Ashes to Ashes - 2022-03-28 - Undercurrent Events (log)

Charlatos 28-29, 5122

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the TownCrier

Summary

Mayor Thadston gathers everyone at Hearthstone, where he says the town has recovered 24 of the 26 kidnapped citizens. Councilor Leafiara, Vaemyr, and others relay that Kharusa or some other mentalist attempted to look into the minds of all who boarded the krolvin ships during the rescue, however.

Thadston says we won't stop trying to find the remaining two and gets Marshal Stormyrain's approval to escort the rescued captives to the militia barracks jail cells, as they're groggy and having memory issues. No one is missing toes, though, lending more credence to the Knuckleheads Pookia and Sevanya's claims that the warning letter under Tyrrax's name seemed unlike him.

In other news, Thadston tells Councilors Chandrellia, Fahlo, Leafi, and Pukk that they'll have a proposal on their desks soon that he's already seen: Casiphia has proposed utilizing unknown corridors in Burrow Way to protect willing townspeople from future krolvin attacks, but demands that neither Thadston nor any militia leaders know the locations.

Landing defenders, adventurers, and allies including Stormy, Leafi, Archious, Vaemyr, Sir Geijon, Pukk, Lylia, Kiyna, Aeith, Chandy, Magister Raelee, Perigourd, Sevanya, and more consider the matter and essentially the conversation revolves around the following ideas:

The tunnels might not be safe, yet remain an option when above ground in the Landing definitely isn't safe. However, in the long run, entrusting the Rooks with this would empower or lend credibility to their organization. Other options of sanctuary locations seem to require additional arrangements or time.

Marshal Stormy says she doesn't object to not knowing the location of the tunnels, on the "enemy of my enemy" principle, but that Vaemyr raised a good point that the knowledge of tunnels could be compromised if any Rooks were on the ships rescuing captives.

Mayor Thadston, on the other hand, says he'll fight it and we can do this the easy way or hard way. Leafi asks what that means; he says he thinks she knows; Fahlo says even if Leafi does, he (Fahlo) doesn't. Leafi raises the point that if the proposal was only no involvement from the militia leadership or mayor, then Thrayzar is an option; Thadston says if everyone can convince Casi to agree to Thrayzar, then he'll consider it and not fight. Pukk volunteers to escort everyone in the tunnels and Thadston says that would make him more worried than no escorts.

Ultimately, Thadston concludes by saying hopefully the councilors make the right decision. Fahlo says he's already made his, but before the discussion can continue, a town guard arrives with a parchment for Thadston and he says he'll be back.

The discussion does continue without him, but soon a wall of darkness is spotted on the horizon of Darkstone Bay. A ship is spotted and three krolvin drag forth a bound one-eyed krolvin. Missoni identifies him as the krolvin who was chained to Kharusa. Tyrrax hoists him up and he breaks free, but Tyrrax decapitates him with two strokes of a knife. He tosses the body into the bay, places the severed head on a spear, and then withdraws his warship.

Perigourd and Missoni find the body washed up at the bay, where Stormy loresings to discover his story. She relays the tale of this krolvin:

• Capturing the halfling Kharusa and others
• Discussing with other krolvin something about a manticore, alchemist, shrike, and courier before another enters with a map of a small bayside town
• Marching before a row of prisoners and hauling one of them off in secret to cut off his toes before tossing him overboard
• His final moments being executed by Tyrrax

Log

Thadston's Updates: Captives Rescued and Unrescued

[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 web-draped Missoni disk, a lazy wild blood red dog, the earth brown Nalver disk, a black semi-melanistic panther, a brilliant purple kitten wearing a purple collar clasped with a pair of crossed silver swords, the Nisugi disk, a tall glass of peach-infused vodka mixed with orange and cranberry juices, the Stormyrain disk, the Blades disk, the coffin-shaped Inck disk, a glass of Tamzyrrian Reserve, the Grius disk, the Anastasiaa disk, the Wolfloner disk, a rose-marrow potion, a large acorn, a forest wolf, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, some tree bark, a round silver-banded barrel, an herbal remedy donation bin and some wide stone benches with some stuff on it.

Also here: Town Councilor Leafiara, Kiyna, Perigourd, Conquerer of Reim Missoni, Nalver, Nisugi, Drektor, Kayse, Stormyrain, Blades, Inck, Gutstorm who is sitting, Lord Kellafar, Grius who is sitting, Sir Geijon, Bernadette, Lady Anastasiaa, Lord Moglock, Markx, Magister Raelee, Wolfloner, Town Councilor Pukk, Vaemyr, Silvynn, Conquerer of Reim Cryheart, Shandrial

The sky begins to fill with huge clouds, dark and grey on the bottom, pale and white atop, their puffy crowns ascending toward the heavens.

Stormyrain says, "Oh, look..a storm is rolling in."

[General] Leafiara observes, "Seems we have a storm rolling in to the Landing."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "Storm?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "It would not be the first time we've seen someone possessed or with a split-personality from those things."

Speaking to Cryheart, Pukk asks, "Are you ready?"

Pukk recites:

"Everybody join Cryheart!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Pukk says, "Too late."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara mutters, "Indeed."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "It Official now."

Kiyna says, "I have to assume his stormcrows, if not the others, can listen in on our thoughts. The problem isn't with Tyrrax. It's with his men."

Cryheart says, "Rain may be starting."

Speaking to Kiyna, Vaemyr says, "As long as Tyrrax has Fortney's treasures he's a problem."

Drektor whispers something to Kayse.

Kiyna says, "Not taking credit for sending a brutal message when his men can hear it is baffling, unless he really doesn't know what we mean."

Pukk says, "Unless he closed off their minds to us."

Speaking to Kiyna, Sevanya says, "I still think he didn't do it."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Drektor whispers something to Kayse.

[General] Thadston thinks, "Evening."

[General] Lylia thinks, "Good evening to you."

[General] Pukk exclaims, "Hiya!"

Vaemyr says, "But yes, it's very possible that things could've been sent by another aspiring warlord, to both try and sabotage Tyrrax and gain respect among his peers."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Mayor."

Geijon says, "Praxopius was nothing worthy of celebrating, in life or death."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Evening Thadston."

[General] Bernadette thinks, "Good eve Mayor."

[General] Kayse distractedly thinks, "Mayor."

[General] Arayia thinks, "Good Evening."

[General] Nyaria exclaims, "Squirrel!"

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Good evening, Mayor Thadston."

[General] Pukk asks, "Where?"

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

[General] Thadston thinks, "The porch."

Leafiara says, "Truly one of the most detestable men I've ever met."

Cryheart says, "Moving...one."

Cryheart says, "Two."

Leafiara says, "About on a level with Vlashandra, though of course she's a woman."

[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 the web-draped Missoni disk, the rectangular Perigourd disk fashioned of oiled tanik, a fluffy white cat, a lazy wild blood red dog, the Blades disk, the Stormyrain disk, the Vaemyr disk, the Geijon disk, the cherrywood Arianiss disk etched with lotus blossoms, the porch steps, a purple modwir bin, a scorched oak sideboard with some stuff on it and a doorman.

Also here: Town Councilor Leafiara, Gutstorm, Pookia, Aeith, Sevanya, Town Councilor Pukk, Bernadette, Conquerer of Reim Cryheart, Magister Raelee, Drektor, Kayse, Conquerer of Reim Missoni, Perigourd, Earthdiver who is riding an emaciated black horse, Stormyrain, Blades, Vaemyr, Arianiss, Sir Geijon, Mayor Thadston

[General] Pals exclaims, "Ah! Mister Mayor!"

Thadston says, "Evening."

Pukk says, "By the count of two..."

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon says, "Mayor."

Cryheart says, "Good evening, Mayor."

Blades says, "Seems right."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Theres a squirrel on the porch?? this i gotta see."

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "It is good to see you."

Thadston nods at Stormyrain.

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

Thadston says, "You all did well the other night. We saw most of our stolen people home."

Speaking to Thadston, Pukk asks, "Gutstorm wants us to dedicate a day to Lylia. What do you think?"

Missoni curiously asks, "Most?"

Bernadette nods at Thadston.

Perigourd asks, "Not all then?"

Pookia worriedly asks, "Most?"

Pookia whispers something to Sevanya.

Leafiara says, "Well, that is the good news, yes--the bad news is we were likely compromised in the process. To some degree."

Leafiara shakes her head.

Pookia asks, "So no one did a headcount?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me do wot now?"

Thadston peers quizzically at Leafiara.

Lylia whispers something to Pukk.

Thadston asks, "From their minds?"

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Several reported pressure felt from a mentalist, yes."

Speaking to Thadston, Kiyna asks, "Yeah, how many? Twenty-six were taken, yes?"

Leafiara nods slowly.

Leafiara says, "The krolvin might know significantly more about our defenses and weak points than before."

Pukk whispers something to Lylia.

Thadston frowns at Leafiara.

Speaking to Thadston, Vaemyr says, "Everyone who went on a boat, they attempted to look in our heads, although fairly briefly... it's very possible the whole thing was just a setup for exactly that."

Cryheart says, "Many freed two evenings ago."

Leafiara mutters, "If not worse."

Thadston says, "We'll have to get rid of that halfling."

Thadston grumbles.

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "If get rid of you mean, free? Yes."

Thadston says, "Sure."

Arianiss says, "This again.. perhaps a poison that takes out all halflings."

Earthdiver says, "I'm sure she comes from a good family."

Thadston says, "We're still missing two townspeople."

Blades says, "One can only hope."

Leafiara says, "Hmm..."

Thadston says, "By all accounts, eight were saved per ship."

Speaking to Thadston, Kayse asks, "Any idea who they are?"

Thadston says, "We had 26 unaccounted for."

Kiyna says, "So, two lost..."

Sevanya asks, "Lost or still missing?"

Lylia says, "I was on each ship. However, I lost count of how many of our townsfolk were freed in the confusion of the fighting."

Geijon says, "Figured that even with th' lightning.."

Leafiara says, "Worst case, they kept the two with the most valuable information to them..."

Geijon says, "It felt close, but short."

Archious offers, "Or perhaps the two with the strongest backs."

Xorus says, "It is difficult to imagine them not coming straight for the halfling if she were 'rescued'."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Da landin owes me battlepay fer me bravery da utter night, Thadshton."

Speaking to Thadston, Vaemyr asks, "Were any of the captives able to speak with you... about what happened... and, weird question I know, but any missing toes?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Missoni says, "Or they perished in captivity."

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon says, "A few lingered too, maybe th' daze from Kharusa."

Thadston says, "We won't stop trying to find them."

Thadston says, "The captives will be escorted soon to the jail cells in the barracks."

Thadston says, "If the Marshal approves."

Thadston says, "They're...groggy at best."

Lylia says, "Or finding what happened to them. Let us not forget we are dealing with slavers. They may have chosen to keep those whom they felt would serve them best."

Thadston says, "Lethargic, tired, having some memory issues."

Stormyrain says, "They will be safe there, yes. We can have Shinann see to their restoration to health."

Leafiara mournfully says, "Ah... so Kharusa got to them, then. Probably."

Thadston says, "I'd like to keep them secreted away for now."

Thadston nods at Stormyrain.

Pookia says, "Are they groggy and toefulll or groggy and toeless though."

Stormyrain says, "I will make her aware."

Thadston says, "I almost put them in the cells myself."

Thadston says, "But...figured I'd ask."

Thadston nods at Stormyrain.

Kiyna says, "Regrettable, but better groggy than their heads burst like melons."

Thadston says, "No one is missing toes."

Stormyrain gazes in amusement at Thadston.

Cryheart says, "I imagine it will take time for them to recover from the trauma."

Sevanya exclaims, "Ha! Told you it wasn't him!"

Pukk says, "Huh."

Pookia exclaims, "Knuckleheads win again! knuckleheads are always right!"

Lylia says, "They moved quickly enough when told to flee from the ships. That would not be the case if they had been dismembered, even slightly."

Arianiss says, "Unless it's the two still missing."

Leafiara says, "Unless of course they were the toes of the two they kept."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "So unless they were all from the two missing ones..."

Kiyna asks, "Have our bards tried loresinging to the toes?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara says, "One of the first things thought of and nothing turned up."

Speaking to Leafiara, Sevanya asks, "But then why deny sending them at all?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Pukk asks, "Want to sing to a toe?"

Speaking to Pukk, Stormyrain says, "I have already, they hold no histories within them that I could uncover."

Vaemyr says, "Or they could of just healed them afterwards, if this was a plot by one of his subortanate to undermine Tyrrax."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Pukk asks, "Have you tried the letter?"

Casiphia's Proposal

Thadston says, "I have another bit of...a situation to address."

Lylia asks, "Oh?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Pukk says, "Maybe the letter will reveal who actually sent it."

Goldstr says, "Many of our groups said dey felt a brushin a der minds."

Thadston glances at Leafiara.

Pukk turns an inquisitive ear toward Thadston.

Thadston glances at Fahlo.

Thadston glances at Pukk.

Leafiara tilts her head at Thadston.

Leafiara peers quizzically at Thadston.

Thadston asks, "Where's the loud one?"

Pukk exclaims, "I'm here!"

Pookia screams!

Fahlo points at Pukk.

Leafiara points at Pukk.

Sevanya shrieks!

Speaking to Pukk, Stormyrain says, "I did look at the letters but I can look at it again if you'd like."

Kiyna points at Pookia.

Pookia lets loose a mighty shout!

Pookia lets loose with a shout of exultation!

Aeith says, "I was going to say, there are multiples present."

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Pookia.

Sevanya lets loose with a shout of exultation!

Sevanya throws her head back and howls!

Thadston says, "The other loud one."

Pookia shrieks!

Speaking wryly to Pookia, Leafiara says, "Okay, yes, we get the point."

Sevanya shrieks!

Nyaria quietly says, "I see no squirrels, Pukk musta scared it off."

Vaemyr says, "Seems like Chandrellia's asleep, like most of us should be."

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara asks, "What's the situation?"

Pookia loudly says, "I had to prove a point."

Kayse grumpily observes, "You are all loud."

Thadston says, "You'll have a proposal on your desks soon enough. I've already seen it."

Speaking quietly to Pookia, Stormyrain growls, "I will put you both on latrine duty for a month."

Leafiara looks thoughtfully at Thadston.

Leafiara nods understandingly at Thadston.

Pookia excitedly exclaims, "Toilets!"

Speaking curiously to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Alright then."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "You will read it for me right?"

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Sure."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Kayse corrects, "Most everyone."

Speaking to Pukk, Vaemyr says, "It says give Leafi all of Pukk's money."

Thadston says, "Casi has taken it upon herself to submit a proposal to the town council to utilize the unknown corridors of the burrow ways to help protect any willing townsperson from future krolvin attacks, or when they begin again. Her request also demands that myself, and no one within militia leadership, know of the locations."

Leafiara stares off into space.

Pukk says, "I don't like those kinds of letters."

Stormyrain raises her eyebrow, the bloodjewel half-ring set within only enhancing her skeptical expression.

Leafiara ponders.

Pookia whispers something to Sevanya.

Thadston says, "So I would hope the town council isn't foolish in their vote soon."

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain asks, "Did she say why?"

Leafiara says, "Hmm..."

Thadston asks, "Does she need to?"

Thadston says, "It's the Rooks."

Stormyrain says, "Does she fear we are unable to guard our minds? Or is it because they are---"

Stormyrain nods slowly.

Sevanya whispers something to Pookia.

Stormyrain says, "I wasn't sure of the reason and I do not assume one's intent."

Stormyrain can offer Thadston only a blank expression.

Thadston says, "They don't want us to know their other tunnels."

'Leafiara asks, "So the Raznel evacuation again, but in the tunnels instead of the wagons?"

Leafiara looks thoughtfully at Thadston.

Leafiara stares into space, appearing to ponder multiple possibilities and potential nuances.

Thadston says, "Essentially."

A shadowy gloom swiftly pushes upward from the ground. When the darkness lifts, Chandrellia is standing in its place.

Archious remarks, "A sheltered location for those unable to fight is not the worst idea I have heard."

Thadston says, "But remember, last time citizens were hidden in tunnels, Dennet Kestrel collapsed them."

Chandrellia whistles tunelessly to herself.

Thadston says, "It is when we have no way to reach them."

Thadston nods at Archious.

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara muses, "Not a bad point."

Thadston says, "And rely on the Brotherhood of Rooks solely for the protection of townspeople."

Leafiara rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Vaemyr asks, "Can they keep them safe down there, without most of our defense forces?"

Archious says, "Then leave them to the Krolvin."

Thadston says, "It doesn't matter Vaemyr. I'll fight it."

Leafiara says, "On the other hand, we haven't exactly kept above ground safe either."

Speaking to Thadston, Wolfloner asks, "Considering your previous visits to their tunnels did you expect anything different?"

Leafiara rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Lylia notes, "Dennet Kestrel was an earth mage and used the tools at his disposal."

Speaking to Thadston, Pukk asks, "It's a waste not to utilize them when we have them at our disposal right?"

Leafiara nods at Lylia.

Speaking to Thadston, Kiyna says, "The more people that know where the townsfolk are, the less safe they are from our current adversaries."

Vaemyr says, "I mean... with all the people they've taken, surely a rook or two were probably among them... they could know all about these tunnels by now."

Leafiara rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Leafiara nods at Vaemyr.

Geijon says, "One might look at that as accepting defeat and a lack of trust in th' cities defenders. If th' Krolvin overwhelm th' city, th' tunnels aren't a long life."

Stormyrain gently brushes her pale silver hair away from her eyes and, with a deft twist of her wrist, tucks it behind one ear.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "And they likely also know everything above ground as well..."

Vaemyr agrees with Leafiara.

Vaemyr says, "But we can't stop their portals where we don't know where they are."

Speaking to Geijon, Pukk says, "Taking precautions isn't the same as accepting defeat."

Thadston says, "I refuse to be a leader who is simply trapped within the conflict of the moment. We need to keep in mind the future."

Leafiara says, "Certainly a lot to ponder."

Lylia says, "They have someone who delves into minds; delving into the tunnels those minds know well is just a step removed."

Leafiara ponders.

Geijon agrees with Pukk.

Speaking to Thadston, Archious says, "You could simply make the perceived cost of any further hostility so high that even Tyrrax loses his appetite for it."

Thadston says, "If we move townspeople to the tunnels, it empowers the Brotherhood."

Vaemyr nods at Thadston.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "If dem tunnelsh ait dug by me kin, me no trusht to go innem."

Thadston peers quizzically at Archious.

Speaking to Thadston, Archious asks, "He thinks someone here has access to the formula, yes?"

Speaking to Pukk, Geijon asks, "Send them to Icemule with escort, but rely on Rooks with pre-conditions?"

Speaking flatly to Thadston, Archious says, "Present the appearance that you do. And that you'll use it."

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Does it empower them, though? It actually could do the opposite, since any townspeople would come back with... inside information."

Leafiara ponders.

Speaking to Thadston, Kiyna says, "Hiding in their homes didn't help a few weeks back. The townsfolk are the beating heart of the Landing. Don't put the cart before the horse."

Aeith says, "There are so many tunnels crisscrosing underneath this town, surely it's safer down there under guided escort than above ground with the brunt of the fighting and chaos."

Thadston grins at Archious.

Thadston says, "It's possible."

Thadston nods at Archious.

Vaemyr says, "I refuse to think that the Rooks are the only ones capable of protecting our town, I certainly appreciate the thought and the assistence... but they should be working with us, not just completely seperate again."

Thadston nods at Vaemyr.

Vaemyr frowns.

Leafiara says, "I suppose the question is what our other options are."

Vaemyr nods at Leafiara.

Leafiara asks, "The outpost? Perhaps Larsya?"

Stormyrain looks thoughtfully at Leafiara.

Thadston says, "I presume they won't lead them to the safe tunnels with eyes wide open."

Thadston nods at Leafiara.

Thadston says, "If I know Casi."

Leafiara looks thoughtfully at Thadston.

Leafiara rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Thadston nods at Lylia.

Thadston says, "A possibility."

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "And you do, of course."

Leafiara chuckles.

Lylia nods in agreement at Thadston.

Thadston says, "The Outpost I trust. A little less with Octaven there."

Leafiara nods at Thadston.

Thadston says, "But the tunnels could be flooded for all I care."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Chandrellia says, "Oh ok, well, then wheres Amos, hes supposed to be working with us too? Instead hes out gallivanting around who knows where, doing who knows what, with who knows who? At least the Rooks are showing they are willing to help defend this town."

Leafiara slowly empties your filled lungs.

Vaemyr glances at Chandrellia.

Speaking dryly to Thadston, Raelee says, "That could be arranged."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Kiyna says, "I spied Rooks on the rooftops firing on the krolvin during the last attack."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me like da town better when Amosh no here."

Thadston glances at Chandrellia.

Thadston nods at Raelee.

Earthdiver says, "Is there no way to put a memory lock on the location of the tunnels."

Drektor whispers something to Kayse.

Speaking to Kiyna, Pukk says, "Yep, I was up there too. Firing along side of them."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Goldstr says, "Amos be fer wha fills Amos's pockets."

Perigourd says, "I find it hard to believe the offer is alstruistic when they won't allow the towns own militia to accompany them. Obviously they have another motive for doing so that they think benefits them."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Speaking to Thadston, Chandrellia says, "How many times have we let people thru our gates just to get stabbed in the back? the Rooks are being straight forward with us, they want to help."

Speaking to Perigourd, Kiyna says, "Well, with the enemy mentalist at large, it's a sensible precaution."

Lylia says, "When we speak of a 'memory lock,' we have learned at least something of Kharusa's unusual abilities. They do not extend very far. She needs to be in reasonably close proximity to touch and warp minds."

Thadston says, "You sound like her."

Thadston nods at Chandrellia.

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "On the other hand, you're the one who pardoned her."

Sunwu asks, "That make 'er wrong?"

Speaking to Thadston, Chandrellia says, "Or maybe, I try to give people the beneift of the doubt, even if in the end, they lie to us about bringing someone back, or wanting to be apart of this town."

Thadston slowly empties his lungs.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ish Thadshton shtill datin Casi? mebbe dat why Leafi."

Leafiara says, "This is... complex. We might have to hold a meeting about it."

Gutstorm taps Leafiara lightly on her shoulder.

Speaking flatly to Gutstorm, Leafiara says, "No."

Geijon whispers something to Thadston.

Stormyrain says, "I do not personally object to not knowing the location of the Rook tunnels, that is not the important piece of this puzzle, in my opinion. However Vaemyr has a point that Casi may wish to consider--if any Rooks were on the ships then it may be a moot point."

Leafiara nods at Stormyrain.

Thadston says, "Hold whatever talks you want. You know my thoughts on it. We can do this easy, or hard, councilors."

Geijon says, "It is always th' peoples choice."

Leafiara peers quizzically at Thadston.

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr asks, "Then why all the secrecy, why the almighty haughtiness of thinking they are better than the rest of us, that THEY can protect them, surely nothing could possibly go wrong? What happens if we agree and it's worse? And we have no way of helping down there. Who's gonna be responsible? Do we arrest Casi after that potential disaster?"

Chandrellia peers quizzically at Thadston.

Missoni muses, "If the mentalist can reach minds on the ships without being physically present, she can perhaps reach them in the tunnels anyway."

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara asks, "Well, in the interest of making informed decisions, what would the hard way be?"

Stormyrain adds, "The Rooks are a problem for another day, right now we can work together for the safety of the townsfolk. The enemy of my enemy if you will."

Stormyrain looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Kiyna says, "Hm. This proposal comes after the previous attack. It's new information their mentalist shouldn't have yet."

Thadston says, "I think you know."

Thadston nods at Leafiara.

Leafiara gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Speaking to Missoni, Lylia says, "That is a very interesting question -- knowing just how far she can reach."

Vaemyr says, "I would love to work with them, but this "we'll do this all ourselves" thing has got to stop."

Speaking to Thadston, Fahlo says, "If she does, I don't. What do you mean 'hard' way."

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon asks, "Find us some more friends, rather than old enemies, ya?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Stormyrain says, "The proposal does, but the location of the Rook tunnels would be common knowledge to the Rooks I believe."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Chandrellia says, "Oh gee I dont know, why was Amos being all secretive with the Baystone until, he discovered it, why doesnt he say where he he goes when he leaves, why because its his business, to protect."

Sevanya grumbles, "At this point you may as well send the people out of town for the time being so you don't have to compromise their safety arguing new solutions every meeting."

Speaking drunkenly to Lylia, Gutstorm slurs, "Blade drink poison tnite, me fink it dark elf shtuff."

Leafiara asks, "Hmm... the proposal was only no militia leadership or mayor involvement?"

Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "It is one I have been pondering. We know she was able to reach three different ships in the bay, but not the mainland."

Leafiara asks, "What if we sent Thrayzar?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr says, "So are you saying we should be thinking about the Rooks in the same way as Amos? I was trying to give them more credit..."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Lylia says, "Some people believe all strong drink is a poison."

Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "But she also may be inhibited by her shackles."

Leafiara says, "Maybe that counts as too close to the mayor."

Vaemyr says, "But if you insist."

Speaking to Sevanya, Stormyrain says, "If we do that every time there is a potential danger, we'd be a ghost town."

Leafiara says, "But I'm considering all options here."

Chandrellia squints at Vaemyr.

Pookia whispers something to Sevanya.

Thadston says, "If you can get her to agree to the orc, I'll consider it and not fight."

Leafiara nods at Thadston.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Sevanya says, "I don't see any of you doing anything else."

Speaking drunkenly to Lylia, Gutstorm slurs, "So yoo sayin he got week conshtootion?"

Stormyrain settles her gaze on Sevanya, watching her intently.

Speaking tightly to Sevanya, Stormyrain says, "Oh? Then perhaps you are not paying attention."

Lylia murmurs, "I would never presume."

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

Speaking to Stormyrain, Kiyna says, "Sure. But we could just as easily make a plan to hide many of the townsfolk inside the Moot Hall cellars. They may know all locations in town - it doesn't mean they know where to look. Also, the tunnels are vast."

Leafiara rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Pukk asks, "How about if I escort them in the tunnels?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Sevanya says, "Go on, keep arguing in circles."

Leafiara glances at Pukk.

Drektor whispers something to Kayse.

Sevanya just strode down the porch steps.

Stormyrain glances at the porch steps.

Thadston smirks at Pukk.

Thadston says, "That makes me more worried than no escorts."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Thadston nods at Pukk.

Stormyrain glances at the porch steps.

Leafiara begins chortling at Thadston.

Pukk says, "I would be responsible for them as the councilor and I'm sure it's not against the terms."

Speaking to Thadston, Pukk says, "I promise I won't charge them silvers."

Drektor whispers something to Kayse.

Pukk says, "Gambling while we are there...maybe..."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Geijon whispers something to Cryheart.

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Vaemyr says, "So... I had an idea."

Pukk says, "Uh oh."

Pukk glances at Vaemyr.

Thadston says, "Hopefully the councilors make the right decision."

Leafiara says, "So no objection from the marshal, objection from the mayor unless Casi agrees to allow Thrayzar to see to this escort, and the councilors... have a proposal coming."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara asks, "Yes?"

Leafiara tilts her head toward Vaemyr, examining him intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

[General] Rhaladin thinks, "Anything going on this eve?"

Speaking to Thadston, Arianiss asks, "Isn't whatever decision they make the right decision?"

Fahlo says, "Already made mine."

Vaemyr says, "Could we use the Adventurer's guild? It already has an antimagic field inside, that should stop their portals."

Speaking dubiously to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "...it can only hold so many people."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Mayor Thadston is speaking to us on the Manor porch."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kiyna says, "It's a bit small."

[General] Lylia thinks, "Yes. There is some rather heated discussion with the mayor on Hearthstone's porch."

Leafiara nods at Kiyna.

Thadston looks over at Arianiss and shakes his head.

Vaemyr ponders.

Arianiss smirks.

Speaking to Arianiss, Perigourd says, "If only decisions of life and death were so simple."

Leafiara says, "Which truly is the problem in all of this. We don't have any particularly safe area anywhere."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kiyna says, "You're right, though. Other than the size, it's a great idea..."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Speaking to Thadston, Geijon says, "Isn't really a right one, just less easy. Have to let folks decide."

[General] Rhaladin exclaims, "Ah, maybe I will drop by, thanks!"

A town guard arrives, passing Thadston a parchment then runs off.

Thadston says, "There's right, and wrong."

Thadston nods at Geijon.

Geijon adopts an agreeable expression.

Thadston says, "I'll be right back."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Perhaps we could apply the same thing to the moot hall itself, defensible location."

Mayor Thadston just went down the porch steps.

Discussion Afterward

Lylia dryly remarks, "Since when has any decision made by our elected officials been viewed as inarguably the right one? This must have come after my term as mayor."

Leafiara grins crookedly at Lylia.

Aeith says, "That was abrupt."

Speaking to Leafiara, Lylia says, "I know you know."

Chandrellia says, "No offense, but I'm glad Thadston is back to his old, stubborn as a mule ways."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "That's still only so large, though. ...and the krolvin have portals directly outside of Moot Hall."

Speaking to Aeith, Arianiss says, "Probably about to get kicked out of the guild.."

Vaemyr says, "While we know that pushing an anti-magic field over the entire town probably hurts us more than helps, a single building."

Speaking to Lylia, Pukk says, "Yes, we passed a law stating that any decision of ours is the right one."

Geijon says, "He shifted that to morality pretty quickly."

Speaking to Lylia, Pukk says, "Was the first thing we did."

Chandrellia says, "It'll make this more interestinbg."

Vaemyr says, "I think would be doable."

Earthdiver says, "That's how Solhaven used to be."

Drektor whispers something to Kayse.

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "That's a better thought, but again, creating a sanctuary for an entire town in one building is a bit... logistically difficult."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Geijon says, "He's been pretty friendly actually."

Earthdiver says, "Long ago."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Pukk exclaims, "Get him!"

Geijon says, "For him."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Lylia, ye like me chair?"

Speaking to Vaemyr, Lylia says, "You may be right in that, but any kind of severing from the flows of magic is a significant risk. Once that wall is breached by any means, it leaves those within even more vulnerable."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Doesn't need to be one, we could do multiple throughout the town, create safehouses, have defenders for them."

Speaking to Geijon, Chandrellia says, "Yes, I know, I deal with him on a regular."

Leafiara says, "I really should have asked Thadston whether it was his idea or Casi's idea to work with the Rooks during the Raznel evacuation. That might be a bit telling."

Speaking to Pukk, Rhaladin says, "Ahm innocent on all counts."

Speaking to Rhaladin, Pukk says, "I know that excuse well."

Fahlo says, "The only place those people are going to be safe is far inland, and if that's not on the table, I say trying tunnels is the next best thing."

Lylia says, "It looks, ah...quite comfortable."

Fahlo says, "That's my vote."

Vaemyr says, "That way the evacuation is also faster, than if they were being brough into the tunnels as well, no need for blindfolds and secret paths that potentially waste precious time."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Wiff any luck me can catch a tail of one deez aminalsh."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Lylia says, "You bring up an excellent point: time." Stormyrain gives Kayse a lingering kiss on the cheek. Kayse nods once at Stormyrain. Gutstorm rocks back and forth in his wooden rocking chair. Kayse gives Stormyrain a lingering kiss on the cheek. Blades glances at Gutstorm and slowly draws his black ora dagger across his throat meaningfully. Speaking to Vaemyr, Arianiss says, "It amuses me the families that were sent here from Mist Harbor.. now to be sent further along.."

Tyrrax's Approach

A wall of darkness begns to form on the horizon of Darkstone Bay.

Vaemyr says, "Speaking of time."

Vaemyr says, "We got company."

Perigourd says, "I see."

Leafiara heavily says, "Seems so."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "It prolly nuttin."

Pukk says, "So, that is something."

Speaking to Pukk, Chandrellia says, "On your lead."

Nyaria quietly says, "So this is happening tonight."

Blades asks, "Want me to sail you out there?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pukk says, "Already joined to Cryheart."

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Make the call again. We might be in for battle after all."

Speaking to Pukk, Chandrellia says, "Oppss."

Missoni uncertainly says, "Just the storm."

Pukk recites:

"Everybody rejoin Cryheart!"

Leafiara says, "Apologies, Thadston... we'll have to continue this another time."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me tole ye me dorry."

Earthdiver exclaims, "We will fight the storm!"

Cryheart says, "It could be just a storm."

Mauss says, "Nevva a dull moment aroun' 'ere."

Earthdiver says, "I will get mops."

Pukk recites:

"As Goldstr would say, Form on Cryheart!"

Speaking to Earthdiver, Missoni asks, "And umbrellas?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara offers, "Hope for the best, prepare for the worst."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Maybe we'll get some answers from Tyrrax after all."

Aeith asks, "Perhaps they come to parlay this time instead of attack?"

Speaking to Aeith, Leafiara says, "One can only hope."

Speaking to Aeith, Perigourd says, "One can hope, doubtful as that may be."

Rhaladin says, "Squire Pukk."

Speaking to Aeith, Mauss agrees, "That'd be nice."

A veil of shadows continues to thicken and expand on the edge of Darkstone Bay.

Speaking to Rhaladin, Pukk says, "Oh heck no."

Geijon says, "Welp."

Cryheart says, "Relax, until it is time not to relax."

Leafiara says, "Amazingly enough, the only time I remember diplomacy working out especially well in the past half a decade is with Barnom Slim." [OOC note: maybe worth mentioning that I accidentally left out the word "well" on the night.]

Lylia says, "Wise words."

[General] Markx thinks, "O. That's good."

Leafiara says, "He actually did back off as he promised."

Speaking to Leafiara, Lylia says, "Oh, I can think of a few other times."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "He got what he wanted."

Lylia notes, "We did manage to avoid open war with Ta'Vaalor."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Speaking to Lylia, Leafiara concedes, "Well, fair, there is that."

Speaking to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Altho funny as this may sound, I miss the Lich and his many digits falling off."

Xorus says, "We built some fine warships for the Estorians."

Rhaladin says, "Lucky fer dem elves."

Lylia adds, "And the Icewall Bandits were successfully neutralized."

Pukk says, "I still say Balley would have been a good partner with him."

Speaking sardonically to Xorus, Lylia says, "Oh, thank you for that reminder."

Pukk says, "Barnom and Balley."

Piercing the veil of darkness, the front of a massive sleek black warship comes into view, its figurehead of a polished black wyvern perched towards the sky. The very air around the massive vessel seems to shimmer with a faint light.

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Hey, no kishin inna ranksh!"

Kiyna says, "Oho. The big man himself."

Leafiara slowly notes, "Only one ship so far..."

Lylia says, "Not a fleet."

Perigourd says, "The flagship."

Pukk says, "Ooh there goes my baton."

[General] Leafiara asks, "Have you come to parlay at last?"

Bernadette softly asks, "Tyrrax?"

Cryheart says, "Perpare ye self."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Tyrrax if you are out there, we're still willing to talk."

Rhaladin says, "Da stinky flagship."

Lankas softly exclaims, "Time to hide!"

Cryheart says, "And hold attacks unless attacked."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ye member da lasht time we fought em dey dishpelt us."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Jush shayin."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Hopefully by now Kharusa has determined and convinced you that truly none of us know where the formula is. ...or what it is."

Cryheart says, "It could be a parlay."

Kiyna says, "How far out is the ship? Maybe I can hurl my knife... it's only a few hundred yards..."

Goldstr exclaims, "As Sir Cryheart saids Hol Attackin!"

Cryheart says, "But be ready."

Rhaladin says, "Ah gots a bow."

Archious says, "Your most powerful play against him is to threaten to spread knowledge of the poison to every corner of Elanthia. You need not have it to make the threat."

Goldstr says, "Aye."

Speaking to Archious, Geijon says, "Brave."

Lylia says, "Belief is a potent poison too."

Mauss ironically says, "The "poison" that we both don't have, and have."

Speaking to an elegant green marble arch, Pukk says, "So brave. Just standing there being so elegant."

Speaking to Lylia, Kiyna says, "Agree with ya for once."

Archious says, "It does not matter if you have it. They *think* someone here does."

Perigourd says, "For all we know, someone here does."

Archious says, "And they are terrified of that thought."

Leafiara tentatively says, "Pretty slow approach of that ship."

Goldstr says, "Big ship."

[General] Cryheart asks, "Anyone at the north docks?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Lylia says, "Sorry to be disagreeable, but you agreed with me not more than a fortnight ago. This is happening with frequency. You may want to feel alarmed at this."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Yes."

Rhaladin says, "Seen bigger."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Nothing here as of yet."

[General] Cryheart asks, "Anyone on the coast?"

[locate spell]

[Wehnimer's, North Dock]

The dock's planks are dull and weathered from the salt spray of many seasons. Northward beyond the massive sea gates, a flock of ice geese passes, silhouetted against the sky over the waters of Darkstone Bay. The hulk of a derelict coastal sailer is tethered to the end of the pier. You also see the Stormyrain disk, a rope-lined wooden plank bridge that leads to the archway of a large moored white-masted ship, a wide ramp, a stack of empty crates, a portly portmaster and a black imperial wagon with a glowing blue-white pylon on it.

Pukk says, "I say we offer Chandrellia for any of the hostages that are left."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "What do you think?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Perigourd says, "We can go to the sands."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Offer Xorush."

Speaking to Pukk, Chandrellia says, "He would be beging to return me."

Speaking to Pukk, Lylia says, "There are two. And no --"

Lylia says, "We are not offering Xorus."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "But..."

Cryheart says, "Think we hae eyes going to the coast."

Lylia interrupts, "No."

Nyaria quietly says, "Out of popcorn."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pukk says, "We can make silvers by taking you back."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "He said he wanted to go, axe him."

Earthdiver asks, "Like...individual eyes?"

[General] Cryheart thinks, "We hae eyes going to the coast."

Xorus says, "They tossed me back."

Tyrrax and the Insubordinate Krolvin

Marching into view upon the bow of the warship comes a stout and muscular krolvin, with thick silken indigo blue hair that covers his head and flows across his back. Lightning erupts across the sky, briefly reflected across the deep marigold hue of his eyes. He hunches his shoulders and barks loudly, his ape-like face pointed to the sky.'

Kiyna says, "I hear Frith is offering half off his booze. Don't wanna miss out, Gutstorm."

The voice of Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Poor fella."

Earthdiver says, "Such beautiful hair."

[General] Perigourd thinks, "Nothing at the sands."

Rhaladin says, "Seen better."

Cryheart says, "It is him."

[General] Inck asks, "Whaaa? An invasion again?"

Leafiara says, "Going by the Knuckleheads' description of his hair... I would have to agree that's him."

Rhaladin says, "Have da best hair in da world with a face like tha."

Earthdiver says, "Or maybe they have a salon on board and they all have great hair. You never know."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Goldstr says, "Aye Thryaxx may wish Parlay."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I don't believe so."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "He seems... less composed though than from their description."

[General] Pookia exclaims, "I told you he had nice hair!"

Speaking to Xorus, Archious says, "It would be immensely helpful if you could arrange something that looks even slightly like the poison's effect."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "...but be ready just in case."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Could be a parlay."

Speaking to Earthdiver, Lylia says, "Kharusa's hair seemed matted and lank, from what I heard."

[General] Inck thinks, "Oh good. I'm relaxing tonight."

Earthdiver says, "Well, not everyone can afford such locks."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Or to intimidate us."

[General] Directed to Pookia, Leafiara agrees, "Yes, we recognized him immediately thanks to your... detailed reports."

Speaking to Lylia, Kiyna says, "Presumably, slaves don't get salon passes."

Lylia says, "True. If indeed she is one."

A moment later, three krolvin appear behind Tyrrax, dragging with them a one-eyed krolvin, bound in iron chains and squirming against the restraints. They bring him to Tyrrax and throw him down onto the deck before him.

Speaking to Kiyna, Chandrellia asks, "Wait they dont?"

Earthdiver says, "Perhaps it is a cultural wig made from sea kelp."

Archious says, "Or fight them."

Kiyna says, "What's this about..."

Pukk says, "Okay..."

Vaemyr says, "That's the one who was chained to Kharusia."

Leafiara uncertainly says, "Okay..."

Speaking slowly to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Oh."

Pukk says, "I bet this is the guy who sent the letter."

Speaking to Kiyna, Mauss says, "Guess we'll find out."

Speaking to Kiyna, Chandrellia says, "The one that told us of his plans in the beggining."

Xorus smiles slightly.

Goldstr says, "Dey sendin a message."

[General] Pookia asks, "Is that another prisoner?"

Rhaladin says, "Hope dey kill 'im."

Rhaladin says, "One less fer me ta kill."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "I had suspected that perhaps the Krolvin was the mentaltist, and the halfling just a pawn potentially, but I guess we are about to find out."

Speaking to Xorus, Berkana says, "It's really scary when you do that. even slightly."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Looks like one of their own... for some reason."

Kiyna says, "I don't see Kharusa... but she is small like me and pretty far away..."

[General] Missoni thinks, "When I saw Kharusa, that one-eyed fellow was chained to her."

Tyrrax barks loudly, turning briefly to face the main deck of his ship and a chorus of wild barking erupts from its depths! He turns back to face the bay and Wehnimer's Landing, then stoops down and picks up the one-eyed krolvin by the mane of hair along his back.

Rhaladin says, "Mebbe get ah s.."

[General] Lylia thinks, "Interesting..."

Lankas softly asks, "Do we know the one-eyed feller?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Archious says, "I will still take any of them you acquire and do not wish to house. I would even take them all if they could be brought to heel."

[General] Inck asks, "Do we know him? The fellow in chains?"

Chandrellia says, "Ok maybe I was wrong."

Speaking to Lankas, Leafiara says, "Missoni is saying that krolvin was chained to Kharusa."

Vaemyr says, "Aye."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Listen to Missoni."

Lankas softly says, "Thank you."

Aeith asks, "Are we about to witness an execution?"

Rhaladin says, "Ah thought dem knucklebones said he was nice."

Nalver asks, "Who remembers the half-krolvin that were trying to steal the larkspur mask?"

Arianiss says, "Probably."

Kiyna asks, "If she's not with him... either she wasn't the one being chained from the first... or... has she escaped? Or... is being unleashed?"

Nalver exclaims, "Always went about saying tik-pla!"

Speaking to Aeith, Leafiara says, "Possibly, but I... don't understand why."

[General] Pookia surprisedly thinks, "Perhaps the parlay plan was plausible after all."

[General] Missoni thinks, "He did not speak, that I can recall, but he seemed to lead her to us. One wonders where she is, if not with him."

[General] Lylia thinks, "And one wonders who led whom on that chain."

Nyaria quietly exclaims, "The suspense!"

[General] Inck thinks, "Heh."

[General] Missoni thinks, "Just so."

Tyrrax hoists up the one-eyed krolvin, who still squirms in the bindings. The one-eyed krolvin suddenly breaks free from the chains as they snap, but with fluid movements, Tyrrax pulls a jagged knife into view and with one, then two, powerful slices, cuts off the one-eyed krolvin's head!

[General] Inck thinks, "Oh my."

[General] Xorus thinks, "Amusing."

Mauss says, "....yep."

Pukk says, "Pretty clean cuts."

[General] Missoni thinks, "Well, he will not be telling us."

Cryheart says, "Yep. intimidation."

[General] Inck thinks, "I thought he was going to get away for a moment."

Vaemyr says, "I'm... not sure what this display is about."

Earthdiver says, "It took him two slices. Not impressed anymore."

Vaemyr says, "Other than punishing someone for failing him."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "You might have to explain the message being conveyed. ...if it's supposed to be directed at us instead of your own, anyway."

Kiyna says, "Why in front of us, though..."

[General] Pookia surprisedly thinks, "Gross! but impressive."

Rhaladin says, "Did nae get tha' head in one shot... I coulda."

Aeith says, "I imagine there will be some kind of explanation following this... display."

Earthdiver says, "I think he is trying to convince us that Krolvin are violent."

Berkana asks, "Why not?"

Earthdiver says, "I for one am not convinced."

[General] Arianiss asks, "I mean.. we do this daily to bandits.. yeah.. what's the point?"

Speaking to Earthdiver, Lylia says, "I never would have imagined."

Mauss sighs, "An' when folks are tryin' ta eat too."

Tyrrax tosses the body of the one-eyed krolvin into the bay, where it begins to float towards town. He keeps the bloodied head and impales it upon a huge spear which he sets near the black wyvern figurehead at the bow of the ship. He barks loudly, and the krolvin along the ship echo his sentiment in return. A moment later, Tyrrax steps down and out of view, as the massive warship maneuvers around, slowly disappearing back into the cloud of darkness.

[General] Pukk thinks, "The one-eyed krolvin clearly messed up and forgot to send out the invitations to the tea party. So, this was his punishment."

Vaemyr says, "I am... really confused."

Leafiara slowly says, "O...kay then."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Now you gonna have a mess to clean Tyrrax."

Lylia says, "Clearly a display for us."

[General] Sevanya thinks, "I'm sure we'll have at least two meetings discussing the significance of this."

Kiyna asks, "...That's it?"

Earthdiver says, "So did this one-eyed krolvin fail somehow the other night."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "So about my theory of Tyrrax being crazy."

Rhaladin says, "He be predictin' his future."

Kiyna yells, "Get back here!"

Lylia admits, "But I have no idea why."

Leafiara asks, "We've killed hundreds of his people already, so the significance of this is... what?"

Nyaria quietly says, "Yup that just happened."

Earthdiver says, "He's joining in."

[General] Missoni asks, "Did you kill this man because the mentalist escaped him?"

[General] Inck thinks, "I wonder if the body had anything on it."

Rhaladin says, "Ah told yah he was crazy."

Lankas softly asks, "Can an empath heal a severed head wound?"

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Be on the lookout for a head."

Goldstr says, "Cruel one he be."

Lankas softly says, "Would not want to try myself."

Bernadette softly asks, "He harbers no ill feelin twerds us, eh?"

Pukk says, "That body will lure some big fish for sure."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "No... I dunno, I have a bad feeling about this."

Earthdiver says, "But it gets complicated."

Speaking to Lankas, Mauss says, "They can heal "vaporized"..."

Pukk exclaims, "Everybody go get your fishing poles!"

Chandrellia says, "Well, that depends."

Lankas softly says, "Thats true."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Errr body."

Lankas softly says, "Maybe we could rescue the body."

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara says, "Maybe it wasn't a message after all. I agree this probably wasn't a good turn of events."

Lankas softly says, "Its floating towards us."

Leafiara says, "Let's check the bay."

Kiyna says, "If that was the krolvin Kharusa was chained to, she may not be chained anymore. That could change everything... for better or worse."

Archious asks, "The theory was that the dead one controlled the halfling?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "We need to check the prisoners."

Cryheart says, "Moving out."

Speaking to Lankas, Chandrellia says, "One would need the head to put back on, and seeing as Tyrrax took it with him...."

Vaemyr says, "Sorry townsfolk."

[General] Directed to Cryheart, Pukk thinks, "There was a joke there and I didn't say it...you're welcome."

[travel begins]

Mauss asks, "Think they put a bottle letter on da body?"

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Time for a swim in the bay."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "What if Kharusa is among them."

[General] Perigourd thinks, "A few of us are there already."

[General] Inck thinks, "Ug. Water."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Maybe a loresong will demystify this if we can recover anything."

Vaemyr says, "Used it to escape."

Goldstr asks, "He did sail off eh?"

[General] Perigourd thinks, "He washed up at the sands."

[General] Missoni thinks, "He is here."

Vaemyr says, "And that was a demonstration for her."

Lankas softly says, "On the sands."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "We're on our way."

Lankas softly says, "He washed up."

Leafiara says, "Black sands."

[General] Pookia asks, "The one eyed guy?"

[General] Perigourd thinks, "Yes."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Well, the rest of him."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kiyna says, "Too many things could be going on. We need a bit more information."

Leafiara says, "Perigourd and Missoni found him on the Black Sands."

[General] Lylia thinks, "I would say he is the no-eyed krolvin now."

[The Black Sands]

A narrow strip of black sand winds between the pulsing sea and the huddled rocks. You look out at the dark waters of the bay, set against the grey sky. With the black sands beneath your feet and the frozen black lava behind you, you feel as though all the color has been blotted out of the world. You also see a headless krolvin corpse, the coffin-shaped Inck disk, a brilliant purple kitten wearing a purple collar clasped with a pair of crossed silver swords, the bloodstained Xorus disk with scuffed and dented sides, a fluffy white cat, the rectangular Perigourd disk fashioned of oiled tanik, the web-draped Missoni disk, a lazy wild blood red dog, a handaxe, a handaxe, a handaxe, a handaxe, a tall wooden archery tower and the waters of Darkstone Bay.

[General] Gutstorm thinks, "Da corpshe is draggable."

Mauss warns, "Watch fer motes of light!"

Pukk says, "Yep, it's a headless body."

Pukk says, "I'm thinking that is what killed him."

Perigourd picks up a headless krolvin corpse.

Mauss asks, "We draggin'?"

Leafiara asks, "...do we have any bards here?"

Perigourd gazes thoughtfully at his krolvin corpse.

Goldstr says, "I tinks was jess a message, no attackin us dis eve."

Pukk says, "He lost his head."

Vaemyr asks, "Someone able to loresing to it?"

Kayse says, "The Marshal is coming."

Leafiara says, "Ah, here's one."

Pukk says, "These things just happen."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "This might not be the best place to inspect the body."

>l cor

The corpse is that of a headless krolvin, whose neck is still a bloodied jagged wound from the initial severing of skin and bone. Several bruises and small thin cuts cover his body, peeking out between the frayed clothing that clings to his body.

Inck asks, "We already tried to reanimate it right? For fun and education?"

The corpse falls out of Perigroud's hands. So heavy....

Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni says, "Best not to disturb it."

Rhaladin says, "Cause of death. Nae head."

Berkana says, "Are we here so I can go pay my dues at the guild I never visit? Oh..."

Speaking to Perigourd, Leafiara says, "Let's let the marshal inspect it first."

Inck asks, "Very heavy?"

Blades says, "Cost is hefty tonight."

Mauss asks, "Guess we shouldn't search it yet?"

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia says something you don't understand.

Bernadette softly says, "Dem Krol be kinna big."

Speaking to Lylia, Chandrellia says, "He was beaten before hand."

Rhaladin says, "Is lighter by "bout ten pounds."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Cant aminate it."

Lylia says, "I did not touch the corpse, but I wanted a closer look."

Stormyrain sings something in Guildspeak to a headless krolvin corpse that you don't understand.

The krolvin corpse seems to respond to the magic of Stormyrain's song.

Xorus says, "Those bruises and small wounds remind me a bit of the test victims on Praxopius' ship. But they may only be physical injuries."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Cryheart says, "Cannae drag the corpse."

Rhaladin asks, "Anyone got ah' stick?"

Blades asks, "You singin to a corpse?"

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me dragged it afore ye got here, axe Lylia."

Drektor whispers something to Kayse.

Blades says, "I need more booze."

Stormyrain sings something in Guildspeak to a headless krolvin corpse that you don't understand.

The krolvin corpse seems to respond to the magic of Stormyrain's song.

Stormyrain blinks, staring off into the distance.

Speaking to Blades, Leafiara explains, "It's not terribly uncommon around here." [OOC: I know that having to explain the joke means there is no joke, but I can't help myself, heh. The surface level joke is that loresinging to corpses happens during many a KST as a means of getting information. The second layer of the joke is that it's coming from Leafi, whose custom spell preps turn her every spell incantation into songs, so she sings to corpses for each resurrection.]

Stormyrain says, "Your vision blurs, colors melding together before forming a new landscape entirely. Striking, brilliant green vipers coil about several thick branches as a one-eyed krolvin bounds over several fallen trees before catching his prey and hurling a heavy woven net into the air! The halfling falls beneath the weight of the net, her deep celadon eyes going wide."

Vaemyr says, "It reminds me also of the half krolvin slain in the hold as well."

Inck says, "Hm."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Kiyna says, "...A captive, like we thought."

Lylia says, "Heavy, but still possible to drag. Although perhaps it has a story to tell even without a mouth to tell it."

Stormyrain sings something in Guildspeak to a headless krolvin corpse that you don't understand.

The krolvin corpse seems to respond to the magic of Stormyrain's song.

Stormyrain blinks, staring off into the distance.

Kiyna says, "At least at first. Is there more, though."

Stormyrain says, "Your vision blurs, colors melding together before forming a new landscape entirely. The one-eyed krolvin sits at a driftwood table across from others of his kind, an indigo-haired krolvin among them. The krol shout back and forth, their voices garbled save for words like manticore, alchemist, shrike, and courier. The krolvin keep barking until suddenly another bursts into the room, carrying a map of a small town nestled on a bay."

Rhaladin asks, "Ye are loresingin a corpse?"

Vaemyr says, "I'm really thinking our halfling might be among those we rescued."

Rhaladin asks, "Is dat sanitary?"

Drektor whispers something to Kayse.

Blades asks, "What will i find out if i cut your head off and have it sung too?"

Blades peers quizzically at Gutstorm.

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Arianiss says, "Hrmm."

Cryheart says, "It is to gain information."

Speaking to Blades, Leafiara says, "A drunken and incoherent jumble, I'd imagine."

Speaking drunkenly to Blades, Gutstorm slurs, "Wuttup buttercup?"

Earthdiver says, "Would make sense if he let her get away."

Speaking to Blades, Kiyna says, "The bard might get contact drunk."

Pookia quietly says, "Hasnt he been through enough already.."

Speaking to Blades, Rhaladin says, "Looks inta his eyes... deres nothing in dere."

Kayse whispers something to Drektor.

Inck says, "I have never seen celadon eyes."

Stormyrain sings something in Guildspeak to a headless krolvin corpse that you don't understand.

The krolvin corpse seems to respond to the magic of Stormyrain's song.

Stormyrain blinks, staring off into the distance.

Arianiss says, "She's been a captive for a while..."

Stormyrain says, "Your vision blurs, color melding together before forming a new landscape entirely. The one-eyed krolvin slowly marches before a row of bound and gagged prisoners. He slips a knife from his sheath and points it towards one of the captives, before grabbing him and hauling him off. Tucked away at the back of a ship, the krolvin begins to cut off the prisoner's toes before tossing the victim overboard."

Chandrellia says, "Welp. we know where those went."

Rhaladin says, "Ah. Dis da one dat mailed da toes."

Kiyna says, "And one of our missing prisoners."

Rhaladin says, "Ya can swim widdout toes."

Arianiss asks, "..but with your arms bound?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "You better kick hard den."

Pookia says, "Sometimes a corpses job is to rot back into the earth.. sometimes thats the best course of action.."

Stormyrain sings something in Guildspeak to a headless krolvin corpse that you don't understand.

The krolvin corpse seems to respond to the magic of Stormyrain's song.

Stormyrain blinks, staring off into the distance.

Rhaladin says, "... kick hard."

Stormyrain says, "Your vision blurs, color melding together before forming a new landscape entirely. The one-eyed krolvin barks and kicks, fighting against the tight grip that an indigo-haired krolvin has on the mane along his back. He fights against his iron chains, breaking them in one final defiant moment before a jagged knife is dragged violently across his neck, once, then twice, until all goes black."

Speaking to Pookia, Chandrellia says, "I know this upsets you, but we need to know his story, what he did, and why maybe they took the halfling."

Inck says, "Last moments."

Leafiara concludes, "So... either an execution for violating Tyrrax's orders or conveying the appearance of that."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Certainly executed for disobeying him, and proof to us that he didn't do it as well."

Speaking gratefully in Faendryl to Stormyrain, Missoni says something you don't understand.

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "He seemed mad that he was accused of harming the prisoners."

Aeith says, "Yeah, that what of what happened is becoming a little more clear, but not quite yet the why."

Pukk says, "But, still to have it mailed to us in Tyrrax's name."

Inck says, "Manticore."

Speaking gratefully to Stormyrain, Missoni says, "Thank you."

Blades says, "Remind me not to ask you to sing me to sleep."

Lylia says, "They took the halfling because this is what they do. Take. For generation upon generation of the shorter-lived races."

Speaking to Perigourd, Arianiss says, "Could still be a fake response."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Is it proof? Tyrrax could have ordered that and then betrayed him, as it were."

Speaking to Blades, Stormyrain offers, "You might like it."

Speaking to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Seeing as there was nothing between the toe incident and him losing his head over the situation."

Leafiara says, "Loresongs aren't fully detailed stories."

Speaking to Arianiss, Perigourd says, "Indeed. It could be nothing more than a warning to his crew."

Speaking softly to a headless krolvin corpse, Missoni asks, "But what happened to her?"

Goldstr exclaims, "It do be a message to us, so studdy dem words well!"

Leafiara says, "Though I do agree it's more likely now than before that the severed toes weren't Tyrrax's idea."

Lylia says, "The beheading was for us to see. The toes were taken against Tyrrax's will, it would seem."

[General] Remizycas asks, "Anyon wanna steel golems and arcitc titans?"

[General] Pookia asks, "They are going to resurrect the corpse and question it and im like hasnt it been through enough? cant it go back into the ground?"

Speaking to a headless krolvin corpse, Missoni says, "She seems to have outlived you, at any rate."

Cryheart says, "Exactly."

Lankas softly says, "It does seem to be that way."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Aye, that's true, but... as much as I like to regret saying so, I believe he's telling the truth here, there's no reason for him to if ordered it himself."

Rhaladin says, "Dey probably still gots her."

Cryheart says, "Intimidation."

[General] Pookia thinks, "Godblesssitttttt i am so bad at thinking to people."

Pukk says, "We now know the toes are from a captive and we know they were sent. But not why the toes were cut."

Arianiss says, "To gain favor with us... "oh, that wasn't me you all, I swear.."..."

Arianiss says, "..it was totally me.."

Lylia says, "Just so."

Rhaladin says, "I did nae shoot anything haflin' sized dat night."

Leafiara asks, "Even running with the idea that it wasn't Tyrrax's order, what would that change about the situation we're in?"

Vaemyr says, "So it was both a demonstration for his crew, and a message to us."

Leafiara says, "...if anything."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Goldstr says, "Mayhaps."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Nothing, he still wants something, and we don't have it, or we he hasnt told us what it actually is."

Chandrellia says, "I dont know, I'm confused about all this."

Arianiss says, "To me it sounds like one-eye was upset that he found the halfling but Tyrrax may be getting the credit."

Stormyrain asks, "If you will all excuse me?"

Arianiss says, "So perhaps he wanted to undermine him.."

Kiyna says, "I see this as... our one-eyed and now zero-eyed friend here trying to take the initiative. Probably thought Tyrrax was being soft, giving us until the Huntress."

Xorus says, "They seem convinced there was a courier. What is ambiguous to me was the... shrikes."

Lylia says, "Tyrrax has proven, in a rather brutal way, that those who go against his wishes and harm hostages he promised to keep safe until returning them in seven sacks are going to be punished in turn."

Speaking to Lylia, Chandrellia says, "Thank you, I was tryng to form words in my head, but they werent having it."

Speaking to Arianiss, Vaemyr says, "Quite possibly."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I think Tyrrax jumped the gun and hoped we would collapse and give him the recipe he thinks we have. When it backfired and we accused him of going back on his word, he did all this to make us believe that he didn't order it."

Rhaladin says, "Why's ya gonn bury it."

Rhaladin says, "Jes burn it."

Lylia says, "That would be my interpretation. But it is hard to think like them. At least for me."

Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "He values his word and upholding it, it seems."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Are we done wit da corpse?"

Pookia says, "He just seems so desperate."

Mauss asks, "But what would be the point of showing "us" that? Just to excuse himself?"

Speaking thoughtfully to Gutstorm, Leafiara says, "...believe so."

Speaking to Missoni, Lylia says, "He is certainly trying to establish trust."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Hey!"

A greater kappa just arrived!

A greater kappa just arrived!

A greater kappa just arrived!

[various people sanct]

Perigourd says, "I should wish my foes to provide me with a proper burial."

Kiyna says, "I say bury it. Give it to the soil, not the air."

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "It's indeed a possibility."

Perigourd says, "And it takes nothing from me to do likewise."

Archious says, "He fears you. Enough to care that you believe he did not harm the hostages."

Inck says, "Look."

Speaking approvingly to Archious, Leafiara says, "Hm, now that's a very compelling thought."

Cryheart says, "I am headed back to town."

Lylia indifferently asks, "Why should this one be buried and not the scores we killed and left for ravens and rot a few days ago?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Archious says, "He thinks you have the means to wipe him out."

Lylia says, "Let the crabs feed."

Cryheart says, "I think the message is clear."

Cryheart says, "Ye lead."

Cryheart nods at Geijon.

Speaking to Archious, Leafiara says, "Now if only that meant he was willing to parlay."

Leafiara mutters, "Never that easy."

Rhaladin says, "Kappa needs tae eat."

Speaking to Leafiara, Archious says, "When force fails him, he will."

A greater kappa grabs the headless krolvin corpse and wades off into the bay with it, disappearing beneath the water, its new treasure in tow.

Pukk says, "It was hungry."

Earthdiver says, "A burial at sea is fitting."

Pukk says, "Huh."

Leafiara wishes, "Well, good luck with your food there, kappa."

Pookia says, "Nature takes its course."