Terminus: Enigmatic Site Of Prayer I

[14:48] The young man was continuing his usual business, scooping up the lupins and gathering resources- messy business but one normal for an alchemist-
Although something met his ears that wasn't the usual.
Murmurings, some gathering looking down at the dip in the path..
Cystals, that looked no different than the others he's seen in the caverns..
He approached slowly, peering down to see if there was anything really of note he was missing...
(Yuri Misho)
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[14:59] The cultists grew in number by the passing day. Some appeared to be taking up a small number of encampments nearby. However, it'd seem that while some of them have taken up arms -- likely to ward off the fauna of Meranthe? The majority of the cultists revealed themselves once the sun had set. The gleam of this particular tar pit offered the only illumination their deathly pale skin required.

Hooded cloaked individuals lacking the magus prowess of the renown magi wandering the wilds surrounded the lips of the pit. Some of which fell to their knees to mutter prayers through their breath. Others beheld at a faceless entity -- as though they could see what others could not.
Universal amongst them, was the gaped eyes they wore. Their feeble circuitry would likely be put under immense strain if challenged... Thus, to look into their eyes would reveal that of a haunted people.

They had laid their eyes upon something that they could take unsee. Their minds, fallen to an abyss... Lost, yet their bodies continued to function as it once did. There was an abundance of irradiated mana here...
Carrying the familiar taint of mortal demise, as though a raw magic to be ushered unto the realm.

To peer into the pit? Would reveal... Nothing. Though, it could leave one to inquiry as to the entranced demeanor of all of these nonmagus once-travelers... However, if nothing was in the pit... Why did it feel like something gazed back unto Yuri?

If they lacked the situational awareness to consistently scan the surroundings? The pitter-patter of footsteps approaching would hardly be noticed. If they failed to turn in acknowledgement? They'd have their attention beckoned of them, with a hand rested upon a shoulder.

Turning, would reveal a nonmagus cultist, visibly older than most of the others. Their eyes were pronounced as the others -- gaped, with wrinkles formed beneath them. It was as though they were frozen in a state of shock, yet as they spoke - it carried a contradictingly soothed tone.
'Many magi have passed through here lately... Lupin draw in the hunters.'

Perhaps, it was their lack of magus cognizance... But the nonmagi was unlikely to have immediately noticed the presence of a chronomantic aura around Yuri. Hopefully, enough control was exacted to prevent passive damage upon the vulnerable.
'Though, you find yourself -here-... Have you heard His call, as well?' asked the senior cultist.

By now, their hand would've been pulled away to offer a respectful distance, patiently awaiting a reply.
(Etheric Presence)
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[15:09] Etheric Presence's voice (to Yuri Misho): <*The powers of the transmundane coo out for the mind. Rather than the typical means of violently vying for control -- it wafts in, akin to a favored dessert rested on a window sill to tempt those nigh. Sweet nothings were whispered from what once proven profane, as though to merely offer one to gaze upon the pit. It spoke no words but rather suggested, as though to plant a thought in one's head: ''If you could ask for anything... What would it be?'' *>
[15:24] The feeling of unease slowly came over him as he wandered ever closer- Focused only on the dent in the ground, the hand at his shoulder surprised him.

As his eyes met with the aged cultist, he was visibly startled for a moment-Before clearing his throat- chuckling nervously as the elder backed away.
"Ah- Call? uh- No just saw the gathering and was curious."

It was like speaking to a spirit almost- Non-magi rarely ever seemed to tune in on him like this..

He barely had the time to mull over his almost haunting presence- As something rang into his ear, softly yet just as loud in his head as his own thoughts..

His brain started to work- A question posed that didn't have an easy answer..
His thoughts like a river's flow, only to form a delta at the same place..

"A cure..."
He muttered under his breath..
Shaking his head, he eyes turned back to the elder- "Sorry- Did you say something else? Uh- mind feels.. a bit foggy tonight.."
(Yuri Misho)
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[15:40] The elder cultist offered a soft bob of the head -- a bow in reverence.

'I did not.' They'd answer plainly, 'Those whom have ventured here prior made similar claims...' assured the man, swiveling his posture as though to welcome one to gaze upon the pit further. While the words spoken under his breath were not heard by any of the nonmagi present? Something else was listening...

'It is His call that draws us in... Perhaps, you find your curiosity plagued with deeper thoughts? It is oft a sign that He is calling you. As he has called us...'
There was a moment's pause, before the cloaked nonmagi turned for the pit, walking up to approach its rocky lips.

Just what exactly were they talking about? If curiosity sought to play out to the fullest, they'd find their ears wandering for the large number of fellownonmagus cultists cloaked in hooded garb kneeling around other various parts of the pit's edge.

Amongst the phrases they mumbled, some stick out:
'I call upon the end's herald, for the strength to carry his vision... So that I may achieve mine...'

'I renounce that which drives me to bloodlust... For we, will not stay blinded by the flesh...'

'Through the cost of His hand, I shall live forever more... No longer to suffer mortality's wrath...'

A particular tidbit seemed especially repetitive despite it all -- amongst the few conversations had... Amongst their prayers:
'Usque Terminus'


The senior cultist's voice spoke once more, still intended for Yuri...
'I, can call upon Him... Perhaps, he has a boon for you. Something you've been searching for? Or... Something you did not know you were seeking...'

An offer?
They idled now, as though awaiting confirmation.
(Etheric Presence)
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[15:53] Yuri knew something off when he saw it, yet still that begging question plagued his mind and where it had arrived...
He looked towards the man offering him- Something bothered him deeply about this all, but as his eyes gazed towards the pit... He couldn't help but press on.
"Just a call- right? Maybe.. maybe that wouldn't hurt... I'll hear it out anyway.."
He swallowed a growing feeling of discomfort in his throat.
"Just hearing it out.. that's all."
(Yuri Misho)
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[16:04] While Yuri talked to the elder cultist a large towering rat would appear and stop to stare at them, was it some dangerous beast from the wilds looking for dinner? Was it going to attack the man and the cultists?

The creature's dark red eyes never left Yuri or the pit, it continued to stare for a few seconds until it suddenly took a step forward. There was no warning as the creature started to walk towards Yuri and the pit, and once it was close enough...it dropped something with his large arms in front of the pit.

"Offering."

It spoke in a deep voice in a polite tone through hisses, just what was that thing? Well, whatever the beast was it knew how to be formal.

"Sir-Gurd came for answers." It commented in a polite tone before returning to stand by the tree with folded...paws?
(Sirgurd)
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[16:13] Blinked for a moment, surprised at the events of the night thus far- the addition of a little squirrel added to the mix wasn't too bad..
He simply let it be- seeing if it's question would be answered as well...
(Yuri Misho)
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A gargantuan helish rodent had encroached amongst nonmagi. To do so, typically meant certain death to those ill-equipped to deal with such an entity. Yet, it did not seem to strike upon most...
It advanced. Some of the nonmagi nearby equipped with spears took to a stare that hardened at Sirgurd's approach... But they were not taken up-in-arms yet. It was as though, they simply lacked the preservation instinct they once bore.

The senior cultist's back remained to Yuri, but his confirmation was enough. The nonmagus' arms took rise, as though to behold the pit itself... Yet, they idled. It was likely the newcomter's approach was being silently heeded.

'Offering.'
Blueberries... And blueberry jam: Mortal food.

One of the cultists holding their gaze upon the beast, hesitantly spoke up:
'He, does not indulge in the foods of mortal ilk.' They warned.

It was too late, however. The senior cultist carried out their call out for the pit:
'I call upon Balar of this land. I ask of you to make yourself know. To offer your blessings unto this outsider, I beseech thee!'

There was no magic casting that a man of this stature could commit towards? However, something stirred nonetheless. Yet no mana took passing through his actions, it was his word alone that invoked a magically potent response.

It was as though gales generated from nowhere -- and ebb within the spatial domain commanded of it. Then, the undeniable choking sensation of the Profane -- The occult sought to chill the air, yet denied the environment of any frost. Whatever this cult was praying to, was no longer dormant here. Despite such, nothing visibly made itself known.


"One approaches, in search of a Cure... And another of Hel's domain, seeks Answers..."

The voice that boomed out lacked a source -- seemingly omnipresent in its debut. However, it was clear that the cult's Patron was here.


"This cure you seek, can be yours... The cost inconsequential to your endeavors. Yet, within you is doubt, caution, natural preservation known to your human..."


There was a weight that'd rest upon the shoulders of the two... As though this faceless Patron was seeing... Nay, sensing through their very being. Their physicality, and even their circuitry was being explored by what could only be described as invisible tendrils of the metaphysical domain: A means of examining them through and through.


"This... Offering..."

A clear reference to the food presented...

"Will not suffice... The cost for my boons are naught more... Than prayer... And tribute.

A small portion of your mana will do just fine."

(Etheric Presence)
He tugged at his collar- This seemed to get heavier by the minute..
The calls- Were almost more of a summoning, and the air itself felt tainted- Yuri's confidence in this being something of a casual endeavor was fading fast.

He cleared his throat- As he looked onto the pit- "Well- Doubt yes, I'm often full of it. I haven't claimed as to what needs curing and who it is for- And.. it does sound a bit too good to be true.."
He tilted his head back and forth- "Mana for a cure, cure for mana. Seems a bit cheap on your side so- Might be a scam-"
He made another loud coughing noise as if to cover up what he said at the end there.
"As to say, sounds a bit too good to be true."
(Yuri Misho)
The "Fair Father" continued to stare at the pit with interest, his dark red eyes slowly turning white as he stared at the abyss. It had met many strange and terrifying powers other than his father, but this pit was something different...maybe old.

As it noticed more children of the darkness approaching the beast would slowly started releasing occultic mana, it wasn't going to attack but it was a warning. Kin or not if they were to disturb him they would suffer, but as quickly as they approached the others left and the rat's attention was once again turned to the pit.

"The rat has no god and prays to no one, only his father could be considered worthy of the rat's prayers but they are no god." It spoke politely but firmly. "Yet, like all beings, the rat seeks knowledge and he is no fool. If "god" is worth the rat's prayers, he will pray like all but that...we shall see" The demon commented before slowly starting to release a small portion of his mana towards the pit unless stopped, was it even doing it right? A smile was given to Yuri Misho as if challenging him to do the same.

"You can have a tribute, a small portion of the rat's mana. As you can see he is not a savage, but fair."
(Sirgurd)

Many refused to pray to this faceless Patron -- though, it was of little consequence. What it truly wanted was...

'You can have a tribute, a small portion of the rat's mana. As you can see he is not a savage, but fair.'


The power of an ancient sought to act upon the very castings of entropy -- an advanced demonstration of the Dark Arts. One that tailored itself to understand every facet of those that'd touch the ebonic pit's substance.
What one would not likely realize however? Was this 'tar' was infact, not tar at all...

Rather, something else...
Something, that when touched by the rolling pyre of the Occult irradiating from Sirgurd? Would shine the waters a deep mauve.

The nonmagus cultists at the lips of the pit, seemingly focused on this event over the brawling nigh? Seemingly took to gasps...
This was unlike an ascension ritual...
Sirgurd had inadvertentlybaptized themselves in the blood of their Patron -- sealing such ceremony with the invocation of his magic in aegis against potential interveners.

Mana was being siphoned from the individual, though it'd likely prove temporary given one's ability to recover. Perhaps, it'd be through the consumption of lessers in an alternate location? Perhaps it'd naturally recover as it'd oft did. One thing was certain... Their very body, their very circuitry was being invaded.

It was as though an incorporeal force sought to encourage this blood to seep through the very pores of the flesh. It'd reap havok on their circuitry, as though to deconstruct it on a minute level... But, it would not come without immediate reconstructive efforts!
Miniature bursts popped along their leylines, across the pressure points -- as though needles were skewering them through... Bursting before invocating some means of regeneration on a level unseen to the eyes.

It could be felt however...
An odd sense of rejuvenation was to swiftly follow... Whether immediately detected? Or to creep in with the fleeting moments.

Where the human chronomancer Yuri expressed explicit doubt? Sirgurd would experience first-hand, one of the demonstrated lost arts: The Reverse Occultic Casting technique, exhibited to seemingly enhance the rodent-beast's circuitry despite taking a portion of mana in the effort.


"Speak your query, Kin of Hel."

It was up to Yuri to decide if they wanted to take the plunge themselves... Or rather, to reconsider their doubts in the face of this ancient Patron, and the nonmagus cultists nigh.
(Etheric Presence)
Etheric Presence performs acupuncture on Sirgurd, increasing the flow of natural Energy within their magical circuits thus improving recovery speed.
Gurd didn't expect anything to come from his gesture, while most of his kind were seeking immediate power the rat was taking his time and making allies. Most of his allies were children, his goal was to make his ''children'' work for him someday but this...?

This was something else, not a mage full of greed or illusionist playing tricks, it was a real power hiding somewhere and Gurd now could feel it as the Occult slowly started to leave his body and the waters started to shine a deep mauve.

"Hahaha..." The rat couldn't stop himself from laughing as it felt the pit siphoning his mana, finally some real power and one that was not being held by his peers. But would the pit be true to its word?

"You're invading my circuitry, color me surprised. Just who...are you?"

The rat was smiling or maybe showing his fangs but it didn't move, it could feel the incorporeal force to deconstruct him. It was doing something that not even Zetian or that powerful witch that he met would have done in front of him or even for him, but for what reason?

"You could kill...me now." It hissed in pain while still trying to stare at the pit. "Or...we could help each other."

After the offer was made the rat bit its lips in pain, but suddenly he felt the regeneration and rejuvenation and forced himself to smile through the pain. It didn't kill or attack the rat as it fed the pit mana, whatever was inside could be talked and it didn't seem to want him dead.

No, it was more like a show of good faith or baptism. Whatever the liquid that he had touched was it didn't damage his body, at least not yet but even if it did a being made from pestilence wouldn't have been mad.

"Would you be willing to work with Gurd? Your servants here lack what Gurd has, power." It said while staring at his body fascinated at whatever the art done by the being from the pit was, Gurd had never seen anything like it and couldn't fully comprehend. The demon was not a mage just a being born of the occult that used magic.

"Gurd is a father to the abandoned, and thus he must ask. What are you a god of?" He'd ask politely while staring at his paws. "There are many gods, staring from their bright towers as their favored soon laugh at the abandoned children of Meranthe. Are you one of them or are you the god of the abandoned... the owner of the one throne that has been vacant?

(Sirgurd)

Yuri Misho has applied Mana Payment to their self.

[View the injury.]



Mana Payment [Temporary]
"An offering has been made to Terminus! With the revealing of one's casted mana, a sizable portion of mana has been seized! A sense of wooziness and overall exhaustion. Perhaps, it was a great deal more than what one might've expected. There seems not to be any physical scars to the flesh."
VIT: -19



Sirgurd has applied Mana Payment to their self.

[View the injury.]

An etheric miasma of malefic casting sought to encroach upon Yuri. To their cast out hand? It reached out... As though to complete a connection. It'd penetrate beyond the flesh, kneading through for the pressure points beneath. The mana nexus within the circuitry of his palm was ignited by the transmundane.

An evocation was wrought unto it, drawing forth mana had no resistance been afforded. Visually? It'd appear as though a translucent stream of sapphire was wading through the air for the pit, dissipating into the nothingness within. Unlike the immediate siphoning that'd occur through the Patron's blood within the pit against Sigurd's flesh.

Payment was made...
--and in that very act, it was growing abundantly clear.
Hel was here...


"As promised... The guidance to find the Cure you seek, will be provided to you..."

The voice boomed out.

To Sigurd's uncertainty likely drawn afoot by the initiation process? No words were offered... But once one had asked of potential aid?

"Your attendance to their ceremonies... Your presence to act as their aegis? Is accepted, Fel-kin."


Then, came the question: 'What are you a god of?'

"The End."

The answer was definitive. Absolute. There would be no further explanation, nor emphasis -- as though, that was all there was to know.

A Harbinger Of The End itself...
The End... Of the current age?
The End... Of a cycle?
The End... Of everything?

Why was it here? Why was it now?


"Through the past century of my existence upon Meranthe alone, I have garnered the power to bestow lost and forbidden knowledge... The invocations of latent power within those in my wake... To restore the vitality of those damned by the Sins of mortal ilk..."


If there was a time to elaborate on their own intentions... Their desires? To expound upon their payments for their dues? This was it...
(Etheric Presence)

Etheric Presence's voice (to Yuri Misho): Let the ailment that troubles you draw to the forefront of your mind, so that I make speak of its cure...

Etheric Presence's voice (to Yuri Misho): may speak* (oops)

His other hand shot out to hold the one connected to the encroaching miasma- A handshake like no other..
Sweat poured from his brow, the feeling of his own circuits being used not of his own will.. Was not one he wished to feel again any time soon...

As that familiar voice echoed in his mind, he only thought of her- What she had been through.. What ailed her..
(Yuri Misho)

Yuri Misho thinks, "The ailment... She has total organ failure- Only kept alive by her own mana.. If she gets collared again.. She's dead. I don't know if I can fix her- Repair what's there- Replace that many parts of her body.. I'm lost..."

Wandering the woods, the Ookami gazes about the environs.

Attention grabbed by various figures seemingly pliant around a sunken, if earthly pit. Some sobbing in rapture, others offering prayers faintly audible unto ears.

Crystalline structures garnered attention.

Glimmering with radiance akin to when Erenthius first utilized ether in tandem to properly forge an attuned connection with the mana that comprised being. The crystals gleamed a suffusing hue of blue, that sparkled in sunlit rays cast'd from the sun on high.

Striding to the edge of the pit, the Ookami looked with. Sienna hues meandering about the earthly environs.

Yet nothing t'were revealed to gaze. Though eyes did flit to those nearby, what was going on across the way.. A huff of curiosity escapes lips, as the young Ookami lifts a hand, finger tapping with a slightly dirt encrusted nail along the edge of the amulet woven around neck.
(Erenthius C. Meeksworth)

Etheric Presence's voice (to Yuri Misho): Total Organ Failure... Kept alive solely through their own mana. There is a technique that can ensure her survival... One within my capacity. An ancient magic technique known as Reverse Occultic Casting... It will spare the life of your loved one, at the loss of another mortal human's condition.

In passing, you hear a rumor: Haven't you heard? The Hero of the West, Jango D. Bogard is looking for romance. He's looking for a woman to make his heart throb just for her. A loyal woman he can sweep off her feet and love til the end of his days.

Yuri Misho coughed a bit loudly- as he looked a bit flustered despite the circumstances.
(Yuri Misho)

Yuri Misho thinks, "Love is strong- We're friends."

Etheric Presence's voice (to Yuri Misho): Your 'friend' will survive... All you must do, is find a human to sacrifice and bring them here with your friend. I, will do the rest...

After the strange ritual was over the rat slowly backed off from the pit, it wasn't too hard due to his size. His eyes never left it, it was hard for the rat to believe that he had met the God of The End or a manifestation of it but Gurd couldn't deny the being's power after what he had seen.

"Then Gurd will act as one of your priests and agents, all he asks is that you bring the end of Meranthe's current age. He wants equality for his children, he takes from them but he also wishes them well." The rat spoke politely to the pit as his occultic mana slowly retreated to inside his body, it was breathing heavily after having a part of his mana drained.

"Gurd will return here someday or even bring people that could be interested in worshiping you but know that his goal is to find a God of The Abandoned. Be it you or himself."

A pause was made and then the rat...bowed. One wouldn't expect a demon to know or to be able to bow but this one was weirdly respectful when it wanted.

"The pit won't be disturbed as long Gurd is around, now excuse Gurd. He has to look for more of his children."

(Sirgurd)

More tribute paid...

The pungent radiation of Death Magic hung close in the air. It had been stewing in potency in this area so close to Dal'thala, ever since taking refuge here...
Though, it had to be obvious... To manifest such potency in such proximity to an entire settlement of the Faeborn? It was taunting a skirmish.

The inquiry for a cure was silently offered...
For the expressive shift on Yuri's person would communicate where naught else would.


"This Age of Meranthe shall see to its end, in time... Your desires, fulfilled in twain."

Answers were provided for the Fel-kin, but not before...

"Henceforth, you shall be dubbed... Noctifer Gurd."

The resonation of the Patron's blood still clung to the rodent, as though to become a part of them for the foreseeable future.

The dubbing silently commanded nonmagus cultists to bow in Sigurd's wake. Some seemingly did so in fear, others adoration...
It was as though, in naught but an instant, he'd be recognized for Helish royalty.

'A Nightbringer is upon us...' uttered one of the cultists amongst themselves.

'Nightbringer Gurd...' whispered another. Perhaps, up until now? It was merely hearsay... But alas, a Demon Nightbringer was dubbed on this day.
Their departure would be granted the rightfully earned reverence it was bestowed.

Though, there was another now: Erenthius.
The faceless Patron's voice boomed out for the youth. A force that betrayed the eyes sought to penetrate their very flesh, to explore their circuitry, physicality, ailments and all.

"Is it a hunger that resonates beneath the surface? A craving for knowledge forbidden? Health in decline? Speak of your desire, human... And see bestowed unto you...

Should you pray or pay Tribute...
Your mana, shall suffice enough."

(Etheric Presence)

The words without sound echoed in his mind, Yuri had certainly gotten more than he bargained for- An answer, a solution if he gave heed to it. But as he rubbed his hand- He was unsure if he was willing to go through with it all..
With the crowning of the small one next to him, and all the bowing from the worshippers- He felt his time here was up, he had more than enough to think on...
Weighing options would be the only thing he could do for the rest of this evening...
(Yuri Misho)

Yuri Misho thinks, "Alright- Balar of the land.. I'll- I'll consider such."

Etheric Presence's voice (to Yuri Misho): I await your return.

Gurd could feel the patron's blood resoaning with every part of him, it was a new feeling. For once he didn't felt like the runt and weaker, he welcomed it and the title.

Maybe Terminus knew that the demon liked to be respected, hearing the cultists calling his name made him more interested.

"Nightbringer? Gurd could get used to that..."


A bow was given to the pit before the demon left to complete whatever it had to do.
(Sirgurd)

(Erenthius C. Meeksworth)
A voice entreats, a cadence vile and reprehensible. Yet to one who's very foreign language sounds horrendous upon ears. A speech laced with malefic undertones, perhaps the booming voice was just that - a voice unto ears.

Yet tis a voice that exacerbates, that exists to brush unto physical mass. Entreating, seeking, desiring mana whether from circuitry or else-whence obtainable via other means.

A tilting of head. Common meranthian spills past lips, if only to mingle with foreign sentences in a stream of discerned enmity. "Erenthius seek many things. Give glory to patron star of tribe, Exallarch. Become llais y gwagle."

A pause hangs, as a thought t'were voiced mentally. Broadcasted words carrying if in foreign foul tongue.
(Erenthius C. Meeksworth)
A foreign tongue...
It was not of Meranthe -- which meant to comprehend such would require... Context clues. Perhaps, even reading one's emotions would work. Though, such was limiting...

Surely, there had to be a better way.
What it could understand, was a Patron of another name...
Surely, if such was the case -- Then, they would understand this tongue, meaning feigning their identity would not work here.


"Your tongue is not of Meranthean ilk. Though, your desires akin to many humans, nonetheless. You inquire of the opportunity to give 'glory'... To present reverence..."

Reverence to a different Patron -- a sacrifice that this entity was willing to make for a price.


"Exallarch. The name was not been uttered by another of this land until today... If you desire is to know them? Know that I am unfamiliar with their means. If your desire is for the power to seek them? This... Is something I can do."


Somehow, they had to invoke a drive, a capability to speak Meranthean… But how?
(Etheric Presence)

A smile filled with blood flits upon visage momentarily.

Across form, comes the onset of ether. Of mana blossoming forthright upon being. The mana glows an erratic blue that suffuses, the coverts along frame before leisurely spiralling upwards.

The mana surges, as across being comes light. Burning amber-likened heat, a cosmic radiance that manifested in a shimmering aura of flaxen light. The light grasped from above, a nameless star.

Perhaps newborn inasmuch as a cosmical point of origin can be considered such as a nameless entity that reigned from above meranthian skyline, in providence ere' the heavens.

The Ookami speaks, disjoined meranthian, carrying with it an echoing quality. Around neck the amulet hums, linguistical words translating from foreign thought to spill past plum likened lips as all the while bloodied teeth grin still..

"Reverence yes. Erenthius desire. Have offered fresh blood. Sacrifice for Exallarch. Asked other, other refuse donate blood for cause of gaining Exallarch attention." A pause hangs.

"In tribe shed blood, sacrifice animals, those who do wrong. Value battle, strength. Detest weakness."

A cant of head is given, a finite statement slithers past lips. "Exallarch exist beyond stars. Is vo-ice of looming obl-ivion..aspect of Saekanis." The ookami carefully sounded out syllables, making sure to stress certain words so that they'd be perhaps more understood, he didn't want to accidently slip into his foreign tongue, amulet which translated his words sometimes malfunctioning notwithstanding.
(Erenthius C. Meeksworth)
A wounded figure comes from the north, their legs seem about to fail them but they continue to walk. The smell of iron and blood follows them, their aura is one of pain and suffering.

If one were to take a peak at the figure's mind they would hear a distant eternal melody that followed them and voices whispering, both the voice and the melody weren't there. Maybe the figure was insane? No, just cursed.

But why was the figure there? What was it seeking?

"Gods of the crystals...I have come to bargain." They whispered to the strange liquid in front of them before turning to the entranced worshippers.

The figure spoke before kneeling in front of what looked like a pit, their petite body was sick. It could be felt by blood mages and being able to detect disease.

While the figure noticed an ookami and believed that they probably were praying it chose to ignore the boy, without taking their eyes from the pit the figure would address the cultists.

"I have a prayer, maybe a sacrifice. Who do I talk to?"

(Kishi)

As Kishi approached, they'd find nonmagus cultists taking up prayers... Some of which wandering amongst their growing encampment. Very few of them armed, but watching the magus company in their midsts.
An elder cultist looked upon them, but sidestepped to allow them to venture to the pit of blackened fluid.

The plea was heard...
To their misfortune, there were no blood magi present.
However, upon speaking they'd find themselves encountered with a faceless presence. It was a raw pressure that weighed at the shoulders. As though the world itself demanded of them to take reprieve...
Spatial manipulation wrought gravity's ebbing around the immediate area of Kishi.

Though, the casting did not seem intent on crushing at them, nor even enforcing posture and stancing… Nay. It was merely the precursor to the sensation of the etheric magics penetrating the very seams of one's apparel -- their armor, even the pores of the flesh. It sought to explore their every detail, from their physicality to the circuitry within.

If there was ever a doubt of something supernatural afoot, such assumptions could be swept away now. Something was attempting to examine them wholly.

Such a 'something', hardly allowed itself to remain truly unknown for long. They had arrived as another was being addressed.

The elder nonmagus cultist that looked upon her with haunted eyes spoke in a contradictingly soothed tone:
'He is with us now... Rest easy. He shall address you soon enough, magi.'

As for Erenthius?
The dispelling of magus initiations via magical trinkets was not lost on this entity. The invocation of their magus aura wrought forth the essence of the heavens -- Of the stars in particular. A nameless star had bestowed the boon of its seemingly limitless reserves -- A cosmic magi in their wake. As they continued to speak, and the amulet enforced magical translation? Silence would be afforded -- a moment to allow them to explain their peace.

Exallarch… A foreign deity...
A competitor...
Though, perhaps a necessary tool for the matter, even if likely to backfire. It was ultimately aligned to his own endeavors, was it not? Contemplation was genuinely taken to such an unknown conundrum.
Though, to showcase hesitation to mortal kin, would be to allow them opportunity to devise their own conclusion.

Such, simply would not do...

Thus, a theory was proposed...
One such theory proposed akin to proven fact.
Whether such gamble would play in its favor was anyone's guess.


"Beyond the stars as an Aspect of Saekanis… A voice of looming Oblivion."

A supposed Patron that existed beyond the cycle he sought to End? Perhaps, it was only fitting...


"Your sacrifices are underwhelming... Unfit for a Patron such as Exallarch. For paltry animal blood is naught but a drop in the bucket for what is necessary..."

If one existed beyond the stars, then surely their scope was much greater.


"In your solitude, your sacrifices will continue to go ignored... For humanity's strength comes in their numbers. Their collaborations..."

Was that the answer?


"Provide Tribute to me... And I, shall ensure such happens in time. Your Patron, desired of your pursuits... Shall acknowledge you at long last..."

A Patron offering to aid one garner the attention of yet another... Surely, an oddity...

Or, was it simply one bargaining with currencies with yet another on a cosmic scale?


Nonetheless, with such addressed and offer made? Therein lied another...
The voice boomed out for the newcomer now:

"Mortal, speak of your bargaining tools, your prayers and acclaimed sacrifice."


Perhaps, the Patron could tell what was wrong by now? Surely, if it had anything to do with their physical condition, this inquiry was purely rhetorical.
(Etheric Presence)

You're too far away from Kishi!

Attempting to examine Kishi's injuries...

Etheric Presence's voice (to Erenthius C. Meeksworth): A small payment of your mana, shall suffice.

Svengalf Sandsker has lent their support to Regalus: For successfully defending the sappling of Solais with his strength, swiftness and wits, he shall be honored for his quick interception.

Kishi's injuries:

--> Distorted Rhapsody [Examine]




Distorted Rhapsody [Permanent]
"The fae's mind has been bombarded by a overwhelming of information, permanently damaging their sense of reality. They will forever hear footsteps behind them that never existed, voices of friends and foes alike when they're all alone, cracks of thunder on sunny days... Sounds that should not exist, yet do. Worst of all, a eternal melody now plays in Kishi's mind. Harmonic yet cacophonous, familiar yet alien... This music will switch from soothing to enraging, saddening to invigorating... Amplifying Akaza's emotions depending on the symphony being played."
VIT: -10



Tate Brier has lent their support to Grey Aundeoth: Covered carts of materials roll into Sapphire Bay, from the docks. The Fortune supply officer and facility keeper exchange papers, overseeing the transfer of material.

The hooded figure was silent for a few seconds after it heard the booming voice, was it shocked or maybe scared? One couldn't with the mask, but if their mind was read they would find surprise.

"I want a restart, there is something that I need to build but not with circuits like this. There are no gods that would answer the prayers of someone like me, but maybe whoever you are can help me." They said before taking off their mask and jacket, it was a woman.

"My circuits are sick, I offer them and everything I have for new circuits. Even my memories if you want." She'd comment while staring at the pit. "Except my dream and a person of my choice, maybe two people. Is that acceptable?

My circuits are currently connected to five elements, you can have them. I need a fresh start and maybe something else, a new power."
(Kishi)

A cant of head, as ears twitch.

A slight frown visits smiling visage momentarily afore sienna hues glance about the pit as if trying to find the origin of the voice.

Yet no origin was spotted.

Though the voice t'were heeded.

His attempt at reaching Exallarch, they were middling at best. They were solitary yes, unlike before he ended upon within Meranthian lands wherein his whole tribe partook in establishing lines of twisted communion with Exallarch.

If he sought the notice of said entity. If he sought the promised power granted to the Voice of Exallarch in full, as Prophet - Shaman to said entity, then he needed to dream bigger.

Offer grander tribute then.

Would that this communion, with the Etheric Presence reveal such avenues. Or allow for him to meet others who would assist in helping Erenthius earn the notice of Exallarch. The voice proffered words, proffered sentiment.

The Ookami extended an arm.

Cosmic light blistering in its warmth, it glowed, as the Ookami breathed lightly whilst eyes closing momentously. Mana surged along his arm, along circular circuitry inside the limb which caused the arm to glow brighter.. The glow exited, surging towards the tar likened earth.

The mana losing its lustre, as cosmic radiance left him - his right arm dimming in light whilst mana flowed from it towards the pit. Mana traversed towards the base of one of the crystalline structures that sprung upwards from the ground alike twisted fingers clawing their way from deadened soil.. The Crystalline structure humming, absorbing. Drinking upon his mana and feeding it unto the Etheric Presence that lingered within the environs.

"Erenthius gives mana freely as tithe. Tribute in exchange for help in obtaining notice of Exallarch, in obtaining strength to become new voice of Exallarch."
(Erenthius C. Meeksworth)

The new arrival blipped upon the edge of the woods, peering towards the non-magi and the duo of magi who seemed to be making offerings to the tar pit. His eyes shifted, the cicloid sceleras focused along the pit, scanning for anything off within it. Then he peered towards Erenthius. "Eren." His voice cut through the final words the boy had spoken. "I've need of you."
(Edwyn Meeksworth)

Erenthius C. Meeksworth has applied Terminus: Mana Payment to their self.

[View the injury.]



Terminus: Mana Payment [Temporary]
"An offering has been made to Terminus! With the revealing of one's casted mana, a sizable portion of mana has been seized! A sense of wooziness and overall exhaustion. Perhaps, it was a great deal more than what one might've expected. There seems not to be any physical scars to the flesh."
VIT: -19
Unanswered prayers.
Sickened circuitry.
A willingness to sacrifice their very memories... Well, most of them.
To take all of that, would leave one devoid of any attunements. Certainly within one's power...

Though, it would likely require quite the number of tributary materials to invoke such a ritual.

"This... Is acceptable. I can bestow all of this, as you ask."


Then, came their sacrifices...
The theft of memories weren't exactly something that the Patron was practiced in at all. Tal'guth would likely be the candidate for such a task, if anyone. However...

"Your memories are your own to keep."

Generosity?


"Your circuitry shall be purged... Cleansed... Empowered, in return for your prayers forevermore."


Then, was the youth nearby...
--and a subtle presence that it could sense afoot.
The nonmagi nearby did not react for they lacked the perception... But spatial manipulation offered one many capabilities.

For whatever reason, aside from the presentation of weight unto Edwyn's shoulders? There didn't seem to be any form of antagonization. Their interloping from a stealthy perspective would go unchallenged.

As for Erenthius? Tribute was paid - Yet another pact established.

"Then, hence forth... I shall dub you Famulus Erenthius. In time, you shall be granted the very attention you seek."


Finally, it was time to close out this dealing with Akaza.

"Instead, you will pay Tribute by returning with three mana crystals attuned to the fire element, and five bundled of soothing reed. When you are done, return here and relinquish it within the blood shed below.

You will invoke the ritual, by offering a small portion of your mana as tribute. Then, and only then... Will you be born anew as you wished."


A quest? To fetch material...
Minor and easily achievable. Simply a search for reagents...

"I will be dormant until then... To call upon me, magus ilk... Simply recite my prayer as it comes to you, and I shall appear."

(Etheric Presence)
With the voice of the Etheric Presence ringing in his brain, Erenthius turned. Stumbling, and woozy.

A degree of lethargy stealing over his frame. A deep seated weariness expressed itself upon visage. The young lad swayed, as he walked towards the woods. Sienna hues listlessly searching for Edwyn as he meandered towards the treeline.
(Erenthius C. Meeksworth)

Edwyn reached out towards the woozed out child of his, tugging at his arm gently before leading him along towards the woods. If there was one thing the presence might notice, is the man's speed! It was certainly several notches above that of other magi.
(Edwyn Meeksworth)

There was additional prodding around their circuitry...
The anatomy being explored to understand the true nature of their sickness. It was not something imparted upon them by another magi but rather alchemy use. An overuse infact…

A misdiagnosis of the issue was going to lead to a very simply application on a much more complicated problem.

"On second thought..."
 The voice boomed out.

"Perhaps this isn't as simple as I once thought... No. The ritual will have to be more advanced."
 A faceless casting of the spatial domain sought to catch Akaza before they could start to depart.


"Instead, you will make your payment in mana now... In doing so, I shall draw forth the numbers necessary to invoke a ritual that will return your circuitry to what it once was.

You, will be able to live the life youcrave..."

Was it, that the payment was going to be easier? The only drawback was time...

They'd have to wait before such aid would be provided...
Perhaps, such was worth it moreso now than before.
(Etheric Presence)

The figure stopped to stare at the pit, her gaze empty and hopeless. Could the being inside really help her?

It was worth the risk, she would get the ingredients and more but something else was needed. What would the god require for the request?

"I want to offer more and ask for one more thing, what would you ask to link my circuits to the occult after taking the other elements away? I'm willing to offer more than just a small portion of my mana, maybe even my blood or a limb.

You can take 90% my mana as long it will recover with time, even if I sleep for a whole damn year or ten years. All I need is to know that you will keep your word and can give me what I need, is that acceptable?"

Akaza's stare was one of determination, no maybe it was despair. They were willing to sacrifice everything but the memories with two people for what they wanted, some people would call her insane.

"Very well, I will let you rest Pit Lord. But answer my question before you rest, what else do you want me to get you?"
(Akaza)

"Very well, if you think you can grant my wish then take it all. Take all the damn mana, in fact keep most of it as long you can give me what I want."

It was all that the woman said before unleashing as most mana as possible in the pit, not just mana but blood Akaza was using his own blood that was being unleashed with the mana through vines by using both nature and blood magic.

She was kneeling in front of the pit and slowly getting pale, unless stopped the woman would continue willing to offer 90% of her mana to complete the ritual. That's why how serious she was...

"Do whatever you want with the mana, as long you give my chance. TAKE IT!" She'd yell while waiting for something to happen.
(Akaza)

Agne asks, "What 'tha Hel is goin' on?"

Was it desperation that drove the common man to such lengths? Perhaps...
One thing was certain, amongst all of the tributes? This surely proved to be one of the most grand. To reach out for the pit, to relinquish control? To allow one's passive casting to be interlaced by the faceless Patron that reached back in etheric form?

It'd lead to the evocation of the circuitry nexus that was their open palms - amongst their leylines. Without resistance, it was akin to sucking drink out through a straw.

On the visual domain? It'd appear as though the woman was casting their raw mana into the pit. However, the further it'd traverse, the more it'd disperse -- vanishing with enough distance applied. However, it was not simply being cast into the void. There was something partaking in it.

To Agne? They would be able to walk in to meet a group of nonmagus cultists, kneeling over in prayer for... Nothing within a pit of abyssal fluid. It appeared to be some kind of tar, infested with crystals.
Perhaps she heard a voice booming out earlier? Though, if there was one? Where would it had come from?

Her question however would not go unanswered, for a cloaked hooded figure would approach her. A cultist of seniority amongst the gaggle... With distance closing in? One could catch glimpse of their eyes beneath their hood, shielding their deathly pale skin from the sunlight. Their azure eyes carried wrinkles beneath them, gaped, as though haunted by a sight they could never take back.

'There is no need for alarm.' The man assured in an oddly calm demeanor. Their voice, betrayed their visually disturbed expression.
'He is drawing a divine pact with one of your magi brethren.' The explanation, was likely to draw forth more questions than answers.
To examine this individual further would reveal a supernatural history with the once-mundane.

The soul behind the eyes of the nonmagi cultist were seemingly lost, entranced by the depths of an abyss they'd falter to. Yet, here they were... Walking, talking, as though a creature pretending to be human, in a person's body.

The wading of draconic wings likely offered a subtle gust in their wake, forcing some nonmagi nigh to pay attention. Potential threats loomed at every corner, and those more mobile were far more risky to leave unobserved.

A voice boomed out, as though to answer one's curiosity -- One that lacked a specific point to be examined. It was as though it spoke from everywhere, yet nowhere. The radiation of raw Death in magic form seemed to plague the pit however -- The type of magic entirely undeniable to those that'd examine it.


"It shall be done... Your curse... Your sickness... It will be revoked. With the payment of your mana here and now, such pact has been sealed.

In time, more will come... Their numbers shall enable a proper ritual to birth your circuitry anew. You will be reborn, so that you may live the life you seek... Until then? You will evangelize my name in prayer... So, that all know of my power. When the suitable numbers are at-hand... You will be summoned... Famulus."


That was it... A dubbing without the need to know one's name.
A promise to fix her... And all she had to do, was gather others to invoke the ritual with.

Seems simple enough.
(Etheric Presence)

Etheric Presence's voice (to Akaza): Usque Terminus.

Etheric Presence's voice (to Akaza): Harbinger Of The End.

Agne would walk into a female mage using the spell vine to touch the strange pit, her vines were red maybe due to blood or something else being transported through the vines. Perhaps it was some spell used by blood and nature mage?

Slowly the woman's body was losing the color, it was almost as if she was losing blood. Wait, maybe the vines were red because they were sucking her blood.

"TAKE IT! TAKE IT BACK!"

She'd yell as the vines turned red, she wasn't just donating a small quantity of mana the woman was donating most of her mana. Her eyes showed despair and sadness, it wasn't a prayer more of a screaming of rage and pain from someone that needed something.

After the ritual was done the woman was breathing heavily, her vines slowly retreating after the voice promised to give her what she wanted if their numbers grew. There was no response to the voice just a nod, her hand was taken to the head as if she was in pain or heard something.

The figure failed to notice Agne before she slowly turned to her in confusion, who was she? When did she arrive?

"Who are you...? What...do you want?" She asked in a stoic tone, her expression was of a tired person.
(Akaza)

Agne was utterly confused. A presence not seen was booming within her mind, and her telepathy could not sense it - how odd. Perhaps there was no spirit-mind connection to this being, she didn't know.

"I don't really want anythin'- but what 'tha Hel is goin' on here? Why are these people chantin'?"

She looks to the tar in the pit.

"What is even in there? I should be 'tha one askin' questions 'ere."
(Agne)

"They are praying, using the pit to reach something else. This is a place of worship." She'd answer before slowly standing up to face the drakanite, her face pale due to the blood loss.

"I have no idea, all I know is that it's a spirit or deity that rules over new beginnings. You may call me Red, I came here to ask for a new chance in life...a way to start over.

Why should you be the one asking questions, ma'am? Who exactly are you...?"
(Akaza)

The elder cultist craned their head slightly.
It was common that nonmagi were not quite acknowledged on the same level as their magus counterparts. However, on these grounds? These nonmagi seemingly did not abide by those same rules.

Again, the man spoke up to make themselves heard:
'As I've said before, He was drawing forth a Pact. There is no need for alarm.' It was spoken from the individual as though it were merely a part of the natural order. Despite such, the slight tremor in his speech implied of a fascination with it all -- an adoration that clearly toed the line of total enthrallment... If they weren't truly lost themselves.
(Etheric Presence)

This place was getting weirder by the second. They were clearly entranced in thought, the being having some control over them - whether it be directly, or through them giving away everything to worship it. As far as she knew, it was dangerous to be here. Agne took a step back, before flapping her wings hard and fast. She burst into the air, attempting to flee. She was not answering any questions - something to report to her superiors.
(Agne)

The Fast:tm:
(Agne)

Agne is attempting to flee! They have scored 2665

Akaza has applied Mana Payment to their self.

[View the injury.]



Mana Payment [Temporary]
"An offering has been made to Terminus! With the revealing of one's casted mana, a sizable portion of mana has been seized! A sense of wooziness and overall exhaustion. Perhaps, it was a great deal more than what one might've expected. There seems not to be any physical scars to the flesh. But this one was a bigger offering, they truly offered more than most would. "
VIT: -22



There was no hesitation from the wounded woman, that was the strenght of a crazy person. Unless stopped she would run and try to jump the pit to do something...wait was she going to jump it to reach the drakanite before she left? Was she going to make it? OH NOOO!
(Akaza)

Akaza is attempting to pursue! They have scored 3797

There was no way that the woman was gonna make it, she was seriously wounded and had a sick body. Red had nothing but her will but the leap of faith was made, and yet she did...just how crazy was she?

As the jump was made the woman took off her jacket and pulled some bandages as her body started to fall, were the bandages hiding more injuries? No, it was wings...deformed Faeborne wings.

She was about to touch the pit when the wings moved, Agne would blink and soon a wounded person was clashing against her in the air like a missile. The faeborne wasn't trying to attack her yet just crashed with her body and pulled her to the ground before the woman could leave, that was the strength of a crazy woman.

"I saw you before, but where?" She asked with a stoic expression while trying to hold Agne by her shoulders, but the drakanite probably quickly realize that the faeborne's limbs lacked the strength to hold her in place. She was breathing heavily as if that move had taken most of her energy.

"Well, it doesn't matter. Whatever you're thinking, please don't."

The figure would ask in a tone that showed despair while shaking, almost as if she was pleading. No, she was begging...?

"If I know your face you must be from somewhere dangerous, so please don't go back there. Let's just talk, please...you are not my enemy."

While most would have expected the wounded crazy woman to attack instead she chose to attempt to talk, she had no wish to harm the drakanite. Even now Akaza truly believed that she had no enemies, or at least she tried to believe.
(Akaza)

Agne pushes the woman off the top of her, backing up slowly.

"This is fuckin' crazy, 'ya know that?

You want 'ta know who I am? Sure.

Agne. I am from 'tha Vigil, a guardswoman. Good enough? 'Ya are insane, and I have no idea what is goin' on. A cult? A summoning? What the Hel is this?!?"

She looked half terrified, half angry. She was utterly baffled.
(Agne)

The stoic woman seemed to relax as the woman pushed her but stopped to talk, she was still nervous but forced himself to smile. There was a pause as she heard the drakanite before raising her hands in a gesture of surrender.

"It's a spirit, people come here to bargain with a spirit. Not different from what people do in some settlements, Aphros has rituals too but there you have experienced mages and not peasants." She'd explain before motioning for the drakanite to wait and throwing her a donut.

"The spirit probably helped them and now they worship it, it's not evil as you can see or it wouldn't show itself like that and talk. As things are now it's harmless, but if too many people find out about it or big factions start having ideas like making it a weapon things could change.

Listen, I get that you're just doing your job. But you're also scared and nervous since you're seeing a bunch of crazy peasants worshiping a pit, if you go home and report to your boss like this there is a chance that they will immediately come here and destroy the pit so...eat the donut and let's talk."

There was another pause before the woman walked towards the drakanite and offered her a handshake, another hand being used to pull another donut from her bag.

"The donut isn't poisoned, consider it a peace offering. We think better with sugar, and apologies if I talk too much but my previous job was diplomat...people like me just love to talk."

(Akaza)

Agne calms down a bit, staring at the Faeborne. She takes the donut, placing it in her bag.

"Just ate as I went around mining. I appreciate 'tha offer. 'Tho - 'ya gave it so much, 'ya are hurt. Why do 'ya do this? What's 'tha purpose of all this? 'Ya give it things in exchange 'fa assistance? What does it do wit' 'ya blood? Many question, all likely can't be answered.

'Tha people there are clearly entranced and lost in thought, an idol of worship there. 'Ya can't blame me for being suspicious."

The Drakanite looks around, the medic badge upon her chest shuffling around. She really was confused.

(Agne)

The woman closed her eyes for a few seconds and sighed, it seemed she still had the talent for it. She could still do it, people behind her cheered for her success and they were proud of her...people that weren't there and she knew it.

"I know you probably won't understand, but some people out there have nothing. All we have is our faith and will, we are powerless and have no voice.

The only thing we can do is bargain with strange entities for a chance to be happy, me and the peasants there are not too different. I just speak with complicated words and don't get easily fascinated by things, meanwhile those poor people are non-magi that would worship a pig if it could fly and be entranced by it." The figure did her best attempt at a joke but then facepalmed, it wasn't as funny as she thought. Maybe she sounded like a jerk?

"And if you want to ask my reason to be giving so much, it's because I lost everything. First my family then my oath brother only to have the person I loved taken, all that while my body and circuits got more and more sick...I was useless when they needed me.

While the pit didn't ask for my blood and that much mana, I choose to give it most of my mana and blood because I'm asking for too much. No, maybe because I hate myself and wanted punishment...so please don't blame it for my mistake and see the pit for yourself."

The woman sighed before turning to the pit, what was she going to do?

"Spirit of the pit, would you be willing to answer her questions? Consider it a favor, and if she is really from Vigil it would be in your best interests to at least talk to her."

From their conversation Agne probably should be able to take two things, whoever the woman was she seemed to know something about Vigil and was used to diplomacy. Akaza also moved her hands a lot something that maybe she would have seen before if she met a certain pink-haired faeborne, while the hand gestures weren't the same they were similar.

(Akaza)