Arn wrote: ↑Tue Aug 13, 2019 8:43 am
Mi-Le, a monk of the Old Order and the Steward of the Order of Lions, approaches the Abbot of the Temple of Tyr and signs the following letter in his presence:
I, Mi-Le, in my capacity as Steward of the Order of Lions and Pathfinder Hall, give Pathfinder Hall to the temple of Ilmater for the purpose of sheltering homeless orphans and refugees, with the understanding that Father Marcus of the church of Ilmater has agreed to dismantle the martial training room in Pathfinder Hall and not allow any martial training to occur within Pathfinder Hall. I have posted my intention to give away Pathfinder Hall and received no objection from other members of the Order of Lions.
May all beings be free from suffering. May all beings find a peaceful place.
Signed in the presence of the Abbot of the Temple of Tyr in Baldur's Gate in 1355 DR:
Mi-Le
弥
勒
Having donated Pathfinder Hall to the temple of Ilmater years ago, Mi-Le finally pays a visit to the guildhall-turned-shelter. Finding that his old key still works, the monk shrugs and tours the shelter. He smiles at all the beds and accommodations he sees.
Mi-Le then stops by the temple of Ilmater in Heapside. He pays his respects to Revered Mother Juna and expresses his appreciation for how the Ilmateri have honored Father Marcus's agreement with Mi-Le. "Almost four years ago I signed away Pathfinder Hall to your faith. Father Marcus was gracious enough to agree to dismantle the martial training room and use the hall as a shelter. Father Marcus was a person of integrity and kindness, but he didn't have to listen to some strange monk's request. And yet he did. I want to express my gratitude for how Ilmater's followers have honored that agreement. I have long considered the Ilmateri to be spiritual friends, and hope you think of me the same way."
Mi-Le (彌勒) -"Meditate, monks. Do not be negligent, lest you regret it later." ((-Saṃyutta Nikāya 35.146)) -Monk of the Old Order and the Way. Will not kill.
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((Feel free to reach out to Mi-Le for RP!))
Wendi - The Witch of the Wide. [Bio] Samuel Meredith
"I pray they remember the strength of faith, and the value of things beyond the physical world." Murder Rended... Mercy Mended... , Saint Merielle Silene, The Living Saint
The full moon rose bright upon the Sanctuary of Ilmater. In the calm and the quiet, dedicated hands kept their steadfast endeavors in dear embrace. No whispers to disturb the light smoke of the incense. The circle of candles, the bloodflowers, the mortar & pestle, the stonepaste... and the symbols traced on the wooden floor would be renewed, from this moon, and every other. Under the brighest light in the darkness, was there more hope to find in the shadows? Nothing to disturb determination, and instead, the history of countless Saints, Faithful, generous souls dedicted to Mercy under the banner of compassion to honor."Spiritual echoes of the past, let your songs shimmer along the lines of the brightest star of Faith. May our resolve be anchored to determination, perseverance, and compassion."
" In the End, there is Only Mercy. " Murder Rended... Mercy Mended... , Saint Merielle Silene, The Living Saint
The preparations seemed to draw the pattern of a ritual. The candles painted with the bright seal of the star, the stones adorned with the celestial runes that would draw virtue in a weighted penance, the incense that would summon forgotten faces of the past, the prayers that would whisper a wish upon a star... Nothing left aside. Another passage of the Story of Saint Merielle Silene was sung, as a lullaby in the quiet chapel. The painted candle was anointed, along the litany. The precious oils and blessed water releasing their floral scent in the chapel. Once the litany ceased, Moondark's Heart Hour covered the sky in darkest shadows. "With each step, another bell rings. Compassion as guiding star, and Mercy as prayer essence. To duty, I must bend. To service, I must pledge myself. In the darknes night I shall walk, until dawn."
A large man clad in green with green hair and a huge axe on his back brings a delivery to the orphanage. The parcels contain pelts of animals, and various healing herbs. When asked about them, he says that the gift was not from him, but from someone who wished to remain anonymous. The large man said that he simply made a promise to deliver them to Ashenie for the care of the children.
"Now this is the law of the jungle, as old and as true as the sky,
And the wolf that shall keep it may prosper, but the wolf that shall break it must die."
- Rudyard Kipling
As Declan approached the steps of the temple of Ilmater, known as the Shrine of Suffering, a sense of reverence filled his heart. He knew that this sacred place was dedicated to the deity of endurance, martyrdom, and compassion. With a small, purple crocus flower clutched gently in his hand, Declan paused to reflect on his purpose.
The purple crocus, with its delicate petals and vibrant hue, held a deep symbolism that resonated with Declan's intentions. He believed that the essence of the purple crocus embodied the qualities of resilience, hope, and transformation. It was a flower that emerged from the earth after enduring the hardships of winter, reminding him of the endurance and strength of the human spirit.
In leaving the purple crocus on the steps of the temple, Declan sought to pay homage to the teachings of Ilmater. He recognized the suffering that many had endured and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice and compassion. The purple crocus, with its symbolic representation of resilience and hope, served as a small offering to honor those who had experienced pain and found solace in Ilmater's teachings.
Through this act, Declan hoped to convey his gratitude for the temple's mission and to express his own commitment to embody the virtues of endurance, empathy, and compassion. The purple crocus was a gesture of solidarity, a reminder that even in the face of suffering, there is always the potential for growth, healing, and the emergence of beauty.
As Declan placed the flower gently on the steps, he whispered a silent prayer, expressing his deep reverence for Ilmater and his dedication to the values of endurance and compassion. With a renewed sense of purpose, he left the shrine, knowing that his small act of offering had meaning and significance in the grand tapestry of faith and humanity.
The flower left upon the stairs to the Temple is soon taken inside. Entwined with prayer ribbons, it seems it lays near the altar, where a candle for courage is lit ever day.
In the quiet hours of twilight, prayers are whispered, repeated when the sun sinks, and the moon rises.
A quiet day was passing within the city, at least for one of the many residents of the bustling city. The tielfing known as Sera, or Silverbird to those aware of her stage persona was spotted entering the Ilmater temple. Once she entered, she was seen by the carers and the Ilmatari inside heading into the lower ossuary. Many hours passed before she was seen leaving again, but when she did, she seemed calm, at peace with herself. She spent some time outside the temple, tending to the garden there. Once she was done, she grabbed her lute and played music, for herself and anyone who happened to pass by. She held her necklace, a simple one by all accounts, but to her it seemed to be the most important thing in the world. As the day faded, she could be seem whispering into a contact medallion, a whisper that saw no reply. She shortly made her way back home, to the Darius estate.
Declan Nash, adorned in his knightly armor, made his way to the Orphanage in Baldur's Gate, a place of refuge and hope for the city's lost and abandoned children. The Ilmatari temple oversaw the establishment, providing shelter, education, and guidance to the young souls seeking solace within its walls.
As Declan stepped through the threshold, the sound of laughter and chatter filled the air. Faces lit up with joy as the children caught sight of their visitor. With a warm smile, he greeted each child, kneeling down to meet them at eye level. Their eyes sparkled with excitement and curiosity as they took in the sight of the brave knight before them.
Finding a cozy spot in the center of the room, Declan settled himself amidst a group of eager children. They gathered around him, their eyes wide with anticipation. Declan reached into his satchel and pulled out a beautifully illustrated storybook, a tale of adventure and courage.
With each turn of the page, Declan's voice filled the room, bringing the story to life. His voice, steady and gentle, carried the children to a world beyond the confines of the orphanage. They traveled with brave knights, encountered mythical creatures, and learned valuable lessons about friendship and bravery.
The children listened intently, their imaginations ignited by the vivid descriptions and expressive storytelling. They laughed at the funny moments, gasped at the thrilling twists, and clung to every word spoken by their valiant guest. Declan's passion for the tale shone through, his voice resonating with warmth and sincerity.
As the story reached its triumphant conclusion, the children erupted into applause, their faces beaming with gratitude. Declan smiled, his heart filled with a sense of fulfillment. He spent some time chatting with the children, offering words of encouragement and assurance that they were not alone in their journey.
Before he departed, Declan presented a small gift to each child, tokens of hope and inspiration. The room echoed with excited whispers and grateful expressions as they received their keepsakes, a reminder that they were loved and cherished.
As Declan bid his farewell, the children waved and called out their thanks, their voices filled with a newfound sense of hope and joy. He left the Orphanage that day with a heart touched by the resilience and innocence of those he had encountered.
In the days that followed, the children would often speak of the brave knight who had shared his time and tales with them. They held onto the lessons learned and the belief that, just like the heroes in their storybooks, they too could overcome the challenges they faced.
And so, in the halls of the Orphanage, the spirit of hope continued to flourish, nurtured by the kindness and compassion of those like Declan Nash, whose noble heart served as a guiding light in the lives of the young souls who needed it most.
Quiet in the evening, the Knight of the Triad, Declan Nash, is seen leading a group of people into the Shrine of the Suffering. Judging by their look, and manners, they seem disoriented, quickly entrusted in the care of Ilmatari. In his arms, carried and almost unconscious, Sister Ashenie is unmoving. She seems barely breathing, though no words about injury or harm are spread.
She is curiously not found in the infirmary, resting as expected, but in the Chapel, before the altar, praying. Often her litanies involve lullabies, and the small Chapel resonates with her voice, sining in tender tones, rocked by the quiet cracks of the candles. The songs speak of hope, compassion, and mercy, especially for those tortured, maimed, sacrificed and desecrated. It seems she prays until exhaustion, and that, for now, she is unable to stand without help.
After bringing Sister Ashenie into the Shrine, Declan lends a hand making sure those that were rescued from Amnish persecution were well tended to. Once they were are being taken care of, Declan sits in the entry hall and recounts the last several days to those with an ear to listen.
He would begin the tale by explaining this was a rescue mission, one of great import. Four riders and one wagon left the Gate under clandestine conditions and over the course of days, they crossed the northern border of Amn and passed through the Snakewood. Declan would tell them of the undead encountered and the daring rescue of a fellow Triadic Knight.
He would continue with the recounting of Sir Asen, Sir Arkalis and Sir Marshall moving with purpose from house to house, helping those they still drew breath and laying low those that walked with malign purpose. His voice would take on a low eerie tone as he told of the Lashlord and his pit of torture that was uncovered.
With great detail he would speak of Sir Arkalis diving over the altar to tackle the Lashlord, and Lord Lyonaler making haste to assist. Then softly spoken, he would tell of Sister Ashenie. And her swift action to tend to the young boy. His voice taking on a sense of awe, as he spoke of Sir Marshall drawing his blade to deliver “Final Mercy” to the Lashlord. Emphasizing that the man’s head was quickly parted from his shoulders.
He would then stop and look over those gathered to listen and explain that all this that had happened up to that point, pales in comparison to the miracle that the knight had witnessed. A miracle delivered to that small village by an event smaller caretaker of Ilmater.
“She opened the heavens” He stated as fact, “Sister Ashenie channeled something holy. Something that shone with the light of Celestia. I felt a warmth wrap around me as she chanted names of angels in the celestial tongue.”
He would shake his head as if trying to force himself to accept his reality now.
“I-I heard my grandfather. Heard him a clear as you hear me now. My grandfather has been gone from this world for years…” He would pause for a long moment as he tried to regain his composure.
“She raised the village. I don’t know how she did it. Everyone that’s body was recovered. It was a miracle. No other explanation. I’m still trying to understand it all..”
Declan would do his best to answer any questions those in the gathering had. It was clear he was shaken. His mind racing for answers. He could only look to prayer to find them.
Upon hearing of the news of Sister Ashenie, the tiefling known as Sera rushed to the temple of Ilmater, frantic to check on the woman that she was so close to. Upon seeing Ashenie in such a weakened state, Sera pledged to stay with her and help in whatever way she could. She was seen entering the temple in her black leather armour, but quickly changed into more suitable clothes, as she spent her time, looking out for Ashenie, and praying to the Broken God, thanking Ilmater for watching over Ashenie and the ones that she helped bring back.
As the morning sun bathes the Shrine of Suffering in its warm glow, Declan Nash enters with a package carefully tucked under his arm. With a sense of purpose, he approaches one of the Sisters and gently places the package before her.
"For young ser Keltan," he says with a smile. "The lad aspires to become a Knight, and as a knight, he will need a sword and shield." His fingers deftly untie the leather wrapping, revealing a wooden sword and shield of remarkable craftsmanship. Tied to the hilt of the sword is a piece of parchment, bearing the sacred words of the Old Code.
"A knight is sworn to valor,
His heart knows only virtue,
His blade defends the helpless,
His might upholds the weak,
His word speaks only truth,
His wrath undoes the wicked."
Declan's smile broadens as he covers the gifts once again, requesting that they be given to the young lad, with his mother's permission. The gesture reflects his unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of knights and upholding the noble values of the Triadic Order.
As the moon bathed the Shrine of Suffering in its silvery light, Declan stood vigil, a stalwart guardian entrusted with the safety of the sacred temple. The night air was crisp and cool, carrying with it the soft rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of crickets. The flickering candlelight from within the temple cast dancing shadows upon the walls, creating an ethereal ambiance that added to the sanctity of the place.
Declan's armor gleamed in the moonlight, a symbol of his dedication and unwavering commitment to his duty. With every measured step, he patrolled the perimeter of the temple, a silent sentinel vigilant against any potential threat. His longsword rested at his side, its hilt wrapped in leather, a reassuring presence that offered both comfort and a sense of purpose.
As the night wore on, the hours seemed to stretch, and yet, the tranquility of the night remained undisturbed. The soft glow of the stars overhead provided a celestial canopy, and a sense of peace enveloped the shrine like a protective aura. Not even a whisper of danger or a hint of mischief disturbed the stillness of the night.
Within the temple, the flickering candles illuminated the intricately carved statues and the symbols of Imater and his saints, casting a warm glow upon the sacred relics. The scent of incense lingered in the air, carrying with it a sense of reverence and devotion.
Declan's watchful eyes scanned the surroundings, his senses attuned to the slightest sound or movement. The night was uneventful, but his vigilance never wavered. He took brief moments to reflect on the teachings of the Triad, finding solace in their divine presence and guidance.
As the first light of dawn began to tinge the horizon, Declan knew that his watch was nearing its end. With a sense of satisfaction and gratitude, he offered a silent prayer of thanks to the Triad for the uneventful night, for the protection they bestowed upon the shrine, and for the opportunity to serve as a guardian of this sacred place.
Around noon, Teris could be seen at the temple of Ilmater. He would get into a lengthy conversation with Ashenie, discussing his desire to help others and offering her an assortment of supplies to aid her in her work, with promises of more to come, including toys for the children.
Afterwards, he placed an offering on the altar and much to his confusion and surprise was blessed for his generosity by the sudden appearance of an Enlarge Person potion in his hand. He was informed by Ashenie that he had received the grace of a favor that day.
Storing the potion away safely, Teris excused himself and went into the kitchen to help prepare an assortment of pies, as he had been invited to do the night before.
As he worked, he seemed very joyful and glad for the company of those working in the temple.
Cyrah Ru'othro - The Black Bard [Currently Active]
Teris Ynarno - Genasi Druid of Eldath [Retired - May Visit Occasionally]
In the quiet sanctum of the Shrine of Suffering, Declan walked with a solemn purpose. As he passed through the common room, the weight of his footsteps seemed to echo the gravity of his visit. Pushing the curtain aside, he entered the hallowed chapel, where the presence of the Broken God, Ilmater, permeated the air.
Kneeling before the weathered altar, he lowered his head in a show of reverence and humility. With a voice touched by both earnestness and devotion, he began his prayer to the God of Endurance.
"Merciful Ilmater, Bringer of Endurance and Compassion, I humbly beseech you," he began, his words soft but resolute. "Watch over your devoted servant, Sister Ashenie, as she undertakes her penance. Embrace her in your divine love and grace, guiding her through the trials that lie ahead."
He paused for a moment, allowing his thoughts to settle, before continuing, "Grant her strength to endure the burden she has willingly shouldered and the wisdom to find solace in your presence. May your boundless compassion be a beacon of light in her darkest moments, and may your unwavering support give her courage to persist."
Declan's heart poured out his sincerity in each word as he sought Ilmater's divine intervention for the caring Sister of Ilmater, he admired. "In your infinite mercy, grant her the clarity to find healing and renewal in her penitence, and may her soul be uplifted through the trials that come her way."
He concluded his prayer with a final moment of silent reflection, his hope and trust in Ilmater's benevolence filling the sacred space. As he rose from his kneeling position, a sense of peace enveloped him, hoping his plea for guidance and protection had been heard. Taking a few more measured moments, the knight makes his way out the door, carrying with him a reassured spirit, confident that his message of devotion had reached the heart of the Broken God.
As Moondark Hearts rises upon the small shrine of the Suffering, the quiet penitent walks down to the Ossuary. Walking with the aid of a branch upon which embroideried plushies are tied with the names of "Billy" and "Dianne", she makes her way towards the resting place of the elder Painbearer and Alleviator, the Revered Father Marcus.
Sitting near, she talks quietly Whispers of care and dedication fill the air, hidden in the mists of the incense. What was spoken remains undisclosed, though she is seen leaving only with the first lights of dawn. During the night, it seems she prayed, and through him and his example, for many others. A serene peace washed her face, and the exhaustion that presided seemed almost gone. Though persistant, it might have been overwhelmed by the renewed dedication found near the deceased old man.
