Lantra says, "Many of My Faithful are present. A fortunate time for a gathering indeed, is it not?"

---> logs in

(The Avowing): Aeldra (from the Realm of the Empyreal) says, "I would rather recommend against that practice truly. It is comforting though that the order is in all awake equally troubled by the recent developments. Perhaps, we all can band together to address these issues?"

Poohma greets you with a sincere smile.

You incline your head politely to Poohma.
You murmur softly to yourself.

Poohma tilts his head and listens intently to you.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Ah, just considering my new duties."
Wryly, you say, "Thankfully, I have a bit of a grace period."

(The Avowing): You say, "Ah, good mornings Devoted! Is something amiss?"

(The Avowing): Lantra says, "Many of My Faithful are present. A fortunate time for a gathering indeed, is it not?"

(The Avowing): Aeldra (from the Realm of the Empyreal) says, "Did you have a chance to read the cities postings, dear Cheliyi?"

You sense the will of the Empyreal Goddess summoning you before a mirror shattered by Doubt, its gleaming surface visible within the sunken temple of the Vanishing Isles.

(The Avowing): You say, "Ah... yeah, have mostly stopped following super hards because the whole thing gives me a headache. So much angry words, yes. I-."

You blink.

(The Avowing): Avaris says, "It is indeed, Lady. Where would You have us gather?"

---> nyoom to godrealm!

A mirror shattered by Doubt.
Of a colossal height and magnitude, this cracked mirror reflects the murky surface of the sea in all its bruised bluish-black shades from where it has sunk into the ocean floor. Within the slivers of fractured glass, strange figures manifest as if conjured by smoke and fog, their after-images haunting as they ghost through the distorted pane. Whispers resound about from all directions in a chorus of murmurs and susurrations, seeming to grow in volume the closer one approaches the mirror in all its dark, tempting beauty. The temperature plummets to chilling degrees this low undersea, drawing the most unsettling of creatures to lurk in the nearby shadows. All ambient light is swallowed in these abyssal depths. As still as a magnificent statue, an exalted dragon peers out with serene gold eyes. Starlight shrouds a wanderer in the mist here within a twinkling mantle of sidereal radiance. Head bowed, an anointed urn-bearer of water and light holds aloft the blessed vessel here with a reverent, stoic grace.
You see a single exit leading east.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Same."

Aeldra smiles softly at you.

Pinpricks of celestial light coalesce into the faint outline of a star lotus, which blossoms open to reveal the regal figure of Lantra, the Empyreal.

Aeldra curtseys gracefully before Lantra.

Faragan kneels before Lantra, swearing his allegiance to Her.

You have emoted: Cheliyi offers Aeldra a warm smile, and Faragan a polite nod. She blinks, and bows respectfully to Lantra.

Aeldra smiles up at Lantra with a warm smile. "Hello, my Lady."

---> look Lantra

Her slight and statuesque figure exuding a sense of restrained dignity, She is a radiant immortal and possessed of a quiet and unassuming stillness. The Goddess's olive-skinned complexion shines with the dusky radiance of youth, and yet the ancient burden of duty weighs heavily upon Her shoulders, carried with a silent and practised grace. Lost to contemplation, She appraises Her surroundings with a distant air; the grey-tinged gaze of Her celadon blue eyes remains as fathomless and inscrutable as the hazy mists of a waterfall. Despite the seriousness of Her first impressions, however, a gentle smile graces Her lips with an almost maternal tenderness. Her every movement is characterised of an unhurried elegance and poise, reflective of an inner peace as She emanates a soothing white light.
Shimmering tresses of palest starlight spill down Her shoulders in a curtain of white to end at Her waist, nary a strand out of place. Motes of silver and celadon blue interweave through Her immaculate coif, their whispers of colour evoking a breathtaking celestial radiance.
She is wearing:
immaculate vestments of purest white starlight that wreathe Her in a celestial glow
a cascading veil of mist and water lilies that trails at Her feet, shrouding Her face from view
elevated sandals of woven willow leaves that leave lambent motes with each step
a bracelet of woven water and starlight shimmering upon Her wrist
a mist-wreathed star twinkling upon Her glistening veil
a gold damask cope clasped with a radiant star lotus settles about Her in a heavy mantle.

Expression brightening, you say, "Ah, hello my Lady!"

Pressing Her hands before Herself, Her veil glittering as She looks into the distance, Lantra remarks, "We await My Avaris and My Alarin." She inclines Her head once in greeting.

(The Avowing): You say, "Ah, Mister Avaris, have you been to the sunken temple? Can come to our Lady's Realm and teleport to me, if that is easier."

To those gathered, Lantra, the Empyreal says, "I trust you are weathering the aftermath of the Ascension well?"

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "We kept the prison whole but, the enemy because they won are flexing their annoying muscle."

Aeldra nods softly, "Despite having to give the privilege of banishing Kethuru to the Magnagorans, at least he is banished and, from what I have seen, this whole effort we put in was heartening all in all. We showed a lot of promise and dedication and I hope we can build on it."

With a faint note of distaste, Lantra, the Empyreal says, "Yes. It is disappointing that one of the Engine bore the Staff of Ascension, and yet it is a blessing, however brief, that they are aligned with Us against the Soulless, however fleetingly."

You have emoted: Cheliyi hums noncommittally, her frills flaring as she makes a so-so motion with her hand. "Life is what it is, yes. Finally settling down to begin working to rebuild. And... yeah, the opposing alliance is not... very humble. Did not expect it to be humble, but," she grimaces, looking faintly irate.

A cascading veil of water and light gently rains in from the east as Alarin steps through it, parting the starry curtain in a shimmer of sparkling white mist.
The distant clanking of metal on metal is heard as a giant silverback gorilla clad in a shimmering suit of golden armour strides in from the east.

Comprehension flashes across Alarin's face.
Alarin stands at attention and gives a crisp salute with their furry right paw.
Thaldorn Thornfist, the White gives the world a smart salute.
Alarin bows respectfully to Lantra.

Faragan ponders the situation.

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White inclines his head politely to Lantra.

Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "Apologies for my tardiness!"

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Skeptical as I am I don't wonder if they didnt' want the power and the sealing of the prison was secondary given what I know of malarious."

"No," Lantra comments simply, the single word cool in its intonation. "Humility is not something I would ever anticipate from those of the Engine, indeed."

Alarin nods in agreement, but remains quiet.

The air ripples with celestial energy as Avaris marches in from the east, his form radiant and bold.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says to Faragan, "I agree uncle, however, Kethuru is sealed and creation is, for now, safe. That is something to cherish, even though we do not approve of who brought it about."

You incline your head politely to Avaris.
You incline your head politely to Alarin.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "To aelra you are of corse correct niece."

A sneering voice whispers strange, alien fears into your ear, leaving you shivering and sick with dread.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "Our way back to where Celest should be as a nation is still far and long, but we've taken the first steps and will get there if we focus upon the road."

Drifting down amidst the murk of the depths, Avaris lands, smoothly transitioning into a kneeling position before Lantra, his four hands clasped upon the golden chitin of his chest. "My Lady."

You have emoted: Cheliyi casts a sideways glance at the shattered mirror, before returning her gaze to Lantra. She hums at Aeldra's comment, adding, "It was nicely that Celest had a sealbearer of Beauty, yes. Miss Falaine did greats. Now, the main issue is all of the craziness on the news."

At the arrival of Avaris, Lantra moves to stand before the cracked mirror, Her white vestments shifting with the movement. "In your vows of Devotion," the Goddess says, Her voice calm and even, "you have each sworn not only fealty to Me, but New Celest. And you come to Me declaring it is divided." She pauses, Her expression inscrutable behind Her starlit veil, and asks, "What must be done to remedy this affliction?"

Bringing with it a sense of soothing tranquility, a soft, forlorn melody fills the water.

Faragan ponders the situation.

You have emoted: Cheliyi hums pensively, but glances to Faragan, waiting patiently.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I wold say education Empyreal but, that would need those to be educated to listen and take it in. During the whole soulless shard issue they would not listen to facts, and question how do we know what we know. It was honestly frustrating for them to ask how do you know a soulless is a soulless. because Dynara and you Elders have said so."

Alarin nods in agreement in Faragan's direction.

Aeldra nods softly, "It is a right mess. I feel we have to, as Faragan says, to wield education to teach those that are willing to listen." she shrugs, her sapphire wings beating idly, "Though to be of the Light is to let the Light into your heart. If you refuse its guidance, are you truly celestian. Only so much can be done if you are not willing to be guided."

Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati thinks to themself: ...perhaps I should give it another try...

Nodding in agreement, you say, "The divide comes from different understandings of the Light, too much reliance on one portion of teachings while blatantly ignoring the others, yes. There has to be a stronger, common understanding, but like Aeldra and Mister Faragan says, people don't always want to listen past their ignorances."

"Let Us begin with such misunderstandings, then. Many speak of Raziela and of Methrenton as if they are opposed," Lantra comments lightly, Her voice quiet with thought. She turns the weight of Her scrutiny upon each member gathered, before finally asking, "Why do you suppose that is?"

With a hopeful smile, Faragan raises his hand high in the air.

Aeldra smiles softly at Faragan, "I think uncle Faragan has had that discussion enough to fill many lifespans. Would you, uncle?" she asks to him.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I have spoken of it and I have written of it they think you can't have compassion and love for someone and still have the need to see them on the battle field and take appropriate actions."
Faragan smiles softly.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "The supernal dolls tickle me and exhibit that they're not opposed. Methrenton lets Raziela love on him but, still continues in his task."

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "I also feel that they reduce Methrenton to violence, which is unfair to him, really. He stands for much more, then that."

Faragan nods his head at Aeldra, showing his acceptance.

Nodding in assent, Her veil shifting to reveal the faintest glimpse of a smile, Lantra, the Empyreal says, "Love for another is not absolution for their misdeeds, indeed. For all of Lisaera's faults, She was able to turn upon Fain when it was right and just to betray Him. For to do otherwise would be to betray all of the Elders, indeed."

A suffocating white light flares with the Goddess's displeasure as the Traitor's name is uttered with loathing, Her calm voice filled with the quiet undercurrent of a threat.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "There are still ancient texts from the Celestines, maybe it would serve well to also make those available to everyone, if they aren't already. I haven't verified, for the sanctifiers do have a copy. Even this summary shows how far off such simplications are. The supernals are not opposing, but complimentary in my mind and I think I am not along in that perception."

Wings suspended in the water behind him like trailing curtains of molten gold, Avaris's form reverberates with a low, melodic note of displeasure. "The core issue is that they are shallow minded fools who are unwilling to broaden their perception, and rail when their parcity of understanding is highlighted. We will make no headway with them until they are broken of that trait." Lifting a hand, he flicks gleaming claws aside in a sharp, cutting gesture. "We can show them simple truths over and over, but they will turn their eyes aside, if it does not suit their agenda."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "They forget the leader of the Supernals teaches balance."

Her voice soft and patient, Lantra, the Empyreal says, "Elohora herself is the embodiment of such balance and temperance, yes."

Aeldra taps her nose thoughtfully, "Or maybe they misinterpret balance as that without the other four would be in opposition. In either case, I agree with Avaris statement in so far as that I believe they pick what they want to hear and see, over what not." she turns towards the kephera, "Though, dear, I do not see it as bleak. Most of their hearts are not yet sealed fully, we may still have a chance. At times, it is also how we approach this subject, for one may hardly open a lock with a hammer."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I'm ashamed to say that Lilalue told me some of my works lead her to her beleafs."

In an even manner, Avaris replies to Aeldra, "You can, in fact, shatter many locks with a hammer. It is often more efficacious than delicate work, but I understand your point."

Tilting Her head, a scattering of light illuminating Her veil, Lantra asks, "What do you believe was misconstrued from your works, My Anointed Faragan?"

Aeldra hops up and perches gently upon Faragan's shoulder. "Selective perception is a bad thing.", gently patting his shoulder, looking at the others "What do you all think?"

You have emoted: Frowning to herself Cheliyi says, "Not everyone is as closed off, no. I have spokens to Kennian before, helped her understand why sometimes, pure compassion simply does not works. There is a ways for them to see another opinion, as long as we do not, as Aeldra says, shatter the lock. People should not be locks to break, they are people with real feelings that should be considered." She pauses at Lantra's question, growing quiet to wait for the response.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I wrote a book on Raziela during my early priesthood and outlined her beliefs. I think she took from that what she would and left the rest. In that tome as I recall (forgive me it's been centuries) I still even wrote of the need to not take her beliefs alone and even she longs for the enemies to be freed of there tortuous existence even if that freedom is death as they walk through the fates and the portal again. I think she ignores that part though I'm not sure what she ignores since she claims to have studied our Pantheon and yet has not spoken to you Empyreal nor the others or the Supernals I suspect. I have done both and know she's misguided but, she's one of those who refuses to be educated and is fine in her interpretation and ignorance."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I don't know how to fight that honestly."

Lord Avaris, Enduring with Fortitude thinks to himself: "With a hammer, generally."

Her voice cool and even, Lantra, the Empyreal says, "Is it a battle, then?"

You think to yourself: I don't want to see what Mister Avaris would do to a piece of furnitures...

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "She's like a fortress at the edge of a ocean that refuses to let the gentle tide in to cleanse."

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "I am unsure I would call it a battle, per se. But it is certainly a struggle. I know the book Faragan mentions, I have read it myself. I can not imagine how she could take away her believes from that and come to the conclusion she has come to."

Devotee of the Tah'vrai, Vath has stopped his own heart, killing himself instantly.
You see the death occur at upon the Starlit Eternity.

Faragan blinks.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "Ah, uh.... hm. I do not think so. We are still a group, and the moment that we become combative... it may cause a deeper rift that is harder to seal. They are citymates, not enemies to debate, no. Miss Lilalue... she wakes up every day, speaking of love. It may be as muchly ingrained in her as breathing. The only way to push away something that deep is through her own revelations, or simply... times, I guess."

You stare blankly into space.
Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say, "... eh?"

(Shadowlight): You say, "Mister Vath, are you alright?"

(Shadowlight): Vath (from the Prime Material Plane) says, "Never been better."

(Shadowlight): You say, "Could have asked one of us to help you down, you know, rights?"

(Shadowlight): Kennian (from the Astral Plane) says, "He viciously murdered himself as I was walking him to the Aetherplex."
(Shadowlight): Kennian (from the Astral Plane) says, "It was -so gruesome-."
(Shadowlight): Kennian (from the Astral Plane) says, "Look. I'm frazzled."

Aeldra purses her lips pensively, gazing off into the distance as she carefully gathers her thoughts.

(Shadowlight): You say, ".... Uhuh. Okays, I hope you both are okay, then."

You think to yourself: **swirling confusion, and a flicker of irritation, well, then.**.

Turning to gaze the distorted images in the mirror behind Her for a time, Lantra listens in weighted silence to the words being spoken. Whatever has distracted those gathered is summarily ignored as swiftly as it is detected, the Goddess's attentions wholly upon the shadows behind the cracked glass. "The more important question, I imagine, is if those espousing these beliefs believe it a war at all. For soldiers converse differently than priests. The latter may wield words and books, the latter... perhaps a hammer."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I guess the question is how do you teach someone who thinks they know the truth already."
Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "And no, not a war Empyeral or a battle."

You have emoted: Cheliyi listens intently to Lantra, her frills twitching as she glances past the Goddess towards the shadowy mirror. "... But, they may be feeling attacked, even if it is not a battle to them. To put it mildly, the words on the news postings are pretty... combative."

"Do you believe that the desire of the postings?" Lantra asks, turning to you with a contemplation stillness. "To inspire conflict? And if not so, then what do you anticipate was the end result desired?"

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "Good morning dearest mine-child! I love you! ConGRATULATIONS yes, in case did not see my messages! I yam so proud of you! We would loves to see you later, when you are free and able!"

Faragan tilts his head and listens intently to you.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "My impression is that they aim to transform the city into something is not."

You have emoted: Cheliyi considers the question in silence, her brow furrowing as her gaze falls to the ground. It raises once more to Lantra's own as she answers, "No, I don'ts. I think the people... want to be -heard-. They want the others to see their thoughts, and agree with them. Not to fight. But they only way they assume people will listen is if they shout. So, the shouting comes as mean or aggressive, or... they say... Hogwash? Hogswallow? Do not know what that means, but..." trails off, suddenly distracted. She snaps back to the present, almost sheepish. "So, um. No. It is not meant to conflict."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Herald Gurashi, The Heart's Friend, "**momentary distraction, followed by warmth,** Ah, thank you Dad!"

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says to you, "Do they not seek to change what the city is? I don't think these posts would've been written if they would not feel we are not how they want us to be."

Harmony echoes in your mind as you sing to Herald Gurashi, The Heart's Friend, "Am busy now, but perhaps later in the month."

You ponder the situation.

Gurashi's melodic voice sings into your mind, "Of course, of course *a sense of fondness and sleepy acknowledgement* You stay goodly and kindly, yes! Do let me know if need me!"

Her voice resonant and clear, Lantra, the Empyreal says to Aeldra, "Then silence is viewed as permissive of those thoughts becoming what the Light stands for and is."

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Aeldra, "They already see the city one way. They want peoples to see it too. It is not that they change Celest... it is that they already see what they think Celest is, and expect others to conform. At least, that is my impression."

Aeldra nods seriously at Lantra. "That is, what I fear as well."

Faragan nods his head at Lantra, showing his acceptance.

You have emoted: Cheliyi grimaces and nods to Lantra.

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "I would agree Empyreal silence is complicity."

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "This is one thing we can be not then. Silent. As much as I hate to discuss such matters upon such a crude medium such as a news forum..."

Pressing Her hands before Herself once more, Lantra looks to Alarin and comments, "You are silent, My Enduring. I would know why."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Which is why I prayed to you. I plan to write something hopefully not combative but, since they claim my words lead them to this I hope they'll listen but, I admit my hope of such is low."

You think to yourself: It would be nicer if all of these words were said out louds, in a place for discussion. That was my idea, to set up thats for others.... perhaps I should...

Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati thinks to themself: ...I think I need to visit the Supernals more to renew my own faith. It's fitting that we meet here... I've been doubting myself for a long time.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "I always felt that people are easier reached when you can look them in the eye as you speak of what you feel they need to hear."

You nod your head at Aeldra.

Thoughtfully, you murmur, "Maybe can set up a discussion session, a time for all to speak..."

To Faragan Aeldra states from Faragan's shoulder. "I'll write something as well. This is not a matter I can remain silent on."

Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati thinks to themself: I should write something on the subject as well.

You tilt your head curiously at Alarin.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says, "I think this would be wise, dear Cheliyi. Maybe we could devise a discussion, perhaps in the park, set a light mood with some tea and refreshments and then try to get to the core of the matter with them... hopefully getting them to listen to us."

Speaking softly in salubrious tones of erudition, The Ivory Dove, Faragan Ladyn, Merchant of The Star says, "Gurashi has spoken of a forum but, I know not where that stands."

Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "Apologies, my Lady."
Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "I... have been contemplating on how best to approach this myself."
Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "I am..."
Alarin ponders the situation.
Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "...thinking of suggesting to others how I myself learned of the Light."

You nod your head at Alarin.

Like a gentle ripple in a crystalline pool, you say to Alarin, "It could be a goodly story, I think. You met Miss Raziela, rights?"

Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "By spending time with those who embody their teaches."
Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "Teachings, rather."
Alarin coughs softly.
Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "The Holy Supernals."
Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "As for the current situation in New Celest, I plan to speak up on it soon."

Faragan smiles softly.

Lord Marshal Alarin Ka'liati says, "I am... just considering on how best to do so."

---> suddenly had to go, sob

You have emoted: Cheliyi suddenly winces, rubbing her temple. "Ah, I am so sorry my Lady, my soul is calling me to rest. If I could stay waking, I would. I will do my bestly to speak out against all of the chaos, yes." She bows deeply, frowning to herself.

Faragan smiles at you and cups his hands together in offering. Motes of light unfurl to reveal a single star lotus in his palm, lingering there with radiant beauty.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters says to you, "I'll make sure to catch you up on anything else discussed. Expect a letter if I don't catch you in person, dear."

You nod your head at Aeldra.

Lady Aeldra Ladyn, of Cerulean Waters smiles and says to you, "Your input has been invaluable."

There is a faint flicker of light in the aether as Lantra steps away from the plunging darkness of the mirror, Her silhouette illuminated by the star lotuses that frame Her veil. "There are endless means to share one's Wisdom. Stories, yes. Forums. Writings. Discussion. Whatever method I leave to your own judgment." She pauses for a moment before She finishes, "The only method that is bound to end in failure, however, is silence."

Inclining Her head, Lantra, the Empyreal says to you, "Rest well, My Cheliyi."

You nod your head emphatically.

---> nyoom away