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<rss version="2.0"><channel><title>The Xalythi Enclave Latest Topics</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/forum/2156-the-xalythi-enclave/</link><description>The Xalythi Enclave Latest Topics</description><language>en</language><item><title>WORLD WIDE WEB: EGG</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/267826-world-wide-web-egg/</link><description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align:center;">
	<img alt="xWRrHu7.jpeg" class="ipsImage" data-ratio="56.25" height="360" width="207" src="https://i.imgur.com/xWRrHu7.jpeg" />
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<p style="text-align:center;">
	<span style="color:#b0b0b0;"><span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">The following is a private narrative, known only to Phithali Xalyth.</span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" data-extension="core_Attachment" data-fileext="png" data-fileid="79848" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).png.1ef481ab69856527f900826a7d611e4a.png" rel=""><img alt="360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).thumb.png.ceb18667dc4a43c8344e8910c68e3303.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-extension="core_Attachment" data-fileid="79848" data-ratio="25.00" style="width:640px;height:160px;" width="640" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).thumb.png.ceb18667dc4a43c8344e8910c68e3303.png" /></a></span></span>
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	<table style="border:;border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;">
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					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#696eff;">Thrice,</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">I</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">have</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">st</span><span style="color:#6a6eff;">epped</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">from</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">doors</span><span style="color:#6a6fff;">tep</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">w</span><span style="color:#6b6fff;">orld</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">to</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">starry</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">road</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">to</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">nowhe</span><span style="color:#6c6fff;">re.</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">Did</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">return</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">same?</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">No,</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">n</span><span style="color:#6c70ff;">ev</span><span style="color:#6d70ff;">er.</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">first</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">departure</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">came</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">by</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">way</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">curiosity…,</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">or</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">rather,</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#6f70ff;">curio.</span> <span style="color:#6f70ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">been</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">waiting,</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">full</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">patience,</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">kin</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">return</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">home</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">bid</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">miss</span><span style="color:#7172ff;">ion</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">forward</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">f</span><span style="color:#7272ff;">or</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">our</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">exodus.</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">They</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">never</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">co</span><span style="color:#7372ff;">me.</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">No,</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">waited</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">bett</span><span style="color:#7373ff;">er</span> <span style="color:#7373ff;">pa</span><span style="color:#7473ff;">rt</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">year,</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">sat</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">field</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">peo</span><span style="color:#7573ff;">nies,</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">without</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">comment</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">or</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">compl</span><span style="color:#7673ff;">aint.</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">Still.</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">so</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">still,</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">eve</span><span style="color:#7774ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">bleached</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">surface-world</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">began</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">lay</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">upo</span><span style="color:#7875ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">me</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">curse</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">its</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">pointless</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">shine.</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">At</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">one</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">poi</span><span style="color:#7a75ff;">nt,</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">began</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">feel</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">sam</span><span style="color:#7a76ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#7a76ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#7a76ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">world</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">around</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">me.</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">Open.</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">Silent.</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">Everywhere.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					 

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7c76ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">been</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">waiting</span> <span style="color:#7d76ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">years.</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">felt</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">way</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">air</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">does</span><span style="color:#7e77ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">shifted</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">here,</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">there,</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">but</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">nev</span><span style="color:#7f77ff;">er</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">far.</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">You</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">mi</span><span style="color:#7f78ff;">ght</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">know</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">feeli</span><span style="color:#8078ff;">ng,</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">when</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">wind</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">blows</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">over</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">you</span><span style="color:#8178ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">breeze</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">consta</span><span style="color:#8179ff;">nt,</span> <span style="color:#8179ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#8179ff;">fee</span><span style="color:#8279ff;">ls</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">like</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">fixed</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">condition</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">you</span><span style="color:#8379ff;">r</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">position.</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">whispering</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">bel</span><span style="color:#8479ff;">l</span><span style="color:#847aff;">ows</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">of</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">the</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">world</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">are</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">in</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">perfect</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">e</span><span style="color:#857aff;">quilibrium.</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">When</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">a</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">breeze</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">shif</span><span style="color:#867aff;">ts</span> <span style="color:#867aff;">here,</span> <span style="color:#867aff;">it</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">shifts</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">there,</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">too.</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">C</span><span style="color:#877bff;">ool</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">blurs</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">into</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">warm.</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">Storms</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">gus</span><span style="color:#887bff;">t</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">down</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">the</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">coasts</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">of</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">t</span><span style="color:#887cff;">he</span> <span style="color:#887cff;">shore,</span> <span style="color:#887cff;">an</span><span style="color:#897cff;">d</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">the</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">motion</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">raises,</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">trips,</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">dri</span><span style="color:#8a7cff;">fts</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">along</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">hair</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">of</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">your</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">neck</span><span style="color:#8a7dff;">.</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">You</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">begin</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">to</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">lose</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">sense</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">of</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">here,</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">and</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">now.</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">I</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">started</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">to</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">lose</span> <span style="color:#8d7dff;">track</span> <span style="color:#8d7dff;">o</span><span style="color:#8d7eff;">f</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">where</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">I</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">ended</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">and</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">wo</span><span style="color:#8e7eff;">rld</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">began.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"> </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#8e7eff;">Until</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">a</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">cold</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">hand</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">on</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">my</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">shoulder</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">remind</span><span style="color:#8f7fff;">ed</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">me</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">sta</span><span style="color:#907fff;">rk</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">boundaries</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">self</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">and</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">safet</span><span style="color:#917fff;">y.</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">whipped</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">around.</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">How</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">had</span> <span style="color:#9180ff;">som</span><span style="color:#9280ff;">eone</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">snuck</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">up?</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">could</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">taste</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">w</span><span style="color:#9380ff;">ind.</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">could</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">hear</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">grass.</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">And</span> <span style="color:#9480ff;">yet,</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">all</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">behind</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">me</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">…</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">space.</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">world.</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">Open.</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">Silent.</span> <span style="color:#9681ff;">Everything.</span> <span style="color:#9681ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">turned</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">again.</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">So</span><span style="color:#9782ff;">mething</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">there.</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">Weightless</span><span style="color:#9882ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">Formless.</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">Hands</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">reache</span><span style="color:#9883ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#9883ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#9883ff;">t</span><span style="color:#9983ff;">he</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">presence</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">found</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">only</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">tight</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">fingers</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">own</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">palm.</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">could</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">n</span><span style="color:#9b83ff;">ot</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">grasp</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">it,</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">could</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">see</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">it,</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">could</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">sense</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">it.</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">But</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">it…</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">pushe</span><span style="color:#9d84ff;">d.</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">More</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">than</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">wind,</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">more</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">than</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">imp</span><span style="color:#9e85ff;">ulse,</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">forced</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">me</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">onwards,</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">awa</span><span style="color:#9f85ff;">y</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">stoic</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">vigil.</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9f86ff;">did</span> <span style="color:#9f86ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#9f86ff;">qu</span><span style="color:#a086ff;">estion</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">where.</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">felt</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">rope</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">conn</span><span style="color:#a186ff;">ecting</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">me</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">elsewhere.</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">wa</span><span style="color:#a287ff;">ited</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">years.</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">What</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">few</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">mom</span><span style="color:#a387ff;">ents</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">walking</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">waste?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#a387ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">delved</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">t</span><span style="color:#a487ff;">hrough</span> <span style="color:#a487ff;">da</span><span style="color:#a488ff;">y</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">night,</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">through</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">r</span><span style="color:#a588ff;">iver</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">hill,</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">over</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">under</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">th</span><span style="color:#a688ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">bent</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">branches</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">gn</span><span style="color:#a689ff;">arled</span> <span style="color:#a689ff;">trees</span><span style="color:#a789ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">Forward,</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">moved,</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">locatio</span><span style="color:#a889ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">knew</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">seeking</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">but</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">coul</span><span style="color:#a88aff;">d</span> <span style="color:#a88aff;">n</span><span style="color:#a98aff;">ot</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">name.</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">Backwards,</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">glanced,</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">for</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">I</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">never</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">took</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">but</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">a</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">single</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">step</span> <span style="color:#ab8aff;">withou</span><span style="color:#ab8bff;">t</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">some</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">unseen</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">presence</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">p</span><span style="color:#ac8bff;">ushing</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">me</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">onwards.</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">In</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">eventual</span><span style="color:#ad8bff;">ity,</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">I</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">reached</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">a</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">br</span><span style="color:#ad8cff;">ook</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">that</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">had</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">wo</span><span style="color:#ae8cff;">rn</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">a</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">path</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">into</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">a</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">sunken</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">bog,</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">dren</span><span style="color:#af8cff;">ched</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">with</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">mud-stained</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">wat</span><span style="color:#af8dff;">er,</span> <span style="color:#af8dff;">p</span><span style="color:#b08dff;">ouring</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">down</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">into</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">a</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">small</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">cave.</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">D</span><span style="color:#b18dff;">arkness</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">clung</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">to</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">everything</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">the</span><span style="color:#b28dff;">re,</span> <span style="color:#b28dff;">h</span><span style="color:#b28eff;">eavier</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">than</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">a</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">mere</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">lack</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">of</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">l</span><span style="color:#b38eff;">ight,</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">it</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">felt</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">like</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">a</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">rule</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">of</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">law.</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">Brightness</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">co</span><span style="color:#b48fff;">uld</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">not</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">find</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">this</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">p</span><span style="color:#b58fff;">lace,</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">just</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">as</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">had</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">been</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">lead</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">by</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">t</span><span style="color:#b68fff;">he</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">unseen,</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">so</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">too</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">was</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">thi</span><span style="color:#b690ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#b690ff;">place</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">never</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">meant</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">be</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">appraised</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">by</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">th</span><span style="color:#b890ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">eyes</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">mortal</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">men.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#b890ff;">But</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">see</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">be</span><span style="color:#b990ff;">yo</span><span style="color:#b991ff;">nd</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">blood,</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">bone,</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">ba</span><span style="color:#ba91ff;">le</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">shadow;</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">world</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">does</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#bb91ff;">hide</span> <span style="color:#bb91ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#bb91ff;">me</span><span style="color:#bb92ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">nor</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">do</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">its</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">secrets.</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">Could</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">say</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">saw?</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">No.</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">But</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">all</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">same,</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">mirror</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">stood</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">b</span><span style="color:#bd93ff;">efore</span> <span style="color:#bd93ff;">me.</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">What</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">does</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">glass</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">reflect,</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">when</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">li</span><span style="color:#bf93ff;">ght</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">cannot</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">kiss</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">its</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">face?</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">Fools</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">will</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">say</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">nothing,</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">mirror</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">can</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">only</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">show</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">what</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">seen.</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">t</span><span style="color:#c294ff;">ruth,</span> <span style="color:#c294ff;">obd</span><span style="color:#c295ff;">urate</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">baneful,</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">w</span><span style="color:#c395ff;">orse.</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">Where</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">darkness</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">meets</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">dar</span><span style="color:#c495ff;">kness,</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">dancing</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">umb</span><span style="color:#c496ff;">ral</span> <span style="color:#c496ff;">fractal</span><span style="color:#c596ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">on</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">face</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">silver</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">simulacra</span><span style="color:#c696ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">world</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">wears</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">away.</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">ente</span><span style="color:#c697ff;">re</span><span style="color:#c797ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">dusty,</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">ancient</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">speculum</span><span style="color:#c897ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">but</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">only</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">halfway.</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">In</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">world</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">w</span><span style="color:#c997ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#c997ff;">know</span><span style="color:#c998ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">half</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">m</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#c998ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">stayed,</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">an</span><span style="color:#ca98ff;">other</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">half</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">reflected.</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">In</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">wo</span><span style="color:#cb98ff;">rld</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">images,</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">ha</span><span style="color:#cb99ff;">lf</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">me</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">entere</span><span style="color:#cc99ff;">d,</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">another</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">half</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">shone</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">darkly</span><span style="color:#cd99ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">two</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">us,</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">both</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">equa</span><span style="color:#cd9aff;">lly</span> <span style="color:#cd9aff;">e</span><span style="color:#ce9aff;">ach</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">other</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">as</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">the</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">other,</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">exchang</span><span style="color:#cf9aff;">ed</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">loneliness.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#cf9aff;">We</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">do</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">not</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">know</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">how</span> <span style="color:#d09aff;">lon</span><span style="color:#d09bff;">g</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">we</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">could</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">have</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">stayed.</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">wou</span><span style="color:#d19bff;">ld</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">have</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">called</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">one</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">us</span> </span></span><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#d19bff;">clone</span></span></span><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#d19bff;">,</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">a</span><span style="color:#d29bff;">nd</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">other</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">or</span><span style="color:#d29cff;">iginal,</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">but</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">in</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">th</span><span style="color:#d39cff;">e</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">occulum</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">penumbra,</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">truth</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">wa</span><span style="color:#d49cff;">s</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">not</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">a</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">treasure</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">we</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">clai</span><span style="color:#d49dff;">med.</span> <span style="color:#d49dff;">The</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">sisters,</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">we</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">were,</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">Janus</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">&amp;</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">gemin</span><span style="color:#d69dff;">i,</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">commiserated</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">way</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">twins</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">su</span><span style="color:#d79dff;">f</span><span style="color:#d79eff;">fer</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">their</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">shared</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">nameday.</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">Wha</span><span style="color:#d89eff;">t</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">gifts</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">can</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">you</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">give</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">yourself?</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">M</span><span style="color:#d99eff;">any.</span> <span style="color:#d99eff;">Each</span> <span style="color:#d99eff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">us,</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">a</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">moon</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">in</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">partial</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">eclipse,</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">born</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">half</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">gleam</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">and</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">half</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">gloam,</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">decor</span><span style="color:#dba0ff;">ated</span> <span style="color:#dba0ff;">each</span> <span style="color:#dba0ff;">o</span><span style="color:#dca0ff;">ther</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">with</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">insults</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">and</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#dca0ff;">complime</span><span style="color:#dda0ff;">nts</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">alike.</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">We</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">balked</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">beamed</span> <span style="color:#dda1ff;">o</span><span style="color:#dea1ff;">ver</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">shared</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">features,</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">over</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">vain</span><span style="color:#dfa1ff;">ful</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">curves</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">our</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">face,</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">over</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">ins</span><span style="color:#e0a1ff;">ecuritie</span><span style="color:#e0a2ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">parts</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">our</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">hai</span><span style="color:#e1a2ff;">r.</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">Sisters.</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">do</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">have</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">bette</span><span style="color:#e2a2ff;">r</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">word</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">it.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#e2a2ff;">Did</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">w</span><span style="color:#e2a3ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">share</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">myst</span><span style="color:#e3a3ff;">ery?</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">Intrigue?</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">Occultism,</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">arcana?</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">No.</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">We</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">have</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">enough</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e4a4ff;">the</span><span style="color:#e5a4ff;">se</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">little</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">curiosities.</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">walke</span><span style="color:#e6a4ff;">d,</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">half</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">in,</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">half</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">out.</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">Part</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e7a4ff;">me</span> <span style="color:#e7a4ff;">left</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">mirror,</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">part</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">m</span><span style="color:#e8a5ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">travels</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">deeper.</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">Where</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">we</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">are</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">i</span><span style="color:#e9a5ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">world,</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">we</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">are</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">next.</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">reflection</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">cuts</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">two</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">equal</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">in</span><span style="color:#eba6ff;">finities</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">into</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">endless</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">ex</span><span style="color:#eba7ff;">panse</span><span style="color:#eca7ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">equal</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">sides.</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">When</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">we</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">raise</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">o</span><span style="color:#eda7ff;">ur</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">arms,</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">we</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">raise</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">four.</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">When</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">we</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">l</span><span style="color:#eea7ff;">augh</span><span style="color:#eea8ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">tandem.</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">When</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">we</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">are</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">within,</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">we</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">are</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">without.</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">What</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">ca</span><span style="color:#f0a8ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">be</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">spared?</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">N</span><span style="color:#f0a9ff;">othing.</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">This</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">chro</span><span style="color:#f1a9ff;">nological</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">iterative</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">vivise</span><span style="color:#f2a9ff;">ction</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">will</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">be</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">broken</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">ag</span><span style="color:#f2aaff;">ain,</span> <span style="color:#f2aaff;">and</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">again,</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">and</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">again.</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">T</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#f3aaff;">he</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">selves</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">th</span><span style="color:#f4aaff;">at</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">form</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">the</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">I,</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">the</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">ego,</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">the</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">me-th</span><span style="color:#f5aaff;">at</span><span style="color:#f5abff;">-is,</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">are</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">soil.</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">Fecund</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">ground</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">f</span><span style="color:#f6abff;">or</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">a</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">garden</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">of</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">something</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">greate</span><span style="color:#f7abff;">r.</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">We</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">are</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">lo</span><span style="color:#f7acff;">nely,</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">but</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">never</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">alon</span><span style="color:#f8acff;">e.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#f8acff;">You</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">are</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">all</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">us.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
				</td>
				<td style="border-bottom:1px solid #000000;vertical-align:top;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-top:1px solid #000000;border-right:1px solid #000000;border-left:1px solid #000000;">
					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#696eff;">Thrice,</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">I</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">have</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">s</span><span style="color:#6a6eff;">tepped</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">from</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">d</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#6a6eff;">oor</span><span style="color:#6a6fff;">step</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">world</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">to</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">starry</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">road</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">to</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">now</span><span style="color:#6c6fff;">here.</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">Did</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">return</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">same?</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">No</span><span style="color:#6c70ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">never.</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">second</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">came</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">by</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">way</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">o</span><span style="color:#6e70ff;">f</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">enigma.</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">You</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">know</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">him.</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">He,</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">like</span> <span style="color:#6f70ff;">you,</span> <span style="color:#6f70ff;">doe</span><span style="color:#6f71ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">respect</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">bound</span><span style="color:#7071ff;">aries</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">thoughts.</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">You</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">hear</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">what</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">think,</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">don’</span><span style="color:#7172ff;">t</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">you?</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">Invasi</span><span style="color:#7272ff;">ve</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">little</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">thing,</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">like</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">tick</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">th</span><span style="color:#7372ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">feeds</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">off</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">rumination.</span> <span style="color:#7373ff;">Are</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">growing</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">fat</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">off</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">dialogu</span><span style="color:#7573ff;">e?</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">Fat</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">enough</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">burst,</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">if</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">am</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">lu</span><span style="color:#7673ff;">cky.</span> <span style="color:#7673ff;">H</span><span style="color:#7674ff;">e,</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">like</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">you,</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">like</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">all</span><span style="color:#7774ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">wears</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">funny</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">mortal</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">mask,</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">pretending</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">be</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">just</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">in-the-</span><span style="color:#7975ff;">know</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">enough</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">hint,</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">but</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">never</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">o</span><span style="color:#7a75ff;">utright</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">say.</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">Charlatan</span><span style="color:#7a76ff;">s.</span> <span style="color:#7a76ff;">You</span> <span style="color:#7a76ff;">a</span><span style="color:#7b76ff;">ll</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">disgust</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">me.</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">fitting</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">famil</span><span style="color:#7c76ff;">y,</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">if</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">ask.</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">But</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">don’t</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">have</span> <span style="color:#7d76ff;">to</span><span style="color:#7d77ff;">.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					 

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7d77ff;">How</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">did</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">he</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">contact</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">me?</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">w</span><span style="color:#7e77ff;">ay</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">urge</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">myself</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">do</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">task</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">rath</span><span style="color:#7f78ff;">er</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">not.</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">intuit</span><span style="color:#8078ff;">ion</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">purpose</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">came</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">suddenly,</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">l</span><span style="color:#8178ff;">ike</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">own</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">super</span><span style="color:#8179ff;">ego</span> <span style="color:#8179ff;">begg</span><span style="color:#8279ff;">ing</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">abandon</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">distraction</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">refocus</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">on</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">needlework.</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">Why</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">re</span><span style="color:#8479ff;">s</span><span style="color:#847aff;">ist?</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">Fighting</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">you</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">wretched</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">sp</span><span style="color:#857aff;">ectators</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">has</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">been</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">nothing</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">but</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">p</span><span style="color:#867aff;">ain.</span> <span style="color:#867aff;">My</span> <span style="color:#867aff;">vi</span><span style="color:#867bff;">sion</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">splits,</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">my</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">stom</span><span style="color:#877bff;">ach</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">churns,</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">my</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">tongue</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">threaten</span><span style="color:#887bff;">s</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">to</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">leap</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">from</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">my</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">tee</span><span style="color:#887cff;">th.</span> <span style="color:#887cff;">You</span> <span style="color:#887cff;">all</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">know</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">it</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">well.</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">You</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">yank</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">at</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">my</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">thre</span><span style="color:#8a7cff;">ads,</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">laugh</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">when</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">I</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">jaunt;</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">Terp</span><span style="color:#8a7dff;">s</span><span style="color:#8b7dff;">ichore,</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">fool,</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">a</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">cheap</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">puppe</span><span style="color:#8c7dff;">t</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">for</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">sale</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">by</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">mummer</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">—</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">sold</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">at</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">a</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">s</span><span style="color:#8d7dff;">ummer</span> <span style="color:#8d7dff;">sh</span><span style="color:#8d7eff;">ow</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">that</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">lives</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">only</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">in</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">ch</span><span style="color:#8e7eff;">ildhood</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">memory.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"> </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#8e7eff;">Did</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">you</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">all</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">co</span><span style="color:#8f7eff;">llaborate?</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">Or</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">was</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">this</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">cloaked</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">stranger</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">an</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">outcast</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">even</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">among</span><span style="color:#917fff;">st</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">outcasts?</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">If</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">cared</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">for</span> <span style="color:#9180ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#9180ff;">pe</span><span style="color:#9280ff;">nny,</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">double</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">betting</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">o</span><span style="color:#9380ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">latter.</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">He</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">came</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">proclaim</span><span style="color:#9480ff;">ing</span> <span style="color:#9480ff;">pr</span><span style="color:#9481ff;">ovidence,</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">holding</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">hands</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">with</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">demon,</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">another</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">with</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">th</span><span style="color:#9681ff;">ing-out-of-t</span><span style="color:#9682ff;">ime.</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">arrived</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">myself.</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">will</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">lie,</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">save</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">e</span><span style="color:#9882ff;">go</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">-</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">did</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">fit</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">in.</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">If</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">p</span><span style="color:#9883ff;">attern</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">requires</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">repetition,</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">meanin</span><span style="color:#9a83ff;">g,</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">negative</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">positive</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">space</span><span style="color:#9b83ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#9b83ff;">h</span><span style="color:#9b84ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">merely…</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">form.</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">could</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">no</span><span style="color:#9c84ff;">t</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">discern</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">him</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">sense</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">or</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">sou</span><span style="color:#9d84ff;">rce,</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">he</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">w</span><span style="color:#9d85ff;">hispered</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">only</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">un</span><span style="color:#9e85ff;">bridled</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">chaos</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">waves</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">beyon</span><span style="color:#9f85ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">mortal</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">shores.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#9f85ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">ass</span><span style="color:#9f86ff;">ented</span> <span style="color:#9f86ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#9f86ff;">a</span><span style="color:#a086ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">offer</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">took</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">form</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">d</span><span style="color:#a186ff;">emand.</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">hand</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">shot</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">out</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">him,</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">meant</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">cut</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">down</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">doubt</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">&amp;</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">inspi</span><span style="color:#a387ff;">re</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">fealty.</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">In</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">taking</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">it,</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">knew</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a487ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#a487ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">return</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">same.</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">sp</span><span style="color:#a588ff;">end</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">most</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">days</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">accepting</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">th</span><span style="color:#a688ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">change</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">cosm</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">s</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#a689ff;">ees</span> <span style="color:#a689ff;">fit</span> <span style="color:#a689ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#a689ff;">we</span><span style="color:#a789ff;">ave</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">upon</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">life’s</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">tapestry.</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">D</span><span style="color:#a889ff;">o</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">forgive</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">me,</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">spare</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">no</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">pit</span><span style="color:#a88aff;">y.</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">have</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">taken</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">every</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">step</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">beyond</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">the</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">doorstep</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">of</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">banality</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">with</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">a</span> <span style="color:#ab8aff;">bile</span> <span style="color:#ab8aff;">in</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">my</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">throat</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">for</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">the</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">munda</span><span style="color:#ac8bff;">ne</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">man.</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">I</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">am</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">better.</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">I</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">am</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">weirder</span><span style="color:#ad8bff;">.</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">Let</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">me</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">ask</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">you</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">so</span><span style="color:#ad8cff;">mething.</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">Sta</span><span style="color:#ae8cff;">nd</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">in</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">a</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">doorway</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">between</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">the</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">insi</span><span style="color:#af8cff;">de</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">and</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">outside</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">of</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">your</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">hous</span><span style="color:#af8dff;">e.</span> <span style="color:#af8dff;">W</span><span style="color:#b08dff;">hich</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">are</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">you</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">in?</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">Are</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">you</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">near,</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">or</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">far?</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">Are</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">you</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">here,</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">or</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">there?</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">Nei</span><span style="color:#b28dff;">the</span><span style="color:#b28eff;">r,</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">or</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">both?</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">It</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">doesn’t</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">matt</span><span style="color:#b38eff;">er.</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">If</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">you</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">leave</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">door</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">open</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">lo</span><span style="color:#b48eff;">ng</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">enough,</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">so</span><span style="color:#b48fff;">mething</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">else</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">wil</span><span style="color:#b58fff;">l</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">slink</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">in.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#b58fff;">Towering</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">obelisks</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">o</span><span style="color:#b68fff;">f</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">bone</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">glowing</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">like</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">irr</span><span style="color:#b690ff;">adiate</span><span style="color:#b790ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">towers.</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">Winking</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">figures</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">co</span><span style="color:#b890ff;">ld</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">light,</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">high</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">monoliths</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">os</span><span style="color:#b990ff;">si</span><span style="color:#b991ff;">fied</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">glow.</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">Pale</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">sand</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">soft</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">a</span><span style="color:#ba91ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">clouds,</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">far</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">c</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#ba91ff;">ould</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">se</span><span style="color:#bb91ff;">e.</span> <span style="color:#bb91ff;">Cutting,</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">screaming</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">wind</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">lik</span><span style="color:#bc92ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">blades.</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">stream</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">stars</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">hung</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">low</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">eternal</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">ni</span><span style="color:#bd93ff;">ght</span> <span style="color:#bd93ff;">sky.</span> <span style="color:#bd93ff;">O</span><span style="color:#be93ff;">nyxian</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">citadels,</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">interpla</span><span style="color:#bf93ff;">nar</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">traders.</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">Caravans</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">form</span><span style="color:#c094ff;">less</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">merchants</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">wearing</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">only</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">sc</span><span style="color:#c194ff;">arves</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">smoke</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">smog.</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">city</span> <span style="color:#c294ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#c294ff;">commer</span><span style="color:#c295ff;">ce</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">selling</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">everythin</span><span style="color:#c395ff;">g</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">under</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">sun.</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">Though,</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">there</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">no</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">sun.</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">On,</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">o</span><span style="color:#c496ff;">n,</span> <span style="color:#c496ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c496ff;">on.</span> <span style="color:#c496ff;">He</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">&amp;</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">ducked</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">behind</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">sandy</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">outcro</span><span style="color:#c696ff;">ppings.</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">Gentle,</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">we</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">walked</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">ci</span><span style="color:#c697ff;">rc</span><span style="color:#c797ff;">umspect</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">streams</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">life</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">o</span><span style="color:#c897ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">barren</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">plane.</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">We</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">no</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">na</span><span style="color:#c997ff;">me</span> <span style="color:#c997ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#c997ff;">t</span><span style="color:#c998ff;">hese</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">lands.</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">We</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">only</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">t</span><span style="color:#ca98ff;">he</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">anxiety</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">our</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">hearts,</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">c</span><span style="color:#cb98ff;">hill</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">our</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">hands</span><span style="color:#cb99ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">wonder</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">our</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">eyes.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#cc99ff;">To</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">be</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">spotted</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">meant</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">d</span><span style="color:#cd99ff;">eath.</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">We</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">were</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">interloper</span><span style="color:#cd9aff;">s.</span> <span style="color:#cd9aff;">Sub</span><span style="color:#ce9aff;">ject</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">to</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">correction,</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">out</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">of</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">tim</span><span style="color:#cf9aff;">e,</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">out</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">of</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">place.</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">We</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">had</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">opened</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">th</span><span style="color:#d09aff;">e</span> <span style="color:#d09aff;">do</span><span style="color:#d09bff;">or</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">between</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">this</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#d09bff;">world</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">and</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">t</span><span style="color:#d19bff;">he</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">next,</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">and</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">stepped</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">through</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">wi</span><span style="color:#d29bff;">th</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">all</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">con</span><span style="color:#d29cff;">fidence</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">a</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">bird</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">f</span><span style="color:#d39cff;">alling</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">from</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">nest.</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">Though,</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">hesitated.</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">How</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">could</span> <span style="color:#d49dff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d49dff;">not?</span> <span style="color:#d49dff;">Wh</span><span style="color:#d59dff;">en</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">faced</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">with</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">eternity,</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">obliv</span><span style="color:#d69dff;">ion,</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">would</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">you</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">so</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">bravely</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">close</span> <span style="color:#d79dff;">t</span><span style="color:#d79eff;">he</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">gap</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">between</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">comfort</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">known</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">and</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">churning</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">gyre</span> <span style="color:#d99eff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d99eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d99eff;">ques</span><span style="color:#d99fff;">tionable?</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">did.</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">s</span><span style="color:#da9fff;">hut</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">door</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">behind</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">me,</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">walked</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">t</span><span style="color:#db9fff;">hrough</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">time</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">and</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">spac</span><span style="color:#dba0ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#dba0ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#dba0ff;">wande</span><span style="color:#dca0ff;">r</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">sunless</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">desert</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">with</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">thing-</span><span style="color:#dda0ff;">wearing-humanity,</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">but</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">will</span> <span style="color:#dda1ff;">n</span><span style="color:#dea1ff;">ot</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">lie.</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">hesitated.</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">left</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">door</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">open.</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">Something</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">snuck</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">in.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#e0a1ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e0a1ff;">clutch</span><span style="color:#e0a2ff;">ed</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">whispering</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">san</span><span style="color:#e1a2ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">tight</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">chitinous</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">grasp.</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">did</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">want</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">ret</span><span style="color:#e2a3ff;">urn</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">home.</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">f</span><span style="color:#e3a3ff;">elt</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">it,</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">rancorous,</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">seeded</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">into</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">fragile</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">soil</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">mind.</span> <span style="color:#e4a4ff;">Ha</span><span style="color:#e5a4ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">been</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">quicker,</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">bolder,</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">less</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">f</span><span style="color:#e6a4ff;">ull</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">anxiety,</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">hav</span><span style="color:#e7a4ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#e7a4ff;">broug</span><span style="color:#e7a5ff;">ht</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">passenger</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">with</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">m</span><span style="color:#e8a5ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">back</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">realm</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">all</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">call</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">h</span><span style="color:#e9a5ff;">ome.</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">But,</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">if</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">am</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">being</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">honest,</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">do</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">regret</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">it.</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">Not</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">sli</span><span style="color:#eba6ff;">ghtest.</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">No,</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">because</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">tho</span><span style="color:#eba7ff;">ught,</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">memory,</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">experience,</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">mind,</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">psy</span><span style="color:#eda7ff;">che,</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">like</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">forgotten</span> <span style="color:#eea7ff;">des</span><span style="color:#eea8ff;">ert.</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">Barren,</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">most</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">men.</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">r</span><span style="color:#efa8ff;">efuse.</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">am</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">garden</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">thought</span><span style="color:#f0a8ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">spiderweb</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">notions,</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">tape</span><span style="color:#f1a9ff;">stry</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">experience.</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">welcome</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">it.</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">Whatever</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">mote</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">es</span><span style="color:#f2aaff;">oterica</span><span style="color:#f3aaff;">,</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">whatever</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">noumenological</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">tru</span><span style="color:#f4aaff;">th</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">has</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">come</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">with</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">my</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">planar</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">medd</span><span style="color:#f5aaff;">l</span><span style="color:#f5abff;">ing,</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">whatever</span> </span></span><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#f5abff;">thing</span></span></span><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> <span style="color:#f5abff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">have</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">cau</span><span style="color:#f6abff;">ght…</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">plan</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">to</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">nurture</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">it.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						 
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						 
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						 
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						 
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						 
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#f6abff;">Door</span><span style="color:#f7abff;">ways</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">go</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">bot</span><span style="color:#f7acff;">h</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">ways,</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">even</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">if</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">they</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">l</span><span style="color:#f8acff;">ead</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">to</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">Nowhere.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
				</td>
				<td style="border-bottom:1px solid #000000;vertical-align:top;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-top:1px solid #000000;border-right:1px solid #000000;border-left:1px solid #000000;">
					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#696eff;">Thrice,</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">I</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">have</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">st</span><span style="color:#6a6eff;">epped</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">from</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">doors</span><span style="color:#6a6fff;">tep</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">w</span><span style="color:#6b6fff;">orld</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">to</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">starry</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">road</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">to</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">nowher</span><span style="color:#6c6fff;">e.</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">Did</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">return</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">same?</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">No,</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">nev</span><span style="color:#6c70ff;">e</span><span style="color:#6d70ff;">r.</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">third,</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">final</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">departu</span><span style="color:#6e70ff;">re</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">came</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">by</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">way</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">coven.</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">Often,</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">c</span><span style="color:#6f70ff;">onsider</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">ego.</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">When</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">use</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">wor</span><span style="color:#7071ff;">d,</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">mean</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">mind.</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">sense</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">se</span><span style="color:#7171ff;">lf.</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">collectio</span><span style="color:#7172ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">thoughts</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">w</span><span style="color:#7272ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">might</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">deign</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">call</span> </span></span><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7272ff;">ourself</span></span></span><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7272ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">I</span><span style="color:#7372ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">case,</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">mean</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">other</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">d</span><span style="color:#7373ff;">efi</span><span style="color:#7473ff;">nition.</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">mean</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">narcissism.</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">Toxi</span><span style="color:#7573ff;">c</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">pride.</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">Hubris.</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">In</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">black</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">wa</span><span style="color:#7673ff;">lls</span> <span style="color:#7673ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">iniquity,</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">debt</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">se</span><span style="color:#7774ff;">ttle.</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">regrettable</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">affair,</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">bu</span><span style="color:#7874ff;">t</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">price</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">meant</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">t</span><span style="color:#7875ff;">o</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">pay,</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">so</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">earn</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">back</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">payment</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">without</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">furth</span><span style="color:#7a75ff;">er</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">dark</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">dealings.</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">creat</span><span style="color:#7a76ff;">ure,</span> <span style="color:#7a76ff;">t</span><span style="color:#7b76ff;">all</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">tower,</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">coated</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">metal,</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">f</span><span style="color:#7c76ff;">ull</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">ego,</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">bid</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">summons</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">aid</span><span style="color:#7d76ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#7d76ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">abjuration</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">something</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">somewhere,</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">obliged.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					 

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7e77ff;">W</span><span style="color:#7f77ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">drenched</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">th</span><span style="color:#7f78ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">floor</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">blood.</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">have</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">never</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">seen</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">much</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">blood</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">m</span><span style="color:#8178ff;">y</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">life,</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">shado</span><span style="color:#8179ff;">ws</span> <span style="color:#8179ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#8179ff;">Helv</span><span style="color:#8279ff;">iiryn,</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">once</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">saw</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">an</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">entire</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">fami</span><span style="color:#8379ff;">ly</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">Mori’quessir</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">brought</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">low</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">b</span><span style="color:#847aff;">y</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">a</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">brutish</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">golem.</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">Even</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">all</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">thei</span><span style="color:#857aff;">r</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">purple</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">blood</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">could</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">not</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">have</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">poo</span><span style="color:#867aff;">led</span> <span style="color:#867aff;">togeth</span><span style="color:#867bff;">er</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">into</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">the</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">wicked</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">pon</span><span style="color:#877bff;">d</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">of</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">sanguine</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">potential</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">that</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">th</span><span style="color:#887bff;">is</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">mix</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">of</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">demons,</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">vam</span><span style="color:#887cff;">pires,</span> <span style="color:#887cff;">and</span> <span style="color:#887cff;">m</span><span style="color:#897cff;">admen</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">ensorcelled.</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">My</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">blood</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">cu</span><span style="color:#8a7cff;">rdled.</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">I</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">shed</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">nothing.</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">I</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">stood</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">t</span><span style="color:#8a7dff;">h</span><span style="color:#8b7dff;">ere</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">for</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">a</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">purpose</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">beyond</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">their</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">va</span><span style="color:#8c7dff;">in</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">machinations.</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">They</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">meant</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">to</span> <span style="color:#8d7dff;">skewer</span> <span style="color:#8d7dff;">t</span><span style="color:#8d7eff;">he</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">world,</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">cut</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">into</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">its</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">be</span><span style="color:#8e7eff;">lly,</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">and</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">reach</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">into</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">guts</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">of</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">wh</span><span style="color:#8f7eff;">atever</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">they</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">coul</span><span style="color:#8f7fff;">d</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">find</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">beyond.</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">As</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">said.</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">Ego.</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">Pride.</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">Narcissis</span><span style="color:#917fff;">m.</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">Part</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">me</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">had</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">to</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">admire</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">it</span><span style="color:#9180ff;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"> </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#9180ff;">Wh</span><span style="color:#9280ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">saccharine</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">surface-</span><span style="color:#9380ff;">dwellers</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">say,</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">with</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">your</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">penchan</span><span style="color:#9480ff;">t</span> <span style="color:#9480ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">melodrama?</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">Pride</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">goeth</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">be</span><span style="color:#9581ff;">fore</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">fall.</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">When</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">first</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">le</span><span style="color:#9681ff;">ft</span> <span style="color:#9681ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#9681ff;">world,</span> <span style="color:#9681ff;">h</span><span style="color:#9682ff;">alf</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">me</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">stayed</span><span style="color:#9782ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">small,</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">dusty</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">mirror</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">facilita</span><span style="color:#9882ff;">ted</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">departure.</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">sec</span><span style="color:#9883ff;">ond</span> <span style="color:#9883ff;">tim</span><span style="color:#9983ff;">e?</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">walked</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">through</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">doorway</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">no</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">larger</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">than</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">size</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">person.</span> <span style="color:#9b83ff;">Bu</span><span style="color:#9b84ff;">t</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">third…</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">can</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">only</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">compare</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">wound.</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">seeping,</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">serrat</span><span style="color:#9d84ff;">ed</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">cut</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">th</span><span style="color:#9d85ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">mortal</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">realms</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">t</span><span style="color:#9e85ff;">he</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">middle</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">reaches</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">enigma</span><span style="color:#9f85ff;">tic</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">Void.</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">saw</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">beyond,</span> <span style="color:#9f86ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#9f86ff;">safe</span><span style="color:#a086ff;">ty</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">oblivion.</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">Creatures</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">si</span><span style="color:#a186ff;">ze</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">continents,</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">stars</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">at</span><span style="color:#a287ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">one</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">another.</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">Flashes</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">light,</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">breaking</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">up</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">impossible</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">not</span><span style="color:#a487ff;">hingness</span> <span style="color:#a487ff;">w</span><span style="color:#a488ff;">ith</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">arcanic</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">whispers</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">grew</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">suggestions</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">into</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">laws</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">reality</span><span style="color:#a689ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#a689ff;">Floating</span> <span style="color:#a689ff;">p</span><span style="color:#a789ff;">assengers,</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">abandoned</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">by</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">moo</span><span style="color:#a889ff;">n,</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">scorched</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">by</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">time,</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">notions</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">l</span><span style="color:#a88aff;">au</span><span style="color:#a98aff;">nching</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">chronomagnetic</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">war</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">in</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">f</span><span style="color:#aa8aff;">our</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">dimensions.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#aa8aff;">Death</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">flooded</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">b</span><span style="color:#ab8aff;">ackwar</span><span style="color:#ab8bff;">ds</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">in</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">time</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">from</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">fixed</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">poi</span><span style="color:#ac8bff;">nts</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">ensorcelled</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">by</span> </span></span><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#ac8bff;">things</span></span></span><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">beyon</span><span style="color:#ad8bff;">d</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">the</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">yoke</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">of</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">word</span><span style="color:#ad8cff;">s.</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">You</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">know,</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">tho</span><span style="color:#ae8cff;">ugh.</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">You</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">were</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">born</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">of</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">them.</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">You</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">k</span><span style="color:#af8cff;">now</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">of</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">their</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">enigma,</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">and</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">the</span><span style="color:#af8dff;">ir</span> <span style="color:#af8dff;">wa</span><span style="color:#b08dff;">ils,</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">and</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">the</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">shadow</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">beyond</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">the</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">s</span><span style="color:#b18dff;">tars.</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">You</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">and</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">I</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">both</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">watched</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">as</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">th</span><span style="color:#b28dff;">e</span> <span style="color:#b28dff;">emi</span><span style="color:#b28eff;">nence</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">of</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">Nothingness</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">tore</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">t</span><span style="color:#b38eff;">hrough</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">the</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">ripped</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">hole</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">in</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">causa</span><span style="color:#b48eff;">lity.</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">I</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">could</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">no</span><span style="color:#b48fff;">t</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">describe</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">it.</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">Pe</span><span style="color:#b58fff;">rhaps,</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">if</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">tried,</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">might</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">use</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">the</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">word</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">tendrils.</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">Tentacl</span><span style="color:#b690ff;">es?</span> <span style="color:#b690ff;">But</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">might</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">picture</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">an</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">octopus</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">its</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">suckers.</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">caution</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">agai</span><span style="color:#b990ff;">ns</span><span style="color:#b991ff;">t</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">image,</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">for</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">im</span><span style="color:#ba91ff;">ply</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">flesh.</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">No,</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">writhing</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">mas</span><span style="color:#bb91ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#bb91ff;">emulsifie</span><span style="color:#bb92ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">cause</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">effect,</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">inverting</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">their</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">order,</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">collaps</span><span style="color:#bd92ff;">ing</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">progression</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">alon</span><span style="color:#bd93ff;">g</span> <span style="color:#bd93ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#bd93ff;">axis</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">time</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">into</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">wriggling</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">profanit</span><span style="color:#bf93ff;">ies.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#bf93ff;">My</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">hands</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">formed</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">little</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">shap</span><span style="color:#c094ff;">es.</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">Small</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">wards.</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">Gaps,</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">where</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">ma</span><span style="color:#c194ff;">gic</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">could</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">flow.</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">Magic…</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">what</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#c294ff;">thin</span> <span style="color:#c294ff;">word</span><span style="color:#c295ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">We</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">call</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">surprises</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">tricks</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">magic.</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">Something</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">w</span><span style="color:#c495ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">could</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">explain</span> <span style="color:#c496ff;">otherwise.</span> <span style="color:#c496ff;">A</span><span style="color:#c596ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">apple</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">falls</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">upwards.</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">stone</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">t</span><span style="color:#c696ff;">urns</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">gem.</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">To</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">thing,</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">th</span><span style="color:#c697ff;">ou</span><span style="color:#c797ff;">gh,</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">this</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">writhing</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">alien</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">between</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">border</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">now</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">then,</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">wo</span><span style="color:#c997ff;">uld</span> <span style="color:#c997ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">use</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">word</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">magic.</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">It</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">mer</span><span style="color:#ca98ff;">ely</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">imagined,</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">such</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">thought</span><span style="color:#cb98ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">became</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">true.</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">Pe</span><span style="color:#cb99ff;">rhaps,</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">when</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">sa</span><span style="color:#cc99ff;">y</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">abjuration,</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">do</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">mean</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">ward</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">against</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">magic.</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">mean</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">nul</span><span style="color:#cd9aff;">l</span> <span style="color:#cd9aff;">spa</span><span style="color:#ce9aff;">ce,</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">where</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">the</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">mind</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">cannot</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">reach.</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">A</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">thought-blind,</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">where</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">miracle</span> <span style="color:#d09aff;">cou</span><span style="color:#d09bff;">ld</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">not</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">be</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">born.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#d09bff;">It</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">spoke</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">to</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">us</span><span style="color:#d19bff;">.</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">While</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">it</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">rained</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">droplets</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">lig</span><span style="color:#d29bff;">htning,</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">cooke</span><span style="color:#d29cff;">d</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">men</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">like</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">lobste</span><span style="color:#d39cff;">rs</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">in</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">their</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">armor</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">with</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">but</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">an</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">idea</span><span style="color:#d49cff;">,</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">cut</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">through</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">our</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">minds</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">w</span><span style="color:#d49dff;">ith</span> <span style="color:#d49dff;">imag</span><span style="color:#d59dff;">es</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">our</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">dying</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">lovers,</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">it</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">whisp</span><span style="color:#d69dff;">ered</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">soft</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">to</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">me.</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">It</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">felt</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">kindred,</span> <span style="color:#d79dff;">a</span><span style="color:#d79eff;">nd</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">spared</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">me.</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">Out</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">mercy?</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">No.</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">Death</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">would</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">have</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">been</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">a</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">kinder</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">fa</span><span style="color:#d99eff;">te.</span> <span style="color:#d99eff;">Instead</span><span style="color:#d99fff;">,</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">it</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">felt</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">like</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">you,</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">li</span><span style="color:#da9fff;">ttle</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">egg.</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">It</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">knew</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">you</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">had</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">been</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">pl</span><span style="color:#db9fff;">anted</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">long</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">ago,</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">and</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">th</span><span style="color:#dba0ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#dba0ff;">your</span> <span style="color:#dba0ff;">she</span><span style="color:#dca0ff;">ll</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">began</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">crack</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">under</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">const</span><span style="color:#dda0ff;">ant</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">weight</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">our</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">planar</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">travel</span><span style="color:#dea1ff;">s.</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">How</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">long</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">wait,</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">befor</span><span style="color:#dfa1ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">burst</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">free</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">your</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">oo</span><span style="color:#e0a1ff;">thetic</span> <span style="color:#e0a1ff;">pr</span><span style="color:#e0a2ff;">ison?</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">Neither</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">us</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">cou</span><span style="color:#e1a2ff;">ld</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">have</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">known.</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">have</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">no</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">trouble</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">p</span><span style="color:#e2a2ff;">redicting</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">it.</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">Eve</span><span style="color:#e2a3ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">now,</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">feel</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">y</span><span style="color:#e3a3ff;">ou</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">wriggling</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">against</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">walls</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">o</span><span style="color:#e4a3ff;">f</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">skull,</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">child</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">mine.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#e4a3ff;">Whi</span><span style="color:#e4a4ff;">le</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">chaos</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">blood</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">upended</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">each</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">oth</span><span style="color:#e6a4ff;">er,</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">stood</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">walls</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">between</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">d</span><span style="color:#e7a4ff;">efini</span><span style="color:#e7a5ff;">tion</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">infinity.</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">In</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">tha</span><span style="color:#e8a5ff;">t</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">radioactive</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">wind,</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">blowing</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">yon</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">from</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">never</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">n</span><span style="color:#e9a6ff;">owhere,</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">rose</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">occasion.</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">had</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">opened</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">thre</span><span style="color:#eba6ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">doors</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">world,</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">yet</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">no</span><span style="color:#eba7ff;">ne</span> <span style="color:#eba7ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#eba7ff;">m</span><span style="color:#eca7ff;">y</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">mind.</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">wait</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">no</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">longer.</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">W</span><span style="color:#eda7ff;">hatever</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">sense</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">me,</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">you,</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">us</span><span style="color:#eea7ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#eea7ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">we,</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">all,</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">or</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">none,</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">aban</span><span style="color:#efa8ff;">doned.</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">black</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">stars</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">forev</span><span style="color:#f0a8ff;">er</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">wrote</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">cyphe</span><span style="color:#f0a9ff;">rs</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">between</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">fol</span><span style="color:#f1a9ff;">ds</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">brain,</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">while</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">horror</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">Hell</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">did</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">battle</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">over</span> <span style="color:#f2aaff;">who</span> <span style="color:#f2aaff;">coul</span><span style="color:#f3aaff;">d</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">be</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">worse,</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">abandoned</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">the</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">fight</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">in</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">favor</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">of</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">fruition.</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">You</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">will</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">y</span><span style="color:#f5aaff;">e</span><span style="color:#f5abff;">t</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">be</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">born.</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">This</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">promise.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
					<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;">  </span></span>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						 
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#f5abff;">Somet</span><span style="color:#f6abff;">hing</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">living</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">is</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">growing</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">in</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">my</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">mind</span><span style="color:#f7abff;">.</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">wonder</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">i</span><span style="color:#f7acff;">f</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">my</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">skull</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">will</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">survi</span><span style="color:#f8acff;">ve</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">its</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">hatching.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
				</td>
			</tr>
		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#696eff;">S</span><span style="color:#6b6fff;">o</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">t</span><span style="color:#6e70ff;">h</span><span style="color:#6f71ff;">e</span><span style="color:#7171ff;">r</span><span style="color:#7372ff;">e</span><span style="color:#7473ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">l</span><span style="color:#7774ff;">i</span><span style="color:#7975ff;">t</span><span style="color:#7a76ff;">t</span><span style="color:#7c76ff;">l</span><span style="color:#7e77ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#7f78ff;">t</span><span style="color:#8178ff;">h</span><span style="color:#8279ff;">i</span><span style="color:#847aff;">n</span><span style="color:#867aff;">g</span><span style="color:#877bff;">.</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">F</span><span style="color:#8a7cff;">e</span><span style="color:#8c7dff;">a</span><span style="color:#8e7eff;">s</span><span style="color:#8f7fff;">t</span><span style="color:#917fff;">.</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">k</span><span style="color:#9581ff;">n</span><span style="color:#9782ff;">o</span><span style="color:#9983ff;">w</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">y</span><span style="color:#9c84ff;">o</span><span style="color:#9d85ff;">u</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">l</span><span style="color:#a186ff;">i</span><span style="color:#a287ff;">k</span><span style="color:#a487ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">y</span><span style="color:#a789ff;">o</span><span style="color:#a98aff;">u</span><span style="color:#aa8aff;">r</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">t</span><span style="color:#ad8cff;">h</span><span style="color:#af8cff;">o</span><span style="color:#b18dff;">u</span><span style="color:#b28eff;">g</span><span style="color:#b48eff;">h</span><span style="color:#b58fff;">t</span><span style="color:#b790ff;">s</span><span style="color:#b890ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">a</span><span style="color:#bc92ff;">n</span><span style="color:#bd93ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">m</span><span style="color:#c094ff;">e</span><span style="color:#c295ff;">m</span><span style="color:#c495ff;">o</span><span style="color:#c596ff;">r</span><span style="color:#c797ff;">i</span><span style="color:#c897ff;">e</span><span style="color:#ca98ff;">s</span><span style="color:#cc99ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">T</span><span style="color:#cf9aff;">h</span><span style="color:#d09bff;">e</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">t</span><span style="color:#d39cff;">a</span><span style="color:#d59dff;">s</span><span style="color:#d79eff;">t</span><span style="color:#d89eff;">e</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">o</span><span style="color:#dba0ff;">f</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">a</span><span style="color:#dfa1ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">i</span><span style="color:#e2a2ff;">d</span><span style="color:#e3a3ff;">e</span><span style="color:#e5a4ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#e7a4ff;">i</span><span style="color:#e8a5ff;">n</span><span style="color:#eaa6ff;">s</span><span style="color:#eba6ff;">p</span><span style="color:#eda7ff;">i</span><span style="color:#eea8ff;">r</span><span style="color:#f0a9ff;">e</span><span style="color:#f2a9ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">y</span><span style="color:#f5abff;">o</span><span style="color:#f6abff;">u</span><span style="color:#f8acff;">.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" data-extension="core_Attachment" data-fileext="png" data-fileid="79848" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).png.1ef481ab69856527f900826a7d611e4a.png" rel=""><img alt="360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).thumb.png.ceb18667dc4a43c8344e8910c68e3303.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-extension="core_Attachment" data-fileid="79848" data-ratio="25.00" style="width:640px;height:160px;" width="640" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).thumb.png.ceb18667dc4a43c8344e8910c68e3303.png" /></a></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<img alt="86XDigD.jpeg" class="ipsImage" data-ratio="56.25" height="360" width="270" src="https://i.imgur.com/86XDigD.jpeg" />
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	 
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">267826</guid><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 23:39:41 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Homecoming</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/267029-homecoming/</link><description><![CDATA[<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.656;text-align:center;">
	<img alt="image.png.c18dc1506f465c3c5985fce1768d88c2.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="84634" data-ratio="99.72" width="361" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_04/image.png.c18dc1506f465c3c5985fce1768d88c2.png" />
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div>
	<table style="border:none;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;border-collapse:collapse;">
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				<td style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#19151b;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-right:2px solid #3d2d4e;border-left:2px solid #3d2d4e;">
					<p style="line-height:1.656;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:18pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#422f50;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴ HOMECOMING ⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.656;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#422f50;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">გ ა ნ კ ვ ე თ ი ლ ი</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
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</div>

<p>
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</p>

<p style="line-height:1.656;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">SO IT BEGAN UPON THE PROMISE OF ONE DRUID TO ANOTHER: THAT SEVERAL HUNDRED, INDENTURED TO THOSE OF THE MORI’QUESSIR ENCLAVE, VENTURED TO THE BASE OF THE VIRIDIAN MOUNTAIN, WHERE PICKAXE MET STONE. THE CACOPHONY OF SEVERAL HUNDRED RANG AS ONE, DAY IN AND DAY OUT, WELL INTO THE NIGHT. FOR THEIR SONG WOULD ONLY EVER BE DULLED WHEN THE TREACHERY OF THE UNDERDARK WAS UNEARTHED.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.656;text-align:justify;">
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.656;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:10.5pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;"><span style="color:#8a96a1;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.656;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Kith of the depths. Kith of the throne.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.656;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">სიღრმეების კითი. ტახტის კითი.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;">
	<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" data-fileext="png" data-fileid="84635" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_04/image.png.60debe3320a7e31a3a634deed0e9b817.png" rel=""><img alt="image.thumb.png.1dac14c6b6ae8d5e534cd882651bef26.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="84635" data-ratio="54.69" width="640" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_04/image.thumb.png.1dac14c6b6ae8d5e534cd882651bef26.png" /></a>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;">
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">To all those children of the Eternal Mother who arise to the surface of the Sun: Word carries through stone and silence alike, for beneath the mountains of the Viridian; the depths themselves groan with ancient memory as the first veins of passage are carved. There, within the cradle of the earth, a stronghold shall rise.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Thus we call you to the lands of the Viridian Enclave, to gather beneath a singular cause that binds root, stone and spirit alike. For we are chosen, and as the tunnels deepen with each passing cycle, our efforts shall be deliberate and unified, free of scattered purpose or fleeting ambition. Instead, let this work stand as a convergence.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">For what better purpose is there than to endure as a common people, brought together as clans of all four, standing resolute in a keep of our own making? To share in labor, vision, and resolve forged through trials long endured beneath the Sun. Through this unity, we build not only passage for our kin, but a future. No longer shall we wander the wretched surface with ambitions left to wither. Instead, we shall move as intended by the Eternal Mother’s design, in the heart of the Underdark while still enduring the severities of the surface. Let us come to know one another, and those beyond, far better than we ever did in Helviiryn.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
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	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
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		<p style="text-align:center;">
			<span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">A lot has been happening! We're in the middle of building a section of the under dark any player can come and see. In addition to a connecting city for the Mori'Quessir. <br />
			</span></span>
		</p>
	</div>
</div>

<p>
	<br />
	<br />
	<br />
	 
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">267029</guid><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:50:13 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>WORLD WIDE WEB: HIVE</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/266114-world-wide-web-hive/</link><description><![CDATA[<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:18px;"><span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="color:#e0e0e0;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The first portion of this narrative is private, creative writing. It is known to Phithali Xalyth, and her alone. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	<img alt="52853c370ebe3154ac433791d73d777b.jpg" class="ipsImage" data-ratio="56.25" height="360" width="360" src="https://i.postimg.cc/kgDwjMpM/52853c370ebe3154ac433791d73d777b.jpg" />
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<p>
	 
</p>

<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
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	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
		<p style="text-align:center;">
			 
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		<div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo" contenteditable="false">
			<div>
				<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="113" title="Bloodborne Soundtrack OST - Rom, The Vacuous Spider" width="200" data-embed-src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/2zxEOIRQwd4?feature=oembed"></iframe>
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		</div>

		<p style="text-align:center;">
			 
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</div>

<p>
	<br />
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#696eff;">Am</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">I</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">yet</span> <span style="color:#696eff;">born?</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">Or</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">am</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">I</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">still</span> <span style="color:#6a6eff;">down</span><span style="color:#6a6fff;">:</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">fluff</span> <span style="color:#6a6fff;">u</span><span style="color:#6b6fff;">pon</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">my</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">Mother’s</span> <span style="color:#6b6fff;">insectoi</span><span style="color:#6c6fff;">d</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">abdomen?</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">remember</span> <span style="color:#6c6fff;">th</span><span style="color:#6d70ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">primordial</span> <span style="color:#6d70ff;">awareness</span><span style="color:#6e70ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">first</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">bite</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#6e70ff;">memory</span><span style="color:#6f70ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#6f70ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#6f70ff;">lo</span><span style="color:#6f71ff;">lling</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#6f71ff;">psychosi</span><span style="color:#7071ff;">s</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">came</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">went</span> <span style="color:#7071ff;">with</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7071ff;">s</span><span style="color:#7171ff;">unlight</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7171ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#7171ff;">What</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">faded</span> <span style="color:#7172ff;">neve</span><span style="color:#7272ff;">r</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">returned</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">as-it-was,</span> <span style="color:#7272ff;">b</span><span style="color:#7372ff;">ut</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">woven.</span> <span style="color:#7372ff;">Threaded.</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7372ff;">Se</span><span style="color:#7373ff;">wn</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7473ff;">.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7473ff;">This</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">darkness</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#7473ff;">differ</span><span style="color:#7573ff;">ent.</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">kaleidoscopic</span> <span style="color:#7573ff;">e</span><span style="color:#7673ff;">yes</span> <span style="color:#7673ff;">o</span><span style="color:#7674ff;">f</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">kin</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">wore</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">well</span> <span style="color:#7674ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">shadow’s</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">hame,</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#7774ff;">throu</span><span style="color:#7874ff;">gh</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">all</span> <span style="color:#7874ff;">shado</span><span style="color:#7875ff;">w</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">pierced.</span> <span style="color:#7875ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">did</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">even</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">think</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">it.</span> <span style="color:#7975ff;">Y</span><span style="color:#7a75ff;">es,</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">until</span> <span style="color:#7a75ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7a76ff;">lear</span><span style="color:#7b76ff;">ned</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">floundering</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7b76ff;">pr</span><span style="color:#7c76ff;">ey</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">furtive,</span> <span style="color:#7c76ff;">fecun</span><span style="color:#7d76ff;">d</span> <span style="color:#7d76ff;">l</span><span style="color:#7d77ff;">ightlessness</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7d77ff;">co</span><span style="color:#7e77ff;">uld</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">even</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">conceive</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#7e77ff;">wha</span><span style="color:#7f77ff;">t</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">might</span> <span style="color:#7f77ff;">ca</span><span style="color:#7f78ff;">ll</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#7f78ff;">blindness.</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#8078ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">eyes</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">sit</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">there,</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">just</span> <span style="color:#8078ff;">a</span><span style="color:#8178ff;">bove</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">wet</span> <span style="color:#8178ff;">mouth</span> <span style="color:#8179ff;">&amp;</span> <span style="color:#8179ff;">chiti</span><span style="color:#8279ff;">nous</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">nose,</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">most</span> <span style="color:#8279ff;">thi</span><span style="color:#8379ff;">ngs</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">walk</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#8379ff;">breathe</span><span style="color:#847aff;">,</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">they</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">carve</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">the</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">known</span> <span style="color:#847aff;">fr</span><span style="color:#857aff;">om</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">the</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">unknown</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">with</span> <span style="color:#857aff;">scatt</span><span style="color:#867aff;">ered</span> <span style="color:#867aff;">vis</span><span style="color:#867bff;">ta.</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">The</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">only</span> <span style="color:#867bff;">occl</span><span style="color:#877bff;">usion</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">I</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">knew,</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">from</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">youth</span> <span style="color:#877bff;">t</span><span style="color:#887bff;">o</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">yonder,</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">came</span> <span style="color:#887bff;">i</span><span style="color:#887cff;">n</span> <span style="color:#887cff;">the</span> <span style="color:#887cff;">priv</span><span style="color:#897cff;">acy</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">of</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">meditation.</span> <span style="color:#897cff;">Blink</span><span style="color:#8a7cff;">ing</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">patience,</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">to</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">shut</span> <span style="color:#8a7cff;">m</span><span style="color:#8a7dff;">y</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">fluttering</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">lids</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">and</span> <span style="color:#8b7dff;">welc</span><span style="color:#8c7dff;">ome</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">in</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">not</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">darkness,</span> <span style="color:#8c7dff;">neve</span><span style="color:#8d7dff;">r</span> <span style="color:#8d7dff;">shad</span><span style="color:#8d7eff;">ow,</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">but</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">a</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">willing</span> <span style="color:#8d7eff;">bl</span><span style="color:#8e7eff;">indness.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#8e7eff;">You</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">can</span> <span style="color:#8e7eff;">imagine</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">my</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">shock,</span> <span style="color:#8f7eff;">you</span> <span style="color:#8f7fff;">violative,</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">probing</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">things,</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">when</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#907fff;">l</span><span style="color:#917fff;">earned</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">sunlight.</span> <span style="color:#917fff;">O</span><span style="color:#9180ff;">h,</span> <span style="color:#9180ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">remember</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">its</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">first</span> <span style="color:#9280ff;">sting</span><span style="color:#9380ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">snuck</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">away,</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">as</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9380ff;">youn</span><span style="color:#9480ff;">g</span> <span style="color:#9480ff;">of</span><span style="color:#9481ff;">ten</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">do,</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">claw</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">way</span> <span style="color:#9481ff;">h</span><span style="color:#9581ff;">igher</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">out</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">jejune</span> <span style="color:#9581ff;">wonde</span><span style="color:#9681ff;">rment.</span> <span style="color:#9681ff;">Cit</span><span style="color:#9682ff;">ies</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">shrunk</span> <span style="color:#9682ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">caves,</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">shrunk</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">holes</span> <span style="color:#9782ff;">wo</span><span style="color:#9882ff;">rth</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">wriggling</span> <span style="color:#9882ff;">thro</span><span style="color:#9883ff;">ugh.</span> <span style="color:#9883ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">small</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">waterfall,</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#9983ff;">i</span><span style="color:#9a83ff;">ts</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">murky</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">subterranean</span> <span style="color:#9a83ff;">ba</span><span style="color:#9b83ff;">se</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">there</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">grew</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#9b84ff;">collectio</span><span style="color:#9c84ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">rubbery</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">foliage,</span> <span style="color:#9c84ff;">ne</span><span style="color:#9d84ff;">ar</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">pitch</span> <span style="color:#9d84ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">shade.</span> <span style="color:#9d85ff;">Yet</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">without</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">some</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">touch</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#9e85ff;">you</span><span style="color:#9f85ff;">r</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#9f85ff;">light</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#9f85ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">would</span> <span style="color:#9f85ff;">h</span><span style="color:#9f86ff;">ave</span> <span style="color:#9f86ff;">nev</span><span style="color:#a086ff;">er</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">grown</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">all.</span> <span style="color:#a086ff;">Stabbing</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">pain.</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">Needles</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#a186ff;">eyes.</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">knew</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">there</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">first,</span> <span style="color:#a287ff;">th</span><span style="color:#a387ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">sense</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a387ff;">bewilderment</span> <span style="color:#a487ff;">&amp;</span> <span style="color:#a487ff;">disori</span><span style="color:#a488ff;">entation.</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a488ff;">felt</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">what</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">prey</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">do,</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">when</span> <span style="color:#a588ff;">locked</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">maze</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#a688ff;">subl</span><span style="color:#a689ff;">ime</span> <span style="color:#a689ff;">shado</span><span style="color:#a789ff;">w.</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">My</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">steps</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">grew</span> <span style="color:#a789ff;">uncertai</span><span style="color:#a889ff;">n.</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">My</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">body</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">was</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">lost</span> <span style="color:#a889ff;">with</span><span style="color:#a88aff;">o</span><span style="color:#a98aff;">ut</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">my</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">vision.</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">Was</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">I</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">still</span> <span style="color:#a98aff;">t</span><span style="color:#aa8aff;">here</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">at</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">all?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
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<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#aa8aff;">Are</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">you</span> <span style="color:#aa8aff;">liste</span><span style="color:#ab8aff;">ning?</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">Have</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">you</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">crawled</span> <span style="color:#ab8bff;">yo</span><span style="color:#ac8bff;">ur</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">way</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">in</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">through</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">my</span> <span style="color:#ac8bff;">ears,</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">yet?</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">I</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">have</span> <span style="color:#ad8bff;">ha</span><span style="color:#ad8cff;">lf</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">a</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">mind</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">to</span> <span style="color:#ad8cff;">p</span><span style="color:#ae8cff;">luck</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">these</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">wet</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">gems</span> <span style="color:#ae8cff;">out,</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">take</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">up</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">a</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">needle,</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">and</span> <span style="color:#af8cff;">p</span><span style="color:#af8dff;">ith</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">it</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">through</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">my</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">cerebrum.</span> <span style="color:#b08dff;">P</span><span style="color:#b18dff;">erhaps</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">my</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">droning,</span> <span style="color:#b18dff;">thoug</span><span style="color:#b28dff;">htl</span><span style="color:#b28eff;">ess</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">lobotomized</span> <span style="color:#b28eff;">buzz</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">will</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">be</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">a</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">whine</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">in</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">your</span> <span style="color:#b38eff;">sk</span><span style="color:#b48eff;">ull</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">–</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">you</span> <span style="color:#b48eff;">mig</span><span style="color:#b48fff;">ht</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">afford</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">me</span> <span style="color:#b48fff;">a</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">modicum</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">mercy,</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">and</span> <span style="color:#b58fff;">cut</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">me</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">loose.</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">can</span> <span style="color:#b68fff;">feel</span> <span style="color:#b690ff;">you,</span> <span style="color:#b690ff;">y</span><span style="color:#b790ff;">ou</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">know.</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">Like</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">cave</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">water</span> <span style="color:#b790ff;">c</span><span style="color:#b890ff;">atching</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">top</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#b890ff;">crow</span><span style="color:#b990ff;">n</span><span style="color:#b991ff;">,</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">slick</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">down</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">back,</span> <span style="color:#b991ff;">de</span><span style="color:#ba91ff;">scending</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">spine;</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">that</span> <span style="color:#ba91ff;">a</span><span style="color:#bb91ff;">ncestral</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">column</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#bb92ff;">neuro</span><span style="color:#bc92ff;">tic,</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">soft</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">bone,</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">replete</span> <span style="color:#bc92ff;">w</span><span style="color:#bd92ff;">ith</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">its</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">own</span> <span style="color:#bd92ff;">cereb</span><span style="color:#bd93ff;">ral</span> <span style="color:#bd93ff;">webb</span><span style="color:#be93ff;">ing.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
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<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#be93ff;">This</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">not</span> <span style="color:#be93ff;">darkness</span><span style="color:#bf93ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">It</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">light.</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">It</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">an</span> <span style="color:#bf93ff;">ach</span><span style="color:#c094ff;">e,</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">now</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">nothing</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#c094ff;">stra</span><span style="color:#c194ff;">ight.</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">All</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">webbed</span> <span style="color:#c194ff;">along</span> <span style="color:#c294ff;">these</span> <span style="color:#c294ff;">s</span><span style="color:#c295ff;">trands,</span> <span style="color:#c295ff;">gleaming</span><span style="color:#c395ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">What</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">before</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">me?</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">It</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#c395ff;">n</span><span style="color:#c495ff;">ot</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">there</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#c495ff;">all</span><span style="color:#c496ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#c496ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#c496ff;">world</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">fell</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">away,</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">now</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#c596ff;">hear</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">singing</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">silk.</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">A</span> <span style="color:#c696ff;">m</span><span style="color:#c697ff;">an</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">sighs,</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">sixteen</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">feet</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#c797ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">left.</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">He</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">misses</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">his</span> <span style="color:#c897ff;">wife.</span> <span style="color:#c997ff;">How</span> <span style="color:#c997ff;">do</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">know</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">these</span> <span style="color:#c998ff;">things</span><span style="color:#ca98ff;">?</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">same</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">way</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">spider</span> <span style="color:#ca98ff;">kno</span><span style="color:#cb98ff;">ws</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">a</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#cb98ff;">gnat</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">has</span> <span style="color:#cb98ff;">b</span><span style="color:#cb99ff;">een</span> <span style="color:#cb99ff;">caught</span><span style="color:#cc99ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">The</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">web</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">is</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">body,</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#cc99ff;">bod</span><span style="color:#cd99ff;">y,</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">web.</span> <span style="color:#cd99ff;">Proprioce</span><span style="color:#cd9aff;">pti</span><span style="color:#ce9aff;">ve</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">flashes,</span> <span style="color:#ce9aff;">radiographi</span><span style="color:#cf9aff;">c</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">spectrums</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">of</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">my</span> <span style="color:#cf9aff;">vessels</span><span style="color:#d09aff;">,</span> <span style="color:#d09aff;">my</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">bones,</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">my</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">spine,</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">my</span> <span style="color:#d09bff;">ne</span><span style="color:#d19bff;">rves,</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">my</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">thoughts;</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d19bff;">fee</span><span style="color:#d29bff;">l</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">them</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">all</span> <span style="color:#d29bff;">li</span><span style="color:#d29cff;">ke</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">maps</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d29cff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">world</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">with</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">every</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">step</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d39cff;">ta</span><span style="color:#d49cff;">ke.</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">can</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">feel</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d49cff;">un</span><span style="color:#d49dff;">evenn</span><span style="color:#d59dff;">ess</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">my</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">organs,</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">the</span> <span style="color:#d59dff;">weig</span><span style="color:#d69dff;">ht</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">blood</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">in</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">my</span> <span style="color:#d69dff;">non-domi</span><span style="color:#d79dff;">n</span><span style="color:#d79eff;">ant</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">hand.</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">But</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">you</span> <span style="color:#d79eff;">alrea</span><span style="color:#d89eff;">dy</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">know</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">that.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
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</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#d89eff;">Talk</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">back.</span> <span style="color:#d89eff;">T</span><span style="color:#d99eff;">alk</span> <span style="color:#d99eff;">back,</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">beg</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">of</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">you.</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">My</span> <span style="color:#d99fff;">s</span><span style="color:#da9fff;">kull</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">used</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">to</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">be</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">closed.</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">I</span> <span style="color:#da9fff;">p</span><span style="color:#db9fff;">referred</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">it</span> <span style="color:#db9fff;">that</span> <span style="color:#dba0ff;">way,</span> <span style="color:#dba0ff;">cap</span><span style="color:#dca0ff;">ped</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">off</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">with</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">calcium,</span> <span style="color:#dca0ff;">sew</span><span style="color:#dda0ff;">n</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">shut</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">with</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">little</span> <span style="color:#dda0ff;">ridge</span><span style="color:#dea1ff;">s,</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">cocconed</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#dea1ff;">safety</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">chitinous</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">skin.</span> <span style="color:#dfa1ff;">You</span> <span style="color:#e0a1ff;">found</span> <span style="color:#e0a1ff;">m</span><span style="color:#e0a2ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">field</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e0a2ff;">peon</span><span style="color:#e1a2ff;">ies,</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">sawed</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">off</span> <span style="color:#e1a2ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">top</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">of</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#e2a2ff;">skull</span><span style="color:#e2a3ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">Now,</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">it</span> <span style="color:#e2a3ff;">al</span><span style="color:#e3a3ff;">l</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">pours</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">in,</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">can</span> <span style="color:#e3a3ff;">feel</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">all</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">watching.</span> <span style="color:#e4a3ff;">Will</span> <span style="color:#e4a4ff;">yo</span><span style="color:#e5a4ff;">u</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">please</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">stop</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">poking</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">at</span> <span style="color:#e5a4ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">memories?</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">Will</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#e6a4ff;">leave</span> <span style="color:#e7a4ff;">the</span> <span style="color:#e7a4ff;">l</span><span style="color:#e7a5ff;">ove</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">once</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">felt</span> <span style="color:#e7a5ff;">alone</span><span style="color:#e8a5ff;">?</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">Will</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">ever</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">know</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">joy</span> <span style="color:#e8a5ff;">agai</span><span style="color:#e9a5ff;">n,</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">without</span> <span style="color:#e9a5ff;">y</span><span style="color:#e9a6ff;">our</span> <span style="color:#e9a6ff;">surveil</span><span style="color:#eaa6ff;">lance?</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#eaa6ff;">No,</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">suppose</span> <span style="color:#eaa6ff;">not.</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">Maybe</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">are</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">all</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#eba6ff;">f</span><span style="color:#eba7ff;">amil</span><span style="color:#eca7ff;">y</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">now.</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">Maybe</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">you</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">are</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#eca7ff;">lov</span><span style="color:#eda7ff;">ed</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">ones</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">and</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">enemies</span> <span style="color:#eda7ff;">ali</span><span style="color:#eea7ff;">ke</span><span style="color:#eea8ff;">.</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">Maybe</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">will</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">plunge</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#eea8ff;">d</span><span style="color:#efa8ff;">agger</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">into</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">your</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">backs,</span> <span style="color:#efa8ff;">a</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">dagger</span> <span style="color:#f0a8ff;">int</span><span style="color:#f0a9ff;">o</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">my</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">back,</span> <span style="color:#f0a9ff;">mayb</span><span style="color:#f1a9ff;">e</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">will</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">carve</span> <span style="color:#f1a9ff;">everything</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">can,</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">in</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">order</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">to</span> <span style="color:#f2a9ff;">s</span><span style="color:#f2aaff;">ee</span> <span style="color:#f2aaff;">if</span> <span style="color:#f2aaff;">an</span><span style="color:#f3aaff;">y</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">distinction</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">between</span> <span style="color:#f3aaff;">me</span><span style="color:#f4aaff;">…</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">and</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">you…,</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#f4aaff;">us,</span> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#f4aaff;">remains.</span> <span style="color:#f4aaff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">am</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">this</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">we.</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">You…,</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">I,</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">we…</span> <span style="color:#f5abff;">Y</span><span style="color:#f6abff;">ou</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">allowed</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">yourself</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">to</span> <span style="color:#f6abff;">be</span><span style="color:#f7abff;">come</span> <span style="color:#f7abff;">me.</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">Do</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">you</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">regret</span> <span style="color:#f7acff;">it?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size:16px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="color:#f8acff;">Am</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">I</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">yet</span> <span style="color:#f8acff;">born?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" data-fileext="png" data-fileid="79848" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).png.1ef481ab69856527f900826a7d611e4a.png" rel=""><img alt="360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).thumb.png.ceb18667dc4a43c8344e8910c68e3303.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79848" data-ratio="23.44" style="width:640px;height:150px;" width="640" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/360_F_176222224_H7eX2kmRR201YEPbxZ1vAhbPlLcHwhK3(1).thumb.png.ceb18667dc4a43c8344e8910c68e3303.png" /></a>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:18px;"><span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="color:#e0e0e0;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The second portion of this narrative is available to all with </span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Slotted Seerdom. </span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">It is a public, widely available message, written in the arcane cryptolect of </span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Caecic</span></span></span></span><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. All around the world, little spiders accept the whispers of Phithali. They construct webbing, and upon them, she spins her sightless mandate. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:18px;"><span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="color:#e0e0e0;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">[The Caecic is redacted.]</span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:18px;"><span style="font-family:Merriweather, Georgia, serif;"><span style="color:#e0e0e0;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Codename: HIVE</span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">266114</guid><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 05:23:13 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>The Government of the Mori'Quessir Enclave</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/266020-the-government-of-the-moriquessir-enclave/</link><description><![CDATA[<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.9d33b20e9a5879d8864c03b3e2e686fa.png" data-fileid="79154" data-fileext="png" rel=""><img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79154" data-ratio="6.41" width="640" alt="image.thumb.png.41782261b120db7ea89b03f6a86a86e4.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.thumb.png.41782261b120db7ea89b03f6a86a86e4.png" /></a>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:12px;"><span style="font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ON THIS SUN'S SMILE OF 2069</span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#666666;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">[ </span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIUhwGY3HgA&amp;list=RDCIUhwGY3HgA&amp;start_radio=1" style="text-decoration:none;" rel="external nofollow"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#1155cc;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>Music </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#666666;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">]</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<h2 style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.97f6736251386d6700db9d81d5760d3a.png" data-fileid="79155" data-fileext="png" rel=""><img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79155" data-ratio="56.25" width="640" alt="image.thumb.png.dc417c0998a56ce02530567c9e286baf.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.thumb.png.dc417c0998a56ce02530567c9e286baf.png" /></a>
</h2>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div>
	<table style="border:none;border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;">
		<tbody>
			<tr>
				<td style="border-bottom:4px solid #b5adaa;vertical-align:top;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-top:4px solid #b5adaa;border-right:4px solid #b5adaa;border-left:4px solid #b5adaa;">
					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">“</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ᴡʜᴏʟ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> ɪ'ɪʟʜᴀʀ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, ᴠᴇʟ'ᴜss ʙᴀʟʙᴀᴜᴇ ᴜᴅᴏssᴀ ᴀᴘʜʏᴏɴ, ᴠᴇʟ'ᴜss ᴍᴀᴜɴᴇᴄʜ ᴜᴅᴏssᴀ xᴜɪʟ ᴅʀᴏ, ᴡʜᴏʟ ɪʟᴛᴀ ᴢᴀɪ'ᴛʜ, ᴡʜᴏʟ ɪʟᴛᴀ ɪʙ'ᴀʜᴀʟɪɪ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:13pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">”</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
				</td>
			</tr>
		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<h2 style="line-height:1.38;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79156" data-ratio="31.06" width="161" alt="image.png.d5503a0463e0346db715f5badd050169.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.d5503a0463e0346db715f5badd050169.png" />
</h2>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">As the Mori’Quessir emerge upon the continent of Azuras under charge of the Queen of the Underdark, they enter a land far removed from their dominion. Beneath an unfamiliar sky, and across wilden territories, the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">CHILDREN OF THE MOTHER</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> find themselves once more thrust upon the edge of history. Olden foes stir in quiet fury, in remembrance of grievances past, their tendrilous shadows lingering still upon the surface. Yet among these dangers arise opportunities, no less great, as budding alliances and unclaimed knowledge promise the chance of renewal and strength. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">This undertaking would not endure without unity, nor can unity be maintained without order, and thus, among those of the Mori’Quessir who travelled to Azuras, the mantle of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ILHARES </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">has emerged, to guide the collective will of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ENCLAVE</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, which gathers all the Mori’Quessir on the surface. Under the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ILHARES</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">’ guidance, with the aid of her council, the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">OBOK TALTHALRA</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, and the wise counsel of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">SENGEREN, </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">the enclave stands as the bastion for all those of the Underdark who now dwell on the surface.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Under its bounds, </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">HELVIIRYN’s </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">legacy endures, its scattered clans united under a single structure of government, bound by a common purpose, sanctuary and discipline. The traditions, institutions and hierarchies that govern the realms beneath the deep earth are preserved and adapted, so that the Mori’Quessir may endure upon this unfamiliar soil without forsaking the identity that defines their very existence.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The hierarchy writ herein defines those offices, their duties and powers granted by which the Mori’Quessir shall govern themselves in Azuras. Through these institutions the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">MOTHER’S WILL</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> may be carried out as one, united, deliberate, unbroken voice.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:center;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79157" data-ratio="15.79" width="361" alt="image.png.c50f232f0baa29a4dfdd860a715e66cf.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.c50f232f0baa29a4dfdd860a715e66cf.png" />
</p>

<h2 style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79158" data-ratio="38.71" width="124" alt="image.png.6d1cd7fb9c5421bf317061bffef5bc71.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.6d1cd7fb9c5421bf317061bffef5bc71.png" />
</h2>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8d8785;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The Ilhares [Matriarch] rules over the enclave. Her word is law, and she mothers over the entire Mori’Quessir within Azuras.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">of the Mori’Quessir is charged with overseeing the internal harmony of the collective. She serves as the principal steward of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">GREAT MOTHER’S WILL</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, ensuring that the direction of the enclave remains aligned with its sacred and cultural foundations. As the symbolic head of the enclave, the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">presides over matters concerning the collective body of the Mori’Quessir, all clans considered, ensuring that its institutions act with shared purpose and continuity.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">In most circumstances, the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">is elected to her position by the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. In rarer or exceptional situations, the mantle may instead pass through succession or assumption of duty in order to preserve the stability of the enclave. The position of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">may only be held by a female Mori’Quessir.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The Ilhares bears far-reaching responsibilities that broadly encompass:</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ol style="margin-left:80px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ADMINISTRATIVE OVERSIGHT</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:144px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">She is to ensure that all civic systems and institutions function in accordance with the decisions of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> and remain aligned with the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">WILL OF THE GREAT MOTHER</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. The Ilhares is responsible for overseeing the coordination and proper functioning of these institutions, thereby granting her the authority to intervene should order or cohesion falter. She shall also oversee the processes by which members of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> are appointed, confirmed, or removed from their duties.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<ol start="2" style="margin-left:80px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">CIVIC ORDER</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:144px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">While the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> retains its authority in governance, the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">serves as the final arbiter of law within the enclave, ensuring that its statues, customs, and established procedures are upheld. In this capacity, she presides over matters of interpretation and judgment when disputes arise concerning the application of law or tradition.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<ol start="3" style="margin-left:80px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> CLAN MEDIATION</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:144px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">serves as the principal mediator among the clans of the enclave. As is her duty to preserve unity through the Mori’Quessir collective. In this role, she is called upon to resolve disputes between the clans or those notable figures who threaten the harmony of the enclave. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<ol start="4" style="margin-left:80px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">SOVEREIGN REPRESENTATION</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:144px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">As the sovereign head of the enclave, the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">serves as its highest representative in matters of the state beyond the enclave’s orders. She presides over its most significant alliances, treaties, and diplomatic engagements. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:center;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79159" data-ratio="15.79" width="361" alt="image.png.b5b2c9a204ddda733e1bafca1cf42540.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.b5b2c9a204ddda733e1bafca1cf42540.png" />
</p>

<h2 style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79160" data-ratio="20.33" width="241" alt="image.png.99ab68909dcf3bf77f66d207b5984aea.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.99ab68909dcf3bf77f66d207b5984aea.png" />
</h2>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8d8785;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The Obok Talthalra [High Council] presides over matters in the name of the Ilhares, as its main executive body by which their will is carried out.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> are appointed to their position by decree of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. In certain circumstances however, the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">may instead call for an election to determine the holder of the position rather than issuing a direct appointment. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">While each member of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> maintains authority within their respective domains, all positions remain ultimately subordinate to the guidance and oversight of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. In fulfilling their duties, they shall act in cooperation with one another to ensure the unified execution of their collective responsibilities. Thus, disputes among the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> are to be resolved through council deliberation, or when necessary, by the judgement of the Ilhares herself. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Each member represents a pillar of enclave society, and addresses its inherent necessities: </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79161" data-ratio="22.63" width="190" alt="image.png.497f42f9051048a5ea7e0771b698353f.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.497f42f9051048a5ea7e0771b698353f.png" />
</h3>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Yathrin</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> [</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">High Priestess</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">] of the Mori'Quessir holds a position of immense power, second only to the Ilhares. The councilperson bearing this title is the ultimate spiritual and political leader of the enclave, responsible for interpreting the</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> WILL OF THE GREAT MOTHER</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Yathrin</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> must maintain herself as the living voice of the temple, guiding doctrine and sanctity. It is her duty to oversee all rites, both practical and gifted. The position of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Yathrin</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> may only be held by a female Mori’Quessir.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The duties of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Yathrin</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> are extensive and permeate all aspects of enclave society:</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ol style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">FAITH</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">They lead all temple rites, sacrifices, and ceremonies. Their pronouncements define religious law and morality, and disobedience is often met with swift, divine, or divinely-mandated, retribution.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<ol start="2" style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">HEALING AND CENSURE</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">While they oversee all clinic and healing-related practices. The temple determines who lives and who is allowed to succumb to injury or illness. Furthermore, the temple is responsible for administering poisons, curses, and spiritual censure.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-indent:36pt;text-align:justify;">
	 
</p>

<hr />
<p>
	 
</p>

<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79162" data-ratio="24.44" width="180" alt="image.png.a3abfd2c41f12b88c96c118ccd2061a4.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.a3abfd2c41f12b88c96c118ccd2061a4.png" />
</h3>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Elzaren</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> [</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">High Mage</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">] is charged with all sciences within the enclave, its distribution, and the proper procedure to learn and archive these wisdoms. The councilperson charged with the rank ensures that the scientific knowledge that comes into the enclave is properly recorded, and ensures that this knowledge remains highly guarded for the better safety of the Mori’Quessir. The</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Obok Elzaren</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> must also seek out artifacts, and coordinate the search for any ancient heirlooms that may be discovered. The position of</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Obok Elzaren</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> may be held by either a female or male Mori’Quessir.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The duties of a </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Elzaren</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> include the following, among some unwritten:</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ol style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">LOREKEEPING</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">They will record all wisdom of significance that comes into the hands of the Mori’Quessir, and will archive it for future generations. They hold judgement on what is wisdom of significance and what is not, and hold authority over the sciences taught and learnt within the enclave.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<ol start="2" style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">HEIRLOOM SEEKING</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Elzaren</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> should seek out heirlooms and treasures lost to the Mori’Quessir that may be found within the continent, and organize journeys alongside the other councillors to discover and secure them.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-indent:36pt;text-align:justify;">
	 
</p>

<hr />
<p>
	 
</p>

<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79163" data-ratio="30.83" width="133" alt="image.png.fe7ce3bf95d01cce703725498f3e0963.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.fe7ce3bf95d01cce703725498f3e0963.png" />
</h3>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Obok A’ni</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> [</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">High General</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">] oversees all military operations within the enclave and is responsible for organizing, raising, and managing its armed forces. The councilperson charged with this title ensures the readiness of the people and the training of adept soldiers in martial skills, as well as delegating positions within the military to ensure proper coordination between citizens, the military personnel and command. The position of</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Obok A’ni</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> may be held by either a female or male Mori’Quessir.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The duties of</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Obok A’ni</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> are extensive, highly focused on ensuring that the following remains true:</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ol style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">LAW AND ORDER</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok A’ni</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> is the one charged to upkeep the law by the tribune, and ensure their will is executed in an effective way. They may pronounce judgement on matters, and resolve disputes among citizens, as well as allocate the military resources where needed.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<ol start="2" style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">MARTIAL DISCIPLINE</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">In order to ensure the readiness of the Mori’Quessir and guarantee the defense against possible threats, the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok A’ni</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> must pass down all martial skills, and make sure that all who wish to defend are up to skill, and properly equipped.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-indent:36pt;text-align:justify;">
	 
</p>

<hr />
<p>
	 
</p>

<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79164" data-ratio="22.09" width="172" alt="image.png.3f84863000b804e92e70a26ad553ae7b.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.3f84863000b804e92e70a26ad553ae7b.png" />
</h3>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Belbau</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> [</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">High Distributor</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">] is responsible for overseeing the enclave’s financial and material assets. They manage the levying of coin and resources, and supervise the administration and distribution of territory. It is their role to account for all resources in accordance with the enclave’s needs and priorities. Thus they work closely with the other councilpersons to gauge need. The position of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Belbau</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> may be held by either a female or male Mori’Quessir.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The duties of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Belbau</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> include the management and oversight of: </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ol style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">COIN AND RESOURCES</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">They are responsible for managing the levying of coin and resources throughout the enclave. By manner of overseeing the administering and distribution of taxes, as well as the collection and allocation of resources. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<ol start="2" style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">LAND AND INFRASTRUCTURE  </span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">They will oversee land management within the enclave, ensuring the proper distribution of housing. In addition to the responsible use of lands such as farms and mines. As well as the long-term sustainability and development of territory. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<h3 style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	 
</h3>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-indent:36pt;text-align:justify;">
	 
</p>

<hr />
<p>
	 
</p>

<h3 style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79165" data-ratio="19.02" width="205" alt="image.png.08a6e7825649c4490376ca0adf662351.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.08a6e7825649c4490376ca0adf662351.png" />
</h3>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Ontaress</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> [</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">High Negotiator</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">] is responsible for overseeing all diplomatic efforts within the enclave, and ensuring the high command’s will reaches the allies of the Mori’Quessir that lay outside the enclave’s domain. The</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Obok Ontaress</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> will be the one responsible for signing pacts and deals between the Enclave and outside parties, and will keep record of said writs. The position of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Ontaress</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> may be held by either a female or male Mori’Quessir.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:96px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The duties of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Ontaress</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> include the following, among others unwritten:</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<ol style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">DIPLOMATIC PACTS</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">They must oversee all negotiations pertaining to alliances, trade agreements, and non-aggression pacts. Ensuring that all existing agreements between the enclave and outside parties are kept current and properly honored. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<ol start="2" style="margin-left:120px;">
	<li style="list-style-type:upper-roman;">
		<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">INFORMATION</span></span></span></span></span></span>
	</li>
</ol>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:192px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">They must oversee the management of worldly intelligence, including major events beyond the enclave and the maintenance of accurate records regarding reputable leaders and the extent of their power. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:center;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79166" data-ratio="15.79" width="361" alt="image.png.ad50ec936b395f76b0cb48ba92434efd.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.ad50ec936b395f76b0cb48ba92434efd.png" />
</p>

<h2 style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79167" data-ratio="30.72" width="166" alt="image.png.343e2eaa045dd05b41c47394febeded7.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.343e2eaa045dd05b41c47394febeded7.png" />
</h2>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#666666;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The Sengeren [Tribunes] are those Mori’Quessir of great renown that enjoy the right to offer counsel to the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#666666;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#666666;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> and</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#666666;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Obok Talthalra.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The Sengreren stand as a body composed of former </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, or</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Great Leaders</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. As established through the body of the Great Xalythi Tribune in the first year following the enclave’s surfacing by decree of Felyndiira Mierillis. These individuals retain their influence within enclave society. In this capacity, they serve as the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Sengeren</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, an advisory body to both the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">and the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. Offering counsel drawn from experience, known tradition, and their service to the Mori’Quessir collective. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">The </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Sengeren </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">do not exercise any direct authority over the governance of the enclave and therefore hold no formal power within the decision-making processes of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. Instead, they exist to provide guidance and perspective when called upon by the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhares </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">or </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Obok Talthalra</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, to support deliberations of the enclave’s leadership without superseding its authority. Or in the event, that further deliberation is required of law or action. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;margin-left:48px;text-align:center;">
	<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79168" data-ratio="15.79" width="361" alt="image.png.0b5c5d15a390ff5fb53df64c5d10f254.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.0b5c5d15a390ff5fb53df64c5d10f254.png" />
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">C</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">REDITS</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">PeachLova | </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Writing, Formatting</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Chaotikal | </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Writing, Formatting</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Elahicol | </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Consultation</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b5adaa;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Pallodium | </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d4ccc9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Consultation</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
	</div>

	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
		<p style="text-align:center;">
			<img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="79169" data-ratio="65.81" width="389" alt="image.png.533224b59c314727bedd9248858161c1.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.533224b59c314727bedd9248858161c1.png" />
		</p>
	</div>
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<p>
	 
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">266020</guid><pubDate>Sun, 15 Mar 2026 22:33:15 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>To Fight in the Sunlight [WC VID]</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/265801-to-fight-in-the-sunlight-wc-vid/</link><description><![CDATA[<p>
	<br />
	<br />
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</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" data-fileext="png" data-fileid="78329" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.png.ab310745572ae2f618d09b96989e5fb4.png" rel=""><img alt="image.thumb.png.c03cabac274735b825bb011fbd4d0a06.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="78329" data-ratio="129.03" width="279" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/image.thumb.png.c03cabac274735b825bb011fbd4d0a06.png" /></a>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div>
	<table style="border:none;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;border-collapse:collapse;">
		<tbody>
			<tr>
				<td style="border-bottom:3px solid #200505;vertical-align:top;background-color:#200505;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-top:3px solid #200505;border-right:3px solid #400a0a;border-left:3px solid #400a0a;">
					<p style="line-height:1.2;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:18pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">To Fight in the Sunlight</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.2;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">A Mori’Quessir’s taste of surface warfare.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
				</td>
			</tr>
		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8a3033;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Keralth stood on the earthen mounds behind the Imperial palisades, staring at the fort ahead… So bright today, he thought, looking over the arrayed siege guns. Their black color betrayed their frequent use, and their crews seemed to know their way around them. Ahead, the Urguani fortress rose up to the sky. A practical thing, mostly gray, crawling with precious few defenders. Even from this distance, Keralth saw the flaws. Breaches would follow quickly, if these gunners were as competent as first glance indicated they were. This type of fighting was not familiar to Keralth. He had fought in ambushes, skirmishes, and even duels in the street, but nothing of this scale.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:16pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⧽ ♨ ⧼</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">T</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8a3033;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">he roar of cannon heralded the start of the battle. Keralth had joined a prince’s retinue, which moved towards the base of the wall. The retinue’s skirmishers exchanged bolts and arrows with the defenders on the lower  battlements, as cannons smashed into the walls above. Keralth remained in cover, eyes squinting through his visor at the brightness above. He glanced around from his position, seeing some Imperials push up to the walls besides his position. Arrows kept the Imperial attackers at a distance, for now, though some brave groups pushed ladders up against the wall, only for them to be pushed back down or fall short. A dwarven berserker jumped onto the group, before being swiftly cut down. Cannonballs smashed into the walls, causing rubble to fall down near him. He glanced up. A breach? </span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	<br />
	<br />
	<br />
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">T</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8a3033;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">he prince who’s group he had joined, Martinus ( <span><span><a contenteditable="false" data-ipshover="" data-ipshover-target="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/profile/98361-helldiving/?do=hovercard" data-mentionid="98361" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/profile/98361-helldiving/" rel="">@helldiving</a>)</span></span> , suddenly roared; “</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#ffffff;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Up, up!</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8a3033;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">” whilst gesturing to the nearest breach in the wall. Keralth helped three knights in Imperial regalia push a ladder against the wall, and then started mounting it after a few of them had gone up. Glancing sideways, he saw other ladders going up, armored figures streaming towards the fortifications from the siege camp like lines of cave ants towards from a corpse to their colonies. Soon, he found himself on the first battlements, trading blows with a dwarf in heavy armor, managing to knock him off his balance right before a trio of Imperial bannermen joined in and overwhelmed the warrior, stabbing him in the gaps of his armor and bringing him down. The fighting shifted to a constructed ramp, leading up to the central tower. Imperials were trying to scale it, but the dwarves were holding the top, pushing the Imperials back. Keralth had joined the fray, climbing to the top of the ramp and trying to push dwarves out of the way, or pull them down off their fortifications, into the waiting polearms of the men-at-arms below. Suddenly, with their numbers dwindling, the dam of dwarves broke, and the Imperials poured through, with Keralth joining them. Once at the top of the tower, the Imperials made short work of the few defenders that remained. Few were taken prisoner, most slain. Keralth observed how quickly the Imperials set about stripping the bodies, taking weapons and armor, jewelry and whatever else was at hand. </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
	<br />
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">T</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8a3033;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">he battle had come to a close, with Keralth looking down upon the now smouldering fortress from a nearby hill, sat in the shade of a pine tree stubbornly growing upon the mountain side. He’d strum his lyre, and watch as the Imperials, once again resembling cave ants, packed up their camp and loaded up their loot, moving east towards the Urguani capital. Soon, he’d finish his song, and find his horse, keen on joining them for the next contest. Perhaps fighting in the caves would suit him better.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:16pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⧽ ♨ ⧼</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo" contenteditable="false">
	<div>
		<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="113" title="dat boi warclaim" width="200" data-embed-src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/yyXJbzpVZ1E?feature=oembed"></iframe>
	</div>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">265801</guid><pubDate>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 22:22:15 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Beyond the Pale</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/265628-beyond-the-pale/</link><description><![CDATA[<p>
	A step away from the royal lineage, that was the closest she had ever come. An advisor, a vizier, a hopeful watcher, and that was the closest she had ever come. In the years past, if she had merely waited, and bit her silver tongue, the Xalyth would have offered her a status eternal. That was the closest she had ever come. Now, in the aftermath of her exile, she could only call the surface home. It hurt, that lurking star, the occuli of Gods that glared down upon the stretching world: the sun. How close had she been to the true center of darkness, and now her only providence was the thin Night, that thing that came and went with the folly of that leonine, roaring beast of luxurious light. 
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Cycles. She learned now, of their repetitive truth, the patterned tapestry of day and night. Below the soil, underneath the cover of eternal shadow, the Mori’quessir had grown complacent with an understanding that belied the profane reality of the world. The sun rose, the sun set, the moon rose, and the moon fell. This churning process shocked her. The mortals of the surface divided their time like this. For every day, for every night, a triumphant rise to power, and a catastrophic fall into oblivion. 
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	It gave Phithali a horrifying sense of insignificance. Beneath the sordid shadow of the Mori’quessir, time was measured in adrenaline. In plots. In the comings and goings of figures of importance. The world felt self-contained, a tight knit web of conspiracies that bound each moment to the next. The immortality of Fae rendered a foggy view of time itself, set more as a vague association of cause, effect. Plot, payoff. Scheme, success… or its brutal failure. 
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	But here, every moment, every slice of time gave its eternal honor in the onslaught of this perpetual penumbra; the rising, the falling, the shining, the dimming, the fire, and the shadow. But here, oh, but here brought a rich, rich truth – too sweet to swallow, too grand to comprehend, a realization borne out of deep time &amp; deeper axioms. Watching the sun shriek as gloaming knives bid it back into the underworld, Phithali drank in the depths of starlight. She had a moment of realization, as she bore an honest judgement from sun up to sun down, tracking its hoary gleam across the satin of Mundus’ sky. As night yawned its gloomy maw, the Mori’quessir’s eyes looked at secrets beyond the firmament that the sun hung in. Phithali knew that deep in the earth, shadow, furtive secrets were abundant. Here then, on the surface, the sun came and went. But she saw, far into space and its astral amazement, that beyond the bleaching sun, was a darkness far more expansive &amp; wide than the mere shadow of the Underworld.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	Truly, there was more darkness than light.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	When she laid down her head upon the soft grass, she suffered the most peculiar of dreams. Bid before a great sky, under antediluvian night as dark as Phithali bid up a surreal gaze clouded by somnambulant psychosis. The sun rose, and fell; the moon built to crescendo, and diminished. Again, <span style="font-size:12px;">and again</span>, <span style="font-size:11px;">and again,</span> <span style="font-size:9px;">and again,</span> <span style="font-size:8px;">and again,</span> 
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	Until the rippling light and warping shadow began to look less like a sky, and more like an awesome winking eye. It opened, and shut, and opened, and shut, until the milk of its pupil ran into one blind color, and then wholly gone, gone, gone. The sun was a thin, singular lie. In the vastness, there was no time. No space. The darkness beyond her face was the same darkness beyond her arms the same darkness beyond her eyes the same darkness beyond her home the same darkness beyond Mundus the same darkness beyond reality. One unerring web of uninterrupted shadow, from here, to there, from source to oblivion.
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	Infinity.
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	 
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" data-fileext="jpg" data-fileid="77668" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/1426c59f6a7c33d94fa4ddecf8f0afbb.jpg.36ab62b16a4ca1f9b4a4c977100ecaa2.jpg" rel=""><img alt="1426c59f6a7c33d94fa4ddecf8f0afbb.thumb.jpg.45b7cce5e1c093c480d088949b8da31b.jpg" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="77668" data-ratio="100.00" width="360" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_03/1426c59f6a7c33d94fa4ddecf8f0afbb.thumb.jpg.45b7cce5e1c093c480d088949b8da31b.jpg" /></a>
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	 
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	When she awoke, she saw nothing.
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	<span style="color:#2196f3;"> <a href="http://lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/265629-seer-feat-fa-huge_bug/?do=edit" rel="external nofollow">And further out, everything.</a></span>
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	 
</p>

<p style="text-align:center;">
	<br />
	 
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">265628</guid><pubDate>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 06:41:09 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>[The Enclave] Summons for Service</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/265491-the-enclave-summons-for-service/</link><description><![CDATA[<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
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	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
		<div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo" contenteditable="false">
			<div>
				<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="113" title="Kenshi: Scorching Wind [Extended]" width="200" data-embed-src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/DUXNorZWQiI?feature=oembed"></iframe>
			</div>
		</div>

		<p>
			 
		</p>
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<p>
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</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" data-fileext="png" data-fileid="77182" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_02/image.png.bdedbdd4f981a7a34fb0ea7c99a560a6.png" rel=""><img alt="image.thumb.png.1e81029963b992ffd393501bc377474a.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="77182" data-ratio="129.03" width="279" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_02/image.thumb.png.1e81029963b992ffd393501bc377474a.png" /></a>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div>
	<table style="border:none;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;border-collapse:collapse;">
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				<td style="border-bottom:3px solid #200505;vertical-align:top;background-color:#200505;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-top:3px solid #200505;border-right:3px solid #400a0a;border-left:3px solid #400a0a;">
					<p style="line-height:1.2;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:18pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">S U M M O N S  F O R  S E R V I C E</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.2;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">FROM THE ICHARYDS OF CLAN XALYTH</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.2;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ბინდ თო ოურ ბლოოდ ანდ ფინდ დუთჲ ინ ქინდ</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
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		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-size:10pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8a3033;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">TINY RED AND BLACK SPIDERS SCATTERED ACROSS THE LANDS, INTO THE UNDERDARK AND UNTO THE SURFACE INTO THE HANDS OF ALL MORI’QUESSIR. UPON THEIR BACKS LAID A PARCHMENT, WRITTEN IN BLACK INK AND ICHOR IN THE TONGUE OF ARACHNIDS, ILHARNORRS.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:16pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⧽ ♨ ⧼</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">H</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8a3033;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ark, kith and kin of the Eternal Mother. We, the Icharyds of Clan Xalyth, have come to a grave realization. As more of our brothers and sisters are surface-bound or already walk beneath the Sun, our laborers of the mind, body, and matter lie scattered like dust. This cannot stand. Our strength is our unity. Thus, our work must reflect this too. Hear us, Mori’Quessir, we beckon you to come forth and contribute to our enclave. Skilled artisans, scholars, beast masters, and more, you will find open arms with us. A letter to Omareth, Keralth, or Sapriina of Icharyd Xalyth will assure this. Our word, like our blood, is binding. Know duty and purpose through us, for the betterment of all who choose to face the Sun.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">T</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8a3033;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">hose who would bind unto us, through oath or contract, may find themselves well compensated. Coin or supplies, protection or shelter—these are our means of making sure our laborers are well-treated. Should any laborers in our employ stand above the others, we shall give them additional boons as earned. The smith may have more metals to toil with, the mage more tutors to hone their knowledge, and the alchemist their reagents to make their concoctions. However, none must mistake the dealings of the Icharyd for kindness or leniency. Know in advance that any who break their word with us shall know the full weight of their choice.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:16pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#691719;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⧽ ♨ ⧼</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	 
</p>

<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
	</div>

	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
		<p style="text-align:center;">
			<strong><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">Credits:<br />
			<br />
			Format:</span></strong><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"> pallodium, prophetisms</span><br />
			<strong><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">Writing: </span></strong><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">psychra_notte</span><br />
			<strong><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">Grammar and Editing: p</span></strong><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">rophetisms</span>
		</p>
	</div>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">265491</guid><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 21:09:53 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>[The Enclave] E X C O M M U N I C A D O</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/265402-the-enclave-e-x-c-o-m-m-u-n-i-c-a-d-o/</link><description><![CDATA[<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
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	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
		<div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo" contenteditable="false">
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				<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="113" title="Hunter x Hunter 2011 Unreleased Soundtrack - Requiem Aranea (No Choir)" width="200" data-embed-src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/vXpisXBVcio?feature=oembed"></iframe>
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		<p>
			 
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<p>
	 
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						<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" data-fileext="png" data-fileid="76466" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_02/image.png.5b1b042e059f088ac70513c3abc24462.png" rel=""><img alt="image.thumb.png.39d75d760ce58a374eb3459af3dc108c.png" class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="76466" data-ratio="99.72" width="361" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_02/image.thumb.png.39d75d760ce58a374eb3459af3dc108c.png" /></a>
					</p>
				</td>
				<td colspan="2" style="vertical-align:top;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;">
					 
				</td>
			</tr>
		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div>
	<table style="border:none;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;border-collapse:collapse;">
		<tbody>
			<tr>
				<td colspan="4" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#19151b;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-right:3px solid #422f50;border-left:3px solid #422f50;">
					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:18pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#422f50;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴ [ E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ ] ⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Tʜᴇ Xᴀʟʏᴛʜɪ Eɴᴄʟᴀᴠᴇ</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#422f50;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">გ ა ნ კ ვ ე თ ი ლ ი</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
				</td>
			</tr>
		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<br />
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ꜱᴄᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴛʜʀᴏᴜɢʜᴏᴜᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀᴠᴇʀɴꜱ ɴᴇᴀʀʙʏ ᴀᴢᴜʀᴀꜱ’ ꜱᴜʀꜰᴀᴄᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴇᴘᴛʜꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀᴅᴀʀᴋ, ᴀʀᴀᴄʜɴɪᴅꜱ ᴡᴀʀʙʟᴇ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ʏᴇᴛ ᴏɴᴄᴇᴍᴏʀᴇ- ꜱʟᴇᴡɪɴɢ ᴀ ᴘᴀʀᴄʜᴍᴇɴᴛ ᴏꜰ ᴅᴇᴄʟᴀʀᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴜɴᴛᴏ ᴀʟʟ ᴍᴏʀɪ'ǫᴜᴇꜱꜱɪʀ ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴇɴᴄᴏᴜɴᴛᴇʀ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴡᴀʟᴋ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴜʀꜰᴀᴄᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴜɴ- ᴇᴀᴄʜ ᴄᴀʀᴠᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜɪɴ ɪʟʜᴀʀʀɴᴏʀꜱ- ᴛʜᴇ ɴᴀᴛɪᴠᴇ-ᴛᴏɴɢᴜᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏʀɪ’ᴏ̨ᴜᴇꜱꜱɪʀ. ɪᴛ ɪꜱ ᴀ ᴅᴇᴄʟᴀʀᴀᴛɪᴏɴ; ᴀ ɴᴏᴠᴇʟ ʟᴀᴡ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪꜱ ʜᴇʀᴇʙʏ ɪᴍᴘʟᴇᴍᴇɴᴛᴇᴅ ᴏɴ ᴀʟʟ ᴍᴏʀɪ'ǫᴜᴇꜱꜱɪʀ ʙʏ ᴠᴇʀᴅɪᴄᴛ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴇɴᴄʟᴀᴠᴇ.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<br />
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Kith of the depths. Kith of the throne.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">სიღრმეების კითი. ტახტის კითი.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">To all those children of the Eternal Mother whom arise to the surface of the Sun- witness and heed the mandate of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Eɴᴄʟᴀᴠᴇ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. Hereby, all Mori’Quessir whom wander the surface world whom wish to seek aide and endorsement of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Xᴀʟʏᴛʜɪ Eɴᴄʟᴀᴠᴇ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> adhere to the eternal code of the declaration </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, henceforth instituted to the children of Nemiisae upon the world of the Sun.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:13pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ᴅᴇᴄʟᴀʀᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴀꜱ </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:13pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ᴇxᴄᴏᴍᴍᴜɴɪᴄᴀᴅᴏ </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:13pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ʜɪɢʜᴇꜱᴛ ᴘᴜɴɪꜱʜᴇᴍᴇɴᴛ ᴄᴀᴘᴀʙʟᴇ ᴏꜰ ʙᴇɪɴɢ ᴅᴇʟɪᴠᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴜᴘᴏɴ ᴍᴏʀɪ’ǫᴜᴇꜱꜱɪʀ.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">In its simplest form, any Mori’Quessir whose actions and intents transgress the Enclave’s purposes or risk harm to any people of the Depths hereon is to be declared </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, an eternal exile from the society of the Enclave and the civilization of the Eternal Mother. All Mori’Quessir whom are declared </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> are to be </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>attacked on sight</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> if found by any Mori’Quessir, to be captured and brought back to suffer judicial execution under the oversight and jurisdiction of Nemiisae’s will.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">To be declared as </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, a Mori’Quessir must be deemed to have performed a major transgression against the Enclave or to the kith of the depths as a whole by </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">at least half </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">of the Tribunes; in the rare instance that a Mori’Quessir is to be un-declared as </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, they must be given endorsement by </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">a majority</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> of the Tribunes that sufficient atonement for their sins have been performed in the Eternal Mother’s name.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">By enacting any of the following transgressions, any Mori’Quessir shall be rendered </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> by the Tribune’s will:</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div>
	<table style="border:none;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;border-collapse:collapse;">
		<tbody>
			<tr>
				<td style="border-bottom:2px solid #513a63;vertical-align:top;background-color:#19151b;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-top:2px solid #513a63;border-right:2px solid #513a63;border-left:2px solid #513a63;">
					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">»</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Transgressions against the Xalythi Enclave- be it theft, murder, or staining our prerogative name- or performing any action to sour the Xalythi Enclave’s reputation will be met with an instant declaration of  </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">»</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Any acts or performances of romantic nature to lesser beings will be met with an instant declaration of  </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">»</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Slaughter or deliberate harm of Nemiisae’s favoured- arachnids and the shadow’s fae- or their structures of investiture and worship will be met with an instant declaration of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">»</span></span></span></span><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Siding with or performing the ill-crafts of the necromantic, infernal, or draconic will be met with an instant declaration of  </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">»</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> Providing aide, assistance, or any ilk of help towards any Mori’Quessir declared </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> or to individuals hostile towards the Enclave or Mori’Quessir as a whole will be met with an instant declaration of  </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
				</td>
			</tr>
		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">When a heinous offense assures a declaration of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> by the Tribunes’ verdict, the seized Mori’Quessir is to face a penultimate consequence to be marred with a brand to denote them as exile; they are to bound and violently stripped of the Eternal Mother’s blessings upon their form, ripped of their chitinous self, and hewn mandibles. Upon one’s censure from the Enclave, they are to be seared with the inverted symbol of the Xalythi Enclave upon their forehead, permanently branded as </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> whilst those performing the exile invoke utterance of the world:</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ილჰარ დ'ველდრინი, ილჰარნ დ'ვლოსი</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ilhar d'Veldrin, Ilharn d'Vlos</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">დუმო დოსთ დალჰარენ, ველუს ღილ ფრეასლა.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Dumo dosst dalharen, vel'uss ghil fre'sla.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">მრიგა ძილი იშვიათი, კანის კუდის ძილის თავშესაფარი, ნიჯიკი ძილის გარაატ,</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Mrigg nind rarr, skikudis nind sharen, nizzik nind grt,</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ჯი ნინდელ ხლურისტენ ხალ თლუ ანდიელ,</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Ji nindel khlurysten xal tlu andiel,</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ლუ'ნინდოლ ნოამუტ დალჰარ დ'დოსტა, ო'ილჰარი, ო'ილჰარნი,</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Lu'nindol noamuth dalhar d'dossta, O'Ilhar, O'Ilharn,</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">სალ რაგარ გრასანტო ლუსანრარი, ვუნ მეგობარი</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Xal ragar gre'as'anto lu'sanrr, wun dosst Oirna Taur.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Thereby, upon conclusion of this branding and invocation, the transgressing Mori’Quessir thereforth is declared </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, and exiled into the world; failure to stave away from our kith will result in their seizure and capital punishment under the witness of Nemiisae’s divine oversight. Following declaration of </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">E x ᴄ ᴏ ᴍ ᴍ ᴜ ɴ ɪ ᴄ ᴀ ᴅ ᴏ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, they lose all endorsement from the Xalythi Enclave and thereby further are disinherited from all benefits and aides- to be treated as an exile with no ties to the Enclave whatsoever.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Bear witness, fellow kith; the edict of the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Eɴᴄʟᴀᴠᴇ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> hereby remains paramount.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ᴇxᴄᴏᴍᴍᴜɴɪᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ᴅᴇʟɪᴠᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ ꜱᴡɪꜰᴛ ʙʀᴜᴛᴀʟɪᴛʏ ᴛᴏ ᴛʀᴀɴꜱɢʀᴇꜱꜱᴏʀꜱ.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	 
</p>

<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
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	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
		<p style="text-align:center;">
			<img alt="94kt6v.png?ex=699b0411&amp;is=6999b291&amp;hm=c6c087a6984c5812fa740ace4687cc3abe7fb32f186acf8b2b3cc77de1178d90" src="https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/1473836495965130816/1474578042746699949/94kt6v.png?ex=699b0411&amp;is=6999b291&amp;hm=c6c087a6984c5812fa740ace4687cc3abe7fb32f186acf8b2b3cc77de1178d90" />
		</p>
	</div>
</div>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">265402</guid><pubDate>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 23:36:45 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>[Recruitment] THE ENCLAVE'S CALL</title><link>https://www.lordofthecraft.net/forums/topic/265310-recruitment-the-enclaves-call/</link><description><![CDATA[<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
	</div>

	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
		<p>
			 
		</p>

		<div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo" contenteditable="false">
			<div>
				<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="113" title="Princess Chelsea - the cigarette duet  ๋࣭ ⭑ (instrumental slowed &amp; backing vocals)" width="200" data-embed-src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/PILNJVYcTAk?feature=oembed"></iframe>
			</div>
		</div>

		<p>
			 
		</p>
	</div>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div>
	<table style="border:none;border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;">
		<tbody>
			<tr>
				<td colspan="2" style="vertical-align:top;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;">
					 
				</td>
				<td colspan="3" style="vertical-align:top;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;">
					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<a class="ipsAttachLink ipsAttachLink_image" href="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_02/image.png.756c1dcdf3311b0cf32deecf50cf2f72.png" data-fileid="76119" data-fileext="png" rel=""><img class="ipsImage ipsImage_thumbnailed" data-fileid="76119" data-ratio="99.72" width="361" alt="image.thumb.png.30083b828c1c41238cc85979603e8170.png" src="https://www.lordofthecraft.net/uploads/monthly_2026_02/image.thumb.png.30083b828c1c41238cc85979603e8170.png" /></a>
					</p>
				</td>
				<td colspan="2" style="vertical-align:top;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;">
					 
				</td>
			</tr>
		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<div>
	<table style="border:none;border-collapse:collapse;width:100%;table-layout:fixed;">
		<tbody>
			<tr>
				<td colspan="4" style="vertical-align:top;background-color:#19151b;padding:7px 7px 7px 7px;border-right:2px solid #3d2253;border-left:3px solid #3d2253;">
					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#3d2253;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">T ʜ ᴇ   E ɴ ᴄ ʟ ᴀ ᴠ ᴇ ' ꜱ   C ᴀ ʟ ʟ</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>

					<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
						<span><span><span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ა ნ კ ლ ა ვ ი ს   ზ ა რ ი</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
					</p>
				</td>
			</tr>
		</tbody>
	</table>
</div>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ꜱᴄᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴛʜʀᴏᴜɢʜᴏᴜᴛ ʙᴏᴛʜ ᴄᴀᴠᴇʀɴꜱ ɴᴇᴀʀʙʏ ᴀᴢᴜʀᴀꜱ’ ꜱᴜʀꜰᴀᴄᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴇᴘᴛʜꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀᴅᴀʀᴋ, ᴀʀᴀᴄʜɴɪᴅꜱ ꜱᴋɪᴛᴛᴇʀ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ- ꜱᴛᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴜᴘ ᴍᴀɴʏ ᴀ ᴘᴀᴍᴘʜʟᴇᴛ ᴀɴᴅ ꜰʟʏᴇʀ, ᴇᴀᴄʜ ᴄᴀʀᴠᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜɪɴ ɪʟʜᴀʀɴᴏʀʀꜱ- ᴛʜᴇ ɴᴀᴛɪᴠᴇ-ᴛᴏɴɢᴜᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏʀɪ’ǫᴜᴇꜱꜱɪʀ. ɪᴛ ɪꜱ ᴀ ᴄᴀʟʟꜱ- ᴀ ᴄᴀʟʟꜱ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ xᴀʟʏᴛʜɪ ɪʟᴋ, ᴛᴏ ᴀɢɢʀᴇɢᴀᴛᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴏᴍᴇ ᴛᴏɢᴇᴛʜᴇʀ.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Kith of the depths. Kith of the throne.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">სიღრმეების კითი. ტახტის კითი.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">To those who arise to the surface of the Sun- we beckon you come forth unto our ranks, gather together in unity. Be you warriors, priests, scholars, or hunters; be you Xalythi or otherwise, our creed welcomes and beckons all whom choose to walk the surface lands. The Sun’s lands are vast and unpredictable; adherence and collection to our creed comes in great advantage manyfold.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#a79caf;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Seek the Tribunal for inquiry- our gates and creed welcome all of the Underdark.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ვალტირი, კუნდუსი, ვურვირი, სზორუილი, და მცოდნე ქსალიტი</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">[</span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Valthir, Xundus, Vurvyr, Szorruil, and </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ასდფ Xalyth</span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#73647e;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">]</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:13.999999999999998pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">⬰♮⇴</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#3d2253;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">[</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#674ea7;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#422f50;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>O O C</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8e7cc3;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#3d2253;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">]</span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
	 
</p>

<div class="ipsSpoiler" data-ipsspoiler="">
	<div class="ipsSpoiler_header">
		<span>Spoiler</span>
	</div>

	<div class="ipsSpoiler_contents">
		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">This is a </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">RECRUITMENT POST</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> for a Mori’Quessir collective/culture known tentative as the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>Xᴀʟʏᴛʜɪ</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8e7cc3;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>Eɴᴄʟᴀᴠᴇ</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">, a novel society centric around primarily Xalythi (</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#d9d2e9;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">one of the four primary factions</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">) drow who are collecting together. If you’re interested in playing a Mori’Quessir, create a Xalyth persona and join us! Furthermore, if you already play a Mori’Quessir, come around and interact sometime! We’re a growing group that are currently working on making our Culture, wherein any of you interested can help contribute towards creating an interesting sect of Mori who have unique ideals and values, whilst still being this truly direct and ‘true’ Mori’Quessir culture fixated around this. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>

		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">What is the culture of Xalyth like? We intend to expand upon the </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>base origin</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> of Xalyth, which is as follows:</span></span></span></span></span></span>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>

		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#45b250;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">[ </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#45b250;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>C ʟ ᴀ ɴ   X ᴀ ʟ ʏ ᴛ ʜ</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#45b250;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> ]</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#86d76d;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">ᴘᴏʟɪᴛɪᴄɪᴀɴꜱ, ᴀꜱꜱᴀꜱꜱɪɴꜱ, ᴀɴᴅ ʀɪɴɢʟᴇᴀᴅᴇʀꜱ; ᴅɪꜱᴛʀᴜꜱᴛᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ᴅᴇꜱᴘɪꜱᴇᴅ</span></span></span></span></span></span>
		</p>

		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
			<br />
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#cccccc;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Once the most respected and prestigious bloodline, the royal bloodline, </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#45b250;"><span style="font-weight:700;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Cʟᴀɴ Xᴀʟʏᴛʜ</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#cccccc;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> once ruled through extreme fear and cunning. Backdoor politicians, they are renowned in their ability to successfully pin clans against one another for their own gain. Their modern day survival under Felyndiira is only due to their cleverness, something they were once without. Viewed as the most competent diplomats and master manipulators, their greatest weakness is and always has remained their paranoia. Clan Xalyth, even now deposed, bears a bitter pride to what was once greatness. Xalyth would often think exceptionally highly of themselves, with pronounced ego. The Clan as it is now is exceptionally broken apart and disunified, with a clan leader viewed as a puppet of Felyndiira - though, perhaps it is merely a ploy to prepare their vengeance. </span></span></span></span></span></span>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>

		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#86d76d;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Xalythi Mori’Quessir may be more manipulative, bitter, venomous, and prideful compared to their counterparts. They would be exceptionally talented at reading individuals' emotions and intents, and would act upon those, even subconsciously, to be in their own benefit. Xalyth Mori’Quessir would often have an excess in ego, wearing gilded armour and weaponry, and excessive jewelry - taking great efforts to appear both regal and refined, even with their now lowly status.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>

		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Duly so, Mori of Clan Xalyth also has</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#86d76d;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#86d76d;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">charcoal grey to unsaturated black </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">skin, whilst their eyes are </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#86d76d;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">dusty indigo to rich violet</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">. However, of course, </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>all Mori’Quessir are welcome</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> within its fold, given they contribute to the greater purposes and causes the Enclave strives for! The Enclave is a unique group of individuals who have come together and attempt to band amongst one another to create a forceful society- they will directly do what needs to be done to pursue their agendas, and they- of course- have many of these, which range from the small to the vast- with one being tremendously, tremendously vast.</span></span></span></span></span></span>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>

		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">We ideally wish to form a Lair soon! We’ve already many an individual ready for this, but before that even becomes something we can consider, we need to PROVE that we can be an active community and not die out, and that involves roleplaying, staying active, and making a good and interesting culture to interface with!</span></span></span></span></span></span>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>

		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:justify;">
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#513a63;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">Join the discord!</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#b4a7d6;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:none;"> It doesn’t matter if you’re dead-set to play a Mori, just want to check it out to see if you would want to play one, or just want to hang out as a normie! </span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://discord.gg/sbMsVqvhMy" style="text-decoration:none;" rel="external nofollow"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#1155cc;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:normal;"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><span><span>https://discord.gg/sbMsVqvhMy</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a>
		</p>

		<p>
			 
		</p>

		<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
			<span style="font-size:11pt;font-variant:normal;white-space:pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family:'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color:#8e7cc3;"><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="text-decoration:none;">mreow :3</span></span></span></span></span></span>
		</p>
	</div>
</div>

<p style="line-height:1.38;text-align:center;">
	 
</p>

<p>
	 
</p>
]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">265310</guid><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:38:24 +0000</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
