>As you approach the black velvet tapestry, the hooded figure stands and steps in front of you. In a quiet but firm voice the hooded figure says, "To the Gods, the life of this world is no more than the flicker of a candle. You may enter, ."
The hooded figure bows slightly and pulls back the heavy bolt of black cloth. He then motions to the corridor beyond. You respectfully acknowledge his bow and enter the temple. Immediately upon entering, two acolytes appear next to you to assist you in your consultation.
[Temple, Black Altar]
The smoke of scores of incense burners fills the air of this room with a thick, acrid haze. Through this haze can be seen the faint outline of a large, black altar of obsidian surrounded by a high rail. Behind the altar is an arch leading to a blackened passage. Hanging nearby is a brass tube, or chime, suspended from the ceiling by a thong of leather. Next to this chime hangs a small mallet. The two acolytes that greeted you as you entered are standing nearby.
Obvious exits: out.
>ring chime with mal
ring chime with mal
You strike the hollow brass chime with the small mallet and the room is filled with a rich, mellow tone. The two acolytes nod slightly and step back to a position slightly behind you.
>You strike the hollow brass chime a second time.
You turn your attention to the altar and notice a faint light shining through the arch behind it. This light grows consistently brighter until three people make their way into the room. A torch bearer leads the procession followed by a young acolyte. The final member of the party is a very old woman dressed in black robes. She takes her position behind the altar and gazes down at you.
After a considerable pause, the old woman says in a voice strong and steady, "Your face and deeds are well documented in the Book of Passing, . If it is thy wish that I pray to my Goddess for further favor, then kneel and prepare thy offering."
>kne
You kneel down on the platform.
>
The High Priestess says, "So be it, . Drop thy offering. When you are content with thy gift, strike the chime for yet a third time and the acolytes will prepare it."
>drop 100000 silver
You drop 100000 coins.
>ring chime with mal
You strike the hollow brass chime a third time.
The acolytes step forward and prepare your offering. When they have completed their ritual of presentation, they take your gifts to the Priestess who examines them closely. Apparently satisified she says, "I shall pray to the Goddess in your behalf."
Closing her eyes and bowing her head, the Priestess begins to pray. Suddenly the room is filled with a bone numbing cold. The Priestess opens her eyes and says, "The Goddess was neither convinced nor pleased. Go now."
She bows slightly to you and signals to the acolytes at your side. They return the bow of the Priestess and help you to your feet. Then the Priestess takes her party through the arch and they disappear down the passage.
>
You feel less confident.
>
The brilliant aura fades away from you.
>
Level: 62 Experience: 2620358
Next level at: 2650000 exp. Exp. until next lvl: 29642
Deeds: 103 Deaths this level: 0
Mana: 186/186 Max reg
