Witchful Thinking - 2019-09-17 - Desolation and Desecration (log)

Imaerasta 17-18, 5119

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

Summary

• Just as a [[::Dreavenings|Dreavening]] begins, the shadowy black scarab imbedded in Balley pops out of her and crumbles to dust... to no apparent immediate effect. She discusses it later with everyone in Town Square Central, but nobody has any particular answers or theories, especially since nobody who was near her when it happened seems to be cursed.

• Captain Shinann and Leafiara note over the amunet that the local coyotes, kobolds, roltons, and velnalin have been looking sickly for the past day.

• Later in the night, Thrayzar comes to Moot Hall and says they've tried to track down the citizens taken by Raznel's spiders, but once they reach outside town their trail vanishes without a trace. Leafi notes the similarity to what Puptilian's [[::Animal Companion (630)|wolf companion]] Aatu had reported with trying to find the trail of [[::Mayor Walkar|Walkar]]'s sister Abygail [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-07-06_-_Double_Orc_Nothing#Regarding_Abygail|months earlier]].

• Thrayzar says we'll hunt the next paragon on Feastday, but Pylasar is concerned about what the broken scarabs might have done--and he doesn't know which of two paragons [[::Chrysamber Epoch|Chrysamber]]'s compass will guide us to. The possibilities are Sentinel Jerram Happersett of the Turamzzyrian Empire and Brumas Brightforge, a dwarven hero of Doggoroth Keep outside of Talador. Goldstr notes multiple paragons have been from the Empire; Thrayzar says it's what Raznel knows.

• Thrayzar relays a request from Pylasar to see if anyone knew a way to contact Quinshon and send a message that he wants to meet. Thrayzar says he didn't press for why and warned against it, but nonetheless at least asked since Pylasar was adamant. Zosopage asks for a time and location, but Thrayzar only has the. Madmountan and Mayor Lylia agree with it being unwise and, at least outwardly, no one volunteers to deliver the message. Thrayzar leaves to resume scouting for the spiders.

• Afterward Lylia mentions Mother's [[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-08-31_-_Rook_and_Sea_For_Yourself#Open_Offer|offer]], which she's neither agreed to nor refused, and the crowd discusses a bit. Berost opposes; Madmountan supports it; Sofal opposes; Zosopage opposes; Goldstr says to wait to see if the witch gets weaker as she loses more paragons; Leafi asks Berost why mutual benefits are a problem. Further discussion is about to proceed to the paragons, but gets interrupted as...

• Shinann is taken away by shadows, and relatively soon afterward a flare ignores over the town barracks. The group arrives to find butchered militiamen and a writhing shadow wall blocking passage to the kitchen, where Raznel has Shinann captive. The group attacks the wall with gusto, gradually weakening it, but not quite in time as Raznel says something to Shinann, takes the bleakstone scarab back, and melts into the shadows.

• The group gets through and asks what happens; Shinann says Raznel told her she'll see soon what she'll use the scarab for and that they left her no choice, and says she was telling her about her guards as she killed them. Before she can go much further, the corpses of the militia rise up as undead and attack. An extended battle ensues, but eventually the undead are finished off for good.

• While Shinann reports to Lylia on what Raznel said and did, clerics and empaths work in the square. However, soon gasps are heard around town as the waters of Darkstone Bay turn blood red. Many gather at the dock, but [[::Xorus_Kul'shin|Xorus]] and Cerridween [[::Water Walking (112)|walk out on the water]] to see--and Leafi and Razanetika dive in for a swim, and Elphieya touches it. None report it seeming like actual blood, though Thrassus mentions that maybe it needs time to congeal.

Highlights

Balley softly exclaims, "Fred is GONE!" (her scarab)
Balley softly says, "It came out at a weird time."
Balley softly says, "He burst out of my arm at Dreavening."
Cryheart says, "He probably could nae stand the noise."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "Didn't the mayor get a scarab too?"
Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Yeah, but Raznel took that one back months ago."
Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "That was probably because even Raznel couldn't let that poor scarab be around that much evil....I mean....haughtiness...."

Speaking to Chaoswynd, Stormyrain exclaims, "Have you ever heard Metadi play?!"
Cryheart asks, "Hmm...dinnae he hae a tambourine?"
Cryheart asks, "Or was that Titannia?"
Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain says, "..Tani."
Cryheart says, "She was Liabo awful."

With a wink and a grin, Cryheart trills his final notes, lowering his flute.
Cryheart says, "Ok..gents, let's try a soft tone this time."
Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain says, "I will end you."
Cryheart asks, "Well..what request would ye prefer?"
Speaking to herself, Stormyrain mutters, "Love of Jastev."
Stormyrain says, "Silence."
Stormyrain says, "That's what I request."
Cryheart says, "I dinnae know that style."
Stormyrain says, "Of course you don't. Of course."

Pukk sings:
"I've got the power!"
(much later)
Pukk yells, "I dare the lightning to strike Goldstr!"
A bolt of lightning streaks down from the sky and strikes Goldstr!
A tremendous crack of thunder follows instantly!

Speaking quietly to a writhing shadow wall, Pukk exclaims, "Shadow bind my soul!"

One of the militiamen begins to twitch.
Shinann exclaims, "Run!"
Leafiara offhandedly says, "...as if I ever."
A rotting militiaman zombie struggles up out of the ground!

The ghostly voice of Pukk quietly says, "It's okay. I'm just laying here looking up some skirts."
The ghostly voice of Pukk quietly exclaims, "I'm not saying who, but the view is good!"
Speaking to Pukk, Ryndith corrects, "It's a kilt."

Berost deeply asks, "Who we grouped on?"
Leafiara says, "At least three groups are here... but the danger seems to have passed."
Leafiara offhandedly says, "...four groups."
Mongonator says, "But only one group has Leafi in it."
Brandilor exclaims, "I'd be worried if all four did!"
Speaking decisively to Brandilor, Leafiara says, "Yeah, we'd have to kill three of them just to be sure."

Speaking to the blood red waters of Darkstone Bay, Xorus says, "The doom comes..."
Speaking to Xorus, Ryndith says, "The idea is to avert doom here, not just sit here and wait for it."
Lylia says, "I doubt Xorus ever simply sits and waits for doom."

Xorus says, "It is fortunate that the bellacorn have not been seen in these waters in decades."
Speaking curiously to Xorus, Leafiara asks, "The bella-what now?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Xorus says, "Sea monsters."
Xorus says, "They resemble enormous lizards in turtle shells."
Xorus says, "They slash open sailors with their fangs and use the bloodied water to draw in other things to devour."
Speaking huskily to Xorus, Jhenni asks, "So, the sailors are their chums?"
Xorus says, "They are very chummy."

Log

New Dreavening Spell

[Bleeding Heart Table]

A wooden planter forms a square in the center of the table. Tiny, purple bleeding hearts bend over the rim of the planter box as though too shy to raise their heads. You also see the Chiora disk, the wintry blue Milinra disk dotted with lacy pure white snowflakes, the Najash disk, the Scarswyrth disk, the Marex disk, a thick fudge brownie filled with pieces of walnut, a thick fudge brownie filled with pieces of walnut, the Junarra disk, the Furrfu disk, the Valif disk, the Brokkrsten disk, the peacock blue Jooniper disk speckled with white diamond motes, the Korvinah disk, the Auxerre disk, the Laralana disk, the Tetreves disk, the Avalera disk, a swirled disk of blue and yellow ground cornmeal, a round of fried dough branded with a charred design, the Bhast disk, the Straid disk, a swirled disk of blue and yellow ground cornmeal, some manna bread, a swirled disk of blue and yellow ground cornmeal, the Helman disk, some manna bread, a wafer of candied seeds, the Giocoso disk, a wafer of candied seeds, the Grobrfong disk, a swirled disk of blue and yellow ground cornmeal, the Falvicar disk, a swirled disk of blue and yellow ground cornmeal, a wafer of candied seeds, a round of fried dough branded with a charred design, the Alanisse disk, a wafer of candied seeds, a swirled disk of blue and yellow ground cornmeal, some manna bread, a crusty wheat braid, the Rhoyne disk, some manna bread, the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk, the seaweed-covered Pietra disk, the Zolis disk, the Stormyrain disk, the Thrillian disk, the Dhazu disk, the Villorn disk, the Sigeal disk, the Elphieya disk, the Syphus disk, the Felita disk, the Nightwolfz disk, the Trallihn disk, the Rykalko disk, the Asekka disk, the Plonkus disk, the Ifoleos disk, the Otsakleia disk, the Balley disk, the Eheylien disk, some manna bread, the Relnejek disk, a sugar-dusted golden doughnut, the Voltung disk, the purple Drakkler disk, a sugar-dusted golden doughnut, the Benlacaol disk, a sugar-dusted golden doughnut, a round of fried dough branded with a charred design, a sugar-dusted golden doughnut, some manna bread, a sugar-dusted golden doughnut, the Aeith disk, a round of fried dough branded with a charred design, a sugar-dusted golden doughnut, a sugar-dusted golden doughnut, the Guarrin disk, the Brandilor disk, a small wild rice and millet cake laced with maple syrup, the Starkitty disk, a wafer of candied seeds, some manna bread, the Zrick disk, a swirled disk of blue and yellow ground cornmeal, a swirled disk of blue and yellow ground cornmeal, a round of fried dough branded with a charred design, the Wonkus disk, some manna bread, the Rassyn disk, a small wild rice and millet cake laced with maple syrup, a small wild rice and millet cake laced with maple syrup, a wafer of candied seeds, the Ysbaddadin disk, a wafer of candied seeds, a round of fried dough branded with a charred design and a bunch of other stuff.

Also here: Lord Rezlun, Coleraine, Joskin, Chiora, Milinra, Sumdej, Togg, Timoen, Beauchene, Najash, Scarswyrth who is kneeling, Junarra, Furrfu, Marex, Maven Brokkrsten who is kneeling, Valif, Jooniper, Korvinah, Auxerre, Tetreves, Laralana, Bhast, Straid, Grobrfong who is sitting, Giocoso, Helman, Falvicar, Avalera, Alanisse, Event Planner Leafiara, Pietra, Rhoyne, Stormyrain, Lord Thrillian, Lord Zolis, Dhazu, Villorn, Felita, Great Lord Nightwolfz, Trallihn, Apprentice Rykalko, Apprentice Syphus, Plonkus, Asekka, Elphieya, Sigeal, Gypsy Scribe Balley, Eheylien, Otsakleia, Relnejek, Lord Drakkler, Voltung, Ifoleos, Benlacaol, Guarrin, Zrick, Wonkus, Grand Lord Ysbaddadin, Lord Rassyn, Ygaven, Andaryel, Rinthius, High Lady Starkitty, Brandilor, Drefore, Twyler, Razanetika, Cutley, Jaures, Sofal, Xilona, Mirdahr, High Lady Shyspirit, Tsarok, Cilandorus, Great Lord Mongonator, Great Lord Gutstorm, Bartilla, Sockmo, Skipjack, Lord Umbazi, Aeith, Hektur, Zaloranch, Arianiss, Ryjin, Vonaq, Bochser, Ardque, Iteno, Dravnib, Snooshezis, Fulvus, Kholac, Dreaven

Dreaven exclaims, "The race is over!"

(Dreaven snaps his fingers and a puff of smoke covers the table. After the smoke dissipates you notice the landscape and alpacas are gone!)

Dreaven says, "ONLY JOIN DREAVEN."

Dreaven says, "We will be starting soon."

Dreaven says, "If you did not get chosen this time please wait here patiently for a few minutes for the next round to begin."

Dreaven's group just went out.

[Wayside Inn, Dining Room]

This ramshackle hostel bears the signs of rough use by hard-bitten travellers and headstrong adventurers. Several blade-scarred tables and low stools are lined up against the walls, while the central area is dominated by a large firepit around which is a low platform covered with a few ratty bearskins. The clatter of clay tankards and the smell of humble victuals provide some small comfort to the steady stream of wayfarers who pause here to meet and greet one another. You also see a melancholy dune spirit that is flying around, a friendly glacier spirit that is flying around, an ancient cinereous vulture that is flying around, a white tiger, a mischievous island spirit that is flying around, a massive snowy battle-scarred lynx, a steep stair and some inviting tables.

A tiny shadowy black scarab erupts out of Balley's arm and drops, suddenly completely inert, to the floor, then crumbles away into nothing!

... 14 points of damage!

Strike pierces forearm!

She is stunned!

Following Dreaven, you head over to the Aesthetic Aster Table.

[Aesthetic Aster Table]

A tall, slender ceramic vase filled with golden asters sits primly in the center of the table. Carefully starched and folded linen napkins sit squarely in the centers of four matching pewter plates.

Dreaven says, "Please send any available mana to me. I can accept all kinds of mana."

Dreaven exclaims, "Let the spells fly!"

Leafiara glances out.

Event Planner Leafiara just went out.

[Wayside Inn, Dining Room]

This ramshackle hostel bears the signs of rough use by hard-bitten travellers and headstrong adventurers. Several blade-scarred tables and low stools are lined up against the walls, while the central area is dominated by a large firepit around which is a low platform covered with a few ratty bearskins. The clatter of clay tankards and the smell of humble victuals provide some small comfort to the steady stream of wayfarers who pause here to meet and greet one another. You also see the Balley disk, a melancholy dune spirit that is flying around, a friendly glacier spirit that is flying around, an ancient cinereous vulture that is flying around, a white tiger, a mischievous island spirit that is flying around, a massive snowy battle-scarred lynx, a steep stair and some inviting tables.

Also here: a stunned Gypsy Scribe Balley

Swaying here hips side to side in time with a hummed melody, Leafiara attempts to entice the local spirits to aid her...

Leafiara gestures at Balley.

The glazed look leaves Balley.

Speaking musingly to Balley, Leafiara says, "Well, that was some interesting timing."

Speaking confusedly to Balley, Leafiara says, "But... there's no obvious use of it here at all..."

Balley softly says, "That was interesting."

Speaking confusedly to Balley, Leafiara says, "I wonder if they're all okay in there." (at the table)

Balley softly says, "I am not sure."

Balley softly asks, "What do you mean?"

Speaking confusedly to Balley, Leafiara admits, "I don't understand why now."

Balley softly says, "Soo confused."

Sofal asks, "Storm a comin?"

Speaking to Balley, Leafiara says, "Unless that scarab just released a plague on everyone who was in the group..."

Balley softly says, "Well who still has them."

Leafiara: "...is everyone at that table okay?"

Stormyrain just arrived.

Speaking dubiously to Balley, Leafiara says, "Well, hopefully it didn't unleash a plague on everyone."

Balley softly says, "I am not sure what happened."

Stormyrain says, "It crumbled into dust."

Stormyrain says, "I watched it."

Speaking helpfully to Balley, Leafiara says, "It just kinda popped out and crumbled."

Balley softly says, "Yep."

Stormyrain says, "Not unlike any of the other ones."

Sofal says, "Same thing that happened at the lake."

Balley softly says, "It jumped out of my arm and gone."

Stormyrain says, "It just means her plan will come to fruition sooner rather than later."

Balley softly says, "I will have to get spells."

Balley softly says, "To be ready."

Speaking amicably to Balley, Leafiara says, "There's a second group coming."

Sofal says, "Second group about to start."

Balley softly asks, "I wonder if Darcena still has hers?" (her scarab)

Balley softly says, "Time will tell."

Speaking curiously to Balley, Leafiara says, "Still haven't seen her, but I assume so."

[6750 lines of Dreavening]

Dreaven exclaims, "That's everything!"

Dreaven exclaims, "That's everything for everyone!"

Speaking helpfully to Balley, Leafiara says, "Well, at least he's finally gone." (her scarab, who she'd nicknamed Fred)

Balley softly says, "Yes."

Balley softly says, "But I still have NO idea why he came."

Balley softly says, "Or what he did."

Speaking encouragingly to Balley, Leafiara says, "Don't worry, we're all here to help no matter what happens."

Balley softly says, "I was hoping to confront her."

[travel]

[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: Event Planner Leafiara, Gypsy Scribe Balley, Leineshan, Felita, Skyfedninc, Falvicar, Avalera, Dillitink, Lord Lycurgus, Guarrin, Kamman, Stormyrain, Apprentice Syphus, Gelvon, Great Lord Demicone, Pukk, Sir Cryheart, Chaoswynd, Infrurnier, Althazor, Ironglor, Wyyridoir, Skaiz

Balley softly exclaims, "Fred is GONE!"

Cryheart says, "Alas, poor Fred."

Speaking quietly to Chaoswynd, Pukk says, "You're getting better at that."

Leafiara wryly says, "Now we just hope the scarab didn't infect everybody at the Dreavening."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk asks, "Fred died?"

Balley softly says, "It came out at a weird time."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk says, "Poor Fred."

Leafiara curiously asks, "On another note, does anyone know where that withered aloeas stem there came from?" (there was "some withered aloeas stem" on the ground)

Felita says, "What happened to Fred."

Balley softly says, "He burst out of my arm at Dreavening."

Cryheart says, "But good for Balley."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk whispers aloud, "Who is Fred again?"

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara whispers aloud, "The scarab."

Felita says, "Alar poor Fred.."

Cryheart says, "He probably could nae stand the noise."

Pukk quietly says, "Oh...that Fred...yes, yes..."

Speaking tentatively to some withered aloeas stem, Leafiara asks, "Are the healing herbs rotting now too?"

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk asks, "Are you implying that Balley has a loud mouth?"

Cryheart says, "She was participating in the Dreavening when he dropped out."

Avalera asks, "Hmm?"

Pukk quietly says, "Oh...okay...see without that bit of knowledge it meant something else."

Avalera asks, "Wha?"

Leafiara observes, "Most of the herbs still look fresh, at least..."

Shinann just arrived.

Balley softly says, "It will be nice to have him gone."

Zosopage just arrived.

Balley softly says, "I just have NO answers."

Balley softly says, "Zoso I lost Fred."

Speaking to Balley, Leafiara says, "Well... make no mistake, something bad was put into motion. We just don't know what yet."

Balley softly says, "He jumped out of my arm at Dreavening."

Shinann asks, "You lost it?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Zosopage says, "Thank you."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara reports, "No obvious event happening from it either..."

Balley softly says, "Yes."

Leafiara suspiciously says, "Which is the scariest part."

Balley softly says, "I was sitting in Dreavening, and Fred erupted out of my arm and died."

Cryheart says, "Did the scarab die or skitter away, Balley."

Balley softly says, "No reason of it."

Balley softly says, "Died."

Balley softly says, "Turned to dust."

Zosopage asks, "When did that happen?"

Shinann says, "Odd."

Speaking quietly to Balley, Pukk asks, "Did you feed it often?"

Balley softly says, "A few minutes ago."

Balley softly says, "He had been active."

Speaking dryly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "She fed it every moment, more or less."

Balley softly says, "Just up and came out during Dreavening for no reason."

Speaking quietly to Balley, Pukk says, "Maybe you took too many baths."

Speaking concernedly to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Only one scarab left to go, unless Darcena still has hers."

Shinann says, "True."

Balley softly says, "I want to know why I got one."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Darcena has probably bonded with her scarab...they both like blood you know."

Balley softly says, "What purpose did it have."

Cryheart says, "Perhaps just to annoy ye."

Cryheart says, "To worry ye."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "Didn't the mayor get a scarab too?"

Leafiara heavily says, "Oh, no, it's gonna be a lot worse than that. Whatever it is..."

Balley softly says, "Maybe."

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Yeah, but Raznel took that one back months ago."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "That was probably because even Raznel couldn't let that poor scarab be around that much evil....I mean....haughtiness...."

Speaking coyly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Well, you said it, not me."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "I didn't say anything! I deny it!"

Balley softly says, "I guess I will never know."

Cryheart says, "Perhaps in time."

Bernadette softly says, "Jolly joker." (saying hi to Pukk)

Speaking to Balley, Zosopage says, "It's gone so I wouldn't really worry about it."

Speaking cautiously to Balley, Leafiara says, "Well, just brace yourself for when you find out."

Pukk quietly asks, "Maybe all these scarabs laid eggs in all of you?"

Speaking quietly to Balley, Morofinwe asks, "During the Dreavening?"

Bernadette softly says, "Mebbe the witch has other plans fer ye."

Cryheart says, "Now there is a pleasant thought."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "It will soon be a swarm of bursting out of everybody!"

Shinann: "The creatures in Dragonsclaw look very sick."

Pukk quietly says, "Except for the mayor...they probably all died in her."

Pukk quietly says, "Yes...that makes sense too."

Leafiara: "Yes... they've been that way since early in the morning..." (the local wildlife is now a scrawny worm-covered kobold, a pus-covered rolton, a sickly-looking coyote, and a sore-covered velnalin)

Leafiara: "Things are going to get worse before they get better, no doubt."

Balley softly says, "Time will tell."

Shinann: "Yes..."

Searches On

[much later]

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.

Pukk recites quietly:

"Everybody join Cryheart!"

Pukk sings:

"I've got the power!"

Pukk quietly says, "Oops..I'm not playing anymore."

Speaking fondly to Pukk, Leafiara agrees, "You most certainly do."

Cryheart says, "Rain clouds."

[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: Istafia, Event Planner Leafiara, Felita, Bernadette, Lord Lycurgus, Stormyrain, Pukk, Sir Cryheart, Magister Raelee

Cryheart yells, "We moved outside of Moot!"

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk exclaims, "That is why I said to join you!"

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk exclaims, "Don't confuse people!"

Pukk yells, "Sorry folks...Cryheart is changing protocol!"

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk says, "I think the clouds liked our intense playing style and wanted to join in." (OOC: see bonus material)

Stormyrain grumbles, "They did not."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "See...it is crying with happiness!"

Cryheart says, "Or we could make a living as rain makers."

Stormyrain whispers aloud, "You mean despair."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Oh that is good!"

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk exclaims, "Then we can go into the desert and make it rain there and earn a bunch of silvers!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara opines, "I for one thought we did great."

Chamorr heartily says, "It was awesome."

Pukk quietly says, "Owlie can dance for us too."

Leafiara says, "Hey, where is Owly--"

Leafiara glances west.

Pukk quietly says, "Owliver might be a problem...he is all wanting to go solo and break up our band."

Leafiara relievedly says, "Oh, whew."

Dracnoir softly says, "Is Owlie going to run for mayor this next year? I think he'd stand a good chance..."

Speaking amusedly to Cryheart, Chaoswynd says, "I've been told to tell you of the name I've come up with for your new band."

Speaking confidently to Dracnoir, Leafiara says, "Oh, he'd win in a landslide."

Speaking amusedly to Cryheart, Chaoswynd says, "The Chorus of the Despairing Ones, and their leader, The Harbinger of Discord."

Cryheart asks, "You mean the Hooligans?"

Balley softly says, "Be right back."

Speaking quietly to Chaoswynd, Pukk asks, "Pukk and the Pukkettes?"

Cryheart says, "Oh."

Speaking deeply to Chaoswynd, Guarrin says, "Far too long."

Speaking curiously to Balley, Leafiara asks, "No adverse effects since earlier?"

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I think the name I came up with is more humble."

Speaking to Guarrin, Chaoswynd says, "Just abbreviate it. CDO."

Stormyrain says, "Nonsense. CDO featuring THD."

Pukk quietly says, "Ok."

Cryheart says, "Well..at least Owly appeared to be enjoying the music."

Speaking to Guarrin, Stormyrain asks, "The flat notes?"

A figure in a grey cloak can be seen moving rapidly across some rooftops of town, heading towards Moot Hall.

Leafiara amicably says, "Ah, Thrayzar. Probably."

Balley softly says, "Yep."

Stormyrain says, "Hopefully."

Leafiara jests, "Or Larsya."

Felita says, "Rooftops up there."

Pukk yells, "You're too late...the mayor has left for the night!"

Speaking quietly to a polished bleakstone statue, Pukk exclaims, "Not the mayor!"

(OOC) Leafiara's player whispers to the group, "Every time he says that, I hear it as the baby in Dinosaurs. Not the mama!"

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I had to watch it for a couple of minutes and when I noticed it didn't sneer or stick up its nose...I knew it was not the mayor."

(OOC) Pukk's player whispers to the group, "Exactly where I got it from!"

(OOC) Cryheart's player whispers to the group, "My mom bought me the Not the mama baby long time ago."

(OOC) Cryheart's player whispers to the group, "Was about 4 inches in height."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Balley says, "Well no one seems to have died or gotten sick that were in my group in Dreavening."

Speaking amicably to Balley, Leafiara says, "Well, that's good then."

Cryheart says, "Cept for Fred."

Balley softly says, "Yes! Fred is no more."

Pukk sings:

"Madmountan come back

you can blame it on all Dwi"

Balley softly says, "He has joined the dust of the land."

Leaping over the side of a building, Thrayzar scales down and lands outside of Moot Hall.

Madmountan says, "Everything is always Dwi's fault."

Speaking pleasantly to Thrayzar, Leafiara greets, "Evenin' there!"

Thrayzar nods.

Cryheart says, "Evening Thrayzar."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Stormyrain greets, "Marshal."

Thrayzar says, "Evening."

Speaking softly to Thrayzar, Balley says, "Hello Thrayzar."

Pukk quietly asks, "It was our playing of our instruments that pulled you out of hiding wasn't it?" (OOC: see bonus material as Cryheart leads a band with Guarrin, Leafi, Pukk, and Owliver)

Seran says, "Evening."

Pukk grins at Thrayzar.

Thrayzar grins at Pukk.

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Pukk says, "I know how much people liked our intense playing."

Speaking confidently to Cryheart, Leafiara opines, "Did good."

A small area of skin on Shinann suddenly ripples.

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

Thrayzar says, "We've tried to track down the citizens who Raznel's spiders took."

Speaking quietly to Shinann, Pukk says, "Well, you don't have to ripple your skin over it."

Thrayzar frowns.

Shinann asks, "Any luck at all?"

Thrayzar says, "There is no trace. I cannot even detect them. Only so far. As they reach outside of town, they vanish as if..."

Thrayzar shrugs.

Thrayzar says, "Just vanished."

Cryheart says, "That is nae good."

Leafiara notes, "Ahh... same with Abygail, perhaps..."

Thrayzar says, "We'll keep searching."

Zosopage says, "So we might find some shells."

Thrayzar asks, "Abygail?"

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Pukk says, "You still need to find Darcena and I think you should open up the mayor and check all around inside of her to make sure there isn't a hidden one."

Arianiss asks, "Have you tried finding a spider and letting it take you?"

Speaking to Thrayzar, Leafiara says, "Pup would know more if he were here, but..."

Thrayzar says, "Ah, the Mayor's sister." (former Mayor Walkar, that is)

Leafiara nods at Thrayzar.

Thrayzar says, "I had heard something of that."

Leafiara nods at Thrayzar.

Leafiara says, "His wolf Aatu just seemed to... lose her trail after a point, if I remember."

Thrayzar nods.

Thrayzar says, "I shall not be long tonight, but I had a few updates, after having spoken to Pylasar."

Thrayzar says, "..and a request."

Speaking quietly to Goldstr, Pukk exclaims, "Sir AmIRight!"

Madmountan asks, "Wait, that's Walkar's sister, right?"

Thrayzar nods at Madmountan.

Paragon Preparations

Thrayzar says, "Feastday eve, we will hunt the next paragon."

Gutstorm drunkenly says, "Everyday ish a feashtday."

Thrayzar says, "But Pylasar is concerned, because of what the broken scarabs may have done..."

Cryheart asks, "Meaning?"

Thrayzar says, "Chrysamber's compass is broken. It has found a location. But we do not know which one we will face."

Thrayzar says, "He has told me their names."

Goldstr says, "Ahhhh."

Speaking quietly to Thrayzar, Pukk says, "I think they laid a bunch of eggs in those people and a swarm will burst out and kill everybody."

Leafiara reasons, "Well... we have to eventually deal with both of them either way, so."

Pietra says, "That's right, it cracked in her hand."

Korvinah: "Some bad smells comin' up through some fissures in town square."

Thrayzar says, "Sentinel Jerram Happersett of the Turamzzyrian Empire. and Brumas Brightforge, a dwarven hero of Doggoroth Keep outside of Talador."

Thrayzar says, "They are the paragons, which one we face, he is not certain. So we'll be prepared for either, and I'll go in his place."

Madmountan repeats, "Talador."

Speaking huskily to Leafiara, Jhenni says, "Remove their heads and post 'em on pikes at the north gate."

Thrayzar says, "It's too risky if he goes at this time."

Speaking softly to Thrayzar, Balley says, "My scarab broke today if that means anything in a group of people. I hope that does not mean anything."

Speaking lightly to Jhenni, Leafiara says, "It's a bit more complicated than that. They're, uh... kind of trapped in illusionary worlds."

Thrayzar frowns at Balley.

Speaking to Jhenni, Leafiara praises, "But I like your enthusiasm."

Stormyrain: "Yes, and from the docks and the rot surrounding the Landing. It is a blight, we are working hard to end it."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Goldstr says, "So seems many Paragons be a da Empire."

Balley softly says, "It popped out and died."

Thrayzar says, "It is what Raznel knew."

Speaking huskily to Leafiara, Jhenni says, "Then get an Illusionist to do it."

Thrayzar says, "..or knows..."

Thrayzar shrugs.

Shinann says, "They are both human."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "One's a dwarf, I thought..."

Speaking to Shinann, Stormyrain says, "Who? The paragons one is a dwarf."

Shinann says, "Raznel... not so human anymore. No, Pylasar and Raznel."

Leafiara slowly says, "Oh."

Razanetika softly asks, "I thought one was an Elf and the other was a Dwarf?"

Zosopage says, "A short human."

Gutstorm drunkenly says, "We are vertically challenged."

Quinteshontial

A black-tipped twilight grey wolf bares her teeth hungrily at Chaoswynd!

Thrayzar says, "Pylasar also had a request."

Speaking huskily to Zosopage, Jhenni says, "Vertically challanged."

Thrayzar says, "...and I promised I would at least ask."

Speaking quietly to a black-tipped twilight grey wolf, Pukk whispers aloud, "Eat him...I dare you."

Mayor Lylia just arrived.

Speaking quietly to Lylia, Pukk exclaims, "Not the statue!"

Thrayzar nods at Lylia.

Lylia says, "Good evening."

Thrayzar says, "He is asking if anyone has a means of contacting Quinshon, and if so, he'd like a message sent that he wants to meet."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I knew it was the mayor when she moved."

Lylia dubiously asks, "Quinshon?"

Thrassus asks, "Is that wise?"

Thrayzar says, "Quinshon."

Leafiara muses, "Open up that Bleaklands portal and we could always try wandering over. Attracted his attention once that way before..." ([[::The_Rone_Resurgence_-_5118-09-28_-_Developments_in_the_Bleaklands#Seeing_Things.3F|referring to this]])

Leafiara curiously asks, "But what's the message?"

Pukk quietly exclaims, "We can send Leafi...she knows everybody!"

Goldstr asks, "I fergit, he from Bourth?"

Speaking to Goldstr, Lylia says, "He is from farther away than that, I do believe."

Thrayzar nods at Lylia.

Madmountan says, "Maybe he's wanting Quinshon to break down those mental blockades he obviously has. I'm amused though."

Thrayzar says, "He did not say why, I did not press, merely warned against it."

Thrayzar says, "But he was adamant, so I have done my part, and asked."

Cryheart whispers something to Guarrin.

Chamorr heartily says, "What's the message."

Lylia says, "Yes, and I thank you for relaying the message."

Speaking to Lylia, Goldstr asks, "But was he nae called by Breshon er his father?"

Shinann says, "He was not told."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Zosopage asks, "Meet when and where?"

Thrayzar says, "That he wished to know if anyone had a means to contact Quinshon, and if so, Pylasar needed to speak with him."

Thrayzar nods at Goldstr. (OOC: I'm not sure why he's nodding to Goldstr, because the one who had called for Quinshon was Dennet back in 5117. (Goldstr might have been thinking of Cayde, where Breshon seems to have worked with him but it's ambiguous whether Breshon called him or Cayde just came of his own volition.) Might have been a nod intended to be directed at Chamorr.)

Goldstr says, "We kin ask at da Outpost."

Pukk quietly asks, "Have you tried yelling?"

Pukk quietly says, "It sometimes works."

Madmountan asks, "Quinshon?"

Pukk yells, "Quinshon! We need to speak to you!"

Madmountan says, "Absolutely not."

Pukk quietly says, "Give it some time..."

Cryheart asks, "Ye know this Quishon?"

Cryheart says, "He belongs to the Tehir."

Goldstr says, "Ah aye."

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain asks, "Do you know every Knight of the Empire?"

Pukk yells, "Quinshon we had cake!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Radeek says, "Lotta Tehir....like grains a sand in da Sea a Fire."

Pukk quietly says, "That will get him."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Zosopage says, "I'm sure Quinshon would ask when and where so we at least need to know that."

Speaking deeply to Stormyrain, Guarrin says, "That's what the weekly meetings are for."

Madmountan says, "Quinshon is one of the very few people that I've ever met that actually intimidates ME. He's...something else."

Cryheart says, "It dinnae hurt to ask."

Zosopage says, "If he agrees."

Cryheart says, "Ouch."

Thrayzar shrugs at Zosopage.

Thrayzar says, "Nothing else was said."

Speaking to Madmountan, Lylia says, "Quinshon is fascinating, but...well. Yes."

Thrayzar says, "Regardless, I do not think it is wise. But I honored my friend's request."

Pukk yells, "Quinshon, Madmountan says he misses you! Come out!"

Leafiara says, "Well... might be a moot point if nobody knows how to contact him, in any case. Short of just wandering the Bleaklands in hopes of finding him."

Pukk quietly says, "Maybe that will do it."

Madmountan says, "I actually got along with him well enough, I just think he's dangerous, is all."

Lylia says, "If we are wandering the Bleaklands, I could do my part."

Goldstr says, "Mage Peter mus has a good reason."

Thrayzar says, "I'm going to continue my patrols for our missing people. Feastday eve, be prepared for what world we may endure. We shall see."

Leafiara approvingly says, "Sounds good."

Roblar deeply says, "Alas."

Speaking to Jhenni, Santiel says, "My life is very busy. I sometimes feel that Lady Niima is playing jokes on me or working too hard on purpose."

Lylia says, "We have endured a good deal already. I have no doubt we shall have to weather more."

Speaking to Thrayzar, Seran says, "Thank you for your work."

Death Knight Warclaidh just arrived.

Gutstorm turns toward Warclaidh and renders a sharp salute with his thick rod.

Thrayzar says, "Regardless, whether it is the Sentinel or the Dwarf, be ready. There will likely be war raging regardless."

Thrayzar bows.

Lylia firmly says, "I have no doubt that we shall."

Warclaidh says, "Don't be shaking your rod at me."

Cryheart says, "Good evening Thrayzar."

Thrayzar scales up the side of Moot Hall and rushes off across some rooftops into the distance.

Discussion: Mother's Offer

Stormyrain says, "So fast."

Pietra exclaims, "Scampery!"

Santiel says, "He's fast."

Pukk yells, "Bye Thrayzy!"

Goldstr says, "He climbin good again."

Jhenni huskily says, "There goes munkey-boy."

Lylia says, "Yes. He looks healthier than he has in some time. Good to see."

Pukk yells, "Thrazy next time bring cake!"

Pietra says, "He was really glowing burgundy."

Pukk quietly says, "Cake."

Pietra says, "It was good."

Lylia says, "I do not think we should be dining on cake when much of the town goes to bed hungry, or having eaten unwholesome food."

Dracnoir softly asks, "Was in my thoughts... Where'd the orc go?"

Leafiara amicably says, "Back out to patrol."

Cryheart says, "Up the Hall wall."

Speaking quietly to Alanisse, Pukk says, "You need to see which one starts moving then you will be able to tell the difference."

Lylia says, "To that end, I want you all to recall 'Mother's' words, and her offer. Such as it is."

Warclaidh says, "So much traffic on these here rooftops."

Warclaidh says, "We need some bear traps on every rooftop."

Warclaidh says, "Keep people grounded."

Zosopage asks, "The one ship a month deal?"

Speaking to Warclaidh, Santiel says, "It's like a hidden world up there."

Speaking deeply to Lylia, Berost says, "Aye, and still she offers to little for too much."

Lylia says, "For all that you have opinions you are not afraid to voice ordinarily, few of you have said much on this offer."

Speaking to Berost, Lylia says, "I do not know that she is in a position to offer much at all."

Speaking to Lylia, Madmountan says, "It's not like we've historically been the best at keeping tabs on what's on ships anyway, I don't see the harm."

Arianiss says, "I figured you had already agreed to it."

Lylia says, "I have neither agreed nor disagreed."

Berost deeply says, "Then offer what help she can as the rest of us do. An be glad ta help the folk."

Sofal says, "Even with the meat critters outside the wall going pus covered I still think it's a bit of a bad deal."

Dracnoir softly says, "I blame the weather..."

Speaking deeply to Lylia, Berost says, "Nae ask for secret this er that."

Pukk quietly says, "Shiny went to go play his flute for awhile."

Lylia whispers something to Sofal.

Zosopage says, "I would agree to one ship with no taxes or any monetary fees or even minor legalities but to not inspect them at all is a bit much."

Lylia says, "I find it surprising that she asks for something we could already have arranged to do..."

Sofal says, "Can bring anything in unchecked, she will just be the next witch we have."

Speaking curiously to Zosopage, Leafiara says, "The deal was one a month for a year, not all ships." (OOC: misread and didn't see the word "at")

Lylia adds, "And more surprising still that after her proclamation that 'we are the Landing,' she would then divide us so."

Zosopage says, "I know."

Speaking to Lylia, Goldstr says, "Goods to hear as I would wait a bit to see if da witch losin dese paragons may get weaker."

Speaking quietly to Lylia, Pukk says, "Maybe the shipment will be too big to ordinarily hide."

Madmountan says, "We could have the blue moth summon him." (referring to Rodnay, and presumably summoning Quinshon)

Speaking approvingly to Madmountan, Leafiara says, "I like it."

Speaking drunkenly to Razanetika, Gutstorm says, "Dat'll be 10000 silbersh."

Berost deeply says, "If ya'all nae see the issue is that she be asking for favors ta help, whatever tha favor may be. I kin not help mech in this here 'debate'."

Gutstorm yells, "Cootiesh!"

Zosopage says, "Of course there are other ways to inspect the shipments but at great risk."

Pukk yells, "I dare the lightning to strike Goldstr!"

A bolt of lightning streaks down from the sky and strikes Goldstr!

... 20 points of damage!

Heavy shock to left leg. Gonna limp for awhile.

He is stunned!

A tremendous crack of thunder follows instantly!

Speaking dubiously to Berost, Leafiara asks, "Mutual benefits are a problem?"

Goldstr quickly ducks behind Pukk.

Pukk yells, "Okay, you win!"

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Hey!"

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Not behind me!"

Gutstorm drunkenly exclaims, "Pukk is a prophet!"

Speaking surprisedly to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Wow, you really -do- have the power."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I annoy even the gods."

Zosopage yells, "Should have hit the one who asked for the lightning in the first place!"

Speaking deeply to Lylia, Berost says, "When folks and little ones are dyin in tha streets? Yar. It's a problem."

Speaking drunkenly to Pukk, Gutstorm says, "We're not worthy."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Dracnoir says, "Even a blind pig can find an acorn eventually."

Speaking huskily to Gutstorm, Jhenni says, "If we sell Pukk we can make a profit."

Lylia says, "It is a problem, clearly. It is not one I am not certain Mother can solve, or the Rooks."

Speaking softly to Jhenni, Razanetika asks, "But who'd buy him?"

Berost deeply says, "She wanna help? Then help. Save tha lives. Reap tha rewards. Otherwise, stay in tha damned shadows an let us kill tha paragons."

Chamorr heartily says, "Dang."

Speaking softly to Jhenni, Dracnoir says, "You know... she makes a really good point..."

Lylia says, "Jerram Happersett or Brumas Brightforge..."

Speaking quietly to Warclaidh, Pukk exclaims, "I'm trying to avoid the lightning!"

Warclaidh says, "Sometimes....you must ride the lightning."

Speaking quietly to Warclaidh, Pukk exclaims, "That is what my wife said...and it took me days to recover!"

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia says, "Thrayzar spoke to Pylasar. Those are the names of the potential Paragons. He was uncertain which we may face."

Pukk quickly ducks behind Shinann.

Shinann says, "Stop that."

Xorus says, "Now I know the name of the Dwarf."

Pukk quietly says, "Shhhhh."

Shinann Stolen

Shadows creep along Shinann's eyes.

Pukk quickly ducks behind Raelee.

Jhenni huskily asks, "Does anyone have a long iron spike that we can have Pukk hold on to?"

Pukk quietly says, "Okay, I'm safe here."

Speaking tentatively to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "...you feeling okay?"

Gutstorm drunkenly says, "She has a crazy look in her eyes."

Shinann says, "I think so."

Shinann says, "Well... there is this bug inside me."

Razanetika whispers something to Leafiara.

Speaking concernedly to Shinann, Leafiara says, "If you say so..."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Ack! I'm out in the open again!"

Leafiara whispers something to Razanetika.

Lylia whispers something to Xorus.

Gutstorm drunkenly exclaims, "I got ye Pukk!"

Xorus says, "The good Sentinel vanished from the field in the Breaking. The humans always assumed he was dead."

Gutstorm drunkenly says, "I'm short so it won't hit me."

Lylia asks, "And the Dwarven warlord?"

Lylia asks, "Brumas Brightforge?"

Pukk quietly says, "Hey, this is pretty plump back here."

Gutstorm is admiring Leafiara.

Gutstorm drunkenly says, "Sheesh, Leafi got junk in da trunk."

Shadows suddenly leap up from beneath Shinann and consume her and she vanishes!

Speaking firmly to Gutstorm, Leafiara declares, "Muscle--"

Zosopage says, "Good last name for a dwarf but the first name...."

[Leafi tries to locate, but no good]

Gutstorm drunkenly says, "She poofeded."

Xorus says, "History written in Dwarven runes is not my strength."

From right behind Leafiara, Pukk's voice quietly says, "This is pretty interesting."

Leafiara says, "Well then..."

[runs off scouting, leaving her wolf behind; comments from those still outside Moot Hall are italicized]

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Come back shiel...I mean Leafi!"

Thrassus says, "That's getting to be a regular thing."

Gutstorm says, "She at Rone Academy." (referring to Leafi)

Lylia says, "It is all interesting, in its way."

A one-eyed wolf says, "No sign of her at the Academy yet... though it was where Raznel struck the last two times."

Leafiara mutters, "There are way too many rooms in here." (in Rone Academy)

Zosopage says, "Not liking that it's still storming."

Pukk: "Shinann vanished! Everybody make sure the cakes are safe!"

Pukk quietly says, "Priorities."

Thrassus asks, "Who knows what horrors are being inflicted upon her at this moment?"

Xorus says, "I know little of the fall of Doggoroth Keep, other than that the orcs were 'strange' and in vast numbers."

Shadow Wall

A flare ignites over the Town Barracks!

[rush to the barracks]

Gutstorm says, "Rut roh."

Thrassus says, "Ah ha."

Razanetika softly asks, "What was that?"

Sofal asks, "Fireworks?"

[Town Barracks, Dining Hall]

Two round oak tables dominate the center of the room, with wooden chairs and stools encircling each one. Tin plates and utensils occupy a few spots along the tables, and uniformed militiamen move freely about, their chatter creating an interminable din of voices in the area. Young orphan children dutifully carry bowls and cups back and forth between the hall and the kitchen just to the west, where the palpable scent of roasted boar originates from. You also see some butchered militia corpses and a writhing shadow wall.

Obvious exits: north, west

>w

A writhing shadow wall blocks further travel in that direction.

Pukk recites quietly:

"Everybody join Lylia"

Lylia says, "I doubt it."

Leafiara: "A wall of shadows here... blocking our passage. Inside the barracks."

Gutstorm exclaims, "Fire!"

[casting spells at the wall]

Leafiara grouses, "Worth a try."

You peer west and see ...

[Town Barracks, Kitchen]

The kitchen is aglow in a haze of orange light as the fires from the two large stoves in the back burn bright, their flames slow roasting the boars and quail turning on their spits. A trio of curly-haired halflings shuffles back and forth between the cooking fires and some low countertops, feverishly preparing the next meal. Above a stout wooden table, a long oak cabinet holds a range of bottles, cups and other refreshments. You also see some butchered militia corpses.

Also here: Shinann who is immobilized, Raznel

Berost deeply says, "Who be shootin fireworks."

Leafiara says, "Probably these people, before they were killed."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Must be Cay!"

Arianiss asks, "Can you drop the sanctuary?"

Leafiara says, "I believe it's a bard singing."

Arianiss says, "Yes, it is."

Leafiara adds, "But we already tried attacking it, in any case..." (that is, the first few there before the big group came)

Speaking quietly to a writhing shadow wall, Pukk exclaims, "Shadow bind my soul!" (OOC: reference to a certain thing in the Landing graveyard)

Pukk quietly says, "Didn't work."

Speaking to Mongonator, Leafiara inquires, "Can you detect a song here?" (OOC: essentially asking if the corpses had a loresong)

Zosopage says, "Ow." (punched the wall and it hurt him)

[thousands of lines of attacking the wall interspersed throughout the dialogue]

Speaking quietly to Zosopage, Pukk says, "Batter it."

Zosopage says, "Punching it doesn't help that's for sure."

Speaking quietly to Zosopage, Pukk says, "Try headbutting it."

Speaking to Pukk, Zosopage says, "You do that. Your head is harder."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Keep punching it!"

Zosopage says, "Already tried that. Doesn't do much but hurt yer hand."

The wall of shadow seems to weaken.

[more attacking]

Zosopage asks, "You know, is this wall holding back beasties and we're letting them out?"

Speaking to Zosopage, Leafiara says, "You can see past it."

Lylia says, "I fear little that would be held back by this."

Arianiss says, "Cast Light at it." (OOC: Mechanically speaking, nothing actually did anything to the wall--not like, say, destroying a meteor for the anniversary of GS' move to the web where it had "health" and we were chipping away at it. That said, the spells Phase and Light, and perhaps Fire Spirit, had the messaging that looked the most logical to keep casting. Below are examples, so just imagine thousands of lines of this:)

Xorus channels at a writhing shadow wall.

A writhing shadow wall becomes a bit unsubstantial, and a shrill noise pierces the air as pieces of it simply disappear into nothingness!

Arianiss gestures at a writhing shadow wall.

Brightness swirls like a vortex around a writhing shadow wall, causing bits of darkness to disperse into the air.

Warclaidh gestures at a writhing shadow wall.

Warclaidh launched a flare at a writhing shadow wall!

The shadow wall grows warm to the touch then quickly cools off.

Berost deeply asks, "Anyone swing a weapon at it what kin hurt demons?"

The wall of shadow seems to weaken more.

Leafiara slowly says, "I think we're getting there, slowly but surely."

Arianiss asks, "Did you hear me Leafi?"

Speaking to Arianiss, Leafiara asks, "..yes?"

Leafiara yells, "We're coming, if you can hear us! ...soon as we're able!"

Razanetika softly exclaims, "Well at least it's clean now!" (OOC: probably referring to someone casting Minor Water or Holy Bolt at it)

Speaking to Razanetika, Sofal says, "At least it's clean."

Ariandae sings a melody, directing the sound of her voice at a writhing shadow wall.

A writhing shadow wall buzzes and vibrates for a moment then stops.

Elphieya quietly asks, "Who is beyond the wall?"

Arianiss says, "Peer west to see."

Zosopage says, "Raznel and Shinann."

Leafiara offhandedly says, "PEER past it to see."

Elphieya quietly says, "Oh no."

Arianiss says, "This reminds me of the time I tried to burn down the krolvin ships alone..."

Elphieya quietly asks, "Can we reach her mind at all?"

[more attacking]

Behind the wall of shadows, Raznel can be seen standing over Shinann who is strapped, immobilized, to a kitchen table. Raznel leans over Shinann, the witch's face shifting a few times, taking on different visages and she says something unheard from this side of the wall. Then the witch gestures, a scarab bursts out of Shinann's body and into Raznel's hand, and the witch melts away into the shadows.

The shadow wall begins to fade away, its inky blackness being completely shattered by the light!

Mayor Lylia's group just went west.

[Town Barracks, Kitchen]

The kitchen is aglow in a haze of orange light as the fires from the two large stoves in the back burn bright, their flames slow roasting the boars and quail turning on their spits. A trio of curly-haired halflings shuffles back and forth between the cooking fires and some low countertops, feverishly preparing the next meal. Above a stout wooden table, a long oak cabinet holds a range of bottles, cups and other refreshments. You also see some butchered militia corpses.

Also here: Great Lord Gutstorm, Great Lord Mongonator, Lord Thrassus, Berost, Magister Raelee, Pukk, Gypsy Scribe Balley, Zosopage, Sofal, Xorus, Razanetika, Bernadette, High Lady Shyspirit, Jhenni, Kassyopia, Arasleaf, Felita, Lord Lycurgus, Rasson, Elphieya, Event Planner Leafiara, Death Knight Warclaidh, Mayor Lylia, Shinann who is immobilized

Shinann says, "The witch."

Gutstorm drunkenly asks, "Lunch already?"

Lylia asks, "We saw. What did she say?"

Speaking concernedly to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Are you okay? We... all did our best to get in here as soon as we could."

Speaking soothingly to Shinann, Elphieya says, "We saw."

Shinann says, "I cannot move."

Shinann says, "She took the scarab."

Speaking quietly to Shinann, Pukk asks, "That's a good thing right?"

Leafiara tentatively asks, "Did she hint at all at why?"

Shinann says, "My guards."

Speaking quietly to Balley, Elphieya asks, "And yours left you earlier too, right?"

Lylia repeats, "What did she say?"

Bernadette softly asks, "She say somepin to ye?"

Shinann says, "That I will see soon what she will use it for and that we left her no choice."

Lylia scornfully asks, "We left her no choice!?"

Shinann says, "Told me about some of my guards when she was murdering them..."

Rasson says, "I thought she could not make a new paragon so soon."

Gutstorm asks, "Whose Bisco?"

Thrassus asks, "Are there many rank and file militia even left?"

Shinann says, "Yes."

Uprising

One of the militiamen begins to twitch.

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Don't listen to her. She would have done this either way, or at least something like it. ...though I'm sure you know this."

Shinann exclaims, "Run!"

Speaking quietly to Gutstorm, Elphieya says, "An old soul that has passed on."

Leafiara offhandedly says, "...as if I ever."

A rotting militiaman zombie struggles up out of the ground!

A rotting militiaman zombie struggles up out of the ground!

A rotting militiaman zombie struggles up out of the ground!

A rotting militiaman zombie struggles up out of the ground!

A rotting militiaman zombie struggles up out of the ground!

Zosopage says, "Well on the one hand leaving her no choice means we are getting to her but on the other hand what are we forcing her to do."

[combat ensues]

The ghostly voice of Razanetika softly says, "Lovely."

[Town Barracks, Kitchen]

The kitchen is aglow in a haze of orange light as the fires from the two large stoves in the back burn bright, their flames slow roasting the boars and quail turning on their spits. A trio of curly-haired halflings shuffles back and forth between the cooking fires and some low countertops, feverishly preparing the next meal. Above a stout wooden table, a long oak cabinet holds a range of bottles, cups and other refreshments. You also see a rotting militiaman zombie, the Arianiss disk, a badly damaged silver strongbox, a fel-hafted faenor flail, a rotting militiaman zombie that appears dead, a rotting militiaman zombie, a rotting militiaman zombie, a rotting militiaman zombie that appears dead, a rotting militiaman zombie, a rotting militiaman zombie that appears dead, a rotting militiaman zombie, a rotting militiaman zombie, a rotting militiaman zombie, the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk and some butchered militia corpses.

Also here: Arianiss, Avalera, Chaoswynd, Death Knight Warclaidh, the body of Elphieya who is lying down, Rasson, Felita, Arasleaf, the body of Kassyopia who is lying down, Jhenni, Bernadette, the body of Razanetika who is lying down, the body of Xorus who is lying down, Zosopage, the body of Gypsy Scribe Balley who is lying down, a stunned Pukk who is lying down, the body of Berost who is lying down, a stunned Lord Thrassus who is lying down, Event Planner Leafiara, the body of Shinann who is lying down

[extended combat]

Leafiara says, "Magic immunity..."

[extended combat]

[Town Barracks, Kitchen]

The kitchen is aglow in a haze of orange light as the fires from the two large stoves in the back burn bright, their flames slow roasting the boars and quail turning on their spits. A trio of curly-haired halflings shuffles back and forth between the cooking fires and some low countertops, feverishly preparing the next meal. Above a stout wooden table, a long oak cabinet holds a range of bottles, cups and other refreshments. You also see a rotting militiaman zombie that is lying down, the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk, a rotting militiaman zombie, a badly damaged silver strongbox, a fel-hafted faenor flail, a rotting militiaman zombie that appears dead, a rotting militiaman zombie that appears dead, a rotting militiaman zombie, a rotting militiaman zombie, a rotting militiaman zombie and some butchered militia corpses.

Also here: Chaoswynd, Avalera, Death Knight Warclaidh, Arasleaf, the body of Razanetika who is lying down, Event Planner Leafiara

Speaking to Leafiara, Chaoswynd says, "This is an issue."

Speaking wryly to Chaoswynd, Leafiara asks, "Ya think?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Chaoswynd says, "A little."

Speaking to Chaoswynd, Leafiara says, "But they can't handle us, even if it'll take us ages to kill them."

[extended combat]

The ghostly voice of Razanetika softly exclaims, "Get em Leafi!" (heh, really wasn't Leafi... nearly all combat contributions were Warclaidh)

Leafiara says, "Would be a bit of a stalemate if not for Warclaidh..." (OOC: Essentially... Cay and Leafi were swinging around 600 and 515 AS respectively, doing more or less nothing since the enemies had around 500 DS and the two siblings were swinging edged weapons against full plate. Both normally get mileage out of blink weapons, but that wasn't happening either given the zombies' magic immunity. Conversely, though, the zombies had 525-545 AS while Cay and Leafi have around 550 DS in offensive, so they too were basically invincible here. Thankfully Warclaidh was swinging at 796 AS with a battle axe or the fight could have just continued forever.)

[extended combat]

[Town Barracks, Kitchen]

The kitchen is aglow in a haze of orange light as the fires from the two large stoves in the back burn bright, their flames slow roasting the boars and quail turning on their spits. A trio of curly-haired halflings shuffles back and forth between the cooking fires and some low countertops, feverishly preparing the next meal. Above a stout wooden table, a long oak cabinet holds a range of bottles, cups and other refreshments. You also see the palm frond-shaped Leafiara disk and some butchered militia corpses.

Also here: Chaoswynd, Death Knight Warclaidh, Arasleaf, Event Planner Leafiara

Warclaidh says, "Where everyone go."

Leafiara says, "Well... one problem handled, at least."

Leafiara says, "...they seemed to depart, most of them..."

Leafiara confusedly says, "I don't know why."

Leafiara says, "Unless..."

[locates]

[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: Leineshan, the body of Razanetika who is lying down, the body of Lord Beluar who is lying down, the body of Bernadette who is lying down, the body of Pukk who is lying down, the body of Gypsy Scribe Balley who is lying down, the body of Lord Thrassus who is lying down, Aearia who is sitting, Gelvon, Jennora, Zosopage, Avalera, Lady Cerridween, the body of Rasson who is lying down, a stunned Rubyvatra, Great Lord Ryndith who is kneeling, the body of Jhenni who is lying down, the body of Kassyopia who is lying down, Elphieya who is sitting, the body of Berost who is lying down, a stunned Lord Lycurgus who is lying down, Sofal who is sitting, Great Lord Geovekn who is sitting, Skyfedninc, Dhazu, Apprentice Syphus, Snowbee who is kneeling, Great Lord Demicone, Autumnjustice, Infrurnier, Ironglor, Wyyridoir, Skaiz

Leafiara says, "Ah... they were taken back to the square." (OOC: I couldn't see in the heat of the moment, but there were a few things going on here; a minority of people did depart or were forcibly spirit deathed since the zombies could drain (see the bonus material), but the majority was people being sent back to the square with Aid the Fallen or dragged away)

Arianiss: "Town is clear."

>e

[Town Barracks, Dining Hall]

Two round oak tables dominate the center of the room, with wooden chairs and stools encircling each one. Tin plates and utensils occupy a few spots along the tables, and uniformed militiamen move freely about, their chatter creating an interminable din of voices in the area. Young orphan children dutifully carry bowls and cups back and forth between the hall and the kitchen just to the west, where the palpable scent of roasted boar originates from.

Also here: Chaoswynd, Death Knight Warclaidh, Arasleaf, Event Planner Leafiara, Magister Raelee, Xorus, Mayor Lylia, Shinann

Leafiara reports, "Well... -one- problem handled, at least."

Shinann says, "She kept changing faces."

Lylia says, "Good."

Speaking respectfully to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "Need me for anything before I go help in the square?"

Shinann says, "No, go help."

Ware the Bay

(return to the square; raising and healing goes on)

Berost deeply asks, "Them undead still out there?"

Leafiara reports, "No, all dead now."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "Isolated incidence you think?"

Speaking tentatively to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "Well, Shinann only had one scarab, so... yes."

The ghostly voice of Pukk quietly says, "It's okay. I'm just laying here looking up some skirts."

The ghostly voice of Pukk quietly exclaims, "I'm not saying who, but the view is good!"

Balley softly asks, "So all scarabs are gone now right?"

Speaking to Pukk, Ryndith corrects, "It's a kilt."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Darn that Cryheart leaving early and not staying!"

Draught asks, "Is something afoot?"

Zosopage says, "Many of the heavy hitters left early."

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Or it's the opposite... Raznel struck once she knew Cryheart and the captain were gone." (referring to Stormyrain, of course)

Speaking ruefully to Pukk, Leafiara says, "I bet the captain could have disrupted that wall." (OOC: in a mechanical sense, no, but Leafi speaks in a lore sense here)

Pukk yells, "Darn you lightning! You should have struck those militia zombies!"

Elphieya regretfully says, "I just had seen Dreaven too."

Beluar raspily says, "I would have been fine."

Beluar raspily says, "If I was wearing me armor."

Speaking huskily to Leafiara, Jhenni asks, "Did we win or did I die pointlessly, again?"

Speaking pleasedly to Jhenni, Leafiara says, "We won, such as it was."

Speaking quietly to Jhenni, Elphieya asks, "Define win?"

As the rain begins to slow from the heavens, some dockworkers in town begun to mumble and curse and townspeople gasp in shock as the murky waters of Darkstone Bay slowly turn blood red.

Elphieya quietly says, "Oh great."

Leafiara mutters, "Well, that's no good."

Brandilor asks, "That can't be good, right?"

Cerridween says, "Great... blood waters."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "Going to check it out?"

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "And if so, may I come with you?"

Pukk yells, "Wha's a little red in in the water! Just pretend it is wine!"

Leafiarar recites:

"Going to inspect in five seconds"

(people join)

Leafiara recites:

"Join up"

Talonir says, "Well, considering all the filth that usually washes around from our town, blood is probably not that high on the list for gross things in the water."

[Wehnimer's, North Dock]

The dock's planks are dull and weathered from the salt spray of many seasons. Northward beyond the massive sea gates, a flock of ice geese passes, silhouetted against the sky over the blood red waters of Darkstone Bay. The hulk of a derelict coastal sailer is tethered to the end of the pier. You also see the Arianiss disk, a black imperial wagon with a glowing blue-white pylon on it, the blood red waters of Darkstone Bay, a stack of empty crates, some huge wooden crates and some stacked piles of supplies.

Also here: Tsarok, Brandilor, Bernadette, Razanetika, Pukk, Cerridween, Ryndith, Jhenni, Elphieya, Lycurgus, Sofal, Leafiara, Xorus, Arianiss

Arianiss asks, "Needed a sample?"

Leafiara surprisedly says, "Hm."

Xorus says, "I was curious how far out it went."

Leafiara: "The waters of Darkstone Bay have turned blood red."

Bernadette softly says, "Lookin bad here."

Speaking quietly to Xorus, Elphieya asks, "Did you go swimming?"

Xorus tilts his head slightly and stares straight ahead as he murmurs softly under his breath...

Xorus gestures.

A misty halo surrounds Xorus.

Xorus says, "No need."

Cerridween leaps off the docks and jumps into the waters of Darkstone Bay!

Leafiara curiously asks, "But... is it just a color?"

Leafiara musingly says, "I guess Cerri will be able to tell us since she dove in."

Speaking to Leafiara, Ryndith says, "She follows Lumnis, but I think that might have been something more brought on by Zelia."

Leafiara yells, "How's it looking out there, Cerri?"

Pukk quietly says, "I don't like water...even if it looks like blood."

A cloud of dense silvery fog suddenly appears. The fog quickly dissipates to reveal Cerridween.

Speaking casually to Ryndith, Leafiara says, "Nah, I would do the same thing if I wasn't leading."

Ryndith chants a reverent litany and clasps his hands while tightly focusing his thoughts...

Cerridween says, "Nothing interesting beyond the red red red."

Ryndith gestures at Cerridween.

Ryndith looks less calm and refreshed than a moment ago.

Holy water sprays forth and cleanses Cerridween!

A large splash of water drenches Cerridween from head to toe!

Cerridween says, "Nothing interesting beyond the red red red."

Pukk quietly says, "Now if it was actual blood, that would be different."

Speaking curiously to Cerridween, Leafiara says, "Was it thicker? Tougher to swim thr--ah."

Cerridween says, "I DIDN'T GET IN THE WATER."

Cerridween says, "I was WALKING."

Roblar swears at Tsarok, roaring with laughter before becoming serious and menacingly growling, "I clean bigger problems than you off the heels of my boots every evening!"

Damp trickles of water drip from the ends of Cerridween's hair.

Cerridween laughs!

Speaking quietly to Pukk, Elphieya asks, "I think it might be?"

Cerridween says, "You guys are silly."

Speaking tentatively to Cerridween, Leafiara says, "Ya sure -look- wet." (missed that it was Ryndith casting)

Cerridween says, "I JUST GOT WET."

Cerridween stares at Ryndith.

Speaking quietly to Elphieya, Pukk says, "No, somebody tricked me like that once..."

Speaking quietly to Cerridween, Elphieya says, "Usually when you walk on the water you don't end up soaked."

Cerridween says, "He holy watered me."

Pukk quietly says, "Was horrible."

Avalera: "Are things under control at this point?"

Lylia scornfully says, "Parlor tricks."

Speaking to Cerridween, Ryndith says, "Better safe than sorry."

Leafiara sighs, "Fine, I'll dive in then." (since the other two were just water walking)

Cerridween says, "I was dry until he drenched me."

[Darkstone Bay]

Cold waters splash around you, catching you in the midst of waves that slosh about in the Darkstone Bay. Grizzled workers move along the docks of Wehnimer's Landing, loading and unloading ships lined up along the water's edge. You also see the waters of Darkstone Bay which are blood red and murky.

[Darkstone Bay]

The ocean swells rise up high, crashing down in loud splashes of water and foam. Small bits of kelp float along the surface of the dark waters. You also see the waters of Darkstone Bay which are blood red and murky.

[several more identical rooms]

[Darkstone Bay]

A cold wind races across the surface of the bay, sending moisture and salt swirling about. Beneath the waters, a large bed of kelp can be seen. You also see the waters of Darkstone Bay which are blood red and murky.

[several more identical rooms]

[Darkstone Bay]

The waters of Darkstone Bay are cold, made worse by the winds pushing against you. The rocky walls of the coastal cliffs rise up to the west, as the murky waters continue endlessly to the north, connecting to the horizon. You also see the waters of Darkstone Bay which are blood red and murky.

[several more identical rooms]

[Darkstone Bay]

The jagged spires of the coastal cliffs rise up overhead as the Darkstone Bay floods in to eternally brush across the Black Sands beach. Nearby rocks glisten with the spray from the ocean, and the crashing of waves resounds nearby. You also see the waters of Darkstone Bay which are blood red and murky.

[The Black Sands]

A narrow strip of black sand winds between the pulsing sea and the huddled rocks. You look out at the dark waters of the bay, set against the grey sky. With the black sands beneath your feet and the frozen black lava behind you, you feel as though all the color has been blotted out of the world. You also see the blood red waters of Darkstone Bay and a tall wooden archery tower.

(fogs back to the dock)

Avalera: "I'm going to assume that's a yes then."

Razanetika leaps off the docks and jumps into the waters of Darkstone Bay!

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk asks, "How was it?"

Speaking quietly to Lylia, Elphieya says, "I worry about the townspeople. They are already desperate. This might tip some over the edge."

Leafiara reports, "It's not any harder to swim through than usual... maybe just an illusion."

Arianiss: "Yes."

Cerridween says, "Blood is a purely natural thing. If it is indeed blood waters, then it simply is the lifeblood of our city on display in dramatic form."

Avalera: "Thank you."

Leafiara mutters, "Not that that'll ease some rather superstitious townspeople's minds, but..."

Ryndith ponders, "It has rained blood enough times, the rain does need to go somewhere..."

Razanetika just arrived.

Razanetika softly says, "That was fun."

Speaking to Elphieya, Lylia says, "I cannot mend anyone's sanity, if this breaks them. I can, of course, assure them that this is but a dramatic show...but there is only so much the credulous among us will believe."

Razanetika softly says, "Made it all the way to the Black Sands."

Warclaidh says, "Could you imagine how many ghosts haunt the depths of that bay."

Zosopage says, "The smell is going to get even worse."

Lylia says, "Some people prefer to believe conspiracies and Zelian prophecies to facts and sense."

Xorus indifferently remarks, "Stagnant waters have been known to bloom this way."

Speaking to Razanetika, Leafiara agrees, "Same... it's not such a bad swim, actually."

Sofal says, "At least no clicky snakes yet."

Lylia nods at Xorus.

Speaking quietly to Warclaidh, Pukk says, "42."

Speaking to Sofal, Ryndith asks, "Yet?"

Lylia agrees, "Just so."

Speaking to Leafiara, Cerridween says, "Told you so."

Speaking quietly to Sofal, Elphieya says, "Let's not give her any ideas."

Ryndith says, "Fine, fine."

Bonus Material

Before Thrayzar's Arrival: Cryheart and the Hooligans

Cryheart blows expertly across his flute, drawing forth a merry, joyful trill.

Guarrin shows Cryheart his tartan-wrapped case.

Cryheart's fingers skip lightly along the length of his flute, conveying a cheery melody.

Pukk quietly says, "The only person who is safe from the scarabs is Owlie."

Cryheart says, "Join in."

Cryheart nods at Guarrin.

Speaking to Chaoswynd, Stormyrain mouths, "Bagpipes."

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Well, he's just about the smartest in the Landing after all."

Cryheart blows expertly across his flute, drawing forth a merry, joyful trill.

With nimble fingers, Guarrin unfastens each of the buttons holding his tartan-wrapped case closed, and draws the flap open.

Pukk removes a gold-traced cherrywood lute with a lacquered finish from in his spidersilk cloak.

Speaking nervously to Guarrin, Stormyrain says, "I hope you're better than Metadi."

Pukk picks up his lute and strikes the opening chords of a joyful tune.

Speaking amusedly to Stormyrain, Chaoswynd whispers aloud, "You don't appreciate their graceful, gentle tones?"

Speaking to Chaoswynd, Stormyrain exclaims, "Have you ever heard Metadi play?!"

A light-hearted, lilting melody fills the air as Cryheart's fingers dance along the length of his flute.

Speaking deeply to Stormyrain, Guarrin says, "He's from Dragach. We do it proper higher up the Spine."

Speaking softly to Raelee, Balley says, "The scarab left me tonight in a crowd of people."

Embellishing on the simple melody, Pukk skillfully conveys a measure of the joy he feels while playing.

Cryheart asks, "Hmm...dinnae he hae a tambourine?"

Stormyrain repeats, "Proper."

Cryheart asks, "Or was that Titannia?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain says, "..Tani."

With a final, jubilant flourish, Cryheart finishes his song and lowers his flute.

Cryheart says, "She was Liabo awful."

Pukk finishes the verse of the song then begins the next, further embellishing the melody by adding an ecstatic moving harmony.

Stormyrain says, "Metadi and that damned pin that manifested in bagpipes wherever he was."

[Leafi steps away for a bit and then returns]

[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: Event Planner Leafiara, Lady Carolanne, Lord Thrillian, Razanetika, Istafia who is kneeling, Villorn who is sitting, Falvicar, Leineshan, Magister Raelee, Guarrin, Skyfedninc, Sofal, Togg, Bernadette, Arianiss, Zosopage, Gypsy Scribe Balley, Felita, Avalera, Dillitink, Lord Lycurgus, Stormyrain, Great Lord Demicone, Pukk, Sir Cryheart, Chaoswynd, Infrurnier, Ironglor, Wyyridoir, Skaiz

The dashing, jaunty song spins and dances as Cryheart nimbly plays his flute.

Guarrin touches his bagpipes, launching into a foot-tapping melody.

A jolly little tune spills forth as Cryheart's fingers dance merrily along his flute.

A moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish pours out a jolly song.

Pukk finishes the verse of the song then begins the next, further embellishing the melody by adding an ecstatic moving harmony.

Guarrin touches his fingers to the bagpipes, chasing the chords up and down the scale.

Leafiara removes a polished white lute painted with a cherry red leaf from in her instrument case.

Cryheart's lively tune rushes heedlessly along, bringing spontaneous smiles to the lips of those who hear.

Without prelude, Leafiara begins a fast-paced tune on her lute.

With a final joyous flourish Pukk stills his fingers on the lute, allowing the final bright chord to fade into silence.

Guarrin slides his fingers over the bagpipes, improvising a jaunty bridge.

A jolly little tune spills forth as Cryheart's fingers dance merrily along his flute.

Leafiara precisely picks out her fast-paced melody across the frets of her lute, each note ringing true despite the speed of the song.

Joyful notes rise from a moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish, filling the area with music.

Guarrin touches his bagpipes, launching into a foot-tapping melody.

Cryheart's lively tune rushes heedlessly along, bringing spontaneous smiles to the lips of those who hear.

Leafiara precisely picks out her fast-paced melody across the frets of her lute, each note ringing true despite the speed of the song.

With an upwards skirl of notes, Guarrin elaborates the melody into a cheerful reel.

The dashing, jaunty song spins and dances as Cryheart nimbly plays his flute.

The tempo of Leafiara's song builds like the charge of a herd of thrak, unstoppable in its momentum and speed.

A playful lilt of complex notes lifts from a moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish.

Guarrin touches his bagpipes, launching into a foot-tapping melody.

The dashing, jaunty song spins and dances as Cryheart nimbly plays his flute.

With a small brow furrow of concentration, Leafiara increases the tempo further, her fingers fairly flying across the frets.

With an upwards skirl of notes, Guarrin elaborates the melody into a cheerful reel.

Cryheart's lively tune rushes heedlessly along, bringing spontaneous smiles to the lips of those who hear.

Leafiara precisely picks out her fast-paced melody across the frets of her lute, each note ringing true despite the speed of the song.

A moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish pours out a jolly song.

Guarrin touches his fingers to the bagpipes, chasing the chords up and down the scale.

With a wink and a grin, Cryheart trills his final notes, lowering his flute.

Leafiara switches key signatures, playing a rapid off-kilter theme reminiscent of the gallop of a fast horse.

With a final breath, Guarrin removes the bagpipes from his lips, allowing the last jaunty notes to fade away.

Leafiara precisely picks out her fast-paced melody across the frets of her lute, each note ringing true despite the speed of the song.

A playful lilt of complex notes lifts from a moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish.

Speaking deeply to Cryheart, Guarrin says, "Almost lost me there for a bit."

Cryheart says, "Ok..gents, let's try a soft tone this time."

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain says, "I will end you."

Cryheart asks, "Well..what request would ye prefer?"

Speaking to herself, Stormyrain mutters, "Love of Jastev."

Stormyrain says, "Silence."

Stormyrain says, "That's what I request."

Cryheart says, "I dinnae know that style."

Speaking laughingly to Cryheart, Chaoswynd says, "Something rousing, and lively, with lots of droning."

Leafiara dances her fingers over the strings of her lute to weave a driving melody.

Stormyrain says, "Of course you don't. Of course."

A moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish pours out a jolly song.

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk asks, "Which style?"

Speaking deeply to Chaoswynd, Guarrin says, "That, I can deliver on."

Cryheart says, "Let's play intense."

Leafiara amicably asks, "Give us a count?"

With a final rapid pattern across the strings of her lute, Leafiara ceases her breathless playing.

Deliberately, Pukk wraps his hand around the neck of his lute, sets his fingers to the strings and begins to play.

Cryheart says, "A one...."

Cryheart says, "A two."

Cryheart says, "Now."

Deliberately, Leafiara wraps her hand around the neck of her lute, sets her fingers to the strings and begin to play.

With an intense, absorbed look on his face, Cryheart slowly raises his flute and lets his fingers convey his mood.

With a look of intense concentration, Guarrin picks up his bagpipes and begins playing.

Cryheart says, "As per Cay's request."

Pukk quietly says, "Too late..I already started."

Paying complete attention to the lute's strings, Pukk begins building an intense melody.

Grobrfong exclaims, "I count 1, 2, Hunt!"

Paying complete attention to her lute's strings, Leafiara begins building an intense melody.

His brow wrinkled in concentration, Cryheart draws forth each note slowly and deliberately, building his melody.

Grobrfong exclaims, "Sometimes simply HUNT!"

Guarrin manipulates his bagpipes with stabbing regularity, establishing an intense, martial beat.

Pukk makes a dramatic change in the song's dynamics, sweeping from soft to loud in a sharp crescendo then back into the middle ranges.

A spotted great horned owl suddenly releases an ear-piercing shriek!

Leafiara earnestly comments, "Pretty good ensemble we have going."

Leafiara accentuates her song with emphatic strums, adding to the intensity.

Deep, soul-penetrating notes flow from Cryheart's flute as he succumbs to the mood he is creating.

Guarrin slows the sound of his bagpipes, the stretched out chords providing suspense more than relief from the intense martial sounds.

Cryheart says, "Even Owliver adds a note."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk says, "Owlie is our dancer."

A moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish plays a merry melody.

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Pukk makes a dramatic change in the song's dynamics, sweeping from soft to loud in a sharp crescendo then back into the middle ranges.

Leafiara bridges into a new key, taking the song to new heights of intensity.

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "Quick, put out a hat and collect some silvers!"

His brow wrinkled in concentration, Cryheart draws forth each note slowly and deliberately, building his melody.

Cryheart says, "And Owliver the background screecher."

Running his fingers over the bagpipes, Guarrin lowers the sound of chanter and drones to an echoing thunder.

Chamorr heartily says, "Wow."

Pukk plucks his instrument's lower strings, adding a driving bass foundation to the melody.

Bernadette softly says, "Nice music."

Leafiara plucks her instrument's lower strings, adding a driving bass foundation to the melody.

Cryheart says, "Thank ye."

His fingers gyrating at a furious pace, Cryheart's song deepens and intensifies.

Guarrin urges on the beat of the bagpipes, echoing notes around the reverberating rattle of hundreds of marching feet.

Chamorr heartily says, "Cryheart and the hooligans."

A happy ditty skips from a moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish.

Pukk bridges his song into a new key, taking it to new heights of intensity.

Leafiara bridges into a new key, taking the song to new heights of intensity.

His fingers gyrating at a furious pace, Cryheart's song deepens and intensifies.

Running his fingers over the bagpipes, Guarrin lowers the sound of chanter and drones to an echoing thunder.

Pukk accentuates his song with emphatic strums, adding to the intensity.

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain mouths, "End you."

Paying complete attention to her lute's strings, Leafiara begins building an intense melody.

Deep, soul-penetrating notes flow from Cryheart's flute as he succumbs to the mood he is creating.

Guarrin slows the sound of his bagpipes, the stretched out chords providing suspense more than relief from the intense martial sounds.

Leafiara whispers something to Pukk.

A moss green music box inlaid with tiny crystal fish pours out a jolly song.

Pukk makes a dramatic change in the song's dynamics, sweeping from soft to loud in a sharp crescendo then back into the middle ranges.

Leafiara bridges into a new key, taking the song to new heights of intensity.

His brow wrinkled in concentration, Cryheart draws forth each note slowly and deliberately, building his melody.

Guarrin urges on the beat of the bagpipes, echoing notes around the reverberating rattle of hundreds of marching feet.

Pukk whispers something to Leafiara.

Pukk bridges his song into a new key, taking it to new heights of intensity.

Leafiara whispers something to Pukk.

Leafiara makes a dramatic change in her song's dynamics, sweeping from soft to loud in a sharp crescendo then back into the middle ranges.

His fingers gyrating at a furious pace, Cryheart's song deepens and intensifies.

Guarrin slows the sound of his bagpipes, the stretched out chords providing suspense more than relief from the intense martial sounds.

Speaking warmly to a fat brown mouse, Leafiara coos, "Oh, look at you, you plump little cutie."

Paying complete attention to the lute's strings, Pukk begins building an intense melody.

Pukk whispers something to Leafiara.

Leafiara bridges into a new key, taking the song to new heights of intensity.

Deep, soul-penetrating notes flow from Cryheart's flute as he succumbs to the mood he is creating.

Guarrin manipulates his bagpipes with stabbing regularity, establishing an intense, martial beat.

Speaking quietly to a fat brown mouse, Pukk exclaims, "Are you crazy? There are two owls here!"

With a final dramatic flourish, Pukk takes his fingers from the strings, letting the notes fade into a profound silence.

With a final dramatic flourish, Leafiara takes her fingers from the strings, letting the notes fade into a profound silence.

Cryheart says, "The music probably lured him in."

With a soul-deep sigh Cryheart brings his music, so carefully and profoundly wrought, to its gentle, ebbing close before slowly lowering his flute.

With a final fading breath, Guarrin removes the bagpipes from his lips, allowing the last intense wail of the pipes to fade into silence.

Guarrin deeply says, "Well done, well done."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk says, "I didn't know you handled your instrument so well. You must practice a lot with it when you are alone."

Leafiara praises, "Well played all!"

Speaking quietly to Balley, Pukk asks, "Do you play an instrument too?"

Speaking thoughtfully to Balley, Leafiara says, "I could see you with a tambourine."

Cryheart says, "I think Stormy as well."

Cryheart nods to Leafiara.

Pukk quietly asks, "Yeah, why isn't she joining us in our busking endeavor?"

Chamorr sings:

"All the leaves are brown"

Pukk sings:

"All the leaves are brown"

Balley softly says, "You have to be extra protective now." (to Zosopage)

Stormyrain stares off into space.

Bernadette sings:

"And the skies are grey"

Pukk sings:

"And the skies are grey"

Leafiara confusedly says, "The leaves on the oak don't -look- brown to me... yet."

Zosopage sings:

"Wehnimer's Landing dreaming"

Cryheart says, "On a winter's day."

Pukk quietly says, "Zosopage killed it."

Balley softly asks, "What did Zoso kill?"

Pukk quietly says, "It was going so good too."

Pukk quietly says, "We were harmonizing...then he went all off key and sounded like Helga."

Leafiara diplomatically interjects, "His voice is just too used to warcries and not so much singing."

From nearby, you hear Grobrfong yell, "Ferril!!!!!"

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Yes, yes...we will go with that."

Zosopage asks, "Oh and Chamorr's is much better?"

Cryheart says, "Ok..enough with torturing poor Stormy."

Speaking deeply to Cryheart, Guarrin asks, "Think they've had enough?"

Speaking to Chamorr, Zosopage says, "No offence."

Cryheart says, "Aye."

Pukk quietly asks, "What style now?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain says, "There is no escaping your fate now, Harbinger of Discord."

Pukk quietly asks, "I take it Stormy doesn't like Shiny's playing?"

Pukk quietly says, "Well except for a couple of small mistakes he was playing pretty okay."

Barracks Battle Records

(OOC note: I was recently asked to include some snippets of combat for those who can't make it to these invasions. I actually used to do this with the rule that I'd only show a few highlights as we figured out new things, so let's get back to it...)

525+ AS

A rotting militiaman zombie claws at Razanetika!

AS: +525 vs DS: +473 with AvD: +23 + d100 roll: +69 = +144

... and hits for 8 points of damage!

Weak slash to Razanetika's lower back!

A rotting militiaman zombie tries to bite Felita!

AS: +545 vs DS: +656 with AvD: +24 + d100 roll: +87 = +0

A clean miss.

Magic Immunity (direct cast)

Xorus scribes a hazy, dark sigil into the air, fusing elemental and spiritual power.

Xorus gestures at a rotting militiaman zombie.

A rotting militiaman zombie pulses brightly as she absorbs the magic!

High CS Spirit Drain

A rotting militiaman zombie's eyes flash bright red!

A rotting militiaman zombie claws at Razanetika!

AS: +525 vs DS: +473 with AvD: +23 + d100 roll: +31 = +106

... and hits for 1 point of damage!

Talk about a close shave!

Missed by a whisker.

CS: +511 - TD: +232 + CvA: +2 + d100: +41 - -5 == +327

Warding failed!

Razanetika suddenly looks drained!

A rotting militiaman zombie tries to bite Kassyopia!

AS: +545 vs DS: +361 with AvD: +32 + d100 roll: +70 = +286

... and hits for 58 points of damage!

Whoosh! Several ribs driven into lungs.

She is stunned!

CS: +523 - TD: +429 + CvA: -6 + d100: +75 == +163

Warding failed!

Kassyopia suddenly looks drained!

Gets Past Capped Soul Ward

The evanescent shield shrouding Leafiara fades briefly.

A rotting militiaman zombie tries to bite Leafiara!

AS: +525 vs DS: +530 with AvD: +32 + d100 roll: +12 = +39

A clean miss.

476+ DS (unknown stance)

Avalera looks determined and focused.

In a breathtaking display of ability and combat mastery, Avalera whirls in a fury of unrelenting strikes and ripostes!

Avalera swings an ornate black warsword at a rotting militiaman zombie!

The militiaman zombie dodges just in the nick of time!

Avalera swings an ornate black warsword at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +489 vs DS: +476 with AvD: +28 + d100 roll: +23 = +64

A clean miss.

Avalera swings an ornate black warsword at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +489 vs DS: +499 with AvD: +28 + d100 roll: +100 = +118

... and hits for 4 points of damage!

Weak slash across chest!

Slightly less painful than heartburn.

Avalera swings an ornate black warsword at a rotting militiaman zombie!

The militiaman zombie moves at the last moment to evade the attack!

Avalera swings an ornate black warsword at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +489 vs DS: +499 with AvD: +28 + d100 roll: +86 = +104

... and hits for 1 point of damage!

A feeble blow to the militiaman zombie's left arm!

Leafiara punches with a perfect white ora slasher at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +463 vs DS: +515 with AvD: +25 + d100 roll: +29 = +2

A clean miss.

504+ TD Against Cloak of Shadows, 7350ish health

A rotting militiaman zombie glares at Lylia and gurgles, "Just want your eyes... taste good..."

A rotting militiaman zombie claws at Lylia!

AS: +525 vs DS: +403 with AvD: +41 + d100 roll: +56 = +219

... and hits for 37 points of damage!

Strike pierces forearm!

She is stunned!

A dark shadowy tendril rises up from Lylia's skin, writhes its way towards a rotting militiaman zombie and lashes out malevolently...

CS: +540 - TD: +504 + CvA: +25 + d100: +88 == +149

Warding failed!

A rotting militiaman zombie contorts in excruciating agony!

... 2450 points of damage!

Possibly Immune to 520 Lightning

A rotting militiaman zombie's flesh begins dripping and oozing on the ground.

A rotting militiaman zombie tries to bite Thrassus!

AS: +525 vs DS: +451 with AvD: +39 + d100 roll: +78 = +191

... and hits for 61 points of damage!

Well placed strike to back shatters vertebrae!

He is knocked to the ground!

He is stunned!

The raw elemental energy surrounding Thrassus suddenly sparks with electricity.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

Sparks surrounding Thrassus arc out and hit a rotting militiaman zombie, with no effect.

(note: 520 lightning has a hidden success check, so even against ordinary foes it can fail, but I think the normal failure messaging is different)

DS Can Be Pushed Down

(...though there were too many zombies in the log for me to figure out exactly how this happened)

Leafiara punches with a perfect white ora slasher at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +502 vs DS: +307 with AvD: +25 + d100 roll: +11 = +231

... and hit for 33 points of damage!

Minor puncture to the abdomen.

Warclaidh Beats Them

Warclaidh looks determined and focused.

In a breathtaking display of ability and combat mastery, Warclaidh whirls in a fury of unrelenting strikes and ripostes!

Warclaidh swings a shoddy battle axe at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +833 vs DS: +322 with AvD: +32 + d100 roll: +56 = +599

... and hits for 195 points of damage!

Lucky shot rips through bone and muscle sending weapon arm flying.

The militiaman zombie stares at her mangled stump as if she is unable to comprehend that it is missing.

The coraesine relic on Warclaidh's battle axe flares up with a blazing white-grey aura! Vicious winds curl around him in a spiraling vortex, increasing his momentum as he lets loose a lightning-quick strike!

Warclaidh swings a shoddy battle axe at a rotting militiaman zombie!

The militiaman zombie barely dodges the attack!

The coraesine relic on Warclaidh's battle axe flares up with a blazing white-grey aura! Vicious winds curl around him in a spiraling vortex, increasing his momentum as he lets loose a lightning-quick strike!

Warclaidh swings a shoddy battle axe at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +833 vs DS: +322 with AvD: +32 + d100 roll: +22 = +565

... and hits for 179 points of damage!

Deep slash to the militiaman zombie's right side!

Several inches of padding sliced off hip....

From the inside!

The militiaman zombie is knocked to the ground!

Necrotic energy from Warclaidh's battle axe flares up momentarily!

Warclaidh appears to gain succour from the unnatural energy!

The coraesine relic on Warclaidh's battle axe flares up with a blazing white-grey aura! Vicious winds curl around him in a spiraling vortex, increasing his momentum as he lets loose a lightning-quick strike!

Warclaidh swings a shoddy battle axe at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +858 vs DS: +272 with AvD: +32 + d100 roll: +90 = +708

... and hits for 240 points of damage!

Powerful slash leaves the militiaman zombie without a right leg!

The coraesine relic on Warclaidh's battle axe flares up with a blazing white-grey aura! Vicious winds curl around him in a spiraling vortex, increasing his momentum as he lets loose a lightning-quick strike!

Warclaidh swings a shoddy battle axe at a rotting militiaman zombie!

AS: +858 vs DS: +229 with AvD: +32 + d100 roll: +89 = +750

... and hits for 274 points of damage!

Slash to the militiaman zombie's ribs opens a sucking chest wound!

You hear a sound like a weeping child as a white glow separates itself from the militiaman zombie's body as it rises, disappearing into the heavens.

The militiaman zombie shudders slightly then ceases her so called life.

Discussions at the Bay

Speaking quietly to Sofal, Elphieya says, "Let's not give her any ideas."

Ryndith says, "Fine, fine."

Speaking quietly to Sofal, Elphieya says, "I am not a fan of the clicky snakes."

Sofal says, "It an idea she already had. maybe the red is clicky snake repelant."

Zosopage says, "I think she left that as a parting gift for the night."

Berost deeply asks, "Who we grouped on?"

Leafiara says, "At least three groups are here... but the danger seems to have passed."

Lylia says, "If I am needed, I shall be in my office."

Leafiara offhandedly says, "...four groups."

Warclaidh says, "I think it's a sign, the witch wants a sacrifice, and only the greatest will do......"

Warclaidh glances at Roblar.

Pukk quietly says, "Rain is gone."

Mongonator says, "But only one group has Leafi in it."

Speaking lightly to Mongonator, Leafiara says, "Well, yes."

Speaking to the blood red waters of Darkstone Bay, Xorus says, "The doom comes..."

Brandilor exclaims, "I'd be worried if all four did!"

Speaking to Xorus, Ryndith says, "The idea is to avert doom here, not just sit here and wait for it."

Speaking decisively to Brandilor, Leafiara says, "Yeah, we'd have to kill three of them just to be sure."

Lylia says, "I doubt Xorus ever simply sits and waits for doom."

Speaking to Leafiara, Ryndith asks, "Hasn't there already been a problem of too many Leafiaras once?"

Elphieya quietly says, "And once too many Cryhearts." ([[::Landing_Events_-_5119-04-06_-_An-time-ony,_An-time-pathy#Sir_Cryheart_Duals|referring to this]])

Elphieya quietly says, "That one was a strange eve."

Lylia says, "If you will pardon me."

Xorus says, "It is best to be leading doom by the leash."

Speaking wistfully to Ryndith, Leafiara says, "Yeah, killing memory ghosts of myself was a grand battle. Cruxes too, and others." (referring to when we invaded Chaston's mind with the help of Rodnay and ghosts of ourselves attacked us)

Shinann asks, "The town is clear?"

Speaking huskily to Ryndith, Jhenni says, "Never too many Leafiaras."

Elphieya quietly says, "Seems to be."

Speaking pleasedly to Shinann, Leafiara reports, "The zombies didn't escape the barracks alive. Or... undead, rather."

Pukk quietly says, "Well this was a KILLER night."

Speaking to Jhenni, Ryndith says, "If there was more than one, the world's supply of chocolate may not be safe."

Zosopage says, "There were some undead roltons in town but not many."

Shinann says, "They died in the line of duty. Whatever happened after that is not their doing."

Talonhawke quietly asks, "Were they undead or just covered in pus?"

Speaking huskily to Ryndith, Jhenni says, "Munch it up, they'll make more."

Speaking affably to Shinann, Leafiara agrees, "Indeed."

Zosopage says, "Ahh yes."

Pukk quietly says, "I agree."

Shinann says, "I have to go make a list of the names for us to contact the families."

Zosopage says, "Never stopped to hit it."

Warclaidh says, "Practice." (was swinging at Arasleaf)

Warclaidh says, "That's dangerous."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "Can... is your magic back?"

Shinann gestures while calling upon the lesser spirits for aid...

Shinann gestures.

A light blue glow surrounds Shinann.

Shinann nods.

Leafiara quietly says, "One relief at least, then."

Shinann says, "I would have it gone to have those guards alive."

Speaking gently to Shinann, Leafiara says, "...we know."

Shinann says, "Excuse me."

Shinann just went west.

Ryndith says, "You should call off that guard."

Leafiara sighs, "Hate to say it, but... it's harder to watch only others suffer while you get off 'lucky.'"

Gutstorm drunkenly says, "I'm ok with that actually."

Leafiara suggests, "Shinann must have it hard. We should try to be nice to her."

Kelrion says, "Watching others suffer is a highlight of any day."

Speaking huskily to Leafiara, Jhenni says, "But we up all night to get Lucky."

Speaking lightly to Jhenni, Leafiara says, "Well, yes, I know -you- are..."

Roblar deeply says, "Seems clear."

Roblar deeply says, "Except for.."

Roblar glances at the blood red waters of Darkstone Bay.

Roblar shakes his head, clucking his tongue.

Bernadette softly says, "The bay be bloody."

(people are slowly peeling off)

Cerridween whispers something to Ryndith.

Xorus says, "It is fortunate that the bellacorn have not been seen in these waters in decades."

Speaking curiously to Xorus, Leafiara asks, "The bella-what now?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Xorus says, "Sea monsters."

Speaking interestedly to Xorus, Leafiara says, "Are they giant sea monst--"

Leafiara gasps.

Ryndith whispers something to Cerridween.

Leafiara disgruntledly says, "Now I wish they -had- been seen recently."

Jhenni huskily says, "I don't see monsters."

Xorus says, "They resemble enormous lizards in turtle shells."

Cerridween whispers something to Ryndith.

Leafiara musingly says, "Maybe if Grishom Stone is half the threat some of you seem to think he is, he can summon some of those instead of those dull mein golems."

Leafiara offhandedly says, "Ah well... another day, another time."

Xorus says, "They slash open sailors with their fangs and use the bloodied water to draw in other things to devour."

Thrassus says, "They must mainly dine on shark then."

Speaking huskily to Xorus, Jhenni asks, "So, the sailors are their chums?"

Xorus says, "Scavengers as well."

Thrassus says, "A predator of predators."

Brandilor asks, "Anything different?"

Xorus says, "They are very chummy."

Speaking quietly to Brandilor, Elphieya says, "It does not feel like blood."

Speaking quietly to Brandilor, Elphieya says, "Not sticky enough."

Thrassus says, "Give it some time to see if it congeals."

Brandilor asks, "Yabathilium juice?"

Speaking huskily to Thrassus, Jhenni asks, "Then we can pick it like a scab?"

Thrassus says, "Perhaps."

Elphieya quietly says, "I don't know. But all seems quiet for now. My only fear is what this will do to the already frazzled townsfolk."

Speaking heavily to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "Yeah, they don't really understand the situation the way we do."

Elphieya quietly says, "The longer this goes on, the closer this town comes to turning on itself. Starvation, whispering, and panic will do that."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "The people are scared and tired."

Thrassus says, "They'll either riot or attempt to flee en masse, only to get caught up in that insipid checkpoint of the Hall's."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya adds, "And desperate."

Thrassus says, "And then riot there instead."

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara say, "Well... don't think I haven't noticed, yeah. But I'm not in a position to do much of anything about it."

Speaking quietly to Thrassus, Elphieya says, "Truthfully, I am amazed there hasn't been more looting and rioting."

Thrassus says, "Give it time."

Speaking quietly to Thrassus, Elphieya says, "Hungry dying people will do unthinkable things given enough time."

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "Well, Mother did say crime was increasing." ([[::Witchful_Thinking_-_5119-08-31_-_Rook_and_Sea_For_Yourself|referring to this)]]

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "I am in the same position. There is not much I can do, though I try."

Berost deeply says, "As it has been said, we kill tha paragons or the town is wiped out. Nae much middle ground. The folks.... we will do for them what we can."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "I would be more inclined to listen to what Mother said if she didn't claim to care for the people of this town in one breath and leave them to starve if her demands aren't met in another breath."

Speaking to Berost, Leafiara says, "Yeah, I agree with ya. Some are cracking under pressure, but we knew this was coming."

Speaking deeply to Leafiara, Berost says, "And well they should when they see their children suffer or worse."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "I understand bargaining and using a situation that is presented, but don't try to feed me both realities and expect me to swallow them."

Berost deeply says, "Nae blame em."

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara begins, "Well, it's a complicated situation..."

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "The Rooks can't just act on their own to do this without the mayor's approval."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya concedes, "It is complicated. I do not pretend to understand all the complications."

Leafiara says, "Or, rather... if they -did-, it would cause even more problems because of the past when they had more violent leaders."

Berost deeply says, "That be why they should, if Mother meant what she says she means."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "She stepped in to help in the past without being asked. Giving coin to those in Shanty Town."

Rasson says, "It really just takes Mother finding the right hungry dock worker to get her shipment ignored, so why not sanction her actions and show you are doing something rather than stand by."

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara admits, "If it were me... I woulda just agreed to the deal the second she offered it. But it's not my place to talk about this much when the mayor was around, since people voted her in over me."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "You ran last election?"

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "The 5118 one."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "Not the most recent then?"

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara affirms, "Right."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya says, "I had not moved to the landing during that election."

Speaking curiously to Leafiara, Elphieya ventures, "Why did you not try again?"

Berost deeply says, "Well, run again, owe ya a vote for all the reattachin me soul to me body."

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "That would be disrespectful to the citizens, who already made their choice."

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "I started putting together a campaign, actually."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Elphieya asks, "What of those of us who never had the choice?"

Speaking to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "But once the mayor decided to run again, I figured I'd save it for later."

Leafiara distantly says, "...assuming we all survive this and there -is- a later."

Rasson says, "Hard part of being friends with the sitting mayor."

Speaking evasively to Elphieya, Leafiara says, "Well... that was my thought at the time, anyway."

Jhenni huskily says, "There's always a later."

Leafiara whispers something to Elphieya.

Leafiara whispers something to Elphieya.

Berost deeply says, "Welp, if'n we don't mayhaps we all puppet o' the witch and she can stage a grand election with our lifeless forms."