Landing Events - 2018-04-13 - Breshon and Larsya: Understanding the Situation (log)

Olaesta 13, 5118

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

Summary

• Breshon Caulfield says the Bourthians and Hendorans are working well and that they haven't discovered additional new areas left behind by Dennet Kestrel but understand that they exist.

• Breshon collects theories on what happened to [[::Larsya_Caulfield|Larsya]] and, over a lengthy discussion, concludes the following: A) Epochxin was on the arrow that shot her, B) her blood is either now Epochxin, a version of it, or something else with Epochxin as a component, C) her blood matches the blood of the primals in the Southron Wastes and was able to lure them out, and D) Brieson of the Hall of Mages modified a vial of primal blood to stop a rapid aging process caused by the Epochxin, but not reverse it.

• Adventurers propose a study of Larsya's blood as well as other untainted samples for comparison; Breshon says he'll think on it.

• Breshon and adventurers speculate about why primal blood played a role in curing the half-elves who were cursed by Raznel and countering the Everblood, and in particular why Raznel would leave behind alchemy recipes offering the cure to the troubles she created. Some make the case that if Naimorai Kestrel truly became Raznel, then she would have needed to manipulate events to become what she remembered them being.

• As the night winds down, Breshon receives a letter saying that Thadston Andrews is returning--with no further details.

Log

Gathering

Thunder rumbles quietly in the distance.

[over the amunet...]

Breshon: I am meeting for a bit tonight, with those who wish to gather, to discuss some things pertaining to my dear sister. I shall await those wishing to join me at the Outpost Courtyard.

[travel time]

[Outpost, Outer Courtyard]

A pair of Hendoran soldiers stand at attention on either side of a black iron portcullis which leads outside the outpost. Beyond them, the courtyard fills a space between the outer wooden wall and an inner wall made of stone, where a fortified keep rises behind it. Above, imperial soldiers slowly walk the parapet of the outer wall, their eyes focused on the horizon. You also see a grey brick tavern.

Also here: Chaoswynd, Sir Bristenn, Lord Breshon

[people arrive, various greetings]

Breshon grins.

Breshon bows.

Breshon says, "Good evening."

Speaking evenly to Breshon, Raelee says, "... Lord Breshon."

Lylia bows to Breshon.

Breshon bows to Raelee.

Breshon says, "Magister Svala, good to see you."

Breshon says, "Mayor Lylia. Congratulations."

Breshon bows to Lylia.

Speaking warmly to Breshon, Lylia says, "I thank you."

Breshon says, "I thank you all for coming, and showing such concern for my sister."

Speaking to Breshon, Maylan says, "She's the best little pirate I ever did see."

Breshon grins at Maylan.

Breshon asks, "If you would all join me?"

Evia says, "Just don't mass deport us somewhere."

Lornieh says, "Long as it's not underground.... think we'll be fine."

Breshon chuckles.

Breshon says, "We're going inside, and upstairs."

Breshon says, "With our feet."

Breshon indicates some crisp black leather hunting boots as a possible option.

Lord Breshon's group just went north.

Lord Breshon's group just went south.

Minniemae's opaque white betta and bright green betta begin to circle each other slowly within their glass fishbowl, keeping their eyes locked.

Minniemae's opaque white betta makes a quick move and dives towards a double tail bright green betta head first, in an attempt to ram it against the wall of their glass fishbowl. The bright green betta barely avoids being rammed!

Breshon furrows his brow.

Breshon asks, "Stragglers?"

Minniemae's bright green betta quickly whips around her opaque white betta within their glass fishbowl and attempts to smack it upside its head with its tail fin. The opaque white betta is smacked hard upside the head!

Breshon blinks at Minniemae.

[stragglers join]

Lord Breshon's group just went north.

[travel]

Minniemae says, "I got to go take care of Marshmel I am sorry."

Minniemae sobs.

Minniemae waves.

Minniemae curtsies to Breshon.

Minniemae waves.

Breshon nods at Minniemae.

Breshon removes Minniemae from the group.

[travel]

[Hendoran Outpost, Kitchen]

The kitchen is a place of constant movement as the Hendoran cooks and staff continues a dance of constant clean up and preparation for the meals to feed their armed counterparts. Rich and savory smells flow from various boiling pots and several spits of meat slowly being rotated by small cogs in wheels built next to the kitchen's fires. Occasionally, an auxiliary disappears with a large plate of food and returns later balancing a number of wooden plates. You also see some wooden steps, a long oak table with some stuff on it and some carved oak chairs.

Breshon indicates a long oak table as a possible option.

Breshon says, "Help yourself to something if you'd like, before we move upstairs."

Breshon indicates a long oak table as a possible option.

[people get food and drink]

Breshon helps himself to a ripe dark red apple.

Breshon asks, "Are we ready?"

[travel]

Kestrel Fallout

[Hendoran Outpost, War Room]

The room is bare but for a long conference table and a number of chairs pushed under it while not in use. Situated in the middle of the table is a map of Wehnimer's Landing and nearby environs. Neatly lined up on one side of the map are a set of miniatures depicting Hendoran troops and potential enemies. Near a small window rests an empty gilded birdcage. You also see a huge metal-framed slate hanging on a nearby wall and a set of large wooden doors.

Breshon grins.

Breshon indicates a simple wood chair as a possible option.

Breshon says, "Please, have a seat."

[people have a seat]

Breshon takes a bite of his dark red apple.

Breshon slowly empties his lungs.

Breshon says, "I appreciate your time tonight, especially knowing the hour is late."

Breshon says, "Things are running smoothly here at the Outpost after some recent setbacks last year."

Breshon says, "My men and the Hendorans are working well together."

Breshon says, "We've discovered no new areas left by Dennet but we understand some still exist."

Breshon says, "But we are not about to go on a sapping mission at this time."

Ifanna confusedly asks, "Your men?"

Breshon nods at Ifanna.

Breshon says, "The Bourthians."

Speaking embarrassedly to Breshon, Ifanna mumbles, "M'laird m'apologies."

Speaking evenly to Breshon, Raelee says, "And I trust you would not go on this 'sapping' mission in the future without clearing it with the Hall."

Breshon says, "I've heard a few varied tales of what happened to my sister, and what exactly may have inflicted her, and perhaps some possible cures."

Breshon waves a hand at Ifanna, dismissing her indifferently.

Breshon says, "Nonsense. Do not apologize."

Breshon smiles at Ifanna.

Breshon grins at Raelee.

Breshon says, "I am sure there would be ample notifcation if indeed that was ever intended Magister."

Speaking to Breshon, Goldstr says, "We prayin we finds a cure fer her."

Larsya's Current Situation

Breshon says, "So tonight..."

Breshon says, "I would like a brief recount, from you all who had more involvement of course, as to what happened to my sister."

Breshon says, "What truly is the affliction, and then we can discuss some courses of action."

Cryheart says, "A poisoned dart."

Cryheart says, "A strange poison from what I hae heard."

Cryheart asks, "Or rare?"

Cryheart says, "The poor lass."

Cryheart says, "She was having fun at the least."

Breshon inclines his ear, listening intently.

Evia says, "Were a few people not calling, some such and such name? This..poison."

Breshon asks, "What is it, that the poison has been called?"

Florania quietly says, "Epochxin."

Evia says, "Ah yes."

Cryheart says, "That is it..Epochxin."

Bristenn slowly offers, "Sir Mynon reacted swiftly, however- had he not been present, this would be a far different conversation."

Breshon asks, "And its origin is demonic?"

Breshon says, "I welcome any opinions of anyone at this point."

Breshon nods at Bristenn.

Breshon says, "I am aware, and, thank you again Sir Mynon."

Breshon grins at Mynon.

Mynon quietly says, "I only wish I had a little more effect."

Breshon says, "Tell me of Epochxin."

Xorus says, "The epochxin is the venom blood of a demon in the Southron Wastes known as the ebon-swirled primal. It is related to the oculoths, who have a mind shattering analog."

Xorus says, "Lord Brieson believed your sister's blood was effectively turned into epochxin."

Breshon turns an inquisitive ear toward Xorus.

Goldstr asks, "Da salve we used on our blades gainst da Blameless, would dat help?"

Xorus says, "I was not present for this, it is what I have read studying it."

Mynon says, "The word I heard of it rumored that it was drawn from creatures rumored to be related to certain demons... and that these reside in areas of the Wizardwaste."

Xorus says, "Brieson stabilized her condition with a boiled down and slightly modified version of that salve."

Cryheart says, "Her body aged, but it appears she is still stuck in time from what she remembered."

Breshon asks, "So Epochxin was the poison applied to the arrow, but turned her blood into the very same thing?"

Xorus says, "I suspect the poison was something designed to turn her blood into epochxin."

Xorus says, "Otherwise people would have been similarly afflicted being attacked by the primals."

Speaking absently to Xorus, Cruxophim inquires, "Was that confirmed?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Xorus asks, "Which part?"

Mynon adds, "Interestingly, we used their blood as an ingredient, to combat the minions of Chaston."

Speaking absently to Xorus, Cruxophim clarifies, "The transmutation in the blood."

Mynon says, "I still have a sample of that product."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Xorus says, "I am uncertain. Brieson was able to use her to lure out primals since they recognized their scent from her."

Speaking wryly to Xorus, Cruxophim agrees, "Fair point on the primals. Was the primal blood simply a root ingredient? Or perhaps..."

Breshon peers quizzically at Cruxophim.

Breshon asks, "Or perhaps what?"

Breshon says, "Now is not the time to silently speculate."

Speaking thoughtfully to Breshon, Cruxophim inquires, "Epochxin is not precisely identical to primal blood, yes?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Raelee says, "Correct."

Speaking carefully to Breshon, Cruxophim ventures, "Merely similar enough to draw a scent, largely if it were a base component."

Mynon says, "The blood was said to be a core, if not the core, ingredient, though."

Breshon takes a bite of his dark red apple.

Chamorr heartily says, "If this poison comes from Primals, and they do not suffer as she does, perhaps they is another sunstance in Primals that counteract it."

Breshon asks, "The blood of the primordials, was used to create a salve against the Blameless and Everblood, yes?"

Breshon turns an inquisitive ear toward Chamorr.

Chamorr heartily says, "We need more Primals."

Breshon nods at Chamorr.

Breshon says, "Perhaps."

Florania quietly says, "And also the Everblood itself... so I read."

Speaking to Breshon, Goldstr says, "An I have some if needs be."

Maylan says, "I recall it was more goo than salve."

Speaking amusedly to Breshon, Cruxophim assures, "It is very potent stuff. Drinking it did not go over well."

Maylan says, "Surely that is an important detail."

Cruxophim grins wryly at Breshon.

Breshon says, "Salve is the imperial word for goo."

Xorus says, "White baneberry, a.. trafel mushroom I think... essence of Everblood and the tar-like salve."

Breshon nods at Maylan.

Breshon snickers.

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "... no, it is not."

Breshon begins chuckling at Raelee!

Breshon says, "Relax."

Breshon winks at Raelee.

Breshon takes a bite of his dark red apple.

Speaking pedantically to Breshon, Raelee says, "Salve implies healing or soothing properties. 'Goo' refers to the texture and viscosity of the substance."

Breshon shakes his head.

Evia says, "So there we have it, gooey salve."

Breshon says, "I suppose, I am missing something. Forgive me, this is certainly not my field."

Breshon asks, "What then, was the assassin's arrow coated with?"

Xorus says, "This is a question for which I do not know the answer."

Chamorr heartily says, "Who has the arrow."

Cruxophim thoughtfully speculates, "Would it be possible to create an antibody from the base substance itself, I wonder? Especially given the potent properties of the aforementioned Everblood and such?"

Breshon says, "But it was not Epochxin on the arrow..."

Mynon says, "Brieson, of the Hall, was inclined to think that it was, as I recall."

Breshon asks, "As her blood is now essentially, Epochxin? The same as the primordials blod?"

Breshon peers quizzically at Mynon.

Evia asks, "That would imply the entirety of her blood was changed?"

Mynon says, "She was stabilized in a manner I do not understand."

Florania quietly asks, "That would be a fairly easy theory to test, no? With a small blood sample?"

Raelee says, "Epochxin is what was on the arrow."

Mynon says, "This allowed her to be removed from the... coffin, without further aging."

Dergoatean removes a vial of ebon-swirled blood from in his black leather backpack.

Dergoatean gazes thoughtfully at his ebon-swirled blood.

Cryheart says, "That is what I recall as well."

Speaking to his ebon-swirled blood, Dergoatean asks, "Now what poor soul did we collect you from?"

Cruxophim collects an everblood essence flask from a large compartment inside the ebonwood kit.

Cruxophim gazes thoughtfully at his essence flask.

You quietly whisper to Dergoatean, "Primals in the Southron Wastes."

Breshon writes something on a huge metal-framed slate hanging on a nearby wall.

Dergoatean finds the leaf agreeable.

Breshon asks, "So then, what of her blood now?"

Speaking slowly to Breshon, Cruxophim ventures, "So Epochxin is a classification of poison, then? MADE of Primal's blood? And what was on the arrow?"

Breshon asks, "Has it turned into the very poison on the arrow?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Raelee says, "Correct."

Speaking thoughtfully to Breshon, Cruxophim speculates, "There are some types of contagions that do have that effect upon a host body, propagating themselves within."

Goldstr asks, "Does nae Brieson a da Hall knows dat?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Evia asks, "Do not the cells of blood do the same ?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Lornieh asks, "Are you suggesting it's like a parasite?"

Speaking to Goldstr, Raelee asks, "Which part?"

Speaking thoughtfully to Lornieh, Cruxophim clarifies, "Yes and no."

Speaking to Lornieh, Dergoatean says, "Maybe, but maybe not so complex... perhaps a persistent chemical agent."

Speaking to Breshon, Mynon says, "I don't know."

Pukk quietly says, "Clear as mud."

Evia asks, "Replication?"

Raelee says, "It perhaps might... contain it."

Speaking to Evia, Lornieh says, "Blood actually does not replicate."

Speaking to Breshon, Mynon says, "Her stabilization is something I have no understanding of, but somethign was done to stop the effect of it aging her."

Speaking to Lornieh, Dergoatean says, "If the results of its reaction with blood include itself, transformation like that could be the logical endpoint."

Breshon asks, "So Epochxin on the arrow struck my sister, turning her blood into the very poison Epochxin, or a variation of it?"

Breshon rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Maylan says, "If that's the case, couldn't we simply empty her out and refill her with fresh blood? It's a very simple process."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Lornieh says, "So more like a virus."

Maylan says, "I do it every day."

Speaking to Lornieh, Dergoatean says, "That's another way to look at it."

Xorus says, "It would not make sense for the primal venom blood to by itself cause the blood of the target to become it. Or else it would have happened to whomever was bit by them."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "I agree."

Speaking to Xorus, Dergoatean says, "A bite doesn't _necessarily_ transmit blood from the biter."

Speaking to Xorus, Dergoatean says, "But I do agree that, at some point, such a transfer would evevntually occur."

Xorus says, "They slaver with the black ichor like the oculoths."

Cryheart asks, "Unless the saliva from the demon mixes with the epochxin?"

Speaking slowly to Xorus, Cruxophim speculates, "So whatever the Epochxin ITSELF consists of, it may act like a catalyst."

Xorus says, "Brieson had a book written by two Faendryl asserting that their blood is their venom."

Speaking to Xorus, Dergoatean asks, "Is it the same substance as circulates through their veins?"

Xorus says, "They are shadowy things, I doubt they have veins."

Chamorr heartily says, "We need to catch one and see what makes it tick."

Xorus says, "But, yes. It would be helpful if someone did have that arrow that struck Larsya."

Breshon rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Speaking to Xorus, Dergoatean says, "Seems like the sort of thing someone would hold onto. But it was a pretty chaotic scene, I suppose."

Lylia says, "If I recall correctly, someone attempted to retrieve it, but it disintegrated."

Evia asks, "Someone remind me, the lass suffers from rapid aging, but none else...or there was more?"

Speaking to Lylia, Raelee says, "You recall correctly."

Chamorr heartily says, "Imperials never throw anything away, it must be around here somewhere."

Cryheart says, "And the remains were on the dock...what was left of it."

Speaking to Evia, Dergoatean says, "She has been stabilized of that sympton."

Breshon rubs his eyes.

Speaking to Evia, Dergoatean says, "But she is stuck experiencing the same brief chunk of time, in an endless cycle."

Speaking to Lylia, Goldstr says, "Aye."

Speaking quietly to Evia, Florania says, "Well, she does seem to regress repeatedly to a state of forgetting--"

Florania points at Dergoatean.

Breshon says, "I feel so helpless in all of this."

Speaking to Evia, Dergoatean says, "Each time realizing how old she is, all over again, before forgetting and starting over."

Cryheart says, "As do we."

Gorku deeply asks, "So she is stuck in a sort of stasis?"

Xorus says, "I suspect that is because of the transformation in her blood, oculoth bites cause a similar sort of mind loss effect."

Cryheart says, "But at least we know the substance."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "I do wonder, however..."

Breshon says, "I have always been taught to discover the facts, the knowns, and go from there."

Breshon says, "But I feel so much is unknown."

Breshon says, "And I am not certain I am even properly following what IS known."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "Is it not possible that some of it is simply the physical effect of rapid aging on the mind? Dementia often comes with an aged brain."

Speaking to Breshon, Lylia says, "The surest cure for feeling helpless is to learn more."

Raelee asks, "There is no academic precedent for this... what is the effect of having the consciousness of a child in an aged brain?"

Mynon says, "Brieson seemed to understand a fair bit, and was going to research more, but we've not heard back from him."

Speaking to Breshon, Lylia says, "Perhaps this is a good time, considering the recent lifting of the proscription on blood magic, to study blood. To collect more of it."

Xorus says, "Perhaps. I am biased by the primal being related to the oculoth, which has mind altering venom blood."

Speaking to Raelee, Dergoatean says, "It seems such a precise loop, for it to be the work of a naturally decayed brain."

Breshon peers quizzically at Lylia.

Speaking to Dergoatean, Raelee says, "It returns to the point before the damage."

Speaking to Raelee, Evia says, "The inability to retain new information and form new memories."

Lylia says, "With a more thorough understanding of it, both untainted and attainted, perhaps we could understand more of the principles at work here."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Raelee says, "Those with minds addled by age often hold early memories quite clearly, but recent memories... not at all."

Speaking to Evia, Raelee says, "Precisely that."

Raelee says, "And naturally it is a gradual onset, not immediate."

Evia says, "So all she has now, is what she had at the time just before she was struck."

Maylan says, "I heard about a case like this once. Long ago my grandfather told me about a fella who wouldn't form new memories. But it turned out he had a nail lodged in his head."

Maylan asks, "Are we quite sure we shouldn't examine her head as well as her blood?"

Speaking to Maylan, Raelee says, "We *should* study her head. There is something to be learned there."

Lornieh says, "If this epochxin has become one with her blood, perhaps a solution would be to figure out how to nullify its effects, intead of thinking to remove it."

Breshon asks, "You wish some of my sister's blood?"

Breshon peers quizzically at Lylia.

Speaking to Lornieh, Raelee says, "I think that will be necessary regardless."

Speaking to Breshon, Maylan says, "And I would like to examine her head."

Speaking to Breshon, Lylia says, "Only a small amount, for study. It may be necessary, yes."

Speaking mildly to Breshon, Cruxophim agrees, "It would certainly be useful for analysis."

Speaking to Breshon, Lylia says, "And not only her blood, though. Also that of people who are untainted."

Chamorr heartily says, "If her blood is this poison, best to be careful with it."

Raelee says, "One can cure or halt a poison... but it rarely reverses the damage already inflicted."

Speaking mildly to Maylan, Cruxophim agrees, "A study of her psyche could be useful, as well."

Speaking to Breshon, Lylia says, "The greater our understanding of blood, both healthy and transformed, the greater our ability to help her."

Raelee says, "Some venoms cause the flesh to rot. The flesh remains rotted even after the poison has been halted."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Maylan exclaims, "I'm afraid I'm not the right person for that task!"

Breshon sighs.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Maylan says, "I can only heal what I can see."

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "It will not be merely useful, it will be necessary."

Gorku deeply asks, "Is there a control sample available of her blood or same exact blood to test against?"

Speaking to Lylia, Goldstr asks, "Er also maybe Lord Breshon's blood fer a family sample?"

Speaking slowly to Maylan, Cruxophim ventures, "Then why do you wish to examine her head?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Maylan says, "For signs of damage."

Speaking wryly to Maylan, Cruxophim muses, "Oh, you were not speaking figuratively."

Maylan violently shakes her head in the negative, causing several strands of raggedly cut hair to fall free from its bindings.

Breshon asks, "Necessary? Her blood?"

Breshon peers quizzically at Raelee.

Speaking to Gorku, Lylia says, "Family members. And also others; a larger sample size could uncover just the knowledge needed."

Speaking pragmatically to Breshon, Cruxophim reminds, "She will have plenty more of it."

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "How the epochxin has altered it cannot be discerned if we cannot study it."

Speaking to Breshon, Bristenn reminds, "The settlement's government here no longer hides its ties to practices outlawed in imperial holdings."

Speaking quietly to Breshon, Lylia says, "I believe it might be necessary, yes. But I would defer to others with greater knowledge on that point."

Lylia glances between Xorus and Cruxophim.

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "Without the blood, we will form a list of theories with no proof for any of them. Then, we will make a hypothesis regarding what *seems* to be the most probable solution."

Speaking dryly to Bristenn, Cruxophim mutters, "I am sorry you still hold to the view that science is witchcraft."

Breshon grins at Bristenn.

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "Of course, it may or may not work, because it will be based on little more than an idea."

Speaking to Bristenn, Raelee says, "There is nothing illegal about this."

Breshon says, "I... I will think on it."

Speaking evenly to Cruxophim, Bristenn replies, "I am sorry you are but a stumble from falling to pieces."

Speaking to Raelee, Lornieh says, "Ideas are all we have at the moment."

Speaking smoothly to Breshon, Lylia says, "Yes, as Sir Mires points out, we no longer adhere to certain superstitions in our legal code."

Speaking amusedly to Bristenn, Cruxophim responds, "I'm quite sure you are."

Speaking to Breshon, Shinann asks, "How is her sleep?"

Xorus says, "Studying blood samples will surely be necessary."

Florania diplomatically suggests, "The study could always be conducted in a carefully observed setting if there are any concerns."

Speaking to Bristenn, Raelee says, "If you want to study an illness in the blood... you need blood. That is not forbidden. That is science."

Breshon says, "It comes and goes."

Breshon nods at Shinann.

Speaking to Breshon, Lylia says, "For what it is worth, I would contribute as well, if it put your mind at ease -- and ask anyone, this is something I do not do lightly."

Breshon grins at Lylia.

Breshon nods.

Speaking wryly to Breshon, Cruxophim assures, "It is not, I assure you."

Speaking pointedly to Breshon, Raelee says, "And the analysis would occur in the laboratory here."

Bristenn simply replies, "What is being suggested here, in no amount of subtlety, is nary medicine."

Re-Recapping

Breshon says, "So let me circle back for a moment, so I have a better picture of what...exactly has happened, or we believe has happened."

Breshon nods at Lylia.

Evia asks, "If this epochxin substance, has invaded the child's blood to such a degree, wouldn't her own body fight it off as an invading substance?"

Breshon nods at Raelee.

Speaking to Evia, Dergoatean says, "The body's defense against damage is uneven and imperfect."

Florania quietly says, "If it has not fought it in a year and a half, I doubt it will ever."

Speaking calmly to Evia, Cruxophim explains, "Not necessarily. It depends upon the strength of the invader."

Breshon says, "According to Brieson, Epochxin was the substance on the arrow that struck my sister."

Breshon asks, "Correct?"

[agreement of the crowd]

Breshon asks, "My sister's blood, now poisoned, has turned into Epochxin?"

Speaking to Evia, Lornieh says, "If the poison has in fact become part of her blood, if her own body did in fact attack it, it'd be attacking her own cells as well."

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "I would call that statement unproven or false."

Speaking to Breshon, Mynon says, "Unknown."

Breshon says, "So, her blood, has transformed. It is either now Epochxin, or, perhaps a version of it, or something else entirely, but which Epochxin was a component."

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "Likely closer to the truth."

Breshon nods.

Maylan says, "If the problem is her blood, she needs new blood."

Breshon writes something on a huge metal-framed slate hanging on a nearby wall.

I>read slate

The following messages are written on the metal-framed slate:

Epochxin is what was on the arrow.

Larsya's blood is either now Epochxin, or a version of it, or something else entirely with Epochxin as a component.

Raelee gazes thoughtfully at a huge metal-framed slate hanging on a nearby wall.

Raelee says, "... I still do not like that."

Raelee shakes her head.

Speaking amusedly to Breshon, Cruxophim suggests, "Perhaps we should call it something else to differentiate between Epochxin, and whatever her blood has become. Epochus, perhaps?"

Berkana says, "It might not be that easy, especially depending upon the coagulation factor."

Breshon asks, "Whatever her blood is now, it is similiar to the primordials in the Southron Wastes, because they sensed their own?"

Xorus says, "Yes. That was how they were lured out."

Alisaire asks, "Primordials? Or primals?"

Xorus says, "Primals."

Breshon says, "Primals. My apologies."

Raelee says, "I believe there is something that has not been addressed, however."

Speaking to Breshon, Lylia says, "Think of it as honey to halflings. They contain so much of it that they have a sympathetic sense for it and can smell it in anything."

Breshon nods at Cruxophim.

Speaking calmly to Maylan, Cruxophim explains, "It will not work to simply replace the blood if there is an underlying problem, merely delay the inevitable. The new blood would simply become infected as well."

Raelee says, "They detected and recognized her blood, or the substance within it... and thus we drew them out."

Breshon writes something on a huge metal-framed slate hanging on a nearby wall.

Breshon nods.

I>read slate

The following messages are written on the metal-framed slate:

Epochxin is what was on the arrow.

Larsya's blood is either now Epochxin, or a version of it, or something else entirely with Epochxin as a component.

Larsya's blood matches the blood of the primals in the Southron Wastes, as they were lured out by sensing their own blood within her.

Raelee says, "Her state now is not identical to her state then."

Chamorr heartily says, "She needs the blood from a Primal."

Speaking uncertainly to Chamorr, Cruxophim ventures, "More of it?"

Xorus says, "Brieson applied that potion to her."

Xorus says, "It would have altered her constitution to some extent."

Raelee says, "She has been stabilized, if not... partially cured."

Speaking heartily to Cruxophim, Chamorr says, "In its true form, with all the other agents found in it."

Breshon asks, "Brieson took, what, primal blood and modified it?"

Raelee says, "If she were in the same state she was then, she would either still be in one of our bane coffins, or she would have died."

Lylia simply says, "Yes."

Evia says, "So, the process arrested."

Speaking amicably to Chamorr, Cruxophim agrees, "It's true, having a fresh sample might be good for comparative analysis."

Speaking to Evia, Raelee says, "Correct."

Breshon writes something on a huge metal-framed slate hanging on a nearby wall.

I>read slate

The following messages are written on the metal-framed slate:

Epochxin is what was on the arrow.

Larsya's blood is either now Epochxin, or a version of it, or something else entirely with Epochxin as a component.

Larsya's blood matches the blood of the primals in the Southron Wastes, as they were lured out by sensing their own blood within her.

Lord Brieson modified a vial of primal blood and applied it to Larsya to stop the aging process, but not reverse it.

Breshon says, "Now explain to me the connection or involvement with Everblood."

Florania curiously asks, "I don't suppose there is any chance of reaching out to this 'Brieson' now?"

Breshon asks, "Was the primal blood used to forge a cure for Everblod?"

Speaking absently to Breshon, Cruxophim speculates, "Did he create an unstable antibody of some sort?"

Xorus says, "It was a modified form of the salve he made for the half-elven sickness. He boiled it and added a few things, though did not say what things."

Raelee says, "He has not answered one of my letters in over a year."

Florania nods slowly at Raelee.

Speaking to Breshon, Goldstr asks, "Anyting Sir us folks kin do ta help her now? Walks?"

Breshon shrugs at Goldstr.

Breshon asks, "What was involved in the cure for Everblood?"

Xorus says, "It is unfortunate I was not present at the time, my information sources are indirect. What I believe was the antidote for Everblood is an alchemical recipe including essence of Everblood and the tar-like salve for treating the half-elf sickness."

Chamorr heartily says, "Take her blood and inject into a primal, see what happens, maybe it will develop an antibody for the poison."

Xorus says, "But it is possible I am mistaken on some point."

Mynon says, "The speculation was that Raznel had based the Everblood in the blood of Drangell, the idealized troll she created, possibly by accident. The salve made from Pimal blood was the counter to the trollish regeneration."

Chamorr heartily says, "The everblood was used to stop the aging process in the girl."

Speaking curiously to Breshon, Cruxophim inquires, "Do you mean the ingredients, or the process by which it -- yes, what Mynon said. The salve destabilized the Everblood and created a chain reaction which... er, melted the subject it was exposed to. If memory serves??"

Speaking curiously to Chamorr, Cruxophim clarifies, "Was it Everblood, or something derived from Primal blood?"

Breshon rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Dergoatean says, "I still have a naginata somewhere with tar stuff on it, that killed blameless and Drangell."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Mynon says, "That I do not know. I don't recall Brieson revealing a great deal about it."

Dergoatean says, "Drangell... That was messy."

Shinann asks, "The salve was applied to weapons so we could kill the Blameless... unless I am not remembering correctly. Right?"

Goldstr says, "As I."

Speaking heartily to Cruxophim, Chamorr says, "The everblood was used to arrest the aging,"

Speaking to Dergoatean, Lylia says, "Quite."

Evia asks, "Wait...with troll blood being a regenerative agent, would the same in some way help with rejuvenation?"

Breshon rubs his eyes.

Speaking carefully to Evia, Cruxophim speculates, "Possibly. Looking to Everblood as source to reference could be a good start."

Speaking to Evia, Raelee says, "Perhaps, perhaps not."

Speaking heartily to Evia, Chamorr says, "That was the thought process in using everblood."

Speaking to Raelee, Evia says, "It should be thought out, at any rate."

Raelee says, "Ultimately, repairing the damage is about finding a cure for aging. If an application of troll blood was enough, we would all be eternally young."

Mynon says, "NOT simply troll blood. The idealized effectiveness of troll's blood. Remember that Drangel was not a troll, in the true sense. His hyper-regenerative powers stemmed from a curse."

Raelee says, "Though... it is worth exploring if the epochxin has created a certain... malleability."

Speaking to Raelee, Evia says, "More than a cure for...a reversal of."

Breshon rubs his eyes.

Evia says, "To cease to age is one thing, to reverse the effects is another."

Speaking to Evia, Raelee says, "That is my concern."

Maylan says, "A reversal of aging sounds nigh impossible."

Raelee says, "That this is about not just countering the epochxin, but repairing the damage it has wrought."

Evia says, "So a simple trolls blood effect would only serve to regenerate the same "bad" effects, likely."

Convenience? Conspiracy?

Breshon says, "So many things occured, somehow connected."

Goldstr says, "Cure fer da Lass an nae agin be da problem."

Breshon says, "The cure for the half-elves..."

Breshon says, "The counter to Everblood."

Breshon asks, "And primal blood, played a role in both?"

Xorus says, "Fascinating that the cure to the sickness and the Everblood should just happen to lie within your sister."

Xorus says, "Too convenient if you ask me."

Dergoatean asks, "So what do we think happens if we slice someone's hand and place a few drops of this in the wound?"

Dergoatean indicates a vial of ebon-swirled blood as a possible option.

Breshon asks, "Too convenient, how do you mean?"

Speaking thoughtfully to Breshon, Cruxophim speculates, "Indeed. I think the best course of action, in my opinion, would be to go the opposite direction. Attempt to formulate a version of the Everblood that works contrary to the salve that destroyed the Blameless strain of Everblood, that works to counter the Epochus -- if you will -- instead."

Breshon peers quizzically at Xorus.

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "I dunno, you could try it."

(Maylan extends her hand.)

Xorus says, "As I understand it that pack with the alchemy list was left in the Outpost by Raznel."

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean asks, "You're sure about that?"

Maylan nods at Dergoatean.

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "For science, then."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "And for Larsya."

Breshon peers quizzically at Xorus.

Dergoatean agrees with Maylan.

(Dergoatean raps his vial of blood against the floor in increasing powerful strokes.)

Speaking to Xorus, Shinann asks, "The pack with the dolls?"

Xorus says, "Yes."

(Dergoatean shatters the vial! Pieces scatter in the corner where he set up shop.)

Shinann says, "I gave the dolls back to their owners and gave Cruxophim the pack."

(Dergoatean hands a blood-soaked shard to Maylan.)

Lylia removes a stained cloth doll from in her wrap.

Shinann says, "Well... owners is not the right word."

Lylia says, "Oh, it suffices."

Breshon asks, "How did we come across this pack?"

(Maylan accepts the blood-soaked shard from Dergoatean and nimbly pierces her palm.)

Lylia says, "I own this now."

Lylia smirks as a haughty expression flits across her face.

Lylia put a stained cloth doll in her wrap.

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "Now, well..."

Shinann says, "Brieson gave it to me. I did not question him."

(Maylan watches a slow trickle of blood run down her wrist.)

(Dergoatean glances down at his left hand...)

Maylan seems to be waiting for something.

Xorus says, "I would have to consult what notes I have, but I believe Brieson said Thadston and Michol had it. Remarking how strange it been left here of all places."

Speaking amusedly to Maylan, Cruxophim wonders, "What are you trying to do?"

(Dergoatean shows Maylan a speck of bright right blood on his hand, intermingling with the ebon blood that spilled moments ago.)

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "You and me both."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "Oh dear."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "In retrospect, perhaps not quite so strange."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan asks, "Do you feel....anything?"

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "My body can withstand pestilence near-permanently swirling around it. Yours... empaths. I guess we'll see."

Speaking curiously to Xorus, Cruxophim agrees, "Indeed, conspicuous in retrospect. But that sounds about right."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "I spose whatever will happen won't happen right away."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "I'm almost disappointed."

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean asks, "How long did it take Larsya, anyway?"

Maylan says, "I'm not sure."

Breshon says, "Yes, please consult your notes."

Maylan says, "I don't recall."

Breshon says, "It would indeed seem odd..."

Xorus says, "Incidentally, a few months before that when the Outpost was rubble back from the Ithzir world, we found a mithril dagger looking like a Hall of Mages crest and a Chastonian flag with a crest older than the Wizardwaste."

Breshon asks, "That the cure be left behind by the creator, no?"

Speaking to Breshon, Xorus says, "Exactly."

Breshon says, "Unless my sister's blood has been turned into something for some greater purpose...of someone's."

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "That seems more probable, given what we know now of Raznel."

Speaking to Breshon, Shinann says, "Unfortunately, that is a possibility."

Breshon asks, "What could she possibley need my sister and her blood for?"

Xorus says, "I would only be able to speculate, but we believe Naimorai Kestrel became Raznel, and these events had to happen as pre-conditions to her own historical past."

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "The cause and effect is not entirely linear in this case."

Lylia says, "An alembic of sorts. But what alchemy she has wrought, we do not yet know."

Xorus says, "Unfortunately, there is a temporal loop paradox in it, which makes it complicated."

Maylan shrugs her shoulders, lifting her wings slightly.

Lylia says, "Which is why it may be necessary to sample what is inside."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Maylan says, "I feel fine."

Breshon peers quizzically at Xorus.

Breshon says, "Explain."

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia says, "To say the least."

Breshon frowns.

Xorus says, "Naimorai was lost in Chastonia apparently several centuries ago."

Xorus says, "If she became Raznel as we suspect, she would have known in advance many things."

Mynon says, "Indeed. Lord Caulfield, your sister was intended to be used as a spark, to put it bluntly. Raznel could almost certainly duplicate the effect Brieson achieved, with some effort."

Xorus says, "In fact, I believe that alchemy recipe in that unopened pack had the tar-like salve on it, which would have been written before Brieson came up with it."

Breshon sighs.

Breshon says, "Then we have all the more reason to be push for urgency in her cure."

Breshon says, "If there is any possibility the witch intends to use her."

Breshon says, "Or is..."

Breshon clenches his jaw.

Breshon says, "Growing something."

Cryheart says, "Anything is possible with Raznel."

Xorus says, "It is possible she has an unrevealed purpose in her plans. But it would be difficult to speculate."

Breshon asks, "Is it possible, she only did what she did to my sister, to help create her own origin, so to speak?"

Breshon peers quizzically at Xorus.

Speaking pragmatically to Breshon, Cruxophim reminds, "Samples of blood would help greatly, as the Mayor suggested... both from Larsya herself, and others in varying degrees of interaction with Primal blood."

Xorus says, "That is my theory."

Breshon asks, "And her plans for my sister are now, over?"

Xorus nods.

Xorus says, "That is possible."

Speaking mildly to Breshon, Cruxophim agrees, "That is certainly one of many possible options."

Bristenn stiffly offers, "But to believe such wholeheartedly would be folly."

Breshon says, "So she may have had no other purpose than to be used to set into motion events to turn Naimorai into Raznel."

Xorus says, "Her blood being transformed essentially into that of an extraplanar entity is reminiscent to what was done to Rodnay."

Florania quietly murmurs, "It is possible, but I would plan for the worst regardless."

Breshon asks, "Could my sister's blood be weaponized?"

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee says, "Possibly."

Xorus says, "It may also have been the case that this war was intended to create the Bleaklands."

Lylia says, "Potentially."

Lornieh frowns.

Lornieh says, "Why would you want to...."

Speaking simply to Breshon, Cruxophim answers, "Unlikely, but anything can be weaponized in theory."

Speaking heartily to Breshon, Chamorr says, "It does have that poison in it."

Breshon asks, "To create the Bleaklands, to what end?"

Breshon peers quizzically at Xorus.

Breshon says, "I would not want to."

Breshon nods at Lornieh.

Speaking to Breshon, Shinann says, "Some want this world to be lifeless..."

Breshon says, "I am trying to understand the enemy."

Xorus says, "There are spores and blood trees growing there, we have heard intimations of some sort of Blood Harvest."

Xorus says, "The Bleaklands also had similar properties to the Wizardwaste, which was relevant to using an artifact in the events leading up to the end of the Kestrels."

Mynon says, "Raznel, so far as I can discern, has an affinity- no, a love of disease and corruption that is hard to fathom."

Breshon rubs his eyes.

Breshon says, "The temporal implications...hurt my mind."

Xorus says, "Frankly. I would not be at all surprised if Naimorai was somehow involved in the destruction of Toullaire centuries ago."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "The particulars are worth studying."

Xorus nods at Raelee.

Breshon nods at Shinann. [might be a whisper or a delayed reaction to what Shinann said earlier]

Xorus says, "Though I feel I have somewhat run the issue off the rails. This is tangential, or at least contextual, to Larsya's affliction."

Moving Forward

Breshon says, "I think it is time to retire for the evening."

Speaking plainly to Xorus, Cruxophim states, "The problem with an enclosed loop is that eventually, that circle must bite its own tail and begin again. That somewhat limits potential. Perhaps she is trying to break out of that cycle? I do not know."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Xorus says, "The loop I would imagine ended when Naimorai went back to the past."

Evia asks, "I hope we accomplished something besides aching heads?"

Breshon nods.

Raelee says, "... it may not be a 'loop' precisely."

Breshon says, "Yes. I believe we're moving forward now."

Xorus says, "I was only speaking loosely."

Speaking to Breshon, Lylia says, "Thank you. I believe we may have moved at least some halting paces closer to a solution."

Returning Presence

A Bourthian soldier arrives, hands Breshon a sealed note, and marches off.

Breshon breaks the seal and looks over his message.

Breshon blinks.

Breshon says, "If I am to believe this correctly..."

Breshon says, "Sir...erm...I'm sorry..."

Breshon says, "Lord Thadston is returning."

Speaking wryly to Breshon, Cruxophim inquires, "Which one? The real one? Are you sure?"

Xorus says, "Then he will likely recall the details of that pack."

Breshon says, "The source is credible. But lacks further details."

Shinann says, "I wonder if he found the witch..."

Speaking to Breshon, Raelee asks, "... what is the source?"

Breshon says, "A reliable one that remains reliable by not openly discussing it."

Breshon winks at Raelee.

Speaking uncertainly to Shinann, you murmur, "He can't be returning if he hasn't found either her or Disean... can't be."

Mynon asks, "He left to find Raznel, who had taken his son...why does this keep looping back?"

Shinann says, "We will just have to wait and see."

Speaking to Breshon, Goldstr asks, "Does say if Disean be wid him?"

Shinann says, "I cannot imagine it either."

Breshon says, "No further details."

Breshon says, "Thank you all for your time this night."

Breshon says, "We will meet again, as we move forward in this."

Breshon bows.

Breshon waves.

Lord Breshon just went through a set of large wooden doors.