Gurashi Takes The Polothanine Oath

<<Archons>>: Alarin says, "All right, I'm prepared!"

<<Archons>>: You say, "Ah! Wahoo! Me too!"

Reaching out with your mind, you grasp the harmonic song of the domothean energies as you seek Alarin.

The lingering notes of harmonic purity swell to impossible heights as you step confidently through the song of reality itself.
The Oath Chamber.
This location is flooded with shallow, crystal clear water. The shape of this chamber is reminiscent of the fore part of a ship, the walls tilting inwards at an unusual angle for a room on land. A single window, high upon the pinnacle of where the walls join together, though only dim illumination trickles through it. At the centre of the chamber, standing precisely in the path with the window, stands a shallow basin of salt water. The floor is barren, of the same rosy adobe as the tower's construction. No other ornamentation or furnishings alleviate the humble austerity of the chamber. Thaldorn Thornfist, the White towers silently here, a stern gaze on his face. Perpetually in a dramatic pose, the inflated silken form of Avechna the Avenger towers here, ebony muscles gleaming.
You see a single exit leading west.

<<Archons>>: Alarin says, "Excellent!"

You have emoted: Gurashi pants, hand over their heart. "Ah! Sorry! I am, here! Sorry to make you wait!"

You strike a pose.

(Celest): Alarin says, "We are prepared to commence Gurashi's swearing of the Polothanine Oath if any wish to attend!"

(Celest): You say, "Am being Oathed! Taking Oaths!"

Alarin Rian says, "No need to apologise! I for one know all about being busy."

Alarin's eyes sparkle with amusement.

A tawny Nyalian mastiff paws at the ground absently, a low whine escaping his muzzle.

LOOK ME
The being standing before you exudes friendly energy, standing several inches shy of six feet tall with an athletic build. They are an ordinary human kindly demigod changeling. Their arms and legs are sinewy, the muscles in their upper body evidence of recent training efforts. Their calloused hands are constantly in motion, either loosely balled into fists at their side or resting on their instrument. Their most prominent three knuckles of their right hand are faintly scarred, pale star-shapes etched across their flesh. Their sandy skin has been tanned from repeated exposure to the sun, causing an array of tawny-colored freckles to appear upon their round cheeks and thin, upturned nose. A hint of discolored flesh can be seen near the center of their sternum, mostly obscured by their clothing. A moderately-sized, crescent-shaped scar mars their right cheek. Perhaps the most noteworthy thing about them is their untamed mop of fiery red hair, complete with a few strands at their part that fail to obey the natural laws of gravity. A shock of bone-white hair has grown in along their temple. A pair of kind gray-blue eyes gaze out from below red bangs, their color striking against all the surrounding warm hues.
They are wearing:
a starry wreath of celestial light set atop their head like a halo
a circlet of crystal thorns resting loosely atop their head
a vivid red-orange poppy tucked lovingly behind their left ear
the Mantle of Starlight which flows dreamily about their shoulders and back
a breezy blue cotton tunic which hangs flatteringly from their form
mercurial Mysraian prayer beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a Glomdoring friendship bracelet which jingles softly on their left wrist
minty citrus incense beads pulled taut against their right wrist
a shifting, living poppy of beige petals worn delicately upon their left wrist
a driftwood ring of sea breezes fitted tightly to their left middle finger
simple white linen trousers which swish around their legs freely
Refined Boots of the Paladin, worn and weathered from use.

LOOK ALARIN
They are a burly tae'dae empyreal demigod. A giant bear-like creature of black and white stands here. At a glance, their features show that they are a burly tae'dae empyreal demigod. Standing just a shade taller than most single-story structures, this tae'dae bears black and white markings similar to that of a panda. Their bright blue eyes are inquisitive, yet kind and welcoming. Their well-groomed fur seems to be stained here and there with what looks like blood, remnants from their last foray into one hunting ground or another. Bulky muscle seem to ripple throughout almost their entire form, the exception being their ample belly which they pat proudly from time to time. A subtle yet immense aura of power seems to radiate from them, the tell-tale mark of one of the Demi-Divine of the First World. A shifting pearlescence graces their skin as they walk with the truefavour of Carakhan, Sculptor of Waves.
They are wearing:
an etched turquoise ring
a scratched white onyx ring of suffering
a suit of polished field plate armour
Urlach's Black Gauntlet
a Bladed Harness of the Cow Butcher
a Brooch of the Elements
mechanical goggles
a dark pearl pocket watch with a clover charm.

You eyes light up as you smile.

Happily, you ask, "How are you, Mister Alarin?" They turn their attention to the nearby gorilla. "Mister Thaldorn?"

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White breathes slowly and heavily. He suddenly jerks awake at a loud snore escaping from his own lips.

(OOC Clan): Esei says, "Dearly beloved, we gather today, because Gurashi is getting married to the Pool of Stars- I mean, what."
(OOC Clan): Calioliahali says, "You may now kiss the tide."

Absently wiping at his face with a hand, Thaldorn Thornfist, the White exclaims, "Oh! Uh, apologies for that!"

Alarin Rian says, "It looks like it will be just us three."

Bright and clear, you say, "Four!"

You pat a tawny Nyalian mastiff sporting spiky steel platemail in a friendly manner.
A tawny Nyalian mastiff's ears rise and sharpen into tight triangles as he stares vigilantly at you.

You nod your head emphatically.

Bright and clear, you say, "It is O-K, if you are sleepy! I yam sleepy, too."

You sense the sweeping gaze of Esei looking upon you.

Alarin nods their head emphatically.

You have emoted: Gurashi bows their head, expression becoming more grave. "Many thank yous for making the time for me, Mister Alarin," They offer more quietly, smiling.

You close your eyes and inhale deeply, absorbing the scent of your surroundings.

As they and Thaldorn take their places, Alarin Rian says, "Let us begin then."

Their voice ringing throughout the chamber, Alarin Rian says, "We are gathered together to bear witness as Humble Gurashi takes their next step, joining us as one of the Keepers of the Polothanine Oath. They have proven themselves to be an Archon true in word and deed."

You have emoted: Gurashi stands up a little straighter, gaze resting on Alarin. Behind them, a tawny Nyalian mastiff sporting spiky steel platemail whines and shuffles in place, then lays down, watching placidly save for his wagging tail.

Nodding in Gurashi's direction, Alarin Rian says, "Humble Gurashi, step forward and place your hands upon the Fount of Truths."

You have emoted: Gurashi bows their head politely to mirror Alarin's, stepping forward fluidly and approaching the Fount. They lift their gaze to study it carefully before reaching out and laying first their left, then right hand upon it. They do not remove their eyes from it, though it is clear they are listening for Alarin's next instruction closely.

Holding a few grains of salt aloft in one paw, Alarin Rian says, "In its raw an undiluted form, salt can be a bitter thing to swallow. Such can be that which is known as Truth."

Alarin Rian says, "Humble Gurashi, speak the Oath of Truth."

With your attention fast to the Fount, you notice, only just to the side, a pair of icy green eyes watching in silent judgment.

You have emoted: Gurashi's ears briefly flush pink as they glance towards their periphery before looking back at the Fount. "An Archon speaks Truth in all things," They begin, their voice even and calm, "whether such Truths be welcome or otherwise."

Bright and clear, you say, "I, Gurashi, make my Oaths before the Light to speak true, allowing no falsehoods to sound from my lips."

Nodding, Alarin Rian says, "An Archon's duty is to serve the Light, especially when times seem the darkest. Humble Gurashi, speak the Oath of Duty."

You have emoted: Gurashi continues to stare forward. Behind them, a tawny Nyalian mastiff sporting spiky steel platemail's tail begins to wag a little faster as he gazes at the arrival of the Divine. He stays put, however, as Gurashi continues to speak. "My duty is to the Light, to New Celest, and to the Archons." They continue, sounding a little more confident. "I, Gurashi, make my Oath to the Light to never abandon my duty, which is to serves the Light, making sure both words and deeds is a reflection upon the Dawning Hope."

Nodding once more as a confirmation, Alarin Rian says, "An Archon answers the call to serve those in need, remembering to always lend a gentle hand to those who call for it. Humble Gurashi, speak the Oath of Service."

You close your eyes and inhale deeply, absorbing the scent of your surroundings.

You think to yourself: *their mind is racing, blooming with colors, warm sunset hues and inviting pastel shades - "...in Love..."*.

Opening their eyes after they've steadied their breath, you say, "My duty is also to serves the downtrodden, the less fortunates, the ones who are in need."

With a nod, their gaze burning soundly ahead, you say, "I, Gurashi, make my Oath to be that hand that assists those in need when it is called for me to do so."

In a slow, almost somber cadence, Alarin Rian says, "An Archon must also be patient and compassionate towards others, remembering that Humility is more than a simple practice. It is a way of life. Humble Gurashi, speak the Oath of Compassion."

You think to yourself: *brighter sunset hues still so beautiful they make the human's eyes water - familiar rasping paper, warmth, repeating - "...in Love..."*.

Alarin tilts back their head and inhales deeply while twitching a wolf's snout.

You have emoted: Gurashi swallows hard and stares ahead, their eyes briefly glazing over with a film of tears, though they continue to speak as confidently as before. "An Archon must always be patient, and understanding of the plights of others. I, Gurashi," They breathe, "make my Oath to listen with understandings, responding with respect, and patience."

Alarin Rian says, "Then so be it. Know that you have sworn this before the Dawning Hope and will be held to them."

You have emoted: Gurashi keeps their hands on the Fount for a time after they've finished speaking, nodding as Alarin speaks, jaw set and lips drawn into a tight, thin line.

Alarin reaches a paw into the fount of swirling crystal-blue liquid. In a single, fluid motion, they trace a five-pointed star upon your face before taking a step back, now smiling broadly.

As Alarin concludes the rite--your Oath made--you feel the placement of a hand upon your shoulder. Not gauntleted or heavy, but tenderer than that. Followed briefly by the scent of daffodils.

Lifting both paws as if in welcome, Alarin Rian says, "Your oath has been heard and accepted by we the Keepers. Stand amongst your bretheren and be counted as the newest Keeper of the Polothanine Oath!"

And soon, that hand is gone. The fragrance along with it.

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White raises his upturned palms to the sky and cries out, "Praise be to the Light!"

Alarin raises their upturned palms to the sky and cries out, "Praise be to the Light!"

You think to yourself: *faces - so many faces, ones that still wake, ones that do not - a desire to guard them all, to do goodly, give someone, anyone, everyone, something, someone? to believe in - for a moment, a tiny faeling laughing, then perching upon their shoulder - "Gurashi's our safe place" - a swell of pride, immediately followed by the feeling of a hand on the shoulder, the smell of daffodils...*.

Alarin Rian says, "Congratulations, Sworn Gurashi!"

You have emoted: Gurashi lifts their gaze to something unseen, then settles in on Alarin, the tears shining anew, growing, then sliding down the human's face inadvertently. "Oh," They gasp, suddenly smiling and bringing their hand up to their heart. "Thank you - uh...!"

You raise your hands to the sky and shout a jubilant "Praise be to the Light!"

Alarin bows their head reverently and traces a holy pentacle in the air before you, your vision suddenly filling with celestial light.

Alarin beams broadly.

You have emoted: Behind Gurashi , Ham lets out an excited 'boof', tail wagging still.

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White says, "Translated: You break the Oath and we hang you above the Pool of Stars."

Alarin shoots Thaldorn a withering look.

Bright and clear, you say, "...ah."

Thaldorn Thornfist, the White exclaims, "...joking!"

You throw back your head as you let loose a delighted laugh.

You have emoted: Gurashi reaches up to wipe at their face, clutching their sides. "I promise I won't! I won't break it!!"

You flail about helplessly.

Alarin Rian says, "I thought you might be!"

Alarin beams broadly at you.

Your shoulders bunch as you let out a short giggle.

Bright and clear, you say, "Oh my gosh my heart is racing!"

Alarin utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Alarin nods their head emphatically.

Excitedly, you say to Alarin, "You are really good at leading rituals! Wowee! I want to help do that someday!"

Alarin Rian says, "That is the feeling I hope every other who follows and takes the Oath receives as well!"

You fret over everything that might go wrong.

You nod your head emphatically.

Bright and clear, you say, "I hope everyone does it! Definitely, must get the other Archons to takes it! It is not hard! It was easy words!"

Alarin Rian says, "Oh you will!"

Alarin nods their head emphatically.

Alarin Rian says, "Easy, yet meaningful and poignant."

You nod your head emphatically.

Alarin Rian says, "Which is what my intention was with it."

Alarin's mouth turns up as their face breaks into a smile.

Bright and clear, you say, "It was really good, yeah! No, it. Meant. Sorry, my heart is just."

Alarin Rian says, "No need to apologise!"

You throw back your head as you let loose a delighted laugh.

Alarin Rian says, "Honestly... the Polothanine Oath was the second time I'd ever sworn to uphold an actual oath."

You have emoted: Gurashi bounces up and down. "You did a great job!"

Alarin Rian says, "The first was to Lady Lantra Herself."

Alarin Rian says, "And aye, thank you!"

Alarin's mouth turns up as their face breaks into a smile.

Hand on their heart, you ask, "...wait - realy? The Lady Empyreals took the Oaths too?" <-- doing the math poorly

Alarin shakes their head.

You look about in confusion.

Bright and clear, you say, ".... OH."

Bright and clear, you say, "I understand."

You eyes light up as you smile.

You blush furiously.

Alarin Rian says, "No, I meant I'd sworn oaths to Her when I finally made the decision to join Her Devoted."

Bright and clear, you say to Alarin, "O-K, figured out the words you meant."

You throw back your head as you let loose a delighted laugh.

Alarin's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Alarin Rian says, "It happens!"

Alarin chuckles long and heartily.

You have emoted: Gurashi clutches their sides again, then rushes over to a tawny Nyalian mastiff sporting spiky steel platemail. "You! Ham! Ham you were so GOOD! What a good boy!" They praise the mastiff, who at last rises at being acknowledged, entire body wiggling.

You reach out, pulling a tawny Nyalian mastiff sporting spiky steel platemail into a tight embrace.
A low rumble shudders throughout a tawny Nyalian mastiff's chest, a sort of gentle, contented sound.

<-- and then we broke off into top secret guild plans :D :D :D <3