Larksong Grotto eat your kings

since there are so many folks in this thread, do y'all want to do a free-for-all loose post order?

Hiram was well on his way at the time of the first howl, but traversing the rocky territory of the grotto took time. However, once he heard the urgency in his wife's voice -- the second call for the cardinal specifically -- Hiram kicked it into gear and doubled his pace. He ascended the ridge with haste and the summoning party came fully into view. Once Hiram arrived, he positioned himself between his wife and his daughter. Then, he stepped forward toward the strangers. He need not speak his name or rank. It was carried in his stride.

A large crowd had amassed at the border. That was clear to see as Hiram's gaze passed over each face. Yet, when his eyes fell on the familiarly sharp features of Kesheph, he felt a wave of confusion rise in his gut. She appeared lowly. Burdened. For what reason had Raas brought her back to the grotto -- and why like this.

Hiram wasted no time. "Kesheph, what is this?" he spoke to address his former Seer in the hopes that she, or anyone, would explain what was going on.