North by Northwest (storyline)/2023-06-09 - Oh, Rheshay, Can You See (log)

Lumnea 9-10, 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

Lady Aronia meets with people in the outpost's inner courtyard. She's learned that there were a range of feelings and reactions to Commander Sablo capturing Rheshay during parley. She says she's safe and asks if Magister Raelee can escort everyone to see her in prison. Councilor Kiyna asks if Aronia thinks Rheshay will disclose anything now that she's captured; Aronia says she doesn't know and is merely trying to help ease some issues.

After Aronia leaves, Raelee brings everyone into the dungeon, where they find Lady Wintora (Elidal's mother) reading a book to Rheshay. She puts an end to that when she sees everyone arrive, telling Rheshay she'll return the next night to finish a chapter or two. Thrassus asks what the book is about; Wintora says the Oak Lords; he says he hasn't heard of it; she says she'll lend it when they're finished.

After Wintora leaves, Rheshay steps closer to the torchlight. She says she's fine, has had worse, and Sablo will get ten times the poke she got in her neck. Councilor Vaemyr explains that Tyeid has begun to experiment and turn reivers into nests for spiders; Rheshay says he's more trouble than helps, but has many ears and he's not easily removed after bringing the Ember Vale the blood of Hagga. She elaborates that Tyeid confirmed Haidan was Hagga's descendant when Haidan returned to the group four years ago, after having been away since he was six years old when Hagga was butchered.

Vaemyr asks about ways to help weaken and remove Tyeid; Rheshay says he's presuming much if he thinks she'll help him after caging her. Leafiara says Rheshay just said he was more trouble than helps; Rheshay says he's no more trouble than shiny knights drawing new lines in the the Landing's lands and the reivers' lands.

Tikba says Sablo wanted to find a path to the Ember Vale and will keep Rheshay until he learns something; Rheshay says she'll bleed a thousand deaths before helping him find her home. Rheshay says the Ember Vale has a road named Fennel and a road named Dryad and asks if anyone knows why; Vaemyr and Councilor Kayse say those mean Strength and Solitude in the language of flowers. Rheshay says Tyeid will bring them more strength than they've ever known, but they can never have solitude until Elidal goes home or is buried.

Jadedragan says Tyeid's tracherous and Rheshay asks how he knows of that; he says because his lady knows what Arachne brings; she asks if he isn't the half-krolvin who helped arm Arachne followers in the Vale, then asks if he helped the krolvin come to the valley or turned the key that freed Tyrrax; Jade says the krolvin deserve only death. Rheshay says she tried to come to them to strike an accord against the krol.

Rheshay says maybe they can melt down Jade's weapons for a giant cage for Sablo; Dendum says she's speaking a lot about caging the Monster from inside a cage; Rheshay implies Haidan and the Spider will come for her; Dendum says they can't even breach a fortress of sticks in the woods.

Rheshay reiterates that the Ember Vale doesn't seek war with Wehnimer's and says she doesn't blame them for the antics of Sablo, who has no honor. She says some forces have slipped from time to time, meaning they attacked the Landing, but likewise some of the Landing has attacked some of them. She says that if she's released, she'll ensure Tyeid sees some punishment for taking one of their people (assuming Nairena).

Rheshay says they won't fall victim to krol nor Imperials; Tikba says sometimes it's necessary to make bargains with great powers to fight great enemies; Rheshay agrees and says Tyeid isn't her choice, but he's less a danger than the Imperials. Tikba presents the problem there in that she's chosen to ally with a weaker power than the power she opposes.

Rheshay says Haidan's reasonable and she has his hear more than Tyeid does; Tikba says Tyeid is the ruler of their clan; Rheshay says he isn't; various people disagree; others disagree with the disagreement. Rheshay says they should mind themselves and she tires of them, so speak with her again when they have something of value like a key. She concludes to free her or bury more people.

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

Idle Chatter

[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 an ecstatic luck spirit that is flying around, a sad mountain spirit that is flying around, the Lilynaria disk, the blue Grouk disk, the Khoal disk, the Trackesh disk, the Scram disk, the Seagle disk, the Demanec disk, a little blue penguin, an animated troll-claw hovering in mid-air, the Notnil disk, a large acorn, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, the ice-covered Algerone disk, a mistwood serving 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, Jaffrey, Lady Nairena, Lord Oflite, Lilynaria who is sitting, The Infamous Trackesh, The Infamous Grouk, The Infamous Demanec, Seaward Scram, The Infamous Seagle, Commodore Khoal, Notnil, Andromalius who is sitting, Algerone

Khoal yells, "That sneaky Dodeka!"

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara asks, "Having a fun time over there in the Sanctum?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Well maybe forgot some spells on accident haha."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara exclaims, "Classic mistake!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "I usually use arcane barrier to make me immune to well, basicaly everything, but forgot, got lucky shot by a shaper."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Bulledeeye!"

Speaking curiously to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "That sounds expensive, but okay."

Notnil says, "No problem."

Speaking heartily to his autumn-hued leaf, Khoal says, "Dat sounds like some kind of challenge."

Leafiara says, "As you can see, Markx, the arrival of a crowd like this is--"

Leafiara suddenly says, "Oh, he left."

Khoal taps Leafiara lightly on her shoulder.

Speaking curiously to Khoal, Leafiara asks, "Yes?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Ahh was a little expensive initially but I can cast it seven times a day with the skills I have."

Markx says, "Bork."

Thunder rumbles in the distance.

Speaking heartily to his autumn-hued leaf, Khoal says, "Dids not means to taps ya... meants to speaks to yas.. but spoke to me belt.. ment to taps me belt.. but i tapped yas."

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Khoal says, "See."

Speaking gently to Khoal, Leafiara says, "You've had a long night of sailing."

Nairena says, "I wonder whats coming this eve."

Markx says, "Sooo...subtle."

(Lithyia holds her parasol over Gutstorm.)

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dankoo Liffy."

Lithyia says, "Most welcome."

Leafiara enthuses, "We need Leifa here so we can complete the trio of Leafi, Leifa, and Liffy confusion!"

[General] Wartuvas thinks, "Fresh batch of cookies in 30 minutes..."

Leifa smiles. [OOC note: pretty sure this was a GM messing with us since Leifa wasn't here, heh]

Speaking suddenly to Stormyrain, Kayse exclaims, "Oh!"

Vaemyr says, "Back in a moment."

Kayse asks, "A moment?"

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Khoal exclaims, "Give em ell!"

Speaking to Khoal, Leafiara assures, "Well, only if there are enemies to fight, but yes."

Lithyia says, "I"m still perplexed that I'm awake at this hour."

Leafiara muses, "Actually, wait, if Sablo shows his face then maybe it won't require a fight."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me too."

Leafiara clarifies, "...a physical fight."

Kiyna says, "Sablo..."

Lithyia says, "If Sablo shows his face, perhaps I can strangle him with a knit scarf."

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Khoal says, "I likes were dis is goins."

Vaemyr asks, "What about Sablo?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me no condone violence of any kind."

Leafiara curiously asks, "Is anything wrong?"

Lithyia says, "Sablo is a wretched person."

Speaking calmly to Gutstorm, Leafiara agrees, "You're a pashtafisht."

Speaking to Leafiara, Nairena says, "Hes got a thick neck. You need something stronger than a knitted scarf."

Speaking amusedly to Nairena, Leafiara reminds, "I'm Leafi, not Liffy."

Lithyia says, "I have a kniting needle dagger..i could just stab him in the eye."

Lithyia asks, "How's that?"

Leafiara dramatically exclaims, "The confusion commences!"

The voice of Jaffrey exclaims, "Guillotine!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Nairena says, "That was suppose to be directed to you."

[General] Manndril thinks, "Anyone have a piece of coral for sale please."

Speaking curiously to Nairena, Leafiara says, "Oh, I wouldn't use a scarf for those purposes."

Khoal heartily exclaims, "Ims not sure whos dis Sablo be.. but im down to pick a fight.. i means we didnt gets all dressed up fer nothins!"

Tikba carefully says, "I suppose we must hope for the chance to speak with Elidal."

Lithyia asks, "What if i knit the scarf out of barbed wire?"

Thunder rumbles in the distance.

Tikba says, "Sablo will listen to no-one else."

Speaking to Lithyia, Nairena says, "Use woven mithril wire."

Leafiara considers, "So much thunder."

Nairena says, "Quick. Painless."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna offers, "He might listen to Jovery."

Lithyia says, "But..i want him to feel pain."

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara agrees, "Might."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dish tickle my nose."

Speaking to Lithyia, Nairena says, "Carve his heart out with a fopoon."

A gargantuan cloudy grey tiger casts a subtle gaze around the vicinity.

A gargantuan cloudy grey tiger casts a subtle gaze around the vicinity.

Leafiara approvingly says, "So big."

Leafiara says, "And yet so hidden, that tiger."

A gargantuan cloudy grey tiger casts a subtle gaze around the vicinity.

A soft, white glow briefly surrounds Leafiara as she focuses her thoughts.

Leafiara gestures.

Leafiara reveals a gargantuan cloudy grey tiger! [OOC note: or whatever the wording is]

Khoal heartily says, "Okies.. dis dwarf needs ta put his head down for a few."

Leafiara pleasedly says, "There he is."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Geijon gittin ready for combat."

[General] Jadedragan thinks, "Oh hey, everyone's in the square central town."

Leafiara exclaims, "Many of us are always ready for combat at a moment's notice!"

Speaking to Gutstorm, Nairena says, "We should all be getting ready."

[General] Jadedragan thinks, "And I'm just out here, outside the gates, looking in all sad."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me pinkiesh are ready."

Leafiara says, "We're surrounded by reivers, Remnants, and spiders. Can't hurt to stay prepared."

Nairena says, "To crash some reiver and krolvin skulls in."

Leafiara suddenly says, "Oh, and krolvin, right."

Lithyia says, "Wonder what IRval will pretend he sees tonight..."

Lithyia glances at Gutstorm.

[General] Kataric thinks, "I hear if you attack the guards they let you in since you're a "fighter"."

[General] Jadedragan asks, "Oh no way?"

[General] Aerocus thinks, "No, no just ask him about drinks, butter him up first."

[General] Aerocus thinks, "He loves talking about booze."

[General] Lithyia thinks, "I love making booze."

[General] Directed to Jadedragan, Leafiara thinks, "Well, if it helps, if there happens to be any fighting tonight then it'll probably either spill outside the gates or be entirely there."

[General] Aerocus thinks, "I love that you love making booze."

[General] Jadedragan thinks, "Oh thanks Leafi, that is super reassuring."

Geijon says, "Moment."

[General] Leafiara amiably exclaims, "Glad to help!"

[General] Lithyia thinks, "Yes, many benefit from my love of making booze."

[General] Jadedragan thinks, "Did y'all know that somehow Jock won't sell booze if you're in trouble with the Landing? Seems odd he'd care about someone being in trouble there."

[General] Aerocus thinks, "Yeah that is strange. isn't he particular about how whiskey is spelled though."

[General] Directed to Gutstorm, Stormyrain growls, "Dwarf."

[General] Leafiara sagely thinks, "Jock's a great ally."

[General] Gutstorm drunkenly asks, "Yesshum?"

Lithyia says, "I should see the invoker before I have to strangle Sablo with a scarf...."

[General] Directed to Gutstorm, Stormyrain mutters, "I will shove that bear where you won't see it if you don't stop that."

Leafiara says, "Invoker's not even about yet..."

[General] Geijon thinks, "If Jock is involved, it's goin down."

[General] Lithyia exclaims, "Do it Gutstorm!"

[General] Lithyia exclaims, "Dont hurt me Stormy!"

Leafiara amusedly ssay, "Literally not half an hour ago she was telling me she's friendly with Guts sometimes and I said I guess hearing thoughts alone doesn't convey everything."

[General] Directed to Lithyia, Stormyrain thinks, "I didn't say who I would shove it into. Seems I have a volunteer."

[General] Lithyia exclaims, "Stormy... i have a knitting needle and I'm not afraid to use it!"

[General] Lithyia exclaims, "Dont make me tie you up with knitting!"

[General] Leafiara helpfully exclaims, "The invoker's arrived, something almost all of us can agree on as a good thing!"

[General] Goldstr asks, "Gates clear fer now?"

[General] Gilandrial thinks, "Ayyyyye."

[General] Leafiara agrees, "Nothing but rain to be concerned with so far."

Town Councilor Kayse's group just arrived.

[General] Geijon thinks, "All clear so far, Goldstr, but rain."

Gutstorm waves to Stormyrain.

Stormyrain glances between Gutstorm and Lithyia.

Stormyrain gently tugs on the sleeve of her ebon blouse, straightening the edges and smoothing the fabric.

Kayse eyes Gutstorm with a stern expression, her dark sclera reduced to mere slits.

Lithyia grins at Stormyrain.

Leafiara lightly considers, "You know, outside the gates might be safer at this current moment in time."

Vaemyr says, "I ummm believe mr tiger that you could just watch the room, rather than looking about so nervously." [OOC note: the tiger was just looking around constantly]

Crimsoneve deeply asks, "Something going on?"

Speaking to Crimsoneve, Leafiara considers, "Not so far."

Crimsoneve deeply says, "Well let me get some spells....this could get interesting."

Markx just arrived.

Speaking to Markx, Leafiara exclaims, "There you are!"

Markx says, "I kinda dozed out for a minute. I apologize."

Speaking to Markx, Leafiara explains, "As I was saying, when the crowd is *this* large, that's when you should be concerned or interested. Just me being here isn't enough."

[General] Crimsoneve asks, "My birthday present?"

Markx says, "Yes it is."

Markx says, "I'm just waitin for that HOOOOOOOKKK!!! at this point."

Speaking tentatively to Markx, Leafiara asks, "You mean like a war horn?"

Markx says, "S'what t sound like to me."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Any you fighters gimme armor shupport? me plan on doonin lotta lootin tnite."

Reciting the mystical phrases of her elemental spell, a rime of frost suddenly encircles Nairena's nightshade purple eyes and infuses the whites of her ocular cavity with icy blue energy that dissipates as she releases her spell.

Nairena gestures at Markx.

A small circular container suddenly appears and floats rather serenely over to Markx.

Nairena leans on Markx, giving him a companionable grin.

Markx screams!

Markx waves at the crab-shaped Markx disk in a dismissing gesture.

The crab-shaped Markx disk disintegrates.

Speaking curiously to Markx, Leafiara asks, "Scared of crabs or disks?"

Nairena appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Markx says, "Alla it."

[Realm] Dendum asks, "Is the Oundi still around?"

Markx takes a fuzzy orange lobster hat off his head.

[General] The ghost of Richlynn thinks, ""any cleric able to come to tc/."

Markx puts a fuzzy orange lobster hat on his head.

Awaiting Aronia

[General] Aronia thinks, "Good evening."

Speaking to Leafiara, Nairena says, "Markx really likes his disk."

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

Markx says, "No. No I do not."

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

[General] Vaemyr thinks, "Good evening to you as well."

Jaffrey says, "Everyone is scared of crabs. They itch."

Leafiara surprisedly says, "Oh, Aronia."

Crimsoneve deeply says, "Good to know."

Speaking to Leafiara, Nairena says, "If you know any other wizards, have them summon a disk on him."

Leafiara recites:

"Everyone join Vaemyr!"

Vaemyr blinks.

Markx says, "I detest it will all my will and power."

Speaking sagely to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "She's sylvan, you're it."

Leafiara says, "Err, wait, no, that's Iliyaas."

Leafiara exclaims, "Too late, though!"

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

Markx says, "If this is a false alarm, I hope everyone is hungry and likes rolton."

[General] Aronia asks, "We should meet soon. Perhaps in the courtyard of the Hendoran outpost?"

Seaward Gutstorm just went northwest.

High above Wehnimer's Landing a burst of fiery-orange light erupts in the sky, radiating outward and shining with intensity. The searing glow lingers in the air for a few moments before fading away. Suddenly militiamen take to the streets, rushing off in different directions as orders are shouted out amongst them.

Vaemyr says, "Heading to the outpost, I promise to get slightly lost."

Leafiara says, "Also how we know it's not Iliyaas, she wants to meet indoors."

[General] Directed to Gutstorm, Tikba scolds, "Tch."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Kayse asks, "Can you have him arrested for doing that without a cause?"

[travel]

Speaking ruefully to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "It would seem I'm not as persuasive as Pukk." [either that or Vaemyr just left too quickly]

[Outpost, Outer Courtyard]

A pair of Hendoran soldiers stand at attention on either side of a black iron portcullis which leads outside the outpost. Beyond them, the courtyard fills a space between the outer wooden wall and an inner wall made of stone, where a fortified keep rises behind it. Above, imperial soldiers slowly walk the parapet of the outer wall, their eyes focused on the horizon. You also see the Geijon disk and a grey brick tavern.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Brakian, Lord Saxson, Emperia, Crimsoneve, Town Councilor Vaemyr, Town Councilor Kiyna, Sir Geijon, Magister Raelee

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Well they'll show up eventually."

Kiyna says, "They don't appear to allow my poor fox in here. How rude."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Tavern got lotta drink."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Leafiara exclaims, "And baked raccoon!"

Town Councilor Kayse's group just came through a black iron portcullis.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Racoon not related to porkapine?"

Stormyrain says, "Where are we going? Thrassus was talking to me so I was not listeni--oh."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Now of course is the dance of, is it the outer courtyard or inner."

Leafiara considers, "Everyone has their tastes."

[General] Thrassus asks, "Inner or outer courtyard?"

Goldstr says, "Ole Brick serves good drinks."

[General] Aronia thinks, "Inner."

[travel]

[Outpost, Inner Courtyard]

The entryway into the inner courtyard is a mirror image of the entryway into the outpost but constructed of stone. The use of stone amplifies the sounds of the busy outer courtyard creating the sensation of immersion in the Hendoran presence in the north. Arrow slits line the walls of the entryway and trapdoors, portals for boiling oil, gaze down from the ceiling. You also see the Gutstorm disk and a black iron portcullis.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Brakian, Lord Saxson, Emperia, Crimsoneve, Town Councilor Vaemyr, Town Councilor Kiyna, Lord Thrassus, Seaward Gutstorm

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Deez noble shore lazy."

Leafiara muses, "Wonder why it matters inner or outer if we're out in the rain anyway."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "She coulda came to ush."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Tikba says, "I do not think Aronia is a noble yet."

Tikba wryly says, "Perhaps, in time."

Speaking curiously to Raelee, Leafiara says, "Did Owly only eat you once or more than once? It came up earlier tonight."

Geijon says, "Inner courtyard is a bit more secure."

Speaking to Leafiara, Raelee asks, "... why was this being discussed?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Owlie brought it up."

Speaking to Raelee, Kiyna says, "All knowledge is important."

Speaking uncertainly to Raelee, Leafiara recalls, "I... think Guts was saying Owly might be eating too much junk food, so I brought up that he's eaten entire people before."

Speaking flatly to Leafiara, Raelee says, "Once."

Escort to Rheshay

Lady Aronia just arrived.

Speaking understandingly to Raelee, Leafiara exclaims, "Noted!"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me da only one concerned for Owlie health."

Speaking to Aronia, Vaemyr says, "Evening."

Aronia says, "Good evening."

Thrassus says, "If Owly was a normal owl he would have died of malnutrition ages ago."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me meet dish lady afore?"

Gutstorm squints at Aronia.

Speaking to Thrassus, Raelee offers, "And age."

Aronia asks, "Perhaps you only recognize my backside when placing one of your outlandish pranks?"

Aronia peers quizzically at Gutstorm.

Aronia smirks.

Leafiara diplomatically states, "Believable."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Yoo got nice backshide."

Gutstorm winks at Aronia.

Speaking amicably to Aronia, Kiyna suggests, "It's a memorable backside."

Aronia says, "I feel like it has not rained in over a week."

Aronia gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Aronia asks, "Or has it?"

Aronia shrugs.

Aronia smiles at Kiyna.

Aronia says, "Flattery, thank you."

Kiyna grins at Aronia.

Tikba says, "The weather was briefly pleasant, but I fear you should not expect it to last."

Thrassus says, "Enough blood has been spilled in a week for it to have rained for a fortnight."

Vaemyr says, "Why the weather has been clear, it certainly hasn't been quiet."

Aronia nods.

Leafiara recalls, "Got confronted by a talking spider that Arachne might have sent herself, killed an Arachne priest, intermittent attacks to stave off..."

Aronia says, "I've come to learn that there was, or really, still is, quite a range of feelings and reactions to Sablo's most recent...actions."

Leafiara frankly agrees, "Yes."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "He a turd burgler."

Vaemyr says, "Hah, that's an understatement."

Thrassus says, "It did interrupt a potential avenue of information."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Dendum offers, ""A big turd burgler?"

[General] Diablic asks, "Is there a hunting party out? if so where?"

Speaking to Dendum, Vaemyr says, "Was refering to Aronia's comment, but well."

Dendum says, "Ahh."

Tikba says, "Indeed, we are glad to have the chance to speak with someone from the camp about it."

Aronia says, "She is safe."

The voice of Jadedragan says, "He did do a good job of cutting off an avenue to Tyeid. But hey, if you're a hammer and all that."

Aronia says, "I intend to allow you all to visit with the prisoner tonight, if you'd like. Well, if Magister Raelee doesn't mind escorting you alll."

Aronia says, "I'm sory, voice in the shadows? You'd do better showing your face."

You notice Jadedragan slip out of hiding.

Speaking to Aronia, Kiyna says, "You think she's going to be willing to disclose anything now that she's in chains? She was reticent enough before."

Speaking to Jadedragan, Dendum exclaims, ""How rude! Sneaking around like that!"

Jadedragan says, "Forgot I was..that way."

Jadedragan shrugs.

Leafiara says, "Ah, here's the one who killed the Arachne priest."

Aronia says, "I don't know, truthfully. I am merely trying to help ease some issues."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "We can conk her in da head like Sablo did, me sure dat git her to talk."

Tikba politely asks, "Will she remain safe?"

Aronia says, "Of course."

[General] Aerocus thinks, "Anyone feel like helpin me setup tree traps, all you need is an axe."

[General] Aerocus thinks, "Maybe a lil booze in you."

Aronia says, "Magister Raelee, would you mind escorting those who wish to go, to the dungeon? I am afraid I am still learning the layout of this outpost."

Speaking quietly to Aronia, Raelee asks, "You truly think it wise to escort this many below?"

[people start joining her anyway]

Aronia says, "Wise? That is not always a luxury we have in times of war and conflict."

Leafiara helpfully mentions, "I've left my lockpicks at home tonight!"

Aronia shrugs.

Aronia says, "Thank you Magister."

Speaking to Aronia, Raelee says, "Wisdom is not a luxury, it is a core necessity."

Leafiara recites:

"Everyone join Raelee!"

Lady Aronia just went through a black iron portcullis.

Wintora Regales Tales

Raelee asks, "Is that all, then?"

Raelee says, "So be it."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dish place a maze."

[travel]

[Hendoran Outpost, Feast Hall]

A number of tables and chairs are set against the walls of the hall, waiting the next meal or well attended meeting. At the end of the hallway is a wide stairwell with two Imperial soldiers standing sentry at its base. Hendoran military banners decorate the stone walls along with flags of defeated enemies, a ragged Nalfein banner among them.

Some Hendoran soldiers step forward and escort Raelee through a steel door.

>go door

[Hendoran Outpost, Dungeon]

The air is cold and the earthen walls are hugged by shadows, each one like dancing silhouettes flickering about from the lit torches set along the path. Iron-barred doors line the hallway of the dark dungeon. You also see a heavy steel door.

[travel]

[Hendoran Outpost, Dungeon]

The air is cold and the earthen walls are hugged by shadows, each one like dancing silhouettes flickering about from the lit torches set along the path. Iron-barred doors line the hallway of the dark dungeon. You also see the Gutstorm disk and a hand-crafted rocking chair.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Tikba, Stormyrain, Lord Thrassus, Town Councilor Kayse, Lord Saxson, Crimsoneve, Jadedragan, Town Councilor Kiyna, Town Councilor Vaemyr, Emperia, Magister Raelee, Seaward Gutstorm who is sitting, Lady Wintora

Wintora gives the rocking chair where Gutstorm is sitting a push, causing it to rock back and forth.

Gutstorm rocks back and forth in his rocking chair.

Leafiara muses, "Weird place to set up a rocking chair, but... tastes for everyone."

Tikba asks, "I see Rheshay has a visitor already?"

Speaking to Wintora, Raelee says, "... Lady Wintora."

Wintora quietly says, "..and then the kn...."

Wintora quietly says, "Oh."

Wintora blinks.

Wintora quietly closes her tome.

Wintora quietly says, "It seems we will pick up our story later, Lady Rheshay."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me like dish chair."

Speaking to Wintora, Raelee explains, "Aronia requested that I escort this mob down here."

Wintora quietly says, "Oh...I see."

Speaking to Raelee, Jadedragan says, "We're well mannered."

Leafiara interjects, "Only some of us could ever constitute a mob!"

Wintora quietly says, "The poking and prodding phase of the prisoner's life cycle."

Wintora nods.

Crimsoneve deeply asks, "Mob? I thought we were a murder?"

Speaking to Jadedragan, Raelee says, "If 'we' in this context is designed to be collective of the entire group... it is not true."

Speaking to Crimsoneve, Leafiara quips, "That's crows, not rooks."

Speaking drunkenly to Raelee, Gutstorm slurs, "Wot?"

Stormyrain dryly says, "And not all of us are Rooks."

Speaking to Raelee, Jadedragan says, "I can't completely argue that one."

Wintora rises out of the rocking chair and tucks her book under her arm.

Leafiara adds, "And none of us are crows."

Saxson says, "Aren't crows in a rookery."

Leafiara says, "...I think."

Speaking politely to Wintora, Tikba says, "It is kind of you to keep your prisoner company."

Wintora quietly says, "Rheshay dear, I will return tomorrow eve. We'll finish a chapter or two."

Speaking to Wintora, Thrassus asks, "What is that book, out of curiosity?"

Wintora quietly says, "She is not my prisoner."

Wintora shrugs.

Tikba looks thoughtfully at Wintora.

Kiyna says, "No, she is Elidal's."

Speaking to Wintora, Vaemyr says, "No, but she is your Son's."

Wintora quietly says, "The Oak Lords."

Wintora shrugs.

Leafiara asks, "Is she even Elidal's, or Sablo's?"

Wintora smiles.

Thrassus says, "The Oak Lords? I've not heard of that one."

Tikba politely says, "It is all one flag to me."

Wintora quietly says, "I shall lend it when we are finished."

Wintora nods at Thrassus.

Thrassus nods at Wintora.

Speaking to Leafiara, Jadedragan says, "Seems Sablo's more the one running rough shod."

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara acknowledges, "I suppose, but... to me it does matter who issued the order."

Wintora quietly says, "Good evening to you all. Be kind to her, rough a bit, but no more than the lot of you."

Speaking politely to Leafiara, Tikba says, "It matters who follows the order."

Lady Wintora just went north.

Speaking With Rheshay

Tikba says, "Anyone may give an order."

Goldstr says, "Hmmm."

Leafiara loudly greets, "Hello in there?"

There is a sound from within one of the cells.

Tikba politely inquires, "Rheshay?"

Vaemyr asks, "I understand that you probably do not wish to speak to anyone, but can you at least confirm that you are in good health?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dat Wintora nice lady giving me her chair."

From the dark depths of a cell, a tall Reiver appears, her form half shrouded in shadows. Her fern green eyes stare out from the bars, and nearby torchlight draws tiny shadows along the scarred flesh of her left cheek.

Gutstorm rocks back and forth in his rocking chair.

'The voice of Rheshay says, "I be fine, I've seen an' had werse."

Saxson says, "Evening."

Leafiara considers, "Would expect so."

The voice of Rheshay says, "A lil' poke from that wee lad in mah neck. He'll get ten times tha."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Rheshay how we find yoo villich?"

Tikba mildly suggests, "Such thoughts are best expressed once one has left the prison."

Jadedragan says, "Aye. He will more than likely. He seems adept at making friends."

Vaemyr says, "So... I'm not sure how to put this, and I don't expect you to help us after what's happened... But Tyeid is beginning to experiment and turn your own people into nests for spiders."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Tyeid is mer trouble than he helps, dat is fer sure. But he has many o' ear, and nae jus' literally."

Tikba says, "And his many ears have many legs, no doubt."

Jadedragan says, "He needs removed Rheshay. He sold himself to Arachne."

Goldstr says, "I see."

Tikba smoothly says, "We must apologize for the violation of the parlay. We did not know what Sablo intended when we came to meet you."

Vaemyr says, "If Tyeid's not stopped, I don't think there will be an Ember Vale left to try and negotiate with by the time you get out of here."

Vaemyr sighs.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara considers, "Depends how fast he can make more of that concoction..."

The voice of Rheshay says, "He is a powerful shaman, he is nae so easily remov'd. He brought ta us the blood o' Hagga. He holds many."

Kiyna asks, "Doesn't Haidan also carry Hagga's blood? Did you need more?"

The voice of Rheshay says, "Aye, Haidan is tha blood."

Vaemyr asks, "So Tyeid brought Haidan to you?"

Tikba thoughtfully asks, "Tyeid brought you Haidan?"

Leafiara asks, "Wait.. are you saying that Tyeid brought Haidan to you?"

Leafiara amusedly says, "I see we all came to the same interpretation."

Kiyna says, "That's interesting..."

Kiyna says, "...It would explain why we have not seen Haidan take the field, would it not? I presume he is being... bled."

Goldstr asks, "So kill Haiden an da blood ne gone?"

Thrassus says, "Not necessarily."

Kiyna says, "But then, I won't pretend to know the first thing about blood magic."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Aye, the shaman confirm'd the blood o' Hagga."

Thrassus asks, "How do you know the shaman isn't making that up to advance his goals?"

The voice of Rheshay says, "He was only a wee lad o' merely six when ye butcher'd his moth'r."

Leafiara says, "Is there some kind of debt that--"

Leafiara says, "Ah, yeah, that's what I figured..."

Vaemyr asks, "So, we've heard that Tyeid may be difficult to strike directly, we've gone after and one of the people here, slew an Arachne priest whom Tyeid was working with. Are there any other ways we might weaken him, to make it easier for him to be removed for good?"

Tikba politely says, "We will do what we can to prevail on Elidal to release you."

Leafiara inquires, "So a sort of life debt for saving him or raising him, then? That's why Tyeid has such loyalties from the others?"

The voice of Rheshay says, "Haidan only finally return'd to us four years ago. Only recently risen ta warchief, bless'd ta have the blood o' Hagga."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Ye are presumin' much, if ye think I will jus' help ye so easily discard the Spider."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Ye do nae slap a bird in a cage and expect her to si...well...I guess ye sometimes do."

Tikba quietly confides, "Yes, I do not think you have convinced her to join us against Tyeid."

Jadedragan asks, "Would you sacrifice your people's honor for the Spider?"

Leafiara says, "You're the one who said he's more trouble than helps, butf that's fair enough, I suppose."

Vaemyr says, "I mean, we'll eventually get rid of Tyeid, one way or another. the unfortunate issue is if there's anything left of your clan by the time it is finished."

The voice of Rheshay says, "He is nae mer trouble than yer shiny knights drawin' new lines in the lands."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Yer lands, our lands."

Leafiara nods absently.

Leafiara rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Goldstr asks, "Rheshay, wha be yer goals here?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Think of yoo bretterensh Rheshay."

Tikba politely asks, "Perhaps to leave the prison?"

Tikba says, "Sablo's only goal in seizing you was to find a path to the Ember Vale. He will surely keep you until he learns something to guide his way."

Speaking drunkenly to Dendum, Gutstorm slurs, "Dat am fancy way to shay bruddersh."

The voice of Rheshay says, "I will bleed a thousand deaths afore I help tha wee grunt find me home."

Kiyna agrees, "I believe that."

Tikba says, "Yes, I would say much the same."

Leafiara concedes, "Understandable."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Help me find yoo home, me liked it dere."

Raelee asks, "... what are you willing to say regarding Ember Vale?"

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Was that only it? The recent attacks have been much more disorganized, I would say Rheshay's loss here has been a pretty severe tactical blow they've taken."

The voice of Rheshay says, "In tha Ember Vale, there is a road named Fennel, and a road named Dryad."

The voice of Rheshay asks, "Do ye know why we call it so?"

Jadedragan says, "Not all of us are those knights drawing lines in the sand Rheshay, nor do all of us follow Sablo's version of honor. We want to see your people thrive away from Arachne's treachery, but we can't do this without knowing where to go."

Leafiara interestedly says, "Don't know, but you have me curious."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Ye funnel dem troo da treesh?"

Raelee asks, "Why Fennel and Dryad?"

Vaemyr says, "Fennel is strength, in the language of flowers and Dryad is Solitude."

Dendum asks, "You speak the language of flowers Reiver-kin?"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Why we need Xorus when we got Vaemyr here."

Kayse says, "Strength and solitude."

Leafiara says, "Pretty sure Xorus has a broader knowledge base."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Aye, those are important tae us."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "I would agree with that."

The voice of Rheshay says, "The shaman will bring us strength, mer than we have ev'r known as a people."

Tikba diplomatically says, "Ember Vale is certainly solitary. Your people could live there in safety, if the Empire were not determined to root them out to prevent attacks."

Leafiara asks, "Hm... so you just want to be left alone, then? Soltitude?"

Jadedragan exclaims, "No Rheshay! It's treachery!"

The voice of Rheshay says, "But solitude...thar can be none until tha book lady's boy goes home."

The voice of Rheshay says, "...or is buried."

Thrassus says, "If they are truly able to be considered reivers still after he is done with them, that is."

The voice of Rheshay asks, "How do ye know o' treachery?"

Vaemyr says, "The shaman will bring you death."

Raelee quietly mutters, "... there is something to be said for solitude."

Jadedragan says, "Because my Lady knows first hand what Arachne brings."

Tikba mildly says, "I fear we are poorly positioned just now to argue against treachery, given Rheshay's capture."

The voice of Rheshay asks, "Yer lady?"

Goldstr exclaims, "Rheshay PEACE be our Goal!"

Jadedragan says, "The Huntress."

Thrassus says, "I would hazard after Tyeid is done making his changes to the tribe they will be more akin to the creatures wandering the Bleaklands."

Jadedragan asks, "Did you know Drazinoth Rheshay?"

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara sighs, "That wasn't our doing, though, but.... you're probably right, Haidan likely wouldn't see it as such."

The voice of Rheshay says, "And aren't ye the half monster blood that helps arm Arachne followers? Some exist within tha Vale lad."

Jadedragan growls ferociously!

The voice of Rheshay says, "But I suppose, given yer own blood, ye cannot expec' much."

Thrassus says, "She has a point."

Jadedragan says, "I can't help the circumstances of my birth."

The voice of Rheshay says, "A noose says oth'rwise."

The voice of Rheshay asks, "Maybe ye also help tha krol come to tha valley?"

Jadedragan pulls back his upper lip revealing his sharp incisors, giving an angry snarl.

Vaemyr says, "I would say that Jadedragan has put down more Krolvin than any in your Clan, but you know you are a bit busy fighting farmers and shepards, or kids in fields after all."

The voice of Rheshay asks, "Maybe ye help'd turn tha key that freed thar warlord?"

Goldstr exclaims, "We Kill Krol!"

Jadedragan says, "The krolvin are curs who deserve nothing but the release of death."

Twisting off the cork briefly, Gutstorm waves his glass bottle beneath his nose, inhaling the scent of the mead rising from within.

Gutstorm offers Crimsoneve a bottle of reddish-gold mead.

The voice of Rheshay says, "I came tae ye a week 'go to speak o' tha krol, to perhaps strike an accord..."

Jadedragan says, "The weapons I've sent your people were in honor of our mutual blood Rheshay."

Crimsoneve accepts Gutstorm's reddish-gold mead.

Twisting off the cork of his glass bottle, Crimsoneve tilts it back and takes a quick gulp of the mead inside.

Crimsoneve offers Gutstorm a bottle of reddish-gold mead.

Gutstorm declines Crimsoneve's offer.

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me got more."

Jadedragan says, "You are worth more than being food for treachery."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Wot deal ye wanna make?"

Leafiara says, "Guts is probably asking the right question here."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Perhaps once I let me clan know that the weapons are taint'd from blue blood, we'll jus' melt them down fer a giant cage for yer grunt lad Sablo."

Jadedragan says, "Sablo can burn for all I care."

Tikba politely says, "Sablo struck because he considers the reivers a greater threat than the krolvin. If he were persuaded otherwise, I am sure he would be willing to deal."

Dendum says, "Eh, you speak a lot about caging the Monster...from inside a cage."

The voice of Rheshay asks, "Ye do not think Haidan and the Spider will come fer me?"

Goldstr exclaims, "Ye kin has Sablo!"

The voice of Rheshay says, "I am nae a prison'r. I am merely restin'."

Dendum says, "They can not even breach the fortress of sticks in the woods."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Me too."

Gutstorm rocks back and forth in his rocking chair.

Jadedragan says, "The Spider only cares about advancing itself. Anything else is just a means to an end."

Speaking to Dendum, Tikba clarifies, "They did, a few weeks back."

Tikba says, "They could not overrun it, but they could enter it."

Leafiara considers, "I guess it depends how solid the ground here is... those spiders *are* good at tunneling."

Kiyna frankly says, "Tyeid abducted Nairena from town square. In and out in moments. Let's not underestimate him."

Speaking to Leafiara, Dendum remarks, ""Certainly the ground has been tunneled enough already."

The voice of Rheshay says, "They will come. Maybe I will cage yer Sablo. The Spider could eat fer days."

Goldstr exclaims, "Bah! I am called away folks!"

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "None ush mind wutcha doon to Sablo."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Let focush on whatcha need from ush."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Dish chair help me focush me brain powder."

Accord or No

The voice of Rheshay says, "We do nae seek war wit' Wehnimer's."

Speaking appreciatively to Gutstorm, Leafiara says, "It's noticeable."

The voice of Rheshay says, "We have said such since tha beginnin'."

Vaemyr says, "Seems then you've made up your mind, that it is better to become a monster and die, than try and find a future for your clan."

Dendum says, "The Landing did not drag you to this cage."

Thrassus says, "But you attack an ally of the town, so our hands are forced."

The voice of Rheshay says, "I do nae blame ye fer Sablo's anctics. He has nae honor."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Are dey an ally doh....really?"

Kiyna says, "That I will agree with."

Tikba says, "You have attacked the holdings of Landing citizens, across the river."

Vaemyr says, "Tyeid's attacked the landing on multiple counts, and abducted our citizens. You harbor him, as long as you do, you invited war yourselves."

Tikba says, "And Tyeid's spiders have killed many within our walls."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Some forc's have slipp'd from time tae time, ye have met us in battle tae, keep in mind."

Tikba asks, "Haidan disciplined the reivers who took the children. Will he discipline Tyeid?"

Speaking to Raelee, Jadedragan says, "Speaking doesn't summon danger."

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara says, "Now there's a good thought."

Speaking to Jadedragan, Raelee says, "I do not consider Sablo a danger."

Vaemyr says, "Forces slipping through, is not abducting our people and dismembering them."

Vaemyr says, "That is what you've done."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Release me, and I will ensure Tyeid sees some punishment fer takin' one o' yer people."

Dendum asks, "How many of the spiders were from the vale and how many from the Cleric that Jadedragan killed?"

Vaemyr says, "You've just told us he is not easily removed, and you need him for your strength."

Speaking to Dendum, Leafiara ponders, "That's a good question."

Tikba politely says, "We will consider the proposal."

The voice of Rheshay says, "I nev'r said remov'd."

Vaemyr says, "Then that's no punishment."

Kiyna says, "Even if you slap Tyeid on the wrist, he probably stole that wrist from someone else."

Tikba evenly says, "Remember that Tyeid took an eye, and an arm, from our friend, from deep within our walls. This is not the act of someone who wishes peace with the Landing."

The voice of Rheshay says, "The shaman is blood and Spider, he is beyond the priest now. Ye have slow'd 'em for now, but he'll continue his work."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Before we went into the spider tunnels a while back also, where Tyeid was seen, several other citizens were upducted from town as well."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Thar is strength in blood, and we won't fall victim to krol, or imperials."

Jadedragan says, "You're already falling victim Rheshay."

Vaemyr says, "Oh I've heard that one before."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Imagine how unshtoppable da Shpider would be if he had dwarf blood."

Vaemyr asks, "Gonna go move your clan to the deadforest next?"

Jadedragan says, "The Spider, his mistress...that path is nothing but betrayal."

Speaking to Gutstorm, Kayse clarifies, "Alcohol-infused dwarf blood?"

Speaking to Vaemyr, Jadedragan says, "I hope not."

Tikba carefully says, "It is sometimes necessary to make bargains with great powers, to fight great enemies."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Aye."

Speaking to Tikba, Jadedragan says, "There are always paths that don't require selling yourself for power."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Tyeid is not me choice. But he is less a danger than tha imperials."

Tikba says, "Yes, he is less a danger. The power you have chosen is weaker than the power you oppose."

Tikba mildly says, "Something to consider."

Kiyna states, "So long as Tyeid's work continues, I count the Ember Vale among my enemies."

Jadedragan says, "Tikba speaks the right of it."

Leafiara murmurs, "Well, this'll be a hard agreement to reach if it's even possible."

Jadedragan says, "The power Tyeid sought through Drazinoth and Arachne is, at best, fleeting. At worst it's only a means for their benefit, not your clans."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Haidan is reasonable, I have his ear. Often mer than tha Spider. The Empire is a danger, and ye know it too, but ye are stuck by laws and papers."

The voice of Rheshay says, "But we will fight for yer as much as ourselv's."

Tikba wryly says, "That is kind of you."

Earthdiver says, "Drazinoth did not last long."

Leafiara distantly says, "I'm not even going to argue that one."

Tikba asks, "What good is Haidan's ear, when the Spider is the ruler of your clan?"

The voice of Rheshay says, "He is nae the rul'r."

Kiyna says, "Could have fooled me."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Rheshay, ye fight da empire da wrong way. Ye need to come at dem shideway, and shift da blame elshwhere....trush me."

Tikba says, "Haidan decreed that the Landing would be safe. Tyeid decided it would not be."

Tikba asks, "Who rules?"

Thrassus says, "He controls the warchief, that is plain as day to see."

The voice of Rheshay says, "He does nae, so ye bes' mind yerselv's."

Tikba gazes in amusement at her surroundings.

Thrassus says, "Perhaps even through his blood magic."

Thrassus says, "An entire tribe of blood thralls to warp as he sees fit."

Tikba whispers aloud, "A sore point, perhaps."

Jadedragan says, "Rheshay, if he isn't being used, then explain why someone was abducted in the middle of the Landing."

The voice of Rheshay says, "I tire o' ye tonight. Speak wit' me 'gain when ye have somethin' o' value. Like a key. Ye bes' get one afore mer die wit' me in 'ere."

Jadedragan asks, "If Haidan is as honorable as I hope, would he have condoned such an action?"

Leafiara offers, "Tyeid could just be going rogue. It happens."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "We got a Kiyna anna Kayse, wot we need key for?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Jadedragan says, "He's following the nature of the one he sold himself to."

Kiyna says, "If he's going rogue, he should meet the same fate as the others who went rogue."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Apparently they don't mind being eaten from the inside and turned into spiders as long as it gives them "strength"."

Speaking to Jadedragan, Leafiara says, "Tyeid? Perhaps. But that's still not Haidan."

Speaking to Leafiara, Jadedragan says, "No arguments from me on that distinction."

The voice of Rheshay says, "Free me, or bury mer people."

There is a shuffling from within the cell, and Rheshay steps back into the darkness and goes quiet.

Discussion Afterward

Thrassus says, "It sounds like she wishes to do things the hard way."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Raelee, cant ye jush let her out?"

Leafiara says, "Ironically, that was a pretty big part of Tyrrax's pitch too--"

Tikba amusedly says, "I will do what I can to bring your proposal before Elidal, but I cannot promise he will hear me."

Vaemyr says, "Ahh now we've gotten to the threats point of the conversation."

Kiyna says, "I think the conversation is over."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "But Tyrrax was actually in position to stop his forces."

Tikba wryly says, "I think we had arrived at the threats some time earlier.."

Speaking quietly to herself, Raelee mutters, "... more were going to be buried regardless..."

Earthdiver says, "Threats from a person in a dungeon."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Well, yes, and he offered far more as well."

Tikba politely asks, "Perhaps we should leave her earshot?"

Speaking drunkenly to Kiyna, Gutstorm slurs, "Like me chair?"

Tikba mildly says, "She must need her rest."

Leafiara considers, "Even Vlashandra offered more."

Speaking to Raelee, Kiyna says, "I said it earlier, but Tyeid was able to abduct Nairena within a matter of moments, from a place we thought reasonably secure."

Speaking to Kiyna, Raelee says, "He was, yes."

Speaking to Raelee, Kiyna says, "I would ensure whoever is watching or protecting this place does not get complacent."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Larsya?"

Tikba says, "And perhaps be wary of tunnels."

Leafiara helpfully says, "We're surrounded by earthen walls and the Ember Vale has tunneling spiders."

Thrassus says, "Perhaps ward the cell also."

Leafiara muses, "What could possibly go wrong?"

Speaking to Kiyna, Raelee says, "We are not complacent."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "This place magic proof?"

Kiyna says, "I think Raelee has a personal grudge against tunnels. That's how Gnul made off with the plinite."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Magical wards can do a lot against being able to tunnel through."

Gutstorm drunkenly slurs, "Yep."

Vaemyr says, "I do not think Magister Raelee would be complacent after what happened with the Plinite cave."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "But the spiders are antimagic."

Speaking to Kiyna, Raelee says, "This Outpost has been attacked by Ithzir, Blameless, Rooks, elementals, Gnul and his ilk, and that is just the start."

Leafiara adds, "And an illusionary-but-also-real army of dwarves."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kiyna says, "I don't think Raelee is, no. But I don't think Raelee is the jailer, either. Just trying to help."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "They aren't effected by hostile magic being cast, they don't remove magic when they attack either."

Speaking to Kiyna, Raelee asks, "Are you suggesting I am attempting to help? Or is that a statement to affirm that you are?"

Speaking to Raelee, Kiyna says, "The latter."

Thrassus asks, "We'd best move away from the cell... perhaps to the courtyard?"

Speaking politely to Jadedragan, Tikba says, "Your passion is admirable."

Jadedragan abruptly kicks at a hand-crafted rocking chair!

Speaking to Jadedragan, Leafiara exclaims, "Hey, that's Guts' new favorite chair!"

Speaking to Tikba, Jadedragan says, "It's sustaining."

Speaking to Leafiara, Jadedragan says, "Well. Guts chair needs to be able to have something left on it for posterity sake."

Speaking to Jadedragan, Leafiara says, "Good thing he didn't see that or you might be experiencing some pashtafishm right about now."

Speaking to Kiyna, Raelee says, "And you are correct. I am not the jailer."

Dendum says, "This was not most useful of conversations."

Tikba says, "She is a prisoner."

Tikba says, "She has little desire to aid us."

Vaemyr says, "Still had to try."

Kiyna says, "She had little desire to aid us when she was -not- a prisoner. This should not surprise anyone."

Tikba says, "I do not think any of the reivers are unaware of the nature of Tyeid."

Leafiara says, "Eh, we've struck deals with Barnom Slim, Vlashandra, and Tyrrax. It was always a possibility we could come to terms here."

Tikba mildly says, "But even a priest of a Lornon god may be helpful from time to time, when the need is great."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Aye, seems like they are accepting of what he's turning them into. Which is unfortunatel."

Speaking to Tikba, Jadedragan says, "It's not a matter of the moon one is associated with. Tyeid's path is defined by treachery. It's the nature of who he sold himself to."

Speaking to Tikba, Raelee says, "I once knew of a Priest of Lornon who could have stopped a war..."

Kiyna says, "I don't care which god anyone tosses salt in the fire for. They're all the same to me. But Tyeid has proven himself our enemy."

Speaking to Tikba, Raelee says, "... but he did not, for few would listen to him due to his allegiance to Luukos."

Thrassus says, "That sounds like a them problem."

Speaking pointedly to Tikba, Raelee says, "Those priests of Lornon are often... a neglected value."

Speaking to Raelee, Dendum offers, ""Then you did not in fact know such a priest."

Speaking amusedly to Raelee, Tikba says, "I often feel such."

Speaking to Dendum, Raelee says, "Tseleth was his name."

Speaking encouragingly to Tikba, Leafiara says, "Well, like I've said before, there do come times where laying waste to everything is the best remaining move, so I respect it."

Speaking seriously to Leafiara, Tikba agrees, "Yes."

Dendum says, "So..."

Raelee asks, "Let us go above, yes?"

[travel]

Raelee adds, "All of you."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "I like to think of myself as an equal opportunity blasphemer, doesn't matter which gods or arkati, I limit my trust or faith in most or all of them. But... well many think otherwise and that works for them."

Jadedragan says, "I thought this was where I was supposed to be."

[Outpost, Inner Courtyard]

An imposing stone tower stands at the center of the inner courtyard, taking up the majority of the space. Similar to the build of the rest of the outpost, the windows of the tower are narrow and better designed for arrows and defense than to offer light and a scenic view. A wing extends from the tower's north side and soldiers continually file northward back and forth from it. You also see a stone bench.

Tikba thoughtfully says, "I suspect Rheshay cannot herself reach the Vale."

Tikba asks, "Else why would she wait in prison for Tyeid to reach her?"

Speaking to Tikba, Jadedragan says, "Dikirk gave us information on it."

Leafiara recalls, "Well, she did need a spider's help last time..."

Vaemyr says, "So... if any weren't around for the discussion the other night."

Vaemyr says, "We suspect entrances to the ember vale in caves, in Dragonsclaw, Upper Trollfang along the old mine road, and Lyserian Hills."

Leafiara asks, "But we weren't at any of those locations when Rheshay summoned the spider to invite us in last time, were we?"

Kiyna says, "It could have been a specially prepared portal. One-time thing."

Tikba asks, "Why do you suspect this?"

Leafiara asks, "Okay... but the only reason we're considering those locations is because we heard horn blasts from there?"

Leafiara says, "It seems not much to go on."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "I was able to breach that portal after we returned for a bit of time, the magics eventually faded completely though. So yes it seemed to be a temporary portal. Why would they dare show us to one of their more... permament entrances."

Jadedragan says, "I hope everyone has a good rest of your night. It's time to see what dreams may be had about everything that's happened here."

Jadedragan says, "It's good to see a little blunting of the bloodlust."

Leafiara reasonably inquires, "What I'm getting at is... should we even believe they have permanent entrances when we've seen many of them disappear into thin air before?"

Vaemyr says, "The horn blasts, and... was it the Reiver in the graveyard? I feel like someone mentioned the caves."

Vaemyr says, "My memory is forgetting exactly whom."

Leafiara says, "That was our own speculation mentioning the possibility of a cave system."

Tikba says, "Perhaps they are dependent on Tyeid to reach the Vale at all."

Speaking to Tikba, Dendum says, ""Eh, this is no good."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Kiyna says, "...I'm going back to the Bower for tonight."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr asks, "Well we know they also retreated to those areas. We've also spoted scouts around the kobold village several times now, even after killing them several times. Why would they return scouts to the same location again and again?"

Kiyna says, "I have a letter to write."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "I'll agree the kobold village incidents are bizarre."

Dendum says, "The kobold village is very close to the empires camp."

Dendum says, "Not far from here and the landing walls either."

Dendum says, "Is great place to put spies."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "And I think we might find more around Lyserian hills or the old mine in Upper Trollfang perhaps if we investigated more."

The malachite Jadedragan disk arrives in the room, shivering violently. It then disintegrates, dropping everything on the ground.

[Outpost, Inner Courtyard]

An imposing stone tower stands at the center of the inner courtyard, taking up the majority of the space. Similar to the build of the rest of the outpost, the windows of the tower are narrow and better designed for arrows and defense than to offer light and a scenic view. A wing extends from the tower's north side and soldiers continually file northward back and forth from it. You also see a heavy vaalorn slab, a heavy vaalorn slab, a heavy vaalorn slab, a heavy vaalorn slab, a heavy vaalorn slab, a heavy vaalorn slab, the Vaemyr disk, the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk, the sparking Dendum disk and a stone bench.

Leafiara amusedly says, "Oh, he's gonna regret that."

Speaking to Dendum, Vaemyr says, "Not when you've been discovered there muleiple times and we now have regular patrols through there."

Tikba sighs.

Tikba picks up a heavy vaalorn slab.

Tikba picks up a heavy vaalorn slab.

Tikba's vaalorn slab vanishes into the depths of her white flyrsilk toqua.

Tikba's vaalorn slab vanishes into the depths of her white flyrsilk toqua.

Tikba scowls and mutters for a moment, looking rather trod upon.

Dendum says, "Scouts are not map makers....they do not write down the path of a river and go away......scouts tell you how things are NOW and now always changes."

Tikba picks up a heavy vaalorn slab.

Tikba picks up a heavy vaalorn slab.

Thrassus asks, "Good evening, all. Do drop by the Pauper's event tomorrow eve, eh?"

Tikba's vaalorn slab vanishes into the depths of her white flyrsilk toqua.

Tikba's vaalorn slab vanishes into the depths of her white flyrsilk toqua.

Tikba picks up a heavy vaalorn slab.

Tikba picks up a heavy vaalorn slab.

Leafiara says, "Don't get me wrong, it can't hurt to investigate. And we might as well."

Leafiara says, "As long as we don't overcommit resources on speculation."

Dendum absently says, "Just ask the kobolds."

Tikba wryly says, "Sablo seems to have given up, given his new tactic."

Vaemyr says, "Well we haven't exactly been sharing any information with him... given his actions either."

Tikba says, "He was tasked to scout out the Vale. He has clearly not succeeded."

Leafiara asks, "Ah, yes, remember when Dikirk said he'd help us find the Vale if we promised not to kill everyone, so we had to tell him that we'd need to keep Sablo far away from it?"

Leafiara offhandedly says, "Guess it's a moot point for now since Dikirk hasn't been able to help us either."

Vaemyr says, "Yeah, and now Dikirk's hiding something too, cause people decided to go insult him and his people."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "That's kinda our fault."

Leafiara says, "Is it? The perceived slight happened only nights ago, but he wasn't able to give information even before then."

Vaemyr says, "He had more to say the other night."

Vaemyr says, "But was never gonna do so with Samfelt there, then the person whom insulted the reiver."

Tikba asks, "Who insulted the reiver?"

Leafiara says, "Oh, Guenn, right."

Leafiara says, "We really shouldn't have brought Samfelt there."

Leafiara says, "Guenn goes wherever Guenn goes, but Samfelt..."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Basically ruined the entire meeting."

Vaemyr says, "Is what it is."

Vaemyr says, "But Dikirk knows something."

Vaemyr says, "Just... doesn't trust us."

Leafiara says, "Hmm..."

Vaemyr says, "And I agree, I don't trust us."

Leafiara says, "Maybe a smaller group could meet with him."

Leafiara says, "Send just Perigourd or something."

Tikba mildly says, "Samfelt is truly loyal to the Empire. So much so that it is surprising to him that some might not be."

Dendum says, "Is suprising how loyal the Samfelt is when he speaks so poorly of life inside of it."

Tikba says, "One must have faith."

Tikba wryly says, "I must go and send a very heavy package."

Speaking to Dendum, Vaemyr says, "Seems like before he ran into the guards whom arrested him on crock charges, that he enjoyed his life there I think."

Leafiara says, "I mean... Samfelt outright said the only thing you commonly find in Tamzyrr is trouble."

Speaking mildly to Vaemyr, Tikba says, "Yes, it is fortunate that he was able to forgive those guards."

Dendum says, "The Samfelt is constantly talking about lack of work in Tamzyrr."

Dendum says, "Lack of the opportunity."

Dendum says, "Nobles controlling things."

Leafiara says, "Maybe being made a right-hand man of a baron has changed him."

Dendum says, "What the Samfelt does like is these settlers."

Dendum says, "And this title..."

Tikba says, "Perhaps he is happier with the world he knows, even if it has treated him poorly."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "It can be awefully hard to change."

Raelee slowly says, "... perhaps this is where the term 'The Empire' is lending inaccuracy to your arguments."

Raelee says, "Life in Tamzyrr will be vastly different from life in Darkstone... as it will be different from life in Chastonia, where I am from, or Highmount, or Oire."

Raelee says, "Tamzyrr is the seat of the Empire, but it is not the Empire."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "But yeah, I think perhaps Sablo's "scouting" was in the wrong places."

Leafiara admits, "Wouldn't surprise me."

Vaemyr says, "If he was searching the mountains, rather than places much closer."

Leafiara says, "The crowd thins to the late hour."