SCENE: The Price of the Sea
SCENE: Sol, Merrisol, Liyandra and Utta are summoned to the temple antechamber to present their case to the Cult of Lir Council.
BACKGROUND: A political maneuver by Martin, Sol was asked to get the blessing of the Cult of Lir. The Cult of Lir in turn, uses this as a way to assert their authority.
GAME: Martin changed the setting to: The main temple of Lir sits on the edge of an underwater mountain that mirrors Kolvir. It is both sparse and yet majestic in that arcane way that ancient temples have. The structure has been carved from the mountain itself, all made of rock and coral in marvelously twisted shapes. It is as though the creator of this temple chose to disturb the natural rock as little as possible but still managed to create a place of wonder. One particular type of glassy coral causes the rock to shimmer when a fish dashes past and creates a sort of surreal sparkle every now and then. Triton guards are fiercely patrolling outside the temple. This is the stuff of legends, this great sea temple situated so far below the surface with mysterious depths. A 'stairwell' leads up to the temple, little balls of light illuminating the way through the water.
It is within the antechamber with the sparkling rock where you are brought a couple of days after your contemplation and research into the ways of the Sea. The majority of the Elders of the Cult of Lir are gathered and their leader Dryssana Morfilod stands in front of the group. The room has not been prepared at all for guests, it simply remains as it was and always has been, within the Sea. The Elders are quite old by Rebman standards with grey or white hair that has splashes of green and blue. They look much like any old people of Amber you would see, scarred by history and they are waiting for Utta, Sol and their companions to demonstrate their reverance and attempt to gain the blessing of the Sea for their endeavour. Drysanna is no more or less than she was before and has sparred no extra effort at putting on official robes or anything like that. You are, after all, only drylanders. "Enter the circle." She tells them, pointing to the center of great antechamber.
Sol has remained sequestered save when instructed to follow Utta to the archives...and once more on an errandthan only reveals itself now as something longer than Sol is was delivered, but apprently not present with Sol now. She moves to enter the circle when she is bidden, gaze obediently down as she resists the urge to watch the motions around her.
Liya is wearing a simple vest and shorts, the woman there and quiet, just watching and keeping herself out of the center of attention. Poor Mayhem was left home this time. (Much to his delight, given who usually babysits him when Liya has to be somewhere without him.) So, Liya stands by Merrisol, a quiet drylander who at least appears to be awed by the environment, and not interrupting.
Merrisol is in attendance today as it now looks to be coming to pass.. the answer from on high, as to whether Sol is deemed worthy of helping out Rebma in its time of dire need. Yep. It is what it is, and oftentimes Merri's annoyed expression has been suppressed for Sol's sake, knowing anything other than a dignified manner might make things harder for the girl. Standing with Liyandra until he sees Sol answer the call to enter the circle, the man hesitates, listing forward a step, then checking faces, particularly that of the High Priestess, for some sign that he should be joining Sol within.. and Liyandra? How awkward..
A few of the elders whisper in some ancient language known only to them. They look displeased. Utta remains outside the circle, hesitant the same way Merrisol was. Dryssana's gaze sweeps the group. "An individual's worth is also in the company they keep." Perhaps she is being kind to the poor drylanders. Probably not.
Sol lifts her chin juuuust enough to sneak a reassuring and encouraging smile to Merrisol-it will all be over soon and it is important to provide the people the solace of faith, after all. She quickly dips her chin and adopts an appropriately solemn expression. She does no wrath, rage, indignation, or any sign of sticking up for herself in the disapproving gaze and scandal.
And here's Liya, substituting in, and not at all sure what she should be doing. She does pause though, at the words spoken by the priestess. That actually gets the Sukhoti wide eyed, though she stays put where she is, glancing at Merrisol for her cue. The question is obvious in her eyes as she looks at Merri. A quick glance over at Sol and then back to Merri, cause well, Liya has very little idea just what she's gotten herself into.
Merri's own chin dips just the slightest bit but his eyes roll just a touch upwards as well, like ohhhmahgerrd. He catches Sol's sidelong glance just in time though, and looks determined. He reaches back to offer Liyandra his arm. "You.. ah. May need to think up a nice speech," he tells her, sotto-voice. "Just follow Sol's lead, Liya, all right?" Then he holds his other arm to poor Utta. Come along, one and all, we're off to see the Priestess, the Wunnerful High Priestess of Lir!
Utta is understandably a little timid, but she sets her shoulders. She was chosen to champion these flatlanders since the Regent's Niece was unavailable and she will do it! She fiddles with her now more traditionally Rebman hair and finally accepts Merrisol's arm and joins Sol in the center of the Antichamber. The "stars" above sparkle and the place illuminates a little more, the illumination centering on them. The moment you enter the circle you see around you that the waters begin to shimmer and swirl. If you exit the circle, you will be sucked into that current.
"State your names." Drysanna requests, "And your lineage, and your purpose here, for this also tests your worth. Do not disturb the current. The Sea is listening."
Sol hesitates at the stating of her name and after careful consideration answers, "I am called Sol, a guardian forged in the illuminating and cleansing fires of the sun. Crafted, not born, I was crafted to serve and to protect. I have come to give all that I am to the protection of this city and it's people."
Uhm. Right. Lava rocks. Liya reaches for Merri's arm, as he offers it, and then gives him a somewhat startled look. Speech? Her? But ... Oh, Maggie so owes her for this one. She nods her head, but stays silent, just moving forward with the group as they are suggested to go. Liya doesn't speak first, since that's not her place. Instead she waits until someone signals her way. Her gaze goes up to the stars above, and then down to the waters swirling around them, and she forces herself to stay still. When her turn comes, she speaks clearly, her voice without a tremor. "I am Liyandra, Daughter of Liyandra, of the Oriata clan of Sukho," she states. "And my purpose here is to - " she pauses though that's more because she's truly clueless, in all this. "My purpose here is to help as best I might, that Sol's task is completed successfully."
Merrisol releases both women to stand with him around the star-err, sun of the show, Sol. He takes a deep calming breath for himself, since Dryssana has started off with some real doozies. He's never going to make it to the semi-finals at this rate. When it's his turn in the cycle of introductions, he inclines his head to the Elders and High Priestess, saying: "I am called Merrisol, a name I have granted myself while I seek to uncover my true lineage. It is a fitting name, and means 'Of the sea and sun', both properties which I know in my heart are deeply tied to my identity. I am here in sincere and faithful support of the mission to preserve the greatness of Rebma from ruination, and specifically to assist Sol in her most worthy endeavor." He subsides, and lowers his gaze a moment later, having managed to hold onto a solemn expression for the duration.
Dryssana and the gathered Cult elders listen to this, there is some deliberation. There's several minutes of waiting for a response while the swirling current is the only sound. Finally, she speaks for the group again. "You have all given to us what you can of your identity and purpose." She is very tall for a Rebman and an imposing figure floating gracefully in the water. "Your concern for Rebma is noted, and the Sea has heard you. The truth of your value and honesty has been assessed. We sent you away from this place to learn to pay the proper respect to be granted leave to conduct this act of faith. What have you come here now to show to us of your true reverence to Lir?" This question is directed towards Sol.
Utta speaks up clearly. "I am Utta Baquemare, and I am here on behalf of the Regent to support Sol and provide her guidance in Rebman ways. I have not seen anything to suggest that their hearts are not true."
Dryssana and the gathered Cult elders listen to this, there is some deliberation. There's several minutes of waiting for a response while the swirling current is the only sound. Finally, she speaks for the group again. "You have all given to us what you can of your identity and purpose." She is very tall for a Rebman and an imposing figure floating gracefully in the water. "Your concern for Rebma is noted, and the Sea has heard you. The truth of your value and honesty has been assessed. We sent you away from this place to learn to pay the proper respect to be granted leave to conduct this act of faith. What have you come here now to show to us of your true reverence to Lir?" This question is directed towards Sol.
Sol notes, "I have given all of my material worth to a local smith who has made a Trident which shall be used in the sanctification, it will take from me my life consecrating it-and Rebma, in blood and binding me to this place to guard-this Trident will be a mighty weapon given to a Champion of Rebma's choosing-so it is known Rebma needs not the protection of any but it's own."
Liya's eyes widen as she hears Sol's description of what she is planning to do. Sounds more than a little painful, if you ask her. She just keeps her mouth shut, because really there's not anything more she has to add. Just here to observe and help where she can. Otherwise, the clueless one stays still and quiet.
Merrisol raises his gaze while they wait, looking over those in council then to either side of him, confirming that yes, nobody has been sucked into the vortex as yet. He receives the judgment in silence, focusing on Sol thereafter and taking care not to frown anymore over the statement of the practical application of her intentions. He's known about it for some time, and obviously he's here to see it through with her, but don't ask him to smile blithely at the prospect.
The elders of the cult of Lir once again take far too long and uncomfortable time in order to make the determination. Utta looks quite nervous, but she says nothing. Finally, the silence is broken. "You offer a promise to the Sea, sealed in blood." Drysanna's voice carries through the Antechamber. "It is proper respect, for the only true worth of a person is their reliability and honor. A promise is life for if you are without honor, you have no worth." Rebma has had its fair share of people abusing their waters and breaking promises. The swirling current finally dissolves and the waves diminish. "The Cult of Lir recognizes the efforts you have made and the respect paid. You have satisfied our requirements. The Sea has heard you and accepts your promise. I charge you, from hereafter, Do not disappoint the Sea for the Sea can be relentless and Life or Death to all."
Sol inclines her head and there's a brief and very subtle flicker of wryness about her-that was never more true than it was for her. She bows her head and shoulders in a display of deep respect but was not bid to speak and so does not. IF one is looking for firey speeches or some epic posing for a tapestry to be woven later-there is none here. She is humble, small, and unremarkable in this moment-as the Priestess said...the proof is in the action.
Merrisol has been known to take his time before speaking, so he ought not to begrudge the Elders their lengthy rumination. Still, they are rather slow about it, and c'mon, who could doubt an epic cute face like Sol's? Merri apparently hasn't gotten the memo concerning zero-hero humility and tapestry cancellation today. His swim jammers are waaay too silver right now, then. But when the Word is finally delivered from on high, he is too relieved to say anything, after all. He exchanges a glance with Liya to see that she is similarly speechless with relief, and once again makes to escort her and Utta from the 'star'-lit circle.
"History is full of those who do. You will be one who does and one that the mirrors will forever remember." Drysanna continues, her arms spreading out wide like she is ready to cast some ominous spell. Luckily, nothing happens, except a cool pose. "Go forth from here now. It has been said and the Sea will remember."
Utta clears her throat, "Yes Holy Reverence, thank you." She bows slightly as the group begins to make a hasty exit. They could change their minds at any minute!
Sol inclines her head one more time respectfully and turns to pad out at a serene pace, resisting the urge to smile at Merrisol, Liya, and Utta should Utta be present until they are WELL clear, "See? IT was noting to fear." And queue Sol's sunshine smile as they swim away.
>>END SCENE
BACKGROUND: A political maneuver by Martin, Sol was asked to get the blessing of the Cult of Lir. The Cult of Lir in turn, uses this as a way to assert their authority.
GAME: Martin changed the setting to: The main temple of Lir sits on the edge of an underwater mountain that mirrors Kolvir. It is both sparse and yet majestic in that arcane way that ancient temples have. The structure has been carved from the mountain itself, all made of rock and coral in marvelously twisted shapes. It is as though the creator of this temple chose to disturb the natural rock as little as possible but still managed to create a place of wonder. One particular type of glassy coral causes the rock to shimmer when a fish dashes past and creates a sort of surreal sparkle every now and then. Triton guards are fiercely patrolling outside the temple. This is the stuff of legends, this great sea temple situated so far below the surface with mysterious depths. A 'stairwell' leads up to the temple, little balls of light illuminating the way through the water.
It is within the antechamber with the sparkling rock where you are brought a couple of days after your contemplation and research into the ways of the Sea. The majority of the Elders of the Cult of Lir are gathered and their leader Dryssana Morfilod stands in front of the group. The room has not been prepared at all for guests, it simply remains as it was and always has been, within the Sea. The Elders are quite old by Rebman standards with grey or white hair that has splashes of green and blue. They look much like any old people of Amber you would see, scarred by history and they are waiting for Utta, Sol and their companions to demonstrate their reverance and attempt to gain the blessing of the Sea for their endeavour. Drysanna is no more or less than she was before and has sparred no extra effort at putting on official robes or anything like that. You are, after all, only drylanders. "Enter the circle." She tells them, pointing to the center of great antechamber.
Sol has remained sequestered save when instructed to follow Utta to the archives...and once more on an errandthan only reveals itself now as something longer than Sol is was delivered, but apprently not present with Sol now. She moves to enter the circle when she is bidden, gaze obediently down as she resists the urge to watch the motions around her.
Liya is wearing a simple vest and shorts, the woman there and quiet, just watching and keeping herself out of the center of attention. Poor Mayhem was left home this time. (Much to his delight, given who usually babysits him when Liya has to be somewhere without him.) So, Liya stands by Merrisol, a quiet drylander who at least appears to be awed by the environment, and not interrupting.
Merrisol is in attendance today as it now looks to be coming to pass.. the answer from on high, as to whether Sol is deemed worthy of helping out Rebma in its time of dire need. Yep. It is what it is, and oftentimes Merri's annoyed expression has been suppressed for Sol's sake, knowing anything other than a dignified manner might make things harder for the girl. Standing with Liyandra until he sees Sol answer the call to enter the circle, the man hesitates, listing forward a step, then checking faces, particularly that of the High Priestess, for some sign that he should be joining Sol within.. and Liyandra? How awkward..
A few of the elders whisper in some ancient language known only to them. They look displeased. Utta remains outside the circle, hesitant the same way Merrisol was. Dryssana's gaze sweeps the group. "An individual's worth is also in the company they keep." Perhaps she is being kind to the poor drylanders. Probably not.
Sol lifts her chin juuuust enough to sneak a reassuring and encouraging smile to Merrisol-it will all be over soon and it is important to provide the people the solace of faith, after all. She quickly dips her chin and adopts an appropriately solemn expression. She does no wrath, rage, indignation, or any sign of sticking up for herself in the disapproving gaze and scandal.
And here's Liya, substituting in, and not at all sure what she should be doing. She does pause though, at the words spoken by the priestess. That actually gets the Sukhoti wide eyed, though she stays put where she is, glancing at Merrisol for her cue. The question is obvious in her eyes as she looks at Merri. A quick glance over at Sol and then back to Merri, cause well, Liya has very little idea just what she's gotten herself into.
Merri's own chin dips just the slightest bit but his eyes roll just a touch upwards as well, like ohhhmahgerrd. He catches Sol's sidelong glance just in time though, and looks determined. He reaches back to offer Liyandra his arm. "You.. ah. May need to think up a nice speech," he tells her, sotto-voice. "Just follow Sol's lead, Liya, all right?" Then he holds his other arm to poor Utta. Come along, one and all, we're off to see the Priestess, the Wunnerful High Priestess of Lir!
Utta is understandably a little timid, but she sets her shoulders. She was chosen to champion these flatlanders since the Regent's Niece was unavailable and she will do it! She fiddles with her now more traditionally Rebman hair and finally accepts Merrisol's arm and joins Sol in the center of the Antichamber. The "stars" above sparkle and the place illuminates a little more, the illumination centering on them. The moment you enter the circle you see around you that the waters begin to shimmer and swirl. If you exit the circle, you will be sucked into that current.
"State your names." Drysanna requests, "And your lineage, and your purpose here, for this also tests your worth. Do not disturb the current. The Sea is listening."
Sol hesitates at the stating of her name and after careful consideration answers, "I am called Sol, a guardian forged in the illuminating and cleansing fires of the sun. Crafted, not born, I was crafted to serve and to protect. I have come to give all that I am to the protection of this city and it's people."
Uhm. Right. Lava rocks. Liya reaches for Merri's arm, as he offers it, and then gives him a somewhat startled look. Speech? Her? But ... Oh, Maggie so owes her for this one. She nods her head, but stays silent, just moving forward with the group as they are suggested to go. Liya doesn't speak first, since that's not her place. Instead she waits until someone signals her way. Her gaze goes up to the stars above, and then down to the waters swirling around them, and she forces herself to stay still. When her turn comes, she speaks clearly, her voice without a tremor. "I am Liyandra, Daughter of Liyandra, of the Oriata clan of Sukho," she states. "And my purpose here is to - " she pauses though that's more because she's truly clueless, in all this. "My purpose here is to help as best I might, that Sol's task is completed successfully."
Merrisol releases both women to stand with him around the star-err, sun of the show, Sol. He takes a deep calming breath for himself, since Dryssana has started off with some real doozies. He's never going to make it to the semi-finals at this rate. When it's his turn in the cycle of introductions, he inclines his head to the Elders and High Priestess, saying: "I am called Merrisol, a name I have granted myself while I seek to uncover my true lineage. It is a fitting name, and means 'Of the sea and sun', both properties which I know in my heart are deeply tied to my identity. I am here in sincere and faithful support of the mission to preserve the greatness of Rebma from ruination, and specifically to assist Sol in her most worthy endeavor." He subsides, and lowers his gaze a moment later, having managed to hold onto a solemn expression for the duration.
Dryssana and the gathered Cult elders listen to this, there is some deliberation. There's several minutes of waiting for a response while the swirling current is the only sound. Finally, she speaks for the group again. "You have all given to us what you can of your identity and purpose." She is very tall for a Rebman and an imposing figure floating gracefully in the water. "Your concern for Rebma is noted, and the Sea has heard you. The truth of your value and honesty has been assessed. We sent you away from this place to learn to pay the proper respect to be granted leave to conduct this act of faith. What have you come here now to show to us of your true reverence to Lir?" This question is directed towards Sol.
Utta speaks up clearly. "I am Utta Baquemare, and I am here on behalf of the Regent to support Sol and provide her guidance in Rebman ways. I have not seen anything to suggest that their hearts are not true."
Dryssana and the gathered Cult elders listen to this, there is some deliberation. There's several minutes of waiting for a response while the swirling current is the only sound. Finally, she speaks for the group again. "You have all given to us what you can of your identity and purpose." She is very tall for a Rebman and an imposing figure floating gracefully in the water. "Your concern for Rebma is noted, and the Sea has heard you. The truth of your value and honesty has been assessed. We sent you away from this place to learn to pay the proper respect to be granted leave to conduct this act of faith. What have you come here now to show to us of your true reverence to Lir?" This question is directed towards Sol.
Sol notes, "I have given all of my material worth to a local smith who has made a Trident which shall be used in the sanctification, it will take from me my life consecrating it-and Rebma, in blood and binding me to this place to guard-this Trident will be a mighty weapon given to a Champion of Rebma's choosing-so it is known Rebma needs not the protection of any but it's own."
Liya's eyes widen as she hears Sol's description of what she is planning to do. Sounds more than a little painful, if you ask her. She just keeps her mouth shut, because really there's not anything more she has to add. Just here to observe and help where she can. Otherwise, the clueless one stays still and quiet.
Merrisol raises his gaze while they wait, looking over those in council then to either side of him, confirming that yes, nobody has been sucked into the vortex as yet. He receives the judgment in silence, focusing on Sol thereafter and taking care not to frown anymore over the statement of the practical application of her intentions. He's known about it for some time, and obviously he's here to see it through with her, but don't ask him to smile blithely at the prospect.
The elders of the cult of Lir once again take far too long and uncomfortable time in order to make the determination. Utta looks quite nervous, but she says nothing. Finally, the silence is broken. "You offer a promise to the Sea, sealed in blood." Drysanna's voice carries through the Antechamber. "It is proper respect, for the only true worth of a person is their reliability and honor. A promise is life for if you are without honor, you have no worth." Rebma has had its fair share of people abusing their waters and breaking promises. The swirling current finally dissolves and the waves diminish. "The Cult of Lir recognizes the efforts you have made and the respect paid. You have satisfied our requirements. The Sea has heard you and accepts your promise. I charge you, from hereafter, Do not disappoint the Sea for the Sea can be relentless and Life or Death to all."
Sol inclines her head and there's a brief and very subtle flicker of wryness about her-that was never more true than it was for her. She bows her head and shoulders in a display of deep respect but was not bid to speak and so does not. IF one is looking for firey speeches or some epic posing for a tapestry to be woven later-there is none here. She is humble, small, and unremarkable in this moment-as the Priestess said...the proof is in the action.
Merrisol has been known to take his time before speaking, so he ought not to begrudge the Elders their lengthy rumination. Still, they are rather slow about it, and c'mon, who could doubt an epic cute face like Sol's? Merri apparently hasn't gotten the memo concerning zero-hero humility and tapestry cancellation today. His swim jammers are waaay too silver right now, then. But when the Word is finally delivered from on high, he is too relieved to say anything, after all. He exchanges a glance with Liya to see that she is similarly speechless with relief, and once again makes to escort her and Utta from the 'star'-lit circle.
"History is full of those who do. You will be one who does and one that the mirrors will forever remember." Drysanna continues, her arms spreading out wide like she is ready to cast some ominous spell. Luckily, nothing happens, except a cool pose. "Go forth from here now. It has been said and the Sea will remember."
Utta clears her throat, "Yes Holy Reverence, thank you." She bows slightly as the group begins to make a hasty exit. They could change their minds at any minute!
Sol inclines her head one more time respectfully and turns to pad out at a serene pace, resisting the urge to smile at Merrisol, Liya, and Utta should Utta be present until they are WELL clear, "See? IT was noting to fear." And queue Sol's sunshine smile as they swim away.
>>END SCENE