[RP] History of N'kashya, by an unreliable narrator

jerinx · **Posted:** Sun Jan 05, 2025 2:58 pm

If you need a warm cup of milk to help you sleep, here's a monologue. Edits to figure out color code were modestly successful.

Setup: Athyero and Zimtist made a deal, and Athyero's side was knowledge. He's holding up his end of the deal.
1/3

Quote:

The door to the inn closes. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > l The Taproom of the Hart and Rose Obvious exits: e(closed) w(closed) u ne(closed) An update is posted on a mithril sign by the door. A cork notice board hangs on the east wall. A hand-pump is here to dispense beer. A battered old bin stands in the corner of the room. (Ethereal) The ghost of a dark-skinned female human is flying here. Cyrill (a burly male half-elf) is here. A long, serpentine creature with massive wings flies here. (6) Zimtist (a freckled male gnome) is resting here. A serving wench moves deftly through the taproom serving drinks. A bard is here, entertaining the crowd. An off-duty Peacekeeper is here, relaxing with his friends. A freeman of Exile is here, quietly sipping his ale. A small boy works here collecting glasses and clearing the tables. A thuggish-looking giant glowers here, watching the customers for trouble. A brutish-looking man stands impassively at the door watching the crowd. The swordsman Halfdane is here, quietly drinking by the fire. The warrior Grimm is here, regaling folk with tales of his youth. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > The ghost of a dark-skinned female human says 'Please tell your story. I can't stay.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > The ghost of a dark-skinned female human smiles. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > nod dark You nod at her. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > The ghost of a dark-skinned female human fades back into the ether. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt What do you know of the Cathar-du? You ask to Zimtist 'What do you know of the Cathar-du?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > eq You are using: <worn on finger> an ebon ring set with sapphires (superb) <worn on finger> an astral ring (brand new) <worn around neck> an astral necklace (brand new) <worn around neck> an astral necklace (brand new) <worn as symbol> (Dim) a tiny black raven <worn on body> a midnight breastplate (brand new) <worn on head> a coif made from the skin of an onyx-scaled dragon (brand new) <worn on legs> leggings made from the skin of an onyx-scaled dragon (brand new) <worn on feet> boots made from the skin of an onyx-scaled dragon (brand new) <worn on hands> gloves made from the skin of an onyx-scaled dragon (brand new) <worn on arms> bracers made from the skin of an onyx-scaled dragon (brand new) <worn about body> an astral cloak (brand new) <worn about waist> a belt made from the skin of an onyx-scaled dragon (brand new) <worn around wrist> a finely-crafted wrist guard etched with a VII (brand new) <worn around wrist> a finely-crafted wrist guard etched with a VII (brand new) <right hand> a midnight shield (brand new) <both hands> the pike of the Midnight commander (brand new) [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says to you 'Not much at all, I am afraid. THe name sounds the slightest familiar, but I cannot place it.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote gingerly ungloves his hands, resting tediously manicured hands on the table in front of him. Athyero gingerly ungloves his hands, resting tediously manicured hands on the table in front of him. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > remove glove You stop using gloves made from the skin of an onyx-scaled dragon. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say What do you know of Pyrathia's first peoples? You ask 'What do you know of Pyrathia's first peoples?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill starts to pray. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill utters the words, 'gaiqhjabral'. Cyrill is protected by sanctuary. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > who [--- ---] Aidreon. [--- ---] Aquilan - Seeker of the Scale [HEl Hel][FEA][MDN][LGN][HRO] Athyero Xapha, Knightlord. [HEl ---][KPR] Cyrill - Knight of Discipline, Taslamaran Dream Walker [DEl ---] Xarendath - Squire of War [Gno ---][PAR] Zimtist - small molehill of Wisdom Players found: 6 [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill sits down and rests. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist shakes his head. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > nod You nod. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'Nothing much at all.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'I have come across a number of origin stories, but not the first.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > take bottle cloak You get a bottle from an astral cloak. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say To keep it focused. You say 'To keep it focused.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote dips a finger into the bottle for a few drips of wine, and draws a vaguely continent shape on the table in front of him. Athyero dips a finger into the bottle for a few drips of wine, and draws a vaguely continent shape on the table in front of him. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Many peoples came from the ocean. Pyrathia untamed when magic was young and thick. You say 'Many peoples came from the ocean. Pyrathia untamed when magic was young and thick.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The reason Taslamar was here to be taken up by the separationists is because many people hadn't formally made it that far west. You say 'The reason Taslamar was here to be taken up by the separationists is because many people hadn't formally made it that far west.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say There were the people of the deep, your kin, dwarves, elves. You say 'There were the people of the deep, your kin, dwarves, elves.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote puts a wine-wet finger in the middle of the shape on the table. Athyero puts a wine-wet finger in the middle of the shape on the table. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The fae, barely through the veil. You say 'The fae, barely through the veil.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote gestures to the 'southwest' Athyero gestures to the 'southwest' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say And then the comers from the ocean. Halflings and humans. You say 'And then the comers from the ocean. Halflings and humans.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say They came from the east. You say 'They came from the east.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist drinks coffee from a mug of hot coffee. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The Empire was the first landing place. The original Empire was that of the Cathar-Du. You say 'The Empire was the first landing place. The original Empire was that of the Cathar-Du.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Before the empire of the Bright Star. You say 'Before the empire of the Bright Star.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath tells you 'I believe I have my banner.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath tells you 'Would you walk with me?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > reply I am in the Exile inn. paying a debt to a gnome. You reply to Xarendath 'I am in the Exile inn. paying a debt to a gnome.' [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > reply You can join, but I can reach out when I am done as well. You reply to Xarendath 'You can join, but I can reach out when I am done as well.' [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath replies 'Very well. I would ask that you meet me at terje when I can manage to tear passage there.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'Ahh, there is a street in your city named that, now I recall.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Halflings made it very far, far before the first cities were built. They had magic, and a dark purpose. You say 'Halflings made it very far, far before the first cities were built. They had magic, and a dark purpose.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath replies 'I'll join you until your business is done.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say You'll find remnants of the halflings far in the northwest, dating back to long before even the Cathar-du. You say 'You'll find remnants of the halflings far in the northwest, dating back to long before even the Cathar-du.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say But another story for another time. You say 'But another story for another time.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist asks 'The village there, I presume you refer?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say That and others. You say 'That and others.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say I think the mrraoli have something to do with that original magic, you'd have to speak to the Wren deeper about them. You say 'I think the mrraoli have something to do with that original magic, you'd have to speak to the Wren deeper about them.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'I've found references to some of the tales of halflings about several of the northern cities.' [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > The door to the inn opens. [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath closes the door to the inn. [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > nod xaren You nod at him. [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath replies 'No matter on that.' [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods at Xarendath. [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath bows before you. [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'Greetings.' [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill nods at Xarendath. [HP:100%] [ME: 94%] [PE:100%] > sayto xaren Squire. Have a seat. You say to Xarendath 'Squire. Have a seat.' Xarendath looks at Cyrill. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto xar Paying a debt to the gnome. Telling the story of N'kashya from the archives. You say to Xarendath 'Paying a debt to the gnome. Telling the story of N'kashya from the archives.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath greets Cyrill. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'I am Xarendath.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath sits down and rests. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say However, there's a little remedial history to give it context. You say 'However, there's a little remedial history to give it context.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath nods at you. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'Very well.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill says to Xarendath 'I am Cyrill' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says to Cyrill 'I am not versed in all the tongues of the realms yet.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt People claim the necromancers might have been started by deep-elves, but I think the original founders of Krychire and the wastelands are the halflings. You say to Zimtist 'People claim the necromancers might have been started by deep-elves, but I think the original founders of Krychire and the wastelands are the halflings.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath asks to you 'Would you grant me those lessons?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill says to Xarendath 'I said my name is Cyrill' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'All but Aghelian.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt The giants of the ice and them go back in an ugly way. You say to Zimtist 'The giants of the ice and them go back in an ugly way.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto xar In time. You say to Xarendath 'In time.' Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > nod xar You nod at him. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The first outpost of the Cathar-Du was N'kashya. It was the original settlement. They were boatfaring and island-living people. You say 'The first outpost of the Cathar-Du was N'kashya. It was the original settlement. They were boatfaring and island-living people.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill stops resting, and clambers to his feet. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill starts to pray. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill utters the words, 'gaiqhjabral'. Cyrill is protected by sanctuary. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill sits down and rests. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote dips his finger in the wine bottle and makes a mark on the eastern side of the continent drawn on the table in front of him. Athyero dips his finger in the wine bottle and makes a mark on the eastern side of the continent drawn on the table in front of him. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says to you 'N'kashya, being underground now, a momentus event must have occured.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say They found the mines, those early humans. This was very early realms, magic was so thick in the air you could barely swing a sword without summoning it. You say 'They found the mines, those early humans. This was very early realms, magic was so thick in the air you could barely swing a sword without summoning it.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt But there were other seats at the table of power, even then. The gods were young, too. They had squabbles like adolescents, because for Pyrathia they were. You say to Zimtist 'But there were other seats at the table of power, even then. The gods were young, too. They had squabbles like adolescents, because for Pyrathia they were.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt They played tricks on each other. They fought. They were dramatic. You say to Zimtist 'They played tricks on each other. They fought. They were dramatic.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath stops using a narrow-bladed claymore etched with glyphs. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt Two of the most powerful at odds were your God's previous iteration, Zarathustra. And one of the great many faces of my Lord. You say to Zimtist 'Two of the most powerful at odds were your God's previous iteration, Zarathustra. And one of the great many faces of my Lord.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt The texts are unclear with whether he was known to his most loyal as Dreddnahr at this point, or if Az'pook was how he called himself. You say to Zimtist 'The texts are unclear with whether he was known to his most loyal as Dreddnahr at this point, or if Az'pook was how he called himself.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'Aye, I have seen reference to both those names used at times.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > nod You nod. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt He had hold of more of the divine weavings, then. He was one a deceitful thing. You say to Zimtist 'He had hold of more of the divine weavings, then. He was one a deceitful thing.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt A little deceit, intrigue. A little blood worship. You say to Zimtist 'A little deceit, intrigue. A little blood worship.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt His war with the gods carved him into something greater, now, but he was a raw marble obelisk of power then. You say to Zimtist 'His war with the gods carved him into something greater, now, but he was a raw marble obelisk of power then.'

jerinx · **Posted:** Sun Jan 05, 2025 3:01 pm

2/3

Quote:

[HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt He was the father of halflings, then. Or at least their whole and complete corrupter. He seeded this land. You say to Zimtist 'He was the father of halflings, then. Or at least their whole and complete corrupter. He seeded this land.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt The early of the Cathar-Du worshipped yours. They were explorers, seekers of knowledge. You say to Zimtist 'The early of the Cathar-Du worshipped yours. They were explorers, seekers of knowledge.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote sighs a slow, wistful sigh. Athyero sighs a slow, wistful sigh. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt It's ironic, how close we came to the eastern Empire being entirely a vision of the essence. You say to Zimtist 'It's ironic, how close we came to the eastern Empire being entirely a vision of the essence.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'I happened upon some writings of him very recently, a tome telling a tale of Dreddnahr, the halflings, and the sea king Kias.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The Cathar-du built N'kashya into a city of jade. They mined that jade from the pits below, and as they dug they came close to the waiting seeds of Dreddnahr. You say 'The Cathar-du built N'kashya into a city of jade. They mined that jade from the pits below, and as they dug they came close to the waiting seeds of Dreddnahr.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Little roots planted by his worshippers before them, to whisper and taint. You say 'Little roots planted by his worshippers before them, to whisper and taint.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill stops resting, and clambers to his feet. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Some fell very easily. Some fell very hard. Many fell, but not all. You say 'Some fell very easily. Some fell very hard. Many fell, but not all.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill starts to pray. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill utters the words, 'gaiqhjabral'. Cyrill is protected by sanctuary. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill starts to pray. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill utters the words, 'qcandusahz yaae'. A loaf of golden bread suddenly appears. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill eats a loaf of golden bread. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill drinks water from a smooth silver goblet filled with water. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill sits down and rests. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt The city of jade flourished for decades. Some say centuries. You say to Zimtist 'The city of jade flourished for decades. Some say centuries.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt It was a hub of learning, commerce, and Imperial growth. You say to Zimtist 'It was a hub of learning, commerce, and Imperial growth.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt It was one of the only cities of men for a long time. You say to Zimtist 'It was one of the only cities of men for a long time.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt However, over time the cult of Az'pook took hold like a cancer. You say to Zimtist 'However, over time the cult of Az'pook took hold like a cancer.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say You see, Dreddnahr then was stuck on the other side of our plane. This plane had thick walls between planes, then. Magic could flow, but little else. You say 'You see, Dreddnahr then was stuck on the other side of our plane. This plane had thick walls between planes, then. Magic could flow, but little else.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say However, his words could flow too. It's how he corrupted the halflings. It's how he corrupted the Cathar-Du. You say 'However, his words could flow too. It's how he corrupted the halflings. It's how he corrupted the Cathar-Du.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'As so often happens in the history books.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath asks 'Did He reside in the void or was this left to speculation?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say And they were powerful, mostly because of their knowledge. They had studied, and learned, and his words promised more knowledge and understanding. Originally benevolent, but they couldn't feel the pan getting hotter as he was stewing them. You say 'And they were powerful, mostly because of their knowledge. They had studied, and learned, and his words promised more knowledge and understanding. Originally benevolent, but they couldn't feel the pan getting hotter as he was stewing them.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say He was in the void, until they released him. You say 'He was in the void, until they released him.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say See, the halflings fell and took his magic. But they wanted it for themselves, and had no hope of ever truly helping him. You say 'See, the halflings fell and took his magic. But they wanted it for themselves, and had no hope of ever truly helping him.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The Cathar-Du were knowledge seekers and benevolent. Those who fell thought they were releasing knowledge, and new avenues for their people. You say 'The Cathar-Du were knowledge seekers and benevolent. Those who fell thought they were releasing knowledge, and new avenues for their people.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Much more damaging. You say 'Much more damaging.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say They set up a temple beneath N'kashya by which to stage their rituals for him. All while the Cathar-Du jade city above was a thriving metropolis of scholarship. You say 'They set up a temple beneath N'kashya by which to stage their rituals for him. All while the Cathar-Du jade city above was a thriving metropolis of scholarship.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say You might know this temple complex. You can still see it now if you portal to the Quyling. It's Beozaztar. You say 'You might know this temple complex. You can still see it now if you portal to the Quyling. It's Beozaztar.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'Is it? I have known they are related, but it is difficult for me to properly explore the area.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > nod zimt You nod at him. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'It is a bit, how shall I say, hostile.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'Demons have little use for diplomacy.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say As you can imagine knowing the current state of it, you can predict the end of the story. The worshippers of knowledge fell completely. They thought they were opening the door to a library, in their heads. Their eyes had been so covered completely by the lies and the dark magic. They willingly supped of it, though, because to them knowledge was power. You say 'As you can imagine knowing the current state of it, you can predict the end of the story. The worshippers of knowledge fell completely. They thought they were opening the door to a library, in their heads. Their eyes had been so covered completely by the lies and the dark magic. They willingly supped of it, though, because to them knowledge was power.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say So greed, under a benevolent guise. You say 'So greed, under a benevolent guise.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'The few I've met anyway. A devil nearly took my head.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'The few I've met anyway. A devil nearly took my head.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath mutters quietly. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say They were the ones who broke the wall between planes, and opened the door for Dreddnahr the demon lord to this realm. You say 'They were the ones who broke the wall between planes, and opened the door for Dreddnahr the demon lord to this realm.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say All beneath the first capital of the first Empire. You say 'All beneath the first capital of the first Empire.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath drinks water from a phial of snow-water. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say He tore through with such force, such darkness, the very soil burns with the curse today. You say 'He tore through with such force, such darkness, the very soil burns with the curse today.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath gets a large golden apple from the bin. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath inspects the apple as he gives a tight-lipped nod. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath eats a large golden apple. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The original Empire collapsed with the heart fallen, and it took centuries for it to reform. You say 'The original Empire collapsed with the heart fallen, and it took centuries for it to reform.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'Very crisp.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say However, the city was built so well it still stands. Imperial scholars have spent millenia trying to find the magic to heal the land. You say 'However, the city was built so well it still stands. Imperial scholars have spent millenia trying to find the magic to heal the land.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Magic is weaker, now. Thinner. There's no hope, but there's effort. You say 'Magic is weaker, now. Thinner. There's no hope, but there's effort.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say We want our capital back. You say 'We want our capital back.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote waves a hand dismissively. Athyero waves a hand dismissively. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say But I won't get into those ambitions. You say 'But I won't get into those ambitions.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says to you 'The city still stands, in duality. By day, the Empire maintains a garrison within, by night, spirits roam the streets.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say There's a nested doll of stories within that larger story. Deceits, intrigues. The high priest of Zarathustra confronting the high priest of Az'pook, once distant kin of eachother. You say 'There's a nested doll of stories within that larger story. Deceits, intrigues. The high priest of Zarathustra confronting the high priest of Az'pook, once distant kin of eachother.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'I would like to absorb these histories before your time has come.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say But the ultimate takeaway of it all is that it was the first city of men, it was brilliant, and it was powerful. It was hosted by the original true seekers of exploration and knowledge, and they were corrupted and fell. You say 'But the ultimate takeaway of it all is that it was the first city of men, it was brilliant, and it was powerful. It was hosted by the original true seekers of exploration and knowledge, and they were corrupted and fell.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say And it was on them that Dreddnahr broke through to Pyrathia. You say 'And it was on them that Dreddnahr broke through to Pyrathia.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote hums a small, low note. Athyero hums a small, low note. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say I should write them a thank-you note. You say 'I should write them a thank-you note.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath asks 'The price of curiosity?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto xar We don't have the time, but I can get you in touch with the eastern archivists. You say to Xarendath 'We don't have the time, but I can get you in touch with the eastern archivists.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zim That was a lot of words, and I hope it rose to the occasion. What can I answer for you? You ask to Zimtist 'That was a lot of words, and I hope it rose to the occasion. What can I answer for you?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt It is rare I am a book this open, but I always pay my debts. You say to Zimtist 'It is rare I am a book this open, but I always pay my debts.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says to you 'That would be most beneficial for many reasons. Many things can be taken from histories.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist asks to you 'There was a tale that originally inspired my query, that of a legendary seed, to be sown in a grove within the city. Is such a seed related to the events of this time?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill says to Xarendath 'That is one thing I agree with you on. We can learn a lot from history, so that we do not make the same mistakes again' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath asks 'The Sai Baba Tree?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'Perhaps so.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > nod You nod. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath nods at you. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'That much I am familiar with.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zim I believe Sai Baba is the ancient languages name for your Lord's previous face. You say to Zimtist 'I believe Sai Baba is the ancient languages name for your Lord's previous face.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > hum You hum softly. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'I came across a legend that one can stand in the gove, holding the seed, and sow it.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Did the legend say what would happen when the seed was sewn? You ask 'Did the legend say what would happen when the seed was sewn?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'I believe the seed still exists out there somewhere.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'I am wracking my brain trying to remember...' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill stops resting, and clambers to his feet. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says to Zimtist 'Would you scry for seeds for...' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath grins. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath asks 'Curiosity's sake?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist stops resting. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist starts to pray. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill starts to pray. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist utters the words, 'hiqahz abyzqh'. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill utters the words, 'hiqahz abyzqh'. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'It will be an interesting looking one. Colorful.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist asks 'a white seed tinted with shades of blue, perhaps?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath closes his eyes as if trying to remember. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'That.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath nods at Zimtist. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says to Zimtist 'That is the seed of Sai Baba.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says to Zimtist 'My thanks for humoring us al.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say I believe it is a relic from a time when magic was thicker, weighed down with the misbegotten hopes of those who would save the city or something else. You say 'I believe it is a relic from a time when magic was thicker, weighed down with the misbegotten hopes of those who would save the city or something else.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath nods at you.

jerinx · **Posted:** Sun Jan 05, 2025 3:03 pm

3/3

Quote:

[HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says to you 'I understand the seed to be dormant but it is still amongst us.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > nod xar You nod at him. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say It is related in that it may have been carved from the ether in ancient history, so it might honestly contain some semblence of hope for the city. You say 'It is related in that it may have been carved from the ether in ancient history, so it might honestly contain some semblence of hope for the city.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say I would not expect it. You say 'I would not expect it.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'The tale I read did not say, only that the tree would grow with great vigor.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Some story of the tree growing and the roots sucking the corruption from the soil. You say 'Some story of the tree growing and the roots sucking the corruption from the soil.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Using all that dark energy up to grow, somehow not corrupting in the process. You say 'Using all that dark energy up to grow, somehow not corrupting in the process.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist asks to you 'Well, your story was very fascinating. If I am to understand correctly, the mines you spoke of are beyond the cavern entry which is now inhabited by zabashis?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Aye. The Zabashi caves are where the jade for the city was originally mined. You say 'Aye. The Zabashi caves are where the jade for the city was originally mined.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say You've encountered the rooms that seem to be cursed in a way that you can walk forever and never get anywhere? You ask 'You've encountered the rooms that seem to be cursed in a way that you can walk forever and never get anywhere?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say There was a more explicit tower standing, many millenia ago. One you could climb to the top of and see more distinct tapestries of the story. However, the curse shifted one day and the tower never walked the same since. You say 'There was a more explicit tower standing, many millenia ago. One you could climb to the top of and see more distinct tapestries of the story. However, the curse shifted one day and the tower never walked the same since.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says to you 'In other parts of the realms, indeed I have. White lies beneath the city of jade has largely eluded my inquiries.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say We had historians to document some of it, and other...more interesting methods. You say 'We had historians to document some of it, and other...more interesting methods.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > nod zim You nod at him. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'What, apologies.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath looks over the notes on a notice board. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath studies a note on a notice board for a while. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] sayto zim Where the zabashis are is where great swaths of jade once were that became the glistening towers above. Where the c'thonians are, and the Quyling, are the temple complex built by those corrupted knowledge worshippers and where Dreddnahr first set foot on Pyrathia. > You say to Zimtist 'Where the zabashis are is where great swaths of jade once were that became the glistening towers above. Where the c'thonians are, and the Quyling, are the temple complex built by those corrupted knowledge worshippers and where Dreddnahr first set foot on Pyrathia.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt And where my legions are, are what's left of the original city of N'kashya. You say to Zimtist 'And where my legions are, are what's left of the original city of N'kashya.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The ancient demonlord's impact on Pyrathia has corrupted that place so deeply that I imagine until the end of days, you will find things there that don't make sense or...make very dark sense. You say 'The ancient demonlord's impact on Pyrathia has corrupted that place so deeply that I imagine until the end of days, you will find things there that don't make sense or...make very dark sense.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath asks 'Was there a sundering of time magicks along the way? Leaving the citizens there constantly torn between realities?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'Explaining the otherwise very peculiar state of the residents.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Aye. That is a darker story. The final fight between the high priest of Zavijah and the high priest of Az'pook. You say 'Aye. That is a darker story. The final fight between the high priest of Zavijah and the high priest of Az'pook.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'One of the inner tales.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say It wasn't a fight, per se. It was...a debate, I suppose? You ask 'It wasn't a fight, per se. It was...a debate, I suppose?' Xarendath nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'I do enjoy my histories. I studied much in the north.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > hum You hum softly. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Let me frame it like this. You say 'Let me frame it like this.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Everyone then was close. They were kin. Brothers, friends, even if not family. You say 'Everyone then was close. They were kin. Brothers, friends, even if not family.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > A flying pig soars in from above. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The split between the Az'pook and Sai Baba worshippers was a long time coming. There was a bitter rivalry, but it was weird because the Az'pook followers kept their worship secret. You say 'The split between the Az'pook and Sai Baba worshippers was a long time coming. There was a bitter rivalry, but it was weird because the Az'pook followers kept their worship secret.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > who [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say So the Sai Baba had no idea why there was so much contention. They were blind to it, all while the demon worshippers were breaking Dreddnahr out. You say 'So the Sai Baba had no idea why there was so much contention. They were blind to it, all while the demon worshippers were breaking Dreddnahr out.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Dreddnahr promised the high priest of Az'pook a reward, and asked what he wanted the moment he stepped into the realms. You say 'Dreddnahr promised the high priest of Az'pook a reward, and asked what he wanted the moment he stepped into the realms.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The high priest wanted nothing material. He wanted something spiritual: he wanted to corrupt the high priest of Sai Baba completely. You see, the high priest of Sai Baba, the old name of your Lord's predecessor, had resisted so long and held pure. You say 'The high priest wanted nothing material. He wanted something spiritual: he wanted to corrupt the high priest of Sai Baba completely. You see, the high priest of Sai Baba, the old name of your Lord's predecessor, had resisted so long and held pure.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'Rivalries are healthy.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say However, no mortal can stand against an uninhibited old god. You say 'However, no mortal can stand against an uninhibited old god.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > shake You shake your head. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > `eyes look modestly disturbed for the first time, glazing over for a moment before resetting to a placid gaze. Athyero's eyes look modestly disturbed for the first time, glazing over for a moment before resetting to a placid gaze. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says 'No, I certainly imagine not.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Dreddnahr did the simple thing: told the high priest of Sai Baba. That he had already lost. This made the carrot so much more tempting. You say 'Dreddnahr did the simple thing: told the high priest of Sai Baba. That he had already lost. This made the carrot so much more tempting.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say He said that he could offer the high priest of Sai Baba one thing he could not get otherwise: time. You say 'He said that he could offer the high priest of Sai Baba one thing he could not get otherwise: time.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The time to study, the time to figure out how to solve the problem. You say 'The time to study, the time to figure out how to solve the problem.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath smiles. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say The righteous high priest thought that was all he needed. He sealed the demonlord's offer with blood. You say 'The righteous high priest thought that was all he needed. He sealed the demonlord's offer with blood.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say And he did...not read the fine print. You say 'And he did...not read the fine print.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'Dreddnahr seems a master at weaving what needs to be seen and heard.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'A valuable strength to covet for many.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt That is the time paradox cursed upon N'kashya. The citizens were given eternity. Just... with caveats. You say to Zimtist 'That is the time paradox cursed upon N'kashya. The citizens were given eternity. Just...with caveats.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > shake You shake your head. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Poor bastards. You say 'Poor bastards.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist grimaces painfully at the thought. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Cyrill frowns. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > say Nearly every story I know of the ancient times and the old gods... You say 'Nearly every story I know of the ancient times and the old gods...' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > shake You shake your head. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt It is a remarkable lesson on how even the best of intentions can lead you down the wrong path. You say to Zimtist 'It is a remarkable lesson on how even the best of intentions can lead you down the wrong path.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt In that, it pleases my Lord. The little fears all serve. Even the fears of failure to do righteous things. You say to Zimtist 'In that, it pleases my Lord. The little fears all serve. Even the fears of failure to do righteous things.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says to you 'It is indeed. Tales of seduction, of those seeking glory, or knowledge and going too far.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto cyr Your path is fraught with pitfalls and promises. It is my deepest sadness I won't get to enjoy watching you try to navigate them. You say to Cyrill 'Your path is fraught with pitfalls and promises. It is my deepest sadness I won't get to enjoy watching you try to navigate them.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote turns with a small smile, showing a few too many teeth. Athyero turns with a small smile, showing a few too many teeth. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath stops resting, and clambers to his feet. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto cyr I've enjoyed watching many others do so. You say to Cyrill 'I've enjoyed watching many others do so.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt I owe my squire some time, now. I trust my debt is paid? You ask to Zimtist 'I owe my squire some time, now. I trust my debt is paid?' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > emote wipes his hands on his plate. Athyero wipes his hands on his plate. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > wear glove You wear gloves made from the skin of an onyx-scaled dragon on your hands. [HP: 99%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath wields a narrow-bladed claymore etched with glyphs in his hand. [HP: 99%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist says to you 'I thank you for your words, and your time spent researching for me. I would be remiss if I did not once again offer you your drum, if you wish.' [HP: 99%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > st You stop resting, and stand up. [HP: 99%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > You feel less protected. You feel someone protecting you. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath says 'I bid you farewell for now, Taslamar.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist clambers to his feet. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Xarendath beckons for you to follow him. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] sayto zimt It is in your hands, now. I do not have the time to pay more knowledge, and I'm afraid you may grow too wise if I give it. > You say to Zimtist 'It is in your hands, now. I do not have the time to pay more knowledge, and I'm afraid you may grow too wise if I give it.' [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > Zimtist nods. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > follow xar You now follow Xarendath. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > stand You are already standing. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > sayto zimt Until next. You say to Zimtist 'Until next.' Xarendath opens the door to the inn. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > You follow Xarendath west. You walk west. The Courtyard of the Hart and Rose It's raining hard, cool, and windy. Obvious exits: e ne(closed) sw(closed) A fountain depicting an elven woman kneeling before children stands here. Xarendath (a rawboned male deep-elf) is here. A nightmare is resting here. (Charmed) A barbarian raider is resting here. (Charmed) A nightmare is resting here. [HP:100%] [ME: 95%] [PE:100%] > o all stand A barbarian raider stops resting, and clambers to his feet. A nightmare stops resting, and clambers to its feet. Ok. Xarendath closes the door to the inn.

Shattered Kingdoms

[RP] History of N'kashya, by an unreliable narrator

Who is online