North by Northwest (storyline)/2022-12-11 - Like Sheep to the Slaughterhouse (log)

Eorgaen 11-12, 5122

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the TownCrier

Synopsis

Giant rats scamper around the catacombs, more agitated than normal--and, more unusually, cloaked goblins also run rampant! Further investigation turns up roa'ters digging through the area, accompanied by far more dangerous golems. Eventually Landing adventurers drive them away, though.

Slightly later in the evening, Commander Sablo says his scouts found a fissure in Stone Valley leading to the griffin hatchery, but haven't returned from their second pass through trying to map it more thoroughly. He'll need help locating it again and the Landing adventurers can kill the baby griffins while he sets a lure for the big ones in the forest.

The plan carries on through the night as intended. Adventurers go to smash griffin eggs, Sablo sets a lure of food in the Lower Dragonsclaw, Rooks shoot down several of the griffins flying over town, Gnul doesn't manage to interrupt the assault on the hatchery in time, and finally the Moot Hall pylon fires on the Thanatoph itself to cause a cave-in and bury the hatchery. Sablo celebrates by crushing a grifflet corpse's head underfoot and kicking its body around the area, then says next target is Gnul's forge.

Highlights

Alosaka asks, "Is this really the... best place for the town's greatest defenders?"
Alosaka says, "I feel like we're one cave-in from a defenseless town."
Speaking to Alosaka, Guarrin says, "Aren't we always."
Speaking to Alosaka, Perigourd says, "I brought my shovel."

A pale green-cloaked goblin beams and says, "Ooohh, Stormyrain goots a nice waraxe!  Ooom goona enjoy oosing when gets oofter she is dead!"
Speaking dryly to Stormyrain, Missoni says, "Be afraid."

A large-fanged mottled orange abyran'sa notices a fire salamander and immediately prostrates itself in the general direction of the salamander, speaking to itself softly as it averts its gaze.
Speaking to a large-fanged mottled orange abyran'sa, Lylia asks, "...you do know that is not what you think it is?"

Kelfyr says, "Getting lost in the catacombs is half the fun of the catacombs."
Lylia dubiously says, "The 'fun' of the catacombs..."
Speaking to Lylia, Alosaka says, "Like when kids play "hide and seek"."
Speaking to Alosaka, Lylia says, "Children may call it 'hide and seek.' I call it 'that bounty task I dread the most.'."

Gutstorm taps Stormyrain lightly on her shoulder.
Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Gutstorm.
Speaking jokingly to Stormyrain, Gutstorm slurs, "Hmph!"
Stormyrain asks, "Mhm?"
Stormyrain nods faintly.
Stormyrain says, "Seems right."

Dark hooded figures run along the rooftops of town, firing on the gold-feathered griffins and dropping several of them!  The sky above town is still filled with young brown grifflets.
[General] Dwi asks, "How come Mudder's got magick griffin arrows?"
[General] Dwi thinks, "Should open a shop."

Log

Catacomb Expedition

A jovial pair of the Wehnimer's militia wander by, trading jests about each of the other's taste in spirits. The taller, female half-elf turns to the other, a barrel-chested dwarf male, and with a suddenly seriousness beings to chat, "....goblins coming down from the Mine Road earlier. We best keep our eyes wide on watch. Good thing he has that spyglass...." Her shorter companion grunts anxiously and trudges off at a hurried pace, the half-elf quickly catching up and the two of them turn behind a corner.

[I was sent the above message by someone else, but maybe it was only seen in a specific area like TSC since my posted character didn't spot it.]

The shriek of a griffin pierces the sky, resounding from the distant crags of Thanatoph Mountain!

[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 glossy pink Astrilyn disk shaped like a jellyfish, the Alosaka disk, the skull-shaped Irval disk, the Bolvyne disk, the Urlach disk, the Vaemyr disk, an inlaid leather grimoire soaring around with its gilt-swept ethereal violet pinions, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with glossy holly leaves sticking out of her head, the Jyszull disk, the Bellaja disk, the web-draped Missoni disk, a lazy wild dark red dog, the Elliathe disk, a pale-faced coppery barn owl that is flying around, the Stormyrain disk, the Geijon disk, a pernicious forest spirit that is flying around, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, a seed-eyed dusky-grained zebrawood mandrake sprouting sprigs of Imaera's Lace, the Vrynius disk, the Quellcrist disk, the Yhanse disk, the Rushr disk, an animated halberd hovering in mid-air, a fur-lined crushed silk greatcloak, a large acorn, a fluffy white cat that is sitting, a large acorn, a lesser health potion, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it, an herbal remedy donation bin and a round silver-banded barrel.

Also here: Alosaka, Lord Deneleth, Astrilyn, High Lord Irval, Lord Bolvyne, Urlach, Town Councilor Vaemyr, Bellaja, Jyszull, Conquerer of Reim Missoni, Lady Elliathe, Magister Raelee, Kippe, Stormyrain, Geijon, Hospitaller Yukito, Perigourd, Conquerer of Reim Cryheart, Markx, Miss Quellcrist, Lord Vrynius, Yhanse, Rushr who is sitting, Andromalius who is sitting

Missoni says, "Oh."

Vaemyr says, "But I'm guessing our scouts found the Griffin nests."

Muggsie exclaims, "Rats at the well!"

Vaemyr says, "By the sound of that shriek."

Perigourd says, "Odd rats..."

A cacophony of squeaks and squeals emanates from the nearby well!

Alosaka says, "Er."

Perigourd says, "I wonder if something is driving them out."

[travel]

[Town Well]

The old well is made of flat stones built up around a circular opening. A slate roof overhangs the opening, keeping the drinking water clear and refreshing. Several skin water buckets, with long ropes attached, are scattered on the hard-packed earth surrounding the well. You also see the Kisun disk, the glossy pink Astrilyn disk shaped like a jellyfish, an inlaid leather grimoire soaring around with its gilt-swept ethereal violet pinions, a twitching giant rat that appears dead, a seed-eyed dusky-grained zebrawood mandrake sprouting sprigs of Imaera's Lace, the Guarrin disk, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, the Geijon disk, the Urlach disk, the skull-shaped Irval disk, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with glossy holly leaves sticking out of her head, the web-draped Missoni disk, a lazy wild dark red dog, a twitching giant rat that appears dead, a twitching giant rat that appears dead, a twitching giant rat that appears dead, a twitching giant rat that appears dead, a twitching giant rat that appears dead and a stout rope hanging over the rim of the well.

Kiyna says, "...That doesn't seem good..."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Emmeranne asks, "Late on your extermination bill Councilor?"

Alosaka says, "Something has the rats upset."

Cryheart says, "Rats."

Missoni murmurs, "What could be..."

Guarrin agrees, "Indeed."

Speaking to Cryheart, Emmeranne says, "Seem to be very weak at this time."

Guarrin asks, "Shall we venture below?"

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "Something they're in fear of, perhaps."

Elliathe asks, "Perhaps the shrieks disturbed them?"

Vaemyr says, "Not sure, didn't seem to be much below."

Irval says, "Lets investigate."

[assume a bunch of travel and combat from here on out]

Alosaka asks, "Is this really the... best place for the town's greatest defenders?"

Alosaka says, "I feel like we're one cave-in from a defenseless town."

Cryheart says, "Interesting."

Speaking to Alosaka, Guarrin says, "Aren't we always."

Speaking to Alosaka, Perigourd says, "I brought my shovel."

Geijon says, "I hate shoveling, fire and boats."

Speaking to Geijon, Perigourd says, "Every Imaeran must be good with a shovel."

Vaemyr says, "Something has them stirred up down here."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Cryheart says, "Goblins south."

Vaemyr says, "Be careful of any potential traps or poison."

[General] Elliathe asks, "You don't think the rats have joined Gnul as well?"

You hear a pale green-cloaked goblin yell, "Yoo chooted!", coming from the southwest.

[General] Dwi thinks, "I bet dat feller join'd dem."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Seems more likely that something scared them out of the catacombs."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "No they they are stirred up by something else down here."

Astrilyn says, "This... seems a little mean."

Kiyna says, "Leave some for us to talk to..."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Oh wonderful, since the griffins aren't threat enough..."

Irval says, "Next one."

(OOC) Guarrin's player whispers to the group, "Chase!"

Irval says, "I'll bind it."

Kiyna says, "Here they are."

Vaemyr says, "Come on stop now."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Goblins and some big rats under th' well."

Astrilyn says, "You all are really brutal."

Speaking to Cryheart, Vaemyr says, "Was tryin to talk to them..."

Missoni says, "Oh, they are all dead."

Irval says, "They are goblins..."

Cryheart says, "Oh..rats."

Missoni exclaims, "They can still talk!"

Missoni says, "More or less."

Geijon says, "We'll get one."

Cackles and shrieks of joy echo through the tunnels!

Geijon says, "A gaggle south."

Irval says, "Only if you chooted."

Speaking to Guarrin, Perigourd asks, "You don't think they're sappers?"

Speaking to a pale red-cloaked goblin, Kiyna asks, "Hey, goblins! What are you up to, down here?"

Speaking to Perigourd, Guarrin muses, "It's possible."

You hear a pale red-cloaked goblin yell, "Yoo chooted!", coming from the west.

Irval says, "See."

Kisun says, "Oooh."

Irval yells, "No you chooted!"

Bellaja says, "They keep coming up through here and attacking triage."

Alosaka says, "I don't know, I have a bad feeling about this..."

[Realm] Yukito asks, "Is all well in Landing? No untoward sounds?"

Cryheart asks, "They seem to be diseased?" [was just a sorcerer's Pestilence]

A pale green-cloaked goblin looks Vaemyr up and down and snickers, "Yoo choose the spidersilk boots and arming coat oor dids moom?"

[Realm] Rilla thinks, "Strange things in catacombs."

Cryheart says, "Hold the attacks."

A pale red-cloaked goblin points at Perigourd and squeals, "Ooohhh, a hooman! Oom soo scared!" The goblin then falls to the ground laughing at his own wit.

[Realm] Nyaria thinks, "The sound of griffins near the thanoph."

A roa'ter slithers east.

Vaemyr says, "Roaters."

Kiyna asks, "Woah. Roa'ter?"

Irval says, "Roa'ters..."

Missoni says, "A roa'ter."

Vaemyr says, "Careful..."

Emmeranne says, "Oh thats not good."

Speaking to Kiyna, Kisun says, "It's a woa'ter."

Guarrin says, "Now that is troubling."

[Realm] Yukito asks, "Is that... so? Griffin sounds?"

Kiyna asks, "...Are they trying to tunnel underneath us?"

Alosaka says, "Oh, I get to test my "gold-ring-inside-a-roa'ter" theory."

Irval says, "That would be my guess."

Speaking to Kiyna, Perigourd says, "Seems like."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Speaking to Alosaka, Astrilyn says, "It works."

Speaking to Kiyna, Bellaja says, "The rest are just entering through a point in the sewer."

Vaemyr says, "Ok if there's roaters down here, it's extermination time."

Speaking to Astrilyn, Alosaka asks, "Yes, but what happens if you give the gold ring to someone else to wear?"

Missoni asks, "What was that one saying about an Erithian?"

Speaking to Alosaka, Astrilyn says, "It... also works... if I remember..."

Speaking to Missoni, Kisun says, "It was about me."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "Looking for a way to stew one."

Cryheart says, "One is still alive west."

Kiyna says, "Just for the record, the policy of holding attacks does not apply to roa'ters."

Vaemyr says, "They might be trying to collapse the sewers."

Speaking to Missoni, Kisun says, "Cause I attacked them."

Speaking to Kisun, Missoni says, "Ah."

Lylia says, "Some wretched racket awakened me..."

Cryheart says, "Old attack."

[General] Elliathe asks, "Any sign yet of what stirred the rats up?"

Cryheart says, "We trying to gain some info from em."

Kisun says, "Oof."

Speaking to Lylia, Guarrin says, "Roa'ters. Goblins. Rats. They may be attempting to burrow furth.."

Irval says, "This could also serve as adistraction."

Lylia says, "Oh, wonderful."

A pale red-cloaked goblin runs in and says, "Yoom! Stewed kitten toost goods!"

Cryheart says, "Well...so much for the interview."

Kisun asks, "Interviewing goblins?"

[General] Emmeranne thinks, "Not yet."

Kiyna says, "They're clearly not here to talk, and we can't let them do whatever it is they're up to."

Cryheart says, "Some are talking."

Guarrin says, "It seems we are beyond that. Let's find where they've tunneled from and close off their entry."

Irval says, "They are chooting."

Irval says, "And stealing..."

Irval says, "Check your bags." [...that's gremlins, not goblins]

Lylia whispers something to Xorus.

Vaemyr says, "I tried to talk several times, they just babbled and kept attacking."

Jiarine says, "Clearly stewed kitten tastes good."

Cryheart says, "One was talking at that one spot west."

Emmeranne says, "I say one person dispatches all but one and then we bind the remainf."

A pale green-cloaked goblin beams and says, "Ooohh, Stormyrain goots a nice waraxe! Ooom goona enjoy oosing when gets oofter she is dead!"

Cryheart says, "One is here."

Speaking to a pale green-cloaked goblin, Kisun says, "I get a response for talking."

Cryheart says, "Hold the attacks please."

Speaking dryly to Stormyrain, Missoni says, "Be afraid."

Speaking to a pale green-cloaked goblin, Kisun says, "No use in the insults."

Stormyrain says, "I will gut him."

Stormyrain says, "Requiem earns her name."

Stormyrain leans on her waraxe.

Kisun says, "Now, interview."

Emmeranne says, "Should have bound it."

Speaking to a pale green-cloaked goblin, Xorus asks, "Nice stone clogs. Did your moms buy them for you?"

Cryheart says, "Why are ye attacking, Goblin."

A pale green-cloaked goblin points at Cryheart and squeals, "Ooohhh, a hooman! Oom soo scared!" The goblin then falls to the ground laughing at his own wit.

Irval says, "Goblin, who sent you."

Irval says, "They are clearly insane."

Speaking to a pale green-cloaked goblin, Kisun asks, "Who's orders are you following that sends you here?"

Vaemyr says, "I don't really think they are responsive."

A pale green-cloaked goblin points at Bellaja and squeals, "Ooohhh, a hooman! Oom soo scared!" The goblin then falls to the ground laughing at his own wit.

Vaemyr asks, "Perhaps drugged?"

Astrilyn asks, "Are they even smart enough to understand orders?"

[General] Dwi thinks, "Any trouble spected tonite? Cause I hear der's left-ober ale up in snow town."

Speaking to Astrilyn, Vaemyr says, "Sometimes."

You hear the goblin mutter to himself, "Knoo goots resoopee foor stoowing a gioont in here soomwhere."

Speaking skeptically to Vaemyr, Astrilyn says, "If you say so."

Kisun says, "I will drop the sanct, lets bind one of em, please do not kill them.."

Emmeranne says, "You would have better chance of getting the twon drunk dwarf sober before having a chat with these fellows."

Cryheart asks, "Recipe for a giant?"

Speaking to a pale green-cloaked goblin, Vaemyr says, "Guess you all are dumber than kobolds then."

Kisun says, "Bind..."

Kisun says, "Not sleeps."

Jiarine says, "There are two."

Irval whispers to the group, "Had a goblin wanting the rocks that dropped on us from Gnull."

Emmeranne says, "Someone bind the second one."

Kelfyr says, "Now you can interview them individually."

Irval whispers to the group, "Err Kobold rather."

Lylia says, "All the easier to get the other to talk, especially if they are related."

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly thinks, "Me layin low."

Bellaja asks, "Do we think they really know anything?"

[General] Roelon asks, "Why are there roa'ters in the catacombs?"

Speaking to Bellaja, Vaemyr says, "Doubtful."

[General] Jiarine asks, "Why not?"

Astrilyn says, "Maybe we should find more of the roa'ters."

Irval says, "These are just fodder, probably to corral the Roa'ters."

Speaking to Bellaja, Kisun asks, "No, but I guess that was the plan coming down here?"

Lylia agrees, "Highly doubtful,"

[General] Nyaria asks, "They wanted to keep the company of rats?"

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Well that would do it, in terms of stirring up all the rats."

[General] Dwi thinks, "Guts always lays low."

Vaemyr says, "Honestly they probably would of talked if they knew how to."

Kelfyr says, "I am curious who is handing out the color-coordinated cloaks."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Kisun says, "I want one."

Vaemyr says, "I'm going to scout a bit more about, see if they brought anything with them."

Speaking to a pale green-cloaked goblin, Kisun asks, "Who sent you here?"

Irval says, "I think we should explore more and maybe find one with more...just more."

Speaking to a pale green-cloaked goblin, Kelfyr asks, "Where'd you get your cloak, goblin?"

The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!

Roundtime: 14 sec.

[knocks everyone else down too]

Kelfyr asks, "Was it from your burrowing friends?"

Kiyna says, "If we can't get anything useful out of them... I'd prefer to leave them alive, but they're going to cause unnecessary trouble at the worst time."

Speaking to Kiyna, Guarrin says, "That is likely the case."

Cryheart asks, "Speak goblin...why are ye underneath the well?"

Vaemyr says, "Nothin."

Bellaja unhappily complains, "About twenty of them rushed me the other night."

Cryheart asks, "Here?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Bellaja says, "In the square. They crawled all over the bodies."

Cryheart says, "Ahhh."

Cryheart says, "Leftovers."

Irval whispers to the group, "Shall we if we can find where they got in and seal it off?"

Vaemyr gestures at a chalcedony runestone.

Vaemyr traces an arcane sigil over his runestone, but something goes wrong, causing an explosion over his runestone.

... 10 points of damage!

Severe low back pain! Vaemyr gasps.

He is knocked to the ground!

Bellaja says, "Stole all of our things."

Cryheart asks, "Goblins or gremlins?"

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kiyna asks, "Hey, what did we say about blowing yourself up?"

Irval says, "Enough talk."

Speaking to Kiyna, Vaemyr says, "Only slightly blew myself up, just a tiny scratch."

Astrilyn says, "Oh, the roa'ters are back."

A large-fanged mottled orange abyran'sa notices a fire salamander and immediately prostrates itself in the general direction of the salamander, speaking to itself softly as it averts its gaze.

Vaemyr says, "More roaters."

Kiyna says, "Careful..."

Speaking to a large-fanged mottled orange abyran'sa, Lylia asks, "...you do know that is not what you think it is?"

Cryheart says, "Younguns it seems."

Irval says, "Yes but they are large."

Irval says, "And can swallow you."

Xorus says, "All praise the fire salamander gods."

Irval says, "And dig deep deep tunnels."

Kiyna exclaims, "Even the little ones can swallow me!"

There is a deep rumbling, and you hear the sound of a trapdoor closing!

Irval says, "There."

[Realm] Kelfyr thinks, "Caution for the newer adventurers: stronger creatures than usual are roaming the underground."

Emmeranne says, "Oh bloddy hell."

Bellaja says, "Something is moving..."

Alosaka asks, "Did... we come here through a trap door?"

Guarrin says, "Yes. Convenient for Illoke as well."

Speaking in Guildspeak, Lylia says something you don't understand.

Missoni says, "Perhaps we should go to the trapdoor..."

Cryheart says, "No."

Bellaja asks, "Or someone.. letting them in?"

Cryheart says, "There could be a trapdoor around here."

Vaemyr says, "Door to the moot hall."

Vaemyr asks, "Maybe?"

Astrilyn says, "The trapdoor is deeper inside."

Lylia says, "It is not far, I think."

Irval says, "Sounded like one."

Kiyna says, "Let's go, then."

Cryheart says, "The one we know about."

Lylia admits, "I always used to get quite lost down here."

Kelfyr says, "Getting lost in the catacombs is half the fun of the catacombs."

Bellaja says, "I've no idea about secret doors."

Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "It is awfully twisty."

Vaemyr says, "Gonna check the moot hall storage room."

Lylia dubiously says, "The 'fun' of the catacombs..."

Kelfyr says, "We may have diiferent definitions of fun."

Speaking to Lylia, Alosaka says, "Like when kids play "hide and seek"."

Xorus says, "It is a convenient place to die if you do get lost and starve to death."

Speaking to Alosaka, Lylia says, "Children may call it 'hide and seek.' I call it 'that bounty task I dread the most.'."

Speaking to Lylia, Raelee says, "If a child has the wherewithall to hide down here, presumably they also have what is needed to leave, as I see it."

Lylia says, "Just so."

Roelon deeply says, "Ah don' see them roa'ters and goblins anymore."

Roelon deeply says, "Ah spoke too soon."

Jiarine says, "No one threatens Brat except me."

Xorus says, "Thus where Goblyn takes her name from."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Jiarine says, "They are different cloaks."

Jiarine says, "Red now."

Kelfyr says, "There are openings into a number of places throughout town. If the goal was to enter town via the catacombs, however, quite possible they're coming from the coast. Presuming they can't all burrow like the stone trolls and giants. And now roa'ters."

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Speaking to Guarrin, Vaemyr says, "Nothin that I saw."

Roelon deeply says, "Hmm."

Astrilyn says, "Southward for one of the known trapdoors."

Irval asks, "Ok they want to eat kittens. Can we agree to put them down now?"

Kisun says, "Kitten is good.."

Missoni says, "It is through the boards, by the barricade."

Evia says, "These are their festive wintertime cloaks."

Cryheart asks, "Where is that barricade?"

Missoni says, "Toward the east again."

Vaemyr asks, "What ya lookin for?"

Astrilyn says, "Back the other way east and south at the fork..."

Speaking in Faendryl, Thrassus says something you don't understand.

Evia says, "The trap door thing I thought was to the east through an opening and so on."

Missoni says, "Easterly, south, and through the boards."

Guarrin says, "There is another closer to the cul-de-sac as well."

Irval says, "We need to make that barricade stone soon..."

Missoni says, "And then to the south."

[Catacombs, Old Tunnel]

The tunnel comes to a dead end here. Unlike the other areas of the tunnel, the floor here is surprisingly clear of debris. A crack runs along the length of the floor. Strange sounds echo through the chamber and the floor shifts underfoot periodically. You also see the Vaemyr disk, an animated flayed gigas disciple, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs and a seed-eyed dusky-grained zebrawood mandrake sprouting sprigs of Imaera's Lace.

Perigourd jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath his weight, but doesn't open.

Vaemyr jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath his weight, but doesn't open.

Astrilyn jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath her weight, but doesn't open.

Perigourd jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath his weight, but doesn't open.

Missoni exclaims, "And now we jump!"

Vaemyr jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath his weight, but doesn't open.

Kelfyr jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath his weight, but doesn't open.

Vaemyr jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath his weight, but doesn't open.

Astrilyn jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath her weight, but doesn't open.

Perigourd jumps on the trapdoor. It gives slightly beneath his weight, but doesn't open.

As Missoni jumps on the trapdoor, it gives way!

You fall through to the room below!

[Catacombs, Dark Tunnels]

Large rusted springs groan under the weight of the floor above. The walls and ceiling here are all dirt and rock held in place with old wooden reinforcements, most of which are still in place.

Astrilyn exclaims, "There!"

Cryheart says, "All stand."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Seems pretty quiet."

Missoni observes, "That is quite a few worms."

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly thinks, "It wosh...."

[General] Khoal thinks, "Shhhhhhhh."

Thrassus says, "Roa'ters directly underneath town isn't good."

Speaking to Thrassus, Guarrin says, "No. Certainly not."

Kisun exclaims, "And thyrils!"

A rumble can be heard in the recently burrowed ground!

Vaemyr says, "Potentially using them to either create new tunnels into town, so they can ambush, or for collapsing the tunnels I think."

Kisun says, "Oh dang."

Alosaka says, "Hm."

Kiyna says, "Incoming."

Emmeranne says, "Oh boy."

Bone-jarring tremors herald the appearance of a craggy white stone golem!

Astrilyn says, "Ooh."

Irval says, "Immune to fire."

[Realm] Yukito exclaims, "Golems under the town!"

Astrilyn says, "That's new."

Irval says, "We must be on the right track."

Vaemyr says, "Magic immune golems, great."

The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!

Roundtime: 7 sec.

Roundtime changed to 4 seconds.

[everyone gets knocked down]

Cryheart says, "Oof."

Perigourd says, "More to the southeast."

Perigourd says, "Which would be the further route in."

Perigourd says, "I'd suggest heading that way as the deeper tunnels run there."

Cryheart asks, "All ok?"

Kiyna says, "So they trained a group of roa'ters... or else corralled them through here... to create a tunnel for another avenue of assault..."

Guarrin says, "Let's hit that next wave of them."

Vaemyr says, "More golems south east."

Cryheart asks, "All ready?"

Kisun says, "Ready."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Roelon deeply says, "And talented at that."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Kisun asks, "Are golems immune to magics?"

Cryheart asks, "All ok?"

Kisun asks, "Or just my magics?"

Kiyna says, "Sometimes."

Vaemyr says, "Kisun some."

Missoni says, "They have a shield, sometimes."

Cryheart asks, "Moving southward if everyone is ready?"

Cryheart asks, "All set?"

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dish feel like a tad overhuntin."

Cryheart says, "Golems were here."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Astrilyn says, "Just need to find more of the golems."

Lylia says, "Until the golems stomp in."

Speaking to himself, Perigourd says, "Too dark."

Cryheart asks, "Shae we?"

Perigourd says, "Indeed."

Chandrellia carefully weaves her spell into the air, trails of indigo and silver mist following the somatic components. Twisting and twining, the skeins of energy slip away from her, leaving moisture to drop from her fingertips...

Chandrellia gestures.

The area becomes brighter.

Speaking to Perigourd, Chandrellia asks, "Better?"

Kiyna says, "Vaemyr is telling me there are more golems back behind us."

Cryheart asks, "Back up?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Perigourd says, "For my eyes, but my spyglass is still a bit clouded in the tunnels."

Cryheart says, "I think we need to stand here for a bit."

Irval asks, "Send scouts?"

Speaking to an expansive burning web, Kisun exclaims, "Fire web!!"

Alosaka says, "Roaters above."

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Thrassus asks, "What exactly are we looking for?"

The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!

Roundtime: 13 sec.

Roundtime changed to 10 seconds.

[everyone gets knocked down]

Cryheart says, "Ooof."

Perigourd says, "A cause, I suspect."

Randsford whispers something to Roelon.

Kelfyr says, "If there's one thing fighting underground has going for it, I feel much less concerned about a griffin tearing me limb from limb."

Missoni calls, "Is anyone out there, besides worms and mindless stone beings?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ye shore dish not a dishraction?"

Roelon whispers something to Randsford.

[General] Irval asks, "How is topside fairing?"

Speaking to Gutstorm, Kiyna says, "It's possible, but even so, we can't ignore hordes of golems rising up from underneath."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Lylia says, "Or catapults hurling flame."

Astrilyn says, "Maybe we should see if what used to be the dead ends of these tunnels are... still the dead ends of these tunnels."

[General] Kayse thinks, "It seems quiet."

The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!

Roundtime: 9 sec.

Roundtime changed to 6 seconds.

[everyone falls down]

[Realm] Fahlo thinks, "West gate is good."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "A little ...too quiet."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Lots of snow, but quiet."

[General] Kisun thinks, "All good in the Bowels too."

[General] Kiyna thinks, "Not just golems in the catacombs - now we have krynches, too."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Oh dear."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Anyone got one dem necro ringsh? we need to shpice dish uppa bit."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "But the streets are good for now."

[General] Irval thinks, "Stay vigilant. Gnull for all his bluster is not entirely just a block head."

[General] Elliathe asks, "I wonder have all entrances on the streets to the catacombs been monitored, or just the well?"

[General] Cryheart asks, "Any issues topside out of the well?"

[General] Lylia thinks, "Would that this were universally true."

[General] Kisun thinks, "Didn't see anything on my walk about town.."

Geijon says, "More magic at work it sounds."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Around the well is clear as is TSC."

[General] Tikba uncertainly asks, "Perhaps a feint?"

Irval exclaims, "Incoming!"

Roelon deeply says, "Bloody kilts."

[Realm] Fahlo thinks, "Well is ... well."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Seems as if they just trying to torture the youngones."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Skinnem, dey werf money."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "The golems are tougher."

Gutstorm taps Stormyrain lightly on her shoulder.

[Realm] Yukito calmly thinks, "Be careful if you are a more inexperienced adventurer, when traversing the ways below the city. There are roa'ters and stone golems down here."

Cryheart says, "Hearng there is a strong wind topside."

Cryheart says, "But no critters."

Irval whispers to the group, "I hope they dont destablize the ground and our town collapses in on itself, as these catacombs network almost all over landing."

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Gutstorm.

Speaking jokingly to Stormyrain, Gutstorm slurs, "Hmph!"

Stormyrain asks, "Mhm?"

Stormyrain nods faintly.

Stormyrain says, "Seems right."

Kelfyr whispers to the group, "I'm a bit more concerned that there are a finite number of exits to these tunnels."

Raelee whispers to the group, "I have long thought that would be one of the most effective ways to destroy the town wholesale."

The rumbling in the ground fades as the burrowing force retreats from the tunnels.

Awaiting Sablo

Guarrin says, "Seems they have turned around, for now at least."

Chandrellia says, "Sounds like its going topside."

Raelee whispers to the group, "A collapse of the tunnels would likely allow for significant flooding from the bay as well."

[General] Irval thinks, "Topside be ready. They might plan a counter offensive. Seems they are retreating."

Vaemyr says, "Going to head back into town, we are supposed to meet with Commander Sablo soon, things seem clear here for now."

Alosaka whispers to the group, "I'm surprised the tunnels don't flood regularly."

Perigourd says, "Might be wise to have the catacombs regularly patrolled for a bit."

Cryheart asks, "Ok...can we fog out of here?"

Missoni whispers to the group, "Likewise."

Astrilyn says, "Maybe those were only their scouts."

Gutstorm forms several angular gestures while chanting rumbling phrases of power in the Dwarven tongue...

Gutstorm gestures.

Your surroundings blur for a moment . . .

[Wehnimer's, Erebor Square]

The dome of a large temple rises above this peaceful square, silhouetted against the starlit sky. The circular building is surrounded by marble porticos and teak columns, and a promenade leads to two pillars, through which the inner sanctum can be glimpsed. Priests and worshippers wander here and there, engaged in various rituals of devotion or study. A locked almsbox is securely bolted to an iron pole alongside the pillars. You also see a wrought iron gate and a glowing white stone.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Yep."

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

Missoni murmurs, "Pardon me a moment, please."

Cryheart says, "Hope all were joined."

[Town Square, East]

Here in the center of a broad plaza near the commercial area of the bazaar stands the impressive facade of the slate-roofed Moot Hall, where the citizens of Wehnimer's Landing hold various official, religious and social functions. Facing the square are some of the town's more prosperous shops, still doing business with the many customers who still frequent the streets at night. You also see an animated flayed gigas disciple, a large purple wooden barrel, a blanket of snow, a black imperial wagon with a glowing blue-white pylon on it, a silver-inked ivory parchment nailed to a wall outside of Moot Hall and a dark green wreath with Imaera's lace hanging from the doors of Moot Hall.

Speaking to Yukito, Raelee says, "Perhapss they appreciate the quiet they might find below that cannot be found topside."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "May want to get triage set up in the Thrak Inn trophy room if we havent already."

The voice of Kayse amusedly asks, "Did we get a new Marshal?"

Evia says, "Be right back."

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia asks, "Did the shrieking wake you too?"

Lylia clarifies, "Of the griffins, that is."

[General] Mugz thinks, "Let me know when there is killing to be done, i'm loosening up the old muscles now."

Lylia says, "As opposed to any other shrieking you might have noticed."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Have a drink for me."

Irval whispers to the group, "Should we leave a token force behind to guard the catacombs. Or shall we try and find their entry point and collapse it?"

Stormyrain whispers something to Kayse.

Speaking to Lylia, Missoni admits, "Sprout is prone to shrieking."

Xorus says, "I am always woken with the shrieking of the... oh, the griffins."

Kayse whispers something to Stormyrain.

Speaking to Missoni, Lylia says, "I may have noticed."

Thrassus says, "I'm rather used to shrieking, truth be told."

Speaking to Lylia, Perigourd says, "And great feats of strength."

[General] Mugz asks, "How did you guess chandy?"

Cryheart whispers to the group, "We think the have left the tunnels for the most part, having met fierce resistance, but we need to be wary."

Irval whispers to the group, "Im only worried that this one the first part of their plan. They really only sent token forces compared to previous engagements."

Astrilyn whispers to the group, "That's why I said I think those were just their scouts."

Fahlo asks, "They all head back to where ever they came from?"

Icy flakes of snow begin to descend from the sky.

Chandrellia says, "Here we go."

Cryheart says, "Seeems so."

Irval whispers to the group, "I agree with your assessment then Astrilyn."

Xorus says, "There have been so many tunnels, underground caverns... a whole Lich's Landing... they should just try to collapse the town from below ground."

Speaking to Ulfwine, Alosaka asks, "Ready for a good death?"

Speaking to Alosaka, Ulfwine says, ""Always."

Irval says, "Thats also one of my fears Xorus. It makes sense since he claimed he only wanted to leave us as dust and rubble."

Speaking to Xorus, Guarrin says, "Let's not give them any good ideas."

Chandrellia says, "I'll make my way to the Inn and keep things going there."

Chandrellia says, "Do be safe."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Alosaka says, "I'm sure we'll be there soon."

Xorus says, "Indeed. Tremors and powerful quakes could be of great use to them."

Tikba uneasily says, "Perhaps we should use Elidal's stone to brace the underground, as well as for the walls."

Tikba says, "Or perhaps some timbering would be wise."

Ulfwine asks, "I heard there was a talking Goblin in the tunnes? And some things that shouldn't be there?"

Speaking to Tikba, Alosaka says, "I've long said we should clear the forests from around the walls out to a few hundred yards."

Lylia says, "If 'talking' is what you wish to call their inane babble. But yes, there were golems, roa'ters. Even a krynch or two."

Speaking to Lylia, Ulfwine says, ""They have never been the most articulate of races."

Kiyna says, "I said so before, but I suspect the roa'ters were trained, or rounded up and herded this way to create a tunnel."

Kiyna says, "To create a new avenue of assault."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "We could certainly reinforce key foundation areas with them, but all in all it will probably take some time for various builders and project proposals to come to fruition, so not something we can expect in the short term."

Xorus says, "Stone walls, if they are to be built, should be set significantly further out than the wooden palisades."

Ulfwine says, "Well, that would not be good if true."

Cryheart says, "All is possible."

Lylia says, "And if that is so, tunnels must have a beginning and an end."

Guarrin says, "That would provide a way for the goblins to enter."

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Speaking to Lylia, Perigourd says, "Such things could be well hidden."

Avalera asks, "Goblins? Those funny little things in the catacombs?"

Perigourd says, "Magically as well."

Lylia says, "For all the talk of defensive measures, at some point we must take the fight to Gnul."

Speaking to Xorus, Guarrin mentions, "My plans called for a secondary palisade, yes."

Speaking to Lylia, Vaemyr says, "The plan is afor a strike to do just that tonight."

Irval says, "Proactive instead of reactive."

Tikba says, "I had thought Sablo wished for more reconnaissance first."

Tikba says, "I suppose we shall see."

Chandrellia says, "I dont like this quiet."

Evia says, "Well I'm sure it won't be so quite now."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "He told us two nights ago, that we were a day or two away from an offensive strike, so."

Speaking to Yukito, Perigourd asks, "Lint?"

Irval says, "Let us hope its the former not the latter."

Elliathe asks, "Has he been heard from since?"

[General] Sablo asks, "I'm hungry. Anyone else hungry?"

[Realm] Directed to Perigourd, Yukito thinks, "Blood."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Absolutely."

Speaking to Yukito, Perigourd says, "I have lint if you prefer."

[General] Irval thinks, "I could eat."

[Realm] Yukito thinks, "I have many. That one is just on time out for now."

[General] Evia thinks, "Many are likely hungry and will have little choice but to remain so."

[Realm] Guarrin thinks, "Commander. Good evening."

[General] Tikba politely thinks, "Good evening, Commander."

[General] Kayse evenly asks, "....hungry? As in a hunger to conquer the enemy?"

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Always."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Certainly, I can think of some interesting egg dishes, perhaps an exotic meat dish or two."

[General] Kiyna thinks, "I could really go for a grilled griffin haunch."

[General] Cryheart asks, "What are ye hungry for?"

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Good eve, Commander."

[General] Kayse continues, "As in an offensive strategy to rid our town of these enemies? Then yes, I am hungry for that."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Aye, good eve Commander."

[General] Lylia thinks, "Famished."

Cryheart says, "Commader on the net."

[General] Irval thinks, "Starved even."

[General] Evia asks, "Did you wish to meet with us over some warm soup?"

[General] Sablo thinks, "I will be along shortly, to outside your Moot Hall."

Tikba murmurs, "I am concerned that so many missed dinner tonight."

[General] Ulfwine thinks, ""Good Evening Commander, good to hear from you."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Easy to find us then."

[General] Stormyrain asks, "I hunger for revenge. Shall we?"

Tikba says, "Winterfest, no doubt."

Cryheart says, "Commander is coming here shortly."

[General] Kayse thinks, "At least someone is on the same page as me."

Julenne says to Markx, "You, sir, are a quailing, boil-bottomed haggard!"

Markx says to Julenne, "You, madam, are a trollish, weather-bitten scullion!"

[General] Kataric thinks, "Om nom nom."

Suddenly coming to life, the whiskered vulpine face on Citan's pauldron says to Markx, "You, sir, are a bootless rabbit-sucker!"

Ulfwine says, "Ahh the red dog!, Love that guy."

Mourdeyan quietly says, "He's a hansome one."

Speaking to Mourdeyan, Missoni says, "Thank you."

Speaking to a lazy wild dark red dog, Missoni says, "I am partial to you."

Speaking to Missoni, Ulfwine says, "'If he ever sires pups . . ."

Mourdeyan quietly says, "Ahh, he looks t'ye, I figgered a stray, albeit a healthy un."

[General] Mugz thinks, "As always Kayse let me know when we attack."

Speaking to Ulfwine, Missoni says, "I... do no think he is planning on it, but I will let you know, surely."

Markx asks, "Is this a false alarm?"

Tikba amusedly says, "I fear Winston's children will not be easy to adopt."

Nyaria quietly says, "Maybe distraction."

Cryheart says, "Commander Sablo is coming to meet us here."

Tikba lightly says, "He is a rambunctious breed."

[General] Directed to Mugz, Kayse thinks, "Will do."

Bristenn agrees, "Right, such is why we've entered the city."

Bristenn remarks, "Might as well be abreast of the plan as we defend the settlement."

Cryheart says, "He just thought to us."

Markx says, "So be it."

Vaemyr gestures at a chalcedony runestone.

Vaemyr traces an arcane sigil over his runestone, but something goes wrong, causing an explosion over his runestone.

... 20 points of damage!

Strike to foot! Vaemyr hops around dizzily on other foot and falls.

He is knocked to the ground!

He is stunned!

Cryheart asks, "Ye ok?"

Vaemyr says, "Ok I have some bad luck today."

Commander Sablo just arrived.

Preparations

(OOC) Vaemyr's player whispers to the group, "Two fumbles in a row."

Sablo deftly removes the jagged silver tomahawk from his scabbard.

Evia says, "Oh, there he is now."

Speaking to Sablo, Tikba greets, "Commander."

Sablo says, "I am starving."

Mourdeyan quietly says, "Evenin Sir."

Perigourd grabs a strip of dark spice-crusted bacon from inside his leather haversack.

Perigourd offers Sablo a strip of dark spice-crusted bacon.

Sablo declines Perigourd's offer.

Sablo glances at Perigourd.

Sablo says, "It's..a..."

Speaking to Sablo, Alosaka says, "We have many fine taverns."

Thrassus asks, "Metaphor?"

Alosaka says, "And a few not-so-fine."

Missoni offers, "Bloodlust?"

Sablo says, "It means I want to kill griffins."

Speaking to Sablo, Kayse says, "Oh, good, then we are on the same page."

Sablo says, "I don't actually want to "eat"."

Speaking to Sablo, Perigourd says, "One can do both."

Speaking to Sablo, Geijon says, "Birds."

Evia says, "Just speak plain."

Thrassus says, "It's called a metaphor."

Kelfyr says, "They should have sent some poets."

Nyaria quietly says, "Aww, and here i thought you were gunna be bringing food."

Speaking to Sablo, Vaemyr asks, "The scouts have been successful then?"

Lylia says, "I believe most of us understood this." She furrows her brow in consternation. "At least, I hope most of us understood this."

Sablo says, "Yes and no."

Sablo says, "I had a scout stumble upon some earthen fissure in Stone Valley."

Markx sings:

"OoooOoo Elanthia!

My home and native land!"

Sablo says, "He took another scout with him to map it and retrace their way back better..."

Sablo says, "And they have not returned."

Sablo says, "It's been more than a day."

Kelfyr says, "The ground is dangerous in that valley."

Sablo says, "They're likely dead."

Cryheart says, "A worry then."

Evia says, "Maybe their in the pit."

Speaking to Sablo, Bellaja says, "The tunnels are quite extensive. Who can say what they found."

Speaking to Sablo, Elliathe asks, "So twould be better that triage remain here in the town then?"

Sablo says, "I was told the fissure leads to the griffin hatchery."

Missoni grimly says, "We should perhaps retrieve their remains for their families."

Evia says, "Hmmm."

Cryheart says, "Ahhh."

Sablo says, "But, once we find the fissure, we cannot attack yet."

Sablo says, "I will draw the griffins to the woods."

Evia says, "Lets bash 'em eggs."

Thrassus asks, "They are raising them underground?"

Mourdeyan quietly says, "Or scramble em."

Sablo says, "Then you can kill their little babies."

Irval says, "Egg smashing time."

Speaking to Sablo, Vaemyr says, "Alone?..."

Irval says, "I'll take mine with a side of toast."

Mourdeyan quietly says, "Omelits."

Speaking to Thrassus, Bellaja says, "Not bad thinking."

Speaking to Sablo, Guarrin asks, "To the ...settlement?"

Sablo says, "I will need some assistance. I will lure them, if it works properly."

Alosaka says, "I wish there was a better way of saying that."

Sablo says, "But once the scent brings them, they'll keep coming."

Speaking to Alosaka, Perigourd says, "Grifflets are quite dangerous."

Sablo says, "We'll need others to help defend the forest."

Sablo says, "And likely the town and beyond."

Chandrellia asks, "So, now we resort to killing baby griffins, will this not put the parents in a rage and make things worse?"

Irval asks, "How many expeditionary groups are you thinking Commander?"

Irval asks, "3? 4?"

Evia says, "Well, here we are the few the steadfast, the ready."

Sablo says, "We can't do anything until the fissure is found."

Thrassus asks, "How are they going to be worse?"

Cryheart says, "So expedition first."

Alosaka says, "As troublingly worded as it was... griffins are animals. They do not have the same moral standing as people."

Geijon says, "Let's find it then while folks decide on where their preference is."

Alosaka says, "If we must kill their young, then we will kill their young."

Sablo nods.

Speaking to Thrassus, Chandrellia says, "Send the Imperials back home, that would help at least then we would only have one enemy to worry about."

Speaking to Alosaka, Missoni agrees, "And they are killing the people here."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr says, "If their nests are destroyed, then they most likely will leave to creat a nest elsewhere, they do not hold the same grudges that you may think a human does."

Geijon says, "Something killed those scouts in there."

Irval says, "Ive a tent that can safely protect against attacks that can currently safeguard myself and 3 others."

Tikba mildly says, "Even if they did, it is war."

Sablo says, "I'm going to go finishing preparing my griffin lure. The stuff smells Kai awful."

Bristenn simply remarks, "Well, we did come this way to defend the settlement, Aynesworth and I. We could always use more hands."

Nyaria quietly says, "I wouldnt be so sure, some birds will hold a grudge for a while."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Chandrellia says, "No, then why are they attacking us now? we did nothing to them to begin with."

Sablo says, "I've already informed your Mayor we'll need a pylon as well."

Mourdeyan quietly says, "You say young, I say murderers in tha makin."

Irval offers Sablo a star-shaped red crystal oil lamp.

Sablo declines Irval's offer.

Alosaka asks, "Ooh, we're using the pylons?"

Evia says, "Oh, excellent."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr says, "The same reason you can get a group of dogs to attack a target."

Randsford whispers something to Roelon.

Sablo says, "We will be, yes. Once those griffins leave the nest, they'll swoop down here."

Sablo says, "We'll need to kill them in the sky and forest."

Bellaja says, "I dislike birds. They always go for the hair."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kiyna says, "They're being trained and set upon us, I expect."

Sablo says, "While others grind those eggs to pulp."

Elliathe says, "That's exactly what I feared, they will head straight for us."

Alosaka excitedly says, "We haven't used the pylons in a while."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Chandrellia asks, "Or a bunch of settlers to take over land and hide their true intentions from everyone else eh?"

Geijon says, "We kill deer for food, we kill bears for safety."

Cryheart asks, "So when will we commence?"

Speaking to Sablo, Guarrin muses, "We could reposition the towers to provide you with some cover, perhaps."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr asks, "What are you even talking about now?"

Speaking to Geijon, Evia says, "And for robes, furs and rugs."

Kelfyr says, "We don't kill cubs or fawns for either."

Sablo says, "I would get going to Stone Valley immediately. Look in or around or behind anything that moves or doesn't move."

Tikba says, "We kill our enemies so that they will not plague us again."

Sablo says, "Find that fissure."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Vaemyr says, "Griffins are not native to this region, never have been."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Chandrellia says, "Its fine Councilor, I understand."

Markx asks, "So are we just standin around waitin to get attacked?"

Sablo says, "Alert me when you do. I'll be preparing the griffin bait."

Mourdeyan quietly says, "Rilli."

Commander Sablo just marched off to the north.

Splitting Up

Irval asks, "Anychance of keeping a few of the eggs? they would make tremendous mounts if properly trained for our forces?"

Tikba says, "Let us find the fissure, then."

Lylia says, "Anyone who has ever dined on suckling pig or worn kid-skin gloves or enjoyed a bite of veal should stop being so squeamish. There is work to be done."

Guarrin says, "I'll be at the gates and the settlement, once the griffins return."

Speaking to Irval, Alosaka says, "You can go out east and get a griffin egg any time you want."

Randsford says, "Whom should I form on to help defend the town? Will have no part in attacking these creatures and further provoking them."

Kelfyr asks, "Is someone planning to warn the townsfolk?"

Speaking to Lylia, Evia says, "Lamb chops."

Lylia says, "Just so."

Speaking to Randsford, Guarrin says, "I'll be staying on the defensive force."

Vaemyr says, "So, we need at least a couple groups."

Evia says, "We do have an alarm bell, in case everyone has forgotten."

Vaemyr asks, "Who's leading what?"

Speaking to Kelfyr, Kiyna says, "I'll go alert the townspeople. Get everyone to stay indoors. Griffins will be coming."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Tikba says, "Perhaps you ought."

Guarrin says, "Sir Bristenn will be at the settlement, he mentioned earlier."

Speaking to Randsford, Elliathe says, "As a town bound healer, I will appreciate your protection, M'lord."

Kelfyr says, "Thank you."

Speaking to Elliathe, Randsford says, "Will do what I can to draw them towards me."

Roelon deeply says, "Dangerous they are, but nae their fault they are used in such ways."

Roelon deeply asks, "But what other choice is there?"

Geijon says, "Lets get over to Stone Valley and find this fissure first."

Bristenn agrees, "My band will be at the settlement. I understand if you're more comfortable following a Gryphon, however your forces will be split for this maneuver."

Guarrin says, "I would suggest at least one other group gets going to start the search."

Chandrellia says, "I'll be in TSC if I'm needed."

Cryheart asks, "I shall remain around the town and gates...who wants to lead to Stone Valley?"

Speaking deeply to Randsford, Roelon says, "Guard this town well."

Elliathe says, "May the Huntress grant ye all vengeance for this town."

Speaking to Guarrin, Missoni says, "Perigourd is scouting. I will go join him."

Geijon says, "We're going to have at least three or four operating units and independent forces tonight folks."

Speaking to Guarrin, Lylia says, "Xorus and I would join you, if you wish."

Guarrin says, "But of course."

Tikba asks, "Who will lead a party to Stone Valley?"

Evia asks, "So how many groups have we made, with how many and where? Group leaders.?"

Irval asks, "Commander Sablo, are you still working on the lure? Or will you be joining the search?"

Cryheart says, "Someone lead the trek to Stone Valley."

Vaemyr asks, "I believe that Guarrin's team is going to attempt to destroy the nests?"

Speaking to Irval, Kayse says, "He left awhile ago."

Irval says, "He left..."

From nearby, you hear Kiyna yell, "Attention, please! We anticipate a griffin attack soon! Please stay indoors for your safety, and tell others to do the same!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Guarrin asks, "You're not leading it?"

Cryheart says, "No."

Mourdeyan quietly says, "Tha commander left a few moments ago."

Tikba asks, "Will you take us to Perigourd?"

Cryheart says, "I am going to defend the Landing."

Tikba says, "She is gone already."

Elliathe says, "With griffins in the hunt, we're like to move triage into the Inn fairly early on."

Speaking to Guarrin, Bristenn offers, "Might I suggest Sir Geijon or Perigourd for that, if either are willing?"

Speaking to Bristenn, Guarrin says, "Indeed."

Tikba says, "Perigourd is already there."

Bristenn adds, "Perigourd's oft on the move for little reason, but our Geijon remains."

Speaking in Guildspeak, Alosaka asks something you don't understand.

Geijon says, "I can lead us to th' fissure."

Evia says, "Unless berserking, that is."

Markx asks, "Defend against what?"

Geijon says, "Join for th' fissure."

Cryheart says, "Ok..those heading to Stone Valley, join Sir Geijon."

Guarrin says, "Grand. Call out status as you can."

Geijon says, "I won't be berserking."

Speaking to Bristenn, Guarrin says, "If you need reinforcements, let us know."

Speaking in Guildspeak, Alosaka asks something you don't understand.

Cryheart says, "I will stick around town or the setlement."

Several townspeople begin to pack up their belongings or close down their merchant carts and head inside of buildings and their homes.

Speaking in Guildspeak, Alosaka asks something you don't understand.

Kisun says, "Towsn getting ready."

Guarrin says, "Good luck."

Evia asks, "Who will ring the alarm, Stormy?"

Speaking to Alosaka, Elliathe says, "I was planning to do triage."

Speaking to Kiyna, Vaemyr says, "Good job."

[General] Sablo asks, "Any luck?"

Kisun says, "Town as well."

Randsford whispers something to Roelon.

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Moving to th' fissure to join Perigourd and Missoni."

Speaking to Evia, Stormyrain says, "Whoever is available."

Bristenn briskly announces, "Those heading to the forest to defend the settlement, form on me. Departing momentarily."

Guarrin says, "Moving to the north gate."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "Not as yet."

[General] Geijon thinks, "Meet at North Gate, last call."

Cryheart says, "Rest form on Guarrin if ye want to protect the settlment."

[groups splitting up; editing cuts downh here to only ESP so that no one group is favored]

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Good luck and Huntress be with ye all."

[General] Lunatick asks, "What's going on?"

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Defensive forces with Guarrin, Bristenn and Cryheart at city and defensive positions including th' campsite."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Standing by the West gate..but we are few."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Pylons coming on soon."

[General] Sablo asks, "Any luck?"

[General] Missoni thinks, "Not yet."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Still looking."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Looking in th' areas."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "May have found a tunnel."

[General] Alosaka asks, "Vaemyr, for the rest of our sakes, what killed you?"

[General] Dwi thinks, "Curiousity."

[Realm] The ghost of Vaemyr thinks, "Griffins on Thanatoph."

[General] Dwi thinks, "Or dat."

[Realm] The ghost of Vaemyr thinks, "In the stone giant areas."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Grifflets sighted."

[General] Dwi thinks, "Da ferst is more dangerous tho."

[General] Tikba thinks, "We have made contact with the grifflets."

[Realm] The ghost of Vaemyr thinks, "There are gold ones too."

[General] Sablo thinks, "Maybe the entrance is near there."

[General] Kayse evenly thinks, "Let me know as soon as we see griffins near Wehnimer's. I will sound the alarm as asked by our Marshal."

[General] The ghost of Vaemyr thinks, "Aye I believe I had found end, but died before I could check."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "No sighting yet around Landing."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "I see some up on the ledge towards the eastern peak."

[General] Dwi asks, "Needs me bring my collection o' feras blades fer hurlin at buzzerds?"

[General] Dwi slyly thinks, "Knew dey'd come in handy."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Found another likely spot."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Fissure."

[Realm] Yukito exclaims, "Knew you could do it!"

[General] Saiteari asks, "As much as i hate vipers, what if someone were to release a bunch of em into the griffin nests?"

[General] Lylia thinks, "Your lure is at the ready, I hope."

[General] Alosaka thinks, "Report it to Sablo?'."

[General] Sablo asks, "We're ready?"

[General] Alosaka thinks, "We found the thing, Commander Sablo."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Whoever is in town..be ready."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Fissure is just out of Stonehold if we fall or need reinforcements."

[Realm] Bristenn thinks, "Settlement band ready."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "West gate ready."

[General] Sablo thinks, "Almost ready...."

[General] Guarrin thinks, "North gate ready."

[Realm] Yukito firmly thinks, "Again, stay safe out there."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Indeed Yukito."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "As safe as one can in such circumstance."

A small flame ignites in the depths of the Lower Dragonsclaw forest, reddish-orange and first, before there is a flash of smoke near the fire, and suddenly the flames turn putrid yellow and begin to emit a ghastlly white smoke. Worse than its color, is the pungent odor that billows up from the fire, infusing the air of the forest.

[Realm] Ifanna exclaims, "We'll do our best!"

A loud shriek pierces the night in the distance.

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Moving triage to Thraks Inn trophy Room."

[General] Dwi thinks, "Moobin da dice game to Chandrellia's office."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Let us know when you've engaged and we'll move in."

A loud shriek pierces the night in the distance.

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "I dont have an office anymore."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "And so glad I dont."

[General] Dwi thinks, "It's a secret dice game...so...."

[General] Chandrellia asks, "Aahh so I have a secret office is that it?"

A loud shriek pierces the night in the distance.

A loud shriek pierces the night in the distance.

[General] Sablo thinks, "Come get your food you little winged bastards. Daddy's making a full spread."

[Realm] Yukito thinks, "If you are a non-ccombatant and not undercover, you are wrong."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Bring dead and wounded to Thraks Inn Trophy Room please."

[Realm] Kelfyr thinks, "Prepare the pylons."

[General] Kayse asks, "Any sightings yet?"

[General] Asben thinks, "West gate is still clear."

[General] Tikba shortly thinks, "We are hearing them now here in the valley."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Just a whole lot of shreiking thus far."

[General] Lylia thinks, "They sound agitated."

Putrid, yellow smoke lazily drifts through the canopies of the Lower Dragonsclaw, bathing the entire forest in a sickly, citrine haze.

[General] Kayse thinks, "They are still in the distance from town--but loud."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Very much so, it's echoing all the way to town."

[General] Lunatick thinks, "We're getting a bunch of roltons invading at the west gate. Cryheart refused to take it seriously."

[Realm] Yukito asks, "Sul...fur?"

[General] Cryheart thinks, "They are most likely fleeing the grifflets."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "They found nests in Stone Valley."

Suddenly, the chorus of what can only be described as a thousand shrieking griffins erupts on the high peaks of the Thanatoph, as they burst forth from a crumbling wall of rocks and soar high into the night sky, swooping down towards the Lower Dragonsclaw forest and the yellow haze infused among its trees. Following the gold-feathered griffins is a cluster of brown-feathered grifflets that seem to veer towards Wehnimer's Landing!

Full Force

[combat begins here, so editing pares down to just monsterbold and NPC comments...]

There is a flash of blue-white light outside of Moot Hall. A militia member shouts, "The pylon is activated!"

[...editing doesn't pare down for long, as my character who's on the field dies, sending her to the calmer, easier-to-edit triage area where I can get back into it]

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "In one now."

Sablo emerges from some trees in the Lower Dragonsclaw, running as yellow smoke drifts up from his clothes. Griffins swoop in overhead and he ducks into the woods.

Evia says, "Golly."

[General] Asthenea thinks, "So the town clerics suddenly raised us and sanctified the room at the pylon."

Guarrin says, "Moving out."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "There's several nests, we've destroyed several patches of eggs, more remain."

Kiyna says, "Urgh..."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "Thanks..."

Bristenn remarks, "Right, we're going to try this again, then. We'll merge into Sir Guarrin's ba-"

Leafiara tiredly says, "I said I don't want or need thanks."

Nyaria quietly says, "Feel free to go fry them griffins back up when youre ready."

Guarrin says, "Bah, Randsford snatched again."

Leafiara reminds, "I'm a town traitor who ran to help the camp instead of the Landing the other night."

Kezoku says, "Phew, went for a ride."

Speaking to Bristenn, Guarrin says, "I'm thinking we just move to the towers."

[General] Asthenea thinks, "We are manning the pylon at tsc east if anyone with mana wants to help infuse."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "Well you're getting them anyway. I am giving you my thanks, against your will if necessary."

Kezoku says, "Town's overrun."

Leafiara says, "So leave me alone while I attempt to do the impossible and make--"

Leafiara abruptly says, "That's it, I'm out of here."

Sleek blue-feathered storm griffins swoop down from the sky and begin to soar over the Lower Dragonsclaw forest. Young brown grifflets fly over Wehnimer's Landing, as dark hooded figures run along the rooftops firing upon them.

Randsford says, "Blasted birds."

Guarrin says, "Moving out."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "We."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "We're solving th' egg problem."

Kezoku says, "I'm gonna go rescue more folks."

Nyaria quietly says, "I swear if he goes off and dies again....."

The ghostly voice of Astrilyn says, "I think I'm still okay a while."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "The fissure seems to be closed again."

[General] Lunatick thinks, "Lemme know if you need a drag or lift to voln and where you are. I'm in a resucing mood."

[General] Lunatick thinks, "Invoker is here but there's griffins too."

[General] Asthenea asks, "Can someone sanctify the park maybe?"

The ghostly voice of Astrilyn says, "Still fine at least a little while."

[General] The ghost of Zachriel thinks, "Griffins flying the town. Emmisive and me are dead at Northwest Town Square."

[General] The ghost of Condrysi thinks, "I got deaded trying to sneak my way through town."

The ghostly voice of Astrilyn says, "I'm not much help against those griffins, so no priority."

Earthdiver says, "Aha."

Earthdiver says, "Hmm."

Earthdiver says, "Can't."

Earthdiver says, "Let's go back to town I guess."

[Realm] Guarrin asks, "Rest of the tower crew faring well?"

[Realm] Yukito exclaims, "Nailed one!"

[General] Directed encouragingly to Yukito, Stormyrain exclaims, "Excellent job!"

[Realm] Ulfwine thinks, ""Hittin em from the Wet Tower at north gate."

[Realm] Bristenn thinks, "We've had hits, yes."

[Realm] Ulfwine thinks, ""West, even."

[General] Irval thinks, "Ive either got a really stupid idea or a good one. So ive got one of the dead baby grifflets and I will try and draw them towards the pylons hopefully enraged that I have one of their babies dead..."

[Realm] Bristenn thinks, "We're going to attempt to move back to the ground and make our way out."

Dark hooded figures run along the rooftops of town, firing on the gold-feathered griffins and dropping several of them! The sky above town is still filled with young brown grifflets.

Nyaria quietly says, "Quick draw."

[General] Elliathe asks, "How stands the town?"

[General] Dwi asks, "How come Mudder's got magick griffin arrows?"

[General] Dwi thinks, "Should open a shop."

[General] Alosaka asks, "Is there a safe triage spot in town?"

[General] Thrassus thinks, "There's still more nests."

[General] Irval thinks, "Im west of hall acting as bait...with a dead grifflet in my hands and its blood on my clothing. Hopefully it will entice more of them to come to me and be at the mercy of the towers and pylons."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "We are at Voln."

[General] Alosaka thinks, "There's a stone sentinel in here with me."

[General] Bellaja thinks, "There are sentinels in the hatchery."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "That is a lot of griffens with Bristenn."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "Ifanna and Tamma are at voln."

[Realm] The ghost of Yukito thinks, "Ugh! Okay, I'm going to the towers."

[General] Gnul asks, "You did not think I would not smell you in my home you little rodents?"

[General] Elliathe thinks, "The newly downed are just out the north gate."

[General] Irval asks, "Ive no idea what your talking about Gnul. Why are you missing something?"

[General] Elliathe thinks, "Oh might be west, forgive me."

The ghostly voice of Cryheart says, "Bah."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Contact on our mission."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "We're working to finish."

[General] Zachriel thinks, "Griffins in town."

[General] Ouidanna exclaims, "Made it to invoker, I live!"

[General] Lunatick thinks, "Don't forget your invoker spells. 3 minutes left. Espcially if you died."

[General] Gnul exclaims, "Save the hatchery!"

[General] Irval thinks, "Too late."

[General] Kelfyr thinks, "Not much a host, Gnul. You didn't leave out snacks or anything."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Little late for "saving" I've got some egg shells you can have though."

[General] Tikba mildly thinks, "We had to help ourselves."

[General] Irval thinks, "Gnul I can give you some dead baby grifflets if you want. Else you'll be joining them soon."

Peche says, "Phew, that was close."

[General] Lunatick asks, "Did someone say griffin omlet?"

[General] Diablic asks, "Gifflet wings?"

[General] Asthenea thinks, "If you're not fightin the griffins but have mana, we could use help infusing the pylon at tsc east."

[Realm] Guarrin thinks, "North gate overrun."

[General] The ghost of Stormyrain wryly thinks, "That's an understatement."

Tikba says, "The nests are nearly destroyed."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "I'm still on mission."

[General] Lunatick thinks, "I think sleepy's holdin' down the West Gate."

Huge stone troll soldiers begin to march through the forest towards Wehnimer's Landing.

[General] Kisun thinks, "Trolls outside north gate."

[General] The ghost of Dwi thinks, "Well it work'd til sumbody thought I hadda good idear...norf gate's risky."

The ghostly voice of Alosaka says, "Always die right after the invoker visits..."

[General] Irval thinks, "You are getting desperate Gnul, I see it."

[Realm] Guarrin thinks, "Avoid north gate."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "You might have spoken a bit soon..."

[Realm] Perigourd asks, "Where are you rallying?"

[General] Bellaja exclaims, "Stone soldiers marching to town!"

[General] Amyill asks, "Are they bigger than the birds?"

Tikba says, "I doubt it is safe to walk back."

A huge stone troll suddenly stumbles in the forest, lurching forward as one leg is cleaved from its body! Sablo appears beneath it, two tomahawks branded, and he runs up its back and swings wildly downward, lopping off its head before riding it as it crashes into the ground with a thud! Sablo growls, then rushes off into the fray.

Nyaria quietly says, "North gate is overrun."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Th' nest is destroyed."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "Not all are."

[Realm] Vaemyr thinks, "One set of eggs left in this one."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "Two here."

[Realm] Vaemyr thinks, "Destroying it now."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "Likewise."

Agnaetha says, "Bleh."

Tikba says, "Too many griffins on the way back."

[General] Thrassus thinks, "Much appreciated."

[General] Sablo exclaims, "Let me know when the last egg is crushed!"

[General] Perigourd thinks, "Working on it, Commander."

Peche says, "Stone troll soldiers in the mix now."

Alosaka says, "One got me."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "North gate is almost clear, for now."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "I lied."

[General] Kayse thinks, "West gate is clear."

Peche says, "Gonna see about clearing the ones close to Voln by the bridge."

[General] Kisun thinks, "Couple grifflets in town, just straggling now I believe.."

[Realm] Vaemyr thinks, "One nest with two eggs left."

[Realm] Vaemyr thinks, "Keep going in the cave till you find it."

[Realm] Guarrin thinks, "Trolls at north gate now."

The ghostly voice of Barnessa quietly says, "I give up."

The ghostly voice of Barnessa quietly says, "It was worth a shot..."

Alosaka says, "It's always worth a try."

The ghostly voice of Barnessa quietly says, "These invasions are so not fun for us young folk..."

Speaking to Barnessa, Chandrellia says, "We do try to warn everyone to seek shelter."

The ghostly voice of Barnessa quietly says, "Well, I can sing to any loot that drops."

The ghostly voice of Barnessa quietly says, "Maybe I can make a profit from it."

[Realm] Ulfwine thinks, ""Still a few trolls around west gate."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Final egg in what we think is three nests in th' Hatchery."

[Realm] Guarrin thinks, "Griffins back at the gates."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Hatchery is cleared."

[General] Perigourd thinks, "The eggs have all been destroyed, Commander Sablo."

[General] Stormyrain asks, "Where is aid needed?"

[General] Tikba thinks, "Still a griffin just outside the west gate. Gold."

Barnessa quietly says, "Welp..."

Barnessa quietly says, "At least I have my gruel."

[General] Sablo thinks, "Good...give me a moment...."

Barnessa takes a bite of her warm gruel.

Barnessa quietly says, "Delish."

[Realm] Geijon thinks, "Mission complete. Back defending North Gate."

Chandrellia says, "For now."

[character moves to the Small Park as it suddenly occurs to me to wonder whether all monsterbold messaging shows up area-wide or only in the Landing specifically (and therefore not at Voln), so spoken dialogue slows down here]

[Town Square, Small Park]

A small, shaded park fills an old vacant lot behind a row of buildings, the bright lamplight from the square filtering through the passage to the north to illuminate the area with a soft glow. A weatherworn grey marble statue of a stocky human in pioneer's clothing overlooks the park, his stone hat encrusted by the gifts of decades of passing birds and his right hand half-upraised as if it once held some now-missing object. You also see a doodle-edged off-white leaflet, some ornate wrought iron benches, a mass of charred building remnants, a tall black bulwark tower, a blanket of snow and a polished red steel lantern mounted on a wooden post.

>read leaflet

The page, written in Common, reads as follows:

What type of parent would stand by and allow the wolf to devour the children without raising a hand in protection? Yet see now those who would not raise a hand to protect the future freedoms of the children of the north. We must protect the forests for our children, grandchildren and children yet to be born. We must protect the freedoms for our children. The Northern Sentinel Jovery must be stopped or his kind will continue to rob the north of land and freedom.

[Realm] Geijon exclaims, "Incoming!"

[Realm] Yukito exclaims, "Really?!"

[General] Tenieth thinks, "Grifflet on North Ring Rd."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Still need help south of the west gate."

[General] Kisun thinks, "Kill it Tenieth."

[General] Tenieth thinks, "I can't, it would crush me easily, but I'm throwing down balefire from the rooftops."

[General] Sablo thinks, "Get back to the pylon...."

Final Shots

[Town Square, East]

Here in the center of a broad plaza near the commercial area of the bazaar stands the impressive facade of the slate-roofed Moot Hall, where the citizens of Wehnimer's Landing hold various official, religious and social functions. Facing the square are some of the town's more prosperous shops, still doing business with the many customers who still frequent the streets at night. You also see the glossy pink Amyill disk shaped like a jellyfish, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake with glossy holly leaves sticking out of her head, the web-draped Missoni disk, the skull-shaped Irval disk, the Geijon disk, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, a lazy wild dark red dog, a large-fanged mottled orange abyran'sa, the Emperia disk, the Beiowulf disk, the Avalera disk, the Guarrin disk, the Earthdiver disk, the Evia disk, a fluffy white cat, a pernicious forest spirit that is flying around, the Kelfyr disk, an airy pale-colored teacake, the Kiyna disk, the Lokhem disk, the mist-hazed Asthenea disk, a stack of dark-swirled rye crisps, some manna bread, a large purple wooden barrel, a blanket of snow, a black imperial wagon with a glowing blue-white pylon on it, a silver-inked ivory parchment nailed to a wall outside of Moot Hall and a dark green wreath with Imaera's lace hanging from the doors of Moot Hall.

Sablo says, "Bury the rest of that damn hatchery."

Tikba says, "I fear it is recovering."

Kiyna says, "That's my shot. Someone else take the next one."

Speaking to Sablo, Irval says, "Brought you a souvenir."

Irval reaches into the depths of his tonal onyx longcloak and pulls out a dead baby grifflet from an inner pocket, causing the bones to rattle with the movement.

Irval offers Sablo a dead baby grifflet.

Sablo accepts Irval's baby grifflet.

Sablo nods at Irval.

The voice of Amyill says, "How sweet."

Rhaladin says, "Ah wan' ah dead griffin."

Evia says, "Take that to the taxidermy shop."

Speaking to Guarrin, Vaemyr says, "We firing at Thanatoph, gonna bury the tunnels so they can't renest."

Kiyna says, "I think hitting the mountain is an impressive feat of accuracy, personally."

Tikba says, "Probably the meat would be gamey rather than sweet."

[General] Tenieth asks, "Who's peeking at me?"

Kelfyr steadies the blue-white pylon and fires! A bolt of brilliant blue-white energy soars up into the sky, slams into the side of Thanatoph mountain and sends huge chunks of rocks and griffin feathers flying into the air!

Udari asks, "The little ones were attacking too?"

Alosaka says, "I mean, not the ones in the eggs..."

Guarrin says, "Grand. Might cause some problems for those below, but, tomorrow's concern."

Kayse steadies the blue-white pylon and fires! A bolt of brilliant blue-white energy soars up into the sky, slams into the side of Thanatoph mountain and sends huge chunks of rocks and griffin feathers flying into the air!

Kelfyr says, "Ready."

Perigourd steadies the blue-white pylon and fires! A bolt of brilliant blue-white energy soars up into the sky, slams into the side of Thanatoph mountain and sends huge chunks of rocks and griffin feathers flying into the air!

Earthdiver says, "Unanticipated."

Sablo lets out a cheer!

Vaemyr steadies the blue-white pylon and fires! A bolt of brilliant blue-white energy soars up into the sky, slams into the side of Thanatoph mountain and sends huge chunks of rocks and griffin feathers flying into the air!

Sablo says, "A few more strikes..."

Rhaladin asks, "What we shootin?"

Perigourd says, "A mountain."

Evia says, "Mountain."

Tikba says, "Thanatoph."

Missoni cheerfully says, "Thanatoph."

Speaking to Rhaladin, Vaemyr says, "Where the nest was on Thanatoph."

Kiyna states, "Thanatoph had this coming."

Dwi heartily says, "Aint been da ferst time folks done sumpthin like dis."

Wisps of blue-white smoke rise up from the side of the Thanatoph as rocks crumble, rolling down the mountainside.

Tikba says, "Gnul wished to make dust of us."

Tikba says, "We will make dust of him."

Rhaladin says, "Jes dinnae hit Roblars house." [That's near the opposite end of the Icemule trail and isn't even close to the Glatoph, never mind the Thanatoph...]

[General] Chandrellia asks, "Oh fun Dwellers?"

Evia says, "Crumblin and rumblin."

Kelfyr says, "The level of atonement I'm going to need to make after this night is hard to fathom."

[General] Kisun exclaims, "Look out for those rocks!"

Xorus says, "Amos should be a sport and aim the plinite pylons at Thanatoph."

Alosaka says, "Nice Imperial engineering, this."

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

Irval says, "Yah Dont hit Roblars, Thats a monster I dont wanna fight."

Missoni steadies the blue-white pylon and fires! A bolt of brilliant blue-white energy soars up into the sky, slams into the side of Thanatoph mountain and sends huge chunks of rocks and griffin feathers flying into the air!

Alosaka exclaims, "Fire!"

Wisps of blue-white smoke rise up from the side of the Thanatoph as rocks crumble, rolling down the mountainside.

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

Sablo raises his baby grifflet skyward!

Missoni murmurs, "Satisfying."

[General] Elliathe thinks, "We still have triage available at Voln."

Zahhak darkly says, "Just a scratch."

Evia says, "Just don't roll toooo far."

Speaking heartily to Xorus, Dwi says, "Yer so lucky Gutstorm aint here...he'd take dat serious."

Speaking to Kiyna, Vaemyr says, "Trophy."

[General] Kisun thinks, "Krynch warriors coming now.. Just killed out outside north gate."

[General] Peche thinks, "Two gold griffins by kobold and velnalin area."

Bellaja says, "There we go- close it up for good."

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

Xorus says, "He wants to kill me regardless."

Lylia says, "I hear two of the larger ones have landed near the kobold village."

Lylia says, "Wildly."

Alosaka exclaims, "Fire!"

Emperia says, "Excellent."

Rhaladin says, "Ah'm gon' go shoot 'em in tha' head."

Kelfyr says, "Ready to PULL into position."

Tikba steadies the blue-white pylon and fires! A bolt of brilliant blue-white energy soars up into the sky, slams into the side of Thanatoph mountain and sends huge chunks of rocks and griffin feathers flying into the air!

Kiyna exclaims, "Fire!"

Kelfyr says, "Ready to fire."

Earthdiver steadies the blue-white pylon and fires! A bolt of brilliant blue-white energy soars up into the sky, slams into the side of Thanatoph mountain and sends huge chunks of rocks and griffin feathers flying into the air!

[General] Evia thinks, "Take that Gnul-Skull."

Amyill steadies the blue-white pylon and fires! A bolt of brilliant blue-white energy soars up into the sky, slams into the side of Thanatoph mountain and sends huge chunks of rocks and griffin feathers flying into the air!

Alosaka says, "Ah, it's nice and warmed up now."

[General] Peche thinks, "Uh, they just disappeared."

Amyill says, "Got one."

Dwi heartily asks, "So...is dis like throwin an axe?"

Alosaka says, "Imagine a ship armed with these things."

Blast after blast of blue-white energy from the pylon slams into the side of the Thanatoph mountain, finally and utterly collapsing the caverns of the griffin hatchery as rock and rubble tumble down the side of the mountiain, taking dozens of stone troll soldiers with it.

There is a flash and the pylon powers down.

[General] Thrassus thinks, "Likely because they just noticed thier nests are just burning embers and fragments of shell."

Victory Celebration

Sablo nods.

Perigourd says, "Nicely aimed."

Alosaka says, "Good old girl."

Tikba says, "Good work, everyone."

Irval says, "We need more of these."

Kayse says, "We do have more of them."

Irval says, "I mean...a lot more."

Sablo twists slightly, cracking his spine. He looks much better.

Guarrin states, "Unfortunate work, but, necessary."

Tikba says, "Amos has a ship armed with these, in fact."

Dwi heartily says, "Rockslide...dis why ye dig down deep."

Udari sadly says, "I cant help but feel a little bad. I mean a hatchery."

Sablo says, "There..."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "More than one."

Speaking to Tikba, Perigourd says, "He had a few at one point."

Kelfyr says, "Would that that weren't so."

Sablo says, "Let's see those bastards take to the sky again."

Sablo says, "...they won't."

Evia exclaims, "Tough night, but steadfast good work all!"

Irval says, "They can't push us back now that they can't rule the sky."

Sablo's entire body tenses as he tightens his grip on his baby grifflet.

Kayse asks, "Will Gnul not hit us even harder now?"

Kayse glances at Sablo.

Guarrin asks, "Any sign of the scouts?"

Speaking to Sablo, Bellaja says, "They've been there a while. Eggs in every nook."

Speaking to Kayse, Alosaka asks, "Do we really think Gnul was holding back out of the goodness of his heart?"

[Realm] Yukito thinks, "I have never been happier to see something perish. I've never been picked up by a griffin before and I NEVER want it to happen again."

Kelfyr says, "I fear this night made monsters of us all."

Missoni sadly says, "No sign od them."

Speaking to Guarrin, Lylia says, "I looked, but I did not see any such signs."

Sablo says, "We've robbed Gnul of his aerial advantage."

Speaking to Sablo, Thrassus says, "Your plan worked brilliantly."

Geijon says, "Old bones, not new ones."

Speaking heartily to Kayse, Dwi says, "We moobin da dice game to yer office."

Sablo says, "Our plan, our efforts."

Sablo nods at Thrassus.

Speaking to Bellaja, Evia asks, "Sexy little beasts, eh?"

Lylia adds, "Which may be reason for hope, not sorrow."

Sablo says, "Darkstone and Wehnimer's Landing."

Speaking to Alosaka, Kayse says, "I don't believe those are the words I said."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Alosaka says, "We killed animals that were threatening our town."

Speaking to Kayse, Vaemyr says, "We pick off his forces one at a time like this though, and the Grffins were one of his biggests assests and most dangerous tools to use."

Speaking to Sablo, Perigourd says, "There were some that came in the catacombs ealier."

Speaking to Sablo, Irval says, "Well said."

Tikba evenly says, "We have done what must be done. I will not apologize."

[Realm] Kisun thinks, "Awe, it's fun."

Speaking to Lylia, Missoni says, "Perhaps they found a place to secret away."

Speaking to Lylia, Guarrin says, "Oh and thank you for trying with the eggs and such."

Speaking to Evia, Bellaja says, "Definitely beasts."

Speaking calmly to Alosaka, Kayse says, "My point is we pissed him off even more now. And we still have many of his 'allies' to take out."

Earthdiver says, "This reminds me of my old griffin hunting days."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kayse says, "I guess everyone is a war expert now."

Irval says, "Yah but this is a message to the rest of his forces."

Evia says, "Griffins don't speak with stone men, something else urged them here."

Speaking apologetically to Kayse, Alosaka says, "I understand. But for him to hit us harder, he must have more forces with which to do so. And tonight he has less."

Irval says, "That we will hit them where they hurt the most."

Speaking to Kayse, Vaemyr says, "Just a student of history."

Speaking to Kayse, Thrassus says, "He was likely planning this all along, it takes an enormous amount of time to raise and train griffins in that number."

Geijon says, "War is not a pretty thing."

Speaking to Sablo, Bellaja asks, "How will we ever keep them from going under?"

Irval says, "It never is."

Sablo throws the dead baby grifflet on the ground and it lands with a sickening thud. He roars and steps on its lifeless head for good measure, pushing blood and brains through its eyes and baby beak. He kicks it for good measure.

Sablo says, "Now we plan the next strike..."

Nyaria quietly says, "Well isnt that... lovely."

Rhaladin says, "Free food."

Speaking to Sablo, Evia says, "Squish."

Speaking to Thrassus, Kayse says, "I am just saying do not under estimate the enemy."

[General] Chandrellia asks, "How does town look?"

Irval offers Sablo a dead baby grifflet.

Sablo declines Irval's offer.

Sablo twists slightly, cracking his spine. He looks much better.

[General] Diablic exclaims, "It lives!"

Speaking to Sablo, Irval asks, "Not one more for good measure?"

Speaking to Sablo, Stormyrain asks, "Who is next?"

[General] Kisun thinks, "Good at the moment."

Mourdeyan quietly says, "All clear fer a bit sir."

Speaking to Sablo, Evia says, "Littering is frowned upon in this town good Sir."

Randsford says, "So much for civility if we cheer over such death."

Speaking quietly to Asben, Dwi says, "Bettin onna barbecue."

Speaking to Sablo, Udari says, "Im glad you work for the Landing."

Sablo says, "Good work all. Drink more than your share tonight. A battle well done."

Sablo says, "Their forge."

Sablo nods at Stormyrain.

Stormyrain nods firmly.

Tikba fervently says, "May all our enemies so perish."

Bellaja says, "I hope someone is going to at least pluck it for its down."

Kayse whispers something to Stormyrain.

Stormyrain says, "Outstanding. Whenever you are ready, we will be."

Commander Sablo just marched off to the north.

Discussion Afterward

Irval says, "Good job everyone."

Kelfyr says, "This is our hero. This is their commander."

Elliathe exclaims, "Well fought everyone!"

Geijon says, "Well done for what we could control and impact."

Speaking in Elven, Udari says something you don't understand.

Speaking to Kelfyr, Alosaka says, "He is not for everyone, I'll agree."

Speaking simply to Kelfyr, Tikba says, "Tonight, we won."

Vaemyr says, "If anyone would like a shell, as a trophy from tonight, I have a few extras."

Guarrin says, "Well fought everyone."

Speaking in Elven, Nyaria quietly asks something you don't understand.

Kiyna says, "...Well, I was elated at our victory, but after that display..."

Speaking to Udari, Ulfwine says, ""so long as it is aimed in the right direction . . ."

Evia says, "Going to be a might dusty for awhile."

Dwi heartily says, "Folks laughed at me when I scamper'd bout grabbin dem feras blade da udder nite."

Randsford says, "This is not an honorable victory. At least treat them with respect."

Chandrellia says, "Yes lets take trophies now of the dead young, perhaps I'll do the same when the settlement is next attacked."

Lylia says, "I prefer to focus on the victory itself, and it certainly was one."

Speaking to Kiyna, Bellaja says, "Remember, he is not a politician. Just merely a fighter."

Guarrin says, "We can discuss the next step of the plans tomorrow then."

Speaking to Randsford, Alosaka says, "It was a fight against animals. By definition it could have no honor."

Nyaria quietly says, "Might i also suggest, not eating any snow on the ground."

Thrassus says, "I'm honestly looking forward to his next plan."

Speaking to Alosaka, Randsford says, "But we can."

Speaking lightly to Nyaria, Tikba says, "You should not do that in any case."

Nyaria quietly says, "Unless you like blood flavor, then by all means."

Speaking in Elven, Udari says something you don't understand.

Lylia says, "There were more than just animals on that mountainside."

Dwi heartily says, "I should go search da bushes..jus in case...musta chuck'd forty o' em."

Speaking to Nyaria, Rhaladin says, "Is nae tha' red snow ya' gotta worry about."

Speaking to Lylia, Bellaja says, "Many stone sentinels and soldiers."

Speaking quietly to Tikba, Nyaria says, "I try to avoid this white stuff when possible."

Lylia says, "Gnul's troll soldiers appeared as well, attempting to defend the nests."

Speaking quietly to Rhaladin, Nyaria says, "Here specially..."

Speaking to Lylia, Vaemyr says, "They came a bit too late though."

Thrassus says, "Gigantic granite constructs as well."

Randsford says, "If we seek to smear the entrails of our enemies then we are no better than the beasts laying waste."

Alosaka says, "If you don't like how Sablo comports himself, then don't emulate him."

Speaking heartily to Lylia, Dwi asks, "Do ye know how to insult a troll?"

Speaking heartily to Lylia, Dwi says, "Me neidder."

Earthdiver says, "To remember the one that dropped you on your head."

Amyill exclaims, "A round of Frozen Dinghy's on me at Helgas!!"

Lylia replies, "I know how to insult everything, if I put my mind to it and if it has the wit to know when it has been insulted."

Lylia says, "I just choose not to. Most of the time."

Elliathe says, "I need to find someone that can make me a muff."

Speaking heartily to Lylia, Dwi says, "Trolls too stoopid."

Earthdiver exclaims, "That is plenty!"