North by Northwest (storyline)/2023-01-03 - Through a Mirror Darkstone (log)

Lormesta 3-4, 5123

Synopsis

Magister Enisius brings word that he'll be reviewing the applications for his research team over the next few teams and perhaps scheduling interviews if responses warrant followups. He shows off a mirror that can teleport people to Lake Eonak or the road outside Darkstone Castle, then shares that Elidal has said the next strike against Gnul will be next week and the barony needs assistance with logging to create five defense towers. He takes several questions about the upcoming research, then leaves.

Highlights

Enisius says, "If you pull the mirror, it will transport you to Lake Eonak, in the shadow of Melgorehn's Reach. If you nudge the mirror, it will take you to the road outside of Darkstone Castle. If you push the mirror, well, not necessary to do now."
Gutstorm touches the mirror and its glass surface ripples.  Suddenly Gutstorm flickers briefly before vanishing entirely.
[General] Gutstorm drunkenly exclaims, "It work!"
Seaward Gutstorm just stumbled in, flailing his arms wildly while trying to right himself!
Speaking quietly to Enisius, Raelee asks, "Next time send him further, hmm?"

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "You can just push the mirror on the other side to get back."
Speaking to Kiyna, Tikba says, "I appreciate your bravery."
Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna corrects, "Boredom. But I'll take it."
Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Nothing more boring than magic."
Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Exhibit A."
Kiyna points at Enisius.

Log

Waiting in the Snow

[General] Lylia thinks, "Good evening."

[General] Dwi exclaims, "Hey look! It's Gutstorms wanna be wanna be!"

Flakes of glistening snow descend from the sky.

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly thinks, "Lylia bringed da shnow."

[General] Dwi thinks, "She's mazin."

[General] Directed to Lylia, Pukk thinks, "Better be careful. Gutstorm brought some mistletoe for you."

[General] Dwi thinks, "Pukk's bout as spected."

[General] Lylia thinks, "You are very welcome."

[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 Guarrin disk, the Uketta disk, the Budroux disk, the skull-shaped Irval disk, an erratic spring spirit that is flying around, the Kisun disk, the Kiyna disk, a seed-eyed dusky-grained zebrawood mandrake wearing some reddish bark armor, a sinuous bone white serpent, a masked owl, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it, an herbal remedy donation bin and a round silver-banded barrel.

Also here: Sir Guarrin, Kelwey, the body of Amergin who is lying down, Wolfloner, Drektor, Bernadette, Uketta, Seaward Gutstorm, Budroux, Irval, Pukk, Kisun who is sitting, Town Councilor Kiyna who is sitting, Lady Elliathe who is sitting, Perigourd, Town Councilor Vaemyr

Speaking to Kiyna, Kisun says, "What is to disapprove of? He's a supposed stone giant. They aren't known to be cuddly."

[General] Dwi thinks, "Sellin Zaaldine's leather shirt...cause...trust."

Speaking to Elliathe, Vaemyr says, "So they may have other concerns as well? perhaps something discovered in the mountains that we're unaware of."

[General] Zaaldine thinks, "Heh, it's got pit stains too."

A cold wind stirs through the area.

A bay owl flies in.

Elliathe exclaims, "So many not-Owlys!"

[General] Pukk thinks, "Considering that Gutstorm is only so tall and if he is holding up some mistletoe for Lylia he would probably only be able to hold it up to her waist so......"

A pale-faced coppery barn owl flies in.

Speaking to a masked owl, Pukk exclaims, "Owly!"

Elliathe exclaims, "Aha! The Real Owly!"

Kelfyr says, "Few more and we'll have a parliament."

Speaking to a masked owl, Pukk says, "That other owl has been trying to impersonate you."

Pukk exclaims, "He did it again!"

[General] Lylia thinks, "This line of thought is dangerous."

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly thinks, "Zappem Lylia."

Speaking to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Pukk says, "She keeps trying to impersonate you."

[General] Lylia thinks, "I shall channel my energies elsewhere."

Speaking to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Evia says, "There can be only one."

Speaking darkly to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Wolfloner asks, "Where is your familiar?"

The coppery barn owl hoots at Wolfloner.

Mandrill says, "Teddyboy meet Ulfwine."

Speaking darkly to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Wolfloner says, "I see now. Thank you."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "So....who we join t'nite? Owlie?"

Speaking to Perigourd, Elliathe says, "We're giving strange new meaning to stuffed owl..."

[General] Enisius thinks, "Hi."

[General] Evia thinks, "Hello."

[General] Perigourd thinks, "Fair eve."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Hello Enisius."

[General] Tikba politely greets, "Magister."

[General] Lylia thinks, "Good evening to you."

Pukk says, "Waiting to see who is coming."

Vaemyr says, "Looks like the Magister Enisius is on thoughts."

Pukk recites:

"Everybody join Vaemyr!"

Kiyna says, "Suddenly I feel even more like I want to go to sleep."

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly thinks, "Heddo Raelee brudder."

[General] Bernadette thinks, "Good eve Magister."

Mourdeyan says, "Um."

Mourdeyan says, "No."

[General] Guarrin thinks, "Good evening."

Kiyna says, "Do I really want to deal with that man right now..."

Speaking amusedly to Kiyna, Tikba says, "No doubt it will be brief."

Pukk says, "Yep...I still got it."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "You'd think that would help, but it doesn't."

Kelfyr asks, "Brief or curt?"

Elliathe says, "Must be to announce the research team."

Ulfwine says, "I ran into Enisius in the general store the other day, it was . . . awkward."

Lylia says, "I suspect any interaction with him is going to be that way."

Wolfloner darkly asks, "Was not Raznel once a Magister of the Hall?"

[General] Enisius thinks, "I suppose you can come to the camp for our discussion. I will be brief."

Speaking to Ulfwine, Kelfyr asks, "What was he purchasing?"

Lylia says, "She was also once a baby. Kill all the babies."

Vaemyr says, "Arlighty heading to the camp."

Guarrin says, "It seems we are heading to the camp."

Pukk says, "That too."

[travel]

Speaking amusedly to Kiyna, Tikba asks, "See?"

[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 a wide dirt-covered trail and a polished bronze lantern mounted on a wooden post.

Enisius' News

Speaking politely to Enisius, Tikba says, "I hope you are well."

Uketta says, "Ah oh."

Enisius gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Enisius nods.

Enisius says, "....hi."

Speaking to Lylia, Xorus says, "There is a gathering of ambassadors in Ta'Illistim, the Mirror has apparently called out on all the diplomatic channels."

Speaking to Enisius, Vaemyr says, "Good evening."

Speaking to Alosaka, Lylia asks, "At which point everyone wrung their hands so tightly, their fingers fell off and the world fell into endless night because of it?"

Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Bernadette says, "Almos done with restockn odda Ballistas, tanks to folk heppin."

Enisius gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Speaking to Xorus, Thrassus asks, "Are they holding a navelgazing conclave?"

Speaking to Lylia, Alosaka says, "It was terrible. Suffice it to say the war was lost."

Enisius watches the snow fall.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Sho much shnow lately to fill up a channel."

Speaking softly to Gutstorm, Bernadette says, "Tanks ferdah heps."

Speaking to Enisius, Ulfwine says, ""Good to see you again, Magister."

Enisius says, "Winter should move quickly, so as to not slow our work ahead."

Speaking to Alosaka, Lylia says, "Then it is clear that we should have summoned babies, not demons, such that the southern Imperial border was constrained by the Babywall."

Speaking to Thrassus, Xorus says, "They seem to think the Mirror will want help aiding the West, and find it difficult to imagine why anyone should want to do that."

Enisius says, "I've received several applications to join my research team."

Enisius says, "...thank you."

Speaking to Xorus, Thrassus says, "So things have not changed more or less."

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia says, "I shall want you to spill all the tea."

Speaking to Enisius, Tikba says, "You are welcome."

Enisius says, "I will spend the next few days reviewing them, and perhaps scheduling a few interviews if your responses warrant a follow up."

Elliathe murmurs, "Had a feeling twas about this subject."

Evia says, "Yippee."

Lylia says, "I look forward to it."

Enisius says, "And, at my brother's request...."

[General] Candor thinks, "Muhahahahahaaaaaaaa."

Enisius sighs.

Enisius says, "Follow me."

Magister Enisius just went north.

Pukk says, "So I guess the applications went through the right channels then."

[Imperial Campsite]

A line of silk pavilions casts a colorful array of numerous Imperial flags representing the different territories of the Empire. Craftsmen work diligently outside their shops, the aroma of hops, meat, and freshly cut lumber consuming this division. You also see a goofy island spirit that is flying around, a black-tipped majestic snow leopard and a large black leather tent.

[General] Dwi thinks, "Oh look...Candor had beans."

Enisius painfully tries to smile and gestures at the tent behind him.

Magister Enisius just went through a large black leather tent.

[General] Polveiss thinks, "Beans beans, the magical fruit."

Evia says, "Indeed, it is a tent."

[The Circle Stone]

Crafted from thick lengths of heavy black leather, the tent's edges sway slightly. A varnished wooden desk is set near the back, with evenly stacked sheets of vellum organized neatly upon it. A rune-etched circular stone table dominates the center of the pavilion, bordered by several wooden stools. Wisps of yellow, green, and cyan smoke curl up from crystal beakers that continuously bubble within a rhimar-lined rack. You also see a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake, the skull-shaped Irval disk, a lazy wild deep black dog, an erratic spring spirit that is flying around, a fluffy white cat, a goofy island spirit that is flying around, the Kiyna disk, the Kisun disk, the Maleagant disk, a dolorous wasteland spirit that is flying around, a seed-eyed dusky-grained zebrawood mandrake wearing some reddish bark armor, a grizzled porcupine, the Kelfyr disk, a black-tipped majestic snow leopard, the Guarrin disk, a flame-etched glass mirror and a tent flap.

Evia says, "With a flappy flap."

Enisius asks, "Don't all tents have them?"'

Enisius peers quizzically at Evia.

Speaking to Kayse, Drazaa notes, "This is much needed."

Speaking drunkenly to Enisius, Gutstorm slurs, "Yoo mirror ish not channelin me image backit me, it brokeded?"

Speaking to Enisius, Raelee says, "... this could have been delayed a few more days, to retain some quiet in the working space."

Speaking to Drazaa, Kayse asks, "Oh?"

Speaking to Enisius, Ulfwine exclaims, ""If they don't, they should!"

Kiyna says, "Oh, some kind of magic lab, huh? Better organized than Vaemyr's, at least..."

Enisius shrugs at Raelee.

Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd asks, "Than the research is to be viewed publicly?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Vaemyr says, "Hey now, everything has it's place... on the floor or table or other table."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Mourdeyan says, "I hear vampires have no reflection."

Enisius says, "Elidal suggested we....do this now."

Citan deeply asks, "What is it we are doing?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Did Elidal go troo da proper channelsh to do wot we bout da'doo?"

Thrassus asks, "Getting impatient, is he?"

Enisius says, "Prepare the field, or something, he mentioned. Some loosely tied mention from home that I've forgotten over the years."

[Realm] Directed to Perigourd, Yukito thinks, "I would likle that."

Enisius glances at a rune-etched circular stone table.

Speaking to Enisius, Kiyna asks, "Set the stage?"

Enisius says, "A few things to note..."

Evia asks, "Whut?"

Speaking to herself, Elliathe murmurs, "Prepare the field?"

Enisius touches a rune along the table and the air shimmers briefly above it, before coils of light burn into view and twist to form the image of Darkstone Castle and its surrounding environs.

Enisius touches a rune along the table and the air shimmers briefly above it, before coils of light burn into view and twist to form the image of Malgorehn's Reach and its surrounding environs.

Irval says, "Interesting.."

>l tab

The table is formed of flawless, smooth stone. Several tiny runes are carved into its circular edges, each one periodically changing from blue, to green, and back again.

Citan deeply says, "Most impressive table."

Elliathe says, "Indeed. Well crafted."

Speaking to a flame-etched glass mirror, Evia says, "Mirror Mirror on the wall, channel the most evil castle of all..."

Enisius says, "As we begin our research. While I will be forming a team, we will, I am to understand, be forthcoming and available in many ways."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me think me deaded and gone to heaven."

Speaking amusedly to Gutstorm, Elliathe says, "Ye look alive enough to me."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Mourdeyan asks, "That a request?"

Enisius says, "And..."

Enisius glances at a flame-etched glass mirror.

Speaking to Gutstorm, Ulfwine says, ""Use your senses, man. If this were your heaven there would be a keg here."

Enisius stands in front of a flame-etched glass mirror.

Citan deeply exclaims, "A keg!"

Enisius says, "You do not need to do it currently...as there's absolutely no reason too..."

Elliathe asks, "...do?"

Enisius says, "Unless you're channeling your inner, childish need for impulse but..."

+1.

Enisius says, "If you pull the mirror, it will transport you to Lake Eonak, in the shadow of Melgorehn's Reach. If you nudge the mirror, it will take you to the road outside of Darkstone Castle. If you push the mirror, well, not necessary to do now."

Gutstorm touches the mirror and its glass surface ripples. Suddenly Gutstorm flickers briefly before vanishing entirely.

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly exclaims, "It work!"

Evia says, "Huh."

Kelfyr says, "I guess it works."

Vaemyr says, "Hmm interesting."

Seaward Gutstorm just stumbled in, flailing his arms wildly while trying to right himself!

Citan deeply says, "Wow."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me hadta try it."

Tikba asks, "Did you make this?"

Irval asks, "You planning on doubling or tripling the guard on this? Are these fixed points or can they be moved?"

Speaking quietly to Enisius, Raelee asks, "Next time send him further, hmm?"

Xorus says, "Gargoyles traditionally are a channel for water, but in Darkstone Castle they are there to wash away intruders."

Enisius says, "If I was allowed..."

Enisius nods at Raelee.

Evia says, "So the channel for lazy walk is nudge, pull, etc."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me will be nudgin da hell out da mirror."

Enisius says, "Finally..."

Enisius says, "I bring two pieces of news from my brother."

Citan deeply says, "Oh."

Speaking to Enisius, Kiyna says, "Could have led with that."

Speaking to Enisius, Elliathe offers, "I do hope he is well."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "He not really yoo brudder id he??"

[General] Dwi exclaims, "Gazer!"

Enisius says, "The next strike against Gnul is expected next week. I am sorry, I know no additional details. Please do not ask me."

[General] Dwi asks, "Wot's up der feller?"

Lylia says, "I see."

Evia says, "Yippeeee."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "But you said yoo know evertin."

[General] Dwi thinks, "Looks likka box to me."

Irval asks, "Will we use an additional anchor rune to invade him. Be nice to have the shoe on the other foot?"

Vaemyr asks, "And?"

Enisius says, "I infact, did not say that."

Citan deeply says, "Ummm... I hope this information is not leaked to Gnul."

Irval asks, "For the mirror?"

Speaking to Citan, Evia asks, "Who would channel such sensitive information?"

Citan deeply says, "Unknown.."

Speaking softly to Citan, Bernadette asks, "Now who wud do a ting like dat?"

Speaking to Evia, Ulfwine says, ""it would be a backchannel communication, most certainly."

Citan deeply says, "I just bring the keg."

Enisius asks, "...and lastly, my brother has mentioned the need for your assistance with logging for towers and walls. This was discussed, yes?"

Tikba mildly says, "I did not think anyone could communicate with Gnul."

Speaking to Enisius, Perigourd says, "It was."

Citan deeply says, "Well.. he has been known to be in on our thoughts."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me logged lasht night wit Bernie, me channeled all da energy me mushter already."

Vaemyr says, "It was mentioned certainly, but no real details were given from my understanding."

Evia says, "That is old news, now you owe us a fresh news to replace it."

Speaking to Enisius, Kiyna says, "I look forward to meeting with him to discuss the deal."

Citan deeply says, "Just saying."

Thrassus says, "Wing and lightning will do well to down enough trees for such."

Thrassus says, "Wind, rather."

Kayse evenly says, "It was briefly discussed along with Aronia making sure the trees are replenished with her own group of people who are currently monitoring our resources."

Kayse corrects, "Along with our own group of people."

Enisius says, "Shortly after I conclude this conversation, which will end soon I assure you, there will be some rough foundations established throughout the camp. They will need fallen logs placed within in. I am told a lot, to help build five defense towers."

Enisius nods at Kayse.

Alosaka dryly says, "Soon this camp will be as well-fortified as the Landing itself. Very soon, perhaps, without much additional effort."

Enisius says, "I am told plates of steel will also be needed in time, but my brother is coordinating something with the Darkstone Bay Consortium."

Speaking to Bernadette, Pukk says, "I think Kayse is saying that you are chopping down too many trees."

Enisius says, "This camp is temporary."

Enisius nods at Alosaka.

Alosaka smiles.

Enisius says, "I am not made for a camp."

Alosaka nods understandingly at Enisius.

Enisius says, "We will have a castle."

Bernadette softly says, "She kin say dat ta me erself."

Alosaka grins.

[General] Dwi thinks, "Spite is my waraxe."

Stormyrain just left.

Speaking to Bernadette, Kayse says, "I will not because I didn't specifically mean you."

Pukk says, "Now we scared Stormyrain off."

Kelfyr asks, "Are you sure the castle will have you?"

Enisius says, "At first? no."

Enisius nods at Kelfyr.

Raelee says, "That would be one of the points of the research."

Enisius says, "All things break."

Enisius nods at Raelee.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Well he cant have Darkstone, dat one gonna be mine after da reshearchin done."

Falvicar says, "Aha."

Mourdeyan says, "Specially when an axe is plied carefully."

Enisius glances at Gutstorm.

Lylia asks, "When you say 'a castle,' do you mean 'the' castle?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Falvicar, nudge da mirror."

Tikba says, "I have heard that it is not wise to break a mana storm."

Speaking to Enisius, Kiyna says, "Including you. And us, lest you misunderstand. Be careful."

Tikba says, "Other things may break."

Enisius waves his hand, and a small parchment appears in his palm and he looks it over.

Speaking heartily to Gutstorm, Dwi says, "She made me think der's a rumble."

Thrassus says, "Theoretically one could unravel it, though."

Citan deeply says, "Magic's."

Speaking quietly to Enisius, Raelee mentions, "You can come to the laboratory in the Outpost. You need not always linger in tents."

Alosaka carefully says, "Certainly, care must be taken during any such endeavor. But that is not to say the endevours are not worth taking."

Speaking to Dwi, Nairena says, "It was that or lying about many kegs of ale that need emptied."

Vaemyr says, "That does seem more convenient than writing on your hands directly."

Speaking drunkenly to Dwi, Gutstorm slurs, "Raelee flirtin witda bosh."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Raelee says, "There are two falsehoods in that statement."

Enisius says, "..show tent. Done. Discuss the mirror, done. The forge strike, done. Tree cutting, done. Smile. Done."

Speaking heartily to Raelee, Dwi asks, "Tahoo?"

Enisius nods.

Enisius looks at his parchment and sighs.

Questions and Answers

Enisius says, "...ask for questions."

Erienne says, "You forgot to smile."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Very effishient."

Speaking heartily to Raelee, Dwi says, "If'n ye aint find leben inna anythin he says...yer aint tryin."

Ulfwine says, "Lists are good."

Enisius clears his throat.

Lylia says, "No, I saw a smile. Briefly."

Irval asks, "Can we use the mirror for a launch at the forge?"

Enisius asks, "Any questions?"

Speaking to Erienne, Kayse says, "He did earlier... he looked like he was in pain."

Speaking abruptly to Enisius, Raelee says, "I do have one."

Erienne says, "I must have missed it."

Citan deeply asks, "The parchment not to your likings?"

Enisius says, "No Irval. It will not likely be safe."

Irval says, "Living in the frontier. None of us chose safe..."

Tikba asks, "What does the mirror do when you push it?"

Speaking to Enisius, Raelee asks, "You state that you are not allowed to teleport Gutstorm further away, such as into the heart of the volcano, but by what decree was that explicitly prohibited?"

Speaking drunkenly to Dwi, Gutstorm slurs, "Me learn new trick, if we need to shneak inta Darkstone, we jush nudge da mirror."

Nairena says, "Safe is boring."

Enisius begins chuckling at Raelee!

Speaking deeply to Tikba, Citan says, "Hopefully not fall over."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "I'll let you know. I need -something- to do."

Kiyna touches the mirror and its glass surface ripples. Suddenly Kiyna flickers briefly before vanishing entirely.

Speaking to Enisius, Vaemyr asks, "There a particular forest for sourcing the logs you need?"

Erienne says, "There's a glass room back there."

Dwi heartily asks, "Dis place?"

Enisius says, "It takes you beyond the glass."

Enisius nods at Tikba.

Speaking quietly to Dwi, Nairena says, "Its a tent."

Tikba nods slowly at Enisius.

The air ripples and Kiyna blinks into existence.

Nairena says, "I think."

Speaking drunkenly to Raelee, Gutstorm slurs, "Me would absorb da volcaner energiesh and all da power me channel could rupcher da unnerversh."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Pukk asks, "Have you shown Raelee your mistletoe?"

Enisius says, "It is not dangerous."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Perigourd says, "One would imagine the logging fields to the northern side of the dragonsclaw."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Alosaka says, "I've long suggested we clear out the trees around the Landing. Make it harder for random armies to walk up to our walls unobserved."

Speaking to Enisius, Kayse asks, "When the research begins at both location are non-magic users allowed to attend?"

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Some giant doomsday-looking magic pillar in there."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Raelee says, "I am skeptical."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Guaranteed to explode."

Enisius nods at Kayse.

Speaking to Alosaka, Nairena says, "Thats what the Vaalorians do."

Xorus asks, "What if they move the trees, slyly moving the treeline closer?"

Speaking to Nairena, Alosaka says, "The Vaalorians know how to defend a city."

Speaking to Alosaka, Guarrin says, "Indeed. I had hoped we would use them for an additional wall, but, I suppose fortifications for the camp will do."

Speaking crisply to Enisius, Kayse says, "Good. You will need me on the Reach."

Enisius says, "Research will be as open as possible of course. When it can be."

Alosaka says, "Would clear out some good farmland around the town, as well."

Speaking drunkenly to Pukk, Gutstorm slurs, "Not werf it."

Speaking to Xorus, Elliathe asks, "Wouldn't that require some particularly potent magic?"

Speaking to Enisius, Perigourd says, "Have you anticipated any specific dangers as yet? one of the Reivers had a vision that was quite foreboding about a potential darkness being awakened in the Castle itself."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Pukk says, "You might make Lylia jealous. Good thinking."

Xorus says, "Just some lifting and carrying."

Enisius says, "Individual research, will be up to those on the team."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "You can just push the mirror on the other side to get back."

Nairena says, "Excuse me."

Speaking to Perigourd, Kelfyr says, "I'd tend to worry about drawing the ire of Sheru as well."

Enisius says, "I will be conducting several experiments though, which I am told will be, open to most."

Citan deeply says, "Well us giants with good back still.. are good at lifting and carrying."

Speaking to Kiyna, Tikba says, "I appreciate your bravery."

Speaking drunkenly to Enisius, Gutstorm slurs, "How many folk me gotta tend wit dat want werk at Darkshtone?"

Enisius says, "There is potential for countless dangers."

Speaking to Enisius, Nairena asks, "Will they invole explosions or the killing of the forest wildlife?"

Enisius nods at Perigourd.

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna corrects, "Boredom. But I'll take it."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Nothing more boring than magic."

Kiyna groans.

Enisius glances at Kiyna.

Speaking to Citan, Irval says, "With stien-sized curls? Thats an exp..eriment I can get behind."

Kiyna glances at Enisius.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Wait till me am done, am gonna make massive kobold kingsh."

Enisius says, "I would joke and call you a heretic, if I joked."

Enisius begins chuckling at Kiyna!

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Exhibit A."

Kiyna points at Enisius.

Enisius smiles briefly, catches it, fixes his face.

Erienne says, "I saw that."

Citan deeply says, "Indeed."

Enisius asks, "Boring?"

Enisius peers quizzically at Kiyna.

Enisius says, "Surely you can't..."

Enisius shakes his head.

Speaking to a flame-etched glass mirror, Nairena asks, "Whos the fairest one of all?"

Speaking to Enisius, Vaemyr says, "Oh this is not a road you wish to travel."

Speaking to Enisius, Kiyna says, "Yes, boring."

Vaemyr says, "I have tried..."

Enisius says, "The first spark of mana taking light...taking form...at your command, at your word...burning....twisting...."

Vaemyr says, "Oh have i tried..."

Enisius says, "The sensation alone is...unrivaled."

Enisius nods at Kiyna.

Irval says, "Quite the flow..."

Lylia agrees, "He has the right of it."

Speaking to Enisius, Kiyna says, "Unrivaled in how boring it is."

Kiyna nods.

Speaking apprehensively to Enisius, Kayse asks, "To share Perigourd's thoughts on danger--There are many creatures who run around Darkstone Castle..... How are we sure things like... kiramon stay contained and not attack the town or spread to other areas after disrupting that area by doing research in it?"

Tikba quietly says, "It is hard to forget."

Ulfwine says, "Channeling mana has its rewards, certainly."

Citan deeply says, "Sorcery corrupts a warrior's inner flame... Like prunes after a juicy steak."

Enisius says, "That is part of the research team's goal."

Enisius nods at Kayse.

Speaking to Citan, Nairena says, "Eww."

Enisius says, "To not only conduct work, but ensure it is done as safely as possible. Within reason."

Speaking to Citan, Evia says, "Prunes do have their place in the process, however."

Kayse measuredly mutters, "I do not need kiramon swarming the palisades."

Citan deeply says, "Yeah.. but it not Gouda."

Speaking to Kayse, Guarrin says, "Or anything else from the castle."

Alosaka reluctantly says, "That is a reasonable concern."

Xorus says, "The Sheruvian Order has a long standing interest in both of these sites."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Den go wotch da folk werk at Megoran Reach, Kayse."

Speaking firmly in Aelotian to Kayse, Tikba says, "I will not allow that."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Den you wont gotta shee da kiramen."

Speaking lightly to Guarrin, Kayse agrees, "Yes, but mostly them...."

Enisius says, "I am not dismissive of the threats in either location."

Dwi heartily asks, "Why are so many critters bein discuss'd?"

Speaking darkly to Enisius, Wolfloner says, "It is your project. Any harm done is on your head."

Raelee states, "Magical progress requires risk."

Enisius says, "Estrion. His creations. Sheruvians. The blue boy. The mana storms of both."

Alosaka corrects, "Any progress requires risk."

Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd says, "Regular progress often does too."

Enisius says, "...our own people."

Speaking in Guildspeak, Gutstorm drunkenly slurs something you don't understand.

Speaking darkly to Alosaka, Wolfloner asks, "Who pay the price?"

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

Speaking to Enisius, Kayse corrects, "Rodnay--not blue boy."

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

Enisius says, "Now the tent has two flaps."

Enisius glances between Wolfloner and a tent flap.

Speaking to Wolfloner, Alosaka says, "The weak, sadly. Our other task is to shelter them."

Nairena says, "People have been entering that castle for many decades trying to cull the undead and bad threats."

Enisius nods at Nairena.

Speaking to Enisius, Goldstr says, "I hopes ye work wid Rodnay honorably."

Speaking heartily to Nairena, Dwi says, "Also we kill trolls."

Speaking to Enisius, Tikba says, "That is not on the parchment."

Earthdiver says, "It is a good place to breed trolls."

Thrassus says, "The research will be in part about how to stem that from happening, I am assuming."

Citan deeply exclaims, "Big'guns!"

Enisius nods at Thrassus.

Enisius says, "The best research is controlled, not chaotic."

Evia says, "Or how to best post the eviction notice for the lot of them."

Tikba says, "I am sure we will all do what we can to ensure that the dangers are controlled. Indeed, that is the purpose of the venture."

Speaking heartily to Enisius, Dwi asks, "Da best reserk is...how we gittin Scuttlebutt outta jail?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "How we know not wot to do unlesh we do wot we not to do?"

Pukk offers Wolfloner a handful of salty peanuts.

Kiyna says, "If anyone wants to see Enisius's huge, magic death pillar, it's in the mirror. Just push on it. Probably going to kill us all. Has that look to it."

Speaking to Wolfloner, Pukk says, "You look hungry."

Wolfloner accepts Pukk's salty peanuts.

Speaking to Kiyna, Kelfyr asks, "Is that the third destination?"

Wolfloner takes a bite of his salty peanuts.

The ground around you seems to shake violently, making it hard to stand.

[everyone falls over; New Year's giftbox peanuts]

Dwi heartily says, "Tole ye."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dat wudnt me."

Enisius frowns at Wolfloner.

[General] Lokhem thinks, "SNOWBALL FIGHT! TSC."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Powerful peanuts."

Tikba uncertainly asks, "I am sorry?"

Nairena says, "I would search for the focual points.. the way the evil keeps coming and going from inside the castle."

Raelee says, "... there is a method to these matters."

Speaking to Yukito, Raelee says, "Research, that is."

Speaking darkly to Irval, Wolfloner says, "You look upset."

Enisius asks, "I believe this concludes the question portion of the night?"

Raelee says, "Chaos rarely produces valid results, as one is often left with far too many variables to account for."

Pukk says, "That was a good ice breaker. It was getting really tents....tense in here."

Erienne says, "Doubtful."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Kiyna says, "That is the third destination, yes."

Speaking to Drazaa, Nairena says, "Thanks."

Earthdiver says, "If we knew what we were doing, it wouldn't be called research."

Evia says, "Sure why not."

Speaking mildly to Enisius, Tikba says, "I would like to know more about the enormous obelisk."

Speaking heartily to Pukk, Dwi says, "I think dat was Scuttlebutt, frem jail...gittin back attus."

Speaking to Wolfloner, Irval says, "You don't say."

Enisius says, "I would too."

Enisius nods at Tikba.

Tikba grins at Enisius.

Lylia says, "Chaos is often order that we do not yet understand."

Enisius says, "I've some expanding ideas."

Speaking to Enisius, Thrassus says, "I will likely have some once the details are known."

Speaking to Enisius, Ulfwine says, ""The blessing of Koar be with you in this, they will be needed."

Enisius nods at Thrassus.

Speaking to Enisius, Tikba asks, "Is it your work, or your discovery?"

Speaking to Lylia, Raelee says, "Precisely."

Enisius says, "A little of both."

Perigourd says, "Perhaps take things one step at a time before pushing things to a greater scope."

Enisius nods at Tikba.

Thrassus says, "But that can wait for the appropriate time."

Xorus asks, "What obelisk is this?"

Falvicar whispers something to Erienne.

Speaking to Xorus, Kiyna says, "Push on the mirror."

Yukito traces the neatly-inked line that reads, *Thank you.* within the half-sleeve tattoo on his skin.

Enisius says, "I should go finish to the business of the tower foundations. We thank you for your help in logging for the trees for it."

Enisius asks, "Goodnight?"

Erienne whispers something to Falvicar.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me will guard da mirror."

Enisius waves his hand, his parchment dissolving like wax.

Citan deeply says, "Indeed."

Magister Enisius just went through a tent flap.

Discussion Afterward

Missoni says, "Thank you for the information."

Elliathe says, "Good eve."

Tikba says, "I suppose he is improving."

Elliathe says, "I like the other one better."

Erienne says, "There's not much over."

Kelfyr says, "I don't understand how he hasn't found more fitting footwear yet, as long as he's been here."

Erienne says, "There."

Speaking to Tikba, Drazaa offers, "I think so."

Citan deeply says, "Most insightful night it seems."

Kelfyr says, "Suede in the snow."

Speaking to Wolfloner, Pukk says, "Sorry about...but it sure was funny."

Nairena asks, "Where did Gutsy go?"

Speaking heartily to Nairena, Dwi asks, "We worry bout dat now?"

Elliathe asks, "Did he go in the mirror?"

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly thinks, "Dwi, nudge da mirror."

Speaking to Kiyna, Tikba says, "I confess I did not realize how enormous the pillar was."

Speaking to Elliathe, Kiyna says, "Enisius Left."

[General] Dwi exclaims, "I hate you!"

Speaking to Dwi, Nairena says, "Not at all."

Goldstr says, "Strange mirror."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "When that kills everyone, I told you all so."

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

Elliathe admits, "I am definitely concerned about that giant pillar."

Pukk recites:

"I get knocked down

but I get up again

Yer never gonna keep me down"

Nairena says, "Never say never."

Nairena says, "I got ya bro."

Dwi heartily says, "Nuffin happind."

From nearby, you hear Gutstorm yell, "Dwi come out!"

Dwi yells, "I still hate you!"

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna asks, "Things alright?"

Xorus says, "It reminds me some of the obelisk of black lightning that the Luukosians float over the pit into the Maw of Luukos."

Xorus says, "But that was crystal, this is obsidian."

Speaking to Kiyna, Kayse says, "Well enough."

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna says, "You're makin' not so happy faces, so I wondered."

Thrassus asks, "Did it have a corasine sphere?"

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia says, "I hope you will tell me more about this later, after I see to a few matters."

Speaking to Kiyna, Kayse offers, "My face is stuck like that."

Speaking to Xorus, Tikba says, "You must forgive my missing the season, Dreadlord, but I have something for you."

Xorus says, "Not that I know of."

Lylia says, "Goodnight, all."

Xorus asks, "Oh?"

Tikba produces a warped black bone hexagram talisman from the depths of her white flyrsilk toqua.

Speaking to Xorus, Tikba says, "I have been meaning to thank you for your speech on the nature of the undead. It was inspirational to me."

Speaking to Xorus, Tikba says, "I thought you might like this."

Tikba offers Xorus a warped black bone hexagram talisman.

Xorus accepts Tikba's bone hexagram talisman.

Xorus says, "Praise Marlu."

Speaking to Xorus, Tikba says, "Praise Marlu."

Xorus hangs a warped black bone hexagram talisman around his neck.

Xorus says, "Thank you."

Tikba says, "I have blessed it with what power I can muster."

Tikba uncertainly says, "Also."

Tikba produces a pair of winterweight knitted coal black wool socks from the depths of her white flyrsilk toqua.

Tikba offers Xorus a pair of winterweight knitted coal black wool socks.

Xorus accepts Tikba's coal black wool socks.

Xorus chuckles.

Xorus says, "They are in my color."

Speaking to Xorus, Tikba says, "These are not directly related to Marlu, but I hope you like them."

Speaking wryly to Kiyna, Kayse responds, "Out of the goodness of our hearts."

Xorus says, "Thank you, I will."

Speaking to a flame-etched glass mirror, Bellaja says, "Not the best image."

>l mirr

Etched flame-shaped motifs decorate the frame of the mirror. The glass surface is smooth, but casts a partially distorted reflection.

Speaking to Drazaa, Kayse asks, "Shall we cull some....thing?"

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna says, "Not out of the goodness of mine. Logs are damn heavy."

Speaking indifferently to Kiyna, Kayse says, "I have people to do that for me."

Speaking to Kayse, Drazaa responds, "I am rather amenable to taht."

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna says, "You have people you pay to do that for you. Usually, after you're paid to do so."

Speaking nonchalantly to Kiyna, Kayse asks, "The work gets done, does it not?"

Xorus says, "The orb in the obelisk most directly reminds me of the Sheruvian monoliths in this region."

Speaking begrudgingly to Kayse, Kiyna says, "I suppose it does."

Speaking to Kiyna, Kayse says, "If Elidal wants logs, he can help us with Bodohal."

Speaking absently to Drazaa, Kayse says, "I should probably fill you in on that."

Several imperial workers and settlers finish setting up rough wooden foundations in a few locations within their campsite.