North by Northwest (storyline)/2023-05-22 - Cold Flames and the Bleak Peaks (log)

Ivastaen 22-23, 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

In the early evening, Barrister Jeshiah relays that Mayor Thadston has charged the seven discovered Rooks with Impropriety and Conspiracy, Hooliganism, Endangering Public Safety, Disturbing the Peace, and Treason. Councilor Kayse says she thought Thadston would be more creative and Jeshiah says he tried with an initial charge of Rookery, but he reminded him we have a legal system. The trial will take place on the 24th and 25th and he'll see the heroes then!

Afterward, Steward Alendrial arrives--and although she missed Jeshiah, she asks if anyone present can pass a message to Casiphia that she wishes to speak with her at a place and time of her choosing; Alendrial has a matter to discuss with her and perhaps a way forward. Kayse says she can send word.

Later in the night, lights begin to stream down from Melgorehn's Reach again and adventurers go to Lake Eonak to investigate. This time they're a sickly green color like the manafires... and one ribbon of energy flies into Emperia and lights her on fire! After people put her out Tikba is the first to decide to ascend the mountain in case more is happening at the peak. As people await any report, another ribbon sets Mourdeyan ablaze!

After they put her out, a voice screams in everyone's minds--and then sickly green fire beings burst forth and attack! Adventurers destroy them, then the lake begins to ripple; the image of Rodnay appears beneath the lake's surface and acts as if he's trying to get through but can't. Meanwhile, Tikba reports that Iliyaas is sleeping in the Moon Chamber. Councilor Kayse tries to clear a way for Rodnay by splashing the water, but to no avail. A bubble escapes his mouth and pops, then the word "poisoned" is heard in everyone's minds. Meanwhile, Tikba reports that Iliyaas is awake. Another bubble releases, pops, and conveys the message "stop... her..." Then a third bubble conveys the word "cold..." Meanwhile, Tikba reports that Iliyaas is saying the mountain is sick.

A small group splits off to see Iliyaas and arrive in time to find Tikba telling her that Rodnay's come this far without having to choose between two worlds, but Iliyaas says she believes he must choose in the end and "one cannot be blood and blood forever." She says the boy and mountain are sick and it is fascinating and strange. She says many think the fires are the cause, but she asks if the fire is the disease or a result of it and wonders what makes a mountain sick or what makes mana sick. She asks if the sickness is a natural evolution or created.

Back down at the lake, Rodnay speaks through Mourdeyan to say the worlds will bleed through, then to tell Kayse that he cannot and will not--as she explain that she had asked him to grab her hand. He speaks again, now through Kialeigh, that if he feeds on them now then he'll never stop. As people muse over whether they can feed Rodnay mana, Chandrellia bursts into flames--and then more fire beings emerge!

After they're destroyed, Rodnay speaks through Missoni one word: "cold." Magister Raelee notes that Rodnay was speaking of incursion and considers the possibility that something is attempting to utilize Rodnay as a conduit and the illness has weakened him enough to leave him vulnerable. Rodnay speaks through Dame Evia that "the worlds will come." Rodnay's hand raises out of the lake and pulls Kayse and Chandrellia (who was holding Kayse for support) toward the water, then points in Raelee's direction before his image dissolves.

Back up at the peak, Iliyaas muses about the mana walls weakening and what lies beyond. A small gold ring flies into view up at the peak and then dissolves into a pocket of air as the people still below report that it was theirs. They next warn about a silver wand, but a bit too late as it flies straight through Tayler's hand on its way into another valence!

Soon enough, the air in the Moon Chamber shimmers, then walls reveal a vision of the Bleaklands. The air soon crackles with energy and green motes spread along the walls, then a shimmering fissure appears... The small group at the peak heads through and discovers itself in the Bleaklands with no apparent way back while the bigger group at the lake finds itself engaged with a great number of fire beings!

As adventurers race to protect the Landing, the Bleaklands group explores a ruined keep. Iliyaas says the land is sick and Tikba asks if it's the same illness, but Iliyaas says no, it feels different, born of blood, while "the mountain of worlds feels cold." The Bleaklands group makes its way along and around a mountain to a dead end, then doubles back and eventually finds a fissure to return to the Reach. Iliyaas takes a moment to notice how many died here, saying their voices are so loud, then grins slowly.

She asks if this is where Rodnay was found and Leafiara explains that after Rodnay protected the Landing adventurers from Chaston Griffin's obelisk blast, it weakened him into a state where Grand Magister Dennet was able to find him in the Bleaklands and take him captive in a bane coffin. Iliyaas says blood has ruined the Bleaklands, but cold has sickened the Reach, so they are different, and there is no tomorrow for the Bleaklands.

As they're talking, a huge slate-hued cloud above emits a groan, then grows numerous clusters of eyeballs and maws of teeth. The sound of a church bell rings through the Bleaklands and the zombie of a fallen Blameless is seen shambling around far away. Iliyaas suggests leaving, though others raise questions of things following through a one-way portal; nonetheless, they leave and go to back up town against the fire beings.

Leafi, at the head of the returned Bleaklands group, manages to lead it--including Iliyaas--just inside town before she can step away to speak with Elidal, but Iliyaas screams about not being in town! Leafi leads back out and Iliyaas trembles, falling to her knees as she breaks into a sweat. She starts to ask why, then cuts herself off; Leafi apologizes, and Iliyaas says it's fine and leaves.

Everyone else spends the rest of the night driving off the fire beings.

Editing Protocol of this Log

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

Log

Jeshiah Explains Thadston's Charges

[General] Jeshiah exclaims, "Absurd! It's just absurd!"

[General] Leafiara curiously asks, "What now?"

[travel]

[Town Square, East]

Here in the center of a broad plaza near the commercial area of the bazaar stands the impressive facade of the slate-roofed Moot Hall, where the citizens of Wehnimer's Landing hold various official, religious and social functions. Facing the square are some of the town's more prosperous shops, still doing business with the many customers who still frequent the streets at night. You also see some gathered townspeople, the driftwood Nalver disk, a tabby cat, the Coins disk, a large purple wooden barrel, the Moot Hall and a black imperial wagon with a glowing blue-white pylon on it.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Locklyer, Ahnzari, Jeshiah, Nalver, Coins

Leafiara waves to Jeshiah.

[General] Kayse sighs, "Yes, what now?"

[General] Yundah exclaims, "I didn't do it!"

[General] Riverman absently thinks, "Oh."

Jeshiah waves.

[General] Kialeigh asks, "Did you lose yer blankie?"

[General] Jeshiah thinks, "The charges..."

Town Councilor Kayse just arrived.

Speaking to Jeshiah, Kayse asks, "What are they?"

[General] Jeshiah thinks, "Our Mayor...he is something else."

[General] Svardin thinks, "Don't pay em."

Leafiara says, "Oh, this should be good."

[General] Jeshiah thinks, "I will announce the charges being placed against the Rooks outside of Moot Hall, if you want to hear this insanity as well."

Jeshiah says, "Make sure to go vote inside Moot Hall's Assembly Room."

[General] Svardin thinks, "Da Rooks? Cackle."

[General] Kimima asks, "Rooks? Ain't that a bunch of crows?"

[General] Yardie mutters, "Didn't get a trial when I wasn't allowed in the stores."

[General] Leafiara explains, "A symbol and an organization name. The Brotherhood of Rooks! That's... some of us!"

Jeshiah sighs.

Jeshiah shakes his head.

Speaking dryly to Kayse, Alosaka asks, "Excited?"

Jeshiah asks, "Are we ready?"

Speaking flatly to Alosaka, Kayse says, "Thrilled."

Some in the crowd of townspeople nod and shout.

Speaking to Kayse, Alosaka exclaims, "I sentence you to praise and adulation!"

Speaking wryly to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "Anything but that."

Jeshiah clears his throat.

Jeshiah says, "Ahem..."

Leafiara says, "Ironically, getting sick of the praise and adulation is one of the reasons I--well, no, let me save it for the trial."

[General] Falicor thinks, "It's insane, I agree. The charges should have been levelled much earlier."

Jeshiah recites:

"Councilor Kiyna, Councilor Kayse, Leafiara, Wolfloner, Pukk, Drektor, and Chandrellia are being charged by Mayor Thadston with the following...."

Locklyer gives Yardie a playful kick in the shin.

Yardie exclaims, "Owww!"

The voice of Locklyer says, "No one likes a pointer."

Jeshiah recites:

"Impropriety and Conspiracy, Hooliganism, Endangering Public Safety, Disturbing the Peace, and Treason."

Yardie says, "I have to point to read things."

Jeshiah asks, "Can you believe that?"

Jeshiah says, "Heroes. I tell you. Not criminals. Heroes."

The voice of Locklyer says, "That sounds like a personal problem."

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie says, "I was surprised by you, ya know."

Jeshiah says, "Might as well hang us all."

Leafiara says, "That... sounds significantly easier to refute than expected."

Yardie says, "Not really, I can just point."

Jeshiah bends his neck out awkwardly.

Kiyna asks, "Did I miss the announcement of charges?"

Speaking to Jeshiah, Kayse asks, "That's it?"

Speaking to Jeshiah, Nalver asks, "You asking for someone to cut it off?"

[General] Leafiara informs, "The charges are Impropriety and Conspiracy, Hooliganism, Endangering Public Safety, Disturbing the Peace, and Treason."

Alosaka says, "I feel like they could've just gone with treason."

Jeshiah blinks at Kayse.

Jeshiah asks, "That's it!?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Missoni repeats, "Impropriety and Conspiracy, Hooliganism, Endangering Public Safety, Disturbing the Peace, and Treason."

[General] Ouendi asks, "No Loitering?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie says, "You played it well. I'm pretty impressed."

Jeshiah exclaims, "Treason will have you swinging until Zelia takes you home!"

[General] Leafiara thinks, "This is what Kiyna, Kayse, Wolfloner, Pukk, Drektor, Chandrellia, and I are facing."

Speaking lightly to Jeshiah, Kayse says, "I thought Thadston would be more creative."

Speaking to Yardie, Kiyna asks, "Played what well?"

Speaking wryly to Jeshiah, Kayse says, "We already did that once."

[General] Nubbyns thinks, "Hooliganism sounds rather...subjective."

Jeshiah says, "He tried."

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie says, "You're good."

Speaking to Jeshiah, Kayse asks, "Banishment?"

Jeshiah says, "His initial charge was Rookery."

[General] Seok asks, "Impropirety?"

[General] Chamorr thinks, "Well, ya are a bunch a hooligans."

Kayse can offer Jeshiah only a blank expression.

Jeshiah says, "Of course, I had to remind him..."

Leafiara says, "I suppose the 'Conspiracy' charge might be the toughest of the bunch."

Jeshiah says, "We have a legal system."

The voice of Locklyer wonders, "How many times can one neck get stretched?"

Leafiara suggests, "We'll find out soon, friend."

[General] Kiijo thinks, "Technically, treason is very subjective too."

Jeshiah says, "Banishment is not a charge, but a punishment."

[General] Chamorr thinks, "I'll testify fer yas."

Speaking to Jeshiah, Kayse says, "That is what I was asking."

Jeshiah exclaims, "The trial begins on the 24th and 25th!"

Jeshiah exclaims, "We will see you then heroes!"

Speaking to a lazy wild fiery dog, Yardie says, "I don't have anything today, Winston."

Jeshiah raises his fist defiantly.

Speaking to Leafiara, Alosaka says, "As I understand it, conspiracy itself requires another crime."

Jeshiah just marched off to the north.

[General] Chamorr thinks, "They is puttin yous on trial."

Leafiara says, "Wait, is the Endangering Public Safety part about lighting torches on the rooftops? Because if he listened to Evia, that one might be the single easiest to get past."

Leafiara asks, "Anyone have a torch I can borrow and light right now?"

Alosaka asks, "I can't just accuse someone of 'conspiring.' Conspiring to what?"

The voice of Locklyer asks, "Wait, how can it begin on two seperate days?"

Speaking to Alosaka, Kiyna says, "No one bothered to ask, you'll note."

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "Lighter."

Jeshiah just arrived.

Yardie says, "Now Locklyer, I'm sure you've been pinched before."

Jeshiah exclaims, "I mean the 25th and 26th!" [OOC note: it ended up being the 24th and 25th after all.]

Jeshiah just marched off to the north.

Discussion Afterward

Leafiara says, "I suppose there are so many charges he needs two days."

Alosaka yells, "Thank you!"

The voice of Locklyer asks, "Pinched?"

The voice of Locklyer says, "I'm a good lad."

Kayse flatly says, "That is our barrister."

Yardie exclaims, "Hah!!"

Speaking to Kayse, Missoni says, "He would have been early, at least."

Elexya says, "Perhaps those who stand trial on day two will get a lighter sentence due to sheer lack of willpower."

The voice of Locklyer says, "Well, I've not been tried for treason."

Missoni says, "Surely that says something."

The voice of Locklyer says, "But neither has anyone else here that I'm aware of."

Speaking nervously to himself, Yardie states, "Neither have I..."

Speaking sincerely to Leafiara, Elexya says, "Thoughts and prayers."

Leafiara muses, "Well, it's about time I made these kind of waves in town."

The voice of Locklyer says, "More prayers, less thoughts."

The voice of Locklyer says, "And a lot less rope."

Kiyna says, "I have no need of prayers. No Arkati will answer them."

Elexya says, "Less words from the hider."

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie asks, "Just do as you do, yeah?"

Leafiara says, "I suppose I'd better actually start considering those one by one."

The voice of Locklyer says, "Seeing as how a rope was used before, sitting under a tree might not be the best spot to hang out."

Leafiara says, "But I'll tell you right now, I can't refute the hooliganism charge."

Yardie says, "Hah, you said hang out."

The voice of Locklyer says, "I did, I did."

Yardie says, "And now the joke has me all strung up, I suppose."

Leafiara says, "Hmm, I wonder if 'Impropriety and Conspiracy' are meant to be taken as the same charge or two different ones."

Yardie says, "Don't look at me."

The voice of Yardie says, "Don't do it, Locklyr."

Alendrial's Offer

Lady Alendrial just arrived.

Kayse says, "We're allowed to look at you."

Alosaka observes, "Myself, I would refute each charge in turn, noting the absolute lack of any evidence except being discovered meeting with the Rooks. I would also point out that, having been already hanged prior to the trial, there seems to be a lack of due process or respect for the law on the part of the person bringing the charges -- Thadston."

Speaking to Alendrial, Leafiara cheerfully greets, "Good eve!"

Alendrial says, "I see I missed Acorn."

[General] Yundah asks, "You been learning how to think from Dwi?"

[General] Dwi slyly thinks, "Neber!"

Yardie says, "Look to your hearts content, I see just as well as you do...maybe a bit more, even."

Speaking amusedly to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "The best part is that I'm fairly confident Thadston's met with Casiphia more often than I have. By far."

Alendrial says, "On the subject of Casiphia..."

Speaking to Leafiara, Alosaka says, "One could argue that, by pardoning Casiphia, Thadston has done more to conspire with her than anyone else."

Speaking to Yardie, Kayse says, "No, you don't. You don't have a clue actually."

Alendrial asks, "I trust some present have a means to pass along a message?"

Leafiara worriedly asks, "Uh-oh, has news of her health come along?"

Alendrial says, "No."

Kayse nods at Alendrial.

Leafiara relievedly says, "Oh, whew."

Elexya says, "Pays to be the guy in charge, I guess."

Kayse says, "I am sure that can be arranged."

Alendrial nods.

Alosaka says, "Don't you get arrested for conspiring, too."

Speaking politely to Kayse, Yardie retorts, "Please, I don't need to have my eyes removed to see some people for who they are."

Alendrial says, "I wish to speak with her. A place and time of her choosing. Beyond town, I am a reasonable woman."

Speaking to Alosaka, you say, "I... would like to say I doubt that even Thadston's crazed enough to arrest a political opponent while the elections are still going on, but then again..."

Alendrial says, "I have a matter to discuss with her, and perhaps a way forward."

Speaking to Alendrial, Alosaka says, "You can't make a deal with a snake."

Alendrial says, "If you could pass along my message..."

Alendrial nods.

Speaking evenly to Yardie, Kayse says, "That is what I am referring to. You don't know who I am or what I stand for. Being a Rook isn't a crime--and either are any of those false charges."

Leafiara amiably says, "Will try to get in touch with her if possible."

Elexya says, "Speaking of elections."

Alendrial bows.

Lady Alendrial just entered the Moot Hall.

Discussion Afterward

Speaking to Kayse, Yardie says, "And yet, that's not the issue here I refer to. But truly, best of luck in your trial."

Leafiara says, "Though the speed of Kayse's response makes me think she might be better suited. I'm definitely not... *certain* that I can contact her."

Speaking curiously to Yardie, Leafiara asks, "What's the issue?"

Kiyna says, "I'm not certain she's still breathing."

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara says, "Well, there is that too."

Speaking to Kiyna, Missoni asks, "Was she that poorly?"

Speaking to Missoni, Kiyna says, "Hard to say, but it didn't look good."

Leafiara says, "Yes, her voice was very raspy and she was coughing a great deal on the night of the raid."

Speaking to Missoni, Vaemyr says, "She did not look good that night, although I only saw her for a moment before she slipped away."

Missoni admits, "I did not get a good look at her in the chaos, but she certainly seemed spry enough to flee and leave her people there."

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie asks, "Well, here's my take on it. If there are multiple roles here, people working through different avenues to get matters done, I guess my worry and concern is...should we even believe in the political process if it doesn't seem the way to go?"

Kiyna says, "It warmed my heart to see our Rook fellows wearing nooses about their necks. Standing in solidarity with us."

Leafiara says, "Considering how unsurprised Thadston was to have found Chandy and me in the Den, he really should have listened to us when we told him Casi was willing to accept help. Of course, that was then..."

Vaemyr says, "I think though the fact that many of what seemed to be Casiphia's faction of the Rooks were active fighting against the Reivers the other night, is a good sign."

Speaking to Yardie, Leafiara says, "Ah, I see what you're saying."

Speaking to Yardie, Leafiara says, "Your thoughts are something along the lines of..."

Speaking to Yardie, Leafiara asks, "If three of the past council and two of the current council find the Rooks necessary, then what good is the council in and of itself? Something along that reasoning?"

Kayse says, "That is nothing compared to what we have been doing."

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "I don't need an explanation as to intention, I can guess some intentions for one person, and others for another person based on what I see."

Speaking to Yardie, Leafiara says, "Well... I can only speak for myself, but..."

Speaking to Missoni, Vaemyr says, "Folks in masks, with nooses around their necks were fighting off our enemies that night."

Speaking in Sylvankind to Leafiara, Kayse says something you don't understand.

Alosaka says, "I still have faith in the council."

Speaking to Yardie, Kiyna says, "You don't need explanations, you can just intuit people's complex reasonings for their decisions, is that it? Such tripe."

Speaking to Yardie, Leafiara admits, "I didn't run again in part because I didn't think I could do much good in that position, if even any."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Missoni says, "Oh, well I suppose that is good."

Leafiara says, "I don't even know if some of you will believe what I have to say at the trial, frankly."

Leafiara says, "But I'll say it anyway."

Leafiara says, "I could tell some of it here if you'd like."

Kayse steadily says, "I will be running again."

Speaking to Kayse, Leafiara wishes, "Well, good luck on that."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kayse says, "I do not need luck."

Speaking to Kayse, Leafiara says, "That's what I said last time and you didn't like it."

Saraphenia says, "I'm running as well."

Speaking to Kayse, Leafiara says, "I told you you'd be a shoo-in..."

Speaking quietly to Kayse, Alisah says, "That's not what the townsfolk chanting the other night would say."

Kiyna asks, "The ones following Ordlyn?"

Speaking honestly to Kiyna, Yardie says, "Why would I? I felt a certain way about this town for a reason, and those worries, and the worries of others are quantified. I mean, I can always ask you at some point, if you wish to share, but...again, I see things for myself, and some are concerning."

Leafiara agrees, "It's true we have an Ordlyn problem. Among others."

Alosaka asks, "The ones who broke into song during his murdering spree?"

Speaking to Alisah, Kayse says, "I'm not sure what that has to do with what we were discussing. They are blindly following a very dangerous man."

Speaking quietly to Kayse, Alisah says, "Most people are dangerous, in this town."

Alosaka says, "Blindly. You give them a lot of credit."

Speaking to Alosaka, Leafiara asks, "You don't think they've been deceived? They're... actively malicious and would have been anyway?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "And...I appreciate the honesty. I always have with you."

Speaking to Alisah, Kayse says, "I am still unsure what this has to do with what we were just discussing."

Speaking to Leafiara, Alosaka says, "They watched him murder their own neighbors."

Speaking slowly to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "I don't think the average civilians could have done anything to stop his trained assassins."

Speaking quietly to Kayse, Alisah asks, "The councilership you are running for again?"

Kayse vaguely says, "Ordlyn's time is running out. It is only a matter of time now."

Speaking to Leafiara, Alosaka says, "Fair. But they were very enthusiastic singing afterwrad."

Alisah quietly says, "Yet... Ordlyn is not on trial."

Speaking to Alisah, Kayse says, "I don't recall them attacking my position or my job."

Speaking to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "Though I will say... if you're right and this is a deep rooted sentiment in the Landing, well..."

Leafiara concludes, "We've some serious issues."

Saraphenia says, "You know, being the group we are, and being right outside of Moot Hall, we could be vulnerabe here."

Speaking quietly to Kayse, Alisah says, "I would say that you did quite a good job of that yourself, Ma'am."

Alosaka says, "It was dozens of people."

Speaking to Saraphenia, Yardie says, "From others? Sure. But I don't have anything to hide."

Leafiara says, "Maybe it's not so far gone as that. Maybe some people just want to feel like they're part of some big movement."

Alosaka asks, "And if dozens were so overjoyed by his murder spree that they burst into celebratory song afterward, how many more do you think were simply quietly supportive?"

Speaking carefully to Alisah, Kayse says, "I don't even know who you are so I don't think you are in a position to judge me when you in fact do not know me."

Leafiara says, "The lyrics would reinforce that, anyway."

Speaking to Saraphenia, Yardie mutters, "Save for myself, I guess."

Alisah quietly says, "I'm not here often, but when I do, I watch, I listen."

Speaking to Alisah, Kayse says, "As far as Ordlyn not being on trial--he has not been caught."

Speaking to Alosaka, Missoni says, "I still hope that perhaps they did not want to sing, but were being coerced."

Alisah quietly says, "Perhaps he is doing a better job of being a criminal, then."

Speaking to Alisah, Kayse says, "If you do not think he is the enemy then you are welcome to go join his herd."

Speaking to Missoni, Alosaka says, "Hope is a virtue."

Speaking to Alosaka, Missoni notes, "My favorite."

Speaking to Missoni, Leafiara considers, "Mental control would explain a lot about the abrupt appearance of such needed coordination..."

Speaking quietly to Kayse, Alisah says, "I do not think he is not the enemy, I am just unsure that the Rook aren't as dangerous, especially now, when the townspeople are already fractured."

Alosaka dryly says, "Well, almost anything can be explained if you believe your foes have mind control."

Alosaka says, "I should get a metal helmet, perhaps."

Alisah quietly says, "As if we did not have enough going on, enough people moving in shadows, seeking their own gains..."

Speaking simply to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "It's happened before."

Vaemyr says, "Leafi didn't seem coerced to me that night, and if he actually can control that many minds over more than half the town in distrance, well then we're dealing with someone far far more dangerous than we even thought, so I really hope that isn't the case."

Missoni says, "Mind control was not really what I was suspecting. Just run-of-the-mill threats, blackmail, that sort of thing."

Saraphenia exclaims, "If my foes tried to control MY mind, I think their minds would explode!"

Speaking to Alisah, Kiyna says, "Frankly, if you think of the Rooks as 'seeking their own gains', you know not the first thing about the Rooks, and perhaps should refrain from speaking on them."

Speaking to Alisah, Kayse says, "Many of the townsfolk are Rooks. They deliver your mail, unlock your boxes. There are more than just the seven of us--there are hundreds."

Speaking to Alisah, Kayse says, "The Rooks have repeatedly defended this town and the trial will prove more so how needed the Rooks are."

Alosaka says, "The simplest explanation for people bursting into song after watching Ordlyn murder those people is that they liked what they saw."

Speaking to Alosaka, Yardie asks, "Wait....burst into song?"

Leafiara says, "Go take a close look at the mail clerk or the worker in the east tower if you don't know what Kayse is talking about."

Speaking to Yardie, Vaemyr says, "It was grim."

Speaking to Yardie, Vaemyr says, "Very very grim."

Speaking to Yardie, Alosaka says, "And danced."

Speaking quietly to Kiyna, Alisah says, "Perhaps the... what was it, "New" rooks? Should put their money where their mouths are and do something other than seek to drive further wedges between the towns and our new neighbors that have helped defend us for decades."

Speaking stubbornly to Alosaka, Missoni says, "I cannot accept such a thing."

Speaking curiously to Vaemyr, Yardie asks, "Were they in rhythm at least?"

Speaking despondently to Yardie, Leafiara mutters, "Can't believe Ordlyn beat me to a rallying song."

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "Well you're just going to have to make a better one."

Speaking to Yardie, Vaemyr says, "Some of them? I can catch you up if you wish on some things."

Leafiara insistently says, "It's alright. Mine will be better."

Speaking to Missoni, Alosaka says, "Wisdom is another virtue. It means seeing the world as it truly is."

Speaking to Yardie, Leafiara assures, "Already on it."

Speaking quietly to Kayse, Alisah says, "I suppose time will tell, on that account, you have all already hung once."

Speaking to Alisah, Kiyna says, "Illegally."

Speaking to Alosaka, Missoni asks, "Ah, but what of patience to uncover the whole picture before one assumes intent?"

Speaking measuredly to Alisah, Kayse says, "Unfairly. Without a charge or trial."

Speaking quietly to Kiyna, Alisah says, "I do not see Thadston on trial."

Speaking to Alisah, Kiyna says, "He is. I have issued charges."

Speaking to Alisah, Leafiara says, "You will soon. Charges have been brought against him too."

Saraphenia says, "You will."

Alisah quietly asks, "By that tiny little barrister?"

Speaking to Missoni, Alosaka asks, "Do you have any evidence of coersion?"

Speaking to Alisah, Kiyna says, "Says you, teeny."

Alisah quietly says, "Perhaps you all should have dug deeper in your pockets."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Yardie says, "Way I see it, I'm eager to catch up aside from the things I see and know. It's just...I think a lot of us want the same thing. Some of us got scrutiny for it. I'm so glad my rose tattoo has no thorns on it."

Speaking to Alisah, Saraphenia exclaims, "He will swing and *I* will be pulling the rope!"

Leafiara lightly says, "You know, some of this argumentative discussion might make refuting the 'Disturbing the Peace' charge harder for some of you than others."

Speaking to Saraphenia, Kiyna says, "I don't know if I'd go that far."

Kayse peers quizzically at Leafiara.

Yardie exclaims, "Hah! They say I disturb the peace and yet, you all got charged for it!"

Speaking to Yardie, Vaemyr says, "For a while they didn't even like me carrying around an Illthorn staff."

Speaking to Alosaka, Missoni says, "No, but I knew that Ordlyn can execute citizens unopposed on rooftops as we scurry about, so I am not giving up the possibility that he threatened some of those people that he would do the same to their families, should they not put forth the appearance of support."

Speaking to Kayse, Leafiara says, "Not you, was more thinking Kiyna."

Leafiara gazes in amusement at Yardie.

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie exclaims, "It's true!"

Alisah quietly asks, "I'm not sure what we need, but further division is not it. Why can the Rooks - if they do not seek division, why can they not step out from their shadows?"

Speaking to Yardie, Leafiara reminds, "Yes, well... it's only a charge until a court declares us guilty or otherwise."

Speaking to Alisah, Kiyna says, "We were thinking of doing just that, as it happens."

Speaking to Missoni, Alosaka says, "It's impossible to disprove that, I suppose."

Speaking to Alosaka, Missoni laments, "It is impossibly to prove or disprove anything at this point."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum remarks, "...or Thadston changes his mind."

Missoni carefully says, "Impossible."

Leafiara says, "I'm still baffled by the notion that I've ever been in the shadows. People assumed I was a Rook for years before I was and kept assuming it after."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum says, ""You can take ass out of empire but you can not take empire out of ass."

Speaking quietly to Kiyna, Alisah asks, "Was that... before or after you planned to raid the Imperial shipments? Possibly leaving our new neighbors to starve or go undefended?"

Dendum asks, "Or is word mule?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "You haven't. That's what I wasn't surprised."

Saraphenia asks, "By the way, does anyone know who's in the lead on the mayor's race?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "Only one surprised me."

Speaking to Saraphenia, Leafiara says, "No, the voting is private until it's concluded."

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie asks, "Kiyna's good, what can I say?"

Missoni thoughtfully says, "Pardon me please. I must tend to a few things."

Speaking to Missoni, Alosaka says, "When we capture Ordlyn we can ask him, I suppose."

Speaking to Alosaka, Missoni says, "I am looking forward to that."

Speaking curiously to Kiyna, Leafiara says, "So the one of us who's not good at physical stealth was the best at other kinds of stealth, it seems... at least to Yardie's perception."

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "You don't want me to go down the list."

Leafiara says, "I'm almost disappointed Thadston didn't go with the original 'Rookery' charge."

Speaking to Alisah, Vaemyr says, "We don't know what they would or wouldn't of done, other than looking at a map. Had they actually been caught in the act, I would agree with you. But I've seen people in this town who are not under any charges say much much worse than anything I saw or heard in that room when we busted in."

Leafiara says, "That would have been a fun one to debate."

Leafiara wonders, "What even constitutes Rookery?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie asks, "That's...that's a crime?"

Speaking to Yardie, Kiyna says, "No."

Speaking amusedly to Yardie, Leafiara says, "No, that's why Jeshiah talked him out of it."

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie says, "Doesn't....doesn't roll off the tongue."

Yardie mouths, "Rookery."

Saraphenia says, "His reign as mayor has been a crime."

Leafiara dramatically exclaims, "Fear the Brotherhood, masters of Rookery!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Still not sure how Thadston is getting out of the fact that he's been conspiring with Casiphia for... well months? He's admited several times that he's been in contact with her."

Speaking quietly to Vaemyr, Alisah asks, "Do you typically mark points of interest on a map with the intent not to pursue them?"

[General] Julenne thinks, "I'm on the ship right now, I can't come after ye yet."

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "There's a lot I fear...I don't think it's that. Mother was....interesting."

Leafiara asks, "I think I've met with Casi maybe... six to eight times over the past year and a half?"

Speaking to Alisah, Vaemyr says, "I mean I mark many many points on maps, you should see the map in my office."

Speaking to Leafiara, Yardie says, "I feared her, at least."

Leafiara says, "I have very, very little doubt Thadston's met with her more often."

Speaking quietly to Vaemyr, Alisah says, "Maps make my head hurt."

Speaking to Alisah, Kiyna says, "These things will come out in the trial soon enough. I'll let that decide things, not the needling opinion of someone I don't know."

Leafiara adds, "Actually, knock one off my count since one of those was her coming to the Black Thorn meeting, so not even private."

Dendum asks, "Is not points on map whole point of map?"

Speaking amusedly to Leafiara, Kayse says, "I do not think you get to pick what charges are applied to you and what isn't."

Speaking to Alisah, Vaemyr says, "Maps are great, especially some of those fancy ones that show topagraphical information. Very useful for planning buildings or settlements, so you don't accidently put your farm in a flood plain an so on."

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna asks, "Can I be charged with being fashionable?"

Speaking quietly to Kiyna, Alisah says, "I apologize for not being as renowned as you, perhaps I'll seek to get publically executed before I speak next."

Speaking to Dendum, Yardie asks, "Your thoughts?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Kayse says, "No."

Speaking uncertainly to Kayse, Leafiara asks, "You sure about that?"

Dendum sincerely says, ""You are lucky...Thadston does chose who and when he will use trial and when he will just banish at his whim."

Leafiara says, "Thadston might find a way to bring a charge over fashion."

Leafiara indicates a pair of striking pure white ankle-boots buttoned with rook-etched rubies as a possible option.

Leafiara says, "He really might."

Speaking to Dendum, Yardie asks, "Are there other concerns in this trial to consider?"

Speaking quietly to Dendum, Alisah says, "I suppose them largely being citizens has a good bit to do for that."

Dendum says, "Jadedragan is forced to suffer the company of kind half-krolvin, drink great winterberry ale, and have good fresh meat in Icemule...."

Speaking earnestly to some gathered townspeople, Leafiara says, "In any case, thank you for your support."

Speaking to Dendum, Yardie says, "He also did get bopped."

Speaking amiably to some gathered townspeople, Leafiara says, "Hope to see some of you at the trial when we emerge victorious in every way."

Alisah glances suspiciously at Leafiara.

Alisah quietly says, "I am fairly sure you are all guilty of at least hooliganism."

Leafiara relents, "Okay, fine, every way except hooliganism."

Dendum says, "Well punishment for Hooliganism is small fine."

Elexya says, "Hooligans are my heros."

Dendum says, "Already paid with head."

Yardie says, "Polticians, Ex-Mayors, and Rooks. And I thought the underworld had its secrets."

Speaking to Dendum, Vaemyr says, "About that, not that I know the outcome will be different, but assuming after the trials we have an established council again, Jadedragon could appeal that banishment if he feels it was unjustly carried out, as there was no trial held. There is a rule on our charter that appeals can be done to the town council."

Kiyna asks, "Leafi is a hooligan, to be sure, but what about me?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie asks, "Brigand?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie asks, "Scoundrel?"

Speaking amusedly to Yardie, Leafiara says, "Okay, that's way funnier than it has any right to be."

Speaking to Yardie, Kiyna says, "Excuse you."

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie says, "Hey, that's payback for making fun of my leg guards."

Saraphenia says, "I've been called a hooligan before...but I'm too cute to be a hooligan."

Speaking to Saraphenia, Leafiara says, "You're in the Drakes, you're definitely a hooligan."

Speaking to Saraphenia, Leafiara says, "And Ord an Dragan, for that matter."

Saraphenia exclaims, "Oh, that's right!"

Locklyer tiptoes up behind Yardie.

Speaking to Yardie, Kiyna says, "Your leg guards don't need to be made fun of or called hideous. They are quite capable of making that statement on their own."

Yardie asks, "Why you tiptoeing behind me?"

Speaking frankly to Kiyna, Kayse states, "You are Kiyna Zetaya. You do not need more than that to tell you who you are."

Speaking to Yardie, Elexya explains, "He's smitten."

Speaking to Kiyna, Yardie says, "Hating on my leg guards."

Yardie says, "I'm trying not to point."

Speaking to Yardie, Vaemyr exclaims, "Anyways do you happen to have a few minutes? I actually have some questions for you for once!"

Speaking to Yardie, Leafiara whispers aloud, "Just remember you didn't do it and you'll be probably fine with Vaemyr's inquisition."

Kiyna amusedly explains, "...You know I made the last name up, right? If I have a "real" last name, only my parents would know it. And they're... who knows. Who cares. So I made one up."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Yardie says, "Sure, but pre-emptive answers are, I didn't do it, and your nails need a decent shade of something dark."

Speaking approvingly to Yardie, Leafiara whispers aloud, "Good, that's good, just like that."

Yardie joins Vaemyr's group.

Town Councilor Vaemyr's group just went west.

Saraphenia asks, "Anyone care to guess my last name now?"

Leafiara says, "Vaemyr and Yardie, now there's a strange pair."

[General] Directed amusedly to Leafiara, Yardie exclaims, "I keep my secrets well, Leafiara! See you later!"

[General] Lithyia thinks, "What to do tonight...what...to....do."

Leafiara says, "Probably incredible at parties."

Speaking in Sylvankind to Leafiara, Kayse says something you don't understand.

[General] Lithyia asks, "Yardie...what secrets?"

Leafiara says, "After being tardy, obviously."

Leafiara says, "Alrighty... I guess I could get some work done."

Leafiara says, "While preparing for these rather... questionable charges."

Leafiara says, "Disturbing the peace..."

Kiyna says, "Charges indeed..."

[General] Ferghal thinks, "Well, no, they become told secrets, no longer untold secrets..."

Leafiara says, "Take care, all."

Idle Chatter

[several hours later...]

[General] Lecrand thinks, "That storm clouds comin in."

[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 seaweed-covered Nalbon disk, the Kelfyr disk, a grizzled porcupine, the Maddek disk, the flaming Nairena disk, the Lecrand disk, a gargantuan cloudy grey tiger, the Guennwhfar disk, the Teutalalla disk, the Budroux disk, the Bugbe disk, the Grorin disk, the Spharai disk, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, the Kialeigh disk, a rose-marrow potion, a rose-marrow potion, some wolifrew lichen, the Ethilred disk, the Renlyn disk, some wolifrew lichen, a silver-traced carved mahogany cart with some stuff on it, an old well, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it, an herbal remedy donation bin and a round silver-banded barrel.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Lord Nalbon, Kelfyr, Maddek who is sitting, Lady Nairena who is sitting, Lecrand, Jaffrey, Lady Guennwhfar who is sitting, Markx, Teutalalla, Budroux, Grorin, Bugbe, Spharai, Kialeigh, Ethilred who is lying down, Renlyn, Great Lord Phalcon who is lying down, Ussey who is lying down

Speaking to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Nairena says, "Right to your thighs, Owly."

Guennwhfar says, "Yum! Plump owl thighs! Pass the barbeque sauce please."

Speaking amusedly to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Leafiara says, "Yeah, no cause for concern at all. Thadston's charges are so generic he can't pin down much if anything."

Speaking suddenly to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Leafiara clarifies, "Uh, the charges brought *by* Thadston, that is. Not the ones against him."

Pukk asks, "No Cryheart tonight?"

Leafiara muses, "Doesn't seem like it."

Speaking to herself, Guennwhfar says, "Oh no! She's gonna play the harp again; I have to pretend she is good."

Speaking to Nairena, Guennwhfar says, "Very nice dear."

Tikba mildly says, "Yes, the charges against the Rooks seem rather broad."

Tikba says, "Only theft and murder were not included."

Speaking to herself, Guennwhfar exclaims, "Gods! She makes that harp sound like a tortured cat yowling!"

Pukk joins Leafiara's group.

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Until I know what is going on."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "The grapeshot approach, I think. Fire off as much as you can and see what lands."

Speaking to Nairena, Guennwhfar says, "Keep practicing, you will be a master harper in no time."

Speaking to herself, Guennwhfar says, "No time, as in never."

Speaking softly to Tayler, Asthenea says, "The lil brat made it home to mommy."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "I was thinking. I need to change things up. Instead of trying to sell Irval all the time with no takers. I should try selling Kialeigh. What do you think?"

Speaking curiously to Corlamaer, Leafiara says, "Oh, it's this corpse again."

Speaking curiously to Corlamaer, Leafiara asks, "You need help yet?"

Speaking softly to Tayler, Asthenea asks, "Where are the parents anyway!?"

Petat exclaims, "I'm confused!"

Asthenea softly says, "Kids strewn about everywhere."

Speaking to Leafiara, Tikba says, "The square is haunted, I fear."

Speaking to Asthenea, Tayler asks, "Good question, I've even found some in the Rift... like... how?"

Speaking to Tayler, Kelfyr says, "Koar's message is a powerful one."

Pukk recites:

"Join Leafiara to huddle against the storm!"

Corlamaer just left.

Guennwhfar says, "Personally I never rescue kids; if they got there by themselves, they can damned wll get back on their own."

Tikba says, "You see, it was a phantom."

Speaking softly to Tayler, Asthenea says, "Some pretty sneaky lil brats."

Speaking to Tayler, Kelfyr says, "They're probably all tiny zealots."

Leafiara optimistically says, "Maybe enemies will even come out to go kill."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I haven't killed any remnants in a while."

Nalver asks, "What have you all been fighting recently? Still just sympaths and geomancers and what not?"

Speaking to Nalver, Leafiara says, "Them and spiders and Remnants."

Speaking to Leafiara, Tayler says, "Hopefully not, I'm getting the S6 done on my warpike tomorrow so I can't play with it."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I mean. They usually go after you or Kiyna."

Speaking to Tikba, Guennwhfar says, "Dont encourage her."

Mourdeyan says, "More whatnot than anything."

Speaking to Pukk, Kiyna says, "They know who's dangerous to them."

Speaking to Leafiara, Nalver asks, "Did the Archane priest guy ever show back up after...he caught on fire trying to web me?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Pukk says, "Either that or they like my good looks."

Tikba says, "We have not seen Drazinoth recently."

Speaking to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Pukk says, "Everybody loves you though."

The coppery barn owl hoots at Pukk.

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "Good thing, too, he's not pleasant to behold."

Tikba says, "There was some discussion of attempting to lure him and capture him, since the Arachne cult seems to be our enemy."

Nalver says, "As soon as I had cast on him, I knew that I should have done something less lethal."

Jaffrey says, "Get the aid of the Huntress."

Speaking to Tikba, Guennwhfar says, "I am obligated to applaude her but you arent."

Speaking mildly to Nalver, Tikba says, "I think you did well enough."

Pukk recites:

"Everybody hug Emperia!"

Pukk hugs Emperia.

Emperia exclaims, "Do not touch me!"

Mourdeyan says, "I think not."

Pukk says, "Too late."

Mourdeyan says, "Pretty invasive."

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

Guennwhfar exclaims, "Group hug!"

Nalbon sings:

"There once was a man named Pukk

who really didnt give a....nevermind"

Speaking helpfully to Pukk, Leafiara says, "She's only close to who she's close to." [OOC note: I think he only thought of it because he saw Leafi hugging her before he said it]

Nalver recites:

"Everyone whisper to Pukk a sales pitch for a piece of pie.

He's judging. Winner gets 10k and a coffee"

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "It's okay. I'm Pukk. Eventually she will smile."

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

Speaking to Pukk, Guennwhfar exclaims, "Muff pie! Ny favorite!"

[General] Crimsoneve asks, "Disturbing the peace?"

Speaking to Guennwhfar, Pukk says, "I thought you would prefer a cream pie."

Speaking to Nalver, Kiyna says, "I would pay 10k silvers to toss a cup of coffee down the well. Gross bean water."

[General] Leafiara agrees, "Probably the most baffling one."

Reachglow

Drops of gilt-hued light fall from the sky like a cascade of metal.

Leafiara says, "Uh-oh."

Speaking to Kiyna, Tayler asks, "You dare?"

[General] Crimsoneve asks, "No jaywalking?"

Pukk says, "That looks weird."

Jaffrey says, "Bah."

Kialeigh asks, "Trouble? Is that you?"

Speaking to Tayler, Kiyna says, "I do."

Leafiara asks, "Well... shall we head to Lake Eonak?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr asks, "The reach again?"

Pukk recites:

"Last call to join Leafi to stay safe...or go get in some trouble...same thing"

Leafiara recites:

"Heading for Lake Eonak shortly!"

Nairena asks, "Where is Leafi going?"

Leafiara recites:

"Watch for flying scarabs!"

Kialeigh exclaims, "I'm already buggless. I'm safe!"

Guennwhfar says, "No idea."

Speaking to Leafiara, Nairena asks, "Where ya going?"

Leafiara says, "Okay... moving to investigate."

Speaking to Kialeigh, Kiyna says, "That just means you can get bugged again."

Speaking to Nairena, Leafiara says, "Lake Eonak."

Nairena says, "Im good."

Markx asks, "What's goin on at Lake Eonak?"

Kialeigh says, "I miss him.. here's hoping."

Leafiara says, "We might see more crazy phenomena from the Reach."

Pukk recites:

"Remember scarabs are like children. You need to stop them before they attach to you!"

Leafiara exclaims, "Moving!"

[Melgorehn's Reach, Lake Eonak]

You are on the bank of a beautiful mountain lake that is fed by a waterfall gushing from the mountain side. There is a path which seems to actually lead up the side of the mountain. You also see the web-draped Missoni disk, a damp yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake, a lazy wild fiery dog, a cedar chip path and a barely visible trail leading into a grove of ancient trees.

Also here: Missoni, Lord Thrassus, Magister Raelee

Chandrellia, Pookia, Goldstr, Jiarine, Emperia, Kialeigh, Evia, Nalver, Bernadette, Mourdeyan, Tayler, Coins, Pukk, Vaemyr, Kelfyr, Tikba and Kiyna followed.

Sickly green motes of light descend from the peaks of Melgorehn's Reach.

Raelee says, "It likely is."

Pukk says, "Ewwww."

Missoni muses, "I expect so."

Leafiara slowly says, "Welp."

Thrassus says, "That's a new color."

Kiyna says, "Oh dear. It's turned green."

Pookia exclaims, "What a pretty shade of green!"

Vaemyr says, "That's not good."

Pukk asks, "So, green means bad?"

Leafiara says, "It's the color of the manafires now."

Goldstr says, "Rodnay's Us it seems."

Tikba murmurs, "We should have put the fires out."

Pookia exclaims, "But the prettiest stuff is the deadliest usually!"

Speaking to Pookia, Chandrellia says, "I have a feeling that is not a good thing."

Tayler asks, "Is it like a potato where you can just cut the green bit off?"

Leafiara says, "The manafires were feeding anti-mana to Raznel's blight, as I recall."

Speaking to Tikba, Kelfyr says, "I think someone may have tried."

Leafiara asks, "Which... probably means we're going to get dispelled, doesn't it?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "Ask and you shall probably receive."

Nalver asks, "Should someone climb up there?"

[General] Crimsoneve thinks, "I think I need a vacation to Teras for awhile..."

Thrassus says, "More like they are burning excess mana to deprive the Blight sustenance."

Speaking to Tikba, Kelfyr says, "There were some odd lights which rose from locations fires are lit at, which landed in Darkstone Bay."

Speaking to Missoni, Nalver asks, "How has your scarab been acting today?"

Leafiara says, "Oh, that's right, the anti-mana plan had been discussed but abandoned due to being too risky."

Speaking to Nalver, Missoni says, "Rather quiet, actually."

Speaking to Thrassus, Kiyna says, "Aye, but I think it was a theory that the burning of Blight sustenance is causing problems itself."

Nalver says, "Opposite for me."

Leafiara says, "Wonder if Iliyaas is up there..."

Thrassus says, "If those fires are put out the Blight will return in full force."

Nalver says, "I feel like I was just up there."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "She can come down here if she is."

Speaking to Thrassus, Kiyna says, "Now it looks like... well, I don't know, "fumes" of burnt blight are choking up the Reach and hurting Rodnay. It's just a theory."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "I'd more be hoping she could provide a faster way for us to get up there."

Tikba says, "We must find a safer solution for the Blight."

Leafiara considers, "Might even accept Enisius at this point."

Speaking to Kiyna, Raelee says, "The blight is not being burned, it is being deprived of sustinence."

Thrassus says, "From the looks of Rodnay that one occasion he is compromised by the Bleak, so that may be what he is after."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "Shame on you!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "We never admit that!"

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Agreed on that, not exactly sure what that might be though."

Speaking to Raelee, Kiyna says, "Hmm. Well, I defer to you. You are the expert on magic. I'm the expert on recognizing death pillars."

Tikba asks, "Should we climb the Reach?"

Speaking to Raelee, Missoni says, "If you would like to add this to the specimens, it is from just now, during the storm."

Vaemyr says, "Last few times, things happened here."

Sickly green streams of light peel away from the sides of the Reach, coiling out into the night to cause an eerie viridian glow before they dissolve.

Speaking tentatively to Tikba, Leafiara says, "If we don't get any further signs like Rodnay talking to us, it might be warranted--"

Vaemyr says, "Definitely the same color as the mana fires though."

Leafiara vaguely remarks, "Well, that's... something."

Speaking distractedly to Missoni, Raelee says, "... thank you."

Speaking to Raelee, Thrassus asks, "Odd wildlife are appearing during these events?"

Vaemyr says, "It confirms something we already suspected I guess."

Leafiara asks, "Someone put on their best impression of Kayse and try to contact Rodnay?"

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "Not that I have witnessed."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "I don't think thoughts work like that, but..."

Nalver yells, "We fightin or are we talkin?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara admits, "I don't either, but maybe worth a try."

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "There was a thought to gather samples of the flora and fauna to see if it may have been impacted or offer any clues to the nature of this phenomenon."

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "However, it has not been... particularly illuminating yet."

Nalver yells, "Zap that one if we fightin!"

Thrassus says, "Perhaps the samples must be taken from closer to the peak."

Tayler says, "Bit of a storm brewing."

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "Some have been."

Pukk says, "You know what we should do. We should go and mess with the ballistas and mix the logs."

Fire!

A ribbon of sickly green energy leaps up from the base of the mountain, speeds across the lake causing a trail of steam before it strikes Emperia and ignites her!

Emperia suddenly bursts into flames!

Tayler says, "Oh."

Nalver says, "The kittens."

Emperia screams in agony as the flames continue to burn the flesh from her bones.

The flames surrounding Emperia flare up and sear her skin!

... 20 points of damage!

Nasty burns to back. Won't be sleeping on that for awhile.

She is stunned!

The air swirling around Emperia fans the flames!

... 15 points of damage!

Burst of flames char abdomen a crispy black.

Missoni just pushed Emperia over!

Speaking to Emperia, Leafiara exclaims, "Drop and roll!"

You begin to roll Emperia around on the ground, attempting to put out the flames! In the process, you severely burn your hands!

You manage to put out the flames by rolling Emperia around!

[OOC note: I have no idea what that looks like in third-person, so I just left it]

Speaking to Emperia, Kiyna exclaims, "Roll!"

Emperia rolls around on the ground.

Evia says, "Yikes."

Thrassus gestures at Emperia.

Water sprays forth and scours Emperia clean!

A large splash of water drenches Emperia from head to toe!

Pukk says, "Huh."

Tikba gestures at Emperia.

Holy water sprays forth and cleanses Emperia!

A large splash of water drenches Emperia from head to toe!

Leafiara says, "Whew."

Leafiara says, "We got her, she just needs healing now."

Chandrellia says, "I got ya."

Pukk exclaims, "See, that is what happens when you don't accept hugs!"

Pookia says, "I was just seasonin her."

Speaking to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Already on it."

Leafiara recites:

"Brace for more fire and be ready to drop and roll!"

Emperia says, "Urgh..."

Vaemyr says, "I was going to say that the color change is a sign things are getting worse..."

Tikba firmly says, "We should climb. Staying here is not safer."

Kialeigh says, "Seems ok."

Emperia stands up.

Kiyna says, "Now the energy is just lashing at us directly... it does seem to be getting worse."

Tayler asks, "Perhaps we should go into the lake?"

Nalver says, "Seemed pretty weak."

Nyaria quietly asks, "Has anyone gone up to the top?"

Pukk recites:

"Join Leafiara"

Speaking to Tayler, Leafiara says, "I'm inclined to agree with sticking close to the lake, but..."

Speaking to Nyaria, Nalver says, "That's a lengthy process."

Raelee says, "At times one has a choice to make - one can observe a phenomenon or one can be safe. At times, these are mutually exclusive."

Nalver says, "And once you start, you have to keep going."

Speaking quietly to Nalver, Nyaria says, "Ive made the trip several times."

Vaemyr says, "I think remaining here still might be the better idea, until we actually think there's a reason to climb."

Speaking to Emperia, Pukk says, "You know that smokey look, looks good on you."

Nyaria quietly says, "On purpose."

Leafiara says, "If anyone wants to climb and report if they see anything, that might be a good move. I do see the wisdom in not all staying in the same area."

The voice of Pookia says, "I haaate going up there it takes so much effort."

Speaking to a beautiful mountain lake, Kialeigh says, "Stop shooting fire at people."

Tikba just wandered up a mountain path.

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pukk asks, "Can I get a some water walking too?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "Ideally someone who could teleport back to us quickly."

Nalver says, "E over O and S under O and Z over E."

Speaking to Nalver, Kialeigh says, "Maybe it just needs a sound scolding."

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara says, "Unless Iliyaas' portal is still up there, that would be none of us..."

Kelfyr says, "It's up there."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna asks, "Can't you teleport? The foggy thing?"

Speaking to Kelfyr, Leafiara acknowledges, "Well, at least that makes it easier..."

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara says, "No, not from the mountain."

Nyaria quietly asks, "Anyone happen to have armor support?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara says, "It's why so many here are reluctant to climb it unless absolutely necessary."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "Well that's inconvenient."

Chandrellia says, "Heh, I'm climbing anything with all this weight."

A ribbon of sickly green energy leaps up from the base of the mountain, speeds across the lake causing a trail of steam before it strikes Mourdeyan and ignites her!

Mourdeyan suddenly bursts into flames!

Mourdeyan suddenly bursts into flames!

Missoni just pushed Mourdeyan over!

Leafiara exclaims, "Roll!"

You begin to roll Mourdeyan around on the ground, attempting to put out the flames! In the process, you severely burn your hands!

You manage to put out the flames by rolling Mourdeyan around!

Bernadette softly says, "Roll Mourdey."

The flames surrounding Mourdeyan flare up and sear her skin!

... 1 point of damage!

Minor burns to abdomen. Looks painful.

Leafiara says, "Hmm..."

Pookia exclaims, "My stayin still ability is waning!"

Leafiara says, "These flames go out rather quickly, at least."

The flames surrounding Mourdeyan flare up and sear her skin!

... 1 point of damage!

Minor burns to right hand. Ouch.

Nalver says, "Roll."

Nalver says, "Gah."

Goldstr yells, "Rodnay?"

Speaking to Raelee, Thrassus asks, "Perhaps he is attempting to communicate in this way?"

Vaemyr says, "You'd think the rain would help protect from the fire."

Evia asks, "By shooting people with green fire?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Missoni says, "Oh, thank you."

Mourdeyan says, "M'arright."

Emperia says, "You would think. But it appears we must contend with both."

Speaking to Missoni, Chandrellia says, "Its what I do."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Rodnay, if you can hear us... Kayse's friend Tikba is trying to ascend the mountain and the rest of us are trying to determine what's going on here."

Nyaria quietly says, "The looks of it makes me thing more plasma than fire."

Kialeigh says, "He's clearly saying stuff to us.. EM.. EM..."

Nyaria quietly says, "Still hurts."

Kelfyr says, "Kayse is making her way here as soon as she can."

Goldstr yells, "Rodnay? Kin ye hear us?"

Speaking to Kialeigh, Kiyna asks, "Empire?"

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "All these fish are weighing me down."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pookia says, "I just wanted the attention."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Leafiara says, "Excellent, Kayse might be a huge help here."

Speaking to Perigourd, Missoni suggests, "Perhaps a feast."

Speaking to Pookia, Nalver says, "Are you still dressed for..."

Speaking to Perigourd, Tayler says, "Zenos will eat them."

Speaking to Tayler, Perigourd says, "They're raw still."

Leafiara recites:

"For those just arriving, be ready to roll at any moment if more fire strikes!"

Speaking to Nalver, Pookia exclaims, "Im dressed for action, as always!"

[Realm] Tikba thinks, "The cab has not come yet, so if anyone else wishes to join me, there is still time."

Speaking to Perigourd, Tayler says, "He deosn't care, Zenos is a cat."

Pukk recites:

"She means that literally"

Pookia asks, "If you pre-roll, does it make you resistant to fire?"

Vaemyr says, "I wonder if there's a message again in whom it's striking."

Speaking to Pookia, Nalver says, "I made it up to Captain Commander General while you were gone."

Speaking to Pookia, Pukk says, "You are a genius."

Speaking to Pookia, Mourdeyan says, "Nah, just dizzy."

Pukk recites:

"Everybody start rolling so you are fire resistant!"

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Hmm... nothing I can think of in common with Emperia and Mourdeyan, though..."

Speaking to Pukk, Evia says, "Didn't bring any papers."

Kiyna says, "Hrm..."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Well, I guess both ladies, there's that."

Kialeigh asks, "Everyone jump in the lake.. only place it's safe?"

Speaking to Evia, Pukk says, "Eh? I don't read."

Mourdeyan asks, "Breathing?"

Speaking to Pukk, Evia says, "Uhm for rollling."

Speaking to Evia, Pukk exclaims, "Oh I see! Paper balls! Yes!"

[General] Baon asks, "Any Silvergate Officers about please?"

[General] Tikba asks, "Kayse Are you able to reach Rodnay?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pookia whispers aloud, "Bet you 10 silver bernadette gets hit next."

[General] Kayse thinks, "I will try...."

[Locate spell]

[Wehnimer's, Land's End Rd.]

Vigilant night guardsmen scrutinize the citizens and travelers arriving and departing through the wide gates spanning the land route into Wehnimer's Landing. The cluttered streets of the city to the south are a far cry from the deceptively calm expanse of the wilds of Elanith outside. Two daunting towers survey the countryside and protect the town, flanking the road to the east and west. You also see the town gates and a large wooden barrel.

Also here: Sandur, Xorus, Town Councilor Kayse, Imperatrix Lylia

Goldstr asks, "Shall we check da settlement?"

Rodnay's Scream

A voice screams in your mind!

Leafiara says, "Kayse is just at the gates, so--"

Speaking to Pookia, Chandrellia says, "My healing fingers are on point tonight so it doesnt matter who it is, they arent going to burn long."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "After this is all over. Let's take everybody to the ballistas and we can move them around and mess with them and mix the logs."

Pressure builds behind your eyes.

[General] Leafiara thinks, "He's screaming... this might be urgent."

[General] Kayse hurriedly asks, "Where?"

Kialeigh says, "Oh gawds... that doesn't feel right."

Thrassus says, "Not again."

Pukk says, "Ouch."

Green flames burst into light along the edges of the Reach and flow down like lava.

Leafiara strainedly says, "If anyone would like to back away, no one will blame you."

Bernadette softly says, "Dun mess widem,dey os fer fitin."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Lake Eonak."

Vaemyr says, "We need to uhh."

Green flames burst into light along the edges of the Reach and flow down like lava.

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

[combat]

[General] Leafiara exclaims, "Engaged with fire elemental beings!"

[very extended combat]

Leafiara says, "Well..."

Pookia asks, "Everyone okay?"

Kiyna asks, "Is everyone alright?"

Perigourd says, "Be careful of your weapon overheating."

Lylia says, "So far."

Missoni hesitantly says, "I think so."

Speaking to Perigourd, Tayler says, "Air cooled."

Speaking to Kiyna, Chandrellia says, "Yes I have been watching our health closely."

Leafiara says, "Will have to switch to different weapons if this persists..."

Nalver says, "Immune to fire."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Let us know if any are spotted in or near town."

Speaking to himself, Perigourd says, "Didn't think to need rhimar tonight."

Nalver says, "I think steam as well."

Nalver says, "Boulders worked well."

Vaemyr says, "Rodnay is in so much pain it seems..."

Rodnay's Message

The surface of the lake ripples.

Nalver says, "Ohh."

Leafiara says, "Hmm..."

Nalver says, "Lake monsters."

Evia says, "Errr."

Chandrellia exclaims, "Get ready!"

Pookia exclaims, "Lava lake monsters!"

Missoni murmurs, "Water."

Perigourd says, "Perhaps some steam to be made."

[Realm] Nyaria thinks, "Gates clear for the time."

Kiyna says, "Get ready..."

Goldstr asks, "Pylasar?"

Kialeigh exclaims, "Cool off!"

Leafiara encouragingly says, "We're here, Rodnay..."

Mourdeyan says, "Come and speak with us then."

Kayse says, "He is not responding."

Nalver says, "I wonder if that's the Spitfire."

Bernadette softly says, "We means ye nae harm."

Kayse asks, "Have we tried to observe the fires around the area right now?"

Raelee says, "There is a difference between fire and fire with consciousness. The latter case does suggest some influence from Rodnay, though creating elementals is an usual scope for purely mental work."

Speaking to Kayse, Vaemyr says, "He responded just before you got here, well sort of... in a loud shrieking in our minds."

Kayse asks, "Maybe they are reacting a certain way?"

A small boy appears beneath the lake's surface. His skin is dark, perhaps a deep shade of blue. His eyes shine like peridots. He lays flat beneath the water, his hand pressed against the surface from beneath, but unable to pass through.

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Putting on the boots. You're getting serious now." [OOC note: Heh, well... ironically, what he actually saw her taking off her boots, since they're just cobbled shoes, and putting on her sandals that are good for combat since her blades were overheating and she needed another attack option.]

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

Evia says, "Weird."

Leafiara asks, "Hmm, that's similar to what we saw before with Tikba...?"

Lylia clarifies, "It looks like Rodnay. I do not forget what Tikba encountered."

Speaking to a beautiful mountain lake, Kialeigh says, "Yer not as scary as the demon seductress...."

[Realm] Tikba evenly thinks, "Lady Iliyaas is here in the chamber, asleep."

[General] Leafiara curiously thinks, "...odd."

Kayse confusedly asks, "Is this him? Or an illusion?"

[Locate spell]

[Melgorehn's Reach, Moon Chamber]

You are in a vast, domed enclosure cut from the native rock of the mountain. The floor is perfectly smooth but the vaulted ceiling is chiseled in an array of gothic designs. In the center of the room sits a single onyx altar. You also see a churning white portal and a round shaft cut into the floor of the chamber.

Also here: Tikba, Lady Iliyaas who is sleeping

Leafiara says, "Tikba's reporting that Iliyaas is up there sleeping."

Goldstr exclaims, "Rodnay we are fer ye!"

Speaking to Kayse, Missoni says, "It is hard to say."

(Kayse splashes at the water of the mountain lake as if trying to dig through it.)

Nalver says, "Who."

(Chandrellia follows Kayse, just close enough to grab her if needed.)

The water splashes and ripples. When it settles, Rodnay's image reappears, but trapped beneath the surface.

Thrassus asks, "I wonder... perhaps if she is awakened his pain will ease?"

Speaking to Kayse, Missoni says, "We could try to bring him forth. I am not sure he is entirely on our plane."

Evia asks, "Has he got gills now?"

Speaking to Kayse, Perigourd says, "It may be acting as a large scrying pool."

[General] Leafiara asks, "Can you... wake her and maybe she can eludicate the situation?"

(Kayse wades out a little further into the mountain lake, reaching out one hand to Chandrellia and the other to Rodnay.)

Kialeigh says, "Someone reach in there and grab him so I can see what happens while still being safe."

Thrassus says, "That's likely a mental projection."

Goldstr says, "Rodnay we are fer ye! dear riend."

Speaking to Missoni, Kayse says, "We can try."

Leafiara says, "I wonder if we're seeing projections of her dreams or something."

[Realm] Nyaria thinks, "Gates are still clear."

Evia says, "Looks more like nightmares."

A bubble escapes Rodnay's mouth and travels up to the surface of the lake. It pops, and within your mind you hear the word, "Poisoned."

Goldstr exclaims, "Ack!"

[Realm] Tikba thinks, "She is awake."

Kelfyr asks, "By what? Or whom?"

Thrassus says, "Bleak afflicted, yes."

Leafiara says, "We know, Rodnay... working on finding a cure."

Chandrellia asks, "Rodnay, are the fires poisening you, is it the Blight? can you tell us?"

A bubble escapes Rodnay's mouth and travels up to the surface of the lake. It pops, and within your mind you hear the words, "stop...her.."

Leafiara says, "Hmm."

Chandrellia asks, "Her?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Raelee says, "It is not the fires."

Missoni softly asks, "Her?"

Leafiara says, "I think Tikba was right all along. We should ascend the mountain."

[General] Coins asks, "Maybe kill her?"

Leafiara says, "If any to wish stay here, I won't blame you, but..."

Thrassus says, "He'll need to be more specific."

Chandrellia asks, "Is he refering to Iliyaas?"

Kiyna says, "Stop who? Could it be Iliyaas? She's the one who's been around here all the time."

Kialeigh says, "Whatever's up there is flowing down and poisoning the lake prolly."

A bubble escapes Rodnay's mouth and travels up to the surface of the lake. It pops, and within your mind you hear the words, "...cold..."

Speaking to a beautiful mountain lake, Kayse asks, "Who is her, Rodnay?"

[Realm] Tikba thinks, "She says the mountain is sick."

Pookia exclaims, "Hike time!"

Leafiara says, "Going to see what's going on up there."

Thrassus exclaims, "Of course!"

Vaemyr asks, "Raznel? If it's refering to the blight?"

Leafiara says, "Tikba says Iliyaas says the mountain is sick."

Raelee's Speculation

[keeping perspective at the lake]

[Melgorehn's Reach, Lake Eonak]

You are on the bank of a beautiful mountain lake that is fed by a waterfall gushing from the mountain side. There is a path which seems to actually lead up the side of the mountain. You also see an erratic tidal spirit that is flying around, an animated flayed gigas disciple, a pale-faced coppery barn owl that is flying around, a sleek raven black kitten masked in stormy grey fur, a mottled grey ragamuffin cat, the driftwood Nalver disk, the Kelfyr disk, the Kialeigh disk, the Pukk disk, the Coins disk, a grieving wasteland spirit that is flying around, a grizzled porcupine, a short-haired tabby cat that is sitting, the web-draped Missoni disk, a damp yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake, a lazy wild fiery dog, a cedar chip path and a barely visible trail leading into a grove of ancient trees.

Whimweaver Leafiara just wandered up a mountain path.

(Kiyna grabs on to Kayse to help her pull if necessary.)

Kayse firmly says, "I am staying here with Rodnay."

Thrassus says, "The Blight doesn't have anywhere else to go to feed but the Reach."

Mourdeyan asks, "Ye goin up love?"

Kayse says, "...or his illusion."

[Realm] Leafiara thinks, "Coming."

Evia says, "Staying down here for a bit."

[Realm] Vaemyr thinks, "That is what Rodnay mentioned, see if she knows whom this "her" Rodnay talks about is."

(Chandrellia locks her hand around Kayse's wrist positioning her feet for better grip.)

Mourdeyan says, "Gonna stay here and try to figger it out."

Speaking to a beautiful mountain lake, Kiyna asks, "Keep talking, Rodnay. Stay with us. Who is her?"

Goldstr asks, "Rodnay saids Cold .. who kin freeze him?"

Kayse ruefully says, "I have no antidotes to cure the poison in him."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "A few of us are awaiting the cab now. We'll be there soon as we can, Tikba."

Kayse says, "It's not that type of poison...."

Mourdeyan's voice says, "The worlds will bleed through."

Missoni says, "I think we will need to cure the mountain before..."

Speaking to Kayse, Chandrellia asks, "I have antidotse but without knowing what the poison is, how do we know what antidote to use?"

Thrassus says, "That's what the seer said."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kayse says, "I have antidoes--but he's poisoned by magic not plants."

Speaking to Mourdeyan, Pookia exclaims, "Magic mouth!"

Speaking to Kayse, Chandrellia says, "Ok so we are bothon the same thought."

Bernadette's voice says, "I cannot Kayse. I will not."

[General] Lylia thinks, "It is probably safest to stand near one another in case we must leave quickly."

Speaking to Kiyna, Chandrellia says, "Just hang on, we wontlether go anywhere."

[General] Lylia thinks, "You heard nothing."

Missoni curiously asks, "Cannot what?"

Speaking to Bernadette, Pukk says, "That didn't sound like you."

Speaking to a beautiful mountain lake, Kayse asks, "Why?"

Goldstr says, "He speakin thru some a us."

Bernadette softly says, "Wernt me."

Evia says, "Be right back."

Vaemyr asks, "Rodnay, can you... feed off our magic here, even temporarily? Rather than the Reach?"

Kayse says, "I asked him to grab my hand."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Seems Rodnay is speaking thru Bernadette."

Bernadette softly says, "Dey speak better'n I does."

Kialeigh's voice says, "If I feed on you now, I will never stop."

Lylia cautiously says, "I cannot, and I will not, because...ah. Yes."

Kayse slowly asks, "Feed?"

Thrassus says, "Wonderful."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Ok scratch that he is speaking thru various people."

Kialeigh says, "I mean I could use a cookie."

Kiyna asks, "He needs the magic of the Reach to sustain himself...?"

Nyaria quietly says, "'please dont feed on me."

Kiyna says, "But the Reach itself is poisoned..."

Missoni murmurs, "He needs mana, I suspect. He is part Ithzir."

Xorus says, "Ithzir feed on mana, after all."

Kialeigh says, "If this thing is made from fire I'm gonna snowball it to death."

Kiyna says, "So what's bloody poisoning it? Who is her? Argh..."

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

[combat]

Speaking to Kiyna, Goldstr says, "Mayhaps."

[combmat]

Vaemyr says, "I was thinking if we could provide him mana."

[combat]

Chandrellia asks, "Everyone ok?"

Emperia says, "Ugh...bleeding to death..."

Leafiara says, "Scary, but... okay."

Mourdeyan says, "Fine here."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kiyna says, "Good catch."

Vaemyr says, "If we could provide him some untainted mana, even if it's a tiny amount compared to the reach, it might provide some relief."

Vaemyr says, "Was what I thought."

Speaking to Kayse, Chandrellia asks, "Ask Rodnay if he will accept some of my mana?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kayse says, "You are welcome to try and speak to him."

Kiyna says, "He said if he feeds on us, he'll never stop."

Thrassus says, "If he is infected enough by the Bleak life will do as fine as mana would."

Nyaria quietly says, "Careful what you ask."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Missoni says, "He needs more than we can command, I think was the implication."

Evia asks, "Will infusing it into the area do any good?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Chandrellia says, "Its a risk I'll take if it will help him."

Goldstr exclaims, "Rodnay has saved us many timea! We needs save him!"

Lylia says, "I do not assume we are untainted, and at any rate, I do not wish to be fed upon."

Chandrellia suddenly bursts into flames!

Missoni just pushed Chandrellia over!

[various people rolling her]

Evia says, "Nothing like feeling helpless."

The flames surrounding Chandrellia flare up and sear her skin!

... 20 points of damage!

Nasty burns to right leg. Gonna need lots of butter.

She is stunned!

The air swirling around Chandrellia fans the flames!

... 20 points of damage!

Flames engulf head searing hair and scalp. Sickening!

Kiyna says, "Is that..."

You begin to roll Chandrellia around on the ground, attempting to put out the flames! In the process, you severely burn your hands!

You manage to put out the flames by rolling Chandrellia around!

[OOC note: ...yes, ironically, even my non-Leafi character was also the one to finally put out the fires, so I still have no idea what it looks like in third-person]

Coins says, "Oh."

Raelee says, "And I believe the secondary implication is that once that connection is established, he will not be able to release it."

Astrilyn painfully says, "Ouch, ouch, ouch."

Kiyna asks, "Is that Rodnay trying to feed?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pukk says, "See, I told you that you were hot."

Speaking to Kiyna, Vaemyr says, "Chandrellia was trying to offer it."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kiyna says, "Yeah and then she caught fire. That may have been Rodnay doing what she said..."

Thrassus says, "At this point opening one's self to him will likely have similar results."

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

[combat]

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "... but I am willing to observe."

[extended combat]

Speaking to a beautiful mountain lake, Kayse urges, "DO IT."

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna says, "Should we not... help you? Just let you burn? If that's what him feeding looks like..."

Missoni hesitantly asks, "Rodnay, is there another source of mana we can bring to you? Or deliver you to? One that is not poisoned?"

Bernadette softly says, "Tanks."

Speaking to Kiyna, Kayse says, "I didn't ask him to feed on me. I asked him to do something else."

Mourdeyan says, "Tell us who 'she' is so we can stop this."

Pukk says, "Lylia probably has a lot of mana."

Speaking to Kayse, Kiyna says, "Ah, okay."

Lylia flatly says, "I am not anyone else's to give away."

Pukk says, "I didn't offer. Just stating a fact."

Lylia says, "What is mine is mine."

[General] Kiyna asks, "What's happening up on the summit?"

Missoni's voice says, "...so cold..."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "We're trying to explain things to and have things explained to us by Iliyaas simultaneously."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "Ignoring the feeding for a moment..."

Chandrellia says, "Does anyone have a mana potion, I mean I know its not much but maybe it will show a difference if we pour it in the lake, maybe he can drink from that."

Missoni notes, "I am a bit chilled, but that was not me."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "... he expresses concern regarding an incursion."

Bernadette softly says, "Speakin troo us."

Xorus says, "The worlds will bleed through and all that."

Speaking to Xorus, Raelee says, "One wonders if *something* is attempting to utilize Rodnay as a conduit. He may have been able to resist - but this 'illness' has weakened him, thus leaving him vulnerable to it."

Speaking to Raelee, Vaemyr says, "Well if "her" is referring to a person, and not just Raznel and her Blight, then it's quite possible that could be a motive to whomever could be causing this "poison"."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Raelee asks, "Fascinating, no?"

Thrassus says, "This 'Her' could be in this other world bleeding through."

Lylia says, "Raznel is dust beneath our feet. At least, she is now, but 'now' is a highly unstable term when it comes to Raznel."

(Lylia's eyes go wide.)

Evia's voice says, "...the worlds will come..."

Speaking to Lylia, Raelee asks, "... another Raznel?"

Speaking to Lylia, Kiyna asks, "Are you alright?"

Raelee adds, "And I will scold myself for the baseless speculation later."

Lylia tersely says, "Yes. I just had a chill."

Evia says, "We can't even deal well with just this one little world, let alone...worlds."

Kiyna offers, "Rodnay! You can take this scarab out of me! It's been living in me for months, probably full of mana."

Bernadette softly asks, "Deres mer den one, mebbe?"

Kiyna says, "Well, month and a half."

Suddenly, a small blue hand raises out of the water, its slender fingers twisting around Kayse's. Both Kayse and Chandrellia are pulled forward, almost to their shoulders in the water. The hand lets go, and one finger points in Raelee's direction, then the hand melts away and the image of the boy dissolves entirely.

Mourdeyan says, "There be other worlds than these aye."

Kialeigh says, "Beats getting is sucked out by a demon woman..."

(Kayse stumbles forward further into the mountain lake.)

Pukk asks, "I think he was saying Raelee is onto something?"

Kialeigh exclaims, "I get it.. we must sacrifice Raelee!"

Evia says, "Why's the Magister being pointed out."

Speaking to Kialeigh, Chandrellia says, "Goodluck with that."

Speaking sadly to a beautiful mountain lake, Kayse asks, "Rodnay?"

Mourdeyan says, "Riddles, and worlds at stake."

Speaking to Raelee, Kayse asks, "Was he indicating your speculation was correct?"

Speaking to Kayse, Raelee says, "... either that or that the potential for incursion is important."

Speaking to Kayse, Chandrellia says, "Looked that way."

Thrassus says, "She's hit upon the reason."

Speaking to Kayse, Pukk asks, "So we are speculating whether her speculation is correct?"

Kayse steadily asks, "And how do we fix it?"

Pookia exclaims, "That seemed like a ghastly fingerpoint of approval to me!"

Vaemyr says, "I'm not sure."

Evia asks, "How do you tell the difference between and accusatory and approving finger point?"

Speaking quietly to Kayse, Lylia says, "I am sorry. These communications must be draining."

Speaking to Evia, Pookia says, "Its all in the wrist."

Raelee adds, "... gesticulating can offer a vexing lack of specificity."

Kayse sighs, "I hate tonight."

Thrassus says, "The research on the Reach needs to start as soon as possible, it might help determine a way to block this incursion."

Speaking to Pookia, Evia says, "Or accusing is shake shake shake finger point."

Speaking encouragingly to Kayse, Missoni says, "More is known now. That is a good sign."

Vaemyr says, "Maybe Iliyaas will of provided some additional answers or questions to our friends on the summit."

Metal Matters

Pukk's metal-plated bands begin to twist on his legs.

Kiyna says, "Uh oh."

Pukk glances at his metal-plated bands.

Speaking to his metal-plated bands, Pukk exclaims, "You be good you!"

Kialeigh says, "Oh the lake wants metal again.. but remember what happened last time."

Speaking to a beautiful mountain lake, Kialeigh says, "Bad lake.. No.."

Kiyna says, "The scarabs happened last time."

Chandrellia says, "But those arent Korderin."

Nyaria quietly says, "What happened last ..... thank you."

Mourdeyan says, "No but."

Evia says, "Some metal-plated bands recite: Everyone twist Pukk."

Kialeigh says, "The lake wanted all metal last time and gems... ripped earrings outta ears."

Vaemyr says, "They grabbed things that weren't kroderine too."

Pukk grins.

Pukk says, "Okay. I thought that was funny."

Kialeigh says, "Imagine someone with a necklace... sloosh."

Nyaria quietly says, "Pray for a weak clasp."

Kiyna asks, "Can it use gold?"

Pukk asks, "Would a small jaws work?"

Pukk says, "It's metal."

Chandrellia says, "Well if it spits the pearl back out we know it doesnt wantgems."

Speaking to a pale-faced coppery barn owl, Evia says, "Tell Owly: give a hoot, don't pollute."

The tiara on Missoni's head lifts slightly, then settles.

Missoni frowns.

Evia says, "Yikes."

Missoni places her hand on her mithril tiara.

Speaking to Missoni, Lylia asks, "Did it tickle?"

Kialeigh says, "At least the kitten is safe."

Speaking to Lylia, Missoni admits, "A bit."

Chandrellia says, "Maybe it wants magic."

The silver wedding ring on Lylia's finger spins rapidly before settling.

Lylia covers her silver wedding ring with her hand.

Evia says, "Gone to far now."

Missoni suggests, "I have an ethereal scarab you may take."

Pookia says, "It loves metal."

Vaemyr says, "Maybe it'll go for something not on people..."

Pukk tosses a pair of small steel jaws into the lake. It makes a loud splash and quickly sinks out of sight.

(Lylia gives her hand a rapid shake as if something had stung her.)

Lylia narrows her eyes.

Speaking to Pukk, Kayse discloses, "This lake is good for throwing things into it."

Thrassus tosses a small gold ring into the lake. It makes a loud splash and quickly sinks out of sight.

Speaking to a beautiful mountain lake, Evia asks, "How about some nice ceramic cups?"

Speaking to Kayse, Pukk says, "I always just toss things into the well..but here..hmmm."

Thrassus seems to be waiting for something.

Pukk says, "Well I put some steel jaws into the lake to see what would happen."

Mourdeyan tosses a pearl studded copper necklace into the lake. It makes a loud splash and quickly sinks out of sight.

A small gold ring suddenly flies up out of the lake and zips up into the sky!

Thrassus says, "There we go."

Thrassus nods with satisfaction.

Nyaria quietly says, "Thats a no."

Kiyna says, "Back to the Chronomages, I guess."

Evia says, "Wow."

Pookia exclaims, "In a few minutes thats gonna fall back down and hit someone in the head, watch yerself!"

Kialeigh says, "If it becomes etheral snakes I'm out of here. You guys are on yer own.."

Thrassus says, "So it does not want gold, I assume."

Chandrellia says, "Silver."

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee says, "It is not terribly potent, magically speaking."

Pukk says, "It didn't toss back my steel jaws."

Pukk says, "So that is okay."

Speaking to Pukk, Kayse says, "Careful what you wish for."

Speaking to Pukk, Chandrellia asks, "Your bands what are they?"

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "We just saw a gold ring fly into the air then dissapear up here.."

Pukk says, "Metal."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Are you all playing with metal down there again? A ring just flew past us and then went into another valence or... something."

[General] Kiyna thinks, "Yeah, that was ours."

Missoni worriedly asks, "Should we be giving it more to work with? What is it doing?"

Pukk says, "They are filled with blood."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Okay, that's a relief."

Chandrellia asks, "Missonis tiara is silver yes?"

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Yeah things were tugging at peoples jewelry."

Thrassus tosses a silver wand into the lake. It makes a loud splash and quickly sinks out of sight.

Chandrellia says, "Missonis even."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Missoni says, "Mithril."

[General] Vaemyr asks, "Did Ilyaas give you anything else?"

Chandrellia says, "I'm at a loss here."

Speaking to Missoni, Raelee says, "Giving it more to work with is likely to help us answer the second question."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "No, she's as mystified by all these things as we are. If not more."

Kialeigh says, "The last time someone gave it ore and it turned into scarabs... and infected some people. Most of which still have them."

Mourdeyan says, "The necklace I tossed in was an enhancive from the pawn."

A silver wand erupts from the lake and flies into the sky with blinding speed!

Speaking to Raelee, Missoni says, "Could we answer--"

Lylia says, "It seemed almost playful at first, but I am not certain I want to play, not with --"

Thrassus says, "It sounds as if the ring was accepted."

[General] Evia exclaims, "Look out above!"

[General] Kiyna exclaims, "Incoming silver wand!"

[General] Pookia exclaims, "Wand incoming!"

Missoni continues, "The second question without giving it more?"

Kayse offers, "Perhaps we stop throwing things in the lake."

[General] Vaemyr asks, "So no idea about whom is doing the poisoning?"

[General] Stormyrain slowly thinks, "That hit Tayler, painfully."

Speaking to Missoni, Raelee says, "... likely not so efficiently."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "Be careful with what you toss down there."

[General] Leafiara ruefully thinks, "Moments too late to warn Tayler to duck."

[General] Nalver thinks, "Direct hit on Tayler's hand."

Evia says, "Maybe somethins got a fancy mini-smelter up there."

Kialeigh says, "Ye we're gonna get exploded on by rejected metals..."

[General] Zaaldine thinks, "No idea what your talking about.. but gonna go out on a limb and blame a rogue."

[Realm] Tikba politely thinks, "Please do not throw any more things into the lake."

[General] Pookia exclaims, "Ooo maybe i can hit someone!"

Vaemyr says, "Unless you got one of those Crimson Orbs... maybe we should try throwing one of those... just as a little present for these scarabs..."

Speaking to Raelee, Missoni says, "Perhaps that is not so bad, in this case."

Pookia tosses a thin curved silver spike into the lake. It makes a loud splash and quickly sinks out of sight.

[General] Nalver thinks, "Throw some glaes full plate."

[General] Kayse amusedly thinks, "I already suggested that."

Kialeigh asks, "Last time kroderine was offered to it wasn't it?"

[Realm] Tikba evenly repeats, "Please."

[General] Kayse hesitantly thinks, "Though...Pukk did throw some steel jaws earlier...."

[General] Markx thinks, "I'll stop by the pawn shop."

[General] Leafiara slowly thinks, "Okay, I'm lying down now to make it that much less likely I get hit by your shenanigans."

[General] Pookia thinks, "Aiming a lake is a lot tougher than aiming a ballista."

Goldstr asks, "Moonstone oebs?"

Evia says, "What is something collecting metal for thats the question."

[General] Tayler thinks, "You would think so, but whoever threw the silver wand almost took my arm off at the wrist."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Pukk decided he's gonna start throwing Crismon orbs in next."

Thrassus says, "It's likely the magic, not the metal."

Kiyna says, "I could try moonstone. It hasn't reacted to anything non-metal yet, though."

Bernadette softly asks, "Rodney?"

Xorus says, "I wonder if these things are all floating up there around the peak of the Reach."

Vaemyr says, "Hmmm."

Chandrellia asks, "Do I?"

Nyaria quietly asks, "The mana from them, maybe?"

Kayse says, "Perhaps the items that aren't hitting people."

Speaking to Xorus, Kiyna says, "They said the ring at least shot up past them and flew into another valence."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Oooh that would be wicked."

Xorus asks, "They actually saw them vanish through some sort of rift or membrane?"

Evia says, "Well I guess."

[General] Pukk asks, "Did the small jaws every fly out and hit somebody?"

Vaemyr says, "Not sure."

Speaking to Xorus, Kiyna says, "You'd have to ask them, that's what it sounded like."

[General] Thrassus asks, "Is there a valencial rift visible from there on the peak?"

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

A twisting sickly green fire being bursts forth into existence!

[combat]

[General] Tayler thinks, "It's looking that way."

[combat]

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I'm going with yes."

[combat]

[General] Leafiara thinks, "It looks like a window into the Bleaklands, perhaps."

[extended combat]

[General] Raelee asks, "Is it another valence, then? Or is it merely to east?"

[extended combat; from here out it's just combat down at the Landing and we'll switch to the Bleaklands group]

Ascending

[rewinding in time back to when Leafi left to see what was going on with Iliyaas, so you'll see a lot of repeat thoughts]

[Realm] Leafiara thinks, "Coming."

[Realm] Vaemyr thinks, "That is what Rodnay mentioned, see if she knows whom this "her" Rodnay talks about is."

[Melgorehn's Reach, Stream]

The mountain trail ends here, opening into a wide area that provides a good place to rest. Progress to the west ends with an exposure of several thousand feet. You notice a wooden beam trellis which runs from this point up the side of the mountain to quite a distance above you. On one side, a freshwater mountain stream tumbles out of an opening into a pool. You also see the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs and that the stream is presently being diverted by a closed wooden dam, causing it to plummet off the side of the mountain where it splashes against a slowly turning paddle wheel embedded halfway into the cliff face.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Sarissa Tayler, Perigourd

[General] Leafiara thinks, "A few of us are awaiting the cab now. We'll be there soon as we can, Tikba."

Nalver says, "Fear of missing out or something like that."

Perigourd says, "Trying to understand what is happening and why."

Nalver asks, "Did anyone get the water going for the cab?"

Leafiara says, "It looks like we're set."

[Melgorehn's Reach, Stream]

The mountain trail ends here, opening into a wide area that provides a good place to rest. Progress to the west ends with an exposure of several thousand feet. You notice a wooden beam trellis which runs from this point up the side of the mountain to quite a distance above you. On one side, a freshwater mountain stream tumbles out of an opening into a pool. You also see the Kelfyr disk, the driftwood Nalver disk, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs and that the stream is presently being diverted by a closed wooden dam, causing it to plummet off the side of the mountain where it splashes against a slowly turning paddle wheel embedded halfway into the cliff face.

Also here: Stormyrain, Kelfyr, Nalver, Whimweaver Leafiara, Sarissa Tayler, Perigourd

Leafiara says, "Just... waiting."

Kelfyr asks, "Dam is closed?"

Nalver says, "That's the part they always leave out of adventures."

[General] Lylia thinks, "It is probably safest to stand near one another in case we must leave quickly."

Nalver says, "The waiting."

[General] Lylia thinks, "You heard nothing."

Nalver says, "Tales of adventures that is."

Speaking to Nalver, Kelfyr says, "It's an eliding over."

Perigourd says, "Most campaigning is waiting."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Seems Rodnay is speaking thru Bernadette."

Perigourd says, "The hardest part of any battle."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Ok scratch that he is speaking thru various people."

Nalver says, "Or the whole, We traveled for 4 months and had to stay in a remote village to recover gut health."

[Melgorehn's Reach, Lift]

This is an open-air, wooden box which is suspended on a beam trellis that is precariously attached to the side of the mountain. There are plenty of openings which afford a great view, but the cab itself is covered (probably to guard against falling rocks). You also see the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs.

Perigourd asks, "Someone got the dam?"

Kelfyr says, "I got it."

Perigourd says, "Looks like more fire below."

Leafiara says, "Not a surprise..."

Nalver says, "Little bit of fighting. Not much."

Tayler says, "The view is so great I think I saw the upcoming trials get pushed up a day."

Leafiara says, "My blades are still too hot to go into their scabbards at the moment anyway, so I don't know if I'd be good down there."

Speaking to Leafiara, Tayler says, "Need to get some air cooled weapons."

Iliyaas' Thoughts

[Melgorehn's Reach, Moon Chamber]

You are in a vast, domed enclosure cut from the native rock of the mountain. The floor is perfectly smooth but the vaulted ceiling is chiseled in an array of gothic designs. In the center of the room sits a single onyx altar. You also see the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, a churning white portal, a round shaft cut into the floor of the chamber and a brilliant moon beam shining in through a hole in the ceiling and striking the surface of the altar.

Also here: Perigourd, Sarissa Tayler, Tikba who is sitting, Lady Iliyaas who is sitting

Iliyaas asks, "Mustn't he?"

Iliyaas peers quizzically at Tikba.

Speaking to Iliyaas, Nalver asks, "Do you know Barlan?"

Tikba says, "He has come this far, and this long, without having to choose between the two worlds."

Iliyaas peers quizzically at Nalver.

Leafiara says, "I don't know who mustn't what, but Rodnay's down there asking us to stop someone and saying he's been poisoned."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Tikba asks, "Is it inevitable?"

Iliyaas says, "I believe he must choose in the end."

Iliyaas nods at Tikba.

Tikba nods slowly at Iliyaas.

Iliyaas says, "One cannot be blood and blood forever."

Iliyaas says, "Yes, the boy is sick, like the mountain."

Iliyaas says, "It is fascinating, and strange."

Speaking to Leafiara, Tikba explains, "Iliyaas says that the mountain is ill, but she does not know why."

Leafiara says, "How did the mountain get sick? Because of--"

Leafiara says, "Oh."

Kelfyr says, "Rodnay seems to think he's been poisoned, rather than naturally ill."

Tikba says, "She said that when the body is weak, disease may enter."

Iliyaas says, "Many think the fires. I wonder if it is or not."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd asks, "You can't heal it?"

Iliyaas asks, "Is the fire the disease? or a result of it?"

Kelfyr says, "Disease is not poison. One has a distinct intent."

[General] Kiyna asks, "What's happening up on the summit?"

Leafiara says, "The fire's the suppression of it."

Speaking to Kelfyr, Tikba agrees, "She said the sickness is not natural."

Iliyaas says, "I have tried. it is beyond something I can just...do so easily."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "We're trying to explain things to and have things explained to us by Iliyaas simultaneously."

Speaking to Tikba, Perigourd says, "Perhaps the blight, and the fires restraining it."

Tikba carefully says, "Then we discussed Rodnay a bit."

Leafiara says, "Cordarius is supposed to be working with the camp now, right? He established the manafires in the first place, so he would know more."

Iliyaas says, "Perhaps."

Iliyaas says, "I wonder what makes a mountain sick."

Iliyaas says, "I wonder what makes mana sick."

Iliyaas ponders.

Leafiara considers, "I guess we could source some bleakstone from... well, someone. Octaven probably won't be willing to donate or even share."

Nalver asks, "Mana sick?"

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd says, "There are a few possibilities."

Speaking to Leafiara, Tayler asks, "Do you need a lot of it?"

Tikba thoughtfully asks, "Was the blight a sickness of mana?"

Nalver asks, "Any relation to those scarabs that been crawling around inside people?"

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara say, "It might have been..."

Leafiara says, "Just depends how we define 'sickness,' I suppose..."

Speaking to Tikba, Stormyrain says, "I don't think it's that singular, nothing Raznel did was."

Leafiara says, "It was feeding on mana and starving the area."

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "Perhaps anything that disrupts its natural flow."

Stormyrain says, "It was the perversion of multiple magics into something completely--new and abhorent, most of the time."

Iliyaas nods.

Iliyaas says, "It is a strange thing."

Perigourd says, "When I spoke to Magister Raelee about the blight a year or so ago, she talked about the fires essentially poisoning the mana the blight draws on."

Iliyaas says, "I wonder, if the flames were gone..."

Iliyaas shakes her head.

Perigourd says, "And that's how it's kept restrained and starved."

Kelfyr says, "There were recent occurrences near two of those flames."

Perigourd says, "But I'm not sure if that was a simple term or more to a specific intent."

Kelfyr says, "Crackling red lights rising up into the sky."

Leafiara says, "We've assumed the blight would return, but even if that's true, I suppose we could just re-establish the manafires afterward. If we prepared for such a thing by keeping food stocks in advance, maybe it's..."

Tikba tentatively says, "There are many fires. Perhaps if one were extinguished, we might see a change, and know what we might expect."

Leafiara says, "...still seems risky, though."

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "I had wondered if the blight could be filtered out."

Tikba says, "While the others would remain, in the event that we need them."

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "This was partly why I spoke to her."

Iliyaas asks, "Is the sickness a natural evolution?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "I thought perhaps the Tears of Imaera could be used to cleanse the blight as it passes through the fires."

Iliyaas asks, "Is it created?"

Iliyaas ponders.

Tikba thoughtfully asks, "How did the blight come here?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "If legends on the tapestries are true, they're known to restore blighted land, and break curses."

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara says, "That's not entirely clear. Some kind of magic channeled through a bleakstone statue of Lylia... presumably blood magic since it was Raznel, but not a certainty that I know of."

Nalver says, "Everyone down below is still alive."

Tikba asks, "Can the statue be studied?"

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara says, "Only if we could convince Grand Magister Octaven to share."

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "I don't know if it was just blood magic, she rarely stayed to one magic source."

Leafiara mutters, "She's been here for years and I've yet to even see her face except when she was in a bane coffin."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd says, "Perhaps an unforseen affect that developed."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "I agree, it could be many things."

Stormyrain says, "But certainly, blood magic was a part of most things she did."

Nalver says, "Blood magic. infected mana."

Nalver asks, "Normal things these days?"

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd says, "Much like overwatering a plant."

Iliyaas says, "Perhaps..."

Iliyaas says, "It feels unnatural."

Stormyrain says, "Blood magic was the first magic...you rely on it daily."

Speaking wryly to Nalver, Leafiara says, "Well, more common four years ago, but sure."

Iliyaas says, "A perversion to the cycle of things."

Iliyaas says, "A river that flows until the taint occurs."

Iliyaas frowns.

Iliyaas says, "If the walls collapse here..."

Iliyaas shakes her head.

Leafiara cautiously ssay, "After all this mountain's been through, I'd like to think the walls won't collapse here, but..."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd asks, "Then you believe that the mountain is containing this sickness?"

Tikba uncertainly says, "Illness leads to weakness."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd asks, "And may.. burst?"

Iliyaas says, "The mountain of worlds is sick. Regardless of the poison."

Iliyaas says, "If the mana walls weaken..."

Iliyaas asks, "What lies beyond?"

Leafiara says, "...or even 'when' lies beyond..."

Perigourd says, "I hope we're not speaking of Vvrael."

A small gold ring flies into view among the fog of the peak and it suddenly dissolves into a pocket of air that shimmers then snaps shut.

Leafiara says, "I'm just speaking of the temporal magic of the Reach."

Iliyaas gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Tikba slowly asks, "What was that?"

Nalver asks, "Was that a Chronomage gold ring?"

Tayler asks, "Was that one of Tyrrax's rings?"

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "We just saw a gold ring fly into the air then dissapear up here.."

Leafiara says, "It looked like a normal Chronomage ring to me."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Are you all playing with metal down there again? A ring just flew past us and then went into another valence or... something."

[General] Kiyna thinks, "Yeah, that was ours."

Leafiara says, "Oh, whew, they're saying it was theirs."

Tikba says, "Oh."

Iliyaas says, "What will come of the young Baron if the mountain truly comes alive..."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Okay, that's a relief."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Yeah things were tugging at peoples jewelry."

[General] Vaemyr asks, "Did Ilyaas give you anything else?"

Tikba mildly says, "We will all suffer, if that comes to pass."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "No, she's as mystified by all these things as we are. If not more."

Tayler says, "I... will move."

[General] Evia exclaims, "Look out above!"

[General] Kiyna exclaims, "Incoming silver wand!"

[General] Pookia exclaims, "Wand incoming!"

A silver wand zips into view, speeding fast and bursts through Tayler's hand before disappearing into a shimmering pocket of air!

... 30 points of damage!

Impressive shot shatters wrist!

He is stunned!

[General] Vaemyr asks, "So no idea about whom is doing the poisoning?"

Iliyaas blinks.

Tayler winces.

Leafiara asks, "Their warning came just moments too soon for you to duck, eh?"

[General] Stormyrain slowly thinks, "That hit Tayler, painfully."

Leafiara says, "Or too late, rather."

[Realm] Perigourd thinks, "Be careful with what you toss down there."

Tikba wryly says, "You should have moved."

[General] Leafiara ruefully thinks, "Moments too late to warn Tayler to duck."

Speaking to Tayler, Perigourd says, "Good thing it wasn't a claidhmore."

[General] Nalver thinks, "Direct hit on Tayler's hand."

Kelfyr asks, "What is drawing metal up here with such velocity?"

Leafiara plops down to the ground in a sitting position.

[General] Zaaldine thinks, "No idea what your talking about.. but gonna go out on a limb and blame a rogue."

[Realm] Tikba politely thinks, "Please do not throw any more things into the lake."

Leafiara pragmatically says, "Low to the ground, less likely to hit us."

[General] Pookia exclaims, "Ooo maybe i can hit someone!"

[General] Nalver thinks, "Throw some glaes full plate."

[General] Kayse amusedly thinks, "I already suggested that."

[Realm] Tikba evenly repeats, "Please."

[General] Kayse hesitantly thinks, "Though...Pukk did throw some steel jaws earlier...."

[General] Markx thinks, "I'll stop by the pawn shop."

Iliyaas stands up.

[General] Leafiara slowly thinks, "Okay, I'm lying down now to make it that much less likely I get hit by your shenanigans."

Leafiara lies down.

Leafiara murmurs, "Glaes full plate..."

Speaking to Perigourd, Tayler says, "Snaked right in through my shield, too."

[General] Pookia thinks, "Aiming a lake is a lot tougher than aiming a ballista."

Leafiara stretches one arm along her side and props up her head with the other hand.

[General] Tayler thinks, "You would think so, but whoever threw the silver wand almost took my arm off at the wrist."

Iliyaas gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Pukk decided he's gonna start throwing Crismon orbs in next."

Leafiara considers, "So... possibly the manafires or possibly not."

Into the Bleak

The air shimmers.

Nalver asks, "Do you think this is the scene they will draw of all of us? For the tale of this adventure?"

Leafiara says, "Possible breaches of the mana walls..."

Nalver says, "And there they all lay."

Leafiara says, "Spatial or temporal incursions... sickness... interruption of natural cycles..."

The walls of the moon chamber shift and churn. Cracked charcoal clay runs in haphazard patterns along the floor, the ground lacking moisture or life within it. Despite this, the air seems to hum with a low frequency, adding an odd element of vibrancy to the area.

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "We've seen fire beings, odd mimics.."

Leafiara surprisedly says, "Huh."

Leafiara stands up.

Tikba uncertainly says, "It may be dangerous to remain here as well."

Kelfyr says, "There's a frequency humming."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Oooh that would be wicked."

The walls of the moon chamber shift and churn. Occasional gales of gold motes crackle and fizzle in and out of existence. The landscape rolls and undulates for miles in every direction, providing no end in sight of the bleak environment.

Iliyaas says, "Fascinating..."

Leafiara asks, "Do we need to schedule another excursion to the Bleaklands?"

[General] Pukk asks, "Did the small jaws every fly out and hit somebody?"

[General] Thrassus asks, "Is there a valencial rift visible from there on the peak?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Tikba asks, "Did that remind you of the Bleaklands?"

[General] Tayler thinks, "It's looking that way."

Iliyaas frowns.

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I'm going with yes."

Nalver says, "Uhh ohh."

Nalver says, "They are dying down there."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "It looks like a window into the Bleaklands, perhaps."

Perigourd says, "More of those fire beings."

Kelfyr says, "I wonder if the mountain is coming out of tune with this plane."

[General] Raelee asks, "Is it another valence, then? Or is it merely to east?"

Tikba asks, "The Blight is connected with the Bleaklands, yes?"

Speaking to Kelfyr, Perigourd says, "Or perhaps resonating to them."

Tikba says, "Perhaps it seeks to return home."

Leafiara says, "Or this time... but either seem very possible."

Speaking to Perigourd, Kelfyr says, "Right, beginning to resonate with another."

[General] Thrassus asks, "Is it reachable?"

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara says, "Most likely, yes."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I don't believe so. We can observe it, but the walls of the moon chamber are still here--it's just that we see through them to another world. At least, that's what I think we're witnessing."

The air begins to crackle with energy.

Leafiara says, "...uh-oh."

Sickly green motes of energy spread along the walls of the moon chamber.

Leafiara says, "Bracing, right."

A shimmering fissure appears in mid-air.

[General] Leafiara cautiously thinks, "Well, there's a fissure opening now..."

Speaking to her vultite chainmail, Stormyrain mutters, "Treacherous metal."

A shimmering fissure appears in mid-air.

Iliyaas glances at a shimmering fissure.

Lady Iliyaas just went through a shimmering fissure.

[Bleaklands, Old Keep Road]

An oddly smooth path of glass-like rock bends along the ground, providing a slate-hued road that stretches among a field of cracked boulders and swirling ash. Chunks of old stone walls, broken apart and primarily crumbled to ruin, dot the landscape surrounding the trail.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Lady Iliyaas

Obvious paths: northeast, south

Nalver and Tikba followed.

Perigourd just arrived.

Sarissa Tayler just arrived.

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "A fissure to the bleak is open here."

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "We are fighting."

Tikba says, "Oh."

[General] Markx asks, "So where's the party at?"

Stormyrain just arrived.

You notice Kelfyr moving stealthily into the area.

Perigourd says, "Where in the.."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "And, well... Bleaklands."

[General] Kiyna exclaims, "Lots and lots of fire elementals at the lake!"

Leafiara says, "Hmm."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "I['ll get there as fast as I can."

[almost everyone gathers on Leafi]

>s

[Bleaklands, Old Keep Road]

The earth is blasted and battered, with complete swathes of dirt ripped up like it was gnashed by huge claws, tearing open the ground and exposing pits of steam and darkness below. Twisting among the macabre landscape is what resembles an old narrow trail, which is as dead and dark as the world around it.

Obvious paths: north

>n

[Bleaklands, Old Keep Road]

An oddly smooth path of glass-like rock bends along the ground, providing a slate-hued road that stretches among a field of cracked boulders and swirling ash. Chunks of old stone walls, broken apart and primarily crumbled to ruin, dot the landscape surrounding the trail. You also see a sharp-nosed grey puppy with long corded fur, a mottled grey ragamuffin cat and the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs.

Also here: Perigourd, Lady Iliyaas

Kelfyr, Stormyrain, Tayler, Nalver and Tikba followed.

Perigourd joins Leafiara's group.

Nalver says, "Oh."

Nalver says, "Okay."

Tikba uneasily says, "There does not seem to be a way back."

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara says, "Maybe we'll figure one out as we go..."

Tayler says, "So it would seem."

Leafiara apprehensively says, "Maybe."

Flecks of sickly green light drift off of the peaks of the Reach and towards Wehnimer's Landing.

>ne

[Bleaklands, Old Keep Road]

Golden particles of light dance about like grains of wheat, fluttering above as they cast a distorted reflection along the mirror-like smooth slate road that curves among rows of disheveled rocks that form a jagged earthen crust. Clouds of ash churn in the distance, swirling about in shades of shadow and slate.

Obvious paths: northeast, southwest

Perigourd says, "Tread slowly."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I'm not sure you want to come. We don't see a way back yet."

[General] Kayse thinks, "The fire is headed towards the town."

Perigourd says, "We should not leave her by herserlf." [OOC note: Leafi had tried to grab Iliyaas, but her group was closed]

>ne

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

The remnants of a massive circular courtyard stretch out in every direction. The walls surrounding it have long collapsed, reduced to piles and piles of crumbled stone and ash. The scorched fabric of a banner protrudes from some of the rubble, its crest long tattered beyond recognition.

Obvious paths: north, southwest

>n

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

A huge granite statue rises from a swathe of blasted ground, riddled with jagged shards of rock and narrow fissures that endlessly boil with columns of hot steam, causing the very air around them to shimmer with intensity. The statue itself has been completely gnarled from some incredible force, its shape now resembling some grotesque monstrosity of blasted rock.

Obvious paths: northeast, south

Kelfyr, Stormyrain, Tayler, Nalver, Tikba and Perigourd followed.

Lady Iliyaas just arrived.

Leafiara says, "Hmm..."

Iliyaas joins Leafiara's group.

>ne

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

The desolated earth is prominent here, with much of the old stone keep having been utterly destroyed and rendered to ash. The ground almost pulses with a faint thrum of energy and the air crackles with intensity.

Obvious paths: north, southwest

>n

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

Once a sturdy portcullis, twisted black beams of metal now claw up from the ground like a gnarled talon, clutching in silent pain. Motes of golden energy float about, drifting to and from upon the stirrings of a hot breeze.

Obvious paths: south, northwest

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "Perhaps there is an answer here."

Leafiara says, "Can only hope..."

>nw

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

A segmented wall of stone stands as a lone sentinel against the backdrop of a vast wasteland, where an endless terrain of broken grey earth is caked in thick layers of ash. Faint coils of golden light whirl about, gently brushing against the rock wall as if trying to burrow within it.

Obvious paths: northeast, southeast

Tikba says, "Ah, the motes."

>ne

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

Fine ground pebbles litter the mangled grey earth, the only vestige of what was once a high stone wall. The scorched fa ade of a huge tower stretches to the brush against the torrid sky, where braids of twisted black and grey clouds bleed across the heavens, swirling like a river of coal and ash.

Obvious paths: east, southwest

[General] Kayse thinks, "Fire made it into town."

Tikba says, "They are here as well."

>go tower

[Bleaklands, Ruined Tower]

The footing is treacherous as whatever force brought ruin was severely unkind to the structure of the tower. From the highest vantage point, the vast stretch of the Bleaklands can be seen, with its grey, crippled, and desolate earth extending as far as the eye will go. High shadowy plateaus rise in the distance, suffocated by rolling storms and intervals of flashing golden sparks of light. To the far north the region is dominated by a great mountain range, with peaks glazed in ash.

Obvious exits: out

Leafiara says, "Hmm..."

[General] Kayse thinks, "Alarm sounded."

[General] Markx thinks, "Stout critters are in the walls of the Landing."

Iliyaas says, "This land is sick."

>o

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

Fine ground pebbles litter the mangled grey earth, the only vestige of what was once a high stone wall. The scorched fa ade of a huge tower stretches to the brush against the torrid sky, where braids of twisted black and grey clouds bleed across the heavens, swirling like a river of coal and ash.

Obvious paths: east, southwest

Tayler says, "I'd always heard of this place... but what manner of devastation could have caused this."

Leafiara says, "Very much so..."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd says, "Indeed."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Tikba asks, "Is this the same illness?"

Speaking to Tayler, Leafiara says, "An ancient obelisk activated by Chaston Griffin."

Leafiara says, "Powered by Raznel's blood magic..."

Iliyaas looks over at Tikba and shakes her head.

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd asks, "Was it built here?"

Leafiara says, "Gathered from hundreds of half-elves."

Iliyaas says, "No, it feels different."

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd asks, "Or where did he find it?"

Iliyaas says, "Born of blood."

Speaking to Perigourd, Leafiara says, "The obelisk was beneath Talador, yes."

>e

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

Clefts of endless darkness muddle the ground, their deep pits periodically releasing squalls of burning hot air that boil and sizzle in its wake. Flakes of ash drift down from the expansive blackened mountains that span along the northern stretch of the wasteland.

Obvious paths: southeast, west

[General] The ghost of Mourdeyan thinks, "Beings all over town."

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd asks, "Any idea who made it?"

>se

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

Thin layers of ash cake the slivered ground, coating the melted earth in an almost ethereal membrane of lightless dust. Peeking out from the soot are several jagged rocks, each one twisted up like a gnarled stone finger.

Obvious paths: northeast, south, northwest

Iliyaas says, "The mountain of worlds feels cold."

Tikba slowly asks, "And the sickness in the Reach is not born of blood?"

Tikba nods slowly at Iliyaas.

>ne

[Bleaklands, Dusk Vale]

The vast wasteland sweeps far and wide, with breathless skies permeated with a film of grey and black, like liquid ash and shadow vying for control of the heavens. Plots of ash-covered trees tower along the way, their great pine frames now twisted and gnarled, reduced to burnt skeletal husks of their former glory.

Obvious paths: east, southwest

>e

[Bleaklands, Dusk Vale]

A stream of inky goo divides the ashen vale, the creeping sludge trailing down from the expanse of saw-toothed mountains which shelter the area against a gush of hot, rancid winds. Crumbled stone ramparts dot the distant landscape, the only remaining sign of what was once a lush, lively region.

Obvious paths: east, west

>e

[Bleaklands, Dusk Vale]

The gaunt husks of gnarled black trees stretch up high overheard, their spindly branches twisted inward to form a tunnel with the semblance of a shriveled, blackened ribcage. Through the cracks of the shadowy canopy fall flakes of ash, dusting the ground in a thin layer of grime.

Obvious paths: southeast, west

>se

[Bleaklands, Dusk Vale]

The vestiges of life still cling to the edge of the vale, with the partial structures of scorched wagons still thrown to the wayside, their wood long ago warped and blasted. A massive outcropping juts out overheard, shielding a wide dark opening from the winds gushing above. The peaks of the northern mountains loom upward, their tips scratching the sky or disappearing amidst the deep black clouds altogether.

Obvious paths: northwest

Kelfyr says, "Rodnay also mentioned coldness."

[seeing it's a dead end, Leafi begins to travel back; fill in rooms back to the last fork in the road]

[General] Pukk thinks, "They are heading to town."

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

Thin layers of ash cake the slivered ground, coating the melted earth in an almost ethereal membrane of lightless dust. Peeking out from the soot are several jagged rocks, each one twisted up like a gnarled stone finger.

Obvious paths: northeast, south, northwest

>s

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

Crumbled ramparts of blackened ash-covered stone are strewn about the area as if tossed about by some great gust of force or wind. The air is thick with sulfur and pebbles of dirt float almost an inch from the ground, is if carried by some unseen energy, as they swirl about. Not far away rises a huge rock platform bordered by seared stone steps.

Obvious paths: north, east, south

>e

[Bleaklands, Ask Peaks]

Rinds of jagged rock swell along the ground, unfolding like barbed scabs on the earth and create a pattern of toothed rows ending at the base of an expansive mountain range. A veil of ash hangs heavily in the area, throwing the land in a perpetual state of choking gloom.

Obvious paths: southeast, west

>se

[Bleaklands, Ash Peaks]

The mountains rise like gargantuan earthen sentinels, their highest peaks lost to obscurity in the sky above, wreathed in a stretch of ash and clouds that endlessly churn in turmoil. Mixed amongst the boundless murk are the faintest crumbs of pale golden light, their ethereal glow casting a ghostly sheen to nearby rocks.

Obvious paths: southeast, northwest

>se

[Bleaklands, Ash Peaks]

Powdered ash clings to the sides of the mountains like a thin coating of filth. Several claw marks are driven into the rocks, evident of some life, or some monstrosity nearby. The air quickly shifts in temperate here, ranging from chilled to hot within mere minutes apart.

Obvious paths: east, northwest

>e

[Bleaklands, Ash Peaks]

The ground along the mountain's bedrock is intermittent at best, the surface rising and falling in different locations as if the earth itself continues to bend and widen. Broken fragments of glistening mein conjure a faint glimmer nearby, their metallic edges wedged into the rock as if by someone powerful explosion.

Obvious paths: southeast, west

>se

[Bleaklands, Ash Peaks]

Further up the mountain, the path is more treacherous and rugged. Huge slabs of blackened stone jut out from both sides of the upward passage, resembling the rows of colossal teeth of some great infernal monster. Pale specks of golden light waft through the area, moving outward as if fleeing from the darker depths beyond.

Obvious paths: south, northwest

Leafiara says, "I wonder..."

>s

[Bleaklands, Ash Peaks]

The ground shifts at a sharp incline, and loose pebbles of dirt still tumble about as if the mountains never cease to seize and swell, endlessly growing until they spread like an earthen rot. A brisk draft of wind scrapes through the craggy walls, sharpening the rocks while cooling them to the touch.

Obvious paths: north, west

Tikba quietly says, "This is a terrible place."

[General] Mourdeyan thinks, "The temple is scorched and battered even."

[General] Kayse thinks, "They are flooding the town."

>w

[Bleaklands, Ash Peaks]

A mix of ash and golden dust cling to several cracks along the mountainous range, creating the illusion of veins of glittering metal branching throughout the maze of rocks. The cold air gives way to a warm breeze that stirs from a narrow passage nearby.

Obvious paths: east

>go pass

[Bleaklands, Mountain Passage]

Cramped and hazardous, a narrow passage pointedly twists deeper through the mountains, leaving little room to move without threat of harm from the rows of serrated chunks of blackened rock jutting out like scorch tipped spears. The slate-swirled sky above is almost completely obscured by toothed outcroppings above.

Obvious paths: south, out

Lady Iliyaas just went south.

Speaking to Tayler, Stormyrain says, "Prelate Chaston. That is what happened to this place."

>s

[Bleaklands, Mountain Passage]

Darkness surges throughout the area, the drab sky blotted out by the thick umbral walls of the mountains on every side. The air is heavy with sulfur and the uneven ground is caked with ash and grime.

Obvious paths: north, southwest

>sw

Speaking to Tikba, Kelfyr says, "A place made terrible, yes."

[Bleaklands, Mountain Passage]

Cradled by earthen walls of shadow, the passageway widens to a secluded pocket buried within the base of the mountain. Nearby, a small pool of murky black liquid bubbles and pops, its putrid substance pouring out like fetid ink.

Also here: Lady Iliyaas

Obvious paths: northeast, northwest

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "We're gaining altitude."

[General] Kayse thinks, "Numerous elementals at the North gate inside of it."

[General] Mourdeyan thinks, "TSC is not safe."

[General] Kiyna thinks, "I can't fight these. My swords get too hot."

[General] Pukk exclaims, "Man the ballistas. Archers get on the roofs!"

Leafiara asks, "...perhaps a loresong?"

[General] Gorln thinks, "Probably should use frost-flaring weapons."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Volley if you can."

Stormyrain says, "No histories resonating here."

[General] Mourdeyan thinks, "I was using a frost flaring tomahawk."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Leafiara says, "Is anything about this pool drawing you in? You moved here quickly."

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd asks, "The mountain of worlds?"

[General] Gorln asks, "Still heated up?"

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Militia, support the town as you can."

Iliyaas shakes her head.

Speaking to Perigourd, Leafiara says, "I'm contemplating the idea of this being a different possible world..."

Iliyaas says, "I seek the keep."

Iliyaas says, "It was strong there."

Iliyaas joins Leafiara's group.

Leafiara says, "Alright... there was another fork in the path we haven't yet explored."

[skipping ahead into the travel until they return to the fork]

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Has anyone informed Sablo? He may be more than happy to assist..I am unfortunately, unable to reach the town from--my current location."

[Bleaklands, Ruined Keep]

Crumbled ramparts of blackened ash-covered stone are strewn about the area as if tossed about by some great gust of force or wind. The air is thick with sulfur and pebbles of dirt float almost an inch from the ground, is if carried by some unseen energy, as they swirl about. Not far away rises a huge rock platform bordered by seared stone steps.

Obvious paths: north, east, south

>s

[Bleaklands, Stone Ascent]

Four sides of scorched stone steps lead up to a wide rock platform, easily viewable from all areas of the wasteland nearby. A cloud of ash hangs low above, endlessly churning as flakes drop from its nebulous form like patches of skin rotting off bones.

Obvious paths: north

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "I am trying Marshal, as best I can in TSC aiding the wounded and dead."

>go step

[Bleaklands, Stone Dais]

The carved rock platform rises almost twenty feet off the ground, with wide stone steps descending around all four corners. A stone arch stretches up even higher, with ancient dwarven sigils etched into its surface. Beyond that lies the great open skies of the Bleaklands, with whorls of slate infused among amorphous clouds of twisted shadows. You also see a shimmering fissure.

Obvious paths: down [OOC note: down just leads back to where they just came from]

Leafiara says, "Ahh..."

Stormyrain says, "Oh excellent."

You peer through a shimmering fissure and see...

[Melgorehn's Reach, Moon Chamber]

You are in a vast, domed enclosure cut from the native rock of the mountain. The floor is perfectly smooth but the vaulted ceiling is chiseled in an array of gothic designs. In the center of the room sits a single onyx altar. You also see a churning white portal and a round shaft cut into the floor of the chamber.

Leafiara says, "A way back, at least."

Leafiara says, "But we wouldn't be able to return..."

Iliyaas gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Iliyaas moves to the edge of the platform.

[General] Directed to Stormyrain, Kayse thinks, "I'll go."

Iliyaas says, "So many died here."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Going to scout the town and look for bodies."

Stormyrain murmurs, "Yes."

Iliyaas says, "Their voices are so loud."

Iliyaas grins slowly.

Leafiara says, "Many thousands..."

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd asks, "What do they say?"

[General] Kayse thinks, "There is an elemental outside the camp. I am looking for Sablo."

[General] The ghost of Korpacz thinks, "There's a sickly green fire being wreaking havoc in TSC. I'm in NW TSC if anyone cares to kill it and drag my body... SE."

Iliyaas says, "They do not speak."

Iliyaas says, "They only scream."

Perigourd frowns.

Leafiara says, "I suppose that follows."

[General] The ghost of Korpacz thinks, "Scratch that, there are several twisting sickly green fire beings."

[General] Pukk exclaims, "Good job shooting from the roofs!"

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "TSC is safe as of this moment."

[General] Kiyna exclaims, "Covering you, Pukk!"

Perigourd glances appraisingly at Iliyaas.

[General] Pukk thinks, "I can't drag you."

Iliyaas asks, "This is where they found the boy. Isn't it?"

Leafiara nods at Iliyaas.

Leafiara says, "Rodnay, yes..."

[General] Kayse thinks, "He's not in his pavilion. We may be on our own."

Perigourd asks, "He was found here?"

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Understood."

Iliyaas says, "In this dead land..."

Leafiara says, "He sheltered the area we were in from the blast."

Leafiara says, "It weakened him so much that Grand Magister Dennet was able to take him captive in a bane coffin."

Iliyaas says, "Fascinating."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Got him."

[Realm] Missoni thinks, "I will come back for you."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Call out if you are dead in town."

Speaking to Perigourd, Leafiara says, "It wasn't here he originated, if that's what you're thinking. He was originally an orphan from the Landing who was taken by the Ithzir."

Iliyaas says, "Blood has ruined this land."

Leafiara nods absently at Iliyaas.

Iliyaas says, "Cold has sickened the Reach."

Iliyaas says, "They are different. That much is good."

Iliyaas says, "There is no tomorrow for this land."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Meddlefin open up."

Leafiara agrees, "Almost certainly not."

Tikba says, "Then we have more hope."

Tikba says, "But fewer ideas."

A clap of thunder echoes in the sky. Or was it a growl?

Leafiara says, "The Green Sisters have been trying to salvage this area for seven years now and--"

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "Some things take time, especially in nature."

Leafiara says, "If that's one of those behemoths..."

[General] Thrassus thinks, "These things are outside the Outpost."

Tikba slowly says, "If that is dangerous, the way out is here."

A huge slate-hued cloud above begins to shift directions. The nebulous form emits a deep, deep groan as it seems to gravitate towards the ruined keep.

Tikba apprehensively says, "Yes."

Leafiara curiously says, "Hmm... no, that's not what I expected, actually."

Kelfyr asks, "Can we be certain it won't follow, though?"

Leafiara says, "I figured it was one of those giant flying maggots made of teeth."

Stormyrain flatly says, "No."

Stormyrain mutters, "I hate those things."

Perigourd asks, "I expect they're rather deadly?"

Soon the huge cloud grows closer and clusters of eyeballs appear along its surface, each grouping surrounding several maws of razor-sharp teeth.

Stormyrain murmurs, "Almost as much as I hated Crux-bats."

Speaking helpfully to Perigourd, Leafiara says, "Yes--"

Kelfyr says, "Welp."

Leafiara mutters, "Never mind, it's one of those."

Tikba says, "Oh."

Nalver says, "Well fun."

Stormyrain slowly says, "Oh, eyes with--teeth instead."

Leafiara adds, "And yes, last time we encountered one, it did try to follow us through a portal."

Perigourd says, "I expect we shouldn't allow that."

Leafiara says, "That might even have been the one Thadston broke his kroderine gauntlets over."

A church bell rings in the distance.

Stormyrain whispers aloud, "Why always a church bell."

Leafiara says, "Because the echoes of the Blameless still haunt this area..."

[General] Aerocus thinks, "Nearly the entire tsc is full of dead."

Leafiara asks, "It was moving for the keep?"

[General] Thrassus asks, "How is the situation at the lake?"

Stormyrain says, "We're about to find out, I do believe."

In the great distance, the shredded remains of a humanoid appears. Plates of bloodstained white armor clings to its muscular frame, and the golden motes of the sky reflect along its bald scalp. He shambles slowly, dragging its feet.

Leafiara says, "Yep... the Blameless..."

[General] Kerl thinks, "Being south of town dead."

Kelfyr says, "Is that..."

[General] Kerl thinks, "Yikes, grr."

Tikba offers Leafiara a rose-intaglio diamond.

Leafiara says, "Many still remain in these lands since they were part of Chaston's crusades..."

Leafiara accepts Tikba's rose-intaglio diamond.

Speaking to Leafiara, Tikba explains, "Chrism."

Tikba wryly says, "For me, for afterwards."

Speaking earnestly to Tikba, Leafiara says, "Indeed."

Iliyaas says, "We should leave this land."

[General] Kayse tiredly thinks, "We are a bit over-run."

Iliyaas says, "It is not natural, and we do not belong in it."

Stormyrain asks, "Can we heal--the fissure so nothing can follow us out?"

Leafiara says, "We'll need a way to close the fissue."

Iliyaas says, "The fissure is closed on the other side." [OOC note: I mean... yes, but we were thinking

Iliyaas points at a shimmering fissure.

[General] Xorus asks, "What happened with that rift?"

Leafiara says, "Ah, so it is..."

Leafiara says, "Right. Backing up town, then."

Kelfyr says, "It's still a one way portal."

Another shambling white figure appears in the distance.

Leafiara says, "...returning."

Leafiara says, "If anyone wishes to stay here, by all means."

Perigourd says, "The town needs assistance."

Tayler says, "I think I'm good on that."

[Realm] Tikba thinks, "We are in the Bleaklands. Iliyaas says that the sickness here is different from the Reach. Very large things are coming for us. We are leaving."

Leafiara says, "Moving, then."

>go fiss

[Melgorehn's Reach, Moon Chamber]

You are in a vast, domed enclosure cut from the native rock of the mountain. The floor is perfectly smooth but the vaulted ceiling is chiseled in an array of gothic designs. In the center of the room sits a single onyx altar. You also see a churning white portal and a round shaft cut into the floor of the chamber.

Stormyrain says, "I've spent enough time fighting Blameless."

>go portal

[Melgorehn's Reach, Lake Eonak]

You are on the bank of a beautiful mountain lake that is fed by a waterfall gushing from the mountain side. There is a path which seems to actually lead up the side of the mountain. You also see a cedar chip path and a barely visible trail leading into a grove of ancient trees.

Conclusions

[General] Leafiara thinks, "We're back... the fissure to the Bleaklands is closed."

Tikba says, "To Voln, for the triage."

Iliyaas slowly empties her lungs.

[General] Leafiara asks, "Where needs backup?"

[Realm] The ghost of Missoni thinks, "You will find plenty of very large things when you return."

[General] Novarian thinks, "Everywhere."

[travel]

Iliyaas says, "I need to speak with Elidal. Excuse me..."

[Wehnimer's, Land's End Rd.]

Vigilant night guardsmen scrutinize the citizens and travelers arriving and departing through the wide gates spanning the land route into Wehnimer's Landing. The cluttered streets of the city to the south are a far cry from the deceptively calm expanse of the wilds of Elanith outside. Two daunting towers survey the countryside and protect the town, flanking the road to the east and west. You also see a plain silver trunk, a weathered monir chest, a rotting wooden box, a plain monir chest, the town gates and a large wooden barrel.

[Wehnimer's, North Ring Rd.]

The cobbled road girds the town along the inner side of the northern palisade. Just to the north stand the twin sentinels of the gate's guardtowers, silhouetted against the night sky. Guardsmen come and go through the main gates, keeping a close eye on the people of all races who move to and fro. Opposite the gates, you see the shop of Dakris the Furrier. You also see a twisting sickly green fire being, a twisting sickly green fire being and a muscular red-armored guard.

[combat]

Iliyaas exclaims, "Not the town! Not the town!"

[combat]

Iliyaas exclaims, "NOT IN TOWN!"

[Leafi quickly pulls back outside]

[Wehnimer's, Outside Gate] Citizens, merchants and assorted dregs of society jostle against you before the great wooden gates of Wehnimer's Landing. Harried guards and militiamen try to keep the chaos to a minimum, but it is hard to keep track of those entering, let alone leaving, this large trading post. A dirt path encircling the wooden palisade of the town leads east and southwest. Nailed prominently to the wooden wall beside the gate is a sign you really should read. You also see the Wayside inn and some reinforced wooden gates.

Leafiara removes Iliyaas from the group.

Iliyaas breaks out in a sweat.

Leafiara nods at Iliyaas.

Speaking to Iliyaas, Leafiara says, "Go."

Leafiara turns toward Iliyaas and render a sharp salute with her eonake warblade.

Iliyaas trembles.

[General] Xorus asks, "The behemoths were moving toward the rift, I take it?"

Iliyaas shivers.

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Yes."

Iliyaas kneels down.

Leafiara says, "Apologies, I'd forgotten your..."

Leafiara carefully says, "Tendencies."

Perigourd says, "She doesn't do well in towns."

Iliyaas coldly says, "Why did you..."

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

Iliyaas clears her throat.

Iliyaas stands up.

Speaking to Iliyaas, Perigourd says, "Back into the forest then."

Leafiara earnestly says, "Sorry, sorry..."

Leafiara frowns.

Speaking to Iliyaas, Stormyrain says, "Because that is where the need is."

Iliyaas says, "....it is fine..."

Iliyaas breaks out in a sweat.

Lady Iliyaas just went southwest.

[no more story progression afterward that I know of, just cleaning up the fire beings]