Landing Discussions - 2019-10-06 - The Rooks of 5116 to 5119

Jastatos 6, 5119

transcript by Leafiara Autumnwind of the [[::The_TownCrier|TownCrier]]

(...the content, however, is her own independently and not affiliated with any organization)

Log

Pre-Talk Controversy

Leafiara: "Ten minutes to go until I begin discussing the Rooks this eve. We're at Valeria Street just east of Town Square Northeast!"

Adalbern: "The Rooks are a bunch of criminals that every high-ranking official of the [[::Wehnimer's Landing|Landing]] is in bed with, which is why they've never been brought to justice."

Leafiara: "That's certainly one take! Did you know that Puptilian campaigned against them only to later appoint [[::Beldrin|one to the town council]]?"

Leafiara: "Find out this and more tonight!"

Adalbern: "Funny how that works. It's almost as if Puptilian had a mysterious change of heart."

[people gathering]

Part 1: Introduction

[below is a snapshot of how many people were there by the end of this]

[Wehnimer's, Valeria St.]

Traffic to and from the hub of activity in the square to the west clogs the street here. Passers-by guard their valuables closely, glancing into doorways and niches and wary of the press of the crowd. Two-story buildings of wood and stone line the north and south sides of the cobbled road. You also see a circular ebonwood cart with some stuff on it and a blackened sandstone shop.

Also here: Razanetika, Drektor, Goldstr, Guarrin, Sofal, Shinann, Starmizt, Taloin, Elphieya, Alistima, Bernadette, Lord Lycurgus, Pukk, Scrivener Khylynnia, Event Planner Leafiara

Leafiara says, "I expect maybe 30 to 45 minutes of history to go over, but we'll see. Slow me down if I'm going too fast, or tell me to hurry it up if I'm going too fast." (OOC: final count 50 minutes, and yes I see the typo)

Leafiara says, "And on that note..."

Leafiara glances at a pearl-inset jade leather notebook in her hand.

Leafiara pleasedly exclaims, "Good evening all, and welcome. I'm glad to see a good turnout tonight!"

Leafiara begins, "As most of you probably know, tonight I'd like to talk about the mysterious organization known as the Brotherhood of Rooks. They've been around for about eight years, at least as a recognized group, but today I'll be speaking on the past three and a half of those."

Pukk works his fingers under his straw hat and scratches his head.

Pukk nods.

Leafiara acknowledges, "And even in those years alone I can't cover everything. There are endless interesting tales--current Councilwoman [[::Alendrial DeArchon|Alendrial]]'s past involvement, former Mayor Puptilian campaigning against the Rooks but later appointing Rook loyalist Beldrin to the Town Council, Maylan talking the Rooks into trying to assassinate Rodnay, the Rooks supplying Elementz and many of us with information to track down the hunter Carenos..."

Leafiara slowly empties her lungs.

Leafiara reasons, "But we only have so much time and, anyway, I'd prefer to speak mostly on what's recent, what I saw with my own eyes, and the most relevant details of how we got to where we stand with the Rooks today."

Leafiara grins.

Leafiara earnestly says, "I hope that today I can shed some light both on why they're beloved -and- on why they're hated. No matter where you end up yourself, I hope that telling stories can foster understanding."

Leafiara mentions, "And my thoughts are only my own, not reflecting any organization I'm involved with."

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

Leafiara says, "Now..."

Part 2: Who Are the Rooks?

Leafiara begins, "The Rooks are, for one thing, our citizens. They believe in the independence of the frontier as well as their own personal freedoms. Many even choose to spend much of their time living in the tunnels beneath town, where the law has no power."

Leafiara points down.

Leafiara says, "If you've passed through Burrow Way, for example... many of them dwell there."

Bernadette nods.

Leafiara continues, "The Rooks often lend aid in resisting the many twisted [[::Turamzzyrian Empire|imperials]] who seem to find their way to the Landing over and over, from Chaston Griffin to Dennet Kestrel to Praxopius Fortney. They also demonstrated against Ta'Vaalor's advances last year toward the elven village near the [[::Category:Vipershroud_creatures|Vipershroud]], [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-08-27_-_The_Rooks%27_Red_Glare|burning strawman effigies]] of King [[::Qalinor_Vaalor|Qalinor]]."

Elphieya turns to face Leafiara.

Elphieya turns an inquisitive ear toward Leafiara.

Leafiara grins crookedly.

Leafiara explains, "For those who hadn't heard of that... the Vaalorians are building some kind of outpost around that area."

Leafiara nods.

Leafiara says, "Back to my notes..."

Leafiara turns to the next page of her notebook.

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "I had heard whispers about it."

Leafiara nods at Elphieya.

Leafiara acknowledges, "Some might say the Rooks' methods can be extreme, and it's hard to argue. In fact, they might not argue it themselves. The current leader Mother and the previous leader Rysus had different approaches, but both announced their arrivals by saying they wouldn't hesitate to be [[::Landing_Events_-_5119-01-18_-_Motherhood_and_Brotherhood#Collaboration|the hands that protect the town]], doing what others can't bring themselves to do."

Speaking to Leafiara, Taloin asks, "What are the methods you speak of?"

Leafiara notes, "In battle, they have some skill with [[::Edged Weapons|blades]], [[::Ranged_Weapons|bows]], and ranger spells, but are probably most notable for their signature exploding crimson orbs. If ever you see one roll in with a glow, I'd -highly- recommend stepping away from the area."

Speaking amusedly to Taloin, Leafiara says, "Patience, I was just getting to that."

Leafiara snickers.

Taloin nods once.

Leafiara calmly continues, "When the Rooks want to gather publicly to speak with important figures in the Landing, they arrive shrouded in secrecy, wearing beaked masks. But many of them do, of course, live otherwise normal lives. Any clerk, dockworker, message runner, or even the person standing next to you might secretly be a member of the Brotherhood."

Shinann folds her arms over her chest.

Leafiara musingly says, "Truly ya never know."

Leafiara concludes, "But amidst all the mysteries, one thing seems clear: the Rooks view the Landing as their home and they use the shadows as their means to protect that home."

Leafiara glances at a pearl-inset jade leather notebook in her hand.

Shinann just went east.

Part 3: Encounters Gone Wrong

Leafiara observes, "Seeing who's in the crowd today, I... wonder how many of you might have been caught or even killed by Rook crossfire in the past, especially during eras of previous leaders."

Pukk nods.

Leafiara ventures, "I'm guessing at least a couple here."

Leafiara grins at Pukk.

Pukk chuckles.

Pukk nods.

Leafiara admits, "And you're not alone!"

Leafiara bluntly explains, "In fact, my own first encounter with the Rooks in 5116, under Rysus' leadership, was pretty ugly. I ran into them near the path to the Order of Voln and, well, they killed me without a word of explanation."

Taloin says, "Not bad."

Taloin nods.

Leafiara frankly says, "I don't know the full details of the current events around that time, but there was strange activity with ice giants coming at us from Icemule. The Rooks were involved in a way I can't even pretend to understand."

Leafiara nods absently at Taloin.

Leafiara simply says, "So, not understanding what was happening, I decided to overlook it."

Leafiara reasonably says, "After all, no doubt many of you adventurers here have killed or been killed on accident before--and I've done it too. [[::DISARM_(verb)|Locksmithing]] gone awry, a [[::Area_of_effect|dangerous spell]] catching a passerby... anything can happen out there."

Leafiara looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.

Leafiara affirms, "So I chose to give the Rooks the benefit of the doubt and have some faith that it was crossfire or bad timing."

Pukk gasps.

Taloin calmly adds, "Hunting accident."

Shinann just arrived.

Pukk quietly exclaims, "No, never!" (regarding killing on accident with locksmithing)

Leafiara nods at Taloin.

Leafiara mysteriously wonders, "Would my faith be rewarded?"

Bernadette nods.

Leafiara coyly teases, "I guess we'll find out as I keep going."

Speaking to Leafiara, Khylynnia scoffs, "Accidentally?"

Elphieya begins to twitch her wings.

Leafiara waggles her fingers mystically at Khylynnia.

Speaking to Khylynnia, Leafiara says, "I think so, at least." (missed the context of what she was hinting; she was joking/saying that her [[::Song_of_Sonic_Disruption_(1030)|Song of Sonic Disruption]] doesn't "accidentally" kill)

Elphieya furrows her brow.

Taloin says, "We call them hunting accidents."

Elphieya glances at Leafiara.

Leafiara nods at Taloin.

Taloin nods at Khylynnia.

Alistima smiles quietly to herself.

Taloin says, "Much better than intentionally murdering."

Speaking to Taloin, Khylynnia says, "Collateral damage."

Taloin ponders.

Part 4: The War with Chaston

Leafiara somberly continues, "Now, a bit of leadup to my next point. On a more serious note... all around us today, we see the work of the witch Raznel in the blight affecting our town."

Speaking to Khylynnia, Taloin says, "That's if there's a group."

Speaking in Sylvankind, Alistima mentions something you don't understand.

Bernadette nods to Leafiara.

Pukk glances around the area.

Pukk nods.

Speaking in Sylvankind to Alistima, Taloin says something you don't understand.

Leafiara ominously states, "But in 5116, she was busy with a different blight: a blood magic curse that plagued half-elves with leprosy and black veins on our faces and arms. I was one of them, as were others who some of you might know--Shinann over there, plus Gavrien, Bekke, Rowmi, and Kippe just to name some."

Leafiara nods at Shinann.

Leafiara recalls, "At the time, Raznel was manipulating and maybe even controlling a zealot from the imperial Church of Koar: the Prelate Chaston Griffin, who commanded an army of white-armored crusaders known as 'the Blameless.'"

Shinann nods.

Leafiara offhandedly mentions, "Some of you might be familiar with these white-armored crusaders, since Raznel has raised many of them as undead and at times [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-07-18_-_Not_Disean_Eye_to_Eye#Suddenly.2C_Blameless|they assault us to this day]]."

Elphieya fidgets.

Bernadette nods.

Elphieya nods to Leafiara.

Taloin whispers something to Pukk.

Leafiara explains, "During that war the Rooks fought with us against the Blameless, both directly on the battlefield and indirectly. With their information network, they supplied valuable intel that allowed us to intercept some of the Blameless' movements and weapon shipments to their army."

Elphieya chews nervously on her lip.

Leafiara reasonably says, "So at this time, being new to the Landing then, I came to admire the Rooks. Sure, one time they'd killed me in circumstances I didn't understand, maybe some crossfire on accident. But in the circumstances I -did- understand, they were risking their lives for those like me."

Leafiara adds, "Thrayzar, who at the time was the militia's only marshal, also established a truce with the Rooks that year to fight against the common enemy."

Pukk grins.

Speaking offhandedly to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Correct me if I'm wrong on that, but that's my understanding of the timing."

Leafiara turns to the next page of her notebook.

Shinann says, "He did."

Shinann nods.

Leafiara nods at Shinann.

Leafiara wistfully muses, "To me they were... mysterious and interesting. How could they not be? They moved in the shadows of our streets as smoothly as sylvans in the shadows of the forest, swift and silent. Very different yet similar to rogues I knew back in the woods."

Pukk grins.

Pukk nods understandingly to Leafiara.

Speaking amusedly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Yes, you're great at sneaking too."

Leafiara tickles Pukk into laughing.

Leafiara adds, "And their leader Rysus, the King of the Rooks, was a charming, witty rogue of a man who never failed to get a smile and laugh out of me. No matter how dire the information he brought us, he still spared time for many a good quip or joke along the way to keep our spirits up."

Leafiara mischievously recalls, "His verbal sparring with Hapenlok was pretty legendary."

Leafiara snickers.

Leafiara waves her hand in a dismissive gesture.

Bernadette nods.

Bernadette smiles.

Leafiara says, "Eventually we defeated Chaston, of course, since the Landing still stands proudly today. As for the black blood curse, Cruxophim and I worked together to unravel it, along with Brieson from the Hall of Mages."

Leafiara opines, "It had been a challenging time, but also a time when unexpected allies cooperated to amazing effect."

Leafiara admits, "And I hoped that the truce could last forever."

Speaking casually in Sylvankind to Leafiara, Alistima warns something you don't understand.

Goldstr turns an inquisitive ear toward Leafiara.

Pukk recites quietly:

"Join Leafi!"

Taloin begins chuckling at Alistima!

Leafiara wonderingly says, "But how long would it last? Listen on..."

Part 5: Kestrel Troubles

Leafiara says, "During 5117, Grand Magister Dennet Kestrel took charge of the [[::Kingdom of Hendor|Hendoran]] outpost near here, moving in with his family--including Naimorai Kestrel. She would later [[::Keeping_Up_with_the_Kestrels_-_5117-12-16_-_Earth_Mage_Dennet%27s_Last_Ditch#Naimorai.27s_Attack|become lost in the past]] and take on the name of Rachel, then [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-09-14_-_Tri-de-fecta#Rachel.27s_Experiments|become twisted and turn into the Raznel]] who attacks us today."

Leafiara explains, "But Naimorai was no innocent even before then. After the Kestrels' arrival, there was a spike in missing citizens around the Landing--and it seemed obvious from their demeanors that Naimorai, Dennet, and Quinshon were responsible. We'd [[::Keeping_Up_with_the_Kestrels_-_5117-12-16_-_Earth_Mage_Dennet%27s_Last_Ditch#Naimorai.27s_Journal:_Explaining_Away_Centuries...|later confirm this]], but for a long while they covered their tracks well."

Leafiara ruefully concedes, "It was a frustrating time for those of us who suspected the truth all along. The militia and Mayor Crux didn't have the [[::Keeping_Up_with_the_Kestrels_-_5117-12-04_-_Suspect_Circumstances#Charges_Against_Dennet.2C_Naimorai.2C_and_Quinshon|necessary evidence]] to act legally to stop them, nor could anyone else bound by the law."

Guarrin gets an odd look on his face.

Leafiara slowly says, "...but the Rooks -weren't- bound by the law."

Leafiara says, "So they infiltrated the Hendoran outpost in disguise as Imperial soldiers, then launched an attack, ambushing the real soldiers..."

Pukk quietly says, "Oh I didn't know that."

Pukk nods.

Leafiara nods at Pukk.

Bernadette nods.

Leafiara heavily admits, "And it didn't go so well, for a lot of reasons."

Bernadette nods to Leafiara.

Speaking to Pukk, Goldstr says, "I was der."

Bernadette nods at Goldstr.

Leafiara says, "For one thing, that was the end of the truce with the Rooks, as the law-abiding militia could no longer stand behind the organization in those circumstances."

Elphieya fidgets.

Pukk nods at Goldstr.

Speaking surprisedly to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "Even if they were doing what the militia were not able to?"

Elphieya cocks her head at Leafiara.

Speaking in Sylvankind, Taloin drawls something you don't understand.

Leafiara grins crookedly at Taloin.

Alistima nods knowingly at Taloin.

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "Yes... they couldn't or at very least -outwardly- couldn't back them after that circumstance."

Elphieya furrows her brow.

Elphieya nods slightly to Leafiara.

Leafiara frankly explains, "I understand the Rooks' desperation since many of us felt it at the time, but I do think they should have been biding their time for an opportunity to strike at Dennet directly, not the Hendorans who didn't have anything to do with the situation."

Leafiara sighs.

Taloin says, "Plenty of ways to support without appearing to support."

Leafiara nods absently at Taloin.

Speaking to Taloin, Leafiara affirms, "True!"

Shinann says, "Actually, the truce ended before that. I just used it as an excuse to keep Dennet away from town and them."

Speaking surprisedly to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Oh."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Well, good thinking then."

Bernadette nods at Shinann.

Leafiara grins at Shinann.

Shinann says, "I lied."

Elphieya gazes with interest at Shinann.

Bernadette grins at Shinann.

Leafiara nods.

Alistima grins slowly at Shinann.

Shinann says, "He did not question it."

Bernadette nods at Shinann.

Leafiara ruefully says, "The Rooks had also been completely outmatched in their attack. Not necessarily by the Hendoran soldiers, but the forces at Dennet's disposal. That attack was unbelievably brave and unbelievably misguided all at once--and by the time it was over, Naimorai had afflicted Rysus with a curse that left him unable to use his legs."

Leafiara continues, "And the last way this tore them apart is that from then on there was a rift in the Rysus-led Rooks. Some began leaving to join other organizations like the [[::Orders_of_the_Turamzzyrian_Empire#The_Bayrunners|Bayrunners]], not appreciating that Rysus was increasingly treating them like soldiers."

Leafiara mysteriously says, "At least, so rumors said."

Part 6: The Dying King Rysus

Leafiara continues, "I'll jump ahead now about half a year later, after Dennet was dead, Quinshon had vanished, and Naimorai was trapped in the past. This was the start of 5118 and Rysus had been in hiding all that time, guarded by his inner circle and of course sharing nothing about his condition."

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Bernadette nods.

Leafiara explains, "However, we learned of the curse thanks to Malluch Burdos, who, under the influence of the Alchemist's concoctions, had become a vigilante killing Rooks in the tunnels. The captain's [[::loresong|loresinging]] to the corpses he left behind revealed that Malluch was [[::Rise_of_Rone_-_5118-01-22_-_On_the_Seventh_Night_of_Not_Really_Rone...#Rook_Corpses.2C_Case_.233:_Crimson_Orbs|pursuing Rysus]], the 'dying king.'"

Leafiara clarifies, "Uh, Captain Stormyrain, that is--ya know, the one who sings."

Leafiara grins.

Elphieya gazes with interest at Leafiara.

Bernadette nods.

Pukk quietly says, "Oh her."

Bernadette turns an inquisitive ear toward Leafiara.

Pukk nods.

Pukk nods.

Leafiara tickles Pukk into laughing.

Leafiara notes, "The merchant named Stephos DeArchon, husband of current Councilwoman Alendrial DeArchon, who herself had previous ties to the Rooks, also backed up Rysus' condition as [[::Mayor%27s_Minutes_-_A_Proposal_by_Stephos|a rumor he was familiar with]]."

Goldstr grins.

Pukk quietly says, "Oh Happy's friend Stephos."

Leafiara nods knowingly at Pukk.

Leafiara appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Leafiara says, "During the 5118 campaign season many fine people grilled me publicly and privately over what I thought should be done about Rysus. I acknowledged his poor tactics and said we should take him into custody..."

Leafiara frankly confesses, "And I don't think everyone believed me."

Leafiara chuckles.

Elphieya cocks her head at Leafiara.

Speaking lightly to Leafiara, Taloin inquires, "Do they ever?"

Speaking musingly to Taloin, Leafiara says, "Hopefully, or else I don't know why you all are here."

Leafiara flashes a quick grin.

Leafiara says, "The truth is, actually... I was -trying- to bring Rysus into custody at the time. I went to the catacombs many nights, trying to get word to the Rooks that if Rysus would come forward or even if he'd let me come to him, we could try to cure the curse."

Speaking to Leafiara, Taloin answers, "Opportunity."

Leafiara nods at Taloin.

Leafiara says, "I was confident we could undo the curse if Rysus would let us work on it together. Remember what I said earlier about working with Crux on the black blood curse..."

Elphieya nods to Leafiara.

Leafiara says, "With all of his research on Raznel's black blood curse, surely we'd be able to figure out something about Naimorai's curse--maybe some similarities between them. And even if Crux couldn't, maybe our other researchers or empaths or clerics could."

Pukk nods.

Elphieya fidgets.

Leafiara seriously says, "I've never wavered from chasing revenge on Raznel. Just consider how much we could have learned if we'd been able to study how to undo another of the witch's curses--even if it was one of her earliest ones."

Leafiara acknowledges, "But apparently Rysus preferred to have his freedom instead of even trying for a cure. And I can understand that; I too would choose to die free instead of live imprisoned."

Leafiara says, "So Rysus never responded to my letters and they didn't bear fruit..."

Leafiara mysteriously continues, "At least, not in the way I expected."

Leafiara grins wryly.

Bernadette nods to Leafiara.

Part 7: Praxopius' Poisonous Plot

Leafiara says, "I have to skip forward another half a year toward the end of 5118 now. [[::Landing_Events_-_5118-06-09_-_Grishom%27s_Offer_and_Breshon%27s_Consideration#Breshon.27s_Conclusion|An alchemist]] named Praxopius Fortney had recently come to town and was [[::Landing_Events_-_5118-05-01_-_The_Jailed_Jastevian%27s_Request#A_Visitation_With_Malluch|suspected of being the Alchemist]] who'd unleashed the Rone vigilantes on our streets--a [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-09-29_-_The_Grand_Glaoveln_Goal#Q.26Alchemist|suspicion that turned out true]], but that's a story for another time."

Leafiara says, "One night, [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-08-18_-_The_Reach_for_Answers#Breshon.27s_Dinner|a cloaked figure wanted an audience]] alone with me and claimed that he'd discovered a cure for Rysus' curse. He was one of Praxopius' spies, though I didn't know it at the time, and had no doubt noticed my efforts to contact the Rooks since he asked me to reach out to them. I said I'd do that, so he gave me a vial with a mysterious liquid."

Elphieya gasps.

Pukk quietly asks, "Wait wait...you can bury letters and they will bear fruit?"

Pukk gasps.

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "I remember this part."

Leafiara nods grimly at Elphieya.

Elphieya nods quickly!

Razanetika sits down next to Elphieya.

Leafiara notes, "I was concerned about Praxopius and the timing, of course, but..."

Lycurgus squeaks oddly.

Lycurgus glances at Pukk.

Leafiara emphasizes, "Consider my dilemma. If there was even a tiny chance that it was a true cure, it would be invaluable for any future battles with the witch--like the one we face now. On top of that, it would save the 'dying king' Rysus' life, and how could I ignore that when I've devoted my own life as a cleric to saving others'?"

Leafiara mutters, "And that's probably exactly what Praxopius was counting on."

Alistima glances appraisingly at Leafiara.

Bernadette nods.

Leafiara wryly sighs, "Talk about risk and reward. It might have killed Rysus or it might save him -and- give us new insights into undoing Raznel's curses."

Pukk nods.

Speaking calmly in Sylvankind to Leafiara, Alistima says something you don't understand.

Leafiara heavily says, "I considered drinking it myself to make sure, but I couldn't. I -had- to deliver it, because I said I would and my word is my bond."

Leafiara nods gravely at Alistima.

Leafiara slowly notes, "But I hadn't said -when- I'd deliver it."

Leafiara continues, "So, despite Rook eyes everywhere, I tried to keep it secret from them. I prefer to work in the open if possible--right up to telling you all of this in the middle of the street--but I thought it was unavoidable at the time. I began taking it to trusted friends for inspection starting the next day."

Leafiara says, "Alchemists, rangers, bards... they all turned up nothing the next day."

Leafiara says, "The day after that, I took Balley aside and asked for her talents. Using her scrying, she told me that the vial was bad and not what I thought it was."

Bernadette nods to Leafiara.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Leafiara says, "So obviously I needed to continue investigating. My next thought was to speak with Goblyn..."

Pukk nods understandingly.

Leafiara musingly speculates, "But by the third day, I can only guess that Praxopius tipped off the Rooks about the vial, having suspected I wasn't going to deliver it or at least would take more time than he was comfortable with..."

Speaking in Sylvankind to herself, Alistima mumbles something you don't understand.

Leafiara grins crookedly at Alistima.

Leafiara says, "So, even though I hadn't reached out to the Rooks, they came to me while I was at the bakery on other business, discussing town defense with other people."

Razanetika fidgets.

Elphieya rubs Razanetika gently.

Leafiara says, "And... well..."

Leafiara sighs.

Shinann glances at Leafiara.

Pukk quietly says, "They have to eat too.."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya prompts, "And?"

Pukk nods understandingly.

Leafiara says, "I handed it over that night. I did give full warning to test it thoroughly, and if anyone wants a list of eyewitnesses, I can give them."

Leafiara sadly admits, "...I wish I'd asked for more time to inspect it myself. I guess I'd just hoped that the Rooks would be able to figure it out, but it was a bit much."

Leafiara reluctantly says, "And what was the vial? Well... [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-08-25_-_Rysus%27_Resolution_and_the_Sparrows%27_Setup#Rysus_Regarding_the_Vaalorians|it did restore Rysus' legs]], but also mixed in was [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-09-19_-_Prax%27s_Private,_Perilous,_Poisonous_Plan#Prax.27s_Plot|a poison that drove him insane]]."

Elphieya gasps.

Razanetika glances at Leafiara and cringes.

Leafiara grimly says, "The now-crazed Rysus led the Rooks in [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-09-19_-_Prax%27s_Private,_Perilous,_Poisonous_Plan#Militia_Hostages_-_The_Rooks.27_Rone_Trap|murdering our militia]] and [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-09-24_-_Giving_Justice_the_Rone_Around#Explosions_in_the_Square|any adventurers trying to put a stop to it]], increasingly desperate and mad. Blood ran through the streets on [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-09-20_-_Butcher%27s_Dozen#Slaughter|all sides]]."

Leafiara frowns.

Speaking painfully to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "That part I definitely remember."

Leafiara says, "[[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-10-06_-_Long_Live_the_King|It all came to an ugly end]] when at last the Rooks themselves--what was left of them by then--could no longer follow him. They brought him before us and supplied daggers, and they stabbed him to death along with the aid of several adventurers you might know. I... will not name names on that."

Leafiara nods slowly at Elphieya.

Elphieya shudders.

Elphieya begins to twitch her wings.

Guarrin raises an eyebrow.

Shinann shifts her weight.

Leafiara says, "Today is Jastatos 6th, a bittersweet day I can never forget. My birthday... and the day that Rysus, the King of the Rooks, was slain one year ago on this very street."

Leafiara points down.

Elphieya glances down.

Elphieya fidgets.

Speaking to Leafiara, Taloin says, "Happy birthday."

Pukk nods.

Leafiara distantly says, "What a twisted irony. Puptilian had [[::Mayoral_Debate_5116_for_Wehnimer%27s_Landing|campaigned against the Rooks]], but even with all the resources of two years as mayor and friendships with several militia captains, he couldn't take Rysus down. Hapenlok hated Rysus with a passion as fiery as his magic and said over and over he'd kill him one day, but it never happened."

Pukk quietly says, "I remember that."

Leafiara grins wryly at Taloin.

Speaking to Elphieya, Taloin says, "Puptilian is a friend."

Shinann says, "I will say I pushed for a trial and did not agree with how he died."

Elphieya nods at Taloin.

Leafiara nods slowly at Shinann.

Leafiara distantly says, "Instead Rysus met his end partly at my hands--I, who really liked him, wanted to believe in him, and hoped we could one day come back to sense, with the truce and cooperation of 5116."

Leafiara shakes her head.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Guarrin folds his hands behind his back.

Leafiara says, "I won't linger on that part anymore--think whatever you will on it."

Leafiara lets out a long, contemplative breath.

Leafiara clears her throat.

Alistima gazes with interest at Leafiara.

Elphieya reaches over and gently rests her hand on Leafiara's arm.

Part 8: Sins of the Past

Goldstr mutters child-killer.

Leafiara asks, "So, with that said... Some of you might be thinking that other than the period where Rysus went mad, when do I get to the part where I shed light on why they're hated?"

Leafiara nods at Goldstr.

Bernadette nods.

Speaking to Goldstr, Leafiara says, "I must be even better at timing out the questions than I thought."

Leafiara grins.

Leafiara thoughtfully professes, "Rysus was a very... guarded figure who rarely talked about the past, so I hardly knew him well. Truth be told, I've probably learned more about him in the year since his death than I did for the two and a half years I lived in the Landing while he was alive."

Goldstr grins.

Leafiara notes, "Like I mentioned, Thrayzar established a -truce- with the Rooks in 5116... but at the time, being new to town, I couldn't understand why it was a 'truce' instead of an 'alliance.' How could there be a cease fire if there's no fire?"

Leafiara slowly explains, "But... unknown to me, the Rooks under Rysus had been quite violent at times before the conflict that Raznel and Chaston brought to us."

Pukk nods.

Leafiara acknowledges, "I'll admit this is all secondhand, but from what I've been told..."

Leafiara glances at Shinann.

Leafiara recalls, "There were incidents of them slitting the throats of militia members, including our current captains. And there were other incidents when the militia conducted raids on the Rook tunnels--and, I'm told, in the ensuing combat the Rooks used children as shields."

Goldstr nods.

Elphieya gasps.

Shinann nods to Leafiara.

Elphieya clasps her hand over her mouth.

Razanetika blinks at Leafiara.

Guarrin frowns.

Razanetika frowns.

Elphieya fidgets.

Goldstr nods to Leafiara.

Speaking shakily to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "This was BEFORE he went mad you say?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Goldstr says, "I was witness to dat."

Leafiara says, "Now, the Rooks have always employed children as members from what I've seen. So I wasn't always sure who to believe, since they might have been combatants--" (unfinished thought: "as opposed to shields")

Leafiara nods grimly at Elphieya.

Leafiara nods slowly at Goldstr.

Leafiara emphasizes, "And Rysus, as many people from Hapenlok all the way to Lylia will affirm, was very charismatic, charming, and funny. I said so before, but it can't be emphasized enough. Hap even called him dangerously charismatic."

Leafiara admits, "So for me it was very difficult to believe that someone so good-humored wasn't also good-natured. -Especially- when just as many people I admired were praising the Rooks as the number of people I admired condemning them."

Alistima raises an eyebrow in Leafiara's direction.

Shinann can offer Leafiara only a blank expression.

Pukk nods.

Razanetika leans forward and rests her chin in her hand, a thoughtful expression on her face.

Leafiara says, "Now, when I finally knew the tales were true was after the current Rook leader Mother took over..."

Speaking in Sylvankind, Alistima smoothly says something you don't understand.

Shinann nods.

Leafiara says, "As we finally arrive in 5119. Mother had taken over as the new Rook leader and, when she first came to publicly meet with Sir Cryheart and everyone, she said [[::Landing_Events_-_5119-01-18_-_Motherhood_and_Brotherhood#Nurturing|the old ways of Rysus' leadership were over]] and that [[::Landing_Events_-_5119-02-01_-_Reprise,_not_Reprisal#Intentions|the Rooks would no longer bleed our own citizens]]."

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Lycurgus squeaks oddly.

Leafiara stresses, "Coming from her, those words showed me that two opposing groups--the Rooks and those against them--agreed on what happened."

Speaking in Sylvankind to Alistima, Taloin says something you don't understand.

Razanetika nods slowly to Leafiara.

Leafiara concedes, "So I admit, I was wrong about Rysus and I only halfway understood him. He did do all the good I said, all the good that I saw--aiding against Chaston, trying to aid against Dennet and Naimorai, and more--but he was also responsible for other evils. Horrible ones at times."

Leafiara sighs.

Leafiara acknowledges, "I'd always wondered why Rysus never invited me into their ranks, actually..."

Leafiara concludes, "But now it seems clear to me that the reason they didn't ask me to join and the reason I had their trust anyway were one and the same. It's because they knew I treated them just like any other citizens and wouldn't draw sword or spell against them."

Alistima glances appraisingly at Leafiara.

Leafiara slowly emphasizes, "In other words, I'd never have fit in because in his version of the Rooks, Rysus wanted something I don't have: a willingness to kill even our own citizens."

Leafiara reluctantly mumbles, "... ...on purpose, anyway."

Razanetika rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Part 9: A New Era with Mother

Leafiara says, "But all of that is the past, so let's wrap up with a discussion on where we stand today."

Leafiara slowly empties her lungs.

Starmizt nods.

Speaking in Sylvankind to Leafiara, Taloin says something you don't understand.

Leafiara proclaims, "After Rysus' many mistakes, I'm actually very optimistic that the new Rooks under Mother will work out for the better."

Leafiara grins crookedly at Taloin.

Alistima nods in agreement at Taloin.

Leafiara relents, "And yeah, I know, I know. Some of you are thinking 'naive.' I know you guys."

Leafiara snickers.

Goldstr grins.

Khylynnia raises her hand.

Speaking softly to herself, Razanetika says, "Except their wanting to extort this town now."

Leafiara notes, "But unlike with Rysus, who was around for years before I knew him, I've seen Mother's every step as she's led the Rooks for almost a year, through times of calm at the start of 5119 to the desperate times we face now."

Alistima gazes with interest at Taloin.

Khylynnia snickers at Leafiara.

Leafiara pushes on Khylynnia without much success.

Speaking to Razanetika, Leafiara says, "I'll touch on that very shortly."

Razanetika blinks.

Razanetika nods absently to Leafiara.

Leafiara remarks, "I've seen Mother take strides forward to [[::Landing_Events_-_5119-02-01_-_Reprise,_not_Reprisal#Council_Resignation|seek peace with the militia]], instead of the militia being the ones seeking peace with the Rooks, and she's denounced Rysus' methods of bleeding our own people--certainly his biggest fault."

Leafiara hopefully says, "So maybe the ideal of a truce still lives."

Speaking in Elven to Razanetika, Taloin says something you don't understand.

Leafiara continues, "I've seen Mother feed the poor in Shanty Town. She's been [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-08-31_-_Rook_and_Sea_For_Yourself#Mother.27s_Way|cordial with Sir Cryheart]]. She's stopped opportunistic farmers from [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-07-18_-_Not_Disean_Eye_to_Eye#Farmers.27_Markup|price gouging our citizens]] to death. She's even [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-08-18_-_Firewalkar#Recover|battled Raznel's forces directly]]."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "Did Lylia ever answer her proposal?"

Leafiara offhandedly mentions, "...and with that mysterious soulstone ring she wears, she's been a lot more effective in the battle than Rysus and his knife would have been."

Speaking softly to Taloin, Razanetika says, "Not at the citizens of this town's expanse."

Guarrin leans against a blackened sandstone shop.

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara admits, "That I don't know. You'd have to ask her."

Pukk quietly says, "The town will always have something like the Rooks. They give the common person hope at times and a sense of togetherness and hope. How else are the poor kids of this town to survive? Rooks offer them this."

Leafiara says, "Like Raza and Elphie just mentioned, Mother had also [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-08-31_-_Rook_and_Sea_For_Yourself#Open_Offer|extended an offer to the mayor]] to speed up food deliveries and protect shops from theft in exchange for one uninspected ship per month for a year."

Razanetika softly asks, "At what price though?"

Razanetika glances at Pukk.

Shinann says, "This masked one... that calls herself Mother, is suspect at best and she has not sought us out, though she said she was going to, and sorry for interrupting."

Leafiara says, "Now, obviously many people were unsettled or suspicious over this..."

Goldstr agrees with Shinann.

Razanetika agrees with Elphieya.

Razanetika softly says, "Still."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara agrees, "That is true, yes. We waited and waited, but no meeting with Thadston and Mother yet."

Speaking casually in Sylvankind to Leafiara, Alistima wonders something you don't understand.

Razanetika nods slowly to Leafiara.

Shinann agrees with Leafiara.

Elphieya leans on Razanetika, giving her a companionable grin.

Speaking musingly to Alistima, Leafiara asks, "The Rooks have eyes everywhere... maybe just post a note on the tree?"

Leafiara chuckles.

Razanetika smooches Elphieya on the cheek.

Leafiara says, "In any case, people wondered why the Rooks can't just aid without asking anything in return."

Goldstr nods.

Razanetika softly says, "Or on the infamous 'do not touch' board outside the hall."

Razanetika whistles tunelessly to herself.

Speaking in Sylvankind to Leafiara, Taloin says something you don't understand.

Speaking calmly in Sylvankind to Leafiara, Alistima asks something you don't understand.

Leafiara reminds, "But in all of those other situations I named besides the aid with food and theft, she and the Rooks -have- aided without asking anything in return."

Elphieya glances at Alistima.

Taloin nods at Alistima.

Elphieya grumpily says, "You know, most of us can't understand you."

Speaking amusedly to Alistima, Leafiara says, "Me? I could probably get their attention any moment."

Alistima grins slowly at Elphieya.

Speaking pointedly in Sylvankind to Elphieya, Alistima says something you don't understand.

Elphieya mutters under her breath.

Alistima nods slightly to Leafiara.

Leafiara adds, "Second, Mother faces the difficult task of inheriting all the reputation, both good and bad, that the organization has been known for under previous leaders. I've spent so much time on Rysus not as a memorial, but to put into context how all of the Rooks' history under his leadership ties in to what you see now."

Razanetika examines her fingernails.

Leafiara acknowledges, "-I- consider the new Rooks a clean slate and appreciate Mother's efforts and haven't seen any reason yet to distrust her, but of course everyone has their own opinions. She has a very uphill battle to change perceptions and has said she's fought hard to rid the current Rooks of those loyal to the older, more violent ways."

Bernadette nods.

Leafiara says, "And in full disclosure..."

Leafiara mentions, "Many of you remember the attacks last month when giant spiders took our citizens from the rooftops and 'returned' them to us days later as corpses imbedded with witchworms that burst onto our streets."

Pukk nods.

Lycurgus squeaks oddly.

Leafiara adds, "What you might not know is that I was almost one of those taken. While I scouted alone on a rooftop, one of those spiders caught me in a web and I was in trouble until [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-09-13_-_Tangled_Web_We_Weave#Friends_in_High_Places|a slew of Rook archers saved me]]."

Elphieya shudders.

Elphieya begins to twitch her wings.

Razanetika blinks at Leafiara.

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Razanetika says, "I seem to recall hearing about that... wasn't sure it happened though."

Leafiara says, "So... sometimes they do offer aid selflessly and without announcing it to the world."

Speaking to Razanetika, Leafiara affirms, "It did."

Leafiara's face turns slightly pale.

Part 10: Looking to the Future

Leafiara turns to the next page of her notebook.

Razanetika rubs Leafiara tenderly.

Leafiara says, "Only a few more lines and then we'll be done tonight."

Leafiara glances at a pearl-inset jade leather notebook in her hand.

Leafiara grins.

Leafiara says, "A certain -someone- who I unfortunately don't see in this crowd today has told me many times: be careful with the Rooks. Be wary. They'll turn on you. You're playing with fire and you'll get burned."

Leafiara shakes her head.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Shinann says, "She is right."

Leafiara says, "But, so far, that hasn't happened to me. Not even Rysus' Rooks, never mind Mother's. And it didn't even happen the time when they probably [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-09-19_-_Prax%27s_Private,_Perilous,_Poisonous_Plan#Kidnapping|-should- have burned me]], over that poison. Instead Rysus' Rooks left me alone and Mother has even personally thanked me for doing a good deed for the Brotherhood."

Leafiara clarifies, "And the certain someone wasn't Shinann, by the way."

Leafiara chuckles.

Shinann says, "But, I think I know who."

Shinann grins at Leafiara.

Speaking simply to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "You said they weren't here. That would rule out Shinann."

Leafiara nods at Elphieya.

Leafiara optimistically says, "I like to think that they see I show them the same respect and forgiveness I'd show to any Landing citizen, so they respond in kind. So, while everyone can form their own opinions, mine is to give the Rooks a chance. They risk their lives for all the Landing to this day--and I for them too, both as a militia member and for years before then."

Elphieya idly flicks her jade green wings for a few moments and sleekly rests them against her back.

Pukk quietly says, "Cay or Stormy."

Pukk ponders.

Leafiara wryly says, "And yeah, I know. Call me naive, call me whatever."

Leafiara snickers.

Sofal says, "Given the deal they offered the mayor, can see it's a two-sided sword."

Leafiara earnestly says, "But they're our citizens and I give them the benefit of the doubt. To me, that's what it means to call ourselves a town."

Razanetika nods at Sofal.

Leafiara sincerely offers, "It's been a long road to get to this point, but the evidence of change for the better with Mother is there. Perfect? No. But far better than it used to be."

Leafiara formally says, "Thank you all for coming tonight. And, if anyone's not too exhausted, the floor is now open for questions."

Questions and Wrap-Up

Goldstr nods.

Leafiara pants.

Leafiara gently closes her jade leather notebook.

Pukk adopts an agreeable expression.

Leafiara tucks a pearl-inset jade leather notebook into a small pocket inside of her red silk cape.

Alistima turns toward Leafiara and draws her hands together in a slow, deliberate clap.

Guarrin nods to Leafiara.

Speaking to Leafiara, Goldstr says, "Tank ye much fer dis talk M'Lady."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I do have a couple of questions for you."

Leafiara grins at Goldstr.

Speaking amicably to Goldstr, Leafiara exclaims, "Glad to host, Sir!"

Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Guarrin says, "I've a question as well."

Speaking curiously to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Sure."

Speaking to Leafiara, Shinann says, "Happy Birthday."

Pukk glances at a wrinkled scroll in his hand.

Leafiara beams happily at Shinann!

Speaking appreciatively to Shinann, Leafiara exclaims, "Thank you!"

Speaking curiously to Pukk, Leafiara asks, "Your questions?"

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "First you said 'If' and my second question was huh and then I made a little drawing of a rolton."

Leafiara says, "Then Guarrin afterward."

Pukk nods to Leafiara.

Leafiara tickles Pukk into laughing.

Speaking sadly to Leafiara, Elphieya apologizes, "I'm sorry. If I had known it was your birthday I would have gotten you a present."

Interlocking his fingers above his head, Taloin stretches slowly, extending his spine in a satisfying stretch.

Elphieya glances at Leafiara and pouts.

Elphieya hugs Leafiara, who wraps her in a warm embrace.

Speaking in Sylvankind to Alistima, Taloin asks something you don't understand.

Speaking gently to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "No, no... I don't advertise it or anything."

Leafiara grins at Elphieya.

Leafiara gives Elphieya a friendly hug.

Pukk shrugs.

Speaking curiously to Guarrin, Leafiara asks, "Your question?"

Alistima glances at Taloin.

Pukk put a wrinkled scroll in his spidersilk cloak.

Guarrin nods to Leafiara.

Lycurgus softly says, "Thank you for the lesson in history Leafiara."

Speaking simply in Sylvankind to Taloin, Alistima says something you don't understand.

Lycurgus squeaks oddly.

Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Guarrin says, "Thank you for the history. I've a better understanding of events, or what happened, but I'm still unclear on the why."

Elphieya glances between Alistima and Taloin.

Leafiara amusedly says, "And I -still- have no idea how Maylan talked Rysus into trying to kill Rodnay. That was an even crazier idea than the outpost attack."

Leafiara chuckles.

Speaking to Elphieya, Khylynnia says, "She likes smooches, snuggles and chocolate."

Speaking in Sylvankind to Alistima, Taloin says says something you don't understand.

Elphieya giggles.

Speaking amicably to Alistima, Leafiara says, "Certainly."

Razanetika tickles Leafiara into laughing.

Alistima nods briskly at Taloin!

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

Speaking softly to Khylynnia, Razanetika says, "You forgot tickles."

Speaking curiously to Guarrin, Leafiara asks, "The why of which part?"

Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Guarrin says, "Is there an understanding as to why, either Rysus or, perhaps more importantly, Mother are making demands now."

Razanetika nods knowingly at Khylynnia.

Goldstr says, "Take care folks."

Goldstr waves.

Leafiara waves to Goldstr.

Bernadette waves to Goldstr.

Speaking in Sylvankind, Alistima offhandedly says something you don't understand.

Pukk hugs Leafiara, who wraps him in a warm embrace.

Goldstr just went east.

Bernadette smiles.

Speaking to Razanetika, Khylynnia says, "I didn't forget it, I left that one out on purpose."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Thank you for all of this. I understand so much more now...and I still like the Rooks."

Speaking to Guarrin, Leafiara admits, "I could only really guess at best."

Leafiara grins impishly at Pukk.

Razanetika begins chortling at Khylynnia.

Guarrin nods to Leafiara.

Razanetika nods understandingly at Khylynnia.

Pukk just went west.

Speaking to Guarrin, Leafiara says, "Some think Mother wanted the ships to not be inspected so she could smuggle."

Leafiara perplexedly says, "But smuggling what, exactly, I have no idea."

Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Guarrin says, "Certainly she can accomplish such things now, though."

Guarrin nods to Leafiara.

Shinann says, "Because the Masked One claims that she only cares about the town, however she now puts conditions on that caring."

Sofal says, "Not smuggling if you announce it's comin on this day."

Speaking to Guarrin, Leafiara agrees, "Yes, that's the strange part of it... they likely do already through the tunnels."

Razanetika tucks her chin towards her chest and falls to the ground in an elegant roll. She tumbles smoothly and springs to her feet, ready for action!

Leafiara gives Razanetika a warm buss on the lips.

Razanetika gives Leafiara a warm buss on the lips.

Elphieya stands up.

Elphieya hugs Leafiara, who wraps her in a warm embrace.

Guarrin nods in agreement to Leafiara.

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya promises, "I will get you a present soon."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "But the Rooks do aid us in battle. I think there's something more to this, though... again, I really can't imagine what."

Leafiara gives Elphieya a friendly hug.

Elphieya gives Leafiara a lingering kiss on the cheek.

Elphieya grins at Khylynnia.

Leafiara hugs Razanetika, who wraps her in a warm embrace.

Shinann says, "I am not a Rook fan... guess you can tell."

Razanetika winks at Leafiara.

Speaking quietly to Khylynnia, Elphieya exclaims, "Smooch, check!"

Razanetika hugs Leafiara, who wraps her in a warm embrace.

Elphieya giggles.

Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Guarrin says, "Thank you again for the discussion."

Sofal waves to Leafiara.

Elphieya just went west.

Leafiara looks at Shinann and breaks into a cheeky grin.

Leafiara waves to Sofal.

Razanetika's group just went west.

Leafiara smiles at Guarrin.

Bernadette nods to Leafiara.

Speaking affably to Guarrin, Leafiara says, "Was glad to host! I had a lot to get off my chest."

Leafiara chuckles.

Bernadette softly says, "Verra informativ."

Bernadette nods.

Bernadette smiles at Leafiara.

Leafiara grins at Bernadette.

Guarrin deeply says, "If you'll excuse me."

Leafiara turns toward Guarrin and renders a sharp hand salute.

Guarrin waves.

Leafiara waves.

Guarrin's fingers briefly touch his brow as he renders Leafiara a casual salute.

Speaking to Leafiara, Shinann says, "Well, they do live here and if the town is destroyed, so is their livelihood, so they do defend."

Guarrin just went west.

Bernadette softly says, "Aye must make a paertin."

Leafiara looks thoughtfully at Shinann.

Alistima nods to Leafiara.

Bernadette bows to Leafiara.

Leafiara warmly exclaims, "Thank you all again for coming!"

Leafiara bobs down and back up in a quick curtsy.

Alistima just went west.

Bernadette just went west.

Shinann says, "Cannot steal from dead folks... cannot sell smuggled goods to dead folks."

Starmizt smiles.

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara acknowledges, "That's a pretty skeptical view."

Leafiara grins at Shinann.

Starmizt just went east.

Shinann says, "It is the truth."

Leafiara admits, "I mean, it's a true one, but--"

Leafiara says, "Skeptical implications then."

Khylynnia says, "From your perspective, Captain."

Leafiara says, "But, everyone does have to form their own opinions."

Speaking to Khylynnia, Shinann says, "They slit my throat several times... I think my perspective is intact."

Shinann nods once.

Leafiara admits, "I could very well be wrong about Mother like I was about Rysus. Anything's possible."

Leafiara earnestly says, "But I'm ever the optimist."

Shinann says, "I have had many dealings with them..."

Leafiara gazes with interest at Shinann.

Speaking to Shinann, Khylynnia says, "Again, from your perspective. I have been subject to their exploding orbs before, and hold them no ill will."

Speaking curiously to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Who started it, though? They never attack me, maybe because I never attack them."

Leafiara sheepishly says, "I'd just like to think that seeking peace isn't crazy."

Leafiara repeats, "I know. I know. 'Naive.'"

Speaking to Shinann, Khylynnia says, "I can see your perspective, because you were directly targeted, but many of the rest of us do not view them with such hostility."

Leafiara chuckles.

Speaking to Leafiara, Shinann says, "They were doing things before you arrived in town. You said so yourself. I will not go into that history."

Leafiara nods at Shinann.

Speaking to Khylynnia, Shinann says, "I defended the Outpost when they attacked... the same night Dennet decided to send his golems to get the Rooks. I switched sides and fought with the Rooks."

Leafiara concedes, "Fair enough. I know you always have much to do with patrols and such, and it would maybe be a longer discussion than we have time for."

Shinann says, "So, you cannot assume about me."

Shinann nods.

Leafiara acknowledges, "I'm just very curious about the fact that they've never attacked me--except for crossfire--even when I think I deserved it."

Shinann says, "Anyway... I best leave before I say something I should not."

Leafiara says, "But... maybe a question for another time."

Shinann bows.

Shinann just went east.

Bonus Material

After the crowd had cleared, Leafiara withdrew to a private table to begin producing the transcript for the TownCrier. Most of it would be easy enough to redo from her notes, since for once she'd prepared her talk in advance instead of talking off the cuff; she'd only need to rely on Tilamaire's aid to [[::Leafiara#Other_Quirks|recall others' interjections and her own responses]].

Leafi flipped her notebook open, landing by happenstance on the page where she'd jotted down some questions that she expected to hear. She chuckled as she looked them over. "Not even one of 'em was asked..." She tapped a thoughtful finger against her lips. Maybe it's because my talk went long and people were tired. Guess I'll add these to the transcripts anyway in case people wonder!"

Any guesses on who Mother is?

Nope. I do have to mention that at one time [[::Rise_of_Rone_-_5118-01-12_-_Town_Council_Candidate_Debates_5118,_Night_1#Question_7:_Leafiara_to_Alendrial:_Plans_and_Proposals_.2F_Bonus_Answer_For_Evia|the Rooks dubbed Alendrial DeArchon the Mother]], but the thought of Alendrial wearing a mask while using a nickname that she's admitted to having in front of all of Moot Hall is a pretty wild idea that I don't agree with. I don't think it's her and I don't see any other likely suspects either.

Are you sure you weren't trying to eliminate Rysus and become Queen of the Rooks?

I can't say the thought didn't cross my mind, though that had nothing to do with the poison. I thought about it briefly months before when I was trying to get Rysus to come out into the open. Either way, I dismissed the idea of taking over pretty quickly. Thing is, I have no interest in giving out orders! Maybe I'm an even bigger believer in freedom than the Rooks.

Do you think the Warcats are Rooks?

I doubt it. In a way it's a good question since [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-08-31_-_Rook_and_Sea_For_Yourself#Warcats|Mother knew about them]], but at the same time, I'd think that acknowledging the Warcats publicly is a good sign that she has nothing to do with them. When Rysus' Rooks [[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-09-20_-_Butcher%27s_Dozen#Slaughter|infiltrated the militia in the past]], they generally weren't found out until they were dead since they didn't call attention to themselves. That's what I'd expect to see if she had something to do with it--a coverup or pretending not to know anything.

Even if Rysus -hadn't- used children as shields, how is it okay to let them in battle? Or have them in the Brotherhood at all?

I guess I just don't see a problem with allowing kids a lot of freedom? I do realize we have a lot of bounties for lost children. On the other hand, last month Twilight Hall celebrated our member Timoen's twelfth birthday and she's already a very talented wizard and adventurer who I'm sure has no trouble battling ghostly pookas--if she's not already beyond them! But even if you disagree, you'll be glad to know that Mother has [[::Landing_Events_-_5119-01-18_-_Motherhood_and_Brotherhood#Nurturing|dismissed the idea of treating children as pawns]].

Has Mother invited you to join the Rooks?

Nope. My best guess is that it's because they still operate secretly most of the time while I prefer to talk openly. Either that or she realizes I'm not good at following orders!

OOC Notes

I chose to present sentences spoken in [[::elf|Elven]] and Sylvankind from the perspective of a character who doesn't understand, though Leafiara of course does. I thought it made the most sense this way, as if it were being listened in on by a passerby who only speaks in Common--since the talk was done openly on the street.

Near the end, Leafiara and Shinann bring up, respectively, Mother wanting to meet with the militia and yet not making good on that. They were [[::Landing_Events_-_5119-01-18_-_Motherhood_and_Brotherhood#Collaboration|referring to this night]], when Mother expressed a desire to meet with the militia, mayor, and Leafi (separate category from the militia because she hadn't joined yet). At the time it came off as if they would be the only ones invited, in which case no such meeting happened.

[[::Landing_Events_-_5119-02-01_-_Reprise,_not_Reprisal#Council_Resignation|Two weeks later]] she had a meeting with everyone again, which I initially thought was the intended meeting and that we'd just misunderstood and everybody was invited. But that doesn't seem to be right, since at the end of that night she reiterated wanting a meeting with Thadston and the militia in a week--which again didn't happen.

In any case, it's unclear whether that was an intentional aspect of the story or simply life happening to Kenstrom. Other than campaign season events, there were over two months between that day and further story progression in any form. Certainly events have been delayed as long as or longer than this for (probable) OOC reasons, like [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-08-06_-_Ready_or_Rot#Statue_Plans|Thadston wanting to get rid]] of the bleakstone statue by the weekend--yet to happen two months later. Or Mother's other plan to remove Beldrin shortly after the election--yet to happen six months later.

Nonetheless, whether there's an OOC component or not, neither Leafi nor Shinann would dismiss the promise as having not happened in an IC sense.