Alistair enters with his own retinue this time, moving to the Master of Questions as he surveys all that are present. The High Inquisitor leans in slightly to whisper to the other Inquisitor... the dour expression on his eternal features as he seems to be trying to ruin the moment for poor Laric.

Orazio frowns at Wylla. "You're going to smother the poor thing," he points out as Wylla stuffs the kitten in her robes. He points at the disturbing ripples, then at an empty bit of the bench, conveniently beside him. "Keep an eye on it, Blessed Wylla, but at least let it breathe." And then he sees Eleyna arrive, and his expression softens into a smile. The imperious point becomes a warm wave, and a gesture of invitation for the Archduchess.

Calaudrin arrives, wearing his usual garb of the Iron Guard. There's something held in his hands, lightly wrapped in white cloth. There's a glance given to those already gathered and he finds the appropriate place to wait.

Alaric has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Lethe does her best to not draw attention to herself as she makes her way to a seat.

Lucita has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Lethe has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Margot smiles when she sees Lethe and moves to join her cousin.

Margot has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Once Orazio's wave catches her attention, Eleyna braves a warmer than usual smile and threads her way to the bench that the Legate currently occupies. She offers a bow of her head for Orazio as well as the others than join him there. "Father Orazio. Would you mind if I join you?" Her pale eyes sweep over Wylla, Sparte, and Preston, including them in the request as well.

"Oh! All right." Wylla sets Splat down, a little relieved, and the tiny calico seems entirely oblivious to the approach of the imperious Lilybelle, clawing at the wood of the bench between Legate and Jayus Archlector. Only now does Wylla realize that Lucita has spoken to her. She blinks, looking up, and then perhaps belatedly motions Lucita to the space that Splat is no longer occupying. "Baroness! I... sorry." Her shoulders fall, just a little, and then she focuses on the ceremony about to proceed, a nervous little twitch to her lips. At Eleyna's request, she looks to Orazio, but there /is/ that empty non-kitten-occupied space beside her.

Morrighan would recognize that chirp anywhere, the sound of it drawing her gaze to her feet where she spots that flash of fiery orange and black, and the salamander immediately brings a smile to the Redrain Knight's face. She remains still while he climbs up to perch on her shoulder, and once he's settled, gives a light press of her cheek. Her eyes lift for a moment, scanning the crowd until she spies Laric, giving him a cheeky smile and a brief wave from her spot near the Eternal Flame.

Alistair seems to peer over at another Inquisitor who is present - Tikva. He seems to make a contemplative face as if pondering something. Maybe he will ask her to sing a song for this joyous uplifting occasion! He simply nods to Laric before clasping his hands behind his back and turning to regard the assembly of the Compact.

Victoria slips inside the temple, making her way to a bench and seating herself down. No entourage or pets for her: no fuss, just a glance around the temple for faces recognized before she makes her way to a bench.

Victoria has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

After a few quiet words to Alistair and a faint smile directed towards two familiar faces -- Tikva and Morrighan in turn -- Laric's expression slips into solemn, dark gaze towards the altar as he waits for the rite to begin.

The Shrine of Lagoma has been prepared for formal ceremony this evening. Scattered offerings that are usually present throughout the shrine have been put away for the evening, leaving the shelves at the Eternal Flame bare except for thirteen beautiful gold-plated lanterns, each with a sigil of a great house, order, or institution etched upon its glass. Aleksei Morgan, Archlector of Skald, looks like his hair has been recently smoothed down from a mess of nerves as he watches Faithful file into the shrine. He offers everyone smiles, even if they're nervous ones. "Thank you all for joining us," he lifts his voice to greet everyone. "Blessed Roran, if you would--" He gestures. It's /slightly/ undignified. It's a little excitable.

Tibaltus notes the time. He as well notes the continued murmurs and chatterings. His gray eyes sweep across the benchs. "Attend." he says, loud enough to be heard, but low pitched and soft enough to not be entirely unsettling. It is a stern request, but not without a sort of higher reverence for the proceedings. His gaze then falls on Aleksei and he raises his brows expectantly.

"As we are not coming to your great cities, your grace, the least we can do is offer you a seat." Preston confirms, a small smile as he shifts a little to let the Grand Duchess past "I..." and then Aleksei starts and Preston quietens down, like a young lad caught out too many times chattering during rites in the Rectory.

Orazio stands as Eleyna approaches, offering her an elegant bow. "Archduchess, it would be both our honor and our pleasure to have you join us." Then, he starts to settle down, leaving space for Eleyna. Along the way, the freed kitten gets its fuzzy little ears delicately ruffled, before the Legate tries to pretend it doesn't exist.

Decked in finery befitting the Whisper House, Saedrus arrives on quiet steps which lead him along the pews. Evergreen eyes consider the shrine, set up in formal drapes, with a small smile. The Whisper moves to settle in one of the pews for the ceremony to start.

Eleyna has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Felicia's gratified when more King's Own join the collection, nodding briefly at those in Alaric's retinue currently, absorbed in them for the moment by dint of being there and in armor already.

Thena has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Calaudrin has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Esoka has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Grazia has joined the Flammas Bench 3.

Violet has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Ugarte arrives, following Fortunato.

Fortunato has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Violet moves quietly and quickly to a seat. Her face attentive as she looks around. As she sees Felicia she waves briefly before shitting.

Tovell has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Felicia has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Roran steps forward, the dark hair of his gleaming and gathered back in a solid rope of braid. White Aterna shining as he steps forward from where he was standing to one side. "Thank you Blessed Aleksei." His voie lifting so he can be heard by all as Roran starts the rite. "We gather today in the Shrine of Lagoma to welcome thirteen representatives of the Compact. These individuals each represent one of the great institutions of the Compact, here to bring an offering for the Eternal Flame in honor of Lagoma, to choose a personal sacrifice in honor of Skald, and to rededicate their service in sight of all the gods." He moves in the measured steps aross teh freshly sown ground toward the flame. "Who stands for the Faith on this day?"

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

Orazio lifts his hand from the kitten, and stands, expression solemn as he steps forward. "I, Orazio, Legate of Concepts, stand for the Faith here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering this." He reaches around his neck and lifts off a simple, silver medallion, emblazoned with the sigil of the Sentinel. "I have worn this for over ten years, from the day I was chosen to be the Archlector of the Sentinel. It holds hope, faith, a love for justice, and an acknowledgement that no position can last forever - as the world changes, so must I. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us." He steps forward to place the medallion where it need to be offered.

An entering messenger interrupting Tibaltus' front-facing attention is not well met by his glance: a hard, inflexible stare, that follows the servant as he leaves, and then passes over to the receiver of the missive. After a slow blink, he turns his head to continue watching the rite unfold.

"May the gods look favorably upon your offering and your sacrifice, Legate of Concepts" Roran states.

Aleksei steps forward then, finding a bit of focus now that the rite has begun. "Who stands for the Templars on this day?" He kind of looks to who he expects. It's clearly none of it a surprise.

Orazio puts Amulet of the Sentinel in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Standing from his seat, Preston's movements are made slower and more deliberate by the armour - the faint sound of metal on metal as he moves towards the front, his helm pulled clear and left with one of the Templar squires, allowing him to show off his neatly trimmed blond hair. As he nears the flames, the gold and polished red of accents on his armour pick up the flickering light, reflecting it a little. His bare hand pulls out that small pin he was playing with and he pauses infront of the two archlectors, giving the item a look over one final time before his eyes lift and his voice clearly intones the words. "I, Sir Preston, Knight Marshall of the Holy Knights of the Temple, Guard to His Most Holy Dominus Aldwin, stand for The Holy Knights of the Temple here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering this simple small pilgrimage pin, a mark of my first pilgramage and my first time outside of Arx, undertaken when I was a young boy with then-Legate Fawkuhl. It is a memory of a simpler time, of comforts that I long since have had to give up, and of a time when I had certainty not through faith but perhaps more through ignorance, of the world and of politics. It is comfort, in its simplicity, and a reminder that our Faith extends beyond this place, beyond ourselves. I have carried it with me on each mission for the Templars, since I was a squire. Now no longer. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us." His hand hovers over the flame, a small hesitation before he drops the copper pin in.

Orazio sits down, quietly after consigning the amulet to the flame. His hand goes to his neck, his expression tightening for a moment, before it settles into a professional, polite intensity.

Preston puts a simple pilgrim's badge in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Aleksei listens with a warm smile as Preston describes the offering, the weight and importance of it, and then he nods. "May the gods look favorably upon your offering," he tells him soberly.

Roran steps forward again when Prestone has cleared away. "Who stands for Knights of Solace on this day?"

Aldwin has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Victus has left the Flammas Bench 1.

Thena gets to her feet and slips past her fellow Knight, coming to a stop before the flame. Her expression is exquisitely composed. I, Dame Thena, Adjutant Officer to Grandmaster Armel of the Knights of Solace, stand for the Knights of Solace, Silver Order, here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering my prayer beads. A day ago I left the city with a small contingent of Knights and returned to what was once my home in the Gray Forest. I pulled these from the wreckage where I have left them since the end of the Siege. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us." She turns to the Eternal Flame, lifts the beads briefly to her lips, then consigns them to the fire. Steel-spined, she returns to her seat.

"May the gods look favorably upon your offering and your sacrifice, Dame Grayhope and may she light your path through the darkness." Roran states, a warm smile on his face.

12 Thrax Elite Guards, Crow - Thraxian Steward, Lilybelle - Fluffy Maine Coon, Pellinor arrive, following Victus.

Victus has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Aleksei turns his gaze from Thena, the ease of his manner growing and strengthening with each offering made. His gaze turns back to the benches. "Who stands for the Crown Observers on this day?"

The arrival of the Dominus of the Faith is a subdued affair. Aldwin has no guards and says nothing, moving to one of the benches and sitting as he nods to Orazio, watching the ceremony quietly.

Grandt, House Leary man-at-arms, Abalene, the Northern Hawk Owl arrive, following Fairen.

Fairen has joined the Flammas Bench 2.

Margot rises to her feet and moves forwards coming to stop before the flame, "I, Margot Tyde stand for the Crown Observers." She draws out of her purse one of the rose gold medallions the observers wear. "This was the very first of the medallions commissioned for our order and has been with me through many difficult times and decisions." She turns to the eternal flame. "I offer this to the flame to ask for guidance and wisdom to shed light on the coming trials."

Aleksei's gaze tracks Margot as she approaches, his smile warm and encouraging. He dips his head respectfully as she sets her medallion to the Eternal Flame. "May the gods look favorably upon your offering."

Roran calls out toward the seated individuals. "Who stands for Whisper House on this day?" Looking to Saedrus in the crowd.

Saedrus stands from his quiet seat with a smile to Roran and Aleksei both. Sandaled feet ever deft as he approaches the flame. "I, Saedrus, Softest Whisper, stand for the Whispers here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering a ring," Saedrus lifts a hand, toying with Gemecittan quartz glittering in the shape of smiling, closed lips. Its drawn off his finger to hold in the palm of his hand, "designed by one of our own, now gone, and unique to myself and our house in beauty and meaning. I bring it as a memento of kinship; that in unity there is greater strength. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us." With a dip of his head he surrenders the ring to the flames with a beat of hesitation, joining the other offerings. And as softly as he had arrived Saedrus returns to his seat.

Saedrus puts gold ring of alluring lips carved from Gemecittan pink quartz in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Margot nods to Aleksei before she resumes her seat.

"May the gods look favorably upon your offering and your sacrifice, Saedrus, Softest Whisper and may you find yourself shielded in your faith and her warmth" Roran states, a warm smile on his face.

Aleksei's gaze probably lingers a bit too long on Saedrus, his smile a bit too wide than is strictly appropriate for a sober, seriously Faithly ceremony. And then he remembers himself, clearing his throat and looking back to the gathered representatives. "Who stands for the Inquisition on this day?"

Laric steps away from Alistair and his guard, striding across the Shrine to stand before the altar, chin high and voice clear as he speaks first in reply to Aleksei, then towards the altar, still clear but more reverent. "I, Master of Questions Laric Grayson, stand for the Inquisition here before Lagoma, Her eternal flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering two things." He reaches a hand into one of his coat's pockets, removing a small wooden box and a folded piece of paper. "The first is the original draft of a song written for the House of Questions by my closest friend, speaking of our resolve and acting as a potent reminder of our ideals." He opens the box and slips the writing beneath the round pieces of glass within, closing it. "The second is the first gift my wife ever gave me, a set of magnifying lenses used many times over in the years since. For all the good they've done me as a tool, they've come to mean much more to me, a reminder of love and how She guides us to change for the better." He steps forward to add the box to the offerings within the flame. "I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing things dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for Her flame to shield us." He murmurs something more quietly, then waits for Roran's words before stepping away, smile faint but genuine.

Laric puts A SONG FOR THE INQUISITION: By Princess Tikva Grayson in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Laric puts a set of intricately-crafted magnifying lenses in gold and glass in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Margot gets a large rose gold medallion embossed with a rolled up scroll from an oiled sealskin satchel with a shark tooth enclosure.

Tikva definitely makes a public squeaky noise at this point in the proceedings.

Margot puts a large rose gold medallion embossed with a rolled up scroll in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Wylla's kitten leans in, purring at Esoka. He glances towards Calaudrin too, even as he drags a paw with needle-sharp kitten claws against Esoka's shirtsleeve. "Mrrrr?" And meanwhile the Archlector whose pet he is is shifting in her seat, a little uncomfortable by now with all the items being burned. She leans across the empty space previously occupied by kitten to murmur something to Orazio.

"May the gods look favorably upon your offering, your highness," Aleksei says to Laric with a slightly crooked smile.

Roran bows his head to Laric before calling out once more. "Who stands for The Iron Guard on this day?".

Standing from the bench, he walks to front of the shrine and stands in front of the flames. "I, Lieutenant Calaudrin Estardes, stand for the Iron Guard here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering the first bow I was ever given to train with. I kept it the last twenty odd years since I lied about my age in order to enlist. It was a reminder of that time in my life." Calaudrin smiles briefly before continuing, "I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us." He unwraps the cloth from around the bow, giving it one final look before he takes a breath and lets it go into the flames.

Calaudrin puts a standard issue Iron Guard bow in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

"May the gods look favorably upon your offering and your sacrifice Lieutenant Calaudrin Estardes. May her warmth embrace you."

Aleksei takes a breath. There's a brief moment of pause, as if they're coming to a new chapter. And then he asks, "Who stands for House Thrax on this day?"

It's a slow stride that Victus makes from his place on the benches to stand beside the roaring flame of Lagoma. The Thraxian does not seem enthused to turn for a few yet painstakingly long seconds. When his scarred face turns to address the crowd again, it's with a bout of renewed confidence. "I, Prince Victus Thrax, High Lord of the Mourning Isles, Prince of the Maelstrom and temporarily Grand Admiral of the Compact, stand for House Thrax here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods." He takes a needed breath. "I bring in offering... A memory most precious to me, for it marked a part of myself that was lost being found." He holds in his hand for all to see a simple sea-shell. Carved all down its shape is rather crude scratching.

"Years ago, Princess Freja Redrain showed me kindness when I came to her griping and anxious about the responsibilities of my station. That same evening we set out on a two person voyage around the bay of Thrax, as she had asked me to teach her the proper way of sailing. It was a long evening, spent with smiling and hard truths being faced. It was with Freja's wisdom that I came to understand myself better, as a leader and as a man. Things that I would not soon forget. This is my lone possession of her's since her death." He turns the shell over in his hands several times throughout the course of his speech. "She gifted it to me after our meeting as a forever reminder that no matter how difficult things had become, how bleak the world had seemed, that there would always be a light of hope. I have kept it on my person since and it has never been far. Now, since Freja's journey to the next life..." He swallows.

"I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us."

With that, he places the shell in the fire after a moment of hesitation. As the flames flicker, he returns to his seat quietly.

Victus puts a shell carved with stick figures in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

The Eternal Flame of Lagoma has burned with a steady, even flame throughout mortal memory. It started to burn after the Great Fire that destroyed much of the Archive, and it continued to burn steadily, defiantly, when Tolamar Brand's Army of Silence attempted to wipe away the world. Something happened when the Master of Questions consigned his box and paper to the flame. Though it may be a trick of the light, it seems to burn brighter. Hotter. Almost uncomfortably so, to the occupants of the shrine.

There's a moment that Aleksei is just quietly struck by Victus's offering, and then he also swallows, touched by the emotion of the moment, and then offers Victus a small smile. "May the gods look favorably upon your offering," he says quietly.

Thena looks up from her murmured conversation as the flames grow, tugging uncomfortably at the high stylized leather collar of her formal armor.

"Who stands for House velenosa on this day?" There's a good look to the Lyene contingent. The change in light is perceptible but Roran carries on, no move made to step a little further away from the flame. "Come forward"

Eleyna rises from her seat, clutching a worn doll missing a leg in her hands. She raises her voice to speak, that rich, husky tone carrying through the shrine as she says, "I, Archduchess Eleyna Velenosa, Grand Duchess of the Lyceum, stand for the Lyceum here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering a doll that I have held dear since I was a child. It exists as the only physical link between myself and the brother that was lost before I was born, a brother that I often imagined as a companion and protector through many difficult, difficult years. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us." The Archduchess looks down at the doll in her hands and strokes her fingertips along a button-eye that is just barely clinging to the well-worn thread attaching it. She takes a breath, squares her shoulders, and consigns the doll to the flames as her eyes glitter with unshed tears.

Alistair looks as plain faced as ever. Though the eternal mask that he wears shifts slightly as that flame grows stronger and brighter for a brief moment. His eyes shift to Eleyna as she makes her offering, the new Velenosian prince's gaze sweeping those who are present.

Having served the Pantheon in Arx for 30 years, and having spent much time in this shrine, among that flame, Tibaltus' gray eyes look and widen, and stare, with some wonder at its apparent change. A noticable break from his usually reserved countenance.

"May the gods look favorably upon your offering and your sacrifice Archduchess Eleyna Velenosa. Your sacrifice is noted and I thank you for it." Roran gestures for the woman to take her seat.

Ford leans back a bit as the flame grows. He squints his eyes and turns his face as one would when a bonfire gets rather...large.

Eleyna nods to Roran and swipes a hand against the corner of her eye, an almost irritable gesture, as she quickly resumes her seat.

It's possible that Aleksei has begun to sweat just a little. Just a hint of sheen upon his brow. He's wearing leather, after all, and it's getting rather warm. He offers Eleyna a smile of particular familiarity before asking those gathered, "Who stands for House Redrain on this day?"

Gwenna lifts her hand as she steps forward, pausing before the flame. "I, Princess Gwenna Redrain, a Voice of my House, stand for House Redrain here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering my silver and emerald ring. It is a piece from a set of jewelry my mother gave me right before sending me to Arx. A farewell gift, of sorts, and reminder of Farhaven. The words spoken between us I will not share, but know this ring is a piece of that memory. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us." The words said, the princess removes her ring and gives it over to the flames. She lingers just a moment before dipping her head politely toward it and then she returns to where she stood previously, silent once again.

Gwenna puts emerald and frost delicate silver ring in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Eleyna puts an old doll missing a leg in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Violet purses her lips and squints at the flaring fire. Despite this there is a touch of awe in her otherwise solemn expression.

Laric's countenance slides as the offerings continue, smile melting in favor of a simple serenity, relaxed and at peace. That he's gotten so comfortable despite the higher, hotter flames probably has a perfectly reasonable explanation insofar as he's at the back of the shrine, though his present expression is one that seems foreign on his face.

"May the gods look favorably upon your offering," Aleksei tells Gwenna with warm, earnest sincerity. Amidst the sweating.

"Who stands for House Valardin on this day?" Rorans voice carries.

When the appointed time arrives for the representative of House Valardin to come forward, Princess Isabeau Valardin steps forward and takes thoughtful pause before she declares, "I, Princess Isabeau Valardin, Voice of House Valardin, stand for House Valardin, here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all of the gods. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to my High Lord, His Grace, Prince Edain Valardin--" At this cue, one of the offerings in her bodyguard's possession is revealed to be a rubicund sword. "--the sword, Truth, so named for his dear departed sister, Princess Tabitha." And into the Eternal Flame goes said sword. "--the spear, Valor, so named for his beloved brother, Prince Valen." And, so, too is said redsteel spear given into the great Flame. "--and the shield, Vanguard, so named for his dear brother, Prince Vance." One might begin to wonder how many weapons the Oathlands are inclined to sacrifice to Lagoma on the eve of war, but therein lies the last of them. For tonight's ritual, at least. "I also sacrifice in the name of Princess Alis Valardin, who gives her departed mother's ring into Lagoma's Flame--" Ring. Flame. Plink. "--that they may stop clinging to the bitter memories of the past, and let go of their sorrows to honor Our Lady of Change." After a pause, Isabeau retrieves one last parcel from within her cloak; a braided loop of blonde hair tied at either end with blue and white ribbons. This, too, is offered to the Eternal Flame (mm! burnt hair!) as the princess declares, "And I, Princess Isabeau, offer my own hair--" Yeah, her long, blonde locks have been chopped short at the shoulder as she removes her fur cap to confirm that, yes, that was HER hair. "--and sacrifice my own vanity and pride, that I may be reminded to choose every day to sacrifice for those in our charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. We ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us." After a brief pause of personal prayer, the princess steps back from the Eternal Flame and returns to her place amoungst the Peers, her expression stoic and serious.

Isabeau puts Truth, the valiant Oathlands redsteel sword in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Isabeau puts Valor, the fierce Oathlands redsteel spear in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Isabeau puts a knight's ring in silver and ruby in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Saedrus adjusts a sleeve of his robe carefully, eyes turned between those representing houses and institutions to the flames. A subtle gesture, certainly, but at least the courtier is draped in particularly delicate silks. It's not-- melting time, just yet. Though his gaze does tip towards Aleksei every so often, almost empathetic of the poor man's plight.

That was a lot of sacrifices but Roran only bows his head. "May the gods look favorably upon your offerings and Valardin's sacrifice Princess Isabeau Valardin." Roran gestures for the woman to take her seat.

Aleksei's brows sweep upwards at the many offerings Isabeau brings with her, and that moment when she drops her hood back. And then he pulls together again and calls, "Who stands for House Grayson on this day?"

Tikva moves forward from the bench. It takes her a moment. It is not the most graceful progression that any of those present has made here, for all that she is swathed in rippling layers of white silk, and there is a greater than normal pause as she wobbles in place, trying anxiously to shove her swollen feet back into her slippers for the dignity of the moment. That done, she does not so much stride gracefully to the flame as she does WADDLE.

But she makes it, and speaks in a fine, clear voice, a performer's voice:

“I, Tikva Grayson, Princess of Bastion and Voice of my House, stand for House Grayson here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods. I bring in offering the first medal that I earned in service to that House, in service of the Compact, during the Siege of Silence. It represents, to me, the only reward any of us can hope for in service: that we are remembered, and that if we fall, it will be in service of something more than ourself. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us.”

Tikva puts Bronze Griffin Medal in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Tikva is another who gets a rather familiar smile from Aleksei. He listens with approval for her offering, and dips his head. "May the gods look favorably upon your offering," he tells her warmly.

"Who stands for The Crown on this day?" Rorans voice carries. His gaze going to the king, expectantly.

Alaric proceeds smoothly up to the front. "I, King Alaric Grayson IV," he declares in a clear voice, "the Sovereign of Arx, stand for the Crown of the Compact of Arvum here before Lagoma, her Eternal Flame, and all the gods." He pulls a jeweled tiara out of a protective wrap of cloth. "I bring in offering a keepsake I hold of my late mother, Queen Brigitte. Whenever I picture her in my memory, she always is wearing this; it was her favorite. I choose today to make this offering to the Eternal Flame, sacrificing something dear to me as I choose every day to sacrifice for those in my charge for the welfare and protection of the Compact. I ask Lagoma to help light our way in the coming darkness and for her flame to shield us."

Alaric puts Queen Brigitte's tiara in The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Fairen has left the Flammas Bench 2.

Sparks rise from the Eternal Flame at the king's offering, the thirteenth offering presented to it. And the sparks combine in the air, into a small, flickering flame. It is not a grand thing. It is small, and frail, and delicate - a small flicker in a large room, easily extinguished. But it cannot be explained as a trick of the light, or a momentary curiosity from the movement of flames. The flickering flame races around the room. It alights near each of the Thirteen who made offerings, in recognition of them. And then it stops by others as well - by Fortunato, by Alistair, and by Aleksei. There is a warmth in the shrine, softer and kinder than the harshness one might expect of fire. The flame flickers once more in the air, as fleeting as valor. And then it is gone.

Orazio checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 7 higher.

Thena checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Preston checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 10 higher.

Saedrus checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 14 higher.

Violet checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 8 higher.

Wylla checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Tovell checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

Eleyna checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Victus checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Alistair stands there, watching as the Eternal Flame takes a life of its own, Lagoma's sparks taking light to flit and fly about the air. The blinks in his eternal dour stare as one of the sparks graces him, the man not daring to reach out to it either for fear of being burn or respect for Lagoma's blessing. He closes his eyes and bows his head in recognition.

Felicia checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 5 higher.

Fortunato checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 3 higher.

Morrighan checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Tibaltus checked composure at difficulty 99, rolling 73 lower.

Sparte checked composure at difficulty 2, rolling 11 lower.

Victoria checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Esoka checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 2 lower.

Calaudrin checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Violet sucks in a breath through her nose. Green eyes going wide as she turns to follow the flames. As it vanishes she leans back in the bench. She is suitably awed.

As the flame passes by Victus, the High Lord stares when it alights beside him. Really that's all he does, just stare with an entirely neutral expression to the roaring fire that flickers while the heat licks against his side. When it's gone again... he shrugs. Long passed the point of questioning what just happened, why, or really anything else. Goin' with the flow.

"May the gods look favorably upon your offerings King Alaric." Roran bows to the king and waits for the man to take his seat before Roran steps forward, moving to the center, in front of the flame and the case build into it, a hand sweeping to gesture to it. There will be so much molten metal in the flame. But his hand sweeps and Roran watches that not so trick of the light, that flame as it moves and closes his eyes after it's done raing about the room. Something passing in his expression before he carries on.

The grizzled priest, Tibaltus... It's all he can do to keep from collapsing. He eases himself to his knees at the spectacle, mouth agape in wonderment.

As the spark flame comes closer to Preston, he goes very still. Very still. Like if he moves the flame is going to attack him, or it might disappear. Like a bunny. Only, y'know, made of fire. Fire bunny? Still. He smiles though as he realises it is something kind, rather than a threat, and the worry bleeds away from him "Well." Preston says as the fires disappear, his words ocming on his exhale "That was....perfectly normal." And a knowing smile is offered sideways to Prince Laric. Because, y'know. That wasn't. But Preston knows how to pretend.

Calaudrin looks perfectly surprised when a flame goes flickering around the room and stops by him before racing onwards. He sucks in his breath and remains perfectly still until it moves on. He closes his eyes and begins to mutter things under his breath.

Sir Tovell Telmar of the King's own prays. He thanks the Gods (twelve of them at least). And he prays specifically to Lagoma in reverent worship of the perceived blessing.

As the flame rushes past, Thena unfurls her hands and holds one out, palm up, near the flicker. Then when it moves away, she laces her fingers again serenely.

Victoria studies the king, as he goes up to make his offering, eyes leaving the flames momentarily before returning - just in time to see the bright flames burn and flicker and spark, drifting around the room. Her eyes widen slightly before she manages a soft sigh, watching the flames dance around the Thirteen Plus, smiling softly and reverently, before her eyes return to the main flame.

Saedrus' shoulders curl in a touch, a hand lifted to his chest, just beneath his throat when the flame dances through. When it lights by him, it seems like the courtier holds his breath a moment. There's no fear there; curiosity, humility perhaps and by the time it curls away, probably quietly honoured.

Gwenna was raised, perhaps, to be of the quieter side of Redrains. While her eyes widen briefly as the flame makes its rounds and even visits upon her, she remains quiet. Still, maybe even cautious, but otherwise she remains in place and looks to where the flame retreated.

Isabeau checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

For a long moment, Aleksei just kind of -- stands there. Damp and sweaty, but his eyes wide, and then, the next moment, suffused with delighted, sunny warmth. His next inhale quavers just a bit, a little unsteady, and he looks back to Roran with his bottom lip caught between his teeth and his lips tugging to a fierce smile as he waits for him to continue.

Tikva checked composure at difficulty 10, rolling 4 lower.

Wylla stares nervously at the flame as it approaches several people on her bench, and she lets go of Splat, who lands on the floor, on all fours, of course, and then goes running through the room, looking for the other cat currently in the location. Surely it's a friend that awaits him! And he scampers over towards Victus, even as Wylla makes a little discomfited noise from her bench.

Emily checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 4 higher.

Lucita checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 7 higher.

Esoka's hand rests firm on Calaudrin's shoulder as the flame approaches him, and she continues to murmur soft in Crownlands shav. There's a tension about her, but it's more exultation than fear. She gasps as the little kitten goes running, trying to follow its path.

Laric is, at least in this moment and in this place, unshakable. He smiles as he watches the flame, hands comfortably folding over his waist again, something dangerous close to joy in the face of a man better known for dry comments and long stares. While he doesn't respond to Preston's comment, he does give the Templar a wink, turning his smile towards Fortunato for a moment. It dims back to serene as the flame leaves them, and Laric murmurs something quietly to Alistair, well at ease.

Aldwin found himself standing in wonder as the flame rushes past. He is still standing, eyes wide, as the flames disappear. And then the Dominus of the Faith sinks to his knees, bows his head, and begins to pray quietly in thanks.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice arrives, following Khanne.

Fortunato straightens in his seat when the fire briefly stops by him, his smile a tentative thing. He speaks quietly. "Thank you for the growth allotted us, the change you have taught us to embody. Even in loss, even through loss."

Tikva is smiling widely, like an idiot, but her face is wet with freshets of tears, and her eyes shine as she looks to the fire. She twists and spins in a flare of silk, looking for Laric, and she breaks ranks to start to move toward him only to stop because he's all the way over there. She mouths something at him /super excitedly/ but who knows if it makes any sense.

"Take a moment." Take quite a few moments. "Think about what you have laid in the flame. What you have chosen to give up. What you have declared precious but made a desire to show Lagoma that you are willing to part with, to sacrifice something dear to you that you have kept all this time. Think on that for a moment." Roran lets the silence take, lets it sit as pregnant as Tikva is while he turn to the flame and look at it. After a few moments, he turns back to face the crowd.

"We have gathered before Lagoma's most holy flame. Side by side, thirteen groups in number, on the cusp of a turning point within our world, our Compact." Roran's hands lift, spread wide to encompass everyone on the benches. "A chance for enormous growth. A time of momentous choices. We are filled with trepidation and fear. Doubt and anxiety. Hope and desire. We all share a single thing in common that spans the breadth of who we are, where we come from and whomever it is that we serve." Rorans hands close together, his dark brows relaying his emotions.

"Sacrifice."

Roran inhales deeply, looking out over the people. "There will be much of it in many ways before what comes to pass will pass. It will be the soldier leaving behind his family, off to protect it with his hand and his sword. It will be noble staying behind instead of striking out, to ensure that while fighting goes on, there will still be a home to come back to. The armorsmith who will toil through the night to ensure that every last piece of armor." A forefinger jabs at the air gently. "Is finished to protect our people. Small sacrifices, large sacrifices. But before Lagoma, each of you have given a personal sacrifice to the Lady of Change. You have taken something of value to yourself and placed it before her. You have given of yourself. And now, She gives of Herself. A small measure of Her warmth to you, to kindle in this lamp, to light your homes. From these lamps, those who serve you will light their own lamps or lanterns, will carry the flame to their homes, and so on, and so forth. You will

Esoka says in Crownlands shav, "Lagoma, our Lady of Change, are you with us? Thank you. I shall try to better love the changes you bring me."

Jericho arrives late! Though he usually always arrives late...geez. But alas, he arrivesto watch the festivities, dressed in his armor with sword on his hip. His eyes watching onward as people lit their flames and seem to be in merry spirits. Then Roran speaks again, and has Jericho's attention.

Khanne arrives very late, but just in time to hear Roran speak. She stops in her tracks to listen in quiet respect.

Lucita watches as the flame darts by, eyes widening, lips parting to frame a quick intake of breath but otherwise just listening, watching in wonder.

Late to the gathering, the Lady Deepwood pauses at the doorway to watch the play of fire that moves around the room. Her eyes widen and Emily restrains the urge to run forward as a momentary panic shows upon her face until the words of the Archlector seem rather calm considering all that is going on. Still somewhat unsure, she manages to slowly draw closer, blue eyes finding Aleksei for a moment, lingering there before she gives her attention to Roran. She comes to stand still fingers clasping together and curling, unfolding and curling again.

"You will place these where all can see and take, carrying Her with you. Across the city, across the waters, through the woods. Everywhere. Everywhere we look, she will cast her light, guide and welcome us home. So as you leave today, with your lantern, remember her. Her warmth. The feeling as we sit or stand here and pray. Of the virtues of change and mercy, of growth and love. Above all, mercy." Roran seems finished and he steps back with a sweep of his hand for Aleksei to step forward.

As the divine spark makes its way around the room -- for, surely, this is what they have all just witnessed -- Princess Isabeau delicately grasps at the open air near her right temple and curls her fingers delicately and touches her chest in a gesture of devotion before bowing her head.

Aleksei lacks the great oration of some others of the Faith; when he speaks, it's warm, earnest, personable. (Some traditionalists would sneeringly call it 'casual.') And right now, more than that, there's a sort of barely-banked joy, new feeling bleeding into what is clearly a prepared (or mostly prepared) speech. "Skald is newly-returned to the Pantheon, but the restoration of his message and domain has been a process of remembering what our hearts already knew of our lives and our virtues," he says. "Skald created humanity to be unbound. To be free. To make our choices. We honor that gift by honoring each of the Pantheon in our lives, so that their virtues can help to guide our choices. Each of the representatives who has joined us today holds the lives of others in their hands in some way. Each of them have taken oaths of service, and each of them honor those oaths, as Limerance commands us to do." He pauses a moment, taking a breath. "But each of them also /chooses/ to honor those oaths every day of their lives. We all have freedom to act well or poorly. To honor our vows or disregard them. The fact that we can choose good or evil, that we /must/ choose good in order to be good, is what gives our actions meaning. And so each representative here has made a choice. They choose to serve the people in their care. They choose to serve the Compact. And they choose today to give some piece of themselves, something important, to honor the gods and their vows. And now that these offerings have been made, the Faith offers each of them something in return: a gift of Lagoma."

He turns now to the Eternal Flame. It's a bit of a test of endurance, but he steps closer, retrieving one of the gold-plated lanterns lining the shelves built within its base; the glass is etched with the sigil of the Crown. He uses the taper to light the lantern from the Eternal Flame and then turns with the lamp in hand. He looks to Alaric, presenting it to him.

"King Alaric Grayson IV," Aleksei begins, "Sovereign of Arx and Protector of Arvum: May Lagoma’s fire light your way in the darkness. I charge you to keep this flame safe, to protect it and let it serve as a beacon of hope and steadiness for the Compact as you lead it through the dark to victory in the light of the gods. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

Aleksei gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of the Crown from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Alaric steps up to receive the first lamp. "I humbly accept this lantern, Archlector," he replies formally, taking it into his possession.

Margot has left the Flammas Bench 2.

Roran gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of House Grayson from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Roran stoops down to gather the lamp with Grayson's sigil on it. He straightens and looks to Tikva and waits for her to waddle back up. "Princess Tikva Grayson, Voice of your House. May Lagoma's fire light your way in the darkness. I charge you to keep this flame safe, to protect it and let it serve as a beacon of hope and steadiness for the Compact as you lead it through the dark to victory in the light of the gods. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

As Tikva waddles back up (not unlike a duck), her face is still bright with the tracks of her tears, and her eyes still shine with more unshed. She sniffles hard as she takes the lantern, and holds it high above her head as she says, "I will, with all the hope and faith of my heart."

Vanora has left the Flammas Bench 2.

4 Kennex corsairs have been dismissed.

Serena, the charming Stormward lady-in-waiting have been dismissed.

Aleksei gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of House Valardin from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

"Princess Isabeau, Voice of House Valardin," Aleksei calls next, lighting the lamp marked with a dragon sigil. "May Lagoma’s fire light your way in the darkness, serving as a beacon for all of those House Valardin bears responsibility for. I charge you to keep this light safe, to protect it and share it with your armies and vassals, and they with their armies and their vassals, so that the light of the gods might spread and bolster the hearts of the Faithful under your charge. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma? He extends it to her, the flame flickering behind glass.

Again, Isabeau steps forward in her blue and white gown to accept the lamp that is offered to her and replies in her smooth contralto, "I will, Archlector. Gods bless you. Gods bless the Compact."

Roran gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of House Redrain from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Roran stoops down to gather the lamp with Redrain sigil on it. He straightens and smiles. "Princess Gwenna. May Lagoma's fire light your way in the darkness. I charge you to keep this flame safe, to protect it and let it serve as a beacon of hope and steadiness for the Compact as you lead it through the dark to victory in the light of the gods. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

Gwenna steps forward again. Bowing her head in respect and acknowledgement, she then lifts her gaze to Roran and replies. "I accept this lantern and all of the responsibilities inherent with it, I do promise, and am honored to do so."

Aleksei gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of House Velenosa from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Aleksei turns his gaze to Eleyna among those gathered, his smile one of warm affection. "Archduchess Eleyna, Grand Duchess of the Lyceum and Archduchess of Lenosia," he says, presenting the lamp marked with Velenosa's fox, lit from the Eternal Flame. "May Lagoma’s fire light your way in the darkness, serving as a beacon for all of those House Velenosa bears responsibility for. I charge you to keep this light safe, to protect it and share it with your armies and vassals, and they with their armies and their vassals, so that the light of the gods might spread and bolster the hearts of the Faithful under your charge. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?

Eleyna steps forward once more to receive the lantern. Her face is even paler than usual as she murmurs with a bow of her head, "I accept this lantern and the charge that goes with it, Archlector."

Roran gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of House Thrax from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Roran stoops down to gather the lamp with Thrax sigil on it. Straightening, he looks to the Prince of Maelstrom. "Prince Victus Thrax. May Lagoma's fire light your way in the darkness. I charge you to keep this flame safe, to protect it and let it serve as a beacon of hope and steadiness for the Compact as you lead it through the dark to victory in the light of the gods. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

Victus stands up. "Yep, I will." He drawls out in usual deadpanned fashion, holding out his hands to accept it.

"Calaudrin Estrades, Lieutenant of the Iron Guard," Aleksei calls up next, lighting and presenting the lamp marked with the Iron Guard's crossed swords. "May Lagoma’s fire light your way in the darkness, serving as a beacon for all the Iron Guard bears responsibility for. I charge you to keep this light safe, to protect it and share it with your guards and armies, that the light of the gods might spread and bolster the hearts of the Faithful under your charge. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?

Aleksei gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of the Iron Guard from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Calaudrin stands up from his seat once again and makes his way over to Aleksei. "Yes, I will. Iron and Blood, Blessed Aleksei." With that, he'll take the lamp off of his hands.

Roran gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of the Inquisition from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

The lamp for the Inquisition is fetched, offered out to Laric. "Master of Questions, Prince Laric Grayson. May Lagoma's fire light your way in the darkness. I charge you to keep this flame safe, to protect it and let it serve as a beacon of hope and steadiness for the Compact as you lead it through the dark to victory in the light of the gods. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

It takes Laric a bit longer to reach the altar than his first time across the Shrine, striding at a measured pace. "With honor and humility, Archlector. It will light the House of Questions' dark halls and the Inquisition's path." He takes the lantern carefully in his hands and returns to his place.

Tikva sniffles noisily and scrubs some of the tears off her face with her arm.

Aleksei gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of the Whisper House from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

There's a /particular/ sort of smile when Aleksei comes to the next lantern. He holds the lamp marked with the smiling lips of the Whisper House with a particular sort of care as his gaze finds Saedrus among the crowd. "Saedrus, Softest Whisper of the Whisper House," he says. "May Lagoma’s fire light your way in the darkness, serving as a beacon for all of those you bear responsibility for. I charge you to keep this light safe, to protect it and draw strength and wisdom from it to see clearly through the darkness to any who would do the Compact harm. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

Saedrus steps forward, gaze bright and solely on Aleksei as the lamp is offered to him, the Whisper House. A lingering, tender sort of smile follows the gracious dip of his head, evergreens seeking Aleksei's blues. "I do--" no lingering on that too long, promise, "accept this latern, Blessed Aleksei, with great honour, pride, and hopeful courage."

Jericho seems...touched as he looks at the ceremony. Though he keeps more to the back of the crowd, his eyes ever forward as he watches, a small smile touching his features but he otherwise remains quite silent.

Roran gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of the Crown Observers from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

The Observers are next. "Duchess Margot Tyde, Voice of the Crown Observers: May Lagoma's fire light your way in the darkness, serving as a beacon for all of those you bear responsibility for. I charge you to keep this light safe, to protect it and draw strength and wisdom from it to see clearly through the darkness to any who would do the Compact harm. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

Alistair unclasps his hands from his back and instead... folds them infront of his chest!? Hoo boy - hes serious now. He gives a nod to Laric as he claims the Lamp.

Aleksei gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of the Knights of Solace from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Margot presumably accepts her lantern just as she accepted making her offering. "Dame Thena Grayhope," Aleksei looks to next. The etched double coins, the shared sigil of Gild and the Knights of Solace, marks the lamp he holds. "Adjutant to the Grandmaster of the Knights of Solace: May Lagoma’s fire light your way in the darkness, serving as a beacon for all of those you bear responsibility for. I charge you to keep this light safe, to protect it and share it with the Faith Militant of Gloria, that the light of the gods might spread and bolster the hearts of the Faithful under your charge. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

Thena steps forward, the bits of hair that have come free from their pinnings curling damply against her face. "I accept this lantern, which will be placed in the Solace Square and guarded by the Silver Order, that any may partake of its light, but especially the pilgrims and travelers who come to Arx. They will bear Lagoma's light out into the world, as will I. We are travelers on roads without end."

Ford has left the Flammas Bench 2.

Barbara, the stalwart Stormward secretary, 4 Kennex corsairs leave, following Ford.

As Roran fetches his last lantern, and turns with it in his hand, he smiles to Preston, dipping his head. "Sir Preston, Knight Marshall of the Templars: May Lagoma's fire light your way in the darkness, serving as a beacon for all of those you bear responsibility for. I charge you to keep this light safe, to protect it and share it with the Faith Militant of Gloria, that the light of the gods might spread and bolster the hearts of the Faithful under your charge. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?

Roran gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of the Templars from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

Preston steps forward, back to his feet to take the lantern "It will march with the armies of the Faith, light our way in the dark times, and should it be our fate, it will only be extinguished with the last gasp of our breath." Preston says, bowing his head before he takes the lamp "But, we shall endeavour to return it to this shrine, alight and with victory for our people, for our Gods." And then he takes a step back. Having managed to not be all the way a depressing ass.

Aleksei gets a gold-plated oil lamp etched with the sigil of the Faith of the Pantheon from The Eternal Flame of Lagoma.

The last lamp bears the three rings of the Faith itself, and it's Aldwin, the Dominus himself, that Aleksei looks to once he's lighted it. "Dominus Aldwin Aurum," he says, "Most Holy of the Faith and Closest to the Gods: May Lagoma's fire light the way in the darkness for the Faith entire, from you who stand as the appointed Voice of the Gods on Aion, to each individual among the Faithful. I charge you to keep this light safe, to guard its brilliance against the work of the Abyss, to draw strength and wisdom from its warmth, that the light of the gods might spread and bolster the hearts of the Faithful under your charge. Will you accept this lantern lit by the Eternal Flame of Lagoma?"

Aldwin moves forward unsteadily, still so deeply affected by what he had witnessed. He takes the lantern gravely, "Thank you, Archlector. I will hold the flame close to my heart, come what may. I will keep it safe."

white-tailed eagle arrives, following Thesarin.

Thesarin has joined the Flammas Bench 1.

Aleksei reaches to set a hand to Aldwin's arm, in case he needs a moment to steady. The lanterns have been offered and accepted, the offerings burning in the heat of Lagoma's Eternal Flame. Aleksei's smile is a little unsteady himself, a little overwhelmed, but he looks out to the crowd with an undeniable sense of hope. "The gods see us," he says, the words so simple. "They see our acts, and they hear our words, and they know our hearts. They rejoice in our triumphs, in our acts of virtue, and they grieve for our losses and missteps. They are /here/. They are present. In our lives, and in our hearts. Keep them present there. Every day. Make the choice every day." He draws in another breath. "The Shrine of Lagoma is always open to the Faithful. Any who wish to make an offering in her honor are always welcome. Any who need the warmth of her flame can find it here." And then he offers one last smile. "Thank you all. Walk in the light, each and every day. Even when the darkness is close. /Especially/ when the darkness is close."

Saedrus bows his head as Aleksei speaks, a smile unwavering on his lips and eyes closed as he holds the lantern in his hands carefully at his front.

Orazio is overheard praising Aleksei.

Orazio is overheard praising Roran.

Gwenna, too, dips her head respectfully and while remaining nearly wordless, the effect of the ceremony is evident on her features. Awed, surely, it may be the reason behind her reverent silence.

Eleyna is overheard praising Aleksei.

Eleyna is overheard praising Roran.

Tibaltus is overheard praising Aleksei.

Fortunato is overheard praising Aleksei.

Victus is overheard praising Aleksei for: Good job.

Fortunato is overheard praising Roran.

Victus is overheard praising Roran for: It's bright in here.

Eleyna is overheard praising Laric.

Eleyna is overheard praising Tikva.

Eleyna is overheard praising Calaudrin.

Eleyna is overheard praising Gwenna.

Eleyna is overheard praising Saedrus.

Alistair is overheard praising Tikva.

Alistair is overheard praising Laric.

Eleyna is overheard praising Aldwin.

Alistair is overheard praising Aleksei.

Alistair is overheard praising Eleyna.

Eleyna is overheard praising Thena.

Eleyna is overheard praising Preston.

Jericho is overheard praising Tikva.

Sparte is overheard praising Roran for: This was amazing. Absolutely amazing.

Eleyna is overheard praising Victus.

Jericho is overheard praising Victus.

Eleyna is overheard praising Alaric.

Jericho is overheard praising Aleksei.

Eleyna is overheard praising Isabeau.

Jericho is overheard praising Roran.

Eleyna is overheard praising Orazio.

Isabeau is overheard praising Roran.

Eleyna is overheard praising Margot.

Isabeau is overheard praising Aleksei.

Tikva is overheard praising Aleksei for: WALK IN THE LIGHT! Ahhhhhhhh!

Khanne smiles from her place in the back where she stood in respectful silence, listening and watching the presentation of lamps.

Gwenna is overheard praising Aleksei.

Isabeau is overheard praising Aldwin.

Gwenna is overheard praising Roran.

Tikva is overheard praising Roran for: Beautiful. Beautiful.

Lethe has left the Flammas Bench 2.

As the service comes to a close, Thena bears her lantern quietly out into the city.

Thena has left the Flammas Bench 3.

Aldwin is overheard praising Aleksei.

Felicia has left the Flammas Bench 1.

Aldwin looks for a long moment at his lantern, then leaves quietly.

Roran stands smiling, hands tucked into either sleeve of his robe and watches as the rite comes to an end before moving to Aleksei to murmur quietly.

Aldwin has left the Flammas Bench 2.

Orazio lifts his head from his prayers as the lanterns are handed out again, and he smiles warmly as he stands, in silence, and starts to move away out of the shrine, his head still bowed and his expression thoughtful.

Victus let's out a long held in sigh as the ceremony comes to a close. He takes his lantern and leaves the shrine without a word to anyone. His cat has also strangely disappeared in the excitement.

Titania has left the Flammas Bench 2.

Victus has left the Flammas Bench 1.

12 Thrax Elite Guards, Crow - Thraxian Steward, Lilybelle - Fluffy Maine Coon, Pellinor leave, following Victus.

Orazio has left the Flammas Bench 3.

3 Iron Guardsmen leaves, following Titania.

Eleyna offers a last look to the flame before she walks out with a lamp held in her hands as reverently as she had entered carrying the doll.

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

Calaudrin takes his fancy new lantern and edges out of the stands, murmuring a farewell to Esoka. Something about putting this thing in the barracks.

Lucita spends long moments in prayer, then gazing into the flame before quietly rising and starting to make her way out, keeping respectfully silent.

Lucita has left the Flammas Bench 2.

Alaric rises at the conclusion of the ceremony, carrying his lantern a bit on the casual side in the crook of his arm as he goes back up to the front. The overall probability the King of the Compact might set himself on fire is still rather remote, just less remote than it would be holding it by the handle like you're supposed to. "'Inspiring' as a word is insufficient to do the ceremony I just witnessed justice. Thank you very much for organizing this, Archlectors Roran and Aleksei."

Micana, Golden, an Oakhaven bloodhound leave, following Lucita.

Eleyna has left the Flammas Bench 3.

Sybilla, the Lenosian lady's maid, 5 Velenosa House Guards leave, following Eleyna.

Saedrus keeps out of the way, standing with a peaceful sort of elegance as the faithful make their way out. There is a smile for those he knows, that happen a glance his way, but otherwise, it seems the courtier is going to be waiting a little while. Lantern, still in hand.

Esoka leans over to kiss Calaudrin's cheek as he returns to some guard business or other. She starts to make her own way out, with that, eyes bright and thoughtful.

Aleksei's smile twitches with something else for what Roran murmurs to him, and he offers a quiet word in reply before turning at Alaric's approach. "Your Majesty," he greets him, laughing a bit unsteadily. "I -- thank you. I can't believe She -- I -- thanks. Thank you. Thank you for your participation."

Esoka has left the Flammas Bench 3.

Wylla's kitten is over near Victus' cat, scampering around in a colorful calico ball.

Tikva stands clutching her lantern like she can't quite figure out what to do with herself in the wake of all that, scattered and wet-eyed. Her son slithers out from the bench to march up to her and tug on her skirts. He tells her, "No crying," and she starts to giggle like an idiot instead. "Come on, kiddo," she says, and, hoisting the lantern, starts to waddle at her slow, wobbly pace across the shrine. She doesn't get that far before she stops to grin a shit-eating grin at Laric, and holds up her lantern like she wants to toast their lanterns together or something.

Thesarin gives Esoka a short nod from his spot at one of the benches, and a second to Tikva. He stays in place for now, still and silent.

Calaudrin has left the Flammas Bench 3.

3 Iron Guardsmen, Ted, a melodramatic twenty something leave, following Calaudrin.

Preston has left the Flammas Bench 3.

"Your Majesty." Roran bows to the man. "Inspiring is a start. Take Her light home and encourage those within the palace to take her light home, or to their rooms. Let Her light and warmth fill ever corner of it."

Esoka catches Thesarin's nod. Brows arching at him in a touch of surprise. She gives him a long look, and a bow of her shoulders. She approaches Tikva, before leaving. "That was beautiful! In some ways I don't understand, but I feel strengthened for it. You did very well with the offering and lantern." Half-bow to Laric. "Both of you."

Alistair lets out a grunt of amusement to something Laric says before he nods his head, pushing through the crowd of peoples before he steps towards Tikva. "Alls well, Inquisitor?" The High Inquisitor remarks, though he doesn't seem to worried for the woman! He knows she can handle herself.

Wylla rises to her feet, moving to reclaim Splat, who is now staring a bit disconsolately after Lilybelle's retreat. The tiny kitten protests a little as Wylla picks him up, but soon settles to purring as she holds him against her, returning to the bench. She glances towards the altar, more than a little uncertain, but leans in to murmur to Calaudrin and Esoka, "Thank you for looking after him. And you too, Legate," she adds to Orazio.

Laric speaks a few quiet words aside to Alistair, all his good feels draining away as the ceremony draws to a close. He gives Tikva a wry look when she stops to grin, shaking his head and addressing the little shit-stirrer at her feet. "Don't let your mother get too excited, Lord Tiber," he warns him gravely. "I'll see you tomorrow." He takes a step back and lifts his lantern with due care, smiling faintly towards Esoka before getting on his way. "Thank you, Dame, and good night."

"I will do my best," Alaric replies confidently to Roran. "Thank you again, and a pleasant evening to you both." He pauses before stepping back, turning to Aleksei. "Ah, and I'm told you won a painting I donated to charity, yes? Been rather busy as of late with preparations, but I've not forgotten. Do feel free to let Zelda know when you're available and she'll work you into the schedule as soon as we can."

Tovell has left the Flammas Bench 1.

Isabeau remains in the temple for a little while longer, cobalt blue eyes now fixed on the dancing fire of Lagoma's Eternal Flame as she offers her silent prayers.

Victoria does a rarely done thing, as people begin to file out of the temple-- she sits with a less than perfect posture, leaning back against the bench with a sigh as she lets the crowds thin, idly studying the people lingering and the burning flame.

"Walk in the light!" Tikva says to Laric as he retreats. Or yells it at him. She's kind of yelling it at him. She's very excited and she doesn't have a lot of volume control. "All well, High Inquisitor," she says lightly to Alistair. "But yes, let's... start heading home. It will only takes us a billion hours to walk there at my pace."

Tiber sighs dramatically, and then asks, "Can I have that?" and tries to take the lantern away from her. She holds it high above his head and says, "Nope!" and then the duo begins their wobbly march out. Tiber has already asked if he can have that two more times before they reach the door.

While others mill about and wander out of the Shrine, Khanne lingers, walking over to a basket of prayerbooks. She lifts one and begins to read it.

Aleksei blinks at Alaric a moment, and then he laughs. "Oh, gods! I'd entirely forgotten. Yes, of course, I'll write to her. I mean, it's not like I expected anyone to hold up war preparations to paint me." He bows, respectful and surprisingly formal, as Alaric seems to be making his way out. His gaze sweeps around the lingering crowd, and then it lands on Saedrus. A new sort of warmth suffuses his expression as he steps over towards him, his hand reaching to curl fingers at his elbow. There's nothing inappropriate about the touch, but it certainly bespeaks a level of intimacy.

Waldemai has left the Flammas Bench 2.

"He is adorable!" Esoka proclaims to Wylla. "Thank you for letting us hold him. I think he's made my almost-husband want a cat." She does not sound displeased about that. A few more farewells are said, and she makes her way out.

Alistair offers a smile to the departing Tikva, the High Inquisitor giving a nod of his head as Tikva departs with the Lamp of Lagoma for House Grayson. Once more his hands clasp behind his back as he views everyone present.

Tikva picks up Tiber Riven, a human child.

Wylla beams towards Esoka, and then she follows her erstwhile kitten-sitter out the door, a vague smile given the crowd at the altar, but her thoughts clearly elsewhere. She hurries to catch up to Tikva, adding something quietly to her as she goes.

"Listen to your mother, Tiber." Thesarin calls out without looking over, shakes his head slow, looking the slightest bit amused. "Have to make a good example to your brother or sister."

Saedrus is still watching the quiet procession of people making their way out when Aleksei comes up to his side, the touch of his elbow causing a curious blink in the Paladin's direction. "Oh," he chuckles, "Hello. Both Blessed Roran and yourself did a wonderful thing here today, you should both be, delighted. And proud." A smile cast in Roran's direction. Then the courtier leans close to Aleksei's side speaking privately a moment.

Fortunato sits on the bench, his hands wrapped around each other, pleasantly pensive as he people watches.

a fire salamander have been dismissed.

Alaric nods and with a regal smile for Roran and Aleksei (and Saedrus upon arrival) he turns to depart as his guards form up around him.

Alaric has left the Flammas Bench 1.

A quiet yawn is loosened from Morrighan as she slouches in the bench beside Fortunato, somnolent-eyed, but staring off at the Eternal Flame, basking in the warmth it puts off. She glances about every so often, watching people gradually filter out of the shrine.

As Saedrus looks to him, Roran bows his head to the man. "I am, we are both, I am sure. And clearly, so is She." Roran looks over the ones who linger.

Laric pauses just outside the Shrine, waiting patiently.

Meanwhile, the salamander uncurls and gives Morrighan's neck an affectionate nosing. He hops off her and on the back of the pew, moving along it to give (and let's be honest this is a Totally Normal Salamander unworthy of the current personifications) Fortunato's shoulder a respectful nosing. It chirps over at Khanne, and with most of his goodbyes out of the way hops off the bench entirely to rush over to where Aleksei and Saedrus stand, perching himself right atop the former's boot and chirping up at them for attention. Also, given the way he lifts his leg and waggles it, he's probably asking for a proper hand up.

Jordal, a bodyguard leaves, following Isabeau.

Khanne chuckles and waves her fingers at Salvadore.

Fortunato gives the salamander a brief finger-tap as he passes, and turns a smile, your real, uncomplicated one, at Laric, and then down his shoulder at Morrighan. "I think I understood something tonight."

Saedrus was paying attention to Roran, a smile and nodded agreement. But then there is a chirping noise and the courtier's evergreens tip downwards. Not quite so startled for the.. salamander on the paladin's boot but, well, that it seems to /want/ something. "Hello there," Saedrus says down, because what else is he going to say?! And if Aleksei doesn't lean in to collect the little chap first, Saed offers delicate hand and silk-sleeved arm to the salamander.

Seeing the thinning crowd, Victoria smiles, rising up from her seat and offering a rare soft smile towards the Flame, giving an elegant nod towards those at the fore before she turns, to slip out through the street.

A broad smile spreads across the redhead's face at the nosing at her neck, mumbling a soft, "See you later, Sally, be good." Morrighan watches the salamander shuffle off before her attention shifts aside to Fortunato with an inquisitive lift o her brow. "Oh?"

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice leaves, following Khanne.

Victoria has left the Flammas Bench 2.

Aleksei /certainly/ offers the salamander a hand up, laughing in that same slightly manic sort of way. "Hey, Sally," he says, greeting him warmly and offering him the perch of his shoulder. He looks over to a few specific people lingering in the shrine, his smile unabated, and then looks back to Saedrus. "Have you, um. Met Salvadore?"

Wylla has left the Flammas Bench 3.

Splat, a tiny calico kitten leaves, following Wylla.

Thesarin seems content to sit, silent and thoughtful, for the time being.

Sparte still looks a little amazed by what happened, staring at the eternal flame. He remains in his seat for now, though Wilhelm helpfully leans over to gently advise Sparte to close his jaw and stop gaping.

Laric's pet salamander climbs into Saedrus' hand, chirping and scrambling up his sleeve a moment later. He pivots on the lean Lycene man's shoulder to face Aleksei, chirping again before hopping down and scurrying off, soon climbing up the back of Laric's coat to get settled for the walk home. And then they're headed on!

"Hard to -- articulate it?" Fortunato starts, raising his hand at a light flicker of a gesture. "The idea that sacrifice, risk, a certain submission to uncertainty in the course of pursuing greater things, greater virtues, it is, in a sense, its own reward."

"Mn, I can agree with tha'. Sometimes nothin' is gained if'n risk an sacrfifice is'nae given, 'course anythin' worth much o' anythin' will nae be easy tae acquire," Morrighan softly remarks aside to the Grayhope, head bobbing into a nod of agreement. "It does make one feel better about things. Less worry."

Saedrus mustn't be used to salamanders crawling up onto his shoulder, he looks a little shocked. The hand that had been offered to the little creature instead reaches for Aleksei once it's heading off. Maybe he doesn't really like amphibians?

Thesarin finally stands, and starts on his way out.

Thesarin has left the Flammas Bench 1.

white-tailed eagle leaves, following Thesarin.

"Embrace uncertainty," Fortunato says, standing up. "For there is no certainty, and we are not what we have stored up, what is past, and we are not what is possible, what is future. We are what we are now, now, and now. Sacrifice is never something to fear. We will not pass this way again."

Aleksei still stands off to the side with Saedrus, a hand on his arm, as he seems to be reassuring a slightly-dazed courtier about something or other.

It looks like Saedrus is just kind of-- catatonic for the time being. One hand clinging tight about Aleksei's nearest wrist.