North by Northwest (storyline)/2023-01-10 - Hire and Higher Walls (log)

Lormesta 10-11, 5123

Synopsis

Elidal meets everyone at the bonfire and thanks them for help constructing the defense towers, then says connecting walls will be coming next. Commander Sablo has returned and is searching to find where Gnul's feras weapons come from, but Elidal will need help from Landing scouts to assess the area are the location is discovered. He and possibly Magister Enisius also hope to speak with Grand Magister Octaven soon regarding what to do with the plinite.

He's also heard of a movement of black thorns voicing dissent. He says he won't fault people for their voices and it's not his place to make requests of the town, but then says he hopes that the Landing will work to squash the movement. Tikba questions the inconsistency of this position, but Elidal says voices are not a movement until they take action and they're working to unfairly influence the people of Wehnimer's Landing. He says he'll meet with any of them if they wish and doesn't wish to silence any voice, but avoid blood and conflict.

Meanwhile, soon Lady Arnoia will be seeking to perform a ritual to help replenish the land.

Log

Awaiting Elidal

[General] Elidal thinks, "Good evening."

[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 sparking Dendum disk, the discordant Lahanna disk, a bushy-tailed golden brown coyote, a resplendent obsidian black raven that is flying around, a black leather book flying around with its feathery wings, the Asben disk, the Kelfyr disk, a grizzled porcupine, a grizzled giant purple squirrel with onyx black eyes, the Fionola disk, a very tall blood red grik'pwal, the skull-shaped Irval disk, the Lokhem disk, the Condrysi disk, a black-footed forest wolfhound, the Avalera disk, an upset wasteland spirit that is flying around, a frost-covered yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake, a frost-covered ebon seed-eyed dusky-grained zebrawood mandrake, the web-draped Missoni disk, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, a sinuous bone white serpent, a lazy wild deep black dog, an inlaid leather grimoire soaring around with its gilt-swept ethereal violet pinions, a scratched coin, a moldy bone, a table leg, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, the Pukk disk, the Arahnim disk, a black iron cauldron, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it, an herbal remedy donation bin and a round silver-banded barrel.

[General] Broadfuguis asks, "Where is the florist located?"

[General] Perigourd thinks, "Fair eveining."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Good evening Elidal."

[General] Broadfuguis thinks, "Evening."

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna says, "I didn't see you, but I saw Drazaa, so I knew you were here."

[General] Ulfwine thinks, ""Good evening Lord Elidal."

[General] Kiyna thinks, "Evening, Eli."

[General] Tikba thinks, "Good evening, Elidal."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "Good evening, Lord Elidal."

[General] Elidal thinks, "I will be to the bonfire shortly, if you can brave the cold for some conversation."

Alosaka asks, "Well, shall we?"

Cryheart says, "All join, heading to the bonfired."

Kiyna says, "Just Elidal, huh... maybe I'll go back to bed."

Cryheart says, "Moving out in five."

Cryheart says, "Four."

Cryheart says, "Three."

Cryheart says, "Two."

[General] Falvicar thinks, "If you want cold, go to Mule or Pinefar."

Cryheart says, "Leaving for the camp bonfire."

[travel]

[General] Mauss objects, "If'n ya want REALLY cold, git a boat and sail north o' the Mule. Ya can't even hide from da wind!"

Guarrin says, "The bonfire."

Guarrin says, "Bonfire."

Cryheart says, "Ok..who moved the bondfire."

Vaemyr says, "East of the entrance..."

[General] Maliku asks, "Who?"

[Imperial Campsite]

A roaring bonfire demands attention from the center of this temporary town, its coppery gold flames mesmerizing as they dance. Rows of tents bordering the fire create purposeful pathways to other areas of the camp. You also see the Kelfyr disk, a grizzled porcupine that is sitting, a frost-covered ebon seed-eyed dusky-grained zebrawood mandrake, an inlaid leather grimoire soaring around with its gilt-swept ethereal violet pinions, a frost-covered yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, the web-draped Missoni disk, a lazy wild deep black dog, a stained wooden keg and a long wooden log.

[General] Mauss muses, "Course if da wind were ta stop blowin' with you out dere, you'd be in deep trouble."

Cryheart says, "Aha."

Cryheart says, "Thanks."

Vaemyr says, "Cryheart just needing to take the long way."

Kelfyr says, "Helps to stretch the legs before standing a while in the cold."

Several settlers walk by, huddled within heavy blankets, as they move about their business, some disappearing into nearby tents, others running errands in the cold.

Missoni murmurs, "I hope everyone is keeping warm."

Perigourd whispers something to Missoni.

Ulfwine says, "Not really."

Speaking to Ulfwine, Perigourd says, "Still not as bad as beyond Cold River."

Alosaka laments, "Oh, summer, where hast thou gone?"

Ulfwine says, "Bad enough, though."

Speaking to Perigourd, Vaemyr says, "That area has almost an unnatural chill to it though."

Guarrin offers Raelee an ivory-inked emerald green letter.

Raelee accepts Guarrin's emerald green letter.

Raelee offers Guarrin an ivory-inked emerald green letter.

Speaking to Guarrin, Raelee says, "... I see."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Perigourd says, "I typically attribute that to the wryms, and the pack mothers."

Guarrin accepts Raelee's emerald green letter.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Perigourd says, "Always something watching one there."

[Realm] Alosaka thinks, "Tap tap."

Speaking to Perigourd, Vaemyr says, "Certainly."

Lord Elidal just arrived.

Vaemyr says, "Good evening."

Coming Walls

Elidal waves.

Cryheart says, "Good evening, Lord Elidal."

Elidal bows.

Speaking to Elidal, Drazaa greets, "Lord Elidal."

Ulfwine says, "Good evening m'Lord."

Elidal says, "Good evening all. It feels like I have not seen you since...last year."

Elidal smirks.

Speaking amusedly to Elidal, Tikba says, "You are not dressed for this weather, Elidal. Sit close to the fire."

Falvicar says, "Aha."

Elidal grins at Tikba.

Speaking to Roelon, Falvicar says, "You didn't get us lost, for once."

Elidal says, "I will dress warm once every last settler has such a luxury first."

Elidal says, "I will say though..."

Speaking deeply to Falvicar, Roelon says, "It is ah omen...."

Elidal says, "With all of the donations from all of you, the knitted clothing, and supplies from Vornavis..."

Elidal says, "We may be able to accomplish that."

Falvicar whispers something to Roelon.

[General] Mauss asks, "Gosh darn it, where's dis bell ringin' from...??"

Elidal says, "Look."

OOPS?

Elidal smiles.

Elidal says, "I want to thank all of you for your help with the towers."

Cryheart says, "Ye are welcome."

Ulfwine says, "It was tremendously fun."

Elidal says, "Even in Riverwood's busiest of seasons, I have not seen such...efficiency and speed."

Goldstr says, "Was good tramwork."

Vaemyr says, "The folks around here can... do pretty amazing things."

Avalera says, "Even given the halfbold, we still managed."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "We are meeting by the camp bonfire, with Lord Elidal."

Ulfwine says, "He was something else, that critter."

Elidal nods at Irval.

Elidal says, "Of course, I hope there will not be too many groans when I say, in the coming days more foundations will be laid for the final piece of the project."

[General] Directed to Cryheart, Mauss thinks, "Oh, da CAMP camp. Heh. Thankee Sir."

Elidal says, "Towers are important, but are incomplete without connecting walls."

Elidal smiles.

Cryheart says, "We shall d our best to aid ye."

Speaking to Elidal, Perigourd says, "I stlil have some steel to be used."

Avalera says, "Well, my blisters need blisters, so why not. The Demonwall wasn't built in a day, after all."

Missoni weakly says, "I am sure we will be pleased to wield our axes again."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr says, "I hope when we get to upgrading our own walls, that we will be as incredibly efficient."

Meril quietly says, "Mm. Every time I come here, there is a little less forest."

Speaking to Avalera, Perigourd says, "Just a different foe to chop."

Ulfwine says, "Oh I am looking forward to more log chopping."

Elidal nods at Vaemyr.

Elidal begins chuckling at Avalera!

Speaking to Meril, Missoni says, "Perigourd has been planting an acorn for each tree we fell."

Elidal asks, "Is the Demonwall even finished?"

Elidal shrugs.

Bernadette softly says, "We does wot needs doin."

Perigourd says, "More actually."

Avalera says, "Depends on where you want it to end."

Alosaka says, "Soon we will have a suitably clear space for the new town."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr says, "Obviously they shoulda hired the people up here to build it..."

Xorus says, "The Demonwall serves little purpose, but it is an impressive enough monument."

Elidal says, "I've spoken with Sablo. He's returned, but is on the hunt."

Missoni curiously asks, "The hunt for what?"

Elidal says, "We're aware Gnul's troops continue to wield deadly feras weapons, and we look to disrupt that."

Speaking to Elidal, Drazaa notes, "Glad to hear he has returned safely."

Elidal nods at Drazaa.

Elidal says, "He has turned back several caravens successfully. We will gladly welcome them come spring."

Nairena says, "Hes quite the commander."

Ulfwine says, "If it ever comes."

Elidal says, "This storm is only getting worse, and we've still ten days left according to Iliyaas."

Kelfyr asks, "Has she provided any other guidance?"

Elidal says, "I had hoped to end this forge by the weekend, but it seems it may be longer."

Ifanna whispers something to Ulfwine.

Elidal says, "But when the location is discovered, we may need some...keen scouts to help get an assessment of the area."

Elidal says, "Sablo is not that man."

Elidal chuckles.

Speaking to Elidal, Guarrin says, "There are a few capable individuals locally."

Elidal nods at Guarrin.

Elidal says, "Perfect. I assumed as much."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr asks, "Have you heard that we may be dealing with much worse than feras weaponry soon?"

Elidal says, "Yes. It has come to my attention."

Elidal says, "Plinite."

Vaemyr nods at Elidal.

Speaking to himself, Mauss murmurs, "If feras don' work they gon' try somethin' else."

Elidal says, "I'll confess, my knowledge of the material is...not even close to sufficient."

Raelee folds her arms over her chest.

Speaking to Elidal, Perigourd says, "Magister Raelee is quite knowledgable about it."

Elidal says, "But at the mere mention of it, my brother has already begun formulating plans for the plinite that remains."

Elidal nods at Perigourd.

Elidal grins at Raelee.

[General] Alosaka asks, "Which town?"

Tikba neutrally says, "I am sure the plans will be well received."

Speaking slowly to Elidal, Raelee says, "Then he will need to speak to Grand Magister Octaven. It is not simply free for the taking."

[General] Loamian thinks, "I'm guessing Wehnimer's."

Elidal says, "Of course. He'll speak with her. I may well too."

Vaemyr says, "I think Larsya was quite clear, she wants it removed from the outpost."

Elidal says, "In time, there will be many discussions with Octaven I am sure."

Elidal says, "The outpost served a unique purpose for a time. As our Barony grows though..."

Nairena asks, "I dont think I heard the name before. Who is Octaven?"

Elidal says, "We may need to revisit its purpose and positions within."

Alosaka says, "Octaven has been nothing but transparent and forthcoming with us."

Elidal says, "But that is lifetimes away it feels like."

Ulfwine says, "It would make a fine grand temple to Koar."

Speaking to Elidal, Guarrin says, "With the borders remaining where they are."

Elidal says, "Let us be honest, Octaven has burned as much as she has built."

Elidal begins chuckling at Alosaka!

Vaemyr says, "Hmm that's a lot of buidling then I guess..."

Speaking to Elidal, Alosaka says, "It's a bit of a pattern with the Hall."

Elidal says, "It should not be."

Elidal nods at Alosaka.

Irval asks, "Is there a way to track plinite?"

Speaking to Alosaka, Raelee asks, "How many Magisters have you met, Alosaka?"

Irval asks, "Especially in such a large quantity?"

Alosaka asks, "Oh, goodness. Maybe a dozen?"

Elidal says, "The Empire has not been accurately or fairly portrayed this far north in decades."

Elidal nods at Alosaka.

Elidal says, "Davard? Dennet? Rinhale?"

Elidal says, "The list goes on."

The voice of Dendum adds, ""Elidal?"

Speaking to Alosaka, Raelee says, "And given how many of us there actually are, perhaps it is not a large enough sample size for a fair assessment. Walk the halls of the colleges."

Speaking to Raelee, Irval asks, "Do you know if it can by scryed for with the amount of elemental energy gathered in one place?"

Avalera mutters, "Rinhale."

Speaking to Raelee, Alosaka says, "Someday I hope to meet the majority of careful and considerate Magisters you speak of."

Cryheart says, "The Empire should in time consider the importance of the position the Landing in where it is located."

Speaking to Elidal, Ulfwine says, ""My own church has much to make up for in that regard as well."

Concerns

Elidal says, "I also have some...concerns raised to me."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr asks, "Have you by chance, heard back anything from the Earl by chance about the letter you sent a while back?"

Speaking to Irval, Raelee says, "... in theory."

Elidal says, "Shadows of dissent, perhaps nothing more. But I have been as transparent as possible, and of course, I hope and wish for the same in exchange."

Elidal says, "He has received the letter. I would expect a response in the coming months."

Elidal nods at Vaemyr.

Kelfyr says, "Seems an awful long wait for what should be a straightforward reply."

Elidal says, "The impact and ripple of our suggestion is not one made or executed lightly, I am sure you can appreciate that."

Irval offers Elidal a sorrel fleece satchel.

Elidal nods at Vaemyr.

Elidal accepts Irval's fleece satchel.

Elidal nods at Irval.

Elidal offers Irval a sorrel fleece satchel.

Irval accepts Elidal's fleece satchel.

Elidal says, "That is my concern."

Speaking mildly to Elidal, Tikba says, "Wehnimer's Landing is a free city. There are those who worry it might not remain so."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr says, "I'm away, and I understand the speed of those things. But as you mentioned discourse... well, I wish only we could know sooner as I believe that would help things."

Tikba wryly says, "I am sure that has not been kept from you."

Elidal says, "I have heard whispers."

Elidal says, "...and truthfully, it is not my place to even make any request, as it is your town, your walls, your people..."

Elidal says, "The black thorns."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr asks, "Do you know much about them?"

Avalera says, "They don't whisper. They write bad poetry and leave notes lying about."

Elidal says, "No. I don't."

Elidal nods at Avalera.

Kelfyr says, "Oh, give it credit, the poetry's not half bad."

Elidal says, "I would like to know more. No doubt there's some even within our midst now. It only makes sense."

Ulfwine says, "Doggerel verse filled with nonsense."

Elidal says, "Gnul is our enemy at this time. That is my focus, that should be our focus."

Dendum says, "There are those who wish to seek the will of city....in matters of the protectorate."

Speaking to Elidal, Guarrin says, "I wish you luck. I wish to give no further platform to those people."

Airwave says, "I found this on a bench, I know nothing about it."

Airwave taps a hammered faenor torc culminating in black thorns that she is wearing.

Guarrin says, "If there is a need for productive discussion. Let me know."

Elidal says, "I will never fault a man, woman or child for their voice. There is freedom in that, as there should be."

Alosaka says, "There will always be some people excitedly greeting their worst fears, and proclaiming them to all who will listen."

Speaking politely to Elidal, Tikba agrees, "Yes."

Speaking to Alosaka, Ulfwine says, ""And insisting you share them."

Elidal says, "I just hope...as we work to forge an alliance and a future relationship between our people, that you would work as hard to squash any "black thorn" movement as you have defend our people, protect our caravans, and build our towers."

Speaking to Ulfwine, Avalera says, "That's when I stop listening."

Speaking to Alosaka, Mauss agrees, "Folks be wantin' attention. Even if fer alla wrong reasons."

Elidal says, "Rot within is more dangerous than the enemy beyond."

Vaemyr says, "Generally we encourage free thought and speech, the only true ways to quiet the discourse are by showing other paths, they have a right to be afraid of the unknown. But I'll continue to urge caution and patience. I think something can be said that there haven't been open attacks so far though."

Tikba mildly asks, "Why?"

Elidal asks, "Why, what?"

Elidal peers quizzically at Tikba.

Dendum remarks, ""Rot from within or fire from without can still destroy the woods."

Tikba asks, "Why do you wish us to squash this movement, if you would not fault them for their voices?"

[General] The ghost of Omblin thinks, "Rescue in stone giants please."

Kelfyr says, "As you said, it's not your place to make such a request."

Tikba asks, "Settlers under attack deserve to be defended. Why do citizens expressing their doubts need to be suppressed?"

Speaking to Tikba, Alosaka asks, "Perhaps you could enlighten us about this Black Thorn matter?"

Cryheart says, "Only those who may wish harm to the settlers."

Dendum asks, "The Free North is still ruled by the will of the people yes?"

Cryheart says, "Otherwise free discourse is there."

Speaking lightly to Alosaka, Tikba says, "You must keep your ear to the ground."

Speaking to Tikba, Guarrin says, "My patience for those that disparage my Order, and those that have bled for this town for some time is rather thin."

Elidal says, "Voices, are not a movement."

Speaking to Tikba, Alosaka says, "That's what I'm doing now."

Elidal nods at Tikba.

Lahanna softly says, "At the moment, he is right."

Elidal agrees with Guarrin.

Speaking to Tikba, Guarrin says, "So no, I have littler interest."

Lahanna softly says, "The enemy is Gnul."

Thrassus says, "If the tone of the dissent leans towards frenzied hyperbole it can spur less wise actions on the part of the dissenters."

Cryheart says, "Aye, we share a common enemy, his name is Gnul."

Cryheart says, "All should remember that."

Speaking to Elidal, Guarrin says, "Good luck with your discussion."

Sir Guarrin just went west.

Elidal points at Thrassus.

Speaking to Elidal, Tikba asks, "What is a movement, but many voices?"

Elidal says, "Voices taking action, to me, becomes the movement."

Alosaka asks, "What is a flood, but many raindrops?"

Avalera says, "Sir Guarrin is a rather even-tempered fellow. When he's been pushed too far, you know you're pushing too hard."

Speaking to Tikba, Mauss says, "I'd say a movement, is folks that'll actually... well, move fer somethin' important6."

Elidal says, "My job is to serve the people of Darkstone. I cannot do that one enemy at a time. If the boat has several leaks, we must work to seal them all."

Elidal asks, "I would not label these black thorn voices an enemy. Hardly. But could they become more?"

Speaking to Elidal, Dendum remarks, ""As of this night none are calling for an attack on your barony of sticks."

Elidal asks, "Did your Brotherhood of Rooks not begin as dissented voices? In some ways?"

Elidal says, "...now look at that poison that has taken root."

Tikba mildly says, "Perhaps, if they were told the baron wished them to be suppressed."

Kelfyr says, "I'm certain you don't need to draft aid in crushing things under boots."

Speaking to Elidal, Irval says, "And escalated to an arrow in my eye recently."

Lahanna softly says, "I could imagine it also depend what one considers a leak..."

Speaking to Elidal, Ulfwine says, ""Their pamphlets are pretty imflammatory, they certainy seem to view YOU as an enemy, you and what you represent."

Elidal nods at Ulfwine.

Elidal says, "Precisely."

Elidal says, "They work to unfairly influence the people of Wehnimer's Landing."

Kelfyr asks, "Unfairly?"

Elidal asks, "They are free to their views...but should they sway the minds of others with such...falsehood?"

Elidal asks, "Am I your enemy?"

Elidal peers quizzically at Kelfyr.

Kelfyr asks, "What is unfair about their expression?"

Speaking to Elidal, Dendum remarks, ""Some would call this how cities ruled by the vote work...."

Irval asks, "If they preach freedom but cast stones that dont believe in their way of freedom, is that not a bondage of another form?"

Tikba neutrally says, "I fear I spoke out of turn. Your petition must be considered by the Town Council."

Speaking to Dendum, Ulfwine says, ""or mob rule perhaps."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr says, "I mean... the brotherhood of rooks has been destroyed and rebuilt a few times. It's because of the people feeling like they are needed that they exist, and we must change peoples perspectives for it ever to really be removed."

Irval says, "And I mean literal stones."

Elidal says, "I am merely asking...as a current and desired future ally...that we all work together to ensure the black thorns remain as voices only."

Elidal asks, "That is fair, no?"

Vaemyr says, "I'm sure the people and these black thorns, might feel like they have no other choice, they are just people in the end, scared and frightened people."

Elidal says, "I welcome their voices. Hell, I would meet with any of them myself if they wished."

Tikba says, "The best way to do so is to work together, yes."

Elidal says, "I do not have all of the answers. No one is right all of the time."

Kelfyr says, "First you crush, now you greet."

Kelfyr says, "I'm not hearing a strong principled vision I'd hope for from a leader of his people."

Elidal says, "But as we work to help build a strong and new relationship with the people of Wehnimer's Landing..."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr says, "I could try and arrange something of that sort... if you wished, maybe that is the right idea, for them to meet and talk with you directly."

Elidal says, "I will not see our work undermined."

Speaking mildly to Elidal, Tikba asks, "Transparency and honesty is very important, is it not?"

Elidal nods at Vaemyr.

Speaking to Elidal, Perigourd says, "As you said, some of them are most likely here, and have met you, and are not convinced of the empire's good intention. You may be giving them more credit than is needed and in doing so, give more power to them in the first place. Let them voice their opinons. Those who wish to keep an open mind will, one way or the other."

Alosaka says, "The man speaks of working together to defeat our common enemy."

Vaemyr says, "I'm not a member certainly, but I could potentially reach out to some people."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Alosaka says, "And not listening to the voices that would undermine what tenuous unity we have found. That strikes me as leadership."

Speaking to Elidal, Tikba asks, "What can you tell us of Magister Enisius's obelisk?"

Tikba says, "That is a question on which transparency may help."

Elidal says, "I merely wish to avoid words turning into action, or weapons, or arrows, that once set loose, cannot be undone."

Speaking to Alosaka, Kelfyr says, "You have a unique belief there."

Vaemyr says, "I think we can all agree about that."

Speaking to Elidal, Dendum informs, ""If the people of landing feel their voice is being heard....they will likely remain peaceful. They have always had open arms for those seeking a better future."

Speaking to Elidal, Dendum remarks, "A better future away from Barons and such."

Speaking to Dendum, Alosaka asks, "In what particular matter have the people not been listened to?"

Cryheart says, "Opinions do vary."

Perigourd whispers something to Missoni.

Alosaka says, "I feel like my mind is awash in opinions and voices these days."

Speaking mildly to Alosaka, Tikba says, "The people would like to know about Magister Enisius's obelisk." [he does respond to this a bit later]

Elidal says, "I think you are confused, or perhaps I am not communicating well enough."

Speaking to Alosaka, Dendum remarks, ""Have any collected to the voice of the people?"

Ulfwine says, "People, always 'the people' but I suppose only those that hold enmity to the empire count as the people."

Speaking to Tikba, Missoni agrees, "I am quite curious about that obelisk."

Kelfyr says, "I'd echo Tikba's question, and Missoni's seconding."

Speaking to Tikba, Alosaka says, "You should ask Enisius about that. Or perhaps keep your ear to the ground."

Speaking to Alosaka, Tikba says, "Enisius is not a believer in transparency."

Tikba says, "But our friend Elidal is."

Speaking to Tikba, Alosaka asks, "It is frustrating when people don't answer questions asked in good faith, isn't it?"

Speaking mildly to Alosaka, Tikba asks, "What would you like to know, my friend?"

Elidal says, "I do not wish to silence any voice. Not a single one."

Elidal says, "I merely wish to avoid blood or conflict."

Speaking to Tikba, Alosaka asks, "Could you please tell us about these black thorns?"

Speaking to Elidal, Perigourd says, "It hasn't come to that yet, as I'm aware, and with a good measure of sense, won't."

Perigourd says, "That and patience."

Elidal says, "I disagree with the voices. I will not hide that. I think they are wrong, and their efforts are best served in other ways. If their hearts are callous to Darkstone, so be it, they need not make it take root in others."

Elidal says, "But to silence them, only makes us the next Dennet. Davard. Rinhale."

Speaking to Alosaka, Tikba says, "I know little more than many other people here who have read the same poems. Thorns are painful to grasp. They would like the Landing not to be touched."

Vaemyr whispers something to Elidal.

Alosaka says, "Well, it is fortunate the Empire has not claimed the Landing, then."

Irval says, "I just dont plan on being on the receiving end of an arrow to the eye..."

Speaking mildly to Alosaka, Tikba agrees, "Yes."

Elidal says, "Truthfully, I've given the entire matter more attention than I care too, or it deserves."

Cryheart says, "Good."

Dendum says, "The Black Thorns will call for a vote to end the protectorate."

Elidal says, "But if those who lead it, would like to meet, I would welcome that."

Speaking to Dendum, Alosaka asks, "A referrendum of sellswords, on the safety and security of commoners?"

Elidal says, "Perhaps there are things we can accomplish together to help put others at ease."

Speaking to Dendum, Tikba says, "You will need to be more direct."

Elidal says, "We will never please everyone, but we needn't stop trying."

Speaking to Alosaka, Dendum says, ""The North is ruled by the vote."

Alosaka confidently says, "I would not be opposed to hearing from the common people of the town on the matter of the protectorate."

Speaking to Alosaka, Dendum says, ""Let the will of the city be known."

Upcoming Matters

Elidal says, "As to your question of the obelisk, I am not ignoring it."

Alosaka says, "Let us ask the bakers and tailors and merchants of the Landing where they find their security."

Elidal says, "Truthfully, I am not privy to all of my brother's work at times."

Elidal says, "We spent many years apart in fact. A story for another night."

Speaking to Alosaka, Dendum remarks, ""Yes...let us do that as well...but you have ignored them for so long they became Rooks."

Kelfyr asks, "Do you think perhaps you should be?"

Kelfyr asks, "Given the potential consequences?"

Elidal says, "I will more, yes."

Alosaka says, "The rooks are criminals, nothing more."

Elidal says, "Now that all of my advisors are here. There's work to be done, and discussions to be had."

Speaking to Alosaka, Dendum remarks, "Perhaps but they were once Bakers and Tailors."

Speaking to Dendum, Alosaka says, "Alas, though the door of virtue is open to all people, not everyone will take it. Thus we are beset by crime and ignorance."

Speaking to Elidal, Goldstr says, "Jess let us know of any help ye needs."

Speaking to Elidal, Missoni asks, "And Lady Aronia still fares well after her journey I hope?"

Elidal says, "I know Aronia seeks to perform a ritual soon, and welcome others, to help in the nourishment and replenishment of the land."

Elidal nods at Missoni.

Missoni nods approvingly.

Elidal says, "She is coping well. She is one of the strongest women I've ever known and..."

Speaking warmly to Elidal, Drazaa responds, "This is heartening news."

Elidal says, "She will be fine."

Irval says, "Indeed a strong lady."

Speaking to Dendum, Vaemyr says, "The will of the people, at least those in the landing generally from what I have heard and talked among the common folk, and I have done that a lot mind you, has been they wish to see the town stop getting attacked and not burning. They don't want a war, they're honestly prefer things go back to how things were months ago, but there is also some cautious optimism in some about the future. Otherwise there's 1000 or so opinions each a bit different."

Elidal gazes up into the heavens.

Elidal says, "It is cold."

Speaking to Elidal, Ulfwine says, ""And no sign of the storm relenting."

Missoni laments, "Quite."

Elidal says, "Even the fire has lost its power these last few nights."

Elidal nods at Ulfwine.

Alosaka says, "It will pass."

Tikba says, "The storm is even in the east, I fear."

Thrassus says, "That's one good thing about elementalism, it makes things like that less of a bother."

Goldstr says, "Spring be nae too fer off."

Ulfwine says, "This recalls tales of the Witch Winter."

Elidal says, "Let us hope it is not that."

Elidal nods at Ulfwine.

Elidal says, "Or Sablo will use that dagger that is never far from his grip."

Irval asks, "The Drake one?"

Elidal nods.

Elidal says, "I've kept you all in the cold long enough. I am sorry."

Speaking to Elidal, Falvicar says, "Some of us are used to this weather."

Speaking gently to Elidal, Tikba says, "It is always a pleasure to see you, Elidal."

Elidal says, "I hope my words are taken to heart tonight, and my intentions not misconstrued."

Airwave says, "I rather liked it."

Speaking cheerfully to Elidal, Ifanna drawls, "Ain' much ov'a bother et ain'."

Speaking to Elidal, Ulfwine says, ""We would likely be out in it anyway."

Vaemyr says, "Tis fine, always good to speak with you, although I understand it wasn't as pleasant as some might of wished."

Speaking deeply to Falvicar, Roelon says, "They consider this cold..."

Speaking to Elidal, Goldstr says, "Take care Sir."

Speaking to Elidal, Missoni says, "Ah, it is good to see you, cold or not."

Elidal says, "I will welcome your aid when it comes time for the walls soon."

Speaking to Elidal, Tikba says, "Next time, you must find a sweater."

Speaking to Elidal, Vaemyr says, "I'll do my best to spread the word that you are willing to meet with people to speak and talk if they so wish."

Speaking to Elidal, Ulfwine says, "Good night, mLord, rest as well as you can."

Arahnim says, "Strong backs we can do."

Speaking to Elidal, Drazaa agrees, "I hope as well. We appreciate your efforts to connection."

Xorus says, "I find it is not typically all that cold if it is snowing heavily."

Elidal says, "...and hopefully soon we'll know more to strike against Gnul and cut off his weapons."

Speaking cheerfully to Elidal, Missoni says, "My handaxe is at the ready, for what it is worth."

Speaking to Elidal, Alosaka says, "The Order, as always, will defend those who need aid."

Elidal says, "Then maybe his head."

Elidal chuckles.

Elidal nods at Alosaka.

Elidal nods at Vaemyr.

Arahnim says, "Oh Ive got aims to make his head a paper weight."

Elidal says, "Goodnight to you all."

Vaemyr says, "Hopefully we can steal back some of the Plinite while we strike his forge as well..."

Speaking to Elidal, Perigourd says, "Fair eve."

Elidal bows.

Lord Elidal just went southeast.

Drazaa wishes, "Take care."

Speaking to Alosaka, Tikba asks, "Do you have a moment, my friend?"

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "We'll have to bring a rather large chisel."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "I do have one."

Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni says, "Of course you do."

Speaking to Tikba, Alosaka says, "For a friend, of course."

Speaking mildly to Alosaka, Tikba says, "I believe Dendum has a document for you to sign."

Speaking to Alosaka, Tikba says, "He is collecting names of people who would support the vote on the protectorate."

Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni says, "We always were ready to de-ice the walls."

Dendum says, "To be clear another is collecting the names....Dendum is just lucky one standing here this night..."

Speaking to Tikba, Alosaka says, "As sympathetic to that as I am, I know better than to trust Dendum."

Arahnim says, "Right then. Now that we have all suffienctly frozen ourselves. What say we take it into the Walled City."

[everyone splits up afterward]