The gift of ash

[Nephrite]

"Oh, is that how it works?" Moore asks. "Some sort of reciprocal power?"

A chuckle follows after that. "Well, somehow or another you're both safe and sound... perhaps the Holy Mountain intervened to ensure it." He says.

[Anastasia]

"I didn't think it was possible," Quasar says, "How strong are your swords?"

"...strong enough," Kaja finally says, as he rubs the side of his head. "I've been hit by balors with less power behind their blows."

[Nephrite]

"I think you were hit with the same power you used." Moore says to Kaja. "So however much damage it was... well, I'm glad you're both all right."

A smile after that as he gives Quasar some space. "I'm not quite sure where we go from here... is there even anything past you? It didn't seem like anyone had ever made it to the previous opponent at all, either." Moore says with a small smile. "Actually... what even are you, Quasar? The will of the Hebdomad that created this trial?"

[Anastasia]

"A golem of sorts," Is his answer, "Made from stones polished by Lord Sealtiel."

[Nephrite]

Moore nods. "Well, ah... did we technically succeed in the trial?" He asks.

[Anastasia]

"You did get me out of the way," Quasar says, "You may proceed."

[Nephrite]

"I offer you the same as the rest - you are welcome in Hope's Landing anytime you are allowed to leave." Moore says with a bow, before he proceeds onward!

This has certainly been an exercise, if nothing else. I think Lord Raziel may have wanted us to come here just to offer them some company, beyond the merits of this excursion.

[Anastasia]

Kaja nods and in your mind, 'Forever is a very long time.'

[Nephrite]

Everyone needs friends, or at least... someone to talk to. Moore says as he proceeds onwards, rather curious if there's even anything past Quasar at all.

[Anastasia]

There is, a passage with a flight of stairs going up and to the right. As you step on them, you can smell the breeze, fresh air.

[Nephrite]

Moore sniffs once before he continues.

Are they done? Perhaps so - but they did learn a bit after all.

[Anastasia]

You climb up the steps. Up and up until you step out into the light. You stand atop the peak of this particular mountain, the view to below breathtaking. Views of valleys, of lower mountains, of fog and lower layers yet. Yet as you stand here and take it in, you see that a simple book rests at your feet.

[Nephrite]

"I wonder if anyone's ever seen this view before besides the Hebdomad themselves." Moore says. He stands there for a few moments just marveling at the view before he kneels down to pick the book up and open it to its first page.

[Anastasia]

"It is magnificent," Cresiel remarks, as you pick up the book. When you do, you sense its power.

Libram of Holy Wisdom

This is a crystallized and concentrated miracle from the distant light of Chronias. When read by a lawful good character, they gain a permanent +1 bonus to Wisdom. Additionally they benefit from a +20 sacred bonus to Knowledge (Religion) checks.

Should a lawful good mortal read this tome, they are consumed by the glories within and instantly reform as a throne archon. A mortal who touches this book instantly knows what will happen should they read it. Regardless, this transformation allows the mortal to keep the memories of their mortal life.

[Nephrite]

"...Goodness." Moore says with a small smile. "This book could only be called a miracle in and of itself." He shows the others the book in the meantime. "I can't make any use of it myself... I wonder if we should hold onto it to share with someone."