The Watchfire Pact (storyline)/2023-12-08 - Slaughter and Portends (log)

This is a log captured from the point of view of Falvicar posted by the player of Aliashyrah with permission from Falvicar.

Appeasing Nana

Ngaille asks, "Do you consider the ways of the Oracles of Krint to be blood magic?"

Ngaille says, "Something must die for us to gain knowledge."

Ngaille glances west.

Ngaille says, "It would have to be something big."

Svardin asks, "Something like wha?"

Ngaille asks, "Manticore?"

Svardin says, "Woozy marmuts is big."

Ngaille asks, "Caribou?"

Svardin says, "Elfalint."

Quidam nods.

Quidam says, "I see no problem with that."

Quidam shrugs.

Ngaille says, "I do not wish to break the rules of this town."

Ngaille says, "After all, you have taken us in."

Greatlor asks, "I think this is the blood magic, no?"

Greatlor peers quizzically at Elronae.

Elronae says, "I dont think anyone has agreed what the rules are yet."

Svardin asks, "Why not do it at Standing Stone?"

Svardin says, "Not in town."

Olgretien agrees with Svardin.

Greatlor points at Svardin.

Svardin says, "Folks already tink of it as spooky."

Ngaille says, "You can show me? I can share with you what I see."

Svardin grins.

Greatlor says, "This one is wise."

Ngaille says, "But we will need the manticore first."

Svardin says, "Is over der."

Svardin smiles as he waves wildly somewhere off to the south.

Greatlor asks, "It needs to die for this, or it can already be dead?"

Ngaille says, "No, it needs to die. The organs must be fresh."

Ngaille says, "And there is no telling if the first will have what I need."

Greatlor nods.

You say, "Assuming there's going to be a graveyard of them then I don't think it'd be a problem so long as it's not going to effect food resources and what not. I'm no expert of what is and isn't blood magic though."

You shrug.

Svardin asks, "Are thyrils big nuff?"

Svardin says, "Dey live der."

Ngaille ponders.

Ngaille says, "I have not seen a thyril, so I do not know."

Speaking deeply to Ngaille, Olgretien asks, "So ya need to kill a manticore or two te get the organs ya need?"

Ngaille nods at Olgretien.

Ngaille says, "If I am to appease Nana."

Olgretien deeply asks, "ANd then we can take ya to the stones and you do...what you need to?"

Ngaille says, "I can do it where the creature lays, it does not have to be fancy."

Olgretien nods.

Taeffryl nods understandingly.

Olgretien cocks his head at Svardin.

You say, "Just know a little of what I've what seen in the past and most of what I've seen personally it seemed that blood magic was used with blood marble. but that's as much as I know."

Get what?

Olgretien deeply asks, "We takin her?"

Olgretien grins at Svardin.

Greatlor asks, "So we need to go kill the manticore?"

Speaking to you, Ngaille says, "This, is not a thing I do."

Svardin says, "Da rolarent fortress is pretty spooky."

You nod at Ngaille.

Svardin says, "Is an altar out der too."

Ngaille nods at Greatlor.

Ngaille says, "To be Apso Gno Burzka'ask does not require more than skill."

Ngaille says, "There is little formality."

You nod.

Greatlor says, "We can kill the manticore."

Ngaille says, "You kill a thing, then you read its entrails."

Quidam nods.

Svardin asks, "Who is leadin da parade out der?"

Ngaille says, "Not I, I do not know the way."

Speaking to Svardin, Greatlor asks, "Maybe you can?"

Speaking to Svardin, you say, "Sounds like you or Rufus."

You grin at Svardin.

Ngaille nods once.

[everyone joins Falvicar]

Svardin exclaims, "Golly not Rufus!"

Olgretien snickers.

Taeffryl giggles.

Svardin says, "We'd end up in da middle of Ice Bay."

Greatlor nods.

You chortle softly at some secret joke.

Quidam nods.

As Quidam draws an imposing ghezyte-studded tetsubo, the air about its surface distorts.

Ngaille asks, "Your wife is on the town council, yes?"

You nod at Ngaille.

Speaking deeply to you, Olgretien says, "You have been voted leader."

Raraelin just arrived.

Raraelin just went north.

Ngaille says, "Good, then I can not be persecuted if the husband is with me."

Ngaille nods once.

Speaking to Ngaille, you say, "And asleep. She's fighting a sniffle."

Svardin glances up.

Quidam says, "Aye it would appear so."

Olgretien removes a jet black mithril claidhmore from in his wolverine pelt sheath.

Elronae grins at Ngaille.

Svardin says, "He said, "You still can."

Svardin glances up.

[Icemule Trace, West Road - 2386] (u4042101)

Between a pair of barbican towers, a constant stream of halfling farmers from the Olbin Strath and richly dressed human traders from Briarmoon Cove flows through the West Gate, with the occasional krolvin crew scattered among them. Town guards inspect cargo, sharply dressed in dark blue and brown leathers emblazoned with the rampant mule that is the town's sigil. Outside of the gates, the land is spotted with scraggly grasses and snows, and there is little tree cover. You also see the Ishild disk, the ivory Taeffryl disk with dark blue agate tracery, a sleek charcoal cat, the Svardin disk, a floppy-eared white puppy with a patch of tan over one eye, the Greatlor disk, the Elronae disk and the Falvicar disk.

Also here: Ishild, Olgretien, High Lady Taeffryl, High Lord Svardin, Elronae, Greatlor, Quidam, Ngaille

Svardin snorts!

Ishild moves into a defensive stance, ready to fend off an attack.

Taeffryl taps a snake-etched brass headband that she is wearing.

Taeffryl's skin seems to briefly glow with a dull light that causes her complexion to take on a leathery quality.

You ask, "Anybody else?"

You gaze in wonder at your surroundings.

Speaking deeply to Ngaille, Olgretien asks, "Any part of the manticore we should try not to damage whilst killin it?"

Ishild removes a rowan-hafted razern war mattock from in her rabbit pelt harness.

Greatlor moves away from Elronae, over to Ngaille, and stands ready to guard her from attack.

You say, "I dont think I'll need my armor for where we're going."

You grin.

Greatlor nods.

Greatlor removes a hefty ebony-hafted razern handaxe from in his moccasin skin sheath.

Greatlor slings a kroderine greatshield off from over his shoulder.

Ngaille says, "Its undersides."

Ngaille nods at Olgretien.

Olgretien nods.

Ngaille says, "And then, when I do the reading, you must make sure nothing attacks me."

Olgretien deeply asks, "I can behead it, that would werk?"

Ngaille says, "We may need more than one."

Ribbons of bluish-green light burn into existence and swirl around your hand before quickly forming into a silver-edged somnis katana.

Ngaille nods at Olgretien.

You nod.

Ngaille says, "Yes, that is effective."

Quidam nods at Ngaille.

Quidam moves over to Ngaille and stands ready to protect her from attack.

Olgretien deeply says, "Yes, it is."

Quidam nods.

You ask, "So... the caribou?"

Olgretien shows Ngaille his black mithril claidhmore.

Svardin says, "Manticore."

Ngaille grins.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Svardin says, "Behind da gate."

Svardin chuckles.

[West Barbican, Gate - 3229] (u4050117)

Under the massive barbican is a shadowy passageway, with sturdy stone walls on each side and overhead. Iron-barred windows provide access to this area from each of the barbican towers as well as from overhead, creating the distinct impression that someone is watching from the shadows. The sharp spikes of raised portcullises jut from the ceiling at the eastern entrance to the city and the western exit to the wilds.

Obvious exits: east, west

Ishild, Olgretien, Taeffryl, Svardin, Elronae, Greatlor, Quidam and Ngaille followed.

You nod.

Svardin says, "Not dis gate."

Morwac just arrived.

Morwac just went west.

You say, "Oh."

Olgretien points west.

You say, "This is why I have Roelon lead."

Svardin exclaims, "Da rolaren gate!"

You chuckle.

You designate Svardin as the new leader of the group.

You say, "There."

High Lord Svardin's group just went west.

[Icemule Trace, West Gate - 3222] (u4127500)

The wind whistles around you as it passes along this side of the town walls. The road leading up to the gate itself is merely a dirt path but you notice it has seen some extensive use. A huge snowbank is off to one side from all the snow being removed in front of the gates. Just to the south of the gate is a stout building with a large sign over the door that reads "The Icehouse Tavern". You also see Guard Corporal Sleetwood.

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, High Lord Svardin

Obvious paths: north, south, west

A floppy-eared white puppy with a patch of tan over one eye suddenly careens into the room, landing on the ground in a heap of sleek tan and white fur.

You grin at Svardin.

Olgretien chuckles.

[Travel to the Ice Plains]

Manticores Must Die

[Ice Plains, Hill Base - 3239] (u4127001)

A small path leads towards the foothill and forks sharply here with another path heading north and a well-worn, wider path headed east. A massive rolaren gate blocks the path to the east with solid, snow-covered stone walls on both sides of the gate. You also see a narrow trail.

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, High Lord Svardin

You say, "Forgive me, usually I go to the Moonsedge or the Rift these days."

Taeffryl gestures at a massive rolaren gate.

You hear a soft click from the gate and it suddenly flies open.

You grin at Ngaille.

Svardin gestures at a massive rolaren gate.

High Lord Svardin's group just went through a massive rolaren gate.

[Ice Plains, Hill Base - 3264] (u4127005)

The path leads you closer to the south side of the hill where large cave openings can be seen scattered along the base. The closest opening is one of three along this side and has heavy gouges around the lower edges. To the left of the opening is a staircase that has been carved into the side of the hill leading upwards to a wide ledge. You also see a massive rolaren gate.

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, High Lord Svardin

Obvious paths: east

A strong breeze picks up, causing the gate to close and lock again!

Svardin says, "Whee."

Ngaille says, "I will not step foot back there again."

Svardin says, "Dey round here."

High Lord Svardin's group just went east.

You say, "Dangerous place that be."

[The group wanders around the Ice Plains looking for manticore]

[Ice Plains, Hill Base - 3266] (u4127007)

The path curves around the foothill slightly to reveal a large opening with icicles dangling from the ceiling. A recent rockslide has left the path around this side of the foothill buried beneath several hundred tons of rock, making it impossible to continue in this direction. You also see a floppy-eared white puppy with a patch of tan over one eye.

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, High Lord Svardin

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Olgretien swings a jet black mithril claidhmore at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Svardin says, "Dey bein shy."

Ngaille says, "Good kill."

Ngaille kneels down.

You nod.

You say, "Clean through the neck."

First Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the ground, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a fat-laced fleshy black heart.

You nod.

Elronae gazes thoughtfully at a high-collared black velvet longcoat with brushed silver buttons.

Ngaille says, "Interesting.."

You smile at Olgretien.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Svardin crouches and sweeps a leg at an arctic manticore!

Olgretien swings a jet black mithril claidhmore at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

You glance at an arctic manticore.

You nod.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

You tilt your head slightly toward Ngaille, noting the subtle changes in her muscles and breathing.

Ngaille turns the heart over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Fetid fumes, intermingled with the scent of rot and decay, suddenly flood the area.

Ngaille says, "These lines do not speak of the aurora."

Svardin sniffs.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ngaille says, "The speak of something deep in the ground."

Svardin glances down.

Ngaille turns the heart over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

You glance down.

Svardin says, "Thaw prolly."

Svardin says, "And he'll stay der."

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Svardin grins.

Ngaille says, "This heart has three valves, it should have only two."

Ngaille points to the third valve.

Greatlor's eyes crease slightly downward.

You say, "Odd."

You nod at Ngaille.

Ngaille turns the heart over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a fat-laced fleshy black heart a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the heart is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Quidam grunts.

The freezing cold winds shriek all around you, freezing your extremities.

Ngaille says, "The left ventricle was damaged."

Ngaille says, "This is a bad portend."

Ngaille stands up.

Olgretien deeply says, "There's more of em."

Ngaille says, "Let us find another."

Ngaille nods.

High Lord Svardin's group just went west.

[Ice Plains, Hill Base - 3265] (u4127006)

Around a slight bend in the path you spot another dark opening cut into the foothill. The remnants of an iron gate lay broken to one side of the opening set against a small, snow-covered boulder. Pieces of iron and small rock lie scattered about as if some great force had shattered this section of the structure.

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, High Lord Svardin

You nod.

High Lord Svardin's group just went through an opening.

[Ice Plains, Dark Cavern - 3271] (u4127014)

The passage here is long and narrow with several timbers in place to shore up the ceiling in several places. The well-travelled floor is littered with tracks of some very large creatures but you can't quite identify them. You also see an arctic manticore and an opening.

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, High Lord Svardin

[Ice Plains, Dark Cavern - 3271] (u4127014)

The passage here is long and narrow with several timbers in place to shore up the ceiling in several places. The well-travelled floor is littered with tracks of some very large creatures but you can't quite identify them. You also see a floppy-eared white puppy with a patch of tan over one eye, the ivory Taeffryl disk with dark blue agate tracery, the Svardin disk, the Falvicar disk, the Greatlor disk, the Ishild disk, the Elronae disk, a sleek charcoal cat, an arctic manticore that is webbed and an opening.

Also here: Ishild, Olgretien, High Lady Taeffryl, Elronae, Greatlor, Quidam, Ngaille, High Lord Svardin

An arctic manticore just arrived.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Olgretien swings a jet black mithril claidhmore at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Olgretien winces.

Ngaille kneels down.

Svardin tries humming a joyful tune.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Svardin hurls a roaring ball of fire at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

A burst of flame from Svardin's roaring ball of fire flies off and hits an arctic manticore.

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

You nod.

Svardin tries humming a joyful tune.

Second Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the floor, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a fat-laced fleshy black heart.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ngaille says, "Two..."

Ngaille says, "Two black hearts."

Svardin attempts to kick an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Ngaille frowns.

You ask, "Two?"

Ngaille says, "Yes, this is the second."

Ngaille says, "Usually you do not see two black hearts..."

Fetid fumes, intermingled with the scent of rot and decay, suddenly flood the area.

Taeffryl frowns.

Olgretien deeply says, "Check dat third one."

(Ishild adopts a protective posture, tightening the grip on her mattock while keeping a keen eye on Ngaille and the reading.)

Greatlor nods.

Ngaille says, "This is a sign of two dangers coming."

Olgretien points at an arctic manticore.

Ngaille offers Ishild a fat-laced fleshy black heart.

Svardin glances at an arctic manticore.

You frown.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ishild takes a few steps back.

Ishild shakes her head.

Ngaille turns the heart over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Svardin asks, "Need one more?"

Ngaille turns the heart over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Quidam paces back and forth.

Taeffryl traces a series of glowing runes while chanting an arcane phrase...

Taeffryl gestures.

Ngaille says, "This one, too, has three valves."

Ngaille asks, "Do your manticores all have three valves?"

Ngaille stands up.

Svardin shrugs.

Svardin says, "Never asked dem."

Ngaille says, "It is odd."

Olgretien deeply says, "I jes know dey all gots one neck."

Ngaille turns the heart over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a fat-laced fleshy black heart a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the heart is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Olgretien nods once.

Taeffryl melodically says, "Never looked before..."

Ngaille nods.

You nod at Taeffryl.

Svardin tries humming a joyful tune.

Speaking to Taeffryl, you say, "In fairness, most of probably haven't."

Quidam says, "Maybe the arctic manticores do. tis cold here and they have thick blood."

You grin at Taeffryl.

Svardin says, "We can ask da one over der."

Quidam nods.

Svardin glances at an opening.

Ngaille nods once.

Screeching like a banshee, the harsh arctic wind fruitlessly seeks entrance to your shelter.

Speaking melodically to you, Taeffryl says, "I usually just incinerate them... nothing to look through."

High Lord Svardin's group just went through an opening.

[Ice Plains, Hill Base - 3265] (u4127006)

Around a slight bend in the path you spot another dark opening cut into the foothill. The remnants of an iron gate lay broken to one side of the opening set against a small, snow-covered boulder. Pieces of iron and small rock lie scattered about as if some great force had shattered this section of the structure.

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, High Lord Svardin

Ngaille says, "Let us find another."

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Olgretien swings a jet black mithril claidhmore at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Ngaille nods once.

Ishild quietly suggests, "Three to keep their blood from freezing. Keep it moving."

Ngaille kneels down.

You say, "Right on queue."

Third Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the ground, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a broad-lobed fleshy liver.

Svardin says, "Wouldn't be surprised at anythin out here."

Ngaille says, "Such a small thing."

Quidam says, "Thats a liver."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ngaille nods at Quidam.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Svardin says, "Considerin da dark magic da occupied dis place for so long."

Taeffryl loses some awareness.

Fetid fumes, intermingled with the scent of rot and decay, suddenly flood the area.

You ponder.

Taeffryl gestures.

Taeffryl appears to be keenly aware of her surroundings.

Ngaille says, "There is too much bile in this."

Ngaille says, "It means there is a sickness coming."

Elronae frowns.

Ngaille says, "It is deep in the ground."

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

You ponder.

Greatlor says, "There is castle of Thurfel."

Ishild tightens her grip on her razern war mattock.

Svardin giggles.

Greatlor asks, "Maybe is there?"

Olgretien cocks his head at Svardin.

Ngaille says, "It shows a cut in the bile duct... when you add these things, it says there will be an opening in the ground."

Ngaille says, "The opening is not here yet."

Olgretien raises an eyebrow.

Taeffryl glances around the area.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a broad-lobed fleshy liver a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the liver is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Quidam glances around, looking angry, then pounds one of his fists into the other a few times.

Ngaille frowns.

Olgretien bursts out in a sudden snort of laughter at Svardin.

Svardin glances down.

Greatlor's eyes crease slightly downward.

Ishild tilts her head up.

Ishild gazes up into the sky.

Svardin says, "Is lots of dem in da ground now."

Quidam hangs his head.

Ngaille says, "This is not good. It will be a lesion."

Svardin asks, "A new one?"

Ngaille stands up.

Svardin grins.

Ngaille says, "This does not answer Nana's concerns."

Quidam paces back and forth.

Ngaille asks, "How are the two connected?"

Ngaille says, "We must find more."

High Lord Svardin's group just went west.

[Ice Plains, Dark Cavern - 3275] (u4127009)

The passage widens once again as the ice along the floor thins, allowing patches of dirt to show through in several places. The passage grows darker as you move further under the hill but the shelter that it provides from the biting wind is gratifying nonetheless. Several chunks of dried meat are scattered along the floor, long since frozen in place. You also see an arctic manticore and an arctic manticore.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

[They kill a bunch of manticores. Fighting removed for a cleaner log]

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

You nod.

Ngaille kneels down.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Fourth Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the floor, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a length of withered black intestines.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Ngaille says, "Good. We have intestines."

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Ngaille put a femur-hilted obsidian zirah bouk in her weathered hide sheath.

You tilt your head slightly toward Ngaille, noting the subtle changes in her muscles and breathing.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Svardin says, "Fried slightly. Sorry."

Ngaille carefully pulls the intestines completely free of the dead manticore.

Fetid fumes, intermingled with the scent of rot and decay, suddenly flood the area.

An arctic manticore gathers itself and shakes off the fear.

Quidam nods.

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Ngaille holds the intestines up high, checking the length of them.

Ngaille says, "This is what the second portend speaks of.... so the liver must have been the first."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ngaille works her fingers over the length, counting each twist and turn.

Ngaille says, "This does not take place here. It is in a mountain."

Ngaille says, "And also above."

Ngaille turns the intestines over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Taeffryl glances up.

Svardin says, "Olbin pass."

Quidam asks, "And below?"

Olgretien deeply says, "Zul."

An arctic manticore just arrived.

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Svardin says, "Or up by Crystal Hall."

Taeffryl loses some awareness.

Ngaille turns the intestines over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Taeffryl gestures.

Taeffryl appears to be keenly aware of her surroundings.

You agree with Svardin.

Svardin says, "Is a cave up der."

Svardin says, "Several actually."

Olgretien deeply says, "The giant Seers saw Zul."

Ngaille asks, "Do you see this these masses, this inflammation?"

You nod knowingly at Svardin.

Ishild leans forward.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Olgretien nods at Ngaille.

Ngaille points to dark spots on the intestines.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Ishild nods.

Ngaille says, "It is a sign that a force of nature comes."

Quidam nods at Ngaille.

You frown.

Ngaille turns the intestines over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a length of withered black intestines a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the intestines is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

You nod at Ngaille.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

A quick flick of Svardin's wrist sends an angular drakar-headed maul with a dark ironwood haft into flight!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Svardin recovers his drakar-headed maul.

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Fifth Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the floor, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a waxy fat-saturated stomach.

Ngaille frowns.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Quidam paces back and forth.

Quidam breaks out in a sweat.

Ngaille says, "Nana is write, the portends are mixed and mingled."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ngaille says, "It is hard to read them apart."

Fetid fumes, intermingled with the scent of rot and decay, suddenly flood the area.

An arctic manticore charges in.

(Ishild glances at the pattern of yellow-on-white left behind on the ground.)

You nod slowly.

Svardin says, "Perhaps because is more dan one event."

You say, "But no blood magic."

Svardin nods.

Ngaille nods at Svardin.

Ngaille says, "Yes, tied, somehow."

Ngaille says, "There is a common thread to them."

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Ngaille asks, "Do you see this narrowness here? At the esophagus?"

Olgretien nods.

Ngaille points at the narrow spot.

Quidam says, "Aye."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

You nod once at Ngaille.

Svardin glances up.

Ngaille says, "It speaks of a small entry, but it speaks as though it is an old place."

Taeffryl ponders.

Ngaille turns the stomach over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille frowns.

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Svardin says, "A number of those as well."

Ngaille nods.

Ngaille says, "Something is stick and twisted."

Ngaille says, "It will come out of the old places first."

Svardin works his fingers under his fiery red hat and scratches his head.

Ngaille turns the stomach over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a waxy fat-saturated stomach a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the stomach is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Ngaille stands up.

Olgretien deeply says, "The giants spoke of an ancient evil."

Svardin says, "Dis is a very old twisted place, but not likely here."

Ngaille says, "It is not here."

Ngaille nods at Olgretien.

Olgretien nods at Ngaille.

Speaking to Svardin, you say, "Lot of old places with small entries as we get closer to Pinefar."

Quidam nods to you.

Taeffryl loses some awareness.

Ngaille says, "I do not think it is part of the North Nation."

The charcoal cat meows.

Ngaille says, "I think it is further east."

Svardin says, "Ah."

Ngaille says, "Let us find another."

Perigourd's group just arrived.

Ngaille says, "Perhaps I can gain more knowledge."

You nod understandingly at Ngaille.

Taeffryl nods.

Lithyia says, "Oh, hello everyone."

Perigourd casually observes his surroundings.

Olgretien and Perigourd bash their forearms in greeting.

Perigourd nods in greeting.

Perigourd turns toward Olgretien and renders a sharp salute with his vethinye warsword.

Ngaille nods at Lithyia.

Perigourd joins Svardin's group.

Elronae waves to Lithyia.

You nod to Perigourd in greeting.

Lithyia waves to Elronae.

Svardin adds Lithyia to his group.

Perigourd turns toward Svardin and renders a sharp salute with his vethinye warsword.

Lithyia says, "Hello Svardin."

[Searching for more manticores]

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, Perigourd, Pub Proprietor Lithyia, High Lord Svardin

Svardin says, "Der's some."

Perigourd cocks his head at Olgretien.

Olgretien deeply says, "We may or may not be witnessin blood majic, jes sos ya know."

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Olgretien nods at Perigourd.

Ngaille says, "I am sorry that the fighting of my Nana and I have disturbed so many."

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Lithyia asks, "Oh?"

Lithyia glances at Olgretien.

Perigourd furrows his brow.

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Speaking to Lithyia, Ngaille says, "I am with the husband of the councilor, he is witness to the portends."

Ngaille kneels down.

Speaking to Lithyia, you say, "Nothing illegal happening."

Sixth Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the ground, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a pockmarked brown liver.

Lithyia says, "Oh im not worried about legal or illegal."

Lithyia grins.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Svardin says, "I dunno bout dat."

Svardin giggles.

You gaze in amusement at Lithyia.

The cold arctic winds begin to whip around you violently!

Ngaille says, "We have another liver."

Ishild leans forward.

Lithyia says, "I mean...i walk the line myself sometimes... not with blood magic."

Lithyia grins.

Lithyia says, "Just..."

Ishild gazes with interest at Ngaille.

Lithyia says, "Other...things."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Perigourd nods slowly at Olgretien.

Lithyia smirks.

Ngaille says, "It is lower, more to the ground than to the mountain top."

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Fetid fumes, intermingled with the scent of rot and decay, suddenly flood the area.

Speaking reassuringly to Lithyia, you say, "It's not blood magic."

Lithyia takes a moment to observe Ngaille.

Lithyia smiles at Ngaille.

Olgretien nods at Perigourd.

Ngaille says, "So, where the sickness is there is also health and beauty."

Lithyia gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille sighs.

Svardin says, "Hmm."

Lithyia asks, "Reading the organs?"

Quidam says, "A grove in the mountains."

Ngaille nods at Lithyia.

Quidam paces back and forth.

Lithyia nods at Ngaille.

Lithyia smiles at Ngaille.

Speaking to Lithyia, Perigourd says, "A krolvin method for scrying."

A bolt of lightning streaks through the sky and with a loud *CRACK!* strikes something in the area!

Lithyia nods at Perigourd.

Speaking to Lithyia, you say, "Not that different from a bard singing to a corpsicle.. which happens more often than not at the Landing."

Quidam slowly and deliberately pounds one of his fists into the other.

You chuckle to yourself.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a pockmarked brown liver a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the liver is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Lithyia says, "I am a bit familiar with it."

Elronae shifts her weight.

Svardin says, "On da Locksmehr Trail."

Svardin nods.

Perigourd nods slowly.

Svardin says, "Perhaps below Xindel's Post."

Ngaille explains, "My father was an Apdo Gno Burzka'ask."

Lithyia says, "I just never seen anyone do it before."

Lithyia smiles.

Lithyia says, "I am intrigued."

Ngaille says, "My nana has asked me to take his blade and be Apso Gno Burzka'ask."

Lithyia smiles at Ngaille.

Suddenly, the winds begin to gust. They whip around you screaming, relentless in their fury. Brought by their chill touch, waves of painful cold course throughout your body!

Lithyia rubs Elronae gently.

Elronae shivers.

Svardin says, "Is gettin cold out here."

Ngaille says, "The portends are confused."

Svardin grins.

You tilt your head slightly toward Ngaille, noting the subtle changes in her muscles and breathing.

Speaking to Lithyia, Perigourd says, "I've tried it once or twice.. though I find it hard to understand how to read as yet."

Ngaille says, "It is not one set of darkness but two."

Lithyia nods at Perigourd.

Ngaille stands up.

Svardin says, "Perhaps out of the wind."

Olgretien adjusts his steel half plate, improving its ability to support the weight of his gear.

You ponder.

Ngaille nods once.

Elronae agrees with Svardin.

High Lord Svardin's group just went east.

[Ice Plains, Hill Base - 3266] (u4127007)

The path curves around the foothill slightly to reveal a large opening with icicles dangling from the ceiling. A recent rockslide has left the path around this side of the foothill buried beneath several hundred tons of rock, making it impossible to continue in this direction.

Also here: Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien, Ishild, Perigourd, Pub Proprietor Lithyia, High Lord Svardin

Ngaille says, "I will need another."

High Lord Svardin's group just went through an opening.

[Ice Plains, Dark Cavern - 3267] (u4127017)

The entrance opens into a large cavern that continues to the north and the northeast. The opening is the only apparent source of light making it difficult to see further into the cavern. You also see an arctic manticore, an arctic manticore and a point of elemental instability.

You nod understandingly.

Lithyia swings a vultite Niima's-embrace at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Svardin says, "Inside da cavern is not as cold."

Ngaille kneels down.

Seventh Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the floor, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a broad-lobed fleshy liver.

Quidam swings an imposing ghezyte-studded tetsubo at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Taeffryl hurls a seething blast of steam at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Ngaille says, "Another liver."

Greatlor's eyes wrinkle at the edges in mirth.

Lithyia asks, "Is it diseased?"

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Lithyia glances at Ngaille.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Ngaille says, "Yes, and yet no."

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Svardin gestures at an arctic manticore.

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Ngaille says, "There is an esophageal narrowing again, though."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Greatlor's eyes wrinkle at the edges in mirth.

Ngaille says, "This is the path to the place where there is disease in the ground."

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Elronae grins at Greatlor.

You frown.

Ngaille says, "Yes, see here.."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Lithyia waves to Missoni.

Missoni casually observes her surroundings.

You nod once at Cryheart.

Cryheart says, "Must be here."

An arctic manticore just arrived.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Cryheart nods to you.

Perigourd nods at Missoni.

Lithyia nods at Cryheart.

Svardin attempts to kick an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Speaking to Cryheart, you say, "Sir Cryheart."

Ngaille holds up the liver and points to a cut near the bile duct.

Cryheart waves.

Raelee glances around the room.

You nod respectfully.

Cryheart says, "Evening all."

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Lithyia says, "Ngaille is...reading the organs."

Speaking deeply to Perigourd, Olgretien asks, "Ya know dem giant visions frem de uther night?"

Svardin attempts to kick an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Ngaille says, "This speaks of the ground splitting."

Perigourd nods at Olgretien.

Speaking to Olgretien, Perigourd says, "Indeed."

Cryheart turns an inquisitive ear toward Ngaille.

Perigourd frowns at Ngaille.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a broad-lobed fleshy liver a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the liver is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Olgretien deeply says, "Seems dese er confirmin' wut was seen."

Svardin begins to breathe less deeply.

Svardin says, "Force of nature."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Svardin says, "Ground splittin."

Lithyia asks, "Earthquake?"

Ngaille says, "Bah... these lesions... something is twisting."

Svardin says, "Go'thar comes to mind."

Cryheart turns an inquisitive ear toward Ngaille.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ishild cocks her head at Ngaille.

Speaking to Olgretien, Perigourd says, "All the omens of late seem to portend much trouble."

Olgretien agrees with Perigourd.

Speaking to Cryheart, you say, "Svardin is leading if you all wish join forces."

Ngaille says, "There is some sort of sickness that twist the things there."

Svardin says, "Da giant dat shakes da roots of da world."

Quidam's ghezyte-studded tetsubo bends inward for a brief moment.

Lithyia turns an inquisitive ear toward Ngaille.

You nod respectfully at Raelee.

Ngaille stands up.

Cryheart nods to you.

Missoni cocks her head.

Speaking to Olgretien, Ngaille says, "You are quick with your blade, but this takes time for me. I am sorry to waste your kills."

Raelee nods slowly to you.

Svardin whispers to the group, "I need to go so, Olgretien is leadin!"

Lithyia nods at Svardin.

Taeffryl nods.

Svardin grins.

Quidam nods.

Taeffryl waves to Svardin.

Ngaille nods.

Speaking deeply to Ngaille, Olgretien says, "No worries. Take as long as you need."

Perigourd turns toward Svardin and renders a sharp salute with his hunting knife.

Svardin nods at Ngaille.

Lithyia smiles ogre

Ngaille nods slowly.

Olgretien turns toward Svardin and renders a sharp salute with his black mithril claidhmore.

Lithyia smiles at Olgretien.

Cryheart nods at Missoni.

Quidam draws back the edges of his cloak and bows deeply.

Svardin exclaims, "I'm comin ya big oaf!"

Svardin simply vanishes from sight!

Speaking to Ngaille, Traiva asks, "Would you like if this space were made safe from attack?"

Ngaille says, "No, we need another kill."

Ngaille nods at Traiva.

Traiva nods understandingly at Ngaille.

Missoni nods appreciatively at Olgretien.

Olgretien deeply says, "All joined?"

Olgretien recites deeply:

   "Movin'!"

[Ice Plains, Hill Base - 3266] (u4127007)

The path curves around the foothill slightly to reveal a large opening with icicles dangling from the ceiling. A recent rockslide has left the path around this side of the foothill buried beneath several hundred tons of rock, making it impossible to continue in this direction. You also see an arctic manticore and an arctic manticore.

Also here: Drektor, Chatelaine Traiva, Magister Raelee, Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, High Lady Taeffryl, Ishild, Perigourd, Pub Proprietor Lithyia, Bathcwyn Missoni, Sir Cryheart, Olgretien

Olgretien swings a jet black mithril claidhmore at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Quidam turns and sweeps his ghezyte-studded tetsubo at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Barely breaking his momentum, Quidam continues on to attack an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Olgretien swings a jet black mithril claidhmore at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Greatlor's eyes crinkle in a wince that is barely concealed by the folds of his burnet cowl.

Missoni gestures at Elronae.

Quidam swings an imposing ghezyte-studded tetsubo at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

You nod once.

Perigourd wipes off the blade and sheathes a faewood-handled golvern hunting knife with a short gut hook into one of the narrow scabbards along the side of his leather haversack.

Missoni smiles.

Speaking deeply to Ngaille, Olgretien exclaims, "Take yur pick!"

Speaking to Missoni, Elronae says, "Thanks."

Ngaille kneels down.

An arctic manticore snarls and leaps to its feet.

Eighth Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the ground, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a curved vein-riddled stomach.

An arctic manticore shakes off its weakness.

Speaking to Elronae, Missoni says, "Of course."

Ngaille says, "This speaks of the hire places again."

Ngaille turns the stomach over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Missoni gazes with interest at Ngaille.

Ngaille says, "There is life there, but it comes above the old places."

Quidam has been injured by the gale!

Perigourd casually observes his surroundings.

Ngaille turns the stomach over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Cryheart turns toward Traiva and renders a sharp hand salute.

Traiva lightly brushes Quidam's skin.

Quidam swings an imposing ghezyte-studded tetsubo at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Ngaille says, "This is the second portend, but somehow they are tied together."

Cryheart raises an eyebrow.

Ngaille asks, "Do you see the damage here from some old ulcer?"

Olgretien and Cryheart bash their forearms in greeting.

Speaking deeply to Cryheart, Olgretien exclaims, "Evnins Sire!"

Cryheart and Olgretien bash their forearms in greeting.

Quidam nods at Ngaille.

Ngaille turns the stomach to the side, outlining an old puckered bit of flesh.

Ishild nods almost imperceptibly.

Quidam says, "Unhealthy."

Cryheart says, "Good evening, Olgretien."

Cryheart smiles.

Lithyia takes a moment to observe Ngaille.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ngaille says, "Yes, but it has healed so... it was healed wrong."

Olgretien frowns.

Ngaille says, "This speaks of a festering. Like... of anger."

Lithyia pouts.

Ngaille says, "This old place will be attacked."

Quidam has been injured by the gale!

Quidam paces back and forth.

Lithyia raises an eyebrow in Ngaille's direction.

Missoni curiously asks, "Attacked?"

Perigourd frowns.

Ngaille says, "And it will have anger brought on it."

Olgretien deeply says, "Dat goes along wit wut de giants said."

Quidam grunts.

Missoni gestures at Quidam.

Ngaille turns the stomach over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a curved vein-riddled stomach a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the stomach is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Ngaille stands up.

Missoni nods sympathetically at Quidam.

Quidam bows deeply at the waist, honoring Traiva.

Greatlor swings a hefty razern handaxe at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Ngaille kneels down.

Olgretien deeply says, "Not so windy in ere."

Greatlor squints at an arctic manticore.

Greatlor says, "Foolish."

Drektor glances around the room.

Olgretien feints high. An arctic manticore buys the ruse and twists awkwardly to block the blow that never came!

Speaking to Olgretien, you say, "Hmm... anger makes me think the beserker buried within Hinterwilds."

Perigourd nods appreciatively at Traiva.

You ponder.

Missoni glances north.

Ngaille frowns.

An arctic manticore snarls and leaps to its feet.

Olgretien deeply says, "Yes, but the giants seemed to see Zul."

Olgretien nods to you.

You say, "Just seemed relevent."

You shrug.

Ngaille says, "It is a far mountain."

Ngaille says, "Not here."

An arctic manticore's air of vulnerability dissipates.

Ngaille says, "But it is entwined as the portends are together but apart."

Quidam asks, "Is it near water?"

Olgretien deeply says, "Hinterwilds is way out in the...well..hinterwilds."

Ngaille says, "Let us find out."

Ngaille nods to a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake sprouting darkly nacreous catkins.

Screeching like a banshee, the harsh arctic wind fruitlessly seeks entrance to your shelter.

Lithyia nods at Ngaille.

Quidam grins.

Speaking to Olgretien, Ngaille says, "Can you finish it."

Cryheart whispers to the group, "Heh."

Ngaille glances at an arctic manticore.

You take aim and swing a silver-edged somnis katana at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Quidam nods.

Ngaille nods once.

Speaking to a yellow-eyed silvery lor mandrake sprouting darkly nacreous catkins, Missoni says, "Perhaps you should find a safer place."

Missoni issues a sharp whistle at her lor mandrake.

A yellow-eyed lor mandrake suddenly toddles off.

Ninth Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the floor, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a pockmarked brown liver.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Lithyia takes a moment to observe Ngaille.

Ngaille says, "This is very thick, the blanket of sinew clings to the lobe."

Lithyia turns an inquisitive ear toward Ngaille.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Fetid fumes, intermingled with the scent of rot and decay, suddenly flood the area.

Ngaille says, "This is not from the bodies waters."

Traiva removes an amaranth ramie linen handkerchief edged in frothy vanilla lace from in her back-slit cloak.

Olgretien covers his nose tightly.

Ngaille says, "So no, I do not think this place is near water."

Cryheart sniffs.

Traiva raises her ramie linen handkerchief to her nose and inhales deeply.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Quidam nods.

Missoni muses, "A mountain not near water. That could be a great many mountains."

Taeffryl melodically says, "Excuse me for just a moment, I will be right back."

Taeffryl curtsies gracefully.

Olgretien agrees with Missoni.

High Lady Taeffryl just went through an opening.

Drektor glances suspiciously around the room.

Perigourd furrows his brow.

You ponder.

Ngaille asks, "Do you see how the ducts are posterior seeping?"

Ngaille tilts the liver into the moonlight.

Missoni leans forward.

Raelee narrows her eyes slightly, studying Ngaille with a cool, analytical gaze.

Quidam says, "Maybe a valley with a cave system."

Olgretien deeply asks, "Dat means der dribblin frem de back?"

Quidam scratches his head.

Olgretien cocks his head at Ngaille.

Ngaille nods at Olgretien.

You gaze with interest at Ngaille.

High Lady Taeffryl just arrived.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a pockmarked brown liver a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the liver is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Cryheart rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Ngaille stands up.

Ngaille says, "All of these organs we have touched were bursted at the bile ducts."

Several sigils incised along Missoni's surita staff flicker briefly with glittery prismatic energy.

Olgretien frowns.

Ngaille says, "Whatever comes explodes from the earth."

Ngaille says, "There are two issues."

Lithyia shudders.

Missoni frowns.

Cryheart glances around the room.

Quidam breaks out in a sweat.

Missoni tilts her head down.

Quidam leans on his tetsubo.

Lithyia quietly asks, "You know what else exploded from the earth...?"

Lithyia quietly says, "The banaltra."

Lithyia shudders.

Lithyia fidgets.

Speaking to Olgretien, Ngaille says, "I think you are right. I think it is this Zul Logoth place... It is a middle of the earth place where things can come from above and below."

Missoni gently rests her hand on Lithyia's shoulder.

Lithyia slowly empties her lungs.

Lithyia smiles at Missoni.

Speaking to Lithyia, Missoni says, "Surely it is not that."

Traiva gives a sidelong glance at Ngaille.

Olgretien nods at Ngaille.

Missoni frowns.

Lithyia says, "No..no it's not."

Quidam nods.

Lithyia says, "But...the memories."

Frowning to himself, Perigourd runs a finger across the surface of his belt as he seems to fall into unhappy thoughts, if his expression is any indication.

Lithyia closes her eyes for a moment.

Missoni nods sympathetically.

Olgretien deeply says, "It woud seem to go wit wut de giants seen."

Perigourd nods in agreement at Olgretien.

Traiva quietly says, "There was a group checking the caverns around Zul Logoth last night."

Speaking to Traiva, Perigourd asks, "Did they find anything?"

You tilt your head slightly toward Traiva, noting the subtle changes in her muscles and breathing.

Ngaille says, "Good. Then I can tell Nana she does not have to worry for this new home to fall to the portends."

Speaking to Ngaille, Missoni asks, "Do you think this is related to the lights in the sky?"

Ngaille says, "She did."

Ngaille nods at Missoni.

Speaking darkly to Perigourd, Traiva says, "Kiramon. Many Kiramon."

Missoni bites her lip.

Lithyia shudders.

Perigourd frowns at Traiva.

Missoni nods slowly at Ngaille.

Ngaille says, "This place will need allies."

Speaking to Traiva, Perigourd asks, "Which caverns did they venture into?"

You nod.

Traiva furrows her brow.

Quidam asks, "How soon will this occur?"

Quidam glances at Ngaille.

Traiva carefully says, "Czaroth, I think they are called."

Ngaille says, "I do not know, but let us look to the organs."

Lifting up her ebonwood stein, Lithyia takes a measured drink of the ale inside.

Perigourd furrows his brow.

Lithyia closes her eyes for a moment.

Missoni repeats, "Czaroth."

Traiva says, "Gutstorm and Stormyrain were there."

Lithyia attaches a polished ebonwood stein with a silver-chased belt strap to her wide leather belt.

Speaking deeply to Ngaille, Olgretien asks, "Ya need more?"

Lithyia slings a battle-scarred blackened rolaren buckler off from over her shoulder.

Ngaille says, "Two dangers come to that place."

Ngaille nods at Olgretien.

Lithyia turns an inquisitive ear toward Ngaille.

Olgretien recites deeply:

   "Movin'!"

[Searching for more manticores]

You nod once.

Ngaille says, "One from above, that will crawl through the old places."

Ngaille says, "And one from below that will burst from the ground."

Olgretien's group just went east.

Ngaille says, "SO it is written in the blood of the manticores we have slain."

[Ice Plains, Dark Cavern - 3271] (u4127014)

The passage here is long and narrow with several timbers in place to shore up the ceiling in several places. The well-travelled floor is littered with tracks of some very large creatures but you can't quite identify them. You also see an opening.

Also here: Drektor, Chatelaine Traiva, Magister Raelee, Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, Ishild, Perigourd, Pub Proprietor Lithyia, Bathcwyn Missoni, Sir Cryheart, High Lady Taeffryl, Olgretien

Lithyia swings a vultite Niima's-embrace at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Traiva gives a sidelong glance at Ngaille.

You take aim and swing a silver-edged somnis katana at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Olgretien swings a jet black mithril claidhmore at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Speaking to Ngaille, Perigourd asks, "There was talk of a flood by the giants.. may this be the danger from below?"

Drektor takes a few steps back.

Twisting and spinning among his foes, Quidam lashes out again and again with the force of a reaping whirlwind!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Barely breaking his momentum, Quidam continues on to attack an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Olgretien swings a jet black mithril claidhmore at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore screams one last time and dies.

Ngaille kneels down.

Speaking to Ngaille, Raelee asks, "The bile ducts you examined... were they those more relating to the yellow or the black bile? Or both?"

Lithyia nods at Elronae.

Missoni slowly empties her lungs.

Lithyia swings a vultite Niima's-embrace at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Ngaille says, "It was devoid of the fluid."

Quidam swings an imposing ghezyte-studded tetsubo at an arctic manticore!

Ngaille says, "However, one back that way."

Ngaille points southwest.

An arctic manticore just arrived.

Quidam swings an imposing ghezyte-studded tetsubo at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

Ngaille says, "It had yellow."

Lithyia smiles at Elronae.

Raelee nods at Ngaille.

Elronae grins at Lithyia.

Lithyia winks at Elronae.

Screeching like a banshee, the harsh arctic wind fruitlessly seeks entrance to your shelter.

Speaking to an arctic manticore, Traiva says, "Stop that."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ngaille says, "Bah."

Quidam glances at an arctic manticore.

Ngaille says, "I am sorry, I am distracted."

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

Ngaille says, "So many questions."

Olgretien deeply says, "Thers lots of em."

Missoni flushes slightly, some color reaching her cheeks.

Quidam nods.

Speaking to Ngaille, you say, "Tis alright."

Ngaille nods.

Lithyia swings a vultite Niima's-embrace at an arctic manticore!

The arctic manticore falls to the ground and dies.

The calmed look leaves an arctic manticore.

Lithyia asks, "How about that one?"

Lithyia smiles at Ngaille.

Stirring the air about her, Traiva begins fluttering Traiva wings in a slow, steady rhythm that fills the air with a melodic drone.

Olgretien grins at Lithyia.

Tenth Reading

Laying her hands upon the soft expanse of the manticore's stomach, Ngaille makes a deep cut in the flesh with her zirah bouk. Innards begin to spill upon the floor, and she fishes around in them for a moment before prizing free a broad-lobed fleshy liver.

Lithyia winks.

Ngaille nods.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Drektor makes a sour face.

Quidam paces back and forth.

An arctic manticore decays into compost.

The low, soft thrumming that issues from the fluttering of Traiva's wings continues to fill the air.

Ngaille says, "The thick, ropey arteries speak of a twisting. This organ should not have so many."

Fetid fumes, intermingled with the scent of rot and decay, suddenly flood the area.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Missoni looks thoughtfully at Ngaille.

Ngaille says, "Again, there is a cut."

Traiva raises an eyebrow.

Cryheart says, "An aberation."

Ngaille traces the line of the bile ducts.

Ngaille says, "It is like the ground will split."

The steady harmonics of Traiva's wing beat fills the air, the gentle hum as soothing as a lullaby.

Ngaille turns the liver over in her hands, examining it in minute detail.

Ngaille gives a broad-lobed fleshy liver a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the liver is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through her fingers.

Olgretien deeply asks, "Ya said de intestins was twisty too eh?"

Traiva slows the movement of her wings, bringing them to a stop that causes their steady hum to fade from the air quickly.

Ngaille says, "Yes, they were long and there were dark knots in them."

Elronae says, "And the hearts had too many parts."

Elronae ponders.

Missoni tilts her head down.

Ngaille says, "Yes, there were three valves."

You nod.

Ngaille stands up.

Quidam glances east.

Perigourd ponders.

Quidam leans on his tetsubo.

Ngaille says, "I counted 16 lesions on this last liver."

Ngaille says, "Look for 16 to be your number."

Cryheart raises an eyebrow.

Elronae glances around, looking a bit less confident.

Taeffryl ponders.

Missoni ventures, "Our number?"

Perigourd scratches at his beard.

Olgretien deeply says, "So a three headed medusa is going to flood Zul as revnege. Or somthin totally differnt."

Traiva curiously repeats, "Sixteen..."

Ngaille peers quizzically at Olgretien.

Speaking deeply to Ngaille, Olgretien says, "Giankin humor."

Olgretien deeply says, "Ignor me."

Ngaille says, "Ah."

Perigourd chuckles.

Lithyia says, "He means a gorgon."

Ngaille kneels down.

Lithyia nods at Ngaille.

Lithyia glances at Olgretien.

Lithyia winks at Olgretien.

Seeking Absolution

(Ngaille rubs her hands in the snow, attempting to clean some of the blood off of them.)

Ngaille put a femur-hilted obsidian zirah bouk in her weathered hide sheath.

Ngaille stands up.

Perigourd grabs a fragile white wax feather candle from inside his leather haversack.

Perigourd absent-mindedly drops a fragile white wax feather candle into his leather haversack.

Flashing a quick grin, Perigourd reaches a hand down the front of his cotton aketon and extracts a green tin watering can, lifting it in a casual toast.

Perigourd takes a drink from his tin watering can.

Speaking to you, Ngaille asks, "You agree I have broken no laws of Icemule?"

Perigourd put a green tin watering can in his leather kit.

You nod at Ngaille.

Ngaille nods.

Ngaille says, "It is good. I will be sure to apologize to Nana, for you understand."

Olgretien deeply says, "Scryin' entrails in de wilds is not agin de law."

Ngaille says, "She will be pleased that I have honored the old ways."

Lithyia agrees with Olgretien.

Ngaille smiles at Olgretien.

Olgretien nods once at Ngaille.

Quidam nods at Ngaille.

Missoni smiles.

Traiva calmly flutters her wings at Ngaille to an unheard rhythm.

Quidam says, "Old ways old knowledge."

Quidam nods.

Missoni politely inquires, "Nana and the shop are well?"

Speaking to Ngaille, you say, "Though I would suggest washing your hands when you can."

Ngaille nods to you.

Ngaille says, "The snow is too cold for the task."

Perigourd grabs a fragile white wax feather candle from inside his leather haversack.

Ngaille nods at Missoni.

You remove some tattered cloth from in your night-hued silk cape.

Perigourd absent-mindedly drops a fragile white wax feather candle into his leather haversack.

Perigourd removes a green tin watering can from in his leather kit.

Perigourd offers Ngaille a green tin watering can.

Ngaille accepts Perigourd's tin watering can.

Missoni nods approvingly at Ngaille.

You offer your tattered cloth to Ngaille.

Lithyia smiles at Perigourd.

Ngaille has accepted your offer and is now holding some tattered cloth.

You ask, "Maybe that can help too?"

Ngaille pours water onto the cloth.

Ngaille offers Perigourd a green tin watering can.

Perigourd accepts Ngaille's tin watering can.

With a regretful sigh, Perigourd smoothly slides a green tin watering can down the front of his cotton aketon, securing it within an inner pocket.

Ngaille rubs some tattered cloth in her hand.

You say, "Don't need silliness happening."

You nod firmly.

Ngaille cleans her hands up to her elbow.

Ngaille nods.

Lithyia smiles at Ngaille.

Ngaille says, "This is wise."

Lithyia nods.

Quidam grins.

You say, "I have more cloth if you need to dry."

Quidam nods.

You smile at Ngaille.

You remove some tattered cloth from in your night-hued silk cape.

You offer your tattered cloth to Ngaille.

Ngaille offers you a blood-stained tattered cloth.

Ngaille has accepted your offer and is now holding some tattered cloth.

You accept Ngaille's offer and are now holding a blood-stained tattered cloth.

You put a blood-stained tattered cloth in your night-hued silk cape.

Perigourd nods knowingly at Missoni.

Ngaille dries her hands on the cloth.

Ngaille offers you some tattered cloth.

You accept Ngaille's offer and are now holding some tattered cloth.

You put some tattered cloth in your night-hued silk cape.

Ngaille rolls the sleeves of her parka down.

Speaking deeply to Ngaille, Olgretien asks, "Yu'v seen enuff?"

Ngaille nods at Olgretien.

Ngaille says, "Yes, thank you."

Olgretien deeply asks, "Can we fly in from ere?"

Ngaille raises an eyebrow in Olgretien's direction.

You ask, "I can try?"

Olgretien nods to you.

Mana surges through you in a brilliant display of silvery motes which skitter across your skin as you prepare Spirit Guide...

You gesture.

Your surroundings blur for a moment . . .

[Icemule Trace, Town Center - 2300] (u4042150)

A tranquil square dusted with snow sprawls beneath a sturdy mule statue standing placidly atop a tall plinth of silver-veined black stone. The brilliance of the stars refracts through the statue, casting prismatic glints over the townsfolk nearby. Some denizens, mostly halflings but with a scattering of other folk mixed in, chatter by a roaring bonfire, lazing on a smooth dark stone bench or stargazing on colorful cloaks spread out on the ground. Others mill around a burled pine message board standing close to a colorful silver-bound barrel. You also see a dark-eyed mountain wolf, the Finneyl disk, the Amn disk, a subversive mountain spirit that is flying around, a pale-faced coppery barn owl that is flying around, an iceberry tart, a leather sheath, a crystal amulet, a white flask, an ice-chased silver raffle crate with some stuff on it, a frosty white lantern-topped pole draped with a large banner, a blue-boughed Ossian pine adorned with multicolored crystal ornaments and a woven bark wastebin.

Also here: Olgretien, Magister Raelee, Chatelaine Traiva, Drektor, Ngaille, Quidam, Greatlor, Elronae, Ishild, Perigourd, Pub Proprietor Lithyia, Bathcwyn Missoni, Sir Cryheart, High Lady Taeffryl, Berean, Sphider, Finneyl, Amn who is sitting, Belrog

Ngaille says, "Ah."

Olgretien smiles at Ngaille.

Lithyia says, "Ah it worked."

Missoni nods approvingly.

Lithyia nods.

Olgretien nods.

Cryheart nods to you.

Lithyia applauds.

Ngaille nods.

Speaking deeply to you, Olgretien exclaims, "Nice aim!"

Cryheart pets a pale-faced coppery barn owl, which nuzzles his hand softly.

Ngaille says, "Good

Speaking to Olgretien, you say, "Thank ye."

You break out in a silly grin.

Ngaille says, "I must go to Nana."

Lithyia nods at Ngaille.

Reaching over her shoulder, Traiva secures her orase runestaff into a series of straps on the back of her leather harness. A brief shimmer of deep emerald light erupts from inside the harness along with a muffled nicker.

You nod at Ngaille.

Ngaille says, "Thank you for aiding and for honoring."

Malcoier just arrived.

Quidam absent-mindedly drops an imposing ghezyte-studded tetsubo into his bistre leather knapsack.

Speaking deeply to Ngaille, Olgretien says, "Be well, and thanks for enlightnin us a bit."

Perigourd bows to Ngaille.

Taeffryl grins.

Cryheart says, "That was interesting."

Speaking appreciatively to Ngaille, Missoni says, "Thank you for letting us observe your practice."

Quidam grunts in tribute to Ngaille as he bangs his fist sharply upon his vaalorn full plate in a barbaric salute.

Taeffryl curtsies gracefully to Ngaille.

Speaking to Ngaille, Traiva says, "Thank you for the insights."

Speaking to Ngaille, Perigourd says, "It has been quite interesting to watch the tradition."

Speaking to Ngaille, you say, "Be safe and thank you for the insights."

Ngaille nods once.

Lithyia agrees with Perigourd.

Ngaille says, "If you go to the place between the earth."

Ngaille says, "Be safe."

Lithyia nods.

Missoni nods slowly.

You nod slowly.

Cryheart nods.

Traiva begins to twitch her wings.

Quidam nods at Ngaille.

Ngaille just went west.