Witchful Thinking - 2019-08-31 - Rook and Sea For Yourself (log)

Phoenatos 31-Imaerasta 1, 5119

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

Summary

• The [[::Brotherhood of Rooks|Rook]] leader Mother gets escorted by Sir Cryheart to Moot Hall's mayor's office, where she says that Mayor Lylia's efforts to bring food to the town have helped, as have Breshon's efforts, but the blight is worsening and she expects things may get worse still with continued success against the paragons.

• Captain Shinann asks if that's a threat; Mother says she should be more concerned about the Warcats beating Thadston than picking apart her words. Lylia asks for more information and Mother says she'll discuss it after the current matter.

• Mother says theft is increasing and shopowners are growing anxious. With crime growing, she's offering to have the Rooks guard shopkeepers who wish protection and augment other security where the militia and town guard fall short. Aside from stabilizing business, she'll also aid with food.

• Before she can continue, Gnaeusprimus suggests evacuating people to Solhaven or Icemule while a solution to the blight is found; Mother says Solhaven will turn them away and the Hall of Mages, arriving soon, will ensure that.

• Lylia asks what Mother needs from her to make it happen. Mother finishes explaining that she'll speed up the delivery of food, and adds that she also has an asking price: if Raznel is truly ended, she wants one vessel a month for a year to be protected from guard inspections. She says she doesn't expect an answer tonight, but will be ready if it's a favorable one.

• Before she leaves, Mother explains that the Warcats are a small group of militia loyal to the town but not their marshal--perhaps a phase, but either way not her house to clean, she says. Captain Stormyrain says there will be no longstanding Warcats and it was a misguided situation that's being handled. Leafiara mentions the Rone imitators who didn't have gauntlets as their own "phase"; Mother says the new one has them, but is a thorn for another time.

• Mother leaves, reiterating that she'll be waiting on an answer.

• Later in the evening, [[::Chrysamber Epoch|Chrysamber]] arrives, looking for Pylasar, but he's not present. She tells the crowd that she'll return tomorrow to locate the next paragon or their agreement is off--on his end, not hers.

Highlights

Speaking mischievously to Pukk, Leafiara exclaims, "Looks like it's time!"
Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "It is?"
Pukk gazes up into the sky.
Pukk quietly exclaims, "Oh yeah!"
Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk says, "You know what that means."
Pukk recites quietly:
"Everybody join Cryheart!"
Cryheart says, "Dinnae say it."
Cryheart says, "Oy."
Speaking to Cryheart, Maags exclaims, "Yous would be sad Sir if Pukk said to joins someone else!"

Some dark hooded figures move gracefully along some nearby rooftops, finally convering on the top of Moot Hall where they stop, perched like shadowy gargoyles, observing the streets below.
Speaking quietly to herself, Elphieya says, "What is it with gargoyles recently."

Peeling away from the crowd of Rooks, another steps forward. A black cloak billows out around her like liquid onyx. Beams of moonlight, twisted through the storm clouds and falling rain, cause the blood red sigils on the figure's featureless black mask to almost glow with life. She walks forward, approaching Moot Hall.
Cryheart says, "Here she comes."
Cryheart says, "Walking down the street."

Mother softly says, "Crime will grow. It's coming. Right now, we cannot afford that."
Tayler says, "Crime was pretty much the same height when I saw him last."

Mother softly says, "We are efficient in our...manner of distribution."
Speaking curiously to Mother, Cruxophim wonders, "Do you have bread cannons?"
Speaking fondly to Mother, Cruxophim murmurs, "Please tell me you have bread cannons."
Giantphang exclaims, "One time maked a pie catapult!  But gived it to mister lumbley!"

Mother softly says, "If our town's efforts, and the work of its heroes are successful, and the witch is truly ended...I would ask that we are afforded one vessel a month, for a year's time, that is protected from guard inspections."
Speaking gently to Mother, Cruxophim reminds, "Look, we've already talked about this.  You can't keep keep trying to smuggle Clunk here from Zul, he just won't stay.  It's a waste."

(Zosopage mutters "rock and a hard place.")
Speaking gently to Zosopage, Cruxophim corrects, "Rook and a hard place, I believe you meant."

Log

Mother's Way

[Town Square Central]

This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see a plump white mouse, the Aderion disk, an obese drunken chinchilla, the Razanetika disk, a black-toed saddleback foxhound, the Elyndiria disk, a poofy piebald flop-eared kitten, the Maags disk, a vacillating aurora spirit that is flying around, the Raddafiskie disk, a forest wolf, the Adelphiana disk, the Sofal disk, a large acorn, an indignant glacier spirit that is flying around, a spotted great horned owl, a large Gnollish mushroom, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, an herbal remedy donation bin and some stone benches with some stuff on it.

Also here: Guarrin, Xylax, Lord Chamorr, Bashcore, Event Planner Leafiara, Aderion who is sitting, Land Pirate Maylan who is riding a chunky apricot-hued cob, Dumbledorf, Razanetika who is kneeling, Yanik, Leifa, Elyndiria, Evinescence, Lady Ithilwyn, Drokth, Faldari, Maags, High Lady Ketsimney, Raddafiskie, Eleftheros, Fisher Beldannon, Shinann, Puptilian, Great Lord Demicone, Lord Tayler, Adelphiana, Berost, Boringarr, Sofal, Elphieya, Lyrna, Bernadette, Pukk, Gypsy Scribe Balley, Sir Cryheart, Grand Lord Gnaeusprimus, Zosopage, Guarrin, Chaoswynd, Stormyrain, Lord Chamorr, Ifael

The sky begins to fill with huge clouds, dark and grey on the bottom, pale and white atop, their puffy crowns ascending toward the heavens.

Razanetika softly says, "It happens."

Speaking mischievously to Pukk, Leafiara exclaims, "Looks like it's time!"

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "It is?"

Pukk gasps.

Pukk gazes up into the sky.

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Oh yeah!"

Pukk beams happily at Cryheart!

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk says, "You know what that means."

Pukk recites quietly:

"Everybody join Cryheart!"

Cryheart says, "Dinnae say it."

[people start joining]

Leafiara enthuses, "Cryheart Cult of Rain Lovers, unite!"

Beldannon quietly says, "I have never listened to you nor will I DUKK."

Cryheart says, "Oy."

Some dark hooded figures move hurriedly across some nearby rooftops.

Speaking to Cryheart, Maags exclaims, "Yous would be sad Sir if Pukk said to joins someone else!"

Tayler exclaims, "Ah!"

Leafiara curiously says, "Hmm."

Puptilian says, "Oh goodie..."

Tayler yells, "Get off the roof, you'll break a leg!"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Puptilian asks, "Can we kill them yet?"

Speaking sagely to Tayler, Leafiara says, "Them, never."

Elphieya quietly asks, "Rooks?"

Pukk quietly says, "Another hooligan on the rooftops."

Leafiara takes a bite of her blueberry ice cream.

Leafiara suddenly grasps her head, and a look of intense pain crosses her face.

Giantphang asks, "Everymister is here...is the sky rain blood again?"

Speaking carefully to her blueberry ice cream, Leafiara says, "Maybe I'll save you for later."

Pukk quietly says, "Bright lightning."

Shinann says, "Did not see anyone on the rooftops."

Some dark hooded figures move gracefully along some nearby rooftops, finally convering on the top of Moot Hall where they stop, perched like shadowy gargoyles, observing the streets below.

Speaking to Leafiara, Lazaryth asks, "Where's my hug?"

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 large purple wooden barrel, a bone-framed bulletin board and a polished bleakstone statue.

Leafiara yells, "Come get it Lazaryth!"

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Up there!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Lazaryth says, "That's what I like to hear."

Leafiara yells, "Evenin' Rooks!"

Pukk yells, "You hooligan! You should put some dead fish in the Mayor's office!"

Pukk yells, "I dare you!"

Giantphang exclaims, "It will be smelly!"

Speaking lightly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "But that's your job."

Maags exclaims, "Got lost!"

Hoodtralfeck says, "Yall have fun with the Rooks."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "But if he or she does it. Then I can't be blamed!"

Maags says, "Well yous moved."

Maags says, "Rather."

Cryheart says, "So ye were nae lost."

Speaking quietly to herself, Elphieya says, "What is it with gargoyles recently."

Maags exclaims, "For a minute!"

With the Rooks perched upon the roof of Moot Hall, a small group of additional dark-hooded figures emerge into the streets, stepping out of some alleyways and forming a cluster.

Speaking to Elphieya, Sofal says, "I heard they were intresting un beings."

Evia says, "Hmmm."

Pukk quietly says, "Take Puppy and leave us alone."

Maylan says, "Hi fellas."

Chamorr heartily says, "Hoodlums."

Leifa asks, "What in the name...?"

Speaking quietly to Beldannon, Pukk says, "You really should join Sir Shiny."

Maags says, "Trying to look scaries."

Hoodtralfeck says, "If we burn down all the buildings , they can't hide up there where we can't reach them."

Speaking to Leifa, Stormyrain explains, "Rooks."

Berost deeply says, "No place for em in tha town. Helga kicked em out early."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "Maylan. My favorite."

Cirkas says, "If we burn down all the buildings, I ain't got nowhere to eat."

Cryheart pets a poofy piebald flop-eared kitten.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Leifa asks, "Are they to be feared? Why have they come?"

Cryheart says, "Hello Crumbs."

Speaking quietly to Mongonator, Pukk says, "I was wondering where you went."

Maags says, "Has yous in his sites."

Speaking to Leifa, Stormyrain says, "They live here."

Leifa incredulously says, "This is new to me."

Speaking to Leifa, Stormyrain says, "The Rooks have been a part of the Landing for--years."

Peeling away from the crowd of Rooks, another steps forward. A black cloak billows out around her like liquid onyx. Beams of moonlight, twisted through the storm clouds and falling rain, cause the blood red sigils on the figure's featureless black mask to almost glow with life. She walks forward, approaching Moot Hall.

Evia says, "Uhuh."

Cryheart says, "Here she comes."

Leafiara affably says, "Ah, here she comes."

Evia says, "Her."

Puptilian says, "Interesting mask."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Nice cloak!"

Elphieya quietly whispers aloud, "Mother."

Cryheart says, "Walking down the street."

Speaking to Leifa, Stormyrain whispers aloud, "That is Mother, their leader--well now."

Maags says, "Such an entrance."

Speaking to her drunken chinchilla, Maylan says, "Stay safe and hide."

Hoodtralfeck exclaims, "Raznel gimma a kiss!"

Lyrna says, "As of this year."

Mother just arrived.

Pukk quietly exclaims, "They will eat you!"

Cryheart says, "Hello."

Cryheart says, "And good evening."

Speaking quietly to Maags, Pukk says, "Hide behind Sir Shiny."

Balley softly says, "Hello Mother."

Speaking amicably to Mother, Leafiara says, "Evenin' there. Thanks for protecting Shanty Town those many nights ago."

Mother bows.

Mother nods at Leafiara.

Evia says, "Cozy."

Darksin softly says, "Sorry."

Mother softly says, "We are Wehnimer's Landing. All of us."

Berost deeply asks, "Two hammers, should do her good, ya?"

Mother runs a finger over her brilliant red soulstone ring and looks up to the second story of Moot Hall.

Speaking heartily to Mother, Chamorr says, "Hello."

Mother softly asks, "The Mayor, yes?"

Mother points up.

Speaking to Berost, Ruffelin says, "Tis a start."

Stormyrain says, "She's likely in her office, yes."

Evia asks, "The mayor yes what?"

Speaking to Mother, Shinann says, "You are the one with spies."

Mother nods.

Speaking to Mother, Tayler says, "Actually I'm from the Rest, just visiting, there's a plague and ruffians."

Mother joins Cryheart's group.

Mother softly asks, "Shall we?"

Mother peers quizzically at Cryheart.

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I'm glad Mother was able to protect the people of Shanty. Somebody had to."

Cryheart says, "As ye ask."

Maags says, "Mayor's office anyhow."

Cryheart says, "Ye will receive."

Mother loops her arm around Cryheart's.

[travel]

Speaking to Cryheart, Maags exclaims, "Not always!"

[Moot Hall, Mayor Lylia's Office]

From a dais, the maoral desk and an ivory and velvet curule seat loom over two carved wooden chairs. Tapestry rugs cover the hardwood floor, their patterns complementing the arched windows flanking the desk. A stag's head stares at a panoramic fresco mounted opposite it. In a corner near the bar, a scarred witchwood perch rises to the high ceiling, while several feet away, a black iron stove rests against the west wall and is topped with a silver kettle. You also see a small maoral sideboard with some stuff on it, a maoral bookcase and a varnished modwir door.

Lylia says, "I have told Mother she is welcome to visit me here. I came to her last time. She is my guest this time." [she was explaining this to Maylan, who had gone inside in advance after Mother asked if Lylia was in her office]

Cryheart says, "Guess who came to visit."

Mother grins.

Evia says, "Escort service for Rook rankers."

Lylia says, "Welcome."

Mother unloops her arm from Cryhearts, then briefly touches his shoulder.

Speaking to Lylia, Maags says, "Good eves Lady Mayor and Sir Knight did escort yous guest."

Mother softly says, "Thank you."

Mother nods at Cryheart.

Cryheart says, "Welcome m'lady."

Lylia appreciatively says, "Thank you for being so gracious."

Speaking heartily to Cryheart, Chamorr says, "That was nice, ya helped Mother up the stairs."

Open Offer

Mother softly says, "Mayor."

Mother nods at Lylia.

Speaking amusedly to Mother, Cruxophim greets, "Well, well. Greetings."

Mother grins at Cruxophim.

Mother softly says, "I thought it best we keep our discussion open, if you will. Since, as I told another earlier, we are Wehnimer's."

Evia says, "Oh, we have a trio of current and former mayors."

Cruxophim dubiously notes, "Leifa and Leafiara? This is gonna get confusing."

Lylia agrees, "An open meeting, an open office."

Maags exclaims, "Much power!"

Puptilian says, "Well hard to tell when some are behind masks."

Tayler says, "All we're missing is Walkar."

Speaking affably to Mother, Cruxophim agrees, "Aye."

Mother softly says, "Your attempts to bring food to the town have helped. The Baron's boy has helped."

Mother nods at Lylia.

Mother softly says, "But it is not enough."

Lylia says, "I am genuinely pleased to hear that." [referring to the help]

Cruxophim wryly mutters, "Is it ever?"

Lylia says, "I am also aware that the blight has, if anything, intensified."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "I blame the statue!"

Speaking to Mother, Maylan says, "I could divert more funds if needed."

Mother softly says, "The food rots quickly. I am told soon some may begin refusing sending food here completely."

Mother softly says, "The blight has, as you noted, worsened."

Lylia replies, "They are being well paid."

Mother softly asks, "Perhaps in spite of your recent success, no?"

Mother softly says, "If you continue to be successful against these...paragons, we imagine things may only worsen further."

Lylia says, "Because of it, I suspect. Raznel dislikes being defied."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth asks, "Rakes are very popular these days. Haven't you heard?"

Speaking to Lylia, Goldstr asks, "Is nae da Hall a Mages nae sendin a group to try to cure da blight?"

Lyrna says, "And yet, that is likely the only way to get it to stop completely."

Evia says, "So sometimes it's "we" and sometimes it's "you", gotcha."

Maylan says, "They are very fashionable."

Speaking to Mother, Shinann asks, "Is that a threat?"

Pukk whispers something to Leafiara.

Elphieya quietly says, "The final thrashing and screams before death are often the strongest and loudest."

Cryheart says, "We hae to deal with the paragons."

Mother softly says, "Theft is increasing in town. Shopowners are growing anxious and afraid."

Mother peers quizzically at Shinann.

Mother softly asks, "A threat?"

Shinann says, "If we continue with the elimination of the paragons."

Speaking to Goldstr, Lylia says, "Among other things, yes. The Hall of Mages is sending some researchers."

Mother softly says, "Please. You should focus more on your militia Warcats who beat your marshal bloody, than picking apart my words."

From behind Shinann, Cruxophim's voice amusedly offers, "I presume more of an observation based upon known data."

Mother nods at Shinann.

Shinann asks, "Things get worse. Just a fact or threat?"

Mother softly says, "My house is in order."

Maylan says, "Stay focused."

Pukk quietly says, "More imps...just what we need."

Mother softly asks, "Is yours?"

Evia asks, "A girl's gotta pick apart something, no?"

Mother taps a finger to the chin of her mask.

Speaking to Mother, Maylan asks, "I take it you have suggestions for helping the people, I hope?"

Speaking to Mother, Lylia says, "I would like to know about these Warcats. I hear very little, and what I do hear is contradictory. It makes me distrust my sources."

Mother turns her eyes from Shinann and back to Mayor Lylia, and the rest of the crowd.

Mother nods at Lylia.

Stormyrain clenches her jaw.

Stormyrain folds her arms over her chest.

Mother softly says, "We may discuss it then, if you wish. Shortly. First we've this matter at hand."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Evia asks, "Would you not be one to ask about such also?"

Speaking to Evia, Stormyrain says, "I've spoken with the Mayor."

Mother softly says, "Crime will grow. It's coming. Right now, we cannot afford that."

Mother softly says, "I am offering our aid."

Speaking to Lylia, Puptilian says, "The hunters are continuing their work but sadly we keep having to push further away from town. It's getting too dangerous for some to continue."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Lylia murmurs, "You are one of my reliable sources here. Do not think, when I speak of ill-informed sources, I mean you."

Speaking heartily to Mother, Chamorr asks, "Is crime growing, by yer hand?"

Evia whispers something to Stormyrain.

Cryheart asks, "In what form do ye mean aid?"

Mother softly says, "I am offering the Brotherhood to help guard shops, and their keepers, those who wish it. We will help augment any other security details needed in the town, where the militia or guard fall short."

Tayler says, "Crime was pretty much the same height when I saw him last."

Speaking to Mother, Maylan asks, "And the food? What about the food?"

Speaking to Mother, Maylan says, "Scared shop owners are one thing, but starving citizens must be addressed first."

Mother softly says, "They are stealing food, from shopkeepers, from others."

Mother softly says, "Families stealing from families."

Lylia says, "Lawlessness is growing, despite efforts to step up patrols on the path to Icemule Trace. There is only so much that can be done there. However, the solution you offer is to do more of the same, but nearby, and using those who would otherwise turn to lawlessness to guard the law? It seems untenable."

Zosopage says, "Taxes from shops can be used towards food as well."

Speaking confusedly to Mother, Maylan asks, "So you would prevent their attempts at survival?"

Pukk quietly says, "Mother is offering to help with the crime, the town council needs to help with the food."

Maags says, "If they had food they would not steal. Maylan is right."

Speaking to Mother, Goldstr says, "Yer Brotherhood gonna charge da Shopkeeps? Dats been done by dem Rooks before."

Cryheart says, "Should probably have a food distribution center which food could be handed out to all."

Speaking to Mother, Maylan says, "You have always been a friend of the people. Surely your resources could be put to better use than guard duty."

Mother softly says, "We must stabilize business in the town. We will also offer our aid in regards to food."

Speaking to Lylia, Soneiken asks, "Aid is what you need Lady Mayor, I as well will send word back to Kharam Dzu to ask for soldiers if need be, at your request of course?"

Lyrna says, "Offer? Out of the goodness of your hearts? Or for a small fee..."

Gnaeusprimus asks, "Maybe evacuate townspeople to Solhaven or Icemule while a solution to the blight is found?"

Elphieya quietly says, "We need to offer the people food and some hope. Desperation and hopelessness can cause even the most temperate of people to act rashly."

Lylia says, "You have made the point that 'We are Wehnimer's Landing.' Yet you offer aid as though there is a 'them' and an 'us.'."

Mother softly says, "We will be turned away from Solhaven."

Mother softly says, "The Hall comes soon to ensure that."

Speaking to Soneiken, Lylia says, "I appreciate the offer. More than you know. And I shall keep it in mind."

Mother softly asks, "Us and them? Have I?"

Lylia nods at Mother.

Evia asks, "Now which "we" is that, the "we Rooks" or the "we are all the town" we?"

Maylan frustratedly says, "Stop squabbling over words."

Lylia asks, "It seems so. How can you offer aid to 'us,' if you are not 'us?' Would you not already have done so?"

Speaking wryly to Maylan, Leafiara says, "Happens almost every night around here."

Ruffelin whispers something to Cryheart.

Mother softly says, "I have tried only to illustrate the fact that I understand the Brotherhood is not the only resource available. The militia and town guard exist."

Bargaining

Lylia asks, "What is it you need from me to make this happen?"

Maylan says, "Us and we and you and me and them and they and I and all."

Mother grins at Lylia.

Cryheart whispers something to Ruffelin.

Mother softly says, "Certainly, I am pleased you ask."

Cruxophim coolly remarks, "Everyone skins the same, in the end. Just flesh and bone."

Maylan says, "Aye, asking the important questions now."

Mother softly says, "The Brotherhood can provide two things, more if you should need it."

Evia whispers something to Maylan.

Cruxophim reaches inside one of the mesh veil iron pouches hanging from his black harness and grabs a glistening black apple.

Cruxophim takes a bite of his black apple.

CS: +300 - TD: +300 + CvA: -8 + d100: +92 == +84

Warded off!

Speaking to himself, Skipjack asks, "Is that what's under that mask...skin and bone?"

Lylia says, "We are all flesh and bone, and shall be little but skin and bone, if we do not do more together. That much is not in question."

Mother softly says, "We will bring protection to the businesses of the town, for those who seek it. I understand that the Brotherhood's past may keep some from accepting such an offer."

Mother softly says, "Secondly...."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Soneiken says, "About you got a Bad apple, be careful "you are what you eat"."

Mother softly says, "The Brotherhood is faster than you. Than the Baron boy. Than any ships at dock."

Mother softly says, "We can help improve the food, and will help distribute it."

Cryheart asks, "Improve?"

Mother softly says, "With your oversight, of course."

Cruxophim nods faintly at Mother.

Mother nods at Cruxophim.

Speaking earnestly to Mother, Maylan asks, "How will you do this?"

Evia asks, "Then why have you not already done so, if I may ask?"

Mother softly says, "We can improve the speed of which it arrives."

Maylan asks, "If the food is rotting as soon as it's delivered, is that enough?"

Mother nods at Cryheart.

Speaking deeply to Mother, Berost asks, "Jest magically help tha food situation? Why ya been waitin' then?"

Ruffelin whispers something to Cryheart.

Wolfloner darkly says, "Seems a straightforward offer to me. We have suffered far more harm from the empire from the south. And yet the town bends to them at their will. The Rooks are making a good will offer. It is not a complicated thing as you are all making it."

Lylia replies, "To clarify, then: You wish me to work with you on this, and you have come to me because you are aware that if Rooks are seen at the front of half the businesses in town, without the approval of the mayor, it would cause its own set of troubles."

Sofal says, "That sounds like rationing... what do you base how people get their distribution."

Mother softly says, "It does not rot immediately."

Stormyrain asks, "Is it a problem with how long the food is taking, or is it something that impacts it once it is here?"

Cryheart whispers something to Ruffelin.

Maylan says, "Yet."

Mother softly says, "We are efficient in our...manner of distribution."

Mother softly says, "Arguably better than your guards and militia."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Puptilian says, "We could have the food delievered outside of town and escort citizens to the delievery area to eat."

Speaking grimly to Stormyrain, Cruxophim states, "I'd imagine it's implied to be unnatural decay."

Speaking curiously to Mother, Cruxophim wonders, "Do you have bread cannons?"

Cryheart says, "A distribution center."

Mother nods at Lylia.

Pukk quietly says, "Mmmmm bread cannons."

Speaking fondly to Mother, Cruxophim murmurs, "Please tell me you have bread cannons."

Giantphang exclaims, "One time maked a pie catapult! But gived it to mister lumbley!"

Speaking to Mother, Shinann asks, "If your ways were shared with us, we could get a lot of food to the ones that need it, Masked One. Why is that a secret?"

Speaking quietly to Puptilian, Elphieya says, "But the rot and disease is not contained just within the gates of the Landing."

Mother looks over at Cruxophim and shakes her head.

Giantphang says, "Wish still had that'un."

Mother softly asks, "Why do you keep secrets?"

Mother peers quizzically at Shinann.

Berost deeply says, "Says the woman in a mask."

Speaking to Elphieya, Puptilian says, "Trust me I know. We can put it in the outpost and have a protective guard between the two locations."

Speaking to Mother, Shinann says, "I am asking a practical question."

Leafiara perplexedly says, "Sometimes I can't tell if some of you all would prefer the Rooks to act on their own or if you'd decry them if they did."

Speaking quietly to Berost, Elphieya says, "I think that was her answer to why she wears the mask."

Speaking to Mother, Maylan asks, "What about rhimar? Have we experimented with storing the food in colder temperatures?"

Ruffelin whispers something to Guarrin.

Speaking to Leafiara, Puptilian says, "Would be a lot easier to trust someone you can see instead of one behind masks."

Mother shrugs at Maylan.

Speaking heartily to Lylia, Chamorr says, "That would be giving recognition and acceptance to the Rooks being in town."

Tayler says, "Hire some ice mages to enchant a warehouse, boom."

Mother softly says, "Masks of flesh are as common as any other."

Speaking curiously to Puptilian, Leafiara says, "Why? Most of the least trustworthy people I know don't wear masks."

Mother nods at Puptilian.

Speaking calmly to Puptilian, Cruxophim reminds, "Anonymity serves an important purpose sometimes."

Speaking to Maylan, Evia says, "I recall asking that recently and was somewhat scolded for questioning anything."

Lylia says, "The Rooks, acting on their own, would be attacked. Or misunderstood, or maligned. That much is true. So it does make sense to speak of this openly."

Bernadette softly says, "We wanna hep ye get food to those who needs it."

Speaking deeply to Elphieya, Berost says, "Aye. As it be; she to easy to find a solution to the town's problems when it fits her need. Not ha peoples."

Skipjack says, "Rot and disease spreads from this place like a plague...accept this help if only to keep it from spreading."

Lylia clarifies, "To have a more open agreement."

Mother softly says, "I am not without an asking price, either."

Lylia says, "Ah, now that is the part I find curious."

Ruffelin whispers something to Guarrin.

Mother softly says, "I am being forthcoming in this."

Goldstr says, "Figured da a comin."

Tayler says, "Everything has a price, especially leaders of strange shadow organizations that won't show their face."

Leafiara pragmatically says, "Worthwhile services do come with prices."

Lylia asks, "Why would there be an asking price for aid to us all?"

Speaking quietly to Berost, Elphieya says, "We can argue about her timing or listen to the offer of aid. The town is dying. The help is needed."

Sofal says, "The mask matters not, some can't even pick a gender some days."

Shinann glances at Leafiara.

Mother softly says, "Because if our attempts against this witch are successful, time will erase the memory of our efforts."

Zosopage says, "Let's hear what she asks first before dismissing the idea of it."

Chamorr heartily asks, "Our?"

Maylan says, "Yarr. Out with it."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara acknowledges, "Okay, yes, I know -you- heal without asking for tips, but you're... not quite the norm."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara adds, "And people do offer."

Mother softly says, "My dream is to see Wehnimer's Landing healthy after this blight and the witch is ruined. I would likewise wish to see the Brotherhood healthy as well."

Speaking to Leafiara, Shinann says, "This is not about me."

Speaking nonchalantly to Leafiara, Cruxophim reminds, "I don't charge either. But that's hardly the norm, aye."

Speaking quietly to Cruxophim, Elphieya says, "Neither do I. But clearly not the norm."

Lylia says, "In a healthy Landing, the Brotherhood would not exist. Or it would rule. The current situation is untenable and has been so for years."

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Chamorr says, "I don't charge eithjer."

Speaking impatiently to Mother, Maylan says, "Spit it out."

Speaking dubiously to Chamorr, Cruxophim muses, "For healing?"

Lylia says, "Or more accurately, it would be...managed. Calculated dissent."

Lylia says, "But that is a discussion for less urgent times."

Speaking calmly to Mother, Cruxophim ventures, "You wish to be recognized for your efforts, after the fact?"

Maags says, "We can has a parade."

Mother softly says, "If our town's efforts, and the work of its heroes are successful, and the witch is truly ended...I would ask that we are afforded one vessel a month, for a year's time, that is protected from guard inspections."

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Chamorr says, "I'm completely normal."

Felita says, "We glad to meet with ye and figger out how to help."

Speaking quietly to Lylia, Elphieya suggests, "The enemy of my enemy is my friend, yes? The town needs any help we can get or there will not be a Landing left."

Speaking lightly to Chamorr, Leafiara says, "...right."

Mother softly says, "Should we all survive, that is."

Speaking to Mother, Soneiken asks, "Okay, I'm in wid ya, I'd like to order the first shipment, make it Ice Cream, that will cheer most up, every flavor but the "Blight Delight", and make it the kind that don't melt, Okay how much do I owe ya?"

Avalera amusedly says, "Of course."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "Seems reasonable."

Speaking to Elphieya, Lylia says, "Oh, I am well aware, but terms are for those who are not in the same vessel -- inspected or not."

Speaking to Mother, Goldstr says, "So's ye wants a free pass to smuggle."

Speaking gently to Mother, Cruxophim reminds, "Look, we've already talked about this. You can't keep keep trying to smuggle Clunk here from Zul, he just won't stay. It's a waste."

Speaking heartily to Mother, Chamorr says, "You should pay taxes and dock fees."

Puptilian says, "For a group that keeps saying they are the Landing, they are one of us, that they want to protect the people when the time comes to show their worth they want a price and that price is for us to ignore their illegal activities. It's time to show who you really are. If you are part of this town then help it without price."

Mother softly says, "I was speaking to the current mayor."

Mother nods at Puptilian.

Mother smiles.

Cruxophim whispers something to Lylia.

Gutstorm says, "Mother is shmart."

Tayler says, "Who needs their help, send her to the block and ask the next leader for more favorable terms."

Speaking to Lylia, Neopuron asks, "Can I get a boat too?"

Leafiara reasons, "This isn't even a direct price. It's more like... relief on taxes once a month."

Lylia says, "One of the signal advantages of doing business in Wehnimer's Landing is the...nature of the business one may do. It has always been thus. And it is one reason why the Landing has remained a free port."

Evia says, "Or a license to smuggle what one wants."

Speaking calmly to Stormyrain, Cruxophim inquires, "What about you, Captain? Do you consider the cost to be worth it, as children starve and food rots in our homes?"

Ruffelin whispers something to Guarrin.

Speaking to Evia, Soneiken says, "If she is smugglin Ice Cream, then I vote Yes."

(Zosopage mutters "rock and a hard place.")

Stormyrain slowly offers, "I've no idea, really. Is it worth it? Mayhaps; but we will not know until after we've paid it what the answer of that question really is."

Speaking gently to Zosopage, Cruxophim corrects, "Rook and a hard place, I believe you meant."

Maylan says, "Seems rather clear we should accept these terms."

Mother nods at Lylia.

Speaking thoughtfully to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "You know, I was going to say something about how just because a ship gets past inspection doesn't mean anything can pass through the streets without detection, but does the militia ever inspect the tunnels?"

Mother softly says, "I do not expect an answer this night."

Ruffelin says, "Hard times, hard choices."

Guarrin whispers something to Cryheart.

Mother softly says, "But know, that when I do, should it be a favorable one, the Brotherhood is ready."

Tayler exclaims, "What if they smuggle in cannons, or exotic pets that will overrun the local wildlife!"

Speaking curiously to Mother, Elphieya asks, "Would you leave the people to starve if your "price" is not met?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Neopuron says, "I inspect them once in a while."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "...I'd think not since they're not under jurisdiction, right?"

Lylia says, "Good. I would prefer to let all voices be heard in this matter."

Speaking amusedly to Neopuron, Leafiara clarifies, "I mean in an official capacity."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan pleads, "Shantytown needs this."

Mother softly says, "I believe that question is best left to someone else."

Mother nods at Elphieya.

Speaking deeply to Ruffelin, Berost says, "Hardly. She chhooses to bargain wit' tha lives of children. All ya need to know."

Shinann says, "It is a valid question."

Lylia coolly says, "I am aware of the needs of all of the town."

Warcats

Mother goes to turn but then stops.

Mother softly asks, "...and I'm sorry, you had another question?"

Mother softly asks, "The Warcats?"

Speaking to Maylan, Tayler says, "Shantytown needs a bit of fire."

Speaking to Berost, Ruffelin says, "Aye, I'm wonderin' why this aid dinnae come freely, since she says we're all Wehnimer's."

Lylia simply says, "Yes. Whatever you could share about them would be welcome."

Cryheart whispers something to Ruffelin.

Maylan says, "I promised the Mayor I wouldn't set anymore fires..."

Mother softly says, "A small group of rogue militia, loyal to the town, but not their marshal."

Mother softly says, "Perhaps a phase."

Lylia whispers something to Ruffelin.

Mother softly says, "But it is not my house to clean."

Stormyrain murmurs, "Not their Interim Marshal."

Mother glances between Shinann and Stormyrain.

Stormyrain settles her gaze on Mother, watching her intently.

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Aha militia!"

Shinann folds her arms over her chest.

Speaking to Mother, Soneiken says, "Before you go - Remeber, first Shipment "Ice cream"."

Ruffelin whispers something to Cryheart.

Speaking bemusedly to Mother, Cruxophim admits, "These things seem to come and go around here."

Leafiara muses, "Maybe like all the fake Rones without gauntlets. That phase ended quickly."

Speaking surreptitiously to Leafiara, Cruxophim agrees, "Aye, it did."

Cryheart whispers something to Ruffelin.

Mother softly says, "The new one has them."

Mother nods to Leafiara.

Ruffelin whispers something to Cryheart.

Leafiara nods at Mother.

Leafiara says, "Well, at least the new one doesn't seem to be doing much. ...yet."

Goldstr says, "So gones a be an open market fer all dem pirates from 'Haven an da Rest."

Mother softly says, "Have you seen her? A thorn for another time."

Speaking to Mother, Lylia says, "We shall talk again, and soon, when I have heard more from us."

Lylia pointedly says, "All of us."

Mother nods at Lylia.

Speaking to Mother, Leafiara admits, "Not often, no."

Soneiken asks, "Can anyone join dem Warcats er you have to be invited?"

Stormyrain can offer Soneiken only a blank expression.

Elphieya eyes Soneiken with a stern expression, her dark sclera reduced to mere slits.

Soneiken asks, "Just a question?"

Mother peers quizzically at Soneiken.

Shinann says, "So, it is a her."

Stormyrain evenly says, "There will be no long standing Warcat group. It was a misguided, and misinterpreted situation that is being handled."

Speaking to Soneiken, Sofal asks, "Asking for a friend?"

Pukk quietly says, "Leafi joined the militia I heard and now the Warcats show up.....hmmmm too suspicious."

Speaking to Mother, Soneiken says, "Joking, ice cream remeber."

Shinann agrees with Stormyrain.

Speaking to Mother, Ruffelin asks, "Why will ye nae freely offer yer aid? Why mus' ye place a price upon it when th' townfolk waste away by th' moment?"

Speaking adamantly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "I'd never get in the way of Thadston while he's after the witch. Literally the last thing I'd ever do."

Mother softly says, "Surely you understand."

Mother nods at Ruffelin.

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Okay, that makes sense."

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara acknowledges, "...now the rest of the time is another story, but... not now."

Speaking to Mother, Ruffelin says, "Nay, actually, I dinnae understand at all."

Mother softly says, "I am tasked with the survival of Wehnimer's Landing and the Brotherhood."

Pukk quietly says, "Then Bernadette."

Speaking to Mother, Neopuron asks, "Does your help stop with the witch's defeat?"

Shinann says, "No, I do not understand either."

Speaking heartily to Mother, Chamorr says, "If yer price is met what is bein brought in on yer ship must be negotiated."

Mother softly says, "What I do, must serve both."

Thrassus asks, "Tasked? By who?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Gutstorm says, "Shine me up to be a warcat."

Mother softly says, "That is our mission."

Speaking to Mother, Maylan says, "Are you open to negotiations? Perhaps a dinghy every other month...."

Speaking to Mother, Ruffelin asks, "Isnae th' survival o' th' town paramount sae as ta ensure yer ain survival?"

Speaking to Mother, Maylan exclaims, "Or maybe a really big barrel!"

Mother looks over at Chamorr and shakes her head.

Maylan exclaims, "A floaty one!"

Bernadette softly says, "I ain't in the Warcats."

Mother softly says, "No, that is opposite of what I asked."

Mother nods at Chamorr.

Speaking to Ruffelin, Tayler says, "Organizations that thrive in the shadows can thrive in any shadow."

Tayler says, "Landing, Solhaven, the Rest."

Falvicar offhandedly says, "I know a few ways to skin some cats."

Speaking to Mother, Ruffelin asks, "Would ye allow th' town ta die sae ye kin smuggle goods thru a husk o' a port?"

Bernadette softly says, "No offense."

Speaking deeply to Ruffelin, Berost says, "Not worth it. Or the help would be happening at the moment."

Lylia says, "The Warcats are a relatively minor concern. Any group of fiends may raise a banner and call itself an 'organization,' despite being a rabble."

Cruxophim whispers something to Mother.

Mother nods at Cruxophim.

Speaking to Mother, Lylia says, "Thank you for visiting me in my office this time, as I met with you in yours."

Pukk whispers something to Leafiara.

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan asks, "There is rabble rousing? Why was I not informed?"

Speaking coolly to Falvicar, Cruxophim agrees, "So do eye."

Leafiara whispers something to Pukk.

Speaking to Lylia, Soneiken says, "Well, dey did'nt just beat anyone up, dey were a little more organized than that."

Mother softly says, "It is only fair. You've only five months left in it. Best to wear it in."

Pukk whispers something to Leafiara.

Mother softly says, "Reach out when your decision is made. We will be ready."

Leafiara whispers something to Leafiara.

Mother just went through a varnished modwir door.

Chatter

Lylia says, "Yes, a few months left in the mayoral office."

Cryheart says, "That was abrupt."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "This is true. Doesn't have to be your problem for very long."

Gutstorm yells, "Mother, come back!"

Lylia adds, "And centuries in the Landing."

Pukk whispers something to Leafiara.

Maylan says, "It's just some smuggling."

Falvicar whispers something to Avalera.

Speaking to Lylia, Raelee remarks, "... effective attempt at blackmail, there."

Leifa insultingly says, "That was a rather coarse creature."

Goldstr says, "Sounds like Lady D'Archon before da time a Rysus."

Tayler asks, "Why don't you just.. you know, throw her in the brig and negotiate with someone that isn't horrible?"

Speaking to Leifa, Lazaryth whispers aloud, "She's likely a redhead as well."

Speaking to Tayler, Lylia says, "She is beloved of the Rooks."

Speaking to Maylan, Ruffelin asks, "But smugglin' wha'? Slaves? Poisons? Weapons fer our enemies?"

Speaking to Goldstr, Evia asks, "Rather high-toned, no?"

Thrassus says, "Assistance now for assured problems in the future."

Speaking to Goldstr, Leafiara says, "The previous 'Mother' of the Rooks... still so odd."

Speaking to Ruffelin, Maylan says, "The usual, most likely. Plinite, stolen goods, and the like."

Speaking darkly to Tayler, Wolfloner says, "You could try. Doubt you would survive."

Speaking to Lylia, Tayler says, "Exactly! She was right here, there's about fifty of us."

Lylia explains, "I behead her, I make a martyr of her and an enemy of others. It is not worth it."

Berost deeply says, "No need ta agree."

Speaking to Maylan, Ruffelin asks, "But how kin we be sure if there's nay o'ersight at all?"

Berost deeply says, "Either we kill tha paragons and end tha witch. Or she kills us, an the town is ded anyhow."

Speaking to Maylan, Ruffelin exclaims, "Waive th' fees. Waive th' taxes, but inspect th' goods!"

Speaking to Ruffelin, Maylan says, "Smuggling happens already, may even be happening right now. We can't be sure of anything."

Shinann says, "I thought she was telling us to stop finding the paragons, when I asked about a threat. Other than that, I stand by the other things I said."

Speaking affably to Berost, Cruxophim agrees, "That's about the long and short of it."

Maags says, "I suggest yous compromise and ask her what she is doing , or smuggling or whatever, and onlies yous know and yous make the decision whether it is worth it in the end."

Skipjack asks, "What do you care what's being smuggled?"

Lylia says, "But the point is not to argue over the nature of the woman herself."

Tayler says, "Well, I'm sure the Rest would gladly accept... most refugees."

Skipjack asks, "Your town is starving!?"

Chrysamber's Arrival

A small mote of white light appears in the room.

Speaking to himself, Skipjack says, "No wonder the Landing is a blight on the bay."

Maags says, "There has always been a lot of smuggling."

Maylan asks, "Whas that?"

Gurem asks, "What's this now?"

Speaking wryly to Skipjack, Cruxophim admits, "Doesn't seem terribly big-picture right now. Illicit goods are a bit less pressing than famine and pestilence."

Maags says, "This seems...different."

Leafiara curiously asks, "Chrysamber perhaps?"

Speaking to Skipjack, Ruffelin says, "Aye, d'ye nae think we see it? But yer talkin' about openin' a dangerous box 'ere."

Evia says, "More visitors I suppose."

Zosopage says, "No inspection seems a bit too much though. Someone impartial that wouldn't discriminate against them as long as the town wouldn't suffer in the long run."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan asks, "Did you have another appointment?"

Lylia says, "She starves along with us, but as she points out, the Rooks have resources that others may not have."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan asks, "With a wisp, perhaps?"

Lylia wearily says, "There is always another appointment."

Evia says, "If you object to inspections of legitimate cargo, you are obviously hiding something."

Speaking to an elf owl, Leifa asks, "Owl, you there, what is that light up there?"

Lylia says, "I did not, however, recall one with a wisp."

Speaking to Lylia, Ruffelin says, "Resources they're withholdin' frae th' town as it starves."

There is a glow of white and a *POP!* sound and a woman appears standing near the window.

Gutstorm says, "Pshychadelic."

Tayler says, "Hm."

Speaking deeply to Lylia, Berost says, "Where, how, who? Nae agree to it. Could be tha witch givin it to them fer all we know."

Speaking to Chrysamber, Lylia says, "Good evening to you."

Speaking curiously to Zosopage, Leafiara asks, "What could go so wrong with just one ship a month? ...and I mean it. What do you think is the worst that could happen?"

Chrysamber nods.

Sofal says, "Maybe they employ some paladins to keep the food fresher longer."

Maylan confusedly asks, "Who is this floaty light lady?"

Speaking quietly to Chrysamber, Pukk asks, "They were just talking about you....were your ears burning?"

Chrysamber looks over the crowd, then frowns.

Cruxophim calmly says, "Mage."

Speaking helpfully to Maylan, Leafiara says, "Chronomage helping with finding the paragons."

Chrysamber melodically asks, "Peter is not present?"

Speaking to Chrysamber, Tayler says, "I'd like a refund, your Ta'Illistim branch is very stuck up."

Cryheart says, "Nae yet."

Speaking brightly to Leafiara, Maylan says, "Oh, I see."

Chrysamber melodically says, "Very well."

Speaking heartily to Chrysamber, Chamorr asks, "Was he spose to be?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Zosopage says, "12 full ships can do a lot of damage."

Lylia says, "He is not, unfortunately."

Shinann asks, "No, was he supposed to be?"

Bernadette softly says, "Na yets."

Speaking wryly to Chrysamber, Cruxophim reminds, "Who can say? Any purple caterpillars lurking around? Purple jelly stuck to someone's shoe?"

Chrysamber melodically says, "Tell him I will return tomorrow eve to locate the next paragon."

Speaking to Zosopage, Leafiara stresses, "But full of what? ...weapons? Crimson orbs?"

Chrysamber melodically says, "Or our agreement is off, on his end, not mine."

Lylia says, "I shall see to it that he receives the message immediately."

Speaking to Chrysamber, Maylan says, "If we tell him "tomorrow eve", he'll show up two weeks ago wondering where you are."

Speaking quietly to Chrysamber, Pukk says, "I say Balley is the next Paragon."

Evia asks, "He has something on his end?"

Speaking amicably to Chrysamber, Cruxophim confesses, "I'm afraid I have some pressing business, but I do wish you all luck in your endeavor."

Lylia says, "'Immediately' being, for a change, a term he understands."

With a white glow and a *POP!* the chronomage vanishes.