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[19:19] Seifer quickly makes the decision of putting the more tedious task in his son's hands, his own feet shifting a bit further up for him to handle the physical components of the matter.
"While I set this up, Elys here will tell you what he knows and brief everyone on the matter. I don't expect we'll get too far right away, but ideas are quite welcome on how we could and should tackle things."
While the younger Gardios presumably spoke up the Warden took the time to set down a peculiar crystal, blue in color and tainted with scorching marks all over. Beneath the surface images of the past seem to be reflected. The solid memories and gathered essence of someone unknown was a daring thing to explore, surely.
(Seifer Gardios)
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[19:27] "First and foremost, I want to thank everyone here for coming together."
"I know many of you from the crowd, and the only thing that I want to do is make sure that the realm will not end up being ripped and messed with by the likes of hel's magic, and witches."
"While he constructs it properly, I want to review everything that we know so far."
Elys failed to make eye contact with any of the participants that came here, but he did acknowledge the few that decided to come.
Smiling, the Gardios goes on to explain it as simply as possible.
"The Dreamer, an aspect that exists between multiple realms, came to Osrona a few months ago with a message that is more of a warning rather than a threat."
"The appearance of two witches, a mother and a father, was able to mess with the realm that this 'lord' takes part in. And it is because these witches are mortal, that this entity decided that itis up to us to handle it."
A sharp inhale escapes from him.
Sweaty and shaky fingers become apparent as he directions his index toward the crystal itself and furthers the explanation.
"The Dreamer is capable of putting people to sleep, and perhaps knows how to make your dreams feel more real, and as far as I know, it is nearly impossible to get rid of them by typical means due to physical and magical attacks passing through them."
"The only thing that they left was this 'Dream Shard', and it is through this 'Dream Shard', that we will be able to find the people responsible for messing with their realm, and coming to ours and alerting us all."
Without further adieu, Elys turns around to face the shard itself with the cosmic forces already shaping around him.
The rose-gold circle around his pupils forming as the visual caster simply observes the shard, already feeling a tug and a pull of the occultic energies as he tries to look deeper upon it with the help of the House of Visions, Geist; the golden star.
"If anyone wants to... help with the occultic force that surrounds it, by all means...!"
(Elys Gardios)
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[19:32] A nod will be given as she stands up. A knight-keeper, one whose job is to help cull occult and its vile taint. Walking over to Elys, she will give him a firm nod.
"You have my magic as well Acolyte Elys. I probably have the most experience with this thing after the warden and yourself. My skills and knowledge can be a boon."
Summoning up the three, the moon, the sun, and the spine of Phos, balancing them all. Ready to purify and contain. Holy magic will light into the air, runes of power in the aether around her body. The halo, powered by the spirits of light who have blessed her, their will calling out to aid her as well.
Slowly the holy glow will envelope her, ready to go.
(Melody lei Vel Kruger)
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[19:34] The older Gardios would take a seat next to her sister. Eyes glued to the presentation given to them by Elys and the crystal that was presented. She'd immediately take on a more serious and proper aura than usual. Her brow furrowing as she racked that little Felinae brain of hers of what everything meant...
"Hm..."
Cordelia expresses a rather blank expression as she ponders. Lifting herself up from her seat, she places a hand on her chest before clearing her throat and walking up to the podium to take a closer look at the crystal in question.
"The memories that are being shown are the ones of a Magi from long ago, correct? The Dreamer was surely an interesting entity. But...he didn't seem harmful. I could have wished that he gave us more information regarding the matter, but..for now, it seems we will have to try our best to get to the bottom of things regarding what he's already told us.."
"If there truly isa Warlock and/or Witch out there that is capable of altering the very fabric our reality, it is our duty to put a stop to it's shenanigans before they can cause any outstanding damage. As members of the Faith, i believe we all know how important that it is that we work together when it comes to this.."
And with that out the way, she takes a deep sigh as she continues. Nodding her head and deciding to take part in the ritual to curb the occultic forces that surrounded it.
"Let me help you, brother."
A golden glow emits from the girl. Unstable but...powerful nonetheless. With brief flashes of silver waving in her wake, she extends her hand out toward the crystal. The Gardios' cosmic energies seemed to be..unstable. Oddly enough? Even more so as it attempted to counteract the occultic forces..
"Hmhm...hm...hm..."
The Gardios hums as she continues to quell the occultic energies. Herpower rising and amplifying ever so subtly as the ritual went on. Almost as if she was calling upon her star with her Voice. It would make sense, she was a voice caster, after all..
"I-it's....really strong..."
(Cordelia Gardios)
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[19:35] Kali sat with her sword being used as a means to support herself against the bench. She drums her fingers along the metal as she stares forward at the crystal in question. She knew what this dreamer could do. She saw the dreams of others in it.
But the idea of her nightmares she was plagued with coming to life? That terrified her beyond belief. Her friends and family being slaughtered, her unable to do anything but watch.
She shakes her head, shuddering for a brief moment. What in Helheim could she do to help anyways? Nothing really. She was a blood and bone mage. She could only help with the physical with that.
(Kali Agana)
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[19:36] The explanation was welcome, the precise details of the matter having evaded her since the Warden of Starfall had let her know something was going on. The report was concerned; a Primordial of Dreams if that was what this being was was one thing, but then this Primordial being threatened by Hellish influences...indeed, there was something to be done there.
She rose from her seat, taking a few steps over. Her magic -likely not quite as strong as many of those around her- took on a slightly altered form for those who could sense it, the tinglings of cosmic magic transformed; white magic, as early an application as it was.
"While I am no great power, nor would I ever claim to be such, I have been gifted by the stars the ability to use that which I have a little more effectively. As the Stellus can attest, I am capable of cleansing an occultist of their magic, so perhaps I can be of assistance here."
She continued her approach, bringing forth her magic to form that familiar aura. A light shimmer took to her skin, like light refracting.
She wasn't entirely certain how they'd go about this, but she was more than willing to try, eyes shifting to Seifer, the more experienced in these matters, for direction.
(Johanna)
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[19:39] Kali Agana says, "Guess all i can do is try and bring in whoever this witch is."
[19:41] Far too capable of purging the occultic presence lingering within the crystalized dream, Acolyte Edward waits atop the pew. Already made well aware of the Dreamer's strength as well as the story of the shard's origin, he lacks the inquisitiveness of most.
A mother and a son; a witch and a warlock capable of transcending the barrier that separated their realm from the entity that had invaded theirs. Taking advantage of their duties in order to locate the culprits.
Brows furrowed at the recollection of the memory. Being lulled into a forced slumber, being utterly unable to physically contact the being whatsoever. A mythical creature which held an exorbitant amount of control over them.
It rattled him. There was only one deity he'd entrust his fate to.
"Unfortunately, I'm incapable of assisting." There was much for him to learn. He was just an acolyte after all.
"May I approach and observe? I'll remain a safe distance away if there's a risk of me..."
Screwing the process up? Endangering himself? He wasn't quite sure.
(Edward von Leon)
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[19:45] She agreed to help. She agreed to be apart of this, to contribute. But in this moment of now? Why did it feel so...Complicated?. Watching the others move to do their part made her conflicted.
It was simple in the essence of things. Get up, move, help rid the world of another issue. Another problem. But she felt...sluggish. Twiddling her thumbs in a gradually surfacing nervous tick as she stared. Almost willing herself to move. Even if she felt stuck in the moment.
But she's always like this. She's always wanted the simple path. Maybe this was just another path she'd have to break through to continue onward with that simple task. Calling upon things, she didn't do often.
Calling in general...she tried to avoid. Leading to fend from her own two simple hands. Maybe it was time to lean on another? "R-right..I'm coming brother, I'm coming sister.." She muttered quietly to herself. Moving towards the group though it felt as if she was weighed.
She was suppose to be simple. Didn't Elys say something like flow like water? Whatever he said, it was long forgotten as she herself moved. Continued to move. This dreamer figure took something of her dreams. An innocent thing.
As one of the Gardios? A duty. Though not one she reveled in. But in due time? She arrived near her father. Shakey smile upon her face before she held...the only thing that could comfort here in this time out. A small snowball. " A small amount of frost...holds things together right? H-hopefully I can help hold it all together here...Even with my abilities."
And through that? Her own mana manifested through it. A gentle chill sweeping from it along with the gentle hum of the celestial mana she possessed. If it helped at all? That was to be seen by the whims of another force. She'd be a blanket for it all. To quietly cover it and hold things together like a cradle.
(Io Gardios)
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[19:46] Ael listened idly, perking up at the feeling of the familiar presence of Geist. It seems she wasn't the only one seeking a connection to the star. As she thought about the crystal she had considered that Geist may be able to assist them in viewing it's contents, but with a more skilled cosmic user in attendance, she felt even more confident in the matter. She looked about the room, waiting for others to act before acting herself, she was merely an acolyte after-all, far from gifted or experienced. In fact she was rather average in comparison to many who resided within the church.
A purse came to her lips as she stood from her seat, an aura of light shrouding her, the various glyphs of the faith glowing faintly on her cloak. She let out a sigh and started to step forward, while she felt nervous cause of the task in front of them, and her relatively new arrival to the church, she knew this was part of her duties. As she lined up along the others she gave a soft smile towards the group.
"I am here to offer whatever help I can." She stated calmly. "May Geist grant us clairvoyance." Her expression while soft and carrying a mild up-turn, was still stern, in the way a mother's was while scolding a child. The dull hues of the Acolyte look to the crystal, feeling the pulse of occultic energy. Her steadiness did not waiver, she remained calm and directed, a state of bolstered morale being made by the combination of their various white-magicks. Even a droplet served to cause the flood, she reassured herself, her newbie nerves settling.
"I'd imagine such a creation required a mass of energy." She added after a moment. "There may be a frame of time for us to act, one that will catch the witches before they recover from their exertion." It was a passing thought, one brought by her studies of the occultic conflicts in Osrona's libraries. "If they are capable of this, Kraus knows what else they may be able to do."
(Aeliana)
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[19:55] The lot of them stepped up with such righteousness behind their step and it showed. Each and every single last one of them were ready to spring up to the action and protect a realm they'd never heard of before.
It was beautiful to see. It gave hope for the future. It was perhaps through seeing something like that that Zhrani had accepted the fact she could retire. Seifer would take a bit longer before he'd come to terms with his own time being no longer one in the spotlight.
As for now?
"Relax. Calm down. Take a breath, the lot of you. You've never worked in tandem with one another and it'll take more than mere good thoughts and great will to help with this matter.
As Elys stated the fragment here is quite corrupted. You all can see for yourself the marks that have been left upon its surface - this fire it was subjected to. Before we can form a bridge between those memories and ourselves I believe it's best we take the time to cleanse those impurities.
When we went to Eos' temple and met with her we were drawn into her dreams, a mix of memories and of pain caused by a time-skipping being who's escaped our grasp thus far. If we want to avoid unpleasant lies within those memories we'll have to ensure no outside corruption remains.
That way we'll know that what we come across is truly what happened."
A lot of young souls, each and every one of them brimming with intent despite their lack of coordination. It was good to see, and with all of that in mind? The Councilman devised a plan.
"While we may have little experience working as a group I have a workaround to that. Cordelia will bring forth music - a rhythm for us to pace ourselves. Nothing too fast. Something that we can all sync up to. Io, you can cool the crystal in hopes of reducing the weight of burns it took. As for the rest; anything in the realm of cosmic magic or holy magic will be how we'll cleanse and purge the apparent evil that left its mark."
A longer pause was held as the man thought of something, eventually reaching a conclusion of his own.
"When this is all done I'll attune the shard with the world itself once more, hopefully shielding it from any more corruption and allowing those broken memories to heal themselves before we delve into them. Should any missing fragment of those memories be part of the world in some place they'll surely be drawn to it - helping in completing the story.
Are we all in agreement?"
(Seifer Gardios)
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[19:57] Melody lei Vel Kruger says, "Yes Warden Seifer."
[19:58] Aurelia ven Grimmore says, "..."
[19:58] Kali realises she still has a cigarette in her mouth and quickly puts it out. Whoops!
(Kali Agana)
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[19:58] Angelo shook his head. Tut, tut.
(Angelo ven Pelleaux)
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[20:00] "Cleansing it is a must."
"It's... not okay to hold physically; it's worse than a rift fragment from a year ago..."
This shard was something that he would not be able to handle himself, and seeing that others were able to use their unique bits and knowledge to help with the situation, Elys was fundamentally useless.
The only thing that was gifted about him, was the fact that with help of Geist, he was able to see patterns and help put pieces together that others would have a long time trying to figure out.
But beyond that, he was able to assess an object or person with the help of Geist to see the weaknesses and the conditions of objects and people; these little boons that others would be able to do ten times better, maybe.
"Keep a physical distance from it, because it's radiating an aura that can probably entrap you into a coma, or worse. If you're able to cleanse the occult of it so we can all see what it has in mind... the better."
But touching it would potentially mean that it would be the end of someone's life, and that was a fate that he would want others to avoid, especially if it's his family.
A nod followed when Edward asked to observe and inspect; it was appreciated that they would make the effort to do anything!
"Geist... if you can show me anything that would help, it would be very appreciated..."
Patterns as broad as the stars came, each one showing in the shape of a card that represented men and lions, and separate entities that made no sense to others, but would make the most sense for him, and it was when he connected it all together that he conducts his cosmic magic into a central area of his finger.
Little bits of cosmic energy that looks more like bulbs from a flower forms around it, attaching it to it in it's beautiful gold color and entangling it further.
While he wasn't truly capable of getting rid of the evil around it, Elys was atleast able to lay down the foundations and patterns for it to be fixed, and when he was down, a simple, small line connects it all together, displaying the crystal's occultic roots and mana circuits that needed to be purged one by one.
"Don't rush to destroy them all at once, take your time, patience will bring the answer you want. Rushing it will only make us fall back."
"Calm. Steady. Win the race like the tortoise."
(Elys Gardios)
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[20:02] The plan was laid out - and to the Priestess-Keeper appeared quite fitting. While she happened to be the highest ranking member of the church, she deferred to Seifer in this, trusting his greater experience. Still, that didn't mean she couldn't help coordinate.
"Melody, Elys, anyone else who calls upon Cosmic magic; rest your hands upon me and push your cosmic energy into me. I will be the conduit for our joint work; what energy you move through me I will grant the touch of the White. It should make the cleansing itself easier; like the difference between iron and steel."
There was no boast in her voice, rather a simple statement of fact. So far as she knew based on theory, it should work better if all the energy happened to be refined.
(Johanna)
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[20:03] Aurelia had arrived late. Really late--the look on her face showed it, yet she stood with the others, knowing well about the topic at hand. She looked in the direction of the corrupted crystal, her expression going pensive as she considered it's nature.
Arriving at the tail end of the plan didn't help, but thankfully the general plan was understood.
"Working with each other to potentially cleanse this crystal?" She asked to no one in particular. "I apologize for my tardiness; I had intended to help with this crystal situation, but I was dragged into other matters." She went silent after that, instead going to listen to what the plan was and nodding at Johanna when she declared herself the conduit.
This was about to get interesting.
(Aurelia ven Grimmore)
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[20:07] A nod was given in the direction of the Warden. She took a deep breath in, steadying herself further than before. Her eyes glanced to the others present, awaiting the start of the process. The glow of light from her grew more yellow, taking the attributes of cosmic magic more so than pure light. She observed Elys and his connection to Geist, finding the interaction interesting. Every relationship was different it seems, even between the stars and mortals. She briefly wondered if Geist would ever share glyphs with her in such a fashion, which brought a grin to her face. Their relationship was a fun one, she had to admit, Geist was always keeping her at an polearms distance it seems, at least for now.
Ael stepped over and placed a hand on Johanna's shoulder, her own eyes flaring with light as her cosmic magic cyphered into the other woman. It traveled at a steady and moderate rate, careful not to waste any or cause over-flow. The longer she could last with a steady flow thebetter, wearing herself out with a burst would just prove foolish.
"Light guide us." She plainly stated, maintaining a somber yet endearing expression. "I trust we'll find the way if we stay to our faith."
(Aeliana)
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[20:09] Closing her eyes she will breath, in and out, in and out. There is one thing she can do for sure in this group.
"Phos, the sun, and the moon are my cosmic ties. I can stand in balance, for support for the main push against the occultism influence. The spirits who guide me may be able to offer their powers as well."
Though she is unsure if the spirits would push the occult magic back in on itself and cause it to shatter or not. She is still not used to the power granted to her by the spirits of the past, backed by the power of heroes who stood for the light.
But she will nod towards Johanna, reaching out and clasping her on the shoulder, letting the three rush forth.
"Moon, Contain this evil, your arcanium bonds can contain all threats to this world. Sun, your power lights our day, purifies our flesh. Phos, the spine, the backbone of Lord Leonous. Without you he can not stand firm. I call upon thee. Bless us, aid us. We are bound in your light."
Reaching her free hand in the air, as concurrent spirals of runes form in the aether around her hand, reaching to the cosmic realm to draw in the cosmic power.
Lifting her face towards the halo floating above her head, the sign of the spirits of the past. Opening her eyes wide, the light flows down from the halo and into her eyes, going to her mind and aiding her. Protecting her and in turn, letting Johanna feel the spirit magic and holy magic the spirits control.
The song, the voices of the past. It is a chorus. Voices in praise, a hymn of battle. It is not just the praise of the Celstiant church, but numerous faiths. All in one common purpose, to aid the people of this world. Urayan chants to the Gods, KRaus worshipers of Valmasia, the fourfold discipline and faith in the emperor, dozens upon dozens of voices are joined together in a song that fills her.
Those in the bond can hear it, if only partially. The chorus joining in song with Cordelia's music, to aid and protect.
(Melody lei Vel Kruger)
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[20:12] Seifer assigned her to cool the crystal. All she mustered out was a brief nod for a second before she rolled up her sleeves. But to cool it, to cool it in hopes of reducing the weight of its burned and ashen nature? That...would require them to get just a tad bit closer.
"Alright...Lets...see how I can do this." She muttered. It was more for herself as her snowball melted ever so slightly into both hands. Eyes shutting down in that moment of peace before she manifested her frost even further.
Her hands wouldn't be on the crystal. Far from that, but they'd simply be near her sides together. Almost...weaving together an intricate pattern of snowflakes for the dream like crystal. And with the melody of her sister syncing them together? Made things far more easier for her.
And with it that frost she'd woven into a unique patter was then woven around the dream crystal. Carried on by strands of what looked like Ghost-fish. An intricate design of her own standards. But because of it? She focused solely on that unless otherwise.
If she could keep it cool indefinitely? She'd do that.
Just to make sure everything and everyone here could do what they did. To save the betterment of others. That? Is something she'd need. For here she was simply being...
Simple. The best thing she could do here at least.
(Io Gardios)
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[20:21] "If you wish to be the conduit, I'll be the controller. One pool at a time with Leonaus' stars, voice, and moon, will be all we need..."
But the truth is, Seifer would be able to cleanse it much faster than any of them would, but it was his way of teaching the others how to care for themselves, it had to be.
Underneath his sleeve, the likes of nature would come and tangle upon his wrist before spreading to the others that held on to the cosmos and it's magic, with every selection of that golden vine, it taps into the collective mana circuits and powers it all into a single individual, Johanna.
If they wanted to do so, of course, and with him at the controller and his amazing sight, he would be able to coordinate it all, for seeing patterns and the weaknesses in objects and people would be his only grace that would follow.
Piece by piece, each one taking a moment or so with a steady grace period to go further should Johanna's body allow such, and ti was during so, that Johanna could also see these little patterns, heightening her senses and allowing the visual caster's 'eyes' to see the same lines and circles that he was talking about.
A little gift from him, to her, to others.
Now it was all based on Cordelia and her singing!!
(Elys Gardios)
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[20:23] "I have no discourse, father. I'll do my best. For all of you. Follow my lead and my rhythm, please, everyone."
"We're all in this together."
Nothing too fast. But nothing too slow or bombastic either. A gentle symphony that was able to guide and allow others to wash away the sin that plagued these memories. With a nod of her head, the girl decides it was time to put on another show. To show her Voice once again. This time? Not out of enjoyment or art. But as a way to convey to the stars above her desire to cleanse and bring back memories long lost to time...
It was her duty as an Acolyte.
The Gardios opens her lips. A brief thought of a song crosses her mind for a moment. Unfortunately, with no instrument available, it was up to her to use her voice as the main guide for those aiding in the ritual.
"Hmhmmmm...lala….lala...laaa…."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-MxBRSule0&ab_channel=J.O.E.VGM
And as the ritual continued? The better Cordelia would seem to get at controlling her cosmic magic and using it to curb the dangerous occultic power. It was...odd. The more that Cordelia hummed, the more distinct her magic seemed to have gotten. A silver, shining light of cosmic runs down her arm as she calls onto Leo with her voice. Brief flashes of color emanating from such light as she did so. A symphonic tone emits from the lips of hers. Subtle. But calm and warm nonetheless.
"...."
For a moment? One could almost argue that what Cordelia was using...wasn't exactly just cosmic magic. Tapping into an unknown, odd power that allowed her to cleanse and bless those affected by such ugly magics. Similar to her mother's and Johanna's magic. But unrefined. Barely even capable of ridding the magic without the help of others.
Atleast it seemed she had the potential...
"La...lala...hm...hmhm..lal..lala...
The Gardios continues to use her voice to draw upon the power of the Stars. Warm echoes bounce off the walls of the church for all to hear. Lost in a rhythm that was created to combat that of an ugly power. The only question was..
Would it work?
"Laaa...lal..la.laaaa.."
Deep breathes. Ones that would give way for her to continue to hum. Calmness and vigor emits from her. But alas, it wouldn't take mere good thoughts and happy times to cure the corruption. It would take coordination. One followed by a gentle rhythm that the rest of magi could attach themselves too. In a sense? The girl was leading them toward a combined goal in cleansing this object and getting to the bottom of the mystery that surrounded it..
Calm and steady, the girl continues to hum and sing once more. Her symphony calling up the stars above as it shined down to guide the group in this combined effort. Cordelia was glowing at this point. Her once golden aura replaced by a more stable, concise version of her magics. Silver and shrouded in a rainbow-esque mirage. It was as if the girl was otherworldly in her own image.
The combined effort of the other Cosmic magi and their stars course through the girl. The Light of Leo guiding them toward a new destination. Fitting. That one blessed by Leo would be guiding the others blessed by different stars. Poetic. And hopefully? A sign of the future that was to come..
Cordelia continues to hum her melody. Allowing the other magis to follow her rhythm and relay their own energies in perfect fashion. With her as a guide, hopefully they'd succeed in this beautiful chorus of a starlight symphony..
(Cordelia Gardios)
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[20:30] Aurelia had definitely set her hand upon Johanna's shoulder at some point. Her cosmic magic surged, flickering between golden star light and a shade of crimson.
(Aurelia ven Grimmore)
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[20:37] Cordelia resists the urge to nya
(Cordelia Gardios)
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[20:38] The music filtered out, pushing them into unity. Johanna hears it, and it is beautiful.
The others channel their mana into her, their cosmic energy, and that light shimmer upon her grows brighter. She feels it, the essence of each of them, filling her, shifted through her circuits as she calls upon her ability to bless, to cleanse, the energy still theirs but empowered, enhanced.
The music is held to, a steady beat to flow to, and the moment of her mana mimics it, almost on its own. Patterns became legible to her, visible in her mind, and some drew associations, connections to her dreams. It appeared this was one of those many occasions foretold by the gifts of Geist.
Still, as things continue, that intensifying shimmer grows, and grows. The sources of light around them grow stronger, filling the room with enhanced illumination, the Priestess-Keeper herself beginning to shine. Cooperative magic was something newer to her, but glorious nonetheless.
"We call upon the constellation! Leo, grant me the power to aptly direct the energy bequeathed to me by those around me! Geist, guide my mind, show me the path! Lyzel, let our magic grow strong but not wasteful! Phos, Ios, Anos, let us stand strong before this shard's corruption!"
Her voice was light, breathy, but full of confidence.
"Iberl, let us see what we must do, and Sae, comprehend! Biblos, warm our hearts and reward our zeal! Syph, empower Cordelia's song, let it flow to our ears as she intends! Yiel, let our faith be strong! Vrona, let us cast out this corruption!"
With that final plea, she releases the magic which had been building. Alone, they were streams, rivers. Together? They were a tsunami.
The energy rushes over the crystal, a torrent of cosmic energy blessed by the Priestess amongst them, seeking purchase without and within, soaking into the crystal and finding the occultic energy within. And where it did? Melting it away, like snow on the first day of spring.
What could possibly withstand this power?
(Johanna)
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[20:41] The frail youth enters the church hoping for a moment to pray, the painter had been pining for her visage once more. He wanted to see her in his dreams, and yet they remained rather empty.
Yet what greeted him when he entered the church was something else entirely. The place was busy with the brothers and sisters of faith roaming around and performing their regular duties of course, but this. This was more of a crowd.
Malacai quietly slipped into a seat next to another robed youth.
"Hi have we met before?"
A soft voice queried to Edward,
"I'm Malacai, what's going on?" he asked hoping to obtain some answers.
(Malacai D'evanuex)
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[20:54] With a bit of order brought back in the masses people seemed to organize themselves better. Seifer took a few steps off to the side - allowing the collective of people to treat the shard for the occult forces that dwelled upon its surface. All under Cordelia's guidance - perhaps the man was playing to their strengths and allowing people like Johanna to rise up and direct on purpose.
He certainly had learned from Ethric.
For now the man observed as impure forces were being cleansed - healed away by the efforts of many and cooled over in hopes of bringing forth a new kind of brightness and light to the world. It nearly brought him to tears.
With that being said and done the man moved over to the crystal once more, asking aloud but a single important question before he'd bring his touch to it.
"Does anyone else have anything they want to say or do before I wrap things up?"
(Seifer Gardios)
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[20:57] Withdrawing her magic, letting it settle down slowly around herself, till finally it is gone completely. She has nothing real to add, she has said her theories of Elys, who has obviously relayed them to his father. All she can do is provide her support.
The halo of protective magic will still flow above her head. Providing her the guidance and will of heroes past.
(Melody lei Vel Kruger)
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[20:57] Tiring.
Connecting himself through the flows of the star-light bind that he made with others was exhausting, and connecting himself to the others left their own effects as well.
Those that were capable of seeing, and were used to seeing things normally, were able to see what Elys was able to see in every waking day of his life; patterns on top of patterns that scrambled together in unison and only coming together fully in front of him when it was the most opportune moment.
It was a wonderful thing, sure, but it was also nauseating when overdone due to how his mind worked.
The vines of togetherness closed, and he was able to see that cleansing occurred easily when it was over, and that was when he was able to take a deep, lingering breath and bow toward the others before saying simple words...
"We did it."
The next on the menu was finding what the dream itself was saying,to finally get an understanding and expose the reality-ripping witches and warlocks.
"However... this is mentally draining, I prefer resting for a few days."
(Elys Gardios)
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[20:57] Kali claps.
(Kali Agana)
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[20:58] Melody lei Vel Kruger whispers to Elys Gardios: Good Job Elys.
[20:58] Elys Gardios whispers to Melody lei Vel Kruger: Tiring.
[20:58] Io simply shakes her head. She was...content.
(Io Gardios)
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[20:58] Melody lei Vel Kruger whispers: At least none of us has burst a blood vessal.
[20:58] The flow of her magic was directed through Johanna until the crystal's cleansing. Letting out a loud huff of exhaustion, her aura flickered, fizzled, and vanished abruptly.
"None from myself, no." She sighed.
(Aurelia ven Grimmore)
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[20:58] Elys Gardios whispers to Melody lei Vel Kruger: Yet.
[21:02] The music that filled the room, from the chorus of those past and distant that came from Melody, to the hums of the star-lit art by Cordelia, it served to calm and guide the Acolyte. Such as it was intended. The input of her cosmic magic was controlled carefully to begin with, yet the inclusion of the other elements, as well as the assistance of Elys enhanced her effectiveness even further.
The presence of Geist was the most prominent to her. This event being the closest interaction the two have had. She wished so badly to delve into their potential, yet duty was before her, preventing her from crossing that gap in this moment, else risking failure. Her eyes closed, the young acolyte not being a visual caster, thus unaffected by the drought of sensory for her eyes. She focused on the music and her own magic, coming to consciously ignore the star she so desperately want to speak to. There were priorities to be taken and she couldn't afford the wavering in her will.
There would come another day for her to speak to Geist, and perhaps, little to her knowledge, this was a challenge from the cosmic being. One to see past her wants. A coincidental trial to test her dedication to her service, and her will to sacrifice.
The magic poured from Johanna, like a broken dam, flooding the crystal with a holy water, boiling away the corruption and imperfection. She didn't see this directly, but she felt it. It wasn't a visual sensation, but she could sense the interaction, a distant application of her will. It was like a sixth sense, or like when someone talks about you and you sneeze. While it was an odd sensation, she took it in stride, the results serving as affirmation of her work and duties. She'd done her part. She could now rest, however short.
She stepped back, letting out a sigh of relief, her eyes resting on Elys without a conscious awareness of it. Out of everything that occurred today, be it talk of primordial crystalsor occultist, the thing that caught her personal attention the most was the Geist connected feline. After a moment she realized she was staring and glanced back to the crystal.
"Great job everyone." She praised casually, genuinely impressed with her and her peers efforts. There seemed to be hope that the future would be full of light and greatness for the Faith of Osrona.
(Aeliana)
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[21:02] The curtain finally closes. With the outro of her song finally closing, the Gardios girl takes a deep breath before looking toward the combined efforts of all magi in attendance. Finally opening her eyes to take a glance at their work..
"..."
The girl would seem almost...lost. Confused about where she was. Once escaped from her trance, the Felinae would almost feel as if she had entered and exited another world entirely. With the might of the Stars flowing through you, it was really no wonder she felt like that sometimes.
"And...scene..."
Cordelia smiles and bows. Proud of her work and contribution to the cleansing of the artifact. Luckily, she wouldn't have to do an encore this time around..
"I..could really...use a nap right now.."
Cordelia's aura diminishes. And as always, she'd feel a bit woozy and tired from the rapid disperse of her mana. It seemed everyone else had the same fate, unfortunately. Too tired and worn to say anything really..
"D-did we do it?"
A glance is given to the crystal. The Gardios girl now beginning to rub and head and complain as a glance is thrown toward Elys. Seemed she always got cranky when she was tired..
"I think you gave my a headache Ely. Mgh…"
"Why does your star have to make my eyes hurt so much!?"
(Cordelia Gardios)
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[21:02] Elys Gardios says, "Because you see what I see."
[21:02] Elys Gardios says, "Every single day."
[21:03] Cordelia pouts
(Cordelia Gardios)
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[21:03] Melody lei Vel Kruger says, "Probably more along the lines of mana exhaustion. It makes your head ache."
[21:04] Melody lei Vel Kruger says, "Think of it as a strained muscle you are not used to working out."
[21:04] A boy, and a cat
Together they watch the procession of people seemingly attempting to purify the crystal. It seemed a large amount of magi called forth the powers of the celestial bodies with which to cleans this crystal in particular.
The painter watched quietly the cat tucked into his arms. Would it succeed? Perhaps, he had to at least believe. . .at least hope. After all it was the same crystal that had been in that 'thing's hands.
The Dreamer,
An entity still unknown to a large degree and that easily struck a wave of apprehension in the youth.
Even in the walls of the church he sometimes felt as if it was watching them.
"I hope whatever they are doing works. . ." he mumbled to himself, eyebrows knitting together in frustration.
(Malacai D'evanuex)
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[21:04] Cordelia Gardios asks, "Yeah....speaking of head aches, is everyone okay?"
[21:04] Kali Agana asks, "What head ache?"
[21:04] Kali 's head is empty. No thoughts.
(Kali Agana)
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[21:05] Cordelia stares at Kali and nods in understanding.
(Cordelia Gardios)
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[21:06] Melody lei Vel Kruger says, "Besides some exhaustion on some of our parts. I imagine that we were enough to hold back its influance."
[21:06] Melody lei Vel Kruger says, "At least no one had to content with it on their own this time."
[21:06] Melody shudders at that memory of pain
(Melody lei Vel Kruger)
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[21:07] Cordelia Gardios says, "I am glad that no one is severely hurt. "
[21:08] The magic poured into her was relaxed, and with it, her own. It drained away from her, the bright shine lessening to a shimmer, and then that too mostly fading. She wasn't tired -if anything, she felt more energised than ever!- but the magic was no longer needed, so slip away it did without any fight from her as she resumed her usual pose, hands slipping over to rest clasped gently in front of her.
"That was...intense."
A good intense, certainly!
With the fading, so did her altered sight disappear, and she turned to the rest.
"Thank you all for trusting me to direct your magic true. All of you, I am proud to see as the upcoming generation. With this generation of Acolytes as Priests and Priestesses, I am certain the Church has a bright future."
A warm smile followed as she regarded them, before her attention shifted back to Seifer.
"None from me, Warden. I doubt that the corruptive elements of the crystal could withstand such beautiful magic, so it seems there is none more to do with it in that regard."
(Johanna)
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[21:09] Aurelia takes a deep breath, turning to move down the stairs. At times it almost looks like she's about to trip.
Almost.
(Aurelia ven Grimmore)
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[21:10] Angelo ven Pelleaux says, "...Watch your step."
[21:10] Aurelia ven Grimmore says, "Right."
[21:10] Melody lei Vel Kruger says, "Good work Lady Aurelia."
[21:10] Kali Agana says, "Have a nice fall."
[21:10] "If only you knew..."
A few blinks come, and as he rubs his nose, a small droplet of crimson came exposed from it.
Whatever it was, was simply a side effect.
A passing glance came from Aeliana as the young adult looks at the growing teenager, but the only thing he did was shrug it off as if it was nothing more than simple curiosity.
"Rest well everyone, there's more work to do after this that may be a bit more physical."
"It's best that everyone is mentally, physically, and spiritually ready for the tribulations and trials to come... and if it's needed, I am willing to offer my services to ease the mind or help in anyway."
A light shrug, a spin, and a walk out.
Why wasn't his nose stopping????
(Elys Gardios)
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[21:10] Aurelia ven Grimmore says, "I contributed little..."
[21:11] Kali Agana says, "Contributed a lot more than the rest of us."
[21:11] Faust Alban says, "Mm."
[21:11] Elys AFTER HIS FATHER SPEAKS.
(Elys Gardios)
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[21:11] Faust Alban says, "I'm glad you're all well, at least."
[21:12] Melody lei Vel Kruger whispers: You strained your mana too much Acolyte Elys.
[21:12] Melody lei Vel Kruger whispers: Do you want a hankierchief?
[21:13] Mitsuhide says, "Oi, Angelo..."
[21:13] Mitsuhide asks, "We just goin' to stand around here today?"
[21:13] Angelo ven Pelleaux says, "Basically. I'm writing some stuff up, but I have to fill you in about something later, actually."
[21:13] Mitsuhide asks, "Hmm?"
[21:14] A small nod was given to the group as the seemingly had nothing more to offer. It was fine. He couldn't expect them to do everything that he should have done on his own, after all.
Rising his right hand up to the starry skies above the man allowed from the strands of the world itself to swirl together with enough intensity for the naked eye to perceive wisps of gold here and there. The metaphysical pull of the Lifestream was brought with a delicate touch, an innate kindness that hardly felt like the man was ripping it apart, but rather brushing it in the right direction.
The crystal gave off a brighter blue glow for a moment as its presence in the world itself was further solidified, its connection to the Lifestream reforged anew to ensure the corruption within would be quelled - or at the very least dampened.
"I'll inform you all when I feel we're ready to explore those memories together.
Thank you all for yourhelp, and... for those who feel like they could hardly help— I'm counting on you when the tougher part comes."
A smile shone through it all.
(Seifer Gardios)
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[21:14] Mitsuhide says, "I see..."
[21:14] Mitsuhide asks, "Is it important?"
[21:15] Mitsuhide asks, "Err, I mean, how important?"
[21:15] Ermir parts the massive doors with a nudge, marching forth unto the scene to whisper to the man at the forefront.
(Ermir)
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[21:16] It seems it was time for the Gardios to take her leave. Each and every one of the Priests, Acolytes, and Priestesses had done their best today. And as far as Cordelia knew?
It was time to take a little cat nap..
"Oh! Ely!"
But not before helping out her brother.
"You're nose!"
Grabbing a handkerchief from...somewhere. She begins to wipe her brother's nose without his consent. It was a bit worrying, after all!
"Please be careful next time...okay? Should i get you your nose plugs?"
What a weird girl..
(Cordelia Gardios)
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[21:17] Melody looks like her own hankerchief is safe from cat blood for another day
(Melody lei Vel Kruger)
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[21:17] Shivering from head to toe! That was Io. And in that moment she simply gave a pensive thumbs up before stepping back all to huddle up against something that had any semblance of warmth.
Probably resorting to hugging her sister. She was very cold. Almost...
Ice cube cold. Poor frost feline.
(Io Gardios)
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[21:18] Cordelia Gardios exclaims, "Oh no! Io!!"
[21:18] Cordelia hides her sister inside her cloak
(Cordelia Gardios)
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[21:18] Perhaps it was simply a side effect of overusing his mana to help cleanse something.
Maybe it had something to do with his connection that needed to be strengthen?
When they forced themselves to clean the blood that flows out, he simply accepts it, the whispers that were being between the Keeper and the Acolyte was interrupted by this, but he only shrugs and accepts it.
"I'm fine. I just need to rest and get a good meal..."
So, he turns, and if no one stops him, he would go off to the square and enjoy the sweet little treats of maki.
(Elys Gardios)
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[21:19] Cordelia Gardios says, "If you say so Ely. See you around. And...thank you for your help..."
[21:19] Ermir says, "That'll be all, for now."
[21:20] It probably helped her that she is not only one of the older people who was facing this power. One of the strongest as well. But she has already battled her will against this fragment.
The darkness of the memories that tried to taint her mind shudder forth for a moment, but they can not penetrate the bastion of her mind.
"Rest Acolyte Elys, I know the experience well. Rest and let yourself recover. It will soon pass. Everyone did amazing, and it is showing we do have many skills to aid in this endeavor in the future."
Turning to the warden briefly.
"Do you require the Keepers to take the item and lock it in the vault warden?"
(Melody lei Vel Kruger)
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[21:21] Elys Gardios says, "Right..."