Opalina's Diary - Book 2

This is a creative work set in the world of Elanthia, attributed to its original author(s). It does not necessarily represent the official lore of GemStone IV.

Title: Opalina's Diary - Book 2

Author: Opalina Jalcon

This is a personal accounting of Opalina's experiences during the year of 2023--these are her personal views, and actions from her perspective, logs are being recorded/and transcribed occasionally.

Back to: Opalina's Diary

Ta'Vaalorian Dinner

Entry Dated                                                                                                        January 4, 2023

Invited to a dinner isn't the worst way to spend an evening out on the town. Especially one with folks from Ta'Vaalor. I love that town it's always so warm and welcoming. Even now as our delegates are trying to show power and gain respect at the same time. They have concerns that feel important so a small town in a cold wilderness where life every day is a struggle. Ta'Vaalor is a larger town than Icemule with power wisdom and concerns like ours seem tiny in their eye's. Hopefully this dinner will allow them to see us as more than just inferior peasants but people with strong ideas, big plans, and the desire for growth.

Our ragtag group of people come from all walks of life. Some of us are princesses, some are elders, some are criminals, some are scholars, and some warriors. We manage to survive together in a small community in a barren cold environment surrounded by Giants, Undead, Vampires, Rotting corpses, Bandits and so many more horrors. But deep in town we have banded together for a common vision of survival, raise our children, Share our hearths and our food. We have pride in our accomplishments and the battles we've won against liches and those who would control our town with evil intent. Time and time again as a whole we've managed to sustain life and prevail. Now we are not all perfect by any means. We have our thieves, murderers, and warmongrals. Our goal is simple. We want to be seen as an Independent equal town with rights for trade and control of our area as our community believes for the safety and well being of the people who live there. We want say in what happens in and around our small community. We have a Town Mayor, We have a City Council that represents the wants and desires of the town, and an active thriving small and growing community.

The Invite.

An invite was provided to me through mail from a gentleman I've never met before. I am curious as to who he is and why me. I was not part of the delegates who represented Icemule. But I do have friends in Ta'Vaalor. And the King was very kind to me. Perhaps my name was shared as someone known to be a kindred spirit.

Lady Opalina,
I wish to extend an invite to a dinner to you, any delegate, and any community members who wish to attend. I hope to host this dinner on the 4th of Lormesta at seven in the evening elven standard time in the Ilynov Manor. I hope to hear from you shortly letting me know of availability.
Honor before all else,
Kakoon Arakhor

I'd never met Kakoon before this night. I have since learned that he is a powerful land owner and community member of the Ta'Vaalor. He is supporting the efforts of Dezter and his sister Aphaedra of Ta'Vaalor to help Icemule and their current efforts to be heard. Dezter is a long time friend of mine. We met in landing through several other friends and have since kept in touch. It was through him that Kakoon learn of me and felt comfortable to reach out.

I brought a gift from Falvicar's and My personal collection of Wines and spirits. We thought it would be rude not to bring something to honor the host. We also gave one to Dezter to share with his family. It was my great pleasure to meet Aphaedra and her husband Jaydo.

The dinner itself was so elaborate Three courses appetizer, dinner, and dessert served in different areas along with lovely live music performed by Carew She had the most beautiful silvery mistwood flute encrusted with faceted firestones. I absolutely love listening to the flute, and she is a master at her art.

So many things were shared and people were able to connect. Though I think during dinner Hazelnut might have had a little too much to drink as he started to show his frustrations and started making elaborate demands like stating that Ta'Vaalor should stop their trade with Briarmoon Cove. I don't feel that's fair at all! That's not what the delegates were sent to do! Not stop anyone from trading.

I left the dinner full and confident we made new friends. I only hope the delegates feel more comfortable about working with Ta'Vaalor and that we can peacefully come to a resolution soon.

Catspaw-2023-1-4 - Ta'Vaalor invites Icemule to Dinner (Log)

Building Relationships

Diary Entry                                                                                January 10, 2023

Since the dinner It's been a whirlwind of talks. Contracts are drawn up and supplies delivered. Letters to merchants at unknown locations, and Secrets still being protected. Not to mention the smoke from the north and the Loud whine from the Firebird. Will peace ever be a regular happening in Icemule again? Perhaps peace is just a wishful dream that only happens in death. Well I for one am not ready to die. No, no peace. no stopping the moving forward wheel of change.

I wrote a letter to the Merchant Lahke Maxim. He is known for traveling and doing business in Brairmoon Cove. I am hoping he can share his contacts with me so we can attempt to reach out and open communications with Briarmoon again. But so far he's not responded to my letter. So many things could have happened. He could be inside Briarmoon Cove and they are all Vampires, My letter could have been stolen by Rammael, He may not have any contacts, Or he may not remember me and be so busy that he tossed the letter away without a care in the world. It was a long shot at best. And I fear we maybe running out of time to make any amends with Briarmoon Cove.

Letter

Dear Lahke Maxim

Dear Lahke Maxim;

I hope my letter finds you well and in good spirits. You may not remember me, as it’s been quite some time since I’ve been able to visit you during your merchant travels.  Your epic deepening has helped many of travelers through out the lands. Though I do not need the deepening of my wares I do need the deepening of any knowledge you may have about Briarmoon Cove. 

Our young children and elderly are on the verge of starving without the food we were once receiving in trade from Briarmoon Cove. Ta'Vaalor is trying hard to provide Icemule with food to hold us over but, with their distance it will be difficult to maintain such efforts over a long period of time.  It is with the weight of these terrible worries that I am reaching out to you.

Icemule Trace was a regular trade partner with Briarmoon Cove until very recently. We are unable to reach out and speak with them as communications have ended. I am personally concerned that there may be something more sinister going on within Briarmoon Cove and was hoping perhaps you could assist with your knowledge of Briarmoon cove and its leadership.  

You are my only hope Lahke. Please come to Icemule and help us mend the fences between Briarmoon Cove and Icemule or I feel we will be lost forever. 

In Service, Wisdom and Hope,

Lightweaver Opalina Jalcon the Town Councillor of Icemule Trace

P.S. If you are unable to come to Icemule yourself perhaps you may know someone within Briarmoon who would be willing to succor audience with Briarmoon Cove leadership for me.

I am glad I was able to meet with Kakoon at the dinner it was a wonderful thing for Icemule. My dear friend Dezter and his sister have really out done themselves providing supplies to Icemule. Our agreement will do both of our cities good.

Contract

Goodwill Agreement

In the Common language, it reads:

Goodwill Agreement

This Contract for Goodwill Services is made effective as of Lormestra 09, 5123 by and between the Arakhor Family of Ta'Vaalor and Jalcon Family of Icemule Trace, As witnessed by the Aandryl family.

Description of Services

To provide aid during times of distress or need as established by either house, in the forms of food, supplies, support to MHO events, and any other activities as deems necessary by either party.

Payment

This is a mutual agreement of goodwill intent to support and back each house. With the understanding that no monetary, slavery, or demeaning payment is involved.


Force Majeure

This service agreement is in no way meant to break, control, or build any means of overpowering any ruling government for either town. Each house will do everything possible to avoid all means of causing disruption that would cause either town hardship or difficulties in performing support.

Amendment

This agreement may be modified, amended, or canceled in writing by mutual agreement between the parties.

 Signed and Witnessed on Lormestra 10, 5123 by: 

Lady Opalina Jalcon of Icemule
Lord Falvicar Jalcon of Icemule
Kakoon Arakhor Vaalor
Lady Qiana Arkhor Vaalor
Lord Dezter Aandryl Vaalor
Lady Aphaedra Aandryl-Deleros 

The Winter War-2023-01-10-Food and Supplies (log)

Rammael.. I hope we can find him soon..

The Entrance to a cave along the coast is still closed I am very curious where that goes to and, no matter what I throw at it, the boulders will still not move. One door at a time eh?

Falvicar and I both agree that we do not want children at this time. I'm happy about that. We have only been married for a year. I am so not ready to disturb our loving relationship with the wailing slobbery diaper changing routines of children.. not yet... I just want to love him. So we've decide to revisit our desires for children later and I'm truly happy with that.

Return to the top of this page.

Threats

Diary Entry Dated:                                                                             January 13, 2023

Merchant Evrick Visited Icemule for some Beverage testing and services. It was nice to see a merchant providing services and in turn purchasing drinks and supporting out local Inn. It warmed my heart. He didn’t admit to knowing the merchant Lahke or even Briarmoon cove which was unsettling. He may not have heard me I do talk kind of softly sometimes and it was quite busy, with the clinking of drinks and rustling of merchandise back and forth. However, he did say that his travels were normal and unhindered leaving me to believe the roads at this time are free from controlling factors. Trade is a welcome and a wanted action even in these trying times.

Aliashyrah inquired if I saw the latest town missive posted near the Mule. Of course I saw it. Who would believe such lies?

Nothing like greeting Visitors in Icemule. In the interest of keeping peace between Vaalor and Icemule I try very hard to show a town that is as loving and caring to Vaalorians as they have treated me when I visit their city. Our two cities are open for visiting, trading, and vacationing. I welcome their business, IF they spend their money in our town our city benefits and we feel a little less pinch from the loss of trade from Briarmoon Cove.

Tonight was no different until I heard the voice of threat from the crowd.. "I will burn your ships! Kill your trade partners, and return all that lousy sinking Vaalorian food right back to their faces!" The voice.. I cringed when I recognized it.. How in this blazing white snow does he find every opportunity to battle me, what does he have against me personally that he needs to be so aggressive? The merchant ship carrying supplies from Vaalor is a show of support and a non aggressive move to be understanding and help us while we deal with our struggles with Briarmoon Cove. Hazelnut said our children were starving that our town was suffering.. This alone begged for sympathy and support, and our goodwill trade agreement full-fills that need without hurting either government.

Airships are the new normal in Icemule. It appears the trading with Briarmoon Cove is going well as the ships are moving to and from the location. There is also a tower east of Icemule with what appears to be troops of soldiers being dropped in. However the location of the Tower itself is unknown. I am assured by Vaalor it is well out of Icemule's boarder. While Icemule residents believe it may be a show of force on Vaalors side and may be actually within Icemule's boarders.

Debates on the actual Borders are starting to circulate.. especially with boarders being such a hot topic in the Landing.

Would making a line on a map keep folks from contesting? Hardly..

The Winter War-2023-01-13-Burning down the Ships (Log)

Defending her honor

Diary Entry Dated:                                                                               January 17,2023

Opalina picks at a broken nail on her pinky finger as she sits at her desk unsure how to proceed with her entry, musing over the thoughts swimming in her mind threatening to send her to the bottom of the sea during a torrential storm. She twists the tiny piece of white keratin between her fingers her brows scrunched together, casually she drops the small piece into the trash receptacle at her feet already stuffed with balled up pieces of paper and picks up her quill. Pulling a fresh sheet of paper to the forefront she begins to write.

I don't deserve love. I don't deserve to have such a dedicated man in my life that loves me so dearly. I don't deserve even an ounce of his attention. But here I am married to the most generous, loving, and kind man I know. Too generous? maybe. Too kind? maybe. Too loving? maybe. I am not worthy I know..

She scrubs her hand through her winter rose-dotted deep auburn hair in frustration.

I was caught in a deep trance in town square, My mind lost in thought when people were trying to talk to me. I was so deeply in my own thoughts I was unaware of what was happening around me. It was the noise that brought me back the growling and heat of my mate hovering above me in a completely protective state thats what woke me.. "I challenge you!" the words left his mouth.. My eye's trying to find focus as to what was going on around me. Seeing Grutak's mocking face and my mates angry flushed face.. I knew instantly things were once again out of control..

Off they marched one after the other One to defend the honor of his life mate and the other just to prove he would stand up and fight.

What could I do? Nothing. I love him. He must choose his battles. Win or lose I will be by his side.

When Falvicar returned to my side, he was still upset and seeking comfort I held him close, Comfort it's all I have to give smoothing calming love. My darling. You are all right, Be at peace.

Grutak did not win that physical battle. But was it worth the loss of life to defend an unworthy woman? I do not know..

I love you Falvicar.

Return to the top of this page.

Cooking

Diary Entry dated:                                                                           January 18, 2023

So much Food Stuff What do to with it all, Spoilage Not gonna happen.. House White Haven can help here:

List of Ingredients still not distributed: Polar Bear shank(50), Wooly Mammoth Shank (50), Grizzly Bear shank (50), Caribou Shank (50), an ear of corn (50), a zucchini (50), a shallot (10), some scallions (10), some cumin seeds (10), a handful of mustard seeds (10), some wild sage (10), a black peppercorn (10), a bulb of garlic (10), some chives (10), a pod of cardamom (10), some thyme (10),a warthog shank (50), a mountain goat shank (50), a snow leopard shank (50), a bighorn sheep shank (50)

Opalina, with the help of a handful of halfling friends, haul all the latest foodstuffs to White Haven Kitchens. “Chef there is so many shanks and onions and herbs here it’s going to spoil if we don’t use it.. Is there anything you can do with it?” The cook looks over all the ingredients and nods, “Well it’s not much but I’ve worked with less and fed 1000’s You’ll get some mighty fine dishes I promise.” Opalina leaves the kitchen to let the cook do his thing. She is a terrible cook and her presence may just cause the stove to burn something .. Walking out to the street she breathes in the crisp morning air, smoke from the White Haven kitchen starting up mixing in, adding the scent of cooking meats making her stomach growl and her mouth to water in anticipation.

White Haven has used the supplied supplies to create a menu that will feed folks for the week. Enjoy.

Food/Drink [14]: a glass of ice cold milk, a stein of Northern Fury mead, a winterberry red ale, a mug of strong Elanthian coffee, a bowl of wild rice cradling a halved butter-braised onion, a fried onion tartlet, a crock of cheese-laced onion soup, some garlic and herb-stuffed red trafel mushrooms, a smoked caribou sausage link, a cheese-covered ball of popcorn, a sloppy pulled pork sandwich, a bowl of venison and onion stew, a small mincemeat pie, some cedar-smoked bacon strips

While White Haven Cooks and prepares the meals Opalina writes to her benefactor,

Generous Patron Kakoon Arakhor,

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation of the food sources you have provided to our town. It will feed our citizens both young and old and travelers the like over the next week. With the provisions you have provided, I was able to take them to House White Haven’s kitchens and they helped prepare a meal that will be available to all town folks. The cart will be continually restocked as items are cooked throughout the week.

Food/Drink [14]: a glass of ice cold milk, a stein of Northern Fury mead, a winterberry red ale, a mug of strong Elanthian coffee, a bowl of wild rice cradling a halved butter-braised onion, a fried onion tartlet, a crock of cheese-laced onion soup, some garlic and herb-stuffed red trafel mushrooms, a smoked caribou sausage link, a cheese-covered ball of popcorn, a sloppy pulled pork sandwich, a bowl of venison and onion stew, a small mincemeat pie, some cedar-smoked bacon strips

Our kitchens hearth will keep burning and the warmth of our home will continue to serve the city with your support.

In Wisdom, Service and Hope,

Opalina Jalcon.

Letters. Enough. The Queen. Trade

11:24, 20 January 2023 (CST)

Vignette: The Seek for Help

The Winter War-2023-01-18-Icemule Open Council Meeting (log)

Queen of the North Sonnet

Title: Queen of the North
Author: Opalina Jalcon

20:30, 20 January 2023 (CST)

   A woman was married to a man she didn't know
     He was one of noble blood
     Her love for him did not grow
     He locked her into a cage and declared her his Beloved
   A ring held her tight but she still ran and got mugged
     she tried to escape and avoid being raped
     running early in the morning, her heart pounded and drummed
     his power was stronger, sadly that was her mistake
   A group of town folks chased down the man, while he was awake
     Not wanting to take a chance they killed him dead
     The women then declared that she was free and her future reshaped
     The removal of the ring was of ease, for its magic was nothing but a thread
   The woman's soul was filled with a magical force
     Her title now "The Queen of the North."

Angel in the Snow

She looks around the good-sized office. The space comfortable for a halfling mayor. The walls ancient pinewood holding secrets from all past discussions. She sits on a bench in front of a large bay window looking down onto the entrance of the Great Hall. She can see her old-time friend entering the building dropping off supplies from his hunting to this locker unaware of her casual inspection of the frown he expresses on his face. Her attention is drawn to her current surroundings as the company she is with beings to speak.

The company in presence, the Councilers, Sorlu, Roelon, Opalina and the Mayor Talliver.

The Mayor Talliver sits at his desk in an imposing leather chair adorned with silver studs. He has a hard face and stern glacial blue eyes. His wiry arms, corded with muscle are folded before him and resting on the antique spruce desk with stacks of paper neatly to the side. His gaze meets each councilor even having to turn his head to make eye contact with Opalina in her chosen perch at the window. The other two councilors standing before the desk in front of the Mayor.

The Winter War - 2023-01-20 - Icemule Closed Council Meeting (log)

Vignette: The Coin

Daily Trade Deals

19:43, 24 January 2023 (CST)

You see Sendi the Snowrunner.
She appears to be a Dwarf.
She is shorter than average.  She appears to be an adult.  She has hooded silver eyes and brown skin.  She has very long, braided jet black hair worn in a ponytail.  She has an oval face, a flaring nose and a cleft chin.
She is in good shape.
She is wearing a flat dark green cap, a crystal amulet, a grey oilskin traveler's cloak, a round fireleaf shield slung over her shoulder, a waxed midnight blue sling bag, a bark brown leather tunic, a boxy leather rations kit, some charcoal pinstripe wool trousers, and some glazed hobnail boots.

A wonderful experience meeting with Sendi today a lovely dwarf from Zul-Logoth. I was a tad late and arrived in a very awkward fashion. It almost felt like I intruded on a private meeting instead of an previously scheduled meeting. These things happen though even to Queens right? I was most excited Sorlu really spoke highly of the trade possibilities and the kinds of items they had available. Like ores and coal and I know there were other things. But those two stick out in my mind so fresh. But for only tobacco? that doesn't sound right at all! I mean I know our Tobacco is some pretty amazing stuff but .. How much tobacco? I recall the Mayor saying we were in short supply .. could there be other items they are wanting, is there price going to .. I started to ask .. but stalled.. I was. Right there with a gentle but cold stare from Sendi. "This is a one time trade" .. wait what? ... I step back and start watching the three as Falvicar slides in almost masking my coy movements. Sorlu turned to Aliashyrah and they start discussing a trade deal involving machinery and I blink not entirely following the conversation and it drones on, and contracts Wait.. My thoughts are brought back to the words, "Do you wish us to draft up the agreement or would your side perfer to draft it.. " followed by "no, no, I can get them in Zul-Logoth and will let you know when they are ready..." Sendi assures. There go our Tobacco farms.

I don't know.. about .. this..

The Lost Student

Diary Entry Dated:
January 26, 2023

The Botanist:

You see Botanist Vanathys.
 He appears to be a Vaalor Elf.
 He is taller than average and has a lean, athletic physique.  He appears to have come of age.  He has darkly lined, almond-shaped indigo eyes and golden bronze skin.  He has long, sun-kissed sandy blonde hair twisted into a loose, disheveled bun, with wavy strands escaping to frame his face.  He has a gently angled face, a slim, upturned nose and a well-defined jawline.  A pair of small scars cuts through the pale arch of his right eyebrow.
He is in good shape.
 He is wearing a loosely knotted ivory scarf, a vine-carved sephwir longbow slung over his shoulder, a structured taupe wool overcoat lined in plush fleece, a winterweight cypress green tunic with suede-looped lasimor toggles, some pale cheveril gloves with suede-reinforced palms, a rectangular brushed nubuck kit, some slim dark leather pants, and a pair of cire leather boots lightly caked with soil.

The roughed up Student:

You see Student Feriae Enfiel.
 She appears to be a Vaalor Elf.
 She is short and has a lithe build.  She appears to be very young.  She has gilt-flecked lapis blue eyes and pale skin.  She has side-shaven, silken blue-green hair left in a disheveled waves across her shoulders, the matted lengths caked in dried dirt and leaves.  She has an angular face and a freckled nose.  The faint vestiges of vert-colored leaves are streaked down her high cheekbones, the designs concealing the purplish-blue bruises.
She has a swollen right eye, a bruised left eye, and some minor cuts and bruises on her left arm.
She has a mangled right arm, a mangled left leg, several painful-looking scars across her back, and some old neck wounds.
 She is wearing a chain-strung brass compass with a broken glass panel, a mud-caked hunter green wool robe torn along the high-to-low hem, a shredded natural linen shirt barely bound with a single leather belt, a dented leather-set vasculum, a pair of ripped coppery wool leggings, and some thigh-high boots crafted from scuffed sepia rawhide.

Vanathys says, "I sent my student Feriae out this way to gather some samples of local plants. We've been working on creating hybrid crops that can handle frigid temperatures..."

Wonderful support we are receiving from the Vaalorians. Sending students to search our countryside in search of samples to take back home and crossbreed with their plants so we can be self-sufficient! I mean that’s great and all. Sure.

But here’s where things go wrong. Student combs the country side Unaware of who’s property she’s on, The farmer sees a strange elven woman going through his crops and reaches out to the authorities. Report states, “That elven lady was picking from our Tobacco farms!” The lady is then treated like a spy. Icemule wasn’t expecting anyoneh The farmer wasn’t expecting anyone. Who wouldn’t think she was a spy?? Student *scoff*. That’s our tobacco farms your hunting through.

Tobacco crops you say? But we don’t have crops! Ohh but we do. You see, our farms are not like other’s farms we don’t have rocks lining our properties, We don’t have fences dedicating areas, We have neighbors we have snow we have harsh hills and trust. We know each other and know where our lands start and stop. And we know our citizens. Our tobacco crops are special as they’ve been an Icemule Secret for year .. no decades.. Our crops grow under the snow on the mountain side it’s this distinguished characteristic that makes Pinefar Tobacco some of the best in the lands. Our harvests are done at night under the moon blessed by stars and the nimble hands that pick them. The snow protects the leaves from harsh winds so they are kept fresh, untainted by animals or ripped by harsh winds.

Opalina shakes her head in disbelief

How can people be so quick to judge. So quick to take action that they don’t stop to think that maybe just maybe they went about it the wrong way? AM I at fault for this. Oh absolutely. I woke up this morning and assumed my husband would want everything I want and that was hot cocoa and I failed to make the coffee he wanted.. no needed! See even I forget the basic needs of others.

Gives an extra large cup of coffee to her honey with a sweet kiss on the lips

The student may be innocent enough this time. But she didn’t give back the tobacco leaf she took. I only hope in the future They work with our local Botanists instead of Secretly working behind our backs to support us. I am sure they mean well. But there can only be so much that can be defended before it’s considered rude even to me.

The Lovers

Title: The Lovers
Author: Opalina Jalcon

15:19, 27 January 2023 (CST)

Emotional twists of tight turns, and steep slopes of tenderness
 Brightly colored wings stir in a belly that grow and flower
 That skin prickling need to touch and fill an emptiness
 Where looks are shared and hearts will devour
Puffs of white sail float between the ground and outer space
 Soft yellows blend upward into pale blues and deeper indigos 
 Cool light invisible expanse gently spins across the grass with grace
 It’s the first to kiss our lovely faces as the mist arose
Cool green waters and salty foam roll to the edge of fine black sand
 Sitting on boulders shoulder to shoulder 
 The tide making lazy circles around wiggling toes on land
 A flock of bird’s dive and play while dogs chase around a boulder
Two lovers becoming a single unit combined in an embrace 
 Kisses rain down all over their face.

Lighting the Fire

Title: Lighting the Fire
Author: Opalina Jalcon

16:02, 29 January 2023 (CST)

The trees sway in the wind as stars wink down with irregularity
 Tiny noises squeak and rustle all around feeling larger than they should
 Opening the lashes wider to absorb everything around fails to being clarity
 the ears react and fear creeps in, the heart pumps harder, no.. it’s just darkness and misunderstood.
Pick up that log it’s been sitting a while break it down piece by piece
 tiny sticks is what we need sometimes tinder, the sweetest flesh
 Flint though friendly to some, needs to be punished to find release
 so with the back of a knife the strike will be true, this will help you refresh
stacking the logs in a smart like dome
 In walks the tinder to find a cozy accommodation
 Flint came by knocking, tinder invited him in home
 The knife came in and found them all in one location 
A burst of flame sparked and grew taking out the tinder, the flint, and the dome, growing out of control
 All is now gone and turned into coal.

Queens Greatest Sorrows

Opalina sits at her desk while her husband hunts the rift. A sad little smile teasing her lips and cause the corner of one eye to wrinkle slightly. A more common expression that appears frequently these days as she thinks of things happening around her.

Wiggling her quill between her fingers she considers how to write her thoughts.

Diary Entry 18:10, 3 February 2023 (CST)

The devastation of what he's left behind is astronomical. Comprehension escapes me, even now my heart is broken and struggles to express my sorrow. I knew it was bad, no terrible because I saw it. I was in the middle of it- watching their forms move and their skin melt. But I ran. I didn't stay and help *pause* I didn't stay and defend. Weak oh so weak I was..no..still am.

Even now I struggle to do my part..

Will I be seen? Will the truth be understood or will it be another failure that drags the soul deeper into the murky depths that is always reaching up and grasping with it's black sticky fingers.

Opalina reaches down and absently bushes at her legs in at attempt to swat an annoying fly.

Visiting Merchants and The White Wyrm

2/8/2023

Honeybeer Inn

Walking into the Honeybeer Inn, Opalina strides into the tap room. Bentrill leans forward into the bar. “Good evening Opalina. What can I get for you?” Opalina smiles sadly at the Bartenders, “Ohh, nothing for me tonight, but I’d like to pay for another. We have an aged merchant from Wehnimer’s in town and will be coming to spend the night to get out of the cold. I’d like to pay for lodging and food” Opalina slides 2000 silvers across the counter to Bentrill who’s eyes bright up lightly, “Room and board for the whole week with this! Don’t forget to ask me about the special!” Opalina grins, “Your right I do love your special” Opalina orders the special off the menu and takes her dish waving goodbye to the bartender on her way out.

While exiting the inn, an airship hovers over Opalina’s head. She looks up just in time to see a second bright airship swoop in and fire a warning shoot.

You see a small armored figure scampering up a ladder that has been let down from the Vaalor ship.  The airship lingers above the town, blotting out some of the stars behind it.

A single loud crack echoes through the air as the white ship fires one of its cannons.  It is a clear warning shot, the projectile arcing through the air far from the Vaalor ship's port bow.  After a long moment, the Vaalor ship turns and begins moving away from the town, headed back toward the Dragonspine.

A young Vaalorian soldier took the merchandise from old landing merchant and told him he would inspect it for contraband. The merchant didn’t want to wait in the cold and continued on his way and reported it to the town folks of Icemule who did not take the news very happily. Many wanted to search down the soldier and take back the merchants’ items and make them leave. Others were a little more understanding. However, It doesn’t matter how you paint this picture it was not a good one. Things have escalated. Rumors, False truths, and hot heads seem to be winning.. Is the year of the rolton more about fire in the belly? Opalina thinks about fire as her stomach burns and her tongue smokes from the rice she was munching on. She watches as the Sleek white airship swoops down to Icemule. Awe she really is beautiful afterall. The White Wyrn. The mayor’s description did not do her justice. How do you describe such a beautiful masterpiece? You just can’t only your eyes must witness the beauty to understand it fully.

The White Wyrm

a sleek snow white airship

>look airship

The airship is small, sleek, and predatory in shape, clearly built for combat.  Its hoarbeam hull is shielded by riveted plates of stark white golvern that gleams like fresh snowfall.  A figurehead of the same metal rears from the prow of the ship, wrought in the form of a prowling wyrm with its claws outstretched.

Opalina makes her way to the Airship and with the gangplank down doesn’t resist the temptation to explore her.

Exploring the White Wyrm:

Go gang

[The White Wyrm, Gangway - ] (u12101101)
Bulkheads press in unforgivingly to either side of the narrow gangway that allows egress from the ship.  Threaded through the pale imflass paneling are thin veniom filaments, the bluish metal agleam with glints of silver.  Above the escape hatch, a fanciful metal placard depicts a cold wyrm with its wings spread and snout at a defiant upward tilt.  You also see a heavy hoarbeam gangplank.
Obvious exits: west

>w

[The White Wyrm, Main Deck - ] (u12101102)
Evenly lit by glimaerstone spheres set into the overhead, the intersection of the main deck is narrow.  Veniom filaments travel along the bulkheads, which are made of teak and reinforced with pale imflass the color of fog.  They fan out from a hatch to the west that is also the source of the low, rumbling thrum that pulses through the deck.  At the northern end of the corridor, a reinforced hoarbeam door carved with a rampant mule is stationed at the center of the bulkhead.
Obvious exits: east, south

>go door

[The White Wyrm, Captain's Cabin - ] (u12101106)
Far from ostentatious, the cabin is a small chamber graced by few personal touches.  The bunk is tidily made, its blanket embroidered with a blue mule, and a teak sea chest is situated at its foot.  A small grey and blue carpet occupies the deck before a reinforced hoarbeam door.
Obvious exits: none

>go hatch

[The White Wyrm, Engineering - ] (u12101104)
Veniom filaments radiate out from a cylindrical krodera engine that stretches from deck to overhead, the metal pulsing evenly with blue-green light from within as it travels into the surrounding conduits.  Power tingles in the air of the chamber, lending it an electric feel.  The entrance to the engine room is secured by a riveted imflass hatch.  You also see a squat gnomish engineer.
Obvious exits: none

>look eng

A masterwork of gnomish craftsmanship, the krodera engine is a towering series of interlocking cylinders that spin and piston, concealing and revealing glowing compartments within.  Expertly oiled, the contraption barely makes a sound, but the thrum of magic from its contents is an unmistakable undercurrent to the noise of the engine room.

>look engineer

You see a fairly typical gnomish engineer.
It appears to be in good shape.
It has nothing at this time.

>s

[The White Wyrm, Main Deck - ] (u12101103)
Toward the fore of the ship, the main deck widens.  Crates and supplies are stacked along the bulkheads, secured to them by hooks and sturdy hempen ropes, save around the base of a pale metal ladder that leads to the upper deck.  They leave sufficient space to access crew quarters through a narrow archway in the eastern wall.  Heavily reinforced with golvern, a riveted imflass hatch leads toward the ship's bridge.  You also see the scuffed copper Queatus disk wreathed in miniature floating lockpicks, the Lilanna disk, an animated falchion hovering in mid-air, the orange Burrhus disk, a royal penguin, the glossy pink Rimo disk shaped like a jellyfish, the Aliashyrah disk, a resplendent obsidian black raven that is flying around, a massive snowy white tiger, a silver-shaded creamy white dormouse, an animated flayed gigas disciple, the web-draped Missoni disk, an angular fire wyrdling and a lazy wild reddish-black dog.

Also here: Queatus, Lilanna, High Lord Grutak, Lady Adalie, Kiyou, Duksa, Lord Rorium, Burrhus, Ceilia, Defender of Mist Harbor Teaberry, Rimo, Dendum, Lord Randsford, Lord Sorlu, Imperatrix Lylia, Lady Aliashyrah, Pukk, Chronicler Falvicar, Magister Raelee, Roelon, Town Councilor Vaemyr, Jiarine, Missoni, Perigourd, Mayor Talliver

Obvious exits: north

>climb ladder You climb up a pale metal ladder.

[The White Wyrm, Upper Deck - ] (u12101108)
Vast propeller assemblies sprout from the upper deck, crafted from the same pale golvern as its rails and plated hull.  Interspersed between them are a series of cannons wrought from the same metal.  Shot racks lining the decks are laden with solid iron cannonballs.  The racks, like the hoarbeam deck underfoot, are heavily etched with dimly glowing runes.  A pale metal ladder leads to the lower deck.
Obvious paths: southeast, south, southwest

>go arch

[The White Wyrm, Crew Quarters - ] (u12101107)
Evenly spaced recesses in the inner and outer bulkheads house sparse bunks stacked two high.  Stowed beneath the lowermost of each pair of bunks is a set of foot lockers, shut and padlocked.  There is little opportunity for privacy in the cramped living space, a fact complicated by the narrow archway leading out onto the main deck.
Obvious exits: none

>go hatch

[The White Wyrm, Bridge - ] (u12101105)
The ship's bridge is sealed off from the rest of the ship by a riveted imflass hatch that is reinforced with golvern.  Curving along with the forward bulkhead, great windows provide the ship's bridge with a panoramic view and allow in daylight that melds with the even radiance of glimaerstone spheres set into the overhead.   Chairs fan out across the raised deck in a half-circle, secured by heavy bolts.
Obvious exits: none

>look chair

The throne is comfortably padded and upholstered in carmine silk.  Wrought from golvern, it is beautifully adorned with bramble patterns of gilt filigree.

The Winter War - 2023-02-08 - Introducing the White Wyrm (log)

Preparing

20:35, 4 March 2023 (CST)

Opalina looks outside her window watching two figures converse in front of her door. A stranger looking in would assume the person within was under guard the way the two hover on either side of her door. But she's not trapped, Not being held against her will. The death threats were no joke though. The men outside her door were on high alert not on keeping her in but keeping danger out. The accusation that, "Opalina was sharing top secret information to the Vaalorians'" Well.. Didn't sit well with some folks. They have threatened to take matters into their own hands and string her up if she's caught unaware.

A shudder shakes Opalina's body and she picks up her pen to write in her diary.

--Today I met with Fropple. He will be representing me to the Council, Mayor, and Judge Teaberry. I am not sure when this trial will be yet. So Fropple told me not to talk to anyone going forward. He's smart and knows all the halfling laws. And he believes in me! I told him everything. About my letters and my present to the Mayor. I can't believe I've lost it. I'm devastated. I am truly hoping that it didn't get into the wrong hands. I told him about the dance. And me passing a letter to The king.--

Opalina presses her fingers to her temples.. and mutters something under her breath as her door bursts open and enters Falvicar, along with a swirl of snow and wind blowing her papers all over the room ending her scribbling with a slight frown. "Opps, Sorry dear." Falvicar blushes and coyly closes the door....

2023-03-04 - Building her Case (Log)

Pardoned

On 3-15-2023

In a random Turn of Events, Mayor Talliver decided to pardon Opalina in the name of Unity.

Was it lack of evidence? or Afraid of what would really come out..

Why did Talliver never reach out to the King himself? only time will tell.

The Summoning

With my fate still in the air. I was afraid to attend the Ritual of summoning being prepared by my husband Falvicar, the Councilor Roelon, and Ronanite Mohrgan. They were going to try and commune with Ronan to better understand Roelon's dream and see if they could obtain more answers. In the last minute I choose to support them. I believe in Falvicar and wanted to ensure he was protected and supported. I was not prepared to see him being taken over by the shadows.. that was.. NOT what I wanted to see. And hearing that raspy voice shivers still course though my body rethinking about it. NO.. They made contact with a force that's for sure. and Got a call for Unity for everyone, not just Icemule, But everyone! If unity isn't found then perish in the blue flames will be our destiny.

Unity. There was a time before during the Griffin sword we couldn't find Unity. Different plans. Different desires, no one could agree on the direction. Why? How hard it is to rally around one theme and we go forward together arms linked? We don't have to give up our souls to unite. We don't have to lose ourselves to unite. Are we so hateful that we have lost the ability to come together and throw our swords and our wills into solidarity?

Things that are needed for Unity.

[[::The_Watchfire_Pact_-_2023-03-08_-_Ronan_Commune_in_Icemule_(log)|Falvicar becomes a vessel To Ronan For Unity]]

How to Build Unity

Trust. Sadly there are those who don't trust everyone on the council. Namely me. And that's due to accusations without solid proof. Twice now I've been cast into the shadow of doubt. It's a hard place to stand especially when trust is a huge factor when trying to rally citizens to Unity. It is three times as hard to prove trust than it is to cast doubt.

Goals. This is where I am still confused. What is a goal set that we can all achieve? Is it more than just saying I will stand with you side by side. Is there research that folks want to achieve? Things were mentioned during a town meeting by several citizens and visitors.

• A request for Mayor Talliver to meet with Mayor Thadison of landing and smooth things over and form a stronger bond.
• A request for a delegation to be sent to Biarmoon Cove for information on the history of Moonsedge.
• A request for support in helping in researching the history and mysteries of Moonsedge and it's owners.

I personally keep coming back to The Dark Alliance. Moonsedge reminds me of a story that was re-told from a rose petal.

but I'm straying from my point, what more is needed for Unity?

Getting to know people. When you start to know people you start to know who you can trust and who is a suspicious person. Their personalities will shine like becons in the night.

Keep each other informed! Don't leave others in the dark when there are important things happening. IF we are all aware we can stand together and help each other out. If we are kept in the dark that is where we will roam. Blind.

Host a party.

Get Involved in the Community.

Be a mentor Help others in need. Not join the mentors guild .. but if someone is asking for healing, offer a herb or two if your not a healer.

Don't act like dictators. We are stronger together and greater than any one person.

Avoid finger pointing and blaming. We should be acting like family. Everyone shares in both the successes and the failures.

---resource https://leadchangegroup.com/11-steps-create-unity-loyalty/

Building the North

Opalina sits at her desk her hands clenched into her hair, her elbows resting on the desk holding her head up as her fingers clench and un-clench within her messy locks putting enough tension on her scalp to ease the frustrated headache she is currently suffering from. She takes slow unsteady breaths each one feeling like flames licking her airways as she seethes with anger from this evenings events. Letting out her breath she releases her hair dragging her quill from her ear in the process. The quill sensing her uneasiness wraps around her hand in a strange looking hug it's quills rubbing her fingers. Opalina notices the gesture and sighs softly as she begins to write:

Unity.. Unity.. It's exactly what we need.. But this.. this is building unity? He alienated Vaalor, Alienated Landing..Alienated me.  and now.. HE wants to unite the North and only the north? This doesn't feel right. I mean sure.. I'd love to see the north Unite under one nation. I'd love to see the giants and the Half-Krolvin and Icemule join forces and become larger than just a tiny frozen tinker town in the snow. We have so much potential to really stand on our own and be a force to support and help others if we really wanted to be. BUT this.. call to unity by a shadow who I am starting to feel isn't really on our side but looking to twist a pure vision into something he can use toward his own ends.

Opalina sets down her pen. Unable to write more and stares out the window lost in thought..

White Haven

Papa Gespry.. oh goodness I hope his travels are safe. He's been gone so long, And I would hate for the house to be in shambles when he returns. His family has called him away back home to his home country, I didn't get any details. But in the mean time. He has asked me to care for the house. And like a good officer I'm going to leave things better than I found them. I take a stroll through the empty halls and stare at the cobwebs and piles of dust resting on the entry table. Her boots hitting the dance floor echo through the ball room the eerie silence broken after being still for so long. She pulls back a curtain and dust sprinkles like fairy dust into the stream of sunlight that shines brightly into the room bouncing off the walls. I think it's time to shake things up. We need unity. And more than gambling! Time to Wake up White Haven!

Renewal of the Council 2023

Diary Entry 7.12.2023

Elections are on the rise again. This time For the Mayor seat and the council of five seats.

Mayor candidates:

Talliver Dabbings
Ellusine Lighthollow
Gorga

Council candidates:

Grutak
Jastalyn
Roelon
Sorlu
Aliashyrah
Falvicar
Opalina

Recap of the Council List of items presented to Opalina in 2021.

There were many things that the people of Icemule wanted to see fixed changed or updated over the last few years. Things have resolved and other items have been added. Little by little the town is growing changing and developing. Sometimes it seems slow and hard to notice when small changes are made so this list has helped me to feel that our town has really done what it's setting out to do and staying on track.

Original List

Original List

    a wooden plaque in Clovertooth with the names of those who donated metal slabs (Aethyra, Arianiss, Asben, Cyar, Earthdiver, Erienne, Fahlo, Falvicar, Gespry, Jastalyn, Jasron, Jiarine, Kittai, Laelithonel, Portes, Roelon, Taulramil, Teaberry, Trouthe)

    alley shop taxes, where do they go

    will the cottage on east road ever open (otherwise tear it down and put a petting zoo in its place)

    Faire of the North

    more guards (12 of them so shifts can be taken at each gate)

    Vaalor treaty decision

    mend relations with the King of Ta'Vaalor

    elevate Icemule with other cities

    Ta'Illistim embassy in Icemule

    better anti-air defenses

    citizens in town guard positions as captains

    status of Kadya and her Eorgina request

    fix the statue in Town Center

    fix the windmill in the southwest corner of town

    clean up the wreckage in the Elven Alley

    Arnabas

    the traitor is Bakarus (and Aethyra is on the verge of telling everything she knows if something isn't done about it) 

    reconnect Icemule to the half-krolvin village in the west

    dock for sea access

    safe haven for non combatants during attacks on town

    system to promote stronger engagement between citizens and council (government)

Achievements:

New List: