The Plane of Shadow
By Sezela Mirj
Sensate of the Feasthall
The plane of Shadow is a unique demi-plane. The largest of its kind. It serves as a dark reflection of the prime. Imagine a mirror where, instead of your own image, you see a shadowy version of yourself. In fact, there are mirrors that do exactly that. If you gaze into them, you see your shadow.
The origins of the plane of shadow remain a mystery though there are many theories. The Olympians believe it to be the domain of Nyx, their goddess of night, who is said to slumber there but still be able to keep watch. Legends warn that her awakening could trigger a cataclysmic event.
Other theories suggest the plane was formed by the collision of other planes, eventually coalescing into its current form: The plane of shadow. All these theories agree on one thing: The origins of the plane are tied to a place at its heart known as the Shining Citadel. The citadel itself is enigmatic, but it is believed that those who reach it could uncover the plane’s true origin and gain profound knowledge. However, with there being a small knowledge of the citadel itself along with how vast the plane of shadow is. It proves almost impossible to reach.
With the nature of the plane, many users of its powers have unique means to use it such. Because of the plane of shadows connection to the prime material plane, some wielders of shadow magic use it as a means to traverse realms through a method known as shadow walking.
Surprisingly, the plane of shadow is not inherently hostile. For instance, some of you planes-walkers may have ventured into the forest of shadow outside the ruins where the Voidshard resides. You might have noticed the shades outside the shards remain docile. This demonstrates that, while the plane and its denizens often appear menacing, they are not all immediately dangerous. That said you should never let your guard down. There is always something lurking in the darkness.
As for Shades, they are often reflections of individuals. For most, a shade remains dormant, confined to their literal shadow. However, certain circumstances, intentional or not, can awaken a shade. When this happens, it can become either an ally or adversary. Shadow dancers: for example, have mastered their own shades in a literal dance of control and balance. Others, like myself, have encountered their shadow halves and learned to harness and empower them by becoming an ally.
Shadow is susceptible to divine energies, and killings one shade may kill them because the shade is part of their soul.
End lecture.
Random lectures of my time in Sigil. Brath Vail
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Re: Random lectures of my time in Sigil. Brath Vail
Brath writes,
During my last visit to Sigil a dear friend gave me a transcript of a trial. The trial was based on a raid by the Harmonium and Mercykillers upon the Sigil Hall of Speakers. I came there at the end of the confrontation. I believe Alyce brought me there or I would not have known about it.
All I did find was that Dionysias was being held in a room under guard. I quickly left the area being that the raid was at an end.
What I did not know is that a wall of force was used by a Fraternity member during said raid and that because of his using a wall of force several people died. He was put on trial. What follows is a transcript of the trial and a question I have asked myself and dwelled on about said trial.
Transcript:
# IN THE CITY COURT OF SIGIL
# Case No. 89987479: City of Sigil vs. Yvant Vilwadal
# Date: Fifteenth bell on the thirty-first cycle of the first month, 156th of
Hashkar’s Reign
# Presiding Judge: Judge Rasmus Magi
# Prosecution: Stopped-By-Elysium
# [15:02] Court Convenes
Judge Rasmus Magi (striking the sounding block):
“To order this court shall come. Retire to your stations and prepare.”
# [15:06] Formal Opening
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“I put to words, that at the fifteenth bell on the thirty-first cycle of the
first month of the rotation one hundred and fifty-sixth of Hashkar’s Reign,
this court comes to order.”
# [15:08] Reading of the Charges
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“One this cycle the court hears the case No. 89987479, *Sigil vs. Yvant
Vilwadal.* The defendant stands accused of violations of Sigilian legal code
2-1-2 Treason, 2-1-4 Obstruction, and 2-2-3 Manslaughter. Defendant, how do
you plead to these charges?”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“Not guilty.”
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Let the record show that the defendant pleads *Not Guilty.* Prosecution may
begin with their statement of opening.”
# [15:14] Prosecution’s Opening Statement
Stopped-By-Elysium (Prosecution):
“This One greets the gathered parties. During the investigation of the Hall of
Speakers by collaborative forces of the Triad of Order, a deadly incident
occurred—namely, deadly gas spewed by the Sign of One’s defensive measures,
killing many Triad members involved in that investigation.
However, this trial concerns the actions of A-5 Vilwadal. This One intends to
prove that the Defendant’s use of ‘Wall of Force’ to seal off entrances to the
Hall of Speakers contributed to additional deaths. In addition, evidence
points to obstruction by hindering the investigation with these spells or
barriers. This One concludes this One’s opening statement.”
# [15:22] Defense’s Opening Statement
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Defense, your statement of opening.”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“This trial is not about justice, nor about treason or obstruction. It is
about control. The Harmonium and the Mercykillers, with no legal basis, chose
to invade the Hall of Speakers—weaponizing fabricated charges to justify an
armed incursion. I neither ordered nor incited their assault.
I was sanctioned only to assess tensions around the Composer’s work, to test
the Triad’s adherence to discipline and law. They instead chose violence. The
prosecution will claim I sought to destabilize them. In truth, the only
instability seen here was created by the Harmonium and Mercykillers
themselves.
If this court rules in their favor, it cements a precedent that other factions
can be silenced at will, painting questioning as treason or obstruction. I
stand here to show what happens when power goes unchecked. The evidence will
show I did not betray the city but sought to protect it. The Defense has
concluded its opening statement.”
# [15:30] Prosecution’s Case in Chief
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Prosecution, make your case by argument and evidence.”
Stopped-By-Elysium (Prosecution):
1. “The Composer’s work was deemed dangerous by the Triad after causing
civilian deaths.
2. Witness statements indicate A-5 Vilwadal wrote or supported a formal plan
referencing a raid on the Hall of Speakers—thereby endorsing it.
3. On the day of the raid, multiple individuals died due to deadly gas. The
Defendant knew of potential dangers but pressed on.
4. The Defendant and associates allegedly cast ‘Wall of Force,’ sealing
entrances, blocking ventilation and escape.
We assert these acts constitute 2-2-3 (Manslaughter) by increasing casualties
and 2-1-4 (Obstruction) by hindering Harmonium and Mercykiller officers in
their duties. That is our presentation at this time.”
*(Objections on relevance/speculation occur; some are sustained or overruled.
The Prosecution continues, focusing on Sigil-based events and the alleged
“raid” support.)*
Stopped-By-Elysium:
“We conclude there is insufficient evidence to prove Treason but strong
grounds for Manslaughter and Obstruction.”
# [16:25] Defense’s Case in Chief
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Defense, present your case by argument and evidence.”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“These accusations—that I organized or endorsed a violent raid—lack merit. My
sanctioned role was a lawful, controlled test of the Triad’s judgment, not a
command for armed incursion. Any actions beyond that were the Harmonium’s and
Mercykillers’ doing.
My actions aimed to prevent escalation, not obstruct lawful investigation. The
so-called raid was not mine to command. Witness statements or documents
reflect the Triad’s intentions, which I merely recorded. My presence was never
to sabotage or cause fatalities.”
*(Prosecution objects on grounds of “veracity of claim,” citing a document
referencing a planned raid. Defense clarifies it was Harmonium/Mercykiller
proposals, not the Defendant’s directive. Judge overrules the objection but
reminds Defense to remain specific.)*
# Court takes short break
# [17:02] Defense Continues
Judge Rasmus Magi: “Defense was to proceed after the last objection was
noted.”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“Yes, I mentioned addressing the Composer’s dangers. It was an idea, nothing
more. The Harmonium and Mercykillers seized upon this to plan a raid. They
acted of their own accord. My role was observation and documentation, noting
their plan to seize the Composer’s work and arrest Dionysias.
I did not obstruct or interfere; I sought to ensure no innocent lives were
harmed. The aggression, casualties, and even Easha’s attempted assault on
Factor Chandra highlight their own recklessness. I implore the court to see
the Prosecution’s attempt to shift blame. The Harmonium and Mercykillers
decided upon this raid, not I.”
*(Prosecution temporarily objects, then withdraws. Judge notes the withdrawal.
Defense reaffirms that the Triad acted independently.)*
# [17:19] Prosecution’s Closing
Stopped-By-Elysium (Prosecution):
“There is obscurity regarding 2-1-2 (Treason), but for Manslaughter, we
believe sealing an area filled with lethal gas caused additional deaths beyond
what would have happened otherwise. By supporting this ‘raid,’ the Defendant
contributed to the conditions that led to those fatalities. We stand by
Manslaughter (2-2-3) and Obstruction (2-1-4).”
*(Defense objects to speculation about casualty rates. Prosecution attempts
“laws of gas transfer.” Judge clarifies that no concrete evidence was
presented to prove how many more would have died vs. not. Defense asserts no
proof that *all* entrances were sealed. Prosecution references statements from
“Measure Charmaker.” Judge eventually instructs both sides to stick to proven
facts.)*
Stopped-By-Elysium:
“The Prosecution has no further new evidence. We conclude with our assertion
that the Defendant’s actions align with Obstruction and Manslaughter.”
# [17:45] Defense’s Closing
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Defense, your closing statement.”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“Your Honor, the evidence does not show treason or obstruction on my part. I
never authorized a raid—my role was merely observing the Triad’s actions.
Their aggression led to tragedy. Manslaughter requires a causal link between
my actions and those deaths; that link is unproven. Obstruction would demand I
interfered with lawful operations—no such proof exists.
A guilty verdict sets a dangerous precedent, allowing factions to weaponize
charges whenever they face dissent. I urge the court to see my actions as
lawful attempts to mitigate harm. The Defense rests.”
# [17:48] Court Recess
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Hearing all sides, the court recesses now for deliberation.”
*(He strikes his gavel once more.)*
# [18:14] Verdict
Judge Rasmus Magi (returning to bench):
“On the charge of 2-1-2 (Treason), this court finds the Defendant *Not
Guilty,* given the Prosecution’s lack of supporting evidence.
On the charge of 2-2-3 (Manslaughter), likewise *Not Guilty,* as the evidence
does not meet the threshold of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
On the charge of 2-1-4 (Obstruction), the court finds the Defendant *Guilty*
on two counts—2-1-4 A and 2-1-4 G. These are misdemeanors under section G of
2-1-4, resulting in five to ten rotations of incarceration at the
Mercykillers’ discretion.
The convicted will be remanded to the Mercykillers for transfer to the City
Prisons to serve sentence.”
*(He strikes his gavel a final time.)*
“This court is adjourned and closed in the case of Yvant Vilwadal vs. Sigil.”
*(Record ends.)
The question I have is if the prosecution and the defendant are both Fraternity of Order members was there not a conflict of interest and did the prosecution present a weak case to get one of its own members off the hook. Personally, I do not think it is treason myself. The Composer's work has been fought over since the factions of Sigil have laid hands on it. I saw the brewing arguments after his death. However, I do think that this represents a grave spellcaster negligence causing the death of innocents. I will also always question the prosecution's case in this instance because of the obvious conflict of interest.
Brath finishes his writing and looks it over. With a frown He places it in the common household library to be added too. Now that he has written his misgivings down...........He makes a good breakfast and goes to the small lake to fish.
During my last visit to Sigil a dear friend gave me a transcript of a trial. The trial was based on a raid by the Harmonium and Mercykillers upon the Sigil Hall of Speakers. I came there at the end of the confrontation. I believe Alyce brought me there or I would not have known about it.
All I did find was that Dionysias was being held in a room under guard. I quickly left the area being that the raid was at an end.
What I did not know is that a wall of force was used by a Fraternity member during said raid and that because of his using a wall of force several people died. He was put on trial. What follows is a transcript of the trial and a question I have asked myself and dwelled on about said trial.
Transcript:
# IN THE CITY COURT OF SIGIL
# Case No. 89987479: City of Sigil vs. Yvant Vilwadal
# Date: Fifteenth bell on the thirty-first cycle of the first month, 156th of
Hashkar’s Reign
# Presiding Judge: Judge Rasmus Magi
# Prosecution: Stopped-By-Elysium
# [15:02] Court Convenes
Judge Rasmus Magi (striking the sounding block):
“To order this court shall come. Retire to your stations and prepare.”
# [15:06] Formal Opening
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“I put to words, that at the fifteenth bell on the thirty-first cycle of the
first month of the rotation one hundred and fifty-sixth of Hashkar’s Reign,
this court comes to order.”
# [15:08] Reading of the Charges
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“One this cycle the court hears the case No. 89987479, *Sigil vs. Yvant
Vilwadal.* The defendant stands accused of violations of Sigilian legal code
2-1-2 Treason, 2-1-4 Obstruction, and 2-2-3 Manslaughter. Defendant, how do
you plead to these charges?”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“Not guilty.”
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Let the record show that the defendant pleads *Not Guilty.* Prosecution may
begin with their statement of opening.”
# [15:14] Prosecution’s Opening Statement
Stopped-By-Elysium (Prosecution):
“This One greets the gathered parties. During the investigation of the Hall of
Speakers by collaborative forces of the Triad of Order, a deadly incident
occurred—namely, deadly gas spewed by the Sign of One’s defensive measures,
killing many Triad members involved in that investigation.
However, this trial concerns the actions of A-5 Vilwadal. This One intends to
prove that the Defendant’s use of ‘Wall of Force’ to seal off entrances to the
Hall of Speakers contributed to additional deaths. In addition, evidence
points to obstruction by hindering the investigation with these spells or
barriers. This One concludes this One’s opening statement.”
# [15:22] Defense’s Opening Statement
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Defense, your statement of opening.”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“This trial is not about justice, nor about treason or obstruction. It is
about control. The Harmonium and the Mercykillers, with no legal basis, chose
to invade the Hall of Speakers—weaponizing fabricated charges to justify an
armed incursion. I neither ordered nor incited their assault.
I was sanctioned only to assess tensions around the Composer’s work, to test
the Triad’s adherence to discipline and law. They instead chose violence. The
prosecution will claim I sought to destabilize them. In truth, the only
instability seen here was created by the Harmonium and Mercykillers
themselves.
If this court rules in their favor, it cements a precedent that other factions
can be silenced at will, painting questioning as treason or obstruction. I
stand here to show what happens when power goes unchecked. The evidence will
show I did not betray the city but sought to protect it. The Defense has
concluded its opening statement.”
# [15:30] Prosecution’s Case in Chief
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Prosecution, make your case by argument and evidence.”
Stopped-By-Elysium (Prosecution):
1. “The Composer’s work was deemed dangerous by the Triad after causing
civilian deaths.
2. Witness statements indicate A-5 Vilwadal wrote or supported a formal plan
referencing a raid on the Hall of Speakers—thereby endorsing it.
3. On the day of the raid, multiple individuals died due to deadly gas. The
Defendant knew of potential dangers but pressed on.
4. The Defendant and associates allegedly cast ‘Wall of Force,’ sealing
entrances, blocking ventilation and escape.
We assert these acts constitute 2-2-3 (Manslaughter) by increasing casualties
and 2-1-4 (Obstruction) by hindering Harmonium and Mercykiller officers in
their duties. That is our presentation at this time.”
*(Objections on relevance/speculation occur; some are sustained or overruled.
The Prosecution continues, focusing on Sigil-based events and the alleged
“raid” support.)*
Stopped-By-Elysium:
“We conclude there is insufficient evidence to prove Treason but strong
grounds for Manslaughter and Obstruction.”
# [16:25] Defense’s Case in Chief
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Defense, present your case by argument and evidence.”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“These accusations—that I organized or endorsed a violent raid—lack merit. My
sanctioned role was a lawful, controlled test of the Triad’s judgment, not a
command for armed incursion. Any actions beyond that were the Harmonium’s and
Mercykillers’ doing.
My actions aimed to prevent escalation, not obstruct lawful investigation. The
so-called raid was not mine to command. Witness statements or documents
reflect the Triad’s intentions, which I merely recorded. My presence was never
to sabotage or cause fatalities.”
*(Prosecution objects on grounds of “veracity of claim,” citing a document
referencing a planned raid. Defense clarifies it was Harmonium/Mercykiller
proposals, not the Defendant’s directive. Judge overrules the objection but
reminds Defense to remain specific.)*
# Court takes short break
# [17:02] Defense Continues
Judge Rasmus Magi: “Defense was to proceed after the last objection was
noted.”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“Yes, I mentioned addressing the Composer’s dangers. It was an idea, nothing
more. The Harmonium and Mercykillers seized upon this to plan a raid. They
acted of their own accord. My role was observation and documentation, noting
their plan to seize the Composer’s work and arrest Dionysias.
I did not obstruct or interfere; I sought to ensure no innocent lives were
harmed. The aggression, casualties, and even Easha’s attempted assault on
Factor Chandra highlight their own recklessness. I implore the court to see
the Prosecution’s attempt to shift blame. The Harmonium and Mercykillers
decided upon this raid, not I.”
*(Prosecution temporarily objects, then withdraws. Judge notes the withdrawal.
Defense reaffirms that the Triad acted independently.)*
# [17:19] Prosecution’s Closing
Stopped-By-Elysium (Prosecution):
“There is obscurity regarding 2-1-2 (Treason), but for Manslaughter, we
believe sealing an area filled with lethal gas caused additional deaths beyond
what would have happened otherwise. By supporting this ‘raid,’ the Defendant
contributed to the conditions that led to those fatalities. We stand by
Manslaughter (2-2-3) and Obstruction (2-1-4).”
*(Defense objects to speculation about casualty rates. Prosecution attempts
“laws of gas transfer.” Judge clarifies that no concrete evidence was
presented to prove how many more would have died vs. not. Defense asserts no
proof that *all* entrances were sealed. Prosecution references statements from
“Measure Charmaker.” Judge eventually instructs both sides to stick to proven
facts.)*
Stopped-By-Elysium:
“The Prosecution has no further new evidence. We conclude with our assertion
that the Defendant’s actions align with Obstruction and Manslaughter.”
# [17:45] Defense’s Closing
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Defense, your closing statement.”
Yvant Vilwadal:
“Your Honor, the evidence does not show treason or obstruction on my part. I
never authorized a raid—my role was merely observing the Triad’s actions.
Their aggression led to tragedy. Manslaughter requires a causal link between
my actions and those deaths; that link is unproven. Obstruction would demand I
interfered with lawful operations—no such proof exists.
A guilty verdict sets a dangerous precedent, allowing factions to weaponize
charges whenever they face dissent. I urge the court to see my actions as
lawful attempts to mitigate harm. The Defense rests.”
# [17:48] Court Recess
Judge Rasmus Magi:
“Hearing all sides, the court recesses now for deliberation.”
*(He strikes his gavel once more.)*
# [18:14] Verdict
Judge Rasmus Magi (returning to bench):
“On the charge of 2-1-2 (Treason), this court finds the Defendant *Not
Guilty,* given the Prosecution’s lack of supporting evidence.
On the charge of 2-2-3 (Manslaughter), likewise *Not Guilty,* as the evidence
does not meet the threshold of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
On the charge of 2-1-4 (Obstruction), the court finds the Defendant *Guilty*
on two counts—2-1-4 A and 2-1-4 G. These are misdemeanors under section G of
2-1-4, resulting in five to ten rotations of incarceration at the
Mercykillers’ discretion.
The convicted will be remanded to the Mercykillers for transfer to the City
Prisons to serve sentence.”
*(He strikes his gavel a final time.)*
“This court is adjourned and closed in the case of Yvant Vilwadal vs. Sigil.”
*(Record ends.)
The question I have is if the prosecution and the defendant are both Fraternity of Order members was there not a conflict of interest and did the prosecution present a weak case to get one of its own members off the hook. Personally, I do not think it is treason myself. The Composer's work has been fought over since the factions of Sigil have laid hands on it. I saw the brewing arguments after his death. However, I do think that this represents a grave spellcaster negligence causing the death of innocents. I will also always question the prosecution's case in this instance because of the obvious conflict of interest.
Brath finishes his writing and looks it over. With a frown He places it in the common household library to be added too. Now that he has written his misgivings down...........He makes a good breakfast and goes to the small lake to fish.