A Knight To Remember - 5121-04-06 - To Be Brass and Indomitable (log)
Olaesta 6-7, 5121
by Leafiara Autumnwind of the TownCrier, and Vaemyr for the infiltration section
The Night in a Nutshell
[General] Thadston thinks, "Eve." [General] Thadston thinks, "I've found a nice porch to watch the rain." Thadston says, "Magister." Thadston nods at Raelee. Stormyrain places a hand over her heart. Thadston grins at Stormyrain. Stormyrain bows to Thadston. Thadston says, "Captain." Thadston gives Stormyrain a friendly hug. Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain greets, "Marsha--" Stormyrain smiles. Stormyrain hugs Thadston. Thadston says, "Prove it." [unclear who or what he was responding to] Thadston says, "Tonight, I'm hoping to avoid bloodshed." Speaking to Thadston, Vaemyr says, "I believe I have an idea how to get them to invite us in, but it might be a bit painful for those who go." Thadston says, "I haven't gotten everything ready yet for when we attack." Ycelacie curiously asks, "Attack?" Thadston peers quizzically at Vaemyr. Thadston asks, "What's the idea?" Thadston says, "Yes, when we attack the cult." Thadston says, "Which we will. It will come to that." Thadston says, "...it always comes to that." Vaemyr says, "Blood and their fire, mix the two with the intent to join them and they should allow you to enter." Thadston asks, "Mix blood and their fire? How?" Thadston shrugs. Thadston says, "I brought robes and masks." Vaemyr says, "We could try that then as well." Thadston says, "I wasn't able to acquire "I'm with Stone" buttons in time." Quilthaias quietly asks, "Tha disguise rilly be enuff tuh fool 'em?" Thadston smirks. Thadston pulls a carved red oak mask from his cloak. Thadston says, "We have some from when we felled some of their cult in the past." Thadston says, "The plan is to get inside, talk to who you can, find out what you can. Anything to help us plan for what comes next." Thadston says, "Whoever stays here, I need you to begin to discuss what we intend to do in our strike against the Knave and Rooks."
Thadston asks, "Who is going to try to infiltrate the tower?" Quilthaias nods at Thadston. Ycelacie says, "I want to." Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah will goes." Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara asks, "Is the war room still open for that discussion?" Thadston nods at Leafiara. Thadston nods at Quilthaias. Vaemyr says, "I'll certainly go to the tower." Thadston nods at Vaemyr. Vaemyr says, "You can join me for now." Thadston says, "Obviously we'll want to avoid those more known around town, like ex-mayors, captains, knights..." Thadston nods. Thadston says, "We can't well infiltrate with a Cryblob." Leafiara pragmatically says, "We don't know what their initiation rituals are, so they might need the masks off." Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Thadston says, "Vaemyr, Quilthaias, Ycelacie." Thadston asks, "Anyone else?" Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "Looks like Asben is going." Thadston says, "Please be more Asben the quiet not Asben the crusher." Thadston nods at Asben. Asben says, "I can hide well." Thadston offers Vaemyr a carved red oak mask. Vaemyr accepts Thadston's red oak mask. Thadston offers Quilthaias a carved red oak mask. Quilthaias accepts Thadston's red oak mask. Thadston says, "In case you all need them." Thadston offers Ycelacie a carved red oak mask. [General] Damsall thinks, "What's going on at Hearthstone? I haven't seen that kind of crowd on the porch in years." Thadston just nudged Ycelacie. Thadston offers Asben a carved red oak mask. Asben accepts Thadston's red oak mask. [General] Pietra thinks, "It's a meeting. While we send some folks to probably go die." [General] Stormyrain thinks, "We're having a chat with Thadston, now that he's feeling more himself as of late. Come back and join us, you're welcome to." Thadston offers Ycelacie a carved red oak mask. Thadston says, "Keep this in case." Ycelacie accepts Thadston's red oak mask. Thadston says, "It's the masks they use." Ycelacie says, "Oh." [she had had an alternate mask] Speaking to Stormyrain, Pietra says, "I liked my answer better." Speaking to Pietra, Stormyrain says, "Never know whose mind is being touched with our thoughts. I figure it better to be --mysterious." Thadston drops some flowing grey robes. Thadston says, "There's some robes if anyone needs them." Thadston says, "I didn't have time to wash all of the old blood off." Speaking quietly to Thadston, Quilthaias asks, "Y'dunna think they's gonna expect uh try at infiltrations?" Thadston shrugs at Quilthaias. Stormyrain amusedly says, "Not that he wouldn't just invade most of the minds in town if he felt like it." Thadston says, "When in doubt, fight and run." Quilthaias nods at Thadston. Quilthaias quietly says, "Noteds." Thadston nods at Stormyrain.
Thadston says, "I'm going to go check on some things on my end. Everyone who remains behind, please start working on ways to do our strike against the Rooks and the Knave, like we discussed." Vaemyr nods at Thadston. Thadston nods at Vaemyr. Thadston says, "Bring everyone back alive. No pressure." Thadston nods at Vaemyr. Vaemyr says, "Alright we'll head toward the tower." Lord Thadston just went down the porch steps. Vaemyr says, "See you all soon." Vaemyr's group just went down the porch steps.
Vaemyr says, "We wish to join as acolytes of the blood god." A figure appears in a window in the tower above, features concealed in a red oak mask. (Ycelacie shows her mask to the cultist.) (Vaemyr looks up with the mask at the window.) The corroded bronze gate creaks open, wisps of red light trailing behind it as it does. A grey robed figure says, "Welcome, you are in time for our next gathering as we prepare for the harvest." A grey robed figure says, "They are awaiting inside." >go door The red veins along the door thicken, blocking you from passing through the door. Some of the figures go through the oily blood-soaked door and into the tower. A grey robed figure says, "Trouble?" Are you not yet marked by the Blood God?" Vaemyr says, "I have heard his call, but I am not marked." Effervescent pride swells in your chest as a sense of clarity and purpose washes over you. A grey robed figure says, "The song of blood brings the promise of all tomorrows. It is good to know you have heard it too." A grey robed figure says, "Please, wait here." The figure moves inside of the tower. A grey-robed figure returns, sea blue eyes smiling behind a carved red oak mask. A grey robed figure says, "You seek to gather, to join the harvest, to know great power." A grey robed figure says, "You must be marked before entering. We welcome you to join us." Asben says, "Aye." The grey robed figure reveals a curved obsidian dagger from the sleeve of his robe. A grey robed figure says, "Who will be marked first? Who will give of themselves?" (Vaemyr holds out his arm.) The figure moves over to Vaemyr. The figure takes Vaemyr's arm and turns it over before slowly dragging the blade of his dagger into his flesh. Blood seeps out from the new wound and infuses into the dagger. The figure touches Vaemyr's arm and the wound closes back up. (Ycelacie raises her arm.) A grey robed figure says, "Welcome, welcome to the Church of the Blood God." Vaemyr says, "Thank you brother." Some eerie voices echo from a window in the tower above, "Welcome. Welcome." The figure moves towards Ycelacie. Asben says, "I'll take the mark after Lacie." The figure takes Ycelacie's arm, pausing to look at her black spidersilk mask briefly. The figure drags the curved blade along the inside of her arm, pulling blood into the metal of the dagger before the wound seals up. A grey robed figure says, "Welcome, welcome to the Church of the Blood God." Some eerie voices echo from a window in the tower above, "Welcome. Welcome." Asben nods to the cloaked figure. (Asben holds his arm out to the cloaked figure.) The figure moves towards Asben, sea blue eyes grinning behind a carved red oak mask. He looks up at Asben's height, then turns his arm, dragging the blade into the flesh, absorbing blood into the metal, then stepping back as the wound heals. A grey robed figure says, "Welcome, welcome to the Church of the Blood God." Some eerie voices echo from a window in the tower above, "Welcome. Welcome." (Quilthaias extends his right arm toward the cloaked figure.) The figure moves towards Quilthaias. The figure leans forward and takes Quilthaias's arm, drags the blade into the flesh and draws blood into the very depths of the dagger. The figure steps back and says, "Welcome to the Church of the Blood God." Some eerie voices echo from a window in the tower above, "Welcome. Welcome."
The figure looks to Bellaja. Bellaja nods slowly. A grey robed figure says, "You wish to join the Church?" Bellaja assures, "It is always good to support the workings of Lornon." Bellaja nods to the cloaked figure. A grey robed figure says, "We are not of Lornon. You have failed." Bellaja frowns. A grey robed figure says, "Please go." The figure turns away from Bellaja. A grey robed figure says, "We are Beyond the Arkati." A grey robed figure says, "The rest of you, a moment..." Bellaja says, "Very well then." Bellaja says, "You do not look for alliance and I will not offer." The figure moves to the blood-soaked door and places the obsidian dagger against it and begins to chant. The figure moves through the door.
[Brass Tower, Entrance] Cold and damp, the tower interior is smaller than expected though roomy enough to feel comfortable even in a large group. The smell of the sea is still strong here, providing a musty flavor to the air. A circular stairway leads to a landing above you, but the upper portion of it is scorched and twisted. You also see some glistening black roots, an obsidian scrying pool, some glistening black roots, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a brass stool, a wooden bookshelf and a small wash basin. >look at roots The roots are glistening with an oily black substance and seem to coil up and down the tower's walls, periodically pulsing as if throbbing from a faint heart beat. Asben brushes against the black roots, causing a slimy residue to be left behind. >look at pool Blocks of obsidian rise up from the center of the room and circle around to form a black border within which a pool of shimmering water resides. Every few passing moments the water ripples and shifts slightly to reveal a blurry image of an unrecognizable face before it goes still once more. >look book A number of books line the shelves, ranging from various titles regarding spell components, Elanthian history, and even some maps and detailed tomes regarding the Sea of Fire. A ripple appears in the scrying pool. >peer pool You peer into the scrying pool, its crystal water shifting as you look down. Images briefly appear within the water, blurry forms moving along the hazy streets of Wehnimer's Landing. The water ripples and shifts, briefly revealing the image of a dark, twisted forest of black trees and canopies of shadows. The water begins to shift again... [Brass Tower, Second Floor] The walls of this bare landing appear to be made of living flesh, each one slightly discolored and shifting ever so slightly. Rivulets of blood drip up, not down the walls, slowly oozing through crevices along the surface of the patchwork walls of flesh. You also see a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, an enormous crimson artery, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon and an arched window. Along the sides of the walls, tormented faces briefly appear, their features twisted and deformed with mouths open in silent screams. >look arter Massive in size, the slimy artery is covered in blood that glistens with a scintillating light. The enormous vein stretches wide, black liquid shifting beneath its nearly translucent surface. The pool below ripples again... Down below, the scrying pool ripples again...
The scrying pool ripples and a dark forest appears once more. In the center of the shadows, a lone figure appears... The lone figure shifts, and old brown robes cling to his thin elven frame. The lone figure's face is gaunt, but some features still remain angelic in appearance. His golden hair is shot with streaks of silver. Dark, oily black roots cover his entire body, threatening to entomb him like a mummy. The elven man's eyes open, they are dark, like voids, and he turns his face towards you, as if staring directly at you within the water, "...end me...." The water ripples and the image fades.
The robed figures began chanting in the upper level. A grey robed figure says, "Let us prepare! The harvest comes soon!" A grey robed figure says, "The Eve of Feastday will usher in the Great Blood Harvest!" A grey robed figure says, "The heart will rise and we shall find ourselves strengthened and pure!" The tower's walls, which seem to now be made of living flesh, continue to shift as voices groan from within. Some eerie chanting echoes in the distance, their voices in unison, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." A grey robed figure says, "Say it with me." Vaemyr says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow." A grey robed figure says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." Quilthaias quietly says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow." A grey robed figure says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." Voices chant in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." Asben says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." A grey robed figure says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." Asben's voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." One figure looks at Ycelacie. "Say it...." A grey robed figure says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." Ycelacie hesitantly says, "Blood to." Ycelacie says, "Feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."." Blood red motes of light drift up into the night above Wehnimer's Landing. Another figure turns. Ycelacie says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..." Ycelacie's voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow... The figures continue to chant as the wall of flesh shifts.
Suddenly, the flesh along the wall grows still. The blood slows within the giant artery and freezes. The robed figures freeze in place, their movements encapsuled in time, their voices silent, the room still. One figure turns, his eyes behind the mask a deep sea blue shade. "You do not think I would know of this?" Another robed figure's head turns towards you, his body frozen in place and still, but a voice echoes from within him, "You have not come to join them." Speaking to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Asben says, "No? I offered myself for the mark." Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah took the mark willinly." A different figure's head turns, "Your blood you gave willingly, and I thank you. But you have not come to join them." Another figure turns his head now, "I am Beyond the Arkati. You are bold and brave to sneak in here, to enter uncalled." Shadows thicken and envelope half of the tower. A red glow begins to emerge from the shadows. From out of the shadows, a red robed figure appears, his deep sea blue eyes gleaming and a wicked grin on his face. Grishom flashes a wide grin. A wicked grin crosses Ycelacie's face as she hisses a magical phrase at an incomprehensibly rapid pace. Ycelacie gestures. Ycelacie suddenly disappears. Grishom raises a hand and Ycelacie is revealed. Grishom says, "As I said..." The room remains silent, the figures frozen, oblivious to everything as if all of time has stopped. Grishom says, "I respect your bravery." Grishom says, "You sought the Blood God. Here I am." Grishom asks, "Are you now speechless?" Grishom says, "Many of those present have not yet even see me...." Speaking to Grishom, Vaemyr says, "I heard your call before... at the last harvest." Grishom turns to gesture to the robed figures who are frozen in place. Vaemyr says, "You invited all to come then, any who would step forward." Grishom chuckles. Grishom says, "You have come to stop them." Vaemyr says, "You have built a masterpiece." Grishom says, "I will not interfere when that time comes." Vaemyr asks, "Do you know who the heart is?" Grishom says, "The Arkati but rarely meddle in the affairs of their worshippers, and I am Beyond the Arkati." Grishom says, "I will not save them." Grishom says, "But I will not save you." Grishom says, "Now go...and let this be the final moment you wield such bold foolishness again."
Quotables
Speaking amusedly to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Leafiara says, "Yeah, definitely can't have you infiltrate. You're *the* most famous face in town." The coppery barn owl hoots at Leafiara. The coppery barn owl preens himself quietly.
Speaking to Crossfinger, Pukk says, "Right now we are joining Cryheart. Then he will walk somewhere but it will take awhile." Speaking to Crossfinger, Pietra says, "Could be days." Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Weeks even." Speaking to Crossfinger, Pukk says, "Bring rations that will last you a couple of days at least." Speaking to Crossfinger, Pukk says, "Weeks." Speaking to Crossfinger, Pietra says, "Might want to say goodbye to your loved ones."
Thadston gives Stormyrain a friendly hug. Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain greets, "Marsha--" Stormyrain smiles. Stormyrain hugs Thadston. Leafiara whispers aloud, "I'm ranking that one an 8 on the Landing scale of oddities." Kippe nods in agreement to Leafiara. Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "If that is an eight you really have not been here long enough."
Pukk arranges his posture and features in a skillful imitation of Thrassus. Speaking to Pukk, Thrassus says, "Much improved."
Speaking quietly to Thadston, Quilthaias asks, "Y'dunna think they's gonna expect uh try at infiltrations?" Speaking frankly to Quilthaias, Leafiara confides, "I think their minds are basically gone, honestly." Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra asks, "So, they're like Pukk?" Speaking dramatically to Pietra, Leafiara intones, "Worse." Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra exclaims, "Oh, heavens!"
Speaking to herself, Bellaja scolds, "You're a horrible spy." Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja assures, "They were very strange." Speaking to Thrassus, Bellaja says, "They all were marked before entering." Bellaja says, "They would not let them in." Bellaja relievedly admits, "Honestly I was glad not to wear another mark. The other was hell on my complexion."
Geijon says, "Stone has died as much as Barnom." Ycelacie says, "He would do no good any more powerful than he is already." Ycelacie says, "I am happy also." Ycelacie says, "To help." Ycelacie says, "In any way I can... no fee attached." Ycelacie says, "But he should certainly die." Geijon says, "Ah but he's charming and four steps ahead and sometimes he's not trying to kill you with demons, but reasoning for things. Things you want." Geijon says, "And weak people break." Speaking to Geijon, Bellaja adds, "And a phenomenal dancer." Leafiara mutters, "Okay, if I ever see Grishom Stone dancing, that one's getting the 'ten' rating."
Log
Gathering With Thadston
[Town Square Central]
This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see the orange Crossfinger disk, the Kuromadoushi disk, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, the icy blue Gabnid disk, the Evii disk, the Vaemyr disk, a round silver-banded barrel, an herbal remedy donation bin and some stone benches with some stuff on it.
Also here: The Notorious Leafiara, Dafixer, Kippe, Lady Immoras, Davenroar, Pukk, High Lord Crossfinger who is sitting, Valdrys, Ranayand, Kuromadoushi, Lord Perivan, Magister Raelee, Sir Cryheart, Stugwort, Gabnid, Bellaja, Lord Zoyosogob, Evii, Vaemyr, Great Lord Rayetale who is kneeling, Andromalius who is sitting
[General] Cryheart thinks, "Seems weather changing in the Landing."
Vaemyr says, "Might still be a while, who knows."
Pukk recites:
"Everybody join Cryheart!"
Cryheart says, "Rain."
Vaemyr says, "Or it could start storming."
The coppery barn owl hoots at Leafiara.
Speaking amusedly to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Leafiara says, "Yeah, definitely can't have you infiltrate. You're *the* most famous face in town."
You pet the coppery barn owl, which nuzzles your hand softly.
The coppery barn owl hoots at Leafiara.
Vaemyr says, "I believe the plan was to meet in the war room again initially."
Crossfinger asks, "Whats we doing?"
Speaking to Crossfinger, Pukk says, "Right now we are joining Cryheart. Then he will walk somewhere but it will take awhile."
Crossfinger says, "Sounds like a plan."
Speaking to Crossfinger, Pietra says, "Could be days."
Cryheart says, "Due to the rain..it can be hard to see."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Weeks even."
Speaking to Crossfinger, Pukk says, "Bring rations that will last you a couple of days at least."
Speaking to Crossfinger, Pukk says, "Weeks."
Speaking to Crossfinger, Pietra says, "Might want to say goodbye to your loved ones."
Zachion says, "Good bye."
Speaking to Pietra, Crossfinger says, "Gotta have some of those first. I'm sure all mine have moved on to the light."
Speaking to Crossfinger, Pukk says, "If you want. I can hold onto all of your silvers for you."
The coppery barn owl hoots.
Speaking to Pukk, Crossfinger says, "Might take you up on that later, i think the banker is pocketing a portion of what i have."
Speaking to Crossfinger, Pukk says, "Best to give it to me."
[General] Ycelacie asks, "Snow?"
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "You're right you know."
[General] Pietra exclaims, "Thunder!"
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "I'm a sage."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "I admire that about you."
Speaking quietly to Pietra, Beldannon asks, "That he's weird?"
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "You just admire the way I look in these pants."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "They look like mine."
Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "I have at least a plan, we'll see if it works."
The coppery barn owl hoots at Stormyrain.
Speaking to Pietra, Berkana says, "I need some ham."
Speaking to Berkana, Pietra says, "Pukk's standing right here, though."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "Okay, that went over my head at first."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "It's okay, at least you're cute."
Speaking to Bernadette, Pukk says, "Hiya tall, dark and spikey."
Speaking lightly to Cryheart, Leafiara asks, "Remember where the war room is this time?"
Cryheart says, "Hmmm."
Speaking to Cryheart, Pietra says, "We all think you're amazing. Really we do."
Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara agrees, "Teasing because we love ya."
Speaking to Madmountan, Berkana says, "I thought Darcena was..."
Cryheart says, "Aye."
Speaking to Berkana, Madmountan asks, "Thought she was what?"
Berkana says, "Mmm. Maybe not."
Pukk says, "Okay, we have Madmountan, now we need Roblar and we will be set."
Cryheart says, "I think she went to rest."
[General] Digler thinks, "Sleet."
Berkana says, "Rest..."
Madmountan exclaims, "Oh!"
Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "This isn't a night we attack. ...well, unless--"
Madmountan says, "Yeah, I'm just...a little too fast sometimes."
[General] Thadston thinks, "Eve."
Madmountan says, "Pun intended."
[General] Leafiara greets, "Evenin' Thadston."
[General] Cryheart thinks, "Good evening, Lord Thadston."
Cryheart says, "Lord Thadston on the thought net."
[General] Bernadette thinks, "Good eve Lord Thadston."
[General] Goldstr thinks, "Evenin to ye Sir Andrews."
[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Evening Sir."
Speaking to Cryheart, Pietra asks, "Lord? He's really a lord?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "Do you honestly think that something won't happen? This is Landing, you should expect it to always happen!"
[General] Thadston thinks, "I've found a nice porch to watch the rain."
[General] Aurla thinks, "Evening."
Speaking wryly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Oh, I do. Something could always go wrong with the plan."
Cryheart says, "He used to be a knight."
Speaking to Cryheart, Pietra says, "So he's less now. Got it."
Leafiara mentions, "Porch, apparently."
Kippe asks, "Hearthstone?"
Speaking to Cryheart, Pukk says, "Porch."
Cryheart says, "Aye."
Speaking to Cryheart, Pukk says, "We can make it by the morning if you start now."
Speaking to Cryheart, Pietra says, "Knights are very interesting."
Cryheart says, "Ok..join for a short trip to Hearthstone porch."
Leafiara dubiously says, "I dunno about the 'short' part."
Pietra exclaims, "Gird your loins! We're in for a long trip!"
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Tell folks to join him."
Cryheart says, "Moving out."
Leafiara suddenly says, "Oh, wait. Short *trip*, yes... maybe not a short stay."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "Already did."
[Hearthstone, Front Porch] Airy and open, the porch is enclosed by smooth, freshly painted white modwir up to a height of about four feet. As you ponder the sky-blue color of the ceiling and a lacework of deep green ivy that crisscrosses the open space between posts, the hubbub of the world beyond quickly fades away. Rocking chairs of various sizes are an inviting sight, and an elegant green marble arch provides a tantalizing view of the splendors inside the old manor. You also see a scorched oak sideboard with some stuff on it, a purple modwir bin, a doorman and the porch steps.
Also here: Kippe, Pukk, High Lord Crossfinger, Lord Perivan, Bellaja, Vaemyr, Pietra, Quilthaias, Bernadette, Fisher Beldannon, Luminary Berkana, Relic Hunter Madmountan, Stormyrain, Grand Lord Mitchem, Goldstr, Sir Cryheart, Lord Thadston, Lord Thrassus, Magister Raelee
Thadston says, "Magister."
Thadston nods at Raelee.
Stormyrain places a hand over her heart.
Thadston grins at Stormyrain.
Stormyrain bows to Thadston.
Thadston says, "Captain."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "You didn't give the ten, nine, eight, eleven, fifteen minute warning, though."
Thadston gives Stormyrain a friendly hug.
Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain greets, "Marsha--"
Stormyrain smiles.
Stormyrain hugs Thadston.
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "I can't count that high."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Again, you're cute at least."
Leafiara whispers aloud, "I'm ranking that one an 8 on the Landing scale of oddities."
Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "If that is an eight you really have not been here long enough."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk asks, "Did you hear the one about Thadston and Thrassus sitting on the porch?"
Thadston says, "Prove it."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Tha lightnin' is purty."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "It's happening right now."
Thadston says, "Tonight, I'm hoping to avoid bloodshed."
Speaking to Thadston, Pukk says, "Good luck with that."
Speaking to Thadston, Vaemyr says, "I believe I have an idea how to get them to invite us in, but it might be a bit painful for those who go."
Leafiara cautiously suggests, "Just choose the team wisely, as it were."
Speaking to Thadston, Thrassus asks, "Against?"
Thadston says, "I haven't gotten everything ready yet for when we attack."
Ycelacie curiously asks, "Attack?"
Thadston peers quizzically at Vaemyr.
Thadston asks, "What's the idea?"
Thadston says, "Yes, when we attack the cult."
Thadston says, "Which we will. It will come to that."
Pietra says, "I hope it involved pantomime."
Thadston says, "...it always comes to that."
Vaemyr says, "Blood and their fire, mix the two with the intent to join them and they should allow you to enter."
Quilthaias quietly says, "We need uh way in."
Vaemyr says, "It helps if you can show a type of affliction, as many of their members have."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara praises, "Very good point."
Thadston asks, "Mix blood and their fire? How?"
Thadston shrugs.
Thadston says, "I brought robes and masks."
Thrassus says, "Likely through shedding your own into the fire."
Speaking to Thrassus, Pietra says, "Seemed pretty obvious to me."
Vaemyr says, "We could try that then as well."
Thadston says, "I wasn't able to acquire "I'm with Stone" buttons in time."
Quilthaias quietly asks, "Tha disguise rilly be enuff tuh fool 'em?"
Thadston smirks.
Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah trieda check it outs earlier.. Couldna pick tha gate, tho."
Vaemyr says, "Still, even with disguises we have to get through the door."
Stormyrain says, "I would caution against the freely giving of blood in any way that would allow them to collect it. Into the fire would likely be safe enough--but into any type of a collection bin.."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Indeeds."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Vaemyr says, "Aye my thought was a sacrifice to the fire."
Vaemyr says, "But that is a good point."
Pietra says, "Too bad it has to be only a little blood. Don't want to put the yucky fires out."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah kin easily get around unseens if'n Ah could get in."
Assembling the Team
Thadston pulls a carved red oak mask from his cloak.
Thadston says, "We have some from when we felled some of their cult in the past."
Thadston says, "The plan is to get inside, talk to who you can, find out what you can. Anything to help us plan for what comes next."
Pietra whispers something to Pukk.
Pukk whispers something to Pietra.
Quilthaias quietly says, "Makes good sense."
Stormyrain asks, "Who goes besides the sylvan and the halfling?" [Vaemyr and Quilthaias, respectively]
Pietra whispers something to Pukk.
Thadston says, "Whoever stays here, I need you to begin to discuss what we intend to do in our strike against the Knave and Rooks."
Thadston asks, "Who is going to try to infiltrate the tower?"
Quilthaias nods at Thadston.
Ycelacie says, "I want to."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah will goes."
Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara asks, "Is the war room still open for that discussion?"
Berkana asks, "My tower?"
Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Leafiara nods approvingly at Thadston.
Thadston nods at Quilthaias.
Speaking to Berkana, Pietra asks, "Is there ham?"
Madmountan says, "I'd better not. I'm not delicate enough to guarantee that nobody would die."
Asben whispers something to Pietra.
Ycelacie asks, "Which group is the Tower?"
Vaemyr says, "I'll certainly go to the tower."
Thadston nods at Ycelacie.
Pietra whispers something to Asben.
Thadston nods at Vaemyr.
Cryheart says, "A few."
Vaemyr says, "You can join me for now."
Cryheart says, "Not I."
Pietra whispers something to Asben.
Asben whispers something to Pietra.
Leafiara reminds, "The tower should be faces they likely won't recognize in case they need you to take your masks off any point. So, you know... not Cryheart, Pukk, and the like."
Thadston says, "Obviously we'll want to avoid those more known around town, like ex-mayors, captains, knights..."
Thadston nods.
Speaking to Leafiara, Asben says, "That's why I'm wearing a mask."
Thadston says, "We can't well infilifrate with a Cryblob."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Loudmouths."
Leafiara pragmatically says, "We don't know what their initiation rituals are, so they might need the masks off."
Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "It'd be sometime next year if we did."
Pietra accepts Asben's grey ash wood mask.
Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Speaking to Thadston, Pukk says, "Besides, it will take him a couple weeks just to walk there."
Speaking to Asben, Pietra asks, "Why do I want to look like a tree?"
Asben says, "I want you to look like someone else."
Speaking to Asben, Pietra asks, "Ewww. Can we discuss that another time?"
Pietra gives Asben a friendly punch to the shoulder.
Asben says, "Ow."
Speaking to Asben, Pietra says, "I'm not going. I think that was already decided."
Pukk says, "I could always try a different disguise."
Thadston says, "Vaemyr, Quilthaias, Ycelacie."
Thadston asks, "Anyone else?"
Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "Looks like Asben is going."
Pietra offers Asben a featureless grey ash wood mask.
Asben accepts Pietra's grey ash wood mask.
Speaking to Asben, Pietra says, "You might want to wear that."
Thadston says, "Please be more Asben the quiet not Asben the crusher."
Thadston nods at Asben.
Asben says, "I can hide well."
Thadston offers Vaemyr a carved red oak mask.
Vaemyr accepts Thadston's red oak mask.
Vaemyr puts a carved red oak mask on his head.
Speaking to Mitchem, Stormyrain says, "Good to see you, as always."
(OOC) Pietra's player whispers to the group, "Ooh big FOMO now!"
Thadston offers Quilthaias a carved red oak mask.
Quilthaias accepts Thadston's red oak mask.
Thadston says, "Incase you all need them."
Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Mitchem says, "Great seeing you, it's been a long while."
Pietra whispers something to Asben.
(OOC) Leafiara's player whispers to the group, "I mean, they're going to report back to us, so hey..."
Speaking to Pietra, Berkana asks, "Too fancy?"
Quilthaias nods at Thadston.
Thadston offers Ycelacie a carved red oak mask.
Speaking quietly to Thadston, Quilthaias says, "Thank yeh."
Quilthaias puts a carved red oak mask on his head.
Speaking to Berkana, Pietra says, "Never too pretty. I couldn't pull that off if I tried."
Thadston offers Ycelacie a carved red oak mask.
Pukk arranges his posture and features in a skillful imitation of Thrassus.
[General] Damsall thinks, "What's going on at Hearthstone? I haven't seen that kind of crowd on the porch in years."
Thadston just nudged Ycelacie.
Speaking to Asben, Pietra says, "Please be our reliable reporter."
Thadston offers Asben a carved red oak mask.
Speaking to Pukk, Thrassus says, "Much improved."
Asben accepts Thadston's red oak mask.
Speaking to Thrassus, Pukk says, "Agreed."
Asben puts a carved red oak mask on his head.
[General] Pietra thinks, "It's a meeting. While we send some folks to probably go die."
[General] Stormyrain thinks, "We're having a chat with Thadston, now that he's feeling more himself as of late. Come back and join us, you're welcome to."
Thadston offers Ycelacie a carved red oak mask.
Thadston says, "Keep this in case."
Ycelacie accepts Thadston's red oak mask.
Thadston says, "It's the masks they use."
Ycelacie says, "Oh."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Pietra says, "I liked my answer better."
[General] Damsall asks, "Sure, why not?"
Speaking to Pietra, Stormyrain says, "Never know whose mind is being touched with our thoughts. I figure it better to be --mysterious."
Thadston drops some flowing grey robes.
Thadston says, "There's some robes if anyone needs them."
Thadston says, "I didn't have time to wash all of the old blood off."
Vaemyr picks up some flowing grey robes.
Speaking quietly to Thadston, Quilthaias asks, "Y'dunna think they's gonna expect uh try at infiltrations?"
Speaking to Stormyrain, Pietra says, "I didn't even mention a naaaaame."
Cryheart says, "Makes it look original."
Thadston shrugs at Quilthaias.
Stormyrain amusedly says, "Not that he wouldn't just invade most of the minds in town if he felt like it."
Thadston says, "When in doubt, fight and run."
Quilthaias nods at Thadston.
Quilthaias quietly says, "Noteds."
Thadston nods at Stormyrain.
Speaking frankly to Quilthaias, Leafiara confides, "I think their minds are basically gone, honestly."
Vaemyr says, "I'll probably have to go with the mask and my cloak, my armor is a bit... attached to me."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Fairs."
Ycelacie plainly asks, "Should we wear these?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra asks, "So, they're like Pukk?"
Speaking dramatically to Pietra, Leafiara intones, "Worse."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra exclaims, "Oh, heavens!"
Speaking to Thrassus, Pukk says, "Humans."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "I can't help it. Sorry."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah keep 'em in case Ah gotta use 'em."
Speaking in Faendryl to Pukk, Thrassus says something you don't understand.
Thadston says, "I'm going to go check on some things on my end. Everyone who remains behind, please start working on ways to do our strike against the Rooks and the Knave, like we discussed."
Vaemyr nods at Thadston.
Thadston nods at Vaemyr.
Speaking to Ycelacie, Pietra says, "Remember, maybe don't cast your murder magic at everything that moves."
Thadston says, "Bring everyone back alive. No pressure."
Thadston nods at Vaemyr.
Vaemyr says, "Alright we'll head toward the tower."
Lord Thadston just went down the porch steps.
Vaemyr says, "See you all soon."
Vaemyr's group just went down the porch steps.
Infiltration Team, Go
[Wehnimer's, East Jetty]
This windswept jetty, built of granite and basalt boulders, shelters the beach here from the river currents made more insistent by the pounding surf of Darkstone Bay. A corroded bronze gate stands high across the path, blocking further travel. You also see the Vaemyr disk, a weathered wooden trunk, an eerie blood red fire, an eerie blood red fire, an eerie blood red fire and an eerie blood red fire.
Also here: Lord Asben, Ycelacie, Quilthaias, Vaemyr
>go gate
The corroded bronze gate appears to be closed.
>open gate
It appears to be locked.
Vaemyr says, "We wish to join as acolytes of the blood god."
Asben nods once.
Quilthaias gazes with interest at an eerie blood red fire.
Vaemyr sticks his hand into the flames! Jerking his injured hand back, he surveys the damage to the singed appendage.
... 1 point of damage!
Minor burns to right hand. Ouch.
Ycelacie blinks.
Asben glances at Vaemyr.
Vaemyr nods.
Vaemyr reaches out and touches a corroded bronze gate.
A figure appears in a window in the tower above, features concealed in a red oak mask.
Ycelacie asks, "What are we supposed to be doing?"
Vaemyr says, "Getting their attention."
(Ycelacie shows her mask to the cultist.)
Asben whispers to the group, "Finding out info about the cult."
(Vaemyr looks up with the mask at the window.)
The corroded bronze gate creaks open, wisps of red light trailing behind it as it does.
Vaemyr nods.
>go gate
[Wehnimer's, East Jetty End]
The jetty ends here in jagged steps leading up to the tarnished brass tower, its doors hanging ajar on torn and twisted hinges. At the tip of the breakwater, the spray of the waves and the salt breeze wash away the dirt and commotion of the town. You also see a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, an oily blood-soaked door, a corroded bronze gate and a silver sign.
Vaemyr nods to the cloaked figure.
Ycelacie nods to the cloaked figure.
Asben greets a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask. Perhaps they're in cahoots!
>read sign
You see etched on the silver sign in a flowing script:
An we harm none
Weal be our aim
Peace unto thee
Pray wish us the same
Quilthaias nods to the cloaked figure.
Ycelacie winks at a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask.
Ycelacie shows a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask her red oak mask.
A grey robed figure says, "Welcome, you are in time for our next gathering as we prepare for the harvest."
Vaemyr says, "Thank you."
A grey robed figure says, "They are awaiting inside."
Asben says, "Excellent."
Ycelacie unconvincingly says, "Indeed brother."
>go door
The red veins along the door thicken, blocking you from passing through the door.
Some of the figures go through the oily blood-soaked door and into the tower.
A grey robed figure says, "Trouble?" Are you not yet marked by the Blood God?"
Speaking persuasively to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Ycelacie asks, "We are in a hurry, will you show us the way?"
Vaemyr says, "I have heard his call, but I am not marked."
Effervescent pride swells in your chest as a sense of clarity and purpose washes over you.
A grey robed figure says, "The song of blood brings the promise of all tomorrows. It is good to know you have heard it too."
A grey robed figure says, "Please, wait here."
The figure moves inside of the tower.
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "If anyone might regret things, feel free to escape, no guarantees what these marks might do."
Asben whispers to the group, "Perhaps they won't mark us yet?"
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "I can take care of myself."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "Ah kin resist thur magicks.. even bein' marked."
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "We will see... I have plenty of tricks..."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "So Ah have heard."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "Let's hope that it doesn't come to that."
Asben whispers to the group, "Should we just sneak in the door?"
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "We kinnae."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "There's the same magic on the gate blocking it."
Bellaja just came through a corroded bronze gate.
Bellaja smiles.
A grey-robed figure returns, sea blue eyes smiling behind a carved red oak mask.
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "Which is good information to know, plus if we can get the "key" these marks, that should help the assault plans."
A grey robed figure says, "You seek to gather, to join the harvest, to know great power."
Vaemyr says, "Yes."
Quilthaias nods to the cloaked figure.
A grey robed figure says, "You must be marked before entering. We welcome you to join us."
Vaemyr nods.
Ycelacie nods.
Asben says, "Aye."
The grey robed figure reveals a curved obsidian dagger from the sleeve of his robe.
A grey robed figure says, "Who will be marked first? Who will give of themselves?"
(Vaemyr holds out his arm.)
The figure moves over to Vaemyr.
Quilthaias nods to the cloaked figure.
The figure takes Vaemyr's arm and turns it over before slowly dragging the blade of his dagger into his flesh. Blood seeps out from the new wound and infuses into the dagger. The figure touches Vaemyr's arm and the wound closes back up.
Vaemyr nods.
(Ycelacie raises her arm.)
A grey robed figure says, "Welcome, welcome to the Church of the Blood God."
Vaemyr bows to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask.
Vaemyr says, "Thank you brother."
Some eerie voices echo from a window in the tower above, "Welcome. Welcome."
The figure moves towards Ycelacie.
Asben says, "I'll take the mark after Lacie."
The figure takes Ycelacie's arm, pausing to look at her black spidersilk mask briefly. The figure drags the curved blade along the inside of her arm, pulling blood into the metal of the dagger before the wound seals up.
A grey robed figure says, "Welcome, welcome to the Church of the Blood God."
Some eerie voices echo from a window in the tower above, "Welcome. Welcome."
Vaemyr says, "Welcome."
Asben nods to the cloaked figure.
(Asben holds his arm out to the cloaked figure.)
The figure moves towards Asben, sea blue eyes grinning behind a carved red oak mask. He looks up at Asben's height, then turns his arm, dragging the blade into the flesh, absorbing blood into the metal, then stepping back as the wound heals.
A grey robed figure says, "Welcome, welcome to the Church of the Blood God."
Some eerie voices echo from a window in the tower above, "Welcome. Welcome."
(Quilthaias extends his right arm toward the cloaked figure.)
Vaemyr says, "Welcome."
Asben nods slowly.
The figure moves towards Quilthaias.
(Asben rubs his arm.)
Ycelacie curiously asks, "Shall we?"
The figure leans forward and takes Quilthaias's arm, drags the blade into the flesh and draws blood into the very depths of the dagger. The figure steps back and says, "Welcome to the Church of the Blood God."
Some eerie voices echo from a window in the tower above, "Welcome. Welcome."
Quilthaias nods once to the cloaked figure.
Someone Doesn't Bell-ong...
The figure looks to Bellaja.
Bellaja nods slowly.
A grey robed figure says, "You wish to join the Church?"
Bellaja assures, "It is always good to support the workings of Lornon."
Bellaja nods to the cloaked figure.
A grey robed figure says, "We are not of Lornon. You have failed."
Bellaja frowns.
A grey robed figure says, "Please go." The figure turns away from Bellaja.
A grey robed figure says, "We are Beyond the Arkati."
A grey robed figure says, "The rest of you, a moment..."
Vaemyr says, "Let us go."
Bellaja says, "Very well then."
Bellaja says, "You do not look for alliance and I will not offer."
The figure moves to the blood-soaked door and places the obsidian dagger against it and begins to chant.
Ycelacie excitedly says, "This is so exciting."
Bellaja just went through a corroded bronze gate.
The figure moves through the door.
Vaemyr says, "Knowing about great power always is."
Into the Brass
>go door
You step through the blood-soaked door.
[Brass Tower, Entrance]
Cold and damp, the tower interior is smaller than expected though roomy enough to feel comfortable even in a large group. The smell of the sea is still strong here, providing a musty flavor to the air. A circular stairway leads to a landing above you, but the upper portion of it is scorched and twisted. You also see some glistening black roots, an obsidian scrying pool, some glistening black roots, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a brass stool, a wooden bookshelf and a small wash basin.
Vaemyr asks, "People?"
Vaemyr points at a translucent red cocoon.
Asben says, "Possibly."
>analyze cocoon
You cannot reach a translucent red cocoon.
>look at roots
The roots are glistening with an oily black substance and seem to coil up and down the tower's walls, periodically pulsing as if throbbing from a faint heart beat.
Asben brushes against the black roots, causing a slimy residue to be left behind.
Asben says, "Ew."
>look at pool
Blocks of obsidian rise up from the center of the room and circle around to form a black border within which a pool of shimmering water resides. Every few passing moments the water ripples and shifts slightly to reveal a blurry image of an unrecognizable face before it goes still once more.
Vaemyr says, "A scrying pool as well."
>look book
A number of books line the shelves, ranging from various titles regarding spell components, Elanthian history, and even some maps and detailed tomes regarding the Sea of Fire.
Vaemyr says, "So they've been watching."
A ripple appears in the scrying pool.
>peer pool
You peer into the scrying pool, its crystal water shifting as you look down. Images briefly appear within the water, blurry forms moving along the hazy streets of Wehnimer's Landing.
Vaemyr says, "The town."
The water ripples and shifts, briefly revealing the image of a dark, twisted forest of black trees and canopies of shadows.
Ycelacie says, "Well..."
The water begins to shift again...
Ycelacie says, "We know this."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Ycelacie says, "I suggest we keep moving."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Ycelacie says, "Stand in one place too long..."
>u
[Brass Tower, Second Floor]
The walls of this bare landing appear to be made of living flesh, each one slightly discolored and shifting ever so slightly. Rivulets of blood drip up, not down the walls, slowly oozing through crevices along the surface of the patchwork walls of flesh. You also see a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, an enormous crimson artery, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon and an arched window.
Along the sides of the walls, tormented faces briefly appear, their features twisted and deformed with mouths open in silent screams.
>look arter
Massive in size, the slimy artery is covered in blood that glistens with a scintillating light. The enormous vein stretches wide, black liquid shifting beneath its nearly translucent surface.
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "That artery..."
The pool below ripples again...
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "There's a heart here."
The pool below ripples again...
Along the sides of the walls, tormented faces briefly appear, their features twisted and deformed with mouths open in silent screams.
Speaking to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Ycelacie says, "Evening."
Asben whispers to the group, "It's like it's alive."
Down below, the scrying pool ripples again...
>d
[Brass Tower, Entrance]
Cold and damp, the tower interior is smaller than expected though roomy enough to feel comfortable even in a large group. The smell of the sea is still strong here, providing a musty flavor to the air. A circular stairway leads to a landing above you, but the upper portion of it is scorched and twisted. You also see some glistening black roots, an obsidian scrying pool, some glistening black roots, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a brass stool, a wooden bookshelf and a small wash basin.
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "Feeding from the cocoons?"
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "I think we should look at the pool again."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "Making a lot of noise."
Druidic Vision
The scrying pool ripples and a dark forest appears once more. In the center of the shadows, a lone figure appears...
Ycelacie says, "This tower is... small."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "The dark forest.."
Speaking to Asben, Ycelacie says, "Can you look around for hidden..."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "Continues to show."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "Stone."
Asben whispers to the group, "Reminds me of the garden."
The lone figure shifts, and old brown robes cling to his thin elven frame.
Asben whispers to the group, "The black void... with the trees of death."
The lone figure's face is gaunt, but some features still remain angelic in appearance. His golden hair is shot with streaks of silver. Dark, oily black roots cover his entire body, threatening to entomb him like a mummy.
Ycelacie says, "Well..."
Ycelacie says, "This thing is alive."
Ycelacie says, "And this magic is certainly necrotic in nature."
Ycelacie says, "Sun god my ass."
The elven man's eyes open, they are dark, like voids, and he turns his face towards you, as if staring directly at you within the water, "...end me...."
Ycelacie says, "Or blood."
The water ripples and the image fades.
Vaemyr says, "That's not Stone."
Vaemyr says, "I don't know who that was, but it's whats giving them power."
Vaemyr says, "Perhaps the heart of this place."
Great Harvest
The robed figures began chanting in the upper level.
>u
[Brass Tower, Second Floor]
The walls of this bare landing appear to be made of living flesh, each one slightly discolored and shifting ever so slightly. Rivulets of blood drip up, not down the walls, slowly oozing through crevices along the surface of the patchwork walls of flesh. You also see a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, an enormous crimson artery, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon, a translucent red cocoon and an arched window.
A grey robed figure says, "Let us prepare! The harvest comes soon!"
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "Others might know more when we rejoin them."
Asben whispers to the group, "I wonder what the harvest is."
A grey robed figure says, "The Eve of Feastday will usher in the Great Blood Harvest!"
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "Was there no sensitive target here."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "Thur we gots some good informations.."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "Tonight is all about information."
A grey robed figure says, "The heart will rise and we shall find ourselves strengthened and pure!"
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "Well... this group is corrupt that is obvious."
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "We can report that."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "The heart... that's what... who that was." to your group.
The tower's walls, which seem to now be made of living flesh, continue to shift as voices groan from within.
Some eerie chanting echoes in the distance, their voices in unison, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "Tha whole Tower is alive."
A grey robed figure says, "Say it with me."
Vaemyr says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow."
A grey robed figure says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "Not sure... shouldn't matter, it needs to be destroyed I am suprised we not try it now."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow."
A grey robed figure says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "It should be easy theoretically to sabotage this place."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "We won't be able to get at the heart tonight I don't believe."
Voices chant in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Asben says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "We dunno their true power, Lacie."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "And Thadston wants us back alive..."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "We're no good if we die up here."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "Ah agrees with Vaemyr on thats.. we jus needa gather what we kin an' reports."
A grey robed figure says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Asben whispers to the group, "Stone is much more powerful than us. We cannot defeat him. It would just be our end."
A grey robed figure says, "Say it with me."
Asben says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Vaemyr says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow."
Asben's voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "I did attempt to sense it and couldn't read much, I suspect anti magic and brute force could be a solution."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "I'm not sure these... are powered by Stone, that person was an elf."
Ycelacie says, "Blood to feed."
Ycelacie says, "And grow, bring blood and sow it."
One figure looks at Ycelacie. "Say it...."
A grey robed figure says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
(OOC) Asben's player whispers to the group, "Apparently my chant was heard all over the Landing."
Ycelacie hesitantly says, "Blood to."
(OOC) Vaemyr's player whispers to the group, "Yup."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "You must say it, Lacie.."
Ycelacie says, "Feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."."
One figure looks at Ycelacie. "Say it...."
Another figure turns.
Asben says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Ycelacie says, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
The figures continue to chant as the wall of flesh shifts.
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "We gonna end up inside those cocoons."
The Stone Knows
Suddenly, the flesh along the wall grows still.
Asben whispers to the group, "That's what daggers are for."
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "Not tonight we aren't."
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "Doubt it."
The blood slows within the giant artery and freezes.
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "I did say it like three times."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "Mebbe not t'nite.. Ah think et may come tuh that fer us tuh get much further."
>watch arter
You watch an enormous crimson artery closely for a moment. Wondrous things fail to occur.
(OOC) Asben's player whispers to the group, "You didn't say it exactly like they said it."
The robed figures freeze in place, their movements encapsuled in time, their voices silent, the room still.
(OOC) Quilthaias's player whispers to the group, "He's right, tho. This is a touchy recon mission apparently."
(OOC) Vaemyr's player whispers to the group, "But damn is it tempting to blast that artery."
One figure turns, his eyes behind the mask a deep sea blue shade. "You do not think I would know of this?"
(OOC) Asben's player whispers to the group, "We'd get destroyed lol."
(OOC) Ycelacie's player whispers to the group, "Cant target [stuff] soooooo."
Quilthaias whispers to the group, "Them kin hear us!"
Asben asks, "Know what?"
(OOC) Ycelacie's player whispers to the group, "No we would wreck shop."
Another robed figure's head turns towards you, his body frozen in place and still, but a voice echoes from within him, "You have not come to join them."
Speaking to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Asben says, "No? I offered myself for the mark."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah took the mark willinly."
A different figure's head turns, "Your blood you gave willingly, and I thank you. But you have not come to join them."
Vaemyr says, "I've heard the master's voice."
Asben asks, "Join who?"
Speaking flirtatiously to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Ycelacie persuades, "Of course we have."
Speaking quietly to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Quilthaias asks, "What must Ah do tuh prove mah loyalties?"
Vaemyr says, "I know that he calls us."
Speaking to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Asben says, "Do you mean the people in the walls? I certainly do not wish to join them."
Another figure turns his head now, "I am Beyond the Arkati. You are bold and brave to sneak in here, to enter uncalled."
Asben says, "I've read that book."
Ycelacie takes a carved red oak mask off her head.
Ycelacie flatly says, "Finally."
Vaemyr asks, "Do you think we do not wish to ascend?"
Speaking quietly to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Quilthaias says, "Ah have heard tha call of tha Blood God."
Shadows thicken and envelope half of the tower.
Speaking unconvincingly to a grey robed figure wearing a carved red oak mask, Ycelacie says, "I... see you.... for the first time, since the last gather."
A red glow begins to emerge from the shadows.
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "Do we want to get out?"
Vaemyr whispers to the group, "I'm feeling it's time to leave."
Asben whispers to the group, "Lacie should leave... she has blown her cover."
From out of the shadows, a red robed figure appears, his deep sea blue eyes gleaming and a wicked grin on his face.
Ycelacie whispers to the group, "I think right now it's out of our hands, roll with..."
Grishom flashes a wide grin.
A wicked grin crosses Ycelacie's face as she hisses a magical phrase at an incomprehensibly rapid pace.
Ycelacie gestures.
Ycelacie suddenly disappears.
Grishom raises a hand and Ycelacie is revealed.
Grishom says, "As I said..."
The room remains silent, the figures frozen, oblivious to everything as if all of time has stopped.
Grishom says, "I respect your bravery."
Grishom says, "You sought the Blood God. Here I am."
Grishom asks, "Are you now speechless?"
Speaking to Grishom, Ycelacie says, "I am offended you hide."
'Grishom says, "Many of those present have not yet even see me...."
Speaking to Grishom, Vaemyr says, "I heard your call before... at the last harvest."
Grishom turns to gesture to the robed figures who are frozen in place.
Speaking quietly to Grishom, Quilthaias says, "Ah kneel in reverence, Lord Stone."
Vaemyr says, "You invited all to come then, any who would step forward."
Grishom chuckles.
Grishom says, "You have come to stop them."
Vaemyr says, "You have built a masterpiece."
Grishom says, "I will not interfere when that time comes."
Vaemyr asks, "Do you know who the heart is?"
Grishom says, "The Arkati but rarely meddle in the affairs of their worshippers, and I am Beyond the Arkati."
Grishom says, "I will not save them."
Grishom says, "But I will not save you."
Asben says, "That book is rather boring."
Vaemyr says, "Then I guess we'll see how things play out in the end."
Speaking honestly to Grishom, Ycelacie says, "I don't know who you are, but I am certain you are valuable dead."
Grishom says, "Now go...and let this be the final moment you wield such bold, foolishness again."
Vaemyr says, "And you can watch and enjoy as gods do, especially ones beyond the Arkati."
Break For It
[the group leaves]
[Wehnimer's, East Jetty]
This windswept jetty, built of granite and basalt boulders, shelters the beach here from the river currents made more insistent by the pounding surf of Darkstone Bay. A corroded bronze gate stands high across the path, blocking further travel. You also see a weathered wooden trunk, an eerie blood red fire, an eerie blood red fire, an eerie blood red fire and an eerie blood red fire.
Quilthaias quietly says, "How.."
Quilthaias quietly says, "How did we get outta thats.."
Quilthaias glances at Ycelacie.
Quilthaias quietly says, "Yer uh bold wun."
Vaemyr says, "I cannot believe Stone was there."
Ycelacie says, "Even gods are afraid of me."
Vaemyr says, "Ok... well we have a lot to share."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Hims could has put you down with uh pinch.."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Asben asks, "What part of stealthy do you not understand?"
Vaemyr says, "Lets head back."
[Note: Everything on the page after this point is entirely player-driven.]
But Before That...
[meanwhile, as the other group was infiltrating the tower...]
Vaemyr's group just went down the porch steps.
Pietra says, "Well that's not going to end well."
Pukk says, "I couldn't hold it anymore."
Pietra asks, "So, we're going to strike. Does that mean we don't have to work for awhile?"
Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara suggests, "Can we go to the war room for a place to write?"
Speaking to Cryheart, Goldstr asks, "So guess we go to da War room?"
Cryheart says, "Ok..heading to the War room in the outpost."
Speaking to Thrassus, Pukk says, "Plus I had to stand on my tiptoes to try to be your height...that was rough."
Cryheart says, "Moving out."
Thrassus says, "It's not easy being me, agreed."
[Hendoran Outpost, War Room]
The room is bare but for a long conference table and a number of chairs pushed under it while not in use. Situated in the middle of the table is a map of Wehnimer's Landing and nearby environs. Neatly lined up on one side of the map are a set of miniatures depicting Hendoran troops and potential enemies. Near a small window rests an empty gilded birdcage. You also see a huge metal-framed slate hanging on a nearby wall, a set of large wooden doors and a long wooden cart with some stuff on it.
Cryheart says, "Ahh..food is probably stale."
Leafiara begins, "So... I have something of a four-in-one plan with that Knave-and-Rooks strike. Feel free to tear it apart, take the whole thing, reject the whole thing, or keep only parts of it. I'll write it up."
[she writes it up]
>read slate
The following messages are written on the metal-framed slate:
If an injury must be done to another, it must be swift and severe enough to forestall all vengeance.
(The above was written by, I believe, Lylia.)
On to planning for the Rooks and Knave:
(1/5) As Thadston mentioned last time, one problem with attacking the Rooks is that our citizens are among them. I'll add that, in the current situation with the militia being hunted down and the Guard Captain possibly bought off by Amos, there could be people in the Brotherhood for now who would otherwise have never joined, but did to take the fight to the Knave. Just like the Warcats were rogue militia members not loyal to Thadston, there are probably Rooks not loyal to Mother.
(2/5) So, we poke at the weak point. Aim to fracture the Rooks by extending an offer to cast off their masks and return to fight the Knave alongside us. Ideally, some who join us might be among the ones who possess Amos' hand-pylons. Even if not, though, we still add to our numbers, diminish theirs, and hopefully solve a moral dilemma by extracting members who don't fully agree with Mother's methods.
(3/5) Pup attempted a similar offer once, extending Rooks the opportunity to join the militia, which led to Drangell killing those who wanted to leave. Major differences this time include that: A) Mother isn't nearly as ruthless or indiscriminate as Drangell, B) a larger percentage of current Rooks probably aren't career Rooks, like I said, and most importantly C) they can't afford to turn on and battle each other while *also* continuing to battle the Knave.
(4/5) It's crucial to consider who should lead the charge in extending this offer. I'd suggest two primary criteria in choosing messengers: 1) the Rooks will trust them to be making a sincere offer (which it is), and 2) we'll trust the messengers not to betray us mid-operation. (The trust for point 2 doesn't have to be purely taking their word. Leverage and preventative measures can be used against betrayal.)
(5/5) Lastly, if this even slightly succeeds, it might double as being the lure for Mother that we've been looking for, then *triple* as being a snare for the Knave's forces. Mother can't stand by idly while we siphon off her followers, but since we'd be extending an offer diplomatically, hopefully she'd see this as an opportunity to speak with us rather than an immediate declaration of war against her. Her presence, then, would give us a chance to capture her while also luring the Knave to attack hard against all of his targets in one place.
-Leafiara
Pukk says, "A little dry."
Pukk says, "It's okay."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Wow, you write FAST."
Speaking wryly to Pietra, Leafiara says, "I've been practicing."
Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara mutters, "Been in here for hours since last we met Thadston."
Speaking to a huge metal-framed slate hanging on a nearby wall, Pukk says, "Words...words...Aha! I recognize that word...."
Speaking to Leafiara, Brandilor says, "I wondered where you had been."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "And I guess Bear wasn't involved, even though he should be, hrm."
Farseeker attempts to grapple Stormyrain!
Pearly light flares up suddenly from within Farseeker!
UAF: 467 vs UDF: 436 = 1.071 * MM: -40 + d100: 63 = 21
A clean miss!
[General] Haunting thinks, "When you use a napkin instead of the tablecloth to wipe your mouth, that is high end."
Leafiara says, "But it seems like we have at least three facets to consider: capture Mother, lure out the Knave, extract Rooks who might not be career criminals--"
Farseeker says, "Er."
Farseeker says, "Sorry."
Speaking slowly to Farseeker, Leafiara says, "Okay then."
Stormyrain takes a drink from her cinnamon tea.
Thrassus asks, "I believe that is called 'getting a bit handsy', yes?"
Speaking to Farseeker, Stormyrain inquires, "How did that work out for you?"
Farseeker says, "Animal spirit gloves."
Goldstr says, "Looks to be a good plan."
Leafiara says, "Main trouble I'm seeing is we don't really know how to lure out the Knave."
Geijon says, "I hear we plannin."
Leafiara says, "I know I have a bit of that in the plan, but... it's something of a gamble."
Geijon says, "Better eat up."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Does he like fancy soap or something? That could work."
Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara admits, "I'm not sure what he's interested in."
Leafiara says, "Near as I can tell, it's the docks and just... money."
Thrassus says, "Why not just flood their tunnels with toxic gas? It requires less steps."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "We can start openly taunting knaves and have bards sing songs of the knaves failures and shortcomings."
[General] Haunting thinks, "Only acceptable to use your sister's shirt if its family gathering, otherwise tablecloth."
Speaking to Thrassus, Geijon says, "Sound strategy all around. That."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "That will bring down their morale and then they will lose support causing them to anger."
Brandilor says, "I had a friend Sir Robin who did stuff like that."
Leafiara says, "Oh... sadly, Dendum's not around tonight, but he was saying last night that the Rooks pretty much always go for more weapons. Whether it's hand pylons or orbs. So I suppose that's an option, a fake weapon shipment."
Leafiara says, "The Knave, though..."
Geijon says, "Th' Rooks aren't goblins."
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara says, "No, but they always look for opportunities to add to their arsenal. Or at least I think that was Dendum's point."
Geijon says, "They are often desperate perhaps, but they'd be dead if they weren't resilient in many ways. We've flushed them out, went to war and won, but they survive."
Goldstr says, "Dey been usin dem deadly orbs fer many a year."
Geijon asks, "Mother is their fourth leader?"
Leafiara asks, "What if we laid out one lure each for every possible Knave candidate?"
Geijon says, "Or the 2nd back again for a to be th' 4th."
Thrassus asks, "Has Amos begun recieving the shipments for his invar weapons yet?"
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara says, "I think so. Drangell, Rysus, Mother... and there was another Mother in there who might or might not be this one."
Speaking to Thrassus, Leafiara admits, "Not sure."
Pietra says, "Why not donuts? Everyone likes donuts."
Goldstr asks, "Dis nae Lady D'Archon lead em maybe first?"
Thrassus says, "If he has, it would be a simple matter to liberate some of those to use as Rook bait."
Geijon says, "Darcena made a point a few days ago and I'll say it differently."
Thrassus says, "Less flashy than pylons, perhaps."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk asks, "Invite the Knaves for donuts? That's a good idea actually. Who could resist them?"
Geijon says, "There is no point to get fantastical solutions when our enemies are plain as these."
Geijon says, "So blood tree roots to poison th' cult, turn their fire on them with mist and poison them all in their beds isn't engagement of war. It's murder, just like th' Talador camps."
Speaking to Leafiara, Kippe says, "We should leak there'."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "We could throw in some fancy dancer types. That might help."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk asks, "Can you dance?"
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Absolutely."
Speaking to Leafiara, Kippe says, "We should leak there's a shipment of arms,as Dendum said, and that the Rooks plan to attack it. That may pull out the Knave."
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara says, "So... a direct battle? I mean, once we actually know how to get through whatever magical seals they have on the tower, I agree, if that's what you're saying."
Speaking to Leafiara, Kippe says, "I thought Dendum put it well."
Speaking tentatively to Kippe, Leafiara says, "Though... that does go to a different point Darcena made, about not stooping to lying to win a battle."
Leafiara says, "I suppose if we were very careful in wording..."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "It's a sheer miracle you made sense of th' other planning meeting to put it on this slate."
Brandilor says, "It's a skill for sure."
Goldstr says, "Deceit in many ways be good tactics."
Pietra asks, "Why can't we lie?"
Geijon whispers something to Cryheart.
Geijon says, "Within margins."
Pietra says, "I lie down every night to go to sleep."
Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara asks, "Because then the people would lose their trust in us, and why would they believe us next time when the next inevitable battle happens?"
Berkana says, "Deceit is a very old tactic."
Pietra whispers something to Pukk.
Cryheart whispers something to Geijon.
Geijon says, "Whoever shows up to take them are enemies of ours."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "I thought this was going to be the last battle."
Speaking agreeably to Geijon, Leafiara says, "You know, that's even better. I like it." [...I actually have absolutely no idea what she meant by this, heh]
Pukk whispers something to Pietra.
Geijon says, "Put a pylon on it."
Pietra whispers something to Pukk.
Pukk whispers something to Pietra.
Bellaja just arrived.
You write "More plans, courtesy of Dendum, Kippe, and Sir Geijon: bring in a shipment of weapons, while leaking word of it to potentially lure both the Knaves and Rooks." on the metal-framed slate.
Perivan says, "Fill wagons with weapons... and capable fighters to wield the weapons."
Speaking to Bellaja, Leafiara says, "Ah, Asben was telling me how your... efforts went."
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja says, "Goodness that was odd."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Geijon asks, "Didn't we have a pylon over in th' hills near Lyserian at one point?"
Kippe whispers something to Raelee.
Bellaja says, "I said I would support those of Lornon and he claimed they weren't of them."
Geijon whispers something to Cryheart.
Bellaja offers, "They claimed to be beyond the Arkati."
Speaking to Geijon, Stormyrain says, "You may be right. At some point? Years ago."
Speaking to Bellaja, Leafiara says, "They aren't. They reject all the Arkati."
Cryheart whispers something to Geijon.
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja says, "So much for my being nosey."
Geijon asks, "So, poses th' question. Do we have a spare pylon?"
Speaking to Bellaja, Pietra says, "Worth a try anyways."
Leafiara says, "One good thing, too, about making plans that we intend to leak... they were probably going to leak anyway, since we're talking about two organizations that are both heavy on spies."
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja offers, "I didn't want to be marked again anyhow."
Thrassus says, "There's one right outside Moot Hall."
Stormyrain says, "We have enough that if we were to want to move one, it would be feasible and believable."
Speaking to herself, Bellaja scolds, "You're a horrible spy."
Cryheart says, "We could perhaps hae a false caravan with heavy hitters hidden inside..with misinformation it is loaded with weapons for the Rooks."
Berkana says, "Must be a small, portable one."
Geijon says, "So it's not a weapon transport. It's a defensive position setup with a pylon move."
Speaking to Cryheart, Goldstr says, "I likes dat."
Cryheart says, "We head to a position where others are set up."
Leafiara says, "Ah, the ol' 'Praxopius empty mithril wagon' plan."
Geijon says, "Oh. I want to get the pylon to this location and turn it on."
Geijon asks, "We could move one of the towers with it?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "That was such a pain."
Goldstr asks, "Thought dey was wantin dem new hand Pylons?"
Cryheart says, "Misinformation that it is a new tower."
Pukk says, "Warriors and their pylons."
Geijon asks, "How do th' Rooks and Knaves keep getting funded along with mustering enough forces to fight us in th' streets?"
Stormyrain murmurs, "Pardon me, all."
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara agrees, "It's a really good question. Especially with the Rooks, since they're a more known entity."
Thrassus says, "Both have benefactors with deep pockets, I would say."
Geijon says, "They are impressively funded."
Speaking to Geijon, Goldstr says, "Da Rooks been takin funds from shop owners fer protection."
Geijon says, "But we must be missing their entry points, it's th' more tunnel comments."
Thrassus says, "Likely whoever is making the profits off of the smuggling operations."
Geijon says, "Sure, but these people aren't coming through th' town gates."
Speaking to Thrassus, Goldstr says, "Stephos der."
Leafiara says, "Stephos was once connected to the Rooks, right? It's possible he's still supplying."
Thrassus says, "There still may be someone on the Imperial side of the border also."
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja asks, "His wife was quite lovely, yes?"
Pietra whispers something to Pukk.
Voices chant in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Perivan says, "Directly targeting their benefactors could be another way to draw them out."
Speaking to Bellaja, Leafiara says, "Councilwoman Alendr--"
Leafiara dubiously says, "Hopefully that's not a warning sign. No need to be too hasty..."
Thrassus asks, "Think that's the initiation?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja assures, "They were very strange."
Pukk yells, "Blood in my toe, blood in my stool, I cannot help to think, Oh no!"
Leafiara says, "Asben's been reporting to me over thoughts all night, so I'm going to hope that if things were going awry, he'd tell me."
Pietra says, "I hear from Asben, they're in the tower, on the second floor. There are visions and weird scrying pools..."
Speaking to Thrassus, Goldstr says, "Wha I was tinkin."
Cryheart says, "Could be our visitors are being inititated."
Speaking to Thrassus, Bellaja says, "They all were marked before entering."
Bellaja says, "They would not let them in."
Pietra says, "Oooh, fireworks."
Speaking to Kippe, Pietra asks, "I like how they smell, okay?"
Geijon says, "Th' Landing Defense Irregulars probably know th' woods around th' Landing best. Maybe they could find some positions or tunnel points for the two angles."
Bellaja relievedly admits, "Honestly I was glad not to wear another mark. The other was hell on my complexion."
Vaemyr's voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow...
Asben's voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow...
Leafiara says, "Perfect."
Cryheart says, "It seems our guests hae been allowed into the tower."
Thrassus says, "Ah, I was correct."
Quilthaias' voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow...
Berkana says, "Thank you."
Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara says, "Now hopefully they're not paying attention to his thoughts as he apparently tells us things."
Vaemyr's voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow...
Asben's voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow...
Quilthaias' voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow...
Bellaja uncertainly asks, "Why have initiation if you've already granted the mark? This... are they sacrificing them?"
Leafiara says, "Not too worried at the moment, but..."
Thrassus asks, "If they were being sacrificed, why would they be the ones chanting?"
Pietra asks, "Maybe they'll all come back and try to bleed us?"
Geijon says, "They just have to get th' doors open."
Leafiara says, "Even if there was a concern, we don't have a way into the tower anyway."
Speaking to Bellaja, Sorlu says, "Some sort of...magic?...kept me from following beyond a certain door."
Speaking to Thrassus, Bellaja says, "Not sure. I've never been in a cult."
Speaking to himself, Sorlu says, "Even though it had been opened. Strange magic, indeed."
Thrassus says, "I suppose they could be having to willingly sacrifice to prove loyalty."
Speaking speculatively to Sorlu, Leafiara says, "Maybe some aid from Stone himself."
Speaking to Sorlu, Pietra asks, "You were not marked, that's probably why?"
Pietra says, "I'm so confused."
[General] Quintessa thinks, "Night landin try not to burn down before I wake again."
Speaking to Leafiara, Sorlu says, "Perhaps."
Blood red motes of light drift up into the night above Wehnimer's Landing.
Speaking to Pietra, Sorlu says, "The door was opened."
Thrassus says, "Hrm."
Thrassus says, "That's not normal."
Ycelacie's voice trails in the distance, "Blood to feed, blood to grow, blood to bring, blood to sow..."
Pukk says, "Well, there went the neighborhood."
[General] Pietra thinks, "Asben, don't..."
Sorlu says, "Blood magic, I suppose..."
Mitchem softly says, "This time it wasn't my fault."
Berkana says, "Not blood rain or blood snow."
Speaking to himself, Sorlu says, "-mutter filthy stuff."
Mitchem softly says, "I've been here this whole time."
Leafiara earnestly says, "I'd stay calm... it's our allies who went in there, and they'd probably tell us if something was going wrong."
Pietra says, "So we should definitely just stand here and do nothing."
Leafiara mutters, "I hope."
Speaking to Raelee, Thrassus asks, "Have you seen these motes before?"
Bellaja wonders, "What color were Stone's eyes?"
Thrassus says, "Blue, as I recall."
Raelee says, "Blue is correct."
Cryheart says, "I would suggest you be in a readiness state, just in case."
Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee agrees, "Not normal, but... seen before."
Speaking to Thrassus, Bellaja says, "I danced with him once, and my memory is they were a sea-like blue."
Speaking to Raelee, Thrassus asks, "Oh?"
Leafiara says, "We're only one Spirit Guide spell or Symbol of Return away from the Landing, in any case. Just be prepared."
Speaking to Sorlu, Bellaja asks, "That man tonight. He had blue eyes, no?"
Thrassus asks, "What man?"
Speaking to Bellaja, Sorlu says, "I didn't look into them."
Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "Surrounding the tower before..."
Raelee asks, "Yes, what man?"
Speaking to Bellaja, Sorlu says, "He was robed...and there were many things I was trying to keep an eye on, at that moment."
Geijon says, "Well, if I was a cult who sacrificed people. I suppose I'd throw in th' new ones."
Speaking to Raelee, Bellaja explains, "The man who marked the others. I'm short and I could see under his hood."
Thrassus says, "I assume it could be Malluch."
Leafiara says, "Surely they can't sacrifice everyone who joins, or else they'd have no members."
Pukk says, "Glad I didn't join them."
Thrassus says, "I can't remember what his eyes look like."
Geijon says, "Maybe it's a trial, the weak break."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra asks, "Are you assuming they're smart?"
Speaking amusedly to Pietra, Leafiara clarifies, "No, but they do actually have members."
Leafiara mumbles, "Somehow."
Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "Also blue, but... darker."
Speaking to Thrassus, Bellaja says, "I danced with them once as I've said. But it was a very long time ago."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "Maybe less soon."
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara confirms, "Definitely soon."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "People do the weirdest things."
Bellaja recalls, "He was a wonderful dancer, though."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "No...they don't."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra asks, "....and?"
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "They don't do weird things."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "It's not everybody...it's you."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "I can't say it."
Speaking cautiously to Pietra, Leafiara asks, "Hmm... have you heard any thoughts from Asben in a while?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Not since we heard him chanting."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk asks, "So, you hear Asben's thoughts all the time do you?"
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "No, thankfully I do not."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "You're trying too hard."
Pietra says, "Oh dear..."
Thrassus says, "But back to the Rook plan..."
Pietra says, "Uhm, so Lacie apparently removed her mask."
Bellaja whispers something to Sorlu.
Cryheart asks, "She did what?"
Leafiara says, "Well... thankfully she stays invisible a lot of time, so hopefully no recognition of her."
Pietra says, "And was referred as 'Like an idiot'."
Leafiara murmurs, "But if we sense her death any moment, we'll know why."
Pietra says, "He says he thinks they're talking to Stone, but that she just blew their cover."
Bellaja says, "They're zealots. No sense of humor whatsoever."
Pukk asks, "So she might have blew the plan?"
Bellaja says, "As I said."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "I assume she was visible, as he saw her remove the mask."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "HUGE shock, really."
Speaking to Sorlu, Bellaja says, "I knew we should have gone in there."
Thrassus says, "If Stone is there, the plan was blown as soon as they walked into the door."
Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara clarifies, "Right, right, I just mean... hoping that they don't realize she's an infiltrator."
Pietra says, "Stone is there."
Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara says, "Tell him to stop thinking to us, then."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Confirmed, he's there."
Thrassus says, "Oh no."
Bellaja says, "That's why he didn't let me in. He recognized me."
Leafiara mutters, "Actually, it's probably too late. He knows we're here now."
Pietra asks, "Should I tell him to shush or no?"
Leafiara mutters, "Brace for bloodguards or anything else coming our way."
Geijon says, "We just skipped ahead in this story...."
Leafiara says, "Unless he sees us as so far beneath him he won't even bother to attack us."
Thrassus says, "That's possible."
Thrassus says, "He did not seem concerned the last time he was about at the Deadfall."
Bellaja says, "The blood cult problem just became a much bigger issue."
Geijon says, "We still need those doors opened."
Speaking to Pietra, Pukk asks, "What if she did it on purpose because she is already a cult member and wanted to blow the plan?"
Leafiara says, "This is exactly why we tried to talk Thadston into starting with the Knave and Rooks."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Honestly, with her, I would not be surprised."
Speaking to Leafiara, Goldstr says, "Aye Goin 'gainst Stone be mighty tough."
Berkana sarcastically asks, "Really, you'd trust someone part of the Black Hand?"
Thrassus says, "It's something we definately do not have the numbers for at the moment."
Goldstr says, "An I thinks da Cult got pylons from Amos too."
Pietra says, "I... haven't heard from him in a little bit."
Pukk says, "Told you we needed Roblar and Madmountan."
Speaking to Pukk, Pietra asks, "Where did Mad go?"
Speaking to Goldstr, Bellaja says, "Say.."
Speaking frankly to Pietra, Leafiara says, "I told him not to send any more thoughts, just in case Grishom somehow hadn't noticed."
Cryheart says, "To rest it seems."
Speaking to Goldstr, Bellaja says, "This Amos man."
Pukk says, "He saw that there wouldn't be any blood of babies to eat so he went to sleep."
Bellaja says, "I feel like I know him from somewhere prior."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "C'mon, you know Stone probably knew before any thoughts even went out."
A shroud of shadowy tendrils writhes and darkens around Farseeker!
Speaking offhandedly to Pietra, Leafiara says, "See, I'd agree with that, except for some reason he hasn't come for Thrayzar yet and it's been months."
Berkana says, "Especially with his ability to penetrate minds."
Speaking dubiously to Farseeker, Leafiara asks, "Is that, uh... normal?"
Bellaja asks, "I feel like he was an apprentice to Aznell or someone once?"
Speaking slowly to Farseeker, Leafiara says, "The... shadow tendril thing around you--"
Speaking to Leafiara, Farseeker says, "This is prepared for me."
Bellaja says, "But of course it could be someone else with the same name."
Leafiara relievedly says, "Oh, good."
Geijon says, "Could be a clone."
Leafiara surprisedly says, "Hmm, apparently Asben says they're finished and are coming to report."
Cryheart asks, "To the porch..or here?"
Reconvening
Lord Asben's group just arrived.
Leafiara says, "Here it is."
Cryheart says, "Ahh..here."
Berkana says, "Unfortunate that Rowmi is not around much these days."
Geijon says, "Lets get over near east bridge."
Vaemyr says, "Well... we're not dead."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Oh my."
Goldstr asks, "Was Thadston er Cordarius had dealins wid Amos in da past?"
Speaking to Asben, Pietra says, "So."
Geijon says, "I say we gather for this door."
Leafiara curiously asks, "Well... how did it go, all? What'd we learn?"
Asben says, "So."
Berkana says, "He would find this intriguing."
Vaemyr says, "We learned a lot."
Vaemyr says, "Stone even showed up."
Asben says, "That Lacie can't be stealthy."
Geijon says, "Ah."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Aye.."
Thrassus says, "That's not good."
Leafiara wryly clarifies, "Okay, yes, what did we learn that's *useful*?"
Asben says, "Took her mask off in front of Stone himself."
Vaemyr says, "Ok... let's start at the beginning."
Ycelacie says, "Well."
Asben says, "Well the tower has a heart."
Ycelacie says, "The tower is alive."
Ycelacie says, "For one."
Berkana says, "Some skills are learned and inate."
Vaemyr says, "We were given marks, which let us gain entrance."
Speaking apologetically to Vaemyr, Bellaja says, "I'm sorry. I didn't think they would refute me because I was of Lornon."
Asben says, "And cocoons of people."
Ycelacie says, "Additionally."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Tha eve of Feastday begins tha Harvest.."
Bellaja stutters, "Cocoons?"
Thrassus says, "That's soon."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Aye."
Leafiara says, "So we were probably right... the fires are powered by what's inside. No wonder we couldn't put them out."
Vaemyr says, "The tower is a living thing, being fed blood of sacrifices, it's... core seems to be an ancient elf? or tree? of some sort."
Ycelacie says, "There were cocoons."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Indeed."
Vaemyr says, "Let me describe them."
Leafiara asks, "An elf?"
Pietra says, "Interesting."
Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Quilthaias says, "Aye.."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Bellaja urges, "Please."
Leafiara says, "Maybe Briarstorm who he took from the Wyrdeep... but go on."
Vaemyr recites:
"In the center of the shadows, a lone figure appears..."
Ycelacie says, "Then also there was the person Grishom."
Vaemyr recites:
"The lone figure's face is gaunt, but some features still remain angelic in appearance. His golden hair is shot with streaks of silver. Dark, oily black roots cover his entire body, threatening to entomb him like a mummy."
Berkana says, "Hmm."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Lord Stone is.. stifling."
Vaemyr says, "He spoke to us."
Vaemyr says, "Asked us to kill him."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Pietra says, "I like how you're reporting. Quite accurate."
Vaemyr says, "The elf that is."
Speaking to Quilthaias, Goldstr exclaims, "LORD? Bah!"
Quilthaias quietly says, "Tha elf wished for his end."
Asben says, "I think he was one of the people in the cocoons."
Speaking quietly to Goldstr, Quilthaias says, "Well Ah couldna take 'im."
Vaemyr says, "Grishom, actually saved us..."
Ycelacie mockingly says, "This is beyond the Arkati... do not be so foolish again begone."
Quilthaias quietly says, "'e did.."
Leafiara says, "Hmm, he probably doesn't want to continue fueling Stone's--whatever he's fueling."
Vaemyr says, "And said he wouldn't interfere in our plans."
Speaking to Pietra, Asben says, "Stone kept saying that."
Asben says, "His silly book."
Vaemyr says, "I don't think this is for Stone..."
Ycelacie says, "Then there were these like..."
Vaemyr says, "It's just the followers trying to gain power themselves."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Aye.. Stone said he wasna gonna interfere.."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Wait.."
Ycelacie says, "They were cocoons."
Thrassus says, "Well, that's interesting."
Quilthaias quietly asks, "Y'think Stone has someones above hims?"
Ycelacie says, "But perhaps it's more of a cloning... type of...."
Berkana asks, "Did you get one?"
Ycelacie says, "Or who know's who was in there."
Vaemyr says, "They are worshipping Stone for sure, but this harvest wasn't his idea."
Pietra asks, "Sure it's not butterflies?"
Pietra asks, "Like really gross ones?"
Ycelacie says, "Either way it's corrupt."
Speaking to Pietra, Asben says, "If they were bloody..."
Speaking surprisedly to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Interesting."
Vaemyr says, "Also... we learned probably the most important thing, the harvest is on the eve of feastday."
Goldstr exclaims, "Its ALL Stone's idea! He be lookmin to be above da Arkati!"
Quilthaias quietly says, "Tha eve of Feastday.. tha's when them all said."
Speaking to Quilthaias, Bellaja says, "I would guess there is someone for sure."
Vaemyr says, "And that is when the heart will also be vulnerable."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Is when it begins."
Ycelacie says, "Their blood god is a ruse."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Pietra says, "Oooh."
Asben says, "It reminded me a bit of the black trees in the garden void."
Vaemyr says, "If we can't destroy the heart or sever it from them, we won't be able to stop them."
Quilthaias quietly says, "So we got uh good attack time."
Asben says, "The whole place."
Asben says, "There were roots."
Pietra exclaims, "Well done, people!"
Vaemyr says, "I'd expect thorn walls of roots inside."
Vaemyr says, "And of course cultists galore."
Leafiara asks, "Did they give any insight on ways to actually get into the tower, or are we just going to end up brute forcing it with pylons?"
Speaking to Asben, Thrassus says, "They should, they come from a similar origin."
Asben says, "The walls were fleshy though... with faces."
Ycelacie says, "Oh...."
Ycelacie says, "Well..."
Vaemyr says, "We... might be able to open the door still."
Ycelacie says, "It is a tower."
Speaking to Asben, Pietra says, "Well ew."
Vaemyr says, "If our marks are still effective."
Speaking quietly to Vaemyr, Quilthaias says, "Yeh may be rite.."
Speaking to Asben, Thrassus says, "Goblyn's trees are changed enough to be considered seperate though."
Speaking understandingly to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Ahhh. Excellent."
Quilthaias quietly says, "We did get marked.."
Ycelacie says, "I imagine if you were to dig under it, you might be able to both compromise the tower and see what about the roots."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Good thoughts.."
Ycelacie says, "It is alive."
Vaemyr says, "But pylons would be a good backup, the tower was certainly alive and thus we could probably open a hole."
Ycelacie says, "After all."
Leafiara dubiously says, "Are they... magical marks? I don't see any visible ones."
Vaemyr says, "They are the same as Stone gave out at the last harvest, or appeared the same, self-healing wound."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Aye."
Thrassus asks, "Stone himself put them on you?"
Vaemyr says, "I suspect he has potentially some influence over us or could, but that would require him to care."
Ycelacie says, "No."
Ycelacie says, "Some pawn."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Bellaja says, "But his eyes.."
Leafiara unhelpfully remarks, "Noted, we'll be prepared for Stone to turn you against us."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Altho.. one of tha figures did have his eyes afore he came about.."
Vaemyr says, "I'm not sure."
Bellaja corrects, "Oh right, they all change."
Vaemyr says, "That might of been Stone himself."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah think him was hidin' there tha whole times."
Vaemyr says, "Who marked us."
Ycelacie says, "I have high doubts most among their cult except the leaders have much real magical talent."
Geijon says, "Nothing low level about Stone."
Speaking to Asben, Vaemyr says, "The eyes were the same, and his mention of being beyond the arkati to Bellaja."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Aye."
Leafiara mutters, "We'll show 'em 'beyond the Arkati' alright."
Bellaja says, "That was quite important."
Geijon says, "He's nearly a demi-god, that's his goal. He wants to challenge for a role among the Arkati. That is his destination."
Berkana says, "Stone is a legend in his own mind only."
Ycelacie agrees, "He did say exactly that phrase."
Bellaja exclaims, "I did find something out!"
Vaemyr says, "Indeed."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Bellaja says, "Espionage is not my strong suit."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Geijon says, "And he's got the odds on his side.."
Asben says, "I told Stone that his book was boring."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Was goin great 'til Yce decided tuh be her brash selfs."
Asben says, "Cause it really is boring."
Speaking to Asben, Pietra says, "Nice knowin ya."
Asben says, "I am not afraid of him."
Speaking to Geijon, Ycelacie says, "Maybe... I am not familiar with any of the history behind this."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Asben says, "You should read up on it then."
Asben says, "Stone has done unspeakable things."
Vaemyr says, "All in all I think we got good information, and maybe a way back in."
Thrassus says, "You should be, he is not just some warlord with magical ability."
Geijon says, "I'd bet that Stone was a clone."
Cryheart says, "Well done group."
Speaking abruptly to Geijon, Leafiara says, "Oh, good point. He does have lots of those."
Geijon says, "I figure most of th' cult probably is."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Aye.. Ah think so."
Leafiara praises, "Nice work all."
Thrassus says, "But a clone might as well be Stone himself."
Asben says, "Well he remembered lacie."
Ycelacie says, "It could be possible... in theory."
Asben says, "From last time."
Goldstr exclaims, "Stone IS Has an WILL BE our main enemy!"
Asben says, "So if it's a clone then they share memories."
Geijon says, "Each has th' potential. A few manifest free will."
Geijon says, "It's very daunting stuff."
Thrassus says, "He shifts his conciousness between them at will, for the most part."
Geijon says, "It's trickier than that."
Speaking to Geijon, Bellaja says, "This cloning is most disturbing."
Geijon says, "But that could be a way to kill him.."
Thrassus says, "He has them all over Elanthia as well."
Geijon says, "Stone can die."
Asben says, "I did find it interesting..."
Bellaja wonders, "But can he be kept dead?"
Asben says, "He turned away Bellaja for being a follower of Lornon but didn't turn away Quilthaias despite his Sheru tattoo."
Speaking to Geijon, Pietra asks, "But can all the Stones die?"
Vaemyr says, "So anyone have an idea who the figure we saw might of been? He looked to of been in the forest, but he's connected to the tower."
Geijon says, "Yes, we destroy his soul."
Vaemyr says, "I'm certain he's the heart."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Indeed."
Goldstr exclaims, "Stone built us da Town Bathhouse so I stay out a der!"
Geijon says, "Stone can die."
Speaking to Bellaja, Asben asks, "Perhaps he knows who you follow?"
Speaking to Bellaja, Pietra asks, "You didn't have a mask and robe, did you?"
Cryheart asks, "Wasn't there a long time ago of some folks who wished to join Stone into the dark foest?"
Speaking to Thrassus, Geijon says, "Best comment of both of these meetings."
Speaking to Asben, Bellaja says, "Yes, we danced once."
Cryheart says, "Forest."
Bellaja says, "My nature is much more subtle."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Hmm."
Speaking to Cryheart, Vaemyr asks, "Malluch's harvest a while back or before that?"
Asben says, "I will speak with the Order of Sphere and Scythe about the vision from the scrying pool. Perhaps they can see more from it too."
Speaking quietly to Asben, Quilthaias asks, "Tha's uh rilly good points. Mebbe is easier tuh blend than we thinks?"
Cryheart says, "When Stone reopened the dark forest...he dragged someone in with him."
Speaking to Quilthaias, Asben says, "Perhaps it was these fancy masks too."
Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara says, "Briarstorm, the druid from the Wyrdeep."
Pietra says, "Oooh, a druid."
Quilthaias quietly says, "We did see many visions of tha dark forest."
Leafiara says, "That might have been who all of you saw in there."
Vaemyr says, "This could be him."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Right afore we saw tha elf."
Cryheart asks, "So could that elf be the druid?"
Speaking to Asben, Berkana asks, "So you were all wearing masks, yes?"
Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara says, "I think he might well be."
Vaemyr says, "It certainly could be."
Thrassus says, "I doubt destroying the heart will be as simple as hacking it apart."
Asben says, "Until lacie took hers off."
Vaemyr says, "Probably not."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "Maybe time to enlist th' Rooks and Knaves."
Speaking dubiously to Geijon, Leafiara asks, "What would they be able to do in this case?"
Berkana says, "I mght have been playing with plates and glasses on the cart, but I distinctly hear that masks were going to be used."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Is uh purty small tower, tuh be fair.."
Leafiara musingly says, "I guess a pile of orbs and prisms, maybe... eh... probably still not worth it."
Berkana says, "I only saw one robe tossed out."
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja asks, "Excuse me?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "The doors are going to open. Here is an opening to kill an enemy."
Goldstr says, "Looks like Sir Andrews was right on dis."
Geijon says, "If folks want to talk leaking information."
Speaking curiously to Bellaja, Leafiara asks, "Hm?"
Berkana says, "A door might be open, but it can still be magicked."
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja says, "I have been gone from the Landing for some time after.."
Geijon says, "I'd rather not fight my house fire along, if folks with buckets are nearby."
Bellaja says, "Back then."
Geijon says, "Alone."
Speaking encouragingly to Bellaja, Leafiara asks, "Yes, and...?"
Pietra says, "Beg pardon all. I can't see straight anymore."
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja asks, "Have you heard the name Althedeus?"
Speaking to Bellaja, Leafiara says, "Ah, Althedeus, yes... destroyed years ago."
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja asks, "Are you.. certain?"
Cryheart says, "Ok..folks, I need to rest."
Geijon says, "Yes."
Speaking to Bellaja, Leafiara admits, "I'm not. I didn't live here at the time."
Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Quilthaias says, "Sleep well."
Speaking to Bellaja, Leafiara explains, "Going to have to ask others about that one and what they saw."
Speaking to Bellaja, Geijon says, "Althedeus died."
Vaemyr says, "Me as well... this has been quite a night."
Whisker says, "Time to wander it be."
Goldstr asks, "So we meet next when?"
Pukk says, "Good night all."
Speaking to Goldstr, Leafiara says, "Seems like Feastday for attacking the tower, but not sure if we'll meet again before..."
Leafiara says, "Oh, I think Barnom did want to meet again to discuss Vlashandra."
Speaking to Geijon, Bellaja says, "Well, that is a relief. I was not looking forward to him whispering in my ear again."
Leafiara says, "But no idea what day."
Speaking to Leafiara, Goldstr says, "Tankee I will be prepared."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah kinna turn down uh tarts."
Speaking to Quilthaias, Asben says, "You earned it."
Speaking to Geijon, Bellaja asks, "But if he is dead.. how is Barnom back?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr asks, "Did you figure out a plan for the Rooks and the Knave?"
Speaking to Bellaja, Geijon says, "Ahhh....funny you mention that."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Sort of. Wrote up ideas on the slate there."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Some mine, some from Dendum, Kippe, and Sir Geijon."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Tha's uh good tart."
Leafiara says, "The Knave is the bigger problem here, honestly. Too unknown, unlike Mother, so our lures are... optimistic."
Berkana says, "It looks exceptional."
Vaemyr says, "Alright I'm going to have a rest."
Quilthaias quietly says, "How if'n Ah only had some whiskeys."
Vaemyr says, "I'll see others another evening."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "You don't seem to get or understand th' Vlashandra thing."
Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Well done out there."
Speaking quietly to Vaemyr, Quilthaias says, "Was good workin' wit yeh."
Vaemyr says, "Same to you."
Goldstr says, "Take care folks, I be off."
Berkana says, "Rum on the cart..."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Rum.. hm."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Yeh dun wan' meh gettin intuh thats."
Speaking softly to Geijon, Bernadette says, "Nite Sir."
Asben says, "I might go see if this mark still works."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Kippers 'n Ah would be goin 'round 'n 'round."
Geijon says, "Thank you, good night Bernadette."
Quilthaias quietly exclaims, "Whot, Ah'm bein' good!"
Speaking softly to Geijon, Bellaja prompts, "You said it was interesting I mentioned Barnom?"
Geijon says, "Bellaja had a good question."
Berkana says, "I sense there are stories to be heard."
Geijon says, "Very."
Leafiara says, "I want to kill Vlashandra as much as anyone, but she gets returned by Barnom infinitely. So we actually need to work out how to destroy him first, or cut Vlashandra off from his magic."
Geijon says, "Folks don't seem to know Barnom or remember."
Speaking quietly to Berkana, Quilthaias exclaims, "Kippers is meh bestest frends!"
Geijon asks, "Why is he alive again, for th' third or fourth time?"
Thrassus says, "I suppose I am going to rest for the evening, good evening all."
Geijon says, "Prior to wielding undead abominations and death griffins on th' city, Vlashandra didn't do anything but trick people."
Geijon says, "She offered what they wanted."
Quilthaias quietly says, "So.. From whot Ah did sees.. other'n tha intense magicks.. We could prolly assembles uh force tuh take 'em out purty easy, alla things considereds."
Speaking dubiously to Quilthaias, Leafiara says, "Hopefully you're right. And hopefully Stone... or the Stone clone, or whatever he was... truly meant it about not interfering."
Quilthaias quietly says, "He didna seem like he was bluffin'."
Speaking to Geijon, Bellaja says, "Very good points."
Speaking to Geijon, Bellaja says, "I agree. He was chased by his wife and her militia in River's Rest and came here more powerful after his time in the hiding around the Citadel."
Quilthaias quietly says, "He was purty straitforwards."
Bellaja says, "Then he teamed up with the Luukosians."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Coulda killed us all rite thur.."
Geijon asks, "Nobody can tell how Barnom was resurrected by Vlashandra?"
Speaking to Sorlu, Bellaja asks, "I am correct in remembering that, yes?"
Geijon asks, "And her power comes from him reanimating her?"
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara says, "It's pretty unclear what kind of magic she used in that shadow valence."
Sorlu says, "As best as I can recall, yes."
Geijon asks, "Who did people expect?"
Speaking to Geijon, Asben says, "With that Dark Elven book and the soulstone that the enclave provided her."
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara says, "Aralyte."
Geijon says, "Finally."
Speaking to Asben, Leafiara says, "The soulstone was a red herring, though."
Leafiara says, "And so was the book."
Speaking to Leafiara, Asben says, "Unless it wasn't."
Leafiara says, "She pretended it was a book of ancient wisdom, only to throw it away and we saw its blank pages before it burned up."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "And you wonder why Raelee doesn't like her."
Bellaja whispers something to Sorlu.
Berkana asks, "Does Lylia still have it?"
Quilthaias quietly says, "Ah'k.. time tuh get tuh bed fer meh. Vera drainin' ordeals, thur."
Speaking wryly to Geijon, Leafiara says, "Oh, no, I completely understand why Raelee doesn't like her."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon asks, "Do you though?"
Speaking quietly to Asben, Quilthaias says, "Good tuh work wit' yeh t'nite."
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara asks, "Because she has her face and knows about magic Raelee doesn't?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Asben says, "It is possible that we could just not read the pages... perhaps it was attuned to her."
Quilthaias quietly says, "Sleep well, all."
Speaking to Raelee, Leafiara asks, "How *do* we kill her, anyway?"
Speaking to Quilthaias, Asben says, "Stay safe."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "That is true, but not entirely."
Speaking to Leafiara, Raelee says, "A moment..."
Speaking to Leafiara, Raelee adds, "I want to know why I do not like Vlashandra."
Speaking tentatively to Raelee, Leafiara asks, "Wait, it really *is* more than just her having your face and knowing magic you don't?"
Speaking to Raelee, Bellaja jokes, "At least your face wasn't on bats."
Bellaja says, "That was really troubling."
Bellaja admits, "Okay.. it was fun, too."
Speaking to Leafiara, Raelee says, "I do not dislike her."
Speaking surprisedly to Raelee, Leafiara says, "Oh."
Speaking to Leafiara, Raelee adds, "I do not know enough about her to form that opinion."
Speaking to Leafiara, Raelee says, "She is rather an enigma."
Berkana says, "Well, unlikely anything more will come of things tonight."
Asben says, "I don't like Vlashandra."
Asben says, "She hurt people close to me."
Speaking to Raelee, Leafiara relents, "Alright, so be it."
Ycelacie flatly says, "No one does."
Speaking curiously to Raelee, Leafiara asks, "But how do we kill her?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "We don't."
Leafiara adds, "And make her stay dead."
Geijon says, "That is th' other part you are missing."
Speaking flatly to Geijon, Ycelacie says, "Anyone can die."
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara asks, "So we leave her alive?"
Asben asks, "Toss her in the volcano on Teras?"
Speaking to Ycelacie, Geijon asks, "True, but who chooses?"
Ycelacie assertively says, "We do."
Ycelacie says, "I do."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "Her death isn't yours, Thadston or near anyone's to make."
Ycelacie says, "All the time."
Leafiara marvels, "The crowd's thinned to a fifth of what it was, but somehow this conversation has gotten far more complex to follow."
Geijon says, "People ask the wrong questions all th' time."
Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara asks, "Who, then? Renpaw?"
Brandilor says, "My head's spinnin'."
Bellaja says, "Because you're getting to the heart of the matter."
Bellaja says, "And it's complicated."
Brandilor says, "But, that's not hard to make happen."
Asben says, "You all be safe."
Bellaja says, "Well done, sir."
Asben says, "I need to go kill some things."
Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "Renpaw probably is nearing retirement. If a trial would be held her actions would probably merit a sentance, but I'm no jurist."
Geijon says, "I guess we did hang Davard and then burn him."
Brandilor says, "Me too, like sheep jumpin' fences."
Geijon says, "I think that was Renpaw combinations."
Brandilor says, "Good night, friends."
Ycelacie curiously says, "One moment."
Geijon says, "Folks aren't asking questions so I'll turn it a bit."
Ycelacie confusedly says, "So who is even Grishom."
Geijon says, "Lord Grishom Stone of Mestanir."
Ycelacie says, "He was there..."
Ycelacie says, "Is he a god."
Ycelacie says, "He acted as if he was."
Leafiara says, "He has a powerful artifact, the Star of Khar'ta, that makes him pretty close to one."
Ycelacie asks, "Or is he mortal?"
Geijon says, "He was a low level mage of an underground royal who died in a drowning accident after his father formed a group of anarchists to fight th' Jantalar oppression under Baron Lerep Hochstib."
Ycelacie says, "Nearing ascension."
Speaking to Raelee, Geijon asks, "What does th' empire label rogue mages?"
Ycelacie says, "Well..."
Speaking to Geijon, Bellaja says, "Criminals."
Geijon says, "Essentially."
Ycelacie says, "He should be killed."
Ycelacie says, "For certain."
Geijon says, "Stone has died as much as Barnom."
Raelee whispers something to Leafiara.
Ycelacie says, "He would do no good any more powerful than he is already."
Ycelacie says, "I am happy also."
Ycelacie says, "To help."
Ycelacie says, "In any way I can... no fee attached."
Ycelacie says, "But he should certainly die."
Ycelacie says, "Dead..."
Ycelacie says, "Are you familiar with a wizard named Pathragers."
Ycelacie says, "He often liked to use the phrase."
Geijon says, "Ah but he's charming and four steps ahead and sometimes he's not trying to kill you with demons, but reasoning for things. Things you want."
Geijon says, "And weak people break."
Ycelacie recites, "Die died."
Ycelacie says, "And I think this Grishom."
Speaking to Geijon, Bellaja adds, "And a phenomenal dancer."
Ycelacie says, "Should certainly die dead."
Leafiara mutters, "Okay, if I ever see Grishom Stone dancing, that one's getting the 'ten' rating."
Speaking to Leafiara, Bellaja says, "He was quite something with the ladies."
Bellaja says, "Snappy dresser."
Geijon says, "Stone is plenty charming."
Ycelacie asks, "Is he?"
Bellaja offers, "It takes a lot to charm me."
Geijon says, "Good evening I suppose."
Leafiara admits, "I've always found Stone fairly boring. I really expected more, from the way people talked him up, and meeting him was a disappointment."
Ycelacie says, "He didn't seem trying to charm tonight."
Bellaja says, "Enough so to be counted as a power."
Leafiara says, "Hear endless stories about the man, the myth, the legend... then meet him and all I see is a man."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Bellaja says, "I speak only of the man I knew, not whatever he's become now."
Ycelacie flatly says, "It doesn't matter."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Bellaja says, "It does."
Geijon shows Leafiara a gleaming rune-scribed maul.
Ycelacie asks, "Are you in love?"
Speaking approvingly to Geijon, Leafiara says, "Fine weapon there."
Geijon says, "It's named Stonebreaker."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Bellaja says, "There is great power in the art of persuasion. As a follower of Ivas I recognize that the most fatal of blows does not need to come from clubbing someone to death."
Raelee says, "... if you will excuse me, the hour is late and there is yet work to be done."
Raelee adds, "Good evening."
Geijon says, "Only one faction wins this. Th' Landing or one of th' others, so it really doesn't matter in what order we lose."
Ycelacie says, "I followed Ivas too... until I saw her templke."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Bellaja explains, "Persuading them to do it themselves is much more powerful."
Speaking to Ycelacie, Bellaja asks, "Ah, so you didn't know the truth behind her ways?"
Leafiara says, "Suppose I'll call it a night as well."
Leafiara wishes, "Rest well everyone."
Speaking to Sorlu, Bellaja asks, "Walk me to town?"
Ycelacie flatly says, "I found my own way."
Leafiara surprisedly says, "Oh. I guess we *weren't* only a Spirit Guide spell away from the Landing." [can't fog out of the war room]
Leafiara dubiously says, "Why did they disallow transportation magic in the war room--"
Leafiara abruptly says, "Ah, whatever."
[leaves, but then returns like 20 minutes later to write up on the slate:]
>read slate
The following messages are written on the metal-framed slate:
If an injury must be done to another, it must be swift and severe enough to forestall all vengeance.
(The above was written by, I believe, Lylia.)
On to planning for the Rooks and Knave:
(1/5) As Thadston mentioned last time, one problem with attacking the Rooks is that our citizens are among them. I'll add that, in the current situation with the militia being hunted down and the Guard Captain possibly bought off by Amos, there could be people in the Brotherhood for now who would otherwise have never joined, but did to take the fight to the Knave. Just like the Warcats were rogue militia members not loyal to Thadston, there are probably Rooks not loyal to Mother.
(2/5) So, we poke at the weak point. Aim to fracture the Rooks by extending an offer to cast off their masks and return to fight the Knave alongside us. Ideally, some who join us might be among the ones who possess Amos' hand-pylons. Even if not, though, we still add to our numbers, diminish theirs, and hopefully solve a moral dilemma by extracting members who don't fully agree with Mother's methods.
(3/5) Pup attempted a similar offer once, extending Rooks the opportunity to join the militia, which led to Drangell killing those who wanted to leave. Major differences this time include that: A) Mother isn't nearly as ruthless or indiscriminate as Drangell, B) a larger percentage of current Rooks probably aren't career Rooks, like I said, and most importantly C) they can't afford to turn on and battle each other while *also* continuing to battle the Knave.
(4/5) It's crucial to consider who should lead the charge in extending this offer. I'd suggest two primary criteria in choosing messengers: 1) the Rooks will trust them to be making a sincere offer (which it is), and 2) we'll trust the messengers not to betray us mid-operation. (The trust for point 2 doesn't have to be purely taking their word. Leverage and preventative measures can be used against betrayal.)
(5/5) Lastly, if this even slightly succeeds, it might double as being the lure for Mother that we've been looking for, then *triple* as being a snare for the Knave's forces. Mother can't stand by idly while we siphon off her followers, but since we'd be extending an offer diplomatically, hopefully she'd see this as an opportunity to speak with us rather than an immediate declaration of war against her. Her presence, then, would give us a chance to capture her while also luring the Knave to attack hard against all of his targets in one place.
-Leafiara
Now to summarize an additional plan we came up with collectively. The gist is to bring in or escort a shipment of weapons, which could be fake or real, while leaking word of it to potentially lure the Knaves, Rooks, or both.
It was noted that Rooks usually tend to go after weapons, as they're drawn toward adding to their arsenal with things like the crimson orbs and hand pylons, so leaking a weapon shipment might suffice for them. However, we also need to snare the Knave. Therefore, *additionally* leak (or claim) that the Rooks plan to attack the shipment, in hopes that that will lure out the Knave to strike two of his enemies: us and the Rooks.
There was back and forth about whether the shipment should be a decoy with our heavy hitters inside the transport wagon, or whether it should be genuine--whether that means truly bringing in new weapons, something simpler like moving a spare pylon, or even co-opting Amos' shipment of weapons from Zul Logoth for this purpose. We didn't find consensus, but any of them seem doable.