Gloirin raises his withered hands, gesturing for silence. The
busy city suddenly becomes deathly quiet. Dozens of animals slouch towards the
crowd, and hundreds of ravens and crows flock to sit atop the gates, drawn by
some grave and awesome power.

Gloirin lowers his arms to his sides. For what feels like an
eternity, he simply stands there. A slight wind kicks up and begins to whistle.

Gloirin begins humming. You recognize the tune as a popular Shallamese children's
song, but the words are all wrong. "Light the pyres and
ready the urns, there'll be plenty of slaughter.
Time for all the bad men to burn, along with their wives and daughters."

Tossing his head back, Gloirin laughs sadistically. The wind
picks up and his robe flutters back and forth in the breeze.

Gloirin says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Let's begin. Ignite those, if you
would."

Flair lights a thick black candle and holds it aloft.

Imyrr lights a thick black candle and holds it aloft.

Terra lights a thick black candle and holds it aloft.

Gloirin makes an upward sweeping motion with his hand, and the
candles are hurled into the air, where they suddenly stop, levitating, dimly
illuminating the area.

Gloirin says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "For ages, Ashtan has been a haven.
Whether it protected those persecuted by the Church in the earliest days of the
Burning Times, those hunted by the Infernals and later the Mhaldorians, or those
simply looking for their rights to be defended, the city has been a much-desired
oasis. A bastion whose walls no army can tear down!"

Gloirin says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "In these troubled times, little wonder
that some are worried. The witch Sarranda remains at large, the population of
Petra still enslaved by her loyalty chant. The vampires of Belladona continue
their machinations with the city's youth. And ever stands on the horizon the
threat of renewed madness in the Tower of the Luminai, the prospect of the
theocratic lunacy of a Caliphate to spur Shallam and its allies into action
against our noble citizenry."

Gloirin says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "They all whisper of the weakness and
vulnerability of Ashtan. After so much time, they reason that this fortress,
this rock, must be eroding!"
Gloirin's third eye narrows with intense disgust.

With the wind now whipping forcefully around him, Gloirin
dramatically throws back his hood. His voice takes on an echoing and mesmeric
quality.

Gloirin says in an euphonious voice, "Enough of these rumours! The age is coming
where no one will doubt the powers that lie within these walls, and within the
hearts of every citizen. The world will be divided in two, between those who
love Ashtan, and those who walk in holy terror of her!"

The winds now blowing at a frenetic speed, dust and debris from
the ground is lifted up around Gloirin.

Gloirin says in an euphonious voice, "We pay homage here today, to a God whose will
is to see all Ashtani enjoy lasting and enduring freedom. Praise be to Lord
Babel, our glorious Patron!"

Gloirin says in an euphonious voice, "May the winds of change sweeping around us all
nurture and protect us!"

Gloirin says in an euphonious voice, "May the power of Your Flame-Bright Spear lash
out at those who would assail us!"

The candles hovering in midair around Gloirin suddenly flare,
releasing huge jets of flame high into the air.

Gloirin says in an euphonious voice, "Countrymen! As you pass the gates of our
beloved home, remember your defender, your guide, your Patron. Though it, like
all things, will turn to dust, we consecrate this hallowed earth with a monument
to Chaos, to Freedom, to Ashtan! May it stand until the very moment all is
consumed!"

Imyrr throws his arms wide and begins to speak in tongues.

Imyrr's eyes gleam with generosity.

The ground around you rumbles and shakes as the earth parts. A humble shrine of
Babel rises from the ground.

Imyrr makes an offering, praying for the sanctification of this shrine to Babel.
The shrine suddenly grows to huge proportions.

The wind and the flames enveloping Gloirin twist and turn and
mix together, resulting in the shape of a flaming crown high in the sky. The
magical object slowly descends.

As Imyrr drinks from a bottle of glowing purple liquid, colour and vitality flow
through his limbs, and he appears greatly rejuvenated.

Coming to rest on the shrine, the flaming crown surges, and
then is gone as quickly as it appeared. Gloirin nods curtly, then raises his
hood once more.

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "So, it seems a few of you could use some
education on exactly what Babelonian Nihilism teaches, since you seem convinced
that it stands in direct opposition to Freedom."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "I'll sum up the history first. At the
beginning of Time, there were two seperate realms: one of Chaos and one of
Creation."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "As a direct result of the events
described in great length in the Mythos, which I urge you all to peruse on your
own time, Chaos and Creation began to move towards each other."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "This is the progression towards
Oblivion. Oblivion is reached when the realm of Chaos is entirely merged with
the realm of Creation. The latter is where we live."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "This progression is unstoppable; this is
an undeniable fact. It is a matter of the nature of the multiverse."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "This fact can be seen when observing the
Chaotic deterioration of these realms of Creation in recent years. The
appearance of rifts in time and space all around the world, for instance. The
surge of Chaotic energy that transformed many animals and plants in the Savannah
is another example."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Anyways, the whole point of that is that
it is the foundation of Babelonian Nihilism. Babelonians recognize that the
world is going to end in this manner; or, I should say, the world as we know and
understand it is going to end."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "However, whereas the gut reaction for
most Sapients is revulsion and horror, the Babelonians take a more enlightened
approach."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "The Truth of Oblivion is that it
destroys the entire basis for morality in these realms. Because your actions
have no greater significance beyond your lifetime, you are not required to live
by strict codes of morality, such as organizations like the fellowship of
Agatheis or the Te'Serran Church may impose on you."

Archdragon Eliana Aliene-Sehr'asa says, "Or the Ashura."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "While some may find the prospect of this
crushing, the appropriate response is overwhelming joy. No longer are you bound
by the conventional rules of society, including all those that may have hurt you
when you so badly desired to break them. It is the permission of Freedom in the
highest degree."

You say to Eliana in an euphonious, quiet voice, "To submit one's self to a
regimen like the Ashura's with full will and knowledge of Oblivion is not
necessarily a bad thing. A typical Ashuran has shown that they value things like
honour and the like even in the short-term, even while recognizing that they
have no greater significance beyond themselves."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "In a way, that is the greatest testament
to what Ashurans think of their ideals - they feel they are worth living in and
of themselves."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "And this applies for Warlocks,
Shadowsnakes, and every other group of people, really."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "And ultimately, what the Ashtani
organizations do is provide structure. What the Church and other likeminded
organizations provide is an oppressive atmosphere that is entirely unnecessary."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "So, as you can see, far from fighting
the ideal of Freedom, Oblivion is the underlying foundation for it. It is true
Freedom in the sense that you are bound to do nothing by some higher moral
power; it puts the mind of the mortal on a pedestal, exhorting as valued that
which mortals live on a day to day basis."

You say in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Does anyone have any questions?"

Babel, God of Oblivion has bestowed His divine truefavour upon you. It will last
for approximately 3 Achaean months.

Gloirin glances around, rubbing his beard thoughtfully.

Gloirin claps his hands together twice. A noise like a thunderclap resounds in the clearing and a beautiful redwood pulpit appears.

Gloirin ascends the stairs of the pulpit gracefully and motions with his hand for the crowd to be seated.

"Your attention, please!" Gloirin calls in a kind and gentle voice, though his third eye's glare betrays a measure of impatience.

Gloirin says, "I'm glad you've all elected to spend some of the rapidly dwindling time you have left as sentient beings with me here today."

Gloirin says, "Glad, because it gives me the opportunity to address the well-known, oft-repeated lies of the infamous Lady Lorielan, a Divine whose distortions and manipulations I can only stand in stark admiration and jealousness of."

Gloirin says, "Proponents, defenders, and followers of the Te'Serra fondly recall the story of the ascendance of the priestess Dawn to the deity known as Lady Mithraea. They likewise hail the memory of Maran La'Saen – the mortal who became Lord Pentharian."

Gloirin says, "If you listen closely, though, you can hear hesitation in their voice as they confess the history of Lady Lorielan. There was no proud rise from humble beginnings in the city state of Shallam in this case!"

Gloirin says, "No, the scholars among you will recall that She was among the insidious, rebellious Triumvirate of mythic lore. You will also recall that She was the one to discover the Crystal realms of the Kx'Khrah beings. Lorielan made Herself the Jade Queen and pressed the Kx'Khrah into service as Her pawns and soldiers."

Gloirin's third eye narrows with intense disgust.

Gloirin says, "It should be noted that Lord Agatheis did something very similar to the Elemental Lords. Whiirh, Garash, Sllshya, and Kkractle were all subjugated to His Divine will. Thus, both Agatheis and Lorielan gained the source of Their powers without any semblance of legitimacy. Then, to top it off, they used their new slaves to subjugate the Nevaharr beings!"

Gloirin says, "For those of you who cherish freedom, this is reprehensible enough. It is enough to rally you against the brutality and oppression of these false Gods."

Gloirin shrugs his shoulders and stretches his hands outward.

Gloirin says, "I know, however, that some of you do not value freedom, or at least, do not value it as much as another moral commodity – Truth. I will endeavor, therefore, to speak your language, for the priesthood of Lord Babel is called to do precisely this. We bring you knowledge, we bring you understanding, and we bring you the perfect interaction of these two: Enlightenment."

Gloirin says, "It is not altogether surprising that the Lady of Lies chose Enlightenment as Her supposed realm. I have to hand it to Her; the irony is rather exquisite."

Gloirin says, "Think about the situation for a moment. As the only member of the Te'Serra who was actually in existence in ancient times, when Lord Babel was given charge of the transition of Creation to Chaos, Lady Lorielan has a monopoly on firsthand knowledge of the situation. All of the efforts of the Church and every organization that has ever opposed the God of Chaos were based on faith in the word of the greatest Liar of the Mythos and, to a lesser extent, the works of Her cohort Agatheis."

Gloirin says in a sarcastic voice, "But of course, She's changed. She's not like that anymore."

Gloirin's third eye rolls in an expression of sarcasm and disdain.

Gloirin says, "Many of you are very gullible, I'm afraid."

Gloirin says, "Luckily, you have us to aid you."

Gloirin says, "I'd love to think for you, as it would make the situation much simpler, but that isn't really possible."

Gloirin says, "The priesthood of Lord Babel recently managed to liberate one of the present-day Kx'Khrah slaves of Lorielan. Lady Lorielan to this day enslaves the Kx'Khrah and oppresses them brutality, to the point that some groups of Kx'Khrah have risen in opposition and rebellion to Her."

Gloirin says, "Some of you may protest that this is an affront to freedom, not truth. Tell me this – She has kept so much from you already. The Samadhi were unable to offer an alternate explanation as to where this Kx'Khrah came from, and only impugned the motives of the priesthood in showing him to you."

Gloirin says, "Know that our only motive in this matter is this – the emergence of Truth and the rejection of One who would labour against it so intensely over the course of Her existence."

Gloirin says, "To that end, we granted audiences with our Kx'Khrah friend, who had agreed to recount his story to prove Her manipulations. The paltry few who showed up mumbled their condolences and left, or else entirely missed the point."

Gloirin says, "Perhaps you should reflect on what Her enduring lies mean for all of you. Perhaps you should rethink your allegiance to organizations with creeds founded on lies. Reject the teachings of Lorielan, and heed well the words of Babel, to prepare yourselves for the reality of Oblivion."

Gloirin says, "Oh, and don't tarry – time is running out, after all."

Gloirin descends the stairs of the pulpit. He claps his hands again, causing it to disappear. Finally, he bows, concluding the sermon.

Eventually someone will realize that Evil is just as orderly as Good

Eventually someone will realize that Evil is just as orderly as Good

Isn't Evil, what with it's strictly enforced chain of command, a good deal more orderly than Good?

Yes, they're more orderly, though in theory they should both be in vehement opposition to Chaos. What went wrong, Mhaldor?

THAT'S WHAT I'VE BEEN SAYING UGH.

Yes, they're more orderly, though in theory they should both be in vehement opposition to Chaos. What went wrong, Mhaldor?

Chaos is not the ideology of Ashtan. What would happen with status of all those Ashtani allies to Mhaldor? There are too many individual connections between Mhaldor and Ashtan.

I'm all for open war. What would happen if a group of Mhaldorians went to raid Ashtan like the group of Ashtani who occasionally raid Mhaldor? Ashtani would stand up screaming "Mhaldor is raiding us"", while no one in Mhaldor even thinks about saying they're raided by Ashtan and that retaliation should follow. I hate that, really. Best thing that can happen is another shrine war.

I would support the destruction of both Ashtan and Eleusis.

I would support the destruction of both Ashtan and Eleusis.

Deal.

(But the bog stays!)

I didn't mean actually get rid of the areas. Just kill off the citizens and make them into ordinary areas rather than orgs.

Probably.

Clearly, the solution is to just get rid of the rest of Ashtan!

Or you can get rid of the stupid Freedom ideology where citizenship in Ashtan is completely secondary to everything else. Leave that to Vastar and Eleusis.

It's not really just Mhaldor. It's Evil and Chaos both. They're too reluctant to fight each other, and anyone from one organization who does fight the other (see: Manifest) is afraid to make it an ideological conflict and bases it entirely on personal reasons instead.

If you think Chaos and its associated organizations have a great reason to go against Mhaldor, then by all means, plan it out and implement it. Getting support from Ashtan and its various factions will be a bit harder for you, of course.

Atop the Great Rock.

The bright sun shines down, blanketing you with its life-giving warmth. You
stand at the very top of the great rock, a relatively flat and smooth plateau
which, although not overly large, offers no danger of falling off. From here you
are afforded a magnificent view of the plains, which stretch out for many miles
in every direction from the rock, and the surrounding countryside of Achaea.
Perhaps one of the best views anywhere in the land are the forests of the north
and the Pachacacha river stretching from east to west like a thin blue silk
caught by the wind, and winding its way through the forests, the mighty river
Zaphar. A yellow lady's slipper plant prospers here. A goldenseal wildflower is
here. An empty stone base is all that remains as a reminder for a statue that
once stood here. A ladder of long, soft leaves comprises a wispy Weaver's Fern
along the ground. A pale woman stands here in traveller's clothes.

base83107 a barren stone base
fern205641 a silky white fern
figure119235 a pale woman in traveller's garb

Gloirin descends the stairs of the pulpit. He claps his hands again, causing it
to disappear. Finally, he bows, concluding the sermon.

Andante snorts in amusement, sending tiny wisps of dust scattering in all
directions.

Andante snickers softly to himself.

High Lord Andante Vallah (male Golden Dragon).
He is 121 years old, having been born on the 25th of Ero, 390 years after the
fall of the Seleucarian Empire.
He is ranked 58th in Achaea.
He is an extremely credible character.
He is not known for acts of infamy.
He is a member of the Ivory Mark.
He is an Exsusiai in Mhaldor.
He is a member of the ruling council of Mhaldor, with the title of Viceroy.
He is considered to be approximately X% of your might.
He is a mentor and able to take on proteges.
His motto: 'You're not a person, you're a disease.'


A puff of smoke escapes Exain's nostrils as he snorts in amusement.

Tamsyn nods her head slowly, looking very wise.

Quazzi scratches his head in confusion.

Exain's eyes twinkle enchantingly.

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, mesmerizing voice, "Questions or
comments, then?"

Vastarian Bladesinger, Exain Xanatov-Tav'Elaon says in a soft, growling voice,
"Pardon?"

Andante looks up into the air for divine inspiration.

Celas looks about himself, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

Soulfyriani points accusingly at a pale woman in traveller's garb.

Caliph Quoren Ironson, Imithian Prelate says drily, "One comment. You criticize
the Lady Lorielan for oppressing the Kx'Khrah and not giving them their freedom,
and then bind him in your dark hole of a cavern against his will? Pardon me for
finding something vaguely hypocritical about that."

Quoren nods his head at a pale woman in traveller's garb.

A pale woman in traveller's garb raises an eyebrow at Soulfyriani.

Attaining her fullest glory, the shining sun sits upon her throne at the apex of
her daily trek through the firmament.

Soulfyriani Lokelinde, of the Silenced Harp says to a pale woman in traveller's
garb with a port district accent, "And what have you to say?"

Quazzi bounces and leaps around like an insane tiger with a spring-loaded tail.

Jinn laughs melodically at Soulfyriani.

Farro shrugs helplessly at Celas.

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "The Caliph first."

A red admiral butterfly flits in from the east.

A rapidly spinning handaxe comes flying into the room, hooks Forzt and flies
back off again.

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "We recognize that it
was his will to leave the caverns when you spoke to him. However, while we
Babelonians acknowledge the importance of freedom of action, we also live by
power rules. If we let him go, the assassins sent by Lorielan would have slain
him instantly and there would be no revolution in the Crystal Realm."

"Bah!" Roroan retorts disgustedly.

Roroan leaves to the west.

Merius raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "This would have been
pointless, and in neither our nor his best interest."

Roroan arrives from the west.

Lady Jinn Yamaguchi, Princess of Shibuya frowns and says in a delightfully
adorable voice, "Im sorry."

High Lord Andante Vallah says, "Freedom is granted only if those in power deem
it to be so?"

Daimyo Roroan Rousseau, Vastarian Saint of Swords says, "My appologies for that
interruption."
-
Andante chuckles long and heartily.

Ovid says to Gloirin, "So you are able to gauge the best interests of the being
better than the Lady Lorielan?"

Ovid (male Troll).
He is 40 years old, having been born on the 8th of Ero, 472 years after the fall
of the Seleucarian Empire.
He is ranked 286th in Achaea.
He is an extremely credible character.
He is not known for acts of infamy.
He is a member of the Ivory Mark.
He is considered to be approximately X% of your might.
He is a mentor and able to take on proteges.
His motto: 'Needles above the prey. Wreath of barbs.'

High Lord Andante Vallah says, "That is deliciously ironic."

Exain twiddles his thumbs.

A look of sweetest innocence overtakes Exain.

Daimyo Roroan Rousseau, Vastarian Saint of Swords says, "Freedom is every beings
Sacred Right."

Terra Diaboli says to Ovid with a cold, Rajamalan accent, "The Lady doesn't care
about the best interests of the being."

Terra Diaboli says with a cold, Rajamalan accent, "Or it wouldn't have run away
from Her to begin with."

Caliph Quoren Ironson, Imithian Prelate says, "Oh, I see. So what if he runs
away from you?"

Ovid says to Terra, "Would the being not run from you, given the opportunity?"


Caliph Quoren Ironson, Imithian Prelate says, "Does that mean -you- don't have
his best interests in mind?"

Ovid says to Terra, "From my understanding -- and your admission -- he wished to
do exactly that."

Sentinel Fox Celas Celes'Ciel says in a cautious, almost timid voice, "And if he
*hasn't* run away? What if he was let out? What if we are deceived?"

Quazzi pulls down his pants and moons the world.
-
Jinn laughs melodically at Quazzi.

Hernando blinks.

Andante stares implacably at Quazzi.

Ovid says to Quoren, "The captured creature is the leverage held above the Lady.
His "sacrifice" is necessary to expose whatever misdeeds these Babelonians
perceive."

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Why would the Jade One
release the being so it could rally support and animosity against Her? Think.
The domination of these beings by Lorielan was well documented in the Mythos. It
clearly escaped."

Quazzi blushes furiously.

Soulfyriani Lokelinde, of the Silenced Harp says with a port district accent,
"This all bears the reek of either a conspiracy or a very ambiguously-motivated
set of lies."

High Lord Andante Vallah says, "Ahh yes, the sacrifice of innocents. For once we
are in agreement, priest."

Andante nods his head at Ovid, showing his acceptance.

Ovid says to Andante, "It stands to reason that where there is sacrifice, there
is someone collecting the sacrificial offerings. Where there's service, there is
someone being served. The man who speaks to you of sacrifice is speaking of
slaves and masters, and intends to be the master."

Sentinel Fox Celas Celes'Ciel says in a cautious, almost timid voice, "How could
one being escape Her? How could he rally such support alone? The Lady's
objectives are hidden."

Soulfyriani shakes his head.

Kakon, a Theran shipmate says, "It seems as if everyone is just assuming what
Lady Lorielan's position is. Why don't you let this woman speak up?"

Kakon points accusingly at a pale woman in traveller's garb.

Loosely wound crimson locks frame the pale face of this woman, curling past
murky emerald eyes that stare out at the world around her. Matching her eyes in
hue, a small jade talisman, held aloft by a thin gold chain, peaks out above the
neckline of a simple bistre tunic. The hues of the garment compliment the tone
of her ebon leather trousers, fitting loosely around her legs. Thrown atop all
her clothing, a forest-green riding cloak cascades down her body, its hood
resting behind her neck.
A pale woman in traveller's garb looks to be crushingly strong.
She weighs about 287 pounds.
She is loyal to Lorielan.
You see nothing in it.

Farro raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Hernando smiles softly.

Ovid says to Kakon, "The woman will speak when she so desires, berating a poor
traveler will do little but encourage swift and silent travel."

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Ah, of course. I'll be
glad to accept whatever she says - clearly, she cannot lie."

A pale woman in traveller's garb says, "I came only to hear the usual
blaspheming against my Lady."

Gloirin rolls his third eye in annoyance.

A pale woman in traveller's garb says, "Let this show Her benevolence to those
who doubt it: Any to speak so against the Lord of Oblivion would find himself
stricken dumb and mad within moments. The Lady of Enlightenment allows even
these lies against Her to be spoken, in the interest of encouraging discussion
and the search for truth."

Vastarian Bladesinger, Exain Xanatov-Tav'Elaon says in a soft, growling voice,
"Look a pale woman."

The sun begins her downward journey towards eventual sleep, casting even, full
light upon the land.

Exain coughs softly.

Vastarian Bladesinger, Exain Xanatov-Tav'Elaon says in a soft, growling voice,
"Mis."

Nulaye Vastel, Daemonic Hand says, "If I may?"

Wings of the Apocalypse, Imyrr Rousseau, Angel of Destruction says to a pale
woman in traveller's garb in a regal, resonant voice, "Save when She sends
Han-Silnar to silence those opinions that oppose Her too vocally."

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Another lie. When I
departed the Church years ago Lady Lorielan did precisely that. It was the
Master that broke me from that bondage of tongue then to speak for Him."

Gloirin Silvertongue says to Nulaye in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Go ahead."

Nulaye Vastel, Daemonic Hand says, "I care not for who does or doesn't bind the
creature or why, but to move beyond the point for a moment - is revolution
outside required to spark revolution inside? Do they desire our assistance in
battling the Lady's will?"

Imyrr nods his head at Nulaye.

Ovid peers at Imyrr unscrupulously.

The radiant sun shines all about you.

Jinn waves goodbye.

Celas tilts his head and listens intently.

Ovid says to Imyrr, "If Gloirin is to believed, then Lorielan promotes
enslavement and Suffering. Why would Mhaldor seek to assist any battle against
that?"

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Indeed. The creature
came and we admitted visitors to the Caverns for precisely this reason - aid is
required to travel to the Crystal Realm and break the Jade One's power."

Pteron raises his hand in the air.

Nulaye nods her head carefully.

Merius grins mischievously at Falkaera.

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Ovid, "Mhaldor does not promote enslavement.
Blind devotion is only so useful."

Ovid says to Gloirin, "Why would Mhaldor seek to free a race that has fallen
pray to enslavement by a stronger force?"

Ovid says to Gloirin, "Is that not simply one of their "Truths" in action?"

Ovid says, "To oppose it would be to oppose themselves."

Andante snorts in amusement, sending tiny wisps of dust scattering in all
directions.

Ovid says, "And, prey, rather."

High Lord Andante Vallah says, "Your logic is faulty."

Devoto Pteron, Novus Discipulus says, "May I?"

Ovid says, "Do, please correct me, then."

The body of Sentinel Fox Celas Celes'Ciel appears in a flash and his soul
descends to fill it, causing the previously expressionless face to fill with
emotion.

Gloirin Silvertongue says to Ovid in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Because they
augment the Jade One's power, and the Jade One opposes the Twins? There is also
Suffering in the inherent cycle of Nature, but the Twins were more than glad to
see Nature burn."

Sentinel Fox Celas Celes'Ciel says in a cautious, almost timid voice, "Forgive
me."

Pteron takes a bound manuscript from a soot-coloured journeyman's satchel.

Ovid says to Gloirin, "You extend the realm beyond practicality. There is
suffering in all things, however, not all things can remain unopposed. Your
instance of Lorielan "enslaving" these creatures is a direct and indebatable
instance of one of the Truths in action."

Ovid says, "This is, of course, working under the assumption that what you say
is true. However, on that point I still remain woefully unconvinced."

Wings of the Apocalypse, Imyrr Rousseau, Angel of Destruction says in a regal,
resonant voice, "No one expects the blind to see readily."

Andante nods his head at Imyrr, showing his acceptance.

Dominion Arelas Coldraven says to Ovid in a clear, quiet voice, "Which Truth do
you cite, Priest?"

Gloirin Silvertongue says to Ovid in an euphonious, quiet voice, "And your
Oppression of the weak and unwary is another direct and indebatable instance of
one of the Truths in action. If your logic worked, I'd expect you to be the
Tyrannus by now."

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Gloirin, "Be careful, that's very nearly an
insult."

Ovid says to Arelas, "I do not have a copy of your Truths before me, however, I
speak of the strong being made stronger through the subjugation of the weak."

Gloirin inclines his head politely at Andante.

Ovid utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Balancing on the rim of the world, Lady Sol prepares to enter her daily slumber.
The shadows grow long as the daylight wanes.

Gloirin Silvertongue says to Andante in an euphonious, quiet voice, "I wish no
such pox upon you, rest assured."

Ovid says to Gloirin, "Your ad hominems do little to convince anyone, save maybe
yourself."

Andante nods his head at Gloirin, showing his acceptance.

Dominion Arelas Coldraven says to Ovid in a clear, quiet voice, "Perhaps you
refer to the Sixth Truth, that the mind may be made stronger through the
elimination of conscience? I somehow doubt Lady Lorielan wishes to exterminate
Her conscience through inflicting pain upon others."

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Arelas, "I don't know what he thinks he speaks
of, since subjugation of anything save for weaknesses are not referenced in the
truths."

Arelas nods his head at Andante.

Ovid says, "I speak only of the assumptions put forth by Gloirin."

A cloud of gnats surrounds you for a moment before moving on.

Devoto Pteron, Novus Discipulus says, "May I ask a question, Gloirin?"

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Go ahead."

Devoto Pteron, Novus Discipulus says, "Long time ago, the Kx'Khrah willfully
decided to worship Lary Lorielan as a Goddess. Did they at one point changed
their mind? Being creatures of weak individual will, how did that happen?"

Tirocinium Jarrod, Deathbringer says to Ovid, "And of how they correlate to the
Truths in your eyes."

Banishing the light, Lord Twilight conjures Stygian darkness over the land and
the bright moon enters the heavens.

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "You are remembering
your history incorrectly. There was an assessment of Her power and the
realization that if they did not go along, they would be destroyed. Numerous
clans of Kx'Khrah were killed, as our friend in the caverns reports, and even
some who did Her will were slain."

Caliph Quoren Ironson, Imithian Prelate says, "As pleasant as this is, fuzzy
logic and hearsay is only amusing for a short while."

Caliph Quoren Ironson, Imithian Prelate says, "Blessings attend."

Ovid nods his head at Quoren, showing his acceptance.

Gloirin smirks.

Quoren flickers briefly and is gone.

In the crystal-clear night sky, the stars twinkle and glow brightly.

Devoto Pteron, Novus Discipulus says, "So they were oppressed and manipulated?"

The chirping of crickets surrounds you in a medley of night-time music.

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Yes. Do not let Ovid's
absurd leaps in logic confound you, however. That the Jade One oppressed them
does not mean She works for Evil."

Ovid utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Ovid says to Gloirin, "You certainly implied the opposite earlier."

Ovid says to Gloirin, "Are you, now, retracting that statement?"

Ovid says, "To hear Gloirin speak of the subjugation of a "weak" race while in
the same breath beseeching the aid of Mhaldor in their freedom is one thing...
it is another thing entirely to see Mhaldor turn their backs upon their own
Truths and willingly step into league with Babel for the "good" of this race is
absurd."

Nulaye rolls her eyes.

Ovid utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Siyad de Feura, Walker of Forests says in a powerful roaring voice, "Debates
bore me."

Siyad stands up and stretches his arms out wide.

Siyad begins to flap his wings powerfully, and rises quickly up into the
firmament.

High Lord Andante Vallah says, "That's a nice piece of fiction. Did you just
dream that up out of what you think you heard?"

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "I beseech no one for
aid save the God of Chaos."

Nulaye Vastel, Daemonic Hand says, "It is very simple to point out the Suffering
or Oppression in all matters, or to call one act of brotherhood Good and
compassionate if it suits the debate and the narrow-minded self-importance of
the debaters. The intent is important as are all of the under and over-tones,
and nothing beyond the surface is being scratched by such talk."

Andante snorts in amusement, sending tiny wisps of dust scattering in all
directions.

Nulaye Vastel, Daemonic Hand says, "The ability to be solidly Oppressed by a
Divine hardly means you are entirely weak and useless."

A pale woman in traveller's garb slips into the shadows, disappearing silently.

Dakeyras Winterbourne says something unintelligible.
Dakeyras is swiftly carried into the skies and out of sight by a glimmering pair
of wings made from slates of pure gold.

A group of 4 bloodroot leaves falls from Tamsyn's person.
A group of 4 pieces of irid moss falls from Tamsyn's person.
A group of 4 kuzu roots falls from Tamsyn's person.
A group of 4 pinches of diamond dust falls from Tamsyn's person.

Ovid scoops up a group of 4 bloodroot leaves.
Ovid scoops up a group of 4 pieces of irid moss.
Ovid scoops up a group of 4 kuzu roots.

Celas gives a pained sigh.

Bonko smirks.

Ovid scoops up a group of 4 pinches of diamond dust.

Ovid hums innocently to himself.

Cub Ronsard Special Edition says in a deep,confident voice, "Farewell."

Ronsard leaves to the south.

Ovid says, "Regardless, I will cease playing devil's advocate. It does nothing
but alert Mhaldor to the machinations of the Babelites."

Andante snorts in amusement, sending tiny wisps of dust scattering in all
directions.

The grass around you rustles slightly as the night breeze caresses you.

Ovid says, "I say, "Let them be manipulated.""

Ovid pats Nulaye in a friendly manner.

Wings of the Apocalypse, Imyrr Rousseau, Angel of Destruction says in a regal,
resonant voice, "I know full well you have been instructed in proper
terminology. Pity such lessons fly through that gaping cavern atop your neck."

Ovid says, "In time, you will see, but at that point it will be much too late."

Ovid says, "Again, ad hominems do little to further your argument."

High Lord Andante Vallah says, "Ahh, a mere 40 years on this earth and yet so
wise."

Andante snorts arrogantly.

Gloirin Silvertongue says to Ovid in an euphonious, quiet voice, "It is a shame
not even the Te'Serra and their mortal flock could find a use for your ability
to spew inanities, and turned you out."

Ovid utters a deep, rumbling laugh.

Sentinel Fox Celas Celes'Ciel says in a cautious, almost timid voice, "There's
no reason to be petty..."

Ovid says, "Much as I would love to stick around and be insulted, I see this
debate has run it's course."

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "I do not seek to cast
Lorielan in a light of Good or Evil. I simply inform."

Farro nods his head at Celas, showing his acceptance.

Ovid says, "I will leave you to nod heads at one another."

Ovid, riding an emaciated thylacine, leaves to the south.

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Celas, "Use your voice like a Sentinel, not a
Sylvan."

Sothantos looks about himself, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.

Celas smiles softly at Andante.
Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "Unless there are
further questions about this topic, I shall retire."

Wings of the Apocalypse, Imyrr Rousseau, Angel of Destruction says in a regal,
resonant voice, "In any event, the creature seeks allies to aid its people
against the unyielding tyranny of Lorielan. If you find that prospect appealing,
by all means, we will alert you when it comes time to cast Her down."

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Spire, "Are you a Sentinel once more?"

Andante raises an eyebrow at Spire.

Terra takes a drink from an ebony vial.

Fierce Spire Hayabusa says, "A Sentinel in Scorpion stance, perhaps."

Andante rolls his eyes.

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Spire, "I'm bot blind. Housed?"

Fierce Spire Hayabusa says, "For the first and only time, yes."

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Spire, "This one."

Andante points accusingly at Celas.

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Spire, "Needs to learn what it is to be one."

Celas gives a pained sigh.

Gloirin Silvertongue says in an euphonious, quiet voice, "With that, then, I
take my leave. Should any of you wish to be informed when it is time to strike
against the heart of the Jade One, do seek the Enlightened Ones out."

With a flourish of his arm, Gloirin bows deeply.

Gloirin leaves to the south.

High Lord Andante Vallah says to Spire, "If there are still any left that
remember and Honour the old ways, see to it."

Deepest Stygian night steals over the land as the symbolic hourglass empties and
turns, ready to begin a new day.
It is now the 18th of Ero, 512 years after the fall of the Seleucarian Empire.

It's not really just Mhaldor. It's Evil and Chaos both. They're too reluctant to fight each other, and anyone from one organization who does fight the other (see: Manifest) is afraid to make it an ideological conflict and bases it entirely on personal reasons instead.

Are you serious? Mhaldor is the everything-to-everyone bad guy in Achaea, and presently serves as antagonist to Shallam, the Church, Oakstone, Cyrene, half the Pantheon, et cetera, et cetera. I'd rather offer real, honest opposition to a few organizations than get overextended and forced into dance-offs, staring contests, whatever is going on between Vastar and Neraeos.

The conversation after the sermon about Lorielan:

Eventually someone will realize that Evil is just as orderly as Good

You share those enemies with half of the world.

It's really not Mhaldor vs. everyone. Only Mhaldorians think it is.

You share those enemies with half of the world.

It's really not Mhaldor vs. everyone. Only Mhaldorians think it is.

Right. Good thing Mhaldor has Ashtan to back it up when Ashtan comes raiding - those guys are really formidable.

Which makes no sense to me. What're you afraid the Ashtani will do, raid back?

I had to remove a lot of x applies a salve to his/her skin and x yawns suddenly and mightily,
in general opinion, who gags this or why wouldn't it be smart to gag it?

Yes, that is why. [/serious]

Ashtan is -ing awesome when it gets motivated..or it used to be.

My point is that Ashtan is, according to several Mhaldorians, already raiding them, so what's the incentive not to raid Ashtan?

Personally, I'm of the opinion that Ashtan as a city is not raiding Mhaldor, just a few of their citizens, and Mhaldor is terrified of what will happen if they provoke the city at large.

Mhaldor raids Eleusis, Cyrene, and Shallam. When your respective e-cities begin raiding three others, do feel at liberty to pipe in with your newfound understanding on whether adding a fourth to the list makes sense.

My city kinda raids five.

Pro Tip: I was talking about cities raiding cities, with the full sanction of the government. You can appreciate the difference between Manifest raiding Hashan and Imyrr raiding Hashan.

Another topic has been opened for Evil v. Chaos. It would be best if we stopped cluttering up this one, methinks.