Krinac: "Before we start the game, I want to save time by handing out
some information on truth spells so I don't get asked lots of questions
during game time and slow down the whole process."
Krinac: "The following background information on truth spells is general
knowledge for those of you with sorcery. For the rest of you, this
information is strictly OOC."
Krinac: "The only sure way to determine if someone is telling the truth
is to completely dominate their mind in a battle of wills and then read
the truth from their mind."
Krinac: "A "truth" spell is really nothing more than a spell designed to
create a mental link between the caster and the target."
Krinac: "A truth spell requires the target to submit, anyone can raise a
barrier, or try to fight, but not do so and lie at the same time."
Krinac: "The target of the truth spell is at risk in accepting. A mental
link can be used for other things than just checking for truth."
Krinac: "A truth spell will make it more difficult to lie, but a trained
mind can still lie if they are careful."
Krinac: "Should the skill and strength of mind of the target greatly
exceed that of the caster, then the truth spell be fooled completely."
Krinac: "However, it is often impossible to tell who has the stronger
mind without a battle of wills."
Krinac: "In addition to creating the mental link, a truth spell usually
comes with a dispel word, to protect the caster should the target take
advantage of the mental link to invade the mind of the caster."
Krinac: "However, even that is not sure protection, because in a battle
of wills the bodies can become locked, and taking the time to speak
could lose you the battle."
Krinac: "It is also possible for a truth spell to include a safeguard
for the privacy of the target, preventing the caster from prying too
deeply."
Krinac: "A word of warning, advanced powers, such as High Compelling,
may allow more detailed manipulations of mental processes by spell, and
other advance powers such as advanced Shapeshift can allow one to
deceive a truth spell."
Vance raises a hand.
Krinac waits for questions.
Krinac: "Yes Vance?"
Vance says, "What about a spell to monitor pulse rate, etc, to watch for
the symptoms of lying?"
Krinac: "One second, I repeat everything for Madrak, then I answer your
question."
[Information from above repeated]
Vance says, "That wouldn't involve a mental link, I believe."
Krinac says, "Ok, a spell to monitor pulse rate, voice stress, galvanic
skin response (how much you are sweating), etc are possible. But the
character must (a) understand the science (b)design the spell. Even then
a strong will or trained mind can fool one. (Not to mention shapeshift,
which allows control over your body function (at higher levels))."
Krinac: "It's safe to say Judas (for example) could give whatever reply
he wanted to a monitor your vital signs lie detector type spell."
Sunfall says "Not to mention the fact that in real life polygraph
machines must be calibrated. If you stick a tack in your shoe and press
down during the calibration, the pain throws the readings off the the
legitimacy of the test is destroyed."
Vance says, "True, Sunfall, though it's an open question on how advanced
a spell is in comparison to our modern-day tech. Or future tech, for
that matter - some Shadows have more advanced methods."
Krinac: "If you've read the Stainless Steel Rat books, there is a
beautiful scene where he fools a polygraph machine, the same applies to
spells."
Rex notes that lie detectors are accepted less and less these days in
court, and are widely believed to be very unreliable, in both
directions.
Madrak says "No fast-penta. Whew."
Sunfall says "Anyway, since self control is a strong cultural value of
Sunfall's people, it is unlikely they would use the polygraph model to
detect lies. Not to mention the fact that their greatest foes are
demons, who can shapeshift."
Krinac: "Generally it is easier and more basic via magic to create a
mind-link based spell. That is one of the simple basic spells. To create
a physiology based spell would be going through a lot of effort to
create something not any more reliable."
Vance says, "Though it is safer, and harder to detect."
Krinac: "Note that since high skill often comes with high psyche, the
people most qualified to create such a spell would be the same people
with the least need for it."
Krinac: "Please remember that in addition to the PCs, the NPC Reed is
also currently with the party."
Krinac: "Since I haven't heard from Sean, in three sessions, and his
email address is now bouncing, I'm officially declaring him to be a NPC.
He is waiting outside the fortress in the trading village."

SHARDS
"When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however
improbable, must be the truth." -Conan Doyle
"If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything." -Mark
Twain
"Pretty much all the honest truth-telling there is in the world is done
by children." -Oliver Wendell Holmes
"It is hard to believe that a man is telling the truth when you know
that you would lie if you were in his place." -H. L. Mencken
"As scarce as truth is, the supply has always been in excess of the
demand." -Josh Billings
"Be true to your work, your word, and your friend." -Henry David Thoreau
"It is always the best policy to speak the truth, unless, of course, you
are an exceptionally good liar." -Jerome K. Jerome
"All great truths begin as blasphemies." -George Bernard Shaw
Between the Pattern of Amber and the Logrus of Chaos are the lesser
powers: broken patterns, the raveled logrii, representations, designs,
and wells. Realms of power. Shards.
Amber defeated Chaos in the Patternfall War, but the battle continues.
Now the Shards begin to fall. The realm of Begam is no more.
Most are unaware of the danger that surrounds them. Blind to the
warnings of prophecy they continue about their daily lives.
In Chiare a small band seeks to learn that most fragile of all
commodities, the truth...

Vance to Krinac: Vance suggests adding Corwin's quote, 'Trust me in all
things'...
Krinac: "I planned to run an interrogation scene for each of you.
However, in the interest of saving time, I am going to run the
interrogation scene partly OOC."
Guards come and take each of you to separate holding cells.
It is then discovered that Rex is missing. The guards aren't happy and
ask where he went. Getting no answer, they take the five of you away to
private cells, and leave a guard on the empty chambers.
Each of you spend half a day in a private cell. During which time you
spend about an hour being interrogated with truth spells. After which
the party will be brought back together and judgement pronounced.
Krinac: "I hope we can fast-forward this scene. I'll describe what
happens, and list the questions."
Krinac: "Each of you page me your replies. I may respond to some of you,
but hopefully we can hurry through the scene and move straight to the
judgement scene."
Krinac: "If anyone wishes to try to fight the guards, escape from their
isolated cell, or do something else sneaky, speak now."
Krinac pauses to allow everyone to catch up
Krinac to Vance: Krinac likes the addition, but it is a little late now.
Vance to Krinac: 'Is it a breach of etiquette to use a Truth spell on an
initiate of the Wheel of Runes?'.
Vance to Krinac: Vance can add the quote to the log retroactively, if
you want.
Krinac to Vance: It is rude, but Tannists (initiates) aren't considered
to have full rights anyway. They are after all students. Given that a
Karcist has died, it isn't a surprising step to take."
Each of you are conducted to an isolated cell. When the guards call you,
you are taken to another room where three Karcists (priests) are
waiting.
One of the Karcists is chanting and working magic. Those of you who know
something of spellcasting can tell he has completed a spell, and is
repeating a "pause" phrase to hold the release until he is ready.
One of the other Karcists has a scroll and pen before her. The third
appears to be in charge, and nods to the guards as you enter.
There is incense burning in the room, the room is comfortable, with
pillows for sitting, and a several lamps to provide illumination. Three
guards wait outside the door.
One of the Karcists beckons you to be seated. "You were present at the
death of Raiguyen, Karcist of Chaire. In order to determine your guilt
or innocence we will hear you tell of what happened. We will use the
wheel to judge the truth of your words."
Krinac to Vance: We are aware of the extent of your power Vance. You may
believe your skill exceeds our ability to discern the truth. We hold
your skills in highest regard, and have taken steps accordingly. We will
not be fooled.
Krinac: "If any of you wish to object page me. I'm assuming you all
agree, and we move on into the questions."
The Karcist who was chanting releases his spell, and you feel a brush at
your mind, and it is if you can hear the Karcist's voice dimly in your
head, and you suspect he can hear yours.
Krinac: "Yes it is a form of a Mind Link, you could try to launch a
mental attack or block his probe, but that wouldn't be very nice. Still
if you want to try let me know."
Then the questions begin. The first question seem to be ritual. It echos
Sunfall's question at the gate.
Krinac: "Their questions are not numbered. The numbers are from the GM
to aid you in responding."
(1)Do you, (name, title, and allegieance), owe any allegiance or
sympathies to the forces of chaos or are you in any way the tool or
agent of demons?"
(2)Did you summon the demon that killed Raiguyen?
(3)Do you know who summoned the demon that killed Raiguyen?
(4)Do you know why Raiguyen was killed?
(5)Do you mean harm to the Empire of Chiare or the Wheel of Runes?
(6)Do you know how the one known as Rex contrived to escape?
(7)Did you in any way help the one known as Rex to escape?
(8)Do you know why the one known as Rex might seek to escape?
Krinac to Vance: The questions continue for Vance. "You have brought
strangers with you Vance, and have asked for one of our own. We question
your motives. (9)What is it that you seek to accomplish?
Vance to Krinac: 'Well, I will definately mention that it is an insult
to my honor (using whatever specific phrasing is appropriate).
Furthermore, I will gaze directly at the one who says 'we will not be
fooled', and say, "It is out of respect to Raiguyen that I submit to
this...I was privileged to hear his final words, which I consider an
honor."'.
Vance to Krinac: 'My answers are as short as possible. (1) No. (2) No.
(3) No. (4) To prevent him from relaying information to us. (5) No. (6)
No. (7) No, and I had not heard of this. I would like more information.
(8) No. (9) I have stated this before to you all, and my words then were
true.'.
Vance to Krinac: 'Refresh my memory - did Rex try to escape? I don't
remember that.'.
Krinac to Vance: Hmm, it's up there in my long pose. When the guards
came to take you for questioning he was nowhere to be found.
Vance to Krinac: Vance ahs. "Missed it in the spam. Okay, my answers
stand."
Krinac slows a bit as he handles multiple pages, (hopefully this is
still faster).
Krinac to Vance: What information do you believe that Raiguyen wished to
impart to you?
Vance to Krinac: 'The existence of the prophecy given to Sunfall, and
his conclusions regarding it. He was only able to speak of the former,
before his passing.'.
Vance to Krinac: 'You are asking the wrong person. Talk to Sunfall.'.
Text added.
Krinac to Vance: We will ask Sunfall. You claim Raiguyen was killed to
prevent you from hearing this prophesy?
Vance to Krinac: 'Yes. His last words urged me to ask Sunfall about the
prophecy. As it was of prime importance to him, it seems likely that
others wanted that knowledge surpressed.'.
Finally the questions are over and each of you is returned to your
private cell. Hours pass. You are fed a decent meal, but watched
carefully. Eventually guards come and you are escorted to another room.
Vance takes the free time to eat and rest.
All of you (except Rex) arrive at approximately the same time at a large
chamber. You are led to sit upon large red cushions while the three
Karcists who interrogated you and the Karcist Almirant (high priest from
earlier) look down upon you from atop a raised platform 20 feet away,
and five feet above you. Large gallaries filled with chairs line the
edges of the room. These seats are empty and your feet echo as you
enter.
The same Karcist who was cast the truth spell is again chanting in a
holding pattern. Holding a spell ready for release.
The guards escort you into the chamber and then retire to the outside.
Vance frowns. "This is getting tiring."
Jeanette reminds Vance, "Patience is a virtue."
Vance says, "So is respect."
Sunfall remains silent.
Jeanette shrugs.
The Karcist Almirant nods to the Karcist chanting. In response, he
speaks the final word and a spell is released. A blow glow comes from
him in a slowly expanding sphere, that washes over the group and fills
the chamber.
Krinac to Vance: The spell is called the "Ritual of Prescence". It is
supposed to detect magic and reveal anyone using magic to spy. It would
for example make a power lens turn visible.
Vance to Krinac: Vance nods.
When the blue glow touches the other Karcists, it washes over them and
continues onward. When it reaches the party it sets off interesting
effects. Various small items on Reed's person begin twinkling in a
rainbow of colors. One of Reed's items, a small cube, seems to reflect
the blue glow like a mirror.
The blue glow shrinks as it reaches Jeanette, seemingly swallowed up by
the dark jewel she bears. Her gloves also seem strange. Under the blue
glow they look like long claws.
Krinac to Vance: You are able to minimize the interaction with your
gloves. Vance can see a small zone of darkness near his gloves, but it
is not as pronounced, not more than an inch. Perhaps it passed without
notice.
The glow seems to have little effect on Vance.
As the glow washes over Madrak, a darkness envelops him like a shroud.
It is as if he has wings and a helm crafted of night.
Sunfall's junaive (polearm) seems to change shape slightly. It is as if
it has a more pronounced hook, and a cross near the base.

Vance to Krinac: Vance keeps his gloves inactive, so they don't show up
from a _lack_ of glow.
The glow expands onward filling the room, and then fades. The Karcist
who casts the spell says, "Obviously they bear items of power, but the
Ritual of Presence confirms this room is secure.
The Karcist Almirant speaks, "I have considered your words, and the
evidence. I am prepared to pass judgement. Do you have any words to
speak in defense or mitigation?
Vance is quiet, though his frown remains.
Sunfall says "I do not believe I have done anything deliberately for
which defense is necessary, Dai'shi."
Does anyone else have words to speak in defense or mitigation?
The Kacist of Wisdom (who took notes during the interrogation) says,
"The flight of the one known as Rex was not the act of one who had
nothing to hide."
The Karcist of Adepts (who cast the spells) says, "A search of the
chambers of the deceased revealed books on the subject of demonology. It
is possible that he was responsible for his own death."
The Karcist Almirant speaks, "Hear my judgement. I find you without
fault in the death of Raiguyen.
The Karcist Almirant continues, "Vance and Madrak have spoken of the
destruction of another Realm, and urged us to make steps. I have
commanded that a guard be placed on the Circle of Runes, and our the
emperor will be notified to prepare our army.
The Karcist Almirant continues, "Reed has requested to take measurements
of the Circle of Runes. There is more to be gained than lost. The
request shall be granted."
Madrak bows his head slightly.
The Karcist Almirant continues, "Vance has requested that a tannist
accompany him on his further journey. It is my judgement that you travel
into danger, and that a Tannist would be at risk to accompany you. Vance
may have a Karcist of Chiare to accompany him on his journey."
Vance frowns slightly, but nods.
The Karcist Almirant focuses his gaze on Sunfall. "The Tannist known as
Sunfall has shown great promise. It is my will that she traverse the
Circle of Runes tonight and complete the major runes. If she survives,
she will be a Karcist, and may accompany Vance should she so choose."
Sunfall bows both in assent and to allow her to regain composure after
her surprise.
The Karcist Almirant looks grim. "The one known as Rex may be
responsible for the death of the Karcist Raiguyen. However, there is
evidence that forces allied with demons are active here in the
Sorceror's Citadel. For your protection you will be returned to the
suite you once occupied."
Rex pages to Jeanette, Madrak, and Vance: And you didn't believe my
cock-a-mamie story about Gods whisking me hither and yon...
Vance looks over to the Karcist, and signals that he wishes to speak.
The Karcist Almirant nods to Vance, "You wish to say something?"
Guest has connected.
Vance says, "Yes. While I believe Rex to have a problem with authority
figures, I doubt he is responsible for the Karcist's death. First, he
was with us for the entire trip, and hasn't been alone since we entered
Chiare. Second, if he was responsible despite this fact, then his power
is more formidable than I had imagined."
From afar, to Madrak and Vance, Rex laughs! "Me, a problem with
authority? What's a little railing at and insulting of Gods? A problem?"
:)
From afar, to Rex and Vance, Madrak just doesn't know which Gods to rail
at.
The Karcist Almirant says, "Your reasoning is sound insofar as Rex would
have been hard pressed to have summoned and placed the demon without
help. However, it seems likely that he may have helped, if only by being
an informant. In any case he is to be detained and questioned should he
return to the Empire of Chiare."
The Karcist Almirant continues, "You will remain in your chambers until
it is time for the Tannist Sunfall to walk the Circle of Runes. After
the ritual you will be secretly conveyed from this fortress and allowed
to continue on your journey."
Vance says, "Very well. Though, I would point out that he did not even
know we were travelling to Chiare until after our attempt to travel to
Begma."
The Karcist Almirant says, "Are there any other questions?"
Madrak shakes his head.
Krinac: "If there are no questions, you are conducted back to your
chamber, under guard. This time a guardsman opens the door and a quick
search is done of the suite before you are allowed to enter. You are
released to your suite and the gaurds retire to outside the suite."
Madrak finds a chair. "Well. That was... more fair than I'd feared."
Krinac: "You have several hours until the ceremony... you can talk for a
bit, when you are ready to fast forward let me know."
Sunfall says "We are not barbarians, after all."
Jeanette scowls, letting loose the unpleasant feelings she held in check
while they were under direct observation. "Fair? Next best thing to
rape, according to some cultures."
Jeanette says "Why didn't they just strip-search us while they were at
it?"
Vance says, "It was necessary, in their eyes. I may have done something
similar were the situation reversed."
Vance turns to Sunfall. "Will you be ready for the walk on such short
notice?"
Madrak says "I have known those who would have simply killed us on
suspicion alone, Jeanette, and it would not have been a gentle death."
Jeanette scowls, and sits back. "I do not believe I care to travel here
again."
Reed agree sourly with Jeanette, "It wasn't just, but we came here as
foreigners, and we have to deal with their laws. We can't expect
everyone to be democratic."
Jeanette eyes Reed as if he were something that crawled out from under a
rock, but says nothing.
Sunfall replies "It is what I have trained for". Without another word,
Sunfall enters a meditative state, refusing to become further embroiled
in any debate.
Vance looks over to Jeanette. "I would advise keeping your opinions to
yourself. In the days to come, you will see many things that differ with
your beliefs."
Jeanette says "I will show the respect due from a traveller to her host,
Vance. But I do not have to enjoy it."
Reed seems a little miffed at Jeanette's glare, but chokes back whatever
he was about to say after Vance's comment.
Vance says, "See that you don't. I'd prefer not to die from a careless
response. One thing in common with those in places of power - they place
themselves above others. And they are quite touchy about such matters."
Jeanette nods. "One is reminded of the response of the Emperor of Chin,
to the Queen's gifts."
Madrak smiles thinly.
Vance frowns. "Just be careful. This little incident has already delayed
us for too long. And it only gets worse from here." He pauses, then
says, "I will be studying until it is time for Sunfall's walk. Call me
when the guards arrive." He turns, and heads to his rooms.
Madrak hmps. "It always gets worse. That is the way of the world."
Jeanette says "Worlds have their own ways."
Jeanette walks off to her own rooms, joining Sunfall in meditation.
Krinac *As the conversation just died, I'll zoom ahead.
Vance to Krinac: 'Time passes?'.
Guards come to escort Sunfall to prepare for the ceremony.
A short time later they return for the rest of you.
Vance to Krinac: Vance plans to use his gloves to aid Sunfall, if the
opportunity arises.
The guards escort you from your rooms to a chamber deep within the
mountain. Massive doors and a long narrow passageway guard the entrance.
You reach the chamber of the Circle of Runes.
In the center of the room is a floor of dark obsidian polished smooth.
Glowing blue lines can be seen in the dark stone. The designs form the
shape of runes, laid out in a great circle. Toward the edges the runes
are scarce and there is much space between them.
Closer to the center of the circle the runes almost touch and there is
little space between them.
Sunfall is waiting at the edge of the circle. She is dressed all in
white, and carries her junaive with her. The three Karcists from earlier
and the Karcist Almirant stand by her.
The Karcist Almirant nods to the Karcist of Adepts. The Karcist of
Adepts chants lynchpins, and the Ritual or Presence fills the chamber.
This time the glow does not spread out from the Karcist casting the
spell, but from the Circle of Runes itself. The runes glow brighter and
then their glow spreads to fill the room.
The same effects happen as before when the ritual reaches the party,
except
When the ritual touches Sunfall, her junaive again seems to bend shape,
and also the blue glow of the ritual races along it very quickly, then
it too seems to be almost a source of the same blue glow.
The Ritual of Presence reveals no outside forces at work in the chamber.
The Karcist Almirant turns to Sunfall, "You may start when you are
ready."
Vance to Krinac: Vance hmms. "Can I fool the Ritual?"
Madrak remains a silent, brooding presence.
Sunfall approaches the circle at the point of the first Rune.
Krinac to Vance: You can damp down the flaw in the Circle of Runes and
make it more forgiving, but so far it does not appear that Sunfall needs
any help.
As Sunfall's foot first touches the outer edge she is bathed in tongues
of blue flame.
As Sunfall begins her walk, one of the Karcists approaches Reed. "You
may take your measurements now." Reed draws forth a device in response,
and begins a slow walk around the outside perimeter of the Circle of
Runes.
Sunfall's first circuit passes fairly quickly, as if familiar to her. As
she steps inward to the second circle however, the blue flames brighten
and her junaive begins to glow.
As she passes each rune Sunfall's pace, though never stopping, slows
slightly.
Vance to Krinac: Vance won't intervene unless she needs it. "Just in
case their detection capabilities are stronger than I realize - my
gloves need to remain secret more than I need Sunfall. But I will call
up the Lens - I doubt they will question that, and I want a good view."
Upon entering the third circle, Sunfall's posture becomes noticeably
more rigid with tension.
With each successive circle, the flames grow brighter, and Sunfall's
figure seems to waver and melt slightly, as if seen through heat waves.
Although he was walking at a slow leisurely pace, Reed has completed two
complete circuits of the outside perimeter, and Sunfall is still
struggling.
By the time she reaches the sixth circle, Sunfall's specific features
are no longer visible through the flames, and her junaive is a rod of
coruscating blue-white.
Vance to Krinac: 'Do I need to pose the Lens?'.
As Sunfall nears the center, one of the Karcists goes to the door of the
chamber, and opens it to allow a tannist to enter. This is the same
tannist who spoke to Sunfall after the death of Raiguyen.
Krinac to Vance: No, the ritual of presence doesn't last long, your lens
isn't visible, although it can't see much through all the power effects
going on now. She seems to be doing ok.
Vance to Krinac: Vance nods. "Good. I'll monitor her progress. How does
the BP itself look?"
Krinac to Vance: *Stronger than before, significantly stronger in fact.
Strangely it seems to be gaining strength right now as Sunfall walks it.
Vance to Krinac: Vance examines Sunfall's junaive.
Krinac to Vance: It doesn't look the same, it looks twisted, as if it is
another shape. The blade is more hooked, and it is as if there is a
crossbar near the base that isn't really there.
Sunfall walks slowly, as if through an invisible substance thicker than
water. She walks straight to the center rather than walking the seventh
circuit. Once at the Center, the blue white flames crescendo, then die
away to a dim cloud of glowing blue motes
The Karcist Almirant says, "Sunfall, remain at rest in the center for
now."
Vance to Krinac: 'Does it seem to be the cause of the effect on the BP?
And, a question - can I walk straight to the center of the BP, without
doing any of the circuits (using the gloves, of course)?'.
You think you see the figure in the center of the circle nod wearily.
Vance steps forward, toward the Karcist Almirant.
The Karcist Almirant says, "The Tannist Hua Jiang has charges to bring
against the Tannist Sunfall."
The Tannist Hua Jiang speaks with tones of accusation, "Sunfall is not
what she appears to be. She is not a tannist of Chiare, but a demon."
Krinac to Vance: You picked a good time to approach... anything to say?
Vance says, "Given that Sunfall has just reached the center, this
Tannist is laying a serious charge against a Karcist, not another
Tannist."
Krinac to Vance: The Junaive does appear to be the cause of the effect.
Even with your powers you cannot walk directly to the center. That would
be going over lines. You could take fewer laps and a sharper curve
inward though.
Madrak leans on his staff, watching.
The Karcists nod in agreement. The Karcist Almirant says, "A most
extreme charge indeed. Tannist Hua Jiang what would you have us do?"
The Tannist Hua Jiang says, "Sunfall is at the center of the Circle. Let
the ritual of binding be preformed. The ritual will trap a demon. If she
is but a tannist, she will be able to walk out again."
Vance to Krinac: Vance nods. "I'll keep that in mind."
Vance turns to Hua Jiang. "Again, you malign her title. As of yet, no
proof has been provided. And I have a request ere this ritual is
granted."
The Karcist Almirant says, "What is this request?"
Vance says, "I wish to assay the Circle - before this ritual is
performed."
Sunfall appears too exhausted to reply to the charges.
The Karcist Almirant asks, "To what end? The ritual is simple and fast,
and the test sure. The circle is after all used for summoning. I would
have this matter resolved now. Can you not walk the wheel after the
Karcist Sunfall has the chance to prove she is no demon?
Madrak says "Do demons attack their own? You have been warned twice now
to expect a threat from within. Perhaps it seeks to cover its track."
Vance says, "My examination might be tainted by the ritual, and I have
little time to wait for the eminations to subside."
Jeanette says "Who will perform this ritual? Who stands most to gain
from her downfall, to lose by her rising?"
Vance glances to Jeanette. "For something of this importance, the
Karcist Almirant must perform the ritual." He turns back to the Karcist
Almirant. "Correct?"
The Karcist Almirant replies to the outburts, "I desire the Karcist
Sunfall to clear her name. This is the most definitive test available.
If she is as she appears there is no risk to her, and the Tannist Hua
Jiang will suffer. Vance I hear your plea, but Tannist Hua Jiang's
charges must be answered. I will conduct the ritual myself. We will have
the truth of Sunfall's nature."
Vance says, "And, what is the penalty should the charges be false?"
Madrak straightens. "And how does Tannist Hua Jiang know Sunfall is a
demon?"
Jeanette says "What evidence convinces the Tanist to bring such an
accusation?"
The Karcist Almirant says, "Normally the Karcist Sunfall would be given
the right to pass judgement. However, Hua Jiang has confessed to other
crimes and she will be a long time in answering them. As to evidence,
Hua Jiang claims she saw Sunfall change her shape from that of a demon
to the one she wears now."
Jeanette says "One who has much reason to lie, then, brings accusation
against a key figure at a vital moment. Just as another key figure is
slain at a vital moment. Quite a curious coincidence."
The Karcist Almirant says, "Normally the Karcist Sunfall would be given
the right to pass judgement. However, Hua Jiang has confessed to other
crimes and she will be a long time in answering them. As to evidence,
Hua Jiang claims she saw Sunfall change her shape from that of a demon
to the one she wears now."
Jeanette says "One who has much reason to lie, then, brings accusation
against a key figure at a vital moment. Just as another key figure is
slain at a vital moment. Quite a curious coincidence."
The Karcist Almirant says, "The reason I give weight to Tannist Hua
Jiang's words of accusation is that she was not under suspicion, but
voluntarily accused herself just to have Sunfall tested. She has thrown
away her honor and her future. If this is but a ploy, it is difficult to
see how she could prosper by it."
Jeanette says "A demon has neither honor nor future in a realm not its
own."
Madrak says "Unless she is not, in fact, the Tannist Hua Jiang."
The Tannist Hua Jiang hangs her head as if in shame. The other Karcists
look at the Karcist Almirant as if they are just beginning to
understand.
The Karcist Almirant says, "All the more reason to get clean Sunfall's
name then. Step aside. Let the ritual of binding begin."
The Karcist Almirant begins to chant.
Jeanette quietly slips her gloves on, watching all carefully.
Vance to Krinac: Vance watches with the Lens.
Madrak says "Why not test them both?"
Sunfall weakly waves for them to get it over with.
The Karcist of Adepts says to Madrak quietly, "The Tannist Hua Jiang is
not skilled enough to reach the center of the Circle of Runes. Thus we
cannot give her our strongest test. I am sure she has already been
tested under a spell of truth, and I intend her to answer more questions
before I'm satisified."
Vance to Krinac: Vance somehow considers binding something inside your
loci of power to be...odd. Not a good idea...but we'll see what
happpens.
Krinac to Vance: You don't have conjuration, but you've been here, they
do use the Circle of Runes for summonings. And binding the Circle of
Runes is the first step."
The Karcist Almirant's chant builds to a higher and higher, and then
cuts off.
Vance to Krinac: 'Okay. Just figured that putting someone who's mastered
the power in the center wasn't all that smart.'.
The Karcist Almirant commands, "Sunfall come forth!"
Vance to Krinac: Vance turns his attention to the Tannist.
Krinac to Vance: Normally use, but in this case it is like tricking a
demon into stepping into a pentagram. If Sunfall's a demon she won't be
able to get out. Vance could easily.
Vance to Krinac: Vance chuckles. "What if I was a demon, but wearing the
gloves...nevermind. Just an interesting thought."
Sunfall seems to gather herself and begins to wearily shuffle out of the
circle, using her junaive as a support.
Krinac to Vance: Hmm, well the gloves have the power to affect the
gloves... heck Vance just doesn't know that much about Demons. Vance
doesn't have Conjuration. However, he does respect the knowledge of the
Karcists. The spend quite a bit of time studying summonings.
After leaving the circle, she shuffles forward to face Hua Jiang, still
breathing hard with the effort of her original walk. Hoarsely, she says
"Perhaps my bad luck wears the false face of friend."
Vance to Krinac: Vance nods. "I plan to buy Shadow Manipulation
eventually...but not yet. I really need to raise my stats, first."
Hua Jiang seems shocked, "No I saw it you killed her! You ate her! You
wear her skin!" Hua attempts to bodily throw herself at Sunfall.
Madrak grabs Hua quickly.
Jeanette steps close, reaching to close fingers about Hua Jiang's neck
and intoning a single, throat-twisting Word.
Vance to Krinac: Vance figures he's not close enough to Hua, and lets
others handle it.
Sunfall lifts her hand for people to desist hostilities.
Vance to Krinac: 'Besides, if my guess is correct, Sunfall can handle it
herself.'.
Madrak grabs Hua as she first lauched herself at Sunfall. All signs of
martial training gone, she appeared to be trying to claw Sunfall with
her fingernails. When Madrak grasps Hua Jiang she struggled in his grasp
hysterically screaming "No, No, No," Sunfall lifts up her hand, but
Jeanette was allready in motion and with a word from her Hua Jiang
freeze stock still, frozen in Madrak's arms.
Vance says calmly, "I believe this matter is settled. May I traverse the
Circle?"
Krinac: Hua Jiang is alive, just stunned.
The Karcist Almirant mutely nods permission.
Sunfall turns to the Karcist Almirant. "Dai'shi, if I could be permitted
to speak with Hua Jiang privately after I have rested...?"
Krinac to Vance: Drat forgot in all the dramatics, the power level of
the Circle of Runes decreased as Sunfall left, and now is a little
higher than usual, but not greatly so.
Vance takes a different route than Sunfall. He makes a casual,
dismissive gesture to the design before him, then takes a sharp curve
that is, if not direct, much quicker than Sunfall's path.
The Karcist Almirant says, "Are you sure that is wise? I am afraid that
Tannist Hua Jiang may have lost her grip on sanity. Perhaps she was the
victim of a glamour, for she certainly seemed to believe her charges.
You have the right to pass judgement on her, but I want answers as to
what she knows of demons."
Vance to Krinac: Vance will use the gloves to ease the path, and work on
getting to the center, without much sightseeing. "I assume I can best
sense the strength from the center?"
Madrak says "She may have been tricked by a demon who wished to frame
Sunfall... and her as well, perhaps."
Krinac to Vance: The best way is from the center. Second best is what
Reed did, circle all around and take an average from all directions.
Vance to Krinac: Vance nods. "I can do that afterwards."
Sunfall says "I know that some power has acted against me, but I
question whether Hua Jiang could have summoned the thing that attacked
Raiguyen. I would like to speak to her after you have asked her whatever
you wish."
The Karcist Almirant says, "That too seems a likely possibility. Someone
has committed a crime, and gone to great lengths to spread confusion."
The Karcist Almirant says, "That may take some time. We will see that
she gets some poppy juice, and you may question her tonight. You leave
before dawn and our questions may be days in the asking. Welcome
daughter, I am proud that you have joined the ranks of Karcist."
Vance reaches the center in near record time, and stands there slightly
bent over, breathing heavily. His eyes are closed, and fatigue lines his
face.
Vance to Krinac: Vance wonders what the K.A. thinks of his walk... :)
Each of the other Karcists approaches Sunfall greets her with, "Welcome
sister" and kisses her on the cheek.
Krinac to Vance: Actually he still seems taken aback by the events with
Hua Jiang. Despite his skills, the temple is a sheltered place and
emotional outbursts are not common.
Vance to Krinac: Vance nods. "When I feel able, I'll observe the power
level here, and anything else of interest."
Krinac to Vance: The Circle of Runes is stronger, but it seems to be
picking up a big echo from Sunfall's junaive which is helping its
strength along.
Vance to Krinac: 'Is the junaive something similar to my gloves - tied
to the BP and/or the Flaw?'.
Krinac to Vance: Could be, it would be easier if you could stay here as
Sunfall left and you could see how the Circle responded without her.
Vance to Krinac: Vance nods, and waits.
One of the Karcists says, "Madrak, the tannist Hua Jiang appears more
docile now. If you would turn her over to the guards just outside the
chamber, I will instruct them to take her to a cell."
Madrak turns Hua over to the guards. "By all means..."
The Karcist Almirant turns to Vance, "We await your return."
Vance looks up. "My observations will take a few more minutes. Feel free
to stay or go as you wish - I understand that gaining a new Karcist is a
joyous event, and the actions of the Tannist are of great concern."
The Karcist Almirant says, "I cleared this room purposefully so that
none would know you were here. For now only those here will know that
Sunfall is now a Karcist. I would like to get you all back to your rooms
and get the regular guard posted here again. You will all need some
rest. We will take you out secretly shortly before dawn.
Jeanette * must request a brief pause, 20-30 minutes at most. My host
needs to make a phone call, and that means I have to close my connects.
Sorry.
Vance nods. "Very well. The only other thing I require is that those
bearing objects of power, or other strong power manifestations, should
shield them or leave for a few minutes."
Madrak nods, and looks thoughtful for a moment. He bows deeply to the
Karcist Almirant, and departs.
Jeanette nods. "I will escort Sunfall to our quarters." Unless
objections are raised, she will depart with the other lady.
Reed retires with Madrak.
A guard "escort" waits for all of you.
Sunfall says "I'd like to be alone for a bit."
Jeanette nods. "Of course, friend. All will be well." She steps away
with the guard.
Madrak returns to his quarters, and the chair he's come to inhabit much
of the last few days.
Vance to Krinac: 'Assuming the interference goes away...what do I see?'.
Krinac to Vance: The CoR losses power as Sunfall departs, but still tops
out more powerful than it was in the past.
Vance to Krinac: 'Strange. Any ideas why?'.
Krinac to Vance: As you specualted Sunfall's junaive may be an item like
your gloves that affects the BPs. It may have created some kind of
resonance.
Rand comments, "That was quite a show."
Madrak nods. "Yes. I've never seen anything quite like it."
Reed says, "I have a feeling we are still not much closer to knowing
what is really going on in any of this."
Vance eventually returns to the room, and immediately goes to rest.
Krinac to Vance: Walking around the CoR is less accurate. If easier.
Vance to Krinac: 'I did circle around the BP before returning. I should
be tired by now.'.
Krinac to Vance: Yes, crossed pages. Just letting you know.
Madrak says "Perhaps not, but it may be the best we can do. At least in
Chiare."
Reed hmms, "I suppose I should be greatful they let me take my
measurements and leave it at that."
Madrak chuckles softly. "Perhaps."
Reed asks, "Where to next I wonder?"
Madrak shakes his head. "I am not certain."
Madrak says "We could try Begma again, or another land with a power that
might be endangered... though I wish there were more we could than cry
doom or follow in disaster's wake."
Reed says, "If nothing else they have taken steps to protect themselves
here. Even if we do nothing but spread a warning, it was more than they
had before, and now we are one stronger, and we have a prophesy to guide
us. For whatever it is worth."
Vance to Krinac: Vance waits for the appointed time of departure. "In
the meantime...any ideas on what to do with my remaining advancement?"
Madrak frowns. "For whatever it is worth."
The guards come at the appointed time and lead you through hallways to
the main gate. There the gate guards pointedly don't notice as a small
wagon rolls out, with you on board. The Karcist of Adepts saw you off,
and as a parting gift offered to replace your supplies if needed.
Vance accepts the offer of supplies, and gets the traditional fare for a
long journey.
Krinac: "The party rejoins Sean of Briarwood and is again free to chart
their own destiny. So where are you going??"
Vance says, "Unless another has a better idea, I would like to go to
each Broken Pattern in turn, to ensure their safety. The closest one is
the island of Thule."
Madrak says "Shall we attempt to reach Begma again, or abandon that in
favor of those lands not yet attacked?"
Vance hmms, and thinks a moment. He then turns to Sunfall. "You're
experienced at leading others through Shadow. Have you ever encountered
storms that hindered your path?"
Krinac thinks about it, "Didn't miss much."
Sunfall says "No, not really. But then again, I've only traveled local
shadow."
Vance hmms. "Then, I open the question to the rest of you. Do we attempt
Begma again, or warn the other places of power first?"
Madrak frowns thoughtfully. "I believe the living need us more, at the
moment."
Reed says, "Or do we seek out Rex who vanished? I haven't heard anyone
talking about his unorthodox departure. My vote is that we go to the
other places of power."
Vance frowns. "I have no way to locate Rex, unfortunately. Which worries
me. If he is an enemy, he knows far too much about us now."
Madrak says "Perhaps he only escaped, and will be able to rejoin us."
Vance nods. "Perhaps..."
Sunfall says "I think that we'll see Rex again soon, even without
seeking him out."
Sunfall says "I for one am not about to trust him."
Madrak considers Sunfall. "And why is that, precisely?"
Sunfall says "He hasn't been up front with us, even from the first."
Reed says, "That raises another issue. If he did escape, will he be able
to find us if we go elsewhere such as this place Thule? Can we leave a
message and directions? If we can should we?"
Sunfall says "At least not with me"
Vance says, "If he can't follow us, this discussion is moot - we can't
leave a message for him in Chiare. If he can, we'll decide what to do
when he shows up."
Vance says, "Now, we need to find an ocean..."
Sunfall says "East of here."
Sunfall says "About 140 miles. Just follow the river."
Jeanette says "Can a riverboat be borrowed?"
Madrak snorts. "None of us have been particularly forthcoming, Sunfall,
and I do include myself in that estimation."
Sunfall says "None of the rest of us had a problem with the oath,
either. I was willing to overlook it at the time, though Vance was
disturbed. Since then I have come to wonder, however."
Vance says, "If they were oaths to me, I would have been stricter. I
don't like ambiguous answers."
Sunfall says "I should trust your instincts more, it would seem."
Vance nods. "Once bitten, twice shy."
Madrak shakes his head, and shrugs.
Jeanette says "Best not to make any permanent decision until we know the
whole story."
Vance to Krinac: 'Well, I say we board the ship, and stop before we get
to Thule. It's getting late.'.
Krinac: "Ok, so did you reach a decision?"
Sunfall: "I think that Thule was our destination, and so we're headed
along the river toward the ocean."
Krinac: "Hmm, that being the case, I think that's a wrap. I'm not going
to introduce Thule at 2:00am, and I need to see if Rex will catch you
before you reach the sea."