North by Northwest (storyline)/2023-03-25 - Intentions Unvaled (log)

Charlatos 25-26, 5123

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the TownCrier

Disclaimer

This log is purely intended as an archival record of spoken words and actions of characters within the game as could be witnessed by the character or characters who were present to record them. Leafiara's player and the TownCrier hold no position on the veracity, falsity, legitimacy, nor illegitimacy of any character dialogue, opinions, perspectives, interpretations, and stances presented herein.

Synopsis

Rheshay meets Landing adventurers again to bring them into the Ember Vale: thin red gossamer threads stretch from tree branches as a tiny red spider weaves its web to open something resembling a gaping maw dripping with blood, which she leads them through. She shows them around a wide valley of verdant grass, low rocky platforms, bloodstained dirt, meadows of mountain roltons, stone walls, stone buildings, and more, then signals to her ramparts to open the wooden gates. Inside, the group tours the streets of the Ember Vale, passing stone buildings and granite buildings, until Rheshay brings them to the tavern, The Goatyard, to wait for Warchief Haidan's arrival.

The group makes small talk with the barkeep as they wait, who points to some flayed and hung reivers outside as the ones who kidnapped children. He begins to say to be lucky they ain't feasting on them, but then stops as he expects Haidan to arrive soon--and, indeed he does.

Councilor Kayse asks why they were brought here to retrieve the children and Haidan says they needed to see who the Ember Vale was, what it does, and why it fights, just as his people also needed to see what happens when they cross lines he's drawn. He reiterates that that their war is not with the Landing and says the children would've been returned whether they came or not, but it speaks well of them that they did come. The Ember Vale will fight the barony's soldiers and shepherds, who are old enough for wise choices--and old enough for wrong ones--and gives assurances that more "incidents" will come if the Empire doesn't turn south.

Haidan asks not that the Landing ally with him, but just not to meddle in the war by aiding the Empire. "If they wish tae carve a piece o' our world, yours an' ours, then let 'em try and try alone."

Alosaka asks if Haiadn expects them to stand aside while farmers, shepherds, and merchants are killed; Haidan asks if he suddenly has standards after the Landing released Tyrrax. Councilor Vaemyr says he'll fight the Ember Vale's monstrosities, albeit on his own and not as part of the Landing, and they may come at him; Rheshay calls him a hypocrite who plays with demons and undead while thinking Tyeid's spiders are abominations.

Tikba asks for assurances that the common folk of the Landing won't be harmed; Haidan says they wish no harm to Landing folks in their walls, only those who stand against the reivers aiding the Imperial camp. After all of the talk has concluded, Haidan and Rheshay have the children brought forward to be escorted back to the camp, which adventurers oblige.

Editing Protocol of this Log

• NPC dialogue, NPC actions, and PC dialogue or actions which NPCs react to are bolded.
• Actions are edited out unless they come from NPCs, are necessary to understand the context of surrounding dialogue that meets all other criteria, or are within the first three of a PC's responses to an NPC who was directing actions or dialogue toward them.
• Greetings, farewells, dialogue on OOC ESP channels, and dialogue related to various services including but not limited to healing, resurrection, locksmithing, armor adjustments, and spellups are edited out unless they come from NPCs, are directed toward NPCs, or are necessary to understand the context of surrounding dialogue that meets all other criteria.
• Dialogue in languages other than Common is presented from the perspective of a character who only knows Common so as not to give preferential treatment to languages which the logging character knows.
• IC group whispers are excluded so as not to give preferential treatment to the group which the logging character is in.
• OOC whispers that don't come from NPCs are excluded due to being OOC.
• Visible whispers are presented from the perspective of a third-party observer.
• Other dialogue not mentioned above is included.
• Travel between a starting room and destination room is excluded unless it shows off unique and newly created rooms.
• Combat is excluded.

Log

Awaiting Rheshay

[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 a dark-haired half-elven priestess, the gold-dusted Adelynn disk crowned with sylvarraend rubies, the Jagganoth disk, a sinuous bone white serpent that is sitting, the Citan disk, a fluffy white cat, the skull-shaped Irval disk, the Vaemyr disk, the web-draped Missoni disk, a lazy wild midnight black dog, a wriggling earth worm, the Kelfyr disk, the Stormyrain disk, a grizzled porcupine, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, a wriggling earth worm, the flaming Nairena disk, the Kialeigh disk, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a wriggling earth worm, a black-toed saddleback foxhound that is sitting, the faenor Chandrellia disk inlaid with intersecting bands of jet, a floppy-eared white puppy masked with a patch of void black fur, the Peche disk, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, a large acorn, the Arahnim disk, a frosted almond cookie, a neat satin tabard, the Herod disk, the Falvicar disk, a gargantuan cloudy grey tiger, a round silver-banded barrel, an herbal remedy donation bin, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it and an old well.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Doktari, Lady Adelynn who is sitting, Jagganoth, Imperatrix Lylia, Earthdiver, Jurist of Claw Citan, Tikba, Irval, Town Councilor Vaemyr, Sir Cryheart, Town Councilor Kiyna, Sage Missoni, Nomdelaern, Lord Kezoku, Shadowowl, Stormyrain, Kelfyr, High Lord Nazarr, Bernadette, Chamorr, Kialeigh, Lady Katissa, Lady Nairena, Argent Herald Leifa, Miss Chandrellia, Conquerer of Reim Peche, Perigourd, Wolfloner, Conquerer of Reim Markx, Grand Lord Arahnim, Lord Herod, Chronicler Falvicar, Jaffrey, Nodejs who is sitting

Speaking to Perigourd, Kelfyr asks, "Expecting trouble?"

Leafiara curiously asks, "So, uh... worm issues?"

Speaking to Kelfyr, Perigourd says, "Never know."

Leafiara muses, "Curious."

Tikba dubiously says, "This will take a long time for Owly to eat."

Chandrellia recites:

"Aahhh when the weather is bad in Landing its time for friends and familt to gather under the tall oak!"

Speaking offhandedly to Chandrellia, Adelynn says, "I'd prefer a warm, dry tavern."

Adelynn whispers something to Chandrellia.

Chandrellia says, "Well Helga is just over there."

Chamorr heartily says, "Figures."

Citan deeply says, "Only ones I had."

Oshka asks, "Oshka wonders why so many worms?"

Leifa says, "Mmmm sandwich."

Speaking to Oshka, Chandrellia says, "Its dinner."

Oshka says, "Oh ok."

Tikba uncertainly says, "Perhaps the rain has brought them up."

Citan deeply says, "Sounds tasty."

A bolt of lightning flashes and briefly illuminates the night sky. For a moment, a lone woman is visible at the edge of the trees along the wooded hills, leaning on a huge mithril claidhmore that is wedged into the dirt.

Kiyna says, "...It's time."

Speaking to Leifa, Lylia says, "Yes, probably wise to eat now instead of being served soon at the halls of the reivers."

Kelfyr asks, "She couldn't wait five minutes, eh?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Vaemyr says, "To the foothills sir."

Tikba asks, "Shall we meet our friends?"

Speaking in Sylvankind to Kelfyr, Stormyrain says something you don't understand.

Leifa whispers something to Kezoku.

Udari says, "Make her wait."

Nordred asks, "Who's playing with worms?"

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

Cryheart says, "As soon as everyone is ready, we headed out to the wooded hills."

Citan deeply says, "I have my crickets.. You can keep your worms."

Nordred says, "You probably did this."

Speaking to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Chandrellia exclaims, "Look owly its dinner time!"

Speaking to Lylia, Xorus says, "It is time for be reive ment."

Irval says, "Lets not keep the children waiting..."

Oshka says, "Oshka thinks everyone was too busy."

Cryheart recites:

"Reminder do not draw out your weapons or such"

Speaking heartily to Cryheart, Chamorr says, "Why not."

Vaemyr says, "Safety of the kids comes first."

Speaking to Chamorr, Stormyrain says, "Because the children come first."

Cryheart recites:

"Just keep them ready"

Irval says, "What this? " he glances at his runestaff before looking up to everyone and says " This is for walking."."

Bernadette softly says, "Dis be a friendly meetin."

Goldstr says, "We Defend! Nae attack."

Alosaka says, "I wouldn't call it friendly, per se."

Udari asks, "Friendly?"

Stormyrain says, "Surely everyone can stay their hands for a bit."

Lylia murmurs, "I would not call --"

Cryheart recites:

"Cause this is a parlay to get the children back"

Leifa mutters, "Children, blech."

Nazarr says, "Diplomatic, perhaps."

Speaking to Alosaka, Lylia asks, "Again with this?"

Speaking amiably to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "I would."

Bernadette softly says, "Well mostly."

Kiyna says, "Keep your weapons close, at any rate. If they're needed, they can be drawn in a moment."

Tikba mildly says, "Some of us will be friendlier than others."

Kayse flatly says, "I am sure it will keep benefiting us if we all talk at once too while we are there."

Cryheart says, "Ok..moving out."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "I plan to just be quiet I think..."

Citan deeply says, "No need for weapons eh..."

Alosaka says, "Some people will be eager to join the Reivers and help them in their war, one imagines."

[travel]

Speaking to Kayse, Lylia says, "This is what true freedom is! The freedom to blither. I have seen the light about this 'freedom' matter."

Entering the Ember Vale

[Lower Dragonsclaw, Wooded Hills]

This face of the hill is completely bare of trees, and doesn't even have many bushes. You notice that even the bird and insect noises are gone, leaving you with an eerie silence, broken only by the wind. Off the side of the trail, you notice a depression in the hillside, with a dark pit at the bottom. You also see the web-draped Missoni disk, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs and a lazy wild midnight black dog.

Chamorr heartily says, "No doubt."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "She treatened to kill me affer she died, not shore how she pull dish off doh."

Rheshay gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Speaking to Rheshay, Perigourd says, "As expected."

Rheshay looks back to the trees behind her.

Cryheart whispers something to Perigourd.

Udari asks, "Where are we going?"

Speaking to Rheshay, Kiyna says, "Here we are."

Rheshay begins to move slowly infront of those gathered.

Cryheart says, "We hae been invited to Ember Vale."

Irval says, "Are we going or not? Nights burning."

Cryheart says, "To retrieve the children."

Speaking to Irval, Chandrellia says, "Relaxe."

Rheshay glances at Xorus.

Rheshay glances at Earthdiver.

Perigourd whispers something to Missoni.

Tikba politely asks, "Perhaps we may put our weapons away?"

Speaking to Rheshay, Goldstr says, "I be a ole friend a Jock."

Rheshay glances at Chandrellia.

Speaking quietly to Irval, Alosaka says, "We can afford to do this right, with appropriate patience."

Cryheart says, "Stow that staff please."

Rheshay says, "At leas' der is one o' us."

Rheshay nods at Goldstr.

Chandrellia peers quizzically at Rheshay.

Cryheart says, "And that not showing weapons should be a mutual agreement."

Rheshay asks, "Ye have a sword, in yer arm?"

Rheshay peers quizzically at Irval.

Tikba smoothly says, "Irval is also here, but for an unrelated reason."

Udari says, "Cant hide the fists."

Speaking to Rheshay, Arianiss says, "No one can attack you through our sanctuaries, if you stay here.. let's get on with things."

Cryheart says, "Stow ye weapons, last reminder."

Vaemyr says, "Or stay here."

Vaemyr says, "If you don't wish to."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ye arm wrashlin or shumtin?"

Vaemyr says, "That is also an option."

Rheshay says, "It is nae a matt'r o' fear, but o' respec'."

Kialeigh says, "He's here fer the children as well."

Irval exclaims, "You speak of respect!"

Irval laughs!

Arianiss says, "I respectfully ask you not involve children."

Cryheart asks, "And how about stowing that claid?"

Tikba mildly says, "Some would prefer not to attend the dinner. They have drawn their staffs to make this clear."

Alosaka asks, "How about we all stop this pointless posturing, and just proceed professionally?"

Rheshay nods at Alosaka.

Missoni patiently says, "We have promised not to come armed to retrieve the children and see justice done. That seems fair."

Rheshay looks back to the forest.

Speaking to Rheshay, Goldstr says, "Me hands be empty."

Chandrellia recites:

"Look we have been asked by both the Council and the Marshel to stowe weaposn you donthave to if you dont want butten you dont need to be here eitehr, show at least our oucnil memebrs and Marshal the respect the diserve"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me am a weppin."

From a tree branch, a thin red gossamer thread uncurls from the shadows and stretches to the ground.

Udari says, "No violence."

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

Kiyna mutters, "I mislike the look of that..."

Speaking heartily to Rheshay, Chamorr says, "Howdy."

A small clump of blood can be seen moving along the tree branch. A tiny red spider finally comes into view, slowly moving its tiny bulbous body down the silken thread from tree to ground.

Citan deeply says, "Ahh.. nice a spider."

Kayse says, "Well, that answers that."

Nazarr says, "There's never just ONE spider."

Tikba whispers something to Irval.

The spider scurries along the ground and stops behind Rheshay.

Cryheart says, "Aye, keep in mind the children."

Kiyna says, "I pray this is relevant to us getting where we're going."

Goldstr says, "Be calm but wary folks."

The spider begins to lift upward, weaving a silken crimson web in mid-air as if its tiny spindely legs dance upon something unseen.

Rheshay says, "Hurry wit' ye work little stupid bug."

Missoni says, "What a charming little fellow."

Leafiara considers, "I sure do miss Goblyn. This reminds me of her."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me too."

Speaking to Rheshay, Goldstr asks, "Wha be his work?"

The spider continues to weave its web, the red silk beginning to take shape and resemble a jagged incarnadine wound floating in the air. The spider then suddenly stops, curling its legs up and withering away.

Thrassus says, "Interesting method for creating portals."

Kiyna asks, "...Fashioning a doorway in midair. Where exactly -is- the Ember Vale?"

Chamorr heartily says, "Spider artwork."

The silken web gives way to flesh and blood, resembling a dripping maw.

Seaward Gutstorm moves toward a gaping incarnadine maw dripping wiith reddish-black blood and then stumbles, making a total fool out of himself.

Peche says, "What the heck is that.."

From nearby, you hear Gutstorm yell, "All clear!"

Axanders says, "Gross."

Rheshay says, "Ye will follow me."

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "... the spidersilk could be a conduit of sorts. It is a curious technique."

Guardian Rheshay just went into a gaping incarnadine maw dripping wiith reddish-black blood.

[Luinne Bheinn, Granite Edge]

Wind-scarred walls of rugged granite form a high natural barrier around a deep valley nestled among the mountain range below. Several rocks have been chiseled away into the shape of crude ramparts, giving the very peaks a castle-like appearance. You also see a gaping incarnadine maw dripping wiith reddish-black blood.

Axanders removes a jagged golvern broad axe from in his velvet cape.

Axanders removes a jagged golvern broad axe from in his velvet cape.

Kezoku says, "Spider transport, that's a first."

Markx says, "Welp. With that I'm drawing my weapon."

Speaking to Axanders, Chandrellia says, "Stowe it."

Citan deeply says, "Indeed."

Chandrellia says, "Stow the weapons."

Leafiara remarks, "Fascinating architecture. ...of a sort."

Cryheart says, "Please stow the weapons."

Rheshay says, "Ye may join me."

Adelynn tilts her kelyn knife back and forth, as if deciding what she's going to do with it.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Hmmm."

Goldstr says, "Aye Keep weapons stowed fer now."

Lylia says, "Thank you."

Cryheart says, "Form on her."

Rheshay says, "Ye are guests within da Vale, no harm shalll come tae ye this nigh'."

Rheshay says, "Unless ye invite ye, mind ye."

Falvicar says, "Lil late now."

Tikba calmly says, "It is kind of you to extend us your hospitality."

Stormyrain whispers something to Adelynn.

Leifa doubtfully says, "We'll see."

Rheshay glances at Adelynn.

Adelynn raises an eyebrow.

Rheshay says, "Yer lil' knife is cute, but disrespectful."

Cryheart says, "Stow that knife please."

Rheshay nods at Adelynn.

Kialeigh says, "Yes, very kind.... so we can negotiate the hostages.."

Chandrellia says, "Stow it please."

Rheshay says, "I've us'd bigg'r knives to pick me teeth."

Rheshay nods at Adelynn.

Adelynn laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Tikba says, "I too have problems with my teeth."

Adelynn amusedly retorts, "This cute lil knife has had its share of reiver blood."

Adelynn shrugs.

Adelynn sheathes a virid kelyn knife into one of the slots on her leather bandolier.

Speaking to Rheshay, Arianiss says, "I notice you still have your claidhmore gripped in hand..."

Cryheart says, "Just wear it."

Rheshay put a razor-sharp black mithril claidhmore in her feather-fringed sheath.

Speaking to Adelynn, Chandrellia says, "Thank you dear."

Arianiss smiles at Rheshay.

Speaking to Rheshay, Arianiss says, "Thank you."

Rheshay asks, "Have ye all join'd me?"

Adelynn wryly says, "Not like it's hard to get it back out quietly if necessary."

Cryheart says, "Stow ye weaon please."

[Luinne Bheinn, Granite Edge]

Wind-scarred walls of rugged granite form a high natural barrier around a deep valley nestled among the mountain range below. Several rocks have been chiseled away into the shape of crude ramparts, giving the very peaks a castle-like appearance.

Markx asks, "What if you are the weapon?"

[Luinne Bheinn, Granite Edge]

Wind-scarred walls of rugged granite form a high natural barrier around a deep valley nestled among the mountain range below. Several rocks have been chiseled away into the shape of crude ramparts, giving the very peaks a castle-like appearance.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ixnae opn da weapondae, Markx."

[Luinne Bheinn, Granite Edge]

Wind-scarred walls of rugged granite form a high natural barrier around a deep valley nestled among the mountain range below. Several rocks have been chiseled away into the shape of crude ramparts, giving the very peaks a castle-like appearance. You also see a moss-covered slope.

[Luinne Bheinn, Skyline Slope]

Patches of dark green moss cling to jagged clusters of rocks along the winding slope, while the ground itself is blackened and pitted from lighting or fire from the sky. A cool breeze stirs through the angled passage, and lights flicker below in the center of the valley.

Goldstr exclaims, "We should gets some drinks wid Jock!"

Rheshay says, "Ye drink 'ere if ye like."

Adelynn whispers something to Citan.

[Luinne Bheinn, Skyline Slope]

Patches of dark green moss cling to jagged clusters of rocks along the winding slope, while the ground itself is blackened and pitted from lighting or fire from the sky. A cool breeze stirs through the angled passage, and lights flicker below in the center of the valley.

Udari says, "Not a bad view."

[Luinne Bheinn, Skyline Slope]

Patches of dark green moss cling to jagged clusters of rocks along the winding slope, while the ground itself is blackened and pitted from lighting or fire from the sky. A cool breeze stirs through the angled passage, and lights flicker below in the center of the valley.

[Luinne Bheinn, Skyline Slope]

Patches of dark green moss cling to jagged clusters of rocks along the winding slope, while the ground itself is blackened and pitted from lighting or fire from the sky. A cool breeze stirs through the angled passage, and lights flicker below in the center of the valley.

[Luinne Bheinn, Skyline Slope]

Patches of dark green moss cling to jagged clusters of rocks along the winding slope, while the ground itself is blackened and pitted from lighting or fire from the sky. A cool breeze stirs through the angled passage, and lights flicker below in the center of the valley.

[Luinne Bheinn, Skyline Slope]

Patches of dark green moss cling to jagged clusters of rocks along the winding slope, while the ground itself is blackened and pitted from lighting or fire from the sky. A cool breeze stirs through the angled passage, and lights flicker below in the center of the valley.

[The Ember Vale, Bone Nest]

At the base of the slope is a narrow field that has been cluttered by hundreds of bones. Meat still clings to several rotted skeletons, but several large vultures strut among the remains, pecking and peeling as they go. The odor of death and blood emanate throughout the area, only stirred about by the wind from the passage above.

Citan deeply says, "Ooo.. A bone nest."

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

Alosaka says, "What a... lovely home you have."

Irval darkly asks, "And praytell, who were those skeletons?"

Rheshay says, "When ye are not welcom'd, ye rest 'ere."

Rheshay nods.

Axanders says, "Smells."

[The Ember Vale, Bone Nest]

At the base of the slope is a narrow field that has been cluttered by hundreds of bones. Meat still clings to several rotted skeletons, but several large vultures strut among the remains, pecking and peeling as they go. The odor of death and blood emanate throughout the area, only stirred about by the wind from the passage above.

[The Ember Vale, Bone Nest]

At the base of the slope is a narrow field that has been cluttered by hundreds of bones. Meat still clings to several rotted skeletons, but several large vultures strut among the remains, pecking and peeling as they go. The odor of death and blood emanate throughout the area, only stirred about by the wind from the passage above.

[The Ember Vale, Field of Tombs]

The valley opens wide, complete with swathes of verdant grass and low rocky platforms. The dirt is stained black with blood in several spots, with faint trails leading away as if bodies were drug off by victorious predators. The ground is littered with broken spearheads and arrows. The first sign of stone buildings rise up ahead.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "We goin to banquest?"

Citan deeply says, "Well I tell you if your gonna scare kids.. This is a great place to bring'em to do it."

[The Ember Vale, Field of Tombs]

The valley opens wide, complete with swathes of verdant grass and low rocky platforms. The dirt is stained black with blood in several spots, with faint trails leading away as if bodies were drug off by victorious predators. The ground is littered with broken spearheads and arrows. The first sign of stone buildings rise up ahead.

[The Ember Vale, Field of Tombs]

The valley opens wide, complete with swathes of verdant grass and low rocky platforms. The dirt is stained black with blood in several spots, with faint trails leading away as if bodies were drug off by victorious predators. The ground is littered with broken spearheads and arrows. The first sign of stone buildings rise up ahead.

[The Ember Vale, Field of Tombs]

The valley opens wide, complete with swathes of verdant grass and low rocky platforms. The dirt is stained black with blood in several spots, with faint trails leading away as if bodies were drug off by victorious predators. The ground is littered with broken spearheads and arrows. The first sign of stone buildings rise up ahead.

[The Ember Vale, Viridian Pass]

Beyond the stretch of rock and blood, the land turns verdant and lush, with entire swathes of vibrant green grass leading in all directions. To the east, the plump forms of mountain roltons graze in fenced meadows, and to the west, the land is dotted with several farms. To the north stands a wide gathering of stone walls and buildings, bathed in the moonlight from the open sky high above.

[The Ember Vale, Viridian Pass]

Beyond the stretch of rock and blood, the land turns verdant and lush, with entire swathes of vibrant green grass leading in all directions. To the east, the plump forms of mountain roltons graze in fenced meadows, and to the west, the land is dotted with several farms. To the north stands a wide gathering of stone walls and buildings, bathed in the moonlight from the open sky high above.

[The Ember Vale, Viridian Pass]

Beyond the stretch of rock and blood, the land turns verdant and lush, with entire swathes of vibrant green grass leading in all directions. To the east, the plump forms of mountain roltons graze in fenced meadows, and to the west, the land is dotted with several farms. To the north stands a wide gathering of stone walls and buildings, bathed in the moonlight from the open sky high above.

[The Ember Vale, Northern Gate]

Rough walls of stone expand outward, providing several chiseled ramparts for guards above. Glimpsed beyond the parapets are flat thatched roofs of numerous buildings and homes. Wedged between tall stone towers stands a sturdy wooden gate.

Citan deeply says, "Blood and bones.. stenches... Carnage... Sounds like berserking training."

Rheshay says, "Welcome tae tha Ember Vale."

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

Lylia says, "Thank you."

Thrassus says, "This is quite the hideaway."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Yoo got pawnshoop here?"

Irval darkly says, "Lovely..."

Goldstr says, "Krolvin attack dese good folks all da time."

From the ramparts above, dozens of armored reivers appear, not much different than imperial knights, save for their dark green eyes and seemingly permanent snarls as they observe from above.

Speaking to Rheshay, Chandrellia says, "Again we are grateful for your hospitality is allowing us here unharmed."

Markx says, "Lovely."

Speaking to Goldstr, Arianiss says, "I know we've had issues from time to time.. but I would figure the mutual enemy of the krolvin would move us beyond these things."

Missoni greets, "Hail."

Udari says, "They seem angry."

Geijon says, "I'm not even armed."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dey alwaysh nook like dat."

Tikba whispers something to Gutstorm.

Rheshay motions with her hand towards the ramparts.

Citan deeply says, "Well we are landing folk."

Speaking drunkenly to Tikba, Gutstorm whispers aloud, "Burn da town affer we got da kidsh, got it."

Slowly the wooden gate begins to creak and open, and the reivers upon the wall only grow more ready, eyes and snarls trained to the crowd below.

Gutstorm yells, "Me got candy!"

[The Ember Vale, Outer Ring]

Dozens of stone homes and buildings are positioned about, some with brick chimneys filling the air with smoke and heat. Beds of flowers line rough granite walkways, each one meandering through clusters of sturdy rock structures. Huge blue-grey earthen walls encircle the area. You also see a sturdy wooden gate.

[The Ember Vale, Outer Ring]

Dozens of stone homes and buildings are positioned about, some with brick chimneys filling the air with smoke and heat. Beds of flowers line rough granite walkways, each one meandering through clusters of sturdy rock structures. Huge blue-grey earthen walls encircle the area.

[The Ember Vale, Dryad Lane]

Running north and south, the path here is worn and smoothed with only a few rough patches of gravel and jutted rocks. Granite buildings frame the path, many set with open windows that provide a measure of warm orange glows from candles or fireplaces. A mountain breeze stirs through the area. You also see a large stone building.

[The Ember Vale, Dryad Lane]

Running north and south, the path here is worn and smoothed with only a few rough patches of gravel and jutted rocks. Granite buildings frame the path, many set with open windows that provide a measure of warm orange glows from candles or fireplaces. A mountain breeze stirs through the area.

[The Ember Vale, Dryad Lane]

Running north and south, the path here is worn and smoothed with only a few rough patches of gravel and jutted rocks. Granite buildings frame the path, many set with open windows that provide a measure of warm orange glows from candles or fireplaces. A mountain breeze stirs through the area. You also see a fortified huge wooden gate and some flayed reiver corpses ceremoniously hung up high on a stone wall.

[The Ember Vale, Fennel Road]

Running east and west, the path is weathered and, in some places, uneven. Large stone structures dominate the edges of the road, some with rock or thatched roofs. Wooden booths and stalls are set about, many unattended but filled with various fruits or dried meats. You also see a tall stone chapel.

Two reivers suddenly burst out from a shop and shout wildly, pushing at each other and cursing loudly. They almost draw their blades before one laughs, and they both then chuckle and wander off together. [ambient message]

[The Ember Vale, Fennel Road]

Running east and west, the path is weathered and, in some places, uneven. Large stone structures dominate the edges of the road, some with rock or thatched roofs. Wooden booths and stalls are set about, many unattended but filled with various fruits or dried meats.

Goldstr says, "Stay calm but aware folks."

[The Ember Vale, Fennel Road]

Running east and west, the path is weathered and, in some places, uneven. Large stone structures dominate the edges of the road, some with rock or thatched roofs. Wooden booths and stalls are set about, many unattended but filled with various fruits or dried meats. You also see a tall stone chapel.

[The Ember Vale, Dryad Lane]

Running north and south, the path here is worn and smoothed with only a few rough patches of gravel and jutted rocks. Granite buildings frame the path, many set with open windows that provide a measure of warm orange glows from candles or fireplaces. A mountain breeze stirs through the area. You also see a fortified huge wooden gate and some flayed reiver corpses ceremoniously hung up high on a stone wall.

[The Ember Vale, Fennel Road]

Running east and west, the path is weathered and, in some places, uneven. Large stone structures dominate the edges of the road, some with rock or thatched roofs. Wooden booths and stalls are set about, many unattended but filled with various fruits or dried meats.

[The Ember Vale, Fennel Road]

Running east and west, the path is weathered and, in some places, uneven. Large stone structures dominate the edges of the road, some with rock or thatched roofs. Wooden booths and stalls are set about, many unattended but filled with various fruits or dried meats. You also see a wide stone tavern.

From behind a wide stone tavern, Axanders's voice says, "Come in for a drink."

Axanders says, "Oh ok."

Rheshay designates Cryheart as the new leader of the group.

Adelynn quietly mutters, "Snotty brats."

Leafiara asks, "Into the tavern, I suppose?"

Rheshay says, "Ye are guests, and welcome 'ere in da Vale at dis time. Warchief Haidan, Son o' Hagga will meet ye in the tavern in ten minutes. ye are free to roam until then."

Adelynn interestedly asks, "Tavern?"

Guardian Rheshay just went west.

Tavern Talk

Irval darkly says, "Hmm."

Alosaka evenly asks, "And the children?"

Arianiss says, "Hmm."

Irval darkly says, "I'll do just that."

Leafiara says, "Ah, wonderful."

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

Adelynn eagerly exclaims, "This trip may just be okay yet!"

Chamorr heartily says, "Who brought drinkin money."

Cryheart asks, "And we hae to wait to see the children?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dey got free drinks."

Adelynn sweetly asks, "Who's buying me a drink?"

Thrassus says, "Well, I must admit that they are more established and civilized than I expected."

Arianiss says, "Food inside."

[The Goatyard]

A long wooden counter runs the length of the back wall, stained with old liquor and blood. Corked bottles line cubbies that have been hollowed into the stone wall, and mounted between them is a huge, grizzled goat's head with bulbous lifeless eyes. Tables and chairs are placed about, some of them more worn down than others. The aromatic blend of spices and meat wafts through the area. You also see a scar-covered reiver barkeep.

Speaking to Cryheart, Chandrellia says, "I say we look around and see if we cant find the childeren."

Goldstr says, "Goods to hear."

Kiyna says, "I'm not trusting their food. No offense."

Udari asks, "You sure you want to eat and drink that?"

>l barkeep

The reiver is younger, but his body proudly wears several dozen scars, and a mangled arm hangs almost limp at his side. An apron covers his chest and waist, once fresh and white but now beyond stained with grease, sweat and blood. Several of his teeth have been sharpened to a point, and he periodically runs his tongue across them.

>ask barkeep about Ember Vale

The barkeep looks up at you, "I'd die fer da Vale, and what we stan' fer. I've serv'd in da field, and now I serve here as I can."

Cryheart says, "I will respect their wishes at this time."

>ask barkeep about Haidan

The barkeep looks at you, "Warchief Haidan does well by us, knows what we need, and is not afraid tae fight fer our freedoms."

>l on count

On the wooden counter:

Food/Drink [15]: a haunch of grilled rabbit in birch bark, a salted strip of porcupine meat, a handful of crispy grilled tadpoles, a skewer of grilled manticore, a whole roasted tomato, a trencher of baked raccoon, a bowl of mutton stew, a fried boar's ear, a mug of dark brown ale, a glass of fresh goat milk, a shot of ice blue vodka, a tankard of oatmeal stout, a glass of pomegranate juice, a mug of ginger mead, a mug of thick sludgy coffee

Total items: 15

Speaking heartily to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Chamorr says, "Howdy."

Markx says, "I don't trust this."

Leifa scoffs, "Goatyard."

Speaking to Cryheart, Goldstr asks, "Should we wait at Jock's Pub?"

Kiyna says, "...I'm going to go look around."

Speaking to Markx, Kezoku says, "I know you have serious goat trauma."

Markx says, "Tis true."

Cryheart says, "Ye might not see Jock's place, as this is a different clan."

Speaking to Kezoku, Markx says, "Been the goat so long it's troubling."

Cryheart says, "She said folks may wander."

Lylia says, "Do pardon me a moment."

Kezoku says, "May, I get lost easy."

Thrassus says, "This is actually quite good."

Kyralina whispers to the group, "Could she be trying to split us up?"

Cryheart asks, "Find any thing interesting?"

Kiyna says, "...I have learned something interesting."

Earthdiver says, "What do they serve here."

Speaking curiously to Kiyna, Leafiara asks, "Yes?"

Goldstr says, "Nice grub here."

Cryheart asks, "Aye?"

Adelynn relievedly exclaims, "Finally!"

Kiyna says, "A reiver spoke of one to be more wary of than Haidan. Someone called the 'spider', Tyeid."

Adelynn brightly asks, "Now, who's buying me a drink?"

Kiyna says, "His eyes are many, his legs are long... something to that effect."

Udari says, "Free."

Cryheart says, "Good to know."

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly thinks, "Dish town shucksh."

Citan deeply says, "Take ya pick."

Adelynn incredulously says, "*free* drinks?! Oh, even better."

Udari says, "This red juice is odd tasting."

Udari says, "Not bad."

Goldstr exclaims, "Reivers do knows how to drink!"

Adelynn affably remarks, "Now this is more like it."

Irval darkly says, "Safe."

Chamorr heartily says, "Theres no scotch, they cant be trusted."

Leifa warns, "Don't get too fat and happy, we are in enemy territory."

Kialeigh says, "Good."

Adelynn exclaims, "These nights are always so much doom and gloom, it's about time they're filled with drunken revelry instead!"

Adelynn thoughtfully muses, "Now, where's the nearest pretty young lordling to spend money on me?"

Markx says, "Two words. Red wedding."

Irval darkly says, "Three words , Lets do it."

Citan deeply says, "I can give ya a wand."

Speaking mischievously to Citan, Adelynn implies, "I might just be interested in getting a wand from you."

Citan deeply says, "Ahh. .great to hear."

Citan deeply says, "It's a fresh one."

Speaking dubiously to Kayse, Tikba says, "This seems to be food."

Adelynn wryly observes, "Not quite what I had in mind, but at least it's fresh I guess!"

Speaking to Tikba, Kayse reasons, "We have eaten worse on Bre'Naere."

Speaking thoughtfully to Kayse, Tikba agrees, "We had to."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me done walkin Cryheart, ye gotsh carry me resht da way."

Cryheart asks, "Anyone find something interesting?"

The barkeep looks up at the door, waiting for something.

Speaking to Cryheart, Alosaka says, "A blacksmith, supply shop, Shaman's tent, garrison building, chapel, and this tavern."

Speaking to Cryheart, Vaemyr says, "The shaman hut."

Earthdiver says, "For the son."

Missoni says, "Some of the citizens did not mind speaking to me a bit."

Speaking seriously to Cryheart, Adelynn says, "We found this fantastic building full of ale."

Kiyna says, "I've eaten food that looked much worse than this... still, I don't trust it."

Alosaka says, "But not children, yet."

Citan deeply says, "Or perhaps some keds."

Nazarr says, "And a sculptor."

Thrassus says, "It's quite good, actually."

Speaking amiably to Kiyna, Leafiara says, "It's tasty from what I've seen."

Speaking to Alosaka, Adelynn exclaims, "Who cares about children when there's alcohol?!"

The barkeep says, "An' the tadpoles are real."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Deez good cookie."

Citan deeply says, "Indeed."

Tikba uncertainly asks, "How could they be false tadpoles?"

Speaking dryly to Adelynn, Alosaka says, "Indeed."

Speaking to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Thrassus says, "They are prepared quite well."

Speaking darkly to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Irval asks, "You say that the Warcheif knows what ya need? That includes kidnapping of children?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Cookiesh better."

Speaking helpfully to Alosaka, Adelynn continues, "In fact, I find that alcohol tends to make children more bearable to be around."

Speaking to Toxyrox, Kyralina asks, "How can you eat at a time like this?"

Citan deeply says, "Well hopefully all the meat is real.. and not some random meat."

Speaking to Kyralina, Toxyrox says, "It's really pretty good."

Nazarr says, "The stout is good."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ye got no elf-ka-bobsh?"

Imena softly asks, "Is it really raccoon?"

The barkeep says, "I dinnae kidnap no lil' lads."

Axanders says, "Nope."

Speaking to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Vaemyr says, "Good."

Axanders says, "Taste gamey."

Axanders says, "Or bratty."

Tikba politely says, "And those who did are to be punished."

The barkeep says, "I barely got one good arm lef'."

Speaking to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Udari says, "Probably a good thing."

Citan deeply asks, "Oh... who did.. and do you know where they are?"

Tikba adds, "Or perhaps already have been."

Speaking darkly to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Irval says, "But do you not question the judgement in that? Your Warchief did."

Kayse evenly says, "I think the ones that kidnapped the children were.... punished already."

Citan deeply says, "I have a few silvers for ya if ya know anything."

The barkeep says, "Aye, I know who did."

Speaking understandingly to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Leafiara says, "Yes, we've been told. It was an insubordination to be corrected."

The barkeep says, "Thar hangin' up outside." He laughs.

Missoni curiously says, "Are they the--"

Imena softly asks, "How big were the kids?"

Xorus says, "Flayed."

Nazarr says, "The flayed corpses."

Speaking to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Vaemyr says, "Suspected as much."

Speaking to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Lylia says, "Ah, that was my speculation. Thank you for confirming it."

Irval darkly asks, "The ones that stole the children?"

Axanders says, "Hmmm."

Tikba mildly says, "It seems no worse than what some here would have visited upon them."

Adelynn concludes, "So they culprits are already dead."

Imena softly says, "Just...observing."

The barkeep says, "Be lucky ye ain't feastin' on 'em but that's more o'...nev'rmind." He looks up at the door.

Alosaka asks, "Mm. And what was so different about killing a wagon full of settlers, compared with killing shepherds at their flocks?"

The barkeep says, "I bet the Warchief'll be along soon."

Adelynn brightly exclaims, "See?! The matter is resolved, we didn't have to fight anyone, and we can keep drinking instead!"

Speaking to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Lylia says, "Your fare looks quite fine enough."

Citan deeply says, "I am sure meat is a precious commodity."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Barkeep, me gotta knowed, do Reiver tashte like chimkin?"

Kelfyr asks, "Does he bring Tyeid with him?"

Chamorr heartily says, "Lil chillin is very tasty though."

Speaking to a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Kiyna asks, "That's more for Tyeid?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Vaemyr says, "My thoughts exactly."

Speaking teasingly to Chandrellia, Adelynn says, "About time you showed up."

Axanders says, "Rolton cookie..."

Axanders asks, "Hairy?"

Adelynn whispers something to Citan.

Speaking amusedly to Axanders, Kialeigh says, "Surprisingly sweet."

Xorus remarks, "The sky ripples here..."

Citan deeply says, "I have offer you a stout."

Speaking to Xorus, Thrassus asks, "A concealing barrier?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ear jam."

Speaking wryly to Citan, Adelynn replies, "That hardly solves my problem."

Xorus whispers something to Thrassus.

Goldstr says, "But good ale."

Meeting With Haidan

Warchief Haidan's group just arrived.

Lylia says, "It is an unusual effect, possibly a strange temperature inversion at altitudes that --"

Rheshay clears her throat.

Speaking heartily to Haidan, Chamorr says, "Howdy."

Rheshay says, "Warchief Haidan, Son o' Hagga."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Try da tadpolesh."

Haidan nods.

Tikba politely says, "Various citizens of the Landing, of various parentage."

Vaemyr says, "I don't see the kids with you."

Haidan says, "Welcome tae da Ember Vale."

Citan deeply says, "Thanks."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "Thank you for having us."

Adelynn brightly exclaims, "Are *you* the young lordling that's going to spend money on me? I knew you would be along eventually!"

Haidan asks, "I trus' ye have pok'd around some, bother'd me people, and tried to sketch a map?"

Speaking amusedly to Haidan, Tikba agrees, "Yes."

Xorus says, "Ye flayed dem kidn'ppers right gud."

Vaemyr says, "Pretty much."

Leafiara amusedly says, "Well, no doubt some here have."

Speaking darkly to Haidan, Irval asks, "Would you of done differently?"

Arianiss says, "I spent some time in your chapel."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "Naw I'm not good with parchment and coal."

Speaking to Haidan, Missoni says, "Some of them are quite friendly, yes."

Goldstr says, "We are here in peace."

Speaking heartily to Haidan, Chamorr says, "Nope, stayed here an drank vodka."

Haidan says, "No, because we are nae much different."

Haidan nods at Irval.

Haidan says, "Well, ye and I are."

Irval grunts.

Haidan says, "But not mos'."

Kelfyr says, "They speak highly of you."

From behind a scar-covered reiver barkeep, Axanders's voice says, "Hello."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "Most seem to like you well enough, didnthear anything bad about ya."

Nazarr says, "Your people admire you highly. And they love the Vale."

Speaking heartily to Haidan, Chamorr says, "Tell us bout this spider guy."

Lylia says, "They spoke highly of you, and mentioned your mother with something approaching reverence at times."

Haidan says, "I am well to me people, and dey will die for me, but for da Vale firs'."

Leafiara remarks, "It does seem like an excellent home you all have."

Irval darkly says, "Id of probably gone a slightly different way with the decor outside..."

Haidan says, "I know little o' me mum, I was young'r than the wee ones we have to return."

Speaking to Haidan, Kayse asks, "Where are they by the way?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me mum."

Adelynn hesitantly asks, "Wait, this little boy is who we're here to meet? The warchief?"

Citan deeply says, "Indeed... it's a bloody trail to get here.. Great to scare off some."

Haidan says, "Beyond the inner walls, we'll be seein' 'em soon."

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr asks, "Seems yer worries be bouts da new close Barony?"

Haidan asks, "Do ye nae?"

Speaking to Haidan, Lylia says, "Ah, then you understand the urgency others feel about the children."

Haidan peers quizzically at Goldstr.

Kialeigh says, "I jsut wanna see they're still alive."

Speaking evenly to Haidan, Kayse asks, "Why bring us here to retrieve them? Do you wish to speak more peacefully regarding this situation now?"

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr asks, "Nae?"

Chandrellia wheezes, "Good stuff."

Haidan says, "Because ye need'd to see who we are, what we do, and why we fight."

Kiyna says, "It's a nice little settlement. Almost makes you forgotten about the pit of rotting death and bones a stone's throw away."

Haidan says, "Me people need to see what happens when they cross lines I've drawn."

Arianiss says, "It may surprise you, but a lot of people in Wehnimer's Landing consider you rough allies..."

Irval darkly asks, "And they crossed the line when what? children became involved?"

Kiyna corrects, "Forget."

Tikba politely says, "We have heard they have already seen what happens."

Speaking simply to Haidan, Kayse offers, "Perhaps your people and yourself can see us coexisting in these lands without future violence and war."

Haidan says, "Thar is no need for wee ones to be involv'd in war."

Earthdiver says, "I am surprised it has come to this."

Missoni agrees, "Quite so."

Haidan looks over at Kayse and shakes his head.

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr says, "I agree but da new Baron kin be talked wid about der borders."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "If you didn't have a pact with a demon spider of some sort it seems, I would probably be more inclined to think ye wouldn't eventually become an enemy. You've built something here, why endanger it like that."

Haidan whispers something to Rheshay.

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Kelfyr asks, "I also see a people subsisting on scavenged and plundered food. How long can you feed a people this way?"

Haidan nods.

Speaking to Haidan, Kayse informs, "There are children in the Imperial Settlement...."

Haidan says, "As it stands, our war is not wit' yer town."

Kayse adds, "How will they not become casualities?"

Kayse glances meaningfully at Haidan.

Speaking mildly to Vaemyr, Tikba says, "We all must make pacts, to serve the greater good."

Speaking evenly to Haidan, Alosaka asks, "I take it that listening to your justifications and pleading is our cost for getting these children back?"

Thrassus says, "I wouldn't call this food either plundered or scavenged."

Speaking mildly to Vaemyr, Tikba says, "I have even seen some summon demons or raise the dead."

Haidan says, "Thar is no cost. Da wee ones would o' been return'd rath'r ye came or not."

Haidan says, "But ye did, and it speaks well for mos' o' ye."

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr says, "But dwe children be our concern at die time."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna asks, "Since you want us to understand, explain it to me. You draw this line at children? Not parents? Laborers, artisans that work with their hands? These are okay to kill?"

Speaking softly to Haidan, Bernadette says, "We come in good faith."

Speaking to Haidan, Alosaka says, "We don't particularly care much what a murderer and kidnapper thinks of us. We'll take the children now."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Only when those pacts serve, and not the other way around."

Citan deeply says, "Well... to be welcomed here.. Well in my opinion is a start of peace some would say."

Nazarr asks, "I'm glad we got to see this place. Are the children physically unharmed?"

Tikba mildly asks, "I fear Elidal has brought no soldiers, for the reivers to fight. Shall they wait until he bothers to do so?"

Haidan says, "We will fight thar soldiers."

Haidan says, "Dey are comin' soon."

Leafiara agrees, "They are."

Alosaka asks, "Mm. And their shepherds?"

Arianiss says, "Poke the bear.. get mauled."

Haidan says, "And thar shepherds."

Adelynn amusedly remarks, "I think half of you came in good faith, the other half wants to cut a way to the brats, and no one agrees on anything."

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr asks, "Why?"

Imena softly says, "Their shepherds will be protected by their soldiers, I imagine."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "I see. Just trying to understand."

Irval darkly says, "We are capable of reason within reason. Attacking innocent settlers. Not ok. You wish to wage war on armed men and women and test your mettle for honor and glory. Ive no qualms with that. We live in the frontier after all. But when children become involved. We tend to get...uncivil."

Speaking to Haidan, Alosaka asks, "Seamstresses? Laundresses? Woodcutters? Who, exactly, won't your 'warriors' slaughter?"

Haidan says, "They are old enough for ae wise choice, and if dey make da wrong one, it is not our duty tae spare 'em."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Speaking to Adelynn, Kialeigh says, "We're all here for one thing, different reasons, different approaches. But our unification is in wanting the children back safely."

Kialeigh says, "And possibly assuring this never happens again."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "So basically ye kill all cept the kids? What about our farmers, our merchants, how are they not going to become casualties, our citizens travel outside our walls often."

Speaking to Kialeigh, Adelynn says, "Speak for yourself! I'm just here to drink and watch these town regulars all try to talk over each other, as usual."

Haidan says, "We have nae tirelessly prowl'd and hunt'd thar shepherds or cooks."

Imena softly says, "He offered us peace if we do not side with the Imperials."

[General] Evia thinks, "Hope its going well, whatever and wherever it might be."

Haidan says, "Some att...."

Rheshay says, "Incidents."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Speaking to Imena, Adelynn asks, "Haven't the Imperials been our allies for practically a decade?"

Imena softly says, "Not mine."

Tikba carefully asks, "And their hunters, who met the spiders?"

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr says, "If ye return der shilderen to us, mos assuradly peace will be well."

Haidan says, "Some incidents hae occur'd. More tae come, if dey do not turn south."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia asks, "Some what was that you were aboutto say?"

Haidan says, "Hunters."

Haidan nods at Tikba.

Missoni mouths, "Incidents?"

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr asks, "Oh, so our citizens maybe involved in "incidents" but you'll be sorry if it happens?"

Haidan says, "We hae nae come for yer citizens."

Vaemyr says, "Just trying to understand here."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "Your spiders made their way into our town, and hurt our people."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Chandrellia says, "No you missunderstand what he said."

Speaking to Haidan, Lylia asks, "You bring these messages to us, but not to the Imperial nobles, nor to their settlers. Are we to be your emissaries in this?"

Udari says, "We could watch the fireworks from the walls."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna asks, "Will you deny responsibility for this? Another 'incident'?"

Speaking to Haidan, Kayse says, "Many are worried our citizens will be confused for settlers. It's not like they go around wearing signs."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr says, "There is no way to distinguish our merchants traveling from imperials..."

Haidan says, "We do nae ev'n ask for yer alliance. Jus' do not meddle in our war. Do nae aid them. Do nae fight for 'em."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Chandrellia says, "I think he was saying the incedents were casued by his men without actually saying that."

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr says, "Aye Der do be a uild dat assigns folks to hunt ye's I hope we can get em to call dat off."

Haidan says, "If they wish tae carve a piece o' our world, yours an' ours, then let 'em try and try alone."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr says, "But they'll continue to occur he also said."

Speaking offhandedly to Haidan, Adelynn says, "I'll fight for whoever pays me the most."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr says, "Eventually one of those is going to involve US."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Chandrellia says, "It already has."

Rheshay says, "Aye, ye scream o' fire, but hand 'em the kindlin'."

Haidan nods at Rheshay.

Lylia says, "I see. We are being asked to step aside. Yet we do not all act as one, any more than your free folk here seem to."

Haidan says, "Aye."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "They already have. Like I said, the hunters you released, implanted with spiders, wandered into the Landing. Our people were hurt."

Tikba mildly says, "The hunters, who you caught, came to the Landing, with their ailment."

Chamorr heartily says, "Wow."

Haidan asks, "Emiss...aries?"

Rheshay says, "Messengers."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Alosaka evenly asks, "Many of us consider the settlers to be friends and neighbors. You expect us to stand aside and watch, peacefully and neutrally, while you slaughter them? Their farmers, shepherds, merchants? And not a few of their children?"

Haidan shrugs at Lylia.

Kialeigh says, "That was awful.. many spiders... all over everyone."

Imena softly says, "The Imperials have protection, they brought soldiers with them."

Haidan asks, "Ye suddenly have standards?"

Haidan peers quizzically at Alosaka.

Imena softly says, "If they did not bring enough."

Imena softly asks, "Why is it our problem?"

Haidan says, "Tell me 'gain o' Tyrrax and his death."

Speaking to Imena, Kayse says, "They actually didn't but that's another argument."

Speaking evenly to Haidan, Alosaka says, "I have a code I adhere to."

Rheshay asks, "Oh, but he dinnae die, did he Haidan?"

Haidan says, "No, he dinnae."

Alosaka says, "I don't recall seeing any of your vaunted 'warriors' helping us battle Tyrrax."

Speaking to Haidan, Lylia says, "Perhaps you would rather talk to Kragnack? Or what is left of him..."

Lylia shows Haidan her ruby-inlaid bones.

Alosaka asks, "Perhaps they were busing killing children?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Why ye keep argooin over shame shtuff, ,we do wot we do now?"

Tikba mildly asks, "I am afraid that some of those present may not wish to stand aside. If they count themselves with the Baron, will that bring danger on the Landing?"

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr exclaims, "Tyraxx an his Krol fleet be our anemys too!"

Speaking heartily to Alosaka, Chamorr asks, "Are ya tryin to provoke a fight?"

Haidan says, "Not all ye people speak for ye town, I am nae fool."

Speaking darkly to Stormyrain, Irval asks, "I dont need to spell it out do I?"

Speaking to Chamorr, Alosaka says, "I came for the children. You'll note we haven't been given the children yet. Almost as if he intends to delay handing them over."

Haidan asks, "Ye have seen our kin flay'd on the walls?"

Leafiara nods at Haidan.

Haidan nods.

Tikba nods in agreement at Haidan.

Nazarr nods at Haidan.

Missoni adopts an agreeable expression.

Leafiara affirms, "We have."

Speaking to Irval, Stormyrain says, "You can surely go right ahead and try, but I will remind you that it was not my decision. I made a suggestion, the jury decided."

Speaking to Haidan, Lylia says, "And smelled them. Yes."

Haidan says, "Dey dinnae speak for us."

Udari says, "Very true."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "I have a question about them. The flayed ones, on your walls. I think it's an important one."

Haidan says, "If any o' ye wish sides, den so be it."

Haidan says, "And we will mark ye an enemy."

Speaking curiously to Haidan, Adelynn says, "You expect the same from us? The Landing will hardly strip the skin from its own people and hang them from the walls, even if they can never agree on anything."

Speaking darkly to Stormyrain, Irval says, "Jury decided before the trial after you used his prestige to leverage your thought to how it should be handled instead of allowing the jurors to deliberate. Sure , the jurors decided."

Haidan says, "I will nae be comin' into yer children's homes to stab their mums."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "What did they do wrong? They attacked settlers, same as the one that attacked the shepherds. They carried the children back."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "Would it be possibile that while most stayed here that a few of us, at least two being our healers go woth one of you to see teh childeren, to confirm they are well and unharmed."

Speaking tiredly to Haidan, Kayse says, "Can we please see the children now? I think you will agree we are talking in circles."

Speaking slowly to Irval, Stormyrain says, "Sure."

Speaking evenly to Haidan, Alosaka says, "We are at an unfortunate impass, then. Some of us obey a code that requires us to uphold justice and defend those who need our aid. That, it seems, necessarily makes us your enemies."

Haidan says, "Ye dinnae need to flay yer own. If we face 'em on the field, we'll do it ourselv's."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna asks, "Like has been said, there are children at their campsite. Will you flay those who encounter them?"

Haidan nods at Adelynn.

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr exclaims, "Agreed But ye folks an ours has alway been friendly neighbors an I, as one will strive to keep it that wy!"

Tikba diplomatically says, "The majority of the citizens of the Landing are simply merchants, miners, and tradespeople, as my friends have said. We can assure you that they will not be your enemy."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "We will speak to our mayor, for an "official" position. But I will say, as long as you employ those shamans of yours and the spiders, I'll be hard pressed not to fight those monstrocities... note if that happens, I stand alone and not as part of the landing. You may come at me as you would any warrior."

Xorus indifferently says, "We would have flayed criminals if I had been mayor."

Tikba says, "We would ask for their safety."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Xorus fer mayer!"

Evia whispers something to Bellaja.

Haidan asks, "Monstrocities?"

Haidan peers quizzically at Rheshay.

Udari confusedly asks, "So no children returning with us?"

Rheshay says, "He is bein' ironic Warchief."

Alosaka dryly says, "The enormous incarnadine spiders that erupted from the torsos of the settlers your shaman friends toyed with."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "The incandine spiders, that grew to quite a large size, and were unnatrual in origin."

Rheshay says, "He plays wit' demons and undead, and thinks Tyeid's bugs are abominations."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Haidan asks, "Ironic?"

Irval darkly says, "And attacked our people..."

Leafiara acknowledges, "It was some incredible magic."

Vaemyr shrugs at Rheshay.

Thrassus says, "I think they are fascinating, personally."

Bellaja whispers something to Evia.

Rheshay says, "I mean hypocrite."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Haidan shrugs.

Chamorr heartily says, "Wow."

Speaking to Rheshay, Vaemyr says, "Then we'll just put my demons and animate against your "bugs" won't we."

Kelfyr asks, "I believe the points worth making have been made. Can we have the children now, please?"

Speaking to Haidan, Arianiss asks, "What is the goal of this conversation now?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Bernie, dontcha gotta shpider pet?"

Speaking to Haidan, Nazarr asks, "May we please see the children?"

Speaking amusedly to Arianiss, Adelynn answers, "No one knows."

Bernadette softly says, "Sleepin."

Haidan turns an inquisitive ear toward Arianiss.

Cryheart says, "Aye, we would like to see the children, please."

Kiyna wearily says, "Aye, bring us to the children."

Haidan says, "I want'd ye to see the Vale, see us. We are nae yer enemies unless chosen."

Speaking to Arianiss, Adelynn says, "Therefore, I conclude that the goal of this conversation is to keep me drinking."

Tikba politely says, "I would still like assurances that the common folk of the Landing will not be harmed, as they will not oppose you."

Haidan says, "We will fight the baron boy and his stick men."

Kelfyr says, "We've seen your camp. We've met your people. We'd like the children now."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "You seem to be making the choice for us by delaying us the childeren."

Kialeigh says, "Dem spiders exploding from people in the middle of our town hurting innocent, unknowning people was definitely troubling, but at least it wasn't snakes."

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr says, "Please return da children an WE Will Strive fer Peace amongst us."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Why not we jush go busht open da gate den."

Haidan nods at Tikba.

Tikba nods approvingly at Haidan.

Speaking to Haidan, Udari says, "I think we are a little on edge. Rough times, ya know."

Haidan says, "We dinnae wish harm to yer folks in yer walls. If ye stand 'tween us on the field, in the camp, or aidin' them..."

Haidan shakes his head.

Speaking to Tikba, Kayse says, "That can not be guaranteed. How many times are our citizens innocent bystanders in battles."

Speaking to Rheshay, Chandrellia asks, "Would you be willing to walk a small group of us along with two healers to see teh childeren?"

Rheshay glances at Haidan.

Rheshay whispers something to Haidan.

Speaking politely to Kayse, Tikba says, "I ask merely for his command."

Haidan nods at Rheshay.

Haidan says, "Aye, we can release the children."

Haidan nods at Rheshay.

Udari says, "Well it sounds like a conflict will occur because some of the citizens will defend the new Barons settlement."

Tikba says, "If his men disobey it, we can inform him of such."

Speaking to Tikba, Kayse mouths, "Just. Words."

Speaking darkly to Haidan, Irval says, "Why not make the same offer to Lord Elidal. He is young and not fully tested. He's free of imperial corruption for now. Why not make him an ally and see his, yours, and ours all prosper from a non-agression treaty."

Haidan asks, "Do ye think baron boy will pack up his tents and return home?"

Haidan peers quizzically at Irval.

Speaking to Haidan, Alosaka says, "I've never known free people to do that, no."

Lylia dryly remarks, "I have been saying that for months."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "No, but you aren't making us pack up and move wehnimer's either... there could be room for all of us."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna asks, "I generally don't agree with Irval, but I admit this part does puzzle me. You know these are imperial children, you have said. Why are you entreating with us, then, and not those to whom they belong?"

Tikba says, "Because he wishes peace with us."

Haidan says, "There is nae alliance or peace wit' the empire. They will one meal today, then ask for two tomorrow, until they've taken it all."

Tikba says, "And he does not wish peace with Elidal Dhenin."

Haidan says, "Ye will see them return'd, and we dinnae trus' the baron boy and his..."

Haidan glances at Rheshay.

Speaking to Haidan, Arianiss says, "If you fear that outcome, you will hasten it occurring."

Haidan says, "Monstroscity."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Rheshay says, "Sablo."

Kialeigh asks, "We got the roltons... maybe they assume we fetch things?"

Tikba mildly says, "Sablo is not much different from any of us."

Vaemyr says, "Probably the closest person to you all in fact."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Sablo like to murder chilren."

Speaking darkly to Haidan, Irval says, "Why would he need to head home? Imagine the commerce and goods that your people can gain. Why make an enemy out of what could be one of your strongest allies. Imagine the glory new armaments could bring. Imagine your people, not having to resort to "mystery" meat in the winters. I just assk that you at least speak to him and hear him out before you make any decisions on further acts of war."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "He butchered dem goblin chilren."

Haidan glares at Irval.

Rheshay looks over at Haidan and shakes her head.

Nazarr says, "Irval, they consider all of that dishonorable."

Rheshay says, "The children. They've wait'd long enuff."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Lylia asks, "Monstrosity? Do you mean Sablo, or someone else traveling with Elidal?"

Kayse calmly agrees, "The children."

Speaking to Rheshay, Arianiss says, "There is a point where a conversation peaks.. we have gone past that."

Missoni murmurs, "Please, the children."

Rheshay says, "Many chiefs. I warn'd ye."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Speaking tiredly to Arianiss, Kayse says, "I said that ten minutes ago."

Haidan says, "Bett'r this night. Bett'r nex' time."

Haidan nods at Rheshay.

Citan deeply says, "I still wanna hear if'n would even talk to'em."

Speaking evenly to Citan, Alosaka says, "I think that well has been poisoned."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "Thinkabout one thing, warchief."

Speaking to Citan, Kialeigh says, "He does have the most amazing eyes."

Irval darkly asks, "Why? Where is the dishonor in building an armada, filled with the Ember clan and their allies and strike out against the Krolvin. Taking back what was taken from them? Or am I mistaken in that the Krolvin are still not your most hated enemy?"

Speaking heartily to Haidan, Chamorr says, "Not everyone here wants to see this new barony."

Haidan peers quizzically at Chandrellia.

Speaking politely to Haidan, Tikba says, "Thank you again for your hospitality, and for your willingness to hold the people of the Landing harmless."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "Perhaps you could gain the weapns and armor and support needed to wipe out the Krol that hunt your kind for good, you would have good steel at your side, and men to help fight."

Speaking heartily to Haidan, Chamorr says, "And some certainly see yer point."

Speaking to Rheshay, Kelfyr says, "The children. Please."

Returning the Children

Haidan says, "Join me. We shall see the children."

Lylia wearily says, "Many of us do not, but we deal with reality as it is."

Kialeigh says, "Are we being brought to the children or shall I eat my cookie and wait..."

Chandrellia says, "Just food for thought."

Bellaja frustratedly asks, "Could anyone throw any more randome points out?"

Adelynn regretfully sighs, "No more reiver ale, then."

Chandrellia says, "All daylong."

Speaking to Adelynn, Leafiara suggests, "Grab a stash for later while you can."

Speaking to Adelynn, Kelfyr says, "Stay, drink your fill."

Speaking heartily to Bellaja, Chamorr asks, "Sure, ya think it would help?"

Bellaja says, "So off subject.."

Haidan says, "Dinnae speak to me o' krol, when yer lead'rs kiss'd thar warlord's ass, tickl'd his balls and sen' him back to sea."

Haidan nods at Chandrellia.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Hehe me like me ballsh tickled."

Kialeigh says, "They're all drunk on the tadpoles and vodka.. of course theres wandering thoughts."

Speaking to Chamorr, Bellaja says, "I think we're far past that point."

Udari says, "Good words, reiver."

Speaking smoothly to Haidan, Lylia says, "I wear the bones of their old war-chief. I just know when and how to bide my time."

Speaking reluctantly to Kelfyr, Adelynn concludes, "No, I'd better see how this turns out."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "Well, atleast, well nevermind."

Nazarr says, "Lylia here was leader when we fought on the Krolvin's isle."

Udari says, "Pucker up."

Haidan asks, "Where?"

Haidan peers quizzically at Lylia.

Haidan asks, "Where are his bones?"

Haidan asks, "In yer hair?"

Lylia says, "Glaoveln. Their winter isle, across the water."

Adelynn whispers something to Kelfyr.

Lylia says, "A memento."

Haidan smirks.

Xorus says, "We in the white spire of Aillidh Brae are working on destroying the Krol."

Chandrellia says, "To teh childeren, we have patient longenough."

Haidan says, "Ye are failin'."

Adelynn whispers something to Kelfyr.

[The Ember Vale, Fennel Road]

Running east and west, the path is weathered and, in some places, uneven. Large stone structures dominate the edges of the road, some with rock or thatched roofs. Wooden booths and stalls are set about, many unattended but filled with various fruits or dried meats. You also see a wide stone tavern.

[The Ember Vale, Fennel Road]

Running east and west, the path is weathered and, in some places, uneven. Large stone structures dominate the edges of the road, some with rock or thatched roofs. Wooden booths and stalls are set about, many unattended but filled with various fruits or dried meats.

[The Ember Vale, Dryad Lane]

Running north and south, the path here is worn and smoothed with only a few rough patches of gravel and jutted rocks. Granite buildings frame the path, many set with open windows that provide a measure of warm orange glows from candles or fireplaces. A mountain breeze stirs through the area. You also see a fortified huge wooden gate and some flayed reiver corpses ceremoniously hung up high on a stone wall.

Speaking politely to Haidan, Lylia says, "The world is deeper than the waters separating us from Glaoveln. Sometimes you see only the surface, reflecting what you wish to see. Some of us see farther."

Adelynn whispers something to Kelfyr.

Some young reiver children dart down the street, clanking metal swords together as they shout and play. [ambient message]

Alosaka notes, "I see your children are already learning to be warriors."

Speaking sardonically to Alosaka, Adelynn says, "Duh? They're reivers..."

The huge fortified gates open a crack, as several armored reivers step out, escorting some children to the edge, but not yet coming through.

Haidan glances at a fortified huge wooden gate.

Speaking approvingly to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "Indeed, better to train away from helplessness early on in life."

Haidan nods.

Haidan motions with a finger.

Speaking mildly to Alosaka, Tikba asks, "Have you never seen a child play with a toy?"

One of the children is led forward, to stop infront of Haidan.

A teary-eyed half-elven child just arrived!

Haidan kneels down.

The child begins to follow Gutstorm.

The child glances at Gutstorm, seemingly waiting for something.

Cryheart says, "Hello child."

The child glances at Gutstorm, seemingly waiting for something.

Seaward Gutstorm begins to walk south but suddenly trips and goes flailing out of sight!

The child just wandered south.

Leafiara cheerfully says, "Hello there."

Haidan leans forward closer to the child, touching his chin with his finger. The young child wimpers but does not dare move.

Leafiara says, "Oh."

Goldstr exclaims, "An I be verra sorry fer yer fallen!"

Adelynn says, "The drunk dwarf just ran off with the child."

Haidan asks, "Do ye see those monsters on the wall lad?"

Haidan gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Tikba resignedly says, "I fear the dwarf has stolen the child."

Haidan stands up.

Irval darkly says, "Gutstorm ..."

Alosaka says, "He's gone."

Haidan nods.

Vaemyr says, "Gutstorm is why we can't have nice things..."

Cryheart says, "Seems Gutstorm took the child to wherever."

Adelynn asks, "So now are you all going to call for Gutstorm's murder the way you've been clamoring for a fight with these reivers?"

Irval darkly says, "To the bar probably."

Leafiara says, "Gutstorm's a good guy, there's little cause to worry."

Tikba resignedly says, "We will tell the Imperials that the Landing stole one of the children."

Haidan says, "I hae nae seen a fast'r dwarf."

Lylia suggests, "Or he ensured that at least one child would find a way home."

Udari says, "That dwarf needs to lay off the alcohol."

Cryheart says, "He has his moments."

Arianiss says, "That child will grow up to be a fantastic drunk."

Kelfyr says, "I trust him to lead the child back. He's a drunk, he's not a fool."

Kiyna asks, "And the rest of them?"

Leafiara explains, "Gutstorm spends so much time drunk that it's simply how he's learned to operate in life."

Haidan motions to the gate, calling for the reivers to send more of the children.

Speaking offhandedly to Kelfyr, Adelynn says, "I feel like he's said plenty of foolish things in the past."

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "We dont wantmore, we want all of them."

Udari says, "That actually takes talent."

Haidan says, "Let 'em see the monsters that took 'em, and it is our hope, that these children can grow up to make wiser decisions then those before 'em."

Arianiss asks, "Do you think it wise to scar them further?"

Kialeigh says, "Or be absolutely traumatized by the experience."

A snot-nosed human child just arrived!

Speaking to Haidan, Chandrellia says, "No, you have scare dthese childeren enough by ripping them from their familes, leave them be, please, I ask you."

Adelynn exclaims, "See?!"

Goldstr says, "As we all should do."

Adelynn says, "I told you, they're all snot-nosed brats."

The child begins to follow Kelfyr.

Wolfloner darkly says, "The children are safe. There were worse possible outcomes."

Cryheart says, "Someone lead the child."

Irval says, "You raise your children your way. We'll leave it to their parents to raise them another . Oh wait..."

Speaking to a snot-nosed human child, Kelfyr says, "We'll go in a moment."

A tear-streaked human child just arrived!

The child begins to follow Chandrellia.

Miss Chandrellia just went south.

The child just wandered south.

A scared half-sylvan child just arrived!

The child begins to follow Irval.

Cryheart says, "Another."

Speaking to a snot-nosed human child, Kelfyr says, "It'll be ok. When we get outside the gate, just look straight ahead."

Adelynn says, "Chandrellia didn't even bother to look these kids over like she said she was going to do."

Speaking evenly to Adelynn, Alosaka says, "We have other healers."

Leafiara suggests, "Perhaps some of you who they're following should move ahead and bring them back."

Haidan waves a hand at Irval, dismissing him indifferently.

Haidan waves a hand at Kelfyr, dismissing him indifferently.

Speaking to Haidan, Goldstr says, "We keep in peace an please trust da new young Baron Elidal."

Kiyna says, "Lead them away."

Speaking to Haidan, Irval says, "Think on what I said."

You notice Kelfyr moving stealthily south.

The child just wandered south.

More children begin to gather at the inside of the gate.

Thin, tenebrous lines of energy creep along the ground before Irval, heading south.

The child just wandered south.

Cryheart says, "Ye can go ahead and take the children back."

Vaemyr says, "How many kids... did they take..."

A tear-streaked human child just arrived!

The child begins to follow Kiyna.

A fat-lipped human child just arrived!

The child begins to follow Tikba.

Alosaka evenly says, "Several families worth."

Chamorr heartily says, "Looks like a round up."

Town Councilor Kiyna just went south.

The child just wandered south.

Speaking quietly to a fat-lipped human child, Tikba says, "Do not fear."

Tikba just went south.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Adelynn asks, "The real question is, why would they want to have to care for that many brats?"

The child just wandered south.

Bellaja asks, "What happened to your lip?"

Kialeigh says, "Trouble maker that one.."

Udari says, "Good question."

Haidan designates Cryheart as the new leader of the group.

Alosaka says, "It's reasonable to assume some were injured in the attack."

The face of an old reiver woman appears in a window of a nearby building, and upon seeing you she quickly closes the curtains. [ambient message]

Axanders says, "Walked into a gate."

Cryheart asks, "Was that the last one, Haidan, warchief?"

A snot-nosed human child just wandered in.

The child begins to follow Missoni.

A dark-haired human child just arrived!

The child begins to follow Earthdiver.

The child spits at Haidan.

Haidan clenches his jaw.

Earthdiver says, "Not the time for that."

Haidan bows to a dark-haired human child.

Missoni hesitantly says, "Ah, we best go then."

Speaking amusedly to Haidan, Adelynn repeats, "Snot-nosed brats."

Sage Missoni flounces south amidst a diffuse cloud of prismatic glitter.

Haidan says, "That is the las' one."

The child just wandered south.

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "Perhaps they think you should be up there with them."

Haidan says, "See 'em back to thar camp."

Alosaka evenly says, "Wonderful. Our business is concluded, then."

Rheshay nods at Haidan.

Rheshay whispers something to Haidan.

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Please take the childrein to the camp."

Leifa impatiently asks, "Did someone count to be sure?"

Speaking heartily to Haidan, Chamorr says, "Thanks for returning the innocents."

Lylia says, "Others shall take the children there; I shall take your words along with me."

Speaking to Leifa, Kayse says, "We do not know how many there were."

Haidan nods at Lylia.

Lylia nods at Haidan.

Speaking heartily to Haidan, Chamorr says, "You are not alone."

Cryheart says, "Thank ye for bringing us the children."

Speaking appreciatively to Haidan, Leafiara says, "Thank you again for the hospitality and conversation tonight, and of course holding to your word."

Rheshay asks, "Shall I see them out?"

Rheshay peers quizzically at Haidan.

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "This okace is a maze, I dont rember the way out."

Haidan nods at Leafiara.

Leafiara smiles.

Haidan nods at Rheshay.

Warchief Haidan just marched off to the north.

Kyralina says, "Thanks for returning the children."

Cryheart says, "Form on Rheshay."

Bellaja asks, "Who?"

Cryheart designates Rheshay as the new leader of the group.

Arianiss says, "Rheshay."

Rheshay says, "I will see ye back unharm'd."

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

Rheshay glances at Earthdiver. [a child was waiting on him]

[General] Gutstorm sadly thinks, "Dish one kid gotta fat lip."

Speaking to Arianiss, Bellaja says, "I'm afriad I don't know who that is but I'm guessing he's the one everyone's joined."

Arianiss says, "The one I pointed at."

Cryheart whispers something to Earthdiver.

Earthdiver dissolves into motes of white light that flow south.

The child looks about, as if waiting for somebody.

The child looks about, as if waiting for somebody.

Speaking to Arianiss, Bellaja says, "Ah, it's dar.."

The child begins to follow Lylia. [Earthdiver might have logged off; not sure]

The child glances at Lylia, seemingly waiting for something.

The child glances at Lylia, seemingly waiting for something.

Lylia peers quizzically at a dark-haired human child.

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

Bellaja concludes, "Dark."

Citan deeply says, "Thanks for keeping the kids intact'd."

Speaking to a dark-haired human child, Lylia asks, "Really?"

[travel]

Wolfloner darkly says, "Hello."

Speaking heartily to Lylia, Chamorr says, "Look just like ya."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Look for a gate."

Speaking heartily to Lylia, Chamorr says, "Kinda looks like guts too."

Rheshay glances at a dark-haired human child.

[Luinne Bheinn, Granite Edge]

Wind-scarred walls of rugged granite form a high natural barrier around a deep valley nestled among the mountain range below. Several rocks have been chiseled away into the shape of crude ramparts, giving the very peaks a castle-like appearance. You also see a gaping incarnadine maw dripping wiith reddish-black blood.

Rheshay points at a gaping incarnadine maw dripping wiith reddish-black blood.

Rheshay designates Cryheart as the new leader of the group.

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

Speaking quietly to a dark-haired human child, Lylia says, "Mark every corpse in your mind. Remember this well."

Speaking amiably to Rheshay, Leafiara wishes, "Have a good eve."

Rheshay nods at Leafiara.

Leafiara smiles.

Speaking heartily to Rheshay, Chamorr says, "Seeya round."

Earthdiver says, "Just like my old Rift days."

Rheshay bows.

Nazarr says, "Thank you for guiding us back."

Guardian Rheshay just went south.

Lylia says, "We shall take our leave. Thank you for your hospitality this night."

Cryheart says, "Off to the camp."

[travel]

Speaking to a gaping incarnadine maw dripping wiith reddish-black blood, Raelee says, "... interesting."

Bellaja says, "Yes. Still wet."

Cryheart yells, "Come join me!"

Cryheart says, "Moving."

[Imperial Campsite]

Stumps pepper the spacious clearing, as stacked logs leave evidence of their recent removal. A grove of trees surrounds the area, leaving a natural palisade to add some security to the campsite. You also see the web-draped Missoni disk, a snot-nosed human child, a lazy wild midnight black dog, a tear-streaked human child, a grizzled porcupine, a fat-lipped human child, a teary-eyed half-elven child, a steel-roofed huge wooden tower, a polished bronze lantern mounted on a wooden post and a wide dirt-covered trail.

Missoni softly says, "Someone here can take care of you, poor dear."

Thrassus says, "What>"

[General] Cryheart asks, "Anyone still trying to find the way with the child?"

[General] Lylia thinks, "Yes."

Speaking in Sylvankind to Cryheart, Stormyrain asks something you don't understand.

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain asks, "Was anyone left there?"

Speaking to a teary-eyed half-elven child, Kialeigh says, "I'm glad you survived. I was very afraid for ya."

Cryheart says, "Aye, Lylia."

Cryheart says, "Go find Lylia please."

Goldstr exclaims, "Glads we got em home!"

Kezoku says, "Chandrellia has one I beieve."

Kelfyr asks, "Were any children left?"

Cryheart says, "She is in the wooded hills I think."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Perigourd is coming."

Leafiara says, "Chandy's in town now, so she might have already been here."

Avalera quietly says, "Sorry I couldn't make it sooner."

Cryheart says, "Ok."

Tikba mildly says, "A pleasant evening. We have done what we wished and more."

Cryheart says, "Ahah."

Speaking to a teary-eyed half-elven child, Bellaja exclaims, "You're home!"

Nazarr says, "We were worried about you."

Geijon says, "Looks like we recovered them, save a straggler."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna asks, "Pleasant?"

Speaking evenly to Kiyna, Tikba says, "I have had many worse."

Goldstr asks, "All home an safe?"

[General] Cryheart asks, "Are all childrein accounted for?"

Speaking to a tear-streaked human child, Arahnim says, "Im sorry for what you been through. But when you are older come find me and I'll teach you some things ."

Bellaja asks, "Should someone question them .. gently?"

Xorus says, "So. Their whole settlement is embedded in an anti-magic barrier."

Evia says, "Later."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "No mine took off."

Cryheart asks, "Did ye all check the children over?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Deez kidsh no better den da onesh in town."

Thrassus says, "I am fairly certain it only blocks more structured forms of magic."

[General] Arianiss thinks, "They'll do that."

[General] Cryheart asks, "So we still hae a child wandering?"

Kelfyr says, "Mine didn't have any marks on it, but I'm no empath."

Xorus says, "I am sure it does not limit their shaman."

Nazarr says, "I didn't see any marks on any of them."

Bellaja says, "I just worry that the will be coerced into ideas."

Kiyna says, "I found mine."

[General] Mandrill asks, "Anyone selling tape ?"

Kelfyr says, "Nice work."

[General] Peche thinks, "Probably end up finding it in the Bowels."

Udari says, "Some kids are safe. Job well done."

Kialeigh says, "The ones I checked looked fine, I didn't see any clear spider dots."

Wolfloner darkly says, "The children are alive. Count this a good day."

Kialeigh says, "Just traumatized."

Vaemyr says, "We will give them examinations, after they've calmed."

Goldstr says, "Dey seems ok."

Udari says, "It builds character."

Several green-robed women arrive, offering heartfelt thanks and quickly tending to the returned children, leading them off to be assessed and fed.

Discussion Afterward

Udari says, "You wills urvive, kid."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Sense how they are now."

Udari says, "Survive."

Kezoku says, "They don't seem to have any holes."

Kezoku says, "No spider bites."

Missoni says, "Thank you, Green Sisters."

Goldstr says, "Ah ood."

Geijon says, "A tiring night there."

Cryheart says, "Ok..seems we can head home."

Geijon says, "Glad to see them home."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna concedes, "I will agree that this is a better outcome than I expected. I will -not- call that 'pleasant'."

Udari asks, "You do know we will end up in conflict with the Reivers?"

Cryheart says, "Well done everyone."

[General] Citan thinks, "Check the guard.. and Rhett's office."

Wolfloner darkly says, "It is a good day and a good outcome."

Tikba mildly says, "We must hope the example Haidan made will ensure no more children will suffer thus."

Cryheart says, "Most likely."

Kialeigh says, "Well, as close to home as they'll know now.. what with their parents dead."

Speaking to Tikba, Perigourd says, "Yes, killing their parents is enough."

Cryheart says, "Ok..I am going to rest all."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "They might not be kidnapped, but they will suffer like this even still."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Where me kid go?"

Speaking to Udari, Lylia says, "That is our choice and our own free will. We are not going to be flayed and displayed on the North Gate by some tyrant."

Cryheart says, "Good evening."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Raelee says, "You do not get to keep it, Gutstorm."

Goldstr exclaims, "Take care good folk!"

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kayse says, "She meant the Reivers that were hung for the kidnapping I believe."

Xorus says, "Sadly."

Speaking darkly to Perigourd, Wolfloner says, "It could have been far, far worse."

Speaking to Perigourd, Tikba says, "I have told Elidal that he must guard his caravans and his settlers. Perhaps he will listen when you tell him."