[Signature][92]Shades of Drinal: The Shores of Everafter (1)
發表於 : 2012年 10月 24日, 13:10
照著信中所說,來到了懼腐林的隱蔽營地(巫師傳送陣所在),找到Duality。
"Hail, Dartain"
Dartain "Ah, Yyis! You received my missive!"
"Erus had mentioned that you would be seeing to this matter yourself. Are you not still working on the Shissar Calendar?"
Dartain "I am. However, this issue took precedence for a couple of reasons. Primarily, Firiona is likely instrumental in helping to defeat Kerafyrm, but she has now passed into Ethernere. Knowing more about what is happening there could be the difference between salvation and annihilation."
"Have you been able to get the spire working then? Will it allow us to pass into Ethernere?"
Dartain "I believe it will, yes."
"You believe it will? It hasn't been tested?"
Dartain "No. Ravinus was insistent that we not send just anyone through the portal. For now, the gate is still closed."
"So why are we using this spire? Why not one of the ones closer to the cities?"
Dartain "Ravinus mentioned something about those being "blocked". Some manner of barrier making the crossing there impossible. The spirit wasn't more specific than that, and to be honest, I don't think even he knew why those spires wouldn't work."
"All right, well, what should I do now?"
Dartain "Speak with Ravinus, and be ready. What waits for you beyond, I cannot say."
"What about you, then?"
Dartain "I need to continue my work here, now that the portal is open. I have been attempting to speak with Rikantus about these keys of fate, but I have received few answers. However, I believe I am getting closer to finding something significant. See me again when you come back to Norrath."
"Very well, I will see you then. Farewell."
[92]Shades of Drinal: The Shores of Everafter
-Speak with Ravinus near the Feerrott spires.
"Hail, Ravinus"
Ravinus "Here you are. I've been waiting."
"Well, it is good to see you too, Ravinus."
Ravinus "Enough with your tone. There is much to be done, and time grows ever shorter. The Truespirit have done what they can to help close the holes that have appeared between Norrath and Ethernere, but our efforts will soon be in vain."
"So am I to go to Ethernere, then?"
Ravinus "Of course. Now, you must keep some things in mind when you go."
"What is that?"
Ravinus "You are crossing the veil into your afterlife. You are not meant to be there. I cannot say what will become of you when you cross into that realm."
"I know. I don’t see where I have another choice, though."
Ravinus "You don't. Now, if you are ready, I will activate the spire."
"I guess this is farewell, then?"
Ravinus "Indeed. Norrath's fate is on your shoulders, mortal. You must remember that."
"I will. Let's be off."
從Ravinus身旁的傳送門進入Etherenre的第一張地圖 - Eidolon Jungle。
-Speak with the Steward of Drinal.
"Hail, Drinal's Steward"
Drinal's Steward "Who are you?"
"I am Yyis. Where am I? This looks like Feerrott, but... different somehow."
Drinal's Steward "It is as you perceive it to be. This is Feerrott. Or it is not. Your soul makes it what it is."
"I am confused... am I not in Ethernere?"
Drinal's Steward "You are, mortal, and you should not be. Your soul is still one with your body, and thus, neither should be here."
"Perhaps, but I have no choice. I need to find out why people on Norrath have been dying."
Drinal's Steward "Norrath is in peril. Perhaps more than you realize."
"Why is that?"
Drinal's Steward "What do you know of Ethernere?"
"I know it is the resting place of the souls of Norrath. It is where we go when we pass on from our lives."
Drinal's Steward says to you, "Correct, at least partially. Ethernere is where you await the call of your deities, the place you go before you pass to your final judgment in the hands of your chosen deity. All souls must pass through here before going to their place of rest. All souls." (聽起來像亡者的中途之家)
"It seems that there are a few other souls around here, though. Who are they?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, all souls must pass through here. Most answer the call of their deities, and move beyond. Others, though, attempt to remain here, or must remain here. These are the Wayward – those with no final rest, no ultimate release."
"Why would some choose to remain?"
Drinal's Steward "They have their own reasons. While it is my job as the Steward of Drinal to ensure that souls pass through to their proper destinations, some can hide here, or can strike bargains to stay. They try to make their own existence here, among the souls of the deceased."
"So… these are Wayward here?"
Drinal's Steward "Most, yes. Fighting for their existence."
"Against who?"
Drinal's Steward "Perhaps you should ask them, and see what they have to say. Talk to Veris Windcall over near the cave path to the shores if you want to know more. When you have finished, come back to me. "
"Hmm... all right. I'll see what is going on here."
-Speak with the one knows as Veris Windcaller and help him.
-Speak to Riishu Sulrel to learn a bit more about Wayward.
"Hail, Drinal's Steward"
Drinal's Steward "Hello again, Rawadar. It seems you've made a few friends here already."
"Perhaps. I had some questions for you, though."
Drinal's Steward "What are they?"
"These Wayward... they seemed to think I was dead – that I was one of them. Why is that?"
Drinal's Steward "The living do not belong here."
"So why let me stay?"
Drinal's Steward "Because Ethernere needs the heroes of Norrath."
"Why is that? The souls of the departed are here, can they not help?"
Drinal's Steward "Not like the living can. While those here have consciousness and can think on their own, they are still merely shades of what they once were. They cannot draw on the same powers that you can, and will not be able to muster the strength necessary to do what needs to be done."
"I see. So what is it that has happened here?"
Drinal's Steward "The impossible."
"I'm... sorry? What do you mean by that?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, ALL souls come here to Ethernere – even those that are never meant to be here."
"I don’t understand…"
Drinal's Steward "Meet me near the Ashen Tower, in the southern portion of the jungle. I have much to show you."
(1351358963)[Sun Oct 28 01:29:23 2012] You say to Drinal's Steward, "Very well. I will see you there."
[92] Shades of Drinal: Great and Small
-Meet Drinal's Steward at the Ashen Tower.
"Hail, Drinal's Steward"
Drinal's Steward "Welcome to the Ashen Tower."
"What is this place?"
Drinal's Steward "There are many places across Ethernere where Drinal maintains watch using these towers. They not only act as watchtowers, they also are used as reality anchors."
"A reality anchor?"
Drinal's Steward "Correct. Ethernere is malleable. It bends and shapes itself based on the perception of whoever is viewing it. Thus, your Ethernere looks slightly different from everyone else's."
"I see – that's why this looks like the Feerrott? Because I am expecting it to?"
Drinal's Steward "Correct – at least mostly. Your perception molds what you see, although these lands do borrow some of their properties from the places they touch on Norrath. In this case, the Feerrott."
"But you said it was malleable. So it can change?"
Drinal's Steward "It can."
"How is that?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, these reality anchors help keep their local areas stable, so that they remain as they should. However, these anchors can also be used to dramatically reshape the landscape, if they are somehow compromised."
"And that could happen here?"
Drinal's Steward "It could. The Ashen Tower itself is under attack. If it falls, all of this area would be fundamentally changed."
"And those that could not escape from the Horde through the broken Turbillion could be in danger?"
Drinal's Steward "Indeed. Plus, this would destabilize Ethernere further, and speed up its deterioration."
"Wait... deterioration? What is happening to Ethernere?"
Drinal's Steward "Perhaps you should see what threatens it first. Meet with Zeeil and Nrik - through them, you will begin to understand what has happened to Ethernere. And do not fear Zeeil's appearance – he will not harm you. At least, not yet."
"Not yet, huh? Well, I'll see if there's something I can do to help anyway. Farewell for now."
-Speak with Zeeil, and help him with his troubles at Ashen Tower.
-I should speak with Nrik near the Ashen Tower.
Drinal's Steward "It is good to see you again."
"I admit, I had no idea that Ethernere was in such straights."
Drinal's Steward "Indeed. The very nature of the plane puts it in this terrible position. While the alterable nature of Ethernere is necessary, this kind of intrusion into our realm creates a dangerous situation."
"So is Rallos here, then?"
Drinal's Steward "A portion of his deific energies is here, yes."
"How is that possible?"
Drinal's Steward "It shouldn't be. The gods are not meant to be destroyed, and their energies do not belong in Ethernere. However, it has happened, and the consequences have been dire. "
"Is Rallos what upset the balance of Ethernere?"
Drinal's Steward "Ultimately. His energy needs to be pushed through, so it no longer resides here."
"How will we do that?"
Drinal's Steward "The reality anchors can be used to expel his deific energy, but they need to be attuned properly. If you are willing to help, we can begin the stabilization of Ethernere."
"What should I do?"
Drinal's Steward "His energy teeters on the brink of expulsion. What is left of the God of War is severely weakened and scattered. Together, we can gather the remnants and cast the energy into the Void."
"Wait… the Void?"
Drinal's Steward "Yes. Rallos's energy must be pushed through to its final destination. In this case, the Void. We need to open a ripple between Ethernere and Void."
"Isnt that dangerous?"
Drinal's Steward "Very. But it is necessary. Now that you have properly attuned the Tower of Umber, I can use the reality anchor here to help send him back into the Void by opening a ripple between the two dimensions."
"What do we do once the ripple is opened?"
Drinal's Steward "Rallos's energy must be summoned beneath the ripple. The effect of the Void ripple will draw him in, and we can shut it." (挖坑,推坑,埋坑!)
"How do I summon his energy?"
Drinal's Steward "Find the pieces of his essence that dropped here in the Eidolon Jungle. There is a massive focus for his energy within Oggok - the helm of Rallos Zek. Merge the energy with the helm, and he will be formed somewhere nearby."
"All right. I'll find the essences first, then."
Drinal's Steward "And Rawadar, be careful. The energy of Zek will not want to fall into the Void. It will react violently to what you're doing. Although weakened, it will be strong enough to maintain a hold on this plane. You will have to force it through the ripple."
"Thanks for the warning. I'll return when it is done."
-Locate the pieces of Rallos Zek's essence. ( 8 )
-Merge the energy fragment with the Helm of Rallos Zek in Oggok.
-Defeat the Remnat of Zek on the Zektower.
Drinal's Steward "You've returned."
"And the spirit of Zek has been expelled. Ethernere should be safe once more."
Drinal's Steward "The spirit is indeed expelled, however, Ethernere is not safe. Not yet."
"Wait, I thought that Zek's deific energies were unbalancing the plane?"
Drinal's Steward "They were the final piece, but not the only piece. Rallos was not alone. There is more for you to see."
"Wait, what? How is that possible?"
Drinal's Steward "Remember what happened at the Tower of Umber? How the followers of Fear were trying to change the lands?"
"Yeah, I do. We managed to stop them for now, but they seemed intent on transforming the jungle."
Drinal's Steward "The rest of the jungle, you mean."
"Wait, what? What do you mean "the rest"?"
Drinal's Steward "I will show you. There is a group of creatures not too far from here, up in an area now known as the Fearcreep. It is up the cliff, but shouldn't be too far. Meet with the one known as Gulthga. You might find out something quite surprising."
"Very well. I'll speak to you again once I am done."
[96] Shades of Drinal: Skies of Red
-Seek out the creature known as Gulthga in the Fearcreep.
Gulthga "The fear that permeates the creatures here... I do not smell it on this fleshling, Yulsluu. It gives me no sustenance. It should know its place... I can make it feel fear!"
-Help Gulthga find what is happening in the Fearcreep.
-Speak with the creature know as Yulsluu, and see if you can assist him.
Drinal's Steward "I have been waiting for you. Can you tell me what youve seen?"
"I would never have guessed that fear had taken so much of Etthernere. But how? And why?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, Ethernere is not what you see. It can be shaped, it can be molded. The followers of Fear took advantage of this, and attempted to make this plane into theirs."
"I'm still confused, though... Are there two Cazic Thules?"
Drinal's Steward "Yes, in a manner of speaking. The deities do not exist as mortals do, thus, the two Thules who battled here are two parts of the same being, yet exist in different reality streams."
"And the one that perished in his world is trying to merge with the one from our world?"
Drinal's Steward "Indeed, to give himself existence again in his own reality. This is why deific energies were never meant to come here - the power of their spirits far exceeds anything in the mortal realm, and can have dangerous effects on the Grey Wastes."
"Baelon is defeated and the Fear Gate is closed, so his plans should be thwarted now."
Drinal's Steward "They are for now, but his energy still resides here, and still unbalances the realm. His energy must be expelled."
"How can I do that?"
Drinal's Steward "There is another Fear Gate inside of the temple. The energy of the Faceless must be forced back through that portal. Once that is done, the portal will be sealed, trapping his energy back in his own realm."
"I'll need to lead him to the portal somehow, and trap him in the room with the Gate."
Drinal's Steward "He knows the presence of his counterpart from your reality. If you can get together a piece of that essence, you might be able to draw him using that. Speak with the amygalians, and see if they have any ideas."
"I'll do that. I'll return once his energy has been pushed back."
-Speak with Gulthga once again.
Gulthga "What is it you want?"
"I've spoken with the Steward of Drinal. We believe we have a way to expel the energy of Cazic back to his own realm, but we need some help."
Gulthga "And why do you think I can help?"
"We need some essence of the Cazic Thule from our existence. We need a piece of something that will attract him to us."
Gulthga "There is little from our realm here, save the few of us."
"Perhaps we can accompany one of you into the temple..."
Gulthga "Never. We will not act as your pathetic bait."
"But unless we expel his energy, Cazic Thule and Norrath are still in jeopardy!"
Gulthga "I am not here at your beck and call. You did what I demanded you do, as a weak mortal should! If you want something from me, you will have to take it!"
"I don’t want to fight you! We save Ethernere and Cazic Thule together!"
Gulthga "Tremble before me, mortal! I will present your broken, terrified soul to the Lord of Fear!"
"This isn't what I want, but if there is no other way... so be it!"
-Enter the Throne of Fear, and seek out the Fear Gate.
-Place Gulthga's remains on the stone near the Fear Gate.
-Drive the Effigy of Fear back into the Fear Gate.
-Return to Drinal's Steward.
Drinal's Steward "I've been waiting for you to return."
"And I have good news. The essence of Cazic Thule was pushed back into the Fear Gate, and the gate has been closed."
Drinal's Steward "A weight upon Ethernere was lifted when the essence passed on."
"Is it done, then? Is Ethernere safe?"
Drinal's Steward "No... no it is not. For as troubled as Ethernere was, the one who oversees it, and tends to it is still wracked with pain."
"What do you mean? Are you speaking of Drinal?"
Drinal's Steward "Yes, Drinal. The Silver Reaper. The one charged with the care and oversight of Ethernere."
"I will admit, from the legends and tales of Ethernere, I had expected to see Drinal when I arrived here. Does he not still tend to the souls who come here?"
Drinal's Steward "He does... or he did. Now, it is my charge to watch over the souls as his steward. Drinal has become more than a simple caretaker of the dead. He has become one with Ethernere."
"Wait… like a deity?"
Drinal's Steward "Exactly. Drinal has ascended, becoming a part of Ethernere as it has become a part of him."
"How is that possible? The other deities created their planes as reflections of themselves. How could Drinal ascend?"
Drinal's Steward "When the other gods left Norrath, they closed off their planes of existence to mortals. The beings of Norrath continued to perish, but their spirits had no final resting place... except Ethernere."
"So the spirits continued to come to Ethernere, then?"
Drinal's Steward "Yes. Unlike the other planes of existence, Ethernere could not be closed. There is an order to the cycle of life, and Ethernere fulfills a vital part of that cycle. Without it, the departed would be unable to pass from Norrath."
"What happened to the spirits when they came here, then?"
Drinal's Steward "Normally, when someone dies on Norrath, they come to Ethernere and are ferried off to their final resting place. It is Drinal's duty to ensure that all spirits are directed to where they are meant to go. However, with the planes closed, the spirits were forced to remain here."
"I see. Go on."
Drinal's Steward "Without anywhere to go, the spiritual energy of Ethernere simply amassed and grew. All of Ethernere became saturated with the energy of the deceased from Norrath, empowering the plane... and its caretaker."
"Ah… Drinal ascended because the plane was overwhelmed."
Drinal's Steward "Indeed. As you said, where most planes are a reflection of their creator, Ethernere instead chose Drinal as its deity, and he became a reflection of it."
"So Drinal didn’t want to be a god?"
Drinal's Steward "That was never his charge. Ethernere is more like Ultera or the Void – a place created to fulfill a necessary function in the multiverse. It was never meant to be overlooked by a deity. However, now, it is."
"And you were appointed as his steward?"
Drinal's Steward "Well, it would be more correct to say that I am bound to serve him through a deal made by Erollisi Marr."
"Wait, what? How did that happen?"
Drinal's Steward "Once, I was known by my mortal name, Calum. Erollisi Marr saw something in me that lead her to forge the deal with Drinal. She knew I believed in love and devotion above all other things, and made the pact on my behalf."
"So how did you end up here?"
Drinal's Steward "Unfortunately, fate intervened, and we were betrayed. As part of the pact with Drinal, I was brought here to serve. However, my story is a long one to tell, and today, the story is not about me."
"Is there no way out of your service?"
Drinal's Steward "No, but I'm not asking to be released. I have found new purpose here in Ethernere, and I am devoted to my charge. I wish to see Ethernere, and Drinal, restored to what they should be. I recognize the importance of this place, and wish to serve it."
"What has become of Drinal? If he is the deity here now, can’t he help mend the damage that’s been done?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, Drinal is one with the Ethernere, and it is one with him now. As the Grey Wastes go, so does Drinal. He has become a reflection of the damage to this place."
"I’m sorry, I don’t quite understand…"
Drinal's Steward "Perhaps there is more for you to see. However, I am wary about having you go through the tourbillion just yet. I'm not sure what the state of Obol Plains is, and I would rather see it for myself before you go there."
"What should I do, then?"
Drinal's Steward "Return to your reality for now. Let them know what is happening here. Seek me out in Obol Plains when you are ready, and I will show you more of what has happened to Ethernere, and to Drinal."
"All right, well, I want to show the Duality this object I found in Baelon's chambers anyway. I'll meet you in Obol Plains when I've finished."
"Hail, Dartain"
Dartain "Ah, Yyis! You received my missive!"
"Erus had mentioned that you would be seeing to this matter yourself. Are you not still working on the Shissar Calendar?"
Dartain "I am. However, this issue took precedence for a couple of reasons. Primarily, Firiona is likely instrumental in helping to defeat Kerafyrm, but she has now passed into Ethernere. Knowing more about what is happening there could be the difference between salvation and annihilation."
"Have you been able to get the spire working then? Will it allow us to pass into Ethernere?"
Dartain "I believe it will, yes."
"You believe it will? It hasn't been tested?"
Dartain "No. Ravinus was insistent that we not send just anyone through the portal. For now, the gate is still closed."
"So why are we using this spire? Why not one of the ones closer to the cities?"
Dartain "Ravinus mentioned something about those being "blocked". Some manner of barrier making the crossing there impossible. The spirit wasn't more specific than that, and to be honest, I don't think even he knew why those spires wouldn't work."
"All right, well, what should I do now?"
Dartain "Speak with Ravinus, and be ready. What waits for you beyond, I cannot say."
"What about you, then?"
Dartain "I need to continue my work here, now that the portal is open. I have been attempting to speak with Rikantus about these keys of fate, but I have received few answers. However, I believe I am getting closer to finding something significant. See me again when you come back to Norrath."
"Very well, I will see you then. Farewell."
[92]Shades of Drinal: The Shores of Everafter
-Speak with Ravinus near the Feerrott spires.
"Hail, Ravinus"
Ravinus "Here you are. I've been waiting."
"Well, it is good to see you too, Ravinus."
Ravinus "Enough with your tone. There is much to be done, and time grows ever shorter. The Truespirit have done what they can to help close the holes that have appeared between Norrath and Ethernere, but our efforts will soon be in vain."
"So am I to go to Ethernere, then?"
Ravinus "Of course. Now, you must keep some things in mind when you go."
"What is that?"
Ravinus "You are crossing the veil into your afterlife. You are not meant to be there. I cannot say what will become of you when you cross into that realm."
"I know. I don’t see where I have another choice, though."
Ravinus "You don't. Now, if you are ready, I will activate the spire."
"I guess this is farewell, then?"
Ravinus "Indeed. Norrath's fate is on your shoulders, mortal. You must remember that."
"I will. Let's be off."
從Ravinus身旁的傳送門進入Etherenre的第一張地圖 - Eidolon Jungle。
-Speak with the Steward of Drinal.
"Hail, Drinal's Steward"
Drinal's Steward "Who are you?"
"I am Yyis. Where am I? This looks like Feerrott, but... different somehow."
Drinal's Steward "It is as you perceive it to be. This is Feerrott. Or it is not. Your soul makes it what it is."
"I am confused... am I not in Ethernere?"
Drinal's Steward "You are, mortal, and you should not be. Your soul is still one with your body, and thus, neither should be here."
"Perhaps, but I have no choice. I need to find out why people on Norrath have been dying."
Drinal's Steward "Norrath is in peril. Perhaps more than you realize."
"Why is that?"
Drinal's Steward "What do you know of Ethernere?"
"I know it is the resting place of the souls of Norrath. It is where we go when we pass on from our lives."
Drinal's Steward says to you, "Correct, at least partially. Ethernere is where you await the call of your deities, the place you go before you pass to your final judgment in the hands of your chosen deity. All souls must pass through here before going to their place of rest. All souls." (聽起來像亡者的中途之家)
"It seems that there are a few other souls around here, though. Who are they?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, all souls must pass through here. Most answer the call of their deities, and move beyond. Others, though, attempt to remain here, or must remain here. These are the Wayward – those with no final rest, no ultimate release."
"Why would some choose to remain?"
Drinal's Steward "They have their own reasons. While it is my job as the Steward of Drinal to ensure that souls pass through to their proper destinations, some can hide here, or can strike bargains to stay. They try to make their own existence here, among the souls of the deceased."
"So… these are Wayward here?"
Drinal's Steward "Most, yes. Fighting for their existence."
"Against who?"
Drinal's Steward "Perhaps you should ask them, and see what they have to say. Talk to Veris Windcall over near the cave path to the shores if you want to know more. When you have finished, come back to me. "
"Hmm... all right. I'll see what is going on here."
-Speak with the one knows as Veris Windcaller and help him.
-Speak to Riishu Sulrel to learn a bit more about Wayward.
"Hail, Drinal's Steward"
Drinal's Steward "Hello again, Rawadar. It seems you've made a few friends here already."
"Perhaps. I had some questions for you, though."
Drinal's Steward "What are they?"
"These Wayward... they seemed to think I was dead – that I was one of them. Why is that?"
Drinal's Steward "The living do not belong here."
"So why let me stay?"
Drinal's Steward "Because Ethernere needs the heroes of Norrath."
"Why is that? The souls of the departed are here, can they not help?"
Drinal's Steward "Not like the living can. While those here have consciousness and can think on their own, they are still merely shades of what they once were. They cannot draw on the same powers that you can, and will not be able to muster the strength necessary to do what needs to be done."
"I see. So what is it that has happened here?"
Drinal's Steward "The impossible."
"I'm... sorry? What do you mean by that?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, ALL souls come here to Ethernere – even those that are never meant to be here."
"I don’t understand…"
Drinal's Steward "Meet me near the Ashen Tower, in the southern portion of the jungle. I have much to show you."
(1351358963)[Sun Oct 28 01:29:23 2012] You say to Drinal's Steward, "Very well. I will see you there."
[92] Shades of Drinal: Great and Small
-Meet Drinal's Steward at the Ashen Tower.
"Hail, Drinal's Steward"
Drinal's Steward "Welcome to the Ashen Tower."
"What is this place?"
Drinal's Steward "There are many places across Ethernere where Drinal maintains watch using these towers. They not only act as watchtowers, they also are used as reality anchors."
"A reality anchor?"
Drinal's Steward "Correct. Ethernere is malleable. It bends and shapes itself based on the perception of whoever is viewing it. Thus, your Ethernere looks slightly different from everyone else's."
"I see – that's why this looks like the Feerrott? Because I am expecting it to?"
Drinal's Steward "Correct – at least mostly. Your perception molds what you see, although these lands do borrow some of their properties from the places they touch on Norrath. In this case, the Feerrott."
"But you said it was malleable. So it can change?"
Drinal's Steward "It can."
"How is that?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, these reality anchors help keep their local areas stable, so that they remain as they should. However, these anchors can also be used to dramatically reshape the landscape, if they are somehow compromised."
"And that could happen here?"
Drinal's Steward "It could. The Ashen Tower itself is under attack. If it falls, all of this area would be fundamentally changed."
"And those that could not escape from the Horde through the broken Turbillion could be in danger?"
Drinal's Steward "Indeed. Plus, this would destabilize Ethernere further, and speed up its deterioration."
"Wait... deterioration? What is happening to Ethernere?"
Drinal's Steward "Perhaps you should see what threatens it first. Meet with Zeeil and Nrik - through them, you will begin to understand what has happened to Ethernere. And do not fear Zeeil's appearance – he will not harm you. At least, not yet."
"Not yet, huh? Well, I'll see if there's something I can do to help anyway. Farewell for now."
-Speak with Zeeil, and help him with his troubles at Ashen Tower.
-I should speak with Nrik near the Ashen Tower.
Drinal's Steward "It is good to see you again."
"I admit, I had no idea that Ethernere was in such straights."
Drinal's Steward "Indeed. The very nature of the plane puts it in this terrible position. While the alterable nature of Ethernere is necessary, this kind of intrusion into our realm creates a dangerous situation."
"So is Rallos here, then?"
Drinal's Steward "A portion of his deific energies is here, yes."
"How is that possible?"
Drinal's Steward "It shouldn't be. The gods are not meant to be destroyed, and their energies do not belong in Ethernere. However, it has happened, and the consequences have been dire. "
"Is Rallos what upset the balance of Ethernere?"
Drinal's Steward "Ultimately. His energy needs to be pushed through, so it no longer resides here."
"How will we do that?"
Drinal's Steward "The reality anchors can be used to expel his deific energy, but they need to be attuned properly. If you are willing to help, we can begin the stabilization of Ethernere."
"What should I do?"
Drinal's Steward "His energy teeters on the brink of expulsion. What is left of the God of War is severely weakened and scattered. Together, we can gather the remnants and cast the energy into the Void."
"Wait… the Void?"
Drinal's Steward "Yes. Rallos's energy must be pushed through to its final destination. In this case, the Void. We need to open a ripple between Ethernere and Void."
"Isnt that dangerous?"
Drinal's Steward "Very. But it is necessary. Now that you have properly attuned the Tower of Umber, I can use the reality anchor here to help send him back into the Void by opening a ripple between the two dimensions."
"What do we do once the ripple is opened?"
Drinal's Steward "Rallos's energy must be summoned beneath the ripple. The effect of the Void ripple will draw him in, and we can shut it." (挖坑,推坑,埋坑!)
"How do I summon his energy?"
Drinal's Steward "Find the pieces of his essence that dropped here in the Eidolon Jungle. There is a massive focus for his energy within Oggok - the helm of Rallos Zek. Merge the energy with the helm, and he will be formed somewhere nearby."
"All right. I'll find the essences first, then."
Drinal's Steward "And Rawadar, be careful. The energy of Zek will not want to fall into the Void. It will react violently to what you're doing. Although weakened, it will be strong enough to maintain a hold on this plane. You will have to force it through the ripple."
"Thanks for the warning. I'll return when it is done."
-Locate the pieces of Rallos Zek's essence. ( 8 )
-Merge the energy fragment with the Helm of Rallos Zek in Oggok.
-Defeat the Remnat of Zek on the Zektower.
Drinal's Steward "You've returned."
"And the spirit of Zek has been expelled. Ethernere should be safe once more."
Drinal's Steward "The spirit is indeed expelled, however, Ethernere is not safe. Not yet."
"Wait, I thought that Zek's deific energies were unbalancing the plane?"
Drinal's Steward "They were the final piece, but not the only piece. Rallos was not alone. There is more for you to see."
"Wait, what? How is that possible?"
Drinal's Steward "Remember what happened at the Tower of Umber? How the followers of Fear were trying to change the lands?"
"Yeah, I do. We managed to stop them for now, but they seemed intent on transforming the jungle."
Drinal's Steward "The rest of the jungle, you mean."
"Wait, what? What do you mean "the rest"?"
Drinal's Steward "I will show you. There is a group of creatures not too far from here, up in an area now known as the Fearcreep. It is up the cliff, but shouldn't be too far. Meet with the one known as Gulthga. You might find out something quite surprising."
"Very well. I'll speak to you again once I am done."
[96] Shades of Drinal: Skies of Red
-Seek out the creature known as Gulthga in the Fearcreep.
Gulthga "The fear that permeates the creatures here... I do not smell it on this fleshling, Yulsluu. It gives me no sustenance. It should know its place... I can make it feel fear!"
-Help Gulthga find what is happening in the Fearcreep.
-Speak with the creature know as Yulsluu, and see if you can assist him.
Drinal's Steward "I have been waiting for you. Can you tell me what youve seen?"
"I would never have guessed that fear had taken so much of Etthernere. But how? And why?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, Ethernere is not what you see. It can be shaped, it can be molded. The followers of Fear took advantage of this, and attempted to make this plane into theirs."
"I'm still confused, though... Are there two Cazic Thules?"
Drinal's Steward "Yes, in a manner of speaking. The deities do not exist as mortals do, thus, the two Thules who battled here are two parts of the same being, yet exist in different reality streams."
"And the one that perished in his world is trying to merge with the one from our world?"
Drinal's Steward "Indeed, to give himself existence again in his own reality. This is why deific energies were never meant to come here - the power of their spirits far exceeds anything in the mortal realm, and can have dangerous effects on the Grey Wastes."
"Baelon is defeated and the Fear Gate is closed, so his plans should be thwarted now."
Drinal's Steward "They are for now, but his energy still resides here, and still unbalances the realm. His energy must be expelled."
"How can I do that?"
Drinal's Steward "There is another Fear Gate inside of the temple. The energy of the Faceless must be forced back through that portal. Once that is done, the portal will be sealed, trapping his energy back in his own realm."
"I'll need to lead him to the portal somehow, and trap him in the room with the Gate."
Drinal's Steward "He knows the presence of his counterpart from your reality. If you can get together a piece of that essence, you might be able to draw him using that. Speak with the amygalians, and see if they have any ideas."
"I'll do that. I'll return once his energy has been pushed back."
-Speak with Gulthga once again.
Gulthga "What is it you want?"
"I've spoken with the Steward of Drinal. We believe we have a way to expel the energy of Cazic back to his own realm, but we need some help."
Gulthga "And why do you think I can help?"
"We need some essence of the Cazic Thule from our existence. We need a piece of something that will attract him to us."
Gulthga "There is little from our realm here, save the few of us."
"Perhaps we can accompany one of you into the temple..."
Gulthga "Never. We will not act as your pathetic bait."
"But unless we expel his energy, Cazic Thule and Norrath are still in jeopardy!"
Gulthga "I am not here at your beck and call. You did what I demanded you do, as a weak mortal should! If you want something from me, you will have to take it!"
"I don’t want to fight you! We save Ethernere and Cazic Thule together!"
Gulthga "Tremble before me, mortal! I will present your broken, terrified soul to the Lord of Fear!"
"This isn't what I want, but if there is no other way... so be it!"
-Enter the Throne of Fear, and seek out the Fear Gate.
-Place Gulthga's remains on the stone near the Fear Gate.
-Drive the Effigy of Fear back into the Fear Gate.
-Return to Drinal's Steward.
Drinal's Steward "I've been waiting for you to return."
"And I have good news. The essence of Cazic Thule was pushed back into the Fear Gate, and the gate has been closed."
Drinal's Steward "A weight upon Ethernere was lifted when the essence passed on."
"Is it done, then? Is Ethernere safe?"
Drinal's Steward "No... no it is not. For as troubled as Ethernere was, the one who oversees it, and tends to it is still wracked with pain."
"What do you mean? Are you speaking of Drinal?"
Drinal's Steward "Yes, Drinal. The Silver Reaper. The one charged with the care and oversight of Ethernere."
"I will admit, from the legends and tales of Ethernere, I had expected to see Drinal when I arrived here. Does he not still tend to the souls who come here?"
Drinal's Steward "He does... or he did. Now, it is my charge to watch over the souls as his steward. Drinal has become more than a simple caretaker of the dead. He has become one with Ethernere."
"Wait… like a deity?"
Drinal's Steward "Exactly. Drinal has ascended, becoming a part of Ethernere as it has become a part of him."
"How is that possible? The other deities created their planes as reflections of themselves. How could Drinal ascend?"
Drinal's Steward "When the other gods left Norrath, they closed off their planes of existence to mortals. The beings of Norrath continued to perish, but their spirits had no final resting place... except Ethernere."
"So the spirits continued to come to Ethernere, then?"
Drinal's Steward "Yes. Unlike the other planes of existence, Ethernere could not be closed. There is an order to the cycle of life, and Ethernere fulfills a vital part of that cycle. Without it, the departed would be unable to pass from Norrath."
"What happened to the spirits when they came here, then?"
Drinal's Steward "Normally, when someone dies on Norrath, they come to Ethernere and are ferried off to their final resting place. It is Drinal's duty to ensure that all spirits are directed to where they are meant to go. However, with the planes closed, the spirits were forced to remain here."
"I see. Go on."
Drinal's Steward "Without anywhere to go, the spiritual energy of Ethernere simply amassed and grew. All of Ethernere became saturated with the energy of the deceased from Norrath, empowering the plane... and its caretaker."
"Ah… Drinal ascended because the plane was overwhelmed."
Drinal's Steward "Indeed. As you said, where most planes are a reflection of their creator, Ethernere instead chose Drinal as its deity, and he became a reflection of it."
"So Drinal didn’t want to be a god?"
Drinal's Steward "That was never his charge. Ethernere is more like Ultera or the Void – a place created to fulfill a necessary function in the multiverse. It was never meant to be overlooked by a deity. However, now, it is."
"And you were appointed as his steward?"
Drinal's Steward "Well, it would be more correct to say that I am bound to serve him through a deal made by Erollisi Marr."
"Wait, what? How did that happen?"
Drinal's Steward "Once, I was known by my mortal name, Calum. Erollisi Marr saw something in me that lead her to forge the deal with Drinal. She knew I believed in love and devotion above all other things, and made the pact on my behalf."
"So how did you end up here?"
Drinal's Steward "Unfortunately, fate intervened, and we were betrayed. As part of the pact with Drinal, I was brought here to serve. However, my story is a long one to tell, and today, the story is not about me."
"Is there no way out of your service?"
Drinal's Steward "No, but I'm not asking to be released. I have found new purpose here in Ethernere, and I am devoted to my charge. I wish to see Ethernere, and Drinal, restored to what they should be. I recognize the importance of this place, and wish to serve it."
"What has become of Drinal? If he is the deity here now, can’t he help mend the damage that’s been done?"
Drinal's Steward "As I said, Drinal is one with the Ethernere, and it is one with him now. As the Grey Wastes go, so does Drinal. He has become a reflection of the damage to this place."
"I’m sorry, I don’t quite understand…"
Drinal's Steward "Perhaps there is more for you to see. However, I am wary about having you go through the tourbillion just yet. I'm not sure what the state of Obol Plains is, and I would rather see it for myself before you go there."
"What should I do, then?"
Drinal's Steward "Return to your reality for now. Let them know what is happening here. Seek me out in Obol Plains when you are ready, and I will show you more of what has happened to Ethernere, and to Drinal."
"All right, well, I want to show the Duality this object I found in Baelon's chambers anyway. I'll meet you in Obol Plains when I've finished."