Concerning the Daru Way (Cleaned Log)

You say, "When it came to joining a guild, I was rather torn, I admit."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Ooooh, guild talk."

The corners of Chiaki's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

Meltas flaps his wings gently and moves over to the bench taking a seat.

You say, "When I first set my eyes on the Beacon, the Daru drew me immediately. Of the guilds, they
were, and remain, the ones with the closest ideals to my own."

Vigilant Chiaki asks you, "Nola and Tens mentioned it, but could you go into a bit more on 'em?"

You say, "But I found the rigorous regimen we maintain rather intimidating at the time. It shames me
to admit it, but that's why I took up the mace first, instead."

Your mouth turns up as your face breaks into a smile.

You nod your head at Chiaki.

The corners of Chiaki's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

Vigilant Chiaki says, "I was a lume."

You say, "We of the Daru hold unflinchingly to the teachings of Fire, all the way back to Lord Rahn.
"

Vigilant Chiaki says, "He was around when I was a youngin'"

You say, "Ah? I envy you that. I would have loved to know Him."

The corners of Chiaki's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

You say, "But it's not just Fire. We follow its tenets so that we may hone Body, Mind, and Will, and
so resist Corruption."

Tenshyo smiles at you in clear appreciation of your speaking.

Meltas leans back in the bench listening closely. His attention towards you and Chiaki.

Mirila leaves to the west.

Chiaki ponders the situation.

Her luxurious fur gleaming like spun gold, Kendri bounds in from the northeast.

You say, "All that is in pursuit of the Light, and the Age of Dawn. We strive for Perfection through
Pain and Purity, driven by our Faith and Fervour."

Sniffing softly at the air, Kendri dashes out to the west in a flash of gold.

You say, "With Fire as our tool and forge."

You smile and say, "I like to think that each tenet is self-evident, for the most part, but if you
have questions about any of them, I'd be glad to answer."

Grinning, you say, "Or Grand Master Tenshyo here would be happy to chime in, I'm sure."

Tenshyo nods at you, a smile on his face. "I too would answer."

The corners of Chiaki's mouth turn up as she grins mischievously.

Vigilant Chiaki says, "I'm just wrappin' my head 'round it."

Vigilant Chiaki says, "Got a little daydreamy."

Chiaki ponders the situation.

You smile impishly and say, "Quite alright. It's a rather different lifestyle. It takes getting used
to."

You say, "Rigorous, as I said, and intimidating. But also extraordinarily rewarding."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "It is."

Vigilant Chiaki asks you, "Could you give me somethin' to picture when you say rigorous?"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Vigilant Chiaki, "Through the teachings of Tekura, and the
practicing of Katas."

You say, "I can! As a small example, we practice Tekura, and learn it by way of forms called kata."

You give a trillingly melodic laugh.

Chiaki giggles happily.

Tenshyo smiles at Meltas.

Tenshyo coughs softly.

Vigilant Chiaki laughingly says, "I have verified your story, go on."

Tenshyo smiles at you.

You say, "We'd be happy to demonstrate, if you'd like!"

Vigilant Chiaki smiles and says, "I like."

You say to Tenshyo, "Jakata, you think? Or Krull?"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian asks you, "A Kata?"

Tenshyo ponders the situation.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Krull."

You nod your head emphatically.

Tenshyo presses his palms together and bows low, ready to perform the Form of Krull.

Tenshyo assumes a perfect Dragon stance, seemingly focused and calm.

You press your palms together and bow low, ready to perform the Form of Krull.

Tenshyo performs a breathtaking somersault into the air and lands confidently several feet away.
Jayce arrives from the ether.

You assume a perfect Dragon stance, your mind focused and calm.

Tenshyo flips backwards, lashing out with both legs simultaneously and handspringing back onto his
feet.

You perform a breathtaking somersault into the air and land confidently several feet away.

Tenshyo launches into a bewildering series of lightning fast hand motions, showing off his
impressive dexterity.

You flip backwards, lashing out with both legs simultaneously and handspringing back onto your feet.

Meltas idly twirls his staff as he watches the three talk. Mildly amused at the conversation.

Tenshyo twists into the air once more, with a gravity defying whirlwind kick.

You launch into a bewildering series of lightning fast hand motions, showing off your impressive
dexterity.

Tenshyo drops straight down to the floor and into the splits.

You twist into the air once more, with a gravity defying whirlwind kick.

Tenshyo places a single hand on the ground and with incredible effort, swings his body up into a one-
handed handstand.

Chiaki shifts her eye from Tenshyo to you, observing as much as she can of the practiced movements.

You drop straight down to the floor and into the splits.

With a cry of effort, Tenshyo launches himself off the ground and springs back onto his feet.

You place a single hand on the ground and with incredible effort, swing your body up into a one-
handed handstand.

Tenshyo presses his palms together and bows, the Form of Krull complete.

With a cry of effort you launch yourself off the ground and spring back onto your feet.

You press your palms together and bow, the Form of Krull complete.

Tenshyo swings his arm up and high fives you enthusiastically.

You have emoted: Melantha grins exuberantly, settling her breathing after a few moments without
apparent effort.

Chiaki claps her hands together merrily.

Vigilant Chiaki smiles and says, "I don't think I'd get tired of watchin' that."

You say, "That was the kata of Krull, the final of eleven that we must master."

Your mouth turns up as your face breaks into a smile.

You say, "The others are, in order, Jakata, Lisagi, Rhee, Philos, Tykorima, Opha, Nexus, Kali, Do-
san, and Rhythos."

You say, "Through Tekura, we hone our bodies."

Vigilant Chiaki laughingly says to you, "I'd say."

Chiaki snickers under her breath.

Tenshyo sinks back into the menacing stance of the Scorpion.

Tenshyo eases himself out of the Scorpion stance.
Tenshyo adopts a strange position and a look of pure menace flashes in his eyes.

You say, "Through Telepathy, we hone our minds, and through Illumination, we hone our wills."

Vigilant Chiaki asks, "I've used my inner spark, bein' trained as a Lume... is it much different?"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Vigilant Chiaki, "Every living being has an Inner Spark."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Vigilant Chiaki, "Whether they know it or not."

Meltas grins slightly. "Some would call it a will of the wilds, or a spirit." He shrugs before
examining his staff.

You say, "A bit. We turn our Inner Spark toward tempering our bodies, while you can do such feats as
call lightning. And yes, as I referenced earlier, every living being has an Inner Spark. The undead
give it up, whether they know it or not."

Chiaki grins mischievously at Meltas.

You smile wryly.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Vigilant Chiaki, "Luminaries, as well as we Daru, both draw on
our Sparks. However! The Daru draw on the Crescent."

Chiaki tilts her head curiously.

Vigilant Chiaki asks, "The whatsit?"

Chiaki blinks.

You say to Meltas, "Perhaps, but we can call it forth, even your own, if you were inclined to permit
us."

Meltas bares his teeth in a feral grin.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Vigilant Chiaki, "The Crescent is a sliver of the Great Spark.
"

You say, "The Crescent, which was drawn first from the Great Spark itself, then later recreated by
Lady Auresae."

Vigilant Chiaki asks, "What's the 'Great Spark'?"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to you, "Do we explain or show?"

Tenshyo's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile.

Chiaki crosses her arms beneath her chest, shifting her gaze between Tenshyo and you.

You say to Tenshyo, "Either! Both!"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to you, "Both it is."

Vigilant Chiaki says, "I like show a lot."

Meltas smirks at Chiaki.

Tenshyo begins to follow you.

You beckon Chiaki to you.

Chiaki begins to follow you.

You smile and say, "Before we go, I'd like to demonstrate for Meltas, if that's fine."

Chiaki tilts her head curiously.

Meltas raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Tenshyo's eyes sparkle with amusement.

The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "My spark, is that wyvern over there."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "The other one...we do not touch."

You nod your head emphatically.

You wryly say, "Whereas we of the Daru do. I had thought to call my own forth to show you, but it
seems that its existence is not in question."

Meltas ponders the situation.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "We could call it into question."

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly.

Meltas says with a half shrug as he stands. His eyes gleaming in the given light. "I'm always up for
questioning things." He says, his smile turning into a small grin, his eyeteeth showing from beneath
his lip.

You wryly say, "If you'd like. I will warn you that you'll want to shield your eyes."
.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says, "Continue, Melantha."

Glancing at Tenshyo, you say, "Guard me? It will be out in the open, and I'd rather bolster training
with sensible precaution."

Tenshyo nods his head at you.

Tenshyo eases himself out of the Dragon stance.
Tenshyo sinks back into the menacing stance of the Scorpion.

You have emoted: Melantha gives a small smile and nods gratefully.

Meltas's eyes sparkle with amusement.

Her luxurious fur gleaming like spun gold, Kendri bounds in from the west.

Kendri inclines her head politely to those around her.

Meltas inclines his head politely to Kendri.

Meltas chants a brief spell and a flash of revealing light floods the room.

Holding both hands forth, Chiaki pushes some of her lit energy towards the surroundings.

You have emoted: Taking a deep breath, Melantha settles her body into a relaxed, balanced stance and
closes her eyes. Still breathing evenly and deeply, she lifts her hands to her chest and crosses
them over her heart.

Tenshyo looks at you, his face showing both joy and concern.

You have emoted: The shifting hues of fire within the skin of Melantha's hands slowly intensifies
until they are both sheathed in low, bright flames. After a few moments, an answering glow arises
below them, subdued, but rapidly gaining strength. Little by little, she draws her hands away from
her chest, until a blinding glare abruptly erupts into the open.

Chiaki quickly shields her eye, covering it with both hands as she exclaims, "Whaaaaa??"

Meltas blinks a couple times at the light, but stares at the flame within your hands. "Interesting."
He says softly. "What would happen if a flame was ripped from someones body, by force?"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis, "I'll give you the
benefit of the doubt, but you move that bench..."

With a quiet whine at the sudden brightness, Kendri ducks her lupine head down.

Meltas raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Move.. the bench?"

The loud squawk of a paradise bird rings through the air.

You have emoted: The light dims swiftly, revealing Melantha cupping a still-bright light banded in
thick cords of fiercely burning flames.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Move from rather. A fire, a Spark, I do not think can be
removed by a mere mortal."

Meltas moves away slightly and stands beside Chiaki. "Alright, I've moved." He says with a grin.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "We lose it upon becoming undead."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Do we lose it, or does it go dormant?"

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "If we all have it, as your teachings say we do, then
is something truly lost?"

Shooting an apologetic glance at Kendri before directing her gaze on Meltas, you say, "It is
forsaken. Only a Divine may restore it, or have it restored by the gift of the Cure."

Tenshyo nods his head at you.

Cautiously, Vigilant Chiaki asks, "Is it safe to uncover mah eye?"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Vigilant Chiaki, "Yes."

You say, "It is something that may only be lost willingly."

Chiaki lowers her hands to her sides, "That was somethin'."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "But is easily found if they become living again."

Pushing the Spark back into her chest, you say, "Not so easily. It is the act of regaining the Spark
that grants life anew."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Rebirth and Renewal."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "You just said getting the cure."

You say, "In the case of vampirism, yes. Undead must petition."

Kendri settles down to listen, perking her ears toward those that are speaking.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "So, in essence, it's technically easy, depending on
the divine that one petitions."

You say, "The Cure itself must be gathered, and that is difficult, though obviously far from
impossible."

You smile wryly.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks, "Am I wrong?"

You say, "I suppose you could say that, but it is not lightly lost, nor lightly gained again."

You say, "And that is what is important. One who believes they may give it up repeatedly will find
it increasingly difficult to regain it should they so choose."

Tenshyo nods his head at you, showing his acceptance.

You say, "And eventually, they will choose to forsake it entirely."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "But I come back to the point that was made. We, of
living beings have this spark, that you speak of. As I mentioned different groups call it different
things, but in essence the same thing. If those of living gifts are. for lack of a better word,
gifted , with a spark, then so too are those who "lose" and I say it lightly. but rather place it
into a torporian state that is harder to wake."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Harder to wake from, once they go to and from the
state of undeath and living."

Her brow furrowing slightly, you say, "Before I answer, can you clarify? I had a bit of difficulty
following that."

Tenshyo looks towards Meltas "The Inner Spark of the living is not some Spirit, or Crystal, but
rather is a flame." Tenshyo extends his right hand a little, a small flame appearing within.

Meltas rests release his staff, vines wrapping around the base. A glimmer in his eye, obviously
enjoying this debate. "The question then would become, if someone is forever living, able to have
their spark torpored on them or do they always have it no matter what they do." Blinking he says,
"Aye, forgive me, Allow me to re-iterate."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "As long as they draw breath, have a heart beat, the Spark
resides within them."

You have emoted: Melantha regards Meltas expectantly, her face intent as she waits for clarification,
 though a small smile crosses her face at Tenshyo's response.

Vigilant Chiaki smiles and says, "Forgive me, um, everyone."

Vigilant Chiaki says, "I've gotta rest."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "It was mentioned that Living creatures always have a
spark, we are born with it, it resides within our bodies, unless  we got to the shadows, of undeath
and vampirism. If those who are gifted with the spark at birth, then so are those who go to the
other side, however, their spark is not -lost- persay, but rather placed in a state of slumber."

You say to Chiaki, "Ah, apologies! Rest well, and Light be with you. Come find me again!"

Chiaki smiles at you.

Vigilant Chiaki says, "I'll seek yah out, promise."

Chiaki leaves to the south.

Tenshyo turns towards you and places his palms together in front of his chest, bowing respectfully.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to you, "Rest well."

You grin mischievously at Tenshyo.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks you, "Does that clarify a bit?"

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian, "She's not resting,
Chiaki did."

You say, "Not going yet. But hm. It does, yes."

"Good!" Meltas says with a smile.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says to Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian, "Wanted to
clarify for Melantha, but will come to your point after I hear her answer."

You say, "I would say that you're likely on the right track, though I don't believe that's a course
of study that's been pursued in detail. Personally, I believe that each time it is given up, a
little is lost before it is returned."

Tenshyo coughs softly.

You say, "Really lost."

Meltas ponders the situation.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says to you, "I want to ask you a couple more
questions, but want to get a point on Tens here."

You smile wryly.

You raise an eyebrow questioningly.

You say, "Before you do, I'll use myself as an example. As far as I've come, I still gave up my
Spark, so I still could have come farther had I not."

Tenshyo tilts his head curiously at Meltas.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian, "So, if a living
person commits a horrible crime, many times over their lifetime, the spark will stay consistent
within their form? But, one who just became vampire, -brand new, never done anything bad in their
life prior- will put that spark into a state of sleep right away?"

Meltas ponders your profile, deep in consideration.

Meltas seems to think for a moment before nodding slowly at you.

You say, "In exchange, I learned firsthand what it is like to walk in Shadow, and it is not an
experience I would have anyone share."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis, "As far as I am led
to believe, having seen things of such myself, yes."

You say, "And yes. The Spark is not influenced by crimes, though the mind may be hardened."

You say, "Pure Corruption is another matter entirely. That is a direct assault upon the Spark."

You say, "Crimes open oneself up to Corruption."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis asks, "Rape and murder of innocent, while living, is not a
form of pure corruption?"

You say, "No. That is pure evil."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Which came first, corruption or pure evil?"

Giving the question obvious and serious thought before replying, you say, "Corruption, I would say.
Evil comes from within oneself, or is accepted and reflected from the influence of others."

You say, "It takes blindness to walk in Darkness, willful blindness and callousness. If you don't
have it going in, be assured that it will be thrust at you by those already there."

A frown wrinkles Meltas's brow as he articulates a "Hrm...."

Meltas seems to think for a moment before nodding slowly.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Blindness to walk into darkness. One could be blinded
by light, could you not?"

Sniffing softly at the air, Kendri dashes out to the northeast in a flash of gold.

Her luxurious fur gleaming like spun gold, Kendri bounds in from the northeast.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "You said yourself, that I needed to cover my eyes
when you pulled your spark out."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis, "There is a
difference between the blindness in which she speaks."

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly at Tenshyo.

Sniffing softly at the air, Kendri dashes out to the southeast in a flash of gold.

With a slight nod, you say, "There's truth in that, but again, it is -willful- blindness. Lady
Auresae has said that She does not desire Her own to follow Her blindly. So it is with the Light."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "I know I'm jumping, forgive me. Blindness,
willing or unwilling, physical or metaphysical in various terms, can be done based on life
experiences, Told to always listen to certain people without questioning or doubting their works. Or
being pushed to the brink, either on this side or the other, and being blinded by distain towards
whoever or whatever caused you harm. No?"

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Harm or joy, in this case."

You say, "Correct. But whatever the cause, it is always a conscious choice in the end. You choose to
close your eyes to this thing or that, be it in resignation or what have you."

You say, "I'm not saying there aren't those of the Light who follow blindly. There are. But ideally,
you follow with eyes open and guarded, always paying attention to what you see and acting
accordingly."

Tenshyo nods his head at you.

You say, "We're not infallible, though we strive to be. Call us out on something we did wrong, and
we'll either choose to confront it or continue on blindly."

You say, "But it all comes down to the choice."

You say, "Even the wrongdoing is something that is chosen."

Pondering the words for a long moment, Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "Would
you agree with the following, sometimes, there is not better choice, simply a choice that leads to
two outcomes of equal or worse evil?"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis, "What are you getting
at with that question?"

With a firm shake of her head, you say, "I do not. That's where Will comes into play. Will, Fervour,
and Faith. If it seems there's no palatable choices, it is up to you to strive for the ideal choice.
"

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "An ideal choice would be the lesser of two paths,
would it not?"

You say, "An ideal choice would be one that is within the Light."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian, "Always think I'm
getting at something, I'm just pulling out key things that are said and formulating a question."

You say, "And the Light has nothing of evil within it."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis, "Arguable. You
usually have a reason for a question within those sleeves."

You have emoted: Ignoring the byplay, Melantha focuses her attention upon Meltas completely, meeting
his eyes candidly and searchingly.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "How can one be sure? Politics are within the
light, people favoring over  others, is within the light, but is also evil because things are not
chosen fairly. Even within the brightest corner of the light, there is always something, that can be
seen as sinister. Would it not be better to accept that there is evil within the light, and work
towards, accepting that fact and working around it, rather than always continuing to try and
eradicate it?"

You say, "Np. Absolutely not."

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly.

You wryly say, "No, rather, though that's obvious."

You say, "The moment that you cease striving to eradicate evil, the moment it will take root and
hold."

You say, "Evil comes from within us, as I said. Unless we are Perfectly Pure, it is not likely to go
away entirely, but we can choose to reject it. The evil is not within the Light. We -strive after-
the Light."

Meltas ponders the situation.

You say, "The Light is above -all-."

You say, "-That- is why the Daru are so stringent with our discipline."

Meltas nods slowly. "I assume, and I could be wrong please correct me." He pauses. "Idar Karif, was
the founder of the Casle of Illumination. A castle that had no shadows within any physical form.
every room was lit by a thousand candles." He says, gathering his thoughts. "How is it, that a man
who at the time was able to nearly destroy the light, turn, in this case evil, killing all within
the castle of Illumination, children, women. and so forth. and the castle falling into darkness
after he cast himself over the balcony." Taking a breath. "If we always strive for light, are you
then not following a path blindly?"

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "What is the reason he turned? Hrm?"

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian, "Love for a women."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "And what woman would that be?"

Meltas bares his teeth at Tenshyo in a feral grin.

Meltas taps his nose knowingly.

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Meltas, "//I've actually never
heard this lore before, not in detail."

"Hmm?" Tenshyo murmurs for clarification.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Influence from a rather... Corruptive woman."

You say, "No, we are not. Every choice is consciously made, but made in light of, well, the Light.
Physical shadow is simply an obstruction between physical light and that which is behind it. Again,
evil comes from within. Corruption is what twists that which is good within us into evil."

You say, "But there will always be evil within waiting to be aided by Corruption. That is why it
must be continuously and consciously rejected at every turn."

You ask, "You understand the distinction?"

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "//hrm..it's a book ig....but, essencially, Tiyen, was the
castle of illumination, where Idar, created the strong hold to fight off the Indoron. long time ago.
He met this women, the women being the goddess of corruption. over time, idar was close to
erradicating the indoron from the realm, but because of the goddess' powers, he followed her blindly,
 and he threw himself off the balcony of tiyen after they married and after he had killed all the
people in the castle that didnt leave."

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "//and she then revealed herself as Chak and corrupted the
castle of illumination and so on and so forth."

Meltas nods his head and says, "Aye."

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Meltas, "//Sounds suspiciously like
the Wheel of Time. >.>."

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "//oh?"

Meltas ponders the situation.

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Meltas, "//Ever read the books? The
first one details an account of a very powerful man on the side of good that is corrupted in much
the same way, though it wasn't a woman that did it."

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Meltas, "//He ended up killing his
wife and children along with everyone else."

Tenshyo crosses his arms.

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "//i think I vaguely remember that. but not a hundred
percept. and ya, minus his kids. pretty much what it works out to."

You have emoted: Melantha nods slightly with a small smile.

You tilt your head and listen intently to Meltas.

You smile and say, "Was there anything else, or is that satisfactory? I'd be happy to continue our
discussion."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "Apologies, trying to find the best way to word
myself."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "So, in essence, how does one, take corruption,
say we'll use the beacon or your guild as an example, Remove favoritism, since that is a form of
corruption or evil, how does one remove, self doubts, loathing, hate towards a fellow individual?"

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Some things cannot be eradicating, they can be
acknowledged, discussed, but complete and utter removal of everything that can be considered evil is,
 impossible, you would need to become an emotionless being, who only looks at facts. Even divine, as
pure as they are, can foster hate, and favoritism. No?"

Tenshyo ponders the situation.

You say, "Mm... Favoritism is not Corruption, nor necessarily evil, though it is intrinsic to being
mortal and even Divine, yes. The doubts, loathing, and hate, now, those are fought and beaten down
with discipline. You feel it, but you refuse to be influenced by it beyond common sense. I will say
this about them, though: All three are a healthy attitude to have when faced with Corruption,
Darkness, and Artifice. They keep you thinking. It's only when dealing with people that you leash it
tightly."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "The Daru, to me, have always geared ourselves towards
demonstration, selecting those who are best fit for a position."

You say, "It sounds absurd, but all three are emotions that must be twisted before they become evil.
Corruption, again."

You wryly say, "I would not, for instance, go out of my way to befriend Abhorash."

You say, "But even Abhorash once served the Light, if memory serves, yes?"

Meltas nods his head at you.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "An experiment of belandona's."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Belladona's."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "So if he once served it, why not try to be-friend
him?"

You say, "Because the nature of friendship is to accept another for themselves and not try to change
them."

You say, "True friendship, that is."

You say, "Courtesy is well and good, but if you do not seek to bring someone to the Light and yet
grow close to them, they will instead draw you steadily into Darkness."

You say, "The Revelation mentions a very similar situation, actually. Have you read it?"

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says, "Indeed I have."

You wryly say, "Then my answer is surely familiar."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Aye, however, I've asked myself this question every
time. If fear itself festers, it can lead to corruption, so in and of itself, being afraid and
thinking that you will become corrupt by being around someone of shadow, is it not in turn, leading
to corruption based on that fear of the shadow itself?"

You say, "Who said anything about fear? Fervour is the answer to that. As I mentioned, every choice,
every action, is influenced by the Light, and the spreading of it. But what say you about the rest?
Forgive me if you were about to address it, but it is, after all, my answer to your last question."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound hurries in from the northeast, a broom tucked beneath his arm.

Meltas inclines his head politely to Hayim, Priest of the Unbound.

You turn towards Hayim, Priest of the Unbound and place your palms together in front of your chest,
bowing respectfully.

Tenshyo turns towards Hayim, Priest of the Unbound, places his palms together in front of his chest,
and bows respectfully.

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "Wotcher."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Hayim, Priest of the Unbound, "Evening."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "Aye, the others, when you state it like that
you're right, everything that was mentioned is healthy, I would even go so far as to say, needed in
a days life for a mortal to function. It's knowing where those emotions stem from that matter most.
In my opinion, and how one goes about dealing with those emotions."

Nodding, you smile and say, "All things that the Daru way of life address."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Sometimes those daily problems aren't overcome alone, but
rather with the help of a friend, a family member, a Divine. Even a memory."

You say, "Indeed. And as closely knit as we are, that helps a great deal."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "You think everyone should live the Daru way?"

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound tilts his head curiously at you.

Tenshyo looks about himself, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

You say to Hayim, Priest of the Unbound, "It would certainly be nice. Mind, now, that I don't
suggest everyone become joyless husks in service of the Light. We Daru live life with great joy. We
simply are constantly and consciously on guard against Corruption and seek to bring about the Age of
Dawn, and all that entails."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound's face knots into a deep furrow, and he leans upon the end of his broom,
 contemplating this reply for a few seconds.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "If I may."

You nod your head at Meltas.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "The consciously on guard part, the Ascendril
once had a task of sort. they were to be vigilant of the three children, to ever watch for them. and
to make sure they would never see fruition. But even their role has changed."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "Was just an observation, I will let you and
Hayim continue."

Carefully, Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "What makes the Daru way the correct way of doing
this?"

Tenshyo looks about himself, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "To me, the way others view the Light has changed to an extent
that is no longer viewed the same as it once was, as it was first viewed. The Daru haven't changed
their views and still adhere to the ways it was founded on."

You say to Hayim, Priest of the Unbound, "Constancy and devotion. We Daru have held firm to our
tenets, refusing to compromise them. In turning our focus first inward, we are better able to face
assault and serve as the frontrunners in the cause of the Light."

Voice lilting on feathery wafts of air, Tenshyo tells you, "(( Similar answers. It's like we're Daru
or something haha."

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Tenshyo, "//I know, right?"

Meltas flaps his wings gently and propels himself backwards giving more room for the two Daru and
the priest to discuss as he observes quietly.

Nodding firmly, Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "Right. So what makes your view of the Light a
better one than others that exist at present?"

You say, "I don't recall saying that, actually. What was questioned was our methods. We strive after
the Light. My view of the Light itself is that it is -vast-. It is everything that is good, and none
of what is not. It is internally resilient, completely without Corruption and completely resisting
Corruption. We can but strive to exemplify it, and strive we do."

You say, "Most importantly, it is above -all-, as I mentioned to Meltas. It is manifested in many
ways, Fire particularly, but none of those are the Light."

Tenshyo nods his head at you, showing his acceptance.

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "I was more talkin' to him. Should have said. He made the case
that what made the Daru ways right was because your view of the Light? Hadn't changed. So I was
asking him what made that view so good."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound points accusingly at Tenshyo.

You wryly say, "Ah, indeed. Fair enough, though our answers were much the same."

You tilt your head and listen intently to Tenshyo.

You smile and say to Tenshyo, "Care to elaborate, Grand Master?"

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly.

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "Excuse me for just a moment."

Meltas inclines his head politely to those around him.

Meltas leaves to the east, riding a sullen war ram.
He is followed by a wyvern spirit.

You say to Hayim, Priest of the Unbound, "I'm curious about your thoughts on my view, however. Once
the Grand Master has given his answer, you can reply to us in turn?"

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound spreads his large hands open, in a gesture of acceptance.

You grin and nod.

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Meltas, "Certainly."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "How I personally view how it is something like the following.
The Daru have had such a clear cut view, a clear goal. Not that any other variation doesn't. I feel
that it is the way to approach because it has been straight forward, unchanging. Rather headstrong
if you will."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "What makes it better or worse than any other is open to the
person. I cannot, and will not, put words in another's mouth."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound's brow knits again. He glances over to you.

You nod your head at Tenshyo, showing your acceptance.

You tilt your head curiously at Hayim, Priest of the Unbound.

Carefully, Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "Alright, so I'm confused on a couple points here.
First of these is this - you're saying your methods are better because your views are consistent.
And you seem to be saying it ain't so much important whether the views are right, but it's the
consistency that makes them right. Second of these points - you, before, were saying everyone should
live the Daru way, but now you're agreeing that what makes it better or worse is an individual
matter. So to be clear - do you believe your way of life is for everyone, or not? Or am I
misunderstanding here?"

You say, "Indeed. People may think what they like about how suitable our way of life is. I'd
personally like to see them live it, but cannot force them. Cajole, certainly, but not drag them. I
make a case for consistency because, put it this way, if we haven't needed to change them, we must
be doing something right. Our tenets have served us well since the birth of the Monastery."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "I do think so, I do think everyone could at least benefit from
living with our views. I am in agreeance with Melantha here."

You say, "They give us strength. Would you put your trust in a boat's anchor with a chain that is
rusted through?"

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "What was missed?"

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "I used to fish. Anchor chains only get rusty if you don't keep
good care of them. You clean 'em regular, replace the bad links, repair the weak spots, a good chain
can last you. You just have to mind it and not trust that just because it got forged right to begin
with, it'll see you through for the rest of eternity."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "And, hell, not everyone needs an anchor chain. Some people are
tailors."

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly at Hayim, Priest of the Unbound.

You say, "Quite so. We follow the tenets, but not blindly. We hold to them, but do not allow
ourselves to be content in passivity. Debates such as this are what cleans and maintains them, as it
were."

You say, "We do so among ourselves as well as with those outside the Monastery."

Confusion knits Hayim, Priest of the Unbound's brow again. He doesn't reply, however.

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Meltas, "Not all that much. When
did you come in?"

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "Just when Hayim mentioned the i used to fish, anchor
chains part."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "Yeah, but let's extend this metaphor. No chain ends up the way
it started. You have to clean out old links. Forge new ones. It's not enough to clean off the chain.
Sometimes links just plain... break. Sometimes Truths that work for one time don't work as well for
another, so you scrap that link and find a new Truth for its place. You look to the world. You look
to the Gods."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Are you saying, or rather insinuating, we abandon our way of
living? We simply just say "Oh, well this isn't working in complete unison to every thing that isn't
how we see it"."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "I'm just saying you picked a bad metaphor."

You give a trillingly melodic laugh.

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly.

You say, "Alright, that's fair enough."

You say, "A foundation, then."

You say, "Sunken into bedrock."

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Meltas, "Ah. Tenshyo and I gave our
replies, and cleared up some confusion. He wondered about why we held to the consistency of our
views as what validated them, and why we seemed to wish everyone would follow our ways and yet be
alright with them not."

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "Ahh, alright."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "So, extended, we're talking about a great big building built on
those foundations."

You say, "A tower is a good metaphor, I think. Constantly building higher, with its supports both
entrenched within the foundation and giving strength to each other."

Holding up his hand, Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "A tower. Standing tall. Lighting the way,
sort of. That's how you figure it?"

You say, "A fair summation. Reaching for the sun, was my thought. Much like my Lady's Spiral."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound's brow remains furrowed. He nods. A smile splits his withered face.

Meltas raises an eyebrow questioningly.

The crackle and pop of flames accompanies your voice as you tell Meltas, "Mmhm. To the latter, I
replied that people can think what they like. Though I'd love to see them live our lifestyle, I
can't force them to. To the former, I replied that since we haven't needed to change our views, we
must be doing something right."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "Thanks for explaining. And letting me pick at you."

You have emoted: Melantha waits politely, then gives a warm smile of her own at Hayim's words.
"Certainly. It was my pleasure."

Through the ether, Meltas utters to you, "Valid points. and I believe that's interesting non-the
less."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian smiles and says, "Anytime."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound says, "Night."

Hayim, Priest of the Unbound departs northeastward, his broom tucked beneath his arm.

Meltas snickers under his breath.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian, "You seem so tense."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says, "Breathe."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis, "I sound sure because
I believe in our views, Meltas."

The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian, "Was referring to the
anytime, comment."

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly.

Meltas snickers under his breath.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "On that note however."

You smile impishly and say, "Master Tenshyo here is just a little better at showing how much on
guard he is."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "This old man has actually warn himself out from a
conversation. that was quite simulating to the brain."

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly at you.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "The Khimaira gets a little more... heated than I."

You grin and nod.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says to you, "I think they have other words for
on guard, but i'm drawing a blank."

You say, "Oh, yes, indeed. And how fun it is to watch, too."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "The receiving end, is something else."

Meltas taps his nose knowingly.

You laughingly say, "Hey, I've been there, remember? I know."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Thankfully I haven't."

Meltas sniggers evilly.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Sometimes, walking the other path, is an eye opener."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "That some people need."

Meltas shrugs helplessly.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Then again, my brother was her mentor."

Tenshyo casts a suspicious eye about the area.

Your eyes sparkle with amusement.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Was and still is if I remember correctly."

You smile and say, "Most likely."

Sobering, you say, "Walking the other path is not something I would wish on anyone as a lesson,
though."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says to you, "Some people, are too stubborn to learn
otherwise."

You say, "Far better to have them listen to wisdom rather than gain experience."

You smile wryly.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Depends on the individual again."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Had this discussion with the congregation, some
people, do not listen to reason, even when you've been patient with them."

You say, "Perhaps, but there's always the chance that the Darkness will claim them completely."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Then, they become eradicated."

You say, "Those are the ones that will end up purged in the end."

You nod your head emphatically.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "I like that chain comment though."

You say, "But the fewer of those, the better."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "People are like links."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "If one is broken, they can only be polished so much."

You say, "I hadn't thought of it that way. I was referring to our tenets giving us strength. But our
solution is to make sure the links don't get broken in the first place. We continually temper them
so that they will be strong in the face of that which would break them."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Even re-tempering them will cause the materials to
break."

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says, "Reconcile the self, better others."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Over time."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "Can only do so much patch work."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "And listen to me...I'm not even putting up arguments
against anything now."

Meltas stretches languidly.

You say, "They may break, but they do so while being reforged, and so retain integrity."

The corners of your mouth turn up as you grin mischievously.

You say, "Metaphors only go so far, y'know."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "I must be getting old, for now I rest, and then we
can take this up when I know how to hold a decent discussion."

You say, "There are no perfect ones."

You smile wryly.

You nod your head emphatically.

Grand Master Tenshyo Tanarian says to Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis, "Rest well."

You say, "I look forward to it. Rest well, then, and Light go with you."

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis smiles and says to you, "Also, metaphors can go on forever."

Meltas's eyes twinkle enchantingly.

Last Alpha, Meltas Fiadhaich-Cardinalis says, "And to you both, rest well when you's do."

Your eyes sparkle with amusement.

A gentle humming fills the area for a moment as Meltas concentrates, fading away again as Meltas
blinks out of sight.
He is followed by a wyvern spirit.