertunity to end this monster here and now.

Yet, it does not attempt to fight against whatever fate that comes before it.

It's life is up to them.
[Narrate]

Decisive.

It was always a trait of the Rhoynur, and where he strikes true against the crab monstrosity, never had he anticipated that it would come about to live in a place like this. While he can understand that it stands in his way.. was it truly a guardian of any kind?

Or merely a pest?

He notes the armors, the spears that were stuck in it.. and already he notes the fact that others have likely perished, or were severely wounded while trying to pass here; for the light that permeates his frame is cast by the Star of Judgment, one that is intended to cast down those that stand in the way of Basil..

In particular, here, it was this creature.

"You do not belong here, beast."

"This is a test of faithful - never the test whether they'll be your meal or not."

The starlight gathers around his frame, and in decisive strike, the explosion is set off to blow off the major chunk off the crab; overcharged by the volatile stardust and the strength of the stars to make it possible while it's incapacitated. For while it might remain here as an obstacle..

He deems it an unnecessary one.

"The closed door."

"We have to move."

Now, the final test awaits.
(Basil)

Osiris' siphoning of the cosmic energy in the middle of the room gives them enough mana, alongside Basil's help, to finally force open the door. It creeks with ancient machinery, revealing something amazing.

Where as the previous rooms of the temple were dusty and falling apart, this room is in perfect condition. Pillars line the walls, and a path of gold bricks leads them to their prize.

A set of scrolls, held up by a smaller ivory pillar. Radiating with cosmic magic, enough so that the ink bleeds through the parchement.

Basil can, however, detect another presence of mana- one that's potentially even stronger than what is within the scrolls. A pure cosmic aura that lingers, watching them.

They are within sight, and yet one final trial awaits them.

Appearing before the two of them in cosmic light is a felinae, clad in pure gold and radiating power and purity. His face is stern, and his posture is stiff. After a few seconds of suspense, however?

He raises his hand slightly, and speaks.

"Yo."
[Narrate]

Beauty unmatched.

The linings of the walls, the countless golden bricks that display the richness and wealth of this room. Was it truly the Felinae culture, then, to be this enriched and wealthy? Was the gold something akin to a favourable metal to them? For while these thoughts passed his mind..

His gaze was set upon the set of scrolls, held up on a smaller ivory pillar.

With how much it radiated with cosmic magic.. this had to be it. This had to be the pieces of Grimmore that they were looking for - and perhaps, the extensive knowledge that it carried. Although..

Another person?

"Greetings."

"Who are you?"
(Basil)

Genry looks between all of them, squinting his eyes before finally sighing. How could they not recognize him? He should've been practically adorned on the walls of every house! Another thing- where was this guy's ears?

"...oh, I get it! You two must not be from here. Sheesh, I've never seen an outsider get this far. Proper introductions!"

He stands up straight, and regains his composure.

"I am Genry, one of the original blessed by Leanoeaus, and champion of Sae."

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3Ariiarc2g)

It is in this moment that his true self, what is actually was is revealed. The cosmic power pours out of him like a flood, barely contained in his slightly transparent body.

If one was perceptive? They would see a particular egg-shaped jewel in the center of the armor. The source of his longevity beyond his years, a Chiron

"If you have made it this far, then I assume you are after my part of the scrolls. Tell me why you should have them."
(Genry)

He already faced nigh god-like beings.

Among them, Vro'diark, the Dark Lord and the Master of Caleb Pelleaux, one of the nobles from the Major Houses- facing off against him, and his army of Nethradin, never had he wavered even once, but.. this being? This is not someone who belonged to the dark, but the light.

And where he eyes the presence of Chiron and the scrolls alike? Basil makes a bold move of stepping forward- and while the cosmic mana pours over his frame as well, it's nowhere near as potent as that of a man before them.

"I am Basil."

"The King of Alabastre, and the first rightful High Lord of Rhoynur ever since the fall of Independent Rhoynish." Here, he reveals the arm-ring, the testament to such; the tapestry of what he possessed.

The arm-ring of last legitimate High Lord before Conquest of Rhoynur. The arm-ring of High Lord Shar.

"We are."

"I intend to resurrect the fallen culture and nation of the Rhoynish. We are blessed of Njorun, the spiritual protectors meant to push back against the dark - as I have personally battled against Dark Lord Vro'diark and his army of Nethradin."

"What our ancestral vision possesses must not be lost, lest the fools like Caleb Pelleaux doom Esshar to Nethradin invasion."

He doesn't expect Genry to know of everything, to be aware of everything.. but Basil isn't lying either- had it not been the sacrifice of the Rhoynish..

Then Esshar wouldn't even exist by now.

"I intend to make use of knowledge within them to bring about new age to Esshar, one in which my people can exist as its guardians, as they were always meant to be."

"And create many great Wonders that push beyond the endless warfare and bloodshed that has brought only suffering."

After all, he's the emissary of the Center Star. And he's determined, too.. for while he knows of the glory that the man before them possesses..

He does not waver. He does not think of backing off.
Such thought doesn't even cross his mind.

"As long as I draw breath, I won't stop."
(Basil)

He looks between Osiris, and Basil. Adressing the King first.

"The Rhoynish. Great warriors, and certainly some of them have been devoted to the stars. Your worship of Alph is noted, and you carry it's qualities well. That aura reminds of Ilum."

"Reguardless, the title of Champion when it comes to stares requires utter devotion. Beyond that of simple worship. Your desire to defend Esshar, though-" Pausing, before he continues. "I certainly hope that you do not intend on wantonly reading these scrolls, should you succeed today."

His gaze casts to Osiris, "A guardian of Phos. I certainly hope that Gatrix has not fallen until now- he was a great friend. Regardless, the mantle of Champion is, like I've said earlier, not taken lightly. It is more than just power."

His fist clenches, and his cosmos expands beyond that shown. Almost engulfing him completely.

"If you are both to champion your stars, then you are to be tested against a true guardian. Both your Judgement, and your Determination. Even little Ren barely managed to scratch this armor when he bested the first trials."

A unarmed fighting stance is taken up, and he smirks.

"I think a warm-up is in order."

Even now, with his aura? He's holding back.
(Genry)

The Rhoynish were born to be great warriors.

No matter the creed that they serve, they're born for battle, for warfare- and it's in their blood. The prospect of battling another never scared Basil, no matter their strength - if only because he knew that death would not be the end for him regardless.

He would always rejoin Njorun beyond.
To fight against Nethradin on the border of Helheim and Vanaheim.

"I do not intend to read these scrolls myself."

"They will be guarded. Secured away from potential evil - and only allowed to be read by the Felinae, who are meant to read the knowledge off from them."

"To that end, they will help me achieve what I need."

While it's rather clear that he would tap into the knowledge of the scrolls regardless, he knows what they can cause to any who is not a Felinae and decides to read them. Not only it could cause insanity, but corruption of the purpose as well..

For he may turn from protector to offender.
And he won't let that happen.

"If you wish to test our might, so be it."

"Allow me to show you how far I've come."

Even here, and now..

The rosegold aura shimmers, intending to gather the starlight within him to an impossibly bright extent- an overcharge of mana, perhaps..

Because he knows he has no luxury of holding back here.
(Basil)

Genry is forced back, quite possibly for the first time in centuries. Perhaps it was a miscalculation of how strong these two were. Nevertheless...

"I will give you one thing. You've certainly pushed me farther than anyone in the village. Very well..."

Both arms are crossed in front of him, and he explodes in cosmic power. Setting the very air on fire with the cosmos, leaking power through his armor. The Chiron was being pushed more than it had been. Punches were no longer going to be pulled.

"Behold the power of my dedication!"

"STARDUST EXPLOSION!"
(Genry)

There's determination behind each strike.

To ensure that they could defeat their foe here and pass the test, every single strike had weight behind it, all to unleash everything that the Alph has blessed him with. Here, where they push the man further and further..

They do not relent.

And where the gaze remains narrowed, awaiting for his next move, he sees the technique all too familiar to his own- if only to duck out of the way, knowing just how destructive it can be.

"Osiris, move!"

While the Rhoynish is quick to evade the strike by ducking away and regrouping, soon, the starlight began to gather even further among his body- enough to not only empower him further, but..

"Roar with me, Alph."
"Roar and burn."

Enough to hurt him. Flames, inferno and the symphony of the breaking supernova that may overspill any moment in the moltentemperature of a sun.. yet, despite the pain that courses through his veins..

There's a war cry.
A testament of the Rhoynish legacy.

A worthy signature of a warrior. But how it would hold up? That is yet to be seen.
(Basil)

This didn't make any sense.

More and more, the guardian was getting pushed back. Beyond his cosmic intervention, these two had made themselves known and respected as worthy challengers. Even as he used the might that carved out this village, put respect into their hearts, and defended it.

Had his own will, his own voice been caught by these two?

No.

Out of desperation for his lost ground, his cosmic might expands once again, nearly engulfing the arena in the blankness of the stars. Red, yellow, and blue speck this space, and Genry prepares everything he is for this final attack.

"To be bested like this, it's unthinkable. I cannot fail Sae."

His spiritual form was breaking apart from this next attack. He was truly pushed, and at the brink. But it is in this desperation, that the melancholy that held it's grip on Genry is lost.

Golden wings sprout from his armor, and his aura manifests into that of the physical star of Sae.

Burning hotter than the sun and commanding the lesser specks of cosmo to move towards these two. To smite them in the very power of the night-sky.

"GALAXIAN"

"EXPLOSION!"
(Genry)

Unwavering.

It hurt a lot. It burned so much to be stung by the constant pressure of the radiating cosmic starlight that permeated the frame of Genry.. as if they were facing off the stars, then the sun itself. But where they thought they could make it..

From a single sun..
To thousand suns.

And it is here that he realizes that they were facing against something truly formidable, ancient and powerful.. for this is something that he wanted to attain the whole way through - the power over the stars and the glory of cosmos.

He would need it for all that he wants to achieve.

"We proved our worth."

"But if you wish to test our might until the end, so be it!"

Here, it already becomes an endeavour in which the chaotic might of the cosmos is to be endured.. this desperation and pure emotion hidden behind his strikes is something to be noted.

Is it true, then, that the cosmic magi can be at their highest when they feel so much?

"Come!"

"Show us the glory of cosmos!"
(Basil)

In a rush of cosmic glory, Genry forsakes the rules he's given himself during this final battle. No one alive had ever pushed him to draw upon the Chiron in his chest, forsaking his existance as a guardian to beat these two.

But in a final clash of galactic power, Basil pierces the ephermeral shell that forms Genry's body. A hole of plasma that burns through him, forcing this worldscape of stars to vanish and for the spirit to take a knee.

Even now, as the Chiron falls from his chest, the spirit chuckles.

"...well done."

"I think it's time for someone else to take up Sae's mantle, anyway. I've been hogging it for too long."

With a final burst of cosmic mana, the scrolls are moved to his hands, where they are presented towards the two. A set of scrolls containing power beyond mortal reasoning.

"Embrace these scrolls, defend them from those who would misuse them, and defened this village. That's all I have to ask from you."

The moment they are taken, Genry dissipates. Returning to the star that he has protected and worshiped for so long.

The two leave with a Chiron, the Scrolls, and one final memoire. Tired around the base of the scrolls is a length of cloth. One that contains potent magics aspected to the Light, and sparkles with the starlight of Sae.

The last physical object of Genry, Champion of The House of Speaking.
[Narrate]

It is almost too much.

But whereas the two of them find themselves clashing against this Cosmic Titan, they have to bear the weight of an entire galaxy crashing upon them with the strength of thousand suns. It could almost be their unbecoming.. too much pressure found upon their bodies with the overwhelming heat and starlight.

Yet, he does not relent.
He never does.

And in what feels like a final push against Genry, he strikes him true with the overflow of the cosmic starlight, one that is infused with the potent flames- searing and burning away enough to ensure their victory. Here, where the spirit finally falls..

He can tell that being this reckless paid off after all.
For they won.

"--It's done."

An exhale. These wounds would need some tending to get done.. but where the spirit remarks of that, he merely nods.

"That was the intent."

"These scrolls will be secured within treasuries of Alabastre - and Chiron is to be used for Wonders. As for the village.."

"The Empire of Barsburg was going to attack Esshar, and they sit terribly close. I was going to lead effort to drive them back, which protects the village by default."

"You have my word."

For now, however..

He comes to collect. His gaze turns towards Osiris, if only to speak out.

"..Afraid I cannot let Chiron go to Osrona, or anywhere near that. Nor I can let the scrolls go there. You're more than welcome to visit and draw from their knowledge."

"They would take it from you otherwise."
(Basil)