507-03-10 Forgive Us Our Trespasses

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Forgive Us Our Trespasses
RL Date	April 16, 2009
Players	Athar Soranus, Ravelle Soranus, Helena Soranus, Parsifal Soranus, Kristian Codex, Karyleine Codex, Ysora Kilgannon, Joshua Dhaval, Mathis Cardiff, Ellie Clapton, Imani Paggion, Eremis
Location	Temple of Ethos
Crossroads Time and Weather
IC Date	March 10, 507
Season	Spring

Temple of Ethos -- Ethos -- Draught

The temple is visible from anywhere within the city, crowning the crest of a snow-dotted hill with majesty and poise. Even the light reflected off of the frozen ground is nothing compared to the glitter off of the golden tips of spires that adorn the temple. Crafted of stone from across the Empire, its crafting spanned generations and resulted in a glorious monument to faith and Providence. The spires seem to stretch toward the heavens in homage to the goddess.

Perhaps a little out of place in all of this, a short Baron consort makes his way through the crowd. Having not gotten a guard yet, Mathis has to pause and stand on his tiptoes now and again to get his bearings and then continues on his way. Catching a brief glimpse of Ravelle, he waves his hand, calling out, "Lady Baronet!" And with that, he continues to try to mill and wind through the gathering flock.

Ellie stands near the front of the temple, glancing about at all the various people gathering and coming in through the doors.

One of the people speaking with Parsifal listens intently to the man's words, a struggle upon her features. "Shouldn't Providence never call us to a path that will bring us pain?" she asks with some confusion.

The crowds grow bit by bit as others press into the vast space of the temple to pay homage to Providence and listen to the words of the Baronets.

As others file into the temple to hear the words spoken or to meditate on them, another pair -- incongruous, perhaps -- joins the crowd. Kristian Codex's steps are slow as, hands clasped behind his back, he steps into the temple. His pale eyes make a slow search of the place, head turning once from side to side, but never quiet pausing to look at the woman who walks near him.

Parsifal's attention mostly remains upon the crowd, though as he catches his wife's attempted approach, he gives her a warm smile as he inclines his head. But the questions of him continue, and he continues to answer. "Pain is a part of life. Providence's Light shines upon us all, but we are /all/ given trials to face. Be it physical pain, or something more emotional, it is Her way to test our faith in Her. To remind us that we all need to rely on Her in all things, not just thank her for what we are blessed with. Pain sharpens us, and our faith if we have the trust in Providence that we should. To survive the pains of life is to know success. To know that you did not give up, even when the darkness threatened in those shadowed hours."

When Imani slips inside the temple at Kristian's side, in white that she hasn't worn in nearly a year, her muscles are taut and her shoulders hunch a little. Hands that hung loosely at her sides before now ball there, taking into their grip small measures of her loosely hanging robe. Breaths drawn by conscious thought, deeper perhaps than might otherwise be the case. And then? Then she bows her head, and bids a murmured slur of words that might be very well be a polite farewell -- or a rude one, for all the intelligence one might draw from the mumbled syllables -- before she takes a few slow steps that cut sharply to the side. Time to go hide in a crowd, t'would seem.

The figures between Parsifal and Ravelle shift away to allow the two to reach each other, although the couple draw their share of considering looks as much as faithful ones. The temple grows more full yet, many of the faithful having journeyed to this central location just for this evening. A swell and roll of murmuring voices fill the elegant marble confines of the sacred gathering spot. Many of those voices are given to prayer from kneeling figures exalting Providence, but perhaps just as many are the quiet conversations discussing the recent tumultous happenings among the leadership.

Ellie stands near the front, quietly watching those gathering and entering. People, people, lots and lots of people.

Ravelle regards Parsifal steadily as he supplies the answer to the woman's query about pain, offering her own gentle insight, "Sometimes conflict and pain are ways of shaping us to be stronger spiritually. If we didn't experience moments of frustration or fear or even those moments when we might feel tempted to doubt, we'd all be beginning Purists. It is through such times that we come to experience Her and really learn what it means to trust-- especially when it seems like everything we thought was right is in jeopardy." Her attention slides back to Parsifal a moment before she catches sight of Ellie and lifts a slender hand in silent greeting to her ward. Then, when Mathis enters, she offers him a warm smile. "It is good of you to come, Baron Consort." Kristian receives a briefly considering glance and then she inclines her head in polite greeting. "Good evening, brother." Imani is granted a brighter smile. "Good to see you, Miss Paggion."

Ysora did not reply to your request to meet. Your request has expired.

Eremis remains near a door at the rear of the temple. He stands almost on the threshold that he may feel the cool air of outdoors.

"Of course, Lord and Lady Baronet." Mathis offers, curiosity gracing his features as he offers a tip of a bow to the couple, and then a smile to his cousin-to-be. "Mistress Paggion, Lord Codex." the Baron consort offers, then steps back a little to fold his hands in front of him and slip into the observer's role. $e

Kristian pauses a moment on entering the temple to bow his head in silent prayer. So many do, and he is but one white-clad among many. Sooner than later, though, he raises his head and, after a soft word to Imani, begins to edge through the crowd, murmuring quiet words here and there to those recognized. "My Lady Baronet," he says quietly in return to Ravelle's greeting as he, too, nears Parsifal's side, his long frame bending into a slight bow. The same is offered the Baron Consort, though he gets no verbal greeting. And Parsifal? No acknowledgement that their ranks have been upended. Only a warm smile and a soft, "Brother."

Amidst all the others that filter into the temple for this grand gathering are another three, walking in a small group that eschew much of the conversation about them. All of them dressed in white, in honouring of the purity that all in this gathering seek. Garbed against the weather, they are lost in that crowd, their features somewhat hidden from view.

It takes a few minutes but finally Joshua steps into the temple where the gathering is taking place. Stepping to the side so he doesn't get crushed by the throng of people that have arrived. Trying to get his bearings. He takes a look here and there, finally seeing Ravelle and Parsifal a nod aimed for the two there. Not wishing to draw attention upon himself. At his look he spies a Imani and attempts to go in her direction before she truly gets lost in that crowd.

Parsifal nods his agreement to Ravelle's addition to his answer, nothing but warmth in response to her presence near to him. As he is greeted by others he recognizes, he offers them smiles of welcome along with inclinations of his head. Kristian gets a bit more of his attention, a hand offered out to him in greeting. "It is good to have you here, brother. Tonight, we once more all come together as one people. I could not be happier for it." And indeed, there is something genuinely content and at peace about the man as they all await the arrival of the Soranus clan.

When her name is found upon the air, Imani lowers herself into a respectful curtsy. "My lady," she greets quietly, her smile small but warm. She pries her hands off of her clothes by force of will, making herself fold them neatly upon themselves at her waist with a distinct primness. Then there is Mathis to greet, he gets a deeper bow of her head. "Master Cardiff. I will not keep any of you." And with that, she's off again. Need to hide /better./ And then, she thinks she has it. A small place in the corner of the large room where all gather.

Ysora so often intends to make a grand and boisterous entrances. And she tries, she does. Head up, a guard or two with her, a devoted maid (yes, all four of them in white - even the Baroness!) Eyes straight ahead on those gathered. She intends to stride through that crowd, a hot knife through butter, to get up there to a front row 'I'm looking at you, young man' seat. But ... well, all the good intentions in the world crumple upon seeing familiar faces dotting the crowds. It's going to take a few minutes longer as she pauses to embrace her fellow journeymen and women on the Path of the Mother. There is a long pause when one holds out a newborn here to witness this gathering. Her laughter rings out as she steps forward and plays with the tiniest fingers and offers a kiss to a sweet smelling brow. "Her blessings upon you, little Athara." What? You didn't think a few loyalists wouldn't be doing some naming after their leaders?

Ravelle spies her cousin from Meritas and offers him an affectionate. "Praise Providence. It is good to see you, my lord." Then when she sees Ysora arriving, her smile turns radiant and she does sink into a curtsy for the baroness when she gets closer. "Cousin. I am glad that you could come." That dark regard then climbs up to Parsifal's handsome countenance and her voice descends to a more private note as her hand settles on his arm.

Ravelle mutters to Parsifal, "... started?"

Josh smiles for Ravelle. Who could not. But really this isn't his night. And really he's not trying to carry a conversation here. He slips back once that greeting is done. Perhaps in search of Imani. He could have sworn she just got evenloped in that crowd. But well he's a determined man or he just really wants to stand by her.

Eremis folds his hands before himself and considers the gathering in quiet measure. He moves to the side to let someone enter, but immediately after reclaims his position in the doorway that he may be outlined in the light of the setting sun.

Parsifal smiles down at the lovely visage of his wife, giving her a nod of assent. As her hand settles upon his arm, his opposite hand moves slowly to cover her digits. He politely excuses himself from the conversational group he was in, giving them all a blessing and thanks. As he starts to move, albeit somewhat stiffly, toward the front of the gathering, his gaze does settle briefly upon the glowing backdrop of the man at the door. He inclines his head to the backlit figure before turning his full attention to the front of the room, ready to get this shindig started.

Kristian accepts that offered hand and clasps it with brotherly familiarity. "Nor I," he agrees quietly, eyes shifting to Ravelle and a faint smile, too, with that. And when they move toward the temple's front he follows, parking himself a step behind and a few steps beside his new brother-in-law.

Ysora helps Athara and her mother up towards the front with her, though there are a few more stops on the way. After all, there are other Mothers there who really must coochy coo at the little one! But eventually she is close enough to exchange greetings with Ravelle, or at least glances. Peace has come back into her features and she smiles at the Baronet.

The light-limned figure reciprocates the gesture from Parsifal in small measure, and then his silveron gaze wanders to consider those in the crowd.

Ravelle also notices the figure cutting that silhouette in the door and delivers him a smile derived from pure respect and gratitude. A nod ensues before she directs her attention towards where her husband leads her to the front of the temple. Slender back assured in posture, she looks up at Parsifal when they reach the front and offers him some gentle words before slowly pivoting to face the faithful who have arrived this night. For the first time in months, it looks as if she got a good night's sleep. A restlessness from somewhere within seems to be the only thing that undermines her bid for a serene countenance. Her gaze seems to gravitate toward the door once more, hope briefly finding her features, but then it falls upon the sea of so many faces gathered in the name of the great Unseen.

Remaining in place and unobtrusive, Mathis notices Ysora passing and offers a bow to her. "Baroness." the young man offers, glancing at the figure at the door, and peers a little more, but tries not to be totally staring, really.

Upon reaching the front of the gathering and turning to face them, Parsifal lifts the hand of his wife to his lips, where he presses a gentle kiss before releasing it. There is respect for her in this gesture, along with the smile he affords her before he looks over the crowd himself. A clear and sharp blue gaze sweeps over the gathered faces as he gathers a deep breath into his lungs in preparation to speak. A hand lifts, though not as high as it has in the past when he has addressed the crowd, but it is still a call for attention.

"Faithful of Providence, and people of Ethos! Tonight, we come together with joyous news, and a renewed faith!" Parsifal starts with a smile that comes from his heart and belief. "The last you have seen us, this dear lady at my side had just become my wife in a joining of paths, and a promise of strong leadership for all of you. Providence has blessed us with this partnership, and She continues to look upon Her people with fondness and reward for faithfulness. As many as you have heard, Athar Soranus, Baron of this land, has passed his trial, and those with him, to be lead back to his people. In this, we should rejoice, for it means that Providence truly holds the Soranus line to Her heart, and Her Light shines within them!"

Ellie glances about curiously, watching everything. When Parsifal begins to speak, her attention turns to listen to him.

One of those three figures reaches a hand out from beneath the long sleeves of his robe to brace himself upon the taller of the two with him. Soft murmurs pass between the three.

Wait, what? Athar is where? Arching up on his tiptoes, Mathis looks about, trying to see if they are actually here - or is this the theoretical here and they aren't here and could be on the beach or out getting ice cream or that whole.. spiritual.. here. Confused, and chewing on the side of his gum, and not seeing the Baron immediately, he sort of drops back to his feet to wait.

The result within the crowd is mixed, voices rising and lowering in both joy and consternation, uncertainty. "We followed you, and you tell us that you were wrong?" shouts a voice across the room, echoing above.

In Josh's favor, if he's really hunting down Imani, she has ceased being a moving target. From her position in the very back, she can barely see the man speaking. Three cheers for being abonimably short. When Parsifal starts speaking, however, an arm crosses over her stomach so she might use it as a rest for the other arm that she now uses to prop up her chin. Yeah, that's the ticket. Totally casual here in the back corner.

Kristian's eyes remain on Parsifal until the very end. And that pronouncement? A surprise, it seems, to the former Lord Codex, and at that nature of it -- or at the words themselves -- his long features tighten a touch. Pale eyes sweep out across the crowd then, scouring more than looking, searching, though not in any welcome anticipation.

Ysora grins down at the baby, apparently rather unsurprised at that news. "Can you say "yay" Athara? Yay!" It's said with a world of sunshine in her voice. And focusing on the little girl means she doesn't have to worry as much about what her expression might go saying without her permission.

Oh, and of course a grin for Mathis from Ysora!

Joshua was on the way to the back in where he thought he saw Imani. Only to slow in his walk when he hears what Parsifal has said. He stops completely as if he can find his missing family members in that crowd. Head turning this way and that.

A subtle shiver chases through Ravelle's frame, her dark eyes widening a moment as she goes completely still-- perhaps a draft from the open doorway? She looks up and around the air near her, her gaze slitting somewhat as if she means to menace whatever just distracted her. Her lips move in a silent petition for the Goddess and she cuts the figure at the front a direct glance before stilling herself, though she is much more alert than previously. As her husband speaks, she listens with great attention, scanning those in attendance. The question thrown at her husband invites an answer from the loquacious baronet. "What you see in front of you, faithful one, are two people who have been led to serve the Goddess. How She let the tapestry of events unfold is Her great plan. The Baron Ethos has returned from his journey. We have this news. We hope he will quicken to us so that all of our beloved ones can see a rejuvenated faith under strong and rightful leadership."

"It is not me that you follow," Parsifal adds on the tail of Ravelle's words, letting his wife speak openly and making no attempts to quiet her. In fact, he seems quite proud of the way she speaks to the people. "We all follow Providence, and the path she has laid out before all of us. I told all of you from the beginning that the Soranus faced a trial, and if passed, they would return victorious. This is what we should have all been hoping and praying for. Their return does not mean my abandonment. I am of you, as I always have been. As I always will be! I am telling you now that the way I sent them upon their trial was wrong, against the mortal laws of this Empire, and of the Keeper. For that, I atone still, and always. However, with the leadership of the righteous here in Ethos, I was not mislead. You called out for strength and leadership, and Providence has answered by delivering me to you, and returning a renewed Baron to you as well."

The crowd's murmurs continue, but some of the consternation fades a bit. Some. Another voice raises, "And will you say you hear Providence again, and do something like this once more, kidnap and enact evil, to try to gain more power?"

Some meet Parsifal's words with murmurs of approval; some with skepticism, still; and others, still, with an effort to at least see forgiveness and reconciliation worked among the people of Ethos.

But Kristian Codex? His features tighten some little more, his mouth opens to reply--

--or in surprise. His eyes widen with the same, and in that moment a dark, feathered shaft sprouts from his chest. There follows after a moment a creeping patch of red against the white of his tunic. Mouth still open in surprise, he sinks to his knees and thence, eyes shutting and lips moving in empty prayer, falls to the floor.

Imani listens, and there's a quiet snort that escapes her nostrils. Her pale gaze frosting with the words escaping Parsifal's mouth. She does not look for the rightful baron of Ethos here; she dismisses most of Ravelle's husband's talk as nothing more than general waves of the symbolic hand. Rhetoric. Her fiery-tressed head shakes a little as she heaves a deep breath, the woman thoroughly unconvinced. She is so far away that she does not notice the falling of Kristian Codex.

Ellie glances towards the new voice, her face betraying sympathy and agreement with the question raised. She looks back towards Parsifal then, her gaze hardening. Clearly, she still does not like this man.

There is a stir of motion and voices amidst the crowd then, and amongst it, hands rise to draw back the rich samite of a robe's hood. Athar draws in deep the breath of this holy temple, the palpable faith of so many souls gathered in worship. The marble itself remembering the trod of similar feet for hundreds of years. Dark eyes scan over the features of the faithful, those familiar and those not, before they settle upon the two men and women at the apex of focus, where voices rain out to declare unity and offer explanation.

As Kristian falls, the Baron of Ethos, rightful ruler of this land, twists in place and ventures into the crowd, calling out to the faithful to seize a figure he surges towards, one dressed similarly in white, and loading a crossbow with another bolt.

Parsifal is also about to answer, though as Kristian stands so close by, it is impossible not to notice the arrow that flies straight into the man's heart. "No!" he calls out clearly, and with some anguish. This is a man he was as close to a brother as. The crowd is forgotten quickly as he moves as quickly as his own injuries allow to make to crouch beside the fallen man, even going so far as to pull him into his arms, so the man knows he is not alone. "Brother...," he murmurs, shaking his head. It is obvious that the ex-lord of Codex dies right there, and the mourning of the newer Baronet is clear. He does nothing to hide the tears that spring to his eyes, murmuring an agonized prayer over the still warm body of Kristian Codex.

Ravelle inclines her head in agreement at Parsifal's response and is about to say something when the commotion off to the side catches her attention, the words breaking upon her lips. She wasn't looking at Kristian; she didn't see it happen. But her gaze catches up to the event that just snapped the thread between life and death, widening at the carmine blossoming on his shirt. She releases a soft scream of surprise and immediately surges forward to try and cover him with her own body, offering some meek indigo-velvet shelter as she does what she can to ease him to the ground. "Kristian..." The color swiftly leave sher face as she sinks to her knees with him.

Another hand raises and another hood is drawn back as Lady Helena reveals herself and follows in her brother's wake. She too is dressed all in white, but the removal of the hood reveals features drawn from weeks of little food and burned from exposure to the sun. Any whispers or cries or comments offered in their direction are ignored, her gaze is fixed straight ahead. She watches where her brother goes, true, but she looks to the front where her sister stands with the man who had a hand in her kidnapping. Only briefly does she spare a glance for the fallen man and her eyes show no emotion. "Blood spilled in the temple," she says, peeling nose wrinkling in contempt.

As Athar peels away, Karyleine is left standing in shock at the sight of her husband borne to the ground by a crossbow bolt. She looks aside briefly to her sister, shock shaping her mouth into an O, where only moments before, scathing words had formed. The hood that had sheltered her features, like her siblings', flutters back as she suddenly rushes forward to Kristian's side - only to stop as Parsifal and Ravelle reach him first. Stock still amongst the crowd, she closes her eyes and whispers a prayer, her hands splaying over her stomach.

While others tend to the fallen, others tend to capture. At the order of Athar, his soon-to-be-peer moves quickly as Mathis starts to weave through the crowd, looking for the crossbow weidling man, his own hand falling towards his trusty shortsword to loosen it in case it's needed.

Ysora is close enough to notice, and she does. The guards may have come here for spiritual duties, but Ys nudges one over in front of the mother and new baby. Warring emotions fall away as she rises and limps forward to try and put herself between the three on stage and, well, where arrows came from. "HEALER," she calls out loudly, a cry meant to cut out across waves, storms, and battle to summon aid. It's the only word, though, before she lifts her gaze towards the sunlight still visible in the doorframe and the figure silhoetted in it as her spirit turns towards prayer. It might be a bit late for a healer already, but even now, perhaps, there is hope for his soul.

Joshua rushes in the direction of Imani when he hears that call. He'll attempt to escort her or at least explain to her what has happened. With being in the middle he had the advantage of watching chaos unfold in a place that was to hold peace. Taking in a breath and just trying to do his duty. He'll worry about the other things later.

The reactions of the crowd at large are slower to come, stunned disbelief the predominant result of the protruding shaft and the sanguine flower upon the chest of Kristian Codex. The first raised voices are shock, calls upon the name of Providence. A few who are swift in conflict race forward to help-- and far too late, at that-- while a couple turn to the call of the familiar voice of Baron Athar Soranus and try to see where he points.

As for the figure with the crossbow, he slides another bolt into the weapon, and levels it again toward the front of the assemblage, his aim prepared.

Healer. Imani hears Ysora's voice, the words cutting across the air like a blade, and there is no time to process. She does not know that she is too late. Instead, there is a steeling of features that comes from a clear purpose as the slender form of the Paggion woman plunges into the crowd, shoulder first, to slide through it and towards the call for help. "CLEAR THE WAY," she bellows in a strong mezzo, the volume so uncharacteristic for her. After she hits a bump in her path, she pushes in with her shoulder again with as little care to the person who is on the receiving end as she might afford any other boulder of the land. "MOVE."

Eremis closes his eyes and lowers his head for a moment after Kristian's life is snuffed out. As the sunlight behind him dies, he looks after Athar and watches the progress of the returning baron.

There are in this place men entrusted with the safety of those who come to worship here, who leave mortal cares outside the temple doors and seem spiritual succor. As soon as the Lord Codex's warm body hits the floor, a pair peel off from vigilant places beside the wall and try to part the crowd in the direction Athar indicates, both pursuing themselves and making room for the Baron to pass in that way; another pair swiftly stride forward to stand beside Ravelle and Parsifal, lest another bolt be loosed; others still seek to calm a panicking crowd.

Through the pristine white of Parsifal's clothing, three red splotches appear upon his back as he kneels over his fallen cohort, though there is no arrow that caused them. A hand reaches to settle upon Kristian's forehead for a few moments before he suddenly gets to his feet again, leaving the body in the care of his wife, and.. Karyleine? He looks at her for only the span of a breath before looking to the crowd through vision blurred with tears. "This is not our way! This is Darkness, in this place of Light!"

It is not the shout of Healer that catches Helena's ear, but the shouts from Imani that turn her head from the front. While she still looks on without any emotion she does move towards Imani's side. "You've assistance," she tells Imani, which is probably an odd way of saying, 'Hey, I'm back!' She helps Imani move people out of the way, leading the woman towards the front.

As Ellie watches the commotion, she gasps and covers her mouth with both hands as she realizes what's going on. She then rushes forward, trying to get to Ravelle.

With the assassin preparing to take aim at the assemblage again, Mathis doesn't move to present himself as a target, instead continuing to try to make his way along the side as he moves between the stunned and the panicked, trying to get closer to the attacker without making himself known to the target.

Karyleine's eyes open again as Parsifal releases the body of her husband, and she meets his gaze but briefly. There is only a stony regard there and then she turns away, stepping resolutely forward to kneel in his former place beside her husband. Ravelle gets no acknowledgment.

Ysora chose ... poorly on where to stand perhaps. No doubt there is a Guard muttering a quiet word or two that ought not to be uttered in temple. The prayer lifts in volume. "May we forgive our enemies and grant them a place at Providence's side."

Ravelle is busy trying to assimilate what has happened and it takes but few moments for her to realize the bolt stole Kristian's life. She glances up at Parsifal briefly and then looks out toward the crowd. She freezes in place upon seeing her brother, a sound of broken celebration escaping her. "Athar..." The word is perhaps felt by her lips more than given life but it is clear from the tears collecting in the baronet's eyes that his return is fiercely desired. As Imani presses forward, she moves aside to grant her room towards Kristian, but she moves towards Parsifal. In fact, she's placing herself in front of him, protectively. It seems she means for any new bolts to go through her to get to her husband and she's not certain who authored the attack.

Josh just tries to stay out of the way. Almost helpless in his actions. Going back, drawing into the crowd. Maybe this is where he needs to be as he scans the crowd for the assissian. Not a lot of good that will do him when his weaponry training is pretty slim.

"Stop this!" Athar calls out as he is flanked by two dressed in the garb of the temple guardians, a gesture forward indicating the one whom readies his weapon for another shot. "This is not our way!"

Parsifal shakes his head quickly as Ravelle steps in front of her, moving to push her, if gently, back behind him. "No, you will not suffer for what is not meant for you," he tells her firmly, the emotions of this loss still so apparent as he puts his wife in the safety of his shadow. "I will not lose you as well."

Ravelle's gaze catches upon Karyleine when she draws so near and she releases her name so softly, "Karyleine. Oh Sweet Goddess you are here." She can't celebrate though, not with death crowding Kristian right at her feet. As Parsifal ushers her back behind him, she puts up a bit of resistance, dark eyes landing on him. "You cannot die, Parsifal..." The urgency behind that statement is undeniable. However, he is much stronger than she and manages to guide her out of the way and behind him some, despite her attempts.

"If I cannot, then it is Providence that will stop it," Parsifal tells Ravelle with another shake of his head. "Not you. It cannot be you. Not now."

"Providence gives us aid when we need it most," Imani offers quickly to Helena with a tight and fleeting smile between unhappy pushes with her slight weight, grateful for the extra body to help get her to her goal. Relief must wait. And then? Then the small woman presses in again. When the crowd parts enough that she can push the rest of the way through, she at last sees the issue that bid her forward. Immediately and wordlessly, she's dashing to Kristian's side. Her finger goes first to his jugular, searching for that hopeful flicker of life within the man's prone form.

Helena gives Imani a nod but no smile is returned as they hurry on, pressing through the crowd. She catches some of what Parsifal says and her eyes narrow, the storm brews in her gaze but she says nothing. She turns her attention to Imani and her business at hand. Kristian may have been responsible for her exile, but a Healer cannot ignore the call.

Pushing through the gathered, Athar's robes of samite fluttering behind him, he reaches out for that armed figure whom takes his aim and prepares to fire. "You must not do this! In the name of Providence, peace!" he cries out, and tries to reach for that weapon, and put himself between it and the rest of the temple.

Karyleine gives Ravelle only the briefest glance, her expression less than welcoming in return. And at the interplay between her sister and the man she was forced to marry, the Lady Codex merely drops her chin, turning her cobalt gaze to the man she called husband. She makes room for Imani to work once the Healer arrives, but doesn't draw away. Instead, fingers find his angular features briefly, oddly gentle and she leans down to whisper something in his ear, though he will not hear with them again.

Mathis gives a glance towards the guards as Athar advances, and the young man erks, "Baron, be careful!" he calls out, trying to finish closing that remaining distance between himself the grouping.

Ysora glances back over her shoulder at Parsifal and Ravelle as they intrude on her prayer. "Or you could -both- duck," she suggests before turning back to continue the prayer even as the sun steals out of sight behind Eremis. She may even help Imani and Helena up to the others. "Be safe!" For her part, she's continuing to try and be an interfering figure in the way of Parsifal and Ravelle. At least her guard is finally getting between her and the arrow as well, or at least on his way towards it.

One of the temple guardians steps up to rest a hand around Ravelle's shoulder to draw her a few steps away -- to interrupt this touching scene with her husband, perhaps, but also to draw one of Providence's faithful from the dangers of the assassin's bolt.

The assassin shifts slightly in surprise as Athar's hand settles on the crossbow, and the bolt flies wide, finding neither the baron nor the target. A snarl of fury is louder than it should be as the crossbow is jerked away from Athar and aimed at the man again in a clubbing blow.

As the temple guardian moves to escort Ravelle away, Parsifal's attention turns to Ysora. "Baroness... go!" he bids her. "You are a mother of a small child, for the love of Providence, herself. Go, away from here." And he will try to usher her toward her own guards. "Please... see to your lady's safety. There is enough blood on my hands."

Ravelle is still struggling to convince Parsifal to move away with her when that hand finds her shoulder and she is easily pulled away from the dais, her slight weight little match for the trained warrior servant of the Goddess. She turns to him and states with urgent authority, "You have to protect my husband at all costs, for reasons greater than you can see right now. Do it. Please." She does, however, move out of the way, recognizing she's not helping anyone where she was, but she's scanning the area for her loved ones.

The calls from Athar and the Sons of Providence send most of the crowd skittering to the sides or away from the paths that people move in. The figure that holds the bow is highlighted by the exodus from nearby. Mathis will be reaching him just before the Sons of Providence, just as the figure draws a long-knife of blackened steel in a black-gloved hand.

Near to the front as she is, Ellie manages to push her way through what crowd there is. Reaching Ravelle, the girl doesn't bother with any niceties and simply does her best to glom onto the woman, wrapping her arms around the Lady's waist in an embrace. Afraid? Protective? Perhaps both.

There is not much for Athar to do as that assassin takes a blow at him save to try and push himself and what weight he has at the man, hoping that others amongst the faithful, the Sons, someone, will come to his aid in time. Should they not, Providence will take him.

Blades? Great. Yanking his sword from its sheath, Mathis' own sword comes into play, the silver of the steel flashing as he attempts to strike first and hard with a cross cut from his body. "No you don't!" he calls out, anger flashing in his eyes as he does so.

That temple guard meets Ravelle's urgent gaze with a steady, calm one of his own. "Go, my lady," he says steadily -- instructs, as much as anything -- with a gesture toward her kin. "See them safe. Lose not yourself." That spoken only, he turns to stand beside Parsifal, but it seems the moment's danger has passed.

Thanks to the Baron Ethos's intercession.

His brethren nearer the perpetrator follow only moments behind Mathis, neither with drawn sword -- not inside the temple -- but reaching to intercede by grabbing for the man's knife-arm while Mathis attempts to draw blood.

When Imani finds no pulse, she closes her eyes softly as she rests her hand upon that of the corpse. "Providence speed thee along thy way, and, in Her infinite wisdom, have mercy upon thee to Her measure. May She comfort those who mourn thy passing, and sweeten thy memory in their hearts and minds." That said, she reopens her eyes and moves to remove her robe, paring down once more to the dark gown beneath that is her custom. The dead should not be left uncovered. Looking to Karyleine, her gaze softens. "I am sorry for your loss, but glad to see you safely returned as well, my lady."

Ravelle glances down as Ellie engulfs her and she winds her arms around the dear girl, one arm protective around her head as she pulls her towards the safety the temple guard insisted upon. She scans the scene unfurling in front of her, her lips moving in quiet prayer. What should have been a celebratory homecoming has not the stain of wickedness upon it, and worry crowds her expressive features as she hunts down each member of her family to assure herself that they are okay.

The crossbow comes down in a clubbing motion on Athar's shoulder and the Baron stumbles back reaching out with a hand for something, anything to brace him. Those dark eyes of his gone wide as he calls out for Mathis, "No blood! You mustn't!"

Her whispered words lost in her husband's cooling ears, Karyleine sits back, her fingers tracing his features a last time before she glances up at last, crystalline drops adorning pale cheeks like stars on snow. Her own pristine whites are no longer so pristine - speckles of blood have dotted them from where they brushed against Kristian. She lifts her gaze to Imani over her husband's body, gratitude and mute sorrow darkening their cast. Sorrow? For this man? But such an emotion seems to claim Karyleine anyhow, though she manages a brief smile. "Thank you, Healer."

Pale eyes lift as Imani pronounces Kristian dead and Helena looks to her younger sister. Her gaze drops briefly as Imani speaks some words in prayer, but soon enough she's looking back at Karyleine, saying nothing, just watching. Her shoulders stiffen again as unspoken throughs pass to the Lady Codex and she gives a slight nod as she holds her hand out for Karyl to take, if she so wishes.

Ysora glances back over her shoulder towards Parsifal, expression somewhere between incredulous and bemused. "Look, I may think you're abit of a blowhard, but you as long as you're inspiring people towards something finer? You're a blowhard whose life is rather important!" Oh, if those temple guards weren't around him... "So duck and get out of the way until an all clear is given, so I can do the same!" So much for reverent, prayerful words... the Guardian part took over for a minute there.

As Mathis closes in, the figure is still drawing a blade, and the hood is tossed back. Within the confines of the white robes is a woman, her blond hair shorn short at the nape of her neck, one side of her features tattooed with a green creeping vine and a number of colorful blossoms. She bares her teeth and dances back a pace as Mathis attacks. "Didn't you hear the Brother? No sharp edges in the temple," she calls with a derisive laugh. The blade is brought to a position of defense as she notes him, the approaching Sons of Providence, and the exits. Her voice rings with smug triumph. "You'll defile the temple more than I already have."

As the blade cuts through the air, Mathis grits his teeth. Stupid, stupid, never announce the attack, you moron, a voice, mysterously sounding like a certain ex-knight chides in the back of his mind. As the girl laughs, his own features darken. "Yeah, well you put down your blade, and you can have a nice friendly chat with the authorities about that." The young man isn't moving to attack, though. He's keeping far back, eyes watching the woman. "Careful." he hisses, feet settling for a moment as he sticks position. He knows he's far out of practice from his Vox-hunting days. And trying to attack would be foolhardy at best.

Finally becoming aware of the furor beyond them, Karyleine reaches up to accept her sister's hand, her sorrow bleeding away to a gentle apology and a measure of gratitude for that sisterly offering. "Come. We should move. It isn't safe." Understatement much? But then she looks aside to Imani, loathe to leave the healer in this vulnerable position either. Eremis watches the altercation with his brow drawn in deep furrows. He steps to the side of the door to let people depart as they will. Helena nods to her sister and looks to Imani as well. "There's nothing more to do here," she tells the Healer, nodding Imani out of the way, just as she and Karyl are going to do. Ellie goes with Ravelle, so long as that direction is away from where Parsifal is and Kristian lies dead. But she certainly doesn't let go as she stays close to the woman. She pays little attention to the chaos in the temple, so long as it's not near her.

It's only after Mathis's blade cuts through air that one of the temple guards approaches close enough. "There's no blood to be shed in the temple," he intones as he reaches with a gloved hand to snag the woman's arm and catch her.

Parsifal nods to Ysora, but it is as if he hardly hears her as he then looks around the temple with a look of grieving defeat. It is only when the Sons of Providence near him try to usher him to somewhere relatively safer than in the middle of everything that he does move, moving in the direction of where Kristian lies, pronounced dead on the floor of the temple he has found so much succor within. This is a crushing blow to the man who was truly uplifted by recent events lately.

Though he is fallen away from the battle, bracing himself on a face only somewhat familiar in the crowd, Athar shakes his head as he watches the woman and Mathis squaring off. "You cannot defile this place, it is greater then any one person. Lay down your sword now and partake of mercy."

Ravelle keeps Ellie close as her gaze lingers upon Athar, drinking in the sight of him before switching to where her sisters stand near Kristian. Brows drawn in worry and some fear for all that is unfolding, she then looks for her husband to check on his status. However, a life entrusted to obedience is what keeps her from disobeying the guard's orders and she remains where he left her. Out of the way.

A gamine grin answers Mathis' suggestion of laying down her blade, and instead she licks the flat of it for a moment. "I'll lay it down in your bowels." The closing in of several people does jostle her, though, and one of the Sons of Providence manages to grab her arm. Her booted foot lashes out with a glint of metal at the side, aiming for his stomach as she laughs again. "I bear a message for you, Brother!" rings her voice through the air with the attack.

The body would look just wrong with the arrow still sticking up into the air, and the healer snaps it off before she lays her stark robe overtop Kristian's body. The cloth blushes, naturally, but serves its purpose admirably. "Go," Imani encourages with a half-hearted smile to Helena and Karyleine both, a stray strand of hair falling across her cheek when she looks back up. "Someone should ensure no one touches the body until it can be handled properly. I am no one to these people; I will be perfectly safe. And I will hope to speak with you soon, apprentice."

And as soon as she moves to attack the guard, Mathis does the only thing he can. He tries to strike hard and fast before she can reorient on him. Opprotunistic, maybe. But the whole no blood in the temple thing is out the window at this point.

The crowd surges away from the combat, mostly forming a ring to surround it. A few voices call out loudly in prayer.

"We will," Helena tells Imani before moving off to a place of safety with her sister. She draws an arm around Karyl and the two back away, out of the way of danger, if at all possible. Only then does Helena turn and look outwards, having blocked out everything else but Imani's instruction and actions in the last few minutes. Spotting through the crowd some of what is going on, the lady shakes her head and sinks down to her knees, praying in earnest.

Parsifal steps to where Kristian's head lies, and then he does duck. Or kneel, rather. He does nothing to disturb the body, but prays over it with clear anguish.

The boot, gleaming as it is with metal at the side, catches the Son of Providence clean in the stomach. Were he a man unarmored, he'd be dead as Kristian Codex after some painful minutes. The soft leather beneath his tabard tears before the flesh, though he down for th count even as Mathis tries to strike again.

Karyleine goes with her sister to a safer spot, but her prayers are whispered furiously while her eyes continue to take in what's going on, her gaze going for a long, stark moment to Eremis where he stands near the doorway.

Once she's free from the Son of Providence, the assassin's laugh rings out with hard mirth and she dances back again from the blade Mathis wields against her. She blows a kiss at him and scans the area quickly again, her own blade just slashing in the air to try to keep people at bay rather than attacking while she searches for a door to back toward. It's then that she turns and dives for one of those who stand by, trying to get a grip on a younger woman that she can become a shield, a hostage.

Ysora moves to sit at Kristian's feet. Her blood boils to go join in the fight, but faith calms it again nso that she can kneel in prayer over one cousin's husband, with the other cousin's husband.

Ellie seems to be avoiding looking around. Who gets hurt, if anyone else dies, she'll find out later. She continues to cling to Ravelle and, though it'd probably go unnoticed by anyone else, the Lady can no doubt feel her trembling.

Mathis growls and is hot on her heels, jumping back from the slashing blade, until she takes a hostage. "...okay." he says, settling back into a loose stance as he moves to the left and right, trying to figure this out. "So, were you hired, or is this just a random thing?" he asks her.

Ravelle continues praying softly, leaning down to press a kiss to Ellie's crown, her features stark with the horrible battle being waged. However, when the woman grabs a hostage, she gently presses Ellie aside, her voice ringing out across the room. "No! No, please. Let her go." She starts to move away from the area of safety, watching the woman. "Please. Let her go. Or if you must take someone, I volunteer. Just please, do not harm another."

"Ravelle, don't be stupid!" Barked at her, Mathis doesn't turn to look, amber gaze watching the assassin warily.

Parsifal earns no softness from Imani, despite his anguish. There is no stutter; there is no hesitation. "Are you people not supposed to be going to a safe place? I seem to remember that you /were./ There will be time to mourn /la--" Ravelle's comment hits the air. Imani just closes her eyes. Fortunately, she need not say a harsh word to express her sentiment. Her future cousin does it for her. ...Providence really /does/ always provide!

"No, m'lady!" Ellie exclaims, horrified by Ravelle's offer. Desperate, she dives and tries to knock her down... grab her ankles, /something/ to keep Ravelle safe.

"Hired? Random? Please," says the blond tattooed female with disdain as she wrenches the girl's arm and puts the tip of her blade at the woman's throat. "That's so overdone." Her eyes roll. "Now, Baronet Whore, I'm not interested in you as a hostage. You're so quaint, spreading your thighs for someone who tried to kill your family. I can appreciate that, but I've no desire to touch you. You might contaminate me." She sticks out her tongue expressively. "I have a message. I'll take this woman toward the door, you'll let me go, I'll give the message, and none are the worse for wear, except that fucking pig Codex."

Helena glances up from her prayers at the shout from her sister and she takes a moment to drink in the scene. She frowns a little, but that frown comes when she looks towards the assassin. "Providence, be with us," Helena says quietly as she slowly lets her gaze wander over the events.

"What is it you want?" Athar asks of the assassin as he recovers himself, straightening once again of his own accord and taking a few steps into the circle of the combat, though he does not yet step between the blades. "If you wish that I hear your message, I will." He waves a hand at Mathis and the Sons. "Back."

The other Sons of Providence at the temple this day, having seen most of the people drawn back from this danger, have encircled her now; but at Athar's word, they draw back; one rests a hand on Mathis's shoulder, too, to silently urge him to do the same, with a murmured word to the young man.

Mathis glances at Athar for a moment, his sword still in posture for attack or defense, in mild-defiance of the Baron. Finally, he takes a half-step back, and moves to the side, towards one of the other exits, a terse nod at whatever was murmured.

The woman's crude words toward her didn't halt in her tracks, Ravelle is certainly physically held back by a ward swiftly nearing womanhood, stumbling to her knees as Ellie's weight and arms surround her. She emits a quiet sound of surprise and then hooks an arm around her ward and just draws her close-- /tightly/ close. She refrains from additional attempts at intercession when her brother takes command of the exchange.

Ravelle's willingness to throw herself in harm's way yet again draw a gasp from Karyleine, even as she steps forward, a hand outstretched. But then others are coming between Ravelle and danger - thank Providence - and she pauses, swallowing hard and looking to the assassin with a narrowed regard.

Ysora lifts her gaze from the prayer after a moment as she hears Imani's words. She looks across the body at Parsifal for a few seconds before speaking, "She is right in part. We should stand by your Baron and brother." You know. Next to the crazy killer lady. A final, quiet whisper for mercy on Kristian's soul and then she makes her way down towards her cousin. And apparently a crumpled pile of Ravelle.

Ellie's eagerness to keep Ravelle safe knocks her own breath away with a quiet, "Oof!" Even if Ravelle doesn't seem to be going anywhere now, she clings tightly and isn't about to be brushed aside so lightly again as she starts to sob quietly.

The assassin gives a wink at Mathis. "You, me. Dinner sometime," she declares toward him with a purr. "Maybe I'll even give you another chance." Then her attention returns to Athar, affixed upon the countenance of the Baron as he continues to drag the woman back toward the door. "Brother, the Mazarias sends regards. Our exile is at an end, and your humiliation and death is written. Every being who holds a drop of your blood shall be skinned alive, their flesh for the heads of our drums, their struggling bodies seared in acid, and their remains befouling this temple." She smiles fiercely, a trace of something like madness in her eyes. "Or something equally creative and justly deserved. Treasure your temple, its time is ending."

The statement of Brother is delivered toward Athar, if there is any doubt.

Parsifal looks up toward Imani, though it is as if he doesn't really see her. However, Ravelle's actions does grab his attention. Again, he is swiftly to his feet, all the movement making the stains of blood upon his back spread continually. "Be gone from this place, vile creature!" he calls to her, unafraid of her blade and her threats. "Providence guards these people, and they are deserving of it. I doubt the same can be said for you. Those who trust in Her have no fear of darkness."

The assassin's words have Karyleine covering her mouth as she gasps, her brow furrowing as if concentration might ascertain the shades of truth in her words. If there is any. "Mazarias?" She mouths, blinking, then looks back to Helena.

The woman that the assassin is dragging toward the door fixes her eyes on Athar, latching upon to his countenance with desperation and a bit of hope. She darts a look at Parsifal when he speaks, and on her features is a great deal of fear, even if she's not supposed to be afraid.

Such words are certainly meant to bring fear or even confusion, but Helena shows neither as she watches and listens. She keeps her head held high, her shoulders straight and her eyes fix on the woman, committing the face to memory. She makes a motion to her sister to follow, offering no answer to the mouthed question, and she moves to join with Ysora.

Mathis makes a decidedly yuck face at the idea of going out to dinner with the woman. Really. Edge edge edge.

Ravelle shifts to just hold Ellie, kneeling there in a pool of indigo velvet as she holds the girl close and murmurs soft reassurances to her. Pressing her cheek to Ellie's crown, she looks back towards the woman, disbelief stealing across her features at the warning. The name receives no recognition from her and she looks over at her brother for explanation, perhaps. Her sisters, too, receive a questioning glance. But it is the hostage's plight that has her lips moving in additional prayer for protection. For mercy. For the great Unseen to provide for that young woman.

Firming her own visage into inscrutability, Karyleine follows Helena, her gaze briefly meeting Ravelle's, softening for the briefest moment. But she, too, has no clue to what the woman is spouting off about.

For each step claimed backwards, Athar takes one forward, measuring the assassin's steps with a reserve of strength. "You claim our end is written, but you've not the hand to write it. Providence, the Light, knows the time of our passing, be it now, or a decade from here, and she shall welcome us with love," he says, though his eyes are more for the woman being used as a shield then the assassin. His tone hardens a fraction when his gaze lifts upward. "Mazarias. I have stood in the halls of a Master Vampire and been used as fodder for his flock, experienced tortures you can scant imagine. I have endured the lick of a great demon's wrath, every strip of flesh and hair melted from my frame. Sixty days I have walked Ikol without a mouthful of food, only the Light to sustain me. I have stepped through the fire of the Dragon unscathed." His chin lifts, those dark eyes defiant. "What more shall you do? You are not the first, and you shall not be the last. /We/ are unmoved. Providence sheds her Light upon us all and we love her well. Come and bring your Darkness to crash upon the bastions of our Light. And find memory only in history as befits so twisted and dark a thing. Begone from this temple."

"We shall not show you mercy again."

Ysora's hand lifts when Helena draws near. She reaches for her cousin's shoulder when she draws near, a gentle touch before she moves to Karyleine. She hears the threatening woman's words and a jolt of fear runs through her as she thinks of her daughter, but right now? She wraps her arm around Karyleine's shoulder and tries to hold on to her. "May the Light bring grace to your heart," she says to the assasin, not even knowing a Mazarias from a museum. A small afterthought to Athar's words offered as she tries to enfold the new window in compassion.

Athar's words bring the slightest change to Helena's gaze. The stony and unyielding exterior is moved briefly by a show of pride as she looks upon the Baron. She doesn't smile nor look bold, but her chin lifts ever so slightly as he lists his own trials. Her eyes sweep back to the assassin and the pride disappears, but there is strong and steady determination in the middle sister's gaze. Without looking she reaches a hand up and rests it to Ysora's hand on her shoulder and gives it a squeeze before releasing it again. Ravelle's glance receives no answer from Helena, likely because she has none to give.

As she listens to the words spoken by the Purist, the assassin's jet dark eyes alight with some untraceable emotion. She lets the knife part away from the throat of the woman she holds, and shoves the female forward toward the baron who pursues her. "Then I'll avail myself of this mercy the one time you offer it Brother. You should have learned something from the death of your father, that mercy is the province of weaklings and fools. You will join him soon." She sweeps a bow of extravagant proportion before turning to walk boldly toward the door.

Ellie has no idea what a Mazarias is, if she were listening. But she's not, as she just continues to cling to Ravelle and cry.

For a moment, Mathis totally has that look of 'screw mercy, let's go', and he gives that Son of Providence a wary glance as he starts to step forward. "Just making sure she leaves."

Weak though he should be, and is, Athar reaches to catch that thrust forward woman regardless in his arms. "She will leave, Mathis. She will leave," he assures, before looking to the woman and offering her soothing words.

Ravelle's chin elevates a fraction as her brother speaks of Light's unfailing strength in the threat of darkness. That flare of pride behind her brown eyes is swiftly exchanged with relief as the hostage is let go and she sends up immediate praise to the Goddess and then presses a kiss to the ninety-pound ward who tackled her. "It will be okay,"

Ravelle mutters to Ellie, "... what... about... as... as... girl.""

That Son of Providence keeps his hand on Mathis's shoulder -- light enough to be a mere presence, but heavy enough that, if he threatens to actually screw mercy, it will tighten. Athar's words draw a nod from him, and he breathes in a quiet baritone, "But will she _stay_ gone, Excellency?"

Karyleine leans into Ysora's embrace, her own eyes reflecting her sorrow, but also a measure of pride in her brother, a loving smile rising to her lips as she regards him and the woman who has taken her husband from her.

Eremis moves to the door and slips out of the temple in silence.

Parsifal stands and watches the assassin leave, staring at the door for moments after she is gone.

Mathis starts to say something, and just lets the question die on his lips, sheathing his sword finally as his young frame trembles in anger.

Joshua stares at the retreating back of the assassin. Shaking his head. Perhaps wishing this all away or just trying to deal with all the conflicting emotions that come forth. Another glance is spared for family and dear friends alike but this lord says nothing more and remains where he is at.

Ysora is not going to let Karyleine go any time soon. She holds onto the young woman and fixes Assassin with a blazingly cold, fierce look during that retreat. Once she is out of sight, Ys's forehead drops down to rest against Karyleine's.

As she's leaving, the female assassin gives a smirking smile to Karyleine. "You can certainly thank me Sister. I've done what everyone else was too pathetically pussy to do. I'd have done it to him, as well, if our Brother had let me." She snaps a look at Parsifal and departs with a laugh. "Farewell. We'll meet again."

Ellie desperately murmers to Ravelle quietly in response, between sobs. She mutters to Ravelle, "... can't... you,... m'lady...."

Even as the assassin departs, the woman clings to Athar and sobs, sinking to her knees before him.

Karyleine snaps her head up as the final words of the Assassin are directed at her. An unserene snarl rises to her face and she jerks out of Ysora's embrace, moving in an attempt to run after the woman.

Surely that won't be the last threat against Parsifal's life, and he does not seem shaken for it. "I shall pray for Providence to forgive you," he murmurs as the woman leaves, even if she cannot hear it with her departure.

The Baron Ethos lowers to his knees with the woman, and keeps her near as she cries.

Imani watches the exchange with wide eyes. There is a protective nearness given to the dead body of Kristian Codex, an arm resting over the covered form. It's far more apparent familiarity than she gives the majority of the living. And then her eyes begin spying more blood. Blood on Parsifal's back; wounds she's seen and guesses to be reopening. Then to Athar. Then back to the Kristian. Assassin gone, excitement due to ebb away... All that's left is her duty.

Ravelle gently cradles Ellie's face as she murmurs softly to her. She mutters to Ellie, "We... cannot... must... willing... of... in... serve... know... we will meet... when... have passed.... must... us... good... in... power... act. We... to trust Her."

It's hard to lose a grappling match with an effectively one armed woman. And yet, Karyleine manages to do it. Ysora tightens her grip in an attempt to stay the other woman's progress. "Not in anger. Not in grief."

Ravelle notes Karyleine heading for the woman and now it's her turn to call out. "Karyleine! No. Please."

"Thank you," the crying, trembling woman tells Athar, looking up at him with such abject relief. "Thank you. Thank you for coming back, Providence bless you, keep you. She has through so much."

A shriek of pained anguish escapes Karyleine but she stops struggling abruptly, letting her head collapse against Ysora's shoulder as the quiet sobs finally come.

"I should get ready to travel back to Amphorae." Said quietly, and mostly to himself, Mathis finally squirms free as the assassin leaves.

Helena looks from the crying woman in Athar's arms to her own sobbing sister, her eyes softening just a touch, but she says nothing, offers no words of comfort. Another glance is given towards the exit where the assassin left and she considers that path a few long moments but in the end she remains where she is.

The woman's last taunt draws a few steps forward from one of the Sons of Providence. Her disappearance sees that brotherhood shift into motion: some follow through the door, as though to seek her out once she's left the temple. Others move toward the crowd, to make sure none more are injured and take up sharp lookout for other danger. Another still stands near Ravelle and the women, and another near Athar.

And Mathis? Yes, he's finally let go.

They disperse, now, to their duties.

"Providence bless you," Athar murmurs to the woman, leaning forward to press a kiss to her brow as he slowly manages to rise to his own feet, those dark eyes of his favouring Mathis. "Master Cardiff. A last chance to call you thus, I am told." He extends a hand in friendship. "Thank you for being here, and helping as you did."

Ysora does not shrink from the shriek or the sobs. She simply holds Karyleine, mind retreating from the place as she tries to put all of her heart and spirit into the effort to bolster her cousin. She is not the only one - others of her Path draw closer to that sound of anguish, a gentle shield of compassion shaping itself around them.

When the woman is gone, Parsifal comes back to the moment, turning to search the crowd for Ravelle. He pays no mind to the blood that wets his back as he starts walking toward her and Ellie. "Are you both well? Unharmed?"

Poor Josh just doesn't know what to do. He's uncomfortable with this show of emotion and those that want to go after the one that caused this turmoil. So he stays rooted looking lost. Though his lips are moving. Falling back to a familar. And that is prayer.

Ellie's voice rises louder in anguish and grief, closer to a conversational tone now than a yell, but still loud for a private conversation. "No! Haven't I lost enough already?" she demands of Ravelle, "I can't! I won't! I can't." Parsifal is ignored, for the moment, as she goes back to simply sobbing.

A murmur spreads through those still gathered, the name of Athar repeated from person to person with a bit of reverence. The speech offered to the assassin is repeated in fragments, and one or two figures try to gather it word for word onto parchment.

"You have impeccible timing and the flare for the dramatic, as always, Baron Soranus." Mathis says, taking the hand to return the shake. Amber eyes look up to regaurd the Baron Ethos. "Good to have you back. And yes. An evening and some change hence in Amphorae at the Baronial Home. We look forward to seeing you there."

The sharp response from Ellie brings a furrow to Ravelle's brow and she simply tightens her hold on the girl, murmuring, "I am here." Her gaze shifts to where her sister is finally having a moment's pause to grieve for the loss of her husband. She studies Karyleine for a long moment, worry and sympathy mingling upon her features before Parsifal's rich voice catches her attention and she glances up at him. "We are both unharmed. You? Are you... unharmed physically?" Personally? Well she knows that he and Karyl's husband were close.

"We shall try. Please understand if we cannot all be there. You both have our love and friendship," Athar tells the young man as that hand is shook. "If you'll excuse me, I've some loved ones to see to." And after checking on that woman one more time, Athar reaches for the Son of Providence keeping near him, using the man as some leverage as he begins to pick his way through the crowd, inexorably towards his family. Living and dead.

As Athar passes, there are those who reach out to try to touch him for a moment in passing, and to murmur a blessing upon him.

"Of course. My sincerest apologies in your loss." Mathis says, stepping aside to allow the Baron to attend to his duties as the soon to be Baron also starts on his own way, knowing he'd mainly be in the way at the moment.

Parsifal nods in a quiet movement to Ravelle's question of concern. "Thanks to the quick movement of many, your brother the first among them." With that said, he does turn to face the man, the Baron that he exiled with his own hand, as he nears his family members. He says nothing, but lowers to his knees, bending his head in deference and gratitude toward the returned Athar.

Rising up to her modest height at last, Imani rubs her arms slowly as her eyes pan out across the crowd. Need bodies. Need live bodies to lift the dead body and get it out of the temple to be properly prepared. That... That is what they do here, right? The uncertainty of that conclusion is enough to cause the healer to heave another deep breath. True to her word, however, she does not leave the once-lord's side. A hand, bloody now from the arrow she snapped -- somewhat dried from rubbing on her sleeve -- reaches up to tuck that stray strand of auburn hair behind her ear without any thought. It's a gesture that leaves a sticky smear upon her forehead.

Her brief bout of weeping quieted, Karyleine lifts her face from Ysora's shoulder to murmur quiet words of gratitude to her cousin, giving her a brief smile as well.

Helena glances over to Karyl and looks up at Ysora before she speaks to her sister. "You should go to Codex, find your daughter," she says quietly as she reaches out a hand to touch her sister's arm briefly. "I hope to see you both back soon," she adds and gives another look to Ysora before she turns, making for the exit.

Whatever state Josh was in he seems to snap out of it when he takes notice of movement in the corner of his eye. Moving in the direction of Imani and the fallen body of Kristian. But its Imani he asks after first, "Are you alright?" Staring at her with some concern. Better to look at her than the man that is at her feet. Only after a few minutes go by does he finally look at his dead cousin in law though he's still speaking to the healer, "What can I do to help?"

"Almost... almost weren't..." Ellie points out in response to Ravelle, tears still streaming down her face. Seeing someone shot down by a crossbow bolt? Aparently not quite as scary as the thought of losing Ravelle.

"Helena!" Karyleine calls suddenly, giving Ysora a last gentle squeeze before pulling away to go after her sister with a tone of pleading in her voice, a call to wait.

Athar's procession towards his family is stalled by those whom wish that fleeting touch, or to give him their blessings, blessings he returns with love and honest affection for his people. When he emerges from the crowd his eyes favour some, Imani first and then Joshua, the sight of his retreating middle sister, his sobbing sister in the arms of his Guardians cousin, the kneeling man that so exiled him, the corpse of his conspirator... and then Ravelle. Ravelle, upon whom, those eyes wait.

Ysora will be a presence at Karyleine's side for the foreseeable future. There's no letting go now. Karyleine may escape the embrace, but there will be a steady touch on the shoulder, at her back. There. Her answer to whatever was whispered is solemn and loving at once. "Always, Karyleine. Helena's suggestion is very good. Would that help you now?" Yup. They're both moving in Helena's wake now. Congratulations, Karyleine. You have a new bodyguard for the evening.

Helena pauses and turns at the unexpected cry from her younger sister. She's only a few steps away as she regards her sister with a questioning look. "Sister?"

Ravelle inclines her head to Parsifal and then directs her gaze towards Athar as he approaches. The tears are swift in claiming her gaze and she kneels there holding Ellie while a months of stress and worry and fear finally find some cathariss in the sight of a brother returned from lost. She doesn't speak, she just bows her head a moment, in deference and respect to the baron's governance. With a soft kiss on Ellie's head, she gently starts to disentangle herself so that she can rise and greet him appropriately. "TWelcome home." She studies him somewhat uncertainly, trying her best to keep the tears from flowing but the dam is near braking. "There... there is much that we must discuss. But first, we should get everyone to the keep. You've had long t-travels."

Ysora may be steps behind her, but Karyleine has eyes only for her next oldest sibling. She pauses before Helena, out of breath and not just from that brief burst of energy. Her expression is open, aching, and she leans near to murmur quietly to her sister.

Karyleine mutters to Helena, "Sister...I... sorry.... said... boat.... of... I spoke.... I have... too... hope..."

"Lord Meritas," Imani greets, lowering herself into a respectful curtsy. When she comes back to her feet, she returns to the rubbing of her hands along her dark sleeves. "I am perfectly fine. Which is more than I can say for others." She tilts her head, then, her smile nervous and uncertain but intended to communicate gratitude for the offer of assistance. "I... I need someone to move the body to wherever it should go. It should not remain here. I can accompany it if needed. If..." When Baron Ethos emerges from the throng, however, the young woman stops short in order to lower herself into an even lower curtsy. But there she remains for now, waiting for the returned baron to either leave or make known his wishes.

Helena leans in and listens to her sister, unblinking. When Karyl goes quiet, she looks up at her and nods. "Always, sister," she says with a brief smile to her lips as she leans in and kisses her sister on her forehead. "I am glad your eyes have been opened, a blessing of Her, certainly." She glances back to Ysora. "You will see her to Codex then, cousin?"

Parsifal remains upon his knees, bent forward slightly with head bowed. He is silent and unmoving for the time being.

Joshua has his back turned so doesn't see Athar's approach at first. Listening to Imani as she speaks. Giving a nod or two to show he's an active listener. Only to turn when he hears Imani and her distraction. A bow is given towards Athar. Than relief is seen. If he was truly an affectionate man he would throw arms about his baron cousin. But he does not. Not saying anything as he watches Athar now.

Ellie, finally, reluctantly, releases Ravelle. Lost in her own tears, she doesn't acknowledge anything, or anyone, else for now.

Ysora nods to Helena. "If that is where she wishes to go. Whatever the right path is for her right now." She smiles at Helena, a deep and abiding love clear in her eyes. "Perhaps the little one might be brought to Ethos as well to have everyone together."

The buss given by Helena means more to Karyleine than a thousand red roses, and she closes her eyes gratefully. "Yes. Yes, I must go to Codex. At once. I must find Jaylene." She looks to Ysora, shaking her head. "There will be trouble and unrest when word spreads. The people need me there, as much as my daughter. I must go. Just, wait a moment..." She smiles first to Helena, nodding in farewell, then presses Ysora's hand, and crosses back to Kristian's body.

Helena releases her sister and again looks to Ysora. "I think mother and daughter might do well with some time alone and, as Karyleine says, her people will need here. There will be time enough," she says as she glances towards where Ravelle and Athar stand. With another nod she looks back to Ysora. "Thank you for watching out for her, Providence guide and keep you both," she says again as she turns to depart.

"Ravelle." The weight with which that name is spoken cannot betray the emotions of the speaker any more then the gaze of those dark eyes. "It is... good to see you again," Athar tells her, reaching for her hand and offering it a gentle squeeze before he presses a kiss to her fingers. Then he releases her slender digits and the weight of his attention falls on the knelt Parsifal. "See to your sisters, Ravelle. They have missed you, and Karyleine has suffered a terrible loss." His eyes never once leave the man. "Lord Meritas, have a few of the templar assist with taking Master Codex's body somewhere else, please. Mistress Paggion, I thank you for your faithful heart and swift service, no matter your personal thoughts." Still, he says nothing to the man he watches, those dark eyes unmoving.

Ravelle's fingers fasten upon Athar's so tightly during that brief exchange, the saline evidence of her relief and worry painting clear tracks down her cheeks. She nods dutifully. "Yes, Excellency." Casting her husband a brief glance, she places a reassuring hand on Ellie's shoulder and then moves towards Karyleine and Helena. There is uncertainty to her walk, normally so poised, but she finds conviction in the purpose assigned to her and her desire to see her kin once more. "Hel, please wait," she requests, her voice pursuing her firstborn sister. She then looks over at Karyleine, compassion finding her gentle words. "I am so sorry."

Ysora inclines her head to Helena. "I will be to see you soon, Helena. Know that I love you, and hold you in my prayers and faith." When Karyleine moves, she turns to follow her movements and nods to a guard. "Please help with Imani's request and seeing to the body as she and Karyleine will it," she tells the man. There is so much to watch happening right now.

Does Parsifal feel those eyes so heavily upon him? It's not unlikely. However, he has not been addressed, or bid to rise at all. This is his Baron as well, and he shows the man the respect the position calls for, and that he believe the man behind the title deserves. He remains in his knelt position with gaze lowered to the floor.

Karyleine glances over briefly to her brother, but stays her course, reaching Imani's side and looking down at Kristian's fallen form. "I would like to transport him immediately back to Ethos. If you could help me, Healer Paggion?" She asks quietly. As Ravelle approaches her, however, Karyl lifts her cobalt regard to her eldest sister, her expression cool and sad. "So am I, Ravelle. But I am glad to see you are hale." Then she looks away again, gesturing to one of the guards to take her husband's feet while another takes his shoulders.

Helena pauses again as the sound of her name, nearer the door this time, but again she turns as a sister addresses her. Pale grey eyes regard her older sister quietly as they stare out from features burned by the sun. Her gaze skims back to Ysora and she nods. "And I you, cousin," she assures her before looking back to Ravelle.

It seems things are already being taken care of as Josh hear's Athar's request. He steps in to help with the transporting of Kristian's body and beckons for any other men that are free to help in this. Going where it is he may need to go. Silent in his actions. He's got a mission to do and this is something he can do.

"It is my honor, Excellency," Imani offers in a hushed voice to Athar as she lifts out of the sable cloth that has pooled at her feet, sullied hands moving to smooth out the invisible wrinkles that she alone sees. "And I am relieved to see you safely returned to your lands." And then, again, she hears her name. She turns to face Karyleine and curtsies more shallowly to her as a sign of her acknowledgement and acceptance. (A curtsy here, a curtsy there! Every noble gets their share!)

The Paggion woman gives a tiny nod to echo the sentiment. "I am at your disposal, my lady."

Ravelle considers Karyleine's expression. She wants to hug her sister. Why does it feel so wrong? She tries to find a way to help instead. "I will send ahead to the keep and see that a carriage is prepared for you and some guards as well as for Kristian to be transported. You need not worry about anything else but your duties with Codex." Her dark eyes linger upon her youngest sister before she turns to address the one whose room she's invaded consistently at night when unable to sleep. Her feet slowly lay claim to the distance as she approaches Hel, halting at a more polite distance than anything sisterly. "It is good to have you all back. I've missed you so much and I hope we can sit down and talk some more when you are ready."

"Thank you," Karyleine says, first to Imani with a faint smile and the others assisting her. And then words are turned on Ravelle, the expression solemnizing. "That would be helpful, sister, thank you." And then she turns back to the matter of getting her husband's body out of the temple and prepared for travel home. His mother may not survive the loss of her third and final son. But Karyleine would survive the loss of her mother-in-law.

While everyone's busy with everyone else, Ellie gets to her feet and first creeps towards the door before breaking into a run. Unless someone stops her, the girl has apparently decided to simply... get away for now.

Helena watches as the eldest sister speaks to the youngest and then turns her gaze fully to Ravelle as sher sister addresses her. "I'm sure we will have plenty of time to do so," Helena says as her gaze moves to briefly consider Parsifal. "But if you will excuse me, I must return to Gateway. There is much that I need to do, works of charity that your husband saw fit to forcibly remove me from before they could be completed." Her gaze moves back to Ravelle. "I intend to see that what I started is properly finished, for the good of the citizens in need," she adds, inclining her head to her sister before she turns, once again, to depart. This time, she does intend to leave.

Athar eventually bends to one knee in front of the knelt Parsifal Soranus, a hand leveraging himself on the weight of a templar at his side. When he speaks, the words are meant for the man he must now call brother alone. He mutters to Parsifal, "I... what... do with you,... lord... Providence... heart... be... for... your own... way,... you could... I... was... to... but... the darkness for... in... time,... folly in... can and... forgiven. You... matter... Providence... return me... or... that... remained... take... a... sister, an... out... be. She... the... man that... broke... saw her as an... to... rightful... I know not... of you... for... I... to show me another... will... time,... time."

Parsifal senses "Athar eventually bends to one knee in front of the knelt Parsifal Soranus, a hand leveraging himself on the weight of a templar at his side. When he speaks, the words are meant for the man he must now call brother alone. "I know not what to do with you, my new lord brother. Providence is close in my heart and I am moved to be merciful, for I know that in your own misguided way, you believed your methods just when you saw a cause you could not deny. I too, once, was as foolhardy. You, as I did, thought a cause was just and did not permit Providence to show you how it might be done without darkness, but instead excused the darkness for the end result. It was folly in my time, as it is folly in yours now. This, I can and have forgiven. You did not cease there, though. You ensured, no matter if Providence would return me soon, or not at all, that it was you who remained to take my place. You made a pawn of my beloved sister, an acquisition of power out of what she has lived and waited her entire life to be. She found love in the hands of a man that once beat and broke her, and then wed another whom saw her as an avenue to what he believed his rightful place. I know not which of you I could despise more for that, did I not have Her to show me another way. I believe I can forgive you for that. But it will take time, Parsifal. It will take time.""

Ravelle watches as Helena departs and then looks over at the rest of her kin in the area, including Karyleine. She finally executes a curtsy for the baron and baroness in the area and then sends her husband and brother a lingering glance before heading out of the temple to have the carriages prepared and to check on her ward.

With assistance from those about, Karyleine sees her husband conveyed out of the temple. Once without quick preparations will surely be made to transport him and Karyleine back to Codex. There's a little girl there who needs her mother, though it could be argued the mother needs her more right now.

Ysora stops for a moment to speak with Ravelle, and will try to at least catch Athar's eye to incline her head to him at some point. And then she's on the road with Karyl! ROAD TRIP!

Parsifal does not lift his gaze as the Baron addresses him in lowered tones, but his head does shake slowly and his voice forms answer to Athar's words. He mutters to Athar, "... not... was... Your... and... no... disrespect... beloved... fully... my... in... I... misspeak... people gathered here... my... I... of the... she had... another man,... knows well... trespasses against... As... I... I... you... to take... me... on... for... has... nothing but pray for your safety,... her... what... thought... I... you to... that I have nothing... respect... her, and... never treat... is... place I sought, but... mending... abandoned.... will... hatred... your family for... have... I... continue... pray... I do... and... will... show..." Although his gaze does not lift, the tone of his words are raw and true. Painfully bearing of his soul as he speaks them.

Old habits die hard as Ellie escapes through the temple doors and off to... hide and disappear. She'll likely be back to the keep by morning, unless someone finds and drags her back there before then.

The body gone. Karyleine gone. With a last curtsy, Imani softly murmurs her request to be excused as she moves past with her eyes averted towards the ground and her dark gown whispering against her form. There is work to be done, and none of it includes standing around gawking.

Athar shakes his head a measure, replying in that same quiet tone. He mutters to Parsifal, "I do... hate you,... You are,... better... the... sister.... face hatred from... some.... you may never... right... you,... those... love her... that she... steadfast to you. Her... begun,... swiftly... It... hand, but it shall come.... speak... tonight, we..." He uses that same leverage he did to lower himself to rise back up to his feet and turns from Parsifal to look over the temple once more. Where Kristian died, his blood staining the place, his eyes hover for a quiet while.

When Parsifal does look up to the Baron as he rises, it is with tears that hover again in his eyes, unashamed for such. "I vow that I shall do right by her, and by you. Providence be praised for your safe return, Excellency." The man truly means it, as he has meant everything else.

Since Athar does seem to be done with Parsifal for now, and the man is bleeding in his own right from torn open wounds on his back, he struggles to his feet to go in search of a healer and go mourn his fallen brother in private.

There's a smile finally from Joshua when he returns from helping in the transporting. Hearing Athar's words he seems a bit pleased. Maybe at the thought that yes Leon is back. He's missed that one to of course. "Yes, of course, Excellency." He'll talk to Athar anytime that is needed. He's just happy they are all home now. For now. Until the next big adventure hits, of course. This group? Yes, no still feet here.

Imani pauses just long enough to turn her attention back to Athar. There's a warm smile for him, small though it may be, and then she tucks her chin her head. A hand lifts to delicately drape long and slender fingers over her heart, indicating her sincerity in the matter as she speaks. "On the morrow, honored Excellency, I shall gladly avail myself to your schedule."

"Until then, please see my sister's husband does not bleed himself to death," Athar requests of her with a a glance over his shoulder at the man. "For all that some might wish it upon him, he too has suffered much this day. Show him Providence's tenderness, at the least."

The man whose back is red where it was once white. Parsifal continues slowly toward the exit of the temple.

Again. She has to do this /again./ Tending to an unconscious Parsifal in the infirmary, and now this. Imani's eyes close a little longer than is strictly necessary when she bows her head again, sucking up her feelings on the matter. "Of course, Excellency." Another curtsy, and then she turns again and moves with a more brisk step. "Baronet," she calls out, her former great volume not needed now with the diminished crowd.

Parsifal looks over toward Imani as she walks so quickly in his direction. "Yes?" he asks her, looking quite weary for all of the night's excitement.

"If you will so permit me," Imani tentatively begins, taking a deep breath. "I might tend to your wounds. You... You were not awake, but I was one of the healers who cared for you in the infirmary. I need only to return to my room at the inn and fetch my bag."

"I am grateful for your past ministrations," Parsifal tells Imani genuinely, through his weariness. "And I would be grateful still for them, thank you. do you wish me to await you here, or follow you to the inn?"

"Whichever plan proves more to your liking," Imani replies honestly enough, her eyebrows lifting inquisitively.

Parsifal shakes his head. "It would be futile for you to make another trip when I can merely accompany you there," he agrees easily enough. "I assure you I am in no danger of passing out."

"Then let us to the inn." Imani offers little more than a nod of acceptance of this plan, before moving to escort Ravelle's fairly new husband at the pace of his own choosing. She casts her eyes aside in his direction more than once as they go along, arms again folding over her person.

Parsifal walks slowly with Imani, the adrenaline of the evening having worn off, leaving him quite sore and tired, and it shows in his pace and demeanor. "I know you do not think much of me," he does say after a few moments of walking in silence. "I am sorry for it."

As Imani thinks on how best to reply, she turns her crystalline gaze forward. Her robe, sent out upon Kristian's corpse as a temporary shroud is sorely missed as they step out into the cold night air. But her soft voice continues on. "I am a healer. In the performance of my duties, I am not called to judge. And, even if I were, Providence has seen fit to rectify half of your folly. For this, I am grateful and will -- with Her divine aid -- find my way to forgiveness. If the Baron of Ethos can find it in himself to ask of me mercy and kindness for you, I can find it in myself to so bestow it."

"I thank you," Parsifal says. "Had I a cloak myself, I would offer it to you. Will you tell me what you believe the other half of my folly to be?"