Landing Events - 2019-04-19 - Thadston's Preparations (log)
Olaesta 19-20, 5119
by Leafiara Autumnwind of the [[::The_TownCrier|TownCrier]]
Summary
Short Version
Marshal Thadston seeks a meeting soon with Magister Raelee and a separate meeting soon with the militia, saying the town needs to prepare since the Bleaklands are estimated to become less survivable in Lumnea--the same timeframe when he intends to begin the hunt for Naimorai. Thadston also shares speculations on the nature of Naimorai's transformations and adds that Thrayzar is getting somewhat better. Before concluding the night, he welcomes in new militia recruits Neopuron, Leafiara, Lyrna, and Claede.
Bullet Points
- Marshal Thadston arrives to speak with adventurers. While greeting Captain Shinann and Mayor Lylia, he notices the absence of Magister [[::Raelee_Svala|Raelee]] and asks Sir Cryheart to tell her that he (Thadston) needs to speak with her. Later in the night he elaborates that her documents from Dennet (regarding the Bleaklands) are long overdue.
- Thadston asks for details on last night and Lylia explains the situation, including Naimorai's appearing as her husband [[::Silvean Rashere|Silvean]]. Thadston says he's been trying to determine the means and limits of Naimorai's transformations, since she's appeared as his wife Saraphene, Lylia's husband, and her (Naimorai's) younger form. Lyrna asks if they're true form changes or illusions and Thadston says true changes, given the nature of her magic--and that it fits with what Thrayzar has shared in his "good moments."
- Thadston tells Captain Stormyrain that he'll send a notice next week for a militia meeting since their re-organization is almost done--a meeting to discuss tactics, prepare, and help the town prepare since "we've only a few months left." Leafiara, Thrassus, and Melikor ask what he means; Thadston says the Bleaklands, though unsafe, are estimated to be more "survivable" well into Lumnea. Later in the night, Thadston adds that Lylia will not be invited to the meeting, as she has a bug inside of her.
- Balley suggests waiting for Naimorai to come to us and ambush her; Thadston dismisses it and says the town has been plagued by a mentality of waiting for decades.
- Thadston says the witch isn't like Deylan, who changed shapes into anything he wanted, but speculates that she uses blood magic and it limits her, possibly even requiring blood from those she takes shapes of.
- He says the hunt begins well into Lumnea. Balley says they're being led on a chase so Naimorai can get to her prime objective; Thadston says she's assuming Naimorai has an objective beyond chaos and survival. He also states that they won't be chasing her since that implies capture, but hunting and bringing home a "trophy."
- Lylia asks if Thadston knows anyone who might know more about Naimorai's insects and Thadston shrugs but says he's hoping Thrayzar can share more, since he had hunted her before when he was a man and "the Empire employed him to clean up their dark secret." Sir Goldstr asks if Thrayzar getting better and Thadston says "somewhat."
Highlights
Xorus says, "Naimorai was not what I would call strikingly lucid."
A small area of skin on Lylia suddenly ripples. Lylia inhales sharply, hissing through her teeth. Speaking softly to Lylia, Zaneon says, "Either you had some bad rolton for dinner.....or...." Speaking sharply to Zaneon, Darcena says, "There is no such thing as bad rolton for dinner."
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "I advise you to starve yourself for a couple days and then ingest wormwood." Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "Or we could try curdled milk." Speaking to Maylan, Zosopage says, "Or drink a ton of booze." Speaking to Maylan, Claudaro says, "Perhaps more booze no? I doubt the scarab has much of a tolerence." Speaking to Zosopage, Maylan exclaims, "The goal is to coax the little bugger out of her, not make it happy!" Evician says, "Yeah no one wants a scarab that's a happy drunk..." Speaking to Maylan, Zosopage says, "But too much booze can lead to projectiles......" Lylia coldly says, "I do not need some simple purgative or vermifuge. I am not a wormy urchin on the streets. This is not that sort of affliction." Maylan says, "You have to think like a parasite! Were I a parasite and my host were feeding me alcohol, I would be comfy cozy."
Thadston offers Neovik an etched militia badge. Thadston offers Neopuron an etched militia badge. Neovik snickers. Thadston and Neovik shake hands. Neopuron accepts Thadston's etched militia badge. Neovik ducks his head. Neopuron laughs! Thadston pushes Neovik away from Neopuron. Thadston offers Neovik a brass-riveted militia tabard. Thadston offers Neopuron a brass-riveted militia tabard. Neovik snickers to himself. Speaking to Thadston, Neovik says, "I think you really want me to join the militia." Thadston smirks at Neovik.
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan offers, "Perhaps we could use you as bait." Maylan says, "Every good hunt needs the proper bait." Tanisstra quietly says, "The problem is that "Bait" usually gets eaten."
Log
Awaiting Thadston
[Town Square Central]
This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see an herbal remedy donation bin and some stone benches with some stuff on it.
Thadston: "No bugs tonight?"
Leafiara: "Not yet, at least."
From nearby, you hear Darcena yell, "She's in her office."
Puptilian: "Not so far Marshal."
Cryheart says, "Moving easterly."
Cryheart: "Good evening Thadston."
Lyrna: "Not that I've seen anyway."
Lylia: "Only the one. Good evening to you."
Sir Cryheart's group just went east.
[Town Square, East]
Here in the center of a broad plaza near the commercial area of the bazaar stands the impressive facade of the slate-roofed Moot Hall, where the citizens of Wehnimer's Landing hold various official, religious and social functions. Facing the square are some of the town's more prosperous shops, still doing business with the many customers who still frequent the streets at night. You also see a large purple wooden barrel and a bone-framed bulletin board.
Evician says, "Easterly is much better than easternly...you know...words."
Cryheart says, "See if Thadston intends to visit here."
Thadston: "I'll be to your office shortly Mayor. As will the Cryheart Crowd no doubt."
Evician says, "Or easternish in a southernly manner."
Cryheart: "Amen to that."
Evician says, "Ahh I'm gonna die."
Lylia: "I shall put on more tea. Bring your own cups. Mine keep disappearing, Maylan."
Speaking to Cryheart, Claede says, "You're a multitude now."
Cryheart: "Meeting in Mayor's office."
Falvicar: "So far, we're not getting bugged...."
Speaking to Evician, Neopuron says, "Rub your statue."
Speaking perplexedly to Zosopage, Leafiara asks, "What would be wrong with being Pukk?"
Cryheart yells, "Meeting in Mayor's office!"
Speaking to Neopuron, Evician says, "You rub your statue."
Speaking to Leafiara, Zosopage says, "Then I wouldn't be me."
Cryheart says, "Apparently."
[Travel]
Speaking cautiously to Zosopage, Leafiara agrees, "I suppose."
[Moot Hall, Mayor Lylia's Office]
From a dais, the maoral desk and an ivory and velvet curule seat loom over two carved wooden chairs. Tapestry rugs cover the hardwood floor, their patterns complementing the arched windows flanking the desk. A stag's head stares at a panoramic fresco mounted opposite it. In a corner near the bar, a scarred witchwood perch rises to the high ceiling, while several feet away, a black iron stove rests against the west wall and is topped with a silver kettle. You also see a small maoral sideboard with some stuff on it, a maoral bookcase and a varnished modwir door.
Cryheart says, "Greetings."
Balley softly says, "Hello Lylia."
Speaking to Lylia, Evician says, "Heard you had a visitor."
Cryheart says, "Lock your cups up."
Lylia says, "Welcome."
Lylia removes a matte black silver-edged teacup atop small claw-like feet from on an oak bar.
Lylia says, "This one is mine."
The voice of Claudaro says, "What's that smell? It still smells a little plague-y in here..."
Claudaro suddenly fades into view.
Neopuron asks, "Anyone else wanna rub it?"
Darcena taps a glass of spiced agave wine on a circular ebonwood cart.
Zosopage asks, "Everyone have their bug stomping boots on?"
Darcena taps a goblet of red Faendryl wine on a circular ebonwood cart.
Darcena taps a glass of sweet Sylvan wine on a circular ebonwood cart.
Darcena taps a goblet of elderberry wine on a circular ebonwood cart.
Darcena scowls.
Darcena turns to face Lylia.
Speaking to Lylia, Darcena asks, "Where'd it go?"
Cryheart says, "Good evening all."
Leafiara amusedly says, "Oh, just a moment."
[Leafi leaves to bring the Twilight Hall cart back to its resting place]
Speaking to Melikor, Ysharra says, "You weren't kidding."
Lylia says, "For those who have asked, no, I have been unable to remove the scarab that is my...unwanted passenger, you could say."
Cryheart says, "If ye wish to expel the scarab, please give us ample warning."
Lyrna says, "That does dissuade further questions as well."
Neopuron says, "Oh."
Puptilian says, "If the bug wasn't there to kill, the witch has other plans."
Neopuron offers Darcena a rusty doorknob.
Darcena accepts Neopuron's rusty doorknob.
Balley softly asks, "Is she monitoring your actions?"
Speaking to Neopuron, Darcena says, "You remembered."
Cryheart says, "Perhaps a baby is coming."
Reviewing the Situation
Lord Thadston just came through a varnished modwir door.
Thadston squints.
Neopuron says, "Always."
Wolfloner says, "Intimidation perhaps."
Thadston says, "Captain."
Thadston nods at Shinann.
Thadston glances at Lylia.
Lylia places a hand over her heart.
Thadston says, "Mayor."
Shinann says, "Evening, Marshal."
Lylia bows to Thadston.
Cryheart says, "Good evening Lord Thadston."
Balley softly says, "Oh look it is Thadston."
Speaking to Thadston, Lyrna says, "Good evening, sir."
Lylia says, "Good evening to you."
Speaking to Thadston, Zosopage says, "Good evening, sir."
Falvicar quietly says, "Lord Andrews."
Thadston nods at Lyrna.
Evician says, "Evening Marshall."
Puptilian says, "Marshal."
Ribbons of steam rise above the silver kettle, carrying the subtle aroma of brewing tea.
Thadston says, "Lord Andrews was my father."
Thadston smirks at Falvicar.
Lylia says, "Your timing is impeccable. The tea is ready."
Thadston nods at Shinann.
Falvicar confusedly asks, "I do something wrong?"
Thadston says, "Hmm."
Lylia offhandedly says, "A Faendryl blend. My family are Spicers. Anyone who wishes to sample it is welcome to."
Thadston asks, "Magister Raelee is absent?"
Cryheart says, "Seems so."
Cryheart says, "She went to sleep early I think."
Thadston says, "Tell her we need to speak soon."
Thadston nods at Cryheart.
Cryheart nods at Thadston.
Leafiara acknowledges, "She -has- said she's been waiting for you for a while."
Speaking in Elven, Zaneon softly says, "Decent with tea."
Thadston says, "I've heard some elaborate versions of last night."
Thadston asks, "Would anyone care to fully explain?"
Cryheart says, "I just about the evening afore that."
Ysharra says, "It's the time of year for the insects to be reproducing, yes, but..."
Shinann says, "I was not here when she first arrived."
Speaking to Thadston, Lylia says, "I can try."
Cryheart says, "I woke up the next morning with the worst stomachache."
Ysharra says, "Usually that's locusts."
Stormyrain just arrived.
Thadston nods at Stormyrain.
Falvicar quietly says, "Falvispike wouldn't eat the bugs a few nights ago."
Thadston says, "Captain."
Stormyrain bows to Thadston.
Balley softly says, "What do you want to know sir."
Speaking to Thadston, Lylia says, "We saw Raz -- no. We saw Naimorai in the crowd. I was certain it was her, and the smirk on her face suggested she knew I had seen her too."
Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "Interim Marshall."
Thadston says, "Interim Captain."
Thadston smirks.
Lylia continues, "She accosted me here in my own office, after leaving her usual calling card of vermin."
Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Thadston.
Darcena seriously says, "I'm not sure I approve of this title."
Thadston says, "It was a jest."
Darcena mutters, "Better be."
Speaking flatly to herself, Stormyrain murmurs, "I'm amused. Thoroughly."
Lylia asks, "She wished to ask a favor of me, only of course she does not ask favors, does she?"
Thadston says, "No."
Lyrna mildly says, "She appears to be somewhat of a bully, really."
Balley softly says, "Well I guess she is out of hiding and whatever prison she was in."
Ysharra says, "She seemed even less rational than the last time we saw her, getting splinched into the multitudes."
Lylia says, "She wanted me to 'stay out of her business,' and to keep others from what she sees as her business. To secure this from me, she counterfeited my husband's appearance and cast one of her vile insects at me."
Lylia murmurs, "In me."
Speaking to Balley, Leafiara says, "The only prison she was in before was... a time trap, of sorts."
Speaking flatly to Lylia, Darcena says, "We need to find out how to remove it."
Speaking quietly to Lyrna, Tanisstra says, "Many with strength or power like to flex it against those they see as 'lesser.'"
Thadston asks, "Did she take on any other forms?"
(Evician mutters sarcastically, "Ask Cruxophim.")
Lylia says, "As my advisor has pointed out, removing it would only beget another, or possibly something more foul."
Lylia glances at Xorus.
Xorus nods slowly.
Shinann says, "Only those two that I saw."
Thadston nods.
Speaking to Lylia, Darcena says, "Having a Mayor in power under her influence is not acceptable."
Lyrna says, "Sometimes, such things can be used as an advantage, if one knows what they are capable of."
Lylia says, "Not last night, no."
Balley softly says, "I think she is using it to track you Lylia and your actions."
Thadston says, "We have been trying to determine her means of transformation and its limits."
Lylia says, "I am not under her influence."
Speaking to Thadston, Zosopage says, "Of course she could have been in an unrecognizable form as well."
Darcena mutters, "Yet."
Thadston says, "She has now appeared to me twice as Saraphene."
Thadston says, "Now your husband."
Thadston says, "And presumbly her younger form."
Thadston says, "To distract us."
Cryheart says, "My....she is a split spirit."
Lylia says, "Oh, yes. She looked quite herself. Her original self."
Bbee says, "What I miss."
Lyrna asks, "Can we tell - is she actually changing her form, or is it an illusion?"
Balley softly says, "I wonder what shape she will take next. She seems to be focused on you Lylia."
Ysharra says, "She seemed totally barmy, too. As well as young. Plenty distracting."
Speaking to Thadston, Lylia says, "I am sorry you have had to endure such visions too. They would be troubling, if I did not know precisely where Silvean was and what he was about."
Speaking speculatively to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "Would have to physically touch her to find out, I suppose..."
Thadston says, "It is my understanding her form truly changes."
Speaking to Lyrna, Zosopage says, "There are others that can do that so I would think she could and not just an illusion."
Thadston says, "Given the nature of her magic."
Speaking to Thadston, Maylan says, "I frequently suffer from bad visions. I know a cure."
Speaking to Balley, Lylia says, "She has reason to bear me some animus, and to bear the town some as well."
Maylan says, "Well, a treatment."
Thadston says, "Given what Thrayzar has been able to share as well, in his good moments, it fits."
Bbee says, "You could throw me at her if you're afraid to touch her."
Lyrna says, "I'd say it is more extreme than that since she seems willing to destroy the city."
Lylia says, "I am happy to hear he has some good moments, these days."
Thadston whispers something to Shinann.
Speaking to Lyrna, Lylia says, "She may believe the town destroyed her family, or those she once called family, if those were ever important to her."
Thadston whispers something to Stormyrain.
Thadston nods.
Thadston whispers something to Stormyrain.
Stormyrain can offer Thadston only a blank expression.
Lyrna says, "So she wishes revenge for something that others will likely want revenge for leading to more.."
Militia Preparations
Thadston says, "I'll send a notice next week, for a militia meeting."
Thadston nods at Stormyrain.
Thadston nods at Shinann.
Shinann nods at Thadston.
Thadston says, "Now that our re-organization is almost done."
Thadston says, "We'll need to discuss tactics."
Balley softly asks, "Do you think the militia will find her?"
Shinann says, "I agree."
Ysharra says, "I don't know if she's after revenge so much as utter chaos and ruination. I suppose it's not important to parse, at that point."
Thadston says, "We'll need to be prepared. If the militia is to help the town prepare too."
Thadston says, "We've only a few months left."
Lylia asks, "Darcena brings up a valid point. What do we know of the insects and of their habits?"
Leafiara curiously asks, "Why is there a timeline?"
Thrassus asks, "Left?"
Melikor asks, "Until what?" [Thadston eventually comes back to these questions.]
Darcena says, "And, perhaps, we should be working on finding a way to detect them."
Maylan says, "We should make a large map of the Landing and craft little people out of mud. Then we can play tactics on our new fancy tactical map."
Lylia says, "I have no intention of being this woman's instrument."
Speaking to Ysharra, Zosopage says, "I think she is just crazy and needs no reason."
Thadston nods at Shinann.
Darcena says, "See precisely how far this influence spreads."
Speaking to Thadston, Puptilian asks, "Do you know if she is still keeping goblin slaves?"
Thadston glances at Stormyrain.
Lyrna says, "Retaliation can go on for millenia among elves."
Stormyrain settles her gaze on Thadston, watching him intently.
Thadston says, "Yes." [Unclear if this is a response to Pup, Stormy, or someone else entirely.]
Speaking pragmatically to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "There's a pretty hard end to the cycle if we just kill her off."
Lyrna says, "If we can. And if there is no-one else who would wish revenge for THAT."
Leafiara adds, "Not that that's an easy thing."
Puptilian says, "If I am correct they were once part of a tribe the orc used to run. They need saved."
Lylia says, "Slavery is a filthy business. It does not surprise me, entirely."
Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "She killed her grandmother, her mother is dead, the father who raised her is dead, and--"
Speaking thoughtfully to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "Well, I suppose there -is- Quinshon..."
Balley softly says, "Do you think going after her will cause her to take it out on Lylia do you Thadston."
Speaking to Balley, Shinann asks, "And the alternative is?"
Speaking to Balley, Puptilian says, "We ruined several of her plans already. I think she already has enough reason to hate this town."
Thadston says, "While the Bleaklands is not safe, it's estimated to be more...survivable well into Lumnea."
Lylia impatiently says, "Plenty of people have dead relatives, and it does not make them insert bugs in people and slaughter villages."
Balley softly says, "Wait for her to come to us and then ambush her."
Thadston glances at Balley.
Thadston says, "That is absurd."
Lylia says, "She is not some sympathetic villain. She needs to be crushed like one of her damnable beetles."
Evician says, "If she can change her forms as you suggest, then she could be here among us, or she can just destroy the town from within with no response time."
Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "...not all of those, no."
Darcena says, "I wonder how they reproduce."
Balley softly says, "She wants us to chase her."
Thadston says, "The mentality of wait until the problem arises has plagued this damn town for decades."
Balley softly says, "Let her come to us."
Speaking to Lylia, Goldstr says, "Sorrry fer late intrusion. Was across da Locksmehr havin dinner wid da ferryman."
Darcena says, "Will you suddenly be nothing but scarabs, Lylia."
Thadston says, "You must be new."
Thadston nods at Balley.
Speaking to Darcena, Ysharra says, "I don't know how much they have in common with true insects, in truth."
Speaking to Cryheart, Bbee asks, "Is this wat all politics is about, revenge?"
Speaking to Goldstr, Lylia says, "No apologies necessary, my friend. I am glad to see you."
Speaking to Darcena, Ysharra says, "I wasn't able to examine many of them before they disintegrated two nights ago."
Speaking firmly to Darcena, Lylia says, "No."
Speaking flatly to Ysharra, Darcena says, "I don't either. I haven't seen one up close."
Cryheart says, "This has to do about capturing an evil person."
Cryheart nods at Bbee.
Thadston says, "We don't know the limits of her forms."
Bbee says, "Oh."
Balley softly says, "We should just prepare, and attack when she comes to us."
Cryheart says, "A witch."
Cryheart nods at Bbee.
Thadston says, "She is not like Deylan, who quickly shaped into whatever he wanted."
Speaking to Balley, Zosopage says, "Would be better to take the fight to her and away from the town if possible."
Lylia notes, "'Witch' is a term of art. She is vile because she crosses me."
Thadston says, "I suspect blood magic is involved with her transformations, and that limits her shapes."
Lylia corrects, "Us."
Bbee asks, "Sounded like the evil person is bent on revenge?"
Lyrna asks, "In what way?"
Speaking to Zosopage, Goldstr says, "We wish."
Lyrna asks, "She can only mimic someone whose blood she has?"
Speaking quietly to Bbee, Tanisstra says, "Politics is asserting power...it's the purest kind of force."
Speaking to Goldstr, Zosopage says, "Didn't say it would be an easy task."
Thadston says, "She may need a significant amount of blood from those she takes shapes of."
Pietra quietly says, "And here I thought we saw visions of future Stormy and Balley."
Xorus says, "It is my understanding she used Saraphene's blood to hold that form."
Thadston says, "Speculation, I don't know."
Speaking to Lyrna, Lylia says, "I certainly hope not."
Balley softly says, "How do you know she is not leading you all to a trap then will get you there."
Balley softly says, "We did see a vision the other night."
Zaneon softly asks, "Anyone know what this bug witch wants?"
Speaking to Pietra, Leafiara says, "We did, but that seemed a more distant future than a few months."
Maylan says, "I am curious how her blood magic relates to her love of creepy crawly things."
Stormyrain wrinkles her nose.
Thadston nods at Stormyrain.
Stormyrain slowly empties her lungs.
Ysharra says, "In nature, scarabs are mostly beneficial. They eat corruption, and pestilent insects. Not so much, these."
Bbee asks, "Can't we just set a trap for this person?"
Thadston says, "Well into Lumnea begins our hunt. We'll need to be ready."
Lylia says, "In a sense, we are the trap."
Balley softly says, "I think she is leading you all on a chase so she can get to her prime objective."
Speaking to Ysharra, Darcena asks, "So what do these do?"
Lylia says, "She is drawn here repeatedly."
Balley softly says, "But that is just what my gut is telling me."
Maylan says, "I have a thought."
Lyrna asks, "What would that prime objective be?"
Thadston says, "You assume she has a prime objective beyond mere chaos."
Speaking to Darcena, Ysharra says, "They seem to operate like a curse, from what someone much brighter than me has informed."
Thadston says, "We have yet to discover exactly what her goal is."
Thadston says, "Beyond chaos, and survival."
Zosopage says, "I believe she will try to lead us down a path to lead to what the visions showed. We must try to avoid that...."
Xorus says, "Naimorai was not what I would call strikingly lucid."
Speaking seriously to Ysharra, Darcena asks, "A trustworthy source?"
Stormyrain says, "If you see someone invaded by a scarab..do your best to kill it once it is done gorging. If she is using the scarabs as a vessel to gather blood for her twisted magic the only way to keep her from that is to destroy the scarab before it scuttles back to her with its prize."
Maylan says, "We could perhaps devise a poison for our own selves to ingest. One that is not lethal to us but perhaps leathal to the moulis and other critters."
Lylia adds, "And the years have not improved her stability."
Lyrna says, "Non-trivial things - chaos and survival."
Speaking to Darcena, Ysharra says, "I don't really operate on that level. But I believe them."
Lylia coolly asks, "Do you think I did not try to root it out and destroy it?"
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "If her goal is to gather blood, we simply need to provide her with a corrupt supply."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Darcena asks, "Perfect, so Lylia is infested and Raznel will be able to turn into her at some point?"
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "Poison the well, as it were."
Speaking to Lylia, Stormyrain says, "I know you did, but the implication of her having your blood should it--return to her--is not insignificant."
Falvicar quietly says, "There is no simply."
Balley softly says, "I do not think that is her goal. She could easily gather blood from many."
Evician asks, "Two Lylias?"
Falvicar quietly says, "It's stuck on her."
Stormyrain says, "So should it burrow its way out and others are nearby..."
Speaking to Maylan, Bbee asks, "On whom do you test that poison?"
Lylia says, "I opened the veins through which it traveled and followed them to my heart, killing me, but to little avail. I could have myself flensed and --"
Ysharra says, "She would have reaped nearly all of us, two nights ago."
Lylia shifts her eyes to Evician.
Zosopage says, "We need someone to try and make a potion or somesuch to combat what happened the other night. Something that will kill them when inside of us."
Speaking to Bbee, Maylan says, "On my own self or others, doesn't much matter."
Goldstr says, "I tink da witch jess loves her power."
Ysharra says, "Very few of us escaped that conflict without becoming hosts."
Lyrna says, "There were many with scarabs on them two nights ago."
Lylia firmly says, "There is but one Lylia, and nor shall there ever be another. She would reveal herself the moment she spoke."
Neovik asks, "Can't ya phase it out of ya or something?"
Speaking to Zosopage, Maylan says, "That is exactly what I am proposing."
Speaking to Lyrna, Lylia says, "Yes. There are scarabs, and there are scarabs. This is of a rather different nature..."
Balley softly says, "I think she is just messing with us to get us to chase her."
Maylan exclaims, "A scarab poison!"
Speaking to Neovik, Lylia says, "I tried that too."
Thadston says, "We are not going to chase her."
Speaking to Neovik, Ysharra says, "When I mentioned something similar, there was a concern it would multiply."
Thadston says, "We are going to hunt her."
Speaking to Neovik, Lylia says, "And that is quite a worthwhile suggestion, by the way."
Thadston says, "Chase implies capture."
Balley softly says, "Same thing."
Cryheart says, "Amen."
Thadston says, "I intend to bring home a trophy."
Leafiara eagerly says, "Oh, I like it."
Lylia firmly says, "Good."
Speaking in Guildspeak to Thadston, Alisette says something you don't understand.
Neovik says, "Could lore it into a limb and use a handaxe."
Alisette's face turns slightly pale.
Thadston nods at Alisette.
Evician says, "Dakris is a pretty good taxidermy im sure."
Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain asks, "Depending on how, exactly, she is using the blood that might work. But it's unlikely, from my studies, that she's ingesting it. However--she is more like Cruxophim than me in her methods--so mayhaps?"
Balley softly asks, "So you want us all to go out looking for her and let her get her objective while we are all distracted?"
Speaking in Faendryl, Thadston says something you don't understand.
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "If the blood is corrupted her methods don't matter as much."
Thadston grins.
Lylia says, "She has no objective beyond her own mad trajectory through an unnatural life."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "Either way what she is able to gather would not serve her purpose."
Bbee asks, "We could all eat my papa's bean soup, nothing could survive inside us after we did that?"
Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia gently says something you don't understand.
Speaking in Faendryl, Ysharra says something you don't understand.
Speaking in Tehir to Thadston, Wolfloner says something you don't understand.
Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain says, "--not quite true from my experience. An accomplished blood mage can purify blood as well."
Balley softly says, "If I am not mistaken, if she wanted blood, the strongest blood is that given willingly."
Speaking to Bbee, Neovik says, "Helga's soup will clear anything out."
Archales asks, "Sounds like a curse, isn't that how most scarabs burrow inside you?"
Thadston grins at Wolfloner.
Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain says, "But definitely worth an attempt at least."
Archales says, "Just find a powerful cleric to bless the hunters."
Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain says, "Since she tends to meld blood magic with other forms."
Thadston winces.
Thadston touches his side.
Speaking to Archales, Lylia says, "I believe it is more similar to a curse than to her usual infestations, yes. This does not kill. At least, not outright."
Archales says, "And tell me what happens."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "This is true. I am able to remedy disease and poison with a quick waggle, as are many."
Cryheart says, "A reminder."
Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain says, "If we ever determine that's what she is doing it would be worth a shot."
Lyrna says, "Blood magic does seem to blend better ... more easily?... with some types of magic than others."
Ysharra says, "Indeed. There were hundreds of the little buggers here two nights ago, they slew many, and those they didn't kill were infected."
Thadston nods at Lylia.
Ysharra says, "This one has a different puprose."
Maylan says, "Aye it does. Different aspects of the blood respond to different elements. It is especially common among wizards."
Thadston nods at Shinann.
Shinann nods slowly.
Lyrna says, "I've mostly seen it with sorcery."
Speaking to a gyrfalcon, Maylan says, "A very good point, aye."
New Recruits
Thadston asks, "You know you will not be invited to militia strategy sessions, right?"
Thadston peers quizzically at Lylia.
Speaking flatly to Thadston, Darcena says, "Good."
Lylia says, "I would like to know more about the nature of those she has afflicted with these insects. Magister Svala mentioned something of it, but of course I did not get a chance to ask her more."
Speaking to Lylia, Darcena says, "It's nothing against you, at all, Lylia."
Speaking to Thadston, Maylan says, "I just want to play with the fancy tactics map."
Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "You have work to do, as it were."
Speaking to Thadston, Lylia says, "Obviously. I am not a member of the militia."
Lylia chuckles.
Thadston says, "Nothing personal. I know one day I'll carry your weakened body to New Ta'Faendryl to be restored, but right now...."
Thadston says, "You've got a bug inside of you."
Xorus says, "It was a prophecy."
Zaneon softly asks, "Wonder if there is any relation to the scarabs the bug witch uses and the ones trapped to loot boxes....or of a different make?"
Lylia dryly remarks, "Let us hope they open the gates to you when you ask in the fairer tongue."
Maylan says, "Some bugs are hive minded. I wonder if the witch is replicating a hive mind with her little minions."
A small area of skin on Lylia suddenly ripples.
Balley softly asks, "Do you think she wants to make you a Minion and control you Lylia?"
Lylia inhales sharply, hissing through her teeth.
Speaking to Lylia, Wolfloner says, "We can hope the scarab is not like a moulis."
Lylia insists, "It is not at all like a moulis."
Speaking softly to Lylia, Zaneon says, "Either you had some bad rolton for dinner.....or...."
Lylia says, "I would already have been rid of it when I cut away -- when I tried to seek the quarry."
Speaking sharply to Zaneon, Darcena says, "There is no such thing as bad rolton for dinner."
Ysharra says, "No. It's not eating you. It has a different job."
Zosopage says, "Moulis take longer to kill you and are more painful."
Balley softly says, "I think it is watching you like a tracking device."
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "I advise you to starve yourself for a couple days and then ingest wormwood."
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "Or we could try curdled milk."
Neovik asks, "Maybe it would feed on Moulis babies before they hatch?"
Speaking to Maylan, Zosopage says, "Or drink a ton of booze."
Balley softly says, "Booze is good tea is better."
Speaking to Maylan, Claudaro says, "Perhaps more booze no? I doubt the scarab has much of a tolerence."
Speaking to Zosopage, Maylan exclaims, "The goal is to coax the little bugger out of her, not make it happy!"
Evician says, "Yeah no one wants a scarab that's a happy drunk..."
Speaking to Maylan, Zosopage says, "But too much booze can lead to projectiles......"
Lylia coldly says, "I do not need some simple purgative or vermifuge. I am not a wormy urchin on the streets. This is not that sort of affliction."
Maylan says, "You have to think like a parasite! Were I a parasite and my host were feeding me alcohol, I would be comfy cozy."
Speaking to a snow white raven, Ysharra says, "You can feed it to your soon-to-be hatchlings."
Cryheart says, "Or a happy drunk who has a scarab."
Thadston offers Neovik an etched militia badge.
Thadston offers Neopuron an etched militia badge.
Neovik snickers.
Thadston and Neovik shake hands.
Neopuron accepts Thadston's etched militia badge.
Thadston says, "DAMNIT."
Neovik ducks his head.
Neopuron laughs!
Thadston pushes Neovik away from Neopuron.
Thadston gives Neopuron a firm handshake.
Neopuron offers Thadston an etched militia badge.
Neopuron snickers.
Thadston declines Neopuron's offer.
Thadston says, "Welcome to the Militia."
Thadston nods at Neovik.
Claudaro says, "So Lylia thinks of urchins as wormy beds of parasites? Odd that didn't come out in debates..."
Neopuron gasps.
Thadston sighs.
Neopuron lets out a cheer!
Neovik whistles a carefree tune, the perfect picture of innocence.
Thadston nods at Neopuron.
Speaking to Thadston, Evician says, "Yeah I have that issue too."
Neopuron exclaims, "Oh this is perfect!"
Thadston offers Leafiara an etched militia badge.
Neopuron puts on an etched militia badge.
Leafiara accepts Thadston's etched militia badge.
Speaking to Claudaro, Lylia says, "Do not be simple. You go and eat something from a gutter and see if you do not get worms too. It is not the urchins' fault if they are infested."
Zaneon softly asks, "What type of major rituals are there to remove curses?"
Leafiara nods briefly at Thadston.
Neopuron turns toward Thadston and renders a sharp hand salute.
Leafiara appreciatively says, "Thank you."
Leafiara and Thadston shake hands.
Lylia says, "And it is not my fault that I have been infected by this witch."
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "You know I do both of these things regurlarly."
Speaking to Lylia, Neovik says, "Maybe if ya get a pet shade skink it'll battle it out to the death with that scarab."
Speaking to Lylia, Darcena says, "It may not be your fault, but you cannot handwave it away, either."
Leafiara puts on an etched militia badge.
Thadston offers Leafiara a brass-riveted militia tabard.
Speaking to Lylia, Darcena says, "You are not actually all-powerful, Lylia Rashere."
Lylia muses, "Silvean gave me a shade-newt."
Leafiara accepts Thadston's militia tabard.
Lylia lightly says, "Yet."
Leafiara turns over her militia tabard.
Darcena says, "As you say."
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "How about I slice you open? I promise to put you back together."
Thadston offers Neopuron a brass-riveted militia tabard.
Darcena says, "I won't live to see it, I'm afraid."
Neopuron accepts Thadston's militia tabard.
Neopuron beams!
Speaking to Lylia, Neovik asks, "Did ya try it yet?"
Speaking to Maylan, Lylia says, "I have already tried."
Neopuron raises his militia tabard skyward!
Leafiara carefully says, "I'll, er... clean this up a bit..."
Leafiara tucks a brass-riveted militia tabard into a small pocket inside of her red silk cape.
Neopuron works his way into a brass-riveted militia tabard.
Neopuron grins smugly.
Balley softly asks, "Is it an actual bug or more of a curse mark?"
Maylan reaches inside one of the stretched rolton wool socks hanging from her leather bandolier and grabs a glass leech-filled jar.
Maylan says, "Ah, here we go."
Evician says, "Naw it's a bug, saw it moving across her skin."
Maylan offers Lylia a glass leech-filled jar.
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "You stick one of those on your forehead."
Speaking measuredly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "I do hope you read my letter carefully. But, for now, glad to help."
Neovik sprinkles some holy oil from his vial onto Lylia.
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "They latch on real quick like, don't worry."
Lylia says, "It is an actual creature, though whether it is more magical or more physical in nature, it is hard to say. It is animated and yet metallic, alive yet not."
Lylia blinks at Neovik.
Speaking to Lylia, Neovik says, "Worth a try."
Speaking to Neovik, Lylia says, "How curious..."
Maylan says, "Well if it's not fleshy then I don't think leeches will help."
Maylan says, "Although it's worth a try, of course."
Lylia says, "No, I do not think I need to be leeched. I attempted to bleed myself dry, too. Starve it out."
Lyrna asks, "At some point, sir, perhaps I could get a badge and such from you as well?"
Lyrna peers quizzically at Thadston.
Lylia turns over her leech-filled jar.
Thadston twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "I advise you to drink a bit of this."
Maylan offers Lylia a vial of congealed black bile.
Thadston offers Lyrna an etched militia badge.
Lyrna accepts Thadston's etched militia badge.
Lyrna beams!
Lyrna puts on an etched militia badge.
Lylia declines Maylan's offer.
Lyrna rubs her etched militia badge.
Lylia says, "Thank you, but I shall drink tea, for now."
Thadston offers Claede an etched militia badge.
Claede accepts Thadston's etched militia badge.
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan asks, "How about a little sprinkle?"
Maylan says, "It doesn't hurt."
Lylia suspiciously asks, "Of what?"
Speaking to Thadston, Claede says, "I'll see that it's served well, Marshal."
Cryheart says, "He is curious."
Claede puts on an etched militia badge.
Maylan slips a vial of congealed black bile inside one of the hollowed kiramon mandibles hanging from her leather bandolier.
Uttering soft words, Maylan weaves her white jade crescent dagger in a complex manner around Lylia, then holds it over Lylia's head, allowing droplets of black bile to drip down from it and onto her person.
Lyrna says, "Thank you, sir."
Lyrna smiles at Thadston.
Speaking to Thadston, Lylia says, "Whom do you know who might know more of these insects? You have pursued the witch farther than I, at least of late."
Speaking to Darcena, Maylan asks, "I am curious, can you smell the little bugger?"
Thadston offers Lyrna a brass-riveted militia tabard.
Lyrna accepts Thadston's militia tabard.
Speaking to Maylan, Darcena says, "I do not wish to answer that in front of all these people."
Lyrna carefully inspects her militia tabard.
Thadston shrugs at Lylia.
Thadston says, "I am hoping once Thrayzar is more stable, he can share more."
Speaking to Maylan, Leafiara whispers aloud, "That would be a yes."
Thadston says, "He hunted her once, when he was a man. When the Empire employed him to clean up their dark secret."
Speaking to Maylan, Lylia says, "Feel free to sniff me, but you will probably smell nothing but my perfume and perhaps brimstone."
Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr asks, "Da Marshal gettin better?"
Thadston offers Claede a brass-riveted militia tabard.
Claede accepts Thadston's militia tabard.
Thadston says, "Somewhat, yes."
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "And a bit of bile, although the latter would be my fault."
Goldstr says, "Goods ta hear."
Thadston offers Neovik a brass-riveted militia tabard.
Thadston offers Neopuron a brass-riveted militia tabard.
Speaking to Thadston, Lylia says, "I hesitated to ask to speak to him, given his current condition. But I would welcome a conversation with him as well."
Neopuron asks, "Oh another one?"
Neovik snickers to himself.
Neopuron accepts Thadston's militia tabard.
Thadston says, "Um..."
Falvicar quietly says, "I'll be right back."
Neopuron works his way into a brass-riveted militia tabard.
Thadston says, "I guess you get two."
Speaking to Thadston, Neovik says, "I think you really want me to join the militia."
Neopuron says, "Extra padding, I like it."
Thadston shrugs.
Thadston smirks at Neovik.
Neovik chuckles.
Neopuron says, "Totally need it."
Thadston says, "We will arrange it."
Balley softly says, "Better you than me for the milita."
Thadston says, "I must go for the night."
Thadston says, "Someone tell the Magister I wish to speak to her soon."
Speaking to Lylia, Xorus remarks, "Teuriz may be able to rip it out, if you could find him."
Thadston says, "Very soon."
Thadston says, "Her documents from Dennet are long overdue."
Speaking to Xorus, Lylia asks, "Would it help?"
Speaking simply to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Looking forward to next week's meeting."
Thadston says, "And if I have to pick apart the Outpost brick by brick."
Thadston says, "I will."
Speaking to Lylia, Bbee asks, "Honestly, I just stopped by to see if I could get a permit to peddle my pills in town?"
Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr says, "Take care Sir er Lord Andrews."
Xorus says, "The issue is not having another replace it."
Falvicar offers Lylia a vial of tar-like black salve.
Speaking to Bbee, Lylia asks, "What manner of pills?"
Leafiara playfully says, "Maybe you can do that even if you don't have to."
Lylia accepts Falvicar's tar-like black salve.
Falvicar quietly says, "If you need it."
Bbee offers Lylia a faceted dark sapphire pill.
Bbee says, "These."
Speaking to Lylia, Alisette says, "I am sorry this has happened. If you need anything, I am young, but willing to help as I can."
Speaking warmly to Alisette, Lylia says, "Thank you for that. I shall remember."
Evician says, "Good night all."
Lylia put a vial of tar-like black salve in her wrap.
Lylia accepts Bbee's dark sapphire pill.
Lylia tilts her dark sapphire pill side to side, making the light play off it.
Speaking softly to Lylia, Zaneon says, "Aye you have our service for what that matters mayor."
Bbee says, "Eat it madam mayor."
Thadston says, "Good evening."
Speaking to Bbee, Lylia says, "I have heard that before."
Cryheart says, "Good evening."
Cryheart says, "Rest well."
Speaking in Faendryl to Thadston, Lylia says something you don't understand.
Speaking softly to Lylia, Balley says, "I will do what I can for you, but will not be rushing off chasing her."
Lord Thadston just marched stiffly through a varnished modwir door.
Lylia places her dark sapphire pill in her mouth, and it dissolves into a puff of cerulean smoke. A blue mist seeps from her lips as a cloud of mana coalesces around her, wrapping her in protective magic!
Bbee says, "Aye bbut not from someone as trust worthy as I."
Cryheart says, "Good evening all."
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan offers, "Perhaps we could use you as bait."
Maylan says, "Every good hunt needs the proper bait."
Balley softly says, "Bait sounds interesting."
Balley softly says, "Then she would come to us."
Speaking to Bbee, Lylia says, "Feel free to sell your pills. Should I find you are murdering people with them, you shall be tried and likely found guilty, as we have many witnesses here for your request, and then you shall be publicly hanged."
Bbee says, "Oh I don't sell them."
Bbee says, "I give them away."
Goldstr says, "Take care folks."
Lylia says, "Then that is also acceptable."
Tanisstra quietly says, "The problem is that "Bait" usually gets eaten."
Bbee says, "Thank you."
Neopuron says, "I need a blade now."
Speaking to Tanisstra, Lylia says, "From the perspective of the 'bait,' I thank you for pointing this out."
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan asks, "May I have my leech friends back when you are finished with the application?"
Lylia says, "Oh! Oh, yes."
Darcena removes a glass leech-filled jar from in her collection bag.
Darcena waves a glass leech-filled jar at Maylan.
Darcena put a glass leech-filled jar in her collection bag.
Speaking to Darcena, Maylan teases, "Mine's bigger than yours."
Leafiara knowingly says, "Ah, empaths and their leeches."
Neopuron says, "Oh this is too small."
Bbee asks, "Do I get a certificate or license or something as proof I have permission?"
Leafiara absently says, "Anyway... I should get to work on tonight's report."
Speaking to Neopuron, Melikor asks, "Do you know how to use that thing?"
Leafiara wishes, "Be well, all."
More Behind the Scenes
[rewinding in time slightly]
Speaking to Darcena, Maylan teases, "Mine's bigger than yours."
Someone in the crowd begins to slowly disperse with the exit of Thadston, but then turns to you and whispers, "Someone wishes to meet with you, alone. Tykel's Backroom." The person walks off. [OOC note: shown in first-person because only Leafiara sees it.]
Leafiara knowingly says, "Ah, empaths and their leeches."
Neopuron says, "Oh this is too small."
Bbee asks, "Do I get a certificate or license or something as proof I have permission?"
Leafiara absently says, "Anyway... I should get to work on tonight's report."
Speaking to Neopuron, Melikor asks, "Do you know how to use that thing?"
Leafiara wishes, "Be well, all."
[travel]
[Tykel's Arms, Backroom]
This is the quiet backroom of the weaponsmith's shop. Here are stored prized pieces of exquisite armor and weapons, most either ancient heirlooms or crafted by famous armorers from throughout the land. You also see a swinging door and a rickety stair.
Leafiara glances appraisingly around the room.
Leafiara leans against a swinging door.
Leafiara lightly drums her fingers on her leg.
There is movement in the shadows.
Leafiara quietly greets, "Good evening... whoever you might be."
Leafiara smiles.
Mother steps into view.
Mother smiles.
Leafiara nods to Mother in greeting.
Mother nods at Leafiara.
Leafiara politely says, "Ah... Mother herself."
Mother softly says, "Hello, Rysusbane."
Mother smiles.
Leafiara slowly empties her lungs.
Leafiara dubiously asks, "Mmhm... is that what you all are calling me now?"
Leafiara grins crookedly.
Mother softly asks, "You have done a service for the Brotherhood. You know, yes?"
Leafiara hesitantly says, "I... suppose I have, if your intentions are true."
Mother nods.
Leafiara adds, "But you should know, if I haven't made this clear... it wasn't my intent."
Leafiara looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.
Mother softly asks, "I understand now, you have also joined the militia?"
Leafiara nods at Mother.
Mother nods.
Leafiara amusedly says, "That... would be thanks to you."
Mother softly says, "We may call upon you in the future perhaps."
Mother softly says, "For the good of us all."
Mother smiles.
Leafiara takes a moment to observe Mother.
Leafiara musingly asks, "Interesting. And yet you said you were bringing information to the militia, no?"
Leafiara glances at Mother.
Mother softly says, "Greatness is not always an intention. Sometimes it is achieved by accident."
Leafiara adds, "That -is- what I mean when I say I joined because of you... to have access to your information."
Mother softly says, "Neither journey should undermine the reason to celebrate."
Mother softly says, "Good."
Leafiara carefully says, "I suppose some would see it that way."
Leafiara nods at Mother.
Mother softly says, "Then we shall build a great relationship."
Leafiara measuredly says, "I certainly hope so."
Leafiara smiles at Mother.
>look mother
You see a tall figure garbed in a billowy dark cloak with a deep hood that only partially reveals a featureless black mask etched with blood red sigils. The figure wears little else adornment, save for the gleam of a brilliant red soulstone ring upon one of her slender gloved hands.
Leafiara says, "Tell me... do you consider the witch a threat? I hadn't heard you mention her before."
Leafiara raises an eyebrow.
Leafiara adds, "Only Grishom and the Empire from your mouth."
Mother softly says, "They are all threats."
Leafiara nods in agreement at Mother.
Mother softly says, "Good eve to you."
Leafiara wishes, "Good eve."
Mother steps back into the shadows.
Leafiara absently says, "Mmm. Progress..."
Leafiara musingly says, "What a strange path to it."