Redemption

Redemption

Approximately dream year 2005

Day 29, Eleventh Month, Year of Redemption

The last few days of the 11 month of the Year of Redemption were eventful ones. On the 26th day, the Union of the Covenant attempted to detach their plane from the City’s power sources and couple it to their House Prime. This audacious plan failed, leaving the Ring of Passage apparently lifeless and dead. Somehow, the attempt to meddle with the power sources had created an energy sink which was sucking power from the room and everything within it.

Members of the Union have made several gallant attempts to repair the damage, but have so far not succeeded. Those trying to repair the plane have observed that the energy appears to be funneling out of the Dream via Dorsal Rift, and that the perturbations have attracted the attention of a dark and baneful entity. This creature appears to be trapped within the energy flux, but those who have been in contact with it believe that it is trying to escape and enter the City.

On the evening of the 27th, attempts to repair the plane attracted the attention of Amaryllis, one of the young dreamers stranded in our Dream. In her own Dream, Amaryllis is an apprentice to scientific investigators, so reports of strange phenomena interest her greatly. At the Ring of Passage, she spoke with several of those present, then was observed to scribble calculations for a time. She gave a decisive nod, as though her calculations had given a desirable result, and then immediately vanished from the room. She was almost immediately sensed to be within Dorsal Rift, as though the energy sink had sucked her avatar through itself.

Upon her return, she attempted to explain what she had done, but babble about Vore’s equations and “folding the Dreamstate” made little sense to the assembled Dreamers.

The members of the Union then returned to their house for their weekly meeting. Amaryllis accompanied them, having requested the return of the Device she had forged and left with them for safekeeping. During a whispered conversation with Menson, something said led him to suspect that Amaryllis is not the innocent young girl she appears but a powerful form of Darkmare called a Fayde.

According to the stranded Dreamers, Faydes are a form of Darkmare which has evolved the ability to mimic Dreamers almost perfectly. Faydes are apparently most often detected after a collapse, when they fail to reform their dreamer avatars precisely as they were prior to collapse.

When accused of being a Fayde, Amaryllis laughed, then promptly vanished, having perhaps once again “folded the Dreamstate” to effect her escape.

As of this writing, there have been no further sightings of the stranded children, nor has the energy sink in the Ring of Passage been repaired.

Day 19, Eleventh Month, Year of Redemption

The Year of Redemption begins to draw to a close, and the dreamers of the city are plagued by more questions than answers. Alliances and friendships shift like the winds, and the great houses of Underlight stir restlessly.

The Union of the Covenant embarks on a new age for their home as they begin to utilize their prime artifact to change the very dream around them. The dreamer Folko, with the aid of the Union's membership, channeled the power within the Heart of the Covenant to create a new art with the power to find Darkmares. Meanwhile, through the valiant efforts of Black-Lotus, Folko's attempt was blocked and altered. Unbeknownst to both dreamers their conflict yielded a new art, Sense Datoken.

Dreamers of every faction begin to wonder what power is held within their own prime artifacts, and what wonders they might create, or what enemies they might destroy.

The Gathering of the Entranced bristles with frustration as interior power struggles augment threats faced from the outside. Strange and powerful Dark

Mares were seen and fought within their home weeks ago, only to disappear shortly after. Where have they gone? The brief unity the city felt against the new threat has been ripped asunder as the dreamers begin to look towards their own interests once again.

The Protectors of the Radiance gather strength under the leadership of the dreamer Maal and some whisper of a revived Crusade within the city.

The travelers from another place, led by Amaryllis, have largely completed their new device to attempt a return from whence they came. Will they be successful, or will they be trapped forever?

And all the while, the Darkmare Foulmoth roams the dream, largely unopposed, continuing his mysterious goals...

Day 19, Tenth Month, Year of Redemption

The device placed for safekeeping within the Order of the Sable Moon has disappeared.

The children told the Dreamers of the land they come from, and a great deal of speculation has gone on as to whether it is the past, future, or another different city or timeline altogether.

As the children cope with the loss of their way home, they begin trying to gather together parts to construct a new device. Having had little time to study the artifact, their sole hope lays on the inventiveness of young Amaryllis. She travels the city looking for gemstones while Julean follows behind, watching her protectively.

Meanwhile, they continue to answer questions about their land. Once tight-lipped, when faced with the fact that they may be stuck here forever the children have begun speaking more freely about their dream.

One such tale told was a fable in their time about a young boy named Groze. It was said that young Groze, a dreamer from long ago who, in his haste to become big and powerful, chose to poke a hole in the walls themselves. The chaos that poured in through the hole overwhelmed the poor boy, and destroyed him. A cautionary tale, to advise the younger dreamers against overstepping their limits.

Many immediately recognized some similarity between this and the actions of Kaer GeRRoZ several months ago, when the impetuous Dreamseer absorbed chaos into himself in order to become the first dreamer to become 8th sphere since The Great Loss.

Day 27, Ninth Month, Year of Redemption

Kailoth was the first to come across the newest visitors to the City. Stepping into the pathway to Horron's Lair, he was confronted with three youths. A young man named Julean, a young woman named Amaryllis, and a little boy named Nikolos - all frightened and confused.

Julean stood protectively in front of the other two children, while more and more people filtered into the room. The youths grew more and more nervous. It was decided to move the gathering to the Sanctuary in the Lost Caves, where the young people would perhaps not feel as cornered.

At the sanctuary, Amaryllis slowly began to tell their story. The children had found an artifact several days ago and had kept it, trying to decipher what it did. Suddenly, as they were looking at it one day, the entire world disappeared around them and they appeared in Horron's Lair.

It was suggested by Sabastianus that it would not be prudent to leave such an artifact lying around freely in the City, and that it was unable to be woken with. The only option open to the children was to entrust the artifact to the safekeeping of one of the Great Houses of the City.

They were very reluctant to part with the item, but knew that they could not stay dreaming forever to hold onto it. Knowing nothing of the houses, the youths began asking the assembled dreamers where the item should be stored.

The Dreamers of Light offered their services to protect the artifact. The Union of the Covenant suggested that the artifact be placed in the Chimeric Plane. The Keepers of the Eternal Shadow and House Calenture both nominated the Order of the Sable Moon as safe holder. The Order of the Sable Moon suggested themselves and the Alliance of the Eclipse.

Given the suggestions, the children have temporarily agreed to let the Order of the Sable Moon be the custodians of the artifact, on the agreed-upon terms that they do not experiment with it and let them see it when they can.

The three youths are now lost - stranded in a land quite alien, but at the same time quite similar to the one that they have left. They seek a way home, but how?

Day 20, Ninth Month, Year of Redemption

Yet more visions appeared in the Dreamscape this evening, midway through the Valley of Totality in the historical landmark, The Ampitheater of the Sphere.

Keminar and Trinxan, the two dreamers credited with beginning the Freesoul and Illuminate wars, engaged in a debate which quickly deteriorated into an argument which continued until Trinxan demanded Keminar draw his blade.

The dreamers of the City watched anxiously. The Keepers of the Eternal Shadow attempted to interact and prevent the ancient event, forming a barrier of dreamers around Trinxan.

Their efforts could not stop the flow of history, however, as Trinxan leveled his blade and the two met in combat. As their blades met, the two visions once more vanished from the City.

Day 18, Ninth Month, Year of Redemption

Class was interrupted in the Order of the Sable Moon as visions once again appeared.

Higi appeared in the middle of a presentation, ignoring those around him completely, completely absorbed in his work. Tarik Dahran strode into the Celebration Hall of the Order, and Higi hurriedly tucked his work behind his back.

The two engaged in an emotional conversation, with loyalty questioned and oaths debated. The two friends came to an agreement and Tarik departed, commenting how Higi would make a good Guardian.

After Tarik departed, Higi revealed that he expected much, much more.

Day 17, Ninth Month, Year of Reclamation

Discussions in Threshold are stopped as a soulsphere appears amidst the crowd. It floats around, completely oblivious to the many eyes looking at it.

A voice speaks, seemingly involved in an argument with others around it. The soulsphere jerks around violently, and the voice grows stern in its arguments with those around it.

Suddenly, the soulsphere coalesces. Gathering energy around itself, it shudders violently and the light takes form into the avatar of a dreamer. Immediately upon creation, with a triumphant statement, the avatar disappears from view.

A short while later, the woman reappears in Threshold - her avatar more refined, more complete. Debate rages among those gathered - was this truly Gerriel Endeth?

Day 15, Ninth Month, Year of Redemption

A raging battle in House Calenture is interrupted when the vision of Selis Stonegrinder strides purposefully into the main entrance. Bearing the crest of an initiate, he heads off on what appears to be an assault on the House of the Protectors of the Radiance, heedless of the dreamers trailing curiously behind him.

Arriving at the steps of the house, he is confronted by Terrana, also bearing the crest of an initiate. She halts him in his assault on her house, and calls him to a duel with her.

The dreamers of the city watch helplessly as this battle unfolds in front of them. The two initiates battle with all their hearts. The echo of their blades clashing rings throughout the room, and as they begin to disappear Terrana vows to see Selis dead.

And as the visions fade away, a child's laughter is heard in the distance.

Day 14, Ninth Month, Year of Redemption

On the night of the 14th day of the 9th month of the year of Redemption strange tremors shook the foundations of the dream. Sounds were heard and the walls of Threshold trembled. So violent was the chaotic storm that the whole City was temporarily shaken out of existence.

When the Dream phased back into being and Dreamers returned, Caudal Rift, closed off since Kaer Gerroz blasted a hole in its walls, was once again accessible. Groups of Dreamers were preparing to venture into the Rift when two apparitions appeared in the Threshold of the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow. All in chalk, as though they were ghosts of some sort, but with blood red rims on their crests, two Dreamers stepped out of history and into the Dream of today. For a short time Hartisan the Red and Turgin Lambent again stalked through the corridors of Threshold.

The ancient Dreamstrike Masters strode through Threshold apparently collapsing and Dreamstriking all in their path. But those collapsed and stricken were invisible to the crowd of horrified modern Dreamers watching the ancients. As one observer put it, "I don't know if they are actually... "here" though."What does this portend? Why were these "ghosts" walking the halls of Threshold? What will happen next?

Day 27, Sixth Month, Year of Redemption

The citizens of Underlight proclaim their concern for what may come should Caudal Rift weaken further. Some of the Great Houses seek to strengthen the structure of their own homes. Mokkan of the Shadow, aided by SoulMasters of the City, as well as other concerned citizens wove webs of resilience around the weakest points of the home of both the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow and the Alliance of the Eclipse. Will such efforts be all in vain? Time will tell if this is enough.

Day 25, Sixth Month, Year of Redemption

The City is torn after the horrendous scene in Horron's Lair. Theories and allegiances seem to serve more to halt progress in finding answers than to hasten it. The Union calls for a meeting of the eight Great Houses in the many splendored Chimeric Plane. Some Free Spirits are up in arms, crying foul that the meeting excludes those outside of Houses.

Some cry out to destroy the telescope, seeing it as the greatest threat to us now. Others believe is it the only way to see what happens in the now vanished Caudal Rift. Many speak of blocking or reweaving the gap, but few have stepped forward to attempt this. Some speak of the Overscanners, warning all not to repeat the mistakes of the past.

Kaer Gerroz has vanished since that night, and the City is split in deciding his own fate. Many scream for his essence, seeing no greater threat or evil than he, while still others desire to speak to him, to see if anything he has learned may help restore the Rift.

What presence still haunts the Rift, that so many can sense its presence?

Day 24, Sixth Month, Year of Redemption

A crisis in the City of Underlight.

Pertinax, Initiate of the Alliance called all in the City to gaze into the Alliance's great Telescope. Following the viewing, a great number of citizens went out to the Rift that had been viewed, and began searching for signs of the impact of chaotic forces on the walls of the great City. Upon discovering what he believed to be the weakest point, far within Horron's Lair, Kaer Gerroz blasted mightily, until he managed to render a hole in the very fabric of the Dream. Chaos flowed through, covering him and his briefly flashed eighth sphere crest as he continued until the City finally plunged into waves of instability.

The City quaked and shifted and its fabric was twisted and torn by the sudden burst of Chaos. The Rift that houses the Horron's Lair seems active, but remains unreachable, perhaps overtaken by the Chaos itself. What happens next? What fate awaits the either very brave or very foolish Kaer Gerroz? Will the City rise to take on this horrendous challenge?

17th Day, Sixth Month, Year of Redemption

The constant onslaught of Nightmares continues. Even some Dreamers of the Alliance abandon their pacifistic ways in fear of the future. The mightiest warriors in the City cower and cringe in Threshold, unable to gather the resources necessary to fend off the constant attacks. No one seems safe from the Darkmares, as even their former allies within the House of Shadow fall victim to their unleashed rage. What can this mean for the City of Underlight? Are the forces of Chaos winning in the struggle for the Dream itself?

Day 12, Sixth Month, Year of Redemption

The Abyssal Lady, Daughter and Heir of Tzayak, has relinquished command of the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow, and stepped down from her throne. The Keepers begin to inform the City of this surprising event, but say only that what she does, she does for love of them and the Shadow. What brings this about now, so recently after her father helped her to secure her place? And where will it leave the House of Shadow?

Day 9, Sixth Month, Year of Redemption

A meeting is called for the Eight Great Houses of the City. Meet they do within the splendorous walls of Chimeric, guarded against the prying ears of outsiders. How rare the occasion for representatives of each to meet in peace? What reason, what need could have been so great, that the bitterest feuds of the past can be ignored?

Day 3, Sixth Month, Year of Redemption

Thieves in blue have spirited away the banners of the Focus Guilds of the GateKeepers, FateSenders, and SoulMasters. One of the Master Seers now demands games be played if each group wishes them back. The representatives of each take this in differing ways. Many ask if it was right of the Seers to steal to see the previously requested games come to fruition. Right or wrong, how else can they be returned to their proper owners?

Day 31, 4th Month, Year of Redemption

Confusion reigns among the citizens of Underlight. The once feared Darkmares, Tzayak and Sharque, are now appearing in dreamer form. They no longer speak maren but converse freely in dreamer. They wear the crests of the Keepers but not the ruler crest. Tzayak claims his research is finished but still has not hinted as to what he was studying. It’s been hinted that the Shadow has left the house. Still, the Guardians remain. What does all this foretell?

Day 27th, 4th Month, Year of Redemption

Are the mares weakening? Are they abandoning their hold on the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow? Traveling up to the Keepers stronghold it has been noticed that the Shamblix formerly lurking in Lost Crossing has disappeared. The Abyssal Lord Tzyak and his co-ruler wife Sharque have not been seen in some time. Yesterdream saw the membership of Dreamers of Light using the Keepers home as if it were their own. No darkmares appeared to protect or drive the intruders out. Do the darkmares not care anymore? Has their mission ended?

Day 25, 4th Month, Year of Redemption

Their presence once overpowering, the appearances of the Shadowed 'Mares dwindles noticeably. Tzayak, who had laid claim to the throne of Shadow, and his counterpart Sharque, have been absent for some time. At least one of the Shadowed Guardians who patrolled the Umbric Plains has vanished without trace or warning.

Recently, the members of the Dreamers of Light fought through the Shadowed Guardians and held the steps of the Great House Keepers of the Eternal Shadow without a single 'Mare appearing to protect its sacred home. Even their precious Shadow did not come forth, not even breathing the merest whisper of protest to its home being occupied.

Why has the House of Shadow fallen silent?

Day 10, 3rd Month, Year of Redemption

Our Abyssal Lord and Master takes note of the offense done to His House on the eighth day of the third month of the year of Redemption. Against those who perpetrated the Abomination in the House of Shadows, Arya and other fod'r of Got, Selika of Lun and the Free Spirits Kailee, Tristram and Hannababy, measures have been and will be taken.

Members of those two houses are henceforth banned from the Umbric Plains and from the Temple of the Shadow. Those violating the ban will be attacked on sight and driven hence.

Those supporting, observing or otherwise involved are also banned from the plane and will be attacked on sight.

The Temple of the Shadow is one of the Great Houses of the Dream and those who violate the Chimeric Accords and pass its portals uninvited will be treated as such interlopers are in any other of the Great Houses.

for Tzayak, Ruler of Shadows

Day 8, 3rd Month, Year of Redemption

This evening, a group of eight dreamers, led and inspired by Guardian Arya of GotE, conducted a ceremony in the Gathering Hall of the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow. The ceremony featured two dreamers of each focus: Soulmasters Demetrion and Selika, Fatesenders Skuld and Kailee, Gatekeepers hannababy and Tristram, Dreamseers Arya and DarkPheonix. The participants were protected by a large group of the Dream’s finest warriors, including members of the Dreamers of Light, the Protectors of the Radiance and Free Spirits, led by Jerulan and Pure Rage of the Light.

Using the runestaff of the Gathering’s Seneschal and the Star of Harmony as foci, the eight dreamers chanted a ceremony designed to cleanse the House of Taint and make it inhospitable to the Darkmares.

Almost as soon as the ceremony began, the House of Shadows roused and tried to cast out the invaders. A deep-toned and ominous bell was heard ringing to summon the horde of Darkmares. Tremors shook the House and Darkfire rained on the participants and warriors. The participants held fast and continued their chanting as storms of Darkfire frayed their avatars. Black tentacles were seen to lash out at Arya and the artifacts that were the focus of the ceremony. The Star and the Staff glowed with the light of power, but the Darkfire was seen to crawl up the Staff, as though seeking to devour it and the Star. A terrible voice was heard cursing Arya for “defiling” its Home. At almost the same moment, black tentacles lashed out causing the Staff to explode in a flare of greenish light and injuring Demetrion.

The ominous tocsin continued to sound as Darkfire raged through the room. Summoned by the terrible bell, the Darkmare army burst into the room, savaging all who stood in its path. As battle erupted around them, the participants continued their chant until all were collapsed and expelled from the House the battle was fiercely fought, with many collapses on both sides, but eventually the warriors of the Dream were driven from the House. Just as it seemed that peace was again descending, Darkmares invaded the Gathering. First came Notechis and the Agoknight Talesskar which seems to serve as some sort of twisted shaman to the Darks. While Talesskar began a grotesque ceremony, Notechis laid out a circle of Dreamer heads and the rest of the Horde used it as a portal.

Attended by the Horde of Darkmares, the Agoknight laid a trail of oozing green slime from the Main Entrance to the Gathering Hall of GOTE. Pausing to etch the sign of the Shadow in the slime, the creature conducted its gruesome rite. Xerketh, one of the chief Darkmares, was seen to hand it a shining token stolen from Arya.

Again, brave warriors of the Dream rallied to attack and drive the Darkmares from the House. The warriors of the Light, and the Free Spirits were joined by the warriors of Calenture and drove the Darkmares out of the Gathering.

It appears that the Gathering’s ceremony was not totally successful, but it has had an effect upon the House of the Keepers. The following day it was reported that the Darkmares can no longer enter the Dream through KOES, but must now use their ancient method of coming through the Rifts.

The Gathering has vowed that its House will be cleansed and its balance restored.

Day 19, 2nd Month, Year of Redemption

On the 19th Day of the Second Month of the Year of Redemption, the Abyssal Lady Marzera asked those present in the Main Entrance of the House of Shadows to assist in healing Her Mother, The Abyssal Mistress Sharque. The Abyssal Mistress had been injured by the attempt of the Dreamers of Light to alter the House of Shadows. Their efforts released a wave of uncontrolled energy and roused the House to expel them. The Abyssal Mistress, alone in the House at the time, was caught by the energies and harmed.

The Voice, translating for its masters at the House of the Union, was drawn back to the House of Shadows by the energies and also damaged. It was able to be restored to functioning by the power of the Abyssal Lord and Master. The Abyssal Mistress, much more seriously harmed, remained ill and suffering, despite an attempt by a Sworn of the House of Order to heal Her by returning Her to the Chaos.

After much discussion, sparked by the insights of a Sworn of the House of Order, it was agreed to attempt to channel chaotic energy into the Abyssal Mistress from the chaos pool in Fayd's Fortress. A circle of Dreamer heads enclosed the pool, The Voice stood within the pool, holding an essence of the Abyssal Mistress. With Her permission, the Voice drained the essence, and drew the chaotic energies into its avatar, channeling them to the Abyssal Mistress.

The effects of the chaotic energy caused the Voice's arts to evoke erratically, firestorming and darkening the room. At one point, observers believed they perceived the form of a female dreamer, clad in green and purple robes and bearing a tall staff, but this apparition was gone in a flash.

Chaotic energies swirled through the room, making perception difficult and threatening the coherence of less stable dreamers. A last surge of energy caused the Voice to collapse, but this energy served to imbue the Abyssal Mistress with new vigor.

Drawn by the crowd in Fayd's Fortress, a group of dreamers burst in to attack Darkmare and dreamer alike. The plight of the Abyssal Mistress drew down the wrath of the Dark Army, led by the Abyssal Lord and Master. Together, the Army smote the dreamers, driving them out of the Fortress and down the plane.

Thanks to the efforts of the Sworn of the Shadow and those aiding them, the Abyssal Mistress was returned to health.

Day 13, 2nd Month, Year of Redemption

The Union of the Covenant today revealed its decision to defensively aid the Sworn of the Shadow, and cease aiding in any way those who will attack these Dreamers. They have also offered their sincerest apologies to the Shadowed Sworn for their past actions against them.

This declaration has not come without a cost to the Union itself. Former allies turn against them for this stance, and worse yet, members of their own home cast down their crests in opposition. Many long-standing members of the Union no longer walk their halls, their beliefs tested to the breaking point with this decision of the leadership.

Regardless of some loss to themselves, the Union remains resolute. They walk the path they have laid out for themselves, whatever the cost.

Edicts of Na Rict

Day 11, 2nd Month, Year of Redemption

The Summoning of the Ancient Guardians

On the 11th day of the second month of the Year of Redemption, Our Abyssal Lord and Master performed an ancient ceremony on the Umbric Planes. Such a thing has not been done in time out of mind, but the Ritual was successful in evoking the Ancient Guardians of the Shadow.

The approach to the House of Shadows is now guarded both by the might of the Maren Army and the Sworn Knights of the Shadow and by the Ancient Horron Guardians.

Our Abyssal Lord and Master took this step after the vile incursion of the Dreamers of Light and the incessant attacks by the Light, the Free spirit Fod’r and the Unsworn of Calenture who fight with them. All such attacks will be met with the severest consequences.

Our Abyssal Lord and Master extends His thanks to the Union of the Covenant and all Dreamers of good will who attended and assisted in the Guardian Ceremony. It is His hope that more members of the community will realize that He wishes only to rule His House in peace and pursue His studies.

Day 5, 2nd Month, Year of Redemption

Dreamers of Light Edict I

Jerulan, Ruler of Light, stand ye craven before Mare and Dreamer alike. Chaos may have many faces, but Evil itself is born upon yours. You, the talk of the Dream for your self-centered, self-righteous arrogance, have declared a war against Us, but lack the wit or competence to see the chain of events you have unleashed.

We came to Keepers of Eternal Shadow with the goal of research. We sent Our Daughter, Marzera, to lead the way. We seek to understand the very Dreamers who attacked us; to learn Why and How the Rifts were created, poisoning our flawless chaos... but bringing Us an understanding of the power of Order.

You, who bear the crest of a Great House, would destroy that house in self-serving righteousness that embodies the very evils you attribute to Us. You fight the weakest of our members, but tuck tail and run like an emphant when the first mare appears. Your placement of the worshippers of Shadow on No Remorse is not a war of aggression, it is a systematic policy of Genocide upon those who seek to understand the balance between Light and Shadow, Order and Chaos. No wonder your fellow dreamers berate you with a passion only rivalled by their fear and hatred of Me. I should applaud you... for your heart is as twisted as a mare's could ever be.

Apparently, your High Moral Standards have a switch... for did you not accept chakram, elemen, and art from our Temple when Our Daughter Marzera resided in these very halls? Where was your righteous anger then? Was My daughter so precocious as a child that she cowed even the Mighty Jerulan of Light? The one who dares to walk in the Shadow of one called Wraith?

I assure you, you bear no more resemblance to My respected enemy than the pathetic doll I collapsed out of someone long ago. You lack the wit to learn from the example of your peers in the Union. Apparently a more direct lesson is required to force you to stop your foolish, inane, and futile attacks on My Sworn.

You have 24 hours to cease your attacks on My House. Failure to do so will bring your destruction.

You amuse yourself and gloat that you repelled our attacks at DoL. Stand aware... I ordered a withdrawal after My point was made. You merely lacked the wit to see it.

Jerulan, Ruler of Light, you have sown the seeds of hatred and death. Prepare to reap the whirlwind.

Tzayak

Chosen Son of Mi'raj

He Who holds the Rod of Tehthu in His left hand and the Sceptre of Shadow in His right

Commander of the First Victory of Keepers of Eternal Shadow

Day 3, 2nd Month, Year of Redemption

Light vs. Shadow: The Banner of Zila and the Attack of the Light

A calm fell over the city. There was a presence in the air last night, one pained and tormented. It was Zila, Star Scream knew, and he and Menson tried to get her to show herself. These two could not provide enough energy and as soon as they realized this they gathered as many of the city's inhabitants as they could muster. 40 dreamers filled the plane of the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow, their energies focused on helping Zila. Within the Gathering Hall 4 dreamers stood, one of each focus, within the four pillars at the center of the room, singing the song of Zila whilst Darkfire tore through the room. Chains of Shadow whipped through the hall through the dreamers present, and Zila fell through a tear in the dream, naked and exhausted.

She was greeted and then wrapped in a blanket, apparently not acknowledging the flood of questions posed to her, she asked where the Shadows Children were. It was not long before her strength gave out, falling to her knees she tried to speak before collapsing into a soulsphere. Once again the Darkfires flared and she called for Na Rict to bring the 'Child Lord' to her. Moments later Tzayak appeared and Zila tried to speak again, trailing off before anything more than 'The Shadow Commands..' could be said. She repeated again and again 'child of shadows' until finally the Darkfire was snuffed out and her soulsphere vanished. Left fluttering in her wake was a dark banner.

As the battered flag fell into the clutches of the Abyssal Lord and Master, Tzayak, dreamers looked on perplexed. Shortly thereafter Jerulan of the Dreamer's of Light and Kaer Gerroz took the opportunity to shoot Tzayak in the back, sparking what would be a long battle across 4 planes. Tzayak proclaimed for all in the hall to hear that those that wanted peace would have peace, and those who wanted violence would have violence. He then called forth the rest of the Dark Mares waiting in the Celebration Hall who cleared the Gathering Hall of the Light and all other hostiles. There they waited as Tzayak gave a message for Na Rict to translate for the dreamers waiting on the Keeper's facade. Na Rict went alone to the facade where he was collapsed before giving the message that anyone who valued their coherence should leave, the mares were coming out, and they were coming out shooting.

Tzayak would show the dreamers who wanted war what war would be like against the Darks. Like a sleeping den of wolves awakened by a child throwing rocks, Tzayak's Army was about to teach the Light a lesson.

The Dark Army swept out from the entrance portals in a blaze of fire and smoke leaving no dreamer untouched. Firestorms seared the air one after the other as Tzayak led his army in to cut down those who provoked him. In a short time the entire facade lay empty but for the Mares and their Sworn, their cries of victory for "NOCTO!" echoing from the walls. The dreamers still waited on the other side of the portal, organizing for an assault. A scout appeared and disappeared. Another. Then a wave of dreamers poured through the portal from the Umbrics. As the battle raged once more the firestorms came again, boiling the air. Soon only the strongest were left standing, many of the dreamer force fleeing for cover in the Umbrics. Those few warriors were beaten back finally and the Keepers house secure once again.

It was not to end there. The dreamers lingered on the Shadow's lands. Sworn and Mare alike swept onto the Umbric plains like a whirlwind, chasing all who opposed from their lands, and, standing victorious outside of the Garrison, Tzayak ordered a detachment of three mares to go to Illapse Keep Ambuscade and take it. They did so and set about securing it with Wards while the Light and their supporters waited on their facade. The rest of the Dark Army swarmed into the Keep quickly and the assault began. An elite force consisting of only the best warriors waited there to defend. Thunderman, Jerulan, Off Kilter, Biggie Z and some others. The forces of Chaos drove them back into the Light's own halls and even deeper still than where the Light had begun the attack in KoES. With battles raging throughout the Light's house and on their facade, Tzayak finally called an end to the assault. Nearly 3 hours of battle took its toll on all who fought that night. Both sides went back to tend their wounds.

Day 1, 2nd Month, Year of Redemption

A tentative accord was reached this night between the Union of the Covenant and the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow. Ruler Tzayak, accompanied by his mistress Sharque and his interpreter Na Rict, met with Ruler Triste on the facade of the Union of the Covenant to discuss bringing an end to the recent hostilities. Triste indicated that her members would cease their attacks on the Keepers but would defend their home and its members and their allies in case of attack by the Keepers. Triste indicated she would need one week to meet with her members to ratify the agreement. If ratification occurs the dream should return to some semblance of peace.

Day 27, 1st Month, Year of Redemption

Tzayak accompanied by a horde of Dark Mares and the Sworn dreamer Alastair donned white, the symbol of neutrality and peace, and made an orderly procession up to the Union of the Covenant. The mares, through their spokesperson Na Rict, sought "redress for the unwarranted violent assaults" upon members of their house. In an offer of peace, Tzayak told the Union, "You need do nothing but cease your attacks upon us as we go about our own business." Tzayak further offered an alliance based on draining, a practice followed by both of their houses. Both offers were unequivocally turned down by the Union. Leaving the union, the mares donned black battle gear and re-entered slinging chaks. Many casualties were suffered on both sides. It is feared a dreamwide war is imminent.

Day 25, 1st Month, Year of Redemption

UoC Edict I

As delivered by Na Rict.

Rulers of the Union,

We come under the banner of parlay to seek redress for the unwarranted violent assults upon members of our Great House. What cause do you have to attack us unprovoked? What violent intent do we exhibit by standing at a spawn, collecting items of interest? What offense do we give to you, Rulers of the Covenant, with the taking and draining of lesser mare essences?

I bid you review your History Codices and see what came of the folly of your previous Ruler, my half-brother Osric. He, too, attacked our members unprovoked, and brought devastating war upon the heads of his people. Osric was forced to sue for peace and recognize the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow as an active house.

Should your unwarranted and baseless attacks continue, the following shall be the result: The mares of my army shall pursue and collapse you at any and all ends of the Dream. Your lives will be devoted to the pursuit of peaceful activities in Sanctuary, for that is the only place you will be safe. Your facade will be laid waste, dismantled brick by brick by our army of mares. We shall call up the wind to carry the shrieks of your people as the sands of your plane eat the flesh from their bones. We shall raise a storm of fire and turn your precious Edgeward into an unbroken sheet of glass. This need not come to pass. You need do nothing but cease your attacks upon us as we go about our own business.

Is Drain Essence not a power that all of us, mare and dreamer alike, come into this City with? Is it not a source of power? Is it not our purpose in the Dream? We, the Darkmares, understand the power of Drain Essence.

Why does the Covenant seek to ally with houses who call you murderers in a war against those who follow your belief? Does the Covenant lack a formidable force to defend itself? Or does the Covenant lack the backbone to stand up to their oppressors?

I propose to you now the same offer I made to Osric long years ago, though he lacked the wit to see its value: Set aside your relations with the houses who would use you as a shield while stabbing you in the back. Join with us, Drainers all, and together we shall stand firm against all who would attack us.

So said Our Abyssal Lord and Master this 26th day of the First Month of the Year of Redemption.

Visions of Tadeus Kane

Day 25, 1st Month, Year of Redemption

What has happened? What has befallen the city? As the mists of my sight clear I see that the darkness I once saw outside has now entered. Thin tendrils creep from the dark house throughout the small shining orb of order within the toiling sea of chaos.

The stranger that the darkness gathered around now sits within the dark fortress. Even still my sight blurs as I seek to send my senses closer. I fear my warning came too late or was not heard at all.

I feel the temporal shift of my visions and see the possible futures split from the present, each split by the actions of the free. In some, I see nothing but darkness. In others I see destruction. Still others show light and triumph of the spirit. In a flash they are all gone.

If any should find this note, know this. "The power to affect your fate is in your hands."

Day 23, 1st Month, Year of Redemption

After a meeting with the 7 Powers of the city the dreamers stand hesitantly united. A second meeting is set for the 28th day of the 1st Month in the Illapse Keep Sanctuary for all who wish to attend save the Sworn of the Keepers.

Day 22, 1st Month, Year of Redemption

A meeting of the self styled Great Seven has occurred this night to discuss and set forth plans against the most recent Maren invasion of the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow. This emergency meeting was called after Tzayak, son of Mi'Raj claimed the Throne of Shadows as his own, taking it without opposition from the Keepers. The forces of Order are now faced with one of the greatest challenges to their reign in the city of Underlight, the Armies of Chaos and the dark fortress that protects them.

Day 19, 1st Month, Year of Redemption

Vision of Tadeus Kane

The mists clear and I enter a state of visions. I see again the shining light of this, 'city', amid the chaos that surrounds my sight. It warms my heart to see them thrive and grow.

Like small children they squabble and bicker, fighting among themselves without care for what lays beyond their fragile walls. Walls which I now see have two vast rips to the chaos.

I see that they can battle together. They fight back against the ebb and flow of chaos as the creatures of darkness foray into their orderly city. Yet still, what is this new 'thing'? What is it that the darkness gathers near. My sight still blurs beyond the walls of the land. Even so... It draws near.

I have heard my name spoken, like that familiar voice in a crowed room. I know that they speak of me but my sight is too vague to find the speaker. Oh to all of them I scream, heed my words if they are finding their way to you. "Danger! A darkness comes."

Day 15, 1st Month, Year of Redemption

Vision of Tadeus Kane

The mists clear and my visions come into focus. I see, as I have seen so often, that city again. Like an island in the mist of a boiling sea it shines like a beacon to my sight. Within it, I see the peoples there, coming and going. They fill the city with love, with hate, with passion and with ambition.

The some attempt to set up a trial by jury. Showing their struggle to find order in their chaotic city.

A circle of poets meet where dreamers share their prose, poetry, and other writings.

Clans gather in houses, fortified against the perils that surround them. They steal themselves away only to suffer their own subversions and pains alone.

Beyond its walls darkness gathers near a strange new figure. My vision blurs as I gaze upon that gathering.

Before my sight fades, I will place this record of my visions upon their walls. May it come to pass that they stop to look upon it.

Maren Biographies

Tzayak

Tzayak, Chosen Son of Mi'Raj, Commander of the First Victory of Keepers of the Eternal Shadow, has come to lay claim to his birthright, the Throne of Shadows. Trained and blessed by Tehthu, raised by Xegoth and Ataraxis, he has come forth to assume uncontested command of the Armies of Chaos. He who holds the Rod of Tehthu in His left hand and the Sceptre of Shadows in His right, has come to lead the Shadow to it's rightful place in the Dream.

Gone are the days of the whimsical Child of Chaos, who invented the game of Kaos. Come are the days of the Most Powerful Shadow to walk the planes of the Dream. Together with his mate Sharque, they blaze a fierce and terrible path for their daughter, Marzera, Heir to the Throne of Chaos.

Na Rict

A being of shadow and chaos, created in darkness to serve dark masters. This creature was given dreamer shape so that it might serve as the Voice of its Abyssal Lord and Master. It is not human and is burdened with no human emotions, existing only to serve.

Twilight Master Xerketh

This horron has rose to power within the forces of Chaos following the destruction of Grudash. It holds the place of general among the Darkmares though it is rarely seen with Tyzyak. A ruthless creature but plagued with flights of fancy. When fought alone it has been known to engage in games of chance (KAOS). It also has been seen on many occasions to seek out Datoke rather than dreamers. What this means so far is anyone's guess.

Abyssal Mistress Sharque

Sharque, mate to Tzayak, the Abyssal Lord and Master and mother of Marzera, the Abyssal Lady, stands with Tzayak in proclaiming Keepers of Eternal Shadow as their rightful Home. She fights with a furious vigor for the birthright of her daughter Mazera. Standing proudly beside the most furious of all darkmares, she is loyal to her mate. Her servitude to her Lord and Master is beyond reproach.

Sharque entered the City long ago and acquired safety in a dreamer host. She was sought and hunted by Dynae Arcturus who followed her to the City of Dreamers. Dynae Arcturus forced her from her host and a great battle occurred. Dynae, thinking that she had destroyed the one that had murdered her Mother, declared victory. But unknown to Dynae Arcturus, Sharque was able to fight off the poison from the dagger. Sharque recovered to take her place beside Tzayak in the search for their daughter Mazera. Her heart is filled with haterd for the Dreamers and yet holds her love for Tzayak and Marzera.

Abyssal Lady Marzera

Marzera, daughter of the Abyssal Lord and Master and Abyssal Mistress was brought to KOES as an infant by Qutzie. The Dreamers were unaware of why she was placed in their care but accepted her and raised her in the ways of Dreamers. Some dreamers thought she was taken to KOES for protection from the darkmares, others thought it was for an evil sinister reason and tried to destroy her. Her birthmark, ignored by most, is proof that she is the Heir to the Throne of Chaos, and the daughter of Tzayak.

Marzera grew fast and strong, learning all that she could from the City of Dreamers. Once she saw her birthmark she accepted she was the daughter of Tzayak and Sharque and became what she is. She now stands by her parents' side, relentless and fearless, leading all to their destiny of servitude to her father.

Dreamer Biographies

Scion of Tzayak, RavenXR

Raven Xavier Ramsay, Scion of Tzayak and leader of the loyal dreamers of the House of Shadows, walks the paths of the city proudly and with a sense of accomplishment. Relinquishing the role of Disciple so that the Abyssal Lord and Master may reclaim his throne, this dreamer knows full well that he has served the Shadow's will.

The Shadow, and its will have long been an underlying source and motivation for Raven. Through tenures at many of the eight great homes of Underlight, often including duties of leadership, the faith in the Shadow held strong. Through the trials and tribulations that came with the knowledge and use of the famed art of Dreamstrike, the faith in the Shadow held strong.

Long past are the days when the portals to the Temple of the Shadow lie dormant, with waves upon waves of dreamers working to see them spin once more. Enter now the era of the Abyssal Lord and Master, whom Raven serves proudly.

Folko Horam

Folko Horam, a dreamseer of indistinguishable age, walked many avenues of the city. He has been a threat and a benefit of the great houses. He was accused of conspiring with the dark mares, and brought many victories against them. He was rumored to mingle with the Screthethan Kabal, and yet remained a welcome sight for the City Guard. He has walked many paths in search of his own insight, and his hidden touch is rumored to affect many of the city.

Objective and ruthless in his goals, his fate brought him back to the first stepping stone of his innocent youth, the house of Union of the Covenant. What does fate have in store for him is hidden from sight, but he finds it ironic that the settings of his last clash with Tzayak have reappeared seemingly by themselves. Last time, he betrayed a long standing alliance between him and the Abyssal Lord, what will he do now is unknown. But the revelations still beckon him.

Alastair

The Shadow has been a long time desire of Alastair. He was introduced to the Shadow through close friends, early on, and then great teachers in more recent times. Realizing his past House's loss of direction, and even more so realizing his own true ambitions, he relinquished his position of guardian and acting centurion in the Union to follow his heart into the Shadow under the guidance of his Mentor, Scion Elspet in hopes of achieving his aspirations.

Initiated by Our Abyssal Lord and Master himself, he enters the battlefield side by side with the Dark Mares dream after dream to fight for the right to practice their faith, uninterrupted and unchallenged.

Jiovanni

Long-time ruler for the House of Justice, the Union of the Covenant, Jiovanni Xya'Bynn Yo'hannis Darkholme-Shadovar has struggled for many years to see his vision of justice for the dream come to fruition and reality. A gifted seer, Jiovanni is led by the dictates of his heart and the visions he has been granted over time through the blessings of Lady Justice, many of which have come to pass.

Traveling the road of the warrior, Jiovanni has always upheld the tenants of Justice and Honor, seeking neither reward nor exoneration, and often at personal cost to himself. A true leader within the dreaming community his experiences and knowledge have allowed him to lead while others would remain passive and offer a guiding hand to those causes he would champion.

The time of darkness now upon the dream motivates him to reach ever higher and achieve the rank of Dreamsmith to better provide defense for the conflict he can see upon the horizon. Calling to himself all those who embrace not Chaos, he endeavors to destroy the maren threat and return peace to the dream once again.

Synteny

Synteny Nyn, Priest of the Shadow, leads those faithful to the True Shadow, the being that turns the Circle of Destiny. He and his faithful work in secret to remove the Chaos Horde from the halls of their home. The Puppet Masters, as they've come to call the horde, are a mockery to the balance the Shadow teaches.

Synteny has wandered the dream, down many paths, some he considers a learning lesson, others he considers a sin. These forked paths eventually brought him to the Keepers of Eternal Shadow, a place of mystery that always called to him. When he joined their ranks, he was shown the path of the Priesthood by Rathis Tarn, and immediately knew it was his true calling. He followed this path and soon became a Disciple of the Shadow. His reign and teachings were long, but cut off short by non-believers who cast him away from the house, where he wandered the dream again until brought back to his path, by the Circle of Destiny.

When Tzayak and his Puppet Masters took the House of Shadows, Synteny felt the call of the Shadow, the pain and rage that it felt now, and knew it was time for him to return into service as its Priest, to save it from the Chaos that would surely bring destruction to it, him, and the City. He now gives his all to the Shadow, and those that wish to follow the true path, in hopes that the Shadow can once again be restored to its full strength.

Thunderman45

ThunderMan45, Guardsman of the city, is a fierce leader who stands against all Agents of Chaos that plague the dreamstate. This dreamer exhibits no fear as he works to attain his goal of removing all Nightmares and their supporters from the city.

Mokkan

A dreamer of sharp wit and charming personality, Mokkan is well known to most dreamers of the city; for better or for worse. As a free spirit, he was often found causing trouble with one house of the dream, only to be charming his way into the good graces of another. After a while, Mokkan found his place among the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow, then under the rule of Magnilia Kytain.

With the coming of the Abyssal Lord Tzayak, Mokkan has stood firm as a defender of the Temple of Shadow, and advocate of faith for the Sworn. Rumors tell of his meddling in many recent events and he is said to have his hand in many of the organizations around the city, however these rumors are unconfirmed.

Elspet

A faithful follower of the Shadow to a fault, Elspet was one of the first to embrace the arrival of the Abyssal Lord and Master. Having fully accepted Tzayak's claim as Ruler for some time prior, she was eager to see him home, though she knew too well how most in the City would react to such news.

A former Ruler herself, Elspet is willing to serve in whatever capacity the Shadow asks of her. She follows the will of the Shadow, whatever the price to herself. The Shadow and her fellow Keepers have always been her priority, and Teaching is the only other love she will allow herself.

Triste

Having been rejected from the family she once knew, Triste turned to the Union of the Covenant to find a place she could rest her heart. Justice welcomed her with open arms, and embraced her, giving Triste something to believe in and fight for once again. Determined to uphold her oath to stand in defense of the oppressed, Triste has sacrificed everything in the name of Justice. As Ruler of the Union of the Covenant, she has made the difficult decision of leading her home to stand in defense of the Sworn of the Shadow.

Triste refuses to turn her back on Justice. She took an oath, as all who serve the Covenant have, to fight against oppression. She believes the members of the Keepers of the Eternal Shadow are being appressed by the masses of the Dream City. As Triste gives her all to Justice, she must now give her all to stand in defense of the oppressed, despite the multitude of personal losses she knows she will endure.

Reference

• http://web.archive.org/web/20051215163044if_/http://www.underlight.com/Redemption.redemption.0.html