Koaratos 19-20, 5119

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the [[::The_TownCrier|TownCrier]]

Summary

Ready to perform the experiment, Thrayzar leads a group to the moon chamber at the top of Melgorehn's Reach by way of a purple portal provided by Pylasar. [[::Xorus_Kul'shin|Xorus]] draws a summoning circle for Thrayzar to sit in, centering the temporal fluctuations on him, and an array of glyphs to filter out the crowd, then infuses power from a core of plinite. As the experiment begins, the chamber darkens with shadows and the designs along the ceiling glow, seeping with ethereal mist that descends to the floor and swirls about.

Thrayzar relives the memory of working with Drangell decades ago in an attack on Raznel--who watches from the doorway of a cabin with a gnarled bone talisman in hand and an army of ghouls at her disposal. (Some of the ghouls manifest in the present day as well, in the moon chamber.) Though the ghouls mob Thrayzar and Drangell, Thrayzar manages to fire a hand crossbow and strike her in the throat. She stumbles, but cackles and chokes on a stream of maggots pouring from her mouth and snaps her talisman, releasing a yellow mist that seeps into Drangell and Thrayzar's wounded bodies.

A different memory comes into focus, heralded by the sound of a snapping twig. Thrayzar braces himself, remembering his blades in hand, and dodges the image of an ivory dagger with a thorn-carved handle. He takes the dagger and leaps to straddle and repeatedly stab an unseen foe. A little boy's scream is heard and Thrayzar turns and sends the dagger flying in that direction, but then winces and clenches his jaw.

Another memory, this time of Grishom Stone seeking Thrayzar's help tracking Mirayam. As he tracks, he meets Seomanthe and Greganth, who says he won't be taking Mirayam. Thrayzar says he won't, but Stone will come and send golems after them, so they need to hide her. Cerulean mein golems, giant alabaster constructs, and crimson mein golems manifest in the moon chamber in the present as well! After they clear out, Thrayzar screams and takes swings at a memory, but Grishom says his betrayal won't go unpunished.

The memory of Grishom says they found Chambell and they're nearing the [[::Wehnimer's_Landing|Landing]], asking what his new puppet will do. The images shift to a panicked woman speaking about Grishom before Thrayzar kills her.

Another memory, this time of fires raging through the Landing as trolls lay a siege with catapulted rocks and wooden towers, Drangell among them. Thrayzar rushes into the fray and the ethereal trolls fill the moon chamber in the present.

Another memory, this time of telling Walkar he'll enter [[::Turamzzyrian_Empire|imperial]] territory to find the golem before Elithain Cross can use her. Walkar says they need a new approach because Cross is different, but Thrayzar tells him not to do anything foolish or start a war.

Another memory, this time of Thrayzar finding the corpses of Koarites seemingly slain by the urnon golem--just in time for Imperial soldiers to show and think he's the killer. The soldiers rise up in the ethereal fog too.

Thrayzar, now alert in the present day again, says he has a sense of what they're doing and needs to find the locked doors of his memories. Though Magister [[::Raelee_Svala|Raelee]] had stepped away earlier in the night, he proceeds with Xorus as dark curtains form along the walls. Thrayzar pulls one aside, finding only a wall of bones. Another curtain reveals a wall of silk. A third curtain reveals a wall of hundreds of troll faces trying to break free.

Still another curtain reveals a white wall covered in blood. Thrayzar presses against it and the group hears the Alchemist Praxopius saying he's a perfect specimen. He performs the conditioning as Thrayzar resists, saying they could have gone with the second pair, but Thrayzar is worth the higher risk of "these." The memories and ethereal fog give way to White Sparrows.

Another curtain reveals a wall of sinew and shifting blood, as globules begin to slide down and soon attack. As they're repelled, the wall of blood peels apart to show a stone fortress and a crowd of terrified goblins and orcs who scream at the sight of the adventurers. Some immediately leap to attack, though Dergoatean, Leafiara, Claede, Sir Cryheart, Mayor Lylia, and Chamorr try stop the situation--but nothing can stop it, as Thrayzar screams and twitches over the slaughter of his tribe.

The desperate Thrayzar pulls at curtains and one falls to reveal a door of black, where a yellowed bone talisman hangs. He finally recovers his senses and says they're done and achieved their goal. Though he can't begin to imagine what Pylasar's mind holds, they know it can be successful. He wishes everyone luck next week.

Highlights

Cryheart says, "Imagine getting lost in one of Pylasar's thoughts."
Madmountan says, "It would be a purple wonderland."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth asks, "How have we been?  Up to any mischief?"
Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "Hmmmm, mischief is my middle name."
Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "Or at least I think it is? I don't exactly recall my middle name. So let's just say it's Mischief."
Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "Maylan Mischief Bumburner."

Hapenlok whispers to the group, "Wizards: spell me up?"
Hapenlok whispers to the group, "Yes, I'm aware of the irony of me asking for this."

Speaking softly to Zosopage, Balley says, "I am ok and will be ok and can take care of myself.  Even if I do see things every now and then."

Saraphenia exclaims, "So THIS is where you all hide from me!"
Speaking to Saraphenia, Leafiara explains, "It's a town of insomniacs, mostly."

Thrayzar leaps down off a rooftop.
Balley softly says, "The man of the hour."
Speaking to Balley, Leafiara says, "The mind of the hour."

[Prime]-GSIV:Cerridween: "When it comes to the phrase "It was a dark and stormy night" - I am fairly certain Kenstrom took it quite literally as the precursor for any good story."

Thrayzar says, "Please, join me."
[people joining]
Speaking to Cryheart, Lazaryth says, "Once they start leaving you for a younger man, it's all over."

Maylan says, "If we encounter any blue demons up there, I'm going to gut them."
Thrayzar looks at Bristenn's charger.
Speaking wryly to Maylan, Leafiara says, "He's in a cocoon now."
Speaking to Leafiara, Maylan says, "That is very creepy."
Speaking lightly to Thrayzar, Bristenn remarks, "He's a bit of a lazy thing."
Madmountan says, "I can't wait to meet Mothnay."
Cryheart says, "Sir Bristenn is staying put."
Roblar ominously says, "We may one day see his final form."
Speaking to Roblar, Lylia deadpans, "Rodnay, or Sir Bristenn?"

The purple speck begins to stretch and expand until it forms into a flickering purple portal.
Dergoatean just went through a flickering purple portal.
Land Pirate Maylan just went through a flickering purple portal.
Thrayzar's group just went through a flickering purple portal.
Dergoatean asks, "What took you all so long??"
Maylan says, "We've been here for ages."
Maylan says, "Waiting for you slow pokes."
Dergoatean says, "Maylan and I have been here since the Drakes."

Xorus glances at something behind an onyx altar.
>look behind altar
Behind the onyx altar:
Misc [1]: a plaque
>read plaq
In the Common language, it reads:
** Melgorehn's Reach, Designed by Bardon. **

Cruxophim calmly offers, "Whatever you need, Magister... Advisor."
Speaking amusedly to Xorus, Cruxophim ventures, "Can we... improvise?"
Speaking to Cruxophim, Raelee says, "You specifically?  No."

Pietra stares at a large ritual circle drawn in ebon-swirled blood.
Pietra stares at a summoning circle.
Pietra says, "Like last night with mothers, this time it's circles."

Thrayzar flickers for a moment.
Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan says, "Hey mister, you're flickering."
Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan says, "It's a little odd."
Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain says, "This is much less flickering than he was doing months ago."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "Then it is less odd, but it is still odd."
Speaking innocently to Maylan, Cruxophim reasons, "What isn't odd around here."
Speaking to Cruxophim, Maylan says, "A very good point."
Thrayzar flickers, but now his form freezes, as if half in the world around you, and half bleeding away into an ethereal form.  His features are frozen, but his eyes twitch back and forth rapidly.
Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "I think this qualifies as odd now."
Speaking to Dergoatean, Ysharra repeats, "Now?"
Speaking to Dergoatean, Kembal asks, "Is there ever anything that we do that doesn't qualify as odd?"
Speaking to Ysharra, Dergoatean says, "I was fine with all this a minute ago."
Speaking to Kembal, Dergoatean says, "I, for instance, am perfectly normal."
Saranja quietly mutters, "If everything is odd, then nothing is odd..."
Chamorr heartily says, "Dergoatean is normal, now that's odd."

The domed earthen enclosure of the chamber darkens, shadows bleeding over it like spilled ink.
Cruxophim makes a purring sound.
Speaking to Cruxophim, Zosopage says, "Relax, it's just shadows bleeding, not blood."
Speaking calmly to Zosopage, Cruxophim assures, "I know what shadows bleed."

From out of the fog, Drangell emerges, younger, in giant form, still ugly.  He arrogantly rests a greataxe on the back of his shoulder, and scars cover his arms and neck.  He smiles in your direction.  "Well, you goin' first, or me?"
Dergoatean says, "I preferred remembering him as a puddle of troll bits."

A shambling ancient ghoul just arrived!
Pietra says, "I hope Pylasar's mind is full of puppies."

Aeith says, "How do memories become real."
Speaking to Aeith, Claede says, "The substrate of this world is nothing but an ontological perspective."

Kipara hoarsely says, "Call me Kipara the ghoul tickler tonight."

Cryheart says, "Ancient ghouls...bad."
Cruxophim wryly quips, "I've already got a ghoulfriend."

Speaking to Cryheart, Hapenlok says, "I vaguely remember being attacked by those."
Hapenlok says, "They burned easily enough."
Lylia silkily says, "They all burn."

[Prime]-GSIV:Cerridween: "I love watching. I also love the absurdity of when I look at one of the trolls and the game is all nonchalant and says "You see a fairly typical ethereal troll." Yanno, like the regular ethereal trolls you see every day you silly adventurer."

Thrayzar reaches out for a dark curtain, pulling it away to reveal nothing behind it but a wall of bones.
Speaking to herself, Maylan says, "This man has a scary mind."
Speaking to Maylan, Evia says, "Or else he's in Crux's house."
Thrayzar steps further to the left of the chamber, pulling at another curtain.  A wall of silk exists. He touches it for a brief moment, and smiles, remembering something.
Chamorr heartily says, "I'll take box number two."

Thrayzar touches another curtain, this one larger.  He slowly begins to peel it aside and reveals a huge wall of writhing troll flesh and faces, where hundreds of brutish troll faces gnash with sharpened teeth and glare with bulging eyes.  The mouths along the grotesque wall seem to be trying to gnaw on their own faces, trying to break free, trying to strike out.  Thrayzar releases the curtain and allows it to fall back in place.
Dergoatean says, "Eww."
Leafiara curiously says, "I kinda wanted to see more of that one, I'll admit."
Speaking to Leafiara, Dergoatean says, "Ew."
Speaking frankly to Dergoatean, Leafiara says, "Hey, I still haven't gotten to fight a behemoth yet, so I need something very ugly to make up for it."

Hapenlok says, "You lot were so offended by what [Praxopius] did, and you know what? I would have done the same damn thing."
Speaking wryly to Hapenlok, Leafiara says, "We know."
Hapenlok says, "And not told any of you, either."
Speaking wryly to Hapenlok, Leafiara repeats, "Yeah, we know."
Speaking lightly to Hapenlok, Leafiara says, "That's how we know he was crazy."

Xorus distantly says, "These are fluctuations of time from agitating the Reach, the temporary instabilities spill them into our reality." 
Speaking to Xorus, Ysharra says, "I figured you'd say something like that."
Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "Incomprehensible and right-sounding."

A globule of blood slowly slides down the wall.
Cruxophim wryly warns, "Get ready."
Speaking to Cruxophim, Evia says, "That does not mean snack time."

Lazaryth says, "I've plunged my sword into some strange things in my life, but this takes the cake."
Speaking wryly to Lazaryth, Cruxophim wonders, "Is that a euphemism?"

Chamorr heartily says, "That's his family."
Dergoatean says, "Damn it, guys."
Dergoatean says, "You took out every single one.  Again."
Chamorr heartily says, "Last time we left the baker."

Log

Awaiting Thrayzar

[Town Square Central]

This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see some stone benches with some stuff on it and an herbal remedy donation bin.

Also here: Greycrown, Lokirro, Severine, Lord Lucktar, Arbiter Velfi, Aeith, Chaoswynd, Great Lady Saraphenia, Event Planner Leafiara, Claudaro, Razanetika, Land Pirate Maylan who is riding a chunky apricot-hued cob, Shinann, Zosopage, Cirkas, Zaneon who is sitting, Dame Evia, Relic Hunter Madmountan, Aeith, Celestialbane who is sitting, Sir Cryheart, Haelan, Lyrna, Calyvorra who is kneeling, Alisette, Lord Teryval who is sitting, Sofal, Gypsy Scribe Balley, Falvicar, Soneiken, Lady Cerridween, Master Eledryn

A town militiaman walks in and salutes Shinann. "Captain, Thrayzar will be along shortly." He marches off.

Cryheart asks, "Shall we head to outside Moot Hall?"

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara exclaims, "Excitin' times!"

Balley softly says, "This will be interesting."

Alisette excitedly exclaims, "Oh, Thrayzar!"

Saraphenia says, "Someone clue me in here. I have no idea what's going on."

Shinann says, "Probably."

Cryheart says, "Moving folks to Moot."

Balley softly says, "We get to go into his head."

Leafiara mischievously says, "Going probing into memories to see what madness happens."

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[Town Square, East]

Here in the center of a broad plaza near the commercial area of the bazaar stands the impressive facade of the slate-roofed Moot Hall, where the citizens of Wehnimer's Landing hold various official, religious and social functions. Facing the square are some of the town's more prosperous shops, still doing business with the many customers who still frequent the streets at night. You also see a polished bleakstone statue, a bone-framed bulletin board and a large purple wooden barrel.

Also here: Stormyrain, Tsarok, Timothe, Great Lord Lieo, Yakushi, Grand Lord Dalabrac, Zaneon, Nazriel, Sir Ruffelin, Haelan, Dergoatean, Pietra, Thrayzar, Mange, Lord Chamorr, Kembal, Goldstr, Maiden Tyrrah, Sir Bristenn who is riding a well-muscled dun charger, Melikor, High Lady Saranja, Kipara, Great Lady Saraphenia, Adyon, Krystick, Lord Thrassus, Cirkas, Mayor Lylia, Lord Zolis, Vice Chancellor Xorus, Tolida, Ysharra, Lazaryth, Event Planner Leafiara, Sofal, Aeith, Chaoswynd, Goldtree, Hapenlok, Razanetika, Land Pirate Maylan, Zosopage, Dame Evia, Relic Hunter Madmountan, Lyrna, Alisette, Gypsy Scribe Balley, Falvicar, Lady Cerridween, Sir Cryheart, Shinann, Puptilian

Balley softly says, "Or something like that."

Chaoswynd just nudged Puptilian.

Speaking amusedly to Puptilian, Chaoswynd says, "One side, weed mage."

Speaking to Chaoswynd, Puptilian says, "Not my fault you are slow."

Hapenlok steeples his fingers together as he glances at Leafiara.

Speaking sagely to Hapenlok, Leafiara says, "Exciting times."

Speaking delightedly to Maylan, Lazaryth exclaims, "Maylan! My favorite!"

Hapenlok asks, "...sure why not?"

Cerridween begins a careful examination of Hapenlok -- she takes his pulse, checks his temperature, and checks for broken bones or any other ailments.

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan exclaims, "Ahoy!"

Speaking to Cerridween, Leafiara explains, "Don't 'fix' him, it's, uh--precautionary."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Cerridween says, "I heard stories and rumors but I didn't think them true."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Goldtree asks, "Any word from Thrayzar yet?"

Hapenlok asks, "...which rumors?"

Cryheart says, "Ye is supposed to arrive soon."

Speaking to Goldtree, Leafiara says, "Said he'll be along soon."

Lyrna says, "One of the town guard said he'd be along soon."

Balley softly says, "I am not sure I am still waiting to see Tolida."

Ysharra asks, "Are we all clumping around Shiny again?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Cerridween says, "I would never heal someone uninterested in it. Still pains me to see him like this."

Hapenlok says, "It's an incredibly bad idea that I'm going along with this."

Goldtree quietly says, "We'll see if this is going to work..."

Hapenlok says, "But I'm going."

Speaking to Ysharra, Maylan exclaims, "Yarp!"

Balley softly says, "I feel fine however."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth asks, "How have we been? Up to any mischief?"

Speaking quietly to Shinann, Goldtree says, "Evening, Captain."

Speaking to Lyrna, Lylia says, "I owe you an apology for my hasty words last night."

Hapenlok says, "...I need to see this."

Cryheart says, "Imagine getting lost in one of Pylasar's thoughts."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "Hmmmm, mischief is my middle name."

Speaking to Cryheart, Hapenlok says, "Can't be any worse than diving into my mind."

Lyrna says, "Accepted. Thank you."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "Or at least I think it is? I don't exactly recall my middle name. So let's just say it's Mischief."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Puptilian asks, "What you do this time?"

Cryheart says, "Most likely."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Goldtree says, "Though to be fair, 'lost' is probably the natural state of things in there."

Madmountan says, "It would be a purple wonderland."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "Maylan Mischief Bumburner."

Balley softly says, "A mind is an interesting thing to see."

Speaking to Puptilian, Hapenlok asks, "Since I lit everyone on fire here?"

Saraphenia exclaims, "Why'd you all leave me?!"

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "It's a good one."

Lyrna exclaims, "Join Cryheart, Phenia!"

Cryheart says, "We are going on an adventure."

Speaking to Puptilian, Hapenlok says, "Just have uncontrollable seizures every fifteen minutes."

Cerridween says, "Diving into another's mind is quite the experience even in the most controlled of times."

Vinheim asks, "Where ya'll headed?"

Lazaryth says, "If you can't beat him, join him."

Speaking to Vinheim, Lazaryth says, "Out to a show."

Cryheart says, "Into the mind of a mage it seems."

Maylan says, "To meet with an orc man."

Hapenlok whispers to the group, "Wizards: spell me up?"

Evia says, "Not even sure where we are actually headed."

Cryheart asks, "No pun intended?"

Hapenlok whispers to the group, "Yes, I'm aware of the irony of me asking for this."

Speaking to Evia, Leafiara says, "The Plinite Hollows, unless the plan's changed."

Speaking to Leafiara, Evia asks, "Hmm...what are Plinite Hollows?"

Hapenlok says, "Nope. I have one."

Speaking to Ysharra, Lazaryth asks, "Sorry, did you want to do that?"

Speaking to Evia, Leafiara says, "The earth tunnels Dennet dug below Melgorehn's Reach."

Evia says, "Aah."

Balley softly says, "Alis stay behind your father."

Balley softly says, "He will protect you."

Balley softly says, "If needed."

Speaking to Falvicar, Hapenlok says, "Granted, I can barely hold the blade with these shaking hands."

Speaking defiantly to Balley, Alisette says, "I will, but I am not letting anyone hit you tonight."

Leafiara musingly says, "Hmm, no Pukk."

Leafiara recites:

"Join Cryheart!"

Speaking to an intaglio onyx raffle table with ivory column legs, Evia says, "No."

Lazaryth adjusts Ysharra's fur-trimmed gambeson, improving its ability to support the weight of her gear.

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "So generous. Thank you."

Cryheart says, "We most likely shall be joing Thrayzar perhaps."

Lazaryth says, "You're welcome."

Balley softly says, "I will be ok my dear."

Ysharra asks, "Anyone need Mobility?"

Lazaryth calls, "It's an open offer."

Speaking tentatively to Cryheart, Leafiara says, "I don't know how close we'll be able to stay to him during this... experiment."

Speaking to Balley, Zosopage says, "No pressure."

Speaking quietly to Ysharra, Saranja says, "Aye."

Speaking to Melikor, Ysharra asks, "When'd you get here?"

Cryheart says, "Ok."

Bristenn slowly observes, ".. indeed."

Speaking to Ysharra, Melikor says, "I've been here the whole time."

Cryheart says, "Will be quite the adventure nonetheless."

Speaking smoothly to Bristenn, Lylia says, "Ah, welcome. I am sorry you missed my discussion on demonic means of divination."

Speaking softly to Zosopage, Balley says, "I am ok and will be ok and can take care of myself. Even if I do see things every now and then."

Bristenn dryly remarks, "I suppose I'm sorry as well."

Saraphenia exclaims, "So THIS is where you all hide from me!"

A grey-cloaked figure moves along some nearby rooftops.

Speaking to Saraphenia, Leafiara explains, "It's a town of insomniacs, mostly."

Leafiara pleasedly says, "Ah, here he comes."

Bristenn simply comments, "Your orc approaches."

Lazaryth gazes in amusement at a polished bleakstone statue.

Thrassus asks, "Why can't anyone just use the streets like a normal person?"

Bristenn offhandedly muses, "Well, once-man-now-orc. Good sort."

Speaking coyly to Thrassus, Leafiara says, "Boring."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "It's a strange gift, I'll give you that."

Bristenn adds, "Been through quite the ringer."

Saraphenia exclaims, "I'm so confused now!"

Cryheart asks, "Aye?"

Goldtree quietly says, "He's a defender of the Landing, that's for sure."

Speaking to Bristenn, Ysharra says, "He has. I am sure I would not bear up half so well."

Chamorr heartily says, "Make sure weapons is blessed."

Saraphenia exclaims, "Someone clue me in here!"

To the Reach

'Thrayzar leaps down off a rooftop.

Speaking to Cryheart, Dergoatean says, "The petting zoo is in town."

Speaking to Goldtree, Hapenlok says, "And to think, the first time I met him, I tried to kill him."

Hapenlok says, "That was so many years ago."

Balley softly says, "The man of the hour."

Cryheart says, "Evening Thrayzar."

Puptilian says, "Marshal."

Speaking quietly to Hapenlok, Goldtree says, "That's a few of your friends."

Speaking to Balley, Leafiara says, "The mind of the hour."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "You are most impressive. I am not sure I could make that jump."

Lyrna says, "Good evening."

Speaking heartily to Dergoatean, Maylan greets, "Future ghost friend."

Thrayzar says, "Probably not."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Goldstr says, "Evenin Marshall."

Thrayzar winks at Ysharra.

Speaking heartily to Saraphenia, Chamorr says, "We are jumpin into an orc's head."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Alisette says, "Evenin' sir."

Speaking to Ysharra, Pietra says, "Not in that gown, at least."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "I might try sometime, when we aren't needed elsewhere."

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "Tiiiime... is on our side."

Speaking to Goldtree, Hapenlok says, "Rather glad I didn't suceed in this cae, though."

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "Yes, it is."

Speaking to Pietra, Ysharra says, "Appearances are deceiving."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Saraphenia exclaims, "You're an orc!"

Speaking heartily to Thrayzar, Chamorr says, "Evenin."

Speaking quietly to Hapenlok, Goldtree says, "All of us are glad about that."

Thrayzar says, "Evening."

Speaking to Leafiara, Saraphenia whispers aloud, "He's an orc!"

Thrayzar gazes up into the heavens.

Speaking amusedly to Saraphenia, Leafiara whispers aloud, "We know."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Lylia says, "You still feel well enough to venture this experiment, I hope."

Thrayzar sighs.

Thrayzar says, "Well enough."

Thrayzar says, "We're running out of time."

Thrayzar looks over at Shinann and shakes his head. [assumed whisper exchange]

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree asks, "Have you spoken to Pylasar since we came up with this plan?"

Thrayzar nods at Goldtree.

Lyrna asks, "In what way? Has not the witch been around for a while? Has not the plotting been... extensive?"

Lylia replies, "Good. You know your strength better than we; I shall take you at your word on that. And thank you. I hope to give you some respite from your own temporal woes."

Thrayzar says, "He warned against being careful, but he was okay with it, yesterday, and tomorrow."

Dergoatean asks, "Anyone catch me up on exactly why we're going into Thrayzar's head?"

Leafiara amicably says, "I agree, throwing caution to the wind is best."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree says, "That's surprisingly coherent for him."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Pietra asks, "Fun times?"

Cryheart says, "Pylasar's head."

Thrayzar says, "Please, join me."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Evia says, "I have no real idea."

[people joining]

Speaking to Dergoatean, Ysharra says, "He's our guinea orc."

Speaking to Evia, Dergoatean says, "Flax, I figure."

Lyrna says, "To see if it's a valid method for getting Pylasar's memorires."

Speaking to Cryheart, Lazaryth says, "Once they start leaving you for a younger man, it's all over."

Speaking to Lyrna, Dergoatean says, "I see. Preliminary testing."

Saraphenia says, "I hope I know what I'm doing.."

Maylan says, "Better him than me."

Xorus says, "This is a proof of concept for making the same attempt on Pylasar."

Bristenn slowly relents, "I believe I'll remain in your settlement for this mission, should something go awry."

Ysharra asks, "Any more news about the crops...?"

Speaking to Dergoatean, Puptilian says, "A test before we go into Pylasar's head. Plus we may learn something of Raznel from Thrayzar."

Lyrna says, "That's my understanding."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Hapenlok says, "Well, it's going to be an interesting trip, so to speak."

Kembal asks, "Wait, so the idea is to test this so we jump into Pylasar's head later?"

Kipara hoarsely says, "Goin on a trip."

Speaking lightly to Bristenn, Leafiara asks, "Oh, what could possibly go wrong?"

Speaking to Lylia, Bristenn grouses, "That is, if you'll allow imperial forces a bit of leeway on that, good mayor?"

Lylia says, "A twofold reason. One is to understand the process as we shall use it for Pylasar. The other, I hope, is to clear some of Thrayzar's own ...difficulties."

Speaking to Kembal, Leafiara affirms, "Yup!"

Speaking to himself, Hapenlok murmurs, "Quite enough of that."

Dergoatean says, "Got it. Hack and slash away the bad brains."

Speaking to Bristenn, Lylia says, "Yes. And as a matter of fact, I would like to speak to you on that."

Chamorr heartily says, "Wait."

Lyrna quietly says, "And hopefully not awaken any new ones."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "That's what healers do, aye."

Cryheart says, "Oops."

Speaking to Bristenn, Lylia promises, "Later."

Leafiara musingly says, "Oh, no Magister. She would have answered -exactly- what could possibly go wrong."

Chamorr heartily says, "If this is just a test, why everyone goin."

Saraphenia says, "I'll need this, won't I.."

Saraphenia taps a sonic battle axe, which is in her right hand.

Speaking to Chamorr, Dergoatean says, "Because we brought popcorn."

Maylan says, "Cut out the bad stuff, put in the good stuff. It's rather simple."

Cryheart says, "Join Thrayzar."

Chamorr heartily says, "Use him first."

Cryheart says, "Join Thrayzar."

Haelan says, "I'm gathering this isn't safe for the lesser trained."

Bristenn briskly offers, "Fair travels, then, and fairer luck."

Speaking softly to Saranja, Razanetika asks, "Aunty are you joining us?"

Speaking musingly to Haelan, Leafiara says, "Group of this size, should be safe enough."

Speaking to Haelan, Hapenlok says, "Nothing's safe for anyone. Cmon along. It'll be educational."

Speaking to Haelan, Dergoatean says, "Probably not or the highly trained, either, if that's any consolation."

Thrayzar snaps smartly to attention!

Speaking to Lazaryth, Melikor asks, "Who are you protecting tonight?"

Thrayzar turns toward Stormyrain and renders a sharp hand salute.

Saraphenia asks, "Who are we considering lesser trained?"

Speaking to Haelan, Lylia says, "We are all seeing this as a learning experience. You have as much knowledge as I on this matter, no doubt."

Adyon says, "More fun than killing hooded figures."

Maylan says, "It's good we've decided to practice. Going into Pylasar's head sounds like a recipe for insanity."

Maylan exclaims, "His memories will be of the future!"

Speaking to Bristenn, Ysharra says, "Thank you for taking watch."

Speaking to Maylan, Pietra exclaims, "I can't wait!"

Speaking to Lylia, Haelan says, "If that knowledge is few, then yes."

Hapenlok says, "I burned out my nervous system in an effort to keep from killing you all with my vast talents in pyromancy."

Thrayzar asks, "Are we ready to move? Everyone on me?"

Cryheart asks, "Oh..we practicing on the Marshal's head?"

Balley softly says, "That tickled." [the scarab moving inside her]

Leafiara says, "Last time we were down in the Plinite Hollows, we traveled back to the Undead War. I don't -think- this'll be quite that crazy, but one never knows."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan asks, "Can I have a piggy back ride?"

The voice of Claudaro asks, "Maybe the person infected with witch magic shouldn't go? Or does that make too much sense?"

Cryheart says, "As ready as we can be."

Maylan says, "I don't feel like walking."

Hapenlok says, "I'm now resorting to using a blade, which I haven't done in years."

Cryheart says, "Always wondered what orcs thought."

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia says something you don't understand.

Speaking heartily to Cryheart, Chamorr asks, "Really?"

Cryheart says, "Curious."

Speaking in Faendryl, Dergoatean says something you don't understand.

Hapenlok says, "Maybe I shouldn't."

Falvicar whispers something to Cryheart.

Hapenlok says, "But that's for the Marshal to decide. Not the likes of you, shadow man."

Xorus says, "The plinite I am holding is not as powerful as the cache of the Grand Magister."

Speaking heartily to Cryheart, Chamorr says, "Howdy spurs."

The voice of Claudaro says, "Wasn't talking about you, but yeah, you too now that you speak up."

You hear an unpleasantly wet slurp and faint crunching in the shadows.

Thrayzar says, "I believe Pylasar suggested the top of the Reach."

Thrayzar says, "Not below."

Maylan whines, "I hate that place."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Hapenlok asks, "Rodnay land?"

Speaking in Faendryl, Dergoatean says something you don't understand.

Cryheart says, "Oy."

Leafiara musingly says, "Works for me too."

Speaking in Faendryl, Dergoatean says something you don't understand.

Saraphenia says, "Someone's being eaten."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "Closest to the altar, I would imagine."

Dergoatean says, "Oh no. I'll have to go unload about 200 things to get in."

Lyrna asks, "Altar?"

Dergoatean says, "I'll meet you all there."

Thrayzar says, "He'll provide a way."

Xorus says, "Very well."

Berost deeply asks, "Who is leading the rabble?"

Speaking to Lyrna, Ysharra says, "Where the moons pour their light in."

Thrayzar says, "He's working on a portal now."

Speaking to Berost, Stormyrain says, "The Orc."

Saraphenia asks, "Rabble?"

Thrayzar says, "We'll break that lift."

Evia says, "That is good."

Thrayzar chuckles.

Speaking simply to Bristenn, Lylia says, "Thank you."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Dergoatean asks, "A portal, you say? So I can keep more items on me than your standard Ebon Gate merchant?"

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "That's good to hear. I think we'd do more than break it, we'd send it to its doom and ours."

Thrayzar smirks at Dergoatean.

Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "It's a sort of... it's not Ronan's shrine, exactly, but the altar is a place where his presence can be felt sometimes. Not that I know if we'll be going there."

[Thrayzar goes north, then back south]

Ysharra whispers something to Dergoatean.

Maylan says, "If we encounter any blue demons up there, I'm going to gut them."

Thrayzar looks at Bristenn's charger.

Speaking wryly to Maylan, Leafiara says, "He's in a cocoon now."

Speaking to Maylan, Haelan says, "I'll stay near you then."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maylan says, "That is very creepy."

Speaking lightly to Thrayzar, Bristenn remarks, "He's a bit of a lazy thing."

Thrayzar nods.

Madmountan says, "I can't wait to meet Mothnay."

Zosopage asks, "That gonna fit in your head?"

[traveling for real]

Cryheart says, "Sir Bristenn is staying put."

Roblar ominously says, "We may one day see his final form."

Speaking wistfully to Roblar, Leafiara says, "Can't wait."

Speaking to Roblar, Lylia deadpans, "Rodnay, or Sir Bristenn?"

Roblar deeply concludes, "A giantman."

Chamorr heartily says, "I hope he washed his ears."

[Melgorehn's Reach, The Shadow]

You are in a grassy area which is presently darkened by the shadow of a peculiar mountain jutting from the ground. It is unusual in the fact that no other mountains exist in this area, and you can remember a time when there certainly wasn't one here. You also see a broad path.

Also here: Razanetika, Land Pirate Maylan, Zosopage, Dame Evia, Relic Hunter Madmountan, Lyrna, Alisette, Gypsy Scribe Balley, Falvicar, Lady Cerridween, Sir Cryheart, Shinann, Puptilian, Hapenlok, Goldtree, Chaoswynd, Aeith, Sofal, Ysharra, Tolida, Vice Chancellor Xorus, Lord Zolis, Mayor Lylia, Cirkas, Lord Thrassus, Krystick, Adyon, Great Lady Saraphenia, Kipara, Melikor, Maiden Tyrrah, Goldstr, Kembal, Lord Chamorr, Mange, Pietra, Haelan, Sir Ruffelin, Grand Lord Dalabrac, Yakushi, Timothe, Tsarok, Stormyrain, Event Planner Leafiara, Commander Roblar, Avalera, Magister Raelee, High Lady Saranja, Berost, Claede, Dergoatean, Lazaryth, Thrayzar

Thrayzar nods.

Ysharra says, "I hope he will be incredibly bored and nothing eventful happens while we are gone."

Tyrrah whispers something to Cryheart.

A speck of purple light forms in the air and begins to spin, round and round and round.

Lazaryth says, "I don't know where we're going, but I trust that it's going to be more interesting than--"

Madmountan says, "Fancy."

Cryheart says, "Interesting."

Goldtree quietly says, "Ah, a lift."

The purple speck begins to stretch and expand until it forms into a flickering purple portal.

Dergoatean just went through a flickering purple portal.

Roblar deeply exclaims, "It's a purple demon, shoot it down!"

Land Pirate Maylan just went through a flickering purple portal.

Thrayzar's group just went through a flickering purple portal.

[Melgorehn's Reach, Moon Chamber]

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

Dergoatean asks, "What took you all so long??"

Maylan says, "We've been here for ages."

Maylan says, "Waiting for you slow pokes."

Dergoatean says, "Maylan and I have been here since the Drakes."

Evia says, "Smoooth."

Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "Ahhh, it is the altar."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "Keep drinking."

Ysharra says, "Sooner or later his penchant for that color is going to go beyond magic and trash barrels."

Xorus glances at something behind an onyx altar.

Madmountan says, "Actually, Goat might have a good question. Never know with Pylasar. Coulda been a time portal too."

>look behind altar

Behind the onyx altar:

Misc [1]: a plaque

Speaking to Ysharra, Hapenlok says, "Maybe it already has."

>read plaq

In the Common language, it reads:

- Melgorehn's Reach, Designed by Bardon. **

Thrayzar disbands his group.

Cerridween wonderingly says, "Been years since I've step foot in this magical place."

Speaking to Ysharra, Hapenlok says, "Time has no meaning, you know."

The Plan

Speaking quietly to Xorus, Raelee asks, "You have what you require, yes?"

Dalabrac says, "Please not the tunnels."

Xorus nods at Raelee.

Thrayzar sits down.

Thrayzar asks, "Explain the plan?"

Speaking to Hapenlok, Dergoatean says, "It's all in the mind, you know."

Roblar deeply says, "Dis da way to travel."

Thrayzar peers quizzically at Xorus.

Thrayzar peers quizzically at Raelee.

[people join Cryheart]

Deep in the shadows, you think you see movement: something like a thousand snakes all swarming around each other. By the time you've focused to get a closer look, they are gone.

Cruxophim suddenly fades into view.

(OOC) Goldtree's player whispers to the group, ""Joins Cryheart" Ahhhhhh much better."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok says, "Don't you disappear, I need you."

Speaking to Cryheart, Zosopage says, "Don't get us lost in there."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "That was most delicious, mister."

(OOC) Pietra's player whispers to the group, "One with the Cryblob!"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok says, "Later."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Hapenlok says, "You, too."

Speaking casually to Hapenlok, Cruxophim muses, "Sure."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "I'm only sorry I don't have another for you."

Dergoatean asks, "Anyone else seeing snakes and all that?"

Alisette says, "Yes."

Speaking amusedly to Dergoatean, Leafiara says, "That's just Crux."

Razanetika softly says, "Aye, something is moving in the shadows."

Speaking distractedly to Dergoatean, Stormyrain offers, "It was Crux in the shadows."

Speaking wryly to Leafiara, Cruxophim teases, "I thought he knew this by now."

Xorus uses his translucent chalk to outline a large circle upon the floor.

Cryheart says, "Ahhh...hello Crux."

Xorus studies a page of his leather book for a long moment before drawing four runes around the edges of a summoning circle and a solitary rune at its center with some waxy translucent chalk.

Xorus put a dark leather book in his xenium-threaded backpack.

Xorus put some waxy translucent chalk in his xenium-threaded backpack.

Xorus removes an elementally churning core from in his black hood.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok says, "Remember that problem I had? It's happening again. And this time, I need for it to not happen."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok says, "...but later on that."

Speaking thoughtfully to Hapenlok, Cruxophim notes, "I see."

Thrayzar holds up a hand, calling for silence.

Speaking to Lyrna, Ysharra says, "That altar, by the by."

Thrayzar peers quizzically at Xorus.

Thrayzar peers quizzically at Raelee.

Xorus says, "I would have you stand in this circle to center the temporal fluctuation on yourself, and we should draw an array for the crowd to filter them out."

Cruxophim calmly offers, "Whatever you need, Magister... Advisor."

Speaking amusedly to Xorus, Cruxophim ventures, "Can we... improvise?"

Thrayzar stands up.

Xorus removes some waxy translucent chalk from in his xenium-threaded backpack.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Raelee says, "You specifically? No."

Speaking quietly to Xorus, Hapenlok whispers aloud, "I may have a bit of problem doing that."

Thrayzar stands in front of a summoning circle.

Thrayzar asks, "And...what can we expect?"

(Xorus begins drawing on the floor etching glyphs to contain the crowd away from the summoning circle.)

Speaking to Thrayzar, Raelee says, "This is an experiment. All expectations are..."

Xorus says, "I will chant and slowly infuse power from this core of plinite to tickle the dragon's tail."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Raelee says, "Well, we will see."

Speaking to Lylia, Dergoatean says, "I never realized we had crowd control runes at our disposal."

Thrayzar lowers to the ground, sitting in the circle drawn for him. He watches the crowd, waiting.

Thrayzar sits down.

Speaking to Lylia, Dergoatean exclaims, "Suppose I'll mark these ones down!"

Xorus says, "In theory it should agitate temporal fluctuations and we might see manifest images from other points of your history."

Thrayzar flickers for a moment.

Pietra stares at a large ritual circle drawn in ebon-swirled blood.

Speaking quietly to Dergoatean, Lylia explains, "This is something similar to what was done with Dame Aiska during the ceremony atop the Colossus."

Pietra stares at a summoning circle.

Hapenlok whispers something to Lylia.

Pietra says, "Like last night with mothers, this time it's circles."

Thrayzar asks, "Have you begun?"

Lyrna says, "The flickering... that was..."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree says, "You're flickering..."

Attack on Raznel

Xorus says, "I am ready."

Speaking to Lylia, Dergoatean says, "You might have to catch me up on that one later. But I do wonder what ever become of Aiska."

Speaking absently to Lylia, Cruxophim agrees, "It is remarkably similar, in some ways."

Thrayzar nods.

Thrayzar slowly empties his lungs.

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Speaking calmly to Dergoatean, Cruxophim explains, "We drew some of the shadows out of her."

(Xorus waves his hands over the elemental churning core in mystical gestures.)

Speaking to Cruxophim, Dergoatean says, "And I suppose you kept them as pets."

Speaking whimsically to Dergoatean, Cruxophim corrects, "Or Shadows, if you prefer."

Thrayzar flickers for a moment.

Goldtree quietly suggests, "Try clearing your mind, then thinking on the single memory, like we discussed."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan says, "Hey mister, you're flickering."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan says, "It's a little odd."

Cerridween softly says, "I have so many questions about the ritual and yet know this is hardly the time."

Thrayzar nods at Goldtree.

Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain says, "This is much less flickering than he was doing months ago."

Dalabrac says, "Why is he flickering."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "Then it is less odd, but it is still odd."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree says, "Let all go quiet and still, like a pond in a forest clearing, then bring back that memory. See it in the smooth surface of that forest pond."

Thrayzar slowly empties his lungs.

Speaking innocently to Maylan, Cruxophim reasons, "What isn't odd around here."

Thrayzar says, "I feel nothing."

Thrayzar says, "I am not sure if this is ev....."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Pietra whispers something to Tsarok.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Maylan says, "A very good point."

Goldtree quietly says, "Something's changed in him."

Thrayzar flickers, but now his form freezes, as if half in the world around you, and half bleeding away into an ethereal form. His features are frozen, but his eyes twitch back and forth rapidly.

Maylan asks, "Is that supposed to happen?"

Goldtree quietly says, "He is bridging the gap."

Balley softly says, "Interesting."

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "I think this qualifies as odd now."

Xorus closes his eyes for a moment.

Haelan asks, "What's happening to the orc lad?"

Xorus mutters under his breath.

Speaking to Dergoatean, Ysharra repeats, "Now?"

Speaking to Dergoatean, Kembal asks, "Is there ever anything that we do that doesn't qualify as odd?"

Speaking to Ysharra, Dergoatean says, "I was fine with all this a minute ago."

Hapenlok says, "J-j-just wait, and watch."

Maylan says, "Someone poke him with a stick, perhaps."

Speaking to Kembal, Dergoatean says, "I, for instance, am perfectly normal."

Saranja quietly mutters, "If everything is odd, then nothing is odd..."

Roblar whispers something to Tsarok.

The domed earthen enclosure of the chamber darkens, shadows bleeding over it like spilled ink.

Speaking to Dergoatean, Kembal says, "I feel like questioning this, but now's not the time."

Cruxophim makes a purring sound.

Chamorr heartily says, "Dergoatean is normal, now that's odd."

Chamorr heartily says, "Now."

Maylan whines, "I don't like that."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Zosopage says, "Relax, it's just shadows bleeding, not blood."

Thrassus says, "Most interesting."

Speaking calmly to Zosopage, Cruxophim assures, "I know what shadows bleed."

The gothic designs along the vaulted ceiling seem to glow and almost come to life, seeping with ethereal mist that descends to the smooth floor and swirls about, many pockets of the fog trying to rise and take form.

Goldtree quietly says, "His memories....are taking shape."

Speaking quietly to Cruxophim, Saranja asks, "Any blood fruit?"

Goldtree quietly says, "Ware the forms..."

Cruxophim takes a bite of his black apple.

As Cruxophim consumes his apple, an expression of delighted euphoria settles across his features. He makes a mess of his meal, splattering thick blood all over his face.

Leafiara blithely says, "Oh, I like it."

Cruxophim offers Saranja a glistening black apple.

'(Xorus tightens his grip on the elemental core and focuses with low muttering chants.)

Goldtree quietly says, "The mind does strange things when given leeway..."

Goldstr asks, "Ghosts?"

Saranja accepts Cruxophim's black apple.

Hapenlok shakily asks, "Positively ethereal, isn't it?"

(Dergoatean raises one foot, then the other, in a futile attempt to stay clear of the ethereal mist.)

Maylan says, "We are the ghosts. These must be the unghosts."

Saranja grins maniacally!

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "If we are the timeghosts..."

Saranja takes a bite of her black apple.

(Roblar subtly pushes Dergoatean toward the mist.)

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "They are the spaceghosts."

Speaking to Roblar, Dergoatean exclaims, "Ey!"

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "I wonder what happens when a timeghost meets a spaceghost."

From out of the fog, Drangell emerges, younger, in giant form, still ugly. He arrogantly rests a greataxe on the back of his shoulder, and scars cover his arms and neck. He smiles in your direction. "Well, you goin' first, or me?"

Hapenlok mutters, "Bastard."

Puptilian says, "Oh the attack on Raznel."

Goldtree quietly says, "From his past..."

Puptilian says, "When both of them were cursed."

Leafiara says, "Ol' deader himself..."

Goldtree quietly says, "Let him rot in his casket."

Dergoatean says, "I preferred remembering him as a puddle of troll bits."

Chamorr heartily asks, "Can we whack him?"

Speaking to Goldtree, you say, "Not enough of him left for--"

Leafiara points at Dergoatean.

Speaking quietly to Lyrna, Saranja says, "Dark and light war in us all, love..."

Speaking to Chamorr, Maylan exclaims, "We could sure try!"

Goldtree quietly says, "You'd be surprised how often that happens."

Speaking to Xorus, Goldstr asks, "Dis be wha was wanted?"

Cruxophim put a handful of pus-yellow maggots on an onyx altar.

Xorus distantly says, "Yes..."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Stormyrain snaps, "Must you?"

Speaking indifferently to Stormyrain, Cruxophim retorts, "Must you?"

Stormyrain darkly mutters, "Damned bats."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Speaking gently to Stormyrain, Cruxophim mouths, "Levity."

Thrayzar looks down, then kneels, bringing his hands to what appears to be water, before dipping his palms into it and cupping a drink. He looks down at the water, and for a brief moment Thrayzar's visage changes drastically, shifting to that of a human, with dark brownish-black hair with light brown eyes. Scruff stretches across his chiseled jawline and he seems to mutter something unheard.

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Leafiara remarks, "Not too bad."

Speaking softly to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "It's working."

Goldstr exclaims, "Wow! His real self!"

Thrayzar quietly says, "Yes. I will go first. You will know my signal. As always."

Cryheart says, "Memory, he is speaking to Drangell."

Puptilian says, "If any did not know. At one time Drangell and Thrayzar worked together. He is speaking to Drangell."

Drangell smirks, almost chuckles, "Just don't be long. I might have to go quicker. Ain't they said she knows we're coming? Just like she did against the Elves?"

Leafiara says, "Decades past."

Speaking quietly to Goldstr, Saranja asks, "The orc is not real?"

Puptilian says, "And they are talking about Raznel."

Goldtree quietly says, "This did not end well for them..."

Speaking wryly to Goldtree, Cruxophim agrees, "Nope."

Thrayzar reaches down to his side, unsheathing an imaginary sword.

Speaking to Saranja, Leafiara explains, "Well... real as can be, but not his original form."

Speaking to Saranja, Goldstr says, "He do be real but was cursed to be a orc."

Lyrna quietly says, "Many ways curses can manifest."

Puptilian says, "If I understand correctly, it was the Hall and specifically Pylasar that hired them. I could be wrong though."

Speaking quietly to herself, Saranja says, "I wonder what I would be..."

Speaking to Saranja, Lyrna says, "Depends on what the goal of the curse is."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Speaking to Puptilian, Hapenlok says, "To say that it ended badly, would be a bit of an understatement."

Lyrna says, "To make you into something you hate? Your truest self? Your greatest enemy."

Thrayzar creeps low, then leaps forward as if having just taken into a rapid sprint.

Hapenlok asks, "Just one thing I never understood. Was Drangell always that mad? Or did he get that way during the curse?"

Lyrna says, "Or simply something that would set you apart from those you consider allies."

Hapenlok says, "Or worse during the curse."

Goldtree quietly mutters, "He attacks..."

Speaking calmly to Hapenlok, Cruxophim opines, "I suspect Drangell got the larger portion of the mental instability."

Speaking quietly to Lyrna, Saranja says, "All of those could be me as I am..."

Drangell howls, "Well, you got a headstart!" The giantman howls, swings his axe off his shoulder, and rushes north, just as the image of a dark cabin nestled among darker woods opens up along the earthen walls.

Speaking to Hapenlok, Goldstr says, "Ye's had some times yerself."

Speaking to Goldstr, Hapenlok says, "This isn't about me ...for now."

Thrayzar howls in pain as he looks down at his leg and kicks at something clawing up from the ground! He falls.

Thrayzar falls over.

[observations, glances, diagnoses, looks from the crowd]

Goldtree quietly murmurs, "Moulis?"

Hapenlok says, "Leave him be."

Ruffelin asks, "Is tha' supposed ta be happenin'?"

Puptilian says, "A better question Hapenlok. Did she curse him a troll on purpose to gain access to the Everblood or was it an accident? Maybe Althedeus was already manupiulating her at this point."

Cruxophim calmly assures, "He's fine. It's just a memory. His heart rate is a little elevated, but beyond that he seems fine... for now."

Cryheart says, "He is reliving his memory."

Speaking to Ruffelin, Leafiara says, "It's his memories... they have to play out how they did."

The ground before the cabin explodes, as ancient, gnarled ghouls rip up into the world, clawing their way back to life as they form a sea of enemies before the witch's cabin. Drangell howls as he charges into the fray.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Hapenlok whispers aloud, "He is...disarmed, isn't he?"

Ethereal forms shift along the floor...twisting, churning....

Speaking calmly to Puptilian, Cruxophim reminds, "Althedeus is dead."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Goldtree quietly says, "They look a bit....corporeal."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Stormyrain says, "I've no idea, I was not consulted nor asked to intervene in this."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Puptilian says, "We are talking about the day of the curse. Not now."

Berost deeply says, "If them forms make it here ...."

Raelee utters a few complex phrases and walks off.

Speaking patiently to Puptilian, Cruxophim reminds, "I know."

Cruxophim brushes his fingers lightly against a handful of pus-yellow maggots on an onyx altar.

Lyrna says, "They are not yet though."

Soon the ethereal fog begins to take on the shape of ghouls, gnarled bodies clawing their way into the chamber!

Goldstr says, "Dese visions may help us find da Witch."

Goldtree quietly asks, "Anyone able to bless my weapons...?"

A shambling ancient ghoul just arrived!

Hapenlok says, "Oh, wonderful."

Maylan petulantly says, "I don't like those."

Aeith asks, "These are... just memories right...?"

A shambling ancient ghoul just arrived!

[combat begins]

Cruxophim wryly notes, "Oh, lovely."

Aeith says, "Oh dear."

[about 4000 lines later, the room's clear]

Madmountan says, "Interesting."

Roblar deeply says, "Now radies."

Pietra says, "Dangerous mind, this."

Thrassus says, "Well, looks like we are getting more than mere images."

Lyrna says, "It does seem that way."

Lazaryth says, "That was insanity."

Berost deeply says, "Jest in his mind they ssaid ..."

Hapenlok says, "...of course I'm using veil iron."

Hapenlok says, "I can't even get this blessed."

A shambling ancient ghoul just arrived!

Maylan says, "I think we should go home now."

[more combat]

[4000 lines later]

Leafiara wonderingly asks, "They fought this many by themselves?"

[400 lines later]

Xorus chuckles.

Lazaryth says, "Gods, what chaos."

Xorus distantly says, "I may have pushed a touch too hard."

Pietra says, "I hope Pylasar's mind is full of puppies."

Speaking amicably to Xorus, Leafiara says, "Ah, no harm no foul."

Lyrna says, "I don't really want to be attacked by puppies."

Balley softly says, "His mind should be interesting."

Leafiara adds, "Well... little harm, anyway."

Roblar deeply says, "Moooar."

Aeith says, "How do memories become real."

Speaking to Lyrna, Pietra says, "I'll throw myself in front of you, in case that happens."

Berost deeply says, "Tha witch."

Speaking amusedly to Aeith, Cruxophim jokes, "Power of the mind? The secret?"

Thrayzar leaps into the air, swinging his unseen sword. He spins, twists, dances about with an amazing finese and grace. He slices at nothing, again and again, but the ethereal forms of ghouls drop around him. Drangell cleaves through pockets of ghouls with his huge axe as he makes his way to the cabin.

Speaking to Aeith, Claede says, "The substrate of this world is nothing but an ontological perspective."

Cryheart asks, "The witch is trying to interfere ye think?"

Hapenlok says, "No, it's not necessarily the witch."

Speaking to Aeith, Lylia says, "With sufficient strength of will and with the right...hmm, attunement, you might say, it is possible."

Speaking to Cryheart, Hapenlok says, "No, all this..."

(Hapenlok gestures at the mist.)

Hapenlok says, "Is probably coming from his mind."

Ruffelin says, "I dinnae ken who's doin' wha', but I dinnae like it."

Cerridween proposes, "The memory may have been given so much energy it spilled over..."

Thrassus says, "Doubtful, the temporal boundries may be getting weakened more than was expected."

Roblar deeply says, "Maybe he az memories of riches can materliaze."

The door of the cabin bursts outward and a host of ghouls scramble out, swarming over Drangell and Thrayzar! A moment later, ethereal forms rise up within the moon chamber and begin to take real shape...

A shambling ancient ghoul just arrived!

[combat; 2700 lines later...]

Saranja quietly says, "Ow."

Xorus distantly says, "It is fluctuations of time twisting and straightening out."

Speaking to Lylia, Hapenlok says, "I may have to take a chance and restore my nerves. If this gets any worse."

Kipara hoarsely says, "Call me Kipara the ghoul tickler tonight."

Hapenlok says, "...can barely hold this damned blade."

The ghostly voice of Adyon says, "That was something."

Aeith says, "Memories become tangible and old threats become a danger anew."

Cryheart says, "Ancient ghouls...bad."

Speaking to Cryheart, Hapenlok says, "I vaguely remember being attacked by those."

Cruxophim wryly quips, "I've already got a ghoulfriend."

Hapenlok says, "I can't believe it's been that long."

Hapenlok says, "They burned easily enough."

Stormyrain says, "What was or is the target memory or goal here? I am not sure I retained that information if it was shared."

While squirming and resisting against the crowd of ghouls, Drangell slides the blade of his axe towards Thrayzar, who manages to break free just enough to step awkwardly onto the edge of it. Drangell, with all of his might, propels Thrayzar up into the air with a hefty swing of his axe and Thrayzar flips away from the ghouls, landing back towards where they first entered the field. The ghouls continue to pour forth from the doorway of the cabin, just as an old, withered form of a crone appears on the doorstep, smiling wickedly while she thumbs a gnarled bone talisman in her hand.

Lylia silkily says, "They all burn."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Goldtree says, "We should practice that."

Cryheart says, "Those two fighting together must hae been a dangerous pair."

Evia says, "She does throw a ghoulish party eh."

Speaking to Cryheart, Ruffelin says, "Aye, a sight ta behold."

Thrassus says, "The last time we saw her in a vision, she saw us."

Alisette whispers aloud, "That's her, the crone. Raznel?"

Kipara hoarsely says, "If another monk could give barrier, it would be appreciated, I'll give everyone more vigor."

Speaking wryly to Alisette, Leafiara says, "Stick around some and you might see her in person too."

As Cruxophim whispers to himself, you hear a number of ingredients being listed with a count of outstretched fingers. He gestures, and for a brief moment, the mouthwatering scent of baked treats wafts through the area.

There is a bright flash and a bacon-wrapped blood pudding donut appears in the air, then falls to the ground.

Kipara hoarsely says, "Tactical donut."

Cruxophim lifts his bone chalice in a toast and proclaims:

"Wouldst thou like to live... deliciously? Eat heartily, and put a little more meat on those bones!"

Speaking angrily to Leafiara, Alisette says, "I might not be very hospitable."

The sea of ghouls begins to trample Drangell and rush towards Thrayzar, who then makes a mad run and leaps into the air, arcing up onto the sea of ghouls where he begins to run atop their gnarled shoulders and heads, nimbly dancing along them as if moving across fiery hot rocks. The undead are taken back, unprepared for his maneuver and he rushes across their heads, like rooftops, and as he nears the cabin he quickly withdraws a hand crossbow and fires, just before he finally falls into the sea of dead.

Leafiara marvels, "Remarkable work for two people."

Evia says, "Wow."

Pietra says, "He's got some moves, that's for sure."

Speaking affably to Leafiara, Cruxophim murmurs, "Sometimes all it takes is two."

Lylia quietly says, "They were powerful then. More so after becoming 'accursed.'."

Ysharra says, "In some ways this reminds me of Dennet taking us through the Landing's history."

Chamorr heartily says, "That close."

Ysharra says, "Just more personal."

Cerridween bemusedly says, "No wonder Thrayzar enjoys the rooftops."

Hapenlok says, "It makes a lot of sense now."

Alisette offers, "These memories seem almost unbearable."

Lyrna says, "So far they are not so bad."

Aeith asks, "Will he be okay after reliving through them again?"

Lyrna says, "Death is hardly the worst thing that can happen."

(OOC) Evia's player whispers to the group, "He got moves like Crocodile Dundee walking across folkses heads in the subway station."

Speaking to Aeith, Hapenlok says, "Probably not."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Cerridween says, "How is he holding up? I am trying to remain to the side for these... runes... to be most effective."

Cruxophim begins a careful examination of Thrayzar -- he takes his pulse, checks his temperature, and checks for broken bones or any other ailments.

Lylia says, "We must all bear the pain of our own memories. His are simply...more literal at this point."

The bolt is dark, shiny as it spins through the air and strikes the witch straight in the throat. Raznel stumbles back, cackling, almost laughing, but soon chokes on a stream of maggots that pour from her mouth. She stumbles back, and as she does, she snaps the bone talisman in half that was in her hands. Sickly yellow mist seeps rapidly out of the broken fragments and it washes over the crowd of ghouls and seeps into Drangell and Thrayzar's wounded bodies.

(Xorus turns his dark obelisk crystal and chants in a dark eldritch tongue, his eyes burning an infernal blackish green.)

Ysharra says, "The appearance of the dead is hardly new. We're a few steps away from the Necropolis. And you know...I never met them as they were, before."

Speaking absently to Cerridween, Cruxophim reports, "Seems to be holding."

Dergoatean says, "Fancy evil talisman..."

Goldtree quietly mutters, "The curse..."

Leafiara curiously says, "I wonder if that was intentional on her part..."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kembal says, "I think so."

Razanetika softly says, "It almost seemed as if so."

Alisette whispers aloud, "That was the curse? The contents of the talisman?"

Thrayzar lurches forward, still flickering in and out of existence, as the ghouls and Drangell fade.

Leafiara says, "Suppose it doesn't really matter either way, decades later... but just a thought."

Thrassus says, "Let's hope none of that leaks through."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree asks, "Can you...can you hear us?"

Ivory Thorns

A twig snaps.

Ysharra asks, "I suppose that would be the memory he reached for. How could he not?"

Lyrna asks, "Does that give any clues to those more familiar with curses on how the curse might be broken?"

Thrayzar looks behind him.

Cruxophim calmly reminds, "It's not uncommon for those transferr--"

Xorus cocks his head.

Speaking to Leafiara, Cerridween says, "It may only matter if knowledge of its source conveys useful information. Such as how it was created or if there were telltale signs of its origin."

Thrayzar crouches low, appearing to draw two small blades in his hands, but they are imaginary.

Speaking to Thrayzar, Goldstr asks, "Kin ye sees us now?"

Thrassus says, "I think this might be a different memory."

Speaking to Goldstr, Ruffelin says, "I dinnae think sae. Seems ta be mem'ry still..."

Thrayzar leaps to the side, rolling into a ball, just as the image of a ivory dagger with a thorn-carved handle sticks in a wall near him.

Goldtree quietly says, "Thorn carved..."

Leafiara says, "The Ivory Thorns... the group he was in."

Goldstr asks, "Dat ivory dagger seem familiar?"

Razanetika softly asks, "Drangell's dagger?"

Thrayzar rolls again, reaching for the ethereal dagger and leaps forward, slashing at something, someone. He straddles someone. Again and again, he drives the dagger downward, stabbing again and again and again.

Ysharra says, "I think we're about to see some old friends. Well, "friends"..."

Claede says, "Vicious."

Saranja darkly asks, "Betrayal?"

Razanetika softly says, "Oh please tell me he didn't...."

Cruxophim wryly muses, "Great, another shadowy organization."

Alisette says, "Only death in these memories."

A little boy screams!

Speaking to Cruxophim, Claede says, "Better get to subsuming them."

Leafiara slowly says, "I'm guessing that's not combat training--"

Lyrna says, "No, it wouldn't be."

Speaking calmly to Claede, Cruxophim jokes, "On it."

Thrayzar turns, still straddling an unseen body, and looks in the direction of the shout.

Thrayzar flicks his wrist, sending the dagger flying.

Thrayzar winces.

Sofal says, "Oh no."

Thrayzar clenches his jaw.

Leafiara says, "Ah... an instinct gone awry."

Speaking gruffly to Thrayzar, Cruxophim murmurs, "Who'd you kill?"

Sofal says, "Guessing he did not miss...."

Kipara hoarsely says, "That was quality theatre."

Kipara hoarsely says, "I was engrossed."

Thrayzar stands again, flickering in and out of existence. He lurches forward, the ivory dagger fading away.

Finding Mirayam

Dergoatean removes a handful of pus-yellow maggots from on an onyx altar.

Thrassus says, "Thorough."

Dergoatean says, "Maggots have been charging on the altar..."

Cruxophim nods once at Dergoatean.

Dergoatean says, "Will take a better look at these later."

Speaking to Maylan, Evia says, "I see there is a spare leg there on the ground for you, just in case you need a spare."

Speaking quietly to Razanetika, Saranja says, "Many carry hard memories, child."

Speaking wryly to Dergoatean, Cruxophim states, "Those are mine."

Speaking to Saranja, Leafiara agrees, "Haven't met anyone with a flawless past yet."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Dergoatean exclaims, "Pardon. Just needed a few charges!"

Speaking hurriedly to Saranja, Leafiara says, "..not counting newborns, I suppose."

Speaking quietly to Razanetika, Saranja says, "Wipe your tears and be ready."

Speaking affably to Dergoatean, Cruxophim offers, "Want a bite?"

Grishom says, "You are the best tracker, there is no doubt."

Claede says, "Oh ho."

Xorus nods slowly.

Evia says, "Ugh."

Chamorr heartily says, "Stone."

Balley softly says, "Interesting."

Cruxophim wryly mouths, "Plot twist."

Leafiara musingly says, "Get ready for demons."

Thrayzar squints, sniffing at something in his hand.

Sofal asks, "Did the memory shift again?"

Madmountan smacks himself across the cheek!

Xorus distantly says, "Grishom could use your assistance."

Thrayzar quietly says, "I won't kill her."

Speaking gently to Madmountan, Cruxophim offers, "Here, let me."

Cruxophim gives Madmountan a friendly slap on the back.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Madmountan says, "Just making sure I'm awake."

Grishom says, "No. I just wish to see her returned home."

Chamorr heartily says, "Maryium."

Sofal asks, "Her, who?"

Thrayzar nods.

Hapenlok asks, "Myiram?"

Chamorr heartily says, "Whats her name."

Roblar deeply says, "Da first urnon golem."

Cryheart asks, "Myriam?"

Evia says, "Well some sort of yam."

Thrayzar quietly says, "I will find Mirayam."

Roblar deeply says, "Well her spirit trapped in it."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Thrayzar lurches forward, flickering in and out for a moment.

Roblar deeply breathes, "Long ago."

Balley softly asks, "What was her spirit trapped in?"

Ruffelin says, "Be ready..."

Speaking to Balley, Hapenlok says, "An urnon construct, I believe."

Hapenlok says, "Madelyne, too."

(Hapenlok places one hand around his right wrist to attempt to steady his hand.)

Cruxophim touches Hapenlok.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok says, "No. not this time."

Thrayzar sniffs.

Thrayzar quietly asks, "Who are you?"

Ysharra asks, "Did Stone have anything to do Naimorai's...extraction, from the outer planes?"

A woman's voice says, "Friends call me Seo."

Ruffelin asks, "Who...?"

Chamorr heartily says, "Seo? We in trouble now."

Goldtree quietly asks, "Seomanthe?"

Lyrna mutters, "Just when I think I'm figuring out who everyone is."

A man's voice says, "...and she's with me. I am Greganth. You won't be taking Mirayam."

Goldtree quietly says, "Greganth..."

Goldtree quietly says, "And Seomanthe."

Evia says, "Oooh my."

Dergoatean says, "Going back a few years here."

Goldtree quietly says, "Friends, in House Aspis...."

Chamorr heartily says, "At tanagra."

Thrayzar quietly says, "No. I won't."

Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara explains, "Two of our notables around the Landing."

Cerridween says, "Those are names I recognize."

Goldstr asks, "Greganth an Seomanthe?"

Claede says, "Before my time."

Thrayzar quietly says, "But Stone will come."

Saranja quietly says, "Long since I heard them."

Speaking amusedly to Claede, Leafiara says, "They're still around today."

Thrayzar quietly says, "So we must prepare. His golems will fall from the sky to crush us."

Speaking wryly to Leafiara, Cruxophim states, "Greganth, not as much."

Thrayzar quietly says, "So we need to hide her. I can help."

Claede says, "I suppose I should spend more time around the city whose militia I joined."

Lyrna asks, "Whose golems?"

Speaking to Lyrna, Dergoatean says, "Grishom Stone's."

Ethereal forms begin to take shape at the top of the domed ceiling.

Goldstr says, "Stone's Golems."

Speaking quietly to Lyrna, Goldtree asks, "Cross?"

Speaking calmly to Lyrna, Cruxophim agrees, "Stone's."

Hapenlok murmurs, "Oh, hell."

What seemed only a large bit of glistening stone moments before begins moving forward to reveal the silent form of a gleaming cerulean mein golem.

Aeith says, "Be ready all."

[combat begins]

Hapenlok says, "Wait."

[combat continues]

Hapenlok yells, "WAIT!"

Dergoatean recites:

"It's gonna blow"

Leafiara says, "As ever... don't search 'em."

You see a brilliant light beginning to build inside the golem. You have a feeling something bad is about to happen.

Cryheart says, "Dinnae search."

Leafiara wryly says, "Too late."

Madmountan says, "Guys."

Xorus distantly says, "Beware the mein golems."

Dirt and dust dance into the air preceding the arrival of a giant alabaster construct!

[combat]

Cruxophim recites:

"Do not search the golems!"

[combat]

Hapenlok says, "They explode anyway, though."

Ravenous tendrils of shadow burst forth from Cruxophim's body and streak toward the crimson mein golem, writhing and snapping furtively before returning to Cruxophim!

[Crux eats more of them]

Thrayzar reaches down to search the crimson mein golem, but then backs away in fear!

Speaking amusedly to Cruxophim, Leafiara says, "You're gonna blow--"

Nodyre says, "Fantastic."

Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "Don't... touch them."

Speaking to Lyrna, Dergoatean says, "Knock it off please."

Speaking to Alisette, Lazaryth says, "You're an angel."

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia growls something you don't understand.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Ysharra says, "How much I appreciate you at times like this."

[more golems, more combat, more shrapnel]

The ghostly voice of Claede says, "Avoid searching."

The ghostly voice of Ryojin says, "Well..."

[more combat]

Dragauth deeply says, "Stop searching them."

[more combat]

Shinann recites:

"Do not search them."

[more combat]

Hapenlok says, "Doesn't matter, they're gonna blow anyway."

The ghostly voice of Claede exclaims, "Stay with the group!"

Aleid says, "I seem to be mising a hand."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Leafiara says, "It does seem so."

Dragauth deeply exclaims, "For the love of god stop searching them!"

Lylia growls, "Which. Part. of Do Not Search Them. Are people failing to understand!?"

Goldtree quietly says, "I'll be honest, I did not miss these terrible things..."

Roblar deeply says, "Slow learners."

Dergoatean says, "Some of them were exploding on their own too, though, I think."

Speaking to Lylia, the ghostly voice of Claede says, "We could try removing all of their hands."

Hapenlok says, "They explode quicker if you search them."

Thrayzar screams!

Hapenlok says, "But they'll blow either way."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan asks, "Don't you have any pleasant memories?"

Thrayzar swings about, slashing at something, but falls.

Thrayzar falls over.

Ysharra says, "Cruxophim can and will eat all of them." [Note: it's not really clear even from the log (never mind in the heat of thousands of lines of combat) which side is correct about the golems exploding even if not searched. Regardless of that, though, Ysharra's got it here: Crux can eat the golems to dodge the matter entirely, as it just outright removes the dead creature instead of searching it.]

Balley softly asks, "Is he ok?"

Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan asks, "Can't we witness a special dinner date, or the like?"

Grishom says, "Your failure and betrayal won't go unpunished. You had to know as much."

(Xorus traces his hand down his dark obelisk crystal, a spark of energy flying between it and the elemental churning core in his hand.)

Goldtree flatly says, "Stone..."

Cruxophim sardonically suggests, "Spank him."

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean says, "The point wasn't to witness a romantic comedy, I'm afraid."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "Your wisdom belies your.. well, your.."

(Lazaryth trails off.)

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra asks, "You're brave, aren't you?"

Claede says, "You lovely, beautiful people."

Grishom says, "They found Chambeli."

Cruxophim wryly quotes, "No good deed."

Evia says, "Hmm."

Goldstr exclaims, "Careful wid dem Shards!"

Cruxophim curiously ventures, "Former Mayor, right?"

Grishom says, "They are nearing Wehnimer's now. What will my new puppet do, hm?"

Thrayzar stands up.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Avalera asks, "You mind?"

Balley softly asks, "Puppet?"

Balley softly asks, "Who was Stone's puppet?"

Hapenlok asks, "At that era?"

Dergoatean says, "This guy has been through some stuff..."

Hapenlok says, "...can't really remember."

Speaking wryly to Balley, Cruxophim jests, "Better question is who wasn't?"

Speaking heartily to Balley, Chamorr says, "He had a few."

Hapenlok says, "Practically one person or another, back then."

Balley softly says, "Oh."

Speaking to Melikor, Ysharra says, "I like the color. Reminds me of Cyph Kestrel." [referring to the cerulean mein shards]

Speaking quietly to Hapenlok, Goldtree says, "Many were, at one point or another."

Balley softly says, "That was before my time."

Goldstr says, "Aye He's had a few puppets."

Dergoatean says, "There were a good dozen of us that got his eyes; he could see through them as far as we could tell."

Speaking to Melikor, Ysharra says, "Back when he turned into a fire golem and destroyed the town."

Saranja quietly says, "Let's try this in Crux's head."

Dergoatean says, "He's been in my brain to greater or lesser extent for years."

Thrayzar seems to leap forward, as if bursting into a sprint. The chamber shifts and ethereal figures and forms take shape. A crowd of adventurers stands near a bridge, the pallisade walls of Wehnimer's Landing nearby. A woman, panicked and wounded stands with him. She is feverishly speaking of Grishom and trying to detail a plan when suddenly Thrayzar leaps forward, and with a swift slash, ends her.

Evia says, "We might need Puptilian to give us all a refresher course in histories."

Speaking in Faendryl, Thrassus asks something you don't understand.

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "We shoulda gone into your head. We could have recovered some history bits about you."

Speaking to Saranja, Dergoatean says, "We wouldn't last 5 minutes."

Speaking amusedly to Saranja, Cruxophim warns, "Bad idea."

Thrassus asks, "Why was one of the golems wearing a skirt?"

Grishom smiles, ear to ear.

Troll Siege

Thrayzar lurches forward, flickering in and out of existance.

Goldtree quietly says, "The war with Chaston..."

Speaking to Thrassus, Ysharra says, "Perhaps that one was employed as a mannequin prior to its current gig."

Thrayzar sniffs.

Thrayzar quietly says, "I knew he was near..."

Dergoatean says, "Is it? I don't think Grishom was very explicitly involved in the Chaston mess."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Hapenlok says, "He watched. And laughed."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Dergoatean says, "But that's most things."

Speaking absently to Goldtree, Cruxophim murmurs, "Good guess, but this is before that methinks."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Hapenlok says, "As he frequently did."

Ysharra says, "Someone very smart just mentioned that he seems to be in all the stories, and I believe her."

Speaking quietly to Dergoatean, Goldtree says, "Always at one point or another. I remember when he was around during a certain slaughtering of sylvankind..."

The fog among the chamber shifts. Wehnimer's Landing takes up much of the view, and it burns. Fires rage. Rocks arc over the walls and smash buildings and townspeople as they flee. The great roaring of trolls echoes up from the forest beyond as huge wooden towers roll into view in the distance.

Drangell shouts, "I love the smell of burning people!"

Goldtree quietly says, "Drangell..."

Roblar deeply says, "Dat was a long war."

Dergoatean asks, "The siege of Elithain Cross?"

Maylan says, "Eew."

Claudaro asks, "Who doesn't?"

Cruxophim wryly jokes, "You and me both."

Hapenlok shouts, "I love the smell of burning Drangell!"

Roblar deeply says, "Before."

Ysharra asks, "Drangell took to it with relish, didn't he?"

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Speaking to Ysharra, Leafiara says, "Most definitely."

Roblar draws the crimson steel waraxe from his bear hide axe scabbard, brandishing it before him.

Dergoatean says, "Our poor town."

Dragauth deeply says, "Oh I killed him so many times that was fun times."

Roblar deeply says, "Took dis from him during dat battle."

Maylan says, "You see? This is why we should have burned it down ourselves."

Speaking in Faendryl, Lylia recalls something you don't understand.

Speaking to Ysharra, Evia says, "Relish, and maybe even a little mustard."

Thrayzar unsheaths an unseen sword and rushes through the mist, the fires raging all around him as he races into the forest. Trolls rise up to meet him, and soon their ethereal forms begin to take shape...

Cruxophim recites:

"INCOMING"

Lyrna says, "Mostly that just creates more problem."

Goldtree quietly says, "Trolls..."

A huge ethereal troll ambles in!

[combat; over 8000 lines later...]

Speaking to Hapenlok, Maylan whines, "You smacked me in the HEAD."

Speaking to Maylan, Hapenlok exclaims, "My hands shake!"

Speaking to Maylan, Hapenlok exclaims, "You're right in front of me!"

A huge ethereal troll ambles in!

[combat; ~1500 lines later...]

Berost deeply says, "Nae a lucky dwarf ya knnow."

Preparing for Cross

Thrayzar lurches forward, flickering for a moment.

Cruxophim begins a careful examination of Thrayzar -- he takes his pulse, checks his temperature, and checks for broken bones or any other ailments.

Shinann says, "Do not touch him."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree exclaims, "Stay strong! We are with you!"

Cryheart whispers something to Adyon.

Thrayzar quietly says, "Cross will use her. No doubt she'll bring something to our door. I can find her."

Chamorr heartily says, "Remember when we kilt Thrayzar's whole clan of orcs."

Walkar says, "I know you can. But going into imperial territory is dangerous for you."

Hapenlok says, "Phever."

Cryheart says, "Walkar."

Chamorr heartily says, "Only one left was da baker."

Evia says, "Ooof."

Goldtree quietly says, "Walkar...."

Lyrna asks, "Walkar - previous mayor, yes?"

Lylia says, "Yes."

Dergoatean says, "Our greatest hero and villain."

Evia recites:

"For Wehnimer's!"

Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "Before Puptilian."

Speaking quietly to Lyrna, Goldtree says, "And a good, but troubled, man."

Roblar deeply says, "A few ago."

Speaking to Balley, Hapenlok says, "No."

Cruxophim lifts his bone cup in a toast and proclaims:

"Survival in the face of adversity... for Wehnimer's Landing!"

Thrayzar quietly says, "I've evaded their soldiers my whole life. This will be no different."

Goldstr exclaims, "Walkar was a Hero!"

(OOC) Claudaro's player whispers to the group, "This remind you of what TV shows do when get get around 100 episodes, and they flash back to the "best parts"? hehe."

(OOC) Evia's player whispers to the group, "Loving it."

Walkar says, "Cross is different. We have to take a new approach. A new strategy."

(OOC) Goldtree's player whispers to the group, "Kenstrom is doing a "clip show"."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "It's my Nelemar weapon. It cost me all of sixty silvers. Use it at least that much in value."

Dergoatean says, "Walkar, who accepted cursed armor from Elithain Cross in order to stay alive and keep fighting on our behalf... but who was ulimately condemned to be an abomination, and serve Cross, because of it."

Speaking to Ysharra, Lazaryth says, "Oh, I'll do my best."

Speaking to Ysharra, Melikor asks, "But how will you replace it?"

Lylia reminds, "And reclaimed himself, ultimately."

Thrayzar quietly says, "I will find the golem. Do not do anything foolish Walkar."

Hapenlok says, "I can never forgive him for that."

Speaking to Lylia, Dergoatean says, "At the very end."

Thrayzar quietly says, "Don't start a war."

Speaking affably to Dergoatean, Cruxophim reminds, "And now, Cross is dead. As well."

(OOC) Evia's player whispers to the group, "Careful, do not take the name of the lord Our Kenstrom in vain!"

Ruffelin says, "Famous las' words."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Goldstr says, "But was still our hero."

Dergoatean says, "Walkar was, well, he had a bias towards action."

Balley softly asks, "Is that the Walkar the same one who I saw their grave?"

Thrayzar lurches forward, flickering for a moment.

(OOC) Goldtree's player whispers to the group, "Throws popcorn at the TV. I love clip shows!"

Speaking to Goldstr, Dergoatean says, "And our villain."

Stormyrain says, "He had a bias towards protecting that which he held dear even at great cost to himself."

Speaking to Melikor, Ysharra says, "One day we'll go back and unclog the drains there."

(OOC) Hapenlok's player whispers to the group, "Clip shows happen because the writers go on strike."

Lylia diplomatically says, "Some mayors have a... different approach."

Thrayzar stumbles, looking down at some bloodied corpses of men and women in white robes and Koarite symbols. Wagons rest nearby. He sniffs, looking down at the fresh bodies.

Goldtree quietly says, "Well, we all remember how that ended..."

Evia says, "Gosh."

Cryheart says, "Blamless."

A small area of Balley's skin twitches oddly.

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "Some use a diplomacy born of grace. Others, a really big axe."

Berost deeply says, "Bodies ..."

Lylia sneers, "Zealots."

Evia says, "Time leaps forward."

(OOC) Ruffelin's player whispers to the group, "Or, in this case, filling in history for those newly returned or newly come to the lands?"

Dergoatean says, "White robes and Koarite symbols, from the Blameless and the cultists whose minds were captured by Prelate Chaston Griffin."

Balley softly says, "This thing tickles."

A woman rises behind a wagon, barbs of urnon sticking out of her arms and shoulders. She smiles at the bodies.

Balley softly says, "Sorry."

Dergoatean says, "A false prophet of Koar; an actual prophet of Raznel."

Goldtree quietly says, "Those Blameless who slaughtered sylvankind by the Shrine of Imaera..."

Thrayzar quietly says, "Madelyne..."

Dergoatean says, "Now we're just a year or two back from present."

The urnon golem slips into the shadows as voices can be heard shouting nearby.

(OOC) Lylia's player whispers to the group, "It serves to do that too, or at least give highlights to look up and learn more later, or ask questions. I'm liking it."

Maylan says, "Still not enough romance in this story."

Imperial soldiers rush into view, seeing Thrayzar surrounded by the bloodied bodies of worshippers.

(OOC) Cruxophim's player whispers to the group, "I'm for it."

Alisette says, "Perhaps the answer to the present is in the past."

Lylia says, "I hate romances."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan exclaims, "Where's the juicy bits of your life? Show us the good stuff!"

(OOC) Cerridween's player whispers to the group, "I obviously picked the right now to show back up on Cerri. Pass the popcorn. I love storytime."

Lyrna says, "In this kind of story, that is probably for the best."

(OOC) Cruxophim's player whispers to the group, "J'ACCUSE, THRAYZAR."

(OOC) Claede's player whispers to the group, "I'm digging it, I've missed way too much."

Thrayzar unsheaths his unseen swords and tightens his grip.

Lyrna says, "Since it would only be a tragedy."

Sofal says, "So she's used golems in the past, and there is a statue by town hall...."

Xorus rubs his dark obelisk crystal.

Stormyrain asks, "..incoming Blameless, mayhaps?"

Suddenly, the fog spins into activity as the forms of imperial forces come rushing in!

Cruxophim wryly warns, "Get ready for ghostly Blameless."

An imperial soldier just arrived!

Hapenlok says, "...these aren't ethereal."

Cryheart says, "They look more like imperial soldiers...nae the Blameless."

Lazaryth says, "Good."

Speaking musingly to Hapenlok, Leafiara says, "I guess they can't all be challenging memories."

Hapenlok whispers to the group, "Or are they?"

[more combat]

Speaking amusedly to Cryheart, Cruxophim reasons, "The Blameless were Imperial."

Chamorr heartily says, "Dennys crew."

(OOC) Dergoatean's player whispers to the group, "Now I'm worried that this is Thrayzar's grand send-off..."

Cryheart says, "Thought they wore white."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Ruffelin says, "Mayhap we've slipped inta th' timestream wi' him somehow."

Ysharra says, "We should stop calling them that."

Chamorr heartily says, "When Raznel was in the wagon an Walkar bought it."

Ysharra says, "We have plenty to hang on them. Or hang them for."

Speaking bemusedly to Ysharra, Cruxophim suggests, "The Blameful?"

The Real Challenges

Thrayzar slowly empties his lungs.

Thrayzar flickers back fully into existence.

Evia says, "Phew."

Ysharra says, "Should make them burn for Gavrien's hair alone."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree asks, "Are you...back with us?"

Thrayzar says, "...we are not done."

Speaking evenly to Thrayzar, Stormyrain says, "We should be done."

(OOC) Cerridween's player whispers to the group, "I think the moment you suggested that Goat, everyone just sharply inhaled."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Lylia asks, "What else requires doing?"

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree asks, "Easy...easy..What do you remember?"

Thrayzar says, "I've a sense of what we're doing now."

Speaking wryly to Ysharra, Leafiara says, "We're working on it. Them and Raznel."

Ysharra says, "No matter that we may be done with the past, the past is never done with us."

Hapenlok says, "Sir Davard Priot brought the wagon."

Thrayzar asks, "Where is the Magister?"

Hapenlok says, "Not Walkar."

Speaking calmly to Thrayzar, Cruxophim ventures, "Do tell?"

Thrayzar says, "I need to find the doors I've locked."

Thrayzar asks, "Yes?"

Goldtree quietly asks, "Invisible?"

Cryheart says, "She has gone it seems."

Dergoatean says, "You've done an awful lot of fighting. Mostly for the good guys." Lazaryth offers Ysharra a tasseled ivy-etched iron falchion.

Ruffelin asks, "Doors?"

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "Sorry. I was busy ranting."

(OOC) Cruxophim's player whispers to the group, "She's sick, alas :(."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Maylan says, "She expressed her extreme displeasure in not seeing any romance stories tonight and stormed off."

Leafiara interestedly says, "Ooh, the locked doors. That's where things might get -really- great."

Lazaryth says, "Oh, rant on."

Xorus nods in agreement.

Speaking calmly to Xorus, Cruxophim offers, "What can we do to help, in the Magister's absence?"

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree asks, "What did you realize while you were...reliving those memories?"

Thrayzar slowly empties his lungs.

Thrayzar nods at Xorus.

Thrayzar glances at Goldtree.

Speaking worriedly to Thrayzar, Alisette asks, "You are gonna remember more?"

Lyrna says, "It is as well you are not elven."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "The Blameless are still around, skulking about the northern baronies. And the rest of them have been twisted into undead horrors across what was once Talador."

Xorus says, "I will push more forcefully and we will see about these locked doors."

Thrayzar squints, appearing to try to concentrate.

Speaking to Thrayzar, Goldstr asks, "Ye has a plan?"

Speaking encouragingly to Xorus, Leafiara says, "Haven't seen a plan of yours fail yet, so I doubt it's about to start."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Saranja quietly says, "Quiet night... I've not died."

Speaking lightly to Saranja, Leafiara asks, "Don't jinx it?"

Sofal says, "I have a feeling the locked doors are going to just get worse."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree asks, "Focus - the pool in the middle of the forest. Focus on the water - what do you see? What are you hiding in there?"

Speaking to Saranja, Ruffelin says, "Ne'er say tha'..."

Thrayzar says, "Break them down."

Thrayzar nods at Xorus.

Speaking to Thrayzar, Alisette asks, "What can we do to help you focus?"

Speaking to Xorus, Maylan asks, "How does this work? Do we bash him with a stick?"

Speaking to Ysharra, Melikor says, "Stay ready."

Evia says, "Bash 'em."

Thrayzar lurches forward, flickering in and out of existence.

Goldtree quietly says, "Here we go."

(Xorus grips the elemental churning core and arcs power to the runes of the summoning circle which now glow brightly.)

Speaking absently to Thrayzar, Cruxophim speculates, "It's possible we could use the shadows inherent to this area to probe deeper."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Goldstr says, "Da doors he closed in his head I tinks."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Dergoatean says, "We're probing plenty deep without extra shadow help, thank you."

Lyrna says, "At least there is only one set of memories to relive."

Hapenlok says, "...sounds like a mentalist's work, to me."

Hapenlok glances at Stormyrain.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Maylan says, "Don't listen to him, I want to see what's at the bottom of this man's head."

Speaking wryly to Dergoatean, Cruxophim teases, "You want things done, or you want to cry about it?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Dergoatean says, "Overkill..."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Stormyrain inquires, "Buh?"

Kupaka says, "Did we win yet."

Speaking to Lyrna, Goldstr says, "Donna say dat bout Pylasar."

Speaking hesitantly to Cruxophim, Alisette says, "Not fond of the shadowy's."

Speaking affably to Kupaka, Leafiara says, "So far so good."

Speaking to Kupaka, Claede says, "As soon as you showed up."

Speaking deeply to Kupaka, Berost says, "No."

Ethereal black curtains form along the walls, draping down like great walls of darkness.

Speaking calmly to Alisette, Cruxophim assures, "They're not so bad once you get to know them. It's fear you have to be concerned about."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Hapenlok says, "Locked doors in his brai-"

Speaking to Goldstr, Lyrna says, "My own would be... complicated."

Xorus distantly says, ".. down.. and down... into the depths..."

Thrassus says, "Memories he's blocked out, I assume."

Thrayzar pauses, listening. He hears a voice and repeats, "...down and down...into the depths..."

Lylia hisses, "Be silent! Let them think."

Kipara hoarsely asks, "Where does it lead?"

Tyrrah quietly asks, "A chant?"

Goldtree quietly murmurs, "It's working, lead him...."

Thrayzar reaches out for a dark curtain, pulling it away to reveal nothing behind it but a wall of bones.

Thrayzar shakes his head.

Speaking to herself, Maylan says, "This man has a scary mind."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree says, "Keep going deeper. Calm yourself."

Speaking to Maylan, Evia says, "Or else he's in Crux's house."

Lyrna says, "Not.. so bad."

Speaking to Maylan, Ysharra asks, "You don't have any skeletons in your closet, firebug?"

Thrayzar steps further to the left of the chamber, pulling at another curtain. A wall of silk exists. He touches it for a brief moment, and smiles, remembering something.

Kipara hoarsely asks, "Are bones more or less frightening with a writhing sack of meat around them?"

Zosopage says, "Troubled more than scary. Lots of painful memories."

Chamorr heartily says, "I'll take box number two."

Evia says, "Hmm."

Thrayzar shakes his head.

Speaking wryly to Zosopage, Cruxophim mutters, "Why not both."

Speaking to Ysharra, Maylan exclaims, "Who knows what's in there. I don't wanna know!"

Claede says, "Empty wine jugs could count as skeletons."

Razanetika softly says, "He seems to be struggling with something."

Speaking to Kipara, Ysharra says, "It is an interesting thing to realize. There's a skull under your meat, there."

Goldstr asks, "Wha was da silk?"

Cruxophim glances at Kipara.

Cruxophim's stomach growls.

Speaking to Goldstr, Evia says, "Something private maybe."

Alisette encouragingly says, "Finally, a sorta happy memory."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Ysharra says, "No."

Speaking to Evia, Goldstr says, "An first time he smiled."

Chamorr heartily says, "Old GFs."

Lylia avidly says, "It is all private, and all for us to glimpse."

Ysharra whispers something to Cruxophim.

Speaking to Alisette, Sofal says, "From what we have seen I doubt it will stay that way."

Maylan exclaims, "Yes pull back that curtain. Let's see what's in there!"

Speaking gently to Thrayzar, Cruxophim urges, "Do it."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Zosopage says, "A mind is only scary if it fights back.....wait a minute."

Speaking to Maylan, Dergoatean asks, "You like the silk curtain over the bone one?"

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "That's where the good bits are, I reckon."

(OOC) Ruffelin's player whispers to the group, "Buncha pervs. Ya want 50 Shades of Gray back there, don't ya? <g>"

Speaking to Melikor, Ysharra says, "Seemed apropos."

Kipara hoarsely says, "This truly is the most intimate and macabre theatre. Thrayzar is very brave for revealing all of this to a gawking crowd."

Pietra says, "Silk and bone. A new outfit idea."

Thrayzar touches another curtain, this one larger. He slowly begins to peel it aside and reveals a huge wall of writhing troll flesh and faces, where hundreds of brutish troll faces gnash with sharpened teeth and glare with bulging eyes. The mouths along the grotesque wall seem to be trying to gnaw on their own faces, trying to break free, trying to strike out. Thrayzar releases the curtain and allows it to fall back in place.

Dergoatean says, "Eww."

Thrassus says, "Interesting."

Leafiara curiously says, "I kinda wanted to see more of that one, I'll admit."

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan says, "He has strange taste in women apparently."

Goldstr exclaims, "Yuck!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Dergoatean says, "Ew."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Ruffelin says, "Tha's braw fearsom."

Thrayzar quietly asks, "Xorus.....?"

Goldtree quietly asks, "Our worst fears given shape, eh?"

Speaking innocently to Maylan, Cruxophim wonders, "Does he?"

Speaking to Dergoatean, Maylan asks, "Writhing troll faces...not my type, but someone for everyone I suppose?"

Xorus distantly says, "Thrayzar."

Speaking frankly to Dergoatean, Leafiara says, "Hey, I still haven't gotten to fight a behemoth yet, so I need something very ugly to make up for it."

Cerridween says, "This is a most unsettling curtainship to explore."

Speaking gently to Leafiara, Cruxophim assures, "He's not that ugly."

Cryheart whispers something to Irar.

Stormyrain whispers something to Lazaryth.

Thrayzar walks slowly around the chamber, running his hands across the black curtains and they shift like living shadows, slipping around his fingers as he goes.

Speaking heartily to Irar, Chamorr says, "Nice surprise."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree murmurs, "Concentrate..."

Thrayzar stops suddenly.

Lylia whispers something to Xorus.

Stormyrain says, "Be on the ready."

Sofal asks, "Found the right curtain?"

Chamorr heartily says, "This is da big one."

Alchemist Conditioning

Thrayzar peels aside a curtain and a white wall stands behind it, covered in rivulets of flowing blood.

Xorus distantly says, "Force the way through."

Pietra says, "Crux's bathroom now.."

Saranja quietly says, "It's a burrow behind the next one."

Pietra says, "Maybe this time it will be puppies."

Leafiara inquisitively guesses, "Time to tear down the wall?"

Thrayzar touches a hand to the wall of white.

Speaking gently to Thrayzar, Cruxophim urges, "Through the wall."

Pietra says, "I'd love some puppies right now."

Lylia breathes, "You are so close now...press against it."

Nearby, a hand appears to be trying to press through from the other side.

Kipara hoarsely asks, "Blood channeled by bone?"

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

Thrayzar releases his hand. The white wall returns to normal.

Razanetika softly asks, "Who's behind the wall?"

Claudaro asks, "His time as Rone?"

Leafiara encouragingly says, "Don't withdraw. Push forward."

Maylan says, "His girlfriend."

Sofal asks, "His real self coming back?"

Thrayzar nods.

Speaking suddenly to Claudaro, Leafiara says, "Hm, good thought."

Kipara hoarsely says, "Show us who's behind the wall."

Speaking softly to Thrayzar, Lylia says, "You can never know unless you go farther."

Alisette quietly says, "Push a little more, sir."

Speaking gently to Thrayzar, Cruxophim urges, "Push."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Goldtree says, "We're with you."

Speaking hoarsely to Thrayzar, Kipara says, "We're here to face it with you."

Saranja quietly says, "Perhaps memories too painful to relive..."

Thrayzar presses up against the wall of white, and much of the chamber turns the same hue, a pale, white shade.

Lyrna says, "The blood."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra asks, "You can hear the other side, can't you?"

Praxopius says, "We'll never find a more suitable specimen for this next phase."

Maylan exclaims, "Praxipus!"

Xorus distantly says, "The Alchemist."

Claudaro exclaims, "Good ole Prax!"

Irar asks, "Will we not?"

Thrassus says, "Ah, that sordid bit of history."

Leafiara wryly says, "Ah, the Fortney filth..."

Ysharra says, "Praxopius has been our ally as well as our antagonist."

Thrayzar screams!

Speaking wryly to Ysharra, Cruxophim reminds, "Mostly antagonist, for some."

Speaking to Ysharra, Claudaro says, "Frienemy."

Praxopius says, "Shhh, shhh little red orc. We need a little hero. Don't twitch or it hurts more."

Dergoatean says, "Mostly, an ally who didn't trust us with his plans and so we thought he was an antagonist."

Hapenlok says, "Oh, I loved that man."

Dergoatean says, "But, here... well, pretty villainous."

Zosopage says, "New meaning to keep your friends close and enemies closer."

Speaking wryly to Dergoatean, Cruxophim agrees, "Yup."

Leafiara dismissively says, "He's dead and dust now, either way."

Sofal says, "It's when he was cursed."

Claudaro asks, "Oh, we get a look at the Roneification process eh?"

Lylia quietly says, "I knew him for what he was. He brought us victory."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Razanetika asks, "Or is he....?"

Hapenlok says, "You lot were so offended by what he did, and you know what? I would have done the same damn thing."

Speaking gently to Lyrna, Saranja says, "Twas only blood."

Speaking wryly to Hapenlok, Leafiara says, "We know."

Shinann says, "He was never an ally."

Hapenlok says, "And not told any of you, either."

Thrayzar screams!

Speaking wryly to Hapenlok, Leafiara repeats, "Yeah, we know."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "He may have manipulated us to Glaoveln, but you are who led us to victory."

Hapenlok says, "That being said, ....this is painful to watch."

Speaking lightly to Hapenlok, Leafiara says, "That's how we know he was crazy."

Thrayzar writhes in agony, thrashing, fighting against something unseen, or someones unseen around him.

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "Instead of giving them tribute like every other settlement down the water."

Goldtree quietly says, "This memory...it is painful for him..."

Thrayzar twitches violently, clawing at his skin and trying to roll to one side, then another, then another.

Maylan says, "He shoulda stayed in the silk curtain."

Thrayzar growls ferociously!

Sofal says, "It is hard to just stand and watch."

Thrayzar flickers.

Thrayzar growls ferociously!

Evia says, "What a horrific life."

Tyrrah whispers something to Cryheart.

Thrassus says, "And Malluch voluntarily submitted to that same treatment."

Leafiara reminds, "Just a memory..."

Praxopius says, "Good. Don't lose that fighting spirit. But let's channel it Rone. Let's channel it."

Speaking to Thrassus, Shinann says, "No, he did not."

Tyrrah whispers something to Cryheart.

Cerridween says, "It is hard to ignore the urge to web his limbs down so he may not injure himself further."

Ysharra asks, "Didn't he?"

Irar says, "As you say."

Kipara hoarsely asks, "Is this his memory? He is being called Rone?"

Praxopius says, "We could have gone with the second pair, but, these have a higher risk. But you are worth it."

Speaking to Kipara, Dergoatean says, "Rone was a pseudonym for those afflicted by this process."

Speaking gently to Lyrna, Saranja says, "Relax... I am here, Leafi is here."

Thrassus says, "Mhm. He was relishing his little murder sprees well enough."

Speaking to Kipara, Ysharra says, "Thrayzar was one of two that we know of who were brainwashed and trained by Praxopius."

Lylia flatly says, "Rone was a lie some told themselves and called it justice."

Thrassus says, "All in the past though."

The wall of white begins to glisten.

Shinann says, "This is not the time to discuss this."

Kipara hoarsely says, "Thank you for the clarification."

Speaking wryly to Lylia, Cruxophim laments, "Justice is often a lie."

Speaking to Kipara, Ysharra says, "Malluch, the jeweler's son, was the first that we met. He's currently mad and digging out sensory organs."

Lylia darkly says, "After the court of the Mirror, I am inclined to agree."

Irar says, "Peasant magic."

Patches of the wall of white begin to melt like wax, slowly dripping.

Speaking hoarsely to Ysharra, Kipara says, "That much I do remember."

As the wall of white finally gives way, the forms of ghost white-faced men appear, weapons drawn and they rush forward!

A ghost white face-painted ravager ambles in.

[combat]

Leafiara musingly says, "Remember these like it was just last year."

[Melgorehn's Reach, Moon Chamber]

You are in a vast, domed enclosure cut from the native rock of the mountain. The floor is perfectly smooth but the vaulted ceiling is chiseled in an array of gothic designs. In the center of the room sits a single onyx altar. You also see a morning star, a short sword, a short sword, a reinforced shield, a handaxe, a handaxe, a stale almond tart, some tattered cloth, an ale brown samite pack, the Ysharra disk, a frilly dark grey skirt, the Dergoatean disk, the Ruffelin disk, the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk, the Sofal disk, a summoning circle, a flickering purple portal and a round shaft cut into the floor of the chamber.

A ghost white face-painted magus just arrived!

[more combat]

The ghostly voice of Ruffelin says, "By th' void, tha' was nasty."

[more combat]

Hapenlok says, "...weapon fire."

Cryheart says, "Aye."

[more combat]

Hapenlok says, "I remember that quite well."

[more combat]

Cruxophim recites:

"Weapon fire, sheathe your weapons!"

[more combat]

Pietra says, "Well, this didn't go very well."

[more combat]

Hapenlok frustratedly exclaims, "I'm so useless!"

The last of the wall of white melts away and no more white-faced men appear as it fades.

The ghostly voice of Ruffelin says, "If this be mere memory, I'd hate ta see his nightmares."

Goldtree quietly asks, "That...the last of them?"

The ghostly voice of Claede says, "Well."

Ysharra asks, "Who can say?"

Speaking lightly to Ruffelin, Leafiara says, "I wouldn't."

The ghostly voice of Aeith says, "Yeah, that wave was far more deadly."

(OOC) Maylan's player whispers to the group, "Alright i should really go to sleep. Good night all, this was very fun! Can't wait to read the conclusion when the recap is available."

Maylan whines, "I don't like this, I'm getting out of here!"

Evia says, "Dream of silk curtains."

Xorus distantly says, "These are fluctuations of time from agitating the Reach, the temporary instabilities spill them into our reality."

Massacre

Thrayzar runs his hands along more curtains.

Evia says, "More curtains."

Speaking to Xorus, Ysharra says, "I figured you'd say something like that."

Thrayzar quietly says, "Xorus..."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "Incomprehensible and right-sounding."

Thrayzar turns about, looking, confused.

Xorus distantly says, "I am here, Thrayzar..."

Thrayzar nods.

Thrayzar moves along a wall, running his hand through deep black curtains resembling a waterfull of shadows.

Thrayzar shivers.

Ysharra says, "Oh dear."

Lyrna says, "I am both envious, and... not.. for his ability to see behind the ... curtains in his mind."

Lylia smoothly says, "Oh, I am certain such skills could be put to other uses."

Speaking hoarsely to Lyrna, Kipara says, "There are good reasons that we can forget things."

Thrayzar seems to physically shake as he grabs a curtain and slowly pulls it aside. A wall of sinew and blood appear on the other side.

Hapenlok says, "Oh, this is lovely."

Speaking to Kipara, Lyrna says, "Perhaps, and yet to be able to learn the truth..."

Lylia says, "Such truths to be revealed this way..."

Thrayzar pauses before the wall of shifting blood, not moving.

Speaking hoarsely to Lyrna, Kipara says, "It is a tempting proposition to be sure. I only hope it is worth it."

The whites of Xorus's eyes go dark as he chants forcefully in an archaic tongue.

(OOC) Stormyrain's player whispers to the group, "I wish I could stay for the end but I have to be up soon. I'll look for the log and discord catch ups. :( whomp whomp. Night."

Alisette honestly says, "Truth is a force all in its own."

Claede says, "All part of the plan."

Speaking to Abilena, Claede says, "Thank you, Lady Gnome."

Speaking in Faendryl to Lylia, Thrassus asks something you don't understand.

A globule of blood slowly slides down the wall.

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "He did volunteer, may the Sorrower take his..."

Ruffelin says, "Ugh."

Cruxophim wryly warns, "Get ready."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "I wasn't about to say blood. Really."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Evia says, "That does not mean snack time."

Thrassus says, "I'm intrigued."

Speaking hoarsely to Thrayzar, Kipara asks, "What is it?"

Speaking to Hapenlok, Claede says, "Try harder."

Hapenlok says, "Well, I managed to survive all bouts of combat without resorting to woth flower."

Globules form along the huge sinew and blood wall and they form along the ground, crawling forward.

Hapenlok says, "Probably because I don't have any."

Sofal says, "Thank you so much."

Thrassus says, "Interesting."

Pietra says, "Mmm, globules."

Hapenlok says, "...this is going to get ugly, though."

Leafiara interestedly says, "Now that looks intriguing."

Lyrna faintly says, "Walls of blood."

Roblar deeply says, "Blood golems."

A large blood red globule slides in.

[combat]

Roblar deeply says, "Or dat."

Xorus distantly says, "Fascinating."

>peer o

You peer out and see ...

[Melgorehn's Reach, The Summit]

You emerge onto a stone landing which looks like an island in a sea of cloud. The sky above is sparkling with thousands of tiny stars. The Great Moon Liabo hangs silently in the sky, its surface shrouded by the clouds of its atmosphere. A tiny black point against this backdrop, Tilaok, can be seen in its orbit around Liabo. A large opening leads into the mountain at this height. You also see a large blood red globule.

Speaking wryly to Evia, Cruxophim remarks, "You were sayin'?"

Leafiara remarks, "It went out."

Ysharra says, "Hopefully they don't explode like other red globes we know..."

Dergoatean says, "Two people fighting it outside."

Thrassus says, "Now I do not recall ever seeing these before."

A large blood red globule slides in.

[more combat]

Saranja quietly asks, "Scarabs?"

Hapenlok just bit the dust!

Leafiara remarks, "Ya jinxed it."

Leafiara says, "Oh... Hap went outside."

[more combat]

Kipara recites hoarsely:

"They injure melee attackers"

Lazaryth says, "I've plunged my sword into some strange things in my life, but this takes the cake."

Dergoatean says, "Roblar fighting a half dozen of them alone outside."

Kipara hoarsely says, "If only we had time to study."

Speaking wryly to Lazaryth, Cruxophim wonders, "Is that a euphemism?"

Dergoatean says, "It's anti-magic out there, though."

Speaking nonchalantly to Lazaryth, Leafiara says, "I give it a four out of ten on the Landing oddness scale."

Melikor says, "They don't stand a chance."

Dergoatean asks, "Anyone want to slice them up?"

Thrassus says, "He'll be fine."

Dergoatean says, "He left."

Dergoatean says, "Still four outside."

Pietra asks, "How does one KILL a globule?"

Dergoatean says, "I lost too many spells to go out there and swing."

Speaking to Pietra, Dergoatean exclaims, "It's a loose usage!"

Speaking eagerly to Pietra, Leafiara says, "Disintegrate it."

Cryheart says, "A cutting blade...or perhaps a blunt."

The wall of blood begins to peel apart more, melting like sanguine wax, and what appears to be a small stone fortress rises beyond it. The wall still drips blood, and soon a crowd of goblin and orc men, women and children can be seen. They scream in fear at the sight of you all and run about!

A young frightened goblin tramps in looking for trouble.

A young frightened goblin marches in!

Leafiara curiously says, "Hrm."

A young frightened goblin tramps in looking for trouble.

[some immediately leap to attack]

Ysharra says, "Oh dear."

Thrayzar exclaims, "NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Dergoatean recites:

"STOP IT"

Thrayzar screams!

Thrayzar exclaims, "NO!!!"

Dergoatean recites:

"NOT AGAIN"

Leafiara says, "Those aren't--"

Claede says, "I wouldn't.."

A young frightened goblin tramps in looking for trouble.

A young frightened goblin runs in and says, "We'oll oot for a fortnight!"

[more attacks]

Cerridween says, "Uhh."

Leafiara calmly asks, "Pause for a bit?"

Dergoatean recites:

"STOP"

Cryheart recites:

"Stop"

Claede says, "Well. That didn't last long."

Cryheart recites:

"Stop"

Lylia commands, "Stop this!"

Chamorr heartily says, "Stop."

Thrayzar says, "NOOOOOOOOOOOO."

Thrayzar screams!

Thrayzar suddenly stumbles for no apparent reason.

Claede says, "Idiots."

Chamorr heartily says, "That's his family."

Dergoatean says, "Damn it, guys."

Kipara hoarsely says, "This is the destination."

Sofal says, "They are young and scared."

Thrayzar bounces off a wall, stumbling, grabbing at curtains.

Thrayzar says, "Stop sto pstop stospts...."

Thrayzar begins to twitch.

Dergoatean says, "You took out every single one. Again."

Thrayzar begins to twitch.

Hapenlok says, "You morons."

Lylia softly says, "Memories."

Chamorr heartily says, "Last time we left the baker."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Lylia says, "They do not feel pain again."

Speaking unconvincingly to Thrayzar, Cruxophim soothes, "They're fine. We'll raise them."

Claede says, "It must be terrible to see your family die twice."

Kipara hoarsely says, "Whether or not they feel pain is irrelevent, we are harming Thrayzar."

Lylia says, "You do, but they do not."

Kipara hoarsely says, "This is real to him."

Cryheart says, "In his mind not real..but pains him nonetheless."

Alisette mournfully says, "We must stop torturing him."

Leafiara tentatively says, "But, I wonder... if no one had attacked them, what could they have said or done? They were memories..."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Claede asks, "Three times?"

Hapenlok hisses, "I had to watch my wife die twice, once."

Thrayzar pulls at curtains, slamming up against walls, leaning and pushing as if losing his strength....one curtain falls away to reveal a door of black, where a yellowed bone talisman hangs.

Dergoatean says, "Zolis, Claudaro, Dragauth, Kupaka, Tsarok, Cruxophim, Shaelethe, Saranja, Ruffelin, Yakushi - lay off his ethereal family."

Cerridween ponders, "To attack a foe who poses no threat..."

The Symbol of Need begins to burn in your mind and an image appears before you of Irar...

[Melgorehn's Reach, Lift Apex]

You are on a small shelf on the face of the mountain, very near its summit. The air is terribly misty and above you lurks the bottom of a cloud, looking strangely unnatural this near. The view of the lands below is spectacular and frightening at the same time. The side of the mountain from this point up is completely hidden behind an opaque wall of fog descending in plumes from the cloud above. You also see a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule, a large blood red globule and a wooden cab which is riding the wooden trellis and is presently parked at the level of the ledge allowing easy entry.

Also here: the body of a stunned Irar

Lyrna says, "It is not the second time, or the fifth."

Cryheart whispers something to Ruffelin.

Speaking to Dergoatean, Cruxophim mutters, "I didn't do anything."

Thrayzar stumbles about, shouting over and over "no stop stop stop..."

Alisette says, "The talisman."

Xorus distantly says, "There, Thrayzar. The door with the yellow bone talisman."

Hapenlok says, "W-w-w-w...."

Cerridween says, "I sense Irar is in danger."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Dergoatean says, "I ... disagree."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Thrassus asks, "What?"

Thrayzar stumbles back, falling to the ground, and the curtains of darkness fade. The ethereal forms fade. Thrayzar flickers for a few long moments, then looks up.

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "You've come back. To this."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Dergoatean says, "Nebulous hazes and all that."

Thrayzar darkly says, "We are done."

Xorus sighs.

Lylia coldly asks, "Perhaps he ran afoul of...what was it he called this? What sort of magic?"

Speaking to Thrayzar, Leafiara praises, "Nice work."

Hapenlok says, "Stammer h-help me up."

Kipara hoarsely says, "The haste and bloodlust has put a pin in our progress."

Dergoatean asks, "The same talisman as Raznel broke when they attacked her?"

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "You and Professor Xorus were brilliant. And brave."

Zosopage says, "Still red globules at the lift."

Alisette inquisitively asks, "Does this mean the talisman is the answer?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok hisses, "Fool." [for healing Hap, who wants his nerves burned out so Raznel can't use him]

Thrayzar says, "We achieved our goal."

Speaking quietly to Lylia, Saranja asks, "Mentalist magic?"

Cryheart asks, "Aye?"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok exclaims, "I said i didn't want my nervous system restored!"

Leafiara knowingly says, "Knowledge of how to do it."

Thrayzar says, "Memories desired to be locked, unopened."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "We did. Thanks to you, we may have hope now."

Speaking to Saranja, Lylia says, "It was not the term the Deacon used. I forget what he termed it."

Thrayzar says, "I cannot begin to imagine what Pylasar's mind will hold."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Claede says, "Give it back to him forcibly."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Thrassus says, "Indeed, the technique works."

Claede says, "Oh."

Thrayzar says, "But we know it can be successful....."

Thrayzar begins to twitch.

Thrayzar clenches his jaw.

Speaking magnanimously to Hapenlok, Cruxophim soothes, "There you go."

Thrayzar looks around, along the ground, where the goblin and orc corpses were before they too faded.

Thrayzar says, "...we're done. Good luck next week."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Ysharra says, "It's just a shadow."

Thrayzar just went through a flickering purple portal.

Witchful Thinking - 2019-07-19 - Unwind the Curtains (log)

Contents

Summary

Highlights

Log

Awaiting Thrayzar

To the Reach

The Plan

Attack on Raznel

Ivory Thorns

Finding Mirayam

Troll Siege

Preparing for Cross

The Real Challenges

Alchemist Conditioning

Massacre

Navigation menu