North by Northwest (storyline)/2023-07-05 - Riverbend (log)

Koaratos 5-6, 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

A horn and wardrums echo in the distance and Landing adventurers go to investigate, but find nothing. However, soon enough, reivers emerge from the forest and approach the western short of the Locksmehr River near the bridge on the way to the Voln monastery.

Adventurers go to speak with them and Warchief Haidan makes an appearance. He warns that if the fancy Lord's pet (Sablo) arrives, they'll riddle him with arrows, then moves on to say that Elidal sent word and wants his lady friend (Aronia) back, so he sent scrolls, birds, and "the faceless knight" (Samfelt) who he heard spins round and round and is disloyal. He says he doesn't trust Elidal's words, but if he wants Aronia returned, then the Landing can bring Rheshay back to the Ember Vale in exchange.

Others ask for confirmation that Aronia's still alive and Haidan says she's unharmed and fed well. A different set of others ask if Haidan still wishes that the people of the Landing be kept safe; Haidan says yes, though he warns that many of its people have arguably crossed a line. However, he reiterates that their real enemy is the fancy lord and his conquest.

After more back and forth, Haidan says that the Landing will be permitted within the Vale for the prisoner exchange, but the fancy lord and his clan will not. He says it'll be on the Eve of the Huntress, then gives one last warning that if Sablo comes, he'll be grinded to bones.

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

[Frith's Inn, Main Saloon]

Drawn by the aroma of good food and strong drink, you enter the main saloon. The innkeeper presides merrily, ensuring everyone gets a share of attention from the pretty serving wenches and the handsome lad behind the bar. Long benches and rectangular tables seat high-spirited patrons. You also see some swinging doors and a cozy booth.

A warm breeze stirs through the area.

A low rumble of thunder echoes in the distance.

[Town Square Central]

This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see a svelte buckskin mustang, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, the Disquiet disk, a concerned wasteland spirit that is flying around, a whimsical forest spirit that is flying around, a flame-eyed burnished ember fox, an animated flayed gigas disciple, a grey wolf that is sitting, a large acorn, a pink-eared grizzled mongoose, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, a frosted cherry cookie, a frosted lemon cookie, a toffee-dusted chocolate truffle dipped in powdered sugar, a large acorn, an empty littleneck shell, a pair of tall carved modwir poles supporting a festively painted banner, a path of particolored asters leading northwest, a round silver-banded barrel, an herbal remedy donation bin, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it and an old well.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Psiop, Hunter Perigourd, Mihorkan, Disquiet who is sitting, Tikba, Jurist of Eye Bluey, Drektor, Gordum, Stormyrain, Town Councilor Kiyna, Qwizzer, Town Councilor Vaemyr, Lord Ehuuz, Toads, Corbanstorm, Irval, Magister Raelee, Evlakaan, Squire Alosaka, Great Lady Aspyre, Master Becmonchu, Andromalius who is sitting

Alosaka says, "Of Sir Guarrin? He is infinitely patient with me."

Alosaka says, "In fact, I think patience must be a requirement to be a mentor."

Speaking to Alosaka, Perigourd says, "Of most teachers, I'd think."

Speaking to Perigourd, Alosaka says, "Well, especially teachers of me."

Speaking to Alosaka, Raelee asks, "Do you believe teaching you has been a benefit to him?"

Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd recalls, "To teach is to learn twice."

Speaking to Raelee, Alosaka says, "Well, it would be rather aggrandizing to say that it has."

Speaking evenly to Perigourd, Raelee asks, "And what if one understood the lesson the first time?"

Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd says, "Not usually the case, as one has to approach something from a different persepctive to teach it as to be a student of it."

Speaking to Raelee, Perigourd says, "Thus many who can do a thing, can't teach it, and vice versa without adhering to both roles."

Speaking to Alosaka, Raelee asks, "Why teach you, then?"

Tikba says, "I have heard it said that we cannot know whether we have learned something until we can teach it."

Speaking to Raelee, Alosaka says, "It is part of the Order's dictates. The senior must teach the junior."

Leafiara absently says, "Pardon a moment or several, friends..."

[Leafi has to step away for a bit; returns later]

[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 amber-eyed tawny range wolf, the fiery red Taravangian disk, a sinuous bone white serpent, a concerned wasteland spirit that is flying around, a lazy wild crimson dog, the web-draped Missoni disk, a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake sprouting pink firewitch flowers, a svelte buckskin mustang, the repousse copper Perigourd disk raised in leafy designs, the Disquiet disk, a flame-eyed burnished ember fox, an animated flayed gigas disciple, a large acorn, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, a frosted cherry cookie, a frosted lemon cookie, a toffee-dusted chocolate truffle dipped in powdered sugar, a large acorn, an empty littleneck shell, a pair of tall carved modwir poles supporting a festively painted banner, a path of particolored asters leading northwest, a round silver-banded barrel, an herbal remedy donation bin, some wide stone benches with some stuff on it and an old well.

Also here: Whimweaver Leafiara, Lady Guennwhfar, Great Lady Aspyre, Mihorkan, Galenblackbard, Kippe, Kuthar, High Lord Taravangian, Tikba, Beardbrew, Missoni, Jouster Littlemelody, Hunter Perigourd, Disquiet who is sitting, Drektor, Stormyrain, Town Councilor Kiyna, Town Councilor Vaemyr, Toads, Corbanstorm, Irval, Magister Raelee, Evlakaan, Squire Alosaka, Master Becmonchu

Missoni murmurs, "Again."

Galenblackbard exclaims, "My chest is relaxing!"

Mihorkan says, "Fat."

Wardrums Sound

A horn sounds in the distance.

Vaemyr says, "More of those red lights."

Mihorkan says, "Someone's horny."

Vaemyr says, "And... great."

Kiyna asks, "...Reiver horns?"

Leafiara curiously asks, "Huh. So they plan around rain rather than time of night?"

Galenblackbard says, "We should hide."

Leafiara muses, "I guess it makes a certain sense, but..."

Speaking to Missoni, Perigourd says, "I'll return shortly."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "Wonder if the red light has any connection to the reivers."

Galenblackbard exclaims, "Run away! run away!"

The deep bellow of wardrums echo in the distance.

Kuthar asks, "Are horns bad these ays?"

Alosaka says, "Hrm."

Vaemyr says, "Oh those are new..."

Kuthar says, "Oh, those are definitely not right."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara admits, "I might have missed the red light while I was at the inn."

The voice of Thrassus asks, "Krol, perhaps?"

Boom Boom. Boom Boom.

Missoni says, "It does sound like them."

[General] Anstara thinks, "Could be a lot worse. And have."

Kiyna says, "Unless the reivers have taken up drumming..."

Leafiara recites:

"Everyone join Vaemyr!"

Vaemyr says, "Uhh."

Speaking quietly to herself, Raelee mutters, "... the professors certainly were never called to arms so often."

Vaemyr says, "We might want to split up a bit if it's attacks, cover the gates."

Stormyrain says, "We'll see what is needed."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara asks, "Oh, you'll be out and about?"

Alosaka asks, "Well, we shouldn't expect our erstwhile allies to attack us, hm?"

Vaemyr says, "I can head to north gate for now..."

[travel]

[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 an animated flayed gigas disciple, the crab-shaped Rasson disk, a silver-tipped smoke grey wolf, an angry mountain spirit that is flying around, some reinforced wooden gates and the Wayside inn.

[Leafi goes scouting, then returns]

Boom Boom. Boom Boom.

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Well, I don't see anything out there yet, at least."

Vaemyr says, "That's a lot of drumming."

Kiyna warns, "Ware the sympaths."

[General] Talismanblue thinks, "Keep us updated."

Leafiara muses, "I guess this is a shrewder move on their part... if they'd come at their usual time of night, I'd be far better prepared."

[General] Dumple exclaims, "Moving from guild training posting to address things... hollar ifn yeh needin helps!"

Vaemyr says, "We don't know if it's Reivers... they haven't used wardrums before."

Tikba says, "We must see what comes."

Kiyna says, "First horns, then drums. Could be both reivers and krol."

Vaemyr says, "Could be an imperial army for all we know."

Vaemyr says, "Or krolvin."

Glints of metal and a loud rustling can be seen between various swathes of trees along the Upper Trollfang, seemingly moving inwards towards the direction of Wehnimer's Landing.

Leafiara considers, "Well, that'd be interesting, I suppose."

Rasson says, "Was kind of them to wait till rumor wood ended who ever it is."

Kiyna says, "...Heading this way."

Boom Boom. Boom Boom.

Kiyna says, "Get ready, everyone."

Leafiara curiously asks, "Where's Samfelt, anyway? Did he not send word about the... prisoner exchange or whatever was planned?"

[General] Elizhabet asks, "What are the wardrums about?"

Vaemyr asks, "Anyone watching the west gate?"

[General] Leafiara acknowledges, "We don't know yet."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Nope."

Leafiara says, "If anything, I'd start there, not here."

Leafiara says, "Just given the location of the forest..."

Leafiara says, "And the camp..."

[General] Dunie thinks, "This is scary."

Vaemyr says, "Well we can move to either depending what happens."

[General] Guennwhfar thinks, "Clearly it is just an announcement that a group of firendly merchants are en route to give us free items."

Vaemyr says, "Just... if there are sympaths I'm saying pre-emptively I'm sorry."

[General] Elizhabet thinks, "Clearly."

[General] Leafiara wryly thinks, "That's what they all say."

[Wehnimer's, Exterior]

The muted sounds of loud bartering from within Wehnimer's Landing, and the lonely calls of a pair of mated fenvaoks high up in the air vie for your attention as you march along the outer western edge of the town. You also see a stormy grey lynx, a rolton, the darkly stained mahogany Naelan disk edged in polished brass, a flame-eyed burnished ember fox, a concerned wasteland spirit that is flying around, an animated flayed gigas disciple, a town guard, a reinforced large wooden gate and a tall wooden archery tower.

[General] Moaskoan exclaims, "I can't wait for the weapon demonstrations!"

Vaemyr says, "Gonna move back and forth a little bit..."

[General] Kuiu thinks, "Flesh falling from the sky..."

The voice of Krayton says, "Just a buncha roltons."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Nothing at the north gate yet."

[General] Moaskoan thinks, "That's just a typical claidhmore hit."

[General] Dumple thinks, "Nothing west gate."

[General] Leafiara affably reports, "Nothing spotted as of yet."

[General] Leafiara acknowledges, "'Heard' is, of course, a different story."

Vaemyr says, "Awefully quiet."

Leafiara thoughtfully says, "Let me go take another look."

[but there's still nothing]

Kiyna says, "I could watch both gates between my friend and I, but splitting my attention like that is tricky, and gives me a headache."

Leafiara says, "Still nothing in the forest or grasslands."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr asks, "Check toward the camp too?"

A line of Reivers emerges from the forest, approaching the western shore of the Locksmehr river near the sturdy bridge south of Wehnimer's Landing.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "I did."

Vaemyr says, "Bridge."

Leafiara says, "Hmm."

[travel]

Meeting with the Ember Vale

[Wehnimer's, Exterior]

You are standing on the western shore of the Locksmehr river. From here you can see the southern water entrance to the town of Wehnimer's Landing. It is through this entrance that the boats returning from their upstream sojourns to the south have access to the town. A rough trail descends a rocky slope toward a stand of willow trees. You also see the web-draped Missoni disk, a lazy wild crimson dog, the darkly stained mahogany Naelan disk edged in polished brass, a flame-eyed burnished ember fox, a concerned wasteland spirit that is flying around, an animated flayed gigas disciple, a rolton, a line of burly Reivers, a sturdy bridge and a wooden sign.

Alosaka says, "They seem... calm so far."

Leafiara says, "Call me if you need aid or something, but--"

Speaking amiably to a line of burly reivers, Leafiara greets, "Oh, hello."

Leafiara relents, "I *was* about to say I'd rather just watch the gates."

Speaking to a line of burly reivers, Missoni greets, "Hail."

Speaking to a line of burly reivers, Leafiara adds, "And that's still true."

Kiyna says, "If this is meant to be the exchange, and Samfelt neglected to say so, I shall be quite annoyed."

Speaking to a line of burly reivers, Vaemyr says, "Greetings... welcome to Wehnimer's Landing."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "We've found some burly reivers near the Voln bridge, but they mean no harm."

[General] Leafiara adds, "Currently."

Tikba politely asks, "Is there some way we can aid you?"

[General] Kuthar thinks, "They look pleanty ready for a scuffle to me."

[General] Leafiara amusedly thinks, "Yes, well, so are we, so..."

Some of the reivers glare from across the river, shifting idly, some thumbing at the handles of their axes or curve of their longbows.

Krayton says, "Until they start firing."

Leafiara says, "While fully acknowledging that I can't speak for anyone else, I for one come in peace."

Vaemyr says, "I do know some wanted to inquire about a potential prisoner exchange."

Speaking darkly to Leafiara, Zeminar asks, "Shall we see who strikes first?"

Speaking to Vaemyr, Alosaka says, "That is still to be determined."

Missoni muses, "That does seem likely."

Speaking sagely to Alosaka, Leafiara reminds, "Hope, my favorite virtue."

Alosaka says, "And we do not even know which clan these Reivers attend."

Leafiara agrees, "Also true."

Krayton says, "I put my weapon away. Maybe we should ask them to do the same."

Tikba wryly says, "Perhaps this is the reivers recognizing that their efforts at diplomacy will not be respected without forceof arms."

Alosaka says, "The fact that they marched here from the east suggests they are not Ember Vale, but that is supposition on my part."

Speaking to Krayton, Vaemyr says, "After what Sablo did, I think negotiations are probably gonna be with weapons out."

Vaemyr says, "And I can't blame them."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Indeed."

Krayton says, "So I hear."

Tikba mildly says, "Yes, I would not ask them to sheath their weapons, and neither do I intend to."

Leafiara says, "Which reminds me we should probably be on watch for Sablo's forces."

Alosaka says, "Well, as I am a healer, I am happy to stow my weapon."

Tikba says, "We will seek understanding of each other."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Does not mean though, that we can't at least speak though."

Some of the reivers begin to part to the sides.

[General] Elizhabet asks, "Did anything happen?"

Speaking to a flame-eyed burnished ember fox, Kiyna asks, "You keep an eye out for Sablo, alright?"

[General] Talismanblue thinks, "So far, we have seen some reivers.. but no actual assault."

[General] Leafiara asks, "No, we're still greeting these reivers. They... might be bringing a speaker forward?"

Vaemyr says, "Looks like at least someone might be coming to speak."

Moving to the front of the line come several larger reivers, veins of red covering their forearms and necks.

[General] Guennwhfar thinks, "Sneaky buggers; they are gathering intel prior to an assault."

Krayton says, "Uhm..."

[General] Roonie exclaims, "I nominate Leafi for our speaker!"

Vaemyr says, "Well that answers what clan they are from."

[General] Leafiara cautiously thinks, "Or several..."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Perigourd says, "It wasn't in question."

Kiyna explains, "Those that are affected by the... semi-Everblood."

Leafiara amiably inquires, "Here for parley or any other reason?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Krayton says, "I thought I heard you say party."

Vaemyr says, "I expect Haidan."

Speaking optimistically to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Hopefully."

Alosaka says, "Odd that he's not at the forefront."

The red reivers then part as well as another moves amongst them. His hair is raggedly cut, black but stained in dried blood. His eyes are dark as moss, and ragged scars ring his neck. He wields an old steel hatchet in his hand.

[General] Directed to Leafiara, Yardie thinks, "Finally, some honest negotiations. Should have parleyed from the beginning."

Alosaka asks, "Well. Councilors?"

Kiyna inquires, "Do reivers not believe in bathing?"

Thrassus says, "I'm not certain that is a reiver."

Leafiara says, "I mean, neither does Gutstorm and we still like him."

Haidan emerges from the crowd of reivers, and wades into the waters of the river.

Speaking amusedly to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "Speak for yourself."

Leafiara amiably greets, "Good eve!"

Vaemyr says, "Greeting Haidan."

Tikba politely greets, "Warchief."

[General] Kuthar thinks, "Seems he has bad eyesight.. there's a bridge right there."

Stepping out of the river, Haidan approaches the shore. Reivers back on the other side train their arrows and the red veined ones move to stand within the waters.

Haidan twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

Blades says, "They didn't read the sign."

Blades points at a wooden sign.

>read sign

In the Common language, it reads:

Attention: This area under jurisdiction of Wehnimer's Landing, and local laws will be enforced.

Speaking to Haidan, Perigourd says, "A rather strong swimmer."

[General] Dumple thinks, "Just a point of reminder ifn yer on the fresher side of trains... id recommend utilizing burrow way for getting in and outta town in the event of an attack..."

Tikba politely repeats, "How may we aid you?"

Haidan says, "If tha fancy Lord's pet arrives, we'll riddle 'em wit' arrows, and any who assist 'em. Ye are warn'd now."

Leafiara says, "Err..."

Leafiara asks, "Sablo?"

Haidan nods.

Kelfyr says, "More warning than he gave."

Tikba amusedly says, "He is not very fancy, as lords go, but I understand."

Leafiara muses, "Alright, I'm okay with that."

Krayton says, "You'll have to take that up with... the fancy Lord..."

Haidan says, "Yer fancy lord sent word."

Speaking to Haidan, Perigourd asks, "Are we given lee to do similar to Tyeid should he step forward?"

Haidan says, "For as much good as his word is."

Alosaka notes, "Many of this town's defenders have come to the aid of the settlement. You'll run out of arrows, I fear."

Haidan glances at Perigourd.

Haidan says, "As long as we save an extra one fer ye."

Haidan nods at Alosaka.

Tikba says, "Yes, Elidal hopes for a trade of prisoners."

Speaking to Alosaka, Kippe says, "Many will not."

Alosaka waves his hand in a dismissive gesture.

Haidan asks, "He did not take kindly to his lady friend stolen, mm?"

Alosaka folds his arms over his chest.

Tikba mildly agrees, "No."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "No, he did not."

Kelfyr says, "Consequences tend to draw that out of people."

Haidan nods.

Speaking to Kelfyr, Leafiara agrees, "Indeed."

Tikba says, "He considered diplomacy or great destruction. We sought to persuade him to prefer diplomacy."

Haidan says, "...an' he wants her back."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "I believe he is open to a prisoner exchange, last we had spoken to him."

Speaking simply to Haidan, Leafiara agrees, "Yep."

Speaking to Haidan, Alosaka says, "He wants peace."

Haidan says, "So he sent lil' scrolls and birds and the faceless knight."

Missoni curiously asks, "The faceless night?"

Tikba uncertainly says, "Most of the knights have faces."

Speaking to Missoni, Stormyrain asks, "Samfelt?"

Haidan shrugs.

[General] Rysul thinks, "What a wonderful place."

Missoni confusedly says, "He has a face and is not a knight."

Leafiara says, "Samfelt's not a knight. ...yet."

Haidan says, "The one I was told just spins and spins, 'round and 'round."

Kiyna says, "Samfelt, then."

Leafiara confusedly says, "Vaemyr's also not a knight."

Haidan says, "Cannae trus' a disloyal one."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna asks, "So. You have something to propose?"

Pukk just arrived.

Pukk just went across a sturdy bridge.

Leafiara yells, "Other side of it, Pukk!"

Pukk just came across a sturdy bridge.

Haidan peers quizzically at Kiyna.

Haidan says, "We dinnae send words. He did."

[Leafi runs to grab the invoker and then runs back, hopefully not missing anything]

Haidan says, "But I dinnae trus' 'em either."

Haidan says, "Ye want words, perhaps ye be handlin' 'em."

Speaking to Haidan, Perigourd says, "Considering you're warring with him, that's to be expected."

Tikba politely says, "We would be happy to handle any words that are necessary."

Haidan says, "Ye trust the fancy lord? I see nothin' to trust."

Alosaka dryly says, "Perhaps we should proceed on a basis of verification, rather than trust."

Speaking to himself, Krayton says, "He keeps using that word... fancy..."

Leafiara says, "Some here do, I suppose."

Tikba carefully says, "I trust that he wishes peace, and that he wishes to rescue Aronia. You may trust that, as well."

Missoni thoughtfully says, "I think he has been rather trustworthy."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "As I told Elidal, Wehnimer's Landing would be willing to mediate an exchange to help prevent any incident between both sides, we would of course use force to stop any interferance in a potential exchange, regardless of whom it was initiated by."

Speaking to Tikba, Leafiara considers, "Half with you, I suppose..."

Kelfyr says, "I suppose at a minimum, if he plans an ambush, you've a line of us between it and the river."

Haidan says, "If he wish's her, then ye can bring Rhe to the Ember Vale. And we will give ye the weed woman."

Speaking to Haidan, Perigourd asks, "And how do we find the Vale to bring her to you?"

Perigourd raises an eyebrow.

Tikba asks, "Is she well yet?"

Leafiara asks, "Has he been informed how to get to the Vale?"

Haidan begins chuckling at Perigourd!

Haidan says, "Nice try. We will permit the way, when ye are ready."

Haidan nods at Perigourd.

Perigourd chuckles.

Leafiara approvingly says, "Sounds good, then. Progress for a night."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "I suspect they will open a portal like last time."

Haidan nods at Vaemyr.

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "And you will give her to us alive and whole? I have seen what Tyeid does to his captives."

Pukk says, "A portal would be smart."

Alosaka says, "For all we know, she is already dead."

Haidan asks, "Have ye seen it? Or jus' words?"

Haidan peers quizzically at Kiyna.

Haidan says, "The weed woman lives."

Tikba evenly says, "We saw the wounds he inflicted on our friend."

Kelfyr says, "I've seen the aftermath."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "My friend was butchered by Tyeid and then dropped through a portal right before my eyes. So yes, I have seen it."

Haidan says, "Unharmed. She is fed well."

Alosaka says, "Hrm."

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna assures, "The same is true of Rheshay."

Alosaka asks, "As a way to build trust... can we expect a temporary pause in this war, until the captives are exchanged?"

Tikba politely says, "We will need to see and speak with Aronia, before we can take Rheshay to the Vale."

Haidan says, "Ye will handle the exchange. Perhaps it will do ye good to see again the people o' the Ember Vale, and perhaps ye will see ye are on the wrong side."

Blades asks, "Not much for that, got any whiskey?"

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "I believe something could be arranged, note that we will come in force, we trust Tyeid about as much as you trust the lord. I expect you to have the appropriate guards on your end if there are... any disenters that managed to sneak in as well. But I can hope only for a peaceful exchange."

Haidan glances at Alosaka.

Speaking to Haidan, Leafiara says, "A wise call."

Haidan says, "Ye have too many warchiefs."

Some reivers laugh from the river.

Kuthar says, "Yours is a child."

Haidan asks, "How do ye accomplish anythin'?"

Krayton says, "...Or you don't have enough."

Speaking to Haidan, Perigourd asks, "I'm curious how you feel about Tyeid experimenting on those of the Vale?"

Haidan's entire body tenses as he tightens his grip on his steel hatchet and glances over at Kuthar.

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "Any side that experiments on their own people, using them to hatch spiders is not exactly a side I'd interested in."

Tikba amusedly says, "Each of us is our own chief, and we do as we think best."

Leafiara assures, "Trust me, it's a wonder to many of us too how we accomplish what we do."

Alosaka dryly asks, "Mm. How is having Tyeid as your fellow warchief working out?"

Haidan glares.

Blades says, "Thats better."

[General] Dumple asks, "Anything come of those wardrums?"

Alosaka says, "Does he follow your orders? I wonder? I am doubtful."

[General] Stormyrain thinks, "Not as of yet, though we are speaking with Haidan of the Vale reivers outside the west gate, peacefully thus far."

Perigourd says, "Indeed, and he seemed to penetrate the outpost to her cell, though he did not free her himself."

Haidan says, "The Ember Vale answers ta me, do nae worry."

Haidan nods at Alosaka.

Kelfyr says, "As well as Sablo answers to Elidal, I suppose."

Tikba mildly says, "Is it still your will that the people within the Landing be kept safe? Tyeid did not hesitate to steal our friend away from our town square, far from the walls."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Well, by the bridge going to Voln."

Morikun says, "He don't be answer'n very well t'ere."

Haidan says, "Wehnimer's Landin' is free to be safe. But I warn ye..."

Haidan says, "Many o' yer people have..."

Haidan ponders.

Haidan says, "Arguably...cross'd a line."

Blades yells, "Come on over, we got booze."

Blades takes a drink from his rye whiskey.

Tikba nods sympathetically at Haidan.

Leafiara heavily says, "Yeah."

Speaking to Haidan, Thrassus says, "The same could be said of yours."

Haidan asks, "Then what is to be done?"

Haidan peers quizzically at Thrassus.

[General] Cylestya asks, "Where do i go to get my belongings back if i did a booboo in town?"

Haidan says, "Some o' mine have bled yers, some o' yers have bled mine."

Tikba mildly asks, "That is up to you, warchief. How shall you correct your shaman's behavior?"

Haidan says, "Our real enemy is the fancy lord and his conquest."

[General] Myasarie thinks, "The jail."

Speaking to Haidan, Perigourd asks, "Why do you feel the Settlers pose a greater threat than the Landing when Wehnimer's is closer to your people?"

Haidan asks, "How shall ye correc' yer warmongers?"

Thrassus says, "Personally, I'd advocate swallowing your pride and opening a dialogue. The krol are an enemy to both sides in this conflict."

Haidan peers quizzically at Tikba.

Haidan asks, "Has yer people known to be conquerors?"

Haidan peers quizzically at Perigourd.

Haidan asks, "In Wehnimer's?"

Leafiara says, "Exactly what I was thinking."

Speaking to Haidan, Perigourd says, "No more than anyone else, including Reivers."

Perigourd shrugs nonchalantly.

Haidan says, "Has yer walls not remain'd firmly plant'd."

Speaking to Haidan, Thrassus says, "It's quite possible we'll see more activity from them soon enough."

Speaking mildly to Haidan, Tikba asks, "I fear we may not. Does this mean, then, that Tyeid will go unpunished as well?"

Haidan says, "Ye have not expand'd. Ye have not push'd for more land. In decades past and now."

Haidan nods at Morikun.

[General] Cylestya thinks, "I'm not seeing my belongings..."

Haidan asks, "But can ye say the same fer the golden empire?"

Speaking to Haidan, Missoni asks, "And when your mother attempted to conquier the Landing for her own devices?"

[General] Earthdiver asks, "They still took your stuff?"

[General] Pukk thinks, "If they took your belongings then it will be in a box on the desk."

Krayton says, "I would think we only speak for this town..."

[General] Pukk thinks, "But I thought the Constable was going to stop that now."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "Many fight to defend our people and our assets. The attacks on our mines and miners, the attacks on the Alabaster Spire and Gryphon Holding, The citizens taken from the streets by the spiders."

[General] Myasarie thinks, "Oh it still does and if you nae get them fast enough they give the items away."

Haidan says, "Me moth'r is buried, what ye have not hung out to dry atleas'. I am nae concern'd with her."

[General] Cylestya thinks, "Oh! They said they did, but i'm still wearing them."

Speaking to Haidan, Perigourd says, "It was your own tribe who left her there, I'd remind."

Perigourd says, "Those atop the mountain."

Haidan says, "They are nae my people."

[General] Pukk thinks, "Yeah. All the laws go together and decided it was easier for you to just keep what you were wearing on."

Haidan says, "They are soft, and soon history will swallow 'em."

[General] Myasarie asks, "When did this happen?"

[General] Pukk thinks, "A couple of weeks ago."

Perigourd says, "They endured quite a lot of hardship, I expect they're tougher than you give them credit for. Your people are born of theirs, after all."

Missoni scolds, "The raised you when they could have left you an orphan."

[General] Fahlo thinks, "Well, Pukk kept using it as excuse to 'feel the breeze'."

Haidan says, "They did nae raise me."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "But the landing does not wish for war the the empire, frankly I think neither should you. There could be other paths to protect your territory, prevent future expansion. Focus your war efforts on the Krolvin whom seem keen to want to return."

Speaking curiously to Haidan, Missoni asks, "Who did?"

Haidan asks, "The krol? Yer ally?"

[General] Pukk thinks, "I'm not going to deny that."

Haidan peers quizzically at Vaemyr.

Haidan chuckles.

Haidan says, "Not them."

Haidan nods at Missoni.

[General] Myasarie thinks, "Somehow that nae be surprising he is a bold one."

[General] Leafiara agrees, "Among the boldest."

Speaking thoughtfully to Haidan, Missoni says, "I should like to know, someday. She did not speak of her children."

[General] Myasarie thinks, "Aye m'lady that be an understatement for sure."

[General] Guennwhfar thinks, "I'd be more intrigued if he were a cute female."

[General] Pukk thinks, "I've been that too."

Arrangements

Haidan says, "Ye will be permitt'd within the Vale. The fancy man and his clan will not."

Haidan says, "Ye bring Rhe, we will give ye the other."

[General] Myasarie asks, "Ohhh my m'lord has?"

Stormyrain asks, "When?"

Leafiara earnestly says, "Looking forward to it."

[General] Guennwhfar thinks, "Cross dressing doesnt count."

Vaemyr says, "We'll propse this to Elidal."

Stormyrain repeats, "When do you propose for this exchange?"

[General] Pukk thinks, "A bunch of times. No, I wore an illusion trinket that changed me."

[General] Myasarie thinks, "And as to the new laws, it be nice to know that those that do, by accident of course, misdeeds can keep their belongings."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Morikun asks, "We work'n for 'tat Eli Doll one now where we gotta ask him all nice like about it?"

[General] Guennwhfar exclaims, "Time for a crime spree!"

Haidan says, "Eve of the Huntress."

Speaking to Morikun, Kelfyr says, "She's his prisoner, not ours."

Kiyna asks, "Tomorrow, then?"

[General] Pukk thinks, "I think the laws were getting upset about people forgetting items and then it was thrown in the lost and found. Then people have to sort through all that and find what people were looking for."

Krayton says, "Tomorrow."

Kiyna says, "Or, no... the night after tomorrow."

Leafiara says, "Eve of the Huntress is in--well, I guess technically, but..."

Leafiara nods at Kiyna.

Vaemyr says, "Aye two nights from tonight."

Haidan says, "Eve o' the Huntress."

Haidan shrugs.

Speaking to Haidan, Kiyna says, "Very well."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Pukk says, "As a show of good faith you should pay for all the drinks at Jocks for all the reivers."

Leafiara simply agrees, "The 7th."

Haidan says, "If the fancy lord's pet comes, he will be grind'd to bones."

Kelfyr says, "I'm sure he'll appreciate the message."

Tikba carefully says, "We will let Elidal know that as well."

Speaking to Haidan, Vaemyr says, "We won't stop you."

Stormyrain says, "You won't."

Kiyna says, "I certainly won't."

Leafiara says, "I wouldn't either."

Haidan squints.

Haidan turns around.

Leafiara wryly explains, "Opinions about Sablo are very mixed, you see."

Vaemyr says, "'Mixed'."

Stormyrain says, "I do not think Elidal would risk the Lady by sending Sablo given the terms being taken to him."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Perigourd says, "He already stated as much."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Vaemyr says, "Oh I don't think Elidal would send him either."

Haidan wades into the river's waters, where the red reivers fall in beside him as they pass to the other side. Without further word or action, the line of reivers lower their weapons and disappear into the forest beyond.

Discussion Afterward

Krayton says, "Dont let the door hit ya."

Kelfyr says, "That presumes he'd listen to orders."

Krayton says, "Er. Something."

Pukk yells, "Vaemyr will be paying for drinks at Jocks later!"

Speaking to Kelfyr, Perigourd says, "That is also true."

Tikba says, "Straightforward enough."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Vaemyr says, "Whether that stops Sablo or not, well I think he's shown to "take his own initiatiave" a couple times before already."

Kiyna says, "Aye, he's famously bad at that."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Pukk says, "You're welcome."

Blades says, "Guess they didn't want any booze."

Tikba says, "Elidal said he would put Sablo in prison if necessary."

Blades says, "More for me."

Tikba amusedly says, "We shall see whether he means it."

Speaking to Tikba, Kiyna says, "At least then we would know where he is."

Krayton says, "Well then."

Kelfyr says, "Might be more educational than caravan guarding."

Blades says, "Wheres that bloody dwarf, at least hes amusing."

Kiyna says, "Well, it didn't come to blows. Cheers to that."

Alosaka says, "That... is a positive sign."

Stormyrain says, "No idea, haven't seen him."

Morikun says, "Landing just be a middle man for 'tem Empies now, go to war for 'ems, broker deals for ems. Guess me squire badge must be in 'tem mail in whatever Barony we become'n."

Krayton says, "Well then."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Hopefully this won't backfire on us."

Krayton says, "A good evening to you all."

Speaking lightly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Surely it can't possibly do so."

Bernadette softly asks, "Wot culd go wrong?"

Vaemyr says, "Rheshay should of never been taken, and honestly I believe that returning her to the Ember Vale will be good for the Landing, she's an enemy of Tyeid. The fact we can get Aronia back is a good thing and leaves Elidal in our debt."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "Of course not!"

Speaking to Pukk, Kiyna says, "It's already front-firing on us, so we'll just have to proceed."

Alosaka says, "I will be curious to see what Elidal says... but he was set on an exchange."

Speaking to Alosaka, Perigourd says, "I would expect him to assent to a fair exchange."

Alosaka derisively says, "Wasted opportunity."

Leafiara asks, "Well, on that note... who's going to be the middleman Morikun just described and get word to Elidal?"

Perigourd says, "Perhaps."

Speaking curiously to Alosaka, Missoni asks, "What would you do?"

Kelfyr asks, "I'd thought he brokered this exchange himself?"

Speaking to Alosaka, Tikba says, "It is difficult to persuade people to agree to an unfair exchange."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I vote Kiyna."

Speaking to Alosaka, Kiyna says, "Your way would see negotiations broken down entirely, and back to the slaughter of civilians."

Speaking to Missoni, Alosaka says, "If you're going to bring both sides together for an exchange, you may as well use it to try and seek peace."

Kuthar says, "Strange things around here these days..."

Speaking amusedly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "I think maybe it should be someone in Elidal's good graces."

Pukk exclaims, "She's the halfling we can trust!"

Thrassus says, "I would say several of us will take it upon themselves to do so."

Pukk says, "Oh yeah."

Kuthar says, "Savage children with armys stealin women; and we offer him parlay."

Speaking to Alosaka, Perigourd says, "That would require both sides to be amenable."

Speaking to Alosaka, Missoni says, "That would be ideal."

Kuthar says, "Odd bunch."

Speaking to Alosaka, Perigourd says, "Haidan's fairly clear about his stance on that."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Raelee or Owly."

Speaking to Kuthar, Tikba says, "Both sides have stolen women, I fear."

Speaking absently to Pukk, Raelee says, "... no."

Speaking to Alosaka, Vaemyr says, "There is no where near enough trust on either side to be able to obtain peace currently, it needs to be built. A successful exchange here would be a potential building block."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I remember when you were stolen."

Speaking curiously to Pukk, Leafiara asks, "Err... when? By the Blameless?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "No. They took you to Icemule."

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Ohh, that time. I was actually already in Icemule, but yes."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna exclaims, "I remember when you were taken by Grishom's bloodguards. I helped free you!"

Alosaka says, "It would be enough to get Haidan to agree to discuss the idea of peace, even if not agree to a ceasefire. Once a concept is conceivable, it can then be made real."

Perigourd says, "I should think trust isn't the main issue. Haidan obviously views the empire purely as conquerors and until he's willing to change his mind in regards to that, peace doesn't seem to be on the table."

Speaking to Kiyna, Leafiara recalls, "Ah, memories..."

Speaking to Alosaka, Thrassus says, "Tyeid would never allow it."

Speaking to Kiyna, Pukk says, "Pretty soon the next time they take her, we should ask for silvers before we accept her back."

Speaking to Leafiara, Vaemyr says, "But yeah if need be I can send word to Elidal."

Speaking to Perigourd, Kippe says, "He made that clear."

Speaking to Perigourd, Tikba says, "Yes, if your desire is peace, you must seek to change that view."

Speaking to Kippe, Perigourd says, "Multiple times."

Speaking to Cryheart, Pukk says, "Too late."

Speaking to Thrassus, Alosaka says, "Then perhaps he would have to confront the obstacle that is Tyeid."

Speaking to Alosaka, Leafiara says, "His minimum condition seems to be the entire barony moving back south,, so unless he somehow budges on that..."

Cryheart says, "Seems I missed a visitor."

Speaking to Cryheart, Pukk says, "Vaemyr is the Cryheart for tonight."

Speaking to Cryheart, Kelfyr asks, "You missed all the, er, action?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Alosaka says, "He has taken a rather... uncompromising position."

Speaking lightly to Cryheart, Leafiara says, "On the bright side, it was basically just a meeting to set up another meeting in two nights."

Speaking to Tikba, Perigourd says, "One can only present the idea, I can't make Haidan believe it if he's too stubborn to consider it."

Speaking to Cryheart, Missoni says, "Haidan discussed the prisoner exchange, which will take place on the Eve of the Huntress if Lord Elidal is amenable to it."

Dumple exclaims, "Bah ah say lets just slaughter tha lot of em!"

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

Dumple says, "And be done wit eeh."

Speaking to Perigourd, Tikba says, "Such is the challenge of diplomacy."

Speaking to Perigourd, Vaemyr says, "Do you not think the problem is still trust? Trust that the empire means what they say and won't try and seize further lands? That's the whole reason for this. The empire hasn't actually invaded anyone "yet" but they sure as heck will make it potentially much easier to do so later. If there was sufficient trust built, then perhaps they could agree that won't happen."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Perigourd asks, "If the Empire hasn't actually invaded anyone yet, why is there a belief that they will?"

Perigourd says, "I'm also going to point out, they didn't start this conflict."

Tikba mildly says, "Perhaps they view the settlers as having invaded Darkstone Bay."

Speaking to Perigourd, Vaemyr says, "Because many who've come here have had some tendencies of breaking their word in the past..."

Cryheart says, "The Empire in it's entirety has nae e'er invaded the Landing, but some rotten baronies hae."

Raelee whispers something to Perigourd.

Speaking to Vaemyr, Perigourd says, "He doesn't even place faith in his own people atop the mountain, people who are currently supporting his forces."

Perigourd says, "He sees himself as separate."

Speaking to Perigourd, Kelfyr says, "I wonder if the children in his crusade think the same of their parents who remain."

Perigourd says, "One is curious where he spent his youth, if not with those atop Luinne Bheinn."

The dog wanders over to Leafiara and sniffs at her suspiciously for a moment.

Tikba says, "I was disappointed that Missoni's question was not answered."

Speaking to Perigourd, Vaemyr says, "From my understanding, Haidan was never part of Dikirk's clan. After many in the Ember Vale broke away, Tyeid brought them Haidan, as he had the "blood" to rule them and unite that group."

Speaking to a lazy wild crimson dog, Pukk says, "That is the real Leafiara."

Missoni says, "Perhaps he will be willing to share that, someday."

Missoni adds, "If he lives."

Speaking to Perigourd, Kiyna says, "Rheshay said that Tyeid was the one who brought the 'blood of Hagga' to the Vale, aye."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Perigourd says, "Interesting that those would turn from their own clan to follow a seemingly outsiders influence and leadership."

Perigourd says, "Especially if we're talking about trust."

Speaking to Perigourd, Vaemyr says, "He has the Blood of Hagga, and that is a powerful thought and idea to many."

Perigourd says, "And one whose bloodlines led them astray before."

Speaking to Perigourd, Kiyna says, "Why? Blood is not so strong a bond as some people think. It depends on the person, not their 'clan'."

Tikba says, "He promised them what they wished."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Missoni says, "Then where was he living? He did not spring from nothing."

Tikba says, "Many would desire to follow one who makes such a promise."

Thrassus asks, "How does one prove they have the blood of Hagga to begin with, I wonder?"

Speaking gently to Thrassus, Alosaka says, "Descent through the mother's line is usually... observed."

Cryheart says, "Bloodlines."

Speaking to Thrassus, Perigourd says, "I would expect if they showed some of her druidic powers, an argument could be made."

Speaking to Missoni, Vaemyr says, "Whom, Haidan? Rheshay said that Tyeid brought him. I suspect he was either in exile or perhaps in a distant clan or such. You'd have to ask more details to know more. But probably was sent away so that he wouldn't be killed when Hagga was."

Thrassus says, "So it could all be made up to fuel other objectives."

Tikba says, "Perhaps the shaman vouched for his blood."

Tikba says, "He seems wise enough in such matters."

Thrassus says, "I have yet to observe Haidan having any powers other than muscle whatsoever."

Speaking to Tikba, Vaemyr says, "Was probably more than just Tyeid I'd suspect. There are ways to verify lineages."

Speaking to Thrassus, Kelfyr says, "Leadership is a power in itself."

Kiyna asks, "Wouldn't it be interesting, though, to learn that Tyeid was lying? That Haidan is -not- Hagga's blood?"

Kiyna says, "I wonder if it would change anything."

Missoni muses, "He has marks on his neck, though. Perhaps he has been experimented on. Or perhaps they are just old battle scars."

Leafiara postulates, "I suppose a seer could determine it, although... that would raise some interesting questions."

Pukk exclaims, "Dun dun dun!"

Tikba says, "Haidan's vision matters. The blood only gives them reason to believe he can attain that vision."

Alosaka wryly says, "I've heard of many doubts as to paternity, but never to maternity."

Thrassus says, "We could petition Illyaas to do some investigation if she so deigns."

Speaking to Alosaka, Kelfyr says, "Sleights of hand by wetnurses aren't unheard of."

Speaking curiously to Alosaka, Leafiara asks, "...you've never heard of abandoned children?"

Speaking monotonously to Leafiara, Pukk says, "No..."

Speaking to Leafiara, Perigourd says, "She didn't seem the motherly type, that much is certain."

Speaking to Leafiara, Alosaka asks, "Do we think that's the case with Hagga?"

Thrassus says, "When one shows up decades later out of the blue it deserves some skepticism."

Tikba says, "Surely she must have abandoned her children in her death."

Speaking to Alosaka, Leafiara admits, "No idea, just raising the possibility."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiyna says, "Aye, like me. I was abandoned as a child. Who knows if I had parents? Perhaps I pushed into this world through a membrane, like the Us."

Speaking to Tikba, Missoni says, "Or left them with someone she trusted."

Speaking to Kiyna, Pukk says, "I was wondering that about you. I think you were grown from a seed or something."

Speaking to Pukk, Vaemyr says, "She's actually a demon that was summoned."

Speaking to Vaemyr, Pukk says, "A cute demon.."

Speaking to Pukk, Kiyna says, "Those acorns that fall from the tree in town square? I used to be one of those. Think about that next time you toss one down the well."

Speaking helpfully to Vaemyr, Leafiara says, "Pukk's already told us often about how all babies are demons, so I think he realizes."

Pukk says, "One of these days I should do a fireside tale of how babies are summoned."

Pukk says, "Curl your hair."

Speaking to Raelee, Pukk says, "You already have curly hair."

Alosaka says, "Well, I suppose this was some good news."

Vaemyr says, "Alright well, I think that's enough standing around in the rain for me, I'll be around."

Alosaka says, "We shall see how it ends. Be safe, friends."

Tikba says, "We must hope for the best."

Leafiara amiably says, "A nice, pleasant conversation."

Speaking to Pukk, Raelee says, "I have noticed."