Like Mother, Like Son

[Bvie 1754]

 

“Very well.” She states as she looks towards the waters below with her golden eyes, stepping softly down the hill, her staff pressing upon the loose rocks and soil with each movement. “We will begin the ritual.”

 

The odd party of clerics, guards, citizens, druids, holy militants, even the pontiff himself, followed behind her as she descended towards the hot springs.

 

Slowly, the group dismounted their rides and began to spread about the spring. A nearby geyser rumbled, growing in volume slowly, before the powerful jets of water and steam broke the surface and forced itself into the air. The sun’s light shined brilliantly, reflecting a beautiful rainbow that hung in the air above them for only a few moments before disappearing.

 

A slight gesture of her hand towards the edge of the round spring signaled Gray, Daveed, and Erwin to move around the water, taking their positions opposite one another. Each took a single knee and moved a small satchel from their person.

 

With careful hands, each of the three removed a single candle, its color varying between white, silver, and blue, and set it at the water’s edge. With head bent over, they procured a small flint and steel from the satchel and spoke a prayer in a hushed tone. As their lips closed following the final word, their lights moved towards the candles wick and ignited them, allowing for a respected color to shine forth.

 

“You’re going to want to partially disrobe.” She stated as she stepped towards the water’s edge, removing a golden candle from her own satchel. “Your armor, shirt, and shoes, else you want them soaked through.”

 

“Don’t get too excited now, Daeren.” He jested towards one of the holy militants as he began to undo the clasps and bandings that held his armor in place. Additional jests and humorous comments were made in response, but her seriousness did not fade.

 

“This is not a time for jokes.” She responded to his humor as she knelt down to the water’s edge.

 

“Ah, right.” He said, correcting himself. The smirk on his face slowly fading and, following a nod, became serious once more.

 

She moves the flint and steel towards the wick, creating the small flame in her hand. “May this day be a testament to Thy Glory.” Her whispers echo outwards across the waters towards the other candles and clerics as her candle’s wick erupts into golden lights. With her words, the hymn was completed.

 

At first what was a simple breeze soon grew in power and strength, the gusts of wind rustling over the onlookers. Coats and hoods were pulled down tight over exposed flesh in an attempt to protect themselves from the sudden chill that now ran up many spines.

 

A dull hum began to resonate from the candles as the clerics remained knelt before them, their heads bowed in respect to the power that was growing before them. The wind’s gust continued to grow, rushing over the bystanders, yet the candle’s lights remain unaffected. The dull hum slowly grew in volume, competing against the howling of the gales around it, until finally a flash of brilliant light exploded from the central point of space between the candles.

 

With this, the howling gales ceased, now replaced with a comforting and ever present warm and gentle breeze. Where the loud humming once filled their ears, silence, calmness, and peace- as if they were safe in the eye of a terrifying storm.

 

She stood slowly, her white dress sliding over the loose stones that decorated the edge of the spring. Her slender hands reached for her staff, the chimes decorating its top resonating with a harmonious tune as she moved the object over the blue waters. Her lids closed as she inhaled slowly, her small frame rising with her breath then falling as she exhaled slowly, lowering the butt of the staff in tempo of her breath.

 

As the staff touched the blue waters of the spring light began to shine from it. The purifying light, channeling through the staff, began to rid the water of its serene blue coloration and replaced it with crystal clearness. The further the staff sank, the further the light’s effect spread, reaching out to all edges of the spring until finally, the spring’s waters were crystal clear. At the water’s surface, small ethereal wisps of blue, white, silver, and golden lights would rise from it, signaling the sanctified space that had been created.

 

“The Hymn is complete and the ritual prepared.” She’d state as she looked towards Karyssmov and gave him a nod. “Enter the spring when ready.”

 

He took a deep breath, following it with a huff as he placed his bare foot into the water.

 

Warmth.

 

Soothing warmth.

 

The crystal waters rippled outward from his legs as his body began to enter, displacing the waters and briefly interrupting the placidity of the spring. He paused and looked towards her after the waters reached his waist.

 

Her hands moved upwards, removing the staff from the loose rocks that made up the springs bed, and she stepped forward into the shallows of the spring. Bystanders began to murmur amongst themselves, as her steps were slow and careful. Due to the water’s clarity and the dancing ethereal lights, they questioned if she were actually walking atop the water.

 

“Karyssmov.” She’d begin as she turned to face him, looking down upon him from her elevated point. “You stand here today as a testament to your wish to walk upon the path of purity as one of Lord Tahariae’s followers.”

 

He would remain stoic and silent as he met her golden gaze.

 

“You proved your dedication to the faith.” She began to explain. “You researched the faith and reflected on. You have partaken in countless prayers and ceremonies throughout these years. You have spread the ideals to others, while utilizing them and abiding by His teachings and words in your daily life.”

 

“You proved your ability to put aside your personal issues and focus on the true mission. This was one of the hardest trials for you, your loyalty and heart divided between many. However, you have grown with your studies and beliefs, becoming an individual with a single mind and have found the path before you, the path that leads you to the Light.”

 

“You proved that you are capable of protecting the denizens of this realm from the horrors of darkness and, at times, themselves. You have assisted your brothers in arms and in faith, ensuring they never felt alone or helpless. You have been a light in the dark for many, some you many never come to realize.”

 

A slight smirk would spread across his face as he is commended. But, as his cheeks redden, he remains silent, giving a slight nod in return.

 

“Finally, you proved that you are able to conquer the darkness in your mind. Not all darkness in this realm is physical, some lingers in the hearts and minds of men. Great destruction and tragedies have been born in such dark places. You braved the endless depths of your mind, you searched yourself for the truth in the Light, and you conquered the fears and shadows that haunted you.”

 

She’d breathe in deeply before starting once more. “Your trials and tribulations these past years have led you to this moment, the final trial, where your soul will be brought in front of Him for judgement. Should it pass, you will join our ranks.”

 

He’d nod slowly. “I believe I am ready.”

 

“Then we will prepare you to face His judgement now.” She turns and nods to the other clerics looking upon the ceremony.

 

Slowly they rose up and extended their hands towards the purified waters, causing their respected lights to seep into the water. As the water shined brighter, her hand motioned downwards. “Submerge yourself to your shoulders.”

 

As he lowered himself into the shining waters, the Light slowly seeped into him. His aches and pains he had gathered throughout his labors and battles began to fade away, leaving behind a warmth and rejuvenated feeling. His recent scars began to soften and fade, returning to the unblemished state. He gave a deep sigh, feeling the pains of his life drifting away into the waters.

 

“We are His soldiers, His hand against the darkness. He demands that our bodies remain strong and resilient to do battle with the shadows. May this gift do you well in your future confrontations with the darkness and allow you to pass His judgement.”

 

She lifted her staff slowly over his head and pressed the base of it upon his forehead. “You have conquered the fears and doubts in your mind, leaving it in a pure and honest state. Allow the Light to seep into your mind and wash away the remaining shadows that linger there and all you to think clearly about the next step in the beginning of your new life.”

 

With slight pressure, she pressed her staff upon his forehead, moving his head to fall backwards into the water. As his head began to submerge, he took a deep breath.

 

He felt weightless in the water as he looked up at the blue sky and sun bearing down on him.

 

The silence of the water was reassuring, listening to his heartbeat slowly as the seconds went by.

 

His mind however, began to feel more open with each passing moment in the shining waters. As the light seeped in, the waters washed away his self doubt, his fears, his worries. All that weighed him down and prevented him from thinking clearly about what he wanted in life, was gone for this moment, and for -perhaps- the first time in his life, he could see his true path ahead of him.

 

He hadn’t noticed when the staff’s pressure had left his head, perhaps it never was truly there as he laid in the waters. Yet he remained there, enjoying the feeling until he felt the breath in his lungs begin to burn. Even then, he pushed a bit further more before surfacing to the world above.

 

“We have done all that we can, Karyssmov, to prepare you for the trial ahead.” She’d say after his breathing had become settled. “The next step is yours to take.”

 

His hand ran over his face, wiping the water from it as he looked upon, awaiting the next direction.

 

“Do you, Karyssmov, swear to devote yourself to Tahariae and He alone in both duty and in service till the end of your days?”

 

“I do.”

 

“Do you, Karyssmov, swear to take up the mission of bringing purity into the realm, through healing the wounds of the descendants and the purging of the darkness that taints the lands?”

 

“I do.”

 

“Do you, Karyssmov, swear to follow the Tenets and the Utterings?”

 

“I do.”

 

“Do you, Karyssmov, swear to accept the risks that may come your way as you take the path of the cleric, whenever it may be injuries, death, and disconnection?”

 

“I do.”

 

“Do you swear to accept the consequences, should you break any of the tenets and utterings, and face Tahariae’s wrath for betraying Him?”

 

“I do.”

 

“Lastly. Do you swear to stand by your fellow clerics and protect them, even if you may have falling outs or hate each other at times?”

 

He huffs and nods. “I do.”

 

She’s inhale deeply. “Very well, then consider your oath accepted should you pass His judgement this day.”

 

His head nods in response, preparing for what was to come.

 

However, her serious tone changes into a softer one, one of concern. “Karyssmov….” She began. “You’ve come long and far, but you know what you are taking upon yourself. This isn’t a trivial matter, something that you can’t make with a passing thought. If you have any doubt in your mind, now is the time to say so. You can bow out, and no one here will think you less of a man for doing so. Is this what you really wish for?”

 

The softness in her voice surprised her, and he looked towards the waters around him and stared at his reflection. “I…”

 

“Can Nani say something?”

 

He looked up to the shore at the womanly Kha that leaned on her staff.

 

“This is Karyssmov’s ceremony. If he wishes for you to speak, you may.”

 

He nodded, seeking the advice and works of the ever-familiar Kha. But as she spoke, he became crestfallen.

“Kary,  what are you doing? You have promised your soul to Metzli! Your soul is with her!” She exclaimed. “First Metzli, then the Aspects, now this?! What good is your word when you have switched between so many so soon?! Metzli and the Aspects are angry at you, Kary!”

 

“Honestly, the Aspects could care less….” A certain small druid would pipe up, following by a convenient cough.

 

The Kharajyr huffed, placing a hand on her hip as she leaned on her staff. “It is your choice, Kary. But know that you are betraying Metzli and as Nani is a moon priestess, Metzli comes first, even before being your munna!”

 

He looked from her to the waters and his reflection, balling his hands into fists below the surface. “I’m sorry Nani, but this is something I must do. It calls to me, and I must answer that call.” He lifted his head and nodded. “I am ready.”

 

“Very well.” She secured her staff in the loose rocks and waded towards him. Her small frame looking humorous compared to his tall and bulkier one, yet there was no question of who was in control at that moment. “May He judge you fairly, Karyssmov.” Her serious tone had returned and her palms met one another before her as her lids closed.

 

Her breathing started out deep and slow, her body raising and lowering with each intake. But as the moments passed, she became still and unmoving as she focused inward. Although she herself was still, the waters around her vibrated and rippled, a power growing within that was violently trying to escape into the outside world.

 

And in the blink of an eye, her palms turned outward and her eyes flashed open. No longer was there the golden glow, but a brilliance of light, almost blindingly beautiful and bright looked upon Karyssmov. For the first moment in his life, Karyssmov almost felt fearful of the Light as her gaze bore down upon him, her eyes staring into him. He felt helpless and powerless to stop the intrusion.

 

But it was only then that he felt the impact. He hadn’t noticed her palms thrusting forward with such speed, power, and luminosity, too busy focusing on her eyes. The force behind the strike was unimaginable and sent Karyssmov falling back into the air.

 

However, as he fell time seemed to slow…...then stop. His body frozen in this never ending moment, trapped in the air. His arms, reaching out to the blue sky, unable to move as his gaze looked to the birds that hung in the air, mid flight. His eyes turned to look at those around him, staring at him and frozen as well. The water droplets that splashed up into the air with him sat before him, and through them he was able to see the world in its concave and blurry form, as if looking through a bubble. And then his eyes laid on hers.

 

The only thing in the world at that time that seemed to be alive, was her eyes. Golden brilliant lights, shining and sparkling continued to stare at him. And only then did he realize that she wasn’t looking at him any longer. No, she was looking at his soul.

 

Deep within the golden light burrowed. Past his flesh and muscle, past his organs and bones, spiraling downward into it reached the very center of his being.

 

A dense gray fog covered the area. A blanket that blotted out the senses. Yet the Light continued to spiral through it, parting it slowly as it searched.

 

And slowly it found its way, finding his soul hanging in the never ending grayness. The golden light began to encircle his soul, creating a sphere around it as it prevented the gray fog from interfering with its work.

 

The light tightened its grasp on his soul, allowing its golden rays to run over it, searching it, viewing it, judging it. Once the light had judged that his soul was in acceptable condition, it reared back and began to form a tight spiral before lurching forward and drilling itself inside.

 

This, this was True Judgement. Karyssmov knew of it. He knew what it meant. But, he had no way to imagine what it would feel like. The entirety of his life was being seen. Another presence inside of him, looking, no not looking, Judging. Judging his entire life. From his actions to his words, but so much more as well. His thoughts, his feelings, his beliefs. All of them were being presented and judged, seeking for something to deem him worthy, something to grant him the right to walk in the Light.

 

And just as quickly as it came, it left. The golden light quickly escaped his soul, pulling back through the gray fog, passing through his body and being forced out of him.

 

He splashed in the waters, sending a wave of water up over the edge of the spring, extinguishing the candles. She gasped as she quickly gripped her staff, bearing the weight of herself onto it entirely as a cold sweat dripped down her face as the brilliance in her eyes faded away.

 

Sinking into the waters of the springs, he saw the crystal clear liquid around him becoming darker. The ritual was over, and the blue tint of the water was returning, darkening his view. For a moment he thought this was how it would end, the darkening of his vision signaling his failure, his rejection from what he had strived so hard for. But he felt something within him suddenly burst, a force rushing out of him as he looked down at his chest and began to glow with a golden light.

 

She nodded from the surface above as she saw the golden light growing in luminosity as his body began to rise from the springs depths. “Another one walks with us, brothers. Another, reborn in the light. Ensure to help-”

 

His form burst through the surface, flailing his arms as he sought out fresh air. His eyes wide as he looked down upon himself as he stood in the shallow waters. A wondrous look painted across his face as he looked down at his shining self and then to her.

 

The short gasps of the other clerics were sharper than those of the other bystanders and more pronounced. But as her wide eyes looked at him as he stood there, a small smile spread across her face.

 

“Lily…..how is he…..” Gray began to ask, his eyes wide as he stared at Karyssmov.

 

“He should be….” Daveed muttered, moving his hood down, revealing his bald head, as he looked on in awe.

 

Erwin’s head shook slowly in disbelief as his hands clasped and gave a swift prayer to the Lord.

 

Gray looked back to her. “You’re...smiling?”

 

However, that small bit of time, standing in his wondrous glow was too much for Karyssmov. For as magnificent as it felt, something inside of him gave out. His eyes began to roll into the back of his hand, and his body swayed. As the newly made cleric began to lose his consciousness he sputtered three words. “It’s…..an…..honor…”

 

As he splashed into the water and laid on  his back she bore down on her staff, slowly straightening out her tired frame. Her smile widened as she shook her head, staring at the boy that floated before her.

 

“That's my boy.”

[Archipelego 2188]

Kasfer is honestly suprise Kary wasn't smited!

[Archbishop 1784]

Mukar grumbles as he hears the news from both Nani and J'Dul.
"Of course. Much like J'Dul and Joor. A traitor who switches dieties whenever the need arises, the need for power and nothing more. Metztli is ever forgiving, but not for those who switch dieties so often, but perhaps there is room. But he will not get any sympathy nor forgiveness from Mukar, that is for certain."

[shortchangehero 4217]

Mogroka would squint his eyes. Unable to understand much, he'd presume that with all the random colors someone's son was coming out of the closet.

 

[OzYmandi 647]

5 minutes ago, Dewlox™ said:

A ghost of a certain ape-kha frowns at Mukar's grumbling "Oh f**k off, moon kizzer."

Another certain Ape-kha high fives the other ghost

 

"Stupid moon puppets"

[Greekbro33 105]

*Would be stuck Carrying Kary home Grumbling slightly*

 

"Why must you be so fat?"

[MamaBearJade 2090]

Lilliana looks at Kary after he returns from whatever spiritual journey he came from. "You better keep that magic off me." she grumbles, flicking a higan cherry at his face. "Honestly, tell me last, of all people. Remind me to beat your rump later."

[Gizzol 252]

Tepah tsk's as he stares down from the heavens "I always knew that family could never follow the Goddess" 

[Daisy 9735]

Moved to The Great Library. It shall be sorted into the appropriate category shortly.

 

If you feel this is a mistake, please contact myself or any FM and we'll restore it.