230.1 Alicia's Ascention

[Corwin]

[19:50] <Kotono> You stand at the edge of the rock, a few steps more and you'd be over, falling into the deep, vast waterfall below. Rubble from the mansion is strewn about. Lying there, pinned under a heavy wooden board, is Marie. She looks unhurt, almost as if the board is a blanket. She's solid and material right now.
06[19:52] * Alicia hefts the board off of her familiar, resisting the urge to wave back at Seira and Demedais given that they're still so nearby. "Marie?" she speaks gently, picking up the coure in her hands.
[19:54] <Alicia> "Ooooh..." Marie blinks slowly and sits up. "Alicia? Antenora?" she looks around. "I had the strangest dream... and you were there, and you were there..." she focuses her gaze on each in turn.
[19:55] <Kotono> Antenora sighs, "You're damned lucky."
[19:56] <Alicia> "I'm just glad you're safe!" Alicia gives her familiar the best approximation of a hug she can, given their relative size discrepancies. "Here, I brought your things along so you can get dressed again."
[19:57] <Alicia> Marie slowly does so, adding, "I also seem to have developed a strong antipathy towards geometry for some reason..."
[19:57] <Kotono> "That and clothing," Antenora cracks a smile, "But we did it. That bitch is nothing but a bad dream now."
[19:58] <Alicia> "Thanks for doing as I asked, Antenora," Alicia adds, glancing to the erinyes, "I know you were surprised at me suddenly telling you to stab her, but you still did it quickly enough that the opportunity wasn't lost."
[20:00] <Kotono> "It worked out. Let's just finish this and go home now? I..." Antenora looks back towards Demedais and Seira, "I didn't think she'd be something as bad as Hell, even in my worst dreams."
[20:01] <Alicia> roll 1d100 lets go to the garrison (very familiar)
06[20:01] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d100 lets go to the garrison (very familiar) and gets 40." [1d100=40]
[20:02] <Kotono> OOC: We'll do a briefing and stuff on this the next day or two when Tai lives. For now, stay in here Eb and Cor goes to #evil?
[20:04] <Kotono> Heading home, Alicia, Antenora and Marie walk in the sunset. It's a beautiful, cool-chilly day. As you get closer to home, the streets all familiar now, "...Alicia," Antenora begins, "Are you upset with me, about what happened against Olburt?"
[20:09] <Alicia> "Upset?" Alicia looks askance at her friend. "Antenora, there's no need to beat yourself up about making a mistake in a fight. No one died - that we didn't want to die - so it turned out alright in the end. It's not what I would've done, but you can sense things I can't, so perhaps I don't have the full picture."
[20:09] <Alicia> "I'm guessing from your tone though that you yourself don't think you performed as well as you should have?"
[20:10] <Kotono> "I went over there because I was worried Demedais might be overwhelmed alone. I was the one overwhelmed instead. If not for magic, I would have died." Looking away, "I can do better, and I need to do better."
[20:14] <Alicia> "Remember that you do have options besides just hitting your enemies until they fall down," Alicia suggests. "You were already exposing yourself to a parting shot from one of Filetta's warped spawn, running into the poison cloud to trade blows with Olburt wasn't the only option - you could've used your rope to restrain him, for example,"
[20:14] <Alicia> "keeping yourself out of harm's way and giving Demedais some breathing room. The fact is, though, that he excels in those situations anyway - most foes can barely touch him."
[20:15] <Kotono> "Yes, I know." Antenora is quiet a little longer, "If something had happened to you or the others - or worse happened to Marie - because I needed to be saved...it's a hard lesson." As you come within sight of home, you notice Latha is there. She stands outside of your front door, hood up. She waits.
[20:16] <Alicia> "You'll do better next time," Marie encourages brightly as she hovers around the pair.
[20:16] <Alicia> Seeing the deva ahead, Alicia waves and calls, "Latha!"
[20:19] <Kotono> "Thanks," Antenora murmurs.
[20:20] <Kotono> Latha approaches. She lowers her hood slightly, a warm, tense smile. "Alicia and Antenora. You have been summoned by Mount Celestia. Will you come with me?"
[20:21] <Alicia> "Really? Does it have anything to do with the rift-spawned horror we destroyed today?" Alicia asks in reply, there not really being a question of whether she'll go or not.
[20:21] <Alicia> Marie looks slightly put out, but holds her tongue.
[20:23] <Kotono> "I don't know. I received the message today." With a look to Marie and an inviting smile, "You can come as well, Marie."
[20:24] <Alicia> "Oh, thanks!" Marie blurts, embarrassedly aware that she was being rather transparent.
[20:24] <Alicia> "Alright, well I suppose we can go right now," Alicia nods. "Antenora?"
[20:24] <Kotono> "Of course." Antenora smiles, a passing look of joy. "I'd love to go to Celestia again."
[20:26] <Kotono> "Come, take my hands," Latha holds them out.
[20:26] <Alicia> Alicia takes a hand, while Marie takes the other and reaches out to Antenora to complete the circle.
[20:29] <Kotono> It is like being enveloped in warm, soothing love. In an instant you are in another place. You stand at the foot of Mount Celestial, dark waters lapping against your feet.  Ahead of you is a grand, gleaming fortress of white marble, towering over you. It's gates are wide open. As you feel the rightness of this place, the draw it has to your soul resonating throughout your body, you hear the sound of trumpets. Seven trumpet archons stand before
[20:29] <Kotono> you hear the sound of trumpets. Seven trumpet archons stand before the gate, playing a glorious melody.
[20:31] <Kotono> "Welcome to the Citadel of Stars," Latha begins to walk, "The fortress and throne of Barachiel, the first of the Celestial Hebdomad."
[20:31] <Alicia> It's very nice, but Alicia vividly remembers Mystra having her back against the reality-rending horror, and knows well that her destiny lies not on Celestia's slopes.
[20:31] <Alicia> roll 1d20+21 planes Barachiel (I probably get some bonus from having read that book)
06[20:31] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+21 planes Barachiel (I probably get some bonus from having read that book) and gets 40." [1d20=19]
[20:33] <Alicia> "This is actually the first time I've visited Celestia," Marie remarks, looking around and appearing honestly appreciative. "Before now I'd never been left of Elysium on the wheel - not counting that trip to Hell."
[20:33] <Kotono> "It's gorgeous," Antenora murmurs, following along with Latha.
[20:34] <Alicia> "It was here that we got our first clues as to how to defeat that thing that we really need to come up with a name for," Alicia tells her familiar. "Latha took us to a sage on the second layer who had some information, including how to make those wards."
[20:35] <Kotono> "I still say bitch works," Antenora mutters darkly.
[20:35] <Kotono> "Antenora," Latha says as you walk inside, into the fortress. Into halls of glory, light everlasting glowing here. "Temperence. This is not a place for crude expression."
[20:36] <Alicia> "Lets call it Zetsubokou," Marie suggests. "It means 'many-angled-horror-of-lies' in Draconic."
[20:36] <Alicia> "I just hope no one ever has to encounter another one like her for the name to be needed," Alicia just shakes her head, following along with Latha and looking around as she does so.
[20:37] <Kotono> Antenora blushes and doesn't comment, looking down at the ground.
[20:37] <Alicia> Marie gives Antenora a grin and a thumbs up.
[20:39] <Kotono> Around you are a thousand glories. The walls tell tales of mortal heralds, spreading the word of Celestial and triumphing over evil. You find yourself in front of golden gates, leading into a throne room. The radiance is overwhelming as you enter to a horn's fanfare. There is not quite a throne, but ther eis a point of inexorable light. A being that wears a trailing line of cloak-like cloth from ankles ot shoulders, wrapping around his body. Th
[20:39] <Kotono> wrapping around his body. The cloak is the stars and the night sky. In a hand is a sword pointed down, crackling with lightning. His presence is overwhelming to your senses, like trying to look into the noon sun with your bare eyes. "Welcome into this sacred place, Alicia Reynes! Antenora! Marie! Latha of Celestia!" Trumpet archons around you herald your arrival.
[20:40] <Kotono> Latha kneels before Barachiel, "I come, My Lord."
06[20:43] * Alicia is somewhat overwhelmed indeed by a face to face meeting with such a being, and decides to follow Latha's example to start things off. Sweeping her cloak behind her, she kneels down. "You have summoned, and we are ever happy to come at Celestia's behest," she replies earnestly. Marie lands beside her and indulges in a little curtsey, but leaves the talking to her mistress.
[20:44] <Kotono> Antenora kneels as well, placing her spear down in front of her. She stays silent.
[20:46] <Kotono> A voice like the clarion call of a trumpet, piercing beauty. "You have served Celestia well with your life, Alicia. You have done much to advance our ideals and bring the light further into your world. This day, you aided in accomplishing a grand, great deed. You faced down a mockery of our believes, avenging hundreds of fallen souls. When you revealed to the cosmos it's true nature, you stood true and struck it down. For had that being reigned
[20:47] <Kotono> you stood true and struck it down. For had that being reigned even briefly on the Prime Material Plane, the very cosmos risk becoming undone."
[20:48] <Kotono> *beliefs
[20:52] <Alicia> "As Mystra's sword, I was empowered by the Mother of All Magic," Alicia begins as she stands up, earning a beaming smile from her familiar. "Likewise I was bolstered by strong and true allies. Together we prevailed."
[20:52] <Alicia> That said, it does drive home some of the enormity of just who they killed - it was far more than some greater fiend or ancient and ill-tempered wyrm. "But, in the beginning, it was Celestia's aid that set us on the path to our victory," she inclines her head respectfully.
[20:55] <Kotono> "It was." The voice agrees, "We thank you, and wish to show our devout thanks. However, there is another who wishes to speak with you and also thank you. Turn around." Barachiel says, as you feel it. There's no question of who it is to you. Her presence cannot be denied, your soul rejoicing as you feel her very being. Mystra stands behind you, as sure as any other thing you have ever known. She needs not say a word, for her presence carries mea
[20:55] <Kotono> She needs not say a word, for her presence carries meaning, felt in every modicum of your body.
[21:00] <Alicia> As Marie increments her internal counter by one (up to three, now!), Alicia slowly turns around, breath catching in her throat. She met her goddess once, in her mind after breaking the third seal. It was real, but... but not as real as this. "Oh, Mystra..." she's not even sure what to say. How often does your goddess personally manifest just to thank you?
[21:00] <Alicia> Also, should she really be invoking Her name when she's standing right there?
[21:03] <Kotono> Antenora turns as well. Your vision si blinded - looking into a being of this power is futile, your mind unable to process it. Warmth takes over your body, estascy spreading over you. "I am pleased with you, my servant. The Crimson Guard rose above and beyond, routing a true threat to existance. Walk with me," Mystra invites, "The three of you."
[21:06] <Alicia> "Of course," Alicia agrees with barely any thought at all, taking a step towards her goddess. Marie takes a looser interpretation of walk and flies upwards to keep pace with Alicia, a proud grin on her face.
[21:10] <Kotono> Antenora follows, perhaps. Alicia can't really see. The overwhelming light blinds her, drawing all of her vision in. You walk for a time, a time of peace. Alicia feels in tune with everything. Her body is warm on the border of hot. It's like a trance, vision not returning for a time. When it does, you stand in a place of white all over. You can see Mystra, a vaguely female form surrounded by all the weaves of magic, overwhelming to see. "Alicia
[21:10] <Kotono> overwhelming to see. "Alicia." Mystra walks towards you, standing before you, "Long have I watched your life. How many would have crumpled at one of the many challenges you have faced? In your world, it would have been a trifling, easy thing to lose your faith."
[21:15] <Alicia> "Maybe," Alicia puts all her effort into trying to talk normally, not wanting to seem like a blithering idiot to her deity, "But it's kept me going as well, whether as something to support me or something to aspire to."
[21:15] <Alicia> "And it's not just my own faith... you know, I turned my back on you for a time," she closes her eyes with that admission, "But my friends at the temple, they helped me realise what I was missing. Their support brought me back."
[21:19] <Kotono> "I know." Mystra speaks gently, "I know. As mighty as you are, you do not stand before me alone. Others will be exalted in their own times, when matters are right. Alicia. There will come a day, once the matters on your world are concluded, where you will come to join me. Until that day, live as well as you can. Have no fear, for I have no doubt that you will play your proper role in the final matters of the God-King, as well as defeat the evil
[21:19] <Kotono> role in the final matters of the God-King, as well as defeat the evils lined before you." (More)
[21:20] <Kotono> "My servant. I will honor you with a part of the glory you will ascend to one day. Give me your hand."
06[21:21] * Alicia presents her right hand palm-up without hesitation.
[21:24] <Kotono> Mystra reaches out. Her hand takes Alicia's! In that moment, she is a part of everything. She is a part of every spell cast, every bit of magic that suffuses the world. With wisdom and vision she never knew she possessed, she is a part of the very Weave itself. She is called on a million times by beings across the cosmos, channeled into infinite forms. Then she flows out. Mystra's hand has let hers go. She hears a gasp from Antenora, yet she fe
[21:25] <Kotono> Mystra's hand has let hers go. She hears a gasp from Antenora, yet she feels...alive. So very alive. So very charged.
[21:27] <Alicia> "Ahhh!" Alicia gasps, staggering a little at the immensity of what she just felt, such a sublime... awareness of everything. Even now trying to retain the feeling is like grasping clouds, but the after-effects linger, leaving her charged. "Mother of all Magic..." she breathes out, eyes wide. "That was... I can't even put it into words. There aren't any, not in any language I know."
02[21:28] * Nao (~carthrat@c122-107-246-130.eburwd9.vic.optusnet.com.au) Quit (Ping timeout)
[21:29] <Kotono> Somehow, you feel more able to look at her now. While overwhelming, it is something you can understand a little better. "You have earned it. Look into yourself. Feel yourself now, my servant."
06[21:31] * Alicia looks down in introspection for a moment, her hand against her heart as she tries to 'sense' what Mystra is pointing her towards...
03[21:33] * Nao (~carthrat@c122-107-246-130.eburwd9.vic.optusnet.com.au) has joined #dunes
[21:33] <Kotono> "Alicia..." Antenora says in a choked voice, "Oh...Alicia..."
[21:35] <Alicia> A smile begins to bloom on Alicia's lips. She'd been living with it for so long, that vague chill in her bones, that she'd honestly forgotten what it was like not to have it. "I..." she pauses at the feeling of new appendages, furrowing her brow as she flexes them briefly before catching sight of her new wings out of the corner of her eye. "Oh... Goddess!"
[21:37] <Kotono> "My child, be well." Mystra says, "This is now the time for another. Marielle." Mystra's attention turns to her, blazing like the sun. "Come to me, Marielle."
[21:38] <Alicia> After spending a moment to admire the changes in Alicia, Marie flies up and closer to her goddess, not saying anything impudent or clever for once.
[21:39] <Kotono> "You have many more challenges at Alicia's side, Marielle." Mystra extends her hand out, "I will give you a boon, so that you are better able to endure them and serve Alicia."
[21:41] <Alicia> "Thank you!" Marie chirps as she lands on Mystra's hand. At heart she's as devoted a servant as Alicia, and anything that makes her better able to serve is gladly accepted.
[21:42] <Kotono> A feeling of warmth and love washes over Marielle! It's not as overwhelming as what happened to Alicia, but it's profound in it's own right. Marielle is let go of a moment later, floating in the air. "Alicia. Take good care of Marielle as well, for she is a spark of light who will always illuminate your way, no matter how dark your road ahead is."
[21:43] <Alicia> "I will, I promise," Alicia replies earnestly, not wanting to risk her familiar again to the terror she endured today.
[21:45] <Kotono> Then Mystra is by Antenora. "Child of the Pit, you have risen far. I ask of you to serve me. For if Alicia is at my side, I would have you be one of her retainers. It is your choice to make, I will not force you."
[21:47] <Alicia> Naturally both Alicia and Marie hope she'll say yes, but they don't say anything as the eladrin flutters back over to rejoin Alicia with a little more vim in her wing-flapping.
[21:47] <Kotono> Antenora's gaze is lost in Mystra. After a time of staring she kneels, "I will do so. For as much as I owe Alicia, I owe you as well. My escape would not have been possible without you, Goddess. While I am not a mage or a cleric to revere your magical gifts, I will give you all I have."
[21:51] <Kotono> Mystra reaches down, touching Antenora's forehead. "Let go of your past. You can never forget it, but you can overcome what you once were." As Mystra speaks, Antenora's wings blow away, turning into a few faint wisps of smoke. From her back grow white angel's wings! "Serve Alicia long and well, Antenora. She will need your support as much as you need hers."
[21:54] <Kotono> "I...I will," Antenora says in a shaking voice, "Forever."
06[21:54] * Alicia gives Antenora a proud smile as she finally gets those white feathered wings she's dreamed of.
[21:55] <Kotono> Now Mystra is by Alicia once more, "Your sister will be protected by my blessings, my servant. The forces of magic and light will watch over her forevermore."
[21:57] <Alicia> "Thank you, my Goddess," Alicia bows respectfully, somewhat choked at just how much they're all being rewarded right now. "We'll bring honour to your name, I promise."
[21:59] <Kotono> "We will." Antenora agrees, mimicking Alicia's bow. "I swear it on everything I am."
[21:59] <Alicia> "You can count on us!" Marie agrees in her own particular style.
[22:00] <Kotono> Mystra smiles. You can't quite see it, but you know it. "Go home now. There is time yet for you on the mortal planes. We will meet again that day." In an instant, you are home. The three of you stand in Alicia's bedroom, as if you were always there.
[22:00] <Kotono> Antenora reaches behind her, feeling her wings. Then, turning to Alicia, "Oh...Alicia!" she says, wrapping her up into a big, teary hug.
[22:03] <Alicia> "Group hug!" Marie yells, diving inbetween them as Alicia returns the embrace a bit dazedly.
[22:03] <Alicia> "I just... I never expected this..." she gets out, rather overwhelmed as she processes what just happened.
[22:03] <Kotono> Tears run down Antenora's face, "Oh Alicia...I just..."
06[22:05] * Alicia steps back a bit and reaches up to brush the back of her hand against Antenora's new wings. "They're beautiful... just what you wanted, wasn't it?" she asks, smiling.
[22:08] <Kotono> "Welcome to the club," Antenora embraces Alicia again, reaching behind to feel her new wings. "I feel so alive again. My magic's back, it's like a hole inside of me is filled. I just can't stop crying, either. I just...Gods, I look like a baby, don't I?"
[22:10] <Alicia> "No," Alicia wipes away the tears as her own wings ruffle slightly, her brow furrowing as she adapts to the sensation of having two entirely new limbs, "You've never looked better, trust me."
[22:10] <Alicia> "Who knew killing Zetsubokou was such a big deal?" Marie asks, fluttering up inbetween them. "Mystra really went all out for us!"
[22:11] <Kotono> "I don't think anyone did," Antenora meets Alicia's hand, going to clean her tears away as well. "When we saw her there, I felt that we were Mystra's tool to defeat that horror. Barachiel said that it could have unwound reality, didn't he? Maybe everyone was surprised."
[22:13] <Alicia> "I felt Her with me as well," Alicia agrees. "It was probably the first time it's true form was ever revealed - the circumstances were certainly unique enough for it."
[22:14] <Kotono> "We did something profound today. Really profound." Antenora wobbles a bit, laughing as she eventually ends up resting against Alicia's bed. "WE were honored by Barachiel himself, one of the Hebdomad, and then by Mystra!"
[22:16] <Alicia> "I never expected to see Her in Celestia!" Marie pipes up. "But I suppose with the seals she couldn't manifest on the Prime, and didn't want to bring Alicia to Dweomerheart too early,"
06[22:16] * Alicia sits down, having to shift a few times to accomodate her wings before finding something comfortable. "I wonder if Seira and Demedais will be receiving summons from Waukeen and Helm?"
[22:24] <Kotono> Antenora sits besides Alicia, "I would think so. Mystra spoke of the entire Crimson Guard."
[22:28] <Alicia> "That's right," Alicia nods. "Just... it's a lot to take in." She takes hold of a wing and brings it around where she can see it, studying it as much as the skin on her hand. "I'm... I really am a celestial now. There's no denying it." Suddenly she starts to laugh. "That Quarut and his mirrors were right!"
[22:29] <Kotono> Antenora goes with Alicia, feeling Alicia's wing all the while. "You were in heart long before this. You're too good for this world...one day, the three of us will be in Dweomerheart together."
[22:31] <Alicia> "This is the world that made me, there's no denying that," Alicia shakes her head. "Still, I might want to keep the wings hidden when I'm out and about... I can understand why Latha does so."
[22:31] <Alicia> "Awww, but they're so nice!" Marie sing-songs. "Until you start molting. That's no fun at all," she adds teasingly.
[22:32] <Kotono> "Wait." Antenora looks at Marie, "DO angels molt?"
[22:32] <Alicia> "You remember that fallen planetar, right?" Marie replies innocently.
Session Close: Thu May 14 22:34:22 2009

Session Start: Thu May 14 22:34:22 2009
Session Ident: #dunes
02[22:34] * Disconnected
02[22:34] * Attempting to rejoin channel #dunes
03[22:34] * Rejoined channel #dunes
03[22:34] * Topic is 'Zetsubokou>Seira>Antenora>Alicia>Deme'
03[22:34] * Set by Kotono on Wed May 13 21:25:08
03[22:34] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Seira
[22:35] <Ebiris> "I've never seen any feathers lying around after Latha visits..." Alicia replies thoughtfully.
02[22:35] * NeremWorld (~AriD@pool-173-74-28-57.dllstx.fios.verizon.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[22:36] <Kotono> Sighing, "I'll trust Alicia's right then." Antenora then laughs, "Marie! Are you lying? Right after we met Mystra herself?"
[22:37] <Ebiris> "It wasn't a lie... sort of," Marie replies defensively. "Besides, Mystra likes tricks and misdirection. They're the core of illusion, which is one eighth of magic!"
02[22:38] * Alicia (WinNT@user-54444c44.lns3-c10.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (Ping timeout)
03[22:38] * Ebiris is now known as Alicia
[22:39] <Alicia> "So long as it's not harmful, I suppose," Alicia allows. "Anyway, I rather want to test these out," she gets up and flexes her wings a little. "Who wants to go for a fly?"
[22:39] <Kotono> "Hmph." Antenora eyes Marie, before she laughs more. "Let's all go together," Antenora suggests.
[22:39] <Alicia> "I'm in! Lets make sure those aren't just ornamental - see if you can keep up with me!" Marie laughs, going to the door.

[Corwin]

[18:29] <Kotono> -----
[18:31] <Kotono> The early parts of the night pass in a blissful reverie. Flying above the city and the surrounding country, laughing with her close friends. The hours slide by in a blissful haze as Alicia gets used to her new wings. But at last common sense dictates a return home. But as the three do, high in the sky, they can see something. Around Alicia's house are many points of light, torches and more magical sources of illumination. Dozens - no, hundreds
[18:31] <Kotono> torches and more magical sources of illumination. Dozens - no, hundreds - of people are around her home.
[18:34] <Alicia> Huge mobs are rarely a good thing. "This reminds me of your fan club after we visited Evergold," Alicia remarks to Antenora, casting Voice of the Archon in case increased persuasiveness is required as she starts to circle down towards her home.
[18:35] <Kotono> Antenora smiles nonetheless, "There's surely a good reason for it this night?" Following along behind Alicia, "Let's be optimistic until we have reason to believe otherwise?"
[18:35] <Alicia> "Probably someone saw us taking off earlier?" Marie wonders as she flies amidst the two while they descend.
[18:38] <Kotono> As you descend, you see that the crowds are lead by the clergy of Mystra. At Alicia's doorstep, Shankar waits. As they descend, one person happens to look up and point, more and more following. A burst of noise comes forth, "It's her! She's back!" and like sounds are all heard. Above them all, "Alicia!" Shankar calls.
06[18:39] * Alicia angles herself to land down on her doorstep before folding her wings in behind her to avoid hitting anyone. Flying might be nice but she still needs to get used to moving around with them behind her. "I'm almost afraid to ask, but how long has everyone been standing around here?" Who knows what poor Jessica would make of all this...
[18:40] <Alicia> Marie lands above the doorframe and sits herself down on her perch to observe things.
[18:42] <Kotono> "Since the revelation was handed out," Shankar's voice is solemn, "For Mystra has spoken to our hearts." Antenora meanwhile lands behind Alicia, glancing out at the crowds. "This evening, I was possessed by a powerful vision, Mystra's will made plain to me. She had declared that you will henceforth be known as Saint Alicia, The Blessed of the Mystic Fires. Her will is that this day be made into a holy day, a day where we study your life and dee
[18:42] <Kotono> Her will is that this day be made into a holy day, a day where we study your life and deeds to learn from your example. It is her will that your brave deeds be recorded and entered into the Church as holy teachings."
03[18:45] * TaiChie is now known as Demedais
[18:45] <Alicia> "Oh... what?" Even with incredible charisma and a magically bolstered voice, they can't all be profound, Alicia's jaw going slack for a moment. Even Marie looks a little shocked. "Um... I've written some books," she gestures vaguely, rather stunned by this turn of events.
[18:46] <Kotono> "Alicia..." Antenora murmurs, voice laced with open surprise.
[18:49] <Kotono> "It is Mystra's will. Your life is an exemplar of faith and bravery, the weaving of her mystic blessings into a profound whole. Let what you have done be told and to guide the future generations of mystic knights who will rise in their due times to serve Mystra." Shankar projects his voice loud, "So it is ordained."
06[18:53] * Alicia decides to try and take charge before this all gets out of hand. "That's all very laudable," she begins, turning to face the crowd and raising her own voice,
[18:53] <Alicia> "And if my example gives strength to your own faith, that's wonderful too. But please don't think that you must emulate me - Mystra loves all of her followers, whether they teach, or build, or contemplate, or celebrate. My path is but one of many in Her service."
[18:55] <Kotono> The crowd listens raptly to Alicia, hanging on her every word.
[19:05] <Alicia> "Instead of trying to simply follow my example, look in your hearts - try to find the way you can best serve Mystra in your own way. When I first joined the church, there hadn't been a Knight of Mystic Fire ordained for nearly a century."
[19:05] <Alicia> "But I preferred to hone my body as much as my magic, and so embarked upon that path after much soul-searching. And now it has brought me here, exalted and rewarded in Mystra's service. For you it can be the same, finding a way that fits you - The Mother of All Magic is a Goddess of infinite possibilities."
[19:05] <Alicia> "So I encourage you to sieze them," she makes a grasping motion for emphasis, "Whatever the path you find."
[19:07] <Kotono> Cheers deafen Alicia at her speech, the warmth of the crowd spilling over. "Listen well to her words, for she has been found and raised exalted by the Mother of All Magic!"
[19:07] <Kotono> Antenora smiles a little bit, 'Nice speech.' she sends, 'Saint Alicia, hm?'
06[19:12] * Alicia keeps a nice smile on her face as she replies to Antenora, 'I thought you had to die to become a saint, but I suppose I already have one foot in the beyond...'
[19:12] <Alicia> Speaking aloud she goes on, "For those who are interested, some of my writings can be found in the church library - they detail the type of magic I practice and cover some of the battles I've fought. I'd suggest giving them a look if you do wish to follow the same path. And of course you're free to discuss things with me at the temple."
[19:14] <Kotono> 'It's a great honor.' Antenora's chuckling fills Alicia's mind, 'A living, breathing saint of Mystra. She wants your deeds spread far and wide. Can you think of any greater approval of how you've spent your life?'
[19:15] <Kotono> The crowd cheers further, "So it shall be. Copies will be made, so that many and all can partake of this wisdom." Shankar appends.
[19:21] <Alicia> 'It's somewhat embarrassing... I might have to rush out a few of the other texts I've been working on, at this rate,' Alicia sends back.
[19:21] <Alicia> "Anyway, I'm sure you're all tired from standing around here, and I'm sure some of us have to prepare spells in the morning," she chuckles at her arcane humour before going on, "Regardless, I'm sure I'll see many of you at the temple tomorrow. If anyone has questions I'll be available there."
[19:24] <Kotono> 'Enjoy it.' Antenora's smile grows on her face, 'Though keeping humility here is important, too.'
Session Close: Fri May 15 19:24:15 2009

Session Start: Fri May 15 19:24:15 2009
Session Ident: #dunes
02[19:24] * Disconnected
02[19:24] * Attempting to rejoin channel #dunes
03[19:24] * Rejoined channel #dunes
03[19:24] * Topic is 'Zetsubokou>Seira>Antenora>Alicia>Deme'
03[19:24] * Set by Kotono on Wed May 13 21:25:08
03[19:24] * ChanServ sets mode: +o CC
[19:25] <Alicia> 'It is, yes. Nobody likes a braggart,' Alicia agrees, giving a little wave before she heads inside, her familiar likewise waving and ducking in behind her.
[19:28] <Kotono> Once the door is closed behind her, "Congratulations," Antenora says aloud, smiling widely. "I know you aren't fully thrilled. But Alicia, I'd also say you deserve this. You've defended the world and spread Mystra's word throughout, becoming a defining force for good. So please don't act too mopey about it?"
02[19:30] * Seira (~corwin@bzq-79-178-108-221.red.bezeqint.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
03[19:30] * CC is now known as Seira
[19:32] <Alicia> "I know," Alicia agrees as Marie alights on her head. "And it is good - I always try and present myself as an example for others to follow, I just don't like being so... obvious about it. I've trained to become Mystra's sword, not her voice."
[19:32] <Alicia> "You got promoted, deal with it," Marie states blithely, patting Alicia's head. "With great power comes great responsibility."
[19:33] <Kotono> "Yes, it's a promotion." With a twinkle in her eye, "Mystra must feel you can serve her well in this way, too. Besides. If the story of how you saved me is spread, maybe somewhere, some day, someone else can repeat the feat."
[19:35] <Kotono> "Or, how about you cast down Shar's vile lot? What about the time you freed innocents from Hell? Also, there's the time you helped stop a madman's war of greed and aggression." Ticking off on her fingers, "Those should be spread, shouldn't they?"
[19:35] <Alicia> "Would be nice," Alicia agrees, going into the kitchen to whip up a late supper before bed. "Besides, I'm sure Seira and Demedais are having to put up with the same thing right about now... we'll have to compare notes, tomorrow."
[19:38] <Kotono> Going to sit and watch Alicia as she makes food, sitting backwards in the chair and resting her head on the backrest, "Though, I wonder. Do you think you're going to live out your life here now, or will you be called to Dweomerheart early?"
[19:39] <Alicia> roll 1d20+11 religion, have I ever heard of this happening before?
06[19:39] * Hatbot --> "Alicia rolls 1d20+11 religion, have I ever heard of this happening before? and gets 29." [1d20=18]
[19:42] <Alicia> "I suppose it depends whether I die violently or not?" Alicia muses as she makes a hot-pot with some leftovers she has handy. "I'd guess if I don't then I probably will just... move along."
[19:43] <Kotono> After a few moments, Antenora leans back. "How do you feel about that, Alicia?"
06[19:50] * Alicia looks thoughtful, giving the question the consideration it deserves. "I can live with it." She turns around, smiling gently, "Perhaps I'm missing out on certain experiences, but I'm having other new ones opened up to me. You know, when we were with Mystra?"
[19:50] <Alicia> "For a moment I was *with* her, a part of the Weave - I could feel every spell in creation as ripples across my soul. My mind can't really process the enormity of it - just think about the things I'd know if I truly understood it the way She does. But there was a promise there - one day I'll support Mystra in ways I can't yet imagine."
[19:54] <Kotono> "An enlightenment to come." Antenora hmms to herself, "When she touched me, I understood that I had chosen to serve you for as long as I exist. As you will support Mystra, I will support you. Now, I can see magic with a thought. I can break it apart with a gesture of scant will." (More)
[19:55] <Kotono> "As you follow in her footsteps, I will follow in yours," Antenora considers that, "So that no matter where your fate will take you, you won't be alone with it."
[19:58] <Alicia> "I'll probably be around, too. Unless I get a better offer or anything," Marie puts in with a cheeky grin.
[19:58] <Alicia> "Thank you, both," Alicia smiles gratefully, "Your support - such as it is," a wry smile for Marie there, "Means a lot to me. Lets just all be careful to ensure the three of us last long enough to realise our fates?"
[20:00] <Kotono> "We will." Closing her eyes and savoring her smile, "I wonder if that was why I had this wonderful chance to escape what I was? But yes, you'd better not get killed, Alicia. Nor you, Marie. Try not to go insane if we see any more abominations against creation?"
[20:02] <Alicia> "I'll close my eyes next time," Marie replies with less bravado. "Although I think that's why I like Lantern Archons so much - they've got no angles," she nods firmly.
[20:07] <Alicia> "Really, I hope that's the last one," Alicia shakes her head. "There are enough abominations within creation without us needing to import them from Elsewhere."
[20:13] <Kotono> "Yes." Antenora cracks a smile to that again. Thinking, "Marie." The subject changes, "How about we go look into some more banishing arrows for you tomorrow? You used several of yours, I think?"
[20:15] <Alicia> "I used them all up, although the silvered ones didn't do any good on vrocks," Marie agrees sadly.
[20:16] <Kotono> "Yes..." Watching Alicia get her dinner, "By the way. Did you figure out what happened with your ethereal state? Did Arborea decide that you courre don't spend enough time naked?"
[20:17] <Alicia> Marie suddenly pales. "Aaah! I should've asked Mystra!" she cries, anguished.
[20:18] <Alicia> "It's alright, Marie," Alicia leans over and pats her familiar on the head. "We'll figure it out, some day." Admittedly she *had* put it on something of the back burner, but she'll look into it when she has a chance!
[20:19] <Kotono> "It's okay. It's not so bad being naked," Antenora smiles gamefully, "For a little pixie-look alike, you're very well endowed."
[20:23] <Alicia> Marie just grumbles and blushes as Alicia finally sits down and starts to eat her meal. "Sometimes these things just happen, Marie," she consoles. "Did I ever tell you about how I used to be able to strike through armour as if it wasn't there, but one day the spell just stopped working?"
[20:23] <Kotono> "You know, you should have asked about that, too." Antenora leans back in her chair, "That spell was useful."
[20:24] <Alicia> "Hmm," Marie looks interested, "So it was sort of like making your sword incorporeal, then? That gives us a link! We might have our first lead in solving the mystery, and you've been sitting on it all this time!" she points accusingly at her mistress.
[20:26] <Kotono> "...you know..." Antenora thinks there, "Maybe osmething's happening on the Ethereal plane, then?"
06[20:27] * Alicia looks both innocent and unruffled. "I... never really saw the connection? When you put it like that, though, maybe it does bear investigating?"
[20:29] <Kotono> "We can spend some time poking around into that?" Antenora ventures, "I neve really made any connection, either."
[20:31] <Alicia> "I suppose. We've got a lot on our plates, anyway," Alicia muses. "I'll need to check up on Gluark's followers to make sure they're behaving. Start spreading tales about Neve. Adjust to my new role as Saint. Continue training the guard. Keep an eye on the Reveller's Oasis. Explore the jungle to find the next gnomish Resort. And whatever other crisises are certain to pop up..."
[20:32] <Kotono> "You know," Antenora crosses her arms with a growing look of amusement, "Maybe you're going to Dweomerheart early because you'll drop dead of exhaustion?"
[20:34] <Alicia> "Hard work is good for the soul," Alicia affirms with a smile. "Besides, most of that stuff is pretty easy compared to what we did today."
[20:35] <Kotono> "That's true. Still, you can delegate some of it." Antenora insists, "If for no other reason than to work more effectively."
[20:37] <Alicia> "I could, but don't think about volunteering just yet," Alicia eyes Antenora. "Although I think you've skipped the timetable that the Star of Mystra expected, we've still got an altogether unpleasant intelligent bow that only you can destroy."
[20:38] <Kotono> "Well...I forgot." Blushing hotly at that as she looks down at her feet, "In all of the excitement, it slipped my mind."
[20:39] <Alicia> Marie laughs openly while Alicia just allows an amused smile. "Well, it's another thing we've let slip to the back burner, but now that we've cleared off our urgent tasks it's something you could perhaps take a look at."
[20:41] <Kotono> "I will. Shush, Marie, or you'll find out that chaos decided eladrins don't need to fly next." Antenora's blush doesn't really die down, "But yes, I'll begin that in a day or two then."
[20:44] <Alicia> "Whenever suits you," Alicia allows, finishing her meal and going to wash up. "Now, there's just one other thing..." she turns back to the pair with a somewhat perturbed expression, "Just how do you sleep when you've got two huge wings sticking out of your back?"
[20:45] <Kotono> Antenora breaks into a fit of giggles, "You get used to them. Sleep on your sides and stomach until you get used to laying on them. They can be sensitive, if they're anything like mine, so take it slow."
[20:47] <Alicia> "Okay," Alicia nods slowly. "I'm worried I might roll over and break them or something..." she gives one of her new limbs a little flap for emphasis.
[20:48] <Kotono> "You're fairly toughened beyond normal limits. It shouldn't happen." Antenora insists, "Just take it slow."
[20:49] <Alicia> "I suppose you're right. I've never broken by arm sleeping, after all," Alicia allows. "Anyway, it's time for me to go to bed. I'll see you both tomorrow," she smiles at the pair before heading upstairs to her bedroom.
[20:50] <Kotono> Once Alicia's gone, Antenora turns her attentions to Marie. "Proud of her?" she asks, keeping her voice low and quiet.
[20:55] <Alicia> "Of course!" Marie replies quietly. "I mean, it's fantastic that Mystra's honoured her like this, but I always knew she was a good person." She flutters up into the air to hover in front of the reformed erinyes, "What about you, though? You've went all the way from crazy naked dominatrix to troubled but cute repentant fiend to a heavenly angel! I'm proud of you, Antenora! And so is Alicia."
[20:57] <Kotono> "Crazy...naked...domin..." Antenora twitches at each word. "Who told you that, MArie?" Antenora says sweetly, "OF course I'm happy with myself. And thank you."
[20:58] <Alicia> "Oh, uh... no one told me, per se," Marie hedges, backing off a little. "But that's in the past, anyway!" she rallies.
[20:59] <Kotono> "Marie." Antenora stays where she is. She pats the top of her head. "Come here." Her voice is oh so sweet, "I won't get mad at you, I just want to know. You can sit on my head and tell me."
[21:01] <Alicia> "Er..." Marie looks a bit hesitant, but decides to just go with it and land herself on Antenora's head. "Say, your hair's a lot softer - did you do something special with it?" she asks cheerily as she settles down.
[21:02] <Kotono> "I was redeemed and touched by Mystra. Anyway, answer me," Smiling as she rolls her eyes up to look Marie's way, a hand going to pat her, "Spill." Oh, that word isn't quite so nice, not so nice at all.
[21:03] <Alicia> "No one told me," Marie admits defeat and sighs. "Because... well, I saw it for myself."
[21:06] <Kotono> "....Really." Antenora's smile twitches, "How did you see it, hm?"
[21:09] <Alicia> "I know Alicia mentioned the Time Magus we fought in Pallanth, but she kinda skipped over some of the buildup," Marie replies uneasily. "Part of that involved... well, it was like he summoned people that the Crimson Guard had fought before from out of time, and made them fight again."
[21:09] <Alicia> "Most of them were goblins and vampires and dragons that nobody liked, but... well, two of them were awkward. We had to fight Beth and, um... Della." She winces and looks down at Antenora's face, "You're not mad, right?"
[21:12] <Kotono> "Oh." Antenora blinks at that, "Oh. Actually...no, I suppose I'm not." Scowling, "That wasn't your fault then, though...what is your fault is the conclusion you came to from it. What about me screamed crazy naked dominiatrix?"
[21:14] <Alicia> "Well, you were naked to start with," Marie begins, "And, well, crazy seems a bit appropriate since you tried to take on all of us at once all by yourself, even leaving aside the whole futility of evil that I know you've learned by now. As for that last bit, well..." she fidgets awkwardly atop Antenora's head, "You were very... familiar, with Demedais."
[21:15] <Kotono> "...." Now crossing her arms, before lowering her head into her hands, "What did I do to him. Please tell me I didn't try to do something sexual to him in battle or worse. I was just trying to dominate his mind, at least?"
[21:16] <Alicia> "Well, yeah, you were trying to work your mind powers on him, but... but there was definite subtext there," Marie replies uneasily, not particularly enjoying this conversation herself.
[21:17] <Kotono> "Well..." After a pause, "You know what? That's not me anymore. That's well in the past." Putting a smile onto her face "I'm not going to mope, not today. So what? It was just some silly illusion or summoning trick. " With her lips twisting up now, "So Marie. Is Chaos so wonderful when it decides to change things up on you like that?"
[21:20] <Alicia> "Why are you blaming my woes on Chaos?" Marie replies indignantly. "That'd be like blaming Law or Chaos for that time all the devils and demons stopped being able to teleport - it was the Yugoloths, though! And I bet there's someone just as bad that's messing with all things incorporeal!"
[21:25] <Kotono> "Oh maybe, maybe not." Antenora smiles smugly, "You're part of chaos. Chaos decided it wanted a change. Are you saying that chaos is always going to stay the same?"
[21:27] <Alicia> "No, but we change in good ways!" Marie insists. "And what about Alicia's spell that she lost access to?" she takes off and flies down to eye level with Antenora, "I'm telling you, Antenora, we've stumbled onto something big!"
[21:28] <Kotono> "Maybe." Antenora relents a little, "Still, I would find it hilarious if chaos decided all the little coure need an excuse to find themselves naked all the time. I could almost imagine Lady Sune and Sharess, influencing Arborea."
[21:33] <Alicia> "Bah, I'm from Elysium," Marie retorts, folding her arms haughtily as her wings beat rapidly to keep her position in the air. "Besides, what about all the other eladrin? Sure, it's fun to laugh at the cute little coure when she flashes everyone, but what about when the ghaele loses his sword while trying to fight a pack of ravenous demons?"
[21:35] <Kotono> "Hmph. There you go, bringing something serious into it." Crossing her own arms, "Aren't I supposed to be the one who does that? I was hoping you'd make some outrageous comment or dare off of that. You know, maybe I'm rubbing off on you. Soon you'll find yourself triple organizing your socks and making sure everything in your room lines up perfectly even."
[21:36] <Alicia> "Well, I could flash you if you want to break the tension that way?" Marie offers magnaminously.
[21:37] <Kotono> Smirking now, "You'd like that, wouldn't you?"
[21:40] <Alicia> "Well, you're the one who considers it a source of fun, so we might as well get some entertainment out of it," the eladrin replies with a grin.
[21:46] <Kotono> "Ye...wait a minute." Now a look of surprise plays on Antenora's face, "What do you mean I get entertainment out of you flashing me?"
[21:48] <Alicia> "You keep bringing it up," Marie retorts simply. "Didn't you mention a few minutes ago that I'm really well endowed for my stature? And this morning after the fight you mentioned my dislike of clothes. And even just now when we were talking about something else, you immediately changed the subject onto naked coure."
[21:48] <Alicia> She shrugs, "Sometimes it seems it's all you can talk about..."
[21:50] <Kotono> Now with a flush on her cheeks, "It's not like that! Just..." Coloring, "You make it sound so scandalous, Marie!"
[21:53] <Alicia> "And yet I didn't even have to twist it at all," Marie replies, a sly smile on her lips. "You should watch that pretty mouth of yours, Anty. It might get you into trouble."
[21:53] <Alicia> Deciding that she's won this round and sticking around would buy enough time for a reversal, she elects to take her victory and flee. "Anyway, it's late and you should go to bed. Sweet dreams!" she gives one last parting shot before flying out of the kitchen.