[Hall of the Mind]
The two halves of this room have been covered--ceiling, walls, and floor--with black granite and grey marble.  Meeting seamlessly in the middle, the two kinds of stone have been carved into gently sloping, crenulated curves.  Set against the backdrop of a bas-relief carving in the grey northern wall is an altar of misty white vaalin, while an altar of snowflake obsidian lies at the foot of the granite southern wall.  You also see the Zadya disk.
Also here: Zadya, Great Lord Kabriel
Obvious exits: south, up
Djynni, Sylviana, Skarrs, Mourdeyan, Venrath, Rymn, Aydan, Balantine and Mitheirien followed.

You say, "And here we are."

Speaking to Mourdeyan, Sylviana says, "Good evening Mourdeyan."

Mitheirien sits down.

You say, "Please all be seated."

Kabriel leans on his staff.

Balantine sits down.

Zadya sits down.

Skarrs sits down.

Rymn sits down.

Aydan sits down.

You say, "Our lecturer for this eve is Kabriel."

Mourdeyan smiles at Kabriel.

Rymn leans back.

You say, "Who will speak to us on Ronan."

Mourdeyan sits down.

Laeyandra just arrived.

Zadya turns to Kabriel and cheers!

Laeyandra sits down.

You say, "Please be kind enough to give him yer full attention."

Sylviana smiles at Zadya.

Kabriel says, "I'll settle fer most of it."

Kabriel nods.

You say, "And hold all questions and comments until he opens the floor to them."

Sylviana beams happily at Kabriel!

You chuckle at Kabriel.

You nod to Kabriel.

Sylviana hugs Kabriel, who wraps her in a warm embrace.

(Iscikella moves to the back of the room)

You sit down.

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Djynni sits down.

Djynni turns to face Kabriel.

Sylviana sits down.

Djynni leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Djynni turns an inquisitive ear towards Kabriel.

Laeyandra grins.

Mitheirien turns an inquisitive ear towards Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "Greetings everyone, and thank ye for comin' tonight.  I know it's late, however given that our theme is Ronan, I thought it was fairly appropriate to have it around this time."

Laeyandra turns an inquisitive ear towards Kabriel.

You smile at Kabriel.

Sylviana nods to Kabriel.

Rymn agrees with Kabriel.

Mourdeyan adopts an agreeable expression.

Sylviana leans on Rymn.

Kabriel says, "So thank ye fer comin.  I do appreciate yer effort."

Rymn leans softly against Sylviana.

Kabriel says, "Well then let's get a few general things about Ronan out of the way..."

Laeyandra cocks her head at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "The realm of Night is like the two faces of a silver coin.  On one side of the coin stands Sheru, who dominates the darkness with a shroud of fear, and packs of his ravenous black Jackals."

Sylviana smiles at Rymn.

Laeyandra ponders.

Kabriel says, "On the other side of the coin is Ronan, who defends his domain with the glinting edge of his silver blade, shining starlight on the darkest areas of the Night, and punishing those that would use Night against the weak and innocent."

Laeyandra ponders.

You lean forward.

Sylviana nods to Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "Sheru is of course not the only one who uses Night to their advantage, as the case with Luukos who very often uses the shroud of Night against us for his deception."

Laeyandra shifts her weight.

Kabriel says, "The two forces of Sheru and Ronan are ever at war with each other, since the conception of Night itself.  They wage unceasing battle in a reality that a number of people see, but very little ever remember: The Realm of Dreams."

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Mourdeyan examines her fingernails.

You lean forward and rest your chin in your hand, a thoughtful expression on your face.

Kabriel says, "Now in terms of lineage, most of ye know that Ronan has a twin...his opposite in a way, but he has nothing to do with the same coin as Sheru...if Ronan is silver, then his brother is gold.  Phoen."

Kabriel says, "The two can never coexist in the same place for...obvious reasons."

Laeyandra ponders.

Kabriel says, "I dun want to ponder what happens if Day and Night meet in the same place at the same time."

Mitheirien agrees with Kabriel.

Kabriel shudders.

Rymn rubs his chin thoughtfully.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Laeyandra nods.

Laeyandra rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Kabriel says, "Ronan and Phoen are also related to Lorministra.  She is their sister."

Laeyandra nods.

Kabriel says, "There are many rumors and mysteries surrounding how the battle between Ronan and Sheru started, but there is very little concrete notation of what ignited the Dream Wars.  However, many years after the wars began, at a time in which the Arkati walked among the races of Elanthia, the Nalfein and Loenthra elves were the first to document sightings of Ronan.  ."

Mourdeyan cocks her head at Kabriel.

You listen carefully to Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "More recently, a number of the tomes written in those times, have been deciphered in Illistim from the older form of these Elven dialects into Common.  Now this legend has not been confirmed by scholars, merely translated from old tomes and no one can account for their veracity..."

Sylviana turns an inquisitive ear towards Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "The books tell of the story of  Hai shi Ras , which translated to Common means,  Star Fall"...and I apologize to those of Sylvan descent for butchering the language..."

Laeyandra grins at Kabriel.

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel grins.

You grin at Kabriel.

Djynni smiles at Kabriel.

Rymn chuckles.

Kabriel says, "Ronan spent most of his time on the Elanthian surface in the far reaches of the Elven kingdom.  Many times he would sit with Elven astronomers discussing the constellations of the stars, or explaining the necessary powers brought about by one s dreams.  At first light, when his brother Phoen brought the sun with him, Ronan would go and seek refuge in the tunnels under the Dragonspine Mountains with the dwarves."

Kabriel says, "On this particular evening, Ronan was standing in a field with several eager Nalfein students who wished to know more about the stars on the Yegharren Plains...which at the time were less feral and less dangerous than they are now.  The plains once extended to where the long road from the docks to Vaalor to Illistim runs now."

You listen carefully to Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "From the far end of the moor, a piercing, blood-curdling howl split the silence of the night.  It was a sound that Ronan was well accustomed to, but this was the first time that he had ever heard it in Elanthia.  It was the voice of the Jackal and it had found its prey."

Sylviana frowns.

Rymn raises an eyebrow.

Zadya frowns.

Kabriel sadly says, "Ronan sent the young students back to town and sprinted off towards the howls.  He drew his sword that lay at his waist, a razor sharp longsword with a gleaming silver blade.  As he cleared the final hill, Ronan saw the Jackal s jaw open wide, it s teeth dripping with hunger as he salivated over his prey.  Lying prone on the ground, was the body of a brutally ravaged unicorn."

You shudder.

Sylviana closes her eyes for a moment.

Sylviana shivers.

Balantine squirms.

Laeyandra frowns.

Rymn scowls.

Kabriel softly says, "The Jackal looked up from its meal and let out a low growl that sent a wave of vibration across the ground, its red eyes glaring with intense hatred at Ronan.  As the Jackal leapt forward to attack him, Ronan swung his sword down on the jagged black maw.  The impact shook the moor and rattled the jaw of the Jackal, breaking his sharpest teeth, but at the same time, the blade of the longsword shattered leaving Ronan holding only the hilt."

Laeyandra shivers.

Kabriel softly says, "The Jackal lifted his head and glared deep into Ronan s eyes, and salivated out a mouthful of blood.  He growled low and then opened its bloody maw to speak, his broken jaw somehow cracking into a feral grin."

Kabriel angrily says, "You have broken my teeth, and ruined my meal   But my teeth will grow back, and I will find new prey.  I will heal.  Can you say the same? ."

Zadya ponders.

Kabriel softly says, "Ronan didn t speak but stared back into the eyes of the Jackal, and there is no telling which side turned away first.  Suffice to say, they both turned their back on the other.  The Jackal ran back into the night to heal his body, as Ronan knelt by the side of the unicorn and gazed into its slowly dimming eyes."

Djynni's lower lip trembles slightly.

Laeyandra gazes at Kabriel with a look of utter sorrow in her eyes.

Kabriel softly says, "Not a word passed between the unicorn and Ronan, but the sorrow and an unspoken apology seemed to be within the air.  With its final breath, the unicorn leaned its head against Ronan s hand, pressing its silver horn against his palm.  Ronan held the unicorn s horn in one hand, and with the other gently stroked its mane."

Ichiko just arrived.

Ichiko sits down.

You smile at Ichiko.

Kabriel softly says, "From high up in the heavens, a cluster of stars started to grow brighter, shining its light down onto Ronan and the unicorn, enveloping them.  An instant of flashing light illuminated the night sky, making some mistake it for day.  When darkness returned, the unicorn s body was gone, and in Ronan s hand was the its silver horn."

Laeyandra bites her lip.

Laeyandra sniffs.

Kabriel softly says, "A gift of farewell and of thanks.  Up in the night sky, the constellation of the Unicorn shone brightly, but even now, it never shines more brightly than on the hour of Ronan."

Kabriel smiles.

(Laeyandra wipes her eyes with the back of her hand.)

Sylviana smiles at Laeyandra.

Laeyandra sniffs.

Kabriel says, "That is one of the primary reasons by the way that the Unicorn is one of Ronan's symbols."

Laeyandra nods to Kabriel.

Rymn ponders.

Kabriel smiles.

Kabriel slowly empties his lungs.

Sylviana sighs softly.

Kabriel says, "Alright...now onto the second part..."

Ichiko smiles at Kabriel.

Zadya grins at Kabriel.

Kabriel grins.

Venrath glances at Kabriel and slowly exhales.

You say, "Ah."

Djynni smiles softly.

You nod.

Kabriel says, "I apologize, I broke this up into chapters as it did in the tome I discovered it."

Kabriel says, "Took me ferever to go and reassemble the timeline from the scattered scrolls in the library."

Sylviana nods to Kabriel.

You say, "No reason to apologize for that."

You smile at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "Now...Ronan rarely felt the need to sleep, at least not sleep by the normal definition of the word.  He would  rest  when he felt as if his powers were starting to wane.  On those nights, he would spend lying on the grass on the plains and gazing up at the stars.  Some believe that the nights grow longer when Ronan has used too much of his power fighting against Sheru."

Laeyandra ponders.

Kabriel says, "For months after the Unicorn joined the stars, Ronan rested and gathered strength by spending more time in the Dream realm, waiting for the day when the Jackal would return, fully recovered."

Kabriel says, "The unicorn s horn was tied securely around his waist since he had first received it.  And as he wandered through people s dreams, slowly changing them or fixing them so that the people would wake up hopeful and energized, he realized that he needed a weapon to protect his domain."

Laeyandra nods.

Sylviana nods to Rymn.

Kabriel says, "This became even clearer when he came across a young woman s dream.  Her physical body was thrashing in the bed, shrieks of agony piercing the otherwise quite night.  Ronan entered her dream and saw the form of the Jackal, but in the form of a black unicorn."

Sylviana frowns.

Balantine clenches his jaw.

Kabriel says, "Now the scrolls here are vague particularly because this was a nightmare...but accounts from what the woman stated, she described the unicorn: Its mane was jet black, and its eyes glowed a fierce red with an intense hatred.  The black horn on its head dripped with blood: the woman s blood."

Rymn furrows his brow.

Laeyandra shudders.

Kabriel says, "Now, nightmares could not hurt the woman s body, but her mind was being ravaged and torn apart by the horrific images being shown to her by Sheru."

Sylviana frowns.

Sylviana nods to Kabriel.

A pained expression crosses Balantine's face.

Venrath clasps her hand over her mouth.

Kabriel says, "Before I continue though, I want ye all to realize something..."

Kabriel says, "As I just stated, the power of nightmares are within the mind, not the body.  Meaning that it can not physically hurt ye."

Laeyandra ponders.

Mitheirien shivers.

Kabriel says, "Unless yer going up against real nightmares summoned by Sheru himself...those...they can hurt ye."

Kabriel nods.

You nod to Kabriel.

Venrath furrows her brow.

Venrath nods to Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "What is important is to keep yer heart strong.  To keep your mind calm and collected.  Realize that no matter what he does, it's your faith that keeps you steadfast and that in the end is what will keep ye from succumbing."

Kabriel says, "That is what will keep ye from suffering like this young woman did."

Aydan nods.

Kabriel says, "And I jes want ye all to keep that in mind."

Kabriel smiles.

Venrath trembles as if a cold chill just ran up her spine.

Djynni smiles softly.

Laeyandra nods to Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "I dun want ye to think that the actions of Sheru can not be combated for their biggest tool is fear...and to make ye believe that ye can not fight back."

Sylviana nods to Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "And to take courage in yer heart is how to combat the Jackals and to keep yeself close to Ronan."

Kabriel winks.

Kabriel coughs.

Zadya grins.

Kabriel says, "Ahem...now...pardon the sermon, back to the story."

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Balantine smiles.

Rymn appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Laeyandra grins at Kabriel.

Ichiko smiles.

Venrath breathes almost without making a sound.

Kabriel says, "Now this woman's figure was awful...the images were frightening to say the least.  But what Ronan could not bear even more was the fact that the Jackal chose to do it in the form of a unicorn.  This was not a nightmare that was made for this woman."

You grin at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "No, this was revenge against Ronan, and this woman was caught in the middle.  Cold anger seethed inside of Ronan as he watched something so innocent turn into the very embodiment of evil."

Sylviana frowns.

Sylviana nods to Kabriel.

Rymn mutters under his breath.

Kabriel says, "His body moved without thinking as he tackled the foul beast to the ground, pushing it away from the woman s dream figure.  Ronan grabbed for his sword that always laid at his waist, but was now replaced by the silver horn.  ."

Kabriel says, "Lacking in options, Ronan pushed the horn against the black unicorn s body, and almost immediately the dream figure disappeared in a puff of black smoke, followed by a howl of pain in the distance."

Laeyandra beams happily at Kabriel!

You say, "Hmmm..."

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "Ronan soothed the woman s mind with a calming dream before returning to the plains in the physical realm of Elanthia.  He gazed down at the silver horn in his hand and then up at the stars, seeking out the constellation of the unicorn."

Kabriel serenely says, "I would not use this, if this were not what you desired.  But if you would let me, I would have you fight by my side. ."

Kabriel says, "His cool voice rang out in the night air.  As he gazed up into the heavens, the horn of the unicorn s constellation shined brightly in response.  Ronan bowed his head in respect before heading deep within the Dragonspine Mountains to visit an old friend: Eonak."

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Balantine grins.

Kabriel slowly empties his lungs.

Laeyandra grins.

Kabriel exclaims, "Onto part 3!"

Kabriel grins.

Djynni giggles.

Kabriel says, "We're losin' em left and right by the way."

Laeyandra grins at Kabriel.

Kabriel snickers.

Sylviana chuckles.

Venrath turns an inquisitive ear towards Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "The temptation to sleep is strong, I know."

Kabriel nods.

Djynni clasps her arms around her knees and rocks back and forth.

Aydan says, "Being claimed by dreams."

Aydan nods.

Aydan grins.

Kabriel grins.

Kabriel coughs.

Laeyandra grins at Aydan.

Laeyandra nods.

Balantine chuckles.

Laeyandra rubs her eyes.

You say, "But I'm sure they enjoyed what could stay to hear."

You smile.

Rymn grins.

Kabriel says, "Alright...this portion of the scrolls were entitled The Forge."

Laeyandra nods to you.

Kabriel says, "Deep within the mines of Zul Logoth, the dwarven race toiled to fine new and stronger ore.  In the deepest heart of the mountain, the master craftsman Eonak, forged weapons of indescribable beauty and power.  Ronan knew that his old friend was the only one who could forge him a weapon from the unicorn horn."

Ichiko stands up.

Ichiko says, "Please excuse me."

Kabriel asks, "For days, Ronan climbed down into the darkest depths of the mines of the Dragonspine, knowing that Eonak would only open the path when he believed that Ronan was ready to wield the power that would be forged for him.  Ronan did not know hunger, or thirst, and so he wondered how Eonak would test his resolve.  Which by the way begs the question...how does one Arkati test another?"

Ichiko bows.

Sylviana smiles at Ichiko.

Ichiko says, "Duty calls."

Sylviana nods to Ichiko.

Kabriel nods to Ichiko.

Ichiko just went south.

Kabriel says, "It was when he was pondering this dilemma that he came to a small cavern room.  The chamber was slowly filling with the black smoke of the forge, flecks of embers floating through the air.  Ronan s skin started to tingle with warmth, slowly growing more uncomfortable by the moment."

Kabriel says, "His breath caught as the smoke entered his lungs, and his entire body felt as though it were on fire.  He felt as though he would fall over from the pain of being burned from within.  Through the smoke, he could make out two distinctive shapes, and he stumbled towards them."

Laeyandra furrows her brow.

Venrath frowns.

Kabriel says, "His skin, now blistering with heat started to smolder and smoke.  A normal man would have burst into fire, but this heat was unbearable, even to the Gods.  As Ronan ran through the smoke, he found himself in front of two beings."

Kabriel says, "One was a beautiful white unicorn with a shining long silver horn.  The other was a woman who resembled the same he had rescued not days earlier."

Laeyandra cocks her head at Kabriel.

Sylviana blinks at Kabriel.

Rymn rubs his faint silvery mark.

Sylviana furrows her brow.

Kabriel says, "Ronan felt confusion well within his heart as he clutched his burning chest, his eyes tearing from the fire within him.  Without warning, the unicorn suddenly lowered its head and pawed the ground, aiming its horn directly at the woman s chest."

Sylviana casts an appraising glance at her faint silvery mark.

Balantine's jaw drops.

Venrath blinks.

Laeyandra frowns.

Rymn blinks.

Sylviana looks thoughtfully at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "The woman screamed loudly, piercing the small cavern with her voice as the unicorn started to charge towards her.  Ronan s heart raced, and without hesitation, he suddenly dashed in front of the woman as the unicorn charged her horn deep into his chest.  Pain exploded within his ribcage as the unicorn s horn pierced his heart, and he rocked back and collapsed into unconsciousness..."

You shudder.

Sylviana's face turns slightly pale.

Kabriel says, "The last thing he remembered before he fell, were both of the beings disappearing into smoke."

Rymn mutters under his breath.

Laeyandra frowns.

Kabriel calmly says, "He awoke hours later to the sound of a hammer ringing against an anvil.  The sound however was not thunderous, but rather almost melodious, as dulcet notes were being hit with every single blow."

Kabriel says, "He glanced up to see a large burly man hunched over an impossibly heavy looking anvil, swinging a hammer with his exquisitely crafted metal arm.  Ronan approached and Eonak stopped, with his hammer in the air, slowly looking up at him."

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel deeply says, "Do you know why you had to go through all that just to see me?   Eonak rumbled as his powerful gaze seemed to bore into Ronan s."

Laeyandra grins at Kabriel.

You chuckle at Kabriel.

Djynni cocks her head at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "Ronan simply stared back, with all the patience of the Night itself and answered..."

Kabriel serenely says, "Yes.  I had to be strong enough, even to resist the burning fire of your forge.  I also had to make a choice.  To know what I was fighting for, and who I choose to protect."

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel serenely says, "In the end, though the Unicorn is my partner, if she ever turned her horn at those whose dreams I have sworn to protect, then I know I must defend the woman, no matter the cost."

Laeyandra ponders.

Djynni smiles softly.

You nod.

Kabriel says, "Eonak simply nodded and then lowered his hammer down on the anvil, upon which a gleaming silver blade lay, its edge still glowing red hot from the heat of the forge.  Eonak held his hand out to Ronan without uttering a word.  Ronan immediately understood and placed the unicorn s horn in Eonak s hand."

Sylviana closes her eyes for a moment.

Kabriel says, "From the other room, Imaera entered in wearing a robe of beautiful wildflowers, and bore witness to the birth of the Blade.  She ran her fingers over the length of the unicorn s horn and blessed it ceremoniously as the horn was then placed in a mold with the blade and thrust into the fire of Eonak s forge."

Sylviana nods.

Kabriel says, "Now for those that don't know, Imaera is Eonak's consort, and often time spent time with him down in the mountain.  Some people say that this is why winter can come."

Djynni smiles softly.

Laeyandra looks thoughtfully at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "Ronan and Imaera stood still, not speaking a word as Eonak worked tirelessly on the Blade.  His arm swung down countless times, and the Blade was heated and reheated again in the forge fueled by the fire of Elanthia itself."

Sylviana nods.

Mitheirien leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Kabriel says, "After nearly a week of continuous work, Eonak thrust the blade into a vat of cold water and all three waited in anticipation for the final result.  The blade Eonak removed from the water was a beautiful silver color, almost bordering on blue.  The razor sharp edge gleamed against the light of the forge, and along the flat of the blade was an imprint of the unicorn s horn, but with absolutely no seam."

Laeyandra grins.

Kabriel softly says, "It was as if the blade and horn were an extension of the other.  At the very bottom of the blade where it would fit into the hilt, Eonak had marked his creation with a small anvil.  He then snugly fit the blade into an intricately crafted gold hilt with a broad finger guard."

Kabriel smiles.

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

You smile at Kabriel.

Kabriel softly says, "Simple...yet elegant."

Zadya grins at Kabriel.

Laeyandra nods to Kabriel.

Kabriel softly says, "Eonak handed Ronan the blade carefully and with all the reverence a peasant might give a king.  Ronan accepted the blade with an equal respect and held it in his hand.  The sword seemed to mold to his hand, as it adjusted itself to the contours of his fingers."

Kabriel says, "Ronan stepped back and took an experimental swing.  The blade cut so cleanly through the air that all you heard was silence, and in the arc of the swinging blade seemed to be a trail of shimmering stars."

Sylviana shivers.

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "And of course...Eonak asked for Ronan to give it a name."

Laeyandra turns an inquisitive ear towards Kabriel.

Kabriel serenely says, "Hai shi ras.  Your name is Star Fall."

Venrath leans back.

Kabriel smiles softly

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Djynni applauds Kabriel.

You grin.

Kabriel grins.

Kabriel says, "And when Ronan tried to thank Eonak he simply shook his head."

You say, "A fine tale."

You nod to Kabriel.

Kabriel grins.

You smile.

You clasp a hand over your mouth.

Djynni smiles softly.

Kabriel winks.

(Venrath claps slowly but distinctly.)

Venrath holds out her hand, palm facing up, and concentrates on its central point.  Slowly, particles begin to coalesce with a unified will in her hand.  One by one, petals dark as twilight begin to blossom up, taking the shape of a rosebud.  Specks of colorless pollen appear within the flower as the rest of the details are filled in.  After a moment, a perfectly-shaped black essence rose lies across Venrath's hand.

Venrath offers Kabriel a perfect black essence rose.

Kabriel deeply says, "Go, and wield it as it should be wielded.   Eonak started to walk with Imaera out of the forge, but stopped at the door.   And just so we are clear.  The heat that you felt within you, was not even close to the fires of my forge.   Eonak did not see the smile that crept to Ronan s face as he exited."

Kabriel accepts Venrath's black essence rose.

Kabriel smiles at Venrath.

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "And I will end my speech today with the one and only time that I have found to date that he used this blade."

Balantine raises an eyebrow.

Kabriel grins.

You cock your head at Kabriel.

Sylviana cocks her head at Kabriel.

Rymn raises an eyebrow.

Laeyandra peers quizzically at Kabriel.

Rymn raises an eyebrow in Kabriel's direction.

Kabriel smiles.

Kabriel says, "Now don't let it ever be said that such a blade can only be used to fight epic battles..."

Kabriel says, "For Ronan fought every day to keep his domain safe."

Kabriel says, "Ronan returned to the Yegharren Plain, with Star Fall at his side.  And for a short time, everything was peaceful.  The young elves came back to Ronan to learn more about their dreams and of the heavens.  But a lasting peace would always be hard won.  Sheru had silently been plotting his revenge on Ronan for cheating him of his meal."

Sylviana closes her eyes for a moment.

Sylviana sighs softly.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Kabriel says, "The distant howls of the Jackal came from across the moor, but this time, he was not alone.  Ronan could hear the distant steps of several paws striking the ground, coming closer.  He turned quickly to his students and told them to run, but he knew that they could not out run the pack."

You say, "Hmmm."

You lean forward and rest your chin in your hand, a thoughtful expression on your face.

Laeyandra bites her lip.

Kabriel says, ""Quickly, children!  I want you all to get in a circle, and hold hands!  Keep together, and I will protect you!"  Ronan shouted to the children who quickly did as they were told.  He removed his sword and channeled his power through the Blade, sending the children into his own sanctuary, deep inside of the world of Dreams."

Djynni smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "The Jackals soon surrounded Ronan who stood alone in the middle of the plain.  His blade was drawn as he crouched, ready to strike.  He did not wait long before two of the Jackals dived towards him, from opposite sides."

Laeyandra fidgets.

Kabriel says, "Ronan, if you must know, was never as powerful as Kai, nor was he physically large as Eonak, but few could rival Ronan when it came to cunning and swiftness.  As the two Jackals attacked, he dodged them at the last instant, watching them crash together in a heap."

Sylviana slowly empties her lungs.

Djynni giggles.

Kabriel grins.

You grin.

Balantine cackles!

Kabriel says, "From behind him the growl of two more, as he spun around quickly with a vicious sweep of his blade, sending them both sprawling to the ground.  The last four approached him a bit more warily from the front, each one bearing it s sharp fangs, dripping with drool."

Mitheirien gasps.

Kabriel says, "Ronan watched each Jackal carefully, noticing their muscles tensing as they readied themselves for the strike.  An instant before they leapt, Ronan surrounded himself with an orb of impenetrable darkness, that not even the Jackals could see through.  All four jumped into the dark orb, and attacked, each one biting hard into an arm or a leg."

Kabriel says, "The orb quickly faded, and the Jackals suddenly realized that the limbs that they had bitten were each other s.  Defeated and injured, the Jackals howled loudly and ran back across the moor to lick their wounds...rather literally."

Balantine hoots.

Djynni giggles.

Kabriel grins.

Mitheirien lets out a cheer!

Mitheirien blinks.

Djynni smiles at Kabriel.

Mitheirien folds her hands in her lap.

Sylviana chuckles.

Sylviana beams happily at Kabriel!

Mitheirien blushes a delicate shade of pink.

Rymn appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Laeyandra grins at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "Ronan breathed a silent sigh of relief, but he sensed something more was wrong in the Dream realm.  He suddenly realized that the Jackals had been easy to defeat because they lacked their leader.  Sheru had not been with them!  Ronan willed himself into the Dream realm to check on the young students."

Mitheirien frets.

Kabriel says, "Sheru growled loudly as Ronan appeared inside of the Dream realm barring the way between him and the children.  Ronan locked his dark eyes against the Jackal s and readied his Blade in front of him."

Balantine winces.

Sylviana shivers.

Laeyandra leans forward.

Laeyandra fidgets.

Kabriel serenely says, ""You shall not harm these children, Jackal."  Ronan said coolly.  Ronan leaped forward and slashed with Star Fall.  The Blade impacted pathetically against Sheru s hide, and with a vicious swipe, Sheru launched Ronan away."

Venrath frowns.

Kabriel says, "The children cowered with fear, and Sheru sniffed the air with delight as he turned his head towards the students, bearing his fangs.  Sheru launched himself at the cowering elven students, and he closed his jaw on flesh.  Ronan had barred his way again, Sheru s fangs digging deep into Ronan s arm, the acidic drool burning his skin."

Djynni winces.

Laeyandra cringes.

Kabriel angrily says, ""Children may fear you.  I do not.  Go back to your shadow, Jackal, and never return.  I protect these children s dreams."  Ronan growled out as he lifted Star Fall between himself and Sheru.  The Jackal tried to pull away, but his fangs were stuck in Ronan s arm."

Kabriel coldly says, ""You can not strike while I am so close.  You must release me to swing that pathetic toy at me.  It seems we are at an impasse," snickered Sheru.  "Perhaps you should simply let go and let me have my meal.  It would save me the trouble of having to kill you."."

Balantine's entire body tenses as he clenches his fist.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Kabriel angrily says, ""I can not strike, whelp, but I shall leave that to Star Fall."  Ronan replied as he grabbed Sheru s body with his impaled arm.  The Blade started glow intensely in Ronan s hand as the length of the sword was suddenly enveloped in white motes of light."

Laeyandra gawks at Kabriel.

You blink.

Kabriel says, "The wisps started to gather until four blazing points of light illuminated the area, each point representing a star of the unicorn constellation.  Sheru cowered back, struggling to break free of Ronan s grasp as the lights intensified until Sheru screamed in anguish.  The Jackal suddenly reared back, scrambling to get away, finally freeing himself from Ronan s iron grip."

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "The motes of light gathered into a single point along the blade of the sword.  With every ounce of strength Ronan lifted Star Fall high and drove it down, wounding Sheru along his side."

Kabriel says, "With a great howl, Sheru s voice shook the entire Dream realm.  Flashes of evil images scattered themselves through the dreams of every man, woman, and child in all of Elanthia."

Sylviana closes her eyes for a moment.

Sylviana nods.

Mitheirien winces.

Laeyandra shivers.

Djynni seems a bit less imposing.

Kabriel coldly says, ""This is not over...  It will never...end...  hissed Sheru as he slowly faded from Ronan s sight.  "I shall return...stronger than ever...  All shall...fear me..."  Sheru s  final words echoed through the air."

Kabriel says, "And with that...Sheru dissipated from the dream realm that day..."

Kabriel says, "For centuries to come, Ronan and Sheru battled ceaselessly, with both loss and gain on either side.  But this tale was of Star Fall, his life companion, which to this day, has yet to be found.  Some scholars believe that Ronan brought it to the Dream realm, and others believe that it is decorated somewhere in tribute, under the strongest of magics, waiting to be awakened, to ride again."

Kabriel smiles.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Kabriel says, "I apologize for being lengthy..."

Kabriel grins at you.

Balantine takes a deep breath.

Kabriel smiles.

Kabriel bows.

Balantine turns to Kabriel and cheers!

Rymn grins at Kabriel.

Balantine raises his fist defiantly.

You applaud Kabriel.

Rymn applauds.

You say, "A very well-told tale."

You nod to Kabriel.

Laeyandra applauds Kabriel.

Laeyandra beams happily at Kabriel!

Kabriel says, "Much like Ronan himself, I'm prone to sermonizing."

Kabriel grins.

Mitheirien agrees with you.

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Djynni smiles at Kabriel.

You chuckle at Kabriel.

Balantine grins.

You say, "If ye wish to take some questions, it's up to ye."

Speaking to Kabriel, Sylviana says, "What a wonderful tale."

Speaking softly to Kabriel, Djynni exclaims, "You told the stories marvelously!"

You nod to Kabriel.

Sylviana hugs Kabriel, who wraps her in a warm embrace.

Kabriel asks, "I guess I'll take any questions now?"

Kabriel peers quizzically at you.

Laeyandra nods to Djynni.

You chuckle.

You say, "Read my mind."

You chuckle at Kabriel.

Kabriel grins.

Laeyandra grins.

Sansil just arrived.

Sansil grins slowly.

Kabriel asks, "Alright...so anyone have any questions?"

Balantine raises his hand.

Kabriel leans on his staff.

Kabriel points at Balantine.

Zadya just left.

Mitheirien winces.

Kabriel asks, "Yessir?"

Sansil ponders.

Balantine quietly says, "I have often visited the Shrine of Dreams near the hobgoblin village."

Mitheirien stands up.

Zadya just arrived.

Kabriel nods to Balantine.

Balantine quietly asks, "What do the images mean?"

Sansil leans on his staff.

Zadya hugs Kabriel, who wraps her in a warm embrace.

Kabriel hugs Zadya, who wraps him in a warm embrace.

Kabriel smiles at Zadya.

Kabriel says, "Depends on which ye mean."

Kabriel rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Kabriel says, "There are several I've seen there."

Venrath bows to Kabriel.

Venrath bows to you.

Kabriel smiles at Venrath.

Venrath just went south.

Balantine quietly says, "I recall one with horses."

Mitheirien bows.

Mitheirien just went south.

Kabriel says, "Most are fragments of dreams, images given to us to calm us, strengthen us...the images are what ye make of them.  They are...interpretative."

Sansil grins slowly.

Sansil nods.

Balantine smiles.

Balantine nods.

Sylviana nods to Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "A dream like most things do not have one simple answer and will primarily be shown to you to point you in a direction without giving you the answer."

Kabriel says, "One of the ways that Ronan believes ye will strengthen your resolve and in the long run, will find yeself rewarded."

Kabriel smiles.

Kabriel leans on his staff.

Kabriel asks, "Any other questions?"

Kabriel says, "I'm sure I answered a bunch as I rambled on my story."

Kabriel grins.

Sansil says, "I am sure there shall be more to come."

Aydan says, "Well, I remember one of the visions from the Shore of Dreams is fairly straight-foreward."

Kabriel nods.

Sansil says, "I am sorry I missed this meeting of sorts or I assure you I would have many."

Aydan says, "The one that says "Fear not the night, for it is in darkness that hope is born."."

Sylviana nods to Aydan.

Kabriel nods to Aydan.

Balantine smiles Ayden

Balantine nods.

Speaking to Aydan, Sylviana says, "One of my favorites. It is very comforting."

Rymn agrees with Sylviana.

Sylviana smiles at Rymn.

Aydan leans against the north wall.

Kabriel says, "I actually have a ring inscribed here..."

Kabriel says, "It was given to me a while back..."

Kabriel taps a sterling silver ring.

Zadya smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel shows Zadya his silver ring.

Kabriel shows Sansil his silver ring.

Kabriel shows Laeyandra his silver ring.

Kabriel shows Djynni his silver ring.

Kabriel shows Sylviana his silver ring.

Kabriel shows Rymn his silver ring.

Kabriel shows Aydan his silver ring.

Sansil nods.

Kabriel shows Balantine his silver ring.

Laeyandra beams happily at Kabriel!

Kabriel shows you a sterling silver ring, which he is wearing.  This slender band consists of three seperate rings, each wrought of sparkling sterling silver.  The first band is etched with the name, "Ronan."  The slender middle band is carved to resemble a silver-edged sword.  The last of the three is engraved with the short prayer, "In darkness is where the light of hope is born."

You say, "Ah."

Aydan smiles.

You nod to Kabriel.

Sylviana smiles at Kabriel.

Kabriel says, "Tis an interpretation of that saying within that dream."

Laeyandra says, "Tis beautiful."

Kabriel says, "Tis one of my favorite sayings as well."

You nod to Kabriel.

Balantine grins.

Djynni smiles softly.

Kabriel says, "The light of hope is both the light of the stars, and the light of the coming dawn."

Sansil whispers, "My lady, if you will excuse me, it seems my presence is needed elsewhere. I shall see you about."

Sylviana nods to Kabriel.

You nod to Sansil.

Sansil bows to you.

Kabriel smiles.

Sansil glances at the north wall.

Kabriel asks, "Further questions?  comments?"

Sansil grins slowly.

Kabriel leans on his staff.

Sansil just went south.

You smile at Kabriel.

Rymn nods to Sylviana.

Kabriel asks, "Rotton tomatoes?"

You chuckle at Kabriel.

Kabriel raises an eyebrow.

You say, "Nae, ye did a fine job."

You grin at Kabriel.

Rymn ponders.

Rymn softly says, "Lef'm in my othe cloak."

Sylviana hugs Rymn.

Rymn winks at Kabriel.

Kabriel nods to Sylviana.

Kabriel hugs Sylviana.

Sylviana hugs Kabriel, who wraps her in a warm embrace.

Rymn hugs Sylviana, who wraps him in a warm embrace.

Sylviana stands up.

Kabriel grins at Rymn.

Balantine stands up.

Sylviana kisses Rymn on the cheek.

Kabriel says, "I think that about does it then."

Balantine applauds Kabriel.

Rymn blushes and babbles a few incoherent words, looking sincerely flustered.

You say, "Well, if no more questions, I will lead folks back to the Meeting Hall."

You stand back up.

Kabriel nods to you.

Kabriel says, "Thanks fer stayin up past yer bedtime folks."

Rymn softly says, "Tis the best time of tha day m'friend."