Olaesta 28-29, 5121

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the TownCrier

The Night in a Nutshell

[General] Thadston thinks, "I'll need to find a porch soon."
[General] Thadston thinks, "I'll be there in a moment."
Lord Thadston just arrived.
Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.
Thadston says, "I needed to confirm a few things."
Thadston says, "We might have some information regarding the Daily Darkstone."
Thadston says, "Casi was following some leads and hunches before..."
Thadston says, "Well, before she couldn't anymore."
Thadston says, "We've long suspected a potential connection to the Knave."
Thadston says, "Given the history of trying to confuse and misrepresent. A tactic of the Knave."
Faerinn says, "The Daily Darkstone is definitely spying on us to get those headlines about Barnom."
Thrassus says, "Or just speaking to the guardsmen at the Outpost."
Leafiara says, "I think the Daily Darkstone's ahead of just spying on us or speaking with guards... they knew about the disappearance of Octaven's coffin sooner than even Magister Raelee did."
Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Thadston says, "Which had Casi looking at the Outpost."
Thadston says, "We think we might have found someone."
Thrassus asks, "Someone in the Outpost?"
Thadston nods at Thrassus.
Thrassus asks, "We aren't attacking the Outpost, are we?"
Thadston says, "No."
Thadston says, "I've been working through some information to make sure everyone in the Outpost is who they say they are or who needs to be there."
Thadston says, "There's one squire in the Outpost, his name is Mattson. Tawny haired sprout of a man."
Thadston says, "No, a boy. He hasn't seen war, that is for sure."
Thadston says, "Or a woman's touch I bet either."
Thadston says, "I've got eyes on him in the Outpost."
Thadston says, "On this night each week, he heads for town."
Thadston says, "So when my contact lets me know he's left, we need to scout town."
Thadston says, "But do not confront him. Do not hurt him. Do nothing stupid."
Thadston says, "It's possible he could lead us to something regarding the Knave or the Daily Darkstone."
Thadston says, "We don't all need to go."
Thadston says, "Once I let you know he's been spotted, I'll be further away."

Thadston asks, "Who can scout town, without being dumb?"
Stormyrain says, "I nominate Kippe."
Dendum points at Pietra.
Asben raises his hand.
Asben says, "I can."
Chandrellia points at Pietra.
Alosaka asks, "Is it possible the Darkstone is simply writing inflammatory headlines that represent the sympathies of most of the Landing's citizens?"
Asben points at Pietra.
Speaking softly to Pietra, Chandrellia says, "This is right up your alley hon."
Thadston says, "We'll find out, won't we."
Thadston nods at Alosaka.
Speaking to Pietra, Asben says, "You're the best hider."
Stormyrain suggests, "So Kippe and Pietra. Sounds like an excellent set of eyes and quiet feet."
Thadston says, "Captains..."
Thadston nods at Stormyrain.
Thadston nods at Shinann.
Thadston says, "Pick please."
Speaking to Shinann, Stormyrain asks, "I'm happy with Pietra and Kippe working as a team. Thoughts?"
Shinann says, "I agree with Stormyrain."
Asben says, "If ya need a third I'm happy to go."
Speaking to Asben, Stormyrain says, "Thank you. We may find we need a third."
Thadston inclines his ear, listening intently.

Thadston says, "He's on the move. Headed to West Gate."
Thadston says, "Go see what you can find."
Thadston says, "He's passed into town."
Thadston says, "The soldiers have lost sight of him in the gates."
Thadston says, "We'll see where he ends up and decide then."
Kippe says, "I will be going."
You notice Kippe moving stealthily down the porch steps.
Thadston says, "He's in town. You need to go now before we lose him." [Note: This was a source of some confusion. Considering the timing and Kippe having the Sneaking spell on, Thadston either A) might not have seen him go, or B) might have been in the middle of saying this when Kippe left. However, since Pietra and Kippe had already left, several others took it to mean that Thadston did want Asben involved as a third.]
Asben flags down a nearby urchin and exchanges a few words.
The urchin nods to Asben and takes off, with Asben in tow.

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon agrees, "I've been thinking. I've noticed my gruffness, in a lot of this and you are indeed much more liked when our goal is shared."
Speaking to Thadston, Berkana asks, "Feeling back to your usual?"
Thadston says, "Close."
Thadston nods at Berkana.
[Focused] Asben thinks, "He's on south ring road."
Thadston grins at Geijon.
Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr asks, "Has ye heard er know of Lady Larsya's involvement wid dat Consortium?"
Thadston says, "A matter to discuss later."
Thadston nods at Goldstr.

[General] Pietra thinks, "I've never really gotten a good look at this temple. It's big."
[Focused] Pietra thinks, "He's near the museum now."
[General] Dendum thinks, "Yes is grand structure....must have taken long time to build this many different rooms and things."
[General] Pietra thinks, "Well I don't know, I just enjoyed the outside."

Berkana gives a sidelong glance at Thadston.
Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck.  He looks relieved.
Thadston peers quizzically at Berkana.
Speaking to Thadston, Berkana asks, "You're quiet.  Contemplative?"

[General] Pietra thinks, "Little men, wandering, disappearing."
Thadston nods at Berkana.
Thadston says, "Waiting."
Stormyrain whispers to the group, "The fellow in question has given our eyes the slip, for now."
[Focused] Pietra thinks, "In the museum now."
[Focused] Pietra thinks, "He is IN the museum, seems really confused. We don't know where he went before that."
You hear the faint whisper of Kippe saying, "Nothing TOO obvious yet."

Thadston seems to be waiting for something.
Thadston asks, "Any word?"
Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "..yes. Found, lost, and found again in the Museum."
Leafiara says, "They're saying nothing obvious yet, but they've kept a bead on his locations."
Shinann says, "Lost again."
Thadston asks, "Where in the Museum?"
Shinann says, "Second floor."
[Focused] Pietra thinks, "We lost him after he went up the staircase."
Thadston grumbles.
Shinann says, "They are upstairs."
Thadston asks, "Any word?"
Thadston asks, "Still gone?"
Leafiara says, "Apparently he went up the staircase but they've lost him afterward."
Speaking slowly to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "If I'd heard back I would say so."
Speaking to Thadston, Shinann says, "I am telling you."
Thadston says, "Damn Museum is full of mazes and dirt."
Thadston says, "Could be anywhere."
Thadston asks, "Could he be hiding in there?"
Speaking to Thadston, Rozanikka asks, "You think he's on to them?"
Thadston shrugs at Rozanikka.
Thadston says, "Or what if he want into the Museum for a reason."
You hear the faint whisper of Kippe saying, "We've lost him."
Thadston says, "I think we need to move."
Thadston says, "To the Museum."
Thadston says, "It's possible he's still in there."

[travel to the museum]
Thadston asks, "Where'd they see him last?"
Asben suddenly fades into view.
Asben says, "I looked everywhere."
Asben says, "Even the roof."
Speaking curiously to Asben, Leafiara asks, "Where was he spotted last?"
Asben says, "Here."
Asben says, "Well."
Asben says, "Coming up here."
[Focused] Pietra thinks, "I think we all lost him somewhere on the second floor."
Thadston says, "Search around."
Thadston says, "Wander about."
Thadston nods at Cryheart.
Thadston stretches and brushes up against a wall.
Kippe says, "He lost us in here." [the Gift Shop]
Thadston shakes his head.
Cryheart says, "Look behind and under things."
Thadston growls ferociously!
Lord Thadston just went through a stained golden oak door.
[people split up to search the top floor]
You hear Thadston almost growling nearby, and something, perhaps a sculpture, shatter and break.

[people are still scouting and finding nothing]
[General] Thadston thinks, "Zarston..."
[General] Thadston thinks, "I think I fo...."
There is a loud crash that echoes from the Fine Arts Wing.

[people split up and eventually...]
Thrassus turns a leaf-etched rosewood-framed painting.
A panel in the wall slides open and you are sucked into the opening!
[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]
The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone.  The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor.  
[General] Telagan thinks, "The painting in the around town room is by Zarston..."

[everyone begins exploring the hidden tunnels below, where they find trapped archways leading to various rooms of evidence; however, soon prisms launch into the area and the Knave's mercenaries begin to attack]
[during the clash...]
Lord Thadston just arrived.
Thadston scowls.
Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "The Knave's people are mobbing this area now."
Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck.  He looks relieved.
Thadston says, "I saw. I fought some off to the east of here. Some room with candles."
Speaking to Thadston, Faerinn says, "Found Darkstone's printing press. Gustorm set it on fire though."
Thadston says, "Then let's go burn that damn thing down."

Thadston asks, "Where's the press room?"
Leafiara says, "North."
Cryheart says, "North."
Telagan says, "Northern end."
Cryheart asks, "Want to go there first?"
Faerinn says, "Northern tunnel. Watch for trip wires."
Thadston says, "Yes."
Thadston glances at Dendum. [he was still dead]
Thadston asks, "Are we just leaving the Willow kid down there?"
Leafiara says, "Sec."
[she raises him, we go toward the press room and fight on the way]
Thadston roars!

[Museum, Press Room]
The old room smells of heavy tobacco and a hazy smoke drifts lazily about the area, infused with a burnt amber glow from the light of torches set into the walls.  Bits of tattered or crumbled parchments litter the ground like debris in the aftermath of a storm, and several bottles of ink rest along a crude wooden shelf in the corner.  You also see a frosted cinnamon cookie, a wood-framed archway, a large wooden contraption and obvious signs of someone hiding.
Thadston growls ferociously!
>l cont
The large wooden contraption appears to be a screw-type printing press.  The upper press frame is currently clamped down on top of a form that holds wooden block letters and symbols.  Worn from use, the press lever is covered with slender ink-stained handprints.
>l par
The parchments are all torn and scattered, scraps thrown all around.  But some of them have big bold letters that read, "THE DAILY DA....", and "ROOKS INCREA....", and "LORD THADSTON VAND....", and "EX-MILITIA HAP...."  The remainder of the parchments are too torn to make sense of.
Speaking to Thadston, Lylia asks, "You have seen the map room?"
Thadston growls ferociously!
Thadston says, "Not yet."
Speaking to Thadston, Pietra asks, "Have you seen the costume room?"
Thadston asks, "Costume room?"
Pietra nods at Thadston.
Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "Mannequins with Rook and militia garb. And some empty crates."
Thadston growls, the kroderine shards imbedded in his arms flash with a blood red spark.  He keeps punching the burning wooden contraption.
[everyone eventually destroys it]
Thadston scowls at some crumbled parchments.

Cryheart asks, "Ok..where to next?"
Thadston says, "Eastern archway."
Thadston says, "I was attacked in the room with candles."
[Museum, Candle Room]
One lone torch burns within a crevice of the timber-braced walls, with much of the room blanketed in shadows. Splotches of ink have been splattered across a carved wooden table where a row of candles rest, their tiny flames flickering side to side. You also see a wood-framed archway.
>l on tab
On the wooden table:
Special [7]: a smooth white candle, a dark cyan candle, a tall black candle, a slender grey candle, a deep blue candle, a dark green candle, a dark red candle
Pietra rubs a dark cyan candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. Grey brick walls stretch across the room while a plump boar cooks in the roaring flames of a large red brick fireplace. A huge silver tapestry hangs on the wall, emblazoned with the image of a blue phoenix. Some laughter echoes from some revelers upon a scuffed wooden stage. [Blue Phoenix Pub at the Hendoran outpost]
Thadston squints.
Pietra rubs a deep blue candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see the dull and weather docks just south of Wehnimer's Landing sea gates. The docks are noisy, and workers move around, loading ships or unloading crates into nearby warehouses. The murky waters of Darkstone Bay expand beyond. [Landing docks]
Pietra rubs a dark green candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see the heart of Wehnimer's Landing, the center square that is framed by dozens of shops and buildings as travelers and townsfolk roam about. A tall oak tree throws a shadow over an old oak well in the center of the road. [Town Square Central]
Pietra rubs a dark red candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see eight apple trees in two rows of four, rising up along the southern slope of a hillock. Beyond that stands a plain grey stone tower with a peaked slate roof. [Gryphons' Holding]
Kippe rubs a smooth white candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see a copse of haon trees and what appears to be an old pool of water surrounded by swathes of soft moss and lichenous rocks. The water has been tinged a beautiful, translucent green by the formation of algae. [Faendryl Enclave]
Thadston says, "A good way to get headlines..."
Pietra rubs a tall black candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see a wide oak floor marred by countless scuff marks and a wooden desk resting beneath a weapon's rack. Further into the room is a strong iron-bound door with a narrow, barred grate. [Constabulary]
Soneiken rubs a slender grey candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see a spacious lobby with an oak bannister wrapped around a staircase. The walls of the area are draped in rich tapestries and townsfolk move about the lobby on their routine business. [Moot Hall]
Pietra asks, "Did no one else touch a rune in the hallway and see a wisp of smoke?"
Thadston asks, "Runes?"
Thadston asks, "Have we noted where each candle looks upon?"
Thadston asks, "Before we go?"
Thadston rubs a smooth white candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see a copse of haon trees and what appears to be an old pool of water surrounded by swathes of soft moss and lichenous rocks. The water has been tinged a beautiful, translucent green by the formation of algae.
Thadston glances at Lylia.
Thadston says, "White is the Faendryl Enclave."
Thadston says, "Haon trees in pairs."
Thadston searches around for a moment.

Thadston says, "Take us to the far west archway."
Thadston nods at Cryheart.
Thadston says, "As much as destroying the Daily Darkstone's press room is good, I want more."
[Museum, Stow Room]
The timber-braced walls of the large stow room are almost completely obscured by stacks of canvas-draped mannequins.  Filling one whole corner of the room are a dozen wooden crates, each one's lid pried open and set aside.  Against the furthest wall are several wooden weapon racks, but each one is empty.  You also see a wood-framed archway.
>l man
Peeking out from beneath the draped canvas, several of the mannequins are garbed in either a Wehnimer's Militia tabard, or a dark hooded cloak and a silver-beaked mask.
>l cra
The wooden crates are all empty, their lids having been already pried open and set to the side.  The only thing of note on the crates are a few small crests burned into the inside corner of some crates.  Some crests are that of a black triskelion on a field of gold and red, while others are a crest of a red eagle before a golden sun on a field of deep blue.
Thadston says, "There's those uniforms they used."
Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Thadston says, "And the fake Rook masks."
Leafiara asks, "Which two crests are these?"
Cryheart says, "Jantalar and Seareach."
Thadston says, "Jantalar and Se.."
Thadston nods at Cryheart.
Thadston searches around for a moment.
Faerinn says, "Jantalar makes sense."
Thadston searches around for a moment.
Faerinn says, "Seareach less so."
Thadston says, "Brisker's Cove is a den."
Thadston nods at Faerinn.

Thadston says, "South arch."
Thadston nods at Cryheart.

[Museum, Staging Room]
The room is spacious with wooden braces holding the mortared walls together.  The aroma of tobacco drifts through the area, lazily drifting about as it climbs towards the ceiling, trying to seep away.  There is a wooden desk in the far corner, resting just below a mounted pair of crossed silver stilettos.  You also see a wood-framed archway.
>l on des
On the wooden desk:
Special [2]: a burnished wooden cigar box, a pile of tiny map markers
Misc [2]: a small glass vial, a detailed map
>l via
The vial is half-filled with sea water and corked at the top.
Thadston asks, "This is the map?"
Thadston peers quizzically at Lylia.
>l map
You see a detailed map of Wehnimer's Landing and Darkstone Bay.
Lylia nods at Thadston.
Thadston selects a smooth red stone from a pile of tiny map markers.
[everyone starts collecting various smooth red stones and miniatures of wooden swords, wooden skeletons, wooden knights, and wooden rooks from the map markers]
Thadston selects a tiny wooden rook miniature from a pile of tiny map markers.
Thadston put a tiny wooden rook miniature in his charcoal black cloak.
Thadston squints.
Thadston glances at a burnished wooden cigar box on a wooden desk.
Thadston says, "Amos is not a cigar man."
Thadston says, "But I know who is."
Faerinn asks, "Is Stephos?"
Thadston says, "Some of us know who is."
Thadston nods at Faerinn.

The sound of panels opening echo from a tunnel beyond the archway.
Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck.  He looks relieved.
Thadston clenches his fists and the kroderine shards glimmer with blood red light.
Scraping echoes from down the halls.
[the group goes out to investigate and is attacked by warcats (the animal) that are immune to magic, but fights them off]
Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck.  He looks relieved.
Thadston says, "Those are not normal cats..."
[more Knaves and warcats attack and are killed off]
Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck.  He looks relieved.
[more warcats attack and are killed off]
Thadston throws his head back and howls!
[more combat]
Thadston asks, "No one dead?"
[more combat]

A spark of red light flashes along the eastern tunnel.
[the group goes to investigate]
A spark of red light flashes along the western tunnel.
A spark of red light flashes along the northern tunnel.
A spark of red light flashes along the southern tunnel.
Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere, burying Dendum!
Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere, burying Gutstorm!
Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere!  You feel yourself falling...
It's too dark to see anything at all.
There are several loud explosions that shake the entire tunnel and fire and rubble are scattered everywhere!  Suddenly Drektor falls into view, looking very disoriented!
[and everyone else falls in]
Thadston asks, "Everyone alright?"

Sir Cryheart's group just went up.
[Museum, Collapsed Tunnel]
The tunnel here has collapsed and rubble has been scattered all about.  The walls and ceiling still shake as loose dirt periodically crumbles from above.  You also see a resplendent obsidian black raven that is flying around and a huge pile of rubble.
Chandrellia softly asks, "But if the tunnel was under the museum, does that mean the museum is destroyed as well?"
Thadston says, "They blew the tunnels."
[people start digging their way out]
Thadston digs at the pile of rubble but does not seem to be making much progress.
[rocks begin to fall and injure people as everyone digs]
Loud scraping can be heard in the darkness above.
A loud hiss echoes from above as the silhouettes of warcats come into view and leap down!
[more fighting, more digging]
Hissing echoes from above.
[more fighting, more digging]
Asben digs at the pile of rubble and seems to be loosening it up a bit.
The last of the pile of rubble crumbles away, revealing a large jagged hole.

Sir Cryheart's group just went through a large jagged hole.
[Wehnimer's Museum, Basement]
Lined on both sides by flickering torches, this room is part of a tunnel beneath the museum.  A set of stone steps leads upward toward a brighter light, while the enclosed passage stretches on to the east and west, its rough walls crafted from timber braces and mortared stone.  You also see the faenor Demandred disk inlaid with intersecting bands of jet, the gauze-bound Missandai disk streaked with crimson bloodstains, the Soneiken disk and the gauze-bound Tolene disk streaked with crimson bloodstains.
Thadston slowly empties his lungs.
Thadston grumbles.

Faerinn says, "Well, signs down there point to Stephos."
Thadston nods at Faerinn.
Thadston says, "They do."
Faerinn says, "Might be two for two masked folks."
Thadston says, "But there's been no word or sign of him in, a long time."
Thrassus asks, "Where is Stephos from originally?"
Thadston says, "Idolone."
Thadston says, "Estoria."
Shinann says, "Not really like him to leave clues."
Thadston nods at Shinann.
Thadston says, "Unless he didn't think to be caught there."
Leafiara says, "The cigar box could certainly be a misdirect like the uniforms were, just one not used yet... anything's possible."
Leafiara says, "I think we need to get to Alendrial."
Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Thadston says, "Yes. A conversation with Alendrial is needed."
Speaking to Thadston, Lylia says, "If someone were misdirecting toward him, they might consider it enough to set down a cigar box without choosing his particular brand, if the one fishing up the red herrings was careless."
Thadston says, "I'm unfamiliar with his choice of cigars."
Lylia says, "Alendrial, however, might not be."
Dendum asks, "Are we in middle of human divorce?"
Thadston smirks at Dendum.
Dendum says, "This is why Wendwillows do NOT marry."
Thadston says, "If the Knave and the Rooks are fighting because of Stephos and Alendrial....then Edwina and Larton should be ashamed."
Thadston smirks.

Thadston says, "I'll arrange a conversation with Alendrial."
Thadston says, "We'll keep what we know so far to ourselves."
Thadston says, "But we've confirmed the Daily Darkstone's connection to the Knave, regardless."
Thadston says, "I just do not understand why Stephos would wage war against the Rooks and not try to worm back in."
Speaking curiously to Thadston, Leafiara asks, "Going to arrest and interrogate the squire kid?"
Thadston says, "If he returns, yes."
Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "Hey, by the way. Sorry I didn't manage to track that young squire all the way. He was a slippery little man."
Thadston says, "He may not. Given we're going to have to explain to the curator about some exploded tunnels."
Thadston says, "Or better, she might need to explain it to us."
Speaking cryptically to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Well... I have theories, but you might not like them."
Thadston says, "You did great Pietra. Do not apologize."
Thadston peers quizzically at Leafiara.
Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara sighs, "...I really hate that it's come to this and you might kill me for it, but here."
Leafiara removes a small sack from in her cherry red cloak.
Leafiara offers Thadston a small sack.
Thadston accepts Leafiara's sack.
Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Consider what's in there, some time."
Thadston attaches a small sack to his belt.
Thadston removes a piece of ivory parchment from in his sack.
Leafiara says, "Each one says different things. Bits and pieces I've observed over the past two and a half years."
Speaking slowly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "I'm pretty sure you won't like it, but it's my honest thought."
Leafiara hurriedly says, "And I do hope I'm wrong."
Thadston glances at Leafiara.
Thadston put a piece of ivory parchment in his sack.
Thadston says, "You need a new hobby, since you're not mayor anymore it seems."
Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Leafiara reiterates, "Observations made about things that don't line up--"
Leafiara looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.
Speaking slowly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Alright, don't consider the possibility then."
Thadston says, "Just leave Casi alone."
Thadston nods at Leafiara.
Leafiara cautiously says, "Noted."
Thadston says, "She's away, and she's safe."
Thadston says, "I don't need your wild theories."
Speaking to Thadston, Geijon inquires, "We never did piece together th' Zarston yell?"
Thadston says, "I need you focused on real theories."
Thadston says, "The West Gate painting."
Thadston nods at Geijon.
Thadston says, "Painted by Zarston."
Thadston says, "The name I saw before I fell into the wall."
Thadston removes a small sack from his belt.
Thadston throws the sack to the ground.
Thadston drops a small sack.
Thadston glares at Leafiara.
Leafiara picks up a small sack.

Thadston says, "We'll meet with Alendrial soon. Tomorrow night, perhaps. I can arrange it."
Thadston says, "So we will need to finalize our plans this weekend. If we're to strike the Knave and Rooks next week."
Thadston says, "Good work everyone tonight."
Thadston says, "We've made some progress. Some good progress."
Thadston bows to Pietra.
Thadston bows to Asben.
Thadston bows to Kippe.
Thadston says, "Thank you for your scouting Pietra, Asben and Kippe."
Kippe says, "Happy to help."
Thadston glances at Leafiara.
Leafiara glances at Thadston.
Thadston shakes his head.

Quotables

Leafiara muses, "Welp, time to see what Thadston's next harebrained plan is."
Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Can always tell the Thadston no."
Speaking lightly to Dendum, Leafiara clarifies, "Oh, it wasn't a criticism."

Cryheart says, "We will not be doing anything tonight."

Pukk says, "Remember if we get into a fight, protect the Pukk first."

Speaking to Cryheart, Pietra says, "It's Thadston's Fun Run tonight. We're going to solve problems and run around like lunatics."

Cryheart asks, "And what are we allegedly doing?"
Faerinn says, "Arson probably."

Speaking to Lylia, Pukk says, "I know. I'm your favorite human."
Speaking to Pukk, Dendum asks, ""Dendum thought you were stretched out halfling?"
Speaking thoughtfully to Dendum, Leafiara admits, "That would explain so much."

Speaking to Pukk, Soneiken says, "Yer one of dem, you get an inch of admiration, and you stretch it 10 miles, pun after pun."

Leafiara slowly says, "So he has tawny hair and is a squire and we're supposed to find him in the entire town."
Stormyrain gazes in amusement at Leafiara.
Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Remember, he's never had a woman's touch, so he'll blend in even further."

Stormyrain says, "No. We were whooshed away on the wings of a song."
Speaking to Goldstr, Stormyrain mutters, "Damned bards."

Dendum says, "Ahh Pietra is good choice she is sneaky and if this human has never touched a woman he will stay away from her...or be too nervous around her to think of being smart."

[General] Pietra thinks, "Little men, wandering, disappearing."
[General] Gutstorm exclaims, "Me shaid me makin potionsh!"
[General] Pietra thinks, "Not you Guts."

Berost deeply says, "Grab tha lad, get one o' the knights ta start a lecture on chivalry er some sech; 5 minutes he be answerin everythin we wanna know to get it to stop."
Speaking to Berost, Telagan says, "No one deserves t'be subjected to Bristenn."

Leafiara mutters, "This subtlety stuff isn't my strong suit. There's only one path forward."
>go arch
As you make your way toward a wood-framed archway, you get caught by a tripwire!
A short tube extends outward from the archway.
Jets of flame shoot out toward you!
... 1 point of damage!
Minor burns to left eye.  You blink back the tears.
... 5 points of damage!
Minor burns to chest.  That hurts a bit.
... 5 points of damage!
Minor burns to abdomen.  Feels painful.

Dendum says, "Stephos....the ugly human with not ugly wife? Oi, that is slimy creature."

Leafiara yells, "Can do this all night, ya bloody Knave idiots!"
[extended combat]
From nearby, you hear Dendum yell, "Oi it seems so they can also do this all night!"

Demandred philosophically muses, "You know I'd say magical calm makes me angry, but, alas...it is not so."

A spark of red light flashes along the western tunnel.
Leafiara dubiously asks, "...are they about to surround us?"
A spark of red light flashes along the northern tunnel.
A spark of red light flashes along the southern tunnel.
Leafiara speculates, "Or perhaps destroy the area and all evidence..."
Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere, burying Dendum!
Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere, burying Gutstorm!
Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere!  You feel yourself falling...
It's too dark to see anything at all.
There are several loud explosions that shake the entire tunnel and fire and rubble are scattered everywhere!  Suddenly Drektor falls into view, looking very disoriented!
[and everyone else]
Leafiara mutters, "I hate it when I'm right."

Dendum asks, "Are we in middle of human divorce?"
Thadston smirks at Dendum.
Dendum says, "This is why Wendwillows do NOT marry."
Thadston says, "If the Knave and the Rooks are fighting because of Stephos and Alendrial....then Edwina and Larton should be ashamed."
Thadston smirks.

Log

Eyes and Spies

[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 Asben disk, a green-eyed grey and white kitten, a fat charcoal cat, a sinuous bone white serpent, a resplendent obsidian black raven that is flying around, the Dendum disk, the gold-dusted Atlee disk crowned with sylvarraend rubies, the Soneiken disk, the Alosaka disk, the gauze-bound Missandai disk streaked with crimson bloodstains, a yew twig, a round silver-banded barrel, an herbal remedy donation bin and some stone benches with some stuff on it.

Also here: Event Planner Leafiara, Jerlendo who is sitting, Lord Asben, Grummbil, Lady in Waiting Chandrellia, Barrister Faerinn, Dendum, Atlee, Soneiken, Bernadette, Alosaka, Pukk, High Lady Missandai, Sir Cryheart, Kippe, Berost, Andromalius who is sitting

Pukk says, "Join up Leafi." [she'd just arrived]

[General] Leafiara observes, "Seems like another rainy Landing eve!"

Leafiara muses, "Welp, time to see what Thadston's next harebrained plan is."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Can always tell the Thadston no."

Speaking lightly to Dendum, Leafiara clarifies, "Oh, it wasn't a criticism."

[General] Gutstorm thinks, "Lemme know when da fightin shtartsh, me waisht deep in me cualdron makin potionsh."

[General] Peggyanne asks, "The Potato is halfway to Landing... should I be concerned?"

[General] Thadston thinks, "I'll need to find a porch soon."

Leafiara suddenly says, "Oh, right, he said to be stretched."

[insert stretch forward, stretch left, stretch right, stretch up text]

You nod with satisfaction.

Alosaka says, "And Hearthstone it is."

[General] Loamian thinks, "Nothing could possibly threaten the potato."

Leafiara affirms, "Stretched and spelled as requested!"

Cryheart says, "Join up..we headed to Hearthstone."

Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "Took you long enough."

Speaking to Faerinn, Alosaka asks, "Expecting trouble?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum asks, ""Think Darkstone will write about Cryheart leading group of bandits?"

[General] Loamian thinks, "I've been aboard and she's unsinkable by any means available to men or gods."

Speaking amusedly to Dendum, Leafiara says, "Maybe, but not tonight since the weapon shipment isn't coming yet."

Faerinn says, "Of falling asleep. Late night snack."

[General] Peggyanne thinks, "Heh you heard the man..."

Speaking deeply to Dendum, Berost says, "Would be honored."

Cryheart says, "Ok..moving to the porch."

Atlee says, "Be safes, everyones."

Speaking amiably to Atlee, Leafiara wishes, "You too."

Cryheart says, "We will not be doing anything tonight."

[travel]

Leafiara amusedly says, "I think Thadston disagrees."

Speaking to Cryheart, Pietra says, "I hope you've had coffee."

Pukk says, "Small group today."

Dendum says, "Oi, that Atlee.....that is one scary halfling."

[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 shifting portal, a black-tipped majestic snow leopard, the Alosaka disk, a scorched oak sideboard with some stuff on it, a purple modwir bin, a doorman and the porch steps.

Kippe says, "He said to be prepared for action."

[General] Chandrellia asks, "You have been a board? what about all the nails?"

Pukk says, "Everybody should be armed."

Cryheart says, "Someone did not send me that memo."

The voice of Gryzzlbok says, "Most of us have 2 arms, Pukk."

Speaking lightly to Cryheart, Leafiara says, "To be fair, he only gave us one night's notice."

Pukk says, "Remember if we get into a fight, protect the Pukk first."

Cryheart asks, "And what are we allegedly doing?"

Leafiara adds, "And we still have no idea *what* we're doing."

Speaking to Cryheart, Pukk says, "Exactly."

Speaking to Kippe, Erienne says, "Ranger."

Speaking to Cryheart, Pietra says, "It's Thadston's Fun Run tonight. We're going to solve problems and run around like lunatics."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Banditry."

Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara says, "He's being all sneaky so the Knave won't find out in advance."

Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Allegedly."

Speaking softly to Cryheart, Chandrellia says, "Good question, Thadston didn't really specify."

Faerinn says, "Arson probably."

Speaking to Cryheart, Kippe says, "He didn't tell us for security's sake."

[General] Directed to Chandrellia, Loamian thinks, "I think you misinterpreted me I meant I have been "uh... bored!"."

Speaking to Cryheart, Soneiken says, "Shakin a bees nest."

Speaking to Kippe, Alosaka says, "That's... rather intelligent of him."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra exclaims, "It's the Fun Run!"

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Faerinn says, "Pleasure sailing."

Speaking amusedly to Alosaka, Kippe says, "I was surprised."

Leafiara says, "To Pie's point, she did ask Thadston if we'd have to circle the town twelve times and his answer was maybe."

Alosaka asks, "Story time?"

[General] Chandrellia exclaims, "Aahhhh so youve been bored, well do something exciting then!"

Pietra exclaims, "Who's patting my head!"

[General] Loamian thinks, "Which brings us back to the potato."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Wait I thought it was potahto."

Pietra exclaims, "Oh stop!"

[General] Loamian asks, "Potato?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pietra says, "Don't you too."

[General] Chandrellia exclaims, "Thats what I said!"

Berost deeply says, "Welp we wait then, if'n he asks us to ransack tha town we kin all laugh. Or yas know,fight amongst ourselves as we stop the folks that WOULD do it."

The voice of Gryzzlbok says, "She protecting you."

Speaking softly to Pietra, Chandrellia says, "I'll beat em up with my pillow."

[General] Loamian resignedly thinks, "Let's call the whole thing off."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pietra says, "You're the fiercest ally."

The voice of Gryzzlbok says, "Or the craziest."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Oh I didnt know you asked me out, well if you insist."

[General] Thadston thinks, "I'll be there in a moment."

Rozanikka ominously says, "Incoming."

[General] Pukk asks, "Thadston asked out Chandrellia?"

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Jealous POUkkiepoo."

[General] Pukk thinks, "No, I feel bad for Thaddy if so."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Yeah me too."

[General] Peggyanne thinks, "Why... Cookie is a lovely lady. He's a lucky man."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Hahahahaha he can't handle me."

[General] Pietra thinks, "We're ready for the Fun Run, Thaddy."

Speaking to Lylia, Pukk says, "Glad you made it."

Speaking to Pukk, Lylia says, "I heard you were here; I had to say hello."

Lylia adds, "Xorus insisted."

Speaking to Lylia, Pukk says, "I know. I'm your favorite human."

Lylia looks like she was about to say something to Pukk, but she hesitates, obviously having changed her mind.

Speaking to Lylia, Faerinn says, "And he just wouldn't shut up until you did. Chatterbox that he is."

Speaking to Lylia, Pukk says, "Speechless I see."

Speaking to Pukk, Dendum asks, ""Dendum thought you were stretched out halfling?"

Speaking to Lylia, Soneiken says, "Great, now you acknowledged him, he wont shut fer nearly 4 hours."

Speaking thoughtfully to Dendum, Leafiara admits, "That would explain so much."

Speaking to Faerinn, Pietra says, "To be fair, that has nothing to do with Lylia."

Speaking to Pukk, Dendum asks, ""You have been human this whole time?"

Speaking softly to Soneiken, Chandrellia says, "And this only if someone silences him."

Speaking to Soneiken, Pukk says, "I can't help being great."

Rozanikka speculates, "Did he get lost?" [as always, time lapse is hard to convey, but it had been a while]

Speaking to Dendum, Pukk says, "Sometimes human, sometimes dark elf, sometimes halfling."

[General] Chandrellia asks, "Thadston everything ok with you?"

Speaking wryly to Rozanikka, Leafiara says, "Maybe he's leading by example by taking the twelve runs around town."

Shinann says, "He said he would be here in a minute..."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kippe agrees, "Stretching."

Lord Thadston just arrived.

[General] Peggyanne thinks, "I have a vial of holy oil.... somone drank from it one time in front of Thadston I think."

Pietra says, "Maybe... he's tricking us."

Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

Chandrellia softly says, "That was almost 3 minutes ago."

Pietra says, "Or not."

[General] Peggyanne thinks, "They dropped dead."

Leafiara simply says, "Nope, here he is."

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia says, "Bout time."

Cryheart says, "Evening, Lord Thadston."

Speaking interestedly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Well, this should be good."

Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr says, "Evenin Sir Andrews."

Thadston says, "I needed to confirm a few things."

Speaking to Thadston, Pukk says, "All the women were pining over you."

[General] Delyorik thinks, "No speculation, please and thank you."

Speaking to Pukk, Soneiken says, "Yer one of dem, you get an inch of admiration, and you stretch it 10 miles, pun after pun."

Rozanikka asks, "All the armigers where you expected them to be?"

Speaking to Soneiken, Pukk says, "Why yes, yes I do."

[General] Peggyanne thinks, "Ill go back and read the archives...."

[General] Delyorik asks, "You sure you can handle that?"

[General] Peggyanne asks, "Reading?"

[General] Delyorik thinks, "Hehe."

Speaking softly to Geijon, Chandrellia says, "So it's been decided, we are going to attack the Knave and praise the Rooks."

Thadston says, "We might have some information regarding the Daily Darkstone."

Thadston says, "Casi was following some leads and hunches before..."

Thadston says, "Well, before she couldn't anymore."

Thadston says, "We've long suspected a potential connection to the Knave."

Thadston says, "Given the history of trying to confuse and misrepresent. A tactic of the Knave."

Faerinn says, "I hope this settles another bet for me."

Leafiara says, "It was either that, the Consortium, or both."

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "To be fair, a lot of forces around here try to confuse and misrepresent."

Xorus whispers something to Lylia.

Faerinn says, "The Daily Darkstone is definitely spying on us to get those headlines about Barnom."

Speaking to Faerinn, Alosaka says, "Or they have a sympathetic source."

Thrassus says, "Or just speaking to the guardsmen at the Outpost."

Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "I didn't say a thing."

Leafiara says, "I think the Daily Darkstone's ahead of just spying on us or speaking with guards... they knew about the disappearance of Octaven's coffin sooner than even Magister Raelee did."

Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "No you didn't. Too much sliced lunch rolton in that mouth."

Thadston nods at Leafiara.

Thadston says, "Which had Casi looking at the Outpost."

Leafiara nods at Thadston.

Thadston says, "We think we might have found someone."

Goldstr exclaims, "Ahhh!"

Thrassus asks, "Someone in the Outpost?"

Faerinn says, "Though I really regret not asking Vlashandra to specifiy WHICH Redomer Svala."

Speaking to Thadston, Soneiken asks, "Someone?"

Speaking to Faerinn, Alosaka asks, "There's more than one?"

Speaking to Alosaka, Faerinn says, "There's like four."

Thadston nods at Thrassus.

Thrassus asks, "We aren't attacking the Outpost, are we?"

Thadston says, "No."

Thrassus raises an eyebrow.

Xorus says, "It is one of those common, everyone-has-it family names, like Ethelbert."

Leafiara curiously asks, "But we're doing... what?"

Thadston says, "I've been working through some information to make sure everyone in the Outpost is who they say they are or who needs to be there."

Faerinn asks, "I don't know how many Redomers are still alive though...How long do humans live again?"

Speaking softly to Faerinn, Chandrellia says, "About 70 years give or take."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Faerinn says, "Ok half of those Redomers are dead barring lichdom."

Thadston says, "There's one squire in the Outpost, his name is Mattson. Tawny haired sprout of a man."

Thadston says, "No, a boy. He hasn't seen war, that is for sure."

Thadston says, "Or a woman's touch I bet either."

Speaking softly to Pukk, Chandrellia says, "Dont even think it."

Alosaka says, "That's... not necessarily expository."

Thadston says, "I've got eyes on him in the Outpost."

Speaking to Thadston, Dendum asks, ""His great scheme is writing letters?"

Fahlo says, "That's about all he has one him it sounds."

Thadston says, "On this night each week, he heads for town."

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon offers, "Mood tonight seems good, promising."

Thadston says, "So when my contact lets me know he's left, we need to scout town."

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia asks, "Do we stay as a group or split up?"

Thadston says, "But do not confront him. Do not hurt him. Do nothing stupid."

Leafiara slowly says, "So he has tawny hair and is a squire and we're supposed to find him in the entire town."

Missandai asks, "Do you know where he goes when he comes to town?"

Telagan says, "Must be a little suspect if'n 15 people start followin' 'im around."

Cryheart asks, "So we need folks in different areas of the town?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Lurrah says, "Scream at him at once like an angry mob."

Thadston says, "It's possible he could lead us to something regarding the Knave or the Daily Darkstone."

Faerinn says, "Taking bets now on which bathhouse he goes to and which firefly he meets with."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Remember, he's never had a woman's touch, so he'll blend in even further."

Asben asks, "Need some stealthy folks perhaps?"

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Oh hey I can do that!"

Cryheart says, "We are supposed to watch and follow."

Thadston says, "We don't all need to go."

Thadston says, "Once I let you know he's been spotted, I'll be further away."

Cryheart asks, "Ok...who wants to follow this lad?"

Cryheart says, "We need to be discrete."

Leafiara musingly says, "So maybe send some sneaky people, invisible wizards, and people with Invisibility magic imbedded in items."

Thadston asks, "Who can scout town, without being dumb?"

Cryheart says, "Someone who can follow."

Stormyrain says, "I nominate Kippe."

Dendum points at Pietra.

Asben raises his hand.

Asben says, "I can."

Chandrellia points at Pietra.

Asben nods.

Pietra grins at Dendum.

Chandrellia softly says, "Rogues that can hide well."

Alosaka asks, "Is it possible the Darkstone is simply writing inflammatory headlines that represent the sympathies of most of the Landing's citizens?"

Pietra says, "So Kippe it is."

Rozanikka honestly says, "I could scout, but I am quite dumb."

Asben points at Pietra.

Goldstr says, "Pukk Donna raise yer hand."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Kippe says, "Asben is..."

Speaking softly to Pietra, Chandrellia says, "This is right up your alley hon."

Thadston says, "We'll find out, won't we."

Thadston nods at Alosaka.

Speaking to Pietra, Asben says, "You're the best hider."

Speaking to Goldstr, Pukk says, "Wasn't planning on it."

Alosaka asks, "Couldn't we just... ask them?"

Cryheart says, "The rest of us can hang out here."

Speaking to Alosaka, Lylia murmurs, "Anonymous broadsheets giving voice to common, but suppressed public sentiment? This never happens."

The voice of Faerinn says, "Now I'm see through if that helps."

Speaking to Alosaka, Dendum says, ""Hrmm no, we must kill this human and his children to send message to any who say we are not noble and just."

Speaking to Asben, Kippe agrees, "Pietra is an excellent choice."

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "Guess you get to choose from a bunch."

Speaking to Dendum, Thrassus says, "That's how it usually goes, yes."

Stormyrain suggests, "So Kippe and Pietra. Sounds like an excellent set of eyes and quiet feet."

Speaking to herself, Pietra says, "They think you're not dumb. Huh."

Thadston says, "Captains..."

Leafiara curiously says, "Why not just send all of them? If the goal is scouring the town for a single boy on not much of a description."

Chandrellia softly says, "Or I can go I guess and Pie can stalk me just in case there is, any trouble, but I really do know how to behave."

Thadston nods at Stormyrain.

Thadston nods at Shinann.

Speaking softly to Pukk, Chandrellia says, "Not a word."

Thadston says, "Pick please."

Speaking deeply to Cryheart, Berost says, "Jest like them days when folks would sit and talk here. And we may even get to thump a folk or three by tha end of the night."

Speaking to Shinann, Stormyrain asks, "I'm happy with Pietra and Kippe working as a team. Thoughts?"

Pietra whispers something to Kippe.

Shinann says, "I agree with Stormyrain."

Shinann nods.

Asben nods.

Cryheart says, "The Captain just mentioned two."

Asben says, "If ya need a third I'm happy to go."

Stormyrain smiles at Asben.

Stormyrain nods gratefully.

Tracing simple lines upon his dark brow, Xorus invokes the elements and almost instantly a third black eye opens in his forehead. Seconds after he releases the spell, the eye fades away.

Kippe whispers something to Pietra.

Thadston nods.

Thadston says, "I'll let you know when I hear the word."

Pietra whispers something to Kippe.

Speaking to Asben, Stormyrain says, "Thank you. We may find we need a third."

Geijon notes, "Just about nothing stealthy about me."

Lylia says, "I was thinking of a different connotation of 'drawing the eye,' but yes, you also draw the eye." [to Xorus]

Shinann nods at Leafiara.

Shinann says, "I was just going to do that." [Leafi cast Unpresence on Kippe and Pietra]

Thadston inclines his ear, listening intently.

The voice of Faerinn says, "Well, if I'm not needed to be sneaking songs are going back up."

Covert Operations

Thadston says, "He's on the move. Headed to West Gate."

[Faerinn accidentally Traveller's Songs us to the Wayside Inn, but we head back quick; skipping all that]

[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 massive snowy white tiger, the Lurrah disk, the Sorlu disk, an affronted swamp spirit that is flying around, an amber-eyed tawny range wolf, the Rozanikka disk, a scorched oak sideboard with some stuff on it, a purple modwir bin, a doorman and the porch steps.

Thrassus asks, "Did everyone run off after him?"

Rozanikka says, "Didn't even see them leave."

The voice of Gryzzlbok asks, "Wrong turn?"

Leafiara says, "Accidental song returned us to Wayside."

Stormyrain says, "No. We were whooshed away on the wings of a song."

Thadston says, "Go see what you can find."

Speaking to Goldstr, Stormyrain mutters, "Damned bards."

Telagan says, "The very picture of stealth, the lot of us."

Rozanikka brightly ventures, "Second time's the charm."

Kippe nods slowly at Thadston.

Thadston says, "He's passed into town."

Pukk says, "Have fun."

Shinann says, "Be careful..."

Dendum says, "Ahh Pietra is good choice she is sneaky and if this human has never touched a woman he will stay away from her...or be too nervous around her to think of being smart."

The voice of Faerinn says, "Yes, we're the worst Stormy."

Thadston says, "The soldiers have lost sight of him in the gates."

Stormyrain amusedly asks, "Right?"

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia asks, "So tell me what are we to do with this Lad once we see where he is going?"

Leafiara notes, "Last time Casi followed a lead on the Daily Darkstone, she ended up in a fight with the Knave's forces. So... be ready, I suppose."

Thadston says, "We'll see where he ends up and decide then."

Kippe says, "I will be going."

You notice Kippe moving stealthily down the porch steps.

Chandrellia softly says, "Be careful, both of you."

Thadston says, "He's in town. You need to go now before we lose him." [Note: This was a source of some confusion. Considering the timing and Kippe having the Sneaking spell on, Thadston either A) might not have seen him go, or B) might have been in the middle of saying this when Kippe left. However, since Pietra and Kippe had already left, several others took it to mean that Thadston did want Asben involved as a third.]

Roelon nods at Asben.

Leafiara pokes Asben in the ribs.

Cryheart nods at Asben.

Shinann says, "Go... good luck."

Shinann glances around the area.

Shinann nods.

Asben nods.

[Leafi casts Unpresence on him too]

[General] Delyorik thinks, "Omeira, soon as I'm done with this bounty escort, I'll meet you on FWI."

Cryheart says, "Be discrete."

Asben comes out of hiding.

[General] Omeira exclaims, "Ok Fahlo just got me for now!"

Asben flags down a nearby urchin and exchanges a few words.

The urchin nods to Asben and takes off, with Asben in tow.

Geijon says, "Townfolk earning a lot of commendations as of late."

Speaking to Cryheart, Dendum asks, ""Sneaky like Bandit yes?"

[General] Delyorik thinks, "Cool. Means I can relax."

Pukk leans over and whispers, "Geijon isn't as mad as he usually is..."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Geijon says, "Militia has been sharp, Captain."

Geijon nods at Shinann.

Geijon says, "Captain."

Speaking to Geijon, Stormyrain says, "Thank you."

Stormyrain says, "It helps to have Thadston back to himself."

Berkana asks, "Is he, though?"

Leifa suggests, "Time to put down the snacks."

Lylia says, "We could ask him."

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon agrees, "I've been thinking. I've noticed my gruffness, in a lot of this and you are indeed much more liked when our goal is shared."

Speaking to Thadston, Berkana asks, "Feeling back to your usual?"

Lylia says, "It is easy to like someone who dislikes the same things you do."

Pukk exclaims, "Okay, he must be a golem!"

Thadston says, "Close."

Thadston nods at Berkana.

Rozanikka brightly says, "It's a start, I guess."

[Focused] Asben thinks, "He's on South Ring Road."

Berkana grins at Thadston.

Thadston grins at Geijon.

Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr asks, "Has ye heard er know of Lady Larsya's involvement wid dat Consortium?"

Lylia says, "Much more challenging to work with someone who has different aims and methodologies."

Speaking to Thadston, Berkana says, "Good then."

[Focused to Asben] Leafiara thinks, "Let the captains know."

Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "We had about three attack groups and auxillery then pylons on th' Warcat and the other engagement after we had near five."

Speaking softly to Leifa, Chandrellia asks, "Share a doughnut with me?"

Thadston says, "A matter to discuss later."

Thadston nods at Goldstr.

Goldstr nods at Thadston.

Speaking to Geijon, Leafiara says, "Yeah, splitting up has been serving well lately. Including tonight."

Leafiara adds, "Well, hopefully. I guess tonight's yet to be decided."

[General] Pietra thinks, "I've never really gotten a good look at this temple. It's big."

Rozanikka chides, "Don't jinx it!"

Speaking wistfully to herself, Berkana asks, "I bet Kali's spirit inhabits that rocking chair. Or Morandas. Or... was it Mustafo?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "It also helps to ensure none get away."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Oi, do not always be thinking things are going to end in ruin....we have new mine to bring aid to city."

Speaking to Berkana, Stormyrain murmurs, "Musty for that one. Morandas stood at the steps and yelled, mostly."

Speaking to Berkana, Goldstr says, "Musty still abouts WID his DEED to here."

Stormyrain says, "--yelled a lot. When he wasn't flinging his arms around wildly."

Lylia says, "I heard something about this mining concern."

Dendum says, "Pietra is talking of temple."

Berkana says, "Kali used to sit there and whittle with her special dagger."

[Focused] Pietra thinks, "He's near the museum now."

Speaking to Berkana, Telagan says, "Mustafo was 'round recently, believe."

Speaking quietly to Berkana, Lylia says, "I recall her well and fondly."

Geijon says, "Kali used to come to th' Crypt and hand them out."

Berkana says, "Saw him."

Cryheart says, "He has been around for a few months."

[General] Dendum thinks, "Yes is grand structure....must have taken long time to build this many different rooms and things."

Cryheart says, "Hmm..Lorminstra temple it seems."

Berkana says, "Deavon has a medallion Kali carved that Leya touched during the hunt for the Shrine."

[General] Pietra thinks, "Well I don't know, I just enjoyed the outside."

Berkana says, "She still wears it."

Berkana gives a sidelong glance at Thadston.

Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

Thadston peers quizzically at Berkana.

Speaking to Thadston, Berkana asks, "You're quiet. Contemplative?" [again, time lapse here is much longer than the log might make it seem]

[General] Pietra thinks, "Little men, wandering, disappearing."

[General] Omeira thinks, "Flin quit touching me."

Lylia says, "Sometimes people learn more by listening."

Speaking softly to Lylia, Chandrellia says, "And watching."

Thadston nods at Berkana.

Thadston says, "Waiting."

Rozanikka shrieks, "The anticipation is killing me!"

Leifa adds, "Wondering?"

Goldstr says, "Relax whiles ye kin folks."

[General] Gutstorm exclaims, "Me shaid me makin potionsh!"

Stormyrain whispers to the group, "The fellow in question has given our eyes the slip, for now."

Speaking to Rozanikka, Leafiara admits, "The tension is a bit thick."

[General] Kiwoeachi asks, "Kinda potions you got?"

[General] Pietra thinks, "Not you Guts."

[General] Kiwoeachi exclaims, "Gimme your mana potions!"

[General] Gutstorm thinks, "Da boom boom kine."

[Focused] Pietra thinks, "In the museum now."

Stormyrain whispers to the group, "Found in the museum now."

Cryheart whispers to the group, "Pietra in the museum now."

Geijon says, "Mind me a moment."

Dendum says, "Hrmph."

Dendum says, "Dendum knows well this buildling....many ways in and out."

Speaking in Sylvankind, Rozanikka stupidly exclaims something you don't understand.

Speaking musingly to herself, Berkana says, "Perhaps I shall draw a card for you..."

Berkana glances at Thadston.

Berkana asks, "Fancy your fortune told?"

Speaking softly to Thadston, Berkana says, "I'm quite good at it."

[Focused] Pietra thinks, "He is IN the museum, seems really confused. We don't know where he went before that."

You hear the faint whisper of Kippe saying, "Nothing TOO obvious yet."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"A Warrior travels da vales an trails

Protectin da folks from da evils dat prevails"

Leafiara whispers to the group, "Still in the museum."

Speaking to Berkana, Telagan says, "He'd probably be the first t'lose at Dachres."

Leafiara whispers to the group, "Kippe's reporting nothing especially obvious seen yet."

Thadston seems to be waiting for something.

Thadston asks, "Any word?"

Telagan says, "Many, none helpful."

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "..yes. Found, lost, and found again in the Museum."

Leafiara says, "They're saying nothing obvious yet, but they've kept a bead on his locations."

Shinann says, "Lost again."

Cryheart says, "Slippery youngun."

Goldstr sings with a clear tenor:

"An when he in Helga's avun a brew

He may tells ye a tale er two"

Rozanikka says, "Slippery fella."

Leifa mutters, "Rangers."

Thadston asks, "Where in the Museum?"

Telagan says, "Can get into the catacombs from the temple, if'n I recall. Coulds gone anywhere in town."

Berost deeply says, "Grab tha lad, get one o' the knights ta start a lecture on chivalry er some sech; 5 minutes he be answerin everythin we wanna know to get it to stop."

Shinann says, "Second floor."

Stormyrain says, "Asking."

Speaking to Berost, Telagan says, "No one deserves t'be subjected to Bristenn."

[Focused] Pietra thinks, "We lost him after he went up the staircase."

Thadston grumbles.

Shinann says, "They are upstairs."

Thadston asks, "Any word?"

Thadston asks, "Still gone?"

Leafiara says, "Apparently he went up the staircase but they've lost him afterward."

Speaking slowly to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "If I'd heard back I would say so."

Speaking to Thadston, Shinann says, "I am telling you."

Dendum says, "Hrmm."

Alosaka says, "Not sure what we would be lecturing him about, honestly."

Thadston says, "Damn Museum is full of mazes and dirt."

Thadston says, "Could be anywhere."

Dendum says, "Can easily climb off of roof."

Rozanikka says, "Could be telling jokes on the roof for all we know."

Shinann says, "It is."

Alosaka pedantically exclaims, "Young lad, don't share what you know with the people of the town!"

Xorus says, "And the armor of.. ah, nevermind."

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia asks, "Does it have to do with marmots?"

Speaking to Lylia, Xorus says, "And blood marble."

Thadston asks, "Could he be hiding in there?"

Shinann says, "Well, they are hidden."

Leafiara says, "As plausible as anything else, I suppose."

Speaking to Thadston, Rozanikka asks, "You think he's on to them?"

Thadston shrugs at Rozanikka.

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia says, "I can go pretend I lost an earring and search around for it."

Thadston says, "Or what if he want into the Museum for a reason."

You hear the faint whisper of Kippe saying, "We've lost him."

Speaking to Thadston, Dendum asks, ""Perhaps he wishes to check out book?"

Your voice quietly carries itself to Kippe, "Check if he's hidden in there, perhaps?"

Shinann asks, "To check out a book?"

Shinann glances at Dendum.

Shinann grins.

Speaking softly to Dendum, Chandrellia asks, "In a museum?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Dendum says, ""Dendum did not design buildling."

Your voice quietly carries itself to Kippe, "An alternative would be that he jumped off the roof and has gone entirely elsewhere."

Berost deeply asks, "Anythin worth stealin in there useful ta tha .. well; anyone?"

Searching the Museum

Thadston says, "I think we need to move."

Thadston says, "To the Museum."

Leafiara says, "Hmm."

Rozanikka exclaims, "Yay!"

Leafiara asks, "All of us, or should we surround the general area?"

Goldstr says, "If he doin dis every week He mus be reportin to someone."

[travel begins, but Cryheart realizes Thadston's not in the group, then goes back]

Thadston joins Cryheart's group.

Dendum says, "Hrmm well Librarian is always been one to spread knowledge....."

Thadston says, "It's possible he's still in there."

Your voice carries itself to Kippe, "We're on our way."

[Wehnimer's Museum, Grand Lobby]

White marble columns, set halfway into the walls, serve as both decoration and structural support for the high ceiling. Set between them are some colorful velvet settees that offer respite for weary patrons. The cool marble floor is interrupted by a pale gold carpet that leads up an expansive staircase. In the center of the western wall is a green marble arch, while the eastern wall sports a white marble arch. Across the room from a gold marble arch, a large platinum plaque and a rectangular white sign are displayed beside the oaken double doors that lead outside.

Thadston asks, "Where'd they see him last?"

Asben suddenly fades into view.

Cryheart says, "Could be anywhere."

Asben says, "I looked everwhere."

Cryheart asks, "Which way folks?"

Asben says, "Even the roof."

Speaking curiously to Asben, Leafiara asks, "Where was he spotted last?"

Telagan whispers to the group, "Someone pretend t'be runnin' the tour."

Asben says, "Here."

Asben says, "Well."

Asben says, "Coming up here."

Goldstr asks, "Try da Roof?"

Asben says, "Aye."

[Focused] Pietra thinks, "I think we all lost him somewhere on the second floor."

Asben says, "I looked."

Asben nods at Goldstr.

Thadston says, "Search around."

Thadston says, "Wander about."

Leifa says, "The basement."

Thadston nods at Cryheart.

Chandrellia softly says, "Nothing."

[Wehnimer's Museum, Gift Shop]

Tall potted plants made of jade green silk rest in the corners of this quiet room. Thick, dull gold carpeting muffles any footsteps of patrons perusing the items for sale that rest on numerous displays. A glass-fronted oak cabinet rests against the wall opposite a long marble-topped counter, behind which stands a portly man in a woolen vest. A stained golden oak door is centered between two additional potted plants, their vivid green silk leaves accenting the pale ivory hue of the walls. You also see a brown-haired portly human clerk.

Bernadette softly says, "Like a maze."

Thadston stretches and brushes up against a wall.

Kippe says, "He lost us in here."

Thadston shakes his head.

Cryheart says, "Look behind and under things."

Thadston growls ferociously!

Lord Thadston just went through a stained golden oak door.

[here people begin to split up and search on their own, including Leafi]

Leafiara musingly says, "Hm."

[Fine Arts Wing, On the Shores]

Stretching to the east and south, the walls in this portion of the long hallway are painted a pale sky blue. In the center of the floor stands an ornately detailed sea nymph statue on a carved lapis lazuli and jade base that resembles an ocean wave. Hanging on the wall is a cedar-framed dark watercolor seascape, an onyx-framed landscape painting, and a monochromatic ink stipple drawing. Crafted of pale green sea glass, several oil lanterns lend their subtly tinted light to the room. You also see the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk and a crystalline flask containing a silvery potion.

Also here: Dendum

Dendum picks up a crystalline flask containing a silvery potion.

Dendum asks, "Why are there so many of this Leafiara?"

The voice of Leafiara admits, "I have no idea." [actual answer: Gutstorm was leaving potions on the floor as bread crumbs for, uh... some reason]

The voice of Leafiara exclaims, "It's very odd!"

[travel, scouting]

You hear Thadston almost growling nearby, and something, perhaps a sculpture, shatter and break.

Leifa says, "I don't see anything."

Leafiara curiously says, "Hm."

Alosaka says, "This will end well."

From behind Alosaka, the voice of Leafiara says, "Ever the voice of optimism."

[General] Thadston thinks, "Zarston..."

[General] Pietra asks, "Whooo?"

[General] Thadston thinks, "I think I fo...."

Alosaka says, "We've pursued a child into a museum in the dead of night and now we're ransacking the place to find him."

Cryheart says, "Looking for a sculpture."

The voice of Leafiara uncertainly asks, "Zarston, Thadston says?"

Holoni asks, "Zarston?"

Goldstr asks, "Zarston?"

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "That was ominous."

Leafiara cautiously guesses, "I'm thinking Thadston might be in trouble now."

Goldstr says, "We did pass a statue."

There is a loud crash that echoes from the Fine Arts Wing.

[General] Shinann asks, "Thadston?"

Berkana says, "Ut oh."

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "Maybe he's drunk."

Leafiara says, "Fine arts wing, it sounded like."

Cryheart asks, "Where?"

Leafiara says, "West."

Alosaka says, "It did sound expensive."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Fine artsh."

Leafiara says, "Hmm."

Leafiara says, "This whole area is the Fine Arts Wing, so..."

Leafiara says, "Zarston was our hint..."

[more splitting up, more scouting]

Cryheart asks, "Nothing?" Leafiara says, "I'm reading all the plaques, signs, and nameplates, but..."

Leifa exclaims, "It's just gotta be here!"

[General] Stormyrain asks, "Anyone have eyes on Thadston yet?"

[General] Pietra asks, "Thadston, when do we get to do the fun run?"

Shinann says, "All these items are tagged."

Shinann says, "We need to find the one with that name on it."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "But I haven't seen one marked Zarston... did anyone?"

Shinann says, "I think."

Shinann says, "Not yet."

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "Seems to have left."

Cryheart asks, "Anyone?"

Beneath the Museum

[Leafi ends up wandering into the right room at the right time by sheer luck]

[Fine Arts Wing, Around Town]

Ivory-hued walls frame this portion of the long hallway that comprises this wing of the museum. Hanging on one wall is a reversed white eonake greatshield, a landscape scene covering its concave surface. Flanking the shield are two oak-framed paintings interspersed with ensconced oil lanterns that light up the room. On the opposite wall, a leaf-etched rosewood-framed painting hangs beside a long teak-framed portrait. Beneath the artwork, some short cast bronze otter statues and their accompanying sign rest on the pale mottled-green marble floor. You also see the Sorlu disk, the Lurrah disk and a crystalline flask containing a silvery potion.

Also here: Lord Sorlu, Lurrah, Lord Thrassus

Thrassus turns a leaf-etched rosewood-framed painting.

A panel in the wall slides open and you are sucked into the opening!

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor.

Also here: Event Planner Leafiara who is lying down, Imperatrix Lylia who is lying down, Xorus who is lying down, Roelon

You hit the floor with a loud *THUD*.

Roundtime: 10 sec.

Lurrah flies into the room and crashes to the floor with a loud *THUD*.

Leafiara musingly says, "Hmm."

Thrassus flies into the room and crashes to the floor with a loud *THUD*.

Lurrah says, "Oh my."

Roelon deeply says, "Indeed."

Roelon deeply says, "If ah may."

Lylia says, "Thank you."

Lurrah asks, "What in the world?"

[Leafi starts directing Shinann to the location]

Roelon deeply says, "Hmm..."

[General] Demandred thinks, "I think he was trying to say he found something..."

[General] Telagan thinks, "The painting in the around town room is by Zarston..."

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor.

Also here: Shinann who is lying down, Lord Telagan

>peer o

You peer out and see ...

[Fine Arts Wing, Around Town]

Ivory-hued walls frame this portion of the long hallway that comprises this wing of the museum. Hanging on one wall is a reversed white eonake greatshield, a landscape scene covering its concave surface. Flanking the shield are two oak-framed paintings interspersed with ensconced oil lanterns that light up the room. On the opposite wall, a leaf-etched rosewood-framed painting hangs beside a long teak-framed portrait. Beneath the artwork, some short cast bronze otter statues and their accompanying sign rest on the pale mottled-green marble floor. You also see a crystalline flask containing a silvery potion.

Also here: Stormyrain

Telagan says, "Well."

Leafiara says, "There are some red runes around here."

Leafiara says, "Other than that it seems like a mostly empty tunnel..."

[General] Pietra thinks, "Thank you Telagan."

Asben says, "Neat."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "I may have found something."

Chandrellia softly says, "Oh boy."

[General] Leafiara curiously asks, "Oh?"

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Fine arts wing, around the town."

[General] Rozanikka exclaims, "Well at least you got the full thought out!"

[people start flying in]

Leafiara says, "Ah, here they all come."

[General] Geijon thinks, "I found his name."

Leifa says, "What in the...."

Pietra says, "What."

Leafiara says, "Roelon is saying the archways at the ends of the tunnels are trapped."

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra says, "No wonder we lost him."

[General] Geijon thinks, "Alcove upstairs from th' lobby."

Roelon deeply says, "Ah took one to the gut..."

Dendum says, "Oi, not as nice as room of stars but...."

Roelon deeply says, "West archway led to some storage.."

Faerinn says, "Ugh."

[General] Lylia thinks, "Beware the arch."

>e

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor.

Obvious exits: east, west

Asben, Chandrellia, Shinann and Telagan followed.

>e

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a faint red rune etched into the wall.

Obvious exits: east, west

Asben, Chandrellia, Shinann and Telagan followed.

Chandrellia softly says, "Ok well Pukk isn't here to say it so, everyone join Leafi."

Roelon traces a finger along a faint red rune etched into the wall, and a tiny wisp of fiery light curls up into the air and dissipates.

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "..ouch."

>e

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a wood-framed archway.

Also here: Pietra, Kippe, a stunned Stormyrain

Leifa, Roelon, Asben, Chandrellia, Shinann and Telagan followed.

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "I did not mind the archway."

[General] Pietra exclaims, "Next time, duck!"

[back west]

Speaking to a faint red rune etched into the wall, Leafiara wonders, "What *does* this thing mean..."

[General] Rozanikka thinks, "Someone got sucked into the wall in Around Town."

Pietra says, "Runes. Archways."

Pietra says, "Weird."

Leafiara says, "There are runes in multiple locations, but what they mean..."

[General] Faerinn thinks, "I found the Darkstone."

[General] Sharkal thinks, "That's why I avoid all walls, never to be trusted."

[General] Leafiara curiously asks, "Where to, Faerinn?"

Speaking to Rozanikka, Fahlo says, "Thanks."

Leafiara recites:

"Form on Sir Cryheart!"

Speaking to Rozanikka, Missandai says, "Thank you."

[General] Faerinn thinks, "Northern tunnel through the arch."

[General] Lylia thinks, "I have found a room with a map, and markers. And cigars."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia asks, "Perhaps use spirit dispel on teh runes?"

[General] Faerinn thinks, "Called the Press room. It's right here."

[General] Roelon asks, "Did the walls try to crush ye?"

Cryheart says, "Oh ok."

[General] Faerinn thinks, "There is a tripwire. Be careful."

[General] Faerinn thinks, "The parchments are all torn and scattered, scraps thrown all around. But some of them have big bold letters that read, "THE DAILY DA....", and "ROOKS INCREA....", and "LORD THADSTON VAND....", and "EX-MILITIA HAP...." The remainder of the parchments are too torn to make sense of."

Stormyrain says, "Trip wire."

Stormyrain points north.

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a wood-framed archway.

Stormyrain points at a wood-framed archway.

Stormyrain asks, "Someone disarm it?"

Leafiara says, "We might be able to inspect the runes at our leisure... maybe we should follow Faerinn's lead."

>disarm arch

There is no lock on that, so it's unlikely to be trapped.

As Geijon makes his way toward a wood-framed archway, he gets caught by a tripwire!

A short tube extends outward from the archway.

Jets of flame shoot out toward Geijon!

... 1 point of damage!

Minor burns to left eye. Foe blinks back the tears.

... 5 points of damage!

Minor burns to neck. Looks uncomfortable.

... 15 points of damage!

Burst of flames to left eye incinerates eyelid. Gruesome.

He is stunned!

Pukk says, "No traps on it that I can see."

Leafiara mutters, "This subtlety stuff isn't my strong suit. There's only one path forward."

>go arch

As you make your way toward a wood-framed archway, you get caught by a tripwire!

A short tube extends outward from the archway.

Jets of flame shoot out toward you!

... 1 point of damage!

Minor burns to left eye. You blink back the tears.

... 5 points of damage!

Minor burns to chest. That hurts a bit.

... 5 points of damage!

Minor burns to abdomen. Feels painful.

[Museum, Press Room]

The old room smells of heavy tobacco and a hazy smoke drifts lazily about the area, infused with a burnt amber glow from the light of torches set into the walls. Bits of tattered or crumbled parchments litter the ground like debris in the aftermath of a storm, and several bottles of ink rest along a crude wooden shelf in the corner. You also see a wood-framed archway and a large wooden contraption.

Also here: Barrister Faerinn

Leafiara surprisedly says, "Well, that worked out."

>l cont

The large wooden contraption appears to be a screw-type printing press. The upper press frame is currently clamped down on top of a form that holds wooden block letters and symbols. Worn from use, the press lever is covered with slender ink-stained handprints.

>l par

Speaking to a large wooden contraption, Dendum says, ""Burghal stuff."

The parchments are all torn and scattered, scraps thrown all around. But some of them have big bold letters that read, "THE DAILY DA....", and "ROOKS INCREA....", and "LORD THADSTON VAND....", and "EX-MILITIA HAP...." The remainder of the parchments are too torn to make sense of.

Asben says, "Third time's the charm."

Leafiara yells, "This looks like where they're produced!" [no idea if the people who were through the archway could hear this]

Faerinn says, "This is it."

Faerinn says, "Careful. I heard a click."

Pukk says, "Easy."

Pukk says, "Everybody was having a hard time."

Rozanikka says, "Surely there's a better way than just..."

[Leafi goes back outside]

Leafiara says, "That looks like where the Darkstone is produced."

Pukk says, "It's easy going through."

Stormyrain asks, "Anything else there? Thadston?"

Sir Cryheart's group just went through a wood-framed archway.

Cryheart says, "There."

Leafiara says, "But Kippe's saying he's found elsewhere that the fake Rook outfits were produced."

Cryheart says, "Voln symbol worked."

Asben says, "Thanks."

Alosaka says, "Ah, we've discovered their nefarious lair."

Faerinn says, "Here's the presses."

Goldstr says, "Press room."

Bernadette softly says, "Ahh."

Leafiara says, "Each end of the tunnel probably has things to examine... this is the north one."

Leifa says, "Huh."

Cryheart says, "Take your time folks."

Stormyrain asks, "Ok this is not Thadston, can we keep looking?"

Leafiara says, "I'll check the other locations."

[west room]

[Museum, Stow Room] The timber-braced walls of the large stow room are almost completely obscured by stacks of canvas-draped mannequins. Filling one whole corner of the room are a dozen wooden crates, each one's lid pried open and set aside. Against the furthest wall are several wooden weapon racks, but each one is empty. You also see the Sorlu disk, the Lurrah disk and a wood-framed archway.

Also here: Lord Asben, Lord Sorlu, Lurrah, Pietra, Kippe

>l man

Peeking out from beneath the draped canvas, several of the mannequins are garbed in either a Wehnimer's Militia tabard, or a dark hooded cloak and a silver-beaked mask.

>l crate

The wooden crates are all empty, their lids having been already pried open and set to the side. The only thing of note on the crates are a few small crests burned into the inside corner of some crates. Some crests are that of a black triskelion on a field of gold and red, while others are a crest of a red eagle before a golden sun on a field of deep blue.

Dendum says, "Hrmph."

Kippe says, "Room was trapped."

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra says, "That's a theme down here I believe."

[east room]

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a wood-framed archway.

Also here: Lord Asben

>go arch

As you make your way toward a wood-framed archway, you get caught by a tripwire!

The walls begin moving inward!

You are crushed between the walls!

Some shiny red zelnorn chain mail emblazoned with a large white leaf partially deflects the onslaught of the crushing attack.

... 25 points of damage!

Your right hand is mangled horribly.

You are stunned for 2 rounds!

Asben is crushed between the walls!

... 50 points of damage!

Crushing blow to the spine!

Asben slumps to the ground.

He is knocked to the ground!

He is stunned!

Leafiara indignantly says, "Please, like some wall is going to stop me."

>sym trans

You step into the space between the corporeal and ethereal realms.

>go arch

Asben says, "Ow."

As you make your way toward a wood-framed archway, you get caught by a tripwire!

The walls begin moving inward!

You are crushed between the walls!

Some shiny red zelnorn chain mail emblazoned with a large white leaf partially deflects the onslaught of the crushing attack.

... 30 points of damage!

Your hand explodes from the brutal strike!

Trails of ether spurt high into the air in all directions.

You are stunned for 1 round!

Asben is crushed between the walls!

... 25 points of damage!

Whoosh! Several ribs driven into lungs.

He is stunned!

[Leafi drags Asben west and then goes back]

>go arch

You spot a concealed tripwire along the bottom of a wood-framed archway and step over it.

[Museum, Candle Room]

One lone torch burns within a crevice of the timber-braced walls, with much of the room blanketed in shadows. Splotches of ink have been splattered across a carved wooden table where a row of candles rest, their tiny flames flickering side to side. You also see a wood-framed archway.

>l on tab

On the wooden table:

Special [7]: a smooth white candle, a dark cyan candle, a tall black candle, a slender grey candle, a deep blue candle, a dark green candle, a dark red candle

>get cand

You can't pick that up.

>go arch

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a wood-framed archway.

Also here: a stunned Shinann, Stormyrain

Translucent streams of mana cascade across Stormyrain's form as she lets loose with a rallying cry!

Shinann manages to break free from her senseless daze!

Lord Asben just went through a wood-framed archway.

Shinann begins to look a little better.

Stormyrain can offer Leafiara only a blank expression.

As you make your way toward a wood-framed archway, you get caught by a tripwire!

The walls begin moving inward!

You are crushed between the walls!

Some shiny red zelnorn chain mail emblazoned with a large white leaf partially deflects the onslaught of the crushing attack.

... 20 points of damage!

Your stomach is ripped open by a mighty blow!

You are stunned for 3 rounds!

Shinann is crushed between the walls!

... 30 points of damage!

Hard hit shatters weapon arm.

She is stunned!

Stormyrain is crushed between the walls!

... 45 points of damage!

Left eye ripped from head, along with most of brain.

Stormyrain drops dead at your feet!

[General] Dendum thinks, "Hrmm we need knight in West...."

[General] The ghost of Stormyrain thinks, "..Leafiara decided to try and archway. It did not work well."

Leafiara slowly says, "...huh."

Leafiara apologetically says, "Err, sorry."

Leafiara says, "I thought the tripwire was gone since I got in before."

The voice of Gryzzlbok says, "She dont look to good."

[General] Rozanikka asks, "Casualties?"

The ghostly voice of Stormyrain says, "I don't feel that fantastic either."

[Help] Asben: "There's a table with candles on it through this east arch."

[General] Khaell thinks, "When life gives you archways..."

Roelon deeply says, "Aye, this one nearly crushed me here.."

[General] Asben thinks, "There's a table with candles on it through this east arch."

Leafiara embarrassedly says, "Sorry, I really thought the trap had been triggered and was gone."

Leafiara helpfully asks, "Symbol of Recall?"

[General] Asben thinks, "Seven of them all different colors."

Sir Cryheart's group just arrived.

Leafiara says, "Careful, all."

The ghostly voice of Stormyrain says, "Just get me up."

Goldstr exclaims, "Oooof!"

Leifa glances over at the body of Stormyrain, sizes up the mess and winces. You think you hear her mutter something beneath her breath that sounds like, "What a pity!"

[General] Lylia thinks, "And a map room to the south. A map of the city, with markers that most will recognize."

Roelon deeply says, "The walls will crush ye here."

Rozanikka asks, "What happened?"

Berost deeply asks, "Anyone able ta disarm them traps?"

Rozanikka says, "Oh."

[General] Lylia thinks, "I took one as a souvenir."

Faerinn asks, "What got you?"

Leafiara says, "Unlike the other rooms, getting through it once doesn't seem to get rid of the trap."

Leafiara says, "And it'll crush everyone."

Shinann says, "Trap."

Bernadette softly says, "Wahappen Cap'n."

Cryheart recites:

"For those of Voln...use the Symbol of transcendence before entering the archways"

[General] Asben asks, "Anything having to do with specific colors?"

[General] Stormyrain asks, "Is there an area that we have not been in?"

Clash!

A black gear-covered prism is launched into the area!

Leafiara says, "Oh no."

Stormyrain says, "Prism go."

Sir Cryheart's group just went west.

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a shaking gear-covered prism, the Rozanikka disk, the gauze-bound Missandai disk streaked with crimson bloodstains, the Soneiken disk, the Petalwind disk, the Alosaka disk, the Geijon disk, the gauze-bound Tolene disk streaked with crimson bloodstains, a green-eyed grey and white kitten, the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk and a wood-framed archway.

Also here: Lady in Waiting Chandrellia, Event Planner Leafiara, Shinann

The gear-covered prism begins to rattle then suddenly explodes! Dozens and dozens of sharp metal shards burst forth, flying in every direction!

Dozens of sharp pieces of metal strike and cause terrible pain!

... 40 points of damage!

Brutal blow to the neck sends head flying!

The head floats up and settles back in place as easily as a hat.

What is this, a haberdashery?

She is stunned!

Dozens of sharp metal shards come flying at you!

Some shiny red zelnorn chain mail emblazoned with a large white leaf partially deflects the onslaught of the puncture attack.

... 25 points of damage!

Damaging strike to chest, several ribs shattered!

You are stunned for 5 rounds!

Dozens of sharp pieces of metal strike and cause terrible pain!

... 40 points of damage!

Shot to back shatters bone and vertebrae!

Shinann drops dead at your feet!

[General] Pietra thinks, "There's a crate with two specific crests left behind. Along with some outfits."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Beware, prisms rolling around now."

Sir Cryheart's group just arrived.

Rozanikka stammers, "Nothing good!"

Leafiara says, "Seems they're aware now..."

The ghostly voice of Shinann says, "Well."

[General] Lylia thinks, "The markers are skeletons, rooks, knights. I think I saw a sword and a ship. And a smooth red stone."

Cryheart says, "Get Shinann up...rejoin me..and I can get ye through."

A black gear-covered prism is launched into the area!

Stormyrain asks, "Someone set a sanctuary so we can get Shinann breathing again?"

Sir Cryheart's group just went west.

[Leafi starts dragging Shinann]

You grab Shinann's body and drag it west with you...

Holoni says, "Yikes."

Rozanikka says, "Sheesh."

Cryheart says, "Here her up."

Leafiara musingly says, "Alright then."

A black gear-covered prism is launched into the area!

>w

You grab Shinann's body and drag it west with you...

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel] The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a shaking gear-covered prism.

Also here: the body of Shinann who is lying down, Fahlo

Chandrellia followed.

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Prisms rolling with some regularity now. At the east end of the tunnels."

The ghostly voice of Shinann says, "Just leave me and find Thadston."

The gear-covered prism begins to rattle then suddenly explodes! Dozens and dozens of sharp metal shards burst forth, flying in every direction!

Dozens of sharp pieces of metal strike and cause terrible pain!

... 50 points of damage!

Incredible strike pierces heart and runs Chandrellia clean through!

Chandrellia drops dead at your feet!

Dozens of sharp metal shards come flying at you!

Some shiny red zelnorn chain mail emblazoned with a large white leaf partially deflects the onslaught of the puncture attack.

... 30 points of damage!

Amazing shot through your nose enters the brain!

Sir Cryheart's group just arrived.

Cryheart says, "Bah."

Rozanikka exclaims, "Eek!"

The ghostly voice of Leafiara musingly says, "Well."

Cryheart says, "Get em up."

Goldstr exclaims, "Sheesh!"

Pukk says, "Chandrellia wasn't fast enough either."

The ghostly voice of Chandrellia softly says, "Well that didnt go so well."

Holoni says, "They gotta be coming from somewhere."

Cryheart says, "Get them up."

Cryheart says, "Easterly."

A grey-armored human scout ambles in.

The ghostly voice of Shinann says, "Go... prisms exploding."

[combat]

Leafiara says, "No, I don't think now is the time to get..."

[General] Pietra thinks, "Heraldry would have been good to learn."

[combat]

Leafiara concludes, "Them up..."

[combat]

Leafiara says, "Calmed..."

Missandai says, "I can't move."

Leifa asks, "Someone swing at me?"

Cryheart says, "Ok..get the bodies up."

Alosaka says, "At least we can still heal."

Holoni sadly says, "Calmed for 16 minutes."

Cryheart says, "I cannae swing."

[combat]

Telagan says, "Now, Cry."

[combat]

Leafiara says, "Troubadour's Rally if you can..." [cures calm, but can't be used if the bard is calm]

[combat]

Leafiara says, "To break the calming."

[very extended combat]

Missandai says, "Calmed still."

[combat]

The ghostly voice of Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Well done everyone!"

Telagan says, "Sorry t'those I attacked - had t'break the calm."

[extended combat]

Demandred softly asks, "There a group to join here?"

Stormyrain says, "Cryheart."

Leafiara says, "Sir Cryheart's."

Pukk says, "Join Cryheart."

(OOC) Cryheart's player whispers to the group, "Stay in the group, I will use the symbol transcendence to get us through the archway."

Roelon deeply says, "Could nae find the Marshal."

Speaking to Asben, Geijon says, "Good shot on th' candles."

Demandred softly says, "There are enemies approaching to our west."

The voice of Pietra says, "What in the heck was that crazy man thinking, sending us after... this."

Leifa says, "Someone uncalm Stormy."

Pukk whispers something to Leafiara.

(OOC) Cryheart's player whispers to the group, "And make sure you clear your targets."

Cryheart says, "We go east..get ready."

Speaking to Dendum, Pietra says, "I'm sorry you're still here like this."

Geijon whispers something to Asben.

Cryheart asks, "We ready?"

[General] Lylia thinks, "Thugs accosted us in the printing room."

Holoni asks, "Anyone able to uncalm me?"

Leafiara says, "The tunnels are mobbed with the Knave's people elsewhere too."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Cant cast one room over."

Leafiara says, "Hmm."

[General] Lylia thinks, "They were dealt with."

Asben whispers something to Geijon.

Lord Thadston just arrived.

Thadston scowls.

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "The Knave's people are mobbing this area now."

Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

Bernadette softly says, "There ye are."

Cryheart asks, "Did ye come from the east?"

Asben whispers something to Geijon.

Speaking to Thadston, Leifa says, "Good, glad you heard my call."

Thadston says, "I saw. I fought some off to the east of here. Some room with candles."

Thadston joins Cryheart's group.

Speaking to Thadston, Faerinn says, "Found Darkstone's printing press. Gustorm set it on fire though."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Thadston is with us."

Cryheart says, "Ok..we go back in that direction."

Thadston says, "Then let's go burn that damn thing down."

[General] Lylia asks, "He is safe?"

Leafiara says, "The north and west rooms seemed obvious enough, but the candle room was a mystery to me."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "..alive and seems to be unharmed overall."

[General] Khaell asks, "Landin under fire I take it? or is it out in the woods?"

Rozanikka says, "Way ahead of you."

Thadston asks, "Where's the press room?"

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "..but pissed."

Leafiara says, "North."

Holoni says, "Poor kitty blown east."

Cryheart says, "North."

Telagan says, "Northern end."

Cryheart asks, "Want to go there first?"

Faerinn says, "Northern tunnel. Watch for trip wires."

Thadston says, "Yes."

Rozanikka says, "That thing is charcoal by now."

Cryheart says, "Ok..moving."

Asben whispers something to Geijon.

Thadston glances at Dendum. [he was still dead]

Cryheart says, "And wait for me before entering the archway."

Pietra asks, "SOMEONE raise him??"

Leafiara says, "On it."

Thadston asks, "Are we just leaving the Willow kid down there?"

Leafiara says, "Sec."

[General] Lylia thinks, "Good."

Kippe asks, "Is anyone helping Dendum?"

Geijon says, "Oh.."

Leafiara says, "On it."

Cryheart asks, "All joined?"

Leafiara says, "Yes, but pause a moment for Dendum..."

[everyone's spelling him up]

Cryheart says, "Ok."

[General] Lylia thinks, "I hope we were not hasty."

Cryheart says, "Then we go to the press room."

Leafiara says, "It looks like a fight on the way."

Cryheart says, "Jus say when he is ready."

Leafiara viciously says, "Which is fine with me."

Asben says, "Ready."

Cryheart asks, "Ready Dendum?"

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Geijon says, "Cover th' clerics and empaths, please."

[combat]

Speaking to Geijon, Telagan says, "Feh."

[combat]

Leifa asks, "What? No magic?"

[combat]

Shinann says, "Appears not."

[combat]

Berkana says, "Ugh, no magic here."

Chandrellia recites softly:

"Magic doesn't work here"

[combat]

Leafiara says, "Maybe we'll have better luck as we move north."

[combat]

Thadston roars!

Cryheart asks, "All ready?"

From nearby, you hear Gutstorm yell, "Me got dish!"

Thadston growls ferociously!

The voice of Asben says, "Aye."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

[combat]

Pietra says, "He's got a dish."

[combat]

Cryheart says, "Nice."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a wood-framed archway and obvious signs of someone hiding.

Cryheart says, "Wait."

Leafiara says, "This archway's relatively safer than the east one."

Leafiara says, "At least."

Lord Thadston just marched stiffly through a wood-framed archway.

The voice of Pietra says, "You're leading,"

Sir Cryheart's group just went through a wood-framed archway.

Evidence in The Press Room

[Museum, Press Room]

The old room smells of heavy tobacco and a hazy smoke drifts lazily about the area, infused with a burnt amber glow from the light of torches set into the walls. Bits of tattered or crumbled parchments litter the ground like debris in the aftermath of a storm, and several bottles of ink rest along a crude wooden shelf in the corner. You also see a frosted cinnamon cookie, a wood-framed archway, a large wooden contraption and obvious signs of someone hiding.

Thadston growls ferociously!

>l cont

The large wooden contraption appears to be a screw-type printing press. The upper press frame is currently clamped down on top of a form that holds wooden block letters and symbols. Worn from use, the press lever is covered with slender ink-stained handprints.

>l par

The parchments are all torn and scattered, scraps thrown all around. But some of them have big bold letters that read, "THE DAILY DA....", and "ROOKS INCREA....", and "LORD THADSTON VAND....", and "EX-MILITIA HAP...." The remainder of the parchments are too torn to make sense of.

Cryheart bashes at the wooden contraption with his silvery rolaren waraxe!

Speaking to Thadston, Lylia asks, "You have seen the map room?"

Thadston growls ferociously!

Thadston says, "Not yet."

[people start bashing at and burning the contraption]

Lylia says, "Fire works best."

Thrassus says, "Careful, it's burning quite well."

Alosaka says, "We're... we're inside a public building."

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra asks, "Have you seen the costume room?"

Telagan says, "Ah, perhaps fire in an enclosed space... not best ideas."

Thadston asks, "Costume room?"

Shinann asks, "Costume?"

Pietra nods at Thadston.

Leafiara says, "The costume room is to the west."

Leafiara says, "It's where they made their fake militia and Rook uniforms."

Lylia says, "We have mages with water spells at the ready, I am certain."

'Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "Mannequins with Rook and militia garb. And some empty crates."

Leafiara says, "Or at least stored them."

Alosaka says, "Perhaps we can find something to set on fire in there, too."

Faerinn says, "Just make sure to collect some evidence first."

Speaking approvingly to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "I agree."

Thrassus says, "Lots of little miniatures representing all the factions and the like."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Oh NOW we can boorn it down?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Kippe says, "Some other ones in the crate, as well."

Thadston growls, the kroderine shards imbedded in his arms flash with a blood red spark. He keeps punching the burning wooden contraption.

Lylia says, "You say 'evidence,' I say 'trophy.'."

Roelon brings a hand up to his lips and forms a sign with his fingers as he whispers a quiet invocation.

Roelon gestures at a large wooden contraption.

Sections of the a large wooden contraption burst into spasmodic flame!

The flames engulfing a large wooden contraption leap higher!

Thrassus says, "Also a vial of seawater like Praxopius had, so whoever was here is Estonian."

Lylia mildly says, "Bashing the press rarely pays off as we believe it might."

* Jerabo joins the adventure.

Berost grunts happily, grinning. You feel more refreshed. >consider thras

* Jerabo returns home from a hard day of adventuring.

>l You glance at Thrassus and rub your chin thoughtfully.

Cryheart says, "Ok..that is done."

Thadston scowls at some crumbled parchments.

Speaking to herself, Stormyrain mumbles, "So much ash."

(OOC) Geijon's player whispers to the group, "What exactly is the standard health of bashable things."

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "Mentioned by name..."

(OOC) Pietra's player whispers to the group, "Depends on how much he wants to put us through I spose."

Cryheart asks, "Ok..where to next?"

Thadston says, "Eastern archway."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Thadston says, "I was attacked in the room with candles."

[combat]

Asben whispers something to Leafiara.

[combat]

Leifa exclaims, "He hates these candles!"

Thrassus says, "I think we got him."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

[combat]

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Cryheart says, "Wait."

Evidence in the Candle Room

Sir Cryheart's group just went through a wood-framed archway.

[Museum, Candle Room]

One lone torch burns within a crevice of the timber-braced walls, with much of the room blanketed in shadows. Splotches of ink have been splattered across a carved wooden table where a row of candles rest, their tiny flames flickering side to side. You also see a wood-framed archway.

>l on tab

On the wooden table:

Special [7]: a smooth white candle, a dark cyan candle, a tall black candle, a slender grey candle, a deep blue candle, a dark green candle, a dark red candle

Pietra rubs a dark cyan candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. Grey brick walls stretch across the room while a plump boar cooks in the roaring flames of a large red brick fireplace. A huge silver tapestry hangs on the wall, emblazoned with the image of a blue phoenix. Some laughter echoes from some revelers upon a scuffed wooden stage. [Blue Phoenix Pub at the Hendoran outpost]

Thadston squints.

Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara says, "Hmm."

Pietra says, "Oh..."

Kippe says, "My apology."

Pietra asks, "Are you seeing this?"

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Pukk says, "Keep at it."

Pietra rubs a deep blue candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see the dull and weather docks just south of Wehnimer's Landing sea gates. The docks are noisy, and workers move around, loading ships or unloading crates into nearby warehouses. The murky waters of Darkstone Bay expand beyond. [Landing docks]

Pukk says, "You got the touch."

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Those are doorways!"

Pietra rubs a dark green candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see the heart of Wehnimer's Landing, the center square that is framed by dozens of shops and buildings as travelers and townsfolk roam about. A tall oak tree throws a shadow over an old oak well in the center of the road. [Town Square Central]

Leafiara says, "Hmm..."

Berost deeply asks, "Them seein candles er some sech?"

Pietra rubs a dark red candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see eight apple trees in two rows of four, rising up along the southern slope of a hillock. Beyond that stands a plain grey stone tower with a peaked slate roof.

Thrassus says, "Interesting scrying method."

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra says, "We saw red smoke before too."

Chandrellia softly says, "The first was Thrak inn."

Speaking to Pietra, Asben exclaims, "Ya magical!"

Cryheart says, "They can view all over from this room."

Pietra rubs a dark cyan candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. Grey brick walls stretch across the room while a plump boar cooks in the roaring flames of a large red brick fireplace. A huge silver tapestry hangs on the wall, emblazoned with the image of a blue phoenix. Some laughter echoes from some revelers upon a scuffed wooden stage.

Leifa says, "That's...terrifying."

Speaking softly to Cryheart, Chandrellia says, "I'll bet they can travel thru them."

Pukk says, "Wow."

Dendum says, "Hrmph."

Kippe rubs a smooth white candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see a copse of haon trees and what appears to be an old pool of water surrounded by swathes of soft moss and lichenous rocks. The water has been tinged a beautiful, translucent green by the formation of algae.

Dendum asks, "Is anyone not spying on landing?"

Lylia says, "Reminds me of Faendryl smoke-seeing, in a way, although it is obviously far more specific. More akin to the apparatus in the outpost."

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Berkana says, "Ah."

Leafiara muses, "Explains a lot."

Thadston says, "A good way to get headlines..."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Hey, me came here for Walwardsh' minichersh, letsh fine DAT room."

Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Berost says, "Glad there aint on of yer office, or... least not anymore. Prolly had one."

Pietra rubs a tall black candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see a wide oak floor marred by countless scuff marks and a wooden desk resting beneath a weapon's rack. Further into the room is a strong iron-bound door with a narrow, barred grate. [Constabulary]

Speaking to Berkana, Telagan says, "My thanks."

Speaking to Berost, Leafiara says, "There probably was. I haven't seen outpost ones either yet..."

Asben whispers something to Geijon.

Telagan says, "All back t'gether."

Pietra says, "There was the jail."

Leafiara says, "Bet at one point they had one into the barracks..."

Pietra says, "Town center."

Soneiken rubs a slender grey candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see a spacious lobby with an oak bannister wrapped around a staircase. The walls of the area are draped in rich tapestries and townsfolk move about the lobby on their routine business. [Moot Hall]

[General] The ghost of Kiwoeachi thinks, "Ship captains cheat apparently."

Geijon whispers something to Asben.

Speaking to Soneiken, Dendum asks, ""Moot Hall?"

[General] Gutstorm thinks, "If ye aint cheatin, ye aint tryin, dat me motto."

Cryheart asks, "Hmm..light a candle?"

Berost deeply asks, "So, we steal em... er "liberate" em?"

'Pietra asks, "Did no one else touch a rune in the hallway and see a wisp of smoke?"

Thadston asks, "Runes?"

Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara says, "We got that far, but..."

Speaking to Pietra, Asben says, "I did."

Lylia says, "I touched it and saw the same. I also cast at it, but it was unaffected."

Cryheart asks, "Back to the runes?"

Soneiken says, "Yes Moot Hall lobby."

Pietra says, "We found red."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me no touch da runesh."

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "I got resurrected on a ship randomly."

Faerinn says, "I touched a rune, but it was a while back."

Leafiara admits, "Couldn't find any magic that worked on them, at least not yet."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "But me shaw 4, one in each hall."

Berkana says, "I touched a red one."

Thadston asks, "Have we noted where each candle looks upon?"

Speaking to Berkana, Kippe asks, "Are you suggesting I set things on fire?"

Thadston asks, "Before we go?"

Lylia says, "Markers or wards, I am not certain which."

Leafiara suggests, "Maybe we can save the runes for last."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra asks, "Have you noted where the candles look?"

Cryheart asks, "Someone draw a picture?"

Speaking drunkenly to Berkana, Gutstorm slurs, "Me can be a candle."

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "No clue where I'm at or what's going on anymore."

Leafiara says, "We've only been glancing, but..."

Speaking to Lylia, Fahlo asks, "That sketch have any insight into this matter?"

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "Can't ring out or anything."

Cryheart says, "Someone make notes."

Pietra asks, "Is that white one the lake, where we were with Pylasar?"

Speaking to Fahlo, Lylia says, "No, it was another sketch of the bleakstone statue."

Speaking to Cryheart, Kippe says, "I have."

Pietra says, "Moot hall, the grey."

Leafiara says, "I'm not clear on the white one. Blue is obvious, green likewise... most are."

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "Ok remind me never to get on a ship ever again."

Thadston says, "The cyan candle is the Outpost. The Blue Phoenix Tavern."

Berkana says, "Dark red, Gryphon Holding."

Leafiara says, "Ah. No wonder it's unfamiliar to me."

Thadston nods at Berkana.

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "This super big waste of time."

Geijon says, "Oh no."

Bernadette softly says, "Oh thas bad."

Thadston rubs a smooth white candle, and a small flame burns into existence as curls of wispy smoke coil up into the air. The smoke begins to thicken and take shape, soon revealing images within. You see a copse of haon trees and what appears to be an old pool of water surrounded by swathes of soft moss and lichenous rocks. The water has been tinged a beautiful, translucent green by the formation of algae.

Leafiara says, "In other words, exercise greater caution with Thrayzar than ever."

Pietra asks, "Moot Hall was there too... grey?"

Thadston glances at Lylia.

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "So just all my time wasted."

Berkana says, "Hmm."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Thrayzar bad guy agin?"

Leafiara says, "Especially given that Amos' mining operation happens to be at the Lysierian Hills."

Geijon says, "Red is th' Gryphon's holding."

Thadston says, "White is the Faendryl Enclave."

Goldstr says, "Thrayzar still safe in our Holding."

Pietra says, "Candles so they can see everything."

Speaking to Goldstr, Leafiara agrees, "Let's hope it stays that way."

Holoni says, "Almost seems like more is happening under the town than at surface level."

Thadston says, "Haon trees in pairs."

[General] Kiwoeachi thinks, "This sucks on many levels i'm jnust gonna head out."

Leifa says, "I'd know that copse of trees anywhere."

Goldstr says, "Aye."

Speaking to Leafiara, Geijon says, "Guarrin checks on him often, as do others."

Leafiara nods appreciatively at Geijon.

Thadston searches around for a moment.

Thadston says, "Take us to the far west archway."

Leafiara asks, "Is that all of the candles accounted for, then?"

Thadston nods at Cryheart.

Cryheart nods at Thadston.

Thadston says, "Before the Knave sends more here."

Pietra says, "Oooo, zircons."

Thadston says, "As much as destroying the Daily Darkstone's press room is good, I want more."

Evidence in the Stow Room

[Museum, Stow Room]

The timber-braced walls of the large stow room are almost completely obscured by stacks of canvas-draped mannequins. Filling one whole corner of the room are a dozen wooden crates, each one's lid pried open and set aside. Against the furthest wall are several wooden weapon racks, but each one is empty. You also see a wood-framed archway.

>l man

Peeking out from beneath the draped canvas, several of the mannequins are garbed in either a Wehnimer's Militia tabard, or a dark hooded cloak and a silver-beaked mask.

>l cra

Fahlo says, "Guess it's just as curious as to where those candles didn't have sight."

The wooden crates are all empty, their lids having been already pried open and set to the side. The only thing of note on the crates are a few small crests burned into the inside corner of some crates. Some crests are that of a black triskelion on a field of gold and red, while others are a crest of a red eagle before a golden sun on a field of deep blue.

Leafiara says, "The crests on the crates are..."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ah ha."

Thrassus says, "Well, quite good disguises there."

Pietra says, "We need a heraldry expert. I've tried to ignore that business."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dat how dey infiltrade all da groupsh."

Geijon asks, "Jantalar?"

Thadston says, "There's those uniforms they used."

Thadston nods at Leafiara.

Thadston says, "And the fake Rook masks."

Dendum says, "Dendum has seen this triskelion before...."

Leafiara asks, "Which two crests are these?"

Leafiara nods at Thadston.

Chandrellia softly says, "Yes, the ones they used to pretend to be the militia."

Pietra says, "A black triskelion and a red eagle."

'Cryheart says, "Jantalar and Seareach."

[General] Greycrown thinks, "Never get on a boat. You look around. Where are you going to run? So they don't say no. Because of the implication."

Thadston says, "Jantalar and Se.."

Thadston nods at Cryheart.

Cryheart frowns.

Cryheart nods at Thadston.

Dendum says, "Ahh yes the Jantalar..."

Leafiara mutters, "It's always Jantalar."

Faerinn says, "Jantalar makes sense."

Thadston searches around for a moment.

Faerinn says, "Seareach less so."

Speaking to Pietra, Kippe says, "You knew the knights would know."

Geijon says, "Probably when we got Thrazyar, they got those."

Thadston says, "Brisker's Cove is a den."

Thadston nods at Faerinn.

Faerinn says, "Jantalar boxes are pretty damning for Amos."

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra asks, "Den of knaves?"

Goldstr says, "Jantalr did send wagons of weapons to Talador to help Dennet."

Thadston says, "South arch."

Thadston nods at Cryheart.

Evidence in the Staging Room

[Museum, Staging Room]

The room is spacious with wooden braces holding the mortared walls together. The aroma of tobacco drifts through the area, lazily drifting about as it climbs towards the ceiling, trying to seep away. There is a wooden desk in the far corner, resting just below a mounted pair of crossed silver stilettos. You also see a wood-framed archway.

>l on des

On the wooden desk:

Special [2]: a burnished wooden cigar box, a pile of tiny map markers

Misc [2]: a small glass vial, a detailed map

>l via

The vial is half-filled with sea water and corked at the top.

Thadston asks, "This is the map?"

Thadston peers quizzically at Lylia.

>l map

You see a detailed map of Wehnimer's Landing and Darkstone Bay.

Lylia nods at Thadston.

Thadston selects a smooth red stone from a pile of tiny map markers.

Pietra asks, "Who said the vial is Estonian?"

[people pull various smooth red stones and miniatures of wooden swords, wooden skeletons, and wooden rooks

Lylia says, "We left the map untouched. The markers, however, we investigated more thoroughly."

Thadston put a smooth red stone in his charcoal black cloak.

Thadston selects a tiny wooden rook miniature from a pile of tiny map markers.

Thadston put a tiny wooden rook miniature in his charcoal black cloak.

Thadston glances at a burnished wooden cigar box on a wooden desk.

Thadston squints.

Speaking curiously to her sword miniature, Leafiara says, "Interesting, this one isn't even a person."

Lylia adds, "Yes, and the cigars as well. I took one for a friend."

Thadston says, "Amos is not a cigar man."

Speaking to Lylia, Kippe repeats, "For a friend."

Thadston says, "But I know who is."

Chandrellia softly says, "Hmm."

Faerinn asks, "Is Stephos?"

Lylia says, "Is he not? Interesting..."

Thadston says, "Some of us know who is."

Thadston nods at Faerinn.

[people start getting the cigars too]

Chandrellia softly asks, "Didn't someone mention a red stone earlier?"

Cryheart says, "Aye..Stephos."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Lylia says, "Yes."

Faerinn says, "Well, then."

Lylia says, "It is one of the markers, it appears."

Speaking softly to Lylia, Chandrellia says, "I just found one in this box."

Chandrellia shows Lylia her red stone.

Lylia says, "Only one of them."

Dendum says, "Stephos....the ugly human with not ugly wife? Oi, that is slimy creature."

Faerinn says, "That might be two for two."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kippe says, "There are several in there."

Speaking softly to Kippe, Chandrellia says, "Oh and here I was hoping I could be useful."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kippe says, "You are."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pietra says, "You can get only three. And three is all you can get."

Thrassus says, "Well, I suppose this means that Amos is not the Knave after all."

Slash and Burn

The sound of panels opening echo from a tunnel beyond the archway.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ut oh."

Leafiara suspiciously says, "Hmm."

Cryheart says, "Listen."

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Brace!"

Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

Shinann says, "Hmm."

Cryheart asks, "Runes?"

Cryheart says, "Get ready."

Thadston clenches his fists and the kroderine shards glimmer with blood red light.

Cryheart asks, "Shall we investigate?"

The voice of Pietra says, "I think we shall."

Scraping echoes from down the halls.

Cryheart says, "Get ready."

Leafiara says, "Let's see about those runes, yeah..."

Leafiara suspiciously says, "Or whatever else that might be."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Roelon deeply says, "Hmm...nae sounds good.."

Rozanikka stammers, "Don't like the sound of that at all."

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see a light pink morganite stone, a wooden shield and obvious signs of someone hiding.

A large grey-striped warcat pounces to the ground in front of you!

[combat]

Leafiara curiously says, "Hmm."

[combat]

Faerinn asks, "Literal warcats?"

[combat]

Leafiara admits, "I don't know what I expected, but it wasn't that."

[very extended combat]

Chandrellia recites softly:

"They absorb magic!!"

[very, very extended combat]

The ghostly voice of Rozanikka says, "Oof."

[combat]

The ghostly voice of Rozanikka says, "Yow."

[extended combat]

Thadston looks determined and focused.

In a breathtaking display of ability and combat mastery, Thadston whirls in a fury of unrelenting strikes and ripostes! Thadston swings a closed fist at a large grey-striped warcat!

AS: +1131 vs DS: +178 with AvD: -23 + d100 roll: +99 = +1029

... and hits for 38 points of damage!

Blow leaves an imprint on the grey-striped warcat's chest!

Thadston swings a closed fist at a grey-armored human scout!

AS: +1131 vs DS: +170 with AvD: -23 + d100 roll: +78 = +1016

... and hits for 38 points of damage!

Blow leaves an imprint on the human scout's chest!

Thadston swings a closed fist at a large grey-striped warcat!

AS: +1131 vs DS: +188 with AvD: -23 + d100 roll: +4 = +924

... and hits for 35 points of damage!

Blow leaves an imprint on the grey-striped warcat's chest!

Thadston swings a closed fist at a large grey-striped warcat!

AS: +1131 vs DS: +212 with AvD: -23 + d100 roll: +53 = +949

... and hits for 34 points of damage!

Flattened the grey-striped warcat's left hand.

Thadston swings a closed fist at a large grey-striped warcat!

AS: +1131 vs DS: +229 with AvD: -23 + d100 roll: +63 = +942

... and hits for 35 points of damage!

Blow leaves an imprint on the grey-striped warcat's chest!

Thadston swings a closed fist at a large grey-striped warcat!

AS: +1131 vs DS: +174 with AvD: -23 + d100 roll: +29 = +963

... and hits for 38 points of damage!

Torn muscle in the grey-striped warcat's right leg!

Thadston swings a closed fist at a large grey-striped warcat!

AS: +1131 vs DS: +305 with AvD: -23 + d100 roll: +19 = +822

... and hits for 31 points of damage!

Blow to the head causes the grey-striped warcat's ears to ring!

[combat]

The ghostly voice of Rozanikka says, "Bad kitties."

[extended combat]

Kippe whispers something to Missandai.

[extended combat]

Missandai whispers something to Kippe.

[very extended combat]

Cryheart says, "Whew."

Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

Thadston says, "Those are not normal cats..."

Cryheart asks, "Everyone ok?"

Berost deeply says, "Yar that."

A grey-armored elven disruptor just arrived!

Faerinn asks, "Literal warcats!?"

Goldstr says, "Ate here."

Leafiara says, "Maybe some of Amos' imports."

[combat]

Speaking softly to Cryheart, Chandrellia exclaims, "Ofcourse they are I was all over it!"

[very, very, very extended combat]

Berkana says, "Ugh."

[combat]

Holoni says, "Yikes."

[extended combat]

Pietra says, "Calmed."

[very, very extended combat; lots more of talk about calming, but I'm skipping it this time except for...]

Leafiara says, "Can channel a dispel at yourself to be rid of it too."

[...that, because I didn't know that until now and no one else seemed to either]

[very extended combat]

Pietra exclaims, "NO!"

[very extended combat]

Speaking to Dendum, Pietra says, "Tiny man, nooo."

[very extended combat]

Pukk says, "That was fun."

Cryheart asks, "All OK?"

Pukk says, "Until I was calmed."

Bernadette softly says, "I good ok."

Roelon deeply says, "Ah...think so."

The ghostly voice of Rozanikka says, "Not so great."

Leifa says, "Nothing like having your own magic used against ya."

Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

A large grey-striped warcat pounces to the ground in front of you!

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Danksh!"

[combat]

Chandrellia softly says, "Yeah I tried saying the cats were just absorbing the magic."

Leafiara says, "On second thought, fighting off some cats first..."

[combat]

Geijon says, "They absorb mauls too."

Dendum says, "Oi how many stupid ..."

[combat]

Leafiara says, "Oof."

[very extended combat]

Thadston throws his head back and howls!

Leifa says, "Bad kittehs."

Cryheart asks, "All ok?"

The voice of Asben says, "Now this is fun."

Chandrellia softly says, "And everyone is still nice and pretty."

Speaking to Thadston, Holoni says, "That's quite the punch you pack there."

[very extended combat]

Leafiara yells, "Can do this all night, ya bloody Knave idiots!"

[extended combat]

From nearby, you hear Dendum yell, "Oi it seems so they can also do this all night!"

[very extended combat]

Dendum says, "Oi this blew by."

Thadston asks, "No one dead?"

Lylia says, "All seem to be breathing."

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia says, "I do a pretty good job at keeping everyone alive unless they get critted."

[very, very, very extended combat]

Pietra exclaims, "Flyin kitten!"

Demandred philosophically muses, "You know I'd say magical calm makes me angry, but, alas...it is not so."

[extended combat]

Collapse

A spark of red light flashes along the eastern tunnel.

The voice of Dendum says, "Oi, Stephos will be poor at the rate he is buying sellswords."

Cryheart asks, "East tunnel?"

[combat]

Thrassus exclaims, "East!"

[combat]

Rozanikka says, "Red light. Eastern tunnel."

[combat]

The voice of Pietra asks, "I mean, do we HAVE to stand here and kill these?"

Leafiara says, "They might be trying to delay us. If that's it, just move."

Leafiara says, "Like Pietra implied."

Cryheart says, "Moving east."

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see the faenor Demandred disk inlaid with intersecting bands of jet, the gauze-bound Missandai disk streaked with crimson bloodstains, the Soneiken disk, a green-eyed grey and white kitten, a bent coin, some manna bread and a faint red rune etched into the wall.

Lylia whispers something to Xorus.

(OOC) Chandrellia's player whispers to the group, "Its pretty exhilarating when you can heal 20+ in a group with screen scroll lmao."

Leafiara asks, "Maybe water magic since it looks fiery but doesn't respond to fire?"

Pietra amusedly says, "Yeah yeah, we're touching the red rune."

A spark of red light flashes along the western tunnel.

Goldstr says, "Hopes we culled da Knave's forces down a good bit."

[Museum, Hidden Tunnel]

The walls of the tunnel are unfinished and crafted of timber braces and mortared stone. The space is partially illuminated by flickering torches set into the walls that cast shadows dancing along the rough stone floor. You also see some polished red coral, a violet sapphire, a torn sketch, an engraved gold flask, a stale chocolate tart, a torn sketch, a threaded green pearl and a faint red rune etched into the wall.

Leafiara dubiously asks, "...are they about to surround us?"

A spark of red light flashes along the northern tunnel.

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Roelon deeply says, "Ah nae like the look of those."

A spark of red light flashes along the southern tunnel.

Leafiara speculates, "Or perhaps destroy the area and all evidence..."

Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere, burying Dendum!

Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere, burying Gutstorm!

Suddenly the tunnel is wracked by several loud explosions as fire and rubble scatter everywhere! You feel yourself falling...

It's too dark to see anything at all.

There are several loud explosions that shake the entire tunnel and fire and rubble are scattered everywhere! Suddenly Drektor falls into view, looking very disoriented!

[and everyone else]

Demandred softly says, "It's dark."

Cryheart says, "What the."

Pietra says, "Wonderful."

Leafiara mutters, "I hate it when I'm right."

Chandrellia recites softly:

"Ok, take it easy"

Dendum reaches inside one of the containers hanging from his beaver pelt baldric and grabs an iron-handled blue tanik torch.

Shinann says, "Umm."

Roelon deeply says, "Umm..."

Goldstr asks, "Wha?"

Cryheart says, "Someone light it up."

Leafiara says, "Sometimes."

Fahlo gestures.

The area becomes brighter.

Dendum lights his blue tanik torch, causing the end to burst into a shower of flame.

Roelon deeply asks, "Oiy?"

Chandrellia recites softly:

"Is everyone ok?"

Cryheart says, "So far."

Berost deeply says, "Yar."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Hey who grabbed me toosh."

Faerinn says, "I'm fine. Just dark."

Speaking softly to Gutstorm, Chandrellia says, "Sorry couldn't resist."

>l

It's too dark to see anything at all.

Thadston asks, "Everyone alright?"

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Leafiara grumbles, "So far."

Pukk says, "I can't see a thing."

Lylia says, "I believe so."

Telagan asks, "Anyone gots a torch?"

Thrassus says, "Looks like east is open."

Roelon deeply says, "Ah think so? cannae see ah blasted thing however."

Goldstr says, "Aye but dark."

>peer e

You peer east but see nothing of interest.

>peer w

You peer west but see nothing of interest.

>peer n

You peer north but see nothing of interest.

>peer s

You peer south but see nothing of interest.

>peer se

You peer southeast but see nothing of interest.

>peer sw

You peer southwest but see nothing of interest.

>peer ne

You peer northeast but see nothing of interest.

>peer nw

You peer northwest but see nothing of interest.

>peer u

Cryheart says, "Up we go."

You peer up and see ...

[Museum, Collapsed Tunnel]

The tunnel here has collapsed and rubble has been scattered all about. The walls and ceiling still shake as loose dirt periodically crumbles from above. You also see a resplendent obsidian black raven that is flying around and a huge pile of rubble.

Obvious paths: down

>peer down

You peer down but see nothing of interest.

Bernadette softly says, "Kin see a ting."

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra asks, "So I spose this means all that evidence is now gone?"

Sir Cryheart's group just went up.

[Museum, Collapsed Tunnel]

The tunnel here has collapsed and rubble has been scattered all about. The walls and ceiling still shake as loose dirt periodically crumbles from above. You also see a resplendent obsidian black raven that is flying around and a huge pile of rubble.

Chandrellia softly says, "Someone has casted light so hopefully it helped."

Roelon deeply says, "Well now..."

Cryheart says, "Collapsed tunnel."

Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara says, "Yeah..."

Leafiara mutters, "Sometimes I *really* hate it when I'm right."

Speaking surreptitiously to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Speaking of which, we need to talk at some point. But I'll save it for another night."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "It's a curse."

Chandrellia softly asks, "But if the tunnel was under the museum, does that mean the museum is destroyed as well?"

Demandred softly mutters, "I hate being blown up."

Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "You should know about that."

Thadston says, "They blew the tunnels."

Speaking to Leafiara, Faerinn says, "I dunno. I'm pretty high on the scoreboard of right at the moment."

[people start digging their way out]

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Pietra asks, "Why's there a web?"

Lylia says, "It would make sense."

Thadston digs at the pile of rubble but does not seem to be making much progress.

Rocks fall from the ceiling, landing on Bernadette!

Some polished spiked ora arm greaves partially deflect the onslaught of the crushing attack.

... 15 points of damage!

Right elbow smashed into a thousand pieces.

She is stunned!

Chandrellia softly says, "Do we have a mage that can use Stone Fist to clear this rubble, I mean it worked with the bleakstone statue."

Rozanikka says, "Yikes."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dig quicker!"

Chandrellia softly says, "I'll just stand back and heal."

Speaking absently to Faerinn, Leafiara says, "About Stephos and Rone? Sure."

Xorus says, "This reminds me of those other times we were caved in upon with rubble."

Rocks fall from the ceiling, landing on Bernadette!

... 20 points of damage!

Neck broken.

Bernadette twitches several times before dying.

Bernadette drops dead at your feet!

Pietra says, "Oh no."

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "No!"

Roelon deeply says, "Ugh..."

Demandred softly says, "We might want to hurry...teh ceiling is coming down."

Leafiara slowly says, "Yeesh."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Eww det not good."

Pietra asks, "Maybe we should slow down a bit?"

Thrassus exclaims, "Faster!"

Pietra says, "Or."

Loud scraping can be heard in the darkness above.

A small green tree frog hops in.

A small green tree frog exclaims, "I heard everyone was trapped, I've come to save the ladies only!"

Pietra asks, "Maybe the warcats will dig us out?"

Leafiara slowly says, "I'm inclined to agree with the 'faster' idea."

Chandrellia softly says, "Gah I couldn't heal her in time."

Speaking to a small green tree frog, Rozanikka laughs, "Not now, frog prince."

Rocks fall from the ceiling, landing on Thrassus!

... 25 points of damage!

Solid strike caves Thrassus's skull in, resulting in instant death!

Thrassus drops dead at your feet!

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me bet chompy can it us out."

Geijon yells, "Can you hear us?"

Speaking to a small green tree frog, Pietra exclaims, "Great, now we have a sexual harassment frog!"

Pukk yells, "Sticks and stones!"

A loud hiss echoes from above as the silhouttes of warcats come into view and leap down!

A large grey-striped warcat pounces to the ground in front of you!

A small green tree frog exclaims, "I've never done that!"

[combat]

(OOC) Berost's player whispers to the group, "Now available at the next HESS, rubble resist certs."

Roelon deeply says, "Ymm.."

[combat]

Leafiara slowly says, "Well."

[combat]

Demandred softly says, "And there's a warcat."

[combat]

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Oh like the rubble wasn't enough!"

Demandred softly says, "Great."

[combat]

(OOC) Pietra's player whispers to the group, "HAHA!"

[combat]

Pietra says, "Welll they did open a hole..."

[extended combat]

A small green tree frog says, "And here I was trying to save everyone.. that was a woman."

Pukk says, "I'm still digging."

[combat]

Thadston digs at the pile of rubble but does not seem to be making much progress.

Leafiara mentions, "You know, about half of the warcats around here live near the Lysierian Hills, if these have been bred from those..."

[more digging, more rubble]

The ghostly voice of Telagan says, "Well."

Pietra peers quizzically at Leafiara.

Chandrellia softly says, "Ok stop, the more we dig the more collapses."

Speaking to Lylia, Pietra says, "I'm dying to know."

Rozanikka asks, "You think so?"

Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara says, "The cave up by the Lysierian Hills."

Berost deeply says, "I need ta go have a word wit' some o' these so called dwarves doin business wit these folks ta set up this 'mining.'"

Speaking softly to Chandrellia, Demandred says, "Correlation is not causation...the ceiling might just be collapsing."

Berost deeply says, "Useless ..."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Ah that cave."

A small green tree frog exclaims, "Follow me through the tiny frog sized crack!"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Da one time me no bring a shovel."

Lylia whispers something to Pietra.

Thadston digs at the pile of rubble but does not seem to be making much progress.

Chandrellia softly says, "Ok well I'll just stand back and heal everyone as the roof and rubble falls on them."

Pietra whispers something to Lylia.

Hissing echoes from above.

[combat]

Speaking drunkenly to Lylia, Gutstorm slurs, "Me vote we implode da pile."

[combat]

Speaking to Gutstorm, Lylia says, "I tried something like that once. It did not end well."

[combat, digging]

Asben says, "I wish I had a shovel."

Thrassus exclaims, "Go into the darkness!"

Speaking drunkenly to Lylia, Gutstorm slurs, "It reshisted me magic."

Lylia says, "Though truly, it did dislodge the rubble...the trouble is, it also dislodged a portion of the surrounding village."

Dendum says, "Hrmm."

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra asks, "Hey can you bash your forearms together and blow up that pile so we can get outta here?"

Thrassus says, "I am getting a portal open."

Speaking wryly to Pietra, Leafiara says, "That needed the kroderine gauntlets, not their broken shards."

Holoni asks, "I can try to spirit guide us out, is that a bad idea?"

Speaking to Fahlo, Telagan says, "Jus', ah, standin' in nots great places."

[General] Dendum thinks, "Hrmm is possible to use magic to get from rock."

Speaking to Telagan, Fahlo says, "Oh! I'll try and spread the bad luck more my way."

(OOC) Gutstorm's player whispers to the group, "Like has anyone tried to fog? Like I kinna wanna see where this takes us but that should be our oh poop option."

Asben whispers something to Pietra.

Asben digs at the pile of rubble and seems to be loosening it up a bit.

The last of the pile of rubble crumbles away, revealing a large jagged hole.

Pietra says, "Whew."

(OOC) Shinann's player whispers to the group, "Please leave the group if you try it."

[but with the hole open, rocks fall like eight times faster than before to crush people]

Kippe says, "Arm up."

Leafiara says, "Well, let's see what's left of this place..."

Demandred softly asks, "Let's go maybe?" [as people are getting slammed with rocks]

Geijon says, "Get out."

Fahlo exclaims, "We should move while we can!"

Roelon deeply exclaims, "Let's get out of here!"

Rozanikka says, "Time to move."

Pukk says, "Ouch."

Berkana says, "Good grief."

Leifa exclaims, "The sky is falling!"

Kippe says, "Move."

Demandred softly asks, "Go?"

Leafiara urges, "Through the hole."

Holoni says, "We can't dig here."

Cryheart says, "Hold."

Goldstr exclaims, "Dang rocks!"

Cryheart says, "Hold."

Demandred warningly insists, "The ceiling is coming down faster."

Cryheart says, "Unstun."

Cryheart says, "Stop digging."

Telagan says, "We are."

Leafiara says, "Through the hole."

Still Digging

Sir Cryheart's group just went through a large jagged hole.

[Wehnimer's Museum, Basement]

Lined on both sides by flickering torches, this room is part of a tunnel beneath the museum. A set of stone steps leads upward toward a brighter light, while the enclosed passage stretches on to the east and west, its rough walls crafted from timber braces and mortared stone. You also see the faenor Demandred disk inlaid with intersecting bands of jet, the gauze-bound Missandai disk streaked with crimson bloodstains, the Soneiken disk and the gauze-bound Tolene disk streaked with crimson bloodstains.

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Get thru the crack!"

Leafiara says, "Whew."

Roelon deeply says, "Ah think ah am alright..."

Thadston slowly empties his lungs.

Geijon asks, "That all of us?"

Cryheart asks, "Did we get everyone?"

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra asks, "What else you suppose we're going to get to deal with tonight? Flying monkeys?"

Fahlo adds, "Pigs too!"

Pietra says, "I for one, welcome our flying monkey overlords."

Petalwind says, "Kippe is still in the dark."

Chandrellia softly says, "Oh no."

Demandred tiredly says, "That was a lot of rubble to move."

Chandrellia softly asks, "Kippe is still in the tunnles?"

Pietra says, "Dammit."

Goldstr says, "I knew da basement here meant something."

Pietra says, "My hidden partner in confusion."

Leifa says, "I seem to recall mentioning it would be in the basement when we came in, my worst fears realized."

Thadston grumbles.

Chandrellia softly says, "I can't locate."

Rozanikka laughs, "First place I looked too."

(OOC) Pietra's player whispers to the group, "Ya'll... there's no basement in the alamo."

Kippe just arrived.

Thadston nods at Kippe.

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra asks, "You alright, friend?"

Leafiara says, "How to lure Stephos now, given what we know and that he knows we know..."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ye shkeert ush Kippe!"

Kippe says, "That was a dark room."

Faerinn says, "Well, signs down there point to Stephos."

Thadston nods at Faerinn.

Thadston says, "They do."

Faerinn says, "Might be two for two masked folks."

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra says, "Very dark room."

Lylia dryly remarks, "He is still the worm I thought he was, and he surely knows that too. This is no surprise, only in the manner of the discovery."

Thadston says, "But there's been no word or sign of him in, a long time."

Thrassus asks, "Where is Stephos from originally?"

Thadston says, "Idolone."

Thadston says, "Estoria."

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Lylia says, "Worms are typically underground."

Speaking to Berkana, Telagan says, "Was feelin' bits missin'."

Speaking drunkenly to Pietra, Gutstorm teases, "Shoulda played shpin da bottle."

Shinann says, "Not really like him to leave clues."

Thadston nods at Shinann.

Soneiken says, "Brisker Cove."

Thadston says, "Unless he didn't think to be caught there."

Leafiara says, "The cigar box could certainly be a misdirect like the uniforms were, just one not used yet... anything's possible."

Speaking to Thadston, Lylia asks, "Does he have a favorite cigar?"

Speaking to Telagan, Berkana says, "I won't tell if something is."

Leafiara says, "I think we need to get to Alendrial."

Thadston nods at Leafiara.

Thadston says, "Yes. A conversation with Alendrial is needed."

Leafiara nods at Thadston.

Speaking to Berkana, Telagan says, "Small kindness indeed."

Speaking to Thadston, Lylia says, "If someone were misdirecting toward him, they might consider it enough to set down a cigar box without choosing his particular brand, if the one fishing up the red herrings was careless."

Goldstr says, "Some tinks Alendrial be Mother."

Thadston says, "I'm unfamiliar with his choice of cigars."

Pietra says, "Well the cigar I borrowed smells like cloves."

Lylia says, "Alendrial, however, might not be."

Faerinn says, "Then an upstart like say Amos has taken over the organization."

Faerinn says, "Amos likes to take over things."

Leafiara says, "Haven't heard from Alendrial in... nearly a year. And while we know why Cordarius is working with the Consortium to get close, it's unclear why Alendrial is."

Dendum asks, "Are we in middle of human divorce?"

Thadston smirks at Dendum.

Leafiara says, "She worked with Amos to get to Thrayzar as well..."

Dendum says, "This is why Wendwillows do NOT marry."

Thadston says, "If the Knave and the Rooks are fighting because of Stephos and Alendrial....then Edwina and Larton should be ashamed."

Thadston smirks.

Speaking to Dendum, Pietra asks, "Dash my hopes, why don'tcha?"

Berost deeply asks, "An Amos jest tryin to profit?"

Goldstr exclaims, "Edwina OWNS Larton!"

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon comments, "Least we answered last nights question."

Faerinn asks, "Are we the kids whose custody they are fighting over?"

Thadston says, "I'll arrange a conversation with Alendrial."

Thadston says, "We'll keep what we know so far to ourselves."

Faerinn exclaims, "Well...then the upside is two solstices!"

Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr says, "Woulds be good."

Leafiara says, "We just need to reconcile whatever she tells us with what's been discovered here. Or, if it can't be reconciled, then..."

Thadston says, "But we've confirmed the Daily Darkstone's connection to the Knave, regardless."

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon commends, "And that we'd fight with you."

Thadston says, "I just do not understand why Stephos would wage war against the Rooks and not try to worm back in."

Speaking curiously to Thadston, Leafiara asks, "Going to arrest and interrogate the squire kid?"

Thadston says, "If he returns, yes."

Thadston nods at Leafiara.

Leafiara nods at Thadston.

Speaking to Thadston, Pietra says, "Hey, by the way. Sorry I didn't manage to track that young squire all the way. He was a slippery little man."

Telagan says, "May nots be much lefts if'n they figure he lead us down theres."

Thadston says, "He may not. Given we're going to have to explain to the curator about some exploded tunnels."

Leifa admonishes, "Must punish the young lad."

Speaking to Thadston, Dendum says, ""Rooks have changed since Stephos yes? Perhaps this Mother does not like him....wife or no."

Thadston says, "Or better, she might need to explain it to us."

Speaking cryptically to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Well... I have theories, but you might not like them."

Telagan says, "May be, ah, more willin' t'talk and save 'imself."

Chandrellia softly says, "What I think is funny, is the Knave, has been pretty quiet, doesn't get loud in town, doesn't hang posters or mark buildings, but Amos is a loud mouth bragger, and he has been bragging about the DD, so I'm just putting two and two together."

Shinann says, "He was helping the ones that wanted to leave Rysus..."

Speaking to Thadston, Kippe says, "An awkward conversation."

Thadston says, "You did great Pietra. Do not apologize."

Pietra nods slowly at Thadston.

Thadston peers quizzically at Leafiara.

Speaking drunkenly to Pietra, Gutstorm slurs, "Tole yoo!"

Leafiara glances between Shinann and Thadston.

Geijon whispers something to Cryheart.

Shinann says, "They all did."

Leafiara clenches her jaw.

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra says, "You did as well."

Speaking to Pietra, Dendum exclaims, ""Yes without the Pietra never would have found tunnels! Or Death Cats!"

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara sighs, "...I really hate that it's come to this and you might kill me for it, but here."

Leafiara removes a small sack from in her cherry red cloak.

Chandrellia removes a blueberry lollipop from in her black leather purse.

Speaking drunkenly to Kippe, Gutstorm slurs, "Wot dat fer?"

Leafiara offers Thadston a small sack.

[in the sack...]

In the sack:
Special [3]: a piece of ivory parchment (3)
Total items: 3

>read par in sac
The page, written in Common, reads as follows:

1. Mother seemingly already knew I'd joined the militia same night I got my badge - someone inside militia?
2. Mother struck deals with Thadston to capture Disean and evacuate town - vested interest in Thadston?
3. Mother said "we both" liked Lylia - who is the other in "we"
4. Casiphia agreed to plan of being chained, gagged, and fake poisoned by Rooks - only Mother or high rank Rook should trust no betrayal in vulnerable situation
5. Mother pursued no revenge for Thadston's drunken night in the tunnels

>read other par in sac
The page, written in Common, reads as follows:

6. Casi and Mother both made comments about being touched by my worry for them
7. Mother aided with getting the bleakstone statue, with low asking price of help against the Knave - vested interest again?
8. Casi upset when Thadston beat the Blameless prisoner - his rage is counterproductive to her?
9. Mother has always referred to Rone as a woman - familiarity
10. Mother and Rone claim to be enemies, but Rone uses nonlethal force against Rooks and they never attack her - ordered not to?

>read third par in sac
The page, written in Common, reads as follows:
11. Tried to work with Rone and she said I couldn't have "both sides of the coin" - interesting metaphor since both sides are still the same coin...
12. Rone told me to denounce Rooks or justice would come for me; I said I'd pursue any lead or evidence she gave, but she couldn't or wouldn't give any - never truly wanted me to denounce or pursue Rooks?
13. Never seen Mother and Rone together; closest was Rone rescuing a dying Rook sailor, leaving him with us, and Mother arriving shortly after - switcheroo?

Thadston accepts Leafiara's sack.

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Consider what's in there, some time."

Speaking to Dendum, Pietra exclaims, "You would have lived so many more times tonight!"

Thadston attaches a small sack to his belt.

Thadston removes a piece of ivory parchment from in his sack.

Kippe whispers something to Pietra.

Cryheart says, "Hmm..was nae aware of a basement."

Leafiara says, "Each one says different things. Bits and pieces I've observed over the past two and a half years."

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra says, "Thank you for communicating with me. That was a bit of a rush."

Speaking slowly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "I'm pretty sure you won't like it, but it's my honest thought."

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Oh this lolli is yummy!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Dendum says, ""Hrmm this building as many hidden rooms."

Pietra whispers something to Kippe.

Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "You did good."

Speaking to Asben, Pietra says, "Oh and hey, I saw ya but you did alright for a big giant in metal."

Leafiara hurriedly says, "And I do hope I'm wrong."

Speaking to Pietra, Asben says, "I got one scratch."

Speaking to Cryheart, Goldstr says, "Some verra old historical items here in da basement."

Speaking to Asben, Kippe says, "Heard you but didn't see you."

Cryheart says, "Good to know."

Speaking to Asben, Rozanikka says, "Me too. Heck of a scratch though."

You think to yourself, "...oh, I'm so dead."

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra says, "Oh I saw him so much."

Speaking to Rozanikka, Asben says, "It sure was."

Speaking to Pietra, Kippe says, "You've the eyes of a hawk."

Thadston glances at Leafiara.

Speaking drunkenly to Kippe, Gutstorm slurs, "Bet ye dint shee me at all."

Thadston put a piece of ivory parchment in his sack.

Leafiara frowns.

Speaking to Gutstorm, Kippe says, "I wish I hadn't."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Pietra says, "We smelled you and saw all the trash you left on the floor."

Thadston says, "You need a new hobby, since you're not mayor anymore it seems."

Speaking softly to a green-eyed grey and white kitten, Chandrellia says, "You did good too Battle Kitten."

Thadston nods at Leafiara.

Leafiara reiterates, "Observations made about things that don't line up--"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Bread crumbsh!"

Leafiara looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.

Speaking slowly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Alright, don't consider the possibility then."

Speaking to Thadston, Kippe says, "She's planning parties."

Thadston says, "Just leave Casi alone."

Thadston nods at Leafiara.

Leafiara cautiously says, "Noted."

Thadston says, "She's away, and she's safe."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I still think of you as our mayor."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "DISH a battle kitteh."

Thadston says, "I don't need your wild theories."

Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr says, "Goods to hear."

Speaking softly to Gutstorm, Chandrellia asks, "Den how it was hidin in your coat the whole time?"

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon inquires, "We never did piece together th' Zarston yell?"

Speaking to Pukk, Kippe says, "Technically, she hasn't been replaced."

Thadston says, "I need you focused on real theories."

Speaking to Thadston, Dendum asks, ""You have heard theory of kobold then?"

Speaking to Thadston, Leifa asks, "Like?"

Thadston says, "The West Gate painting."

Thadston nods at Geijon.

Thadston says, "Painted by Zarston."

Speaking to Geijon, Pietra says, "So we gonna argue again tonight? Because I'm pretty beat."

Speaking to Leafiara, Fahlo says, "Sounds like you struck a nerve. No smoke without fire."

Thadston says, "The name I saw before I fell into the wall."

Thadston removes a small sack from his belt.

Leafiara says, "What's left to theorize about now with the Knave and Daily Darkstone connection confirmed? It just seems like the time to act."

Speaking to Pietra, Geijon says, "No and hopefully not again."

Thadston throws the sack to the ground.

Thadston drops a small sack.

Thadston glares at Leafiara.

Speaking to Geijon, Pietra says, "Aww, come on. It was fun."

Leafiara picks up a small sack.

Speaking drunkenly to a green-eyed grey and white kitten, Gutstorm slurs, "Kill."

Speaking to Pietra, Geijon says, "I do like my share of heated discussion, time to time."

Faerinn says, "I'm still pretty certain that Stephos is the Knave. Or was the knave. I suspect upheaval may have happened by a certain Lion."

Thadston says, "We'll meet with Alendrial soon. Tomorrow night, perhaps. I can arrange it."

Thadston says, "But regardless, this will not sit well with the Knave."

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia asks, "So do we prep spells and do our stretches?"

Thadston says, "So we will need to finalize our plans this weekend. If we're to strike the Knave and Rooks next week."

Goldstr says, "Less hopes so."

Cryheart says, "Amen."

Speaking quietly to herself, Rozanikka gasps, "More excitement tomorrow night?"

Speaking to Gutstorm, Kippe warns, "Mine."

Berost deeply says, "Ale first."

Thadston says, "Good work everyone tonight."

Speaking to Thadston, Dendum says, ""Warn this wife of Stephos. Someone somehow someway will connect her to the Amos and dark plans."

Thadston says, "We've made some progress. Some good progress."

Lylia says, "I could say the same of you."

Cryheart says, "Ye as well, Lord Thadston."

Speaking to Thadston, Pukk says, "You're welcome."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Danksh Fadhston!"

Fahlo nonchalantly says, "Easy peasy."

Chandrellia recites softly:

"Before everyone wanders off, well done down in the tunnels everyone, great teamwork yet again"

Thadston bows to Pietra.

Thadston bows to Asben.

Thadston bows to Kippe.

Kippe nods slightly at Thadston.

Thadston says, "Thank you for your scouting Pietra, Asben and Kippe."

Kippe says, "Happy to help."

Thadston glances at Leafiara.

Speaking to Kippe, Pietra asks, "Scout again someday, eh?"

Speaking drunkenly to his scruffy red beard, Gutstorm slurs, "Dokay."

Leafiara glances at Thadston.

Speaking to Leafiara, Soneiken says, "I managed to keep you alive again, the Clan will be pleased."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Oi that rock that fell on Geijon's head looked much like rock Amos was standing on in front of Moot Hall...."

Speaking to Thadston, Faerinn says, "I'm kind of looking forward to finally meeting Alendrial."

Thadston shakes his head.

Asben whispers something to Geijon.

Cryheart says, "Ok..stop the kitties from fighting."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""Both were rocks anyway...."

Kippe says, "Hopefully without tag-alongs."

Speaking softly to Cryheart, Chandrellia says, "They just playing."

Cryheart says, "Hmm..."

Lord Thadston just marched stiffly a set of stone steps.

A Knight To Remember - 2021-04-28 - Digging for the Truth (log)

Contents

The Night in a Nutshell

Quotables

Log

Eyes and Spies

Covert Operations

Searching the Museum

Beneath the Museum

Clash!

Evidence in The Press Room

Evidence in the Candle Room

Evidence in the Stow Room

Evidence in the Staging Room

Slash and Burn

Collapse

Still Digging

Navigation menu