Those Aren't Tears/2018-12-12 Penre's Interrogation and Drehod's Death (log)

This log is from premium storyline Those Aren't Tears on December 12, 2018, from the viewpoint of Lady Darcena Wolf-Valslayer.

Summary

• Ilsola contacted Drehod, Elspie's commander at the Demonwall, to come and provide information about Elspie and help find her
• Drehod confirmed that Elspie is "one of the finest soldiers," a fighter, and "something else." He said her specialty was water mage of all sorts and the necklace that was stolen from the cottage has "a ridiculous level of power" and "water-life affinity"
• Drehod did some telepathic or mental magic that forced Penre to answer questions. Read the interrogation to see all that was learned
• Duvainiel killed Drehod and ran to the pawnshop where Nazhor was also located; they both leave with nothing resolved
• Ilsola expresses frustration that she doesn't know what to do
• Nazhor muzzles Darcena and many low-level water-based creatures show up and attack
• Adventurers hear ripples and unbalance whispered to them.

GM Cast: Drehod, Duvainiel, Ilsola, Nazhor, Penre

Adventurers: Asheura, Lady Darcena, Khaell, Khobra, Kreigh, Maiden Leafiara, Meggiemae, Melivn, Master Neovik, Nola, Ondreian, Lady Shalla, Telare, Vice Chancellor Xorus

Log Snippets

Editor’s note: Many of the ambient noises or individuals interacting with each other outside of the scope of the events of the night have been removed from this retelling. Grammar and spelling has been corrected for ease of understanding. Actions have been combined in places to reduce the length while maintaining the atmosphere. Some conversational pieces that were meant to happen sequentially but did not due to the nature of parsing speech in the game (i.e., player A says one piece of information, player B asks a question, player A continues with more information, then player A answers the question) have been reordered (e.g., player A says both pieces of information, player B asks a question, player A answers the question) in every situation where it makes sense to do so and doesn’t disrupt the actual proceedings.

Meeting with Ilsola

Ilsola just arrived.
You nod to Ilsola in greeting.

[Gardenia Commons]
The soft, soothing sound of the carved marble fountain that dominates Gardenia Commons breaks the omnipresent silence of night.  Bright moonlight dapples the area in a silvery glow and reflects off the water pouring into the fountain, causing ripples of ethereal light to dance across the mist that clings to the cobblestone street.  A light, thin layer of dew glistens on the wrought iron benches that encircle the fountain.  You also see a wide-mouthed wicker basket.
Obvious paths: north, east, south, west

You turn to face Ilsola.
Ilsola says, "Good evening, all."
You abruptly ask, "What'd you find out?"
Leafiara, Neovik, and Khobra nod to and Kreigh grunts at Ilsola in greeting.
Speaking to you, Ilsola says, "Not as much as I would like, but we do have some information."
Ilsola says, "And a source to possibly gain more."
Meggiemae turns an inquisitive ear toward Ilsola.
You ask, "A source? Did you hear from her superior?"
Ilsola says, "If you would please join me, I will take us to him, and you may meet the man himself."
Leafiara says, "Hopefully a more reliable one..."
Ilsola nods to you.
Leafiara clears her throat and gazes up into the heavens.
Ilsola says, "If any would like to follow, we will be in the Sergeant's Office, just south of town."

The Sergeant's Office

[Lockup, Sergeant's Office]
An imposing rolltop desk rests in front of an oversized chair.  A headsman's axe rests in one corner of the room in front of a podium with a large volume on it.  You also see the First Sergeant.
Also here: Lady Shalla, Khobra, Meggiemae, Ondreian, Kreigh, Master Neovik, Nola, Maiden Leafiara, Ilsola, Drehod, Penre who is sitting
Obvious exits: east

Drehod nods in greeting at Ilsola.
Khobra leans against the desk, taking a momentary rest, and takes a drink from her blood red rum.
Ilsola nods at Drehod.
Penre heaves a heavy sigh.
You stare at Penre.
Nola gazes with interest at Penre.
Leafiara takes a moment to observe Penre.
Leafiara glances at the First Sergeant.
You squint at Drehod.
You frown at the First Sergeant.
Ilsola says, "All, I would like to introduce Drehod, former commander in charge of Elspie's service on the Demonwall."
Drehod nods slowly.
Khobra nods respectfully at Drehod.
Leafiara and Meggiemae nod to Drehod in greeting.
Neovik nods in greeting.
You nod at Drehod.
Drehod says, "Hello, all.  I'm sorry to meet under these circumstances."
Nola softly says, "Hello."
Kreigh grunts in greeting.
Ilsola says, "Now, Drehod got in just this afternoon, but we had a rather interesting conversation."
Drehod nods in agreement.
You raise an eyebrow, your splintery bone shards only enhancing your skeptical look.
Leafiara folds her hands.
You ask, "Did it involve where Elspie is?"
Ilsola asks, "Would you care to bring them up to speed?"
Khobra glances between Ilsola and Drehod.
Speaking to you, Drehod says, "I have no way of knowing where Elspie might be, unfortunately."
Meggiemae blinks.
You cautiously ask, peering quizzically at Drehod, "She is who she says she is?"
Drehod says, "She is, and likely much more.  Elspie was always one to downplay her abilities.  I think they embarrassed her somehow."
Drehod shrugs.
You nod and say, "I will listen."
Speaking to Drehod, Khobra remarks, "There is a ztolen item vithin the ownerzhip of a man named Nazhor. A retired Drakez necklace. Ve need to know about it."
Drehod says, "Elspie was one of the finest soldiers I've ever worked with.  She was a fighter, through and through."
Drehod nods understandingly at Khobra.
Drehod says, "That necklace was a gift, when she retired. You have to understand... most Drakes do not simply... retire."
Leafiara cocks her head.
Drehod says, "Ours is a profession where 'retirement' usually comes at the end of one's life."
Neovik nods.
Drehod says, shaking his head, "Elspie was too good for that, though.  That girl was... something else."
Khobra takes a drink from her blood red rum and looks rather relaxed. She continues to sip on the rum for the rest of the interrogation.
Drehod says, "But she decided she was tired of fighting, and I wasn't going to tell her otherwise."
You ask, "Was? Is she not still? 
You raise an eyebrow, your splintery bone shards only enhancing your skeptical look.
Meggiemae asks, "Yes, was?"
Speaking to Xorus, who just arrived, you whisper aloud, "We're talking about Elspie's service on the Demonwall."
Drehod says, "From what I gather, just from my discussion with Ilsola earlier, I'd imagine she's more than ready to do a little fighting."
Neovik says, "I was on the demonwall once.  You guys went through some really harsh conditions."
Penre mutters under his breath, his eyes narrowing in irritation.
Ilsola glances at Penre.
Drehod says, "In any case, the necklace that she got was from me... personally. Though I doubt she realizes it. As to what it does?  Well, you see, Elspie's specialty was always water magic.  Of all sorts."
Khaell furrows his brow.
Khobra raises an eyebrow.
Drehod says, "That necklace was imbued with a ridiculous level of power, but it had a..."
Drehod rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Drehod says, "Water-life affinity to it."
Khobra turns an inquisitive ear toward Drehod.
Drehod says, "Which is a fancy way of saying I never found out what exactly it did."
Neovik snickers.
Drehod adds, grinning wryly, "Water not being a specialty of mine."
Leafiara gazes in amusement at Drehod.
Speaking to Drehod, Khaell asks, "Why didn't you let her know it was from you?"
You say, "So you gave her, or arranged for her to have, a gift of an item with a ridiculous level of water-life power, with no idea what it did."
Speaking to Khaell, Drehod says, "Because that's not done.  I was her commander, not her friend.  Out there on the wall, there's not much time for sentimentality."
Speaking to Khaell, Ondreian says, "Commanding officers showing favoritism is frowned upon, for starters, I imagine."
Drehod nods slowly to you.
Khobra agrees with Ondreian.
You say, "Okay."
Speaking to you, Drehod says, "I did, but I did it because I trusted her with my life.  I knew that it would be safe with her."
You ask, "So where does Nazhor tie in to wanting this unknown item?"
Drehod says, "And it would appear... I was mistaken."
You say, "And how do we rescue her."
Speaking to Drehod, Khobra inquires, "Vould a reitred Drake be buried vith zuch like itemz?"
Khobra turns an inquisitive ear toward Drehod.
You pace back and forth.
You mutter, "So much talking."
Speaking to you, Drehod says, "As to the first, I've never heard the name.  And as to the second... well, I hope that this guy here can give us some information in that direction."
Drehod glances at Penre.
Penre squirms.
Khaell says, "I wonder if she knew what it did....."
Khaell ponders.

The Interrogation of Penre

You say, "Pretty sure we've heard Nazhor's laughter around you, too."
You glance at Penre.
Penre hoarsely says, "Look, I told you... I don't know anything about this."
Khobra glances at Penre.
Ilsola mutters under her breath.
Meggiemae smirks.
Drehod says, "Yes, yes... so you've said. But the thing is... it appears that this 'Nazhor' guy has been messing with people's heads."
Penre grumbles.
Leafiara furrows her brow.
Khobra turns an inquisitive ear toward Drehod.
Khaell frowns.
Drehod says, "And while water is NOT my specialty... I think we might be able to get a look at what's been hidden."
Penre cowers away from Drehod.
Drehod leans forward, staring into Penre's eyes.
Penre shivers.
Drehod nods slowly at Penre.
Penre shudders, the movement spastic, and groans slightly.
Nola nods.
Khaell leans to his left slightly.
Leafiara slowly empties her lungs.
Speaking to Ilsola, Drehod says, "I think... he's ready to talk."
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Who is Nazhor?"
Penre hoarsely says, "The boss."
Meggiemae squints at Penre.
Leafiara takes a moment to observe Penre.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "What does he want with the necklace, and whatever it is that he stole from Mazorn?"
Penre hoarsely says, "The chest.  He took Mazorn's chest.  Didn't steal it."
Khaell says, "Took, steal..."
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Fine, whatever.  What does he WANT with them?"
Khaell shrugs.
Penre hoarsely says, "Power."
You frown.
A pained expression crosses Ilsola's face.
You ask, "What's in the chest, Ilsola?"
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "What does he need that power FOR?"
Penre hoarsely says, "Unbalance.  He wants to create... ripples."
Leafiara raises an eyebrow.
You frown.
Ilsola blinks.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "What do you mean, ripples?"
Penre hoarsely repeats, "Ripples."
Khaell rolls his eyes.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "What's in the chest?"
Penre hoarsely says, "Haven't... seen it... opened.  The boss... keeps it... elsewhere."
Drehod squints at Penre.
Drehod says, "There's a block there..."
Ilsola glances at Drehod.
Khobra adopts an agreeable expression.
Speaking to Drehod, Ilsola asks, "Can you get past it?"
Speaking to Ilsola, Drehod says, "Possibly."
You say, "Wait."
Drehod closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, steadying himself.
You ask, "Is Penre a willing accomplice?"
Ilsola glances at you.
You say, "He said Nazhor is his boss."
Penre shivers.
Khobra remarks, "He'z not all there right now."
You say, "But he could be coerced."
Leafiara nods absently at Khobra.
You say, "We know Nazhor has that power."
Speaking to you, Khobra says, "Truzt them."
You frown at Khobra.
Speaking to you, Ilsola says, "A valid point."
You wonderingly ask, "Trust?"
You say, "I don't know them."
Speaking to you, Khobra remarks, "Juzt vor the moment."
You chuckle at Khobra.
Khaell shows you a drake dagger, which he is holding in his right hand.  You see nothing unusual.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Why do you follow Nazhor, and call him boss?"
Khaell says, "Coerce."
Khaell asks, "Like that?"
Khobra nods at Drehod.
You flash a quick grin at Khaell.
Penre hoarsely says, "Power.  Protection.  Peace."
Khaell seems to be waiting for something.
Khaell wipes off the blade and sheathes a drake dagger into one of the rhimar-throated scabbards along the side of his thick leather knapsack.
Ilsola ponders.
Meggiemae asks, "Peace?"
Khaell sighs.
Nola nods sympathetically at Penre.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola says, "Where is he keeping Elspie."
Penre hoarsely says, "Beneath."
Ilsola seems to be waiting for something.
Leafiara glances down.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Beneath what?"
Penre hoarsely says, "... everything."
Khobra tilts her head down.
Drehod mumbles something under his breath.
Khobra raises an eyebrow.
Khaell asks, "Underground?"
Khobra glances at Penre.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Have you been there?  Have you seen where he's keeping her?"
Penre hoarsely says, "Yes."
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Could you take us to her?"
Penre hoarsely says, "No."
Khaell unsheathes a drake dagger from one of the rhimar-throated scabbards along the side of his thick leather knapsack.
Ilsola squints at Penre.
You frown.
You ask, "Why not?"
Khaell whistles tunelessly to himself.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Why can't you take us there?"
Khaell tilts his drake dagger side to side, making the light play off it.
Penre hoarsely says, "Never gone... there.  The boss... brings me."
You murmur, "Beneath everywhere."
Khaell grumbles.
You abruptly ask, "What does it smell like?"
Ilsola glances at you.
Khaell wipes off the blade and sheathes a drake dagger into one of the rhimar-throated scabbards along the side of his thick leather knapsack.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "What does it... smell like there?"
Penre hoarsely says, "Damp.  Rotting."
You ponder.
Speaking to you, Khaell says, "Likely blood and dirt.."
You muse, "Rotting."
You ask, "What does he see?"
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Who is Duvainiel?"
Khobra leans over and whispers, "Grave."
Penre hoarsely asks, "The boss's... friend?"
Ilsola gazes heavenward.
You scoff, "Friend."
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "What does Nazhor intend to do next?"
Penre hoarsely says, "He's... building."
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Building?  What is he building?"
Khaell turns an inquisitive ear toward Penre.
Penre hoarsely says, "... something to make the ripples."
Khobra seems to lose some dexterity.
Ilsola slowly empties her lungs.
You say, "Ask him if he's ever heard Nazhor mention a storm."
Drehod says, "There's definitely something... there's another level of enchantment..."
Khaell says, "Circles..."
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Has Nazhor ever mentioned a storm?"
Penre blinks slowly, then tilts his head to one side.
Leafiara takes a moment to observe Penre.
You stare at Penre.
Penre hoarsely says, "Those aren't tears... it's just the rain..."
Ilsola squints at Penre.
Khobra whispers something to Ilsola.
Speaking to Ilsola, you say, "Odd."
Ilsola agrees with you.
Khobra whispers something to Ilsola.
Drehod grimaces, a bead of sweat forming on his brow.
Khaell blinks.
Khobra glances at Drehod.
With a practiced eye, you glance over Drehod:
He is in perfect health.
Speaking to Drehod, you advise, "Don't burn out."
You say, "We need you to examine Cendadric."
Drehod says, "The underlying enchantment is... much stronger."
Leafiara nods sympathetically at Drehod.
Khobra remarks, "He'z not going to be able to continue thiz much longer."
Speaking to Drehod, Ilsola asks, "Is it worth it to try and get past that enchantment?"
Speaking to Ilsola, Drehod asks, "If you were hiding something important, wouldn't you put it behind your strongest lock?"
You ask, "Why is Nazhor targeting merchants and traders?"
Speaking to Drehod, Ilsola says, "Hold for a moment, if you would."
You say, "Perhaps we should see if anyone else has questions before you kill off Penre."
You mutter something inaudible.
Drehod nods in agreement.
Neovik twists his head slightly, cracking his neck.  He looks relieved.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Why is Nazhor targeting merchants and traders?"
Neovik says, "I like picking strong locks."
Penre hoarsely says, "Power.  That's all that matters."
Neovik gets a far-off look in his eyes, and a wicked grin spreads over his face.
You ask, "Why did he have Brannogh killed?"
Leafiara scratches her head.
Speaking to you, Khaell says, "Commerce, quickest way to affect towns."
Khaell nods.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "Why did Nazhor have Brannogh killed?"
Penre stares for a long moment, his eyes totally unfocused.
You pound one fist into the other, then shake your head in contempt.
You hiss, "Why did he choose Elspie?"
Penre hoarsely says, "When you want to kill a lion... you injure it's cub and it comes running."
You ask, "Why have her captured?"
You cock your head.
You mutter, "True."
Khobra inquires, "Iz He ztill zearching for another item, one lazt attempt - even if traveling to another region, to collect it and ztop thiz ztage of Hiz plan?"
You say, "But he just confirmed."
Penre hoarsely says, "... power."
You say, "Nazhor had Brannogh killed."
You nod at Ilsola.
You say, "Not bandits."
Darcena smiles smugly.
Ilsola nods slowly to you.
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "What else is Nazhor after?"
Penre hoarsely says, "... power."
You say, "You have to be more specific."
Speaking to Penre, Ilsola asks, "What else does he need?  Is there another relic or power source he requires?"
Khaell asks, "Power to do what?"
You say, "Make ripples."
Khobra turns an inquisitive ear toward Ilsola.
Penre hoarsely repeats, "... power."
You nod at Khaell.
Khobra turns an inquisitive ear toward Penre.
Khaell rolls his eyes at you.
You say, "I think... he's stuck."
Ilsola nods in agreement.
Khaell says, "Circles again."
Ilsola sighs.
Leafiara starts chortling at you!
Khobra agrees with you.
Speaking to Drehod, Ilsola asks, "Can you get him talking again?"
Drehod nods once.
Khobra glances at Drehod.
Drehod takes a deep breath then slowly empties his lungs.
Khobra glances between Penre and Drehod.
Drehod says, "Almost..."
Drehod closes his eyes tight, clenching his jaw.
Drehod says, "I think I can..."
Duvainiel leaps from hiding to attack!
Duvainiel swings a sinuous black ora falchion at Drehod!
  AS: +362 vs DS: +13 with AvD: +35 + d100 roll: +62 = +446
   ... and hits for 142 points of damage!
   Awful slash nearly decapitates Drehod!
   That's one way to lose your head.
 * Drehod drops dead at your feet!
 * Drehod is dust in the wind!
Penre groans.
Duvainiel says, "Nah, you can't."
You blink.
Khobra removes an enruned black ora longsword from in her black ora scabbard.
Leafiara stares at Drehod's lifeless body, apparently lost in thought.
Duvainiel laughs!
Duvainiel just went east.
Leafiara remarks, "Efficient."

Chasing Duvainiel

[Cendadric's Collectibles]
An elegant, flower-patterned rug covers most of the floor, reaching almost all the way to the ivory silk-covered walls.  Hanging from the walls are exquisite antique paintings and weapons, and a bookshelf against one wall displays a collection of well-worn books.  Rosewood tables lined up in the center of the room display various weapons, armors, arcane items, and other goods.  You also see the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk, the Neovik disk, a ruffed greatfang and a carved rosewood arch.
Obvious exits: none
Your mountain spirit followed.
Khaell just strode through a carved rosewood arch.
You stare at Nazhor.
Speaking to Nazhor, Ilsola exclaims, "Where is Elspie?!"
Nazhor says, "I'm sure I have no idea what you're talking about."
Khobra moves to stand in front of Duvainiel.
You growl at Nazhor.
Neovik slams his pale white ice axe against his skin-covered shield with a resounding clang!
Speaking to Nazhor, Khaell exclaims, "Lies!"
Ilsola scowls at Nazhor.
Speaking angrily to Nazhor, you croon, "Good to see your face."
Speaking to Khobra, Duvainiel asks, "Oi, li'l snake dink she gotta bite?"
Speaking to Nazhor, Ilsola asks, "What are you up to with the necklace, and the chest?"
Nazhor waves his hand in a dismissive gesture.
Nazhor says, "None of your concern."
Speaking to Duvainiel, Khobra remarks, "I zee you Ran."
Khobra squints at Duvainiel.
You ask, "Where's the First Sergeant?"
Nazhor adds, "Yet."
You say, "Have him arrested."
Nola takes a few steps back.
Speaking to Duvainiel, Nazhor asks, "Did you have fun?"
You say, "Her, too."
You belt out, "Guards!"
Ilsola agrees with you.
Speaking wonderingly to Nazhor, Duvainiel says, "Oh,  'twas marvelous, boss."
Khaell moves into a defensive stance, ready to fend off an attack.
Ilsola says, "The Sergeant should be here..."
Speaking to Duvainiel, Khobra says, "Lozt at that block, swung at our leg even. Lucky I did not connect."
Speaking to Ilsola, Nazhor says, "He's... taking a break."
Nazhor nods approvingly at Duvainiel.
Neovik peers quizzically at Nazhor.
You ask, "You got to the new one, TOO?"
Speaking to Duvainiel, Nazhor asks, "They seem to have an awful lot of energy, don't you think?"
You move into a defensive stance, ready to fend off an attack.
Ilsola growls at Nazhor.
Reaching over your shoulder, you draw your fused vertebral staff from a series of straps on the back of your slate battle harness.
Khaell draws his golden golvern morning star from his vaalorn scabbard and holds it before him, careful of the dangers that may await.
You growl at Nazhor.
Speaking to Nazhor, Duvainiel comments, "I didna dink I'd e'er get da chance... and Yeah... dey do."
Nola removes a lacquered spiralled faewood runestaff from in her sable cloak.
Khaell slings an ebony banded illthorn tower shield inlaid with a hammered silver sword contour off from over his shoulder.
Speaking to Nazhor, Ilsola says, "You won't get away with this..."
Nazhor laughs at Ilsola!
Speaking to Nazhor, Duvainiel says, "Lotta negative en'gy."
Speaking to Duvainiel, Khobra says, "I'm taking the left one firzt, going to ztuff it and place it upon a mantle above a fireplace."
Darcena is thinking about her chances of taking Nazhor down, knowing that Elspie couldn't.
Nazhor asks, "And just what, exactly, do you think you're going to do about it?"
You glare at Nazhor.
Ilsola scowls.
Khaell drops all defense as he moves into a battle-ready stance.
Neovik twists his head slightly, cracking his neck.  He looks relieved.
Speaking to Duvainiel, Nazhor asks, "Too much hostility here, wouldn't you say?"
Khobra offers Nazhor a flagon of blood red rum.
Duvainiel dismissively says, "'kay, li'l snake.  Ya ent gon be ableta do nuddin'."
Neovik says, "Which one do I get to kill first."
Nazhor declines Khobra's offer.
Neovik gets a far-off look in his eyes, and a wicked grin spreads over his face.
Speaking to Khobra, Nazhor says, "Thank you, my dear, but I'm not thirsty."
Speaking to Nazhor, Khobra remarks, "I told you, You firzt - then Zhe. But Zhe being impatient theze dayz."
Speaking to Nazhor, Duvainiel says, "Aye, boss... Dey's killin' da mood."
Nazhor nods in agreement.
Speaking to Duvainiel, you ask, "Why'd you kill him?"
Khobra glances at Duvainiel.
You ask, "And where's a dratted cleric to go resurrect him?"
You stare at Leafiara.
Speaking flippantly to you, Duvainiel asks, "Kill 'oo?"
Leafiara flails her arms about.
Nola inclines her head.
Speaking to Duvainiel, you growl, "I watched you."
Neovik snickers at Leafiara.
Speaking mockingly to you, Duvainiel says, "Ya dun know what ya seent."
Speaking to Duvainiel, Nazhor says, "We should depart, then... maybe I'll give them something else to do instead."
Nazhor flashes a wide grin.
Khaell says, "Funny how it happened right in front of us."
Duvainiel nods at Nazhor.
Khaell drops all defense as he moves into a battle-ready stance.
Nazhor grows indistinct.  Slowly it dawns on you that he isn't there anymore.
Nola nods at Leafiara.
Duvainiel grows indistinct.  Slowly it dawns on you that she isn't there anymore.
Neovik blinks.

Castigating Ilsola

Ilsola's jaw drops.
Ilsola asks, "What happened?"
Speaking to Ilsola, you say, "You have no power."
Neovik's eyes glow crimson as a swarm of ethereal crimson-eyed scarabs envelop him briefly before evaporating into a vaporous mist.
Neovik gestures.
Neovik appears to be keenly aware of his surroundings.
You say, "None."
Khobra frustratedly remarks, "Damnit."
Ilsola asks, "Where did they go?"
Leafiara marvels, "Disappearing magic?"
Neovik searches around for a moment and snaps his fingers.
Khaell grumbles.
Speaking to Ilsola, you say, "You are supposed to have some power. This is beyond ridiculous. You just let them walk right in, kill the commander of elite Imperial Drakes of the Demonwall."
Khaell sighs.
Speaking to you, Ilsola asks, "What in the world was I supposed to DO?"
You say, "We STILL don't know where Elspie is."
Khobra says, "We Zhoulds return."
You yell, "You only have ONE guard?"
Leafiara diplomatically interjects, "No need to be hasty, unforeseen things happen."
Leafiara rubs you gently.
Khobra says, "Hiz body zhould be tend to."
Speaking to Leafiara, you hiss, "Unforeseen things keep happening to this administrator."
Neovik says, "Maybe we should go see if there is anything we can do for the Commander."
Khaell says, "Deaths in town should not be an unforseen 'thing'."
You say, "And Elspie is STILL locked up."
Leafiara raises her hands toward you in surrender!
You nod at Neovik.

The Muzzle

Nazhor wanders in.
Nazhor says, flashing a wide green, "I almost forgot..."
You growl at Nazhor.
Leafiara takes a moment to observe Nazhor.
Neovik blinks.
Speaking to you, Khobra repeats, "Benea-"
Khaell drops all defense as he moves into a battle-ready stance and growls ferociously!
Khobra glances at Nazhor and asks, "Zlithering back for?"
Nazhor contempuously flicks a hand at Darcena, and an impression of a muzzle briefly forms around her mouth, then fades to nothingness.
Nazhor nods approvingly and says, "Much better."
Speaking to Nazhor, Neovik asks, "No flashy appearance like your exit?"
Leafiara gazes in wonder at her surroundings.
Nazhor flashes a wide grin.
Khobra tightens her grip on her black ora longsword.
Nazhor grows indistinct.  Slowly it dawns on you that he isn't there anymore.
Khaell says, "Put that muzzle on your own damned face."
Ilsola stares at you.
Darcena tries to shout Nazhor! but the pall of silence settles more heavily over you.
Khobra glances at you and blinks.
Ilsola exclaims, "What is going ON here?!"
Leafiara dusts you off and ponders.
Ondreian searches around for a moment.
Neovik says, "Never seen that kind of magic."
Speaking to you, Ilsola asks, "Are you alright?"
>'No! 
The pall of silence settles more heavily over you.
Neovik says, "Making something appear like that."
You shake your head.
Neovik works his fingers under his leather hood and scratches his head.
Leafiara muses, "Well, it looked a little different, but it might be mere silence magic..."
A pained expression crosses Ilsola's face.
(Darcena points to her mouth, which is moving, but no sound is coming out.)
>growl
The pall of silence settles more heavily over you.
Khobra glances between Ilsola and yourself.

[Editor's note: At this point, many creatures began to arrive to include: murky water moccasins, indistinct vaporous wraiths, dark water hounds with blue fur ruffs, grotesque water incanters, and swirling water wyrds. All combat has been removed from this log, but suffice it to say, people destroyed the very low level creatures. E-mail gs4armyjen@gmail.com if you have questions on the combat.]

Leafiara glances appraisingly around the room.
You stamp your feet.
Ilsola exclaims, "Guards!"
(Darcena wiggles her fingers, but no spells are cast.)
Khobra says, "I am NOT killing the Znakez."
Ilsola growls ferociously and asks, "Where are the damn guards?"
Khaell grumbles.
Ilsola just went through a carved rosewood arch.
Leafiara says, "Rather... non-threatening minions here..."
Khaell growls ferociously!
Nola (Focused) [Local]: "I'm with Drehod, but I can't tend his neck."
Khobra says, "Vater creaturez."

[Editor's note: End of combat. Left behind is a small pool of water that slowly turns into a large puddle and small puddle. Eventually, presumably, it disappeared, but Darcena was at the Sergeant's Office at the time.]

Speaking curiously to you, Leafiara asks, "Does it -feel- like mere silence magic? Will it wear off?"
Khaell gestures at you.
You suddenly feel less protected.
You are coated in a hazy film.
 Neovik asks, "Are these creatures being summoned like the muzzle?"
Ondreian splashes about in a small pool.
Khaell grumbles.
Neovik loses some awareness.
A taunting voice sounds in the room, "See how much better you feel letting off some of that aggression?"
(Darcena gives a panicked look to Leafiara.)
Khobra squints.
Leafiara furrows her brow.
Khaell rubs you tenderly.
Neovik searches around for a moment.
Leafiara slowly says, "I'm taking that as a no."
Khobra says, "Vould veel better letting it off on you."
You pace back and forth.
Leafiara rubs her chin thoughtfully.
Leafiara hums a cheerful tune!  Pure white and bold red mana wisps dance about her like wind-borne leaves, then pulse brightly as she sings a sylvan phrase in a strong, clear voice.
Leafiara gestures at you.
Nothing seems to happen.
Khobra glances at you.
Khobra stands in front of you.
Khaell says, "I tried to dispell it."
Khaell mills about with an uncertain look on his face.
Khobra rubs you gently.
Leafiara helpfully says, "Well, it's not a curse... or at least not one I can do anything about."
Khobra examines you closely, sizing you up and taking note of all the details.
You glance dubiously at Leafiara.
Leafiara rubs her chin thoughtfully.
You gaze anxiously at Khaell.
Khaell rubs you tenderly.
A small pool continues to seep slowly into the floor.

Your vision grows dark, and a mouth stretched into an unnaturally wide grin fades into view against the darkness.  The rest of the face remains cloaked in shadow, but as you watch, the mouth opens and launches into a deep, growling laugh.  The vision fades after a heartbeat, and only the echo of the laughter remains.

Khaell frowns.
Speaking to you, Khobra says, "Could beseech Nature. Perhapz, help cith your voice a litt-"
>sigh
The pall of silence settles more heavily over you.
Neovik stares into space, appearing to ponder multiple possibilities and potential nuances.
You glare.
Xorus says, "Mm."
Khaell says, "I'm not sure what can be done..."
Neovik works his fingers under his leather hood and scratches his head.
You glance suspiciously at Xorus.
Speaking slowly to you, Leafiara says, "My dispels are probably quite a bit stronger than Khaell's if you'd like to try..."
You nod at Leafiara.
You nod at Leafiara.
Leafiara flails her arms about.
Khaell says, "Yes."
Leafiara sings lilting, lightsome lyrics in a lively summons to local spirits!  Shining leaves surround her, sparkling and sprightly, and she loosely sways her body lightly...
Leafiara gestures at you.
An immense amount of spells are removed.
Neovik says, "I'm not as great with magick as you guys so not much I can help with for the muzzle."
Leafiara sings lilting, lightsome lyrics in a lively summons to local spirits!  Shining leaves surround her, sparkling and sprightly, and she loosely sways her body lightly...
Leafiara gestures at you.
A pale, flickering nimbus coalesces around you, then vanishes in a brilliant flash!
An immense amount of spells are removed including the pall of silence.
You ask, "Can I speak?"
You exclaim, "Yes!"
Leafiara approvingly says, "There we are."
Leafiara hoots.
Khaell says, "Ok."
Neovik blinks.
Speaking to Leafiara, Khaell says, "You win."
Khaell nods.
You gasp in terrified panic, trembling and flailing your arms about!
Leafiara grins impishly at Khaell.
Speaking to Leafiara, Neovik says, "You gave me a mini stroke."
You exclaim, "That was awful!"
Leafiara cackles at Neovik!
You growls ferociously, "Don't ever let him do that again!"
Neovik chuckles.
Leafiara rubs you gently.
Khaell pulls you closer.
Speaking to you, Khobra says, "Not zure ve had a choice in that."
Leafiara admits, "Would have been easier if we had a bard, but... it worked, at least!"
You stamp your feet.
You exclaim, "We need to find a way!"
A large puddle continues to seep slowly into the floor.
It looks like a small puddle of clear water.
Khaell says, "Bastard."
Khaell bellows a guttural series of oaths.
Ondreian glances at a small puddle.
Khobra glances at a small puddle.
You ask, "Where's the commander?"
Neovik and Darcena reach out to touch a small puddle, causing a small ripple on its surface.
You ask, "Has anyone checked on his body?"
Leafiara says, "Nola went, I think..."
Khaell mutters ripples.
Darcena sniffs the puddle. It smells like a small puddle.
Neovik chuckles and takes a drink from a small puddle.
Khaell says, "A calling sign i'm sure. Or taunt."
Darcena takes a drink from a small puddle. Ahhh... that's refreshing!
Leafiara gazes in amusement at you.
Khaell gazes fondly at you.
You suspiciously ask, "What?"
You ask, "Why's everyone looking at me?"
Khaell shakes his head.
Darcena takes a drink from a small puddle. Ahhh... that's refreshing!
Leafiara amusedly says, "Nothin'."
Nola just came through a carved rosewood arch.
Speaking to Leafiara, Nola says, "I tried."
Leafiara tilts her head toward Nola, examining her intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.
Speaking to Nola, you ask, "What happened?"
Khobra glances at Nola.
You ask, "Is he still there?"
Leafiara ventures, "I'm betting it didn't work..."
Nola shakes her head.
You stamp your feet.
Khaell grumbles.
Leafiara reasons, "Dealing with someone with powerful magic, he wouldn't have someone killed off in an ordinary fashion."
A small puddle continues to seep slowly into the floor.
Nola quietly says, "I wasn't able to tend to those wounds."
Darcena takes a drink from a small puddle. Ahhh... that's refreshing!
Khobra closes her eyes for a moment.
You sharply ask, "Is he still there?"
Neovik reaches out to touch a small puddle, causing a small ripple on its surface.
You gently take hold of Leafiara's hand.
Khobra nods slowly at Nola and turns an inquisitive ear toward her.
Khaell searches around for a moment.
Leafiara muses, "Antimagic blade in the rogue's hands, or whatever it was... I figured there was no helping."
Leafiara looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.

Checking on the Commander

[Lockup, Sergeant's Office]
An imposing rolltop desk rests in front of an oversized chair.  A headsman's axe rests in one corner of the room in front of a podium with a large volume on it.  You also see the First Sergeant.
Obvious exits: east
Khaell and Leafiara followed.

Leafiara gazes in wonder at her surroundings.
Khaell says, "Pretty good guess at that."
You frown.
Leafiara takes a moment to observe the First Sergeant.
A taunting laugh sounds all around you.
You scowl.
You swear under your breath.
Leafiara rubs you gently.
You say, "He took him."
Khaell says, "I thought you were going to ressurect, so i took off after Duvainel."
Nola (Focused) [Local]: "I went for help, and when I got back, his body was gone."
You pace back and forth.
You growl something vile beneath your breath.
You say, "He needs to die."
Speaking to the First Sergeant, Khaell says, "Your not of much use lately..."
Khaell nods to you.
You ask, "How could he be?"
You say, "He looks exactly like the first one."
Leafiara glances at the First Sergeant.
You growl ferociously at the First Sergeant!
Khaell agrees with you.
>think to Nola Did you hear anything while you were here?
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts but something seems to be blocking them.
You frown.
Khaell says, "Snakes..."
Khaell says, "A puddle..."
Leafiara suddenly says, "Oh, literal ripples."
A memory flits across your mind... a hoarse voice whispers, "Ripples..."
Khaell nods at Leafiara.
Leafiara absently says, "All this time I just figured it was metaphorical..."
Khaell grumbles.
Leafiara chuckles.
You say, "Ripples."

Back to the Pawnshop & Summarizing

[Cendadric's Collectibles]
An elegant, flower-patterned rug covers most of the floor, reaching almost all the way to the ivory silk-covered walls.  Hanging from the walls are exquisite antique paintings and weapons, and a bookshelf against one wall displays a collection of well-worn books.  Rosewood tables lined up in the center of the room display various weapons, armors, arcane items, and other goods.  You also see a carved rosewood arch.
Also here: Nola, Vice Chancellor Xorus
Obvious exits: none
Nola nods.
Khaell sighs.
You ask, "Did you hear anything else?"
You peer quizzically at Nola.
Nola shakes her head.
Leafiara wryly says, "Maybe that explains what 'water-life' means too."
Khaell whispers to the group, "Heard ripples whispered to me....."
Nola says, "I saw a sort of vision. Someone laughing."
Nola says, "I don't know if it was at me."
Leafiara sagely states, "Things comin' to life out of water."
Leafiara nods firmly.
Khaell nods at Leafiara.
You say, "That was Nazhor."
You nod at Nola.
Khaell says, "So much...elemental."
Khaell says, "Drakes."
You say, "Nazhor told us to beware the storm. Or something like that."
Nola cocks her head.
Khaell says, "Duvainal's face burned."
You say, "The night Elspie was arrested. Watch for the storm. Something"
Khaell says, "Water magic."
Leafiara arrogantly says, "They're very weak elementals, though. Shouldn't be much of a problem."
Leafiara preens.
Khaell says, nodding to you, "Puddles."
You say, "Ripples. Power. Water-life magic. The chest. Near the docks."
Speaking to Leafiara, Khaell says, "So far..."
Khaell nods.
Leafiara scoffs at Khaell.
Khaell chuckles.
You say, "Mazorn found Veridese at the docks, too. And he lived a life at sea. Who knows where he got that chest."
You ask, "But why Elspie?"
Leafiara ponders.
Speaking to you, Khaell asks, "At the bottom of the sea perhaps?"
You say, "Well. She's strong in water magic."
You pace back and forth.
Speaking to Xorus, you ask, "What did you get out of this?"
You say, "You're the smart one."
Xorus shrugs.
You mutter something inaudible.
A voice sounds, as if from far away, "Unbalance."
Leafiara knowingly stresses, "Water lore. -So- helpful."
Leafiara nods firmly.
You listen, but don't hear anything unusual.
You say, "Un... Unbalance."
You uncertainly repeat, "Unbalance."
Nola glances sharply at you.
Nola says, "I heard it too."
Xorus says, "I have not been paying attention to whatever this Nazhor fellow has been doing until the moment."
You say, "A lot. Over months."
You nod at Xorus.
You ask, "Want the recap?"
Leafiara's face turns slightly pale.
Khaell asks, "Basically raising hell everywhere behind the scenes?"
You say, "It all started in River's Rest. You weren't there, either. When Veridese attacked."
Xorus nods slowly.
You nod.
You lean against a carved rosewood arch.
You say, "Months ago. River's Rest. Mazorn moves in. He's a trader. Builds a warehouse. Suddenly River's Rest is overrun by shrickhen and griffins and all sorts of things. They're all green. Turns out Mazorn picked up Veridese on the Solhaven docks."
Nola says, "The Green Lady! I heard rumors."
You nod at Nola.
You say, "And then left her. She wanted revenge, came to River's Rest when she heard of his business dealings. Started slaughtering the town. Of course, I couldn't blame her. Given how I had been abandoned mere months before by my fifth husband."
You glance sharply at Xorus.
Xorus raises an eyebrow.
A loud clap of thunder rumbles the area.
You say, "Another toothy fellow."
You smirk.
You listen, but don't hear anything unusual.
You say, "In any case, Veridese was, we think, killed. Mazorn survived the attacks. He had a chest that he protected fiercely. It got washed out to sea... Last we heard. Occasionally when around Mazorn, I would hear this laughter. Heard it with Penre, too. And someone at the Carnival or at Caligos. I don't remember which. Eventually..."
Khaell ponders.
You say, "Heard rumors about the laughter being heard around this Isle. Another watery place."
You ponder.
You slowly say, "Maybe it was Caligos."
You say, "In any case. Turns out Nazhor had somehow bought this very pawnshop. Simultaneously, Elspie and Brannogh - Elspie a retired Imperial Drake. Came to the isle. I didn't get involved in all that until after Brannogh was murdered by "bandits" right in front of Roblar. Didn't realize at first that Nazhor was involved. Don't care much about Imperial Drakes."
You shrug.
You say, "Thought maybe Nazhor and I could be friends. Enemy of our enemy and all that."
A boom of thunder can be heard outside.
You bitterly say, "Can't stand Mazorn."
Nola says, "He doesn't seem like someone who wants many friends."
You say, "Turns out not. So came out for Brannogh's funeral. Being polite."
You say, "Thought there might be some good food."
You shrug.
You say, "There wasn't."
You sigh.
You mutter, "Dainty and non-alcoholic, too."
You say, "While I was there, smelled something. Heard something too. Inside her house. So we all go in and turns out it's been ransacked."
Xorus nods.
You say, "And this retirement gift, that we heard about tonight, had been stolen. She's livid."
A loud clap of thunder rumbles the area.
You say, "Roblar and I wanted to go and track 'em down and kill 'em. I probably could have sniffed the culprits out. Elspie decided it was smarter to go to the First Sergeant. But the First Sergeant ignored everything. She's tipped off by Duvainiel and the First Sergeant to come here to the pawnshop. Comes here. Runs into Nazhor. Attacks him, gets arrested by the First Sergeant. It was real dirty. I don't like that."
You grumble.
You say, "She's upset. She was in love. Anyway. That should be about as clear as can be."
You nod once.
You hear the faint whisper of Khobra saying, "Are you still ok?"
You focus on projecting your thoughts...
You (Focused to Khobra) [Local]: "Yes."
Cast Roundtime 3 Seconds.
Nola tilts her head back.
You hear the faint whisper of Khobra saying, "And, nothing ahhh... ztrange juzt happened to you - yez?"
You focus on projecting your thoughts...
You (Focused to Khobra) [Local]: "I heard something about Unbalance... and Ripples."
Cast Roundtime 3 Seconds.
You say, "So now we're trying to find Elspie."
You hear the faint whisper of Khobra saying, "Vhere?"
You focus on projecting your thoughts...
You (Focused to Khobra) [Local]: "In the pawnshop."
Cast Roundtime 3 Seconds.
You exclaim, "Oh! I forgot."
You hear the faint whisper of Khobra saying, "Juzt now."
You say, "First Sergeant arrested her. Then we went to find her. She was gone. First Sergeant said he never arrested her."
Nola furrows her brow.
Xorus chuckles.
You say, "And we found out Nazhor had someone mind controlled him and the pawnshop owner. Hence the line of questions."
You nod.
You say, "Tonight. First Sergeant ended up killing himself. Now we have a new first sergeant."
You wrinkle your nose.
You say, "Not any good, either, clearly."
Nola says, "That poor man."
You pause for a moment and wonder who else Nazhor might have compromised.
Nola shakes her head.
You say, "So let's see... He got to Mazorn. Penre. Cendadric. The First Sergeant. Duvainiel, clearly. Ilsola's sure incompetent. Not sure we aren't chasing our tails following HER around."
Nola asks, "Did anyone watch over the man who was being questioned? Penfold, Penzie, Penre?"
You ask, "Penre?"
Nola says, "I'm not good with names."
You ask, "What do you mean watch over him?"

[Editor's Note: I got disconnected here.]

[Cendadric's Collectibles - 16352]
An elegant, flower-patterned rug covers most of the floor, reaching almost all the way to the ivory silk-covered walls.  Hanging from the walls are exquisite antique paintings and weapons, and a bookshelf against one wall displays a collection of well-worn books.  Rosewood tables lined up in the center of the room display various weapons, armors, arcane items, and other goods.  You also see an agitated mountain spirit that is flying around, a ruffed greatfang and a carved rosewood arch.
Also here: Khobra, Nola (Cle), Vice Chancellor Xorus (Sor)
Obvious exits: none

You say, "As I was saying..."
Nola says, "It wouldn't be hard to run off once I dragged the body away to get help."
You ask, "What was I saying?"
You work your fingers under your death mask and scratch your head.
You exclaim, "Oh!"
You say, "I wonder who else he's gotten to."
You say, "Oh, right."
You ask, "And you had asked... Something about watching over Penre?"
You peer quizzically at Nola.
Nola nods.
You say, "I started to daydream a little about killing Nazor."
You flash a toothy grin.
Nola says, "He either ran off or got taken. When I saw him, he was just staring."
You nod at Nola.
You ponder.
Nola quietly says, "He could've been faking that."
You say, "Well, he certainly looked scruffy enough."
Nola says, "I know. That poor man."
You say, "He's probably used to running away."
Nola shakes her head.
Speaking in Elven, Khobra says something you don't understand.
Nola says, "I just heard rumors, wanted to see who they were about. I didn't expect all this."
You nod at Nola.
Xorus says, "I should be off."
Speaking in Elven to you, Khobra says something you don't understand.
You nod at Xorus.
You say, "Me too."
You say, "I'll probably remember more later."
You say, "Catch me then."
Xorus nods.
(Darcena yawns widely, her fangs glinting and the corner of her eyes crinkling, then shakes her head briskly.)
Xorus's eyes glaze over and he turns pale.  In the space between moments, his body grows more and more translucent until you realize he is no longer there!
You say, "I must go."
You hug Khobra, who wraps you in a warm embrace.
Speaking to you, Nola says, "Thank you."
Speaking to Nola, you say, "Good to see you."
You nod once.
Nola blushes a pleasant shade of deep rose.

Appearances

You see Drehod.
He appears to be a Human from Honneland.
He is very tall.  He appears to be elderly.  He has bright blue-green eyes and copper skin.  He has receding, curly grey-brown hair.  He has a square-jawed face, a flat nose and broad shoulders.  He has a slight dusting of gray beard along his strong jawline.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a black leather belt pouch, some black leather boots with deep brown laces, some sturdy canvas trousers, and a polished steel breastplate.

You see Nazhor.
He appears to be a Human.
He is average height.  He appears to be very young.  He has ale-brown eyes and alabaster skin.  He has a bald head.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a deep-cowled blood red cloak, a black leather pouch, some elegant ebony trousers, and a pair of black leather shoes.

You see Penre.
He appears to be a Human.
He is average height.  He appears to be past his prime.  He has cataract-marbled milky white eyes and sallow skin.  He has shoulder length, oily black hair which lies in limp clumps across his features.  He has a non-symmetrical face, a poorly-set broken nose and a heavy scar across his neckline.
He has an inked blood red droplet on his neck.
He is in good shape.
He is wearing a badly-faded black leather cloak, a desiccated black rose, a frayed hemp belt, a dilapidated sack, and some bedraggled trousers.

You see Khobra the Watcher.
She appears to be a Dark Elf.
She is average height.  She appears to be very young.  She has dark feather-lashed yellow-green eyes and ebon skin.  She has hip-length, blonde-highlighted platinum hair pulled back with a loosely-coiled copper serpent circlet framed by sprays of verlok feathers, leaving her side-swept bangs to brush across her temples.  She has a dual-horned gruesome vathor mask covering the upper half of her face and a thin, smooth scar running just underneath her left eye.  The strikingly smooth transitions between her otherwise angular features lend a distinctly patrician quality to her aspect.  A sliver of obsidian-flecked black diamond is positioned between her eyes, which casts a sparkling obsidian-hued sheen across her face.
She has a trio of scarlet despanal hoops dangling fiery feathers in the upper ridge of her left ear, and an intricately inked obsidian-scaled cobra encircling her left eye.
Scintillating emerald-colored ivy vines pour down from her shoulders.
She is in good shape.
Her hands are covered in a thin layer of bright red blood.
She is holding an enruned black ora longsword in her right hand and a flagon of blood red rum in her left hand.
She is wearing an intricate copper-scaled snake choker with golden amber eyes, a black ora medallion, a floor-length midnight black cloak, a coiled black diamond cobra relic, a deeply cowled floor-length ebon longcoat bound with an obsidian-scaled cobra, a half-laced vathorskin half-bodice, a silver-etched black ora armband, a cobra-shaped black diamond signet ring, a pair of ebon gloves, a waistchain of feather-shaped white and black diamonds, a hip-slung black ora scabbard, a despanal drake-clasped case suspended from thin jet and firestone chains, a form-fitted vathorskin loincloth, and some thigh-banded sheer stockings of webbed crimson silk under some calf-laced cobra skin boots lofted on thin black diamond heels.

You see Nola the Missionary.
She appears to be a Faendryl Dark Elf.
She appears to be young and untried.  She has almond-shaped hazel eyes and vibrant, dusky skin.  She has very long, silky anthracite black hair tucked neatly behind her ears.  She has a delicate face and a slightly crooked nose.
She has a tattooed symbol of Ivas on her ankle.
She is in good shape.
She is holding a lacquered spiralled faewood runestaff in her right hand.
She is wearing a braided silken ribbon choker, a string of pale green jade prayerbeads, a crimson and sable cloak, some fitted black leathers, a silvery belled bracelet, a stack of copper and mahogany bangles, a diaphanous crimson scarf, a small black oilcloth pouch tied with silver drawstrings, a silvery gauze skirt with faenor bells along the hem, and some flame-red satin dancing slippers.

You see Vice Chancellor Xorus Kul'shin the Elemental Herald.
He appears to be a Faendryl Dark Elf.
He is tall and has a gaunt frame.  He appears to be ancient.  He has brooding black eyes and dark skin.  He has shoulder length, flowing silver hair.  He has a gaunt face, a sharp nose and a spider-shaped birthmark on his wrist.
He is in good shape.
He is holding a warped black rowan runestaff with twisted stygian sigils in his right hand.
He is wearing a velvet-piped grey satin cravat, a silver-edged crimson silk scarf, an enruned fiery red longcoat, a six-fingered dark glaes hand set with amarathine silver-incised crystal talons, an ivory-striped black satin waistcoat, a slate grey silk shirt fastened with round onyx cabochon buttons, a reticulated silver bracelet, some luxurious ivory white gloves, an emerald-set black faenor ring, a dark glaes band, a blood red damask scabbard, a trio of plaited cream suede belts, a pair of loose stygian black leather trousers, and some polished black leather boots.