North by Northwest (storyline)/2023-03-14 - Shadows of the Empire (log)

Charlatos 14-15, 5123

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the TownCrier

Disclaimer

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

Synopsis

Hooded figures pursue a cloaked figure through Wehnimer's Landing and adventurers discover a trail of blood leading to the Rusty Cutlass. There they find a wounded Casiphia, sho says she's being hunted. She says she didn't issue a command to kidnap Aronia, so Leafiara asks if the incident from a prior night was infighting or impostors; Casiphia says infighting and begins to explain:

Rysus had gotten funding from a figure known as the Wraith, with "deep pockets, disdain for the Turamzzyrian Empire," and roots back to the Kannalan Empire. After Rysus was killed, Casiphia had tried to reform the Brotherhood of Rooks and executed those who clung to his ways. However, the war with the Knave led to heavy losses of life and treasure, creating an in for the Wraith to return with an offer of funding and resources in exchange for undermining Amos and getting more violent against Imperial interests, along with a warning that "if the Rooks fell, the Silver Kings would ride on the imperial tide." Casiphia agreed, but still tried to avoid violence--but the demands increased and the Wraith's ranks will swell, having already handpicked Casiphia's replacement: a figure called Ordlyn.

Casiphia says the Wraith isn't wrong in as much as not allowing the Empire to take the Landing's freedom and city, nor lay roots here, but she won't oppose it with children as shields. Kelfyr says Elidal wants a peaceful coexistence, though those who sent him might desire something more insidious; Casiphia says "Elidal's pretty face and untried stomach" don't worry her most, but the shadows he brings from the Empire with him.

Thrassus suggests changing the Rooks' name to dissociate, but Casiphia says titles won't change things and she won't "surrender our truth to others," stating that "We are the Rooks, they are merely Remnants." She'll tell Thadston soon and is certain that the Rusty Cutlass, at least, is safe for those loyal to her.

Log

Spring Breeze

A warm breeze stirs through the area.

[Town Square Central]

This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see a grizzled porcupine, the Kelfyr disk, a sleek forest mouse, a dark-haired half-elven priestess, the Xanxen disk, the sparkling Monthas disk, a dejected lavaflow spirit that is flying around, the blue Noctiss disk, the Lankas disk, a despondent glacier spirit that is flying around, the Amindyr disk, the Sonor disk, the Niffly disk, a wrathful lake spirit that is flying around, some ambrominas leaf, a rose-marrow potion, a rose-marrow potion, a rose-marrow potion, the Krendarr disk, the Vasilious disk, a round silver-banded barrel, an herbal remedy donation bin, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it and an old well.

Also here: Astrilyn, Dame Evia, Bernadette, Town Councilor Kayse, Kelfyr, Lady Nairena, Xanxen who is sitting, High Lord Monthas, Lady Nyaria, Journeyman Noctiss, Great Lord Lankas, Zero, Amindyr, Roelon, Sonor who is sitting, Irval who is sitting, Niffly, Sylkaan, Great Lord Krendarr, Vasilious, Ussey

Nairena says, "I always feel the breeze."

Kayse pulls the cowl-necked vanilla paeline hood of her leather jacket over her head, gaining coverage from the rainfall.

Nairena says, "Oh joy."

Nairena says, "Its raining."

Irval asks, "Is it?"

Nairena says, "Im unsure."

Nairena says, "Really. I just woke up."

Nyaria quietly says, "Suddenly i feel i need my parasol."

Nyaria places her suede ankle boots on the ground and carefully steps up into them, wobbling crazily as she wiggles her feet to achieve the perfect fit.

Irval asks, "Maybe someone just sneezed on you?"

Irval says, "Oh..."

Speaking to Nyaria, Nairena says, "Cute boots."

Irval says, "So there is rain..."

Speaking quietly to Nairena, Nyaria exclaims, "Thank you!"

Nairena says, "Maybe."

Speaking quietly to Irval, Nyaria says, "And thats possible too."

Speaking warmly to Kayse, Tikba says, "Kala ylliras, amisar."

Irval asks, "Shall we do our nightly consulting of the bones to see whats in store for us this evening?"

Zero drops dead at your feet!

Irval says, "Err runestones..."

Nyaria quietly says, "Someone will die."

Monthas says, "Wow."

Kialeigh says, "And... prediction verified."

Irval exclaims, "I didnt do it!"

Speaking to Nyaria, Nairena says, "Thats my prediction. Mr Boneman."

Kialeigh says, "Great..."

Nyaria quietly says, "I knew it would happen too."

Nyaria quietly says, "Maybe not him, specificlly..."

Irval says, "Rewawrd and warning entwined in one, for events are in motion."

Irval says, "Reward."

Kialeigh says, "One moment.."

Nyaria quietly says, "Welcome back an stuff."

Nyaria quietly says, "Now stop droppin dead out of nowhere."

Kialeigh says, "There baby.. now we're dry."

Lankas asks, "In case it rains corpses?"

Speaking to Irval, Nairena says, "Shes a keeper."

Irval says, "She is at that."

Kialeigh exclaims, "And if it gets dangerous!"

Speaking quietly to Lankas, Nyaria exclaims, "Now we're talkin... bring the raining bodies!"

Irval says, "We all most remain vigilant for the Rooks are making their move. Which could be the events in motion part of the prediction from the stones."

Irval exclaims, "PRAISE THE STONES!"

Nyaria quietly says, "I prefer the moons."

Kelfyr says, "Calling for the worship of trinkets in the middle of an incepient storm. Bold."

Speaking quietly to Zero, Nyaria says, "Feel free to drop dead suddenly again, if you so choose."

A warm breeze stirs through the area.

Nairena quietly says, "Great. I needed a shower anyway."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Sure is breezy tonight."

[General] Chayesor asks, "Did you forget your pants?"

Nairena says, "I guess we might need to prepare for the fun."

Kialeigh says, "Maybe it's time to get more than an umbrella."

Kialeigh exclaims, "Oh! Nice tip! Thanks! Come back again; I'd heal you any ol' day!"

Monthas says, "Maybe time to get inside."

Chase

Dark hooded figures move along rooftops of town, creeping like low shadows hugging the wooden railings.

Irval exclaims, "Eyes up!"

Irval exclaims, "Prepare!"

Nyaria quietly says, "They seem to be expecting something sketchy."

Kialeigh says, "We're prepared..."

Speaking to Kialeigh, Nairena says, "That depends."

Shadow figures dart in and out of nearby alleyways.

Nyaria quietly says, "Maybe its just some wandering baker, and those warm breezes are from his ovens.... delivering fresh tarts."

Vaemyr says, "Hmmm."

Kialeigh says, "Not prepared for that.."

Kialeigh says, "I had a big dinner."

Lankas says, "Holy cow, there are more."

Nyaria quietly says, "I didnt much have dinner, but wouldnt be prepared for the onslaught of halflings."

Irval says, "Im not lying. I was assassinated attacked and stoned."

A cloaked figure bursts out of an alleyway, turning quickly and rushing down a street. Several hooded figures follow, crossbows in hand.

Irval says, "The rooks will get what they have coming."

Vaemyr says, "Huh."

Kialeigh exclaims, "Alright.. I'm ready!"

Lankas says, "I do not even know what a rook is."

Kialeigh yells, "Bring forth yer dead!"

Irval yells, "Come on then!"

Nyaria quietly says, "Oooorrrr."

Kialeigh says, "Or he can run away."

Speaking to Irval, Nairena says, "You flirt with death."

A lone hooded figure steps out from behind a nearby building, looking east, then west, then dartiing off into an alleyway.

Vaemyr says, "Huh."

Kialeigh exclaims, "Alleyway... stay away from Helgas!"

Nairena asks, "What are those loons up to?"

Vaemyr says, "They seem to be looking for something."

Vaemyr asks, "Or someone?"

Nyaria quietly says, "Not used to a Pukk frowning."

Monthas exclaims, "How spooky!"

Kialeigh says, "Be right back baby."

Irval says, "Im gonna start searching alleyway."

Evia says, "Shadows, who knows."

Kelfyr says, "Not in the alley or on the roof."

Nyaria quietly says, "Well damnit, i hope those clouds roll out."

Irval asks, "Shall we muster?"

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Go get invokered."

Nyaria recites quietly:

"Go get invokered"

Irval says, "Ima check the alleyway north east of here."

Ashtyne softly asks, "What is happening?"

Kialeigh says, "And the one south..."

[General] Nalver asks, "Did anyone else see that hooded figure?"

Kialeigh says, "And the one by helgas."

Irval says, "Be safe."

Kialeigh yells, "You be safe!"

[General] Kiol asks, "Where?"

[General] Goldstr thinks, "Dem Rook cowards be up ro sumpin."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Just looking around."

Nyaria quietly says, "Thinking about runnin off to teras before the storm really hits."

[General] Nalver thinks, "Oddly, Julenne and Citan and I were at the Montasery Chamber and saw a hooded figure step out from...something and into an alley."

[General] Irval thinks, "Rooftop garden appears clear."

A sleek arctic fox says, "Something feels off."

Speaking quietly to a sleek arctic fox, Nyaria asks, "Like... a talking fox?"

[General] Goldstr asks, "Moot Hall roof?"

A sleek arctic fox says, "No not that."

Kialeigh says, "I dunno... foxes are smart..."

[General] Irval thinks, "Ive found a trail of blood."

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Who did you kill."

[General] Irval thinks, "No one yet."

Vendayan asks, "Have we have any foreign nobles visiting town from the Empire today?"

Sirona quietly asks, "Some thing is afoot?"

Monthas offers Lankas a sigil-carved orase walking stick.

Trail of Blood

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Town square northeast."

[Town Square, Northeast]

The entrance to Tykel's Arms, its heavy door bounded by iron-barred windows, dominates this corner of the square. All manner of citizens pass by, moving among the solid, multistoried wooden buildings that surround the bazaar. Just to the southwest can be seen the tree-shaded heart of the square, where citizens and adventurers gather for socializing, healing and rest. You also see the skull-shaped Irval disk, a small trail of blood, a narrow alleyway and a muscular red-armored guard.

[General] Tikba thinks, "The blood leads to the Adventurer's Guild, at least."

[Wehnimer's, Valeria St.]

Traffic to and from the hub of activity in the square to the west passes along the dark street here. Passers-by guard their valuables closely, glancing into shaded doorways and niches and wary of the press of the crowd. Two-story buildings of wood and stone line the north and south sides of the cobbled road. You also see a small trail of blood, a tall black bulwark tower and a large reddish-brown sandstone shop.

[Wehnimer's, The Mews]

The large, barn-like structure that dominates the north side of the block is the city stable. Through a ground-floor window can be seen the rows of now-empty stalls in the dark interior. The pavement just outside is strewn with straw and debris that merits a careful step along this part of the road. To the west is the main square and its cobblestoned bazaar, where furious trading takes place on a daily basis. You also see a small trail of blood.

[Wehnimer's, Valeria St.]

The footsteps of a few passing wayfarers and townspeople echo on the cobbled pavement between the rows of two-story wooden houses that flank the lane. The street is quieter and darker here, blocks away from the busy square to the west. You also see a slender bloody handprint and an old whitewashed house.

[Wehnimer's, Valeria St.]

Flatbed wagons carrying loads of wood or other goods lumber slowly to the east and west, their wheels echoing in the night as they bounce over a large pothole in the road. A nondescript building, with a prominent sign in the shape of a key above its black door, is set back slightly from the street, nearly hidden in the shadows. You also see the skull-shaped Irval disk, a small trail of blood, a black door and the Engraver's Shop with a small elegant sign on it.

[General] Tikba thinks, "To the North Dock."

[Wehnimer's, Dagmar Lane]

This long, narrow dirt road presses between several buildings, connecting one of the quieter corners of this part of town with the main thoroughfares, where small residences and humble shops give way to the larger emporia, offices and grander structures. A heavy iron-banded door has been set into a high wall of the town barracks. You also see a small trail of blood and a stone gate.

[Wehnimer's, North Ring Rd.]

Here along the main north road, the roughhewn logs of the modwir wood palisade echo passing footsteps on the bumpy cobbled path. The cold, briny night breeze from the nearby bay fills the air in spite of the sturdy barricade. You also see a slender bloody handprint and a crenellated stone fortress.

[Wehnimer's, North Ring Rd.]

A respectful quiet blankets this area like the deep shadow cast by the high north wall. Those people that move along this section of road walk with their heads bowed and speak in hushed whispers in obvious consideration to the local empath, who practices the restorative arts at the strange tent that is set back from the roadside in the middle of an overgrown vacant lot here. You also see a small trail of blood and the healer's tent.

[Wehnimer's, North Ring Rd.]

The perimeter road runs just inside the protective palisades that protect the north wall of the town, affording shelter from the prevailing winds off Darkstone Bay. The weathered facades of businesses and warehouses line the road leading south into the center of Wehnimer's Landing. To the east, the road leads to the riverfront, and the town's main gates lie farther to the west. You also see a small trail of blood.

[Wehnimer's, North Ring Rd.]

The west river guardtower looms overhead, marking the end of the road just to the east. Most of the people passing by here are in uniforms of the various divisions of the town's guards or militia, and even the businesses on the south side of the street seem to cater almost exclusively to military types. You also see a small trail of blood and an elegant white brick building.

[Wehnimer's, Bay's Watch West]

Here at the northern end of Wehnimer's Landing, the fickle waters of the Locksmehr River flow to the east. The westernmost of the twin guardtowers that keep watch over the river gates into town rises above, casting a dark shadow over the lamplit cobblestones. The huge ironbound sea gates straddle the river, extending to the matching tower on the eastern bank. You also see a slender bloody handprint, a uniformed doorkeeper and a wrought iron gate.

[Wehnimer's, Locksmehr Way]

The faint, tangy scent of the bay mingles with the lighter smells of the river, which runs just to the northeast. The wide road leads along the riverbank through the warehouse and wharf district, where the sounds of longshoremen loading and unloading freetraders drift over from a wooden walkway to the east. You also see a small trail of blood and a painted ashen shop.

[Wehnimer's, North Dock]

The dock's planks are dull and weathered from the salt spray of many seasons. Northward beyond the massive sea gates, a flock of ice geese passes, silhouetted against the sky over the waters of Darkstone Bay. The hulk of a derelict coastal sailer is tethered to the end of the pier. You also see the discordant Tikba disk, the driftwood Nalver disk, the Vaemyr disk, an animated flayed gigas disciple, a slender bloody handprint, a huge grey imperial warship, a rope-lined wooden plank bridge that leads to the archway of a large moored white-masted ship, a wide ramp, a stack of empty crates and a portly portmaster.

[General] Pukk thinks, "Ignore the blood."

[Rusty Cutlass, Grub Hall]

Burnished wooden planks curve out to form the massive hall of the tavern's entrance, with rows of sturdy oaken posts rising to connect with a network of rafters above. Dozens of blackened oil lanterns hang from the ceiling, their light at times a haze behind wisps of smoke drifting in from the galley. In the center rests a huge cast-iron pot surrounded by countless tables and barrel chairs. A half-circle driftwood bar is nestled in the corner beneath a salt-stained crest. You also see a small trail of blood, the Tinkz disk, an open archway leading to a wooden plank bridge, a wide wooden ramp and a large driftwood box.

Vaemyr says, "Hmmm."

[Rusty Cutlass, Main Deck] The main deck of the tavern looks to be untouched by the elements, but its wooden plank flooring is marred by countless scuff marks. Guests linger and speak in hushed tones along the wooden railings, while the murmur of voices carries down from the quarterdeck above. A thick rope ladder hangs on the side of the huge wooden mainmast as lights flicker in the breeze from several tiny lanterns dangling from the ship's netting above. Two wide wooden stairs frame a tall iron-bound door. You also see a small trail of blood, a wide wooden ramp and an iron-banded keg.

[General] Dumple thinks, "The deader might not wantcha ta ignore his leak."

[Rusty Cutlass, Cabin] Several high-backed chairs hug the side walls of the cabin while a long glass-topped desk that stretches out before a row of tall arched windows overlooks part of the town and the bay. A huge rust-covered bronze bird rests in one corner, opposite of it stands a salt-stained bookcase cluttered with tomes and trinkets. Hanging on one wall are a heavy oak placard and a polished wooden weapon rack. You also see a slender bloody handprint and a tall iron-bound door.

[Rusty Cutlass, Grub Hall]

Burnished wooden planks curve out to form the massive hall of the tavern's entrance, with rows of sturdy oaken posts rising to connect with a network of rafters above. Dozens of blackened oil lanterns hang from the ceiling, their light at times a haze behind wisps of smoke drifting in from the galley. In the center rests a huge cast-iron pot surrounded by countless tables and barrel chairs. A half-circle driftwood bar is nestled in the corner beneath a salt-stained crest. You also see the discordant Tikba disk, an animated flayed gigas disciple, the Vaemyr disk, a small trail of blood, the Tinkz disk, an open archway leading to a wooden plank bridge, a wide wooden ramp and a large driftwood box.

[General] Arianiss thinks, "I'm sure there's a lot of trails of blood around town.. especially around town square central."

Irval says, "More blood."

[General] Bernadette thinks, "Bloody hand print infront of the historical society."

[General] Irval thinks, "Bloody handprint withing the Rusty Cutlass."

[Rusty Cutlass, Main Deck]

The main deck of the tavern looks to be untouched by the elements, but its wooden plank flooring is marred by countless scuff marks. Guests linger and speak in hushed tones along the wooden railings, while the murmur of voices carries down from the quarterdeck above. A thick rope ladder hangs on the side of the huge wooden mainmast as lights flicker in the breeze from several tiny lanterns dangling from the ship's netting above. Two wide wooden stairs frame a tall iron-bound door. You also see a grizzled porcupine, the Vaemyr disk, an animated flayed gigas disciple, the glossy pink Astrilyn disk shaped like a jellyfish, a small trail of blood, a wide wooden ramp and an iron-banded keg.

Vaemyr kneels down and touches a small trail of blood, smearing some of it on his finger as he looks at it.

Vaemyr says, "Not old."

[General] Bernadette thinks, "Trail leadin near the barracks on Dagmar."

Goldstr says, "Aye new."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Leads out on deck of the cutlass."

Irval says, "More..."

[Rusty Cutlass, Cabin]

Several high-backed chairs hug the side walls of the cabin while a long glass-topped desk that stretches out before a row of tall arched windows overlooks part of the town and the bay. A huge rust-covered bronze bird rests in one corner, opposite of it stands a salt-stained bookcase cluttered with tomes and trinkets. Hanging on one wall are a heavy oak placard and a polished wooden weapon rack. You also see the Vaemyr disk, an animated flayed gigas disciple, the driftwood Nalver disk, the Kelfyr disk, a grizzled porcupine, the sparkling Monthas disk, the discordant Tikba disk, a slender bloody handprint and a tall iron-bound door.

Tikba warmly asks, "Lead us?"

Kelfyr says, "I think this is a dead end."

Kelfyr asks, "Maybe out and up the ladder?"

Tikba says, "Perhaps the trail leads elsewhere."

Vaemyr says, "Aye this is the opening to their hideout I believe."

Vaemyr says, "If you know the password."

Monthas asks, "Fire?"

Vaemyr says, "That panel..."

Citan deeply says, "Well the windows looks out at the barraks."

Irval says, "Hmm."

Nalver says, "The imperials must retreat."

Kelfyr says, "It may have started from here."

Irval says, "Hmmm."

Casiphia's Conundrum

Casiphia arrives, escorted in by some dark hooded figures.

Vaemyr says, "Hi."

>l casip

You see Lady Casiphia Malatina.

She appears to be a Human.

She is average height. She appears to be in the prime of life. She has long-lashed dark brown eyes and fair skin. She has shoulder length, curly bluish-black hair arranged in a twisted roll at the back of her head and held in place by some carved ivory beads. She has an oval face, a small nose and wide hips. A swathe of blood stains the side of her black linen shirt.

She is in good shape.

She is wearing a suede-lined mantle of peppered wolf fur, a single-shoulder oiled leather vest, a wide leather baldric hung with a collection of various daggers, a trim black linen shirt left open at the collar, a slender clear crystal ring, a slotted leather belt displaying various tools and pouches, some crisp black brocade breeches, and some scuffed black suede knee-boots cuffed in grey fur.

Monthas says, "Well."

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr asks, "Are you ok?"

Kelfyr pulls a huge rusty bronze bird.

With a smooth whoosh of well-oiled gears, the bronze bird turns its metallic eyes toward Casiphia, then quickly as a striking snake, snatches her up in its mouth and swallows her whole!

With a final click of its mouth, the bird settles back into a quiet crouch.

[General] Arianiss asks, "I take it by the silence that the blood trail led to a successful resolution?"

Monthas says, "Messing with the bird dumped me outside."

[General] Irval asks, "Report on the blood trail?"

Nalver says, "Freedom takes root."

Vaemyr says, "You seem a little... covered in blood there."

The voice of Thrassus says, "It appears someone is bleeding all over the town."

[General] Irval thinks, "Not yet. We are still seeking the source."

[various people get birded out]

[Wehnimer's, North Dock]

The dock's planks are dull and weathered from the salt spray of many seasons. Northward beyond the massive sea gates, a flock of ice geese passes, silhouetted against the sky over the waters of Darkstone Bay. The hulk of a derelict coastal sailer is tethered to the end of the pier. You also see a grizzled porcupine, the Sirona disk, the brown Vendayan disk, the Kelfyr disk, the discordant Tikba disk, a slender bloody handprint, a huge grey imperial warship, a rope-lined wooden plank bridge that leads to the archway of a large moored white-masted ship, a wide ramp, a stack of empty crates and a portly portmaster.

Sirona quietly says, "Oh no."

[General] Kiyna asks, "Where in the cutlass is this?"

Vendayan asks, "Why are you all thudding?"

Casiphia stands up.

Monthas says, "The bird."

Vendayan exclaims, "Stop thudding!"

Goldstr asks, "Wha happened Casi?"

Monthas says, "The rusty bird."

Vendayan exclaims, "It's unsightly!"

Speaking to Casiphia, Kelfyr says, "Apologies, I intended a smoother exit for you there."

[General] Irval thinks, "Main deck."

Sirona tries to pull Casiphia towards her.

Casiphia says, "I...I need to get back there."

Lady Casiphia just limped across a rope-lined wooden plank bridge that leads to the archway of a large moored white-masted ship.

[General] Arianiss asks, "Has anyone licked the blood yet?"

Irval exclaims, "Ah!"

Irval asks, "Mother I take it?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr asks, "Are you ok there?"

Nalver asks, "Why'd you drag me?"

Casiphia says, "Call...call to others."

Monthas says, "The town councilors wanted to be alone in here."

Nalver says, "You can't really whisper at that panel."

Nalver says, "Odd."

Irval asks, "Call to the others what?"

[General] Kippe thinks, "Casiphia is in the Rusty Cutlass cabin."

Casiphia says, "No...."

Casiphia says, "Not like that..."

Casiphia frowns at Kippe.

Whimweaver Leafiara just came through a tall iron-bound door. [OOC note: subtle shift in character perspective here; it was another character prior to this point, but the rest of the log is now gathered from Leafiara's perspective and presented in third-person regardless]

Speaking to Casiphia, Thrassus asks, "Something amiss?"

Speaking to Kippe, Leafiara says, "Ahh... thanks."

Casiphia says, "Yes. I am being hunted. Or was."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kippe says, "I was wrong, apparently."

Vaemyr asks, "Hunted?"

Speaking confusedly to Kippe, Leafiara says, "You were? This is the cabin."

Irval says, "By whom...and not like I dont think you deserved it."

Casiphia says, "I'll...wait. For others. My hand is forced."

Thrassus asks, "I wonder why someone would do that?"

Kelfyr asks, "Hunted by the same peoples who hunted us the other day?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Kippe says, "I don't believe the Lady wanted us to call the others in that manner."

Speaking slowly to Kippe, Leafiara says, "Oh."

Leafiara tentatively asks, "So brace to defend?"

Irval asks, "Your hand was forced to assassinate me? To order the rooks to attack the imperial encampment? all of these things and more, you say, were forced to do?"

Speaking to Kelfyr, Vendayan asks, "The ones that cheat and aimed for ours necks?"

Irval says, "Lady, There is always a choice."

Leafiara calls upon the local spirits and directs them through the area...

Leafiara gestures.

A sense of peace and calm settles over the area.

Casiphia sighs.

Nalver asks, "How did you get that panel open?"

Irval says, "I'll wait to hear your words with the others."

Irval says, "But you probably deserve everything you got coming."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kippe asks, "Who exactly do you wish we call to?"

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Why would they walk away from help and to the cutlass."

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr asks, "There are many here... is there someone specific we're waiting on?"

Irval says, "More citizens to hear here plea."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Arianiss exclaims, "Is it me?!"

Casiphia says, "No...just...catching my breath."

Thrassus says, "Someone should get the mayor, he needs to see this I would think."

[General] Kayse thinks, "Because she owns the Cutlass."

Speaking to Arianiss, Leafiara reasons, "Seems we're dealing with wounds and not death, so I don't think it's you."

Arianiss says, "Shoot."

Evia says, "See what."

Casiphia leans back up against the wall, right below the heavy oak placard, and slumps to the ground, leaning away from the wound on her side.

Casiphia says, "No, not Thadston."

Casiphia says, "I will tell him alone."

Irval says, "Hah you won't go anywhere near the Mayor alone."

Citan deeply says, "I concur."

Speaking to Leafiara, Arianiss whispers aloud, "This is Thadston's ex right?"

[General] Nyaria thinks, "Again, why walk away from where you can get help. makes little sense to me."

Tikba mildly says, "Perhaps she already has."

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr asks, "Wha attacked ye Casi?"

Speaking to Irval, Leafiara asks, "You... do know they were in a relationship for a while, right?"

Nalver says, "That placard says the same thing the archer was screaming before...he got killed."

Casiphia looks over at Nalver and shakes her head.

Casiphia says, "No, not the same thing."

Casiphia says, "I did not issue the command for Aronia's kidnapping."

Speaking to Casiphia, Nalver says, "I believe that is exactly what he said."

Speaking to Nalver, Kelfyr says, "Close, but not the same."

Kiyna says, "Vaemyr pointed this out at the time, but the one we were questioning... or trying to question, was getting the slogan wrong."

Leafiara asks, "Infighting or impostors?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Tikba asks, "Who did?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr asks, "I'm assuming whatever happened probably had something to do with a bunch of folks in grey beaked masks being fairly stupid the other night?"

Casiphia says, "Infighting."

Nalver says, "And he mentioned Walkar. Another very infamous person demon thing."

Leafiara nods at Casiphia.

Irval asks, "Oh? But did you not threaten violence after the elimination of Gnul?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Kippe says, "I believe that's the growing consensus around town."

Casiphia says, "But they might as well be imposters. They do not represent what...what I've tried to do."

Casiphia sighs.

Irval says, "Walked right into the imperial encampment you did. Laid it out in no uncertain terms."

Leafiara considers, "I guess that makes sense. People dumb enough to infight would be the same ones charging a bunch of Landing adventurers head-on."

The Wraith

Vendayan asks, "Who are the internal factions? What divides them?"

Casiphia says, "It is a long road to begin to recount..."

Irval says, "Well please. Do continue."

Irval says, "I'll bite my tongue for now."

Irval says, "But not forever."

Julenne softly says, "Not to hard."

Casiphia says, "I tried hard, to shed Rysus. To shed Drangell."

Thrassus says, "Yes, this has peaked my interest."

Citan deeply says, "We have quite a few witnesses.. here.. Who will hear you."

Casiphia says, "The Wraith has heavy pockets and sturdy strings."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kippe asks, "Who is leading these rogue Rooks?"

Casiphia says, "I should have resisted better."

Thrassus asks, "The Wraith?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Kayse asks, "Wraith?"

Casiphia sighs.

Casiphia slowly empties her lungs.

Casiphia glances around the room.

Pukk whispers something to Casiphia.

Casiphia asks, "Did you ever wonder, where Rysus secured his funds and resources after the deaths of Elithain Cross and Drangell? And the exile of Stephos?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr asks, "Kin ye an yer followers jess JOIN da Militia and den we kin fiht dese roue Rooks?"

Casiphia says, "He, or she really, I do not know, is called the Wraith."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kayse asks, "Do you know where they are located?"

Thrassus says, "That name came up in Praxopius' notes."

Casiphia says, "There are only two things I know to be said of the Wraith. Deep pockets, disdain for the Turamzzyrian Empire, and claims roots all the way back to the Kannalan Empire."

Citan deeply says, "Vaniller."

Speaking to Thrassus, Vaemyr says, "Aye it did."

Casiphia says, "Make that three."

Casiphia smirks.

Speaking slowly to himself, Kippe murmurs, "... the Wraith."

Monthas says, "Three."

Goldstr exclaims, "Wraith sounds like anudder Rysus!"

Leafiara dryly says, "Shocker."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Prax did always keep the best company..."

Vendayan asks, "How do you know of the connection to the Wraith?"

Casiphia says, "I have never met him or her, and when Rysus was killed..."

Casiphia nods at Leafiara.

Leafiara nods at Casiphia.

Casiphia says, "I worked to reform the Rooks, even executing some who still clung to his ways."

Casiphia says, "It lasted, for a time, until the Knave."

Casiphia spits at the word.

Leafiara acknowledges, "I remember not liking you very much when our first sight of you was through a loresong executing Rooks loyal to the old ways."

Irval says, "The problem is rotten apples. Is that it takes only one to spoil the bunch..."

Casiphia says, "After that war...those battles in the streets..."

Leafiara says, "In hindsight... maybe the measures weren't drastic enough. But I think that about a lot of things these days."

The sense of peace and security begins to wane from the area.

Leafiara calls upon the local spirits and directs them through the area...

Leafiara gestures.

A sense of peace and calm resettles over the area.

Casiphia says, "The Brotherhood suffered heavy losses. Life. Treasure."

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr says, "Think the Wraith was actually the one behind the "Knave?"."

Vaemyr rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Casiphia shrugs at Vaemyr.

Casiphia says, "The Wraith returned and provided precisely what we needed."

Casiphia says, "Funding, resources..."

Vaemyr frowns.

Casiphia says, "With strings. Of course, you know. To be expected."

Leafiara muses, "So there's little to go on, presumably nothing to use for a scrying ritual..."

Kiyna asks, "Careful never to meet with you, I expect. Coded messages, dead drops, and the like?"

Goldstr says, "Sounds a lot like Amos."

Tikba mildly says, "Patrons expect repayment."

Casiphia nods at Kiyna.

Kiyna nods understandingly.

Casiphia says, "No, not Amos. I wish."

Casiphia says, "I'd end him tonight."

Goldstr nods at Casiphia.

Casiphia says, "Part of the deal..."

Irval says, "What deal."

Speaking to Irval, Kiyna says, "For funding and resources. She mentioned there were strings attached."

Casiphia says, "Was to oppose Amos, working to undermine him and his operations whenever we could, and increase the violent tactics towards imperial interests. The Wraith warned me that if the Rooks fell, the Silver Kings would ride on the imperial tide."

Kiyna mutters, "Silver Kings..."

Leafiara says, "The Silver Kings? But... that implies..."

Casiphia says, "It was easy enough to agree too. I am no fan of either."

Kiyna says, "I've heard of them..."

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr asks, "And that then also lead to Amos's little amigir uprising I suspect?"

Goldstr says, "Silver Kins jess other thievin Rooks."

Irval asks, "Im unfamiliar with these Silver kings? Another shady organization like your Rookos?"

Casiphia says, "But I still tried to resist, and avoid violence."

Leafiara distractedly mentions, "Oh, yes, Silver Kings, an underground criminal organization operating throughout the Empire..."

Casiphia says, "I risked my own life. I marched into the Vornavian court."

Speaking to Casiphia, Evia says, "Care for a little sip of this? you're looking a bit pale."

Evia offers Casiphia a bottle of black cherry whiskey.

Casiphia says, "I donned my Mother mask to...present a face to half."

Casiphia accepts Evia's black cherry whiskey.

Casiphia takes a drink from her black cherry whiskey.

Evia nods.

Casiphia says, "I do not share any of this lightly."

Casiphia says, "The Brotherhood must exist, and should always exist."

[General] Balinox asks, "Anyone available for tackle reps?"

Leafiara agrees, "I'm certain you're not sharing it lightly, given it's been years now..."

Thrassus says, "Understandable."

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr says, "It's not too late, change, here and now, renounce your old name, take up a new one. Let there be a true difference going forward in the future."

Casiphia says, "But the Wraith has...increased his demands. With the news of the coming Barony, the messages are becoming more frequent. Almost more erratic."

Vendayan sympathetically asks, "Maybe someone might help her beyond whiskey? Can she be questioned when she's not slowly bleeding to death in front of a public crowd?"

Casiphia says, "I think whoever the Wraith is, is afraid in some ways."

Tikba offers Casiphia a small dose of tightly bound acantha.

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr says, "I do disagree der as dey should join da Militia to safekeep da Landing."

Casiphia accepts Tikba's dose of acantha.

Casiphia nods at Tikba.

Speaking to Sirona, Kayse asks, "Can you look at her if she allows?"

Speaking quietly to Kayse, Sirona says, "I tried."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kayse says, "Or we can wrap your wounds."

Leafiara opines, "Justifiably afraid, but we can still end their forces if need be. Well, I guess I should say *since* need be."

Kelfyr says, "I wonder if they had something to do with the shipment with the markings of the Ulterlain Traders being provided to Gnul."

Thrassus says, "Quite possible."

Kippe says, "Or eat the herbs Tikba gave her."

Casiphia says, "I've fended off the division as long as I could."

Casiphia says, "I cannot continue to be torn into two directions."

Speaking to Casiphia, Thrassus asks, "So, how many of your followers remain?"

Casiphia says, "I want nothing more than the imperials to pack up and go home."

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr exclaims, "Den JOIN US!"

Casiphia says, "I will not uselessly throw our people at their warriors, or yours."

Kelfyr says, "If this is an attempt at a coup, the various mercenary and mercantyle groups funding and driving it would make sense. Plus the recent deaths..."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kiyna asks, "So the Rooks that attacked the imperial campsite and kidnapped Aronia. These were those aligned with the Wraith? Have they a name?"

Casiphia shrugs at Thrassus.

Thrassus says, "I do suppose it's a bit too early to tell."

Thrassus nods.

Casiphia says, "I will know more soon, of who remains loyal. But even then, it is only a matter of time. I do not doubt those loyal. But the Wraith will swell his ranks."

Casiphia says, "He has already handpicked my replacement."

Thrassus asks, "Oh?"

Thrassus asks, "Do you know who that is?"

Speaking quietly to Casiphia, Sirona asks, "Who might that be?"

Pukk says, "Leafiara."

Casiphia says, "He calls himself Ordlyn. That is all I know. I cannot be sure who he was, or is, or how close he has been in our operations so far."

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr asks, "How has he dAT POWER?"

Citan deeply asks, "Perhaps the Silver Kings are recruiting some of The Rooks.. and pulling strings from behind the scenes.. To make it look that the rooks are doing everything bad?"

Casiphia says, "I have my theories on who he might be. But I do not wish to speculate just yet."

Speaking to Casiphia, Vendayan asks, "Has the Wraith given any orders to suggest that he or she is looking for lost secrets? Or any other motivations?"

Casiphia peers quizzically at Vendayan.

Casiphia asks, "What do you mean lost secrets?"

Kelfyr asks, "Ordlyn has a different meaning in the Empire. You're sure it's a name and not a description?"

The sense of peace and security begins to wane from the area.

Vendayan says, "It's as specific as I could ask, I'm afraid."

Leafiara calls upon the local spirits and directs them through the area...

Leafiara gestures.

A sense of peace and calm resettles over the area.

Irval says, "The settlers are not going to leave . You must know that by now. Your best bet is to try to make nice , if we allow you to live free, with Elidal. And maybe find a way to co-exsist. Not all imperials are bad. And with the proper advising , you may find yourself a stalwart ally instead of the enemy you make him out to be."

Leafiara says, "I suppose the real heart of Vendayan's question is whether we have anything to indicate the Wraith's possible motivations."

Casiphia says, "It is not his real name no. I think he is trying to be clever."

Speaking concernedly to Casiphia, Kayse says, "You are bleeding everywhere."

Speaking clearly to Irval, Kippe says, "We do not know that, by now."

Casiphia nods at Kelfyr.

Vendayan says, "Some were informed by Ronan that a faction was looking to discover some.. lost of forbidden secret that would doom the world or something."

Kelfyr nods at Casiphia.

Tikba mildly says, "I suppose there is no evidence of this Wraith, or this Ordlyn."

Kelfyr says, "So, not a human, nor an elf, then."

Kelfyr says, "That's at least something to go on."

Thrassus says, "Quite a bit of circumstantial evidence, I would say."

Casiphia says, "Maybe."

Casiphia shrugs at Kelfyr.

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Take over Amos's organization, create a firmly established criminal group rooted in a new vulnerable barony? Assasinate someone like Jovery and pin it on us? lots of possibilities."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kiyna asks, "Ordlyn is the Wraith's bogeyman, is it?"

Speaking hesitantly to herself, Sirona says, "'this seems familiar somehow..."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara replies, "Countless possibilities, but I was wondering whether we had anything to actually go on other than thought experiments...."

Vaemyr says, "Obviously he seemed interested enough in the area to fund Rysus years ago."

Kiyna says, "Or bogeywoman, but that hasn't the same ring to it."

Speaking lightly to Kiyna, Tikba asks, "After all, what word could be more terrifying?"

Casiphia says, "The Wraith has made it clear to me, and I have no reason to doubt it, that he has funded the Rooks in the past, and now, to help prevent the Empire and the Silver Kings."

Citan deeply says, "Well... I have full confidence .. that we will figure it out before it to late... Or at least someone smarter than me that is."

Casiphia says, "Where the shadow of the Turamzzyrian Empire falls, the Kings thrive within it."

Julenne softly says, "Yer plenty smart darlin."

Thrassus says, "It seems he's not been doing that great of a job at it."

Goldstr says, "Dat do be true."

Casiphia says, "The Wraith is not wrong. We cannot allow the Empire to take our freedom and city and lay their roots here."

Evia says, "Corruption isn't that particular where it takes..root."

Casiphia says, "But I will not oppose it with children as shields."

Speaking to Casiphia, Arianiss asks, "I agree. Do you have proof of this happening?"

Casiphia begins chuckling at Arianiss!

Casiphia says, "Look around you..."

Kayse flatly asks, "Is her bleeding all over the floor not proof enough?"

Arianiss says, "I see a lot of fear mongering around me."

Casiphia says, "I could spit on the Baron from here."

Leafiara suddenly says, "Oh, so this is how Praxopius managed to intercept Rysus' messages to the Silver Kings... now that all makes sense four and a half years later."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kiyna says, "You're likely to bleed on him, too."

Speaking to Arianiss, Tikba asks, "Proof of the Wraith, or proof of the Empire?"

Speaking to Tikba, Arianiss says, "Proof that Wehnimer's freedom and is in jeopardy."

Vendayan says, "'::Ari They have claimed ownership over the lands just one footstep outside of the walls."

Casiphia pulls up the side of her shirt slightly. The wound is still glistening, but no longer bleeds. A small black bubble has formed in the center of the injury. She pulls down her shirt.

Arianiss asks, "Did Wehnimer's lay claim to those lands?"

Casiphia nods.

Goldstr says, "I look an see a new Barony as a neighbor and ally AAINST threats! No needs to fear an let our merchants thrive from new trade."

Casiphia says, "The bleeding has stopped. It could have been worse."

Imena softly says, "One sees what one wishes."

Irval says, "That black bubble doesnt look good."

Casiphia says, "But Ordlyn feels emboldened enough to hunt me in the streets. So there will be more violence ahead."

Thrassus asks, "Is the wound poisoned?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Kiyna says, "...The blade you were struck with was no ordinary one, was it? Or laced with something terrible."

Citan deeply says, "Fresh from pinefar here."

Arianiss asks, "She's not going to explode into spiders is she?"

Casiphia says, "I am unsure. I will have it tended too."

Casiphia says, "The spiders was not us."

Earthdiver says, "Could be spiders."

Speaking to Arianiss, Vendayan asks, "Freedoms may not be in jeopardy imminently, but the Empire has left the ladning completely dependent and unable, unpermitted even, to defend the land that's requireed to feed the people of the landing. The empire owns that land now, yes?"

Casiphia says, "...or Ordlyn for as much as I can gather."

Leafiara concludes, "So, for now, if we see Rooks attacking us, are we to presume they've gone rogue and retaliate with lethal force?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr says, "We can deal with that, we have before. But if you do not differenciate yourselves, it will be awfully hard to know the right people to shoot."

Citan deeply says, "Cures up those nasty scraps on the belly there."

Casiphia says, "Something else wicked stirs."

Speaking lightly to Casiphia, Tikba says, "I have a very reputable document that claims otherwise."

Kelfyr asks, "Do you know who they may have aligned with to cause such things?"

Irval says, "At least you admit to being wicked."

Vaemyr says, "The spiders were unnatural, almost other worldly."

Speaking to Irval, Goldstr exclaims, "Casi has never been Wicked!"

Thrassus says, "Possibly the followers of this Bone Witch of the reivers."

Irval says, "Not what the arrow to my head says."

More to Come

Casiphia sighs.

Speaking to Vendayan, Arianiss asks, "I haven't looked at a map recently that shows farmland so I can't comment on that. The settlement is putting a stranglehold on resources for Wehn?"

Irval says, "Or the stones."

Casiphia says, "Thadston will not take this well."

Tikba mildly says, "I am sure you will handle him as well as you have before."

Speaking to Goldstr, Kippe agrees, "I have never been told she's a liar."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kiyna says, "You may be the one to break his streak of good behavior. The glassmakers will rejoice."

Kayse says, "I am sure we will see a chair soon."

Leafiara says, "If nothing else, maybe he'll jump at the chance to finally kill some Rooks gone rogue with your approval."

Speaking to Casiphia, Thrassus says, "At this point, you may want to consider calling a truce with the settlers and co-operating to root out this Wraith and the Kings."

Casiphia says, "I...I am not sure that can be wise."

Thrassus says, "And I am saying this as a supporter of thier efforts to create the barony."

Arianiss says, "Or keep antagonizing them and bring into reality the fear."

Irval says, "Tough Lady. Thats your only play now."

Casiphia says, "I could stab you. That's still a play."

Casiphia nods at Irval.

Speaking to Casiphia, Nalver says, "Hope you don't get murdered."

Nalver says, "Good night."

The sense of peace and security begins to wane from the area.

Leafiara calls upon the local spirits and directs them through the area...

Leafiara gestures.

A sense of peace and calm resettles over the area.

Kiyna says, "There is always that."

Irval says, "And I could peel you like a potatoe."

Irval says, "Thats also a play."

Kiyna says, "The Wehnimerian solution."

Leafiara affably says, "Excellent, common ground established."

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr says, "You certainly need to at least change... so that you don't get caught in the crossfire."

Earthdiver helps himself to a buttery baked potato.

Irval glares at Casiphia.

Speaking to Casiphia, Thrassus says, "It's the sensible thing to do considering the current situation."

Vaemyr says, "I think I wouldn't advise too many grey beaked masks in the coming weeks."

Casiphia says, "Standing down and doing nothing against the Barony only enables them to grow."

Pukk says, "Sometimes the only sensible thing to do is be insensible."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara admits, "I left mine in a locker even before this."

Tikba mildly says, "Perhaps another symbol would be preferable."

Speaking to Casiphia, Thrassus says, "I cas assure you there is nothing going to stop that now."

Speaking to Casiphia, Evia asks, "Your loyalists shall be in peril, how will you protect them?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Arianiss asks, "What exactly are you trying to accomplish here?"

Casiphia says, "Do you not see the danger? If we look away, to uproot the Wraith, we risk turning around to see Elidal in our chambers."

Thrassus sighs.

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr says, "I knows where yer heart be, jess hopin ye follow it."

Julenne softly says, "Nae sure how threatening Irval does anything for ye."

Kippe dryly says, "The proverbial rock and a hard place."

Thrassus says, "Fine, take on the Wraith and the Kings alone."

Evia asks, "Quite tired, what does that even mean...in our chambers?"

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr says, "You don't think that this could be an opportunity to coexist though? Common enemies, common goals..."

Casiphia says, "The Wraith's intentions are not to be dismissed. The Brotherhood of Rooks MUST exist. If we are diminished, or weakened in anyway, we invite further imperial encroachment and the spark of the Silver Kings."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kelfyr says, "For all he represents, I truly believe Elidal wants a peaceful coexistance. Those who sent him here, however, may desire something more insidious."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Arianiss says, "Wehnimer's stands alone."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara asks, "Wait, what exactly are these common goals?"

Casiphia says, "It is not Elidal's pretty face and untried stomach that worries me the most."

Speaking amusedly to Arianiss, Tikba says, "You forget our great ally, the Turamzyrrian Empire."

Casiphia says, "It is the shadows he brings from the Empire with him."

Irval says, "Well keep those shadows at bay then."

Irval says, "With your own shadows."

Casiphia says, "The Wraith and I want the same things. We disagree on the methods."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "I believe that Elidal would not wish to see a rise of the silver kings among his people."

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr exclaims, "Elidal, so far, nae a threat, jess a neighbor. Else WE will do fight fer our freedom!"

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kiyna says, "I don't believe Elidal has the means to prevent it. They have thrived in far more powerful baronies for decades."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Then maybe he should take that up with Earl Jovery and the Empire can figure out how to destroy the Silver Kings where they're already thriving instead of stretching their resources even more thin to establish new territory here."

Tikba says, "If the Empire could act to destroy the Silver Kings, they would have."

Arianiss says, "Knowing us we'll partner up with the Silver Kings if anything."

Casiphia says, "I would argue that depending on the province...you could wander into a royal court and throw a stick and hit both a nobleman and a Silver King at the same time."

Vendayan says, "Ronan had told us that a hand with shadows in the south is seeking something. Some sort of forbidden knowledge. And that they must not be able to find what they are looking for."

Tikba mildly says, "An interesting argument. I have heard much the same said in Vornavis, of Wehnimer's Landing."

Speaking slowly to Tikba, Leafiara says, "We don't have royal courts..."

Leafiara murmurs, "If the people of Vornavis are saying that, they're even less informed than I thought."

Goldstr exclaims, "We bein a Protectorate of da Empire means NO Barony er Earldom kin attack us er claim us!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Well some are a royal pain in the..."

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara acknowledges, "Point."

Speaking to Leafiara, Tikba clarifies, "Much the same. Not the same."

Casiphia takes a drink from her black cherry whiskey.

Casiphia leans against the wall, looking up at the oak placard.

Irval says, "Hmmm."

Irval says, "Freedom takes root huh."

Goldstr exclaims, "We hs no fears from da Empire!"

Irval says, "Interesting that the Rook that we interrogated the other night before he died a terrible death kept spouting the same thing."

Kelfyr says, "He did not."

Thrassus says, "He was spouting an incorrect version."

Arianiss says, "..there's such this huge focus on freedom when for the past twenty-five years since I came in off the turnip cart.. Wehnimer's has been free."

Tikba amusedly says, "Odd, since the placard is here to read."

Evia says, "Interesting."

Casiphia says, "To simple minds, it sounded the same."

Casiphia nods at Irval.

Irval says, "Freedom is rooted."

[General] Drooke thinks, "There was a poooooofs, and someone showed up."

Irval asks, "Simple am I?"

Speaking to Irval, Kiyna says, "He betrayed his poor disguise as a Rook with an incorrect remembering of the slogan."

Casiphia says, "I believe that was my implication, yes."

Irval turns to face Casiphia.

Citan deeply says, "Still he still said it."

Speaking to Kiyna, Tikba says, "Casiphia suggests he was not disguised, merely in disagreement."

Goldstr exclaims, "We ARE Free! An always will be!"

Pukk says, "He said it wrong. Because he wasn't a true Rook."

Speaking to Casiphia, Thrassus says, "You might wish to consider altering your group's name so folk can distinguish between your two factions in the coming days."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Perhaps out of touch with Casiphia's ideals."

Speaking to Thrassus, Kippe says, "Her group is still the Rooks."

Tikba mildly says, "Not a true Rook. Simply following the man who has funded the Rooks and directed Casiphia's actions for many years."

Citan deeply says, "He said it wrong but he still said those words.. .Either way... There is no disputing the fact the words were spoken."

Speaking to Goldstr, Vendayan asks, "Until they start taxing us for the rolton and the crops that don't grow within our walls?"

Thrassus shrugs.

Casiphia says, "A title will do little to change things, nor will I surrender our truth to others."

Speaking to Casiphia, Vaemyr says, "Well I imagine I will be fighting against the Wraith and his forces, he seems like a threat to all of us. If you wish to work together, I think there is some common ground. I don't support attacks on the Barony though, I don't think it will do us any good in the end, and if you continue with those while we are dealing with those other faction, then we won't know the difference of whom we're fighting."

Vendayan asks, "The lumber for firewood in the winter?"

The sense of peace and security begins to wane from the area.

Leafiara calls upon the local spirits and directs them through the area...

Leafiara gestures.

A sense of peace and calm resettles over the area.

Irval says, "What I wanna know is why our Councilors. Right now, aren't calling for this woman's arrest until an investigation can be launched. And if SHE is found to be innocent then she can be released. But I do think that it would be wise to take her into protective custody."

Casiphia says, "We are the Rooks, they are merely Remnants."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kippe asks, "When has she attacked them?"

Thrassus says, "Close enough I suppose."

Casiphia says, "I have been pardoned by your Mayor."

Casiphia nods at Irval.

Speaking to Casiphia, Irval asks, "Have you? Recently?"

Tikba mildly asks, "Did this pardon have conditions?"

Irval says, "After the effigies."

Speaking to Irval, Kayse says, "In the last year, yes."

Vendayan asks, "Has she comitted a crime?"

Leafiara adds, "The town council also isn't in charge of law enforcement."

Casiphia asks, "What has my crime been?"

Citan deeply says, "Haven't The rooks set fires..."

Irval says, "How bout murder."

Vendayan asks, "Other than angering a mob?"

Speaking to Kippe, Vaemyr says, "She hasn't as far as I'm aware, but she has threatened to on many occasions, thus the warning."

Irval says, "Mine."

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr asks, "Why Ye stay Rooks an not join our Town Militia?"

Irval glances at Casiphia.

Casiphia says, "Quick, arrest me, I lit a torch in a dark cave the other night as well."

Thrassus says, "The effigies were not a crime, technically."

Casiphia smirks.

Tikba says, "She is barred from the militia."

Citan deeply asks, "Propery loss.. City destruction?"

Kippe says, "It sounded as though you were claiming it a fact."

Speaking to Irval, Vendayan says, "You seem terribly inconvenienced by it."

Julenne softly says, "If she is part of the rooks, and they have cause problems. Then... she should be held accountable too."

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara answers, "Yes, actually, she's--oh, you already knew the answer. Well, that and public office too."

Speaking to Irval, Vaemyr says, "If we arested anyone for threats they made, we would no longer have a town, we'd have a penal colony."

Kayse acidly observes, "Many of you here are forgetting how often the Rooks are on our rooftops and defending our town....our home."

Speaking to Vendayan, Irval says, "You probably wear a thorn dont you."

Casiphia asks, "They do seem to forget don't they Kayse?"

Kiyna says, "For the last bloody time, the effigies that were alight were not crimes. No property was damaged. Public demonstrations are legal."

Julenne softly says, "Jes sayin.."

Casiphia says, "That is how freedom is truly lost."

Speaking to Irval, Vendayan says, "I've refused one in the last week."

Evia says, "And setting sweet cozy little fires on our rooftops of town, yadda yadda."

Casiphia straightens herself, wincing against her wound as she stands taller.

Tikba says, "Freedom is lost in fear of arrows, that is true."

Speaking to Kayse, Arianiss says, "Even heroes can become villains."

Casiphia says, "I'll let Thadston know tomorrow, or soon."

Evia says, "Endangering public safety."

Speaking to Arianiss, Kayse says, "I am aware. And cowards too."

Speaking to Casiphia, Irval asks, "And the arrow your Rooks sent into my eye while I was tending wounds of people during and invasion? What of that?"

Speaking to Irval, Kelfyr says, "Neck."

Casiphia says, "We'll likely need to discuss more things. I will not have those loyal to the true Rooks caught up in harm."

Kayse offers, "Pest control?"

Julenne softly asks, "So the question is, did she hurt yerelf on purpose to gather our attention or as she really attacked?"

Casiphia frowns at Julenne.

Speaking to Kelfyr, Irval asks, "And how do you know it was my neck?"

Casiphia says, "None of this was easy to discuss or share."

Speaking to Tikba, Kayse explains, "Irval being shot in the neck."

Casiphia nods at Julenne.

Speaking to Irval, Kelfyr says, "Clearly the message it sent wasn't received."

Speaking mildly to Kayse, Tikba says, "I took your meaning."

Speaking quietly to Casiphia, Sirona says, "You need that bandage changed and the wound cleaned."

Speaking to Irval, Kelfyr says, "I saw it happen."

Speaking to Irval, Leafiara says, "You've literally been telling everyone about it for months."

Kialeigh says, "Convinient though.."

Casiphia nods at Sirona.

Speaking to Irval, Leafiara says, "I didn't even see it and even I know because you start ranting about it weekly."

Irval says, "I didnt say neck."

Speaking to Casiphia, Kayse says, "Will you not let Sirona look quickly? She is a skilled medic."

Speaking to Irval, Kelfyr asks, "Don't you have a corpse to go play with?"

Casiphia sighs.

Speaking to Irval, Tikba says, "We all know it was your neck."

Casiphia nods.

Casiphia moves to stand in front of Sirona.

Thrassus says, "They've shot quite a few of us with arrows, it's nothing unusual at this point."

Casiphia lifts up the side of her shirt, turning to Sirona.

Sirona begins a careful examination of Casiphia -- she takes her pulse, checks her temperature, and checks for broken bones or any other ailments.

Speaking to Casiphia, Goldstr says, "I knows ye love our Home, but I do question yer ways."

Sirona nods slowly.

Irval says, "Who cares! Where it was, It was murder. Quit with the tangents."

Speaking to Irval, Leafiara relents, "Okay, fine, I heard it from any of the dozens of others responding to your rants instead of hearing it from you, and assumed it couldn't be the case that all of them were mistaken."

Julenne softly says, "Thats gonna hurt."

Sirona quietly says, "That does not look good."

Speaking to Irval, Vendayan asks, "Who mourns you?"

Sirona quietly says, "The wound needs debridement probably."

Casiphia says, "It will pass. I will see to some additional attention. Thank you."

Casiphia nods at Sirona.

Speaking mildly to Vendayan, Tikba says, "Perhaps those who believe that we should have the right to speak our minds."

Kayse nods appreciatively at Sirona.

Sirona nods at Kayse.

Tikba says, "Elidal certainly does not threaten us with arrows for speaking against him, for he has none to spare."

Casiphia says, "I should slip away while I can."

Speaking wryly in Aelotian to Tikba, Kayse says something you don't understand.

Casiphia says, "The Rusty Cutlass remains safe for those loyal to me. That much I am certain."

Pukk says, "That would be the Rook thing to do right now."

Lady Casiphia just limped through a tall iron-bound door.

Discussion Afterward

Leafiara vows, "We'll protect the Cutlass--"

Leafiara says, "Well, alright."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Yeah. You were slow in saying it."

Julenne softly asks, "Well whose cleaning up the cutlass?"

Kialeigh says, "Not it."

Sirona quietly says, "I think she might be poisoned."

Speaking amusedly to Julenne, Tikba says, "The Rooks."

Goldstr says, "An I love fishin off da Forecastle."

Sirona quietly says, "I hope that wound heals."

Speaking to Julenne, Arianiss says, "Those loyal to her I imagine."

Pukk says, "She will be fine."

Leafiara says, "I mean, there are many workers here. I'm sure they can manage cleaning some blood stains."

Kialeigh says, "Prolly see it all the time.."

Thrassus says, "They are likely used to it."

Julenne softly says, "Better clean it soon."

Kiyna says, "Quite a lot of blood... it's no ordinary knife in the dark that can lay a hand on her. Whether you mislike Casiphia or not, she is a veteran combatant."

Evia says, "Likely dip their hankies in it and carrying it around like holy relics."

Julenne softly says, "Make it perty again."

Vaemyr asks, "So... if the cutlass is safe hre, I wonder where the other faction would be organizing, the tunnel maybe?"

Sirona quietly says, "Its more than just a clean knife wound."

Sirona quietly says, "On that note..."

Speaking to Sirona, Kayse asks, "What did you see?"

Sirona quietly says, "I am off to rest."

Goldstr says, "Deckhanda a clean dat."

Citan deeply says, "Giants worth of blood I seen all over the roads to lead here."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara agrees, "Good question. It might not be centralized in that fashion, though... but even if it is, maybe this 'Wraith' has their own safehouses."

Goldstr exclaims, "Take care folks!"

Sirona quietly says, "Good night all."

Kiyna says, "This Ordlyn is no trifling matter..."

Bernadette softly says, "Nite."

Tikba says, "We must mention him to the Empire."

Tikba amusedly says, "I understand they have ways of dealing with ordlyn."

Thrassus says, "They will likely be familiar."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vendayan asks, "You presume they aren't a publicly known figure?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "They still would need places to meet at times I imagine."

Speaking to Vendayan, Leafiara says, "Who? The Wraith, yes, not publicly known."

Leafiara says, "Or at least not publicly known as the Wraith."

Vaemyr says, "Who knows, we might of met them before."

Speaking to Leafiara, Arianiss says, "I've spent a lot of time hunting wraiths in my career.."

Leafiara says, "Hm."

Tikba muses, "Casiphia suggested the Wraith has long tenure."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vendayan says, "The wraith could be anyone. They may have a public identity. The Alias and an anonymous signature on a letter that comes with coin is all they may need."

Leafiara considers, "You know, I always figured Amos was the Knave, but suppose for a moment that Stephos staged his own capture..."

Citan deeply says, "So... Ya think perhaps the wraith may hang out under the abandoned inn where the Wraiths are?.. I mean there is supplies and such down there."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "We have no idea what happened to Stephos either..."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kelfyr says, "You may need a corkboard and some strings."

Pukk says, "I always thought it was Amos too...but if this turns out to be true...well...I'm still not going to apologize to Amos."

Leafiara says, "...there would still be a lot of things not adding up about that situation, though, but..."

Speaking offhandedly to Kelfyr, Leafiara says, "Oh, I had that in my mayoral office."

Kiyna says, "He was supposed to be executed a long while ago. I've heard no news of it."

Vaemyr says, "He was supposed to be executed, but if that had, I feel like we would of heard... something about that."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Leafiara adds, "Problem was, even when I got things right, people didn't believe me."

Kayse says, "He is in Idolene--in prison. I gave a letter from his wife to Amos' courier months ago."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Leafiara says, "I figured out Casiphia was Mother months before that was revealed, and told people, and nobody would do anything."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Really? I don't believe that."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kelfyr says, "As follows with the curse of knowledge."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I thought you were Mother."

Leafiara mutters, "Heck, Thadston snapped at me over even raising the idea."

Arianiss says, "Well, he may be biased."

Vendayan says, "He was biased."

Leafiara murmurs, "Sometimes I still think he might secretly be Father, but let's not go there."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Figured out she was Mother AND Rone at that."

Speaking to Julenne, Kyralina asks, "Can I ask a dumb question?"

Irval says, "So I find it deeply disturbing that we let her walk free."

Julenne softly says, "No question is dumb darlin."

Speaking to Kyralina, Vendayan says, "It's not difficult."

Kyralina asks, "Who are the Silver Kings?"

Speaking to Irval, Leafiara says, "Take it up with Mayor Thadston and the Steward of the Guard, Thrayzar. They're the ones in charge of law enforcement, not the town council."

Speaking to Kyralina, Kayse says, "A criminal organization within the Empire."

Tikba reluctantly says, "I fear Irval deserves justice."

Julenne softly says, "I have never heard of them, I have no clue."

Vendayan says, "I've never heard of them either, honestly."

Imena softly says, "All of the Empire is a criminal organization."

Speaking to Irval, Arianiss says, "Freedom implies.. well.. freedom. Go get your justice."

Speaking to Irval, Leafiara adds, "...probably Thrayzar is better. Thadston's likely buried in letters from hundreds of citizen, Thrayzar maybe not so much."

Pukk says, "Not all. There are some good in the empire too."

Speaking to Kyralina, Vaemyr says, "They are... basically the Empire version of the old rooks? They're a large criminal syndicate with branches and smaller organization all over the empire. I believe they are also where Dragnel originated from before he founded the Rooks here in the landing."

Speaking dryly to Tikba, Kayse says, "Vaemyr was shot in the neck too but you do not hear him complaining every moment of the day."

Imena softly says, "The citizens perhaps."

Speaking evenly to Arianiss, Tikba says, "Being ruled by the sword is not freedom."

Pukk says, "I mean Owly comes from there. He is great."

Irval says, "They literally provoked that Captain Bodohal into a fit of rage in which he then attacked after mutliple attempts from the Rooks were made on his life under her leadership at the time before any of this Wraith non sense."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Pukk says, "Oh yeah. You need to complain about being shot in the neck."

Speaking to Tikba, Arianiss says, "I can put it down anytime i want."

Speaking to Pukk, Vaemyr says, "That was handled."

Speaking to Irval, Kiyna says, "I've seen no evidence suggesting that was the Rooks. I -have- heard evidence that suggests it was a motivated individual that poisoned Bodohal."

Speaking to Irval, Tikba says, "Let us keep to what is known."

Leafiara opines, "The real shame is that the poison didn't work."

Speaking to Pukk, Vaemyr says, "But if I got that mad everytime shot me in the neck, I would probably be a large green monster by now or something."

Irval says, "One day, the sanctuary will fall and I'll have my vengeance."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Pukk says, "Yeah. I wanted to say that you would look like a porcupine."

Speaking deeply to Vaemyr, Citan asks, "Well how often to The Rooks shoot you in the neck then?"

Speaking to Irval, Kiyna says, "But it doesn't matter to you whether we can confirm a crime or not, does it? You don't care about the Rook that shot the arrow, if indeed a Rook it was, you're using it as a pretense to suggest Casiphia is guilty of murder."

Vendayan asks, "Who... actually stabbed her?"

Irval says, "She had me stoned the night before."

Citan deeply asks, "Is this a daily occurance.. Do you enjoy it?"

Speaking to Vendayan, Kayse says, "One of the figures chasing her."

Speaking mildly to Kiyna, Tikba says, "There is no need to pretend that the arrow was not a Rook's arrow."

Speaking to Citan, Vaemyr says, "Only once... that I know was a rook? There were a few other times, but that was in the middle of invasions so who knows what shot me then."

Speaking to Vendayan, Leafiara says, "Assuming I was following the information correctly... Rooks gone rogue seeking to curry favor with the Wraith."

Speaking to Irval, Kiyna says, "Your own fool words got you stoned. She directed them to stop."

Speaking to Julenne, Kyralina says, "I think we're going to resume bounties, lemme know if you need me."

Speaking to Citan, Vaemyr says, "And the once was "handled" it is done with now."

Irval says, "Plants are a common tactic."

Irval says, "In the poltical arena."

Citan deeply says, "Okay.. .well just ya was like I get shot in neck alot..."

Speaking evenly to Kiyna, Tikba says, "She who can stop the stones, can start them. Perhaps you may wish to be ruled by the threat of stoning. I do not."

Leafiara jovially concludes, "Alright, it's *definitely* long enough past Bloodriven closing its gates that I need to get my containers back out of lockers and resume carrying popcorn around."

Tikba says, "If Casiphia wishes to rule the Landing, she need only run for office, except that she can never do so."

Pukk says, "Well I'm getting spells."

Pukk says, "This was interesting."

Pukk just went through a tall iron-bound door.

Irval says, "So she choose to use fear to attempt to rule from the shadows."

Leafiara says, "The invoker's not around for--"

Citan deeply says, "Dreaven is there though."

Arianiss says, "Forty-five minutes."

Leafiara says, "Oh."

Julenne softly says, "Dreavening."

Vaemyr says, "So..."

Vaemyr says, "While people are around."

Vaemyr asks, "Anyone heard of the name "Talon"?"

Leafiara says, "Oh, the Fatman and the Talon document that was going around."

Arianiss asks, "Can you spell it?"

Kiyna says, "No more than what Juramis vaguely spewed."

Leafiara says, "I just figured it was more Daily Darkstone stuff."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Apparently it's a person, and Juramis was very scared of hearing the name."

Kiyna says, "He seemed to believe Talon comes from Mist Harbor, and is a name one doesn't lightly toss about. He was not forthcoming on any details."

Vendayan asks, "It's a name or a title?"

Citan deeply asks, "Perhaps It's the Talon of The Wraith?"

Vaemyr says, "They originated on Mist Harbor, and potentially have a connection to Bodohal."

Speaking to Citan, Leafiara says, "That's a great thought."

Irval says, "Ive had enough. I need to go break someone or something."

Vendayan says, "The hand, as Ronan put it."

Vaemyr says, "Rather from Mist Harbor."

Vendayan says, "Talon could be a title."

Leafiara says, "Hm, who was that gnome who was working with Vlashandra? He did get away."

Arianiss says, "He paid the price for his actions."

Vendayan says, "It's a stupid name."

Leafiara adds, "And was at Mist Harbor when he did get away."

Arianiss says, "..and he didn't "get away" either."

Speaking surprisedly to Arianiss, Leafiara asks, "Oh, he's been killed since then?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Arianiss says, "If that's what you consider to be paying a price, sure.. I won't disagree with you."

Arianiss says, "I don't remember his name though."

Leafiara slowly says, "...I literally saw him get away. I was the first one charging into the room where he was, and I think the only one who arrived in time to see him use whatever device he used to disappear."

Arianiss says, "There was more later."

Speaking understandingly to Arianiss, Leafiara says, "Ahhh, okay."

Leafiara says, "Alright, ruling that one out."

Arianiss says, "I don't know his status currently, just that he was wanting to make amends and also have us help with a ceremony for his deceased family."

Pukk exclaims, "I'm back!"

Arianiss says, "..but that was maybe a year ago now.."

Citan deeply says, "Well then."

Speaking abruptly to Arianiss, Leafiara says, "Alright then, un-ruling that one out."

Citan deeply says, "I bid you all a good night."

Julenne softly says, "Goodnight yall."

Julenne softly says, "Behave out there."

Speaking vaguely to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Okay, Pukk, if I need your help in these troubled times, I'll send the signal and you know what to do."

Tilting her head back, Leafiara slowly inhales, causing an array of red-haloed white lights to rise from her white wyrwood yumi in time to the rhythm of her breath. As she exhales, the bright motes burst outwards in a flurry of incandescence, briefly forming into the outline of a rook before winking out.

Vaemyr says, "Alright, I'm going to retire to my office I think, hopefully Casiphia listens and rebrands those whom are loyal to her, and we can be done with the name "Rooks" forever after this."

Pukk says, "You got it."

Kayse says, "She had no interest in doing that."

Kiyna says, "Quite the opposite, in fact."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "Refresh my memory. What is the signal and what do I do?"

Vaemyr says, "Doesn't mean she won't listen to others."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I want to see if you remember."

Tilting her head back, Leafiara slowly inhales, causing an array of red-haloed white lights to rise from her white wyrwood yumi in time to the rhythm of her breath. As she exhales, the bright motes burst outwards in a flurry of incandescence, briefly forming into the outline of a rook before winking out.

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "That's the signal."

Speaking cryptically to Pukk, Leafiara says, "And you know what to do."

Town Councilor Vaemyr just went through a tall iron-bound door.

Tilting his head back, Pukk slowly inhales, causing an array of shadowy black lights to rise from his ruic composite bow in time to the rhythm of his breath. As he exhales, the bright motes burst outwards in a flurry of incandescence, briefly forming into the outline of a rook before winking out.

Leafiara muses, "Oh, guess Vaemyr's not in a very good mood. He would normally have had fun with that..."

Leafiara amiably says, "Well, I suppose we'll call that a night. It's good to be working on something productive."

Leafiara adds, "...for the Landing, not the camp."

Leafiara cheerfully wishes, "Have a great eve, all."