Felix has cleaned up a bit from the day's work, though he's still dressed for it; smithing clothes and smelling of coal and the forge fire, with still smudges of more stubborn markings on his face and arms. Fresh from that forge, however, is carried in hand, a lantern worked to resemble a rising sun over the ocean. Freshly made for this purpose alone, Felix meanders into the area of the shrine with an air of reverence to him, to properly respect the night and the ceremony. Moving to take a seat at one of the benches, setting the lantern down on his lap.

Leta has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Ianna has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Sabella has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Darkness shrouds the Shrine of Lagoma. What lies beyond is hard to distinguished save for footballs and the indecipherable whispers which echo against the far reaches. What guides is a single lit path with an archway strung with tiny globes of oil which illuminate like fireflies in the night. Disciples, Mercies, and Knights of Solace quietly assist attendees down the shadowed aisle, leading all toward the half-circle of cushioned chairs and pillows arranged before the ever-burning, ever-holy, The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Merek had decided to put on his black leather armor with belts on it upon his usual attire, then he moves to visit the shrine for the event. He has brought a few lanterns, and settles in at a seat, while he relaxes for the time being, looking around to the various people that are around.

Esoka enters dressed in leathers dyed in deep blue - Riven colors - with her sword peace-bound at her hip. She follows an attendant down the aisle, offering them a bow of her curly head before she moves off to take a seat in a pillow.

Esoka has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

With greyhound and plenty of clanking steel to usher him in, Daemon arrives with a martial gait. Ever dutiful and ever watchful, he strides into the shrine with one hand resting atop one of the two hilts he had at his side. Once he's settled he assists those attending in finding their seats. Warm smiles had for those who would be partaking in the festivities, especially warm given the occasion that is! Once a break in duties is had he makes his way to the benches, flaring out his tabard of Gild as he sets himself down. Sighing with the first bit of relaxation he may have had all day.

Leta walks in with bright wide eyes taking in the preparations. She's prepared, dressed in reds and warm yellows for the most part. Her feathered hat even has some little smiling suns and curly flames on the rich brocade material fo the crown, perhaps to fit the event. At her side, she carries a wrought-iron lantern with red tinted glass, which she sets on her knee once she takes a seat at one of the benches, wincing slightly from some ache or another. She keeps respectfully quiet. Not counting the humming.

Within a crowd of people does Morrighan arrive, her steps quiet unlike the corvid perched upon her shoulder who throatily croaks and grumbles at everyone she passes. The Redrain Knight weaves through the massive gathering, cast iron lantern held in hand, her gaze sweeping over the many faces within her line of sight - very few familiar. Garbed from the neck down in her exotic leathers, she blends in well with the dark - save for that red hair of hers. Moving towards the Eternal Flame, Morrighan glances about, looking for an open place to sit, eventually plopping herself down near the fire.

Morrighan has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Lucita steps in the shrine, her hand resting on Estaban's arm, a smile directed upward at him. She blinks, eyes adjusting to the dim light follows the guidance offered till she makes her way down to the seating provided. She glances around, squinting just a little as she tries to make out the visages of those who have already arrived.

Lucita has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Lethe takes a long look around with an eager smile. She makes her way to the seating.

While the armor will make Thorley stand out slightly, he was able to make it directly from his duties as the sword of Westrock Reach. Stepping into the shrine, the older knight glances around towards the others arriving before he makes his own way to find a place on the periphery as he stands by quietly, arms settled loosely across his chest.

Costas slips silently through the gloom of the shrine, his rolling gait drawn askew by one hand perched upon the pommel of a slender blade strapped to his hip. The swordsman selects a seat at the periphery of a pool of light cast by the hanging globes, quietly settling in with an ankle crossed over one knee and a contemplative look on his leathery mug.

Quenia has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Quenia slips into the shrine, keeping her cloak pulled close from the cold outside. She walks through the crowd with relative ease, with delicate poise and grace, making her way to a spot close to her cousin, Lucita. She nods to those she knows, waving to them and offering them warm smiles. Those she does not know get a curious look, though her smile is no less warm for them.

Costas has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Estaban has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Merek has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Estaban walks in with Lucita looking around he smiles to Lucita and moves to follow her to sit down.

Derovai and Aerandir head in -- the latter more akin to Thorley, with all that armor clanking slightly as he moves. What Aerandir might lack for in ease of movement, Derovai makes up for, even if he hasn't bothered to dress up at all: dark clothes and gloves as ever. The two men slip into the back bench where several others are already sitting, both reasonably quiet and watchful.

Afore the Eternal Flame stands the Palace Seraph whose smile warmly welcomes those approaching. The sparkle of flame plays at the gold embroidery of her aeterna formal robes as she shifts to silent gesturing encouragement for any to accept a lantern from the Knight of Solace, Dame Thena. When all appear to have arrived and settled, Ailith steps forth into the light and addresses in a tone pitched to be heard to the farthest reaches of the Shrine. "Good evening, everyone. It is truly a blessed holiday to see many in attendance to this Rite of Lagoma. The Longest Night is celebrated across the Compact with vigils similar to Flammas lasting through the evening until dawn." She motions toward the altar, "We gather around Her Eternal Flame to share in our experiences of changes Lagoma brings. We do this in hopes Her comforts bring warmth against this cold and dark night. Some of you may have experienced Flammas through the Mercies. Families who are unable to make the journey the local temple or shrine would light a candle and place it in the window to guide the Mercies to their doorstep. The Mercies offer counseling to temper struggles with darkness and grief faced by those families or individuals living with loss. You will see many of them among you now, ready to offer the same."

Thorley has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Pyotr, a harried-looking Solace acolyte leaves, following Thena.

Pyotr, a harried-looking Solace acolyte arrives, following Thena.

Sparte sits quietly taking in the ambiance of the Flammas. He has a small smile on his face. A simple enjoyment as he listens on attentively.

Rinel has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Merek takes one of the books as it is handed to him, and then watches the proceedings, seeming to mostly keep to himself for the time being however, as he listens.

No one in the Faith has yet managed to get Thena into the aeterna robes that are expected of a Godsworn; instead she wears a black silk gown edged with white and gold and her hair falls in loose waves down her back. She makes her way quietly around the crowd, directing worshippers and exchanging a few words with those she knows. When Seraph Ailith begins to speak she quietly starts taking small glowing lanterns out into the crowd.

Ailith continues as the hymnbooks and lanterns are disbursed. "If you refer to your hymnbook, I will begin with a benediction, then welcome each of you to come forth one by one to the Eternal Flame. There upon, you can say a prayer and light your lantern. After everyone has taken their seat again, we'll raise our voices in a song composed by Lady Lucita for this holiday followed by the time we share in our stories. If you have no stories, you may listen or hold a prayer vigil. Any are welcome to stay through the night until the last candles flicker out by morning."

Her head bows and she turns to fully face the altar and Flame. Her fevered words rise in pitch and clarity as she begins.

"Our Goddess, Lady of Change, Blessed Healer of Hearth and Heart
We gather here on this longest and darkest night
to celebrate this seasonal change, day's depart,
and be comforted by your light.

Honored are we, Great Mother of Mercy, Lagoma of Light,
Behold us now as we share our experiences
and brighten and shield our hearts against the night.

May your Flame be ever Eternal,
guiding us from evening to morning,
In your name, we praise."


House Mazetti is represented en masse toda, accompanying Princess Sabella Grayson, who walks in front of the pack, alongside the Marquessa of Ostria, Cambria. Theron and Giulio trail behind them, mostly quiet in observation of religious deference to Lagoma. The quartet claims a seat at the second row of benches, with the Grayson taking the first pick, the Marquessa the second and the Sword and Inquisitor following in short notice.

The Sword of Ostria requests a lantern and a hymnbook, and, proffering quiet thanks after being given them, moves to settle down beside his brother, listening to the proceedings in relative silence.

Morrighan silently gazes about the shrine, listening while she slips a bit of dried meat from her satchel, giving it up as offering to the raven at her shoulder in order to keep him quiet. She settles her lantern upon her lap before lifting her eyes upward to the Eternal Flame, for a time. Her attention shifts towards the book that's handed, and she takes it in hand, gloved fingers smoothing over the cover.

Leta listens, eyes moving between Ailith and the flames while she thinks and her fingers run over the lantern on her lap, exploring the different textures of wrought iron and glass. She blinks as the hymn begins, and fixes her attention on Ailith through to its completion, musing over the words with a small concerned crease spreading on her brow. "Um."

Cambria, leaning over to murmur something to Giulio, unfortunately sends the slim man off. Theron hardly has any time to sit beside his brother before he finds himself with an empty space beside him on the bench. Cambria, for her part, offers what might be an apologetic shrug to Theron, before she bows her head as Ailith's voice fills the shrine.

Daemon graciously takes a lantern as well and his head bows deeply as the Seraph begins to speak. Just under his breath he's uttering his own words of prayer, a hand closed around the flickering light of the lantern as if to embrace it... Without getting burned, mind. The first time he does it he's shaking the heat off his hand, the second time he's much safer!

Duchess, a graceful greyhound, Olenna, Pellinor, 5 Thrax Guards arrive, following Alarissa.

a black robed Silent Reflection, Alarissa arrive, following Driskell.

As Ailith finishes the benediction, Thena makes a little beckoning gesture for those in the seats ranged before the eternal flame to come forward and light their lanterns from it. At this gesture a glow leaps to life around the edges of the shrine as, in unison, disciples light the candleabras.

Thena checked dexterity + all at difficulty 9, rolling 25 higher.

Felix glances over at Leta's utterance, and pauses for a moment at her seeming concern. But as Thena motions for people to approach, he stands, lantern in hand. Moving slowly, to make sure he isn't running someone over who might be also trying to join the queue, the smith would move towards the eternal flame, waiting his turn until it was lit. His own work, with the flame now lit, completed the appearance of sunrise over ocean that he'd styled the lantern after.

Esoka opens her prayer book as the Seraph speaks, curly head bowing. Her eyes close throughout it, and her lips move in some silent prayer. When it's done, those eyes rise to rest upon the flames, and she slips into line with the worshippers to light her lantern in turn.

Merek moves to light his own lantern and speak on his own time with one of the attendants or Ailith, however he seems to be doing this whenever it is called for, and moves back to his seat.

Quenia receives her lantern from Thena with a polite word of thanks exchanged in return. When it is time for her to go light her lantern, she rises from her seat and joins the others who are also doing so, waiting the moments it takes to take her turn. She holds it steadily and carefully, making sure it catches flame before taking it back to her seat.

Lucita shuffles her lute to the side, and the music scores she holds, finally just turning and setting them on the bench on which she sat long enough to grasp the lantern and moving toward the fire with the others. When it is her turn, she stoops and carefully coaxes the lantern to burn, adding its little light to the others pushing back the darkness then retakes her seat, taking the items she set down back in hand.

Lethe stands and joins those lighting a lantern. Once her own is lit she returns to her seat.

Once it is his time to do so, Theron stands with the lantern, stepping into the queue. Once the lantern is lit by the Eternal Flame, he steps away, bowing before returning to his seat, placing the lantern beside him carefully and making his prayers with focused and careful thought given to the words that he says.

2 House Wyrmguard Guards, Springbottom, the ravenous pygmy goat, Esra arrive, following Sorrel.

Ianna has left the Flammas Bench 3.

Arlo, an impossibly fluffy dog with an impossibly grumpy face leaves, following Ianna.

Listening to the prayer and hymn as it's offered up, Thorley sits quietly with his lantern. Finally, when it's his turn in the line, he moves forward to set the flame, a quiet prayer before offering gently. "Rest well." and with that, he returns, with the lit lantern to join the others at the bench.

Quenia gets Lagoma's Uncommon Prayer Book from a basket of free prayerbooks.

Rinel stands and makes her way behind the throng, murmuring a quiet litany the entire way. As she lights her lantern from the eternal flame, the young woman smiles in delight, scurrying back to the bench and cradling her lantern happily.

Taking her lantern in hand, the dame rises from her seat, moving with others towards the Eternal Flame. Morrighan flicks open the latch keeping the small door shut, and from within procures a tall, white candle. When her turn arises, she reaches up to set flame to the wick, a small smile on her lips whenever the fire catches. She side steps aside to give people room while settling the candle back within, and the lantern produces a warm glow from the amber-hued panes of glass that surround it. Once finished, the redhead returns to her seat, slouching down in it until she's comfortable.

Filing quietly into the line, Costas murmurs a few low words of oblation and appeal before carefully turning his lantern to catch its own glow from the mother flame. Upon returning to his seat the warrior sets the piece between his booted feet and returns to a posture of silent attention, making some effort to match with the solemn moment of reflection inspired by the ceremony.

Thorley picks up a basket of free prayerbooks.

Thorley drops a basket of free prayerbooks.

Esoka gets Lagoma's Uncommon Prayer Book from a basket of free prayerbooks.

Morrighan gets Lagoma's Uncommon Prayer Book from a basket of free prayerbooks.

Costas puts Master of the World in an assortment of pouches and loops hung from his belts.

Wynna, after entering, reserves herself to watching the display quietly, taking in the various rituals and prayers.

Sorrel gets Lagoma's Uncommon Prayer Book from a basket of free prayerbooks.

Derovai gets Lagoma's Uncommon Prayer Book from a basket of free prayerbooks.

Leta glances around as people begin to rise, and pushes herself a little stiffly to her feet. She carries her red-tinted lantern over to the Eternal Flame, standing patiently in line before it's her turn. Even then, she hesitates slightly, then mumbles something under her breath, expression wavering in uncertainty. She gives the fire an apologetic look and a little shrug, then lights her lantern, peeking to admire the reddish tint throgh the glass before trudging back to her seat.

Thorley gets Lagoma's Uncommon Prayer Book from a basket of free prayerbooks.

Thena checked dexterity + all at difficulty 9, rolling 16 higher.

Stepping back from the flame and carrying his lantern back to the benches, Daemon looks overly proud of what he's holding. Smiling down at the warm flame he holds in his hand when his attention is briefly caught off by a sudden and loud 'ARF, ARF'. Looking down at the source, it was his own hound Elegance. The royal hound having spotted the Princess Consort of Thrax and her own hound immediately. "Hush." He urges the dog as it gives another loud bark. "When the ceremony is done!"

Sorrel arrives a bit late with her cousin, murmuring quietly to him as they enter. She pauses to get a lay of things and to murmur her respects before she goes to find a bench to sit upon.

Sorrel has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Wynna has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Esra has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

When signaled by Ailith after all the lanterns are lit, Lucita picks up her lute steps forward and begins to play it lightly. The notes wind into a gentle melody with a poignant, easy to remember rhythm. (OOC think 'Help Me Make It Through The Night' for an idea of a similar tune) After running through the tune once, she begins to sing:

'If you only have belief',
Such a simple phrase to say
Hope contained in words so brief
Yet over lives they hold such sway.

Cleansing flames dancing bright
Help keep belief strong and true
They sustain us through the night
Untill the morning begins anew.

With meditation and in prayer
There's comfort one can find
Life's changes lay a heart bare
With joy or sorrow close in mind

When within you beliefs abide
Light a candle share the light
Stand together side by side
Share your stories through the night.

Sparte is carrying a lantern from the Iron Barracks, old and battered and unpolished but still in service. He rises up, carrying it forward and taking his turn in line to kindle the lantern from the flame. He murmurs some quiet words over the flame as he does, carefully closing the lantern before returning to his seat.

Is that barking? Thena's dark gaze picks out Elegance and her supposed guardian and her eyebrows lift ever so slightly.

Driskell brings forward his lantern as he walks with Alarissa to the Eternal Flame and stands beside her and lights his lantern; a burnished pewter one that has small figures with uplifted hands on the top of it and small unique stained glass panels on each side of the tridecagon. Giving a worded somber prayer, he unlocks the blackened glass that has a white mask which acts as a door and lights the wick inside which casts a soft glow showing each side is one of the pantheon with a ribbon of gold woven through each as it is illuminated. A trick of the light, but the figurines on top seem to dance in praise as the light flickers and moves.

Estaban moves forward with his lantern to were the flame is, he waits his turn for it to be lit. Once it is he says something softly to himself before walking back to his seat with Lucita.

Alarissa's lantern, having arrived with Driskell is a remenant from the Flammas the year before. The Princess Consort moving in matched steps and with grace as others go with her own lantern. Though her movements not in sync with his, tehy do - irony - mirror then a little. her lips moving in silent prayer and eyes closed briefly before she's raching for a flame and lighting her own lantern with a glance to Driskell's and a smile. Late is better than not coming and at her heels, a black greyhound with black pearls around it's neck.

Felix steps to the side rather than straight back when he's done, making his way back down to the bench to reclaim his seat once more. A small, but content smile on his face; a more peaceful appearance than the usually out and about cheerful air of the smith. Watching the rest of the line, and making sure his large form stays out of the way.

Quenia turns her attention to Lucita as she starts to play, and a wide smile comes to her lips as she listens to her cousin singing. There's pride on her face, and she gives Lucita a supporting look, settling back in her seat.

The Lycene knight, Aerandir, iron lantern in hand, ambles his way down the aisle to the Eternal Flame accompanied by the persistent clatter of armour. Worn, mud-encrusted sabatons on large feet push forward until the burly man nears his destination, and he has eyes only for the raging fire ahead. He fumbles with the latch, gauntlets proving clumsy in the task of it, slowly unlocking it, and slips his gauntleted hand inside in retrieval of the candle within. The light of the fire plays across gaunt, marred features, making his eyes dance vibrantly, as the man regards the sight pensively, a murmur offered with a bow of his head in reverence; in tandem with extending the hand bearing the candle. The flames try the candle tentatively, and find it to their liking, reaching faster, further, until it is lit. The Lycene then wheels about and returns to his seat at the back, beside Derovai, those steely grey eyes of his cast forwards in solemn observation of the proceedings.

Percephon has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Sorrel looks as if she is enjoying the music immensely, a broad smile on her face for her friend and fellow singer. She watches Lucita with a proud gaze, pleased by the song.

Derovai just watches the goings-on from the back bench next to Aerandir, until the larger man gets up. As Leta returns to their bench, he murmurs something quietly to her. Then Aerandir's return earns an amused little smile for the clanking, but he stays quiet otherwise.

Thena bows her head as Lucita takes the floor. When the song is over the touches the woman's arm lightly and murmurs something to her.

Esoka takes her lantern back to the bench, settling back on the cushions not far from Felix. She listens to the song, blue eyes focused upon the flame itself, rapt throughout it.

Lucita finishes the song, letting the notes fade away and bowing her head. She lowers the lute, listens to Thena and murmurs. "Thank you." A smile is given those who listened to her and she retakes her seat on the bench.

Daemon gently, -gently- grabs the Greyhound's collar and pulls her back to the benches with him. Though she had her upper lip stiff and was making some grouchy 'rrr, rrr' noises, she seemed settled enough. The Knight is casting a sheepish smile back to Thena. All under control here.

Percephon makes a quiet entrance. Walking along the side of until he settles at one of the benches. He takes a seat, smoothes his hand down his lapels and clasps his hands in his lap. Not quite praying, but, sitting in mediatative silence in order to observe the affair of honoring the goddess.

Estaban smiles leaning back in his seat watching and listening to Lucita, he smiles softly listening to her.

Bianca quietly made her way up to the bench much like Percephon had. Unobtrusive and in idle reverence as she found a seat within one of the bench viewing areas. If there was a seat nearby the gaggle of Scholars in attendance, that's where she'd be sitting!

Ailith waits until the last worshipper returns to the half-circle and moves to the Eternal Flame herself. Down to a knee, she ardently prays before lighting her candle and setting it within her lantern. With a nod, she signals then joins in the melody set forth by Lucita. Her voice is slightly raised, enough to hopefully blend her basic attempt with the harmonies of everyone. Serenity gently softens the pink of her cheeks as she bows solemnly with light applause to the Igniseri noblewoman. "Thank you, my Lady. What a lovely composition and a wondrous way to start our stories. All are free to speak as they may but I only ask that we respect one another. We may have our differences but that is the beauty in being bonded by our Faith and devotion. All are welcome in the Light if you choose it. This is a time when we share our laughter and joy as well as our cries and sorrow. Our lives are ever moving much as the seasons." She strides forth to stand nearby Thena. With grin, she gesturers to everyone. "When you are comfortable, please share any tale of how Lagoma has impacted your life -- how you may have been comforted or guided through phases of your life. Or simply when the Light has been there when all you saw was Darkness."

Bianca has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Alarissa has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Thorley has joined the line.

Felix has joined the line.

Esoka has joined the line.

Driskell has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

That barking garners Alarissa's attention, and the black hound at her heel, though that dog doesn't bark. Alarissa smiles though and a nod to Daemon before moving with Driskell to the benches, a murmur to the man and getting ready to settle in to hear stories.

Turn in line: Thorley

As worshippers start indicating desires to take part in the ceremony, Thena begins to gesture for them to come up, one at a time. Thorley is indicated first. "You may come up here or stay where you are. Whatever is most comfortable."

Quenia has joined the line.

Quenia gets up from her seat, apparently to be the first in line as the time for stories is called. She waits patiently, and looks out over the crowd to see who else might be brave enough to join her and share. And, perhaps, the Lycene's gaze offers a bit of a challenge.

Holding onto his lantern, Thorley offers a bow of his head to Felix and Esoka when they rejoin the bench. His eyes cast down into the hymn book to look it over, a small tug on the corner of his mouth as he considers Ailith's words. Will he speak? He's not entirely sure yet. Finally, he decides that someone should be the first to step up, and he rises, with a glance towards the others on the cushions as he carries the lantern to prepare himself gently in the queue.

When he's called forward, he moves to step before the eternal flame. Turning to face the others, the recently arrived knight speaks. "My name is Sir Thorley Sandreef - the appointed Sword of Westrock Reach. Before that, however, I was a sailor in the fleet. I had found a woman, a merchant to settle with. Sweet Abigail had agreed to be my wife and supplied us with a child, Lysa. However, when Lysa was six, she and Abigail were taken from me by the damnable pirates." his voice seethes with the heat of salt and anger. "I turned myself to drink and allowed it to drown me as the sea that claimed my family from me. At my lowest, that is when Lagoma interceded in the form of Duke Ryhalt seeking me out, knowing of my past training as a knight, and pulled me from my own self-imposed liquid prison to straighten up. Sober. And become a man again, instead of the castabout driftwreck I'd become. This is my first Flames festival since I have returned from the darkness that was my own pit - and I stand before the flames now to cleanse the life that once was - and step forth healed; if not wholly, then enough to perform my duties."

Driskell has joined the line.

3 Armed Confessors arrives, following Giulio.

Aerandir regards the first of the speakers, Thorley, as solemnly as the rest of the rite, bobbing his head in a faint nod of acknowledgement to the words spoken. The sincerity of the man earns a rueful smile from the Lycene, one which he maintains for a small while, his gaze resting upon the knight for the time being.

Giulio has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Sparte has joined the line.

Thena watches Thorley speak with a grave expression on her face. When he finishes she nods once, slowly. "Thank you, Sir Redreef. Change is never easy, often painful and healing takes time. Lagoma is with you. I'm glad you could come tonight."

Trailing several armed confessors, Giulio makes his way into the Shrine of Lagoma. A flit of his hand has the guards moving to take a more observational point as he moves to join Theron, Cambria and Sabella. He leans in to whisper something to them as he settles down nearby.

With a bow of his head, Thorley returns to his place upon the benches, and draws back up into his quiet observation of the others.

Derovai checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Turn in line: Felix

Felix clears his throat, once he's been called, and there is a moment of quiet before he stands up, with his lantern carried in one hand at his side, illuminating the long legs and side of the smith. "My name is Felix Meadson. I have been close to death more than once, but most recently might be remembered by some." a glance, the smith's eyes moving towards Sparte for a moment. "It is in those times when the lantern has fallen, and the night has closed around you. That you aren't sure if you're ever going to see the light again. But it is through the blessed flame of Lagoma that I am still here today." pausing, face hard to read for a moment as he reflects on the past, blinking it away after a short pause in his speech. "And through her followers, and the gift of healing that has allowed me to return to Arx, and tending a different flame. One that will, for some, mean the difference between life and death in the coming days." not often one for public speaking, Felix sits back down after a few moments of silence after he's finished.

"Thank you, Sir Thorley, for being the first and so generous and trusting of your heart to share the story of your grief with the rest of us. Grief has been one of life's tremendous challenges. Each of us handles it in different ways. And it can feel like being lost adrift at sea, wanting to be lost in that." Ailith swallows a knot at her throat. "There were times, Sir Thorley, I could have gone to the drink after I lost my family. I am glad to hear Duke Ryhalt was able to present that change to start afresh. Lagoma be praised. And wish of the Faith wish you fortitude and strength on your new journey, mended and healed."

Derovai lets out a sharp little laugh at something said at the back bench before he bites down hard on it, just that one little burst of noise somewhere amidst the stories and thanks.

2 Faith of the Pantheon trained guards, 2 Faith of the Pantheon novice guards arrive, following Orazio.

Inquisitor Jonathen, a fire salamander, Orazio arrive, following Laric.

Percephon checked perception at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Turn in line: Esoka

"Master Felix," Thena says with a smile, gesturing to the smith. "We are glad to have you back. I know your work will be much appreciated in the days to come." She's composed as the man sits again, and then her gaze snaps onto Derovai and her eyes narrow briefly before she looks around for the next participant. "Dame Esoka." And she's smiling again, with unusual warmth.

Percephon shoots a dark-eyed glance over his shoulder, peering over the tops of his glasses at -- nothing, no one -- in particular. He blinks and turns back to face the front.

Esoka listens to Thorley and Felix in silent respect, bowing to one, then the other, as they finish their words. When it's her turn, she clears her throat and squares her shoulders, flashing Thena and Ailith a quick smile before getting started. "Hello. I'm Dame Esoka Greenblood, to those I don't know. I try to keep all the gods in my heart, but I sometimes say that Lagoma's virtues are on the ones I find it most difficult to aspire to. I don't approach change easily. I'm most comfortable in routine, and within things I feel I've control over. My whole life seems like it's been a series of one big change after another, though. That's just the nature of things. And I'm better for many of them in ways I couldn't have predicted when they began. When I bent the knee and became prodigal as a girl of fifteen, I was accepting bigger changes than I really realized at the time. I left behind one sort of life with my tribe and took on another with the Rivens in the Twainfort. I've built a life for myself in the Compact I'm very proud of, though, and one that's brought me purpose in ways I couldn't have imagined as a girl. And surrounded me with people I love that I'd never have met otherwise. The things that brought about that change weren't of my choosing, but I did the best I could in that situation, and I think I've built something on that path that's made me very happy indeed. So, I hope I've done well by Lagoma in that. Thinking about how it's turned out makes me remember to be more accepting of change, and try to use the flames of it to forge something stronger and better." With that, and a dip of her curly head, she steps back onto her cushion.

Laric enters the Shrine at a slow but purposeful pace with an unlikely companion, Father Orazio. He slows to look over the benches and murmurs something wryly to the other man, voice kept low so as not to interrupt Esoka's story. His salamander is perched on his shoulder, though not for too much longer - he reaches up to lift him off, then leans down to set him down near a snowy bush. The reptile promptly disappears into the garden. Cold blooded, smold blooded. As Laric straightens up again, he gestures to a spot near the back for the two to loom and paces towards it.

a fire salamander have been dismissed.

Ailith gently grins listening to Felix's story. "We are fortunate of your return. Thank you for sharing your experience. It is by healing we are gifted with new opportunities." A flick of her eyes glances across the Shrine, lingering at a place, before she faces Esoka, a smile returned. "The Compact is all the stronger for your choices. Some of us would not be still alive without you having stood shoulder to shoulder with those who protect the Compact. Thank you, Dame Esoka."

Turn in line: Quenia

Quenia gracefully glides to step before the eternal flame, careful not to get too close to it. Her lantern held tightly in her hands, lest she drop it. She takes a moment to nod to all the others who came before her, then takes a moment to compose herself, given the topic story she's about to share, and then finally speaks, "I am Marquessa Quenia Igniseri. My brothers, Vincere Ingniseri and Pietro Igniseri, died during the Battle of Pridehall right before I arrived in Arx. I came to Arx to an empty house, and a newly made Marquessa. I was incredibly lost and lonely, and I spent many months locked away in the house, curtailed by grief, before I finally decided to move forward." She pauses a moment before she continues speaking again.

"Part of that moving forward was to visit the Shrine of Lagoma. I spent some time speaking to various members of the clergy, and eventually the cloud that had been hanging over me slowly dispersed. Not long after, my house was filled with joy and laughter again as one by one, my cousins came to join me. However, were it not for Lagoma's aid, I do not think I would have found light within the darkness that had swallowed me. I still miss my brothers, and I always will, but I am grateful that I have moved forward into my new life and made many wonderful friends." She smiles to those people she knows, and then moves to take her seat again.

Orazio follows Laric, white and gold to the prince's red, but his expression still rather stern. It's more the approving shade of stern, though, as he takes in the faithful who have gathered, lightening to a hint of an actual smile as he sees Ailith and Thena, then shading back to frowns as he takes in various animals in the sacred temple. He glides into the place Laric indicates after a nod to the clergy ministering to the event, and returns Laric's whispers with a few of his own, that smile reappearing as he does.

Dark eyes widen a little as Orazio and Laric move into the shrine, and track the salamander as it flits into the garden, but Thena composes herself to gesture to Quenia to take her turn. When the woman is finished, "I'm glad you found the light. I found it too, when what I treasured most was taken from me. Thank you."

Turn in line: Driskell

Leta falls silent and listens to the stories, playing with the lantern on her lap, either looking at the speakers or the fire. At one point during Quenia's story, she glances down at the lantern and busies herself as if trying to scratch something off the lantern's frame. This is suddenly a very important thing to do.

Quenia smiles at Thena, inclining her head lightly. "You are welcome. And thank you," she offers back at her smaller story. She offers Laric a warm smile as she realizes he's arrived, then turns to a messenger who just arrived.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Quenia before departing.

Driskell speaks quietly to Clarissa a bit before the black robed priest comes forward, his lantern held in a gloved hand up high as it casts a prismatic splash of color across the emotionless face. The flat voice is heard as he speaks, "I'm known as Driskell Stillwater. What is light except the opposite of darkness? If you take away the darkness, what will be left except a new darkness caused by blindness? And if you take away light, your eyes begin to see stranger things as your mind plays against you. Many years ago I found myself in the pit of thralldom, my family lost and my village destroyed by Thraxan reapers. I saw many other thralls that lost themselves to despair, chained by anger, hurt and desires of revenge and how they never understood that it was choice which truly shackled them to thralldom rather than being killed by their enemies. How they blamed everyone, how they blamed themselves. But in that moment when I was young and sitting alone at night by myself on my mat, He spoke and shared that the flicker of hope shines brightest in the darkest of places and I had a choice to either remain chained by my own dark passions or use them to release me." The lantern shifts slightly, the rainbow of colors cast from the glass shining still on his face and gold eyes. "I focused my thoughts to becoming better, I worked hard for my debt owner so that they could be blessed by my duty. I soon bought my own freedom through the toils I went through and used that not to lose myself in despair, but instead to use my choice and rise up on the challenge to claw my way out of that pit. My choice was to change and use my passions for the better and now I am no longer a thrall, but I am always a servant to all. I thank Lagoma as the seasons change, I pray that I may continue to ever change with them and make the world better than it was given to me."

Percephon listens to Driskell's story, nodding to himself, and after he concludes -- he rises from the bench, and quietly makes his way out.

Percephon has left the Flammas Bench 1.

Estaban has left the Flammas Bench 1.

1 Saik Guard, Gunther, a Rottweiler leave, following Estaban.

2 Kennex corsairs, 3 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Titania.

Attentively fixated on Quenia, the Palace Seraph initially misses the newly arrived. A tender knit appears between her brows before it softens to a gentle smile. "Thank you, Lady Quenia. We spoke a little of your loss in the past and I know what a step it is for you to share this story with us all. I am glad the Light of Lagoma gave you comfort and that you have found joy and laughter once more." As she turns to listen to Driskell, Ailith notices those in the back and she silently gestures to the waiting disciples to deliver items to them. Her hands fold as Driskell speaks. "It is stories as yours showing that the light can always be found in the darkest of times that brings hope. Thank you, Brother Driskell."

Turn in line: Sparte

Laric's lips twist at something Orazio says, then level into a flat and grim line. It's just briefly broken up to return Quenia's smile, albeit humorlessly, before he glances pointedly at his companion and murmurs something back to him, head ticked in consideration.

The salamander emerges from the garden near the altar, scurrying up a wall and perching there, watching on solemnly.

A light smile lingers upon Quenia's lips as she returns the message with another one. When Ailith addresses her, she bows her head formally to the Palace Seraph to acknowledge her words, then leans over to whisper something to Lucita.

Titania comes late wrapped in her cloak staying near the back of the shrine her ocean blue eyes looking over everyone as they step up and speak.

Alarissa is slipping out from the bench, the black greyhound moving with her on it's lead as she's moving beside a messenger who's arrived.

Alarissa has left the Flammas Bench 3.

Duchess, a graceful greyhound, Olenna, Pellinor, 5 Thrax Guards leave, following Alarissa.

Quiet is Morrighan as she listens to the stories being told, her gaze drifting from face to face, speaker to speaker, and occasionally drifts off to follow the arrival or departure of people from the shrine. She missed it at first, but movement near the altar catches her attention, sea-blue eyes spying that little salamander, and the dame can't help but smile.

Orazio studies those who enter and those who leave, nodding to Titania. And then Laric catches his attention, and he turns to the Master of Questions, one eyebrow raise, and his expression stern as he leans forward to whisper.

Lucita listens to the stories being told, remaining quiet as she sits on the bench.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Quenia before departing.

Sparte rises up and moves to the fore. He glances around the room, offering a nervous smile before speaking up. "I am Sparte Fatchforth of the Iron Guard. I joined before the siege, when they called for more men from elsewhere. I was young, a farmer, maybe not the youngest in the guard at the time, but close. I didn't have any of the skills I needed, but I wanted to try."

Sparte swallows, going on. "I was in a lot of battles. I made friends, and... And not all of them made it out with me." He shakes his head. "I, uh... I'm not done fighting. But before, the people I lost? They fought alongside me. Now... Now I'm in charge of people. People I'm worried I might fail." He gives another nervous smile, lifting the battered old lantern in his hand. "I uh, I stared into this lantern for what I figured was long enough to make my bunkmates worry the day I was told I made Officer. I don't know that I have the stuff in me right now to be one. A good one, I mean. But... That is the stuff I'm going to need. I need to change. I need to grow. So I'm asking Lagoma to help me do it. Not for my sake, but for the people who will be following me."

Titania nods to Orazio from where she stands looking to Sparte as he speaks giving him a reashuring look and a soft smile.

Thena listens solemnly as Sparte tells his story, then steps up to him and reachs out to rest a hand on his forearm, whispering something to him.

Rinel has left the Flammas Bench 2.

Rinel has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

"Because you consider the lives of the men and women you serve with is a step along that way to becoming what you seek, Officer Sparte. May Lagoma guide you to that potential you strive toward," Ailith responds solemnly. "Thank you for sharing. I can say, I have been there, as the youngest who stood up and tried. And now," she smiles softly and says nothing else. There's another glance to the line and back to those who gather. "As our stories are drawing to an end, any may remain behind to chat and discuss what we have heard. Many have chosen quiet contemplation. We have set aside a small area for such if you wish not to remain among the group when you continue your prayer vigil. Thank you all for coming. It warms my heart to see so many welcoming and celebrating this holy holiday."