Lost Palestra (storyline)/2025-12-17 - Shadow Abductions and Impending Harrowers (log)

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Synopsis

Melgorehn's Reach stormed with some partial purple (feystone) colored snow and light. (Feystone is the eye color of the lost Palestra Blade Aralyte Halanori Faendryl.) There was then a shadowy Ithzir invasion, including swirling void black shades. Ithzir omenbearers cast Sympathy, which resulted in a lot of friendly fire deaths.

Thagoria Vespiria Faendryl of the Sorcerer Guild was trying to discern if they were shadows-corrupted Ithzir or manifestations imitating Ithzir. Shadows were seen absorbing and taking away a woman and a town guard in town. (In later invasions this would also be seen with other abductions.) Thagoria raised the possibility of capturing one.

Afterwards, Thagoria said she had recommended that the Basilica send Harrower Vortelis Infernebrus Faendryl to study Aralyte's soulstone, and Harrower Ersix to look at the black roots given his past history with them. Thagoria also said that Harrower Xociral is a gadfly and likely to show up at times. Thagoria had recently spoken of the Basilica sending investigators over the Ithzir and the soulstone's setting off a veil quake through Melgorehn's Reach. Not long after this invasion, Ambassador Vespasius Koryth Faendryl made a declaration on it.

There was also a figure who dropped a bunch of the black apples in Town Square. These proved to have a darker nature than the earlier verdant fruit. There was also a note on the ground about experimental results. There was miscellaneous discussion on the black roots, the history involving Walkar Wellington, beliefs about Despana, cannibals, Bir Mahallah (though no one brought up the weird Ithzir history with the Sea of Fire), the mutagenic nature of the shadows, and corrupted wastelands such as the Wizardwaste and Rhoska-Tor.

Invasion creatures:

  • a lithe shadowy Ithzir veilstalker
  • a muscular shadowy Ithzir oathguard
  • a shadowy Ithzir omenbearer
  • a swirling void black shade

Previously on Lost Palestra storyline:

Log

The invasion fighting itself is not included. Thagoria briefly appeared during the fighting. Most of the log is post-invasion discussion, though missing some earlier talk about the fruits. Most noise and verb actions have been cut out.

Ithzir Invasion

Bright crystalline flakes dance in the sky, tangled in the night as they descend to the ground.

Crystalline flakes of snow fall from the sky, many gleaming in the moonlight, while a handful of others hold a lavender shade, like glittering feystones falling from the heavens.

[General] Thagoria thinks, "Even the snow here is purple."

[General] Missoni thinks, "It is rather pretty."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "You should have seen Pylasar's heyday."
[General] Thrassus thinks, "The shadows are skuling about."
[General] Lylia thinks, "I am grateful it is not red as blood."
[General] Pukk thinks, "Rooks prepare to defend, just in case."

Motes of azure and lavender light drift from the shadows of Melgorehn's Reach towards Wehnimer's Landing, like glitterning, faceted spores.

[General] Thagoria thinks, "The storm is acting up."

[General] Perigourd thinks, "Indeed, it seems the shadow things are returning."
[General] Lylia thinks, "These are similar to the shadows we saw before you arrived, Guildmaster."
[General] Lylia thinks, "Ithzir, but not Ithzir, when we saw them last."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "If you'd like to come see them for yourself, now is the time."
[General] Henriche thinks, "North gate! Ithzir."
[General] Tierus thinks, "This is the obligatory point of the evening where I remind you people that your town seems perched on the very maw of Luukos."
[General] Tierus thinks, "You could simply found a settlement somewhere that isn't cursed."

(Sympathy deaths start happening due to Ithzir)

[General] The ghost of Thrassus thinks, "The Maw would be a much more sedate and orderly place, I would think."
[General] Lylia thinks, "I am better off on my own, it would appear."
[Help] Fayotae: "TSNW bunch."
[Help] The ghost of Henriche: "Be careful, Justice is turned."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "Several of us working on the areas surrounding the square."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "Oathguards on the battlefield."

[General] Thagoria thinks, "They certainly look like Ithzir. Aside from these shadows."

[General] Arissiya asks, "Is town center safe?"
[General] The ghost of Skulligei thinks, "Maybe they've been eating the apples."
[Help] The ghost of Grenidor: "Yes TSC is safe."
[Help] The ghost of Fayotae: "For the moment."
[General] The ghost of Thrassus thinks, "They speak like them too, when they deign to."
[General] Tierus thinks, "You should elect one Mayor."
[Help] The ghost of Grenidor: "NW of TSC is not safe."
[Help] Korsare: "Empaths needed in TSC?"
[General] Leafiara thinks, "And here come the masses of shadows."
[General] Bagagwa thinks, "I cant have all the fun, sure. Need clerics for sure."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Shadow on south road near the prison."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Shadow has disappeared. Not sure where."
[General] Bagagwa thinks, "Shadow bind my soul."
[General] Pukk exclaims, "Lylia has volunteered to be thrown into the shadows to see what happens!"
[General] Perigourd thinks, "Shadows."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "Smaller shades now too."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Aye, melee doesn't seem to work against them."
[General] Ralkean asks, "Only some spells work?"
[General] Draegar thinks, "'They keep blooding my hands up when attempt to fight them."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Perhaps only the holy can fight them effectively? Not sure."
[General] Nikhiliam asks, "I havne't found a way to hit them as a cleric yet, any others?"
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Also be careful casters, the shadows steal your mana."
[General] Ralkean thinks, "609 working for ranger base."
[General] Luxelle asks, "How about a Voln symbol?"
[Help] Fayotae: "I killed one but got lucky i think."
[General] Duffield thinks, "Are they demons? My temporal can hit them but nothing else."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "My weapon sometimes lands but often doesn't. It might be only blunt weapons or strikes heavy enough to crush... as it were."
[General] The ghost of Pukk thinks, "I knew Raelee would kill me one day."
[General] Leafiara muses, "Alternatively, they might just not obey what we'd call the 'physical laws' of this plane."
[General] The ghost of Pukk thinks, "My arrows are the same."
[Help] Roselyne: "Shadows hate light. Maybe a pre hit of searing light may help. IDK."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Warcries worked against the shade, though didn't allow me to attack it afterwards."
[General] Ralkean thinks, "I thought maybe this is 135's time to shine, but didn't get it working."
[General] Tijay thinks, "No such time exists."
[General] Ralkean sadly thinks, "Indeed."

Thagoria Appears In Invasion

[Wehnimer's, South Ring Rd.] 
Many of the travellers through this part of town appear to be pilgrims, priests and monks.  They travel to and fro, moving along the quiet road to the north.  The hoot of an owl echoes from somewhere beyond the palisade wall.  You also see a shadowy ithzir omenbearer.
Also here: Thagoria, Magister Raelee, Monthas, Duffield, Tierus, Imperatrix Lylia, Bathcwyn Missoni, Perigourd
Obvious paths: north, east, west

(killing shadowy Ithzir)

Thagoria says, "Strange."

Perigourd grunts.

Perigourd subtly splays the first two fingers and thumb of his hand, waving them Thagoria's way in a casual Turamzzyrian salute.

[General] Draegar asks, "'Area just around the square are clear as of now. Anyone see more in the vicinity?"

Speaking to Thagoria, Raelee says, "It is."

Lylia nods at Thagoria.

Speaking to Thagoria, Perigourd asks, "In what way?"

Speaking to Lylia, Tierus says, "You'd be surprised at how many people claim they're possessed when they assail me for no reason."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Few at the west end of South Ring Road."
[General] Duffield thinks, "Some just appeared on south ring."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "But being handled."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Ok."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'One is three east of TSC."

[Wehnimer's, West Ring Rd.]
The lane to the east leads into the heart of town and the main square.  The back wall of the grocer's shop borders the road, its wide door surrounded by piles of rough gunny sacks and stacks of wooden crates, some empty, others still to be unpacked.  You also see a swirling void black shade, a swirling void black shade and a tall mithril postern gate.
Also here: Thagoria, Magister Raelee, Monthas, Duffield, Tierus, Imperatrix Lylia, Bathcwyn Missoni, Emissary Thrassus, Perigourd
Obvious paths: north, east, south

Thagoria says, "These shadows.  I am wondering which are purely of darkness, and which are Ithzir formed out of shadows."

Thagoria says, "If there is even a difference."

Perigourd says, "I'm curious why they're attracted to the Landing."

Lylia says, "I am able to animate those in Ithzir form."

A woman goes running through the streets, dropping her pack as she flees, lunging for safety. But suddenly a void black shade leaps out of the darkness of an alleyway, absorbing the woman into its shadowy depths, then sinks into the ground as her scream echoes, then goes instantly silent.

Tierus quietly says, "And they appear to be crossdressing, if that gown is any indication."
Lylia wryly asks, "Are we going to speculate once again that it is me, and not, say, the giant angry mountain of magical doom? Or the pyramid? Or that obelisk? Perhaps the blight-fires?"
Perigourd frowns.

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I'm more confident now that only crushing blows work. I've yet to land a hit with my slasher that's too small to crush."

Lylia muses, "Why would Lylia do this?"
Speaking dryly to Raelee, Tierus says, "I wasn't judging.  I was just pointing it out."
Speaking to Lylia, Perigourd says, "I'm simply wondering if we have any answers. One is not blaming you."
Perigourd nods at Lylia.

[General] Ryasha thinks, "Well that was sad."

Lylia nods understandingly at Perigourd.

Thagoria says, "The mana storm of the Reach weakens the veil to the valence where they originate."

Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "You are more exciting a prospect than a mountain."

The air crackles with potent energy!

Black tendrils of anti-mana climb over XXXXX draining his power!

[General] Jaisey thinks, "Just saw her at the front gate at the same time."

Speaking to Missoni, Lylia says, "Thank you, lovely. I cannot argue with that."

Thagoria says, "The Ithzir of Kol Tar'sken were able to slip in sometimes much like this in 5116."

More Invasion

[General] Arkim asks, "So what was in her pack?"
[General] Jaisey thinks, "Then just moments later my partner lost all of her spells in an instant."
[General] Pukk exclaims, "Geesh...you all are starting to sound like me!"
[General] Marcellah thinks, "That was really odd."
[General] Arkim asks, "As in, were they after anything in particular?"
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Appears they're after bodies."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "If they were, they would have taken the pack, not her."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Bodies for what, I do not know."
[General] Marcellah thinks, "They should have lasted another two hours but an Ethereal energie buffeted the surrounds and shoved a wall of air at me."
[General] Arkim thinks, "Fair. Apologies for how that sounded."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "Slews of shades on South Ring Road. Thankfully the Rooks seem to have gotten the message and are using blunt-tipped arrows that damage them."
[General] Marcellah thinks, "I'm still alive. though its now snowing in Voln."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'TSC surrounded again."
[General] The ghost of Duffield thinks, "Sympathy is a hell of a thing."
[General] Leafiara agrees, "That would be why I'm off fighting on my own."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'If anyone has the ability to fight them, assistance would be appreaciated. Many of us trapped here in TSC."
[General] Leafiara pragmatically adds, "Well, that and it's good to split up to cover all fronts when the enemy also splits up..."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Any physical means been discovered yet? My sword, and fists, are ineffective."
[General] Nimmira asks, "Anywhere in particular an empath should be waiting for wounded?"
[Help] Grenidor: "TSC would be best."
[General] Nimmira thinks, "TSC is kind of dangerous right now."
[General] Nimmira thinks, "I'm in Thraks if anyone needs a heal."
[General] Draegar thinks, "'Tried that Leafiara, still ineffective against the shadows."
[General] Pukk exclaims, "I said I'm sorry! I had gas and couldn't hold it!"
[General] Leafiara thinks, "Odd... in that case, I'm out of theories on why I can hit them sometimes."

[General] Thagoria thinks, "The shadows do not like bright light."

[General] Luxelle asks, "Blesse Blades?"
[General] Draegar exclaims, "'Ahh, interesting. Will try that!"
[General] Zaaldine thinks, "Odd because shadows only exist because of light."
[General] Pukk thinks, "Blades only likes to be blessed by Stormy."
[General] Pukk thinks, "I blessed my bow and it didn't seem to hit them."
[General] Duffield thinks, "So many poets and philosphers, maybe we can bore the Ithzir to death."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "Hmm, that would explain why my warblade can connect, but my slasher should connect too if it's about blessings..."
[General] Luxelle asks, "Do your Voln symbols work against them?"
[General] Thrassus thinks, "They may not be fully in this valence."
[General] Tierus thinks, "My lance can't strike them, and it's about as holy a weapon as I've seen."
[General] Tierus thinks, "I mean, for something that's not a sword with a conspicuous griffin motif."
[General] Leafiara thinks, "This omenbearer has turned on its oathguard compatriot and is attacking it."
[General] Leafiara adds, "Good news for me."
[General] Thrassus asks, "Perhaps we can split your lance into bits and scatter them worldwide to make the final leap?"

[General] Thagoria thinks, "Things of other valences do not necessarily behave in ways intuitive to our world."

[General] Pukk exclaims, "Oh good thinking! Throw the black apples at them!"
[Help] Nimmira: "Is it over?"

[General] Thagoria thinks, "These might only be crushed, but not pierced, or slashed with edges."

A town guard stumbles through the street, blood seeping from a limp arm, as he grips a sword tightly in the other. Shades come alive, pushing towards him as he backs towards an alleyway. He turns to escape, not realizing that the darkness of the alley is a shade itself, and he vanishes into its depths.

[General] Perigourd thinks, "The shades seem to be taking people."
[General] Pukk thinks, "Stay out of the alleyways."
[General] Pukk exclaims, "Stay away from the dark alleyways!"
[General] Leafiara thinks, "But on the other hand, if the shades were there consistently, it would be an efficient way to take the fight to them..."

Post-Invasion

[General] Draegar thinks, "'South ring road clear for now."
[General] Draegar asks, "'North ring road was clear just now as well. Anyone see any remnants of them?"
[General] Leafiara thinks, "Not seeing more at the moment..."

[Town Square Central]
This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see the web-draped Missoni disk, a smoky fire wyrdling, a vacillating glacier spirit that is flying around, a lazy wild dark red dog, a plain modwir strongbox, the sparking Leafiara disk, a battered antique faewood crate, a white-masked reddish brown puppy with high triangular ears, a scratched silver chest, a crude stained chest swathed in rust-red symbols, a gilded carved modwir case engraved with the image of a pile of gems, a troublesome stream spirit that is flying around, a skeletal stygian scarab beetle that is flying around, a snowflake-cut diamond, a golden breakfast tart, a golden breakfast tart, a key-shaped diamond, a key-shaped diamond, a willow-carved diamond, a willow-carved diamond, some scored peppercorn flatbread, a pair of barely tolerable dark panther pelt shoes, some fresh catnip, a slender steel needle, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, a slender steel needle, a drake greatsword, a metal wand, a trail of aster-wreathed silver hedgehogs leading southwest, a round silver-banded barrel, an herbal remedy donation bin and some wide stone benches with some stuff on it.
Also here: Earthdiver, Master Tercolla, Perigourd, Emissary Thrassus, Magister Raelee, Tierus, Imperatrix Lylia, Bathcwyn Missoni, Draegar, Whimweaver Leafiara, Sinistral of Tyranny Daenamaryllis, Lady Karasye who is kneeling, Lord Tovaris who is kneeling, Korelon, Lankas, Fisherman Skulligei, Monthas, Ellisarr, Harbenjer who is lying down, Pukk, Lord Ahseetah
Obvious paths: northeast, east, southeast, southwest, west, northwest

Karasye asks, "Is this happening often of late?"
Leafiara holds up her hand and tilts it side to side in a so-so gesture.
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus asks, "And what have your experiments on the fruit told you?"
Kayse says, "I have other side effects I have documented. I am not sure this is the time for it though."
Speaking to Karasye, Leafiara says, "Often enough, yeah... one or two times a week."
Skulligei raspily asks, "The apples seem to be...fine...now?"
Speaking silkily to Raelee, Tierus asks, "You are a wizard under all that fire, aren't you?"
Kayse looks over at Skulligei and shakes her head.
Missoni grins wryly.
Speaking to Skulligei, Kayse says, "Unless you built up a tolerance."
Karasye says, "Seems I should make my rounds more often then."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "You know that I am, Tierus."
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus asks, "Very good. And?"
Skulligei raspily says, "Hmm....perhaps."
Leafiara chuckles.
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "Alchemical analysis is, as of yet, inconclusive."
Speaking to Tierus, Pukk says, "She isn't just a wizard..I think she is a fire elemental mage disguised as a person."
Speaking in Guildspeak, Korelon says, "Looks like this situation is under control. good luck and be safe."
Speaking flatly to Raelee, Tierus says, "You determined that they glow green."
Speaking to Pukk, Tierus says, "Accurate."
Draegar deeply says, "Thank you all for your efforts, especially the healers. Appreciated."
Thrassus says, "She didn't need an experiment to see that."
Draegar bows.
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "I do have eyes. It was not a difficult determination."
Karasye says, "Now I'll at least have one if needed."
Leafiara gazes in amusement at her surroundings.
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "So there's complex magic to them, or something otherworldly and beyond our ken."
Skulligei raspily says, "Someone came by and left the chrisms. they said "use them" and ran off."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Well, it was fun still."
Tovaris says, "Now you have two."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Lylia and Raelee were slaughtering everybody in sight."

[General] Draegar asks, "'So are we confident the Landing is safe, and silent, for now?"

Leafiara amusedly says, "Oh, so that's what happened out there."
Leafiara chuckles.
Tierus squeezes his eyes shut, brow creasing.
Skulligei turns to Raelee and cheers!
Speaking to Pukk, Perigourd says, "Next time everyone follows you."
Skulligei turns to Lylia and cheers!
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "You would of enjoyed watching that."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee corrects, "Beyond our ken... for now."
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "A seasoned Magister such as yourself then undoubtedly started considering other avenues."
Lylia says, "Oh, not everyone. Just everyone we happened to see."
Skulligei raspily exclaims, "I bonked one with my shield!"
Karasye says, "Though I'll save these for those that need my attention."
Speaking to Tierus, Thrassus says, "And they are being provided to the town, for free and in seemingly infinite amounts, by a pair of ex-smugglers."
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus asks, "What do you know about the people behind the fruit?"
Thrassus nods at Tierus.
Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni says, "The Ithzir carry those."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "There is a strong chance it relates to the soil it was grown in... given that the producers were seeking rare soil samples."
Skulligei raspily says, "Then it killed me...."
Speaking to Perigourd, Pukk says, "Nah. I enjoyed it all. You did a good job despite not being Cryheart."
Speaking to Thrassus, Tierus exclaims, "Oh, points to Thrassus!"
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "One is a former Rook. The other is a mage, though not one of the Hall."
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "A hedgemage? How scandalous."
Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "Not particularly good quality."
Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni asks, "No?"
Perigourd says, "But quite tangible."
Speaking to Kayse, Thrassus says, "So, I am curious as to what you saw from that apple."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Lylia was like "blam!" and Raelee was like "sizzle!" and I was like "Oh noes *died*"."
Leafiara starts chortling.
Tierus grimly says, "It does seem that we've moved past the point of Ish-zir to actual Ithzir."
Speaking to Pukk, Raelee says, "... we could do it again."
Lylia says, "It was more of a 'hiss' than a 'blam.'."
Speaking to Thrassus, Kayse says, "I saw nothing until I was mind controled and died. Before that, my tongue felt rigid and wooden. I will have to do another test."
Thrassus removes a lustrous midnight black apple from in his silk longcoat.
Thrassus offers Kayse a lustrous midnight black apple.

Thagoria wanders in.

Kayse accepts Thrassus's midnight black apple.
Lylia says, "If these are indeed Ithzir, then the Basilica will --"
Thrassus grins.
Lylia turns to face Thagoria.
Missoni looks thoughtfully at Kayse.
Earthdiver nods to Thagoria in greeting.
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "Amongst the soil samples they sought were some from Talador, pre-Bleak. I had contemplated if they were sought for a control."

There is some movement behind the oak tree, a hooded figure, and a moment later several black apples roll out onto the ground and the figure is gone.

Missoni smiles at Thagoria.
Thrassus glances at an oak tree.
Speaking to Raelee, Pukk says, "You know...if any other female said that..I would think they were flirting with me and I would smile..but when you just said it...I felt my deed count drop just from hearing it."
Kayse glances down.
Tercolla hoarsely says, "Hmm."
Missoni tilts her head down.
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "Mm."
Xanthirra softly asks, "Anyone else see that?"
Karasye frowns.
Thrassus says, "Ah ha."
Tovaris says, "That wasn't ominous at all."
Tierus picks up a lustrous midnight black apple.
Harbenjer says, "Oh, Apples."
Karasye says, "I dd."
Karasye says, "Did."
Leafiara asks, "Has an apple competition started when I wasn't looking?"
Missoni picks up a lustrous midnight black apple.
Xanthirra picks up a lustrous midnight black apple.
Speaking to Pukk, Raelee says, "An appropriate response, yes."
Leafiara picks up a lustrous midnight black apple.
Lylia nods in greeting to Thagoria.
Speaking thoughtfully to Raelee, Tierus says, "This one tastes different."

[General] Draegar thinks, "'Someone seems us to want apples... ">"

Tierus takes a bite of his midnight black apple.
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee asks, "How so?"
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "Never mind. It was dirt."
Xanthirra softly says, "I do not trust this."
Pukk says, "Oh the heck with it. I already died once..."

Thagoria asks, "These are the apples you all have been speaking of?"

Tovaris says, "You know, this looks like it might be a bad idea."
Speaking to herself, Leafiara muses, "Seriously, where *is* Cordarius? Might as well make it a three-way apple competition."
Leafiara gazes in wonder at her surroundings.
Karasye says, "I wouldn't trust them now for certain."
Speaking to Thagoria, Missoni agrees, "They are."
Xanthirra nods at Thagoria.
Speaking deeply to Xanthirra, Draegar says, "'Seems conspicuous indeed."

[General] Beldannon asks, "Did they ask how do you like them apples?"

Thrassus says, "If I only had some vellum and a quill."
Speaking magnanimously to Raelee, Tierus says, "I don't normally eat things off the ground, but I figured that while I was in Wehnimer's, I should be polite and adopt local custom."
Speaking deeply to Pukk, Draegar says, "When your skin boils off..."
Speaking to Thagoria, Missoni asks, "Now that you have seen these Ithzir for yourself, what do you make of them?"
Speaking neutrally to Tierus, Raelee says, "But of course."
Speaking deeply to Pukk, Draegar says, "Unknown apples.."
Pukk says, "Okay. I ate one...let's see if I die..or turn into a Thrassus."
Pukk asks, "Woah..did you all just hear that too?"
Tierus delightedly says, "Oh, how ominous."
Speaking to Pukk, Kayse assures, "That wasn't the apple."
(Tierus claps his hands together.)
Solinar says, "Oh another would be conqueror."
Pukk exclaims, "Oh good!"
Tovaris asks, "Talking about destruction?"
Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd ventures, "Perhaps both types of produce come from the same supplier."
Speaking deeply to Pukk, Draegar asks, "Or was it the apple?"
Missoni slowly exhales as her posture slumps.
Karasye asks, "Do you think one should be taken for study?"
Leafiara optimistically says, "Maybe I'll invent some cherry red apples next since color changing is all the rage. I know that's not *as* different, but it's cherry red, not apple red."
Leafiara nods sagely.
Speaking to Perigourd, Thrassus says, "Possible."
Lylia dismissively says, "Some local spirit playing pranks. I heard something, but I do not startle at whispers and shadows."
Speaking to Leafiara, Karasye says, "Silly."
Speaking to Karasye, Raelee says, "One? No. One is rarely enough for thorough study. More would be better."

[Help] Roselyne: "Those apples grow on trees in the Void garden in the SE corner of TSC. There is a locked gate to the underground in there."

Kayse ponders, "Perhaps regular fruit is modified with aspects of the black apples."

Thagoria says, "I think they are shadows corrupted Ithzir, but it is unclear to me if the more incorporeal shadows are shadows entities, or the Ithzir in some other phase."

Pukk exclaims, "I heard a voice tell me to hug Raelee and everything would be okay. I know it was a trap then!"
Speaking to Leafiara, Missoni says, "I would be more inclined to sample that than this."
Leafiara nods understandingly to Thagoria.

Thagoria says, "Perhaps the investigators will be able to capture one."

Missoni nods thoughtfully to Thagoria.
Speaking to Thagoria, Perigourd says, "Some of the townsfolk seemed to be absorbed by the shadows in some way."
Thrassus says, "That would be good."
Speaking to Raelee, Karasye says, "I wouldn't want to carry them in bare hands even. A container is needed."
Lylia nods at Thagoria.
Xanthirra softly asks, "Wait a minute...where are these apples grown?"
Xanthirra rubs her chin thoughtfully.
Speaking to Xanthirra, Karasye says, "No one knows."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Tierus says, "Best not to think about it."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Leafiara says, "Only they know."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Pukk says, "Sorry. I sneezed."

[Help] Roselyne: "Maybe that will help you figure out a few things."
[Help] Roselyne: "The door I believe is a mushy black door. I haven't been in there in a while."
[Help] Beldannon: "Makes me miss goblyn."

Leafiara says, "Fynric and Briselle, I mean."
Draegar deeply says, "How would they go about catching one though. They were, incorporeal, to say the least."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Lylia says, "We have all hoped to see the orchard."
Speaking softly to Tierus, Xanthirra says, "No, I think we should be thinking about it, actually."
Xanthirra softly says, "I don't trust the timing here."
Speaking to Thagoria, Thrassus says, "If we could put a tracing spell on one of those Ithzir we might be able to track them back to thier point of origin."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Missoni says, "That is a good instinct."

Thagoria nods at Thrassus.

Speaking to Thagoria, Lylia asks, "Do you have any word on the delegation, so I might prepare?"
Lylia nods at Thrassus.
Speaking to Raelee, Pukk asks, "Do you know any type of tracing magics?"

Thagoria says, "They are most likely coming from the Shadows valence when the storm intensifies."

Speaking simply to Pukk, Raelee states, "Yes."
Leafiara says, "She just used tracing magic before with the Ember Vale."
Pukk exclaims, "Good. I volunteer Raelee!"
Speaking to Xanthirra, Tierus says, "We haven't met. Most of what comes out of me is sarcasm."
Missoni muses, "Perhaps if we moved the storm."
Thrassus says, "Yes, but where in the valence may also be important."
Tierus says, "...although, occasionally blood when an ally suddenly turns and tries to incinerate me."
Tierus glances at Lylia.

Speaking to Lylia, Thagoria says, "I have recommended to Archchancellor Malevort that Harrower Vortelis look at the soulstone."

Speaking to Kayse, Karasye says, "Is something the matter? You don't look well."
Speaking to Thrassus, Perigourd says, "Perhaps a resonsance remains."
Lylia glances at Tierus.
Perigourd says, "Resonanance, rather."
(Kayse shakes her head a moment.)
Lylia nods at Thagoria.
Tierus mouths, "New shirt."
Tierus shifts his weight uneasily, glancing down at the ground.
Kayse asks, "What do you mean?"
Karasye peers quizzically at Kayse.
Lylia reluctantly says, "Of course, I shall make it available whenever it is needed."
Xanthirra sighs.
(Kayse casually touches her temple, then shakes her head again.)

Thagoria says, "He is a relative specialist in the anchoring devices they use when traveling to other valences."

Thrassus says, "Totally mundane, nothing lingering on it that I can determine."
Tierus nods in agreement.
Speaking to Kayse, Karasye says, "You didn't realize? You were looking disoriented."
Pukk exclaims, "Uh oh. Karasye and Kayse are teaming up! Team Ka-Ka!"
Leafiara nods understandingly.
Missoni gazes with interest at Thagoria.
Karasye asks, "Who is a healer here?"
Raelee looks thoughtfully at Thagoria.
Draegar deeply asks, "Has anyone else read this?"
Draegar taps a sheet of smoke-striated vellum, which is in his right hand.
Speaking dismissively to Karasye, Kayse says, "It is probably the apple's side effects."
Speaking to Thrassus, Perigourd says, "Ithzir don't seem to be particularly decent smiths."
Speaking to Tovaris, Pukk says, "Glad somebody appreciates my humor."
Speaking to Draegar, Kayse says, "Someone just dropped it on the ground."
Draegar deeply says, "It seems it was discarded here... it states: "Lustrous Midnight Black Apples - Experiment One subject A) Muriyel reports no significant changes. Subject admits to suffering from gas. Though observation reveals that she may be suffering from mild hallucinations. Subject remains well after 1 hour. Seemingly unaffected."."

Thagoria says, "I have also suggested that Harrower Ersix return here, given what I have heard of the black roots."

Speaking to Kayse, Karasye says, "All the more reason you need a healer near you."
Thrassus nods at Thagoria.
Lylia gives a sigh of relief.

[General] Draegar thinks, "'A note was left in TSC: 'It seems it was discarded here... it states: "Lustrous Midnight Black Apples - Experiment One subject A) Muriyel reports no significant changes. Subject admits to suffering from gas. Though observation reveals that she may be suffering from mild hallucinations. Subject remains well after 1 hour. Seemingly unaffected."."

Lylia says, "Good news. He is more familiar with them than most."
Missoni nods appreciatively to Thagoria.
Tierus ponders.
Karasye moves to stand behind Kayse.
Speaking to Perigourd, Thrassus says, "Thier focus is more on the spheres of the mind, I think."
Speaking to Thrassus, Kayse informs, "Some light knocking at the moment in my skull."
Skulligei raspily says, "My apologies. I must have dropped that by mistake."
Karasye says, "Just in case you fall."
Draegar deeply asks, "Does the note mean anything to anyone?"
Draegar taps a sheet of smoke-striated vellum, which is in his right hand.
Earthdiver says, "That was a tasty apple."
Skulligei raspily says, "Those are just research notes."
Draegar deeply says, "It states: "Lustrous Midnight Black Apples - Experiment One subject A) Muriyel reports no significant changes. Subject admits to suffering from gas. Though observation reveals that she may be suffering from mild hallucinations. Subject remains well after 1 hour. Seemingly unaffected."."
Speaking to Kayse, Thrassus asks, "Any colors?"
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus asks, "How deeply unethical. Can you imagine performing an experiment on an entire town?"
Speaking to Kayse, Thrassus asks, "Scents?"

Thagoria says, "Xociral is something of a gadfly, it would not surprise me if he turned up."

Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "Yes, I can."

Thagoria says, "Whatever support staff they might need."

Kayse amusedly asks, "Not yet?"


[General] Roselyne thinks, "I would check that garden. Trees make you sick in there, as well as black apples."

Speaking to Draegar, Leafiara guesses, "Earlier incarnations of the verdant apples before later magical breakthroughs were made?"
Lylia says, "Of course."
Lylia nods at Thagoria.
Xanthirra softly says, "Is anyone else at all concerned that shadows - ostensibly midnight black - are abducting townsfolk, and then we end up with these midnight black apples floating about? I cannot shake the timing..."
Speaking to Raelee, Karasye asks, "What is known of the effects of these apples?"
Skulligei raspily says, "If we need a sample of the domesticated variety, I can obtain one."
Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Draegar says, "'Could be, the magical realm is not my forte. So my insights are minimal."
Speaking to Karasye, Raelee says, "Largely what we have witnessed. Mild hallucinations."

[General] Kayse thinks, "They are not the same apples."

Karasye nods slowly.
Speaking to Xanthirra, Earthdiver says, "Isn't that where they normally come from."
Thrassus says, "I don't think the Ithzir are connected to these apples."
Speaking to Karasye, Tierus says, "Apparently some elation."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Lylia says, "I am not planning on baking them into any pies, I can tell you this much."
Speaking to Thagoria, Missoni says, "Ah. Xociral. It would be nice to see him again."
Speaking to Kayse, Karasye says, "When it passes I'll quit worrying, not until then."
Speaking softly to Thrassus, Xanthirra asks, "But why not?"
Speaking to Thrassus, Perigourd says, "Some apples, but not the ones dropping here."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Pukk says, "While that is normal around here, we are still watching it and they, Leafi Raelee and gang, are figuring out what to do. I'm here for comedic relief."
Speaking deeply to Lylia, Draegar asks, "But you're saying, you do make pies?"

[Help] Roonie: "Whats invading the lands?"
[Help] Roselyne: "Ok. Worth a shot. Brain storming."

Speaking indifferently to Karasye, Kayse says, "I am not worried. I often test poisons and things like this in mild doses."
Speaking to Pukk, Karasye says, "You're Always the comic relief."
Lylia says, "I can neither confirm nor deny the existence of pie recipes in my kitchen."
Thrassus says, "Someone started leaving them here in the square before the abductions happened."
Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "No, he wasn't fond of my ideas of extraplanar exploration."
Xanthirra shrugs at Missoni.
Lylia gazes with interest at Kayse.
Thrassus nods at Xanthirra.
Pukk says, "Things would be too depressing if I wasn't here."
Speaking to Kayse, Karasye asks, "And do you know just what dosage was in the apple? And what the dosage contained?"
Skulligei raspily says, "I think these apples are related to that supposed farmer....whether he is aware..well. I have my theories."
Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Draegar says, "I will hold onto the vellum if needed later."

Thagoria says, "The Shadows exploited the black roots to fuel its attempted breach into this world."

Speaking to Kayse, Lylia says, "You look very like Thrassus did after eating one. Similar course of symptoms."
Pukk asks, "Has anybody noticed that is the women that are figuring things out right now?"

Thagoria says, "Whether that is a causal factor here, or a coincidence, I could not say."

Speaking to Pukk, Karasye says, "It usually is, just normally in the background."
Speaking to Thagoria, Tierus asks, "Would you care to elaborate?"

Thagoria says, "There are so many confounding elements in this region."

(Kayse wraps her leather jacket around her tighter.)
Missoni asks, "Do you suppose they are taking advantage of the fires being out? The ones that kept the Blight at bay?"
Speaking to Lylia, Thrassus says, "I have not noticed any light from the eyes yet."
Speaking to Karasye, Raelee says, "The challenge in determining dosage at this time is that the agent itself has not been identified."
Lylia says, "'Confounding elements' is a polite way to describe the region, yes."
Missoni cocks her head at Thagoria.
Leafiara chuckles.
Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "It is likely they weakened the storm above Melgorehn's."
Speaking to Thagoria, Tierus says, "Yes, well, it's rather clear that the entire town is terminally cursed. But it's more exciting than Icemule Trace and they have more living horses here, so... here we are."
Thrassus nods at Thagoria.
Speaking to Missoni, Lylia says, "That is one of many things that concern me."
Speaking to Karasye, Kayse says, "One bite. That's all I can measure for now. Bites or wholes of fruit. This fruit has a bit different side effects than the green ones."

Speaking to Tierus, Thagoria says, "The original black roots came from demonic seeds from a Marluvian priest, and they ended up feeding on blood and animals and people."

Speaking wonderingly to Leafiara, Pukk whispers aloud, "Confounding must be the word of the day."
Draegar deeply says, "That doesn't sound like a good origin. Downright hateful in fact."
Draegar shivers.
Speaking thoughtfully to Thagoria, Tierus says, "Oh."
Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara admits, "It's a good one at this moment."
Speaking to Draegar, Tierus says, "Or inventive, from a certain point of view."
(Tierus attempts another winning smile.)
Speaking to Raelee, Kayse remarks, "I might have theory on the fruit after this."
Kayse pulls the cowl-necked vanilla paeline hood of her leather jacket over her head, shadowing her face.
Pukk says, "I'm going to go to a table and confound myself for a bit."
Speaking to Kayse, Raelee asks, "What is that?"
Missoni looks at Kayse with concern.
Speaking to Pukk, Tierus says, "Don't sprain something."
Speaking deeply to Tierus, Draegar says, "Invention sounds like it may be ours, or theirs, downfall. Not sure how to perceive that."
Draegar ponders.
Peche asks, "Are those apples from the similar to the ones in the Bleaklands?"

Thagoria says, "One of the mayors of this town had a blood hunger. The notion was to make blood fruits, so he would not have to feed on prisoners."

Speaking to Thagoria, Raelee says, "Walkar Wellington."
Tierus blinks at Thagoria.
Skulligei tilts his black apple side to side, making the light play off it.
Leafiara amusedly says, "Oh, yes, one."
Speaking to Raelee, Kayse says, "I need to feel these other effects to determine."

Thagoria nods at Raelee.

Missoni frowns.
Tierus says, "That is the precise sort of madness that I have come to expect from Wehnimer's Landing."

[General] Pukk exclaims, "Good night all!"

Speaking to Thagoria, Raelee says, "... though another mayor often ate them, largely out of enjoyment..."

Thagoria says, "I do not suppose that was your only mayor who ate people."

Missoni says, "But these blood fruits, are unlike those blood fruits, I am told."
Speaking to Tierus, Perigourd says, "One that likely should not have been accepted."
Lylia says, "One of two. Allegedly."
Speaking to Thagoria, Thrassus says, ".... no."
Speaking softly to Tierus, Xanthirra asks, "It is a bit of a cursed town, isn't it?"
Lylia says, "I am not certain about Puptilian."
Kayse says, "These black apples taste like apples--they are not flesh like the orchard southeast of here."
Tierus mocks, "Our Mayor is a bloodthirsty fiend! Let's not put him down like a rabid dog--quick, off to the orchards so we can figure out a way to make evil fruit for him!"
Draegar deeply says, "There are many good peope in this town, though a bit to trusting at times."
Leafiara pragmatically says, "Listen, sometimes those Blameless needed to be devoured to ensure they wouldn't keep regenerating."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Tierus says, "Cursed indeed."
Lylia grins at Leafiara.
Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "I would lean toward...no."
Tierus slowly empties his lungs.
Lylia winks at Missoni.
Draegar deeply says, "Good people taken advantage of, is not the fault of the good citizens. Rather a larger condemnation of those that would take advantage."
Speaking to Draegar, Tierus says, "Well, it does feel like the good citizens keep walking into the same fist and then complaining of black eyes."
Kayse clutches her chest briefly, jaw clenched.
Speaking deeply to Tierus, Draegar says, "A valid point."
Missoni surreptitiously glances at Kayse.
Kayse gasps.
Speaking quickly to Draegar, Tierus says, "But admittedly, I am just a humble visitor."
Speaking softly to Skulligei, Xanthirra says, "This one seems different."
Leafiara glances at Kayse.
Missoni frowns at Kayse.
Speaking to Tierus, Perigourd says, "But accurate."
Speaking to Perigourd, Tierus says, "A humble visitor with a keen sense of the obvious, yes."
Speaking to Kayse, Missoni whispers aloud, "Perhaps you should sit."
Speaking deeply to Tierus, Draegar says, "Two things can be true. You make a valid observation."
Missoni reaches out and pats some wide stone benches.
Skulligei raspily says, "Apparently a domesticated variety of the previous apple incursion."
Draegar nods at Tierus.
A brief shudder runs through Tierus as his skin pales to an ashen grey.
Speaking to Tierus, Perigourd says, "The most common of senses."
Xanthirra softly says, "Indeed."
Tierus shrugs innocently.
(Kayse places a hand on her paeline sweater at her ribcage and slowly breathes in.)
Speaking deeply to Perigourd, Draegar asks, "No sense at all?"
Missoni bites her lip.
Draegar chuckles.
Thrassus cocks his head at Kayse.
Perigourd says, "Though some do say it's best to hide things in plain sight."
Skulligei raspily asks, "Has anyone else built up a tolerance to these new apples?"
Skulligei rubs his chin thoughtfully.
A young woman strolls past, biting into a verdant-sheened apple that seems to glint briefly.
Speaking softly to Skulligei, Xanthirra asks, "What did you give me again?"
Xanthirra grins at Skulligei.
Lylia admits, "I have not tried. The black ones did not seem particularly enticing to me, although I did sample the greenish fruit."
Speaking to Skulligei, Tierus says, "No, best to keep eating the blatantly tainted fruit and be the first."
Speaking to Raelee, Kayse says, "The green fruit makes things rush. Pulse racing, heart pounding, veins thumping. The black fruit is slowing things down."
Speaking to Skulligei, Leafiara says, "I'll await finding out whether that's possible first. Discretion, valor, and so forth."
Speaking to Lylia, Perigourd says, "The green fruit was not quite so harmful it seemed."
Speaking raspily to Xanthirra, Skulligei says, "A less lustrous variety of black apple."
Speaking to Perigourd, Lylia says, "After I saw how it affected you, I decided to risk it myself. I found it quite pleasant."
Leafiara earnestly states, "For anyone who would like to test any oddly colored apples, know that we'll remember you for years if anything goes wrong."
Leafiara nods sagely.
Xanthirra softly says, "If ever there were a time to try it, I suppose nothing beats the present."
Speaking to Kayse, Raelee says, "Whatever it may be, I believe it is either alchemical or magical... rather than a conventional toxin."
Thrassus says, "They aren't fatal at least."
Speaking to Lylia, Tierus says, "You know, there are some pollutants that never leave the body."
Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Draegar says, "You can always take a bite first.."
Draegar nods at Leafiara.
Speaking politely to Draegar, Leafiara says, "Everyone else first, I insist."
Kayse admits, "I have not experienced any euphoria yet with the black fruit."
Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Draegar says, "Ladies first, as I have been raised."
Speaking to Lylia, Tierus says, "They say that those who drink from the waters of Bir Mahallah are forever changed, cursed to never feel at home in this world again." Belatedly, he adds, "As an example."
Speaking to Kayse, Thrassus asks, "Head feeling clear yet?"
Speaking to Tierus, Lylia says, "Equally true of wood-smoke, yet people still build campfires."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "That is a rather vague curse."
Speaking deeply to Skulligei, Draegar says, "I wish you the best.."
Speaking to Kayse, Missoni asks, "But the verdant fruit imparted euphoria?"
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "The city isn't so bad. A little cold at night."
Speaking to Tierus, Lylia says, "And they say that those who live too close to Rhoska-Tor are forever changed, as well."
Xanthirra softly says, "That was not tasty."
Speaking to Tierus, Perigourd says, "Some folk have already decided the same about Fishkey."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "I am not often bothered by the cold."
Kayse says, "I would compare this black fruit to that of a tiny dose of nightshade."
Speaking to Tierus, Perigourd says, "And it isn't even out yet."
Speaking wryly to Xanthirra, Leafiara says, "It didn't look it from this vantage point either."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Thrassus says, "You need to make friends with the trees in the orchard first."
Speaking ominously to himself, Tierus says, "And then there are the vampiric shadows that chase you, and haunted dreams of other times and other planes."
Skulligei raspily says, "Definitely not like the the shiny ones."
Tierus says, "...but plenty of nice real estate."
Speaking to Xanthirra, Thrassus says, "Then they are quite good."

Thagoria says, "The most interesting places are so often in deserts and wastelands."

Perigourd glances skeptically at Thagoria.
Thrassus nods at Thagoria.
Speaking to Perigourd, Tierus says, "Fishkey sounds truly haunting, though."
Xanthirra softly asks, "Worth the experiment, I suppose. Does anyone have an extremely strong rum drink I can wash this down with?"
Thrassus says, "All sorts of forgotten nooks and crannies to find what was once lost."
Leafiara admits, "Best I have available at the moment is wine."

Thagoria says, "Sometimes places have to be made into wastelands to become interesting."

Tercolla looks thoughtfully at Thagoria.
Thrassus grins at Thagoria.
Draegar deeply says, "I am a simple man of mortal measures. The magical forces you all are dealing with... seems, foolhardy.."
Speaking to Thagoria, Tierus says, "It worked for Toullaire."
Tierus winces faintly, fingertips brushing his temple.

Thagoria nods at Tierus.

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Xanthirra says, "This will work, thank you."
Speaking to Tierus, Perigourd replies, "Many seem to have judged it on concept, but I think they'll be surprised."
Perigourd nods slowly.
Xanthirra takes a drink from her Faendryl red wine.
(Kayse rolls her leather jacket sleeves back a moment and examines her forearm, before pulling them back down her arm.)
Leafiara turns toward Xanthirra and renders a sharp hand salute.
Leafiara grins.

Thagoria says, "Ba'Lathon is a fascinating place."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Xanthirra says, "Faendryl. How appropriate."
Skulligei raspily asks, "Does any need an apple or 3 before I toss em' in the lake?"
Xanthirra raises her Faendryl red wine in a toast!
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "... I should go there."
Skulligei raspily says, "They're gettin kinda heavy."
Speaking to Thagoria, Raelee says, "It is."
Speaking to Thagoria, Tierus says, "Have you been? I stopped near there, just short of a town full of inbred Koar worshippers with cloven tongues. Not exactly welcoming."
Kayse says, "I suppose those are trees..."
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "But you're right, we should totally visit."
Earthdiver says, "Pretty tasty."
Missoni admits, "I have not been. What is so interesting about it?"
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "Toullaire was Chastonia's better city... prior to the destruction."

Thagoria says, "Only the outer rims of it. I have never gone into its depths."

Speaking to Missoni, Tierus says, "I've heard that the laws of reality break down around there."
Perigourd says, "It also tends to alter those who stay for long within it."
Lylia says, "I have read accounts of what lies deeper within; I believe I would prefer to vacation on Ornath, overall."
Tierus says, "But also, plenty of hideous freaks, I've heard."
Speaking to Tierus, Missoni says, "One can find that almost anywhere."
Xanthirra smiles.

[General] Draegar thinks, "'Ba'Lathon. The Wizardwaste. Known by many names, to her, it signified one thing: monotony. Five miles northeast, ten miles southwest, five miles northeast again."

Xanthirra sighs.
Speaking to Missoni, Tierus says, "Yes, but you can throw fruit at them there and no one judges you."
Speaking to Tierus, Perigourd says, "We have the stocks for that."

Thagoria says, "I made this corselet from what was left of someone who did not survive the Demonwall."

Thagoria says, "Well. I had a tailor work it."

Speaking to Thagoria, Earthdiver says, "That is a nice corselet."
Speaking humbly to Perigourd, Tierus says, "I see now that I wasted a lot of walking."
Earthdiver says, "It is a quite useful material."
Missoni agrees, "Mine is made of the same."
Missoni reaches out and pats her lamellar corselet.
Tierus says, "We've gone from mutated cannibals to showing off our armor rather quickly."
Perigourd says, "Armor always wins."
Tierus helpfully exclaims, "Look!"
Tierus pokes his finger at a set of pale morduska hide casting leathers graced with translucent crimson scales.
Speaking casually to Tierus, Leafiara says, "Town's seen a lot."
Tierus drums his fingers on his hide casting leathers. With every strike of his fingertips, a ripple of muted incarnadine light wells up from its surface.
Speaking to Tierus, Thrassus says, "You get used to these things eventually."
Speaking slowly to Leafiara, Tierus says, "Shiiiiny."
Missoni says, "Good armor is important."
Lylia asks, "What of armor made from the warty hides of mutated cannibals, then?"

Thagoria says, "The Quladdim were a natural bridge between subjects."

Tierus blinks hard, his face paling.
Xanthirra softly says, "On that note, I shall be off for bed. If I return as a shadow, after eating that apple...put me down."

[General] Draegar thinks, "'Thagoria says, "The Quladdim were a natural bridge between subjects."."

Speaking to Thagoria, Tierus says, "Oh, that's quaint. Now I know what to call them when Raelee and I wander down that way."
Kayse says, "I think the rest of these symptoms are best to monitor in quiet."
Speaking firmly to Raelee, Tierus says, "We must buy fruit."
Speaking hastily to Raelee, Tierus says, "But not here."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee asks, "Why do we need to buy fruit?"
Jaffrey says, "Here you go."
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "To throw at the Quladdim. My goodness, woman. Keep up."

Thagoria says, "My Kannalan is not great. I am not absolutely certain I pronounced it right."

Jaffrey says, "Sleep well."
Speaking deeply to Thagoria, Draegar says, ""Quladdim? I have never heard this term."
Speaking ominously to Missoni, Tierus says, "Yes, this will do nicely."
Lylia admits, "I would not know if you had; I can read it, albeit haltingly, but I know my pronunciation is dire."
Speaking to Thagoria, Missoni says, "It was perfect to my ear."
Speaking to Raelee, Roonie asks, "Healin needed?"
Speaking to Lylia, Roonie asks, "You too?"
Lylia says, "Thank you."
Lylia nods appreciatively.

Thagoria says, "Pre-Kannalan tribes of the Wizardwaste. They speak a variant dialect."

Draegar nods at Thagoria.
Speaking deeply to Thagoria, Draegar says, "Thank you for the clarification."
Missoni admits, "Most of the Kannalan I know is from buying fish at the docks."

[General] Draegar thinks, "'Quladdim: Thagoria says, "Pre-Kannalan tribes of the Wizardwaste. They speak a variant dialect."."

[General] Thagoria thinks, "That is a fair impersonation."

(Tierus stares off into the distance, obviously deep in thought.)
Speaking deeply to Earthdiver, Draegar asks, "No side effects for your horse?"
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "To Perigourd's earlier point..."
Speaking to Missoni, Raelee says, "Study of Kannalan is an important component of a thorough education within the Empire."
Perigourd glances expectantly at Tierus.
Raelee glances at Tierus.
Missoni agrees with Raelee.
Speaking to Draegar, Earthdiver says, "I usually assume his condition could only improve."
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "We could simply travel to Vornavis and throw fruit at Kilthal instead."
Speaking to Perigourd, Tierus asks, "I think that's what you were trying to say, right?"
Perigourd says, "I expect the barrier of air would rebound it."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee asks, "Why must fruit be thrown?"
Speaking to Raelee, Missoni says, "I have been intending to explore it further."
Speaking to Perigourd, Tierus asks, "Spells, or the hot air that he seems to have in such abundant supply?"
Speaking deeply to Earthdiver, Draegar says, "His condition is quite poorly. I see what you mean."
Tierus clutches his forearm briefly, grimacing as if something crawled beneath his skin.
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "Because I'm entering into a second or third or fourth childhood. I've grown weary of this world."
Thrassus asks, "Feeling okay?"
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "Try living for a few hundred years. You'll understand."
Tierus blinks.
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "I am not presently reverting to a childlike state."
Tierus says, "Well, that was odd."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "... though I will attempt to at least survive that long. Perhaps I may see your point in time."
Speaking to Tierus, Missoni whispers aloud, "I think she is trying to live a few hundred years, ideally."
(Tierus blinks down at his arms and begins pinching the skin there.)
Lylia raises an eyebrow.
Lylia gazes with interest at Tierus.
Speaking absently to Raelee, Tierus says, "You should become... a lich. Or something."
Speaking to Tierus, Thrassus asks, "Let me guess.... black roots in your arm?"
Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd says, "One expects you were much the same as a child."
Speaking flatly to himself, Tierus says, "Ow."
Speaking quietly to Tierus, Raelee adds, "... I never threw fruit at anyone as an actual child, however."
A dark-haired half-elven priestess says, "You must not fear the dragon."
Speaking to Perigourd, Raelee says, "As I am told."

Speaking to a dark-haired half-elven priestess, Thagoria says, "Dragons are frightening."

Speaking deeply to a dark-haired half-elven priestess, Draegar says, "I think the dragon is the least of our concerns at this point."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "And you are not the first to suggest it."
Speaking distantly to Raelee, Tierus says, "You should try it." He changes his tone, more sharply saying, "Yes. Roots in my arms."
Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd says, "If you'd ever care to indulge, I could loan you one of my yo-yo's."
Speaking to Raelee, Missoni asks, "Did you ever throw fruit as an adult?"
Earthdiver says, "It does feel like my veins want to be outside."
Tercolla grins at Thagoria.
Draegar winks at Thagoria.
Speaking to Missoni, Raelee says, "Not to my recollection."
Thrassus nods.
Earthdiver says, "That happens sometimes."
Missoni nods understandingly.
Speaking to Raelee, Missoni says, "It can be fun."
Tierus says, "Not my favorite vision, and I spent a not-inconsequential amount of time being tortured by both Ronan and Sheru with all sorts of nonsense."
Raelee says, "The aforementioned hallucinations."
Raelee nods at Tierus.
Thrassus says, "That confirms it. The hallucinations are of a singular nature."
Tierus glances between Raelee and Thrassus.
Lylia nods slowly.
Tierus asks, "Are they trying to tell us something, perhaps?"
Missoni asks, "Veins?"
Speaking to Tierus, Thrassus says, "I ate one of those apples last evening."
Speaking to Tierus, Thrassus says, "Had the very same hallucination."
Speaking raspily to Earthdiver, Skulligei asks, "A lot. want a couple more?"
Earthdiver nods at Skulligei.
Speaking to Thrassus, Tierus says, "Oh, bully to that."
Speaking to Thrassus, Perigourd asks, "What do you see, exactly?"
Skulligei raspily exclaims, "Limit of 3!"
Tierus says, "I smelled iron and sap. Then there were roots burrowing into my skin."
Earthdiver says, "Three is plenty."
Thrassus nods at Tierus.
Lylia says, "Iron and sap."
Thrassus says, "The same as he just said."
Missoni asks, "Iron?"
Tierus says, "Oh, and then my arms ached, but... you know, Mularosian."
Thrassus says, "Blood."
Earthdiver says, "An exciting experience."
Tierus waves his hand in a dismissive gesture.
Lylia says, "The actual roots we encountered had a smell that was both metallic and sweet."
Missoni looks thoughtfully at Lylia.
Tercolla ponders.
Jaffrey says, "Prolly bloody sap."
Skulligei rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Tierus stares off into space.
Skulligei raspily says, "Didn't we smell something like that the other day? with that mist and all."
Speaking to Tierus, Thrassus says, "Once you are used to such things visions of that sort lose thier edge, I have found."
Missoni sighs, "That would make for some dreadful pancake syrup."
Tierus exclaims, "Wait: another vision!"
Draegar deeply says, "I do wish you all a safe evening. I'm glad the evening has settled. I do require sleep as of now. I hope your ruminations... bear fruit."
(Tierus gropes blindly at the air for a moment.)
Tierus haltingly says, "I see..."
Speaking to Lylia, Tierus says, "I see something in silk. Maybe gemstone buttons. And tailored, not off-the-shelf. I'm not common, after all."
Speaking to Everall, Missoni greets, "Fair eve."
Speaking to Missoni, Everall says, "And to ye as always."
Speaking to Tierus, Lylia asks, "And a lining, I presume?"
Speaking to Lylia, Tierus urges, "Spare no expense."
Speaking skeptically to herself, Missoni asks, "Plain silk, though?"
Earthdiver says, "Now I see something about dark eyes and bark-split skin."
Speaking to Missoni, Tierus says, "It doesn't have to be plain."
Speaking to Missoni, Raelee asks, "... is plain silk undesirable?"
Speaking to Perigourd, Thrassus says, "To answer your question in full, I saw my veins glowing with red light, felt something burrowing along my spine, smelled iron and sap amidst darkness, and saw roots burrowing in my arms."
Speaking to Thagoria, Lylia asks, "Do you also speak much Ithziri?"
Speaking to Raelee, Missoni demurs, "I suppose it is fine, if that is one's preference."
Earthdiver says, "Perhaps I will get to become a tree."

Thagoria says, "I am far from fluent in Ithzir."

Earthdiver says, "I have dreams about that some times."
Speaking to Thagoria, Raelee asks, "Have you ever witnessed them so influenced by another valence before?"

Thagoria says, "With glossaries I could piece together some of it."

Speaking to Perigourd, Thrassus says, "It was only for a brief time, and I was perfectly fine."
Speaking to Thagoria, Thrassus says, "Those shadow Ithzir scratched a word on the railing of the Moot Hall roof."
Thrassus says, "Klaloc, which I believe refers to essence of some nature."
Lylia asks, "I animated one of them. I do not speak much of it at all, but I know it spoke to me, almost with familiarity. I wonder if these were shadows taking the form of Ithzir, would they speak it?"
Speaking to Raelee, Lylia says, "A fine question."

Thagoria says, "They hunger for mana of valences like ours, I do not know if there is much precedent for them in highly mutagenic realms."

Thagoria nods at Lylia.

Earthdiver asks, "What is a mutagenic realm?"
Speaking to Earthdiver, Thrassus says, "A place that changes you from just being there."

Thagoria says, "A place that is highly radiant in energies that mutate people."

Earthdiver says, "Oh oh."
Missoni ponders.
Missoni says, "Like the shadow valence."

Thagoria says, "It is the dose that makes the poison."

Speaking to Thagoria, Perigourd asks, "What if one is exposed to highly radiant energies in this realm..?"

Thagoria nods at Missoni.

Earthdiver says, "That is a difficult thing to avoid."
Speaking to Thagoria, Raelee says, "They seek mana akin to ours. Thus the shadow realm is akin to drawing from a tainted stream, as it were."
Lylia furrows her brow.
Lylia nods at Perigourd.
Missoni says, "The mana there is volatile. I can only imagine if they would consume it..."

Thagoria nods at Raelee.

Earthdiver says, "But if you can control light...it is similar."
Speaking to Perigourd, Thrassus says, "You have seen the effects of such before."
Perigourd nods grimly at Thrassus.
Speaking to Thrassus, Perigourd says, "More than most, I think."
Thrassus asks, "Remember the black veins?"
Perigourd says, "I remember the Reiverbolt."
Perigourd grunts.
Missoni shifts her eyes to Perigourd.
Lylia nods at Thrassus.

Thagoria says, "From the dossiers I have read, Harrower Ersix reported that those who were exposed to Althedeus, as that is the name you all seem to prefer, were cursed with shadows."

Lylia narrows her eyes.

Thagoria says, "That there were shadowy energies pulling off you into the rift he had opened."

Missoni admits, "I never met the fellow."

Thagoria says, "Then the rift got stuck on the Shadows valence."

Lylia says, "That feels rather pejorative. I had a few lasting marks. Like a bruise. I did not feel changed."
Lylia sets her mouth in a thin line of disapproval.
Perigourd quietly says, "I'm going to go mutate for the evening."
Missoni gazes in amusement at Perigourd.
Earthdiver grins at Perigourd.
Lylia begins chuckling at Perigourd!
Everall chuckles.

Thagoria says, "It is not a place we would want to spend more time than necessary."

Thrassus says, "Unfortunately."
Thrassus sighs.
Thrassus says, "It'd be a prime research opportunity if it wasn't for the effects of being there."
Missoni says, "Surely some consequences are worth it."
Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "Thus... it would behoove us to find a way to ward the effects."
Tierus says, "Mutagenic realms sound terrifying, but my people do well enough. Other than hereditary madness and a constant string of bad choices."
Skulligei raspily asks, "Is there nothing that can be done to protect onself?"
Thrassus nods at Raelee.

Thagoria says, "Often those in the thaumaturgical asylums felt the same way."

Earthdiver asks, "Oh no. Are my teeth going to fall out again?"
Skulligei cackles at Thagoria!
Speaking to Skulligei, Raelee says, "Something can be done."
Lylia asks, "Bad for whom?"
Speaking to Earthdiver, Lylia asks, "Is this a common occurrence for you?"
Speaking to Skulligei, Raelee says, "A lack of immediate knowledge should never be mistaken for impossibility."
Skulligei nods at Raelee.
Skulligei raspily says, "Indeed."
Earthdiver says, "Well, it has been some time."
Tierus asks, "Is it possible that Faendryl have some resistance to these mutagenic effects due to the marks of Rhoska-Tor upon us?"
Thrassus says, "Not these."
Skulligei raspily says, "These shadows-afflicted Ithzir...."

Thagoria nods at Tierus.

Speaking innocently to Thrassus, Tierus says, "We won't know unless you try."
Speaking to Lylia, Earthdiver says, "Perhaps two apples was two too many."
Lylia nods at Tierus.
Earthdiver says, "Poison in moderation and all."
Lylia nods at Earthdiver.
Lylia holds up two fingers and slowly pinches them together until they are almost touching.

Thagoria says, "There is something to be said for that."

Speaking to Thrassus, Tierus mouths, "Be brave."
Skulligei raspily says, "Maybe they could be useful somehow."
Thrassus says, "Come to think of it, I suffered none from my visit."

Thagoria says, "Rhoska-Tor has been known to act fast and harsh on other races."

Thagoria says, "The Grot'karesh, for example, after Maelshyve."

Missoni nods slowly.
Speaking to Skulligei, Earthdiver says, "Are there roots in there."
Missoni says, "I have met some of them. They still think Despana lives."

Thagoria nods at Missoni.

Skulligei raspily asks, "....you...saw that too?"
Skulligei raises an eyebrow.

Thagoria says, "There are cultists who venerate her with similar notions."

Skulligei raspily says, "I just thought the apples started working again."
Earthdiver says, "I've always been surprised that there aren't more plants that parasitize the animals here."
Missoni gazes in amusement at Thagoria.
Missoni asks, "It seems a silly notion, really. What would she have been doing these past twenty millenia?"
Lylia nods at Missoni.
Earthdiver says, "Oh interesting. My fingertips have roots now."
Skulligei glances at Earthdiver.
Skulligei raspily says, "Luck."
Earthdiver says, "That is going to be pretty useful."
Lylia says, "It is a rather long time to be twiddling one's thumbs and polishing one's toenails."

Thagoria says, "They are often rooted in reincarnation beliefs."

Skulligei raspily says, "Lucky."

Thagoria says, "Or the notion that she is banished and will make her way back."

Skulligei raspily asks, "It's probably nothing....right?"
Skulligei laughs!
Missoni firmly says, "Highly unlikely."
Speaking to Skulligei, Earthdiver says, "One hopes it is the start of an exciting transformation."
Skulligei gives his apple a little prod with the tip of his finger.
Speaking to Missoni, Tierus says, "Knitting."
Skulligei raspily says, "I just hope it's not into a tree."
Missoni blinks at Tierus.
Speaking to Tierus, Missoni asks, "Knitting?"
Speaking to Missoni, Tierus says, "I was just thinking about it."
Skulligei takes a bite of his midnight black apple.
Tierus nods at Missoni.
Lylia shifts her eyes to Skulligei.
Speaking to Tierus, Missoni says, "It is a relaxing pastime."
Tierus says, "There's a good chance that, if she's really that old, she does a lot of knitting."
Earthdiver says, "Some might say that any experience is more interesting than the nothingness."
Skulligei blinks.
Speaking to Skulligei, Lylia says, "You may want to lie down a bit after that."

Thagoria smirks.

Tierus says, "I mean, after ruling an undead empire, it's really the only place else to go."
Thrassus asks, "What would Despana even knit?"
Speaking to Thrassus, Tierus says, "Flesh."
Missoni defensively says, "Knitting is not only for the old."
Skulligei raspily exclaims, "I feel fine though! really!"
Thrassus says, "I don't know if a flesh sweater would work very well."
Tierus says, "I read one scrap in one of my grandfather's libraries that suggested that she was ripped into another valence and become a demonic monstrosity."

Thagoria says, "It might help. To find her way back to this valence, to precisely this place in it, must be like finding a needle in an ocean."

Skulligei squints at an oak tree.
Tierus says, "It's probably hogwash. My grandfather believed a great many stupid things."
Thrassus looks thoughtfully at Thagoria.
Missoni shakes her head.
Lylia gazes with interest at Thagoria.
Speaking to Skulligei, Earthdiver says, "We are not that different from the tree..."
Missoni says, "We would not have left the work unfinished. She would have been undone, not simply banished."

Thagoria nods at Tierus.

Thagoria says, "I have encountered such beliefs regarding her."

Everall rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Missoni wrinkles her nose.
Lylia says, "As have I."
Raelee nods faintly at Lylia.
Missoni stubbornly says, "Well, anyone may believe what they want."
Skulligei frowns.
Speaking to Missoni, Lylia asks, "Even if it is wrong-headed, yes?"
Lylia grins at Missoni.
Missoni agrees with Lylia.
Missoni exclaims, "Even so!"

Thagoria says, "You do have a human orphan living as an Ithzir hermit in your mountain."

Thagoria asks, "Who is to say?"

Thrassus snickers.
Raelee furrows her brow.
Skulligei rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Missoni wrinkles her nose.
Tercolla scratches his head.
Skulligei raspily asks, "Isn't there...?"
Speaking mildly to Missoni, Tierus says, "We didn't exactly finish the job with the Ashrim, you know."
Skulligei shakes his head.
Tierus says, "A singularly efficient machine, our people are not."
Speaking to Tierus, Thrassus says, "It was finished enough."
Lylia smirks as a haughty expression flits across her face.

Thagoria holds up two fingers and slowly pinch them together until they are almost touching.

Speaking to Tierus, Missoni says, "How precisely..."
Skulligei glances around the area.
Speaking to Thrassus, Tierus says, "Yes, but leaving scurvy to do the rest? Tacky."
Lylia says, "Not by my reckoning."
Speaking to Skulligei, Earthdiver says, "Now it has spread to your eyes."
Earthdiver asks, "What things you will see with your new eyes?"
Skulligei raspily exclaims, "This was like before!"
Speaking to Tierus, Thrassus says, "The apples."
Speaking loudly to Skulligei, Tierus insists, "Maybe you should stop eating the evil apples."
Skulligei raspily asks, "Surely an apple can't be evil?"
Lylia snickers at Tierus.
Tierus closes his eyes and slaps one hand across his face. As he slowly slides it down, his revealed expression is one of deep-seated frustration.
Speaking to Tierus, Lylia says, "It is akin to hitting yourself on the head with a hammer because it feels so good when you stop."
Speaking to Lylia, Tierus says, "Again, m'lady: Mularosian."
Missoni sighs.
Lylia says, "Then perhaps you should have more apples yourself."
Tierus stares at Earthdiver.
Lylia tries hard to stifle a laugh and covers her failure with a loud clearing of her throat.
Missoni gazes in amusement at Lylia.
Tierus exasperatedly says, "This is rather like going to a home with a bunch of pug dogs. You wonder how they're going to try to kill themselves today."
Skulligei raspily says, "When you eat enough they stop working."
Earthdiver says, "That is a shame."
Tierus says, "Bulging eyes rolling, tongues lolling, wheezy little lungs..."
Skulligei raspily says, "Some say I'm immune."
Earthdiver says, "It is common to develop a tolerance to many things."
Missoni says, "I suppose I should go make sure Perigourd does not mutate in his sleep."
Her hand lowered, Missoni gives a subtle wave.
Missoni cheerfully wishes, "Fair eve."
Lylia begins chuckling at Missoni!
Missoni performs a bow characteristic of those from Solhaven.
Lylia says, "Be well."
Tierus nods at Missoni.
Skulligei raspily says, "If mildy shadowy hallucinations aren't your thing, you'll be happy to know you quickly build up a tolerance."
Tierus glances at a pair of barely tolerable dark panther pelt shoes.
Thrassus says, "I should be back to my duties as well."
Lylia says, "I prefer the mild euphoria to the mild shadowy hallucinations, but I suppose everyone has their favorite flavor."
Thrassus says, "Do have a good evening, all."
Thrassus nods once.
Raelee says, "Likewise, my time is better spent in the laboratory, I believe."

Thagoria says, "Those who bred pugs are treated as blameless, yet we are the ones accused of dealing in abominations."

Tierus nods at Thrassus.
Lylia inclines her head.
Raelee adds, "... good evening."
Thrassus grins at Thagoria.
Speaking to Thagoria, Lylia says, "Just so."
Lylia smirks as a haughty expression flits across her face.
Speaking to Thagoria, Tierus says, "No one involved with those monstrosities is blameless."

Thagoria says, "I should be off as well."

Tercolla grins at Thagoria.

Thagoria nod in agreement at Tierus.

Skulligei starts chuckling at Thagoria!

Thagoria says, "They are a travesty."

Skulligei waves to Thagoria.
Lylia says, "I was thinking the same thing. It has been a trying evening of annihilating my friends."
Tierus says, "And I. Icemule Trace might melt if I stay down this way for too long."
Tercolla turns toward you and renders you a sharp hand salute.
Tierus says, "And those halflings need someone to put the fear of Lornon into them."
Speaking to Tierus, Lylia says, "Good for the crops if it did."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee asks, "Is that not more reason to stay away?"
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "I've grown... accustomed to it."
Solinar says, "So much work to do."
Speaking to Lylia, Tierus says, "But you have a point."
Speaking to Tierus, Lylia says, "Yes...bulging eyes rolling, tongues lolling, wheezy little lungs..."
Speaking to Tierus, Raelee says, "Also I do not believe you are the elemental anchor at the center of the ever-creeping cold."
Speaking to Lylia, Tierus says, "Besides, if cannibalism ever comes back into vogue, I'm well positioned."
Lylia raises her voice in merry laughter.
Lylia says, "Fair enough."
Lylia smiles.
Lylia turns to face Thagoria.
Lylia inclines her head.
Speaking to Raelee, Tierus says, "I've been called worse."
Speaking to Thagoria, Tierus says, "It has been a pleasure."

Thagoria says, "Eldritch ice is an excellent preservative."

Speaking quietly to herself, Raelee says, "... yes, I was leaving."

Thagoria nods at Tierus.

Solinar says, "Or informative at least."
Skulligei works his fingers under his sterling silver crown and scratches his head.
Tercolla nods in agreement to Thagoria.
Speaking to Thagoria, Lylia says, "Be well. I look forward to welcoming the investigators when they arrive."

Thagoria nods at Lylia.

Raelee nods slightly.
Raelee rubs her medallion and fog billows from it in a thick cloud, quickly obscuring her form from sight. As the murk clears, you see Raelee is no longer there.

Thagoria says, "It will be soon enough."

Thagoria wanders off.
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