A Knight To Remember - 2020-09-18 - By the Books Die the Books, Lie the Hooks Why the Rooks (log)

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Imaerasta 18-19, 5120

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


Summary

  • As town defenders discuss the complexities of the upcoming town council decision, a ship is spotted approaching town. Sir Cryheart leads on to the dock and Mayor Leafiara asks Amos over thoughts if it's his ship, reiterating to everyone that if so, he has ogres aboard for sport--which Captain Shinann interjects is illegal, and they can't be removed. Leafi asks for clarity and Shinann says it was illegal when Stephos DeArchon did similar in the past. A second ship comes into view far behind the first, and a town clerk arrives to give Leafi a note that Amos' ships are arriving and he'd welcome aid protecting them if it's still offered. Captain Stormyrain asks if he's been informed that no ogres, orcs, or other beings will be released from the ships for sport, so Leafi tells him over thoughts. Thrassus asks whether ogres and orcs are allowed in the [[::Wehnimer's Landing|Landing]], raising the question of Thrayzar's status, and Shinann says they're illegal to bring for sport, but if Amos unloads somewhere else, it's not the militia's problem. Leafi says inspections are the militia's domain and she'll defer to them here.
  • A grey-beaked hooded figure arrives and begins talking with two dockworkers. One dockworker shakes his head and the figure sighs, then leaves. The dockworker scowls and says it was a [[::Brotherhood of Rooks|Rook]] demanding protection fees; Loamian asks what they threatened for non-payment and the dockworker says sinking the ships. He says Amos pays well to ensure his cargo arrives.
  • The first ship docks safely and Thadston and many militia members arrive. He says they're here to run an inspection; Stormy and Leafi say he (Thadston) isn't. He says he knows he's not the marshal, but he doesn't remember his militia membership being revoked; Leafi says that's true, but Stormy says the captains are here and ready to do the inspections themselves, and for the breach of protocol he'll find himself scrubbing the latrine for weeks.
  • The militia bring out a chest of glass vases for inspection and Thadston takes one, then breaks it and finds a copper plate inside--then takes another and breaks it to find a silver wand. Others start to join in breaking them, and Shinann gives the order to let the captains conduct this. Stormy says Amos will need payment since these belong to him. Dark hooded figures watch from alleyways as Leafi says everyone breaking them will be paying for this when Amos justifiably files with the constable; Stormy says Thadston should be responsible since he created an air that it was sanctioned by the town. Leafi tells him the captains ordered him to stop; he says he didn't hear over the shattering glass; they reiterate it and Shinann says he's drunk on duty. He nods and wishes everyone a great night, then breaks one more vase before leaving.
  • At last the rest of the militia from the ship report that all wares seem fine with no weapons nor ogres. The second ship continues approaching, but dark hooded figures rise up on the roof of the River Tower East and pull away a canvas to reveal a full-sized pylon. They fire on the ship, but the blast narrowly misses. Leafi moves to confront them and asks who they are, acting on Mother's orders or their own or someone else; one says they won't allow Amos or anyone to move in without their cut. Leafi tells them we can't allow that, and when Cryheart arrives, he says to cease and desist. Chamorr attacks and an arrow shoots through his throat from the shadows, then it breaks out into a fight.
  • Leafi attempts to convince everyone we need one alive for answers, but that goes about as well as expected. She attempts to contact Mother by thoughts, asking why the Rooks are defying her, but no answer. Shinann checks to see if any pylons in their normal locations are missing and reports that they aren't. The ship changes course and moves toward the Black Sands, so Sir Cryheart moves there while Leafi remains on the tower roof.
  • The ship sails to the shoreline, but the crew members hold their position--and sand beneath Cryheart's group begins to shift. Then dozens of hooded figures leap out to attack! A beach battle rages and crimson orbs are released, but town defenders manage to stave them off regardless.
  • Dark hooded figures are seen moving along the rooftops toward the North Gate and Rone emerges near them and tosses them about with the air blasts from the gauntlets. Other figures rush toward the Black Sands and Cryheart's group defends the area, but still others appear near the pylon and aim toward the beach until Rone takes them out.
  • Cryheart's group begins to move toward the tower, but Amos over at the beach notes the bodies there and a few defenders report the tower is clear. Everyone reconvenes at the beach and Pietra tells him he might be missing some things; Leafi says the vases will come out of Thadston's pay, but Amos says the marshal has so little left that he doesn't need his silvers.
  • Crew members bring out a huge trunk as Amos says this is the ship he was most interested in; Thrassus says that must be why the Rooks were trying to blast it; Amos says they feel he should pay them for his ships coming and going and he declined.
  • Amos opens the rune-covered trunk with a runic key and the lid emits faint steam as it opens, then pulls out two rune-etched blue steel hammers and says it's taken him some time to acquire them. He says he'll forge new names for them in time when they speak to him.
  • Next the crew members roll out mithril cages, revealing four-armed ogres that appear to be nearly twice the size of a giantman, with runic scars on their chests and sharp bone shards protruding from their arms. Some ask where they came from; Amos says the lords of Jantalar fancy challenges and maybe the came from the Bleaklands, the Wizardwaste, beyond the Demonwall, or a basement in Nyrrds, but one cannot say nor does one ask. The crew rolls the ogre cages off into the woods.
  • Amos says he'll inform everyone when he plans for the hunt and welcomes them to join; Leafi says it'll need to be far from town and Cryheart says there will be payment if any citizens are harmed. Amos says no citizens will be hurt and it'll be far from town. Guarrin asks if the hammers come from Jantalar too; Amos shakes his head and says they're a tale for another night. He's tired, but thanks everyone for their assistance.
  • Loamian apologizes for the damage to his goods and to treat the town with better care than we treated his vases; Amos grins and says there are always casualties. Guarrin says this doesn't seem like much sport, but he supposes we'll see; Amos says not every hunt is as satisfying as others, but it cannot stop us. Chandrellia asks what other hunts he's conducted; he says many and he never stops; she says he's avoiding questions; he says he answered and it's unfortunately not to her liking.
  • After he leaves, the gathered crowd continues discussing whether Amos or Stephos is the least worst option for Steward of the Guilds and a decent number of people acknowledge Stephos might not be it.


Highlights - Comedic

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "Though I believe that all in all, Amos may be our best choice. As strange as that sounds."
Speaking surprisedly to Stormyrain, Leafiara asks, "Huh, really?"
Speaking quickly to Leafiara, Stormyrain states, "But hear me out."
Maags says, "Who is Amos."
Speaking tentatively to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "Okay, sure."
Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "He's a new merchant in town, owns the hand pylon market..."
Bernadette softly says, "Ye might say he came to town wit' a bang."
Speaking to Cryheart, Balinworn says, "Pure hearted Knight seeks army for part time fun and if we really connect, possibly full time work.  No Luukosians."
Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain whispers aloud, "You're the sweets dealer."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags says, "Needs a shop."
Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain asks, "Go in as partners with Miss Goblyn?"
Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain says, "Her side of the shop, and your side."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags exclaims, "I offered!"
Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain says, "Could call it 'Trick or Sweets'."
Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags says, "She thinks I would takes all her business."
Lord Thadston just arrived.
A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!
A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!
A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!
A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!
A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!
Thadston hiccups!
Thadston says, "Eve."
Thadston says, "We're here to run an inspection on Amos's ship."
Thadston nods to the Wehnimer's militiaman.
Thadston nods to the Wehnimer's militiaman.
Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "No you're not."
Speaking slowly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "You aren't."
The militiamen move past the dockworkers and up onto the ship.
Thadston says, "I'm not the Marshal, I know."
Thadston says, "I don't recall you revoking my militia membership though."
Thadston says, "Maybe I missed that."
Speaking musingly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "...mm, true."
Thadston winks at Leafiara.
Leafiara grins at Thadston.
Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain asks, "Maybe you also missed the two Captains who give orders over militia members standing here ready to do the inspections themselves?"
Thadston says, "Just doing some lowly dock inspections."
Thadston says, "Oh, then by all means Captains..."
Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "So, I will expect, for that breach of protocol, you will find yourself scrubbing the latrine...for weeks."
Thadston yells, "Boys, bring the boxes down here! Captains want a look."
Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "Two weeks."
Thadston says, "Make it three."
Thadston says, "I clean up half of this town's crap anyway."
Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain asks, "..are you referring to the same crap you step in and track all over?"
A poofy piebald flop-eared kitten stalks bravely towards a uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman and whaps at him with its paw!
Iskandr says, "I enjoy your tradition here in the Landing of 'break stuff in crates night'."
Iskandr says, "We don't have anything like this back in Ta'Vaalor."
The ghostly voice of Maelkyth exclaims, "So, did we win?!"
A dockworker says, "We ain't paying the Rooks crap for ships. They ain't own these docks!"
Cryheart asks, "Protection fees is illegal..is it nae?"
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I never thought about protection fees. Man, I'm learning a lot lately."
[much later in the night...]
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I was just thinking about something the town could do to fill its coffers."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "We could offer protection to shops, and ships and so forth. We won't call it protection money or any such...we will name it something else."
Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "A tax you could say."
The gypsy fortuneteller smiles at you and whispers, "I know many things unseen."
Speaking wryly to a gypsy fortuneteller, Leafiara asks, "Yeah, well, can you tell us who's behind these attacks lately?"
Chandrellia softly says, "How did they get the coffin out of the outpost to begin with, I mean we couldn't even sneak underneath and Raelee was scaring the troll poop outta me."


Highlights - Thematic

Shinann asks, "Did you all turn into Rooks?"
Wolfloner smiles at Shinann.
Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "The other night I thought they all turned into Rones since they want a death march on the tunnels."
Leafiara asks, "Now that he's gone... given that the Steward of the Guilds position has narrowed to just Amos and Stephos, anyone want to make a case one way or the other?"
Leafiara adds, "Other than trying to convince Renpaw to let me delay that while we investigate."
Leafiara says, "Which is what I'll try to do."
Bernadette softly says, "The evil we know an the evil we dunno."
Goldstr says, "OK Folks Stephos a criminal an smuggler but may nae be as bad as Amos."
Speaking to Goldstr, Leafiara admits, "I know, I can't believe I'm even contemplating it too."
Shinann says, "We do know Stephos is not married to a firefly."
Leafiara wryly says, "On the bright side, I can finally eliminate my theory that Mother is me from the future."
Leafiara suddenly says, "Actually, wait, no. If she's been captured, I can't."
Leafiara says, "Wait a minute, what if..."
Leafiara slowly asks, "What if she *is* me from the future, setting up the Rooks to look bad and go on this path of evil so that we have to remove her and I have to take charge of them myself?"
Leafiara distractedly says, "Maybe I'm just running on lack of sleep. Even for me that sounds crazy."
Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "That would be.... I don't wanna think about it and I am sooo glad Pukk isn't here to hear that."
Chandrellia softly says, "I can see it now."
Kiwoeachi says, "Time traveling clerics."
Leafiara says, "I'm just glad I never once heard Pylasar call me the Rook Queen."
Kiwoeachi says, "That's one for the tabloids."
Chandrellia recites softly:
"This just in, Leafi is in fact Mother, Mother is in fact Leafi, Leafi is running the Rooks in a secret life that isn't her own"
Leafiara says, "I'm just glad I never once heard Pylasar call me the Rook Queen."
Leafiara explains, "Pylasar is a time traveler who's seen lots of things not yet happened, such as Raelee being a Grand Magister or Balley being 'the Sacrificer,' whatever that means."
Speaking to Leafiara, Kiwoeachi asks, "Whoa, do what?"
Leafiara lightly says, "Long story."
Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "That is a very long story."
Leafiara says, "Hopefully he'll come back to us one day."
Leafiara says, "You'd love him, I'm sure."
Chandrellia softly says, "Would be nice to have someone worth meeting come back, so far it's just been a lich that was brought back by a Psychopath, a fella that escaped jail and came back as Godling or so he says."


Log

Council Musings Before the Storm

[Town Square Central]

This is the heart of the main square of Wehnimer's Landing. The impromptu shops of the bazaar are clustered around this central gathering place, where townsfolk, travellers, and adventurers meet to talk, conspire or raise expeditions to the far-flung reaches of Elanith. At the north end, an old well, with moss-covered stones and a craggy roof, is shaded from the moonlight by a strong, robust tree. The oak is tall and straight, and it is apparent that the roots run deep. You also see a poofy piebald flop-eared kitten, an erratic aurora spirit that is flying around, the Straz disk, a cloudy grey lynx, some wolifrew lichen, a shiny horseshoe, a reinforced shield, the Taers disk, a rose-marrow potion, some polished black leather boots, a rose-marrow potion, a rose-marrow potion, a pale-faced coppery barn owl that is flying around, a rose-marrow potion, a large acorn, a smooth stone, a large acorn, a large acorn, a large acorn, a bent bracelet, some wolifrew lichen, a rose-marrow potion, a large acorn, a musty pale white cape, a mistwood serving cart with some stuff on it, the Targetina disk, an herbal remedy donation bin, some stone benches with some stuff on it and obvious signs of someone hiding.

Also here: Stormyrain, Shinann, the body of Towermen who is lying down, Dord, the body of Myasarie who is lying down, High Lord Sadnama, Lady in Waiting Chandrellia, Falvicar, Mayor Leafiara, Trazzle who is lying down, Xrynn who is lying down, Bernadette, Ralkean, Guarrin, Kiwoeachi, Lord Chamorr, Giantphang, Balinworn who is sitting, Arianiss, Pukk, Nektarius, Taers, Sir Cryheart, Maelkyth, Targetina

[General] Kobane thinks, "Roblar attacks sharks when he smells them bleed."

[General] Ardwen thinks, "Roblar is most people's imaginary friend."

The ghostly voice of Towermen says, "Yes, Crime has some new fun weapon."

The ghostly voice of Towermen says, "I'm jealous."

Nektarius says, "What a pain."

Nektarius says, "It hasn't a clue what it's doing."

Falvicar whispers something to Chandrellia.

[General] Kobane thinks, "Roblar doesn't battle, he just allows you to lose."

Nektarius asks, "So was a fight brewing?"

Dord quietly says, "Crime."

Dord quietly says, "Not a fight."

Dord quietly says, "Rotflare."

Chandrellia softly asks, "Where did he go?"

Dord quietly says, "Out the gate."

Dord quietly says, "I tell no tales."

The ghostly voice of Myasarie quietly says, "The chicken be in hding."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags exclaims, "Wonderful to see yous Marshall!"

Maelkyth says, "Ah."

Maags says, "Er captain."

The ghostly voice of Myasarie quietly says, "Crime did it."

Speaking to Myasarie, Maelkyth asks, "Would you care for mending?"

Speaking amusedly to Maags, Leafiara says, "We all wish, except maybe her."

Leafiara looks thoughtfully at Stormyrain.

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Your assassin has arrived simply point and it will be done."

The ghostly voice of Myasarie quietly says, "Aye please."

Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain says, "And you as well, Miss Maags."

Chandrellia rubs a silver-accented white monir water cannon in her hand.

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain asks, "What did I do this time?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "I'm saying, we all wish you were the marshal except maybe you."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Falvicar says, "I think I won the pillow fight."

Stormyrain says, "It's a good thing my name is not in the running."

Guarrin muses, "Perhaps that is why she'd be perfect for it."

Speaking to Guarrin, Leafiara exclaims, "Exactly!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "Though I believe that all in all, Amos may be our best choice. As strange as that sounds."

Speaking surprisedly to Stormyrain, Leafiara asks, "Huh, really?"

Speaking quickly to Leafiara, Stormyrain states, "But hear me out."

Maags says, "Who is Amos."

Speaking tentatively to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "Okay, sure."

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "He's a new merchant in town, owns the hand pylon market..."

Bernadette softly says, "Ye might say he came to town wit' a bang."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maags asks, "I see. But a new person we has yet to know as marshall?"

Maags exclaims, "Not the best idea!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "Amos might be just the push Thadston needs to acquiesce to help. He also is new, so it's much easier to keep eyes on what he does in the dark of night... much easier than anyone else. And, he will not have any loyalty amongst the militia to begin with, that will have to be earned. Which we all know is not easily done with our members."

Leafiara musingly says, "Making Amos the marshal would immediately make Stephos the Steward of the Guilds unless I could convince Renpaw to delay that--"

Speaking curiously to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "...hm."

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "I have a feeling that he may also be less able to do damage as Marshal..versus Steward of the Guilds."

Dord quietly says, "Just start wavin that stick around Leafi, Landing will fall in line."

(OOC) Falvicar's player whispers to the group, "Assuming KST is happening... so gonna get me a sandwich."

Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Chandrellia asks, "May express a concern?"

Leafiara says, "But then Stephos ends up as Steward of the Guilds..."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Stormyrain says, "There are concerns no matter our choice. But the Mayor will listen to all opinions, I'm sure."

Leafiara says, "And it would give Amos free reign to get his own ships past inspection."

Speaking to Maelkyth, Maags exclaims, "Thought yous needed it!"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Guarrin says, "Potentially dangerous, but it makes sense to an extent."

Stormyrain says, "Do I like the choice? No. Do I like any of them? No."

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth says, "That, or a sharp smack to the head."

Maags asks, "Are the candidates on the board at the hall?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Leafiara asks, "Out of curiosity, why not Khylon?"

Stormyrain says, "I would prefer to have Thadston continue in his right mind or better yet, restore Thrazyar to himself."

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth asks, "What board?"

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "No, but the marshal candidates are Amos, Casiphia, Cutlass, and Khylon."

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "He's served as Marshal before."

A lithe blue-cloaked woman, walking in the middle of a small group of local merchants, laughs playfully at a part of their conversation as she pushes away some of the bright orange locks of hair coiling out from the depths of her hood.

Maags says, "Hmm."

Stormyrain says, "And I've served under him."

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "And the Steward of the Guilds candidates are Amos and Stephos."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maags says, "Hmm."

Speaking curiously to Stormyrain, Leafiara asks, "Ah, he didn't do a good job?"

Stormyrain says, "I would not say that."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth asks, "What's the lowest office with the least amount of effort required that still allows me to insert my own reality over others?"

Speaking to Maelkyth, Maags says, "Most town halls has boards."

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "Renpaw ruled that Amos can't hold both positions, so appointing Amos marshal would give Stephos the win by default unless I can convince Renpaw to delay while we investigate circumstances around Dakris and Walward withdrawing."

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth says, "You know I can't read."

Leafiara admits, "And yes, this is *really* complicated."

Leafiara grumbles, "I don't know why Renpaw thinks both decisions have to be at the same time. I'll try to convince him otherrwise."

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Chamorr says, "We should whack dem all."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maags says, "Well the easiest solution at least now is not to has Amos as marshall then."


Thoughts in the Storm

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.

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara exclaims, "You're up!"

Chandrellia softly says, "Here we go."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth says, "I'll be Marshall Pro Tem."

Speaking musingly to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "In any case, thank you for your input. I'll... continue taking everything into consideration."


Maelkyth exclaims, "Oooh.. oooh... would that give me command of the military?!"

Cryheart says, "A bit of weather it seems."

Leafiara mumbles, "And hopefully tonight doesn't go wild, *again*, to completely change everything."

Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain says, "I'm not fond of it, but none of the choices are ones I'm fond of at all."

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Ha! I knew it! I knew something was amiss in the weather tonight!"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags says, "Which is why..."

Dord quietly says, "Leafi, this town be on the path to more madness, not less. Been that way a bit."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth asks, "Does a marshall have more power than you?"

Speaking wryly to Dord, Leafiara says, "Oh, trust me, I know."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth exclaims, "I feel like you're ignoring me!"

Dord quietly says, "Act on that idea, not hope."

Leafiara removes an asymmetrically winged campaign button that reads, "Team Leafi: Embrace the Chaos!" from in her cherry red cloak.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags says, "Yous know I am right."

Speaking curiously to Maelkyth, Leafiara asks, "Sorry, what'd you say?"

Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain says, "I know that none of the choices are great ones."

Maags exclaims, "Oh!"

Maelkyth says, "It's been a ten minute conversation! Albeit, largely one sided."

Leafiara acknowledges, "I still can't even understand why Cutlass is running or what background he has."

Maags whispers something to Stormyrain.

Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Chandrellia says, "Rather then choose the lesser of two evils get the right one in the first time or it could be a bigger mess we have to clean up."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth exclaims, "Does marshall have more power'n you?!"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Stormyrain says, "The right ones are Thrayzar and Thadston."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "I'm not sure there is any lesser evil here."

Maags says, "Thrayzar speciallies."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Err, meant that to you."

Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Chandrellia says, "I agree ma'am but one is indisposed and other can't be located, though there was talk of the red orc the other night from Amos himself."

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth says, "I think Leafiara's exhibiting that leadership feature of selective listening..."

Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Chandrellia says, "As you well know."

Guarrin whispers something to Cryheart.

Speaking to Maags, Balinworn asks, "Would you mind embedding like forty-seven things for me real quick?"

Speaking slowly to Maelkyth, Leafiara repeats, "What were you asking about?"

Maags says, "I has to admit I am surprised that anyone would even consider this Amos, new to here as he is."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Stormyrain says, "Yes I heard. But honestly, we've gone without an acting Marshal before for months on months."

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "Well, it's just, the others are problematic in their own ways."

Stormyrain says, "When Thadston was seeking Disean, and Thrayzar was..well, not himself, or was scouting for the Witch."

Speaking to Cryheart, Guarrin says, "You have to admit, it would solve some of the problems."

Cryheart says, "True."

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "Casiphia has a conflict of interest because she helped testify to get Thadston removed while we sort out his magic problem, so to turn around and replace him..."

Chamorr heartily asks, "Isn't Stephos wanted fer somethin?"

Maags nods in agreement to Leafiara.

Maags exclaims, "Right!"

Speaking to Chamorr, Leafiara says, "Not anymore since Crux pardoned him in 5117."

Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Chandrellia asks, "I agree, but Renpaw seems to think the seats need to be filled now, is there way to convince Renpaw to hold of just a little longer till we can find Tharyzar?"

Cryheart asks, "But then where would I get the army?"

Stormyrain says, "I have no pull with his Honor."

Pukk recites:

"Everybody join Cryheart!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Balinworn says, "Put an ad in the Elanthian Times."

Cryheart says, "Perhaps a push perhaps."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara assures, "We've already tried with the marshal seat to no avail. I'll try with the Guilds seat, though."

Speaking to Balinworn, Maags says, "Is the toes."

Jagged thin lines of white hot lightning flash in the distance above Darkstone Bay, briefly illumanting some amorphous storm clouds with pale silver glows. The outline of a ship rises on the waves.

Cryheart says, "Moving."

Speaking to Cryheart, Guarrin says, "I think if you were to act, folks would respond."

Chandrellia softly says, "Here comes Amos's ship."

Cryheart recites:

"In three"

Speaking to Maags, Kiwoeachi exclaims, "Very nice!"

Maags exclaims, "To where!"

Cryheart recites:

"In two"

Leafiara surprisedly says, "Oh, hmm--no, that can't be Amos' ship, can it? He said he wasn't expecting it for days."

Speaking to Cryheart, Balinworn says, "Pure hearted Knight seeks army for part time fun and if we really connect, possibly full time work. No Luukosians."

Maelkyth asks, "Huh?"

Cryheart says, "To the docks."

Speaking softly to Maags, Chandrellia says, "The docks dear."

Maags exclaims, "Les go!"

Maags quickly prompts, "Threetwoone!"

[travel]

Chamorr heartily says, "Let's fire the pylons at him."

Speaking to Leafiara, Guarrin says, "A day or two I thought."

[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 waters of Darkstone Bay. The hulk of a derelict coastal sailer is tethered to the end of the pier. You also see an elegant riverboat with a gaily beribboned mahogany gangplank, some stacked piles of supplies, some huge wooden crates, a stack of empty crates, the murky waters of Darkstone Bay, a black imperial wagon with a glowing blue-white pylon on it and a portly portmaster.

Also here: Mayor Leafiara, Bernadette, Guarrin, Lord Chamorr, Pukk, Falvicar, Lady in Waiting Chandrellia, Stormyrain, Kippe, Maags, Maelkyth, Conquerer of Reim Wolfloner, Uskeye, Sir Cryheart, Shinann

Speaking to Guarrin, Leafiara muses, "Maybe I misheard. I suppose we'll see, either way."

Cryheart says, "They snooze they stay behind."

Speaking to Maelkyth, Maags asks, "She here?"

[General] Leafiara exclaims, "We're gathering at the Landing north dock for an arriving ship, and all are welcome to join us!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Balinworn says, "I hope you saw my tremendously amusing example of the ad you could run to get an army."

[General] Loamian asks, "Does it have ogres?"

Maelkyth asks, "She? hmmm?"

Maags says, "Suddenlies yous scowling."

Balinworn says, "Apparently I was sitting down an unable to follow you shortly after I made my terribly pithy joke."

Nektarius says, "I was sitting."

Maelkyth exclaims, "Oh!"

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Not sure it hasn't docked yet."

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Maags says, "Yous has to hold on to the knight."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "We went to the north docks."

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth says, "Sorry.. just had a fit of inspiration."

[General] Stellarra asks, "Are we sure it's friendly?"

Speaking to Balinworn, Guarrin reminds, "As a banneret he has the right and ability to summon his bannermen, or accept new ones."

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth says, "Took some effort to stamp it down."

[General] Cryheart thinks, "We are here to find out."

Maags whispers something to Maelkyth.

Speaking to Maags, Balinworn says, "Good advice for really any day. Hold on to your knight even harder than your own dreams."

[General] Leafiara asks, "Amos, are you awake this evening? Is this your ship expected tonight?"

Speaking to Balinworn, Guarrin says, "I somehow doubt he would have difficulty in raising forces."

[General] Roonie asks, "Did anyone else see a ship?"

Iskandr says, "Hello all."

Speaking to Balinworn, Maags exclaims, "Is my policy!"

Maags says, "Except in the rift."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Yes it will be making Dock at the North Pier in Landing soon."

Cryheart whispers something to Guarrin.

Speaking to Guarrin, Balinworn says, "You are absolutely correct and I agree. Still, my joke was amusing at the very least and I wanted some kind of recognition for it."

Leafiara suggests, "If this *is* Amos' ship, we'll need to be careful since he's apparently transporting ogres for sport..."

Loamian asks, "How many council candidates are left?"

Speaking to Loamian, Leafiara says, "All four for marshal, but only Amos and Stephos for Steward of the Guilds."

Shinann asks, "Hmm?"

[General] Stellarra thinks, "Well until we know if it's friendly, I think I'll stay in the graveyard where its safer... Did I really just think that?"."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "And weapons of unknown origin, oh wait... steel ones."

Iskandr asks, "Heard word of a ship?"

Speaking wryly to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Yep."

Loamian asks, "What are Stephos holdings in the area? Anything flammable?"

Shinann says, "If he is, that is illegal."

Speaking to Loamian, Leafiara says, "Well, based on 5118, probably."

Speaking curiously to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "...it is?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Maags says, "We cannot has Stephos as steward of anything."

Shinann says, "He cannot remove them from the ship."

Shinann says, "Was when Stephos did it... so yes."

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "Sure, but... can we have Amos either? That's.. the challenge we're facing."

Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "Yes."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Hm."

Chandrellia softly asks, "You mean the ogres or weapons?"

The voice of Thrassus asks, "Wasn't Stephos pardoned?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Loamian asks, "Is 5118 part of the municipal code?"

Iskandr says, "I hope the ship doesn't arrive with Thadston beating everyone up on it."

The voice of Thrassus asks, "If so, how is it illegal for him to unload goods?"

Stormyrain says, "Him being pardoned doesn't make the actions suddenly legal."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "But Amos said creatures for sport are a hobby in Jantalar..."

Shinann says, "Does not change what is illegal cargo."

Guarrin says, "Good evening, Thrassus. Yes, someone mentioned a pardon earlier."

Leafiara agrees, "What the captains said."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maags says, "Better for guilds than marshall which would makes Stephos guilds."

The voice of Thrassus asks, "What illegal cargo is he moving?"

Leafiara says, "A pardon for past actions isn't free reign to commit future crimes."

A second ship comes into view, its masts cresting up and over the sea's horizon, but still far from the first.

Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain says, "He would have less power as Marshal."

Bernadette softly says, "Ahh."

Maelkyth asks, "So, the barrels are ready?"

Wolfloner darkly says, "Two ships."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags says, "Truth that."

Speaking softly to Wolfloner, Chandrellia says, "Plan on three at least."

Guarrin asks, "Amos mentioned...four ships?"

Maelkyth asks, "I suppose we have some form of defenses against ships?"

Maags exclaims, "Yous would keeps him in line!"

Leafiara tentatively says, "Still can't make out those flags quite yet."

Maags exclaims, "Amos for marshall!"

Chandrellia recites softly:

"Watch the water for floating objects"

Draught says, "Let us hope these ships fare better than the last."

[General] Roonie thinks, "Oh please let it be ponies! I want invading ponies."

Iskandr asks, "Are these ships his ladies that Acorn mentioned or are his ladies actual ladies?"

A town clerk arrives and hands Leafiara a note.

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pietra says, "Those are usually things you don't want to watch."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Maelkyth asks, "Lizard people?"

Leafiara slowly says, "Yes, keep a close watch on--"

[General] Loamian thinks, "Careful, many of the citizens of the graveyard are even more flammable than the citizens of the Landing."

(Leafiara nods to the town clerk.)

Speaking to Draught, Guarrin greets, "Evening. Sir Cryheart has the lead."

Shinann asks, "Who withdraw now?"

Speaking softly to Maelkyth, Chandrellia says, "No bombs."

Leafiara says, "Ah, these are indeed Amos' ships."

Shinann says, "Oh."

Leafiara says, "He's welcoming our aid if we still want to give it, of course."

Balinworn says, "Admittedly, I have not been involved at all in the things going on here in town but I remember the results when we saw ships saling into River's Rest like this and it was not pleasant. I sincerely hope these ships are different."

Berost deeply asks, "Who got pylons if that second ship starts shootin?"

Speaking to Balinworn, Loamian says, "I hope not to burn to death tonight."

Speaking to Balinworn, Maelkyth asks, "You think that's what this is?"

Speaking to Loamian, Balinworn says, "I hope that pretty much every night."

Speaking to Loamian, Maelkyth says, "Just hope that it's quick."

Speaking to Leafiara, Rasson says, "Could always light up the flag with the pylons."

Cryheart says, "With this storm..both may nae make it."

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain asks, "Has he been informed that there will be no ogres, orcs, or other beings brought to let loose for sport?"

Speaking to Maelkyth, Balinworn says, "I sincerely hope not."

Speaking slowly to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "...no. They're either already on the ship or not."

Shinann says, "We will inform him."

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "But they don't have to be removed."

Stormyrain says, "From the ship."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Ah, very well."

Kiwoeachi says, "Send a raven."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Leafiara says, "True."

Iskandr says, "Drink beer."

Pietra says, "We've had great luck with ships with no loose beings here... sure."

The voice of Thrassus asks, "Is the city going to ban pylons next?"

Speaking to Balinworn, Maelkyth says, "Yeah.. not sure I healed whole from the last time."

Maags says, "Seems to me that Renpaw has all the power in this town."

Maelkyth says, "Not looking for a second taste."

The voice of Straz monotonously says, "Whelp, my bow is ready if any of our guests try anything untoward."

Speaking quietly to Crime, Myasarie says, "One has killed him afore."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Amos, we can protect the ships, but there are questions of legality regarding the ogres. We'd prefer they remain on the ship."

Thrassus says, "Rude." [I think in response to being removed from invisibility]

Towermen says, "Maags is my ex."

A young girl rushes by some traveling merchants in the street, navigating through them before slipping off to the edge of a dark alley where she hands what looks like a rolled-up scroll to someone in the shadows. A moment later they part ways, the dark figure stepping back out of sight, and the girl disappearing into a crowd of townspeople.

Towermen says, "I left her cause she was too clingy."

Crime darkly asks, "What's happening here?"

Speaking melodically to Crime, Randosa says, "Just some boats. Normal dock stuff."

Speaking to Crime, Pietra says, "Ships coming. Probably bad ships. It's a mystery."

Draccor darkly says, "Prolly a ship full of diseased sailors."

Speaking ruefully to Draccor, Leafiara say, "Lately, probably not even a bad guess."

Pietra whispers something to Iskandr.

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth asks, "Do you want me to thump him for his insolence?"

Randosa melodically asks, "How long has it been since the last wave of ships?"

Thrassus asks, "So, judging from what has been said... orcs and ogres are illegal in the Landing boundaries?"

Maelkyth says, "Mmkay."

Cryheart says, "A few minutes."

Maags whispers something to Maelkyth.

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth asks, "Do you want me to hold him down so you can thump him?"

Speaking to Thrassus, Leafiara says, "That's what the captains are saying, based on precedent with Stephos... I believe."

Speaking to Draccor, Nektarius says, "Buddy old pal."

Speaking to Thrassus, Guarrin says, "Someone will need to inform all of them in the wilds."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara guesses, "Because of... the frost giant incident, was it?"

Thrassus says, "I suppose Thrayzar can never return then."

Thrassus says, "Shame."

Speaking to Draccor, Nektarius says, "Looks like we're kil'n together tonight, just dont accidentally kill me."

Shinann says, "No.. they are illegal to be unloaded for sport."

Pietra whispers something to Iskandr.

Iskandr says, "Wish I'd brought my fishing pole, seems like this is going to take a bit."

Thrassus asks, "If the sport happens outside the Landing?"

Shinann says, "It has been that way for the six years I have been in the militia."

Speaking darkly to Nektarius, Draccor asks, "Maybe on impulse then?"

Shinann says, "If he unloads somewhere else."

Shinann says, "Not our problem."

Crime darkly says, "I betcha they unload a boat full of sheep."

Draught says, "Ahh."

Draught says, "Did not see you there."

Speaking darkly to Nektarius, Draccor says, "Here is not the time or place anyways."

Leafiara admits, "I did realize they wouldn't be allowed within the gates, but wasn't aware of the illegality of transport for sport at all."

The voice of Straz monotonously says, "I'd imagine we'd rather he not unload any of that filth anywhere along the coast here, including the Haven."

Speaking to Shinann, Loamian says, "I'd just as soon he not mix his ogres in with ours."

Draught says, "Best to be in fighting shape...just in case."

Draccor darkly says, "Not that it has ever stopped me."

Leafiara says, "Ship inspections are the militia's domain, so I'll defer to them as experts on these matters."

The voice of Straz monotonously asks, "Militia domain? Are they really trained for customs inspections? To sniff out smuggling?"

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Leafiara affirms, "Yes, that's more or less the entire point."

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Loamian says, "It'd be hard to miss the smell of ship-bound ogres."

Leafiara adds, "And one of the challenges facing Amos or Cutlass as a marshal, due to conflicts of interest."

Maelkyth asks, "What, like domesticated ogres?"

Maelkyth asks, "Why would anyone be porting ogres?"

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

The voice of Straz monotonously says, "Eh, ship stink may be hard to distinguish from ogre-stink."

Grauph says, "Are domesticated ogres easier to kill then."

Speaking to Maelkyth, Leafiara says, "He likes hunting them, apparently."

Pietra says, "Maybe it's just full of cake."

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Shinann says, "Does not matter what type of ogres... he said they were for sport and that law has not been changed."

Maelkyth says, "On a boat."

Maelkyth says, "Huh."

Loamian says, "I wager I could tell the difference, if given the chance."

Guarrin says, "I suppose he could just set them free."

Maelkyth asks, "And who is this guy to us?"

Iskandr says, "Maybe there are little boats on the boat."

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Speaking to Maelkyth, Leafiara says, "Just a new citizen making a decent impact as a merchant."

Maelkyth asks, "And when we attack, do we LEAD with fire.... or something else?"

Speaking softly to Maelkyth, Chandrellia says, "One that has been apointed a seat either as Marshall or as something else I forget."

The voice of Straz monotonously asks, "If'n we're concerned...why not just deny docking rights, and send out an inspection team while he's anchored out in the Bay?"

Leafiara calmly says, "Likely no attacks tonight, these should be friendly ships."

Leafiara adds, "Hopefully."

The first ship moves in closer to town, slowly navigating through the waters as it approaches the sea gate near the North Docks.

Pietra says, "And are we expecting more bar fights, because that was fun. Bar fight and cake."

The hustle and bustle of the town docks rings out down the street as some dark cloaked figures move about, some conversing with the occasional crew members as they disembark from their ships.

Speaking to Leafiara, Goldstr says, "Sure Mayor."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth says, "I say if it smell like ogres, we burn it... ogres or no."

Speaking darkly to Leafiara, Draccor says, "I could always start a fight then."

Maags says, "Was going to suggest that we should know beforehand what is coming but everybodies thinks they can break our rules anyhow."

Pietra whispers something to Chamorr.

Speaking darkly to Draccor, Crime says, "You'd die again."

Pukk exclaims, "I knew it! It's a Sareyna!"

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "Weapons for his personal collection, and ogres for sport."

Speaking heartily to Pietra, Chamorr says, "Hiya."

Speaking to Maags, Leafiara says, "In this case we actually have been told."

Leafiara adds, "For once!"

Sareyna exclaims, "It is it is!"

Maags exclaims, "We has ogres!"


Protection Fees

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure just arrived!

Speaking softly to Maags, Chandrellia says, "We have tried asking Amos exactly what was on board but he always seemed to, deter from the question."

The dark hooded figure looks about the area.

Maags says, "Exactlies."

Speaking softly to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Chandrellia asks, "What do you want?"

Speaking to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Leafiara asks, "And you're here for... what reason?"

Speaking to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Pietra asks, "Do you have the cake?"

Speaking monotonously to a portly portmaster, Straz asks, "With so many concerns, why are you blithely allowing these ships to dock with unknown cargo?"

Iskandr asks, "Oh, more mask people?"

[General] Stellarra asks, "Anyone available to pop the gate at the graveyard?"

The dark hooded figure approaches two dockworkers and they begin conversing.

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth says, "Sounds suspicious."

Cryheart asks, "Ye expecting something?"

Draccor darkly says, "See they know something."

Speaking skeptically to Leafiara, Loamian says, "Nice and friendly eh."

Speaking softly to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Chandrellia says, "The mayor asked you a question."

One of the dockworkers shakes his head and the hooded figure sighs.

The voice of Straz monotonously asks, "Is that a plague mask he's wearing?"

Speaking to Maelkyth, Maags says, "Will smell suspicious soon too if ogres are in there."

Speaking to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Pukk exclaims, "You must be here for the dance off later. It will be Falvicar versus Roblar. Be sure to buy a ticket from Mayor Leafiara!"

Dord quietly says, "This town gots a stench."

[General] Guyamon thinks, "There ya go."

The dark hooded figure slips off into the shadows.

Leafiara patiently says, "Our last meeting really didn't go so well. Unless we hear there's some kind of civil war or split in your ranks, we--"

Leafiara curiously says, "Huh."

Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "Well now you scared it off."

A dockworker scowls, "Protection fees, they can piss off."

Leafiara says, "Well, we'll discuss *that* particular theory another time, I guess."

Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "When I said Roblar..."

Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Chandrellia says, "Can you question the dockworkers as to what was asked of them."

Leafiara curiously asks, "Wait, what? Extortion?"

Cryheart says, "Aye..."

Shinann says, "What he said."

Maags whispers something to Pietra.

Roelon deeply says, "Interestin'."

Speaking to Pukk, Pietra says, "I think it was the dancing part. They're shy."

A dockworker says, "We ain't paying the Rooks crap for ships. They ain't own these docks!"

Cryheart asks, "Protection fees is illegal..is it nae?"

Leafiara says, "Grand. One of the few things the Daily Darkstone has gotten right, apparently."

Pietra whispers something to Maags.

Thrassus says, "They've always been extortionate."

Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara says, "I believe so."

Grauph says, "Punishable by death probably."

Goldstr yells, "Ye tells em Dockworker!"

Falvicar quietly says, "The town owns it. Not the Rooks."

Randosa melodically says, "I am nervous about this..."

Loamian asks, "What did they threaten in return for non-payment?"

Guarrin whispers something to Cryheart.

Thrassus says, "This isn't anything new."

Berkana says, "Sounds like a union issue."

Maags says, "Oh."

A dockworker says, "They threatened to sink the ships. I can't afford that to happen either...."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "This isnt settling right in my tummy Mayor."

Cryheart whispers something to Guarrin.

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I never thought about protection fees. Man, I'm learning a lot lately."

Pietra says, "Sounds like a job for... someone."

A dockworker says, "I mean, I know they get their cut sometimes, but not every ship...."

Guarrin asks, "A frequent event, I wager?"

Speaking softly to Guarrin, Chandrellia says, "More so lately."

Pukk says, "It's okay. Cryheart guarantees your ship's safety."

Leafiara says, "It still doesn't line up to me, weighing that against what the Rooks did with the overcharging farmers during the blight..."

Loamian asks, "Did they mention a Knave?"

A grey wolf says, "Woof."

Leafiara says, "Well--whatever the case, we'll look into this another night. For now, ships to protect..."

A dockworker says, "Lord Amos pays well to ensure his cargo arrives and we don't share with anyone."

Cryheart says, "Corruption, mayor."

Leafiara wryly says, "Yeah, I bet he does."

Shinann says, "Nothing comes off those ships until they are inspected."

Leafiara says, "Irony is we're all here *without* being paid."

Shinann says, "As usual."

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Maelkyth exclaims, "What she said!"

Xayd says, "Wait."

Xayd asks, "We're not being paid?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Loamian asks, "If you're not getting paid where do our taxes go?"

Speaking dryly to Xayd, Leafiara says, "Nope."

Speaking to Xayd, Maelkyth says, "Naw, just gonna loot when it's all over."

Speaking to Loamian, Leafiara clarifies, "I mean not being paid by Amos for protection."

Straz monotonously says, "Where's their cargo list? No legitimate merchant ships sail without knowing what in their holds."

Speaking to Xayd, Stormyrain quips, "We're paid in adventure, the experience, and glory."

Loamian asks, "Dockworker, what can we do to help?"

Leafiara deadpans, "Honestly, maybe we should all just leave well enough alone or demand a cut."

Thrassus says, "Folk could have asked for a price when he requested the protection."

Speaking softly to Straz, Chandrellia says, "I tried asking that too."

Xayd says, "I was promised lemon tarts as paymet."

Stormyrain says, "See Miss Maags for sweets."

Speaking to Xayd, Maelkyth says, "Not contractually relevant."

Straz monotonously says, "I don't need a cut - just need to know there's nothing untoward being secreted into our town."

Speaking slowly to Straz, Leafiara says, "Well, good luck with that."

Xayd says, "And or other lemon baked goods."

Maags exclaims, "What do yous need!"

Shinann says, "Honestly, the militia is not doing anything different than we do most days."

Speaking to Straz, Thrassus says, "It's a bit late for that."

Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain whispers aloud, "You're the sweets dealer."


First Arrival

A large grey-blue ship with wide masts sails in through the sea gate and up to the docks.

Maelkyth says, "Snacksize."

Some burly dwarven town guards march through the area, their grizzly beards each braided with ivory beads and their alert gaze staring out from beneath bushy eyebrows. One of them taps the handle of his axe against his palm as they continue their patrol.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags says, "Needs a shop."

Goldstr asks, "Someone mannin da pylons jess in case?"

Iskandr asks, "Can we get on now and go for a sail?"

Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain asks, "Go in as partners with Miss Goblyn?"

Iskandr says, "I'm pretty good with a cannon."

Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain says, "Her side of the shop, and your side."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags exclaims, "I offered!"

Loamian says, "This one doesn't have the ogres."

Speaking to Maags, Stormyrain says, "Could call it 'Trick or Sweets'."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maags says, "She thinks I would takes all her business."

Lord Thadston just arrived.

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!

Stormyrain casually glances at Thadston.

A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!

A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!

Speaking curiously to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Good eve."

A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!

A uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman just arrived!

Thadston hiccups!

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Thadston says, "Eve."

Leafiara slowly says, "Er."

Stormyrain glances at a uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman.

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia asks, "Evenin, how ya feeling?"

Maags exclaims, "Eves to yous!"

Thadston says, "We're here to run an inspection on Amos's ship."

Cryheart says, "Evening Lord Thadston."

Thadston nods to the Wehnimer's militiaman.

Thadston nods to the Wehnimer's militiaman.

Leafiara says, "Well, I suppose the militia should be here for inspections after--"

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "No you're not."

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia asks, "We?"

Speaking monotonously to a uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman, Straz asks, "You here to finally inspect these ships proper like?"

Speaking slowly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "You aren't."

The militiamen move past the dockworkers and up onto the ship.

Thadston says, "I'm not the Marshal, I know."

Speaking to Thadston, Iskandr says, "Surprised you don't still have a hangover."

Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr exclaims, "Evenin Sir Andrews!"

Thadston says, "I don't recall you revoking my militia membership though."

Roelon deeply says, "Welll now..."

Thadston says, "Maybe I missed that."

Speaking musingly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "...mm, true."

Thadston winks at Leafiara.

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Leafiara grins at Thadston.

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain asks, "Maybe you also missed the two Captains who give orders over militia members standing here ready to do the inspections themselves?"

Thadston says, "Just doing some lowly dock inspections."

Speaking softly to Thadston, Chandrellia says, "I'll admit Sir, you sound much better this eve, I am glad for that."

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Thadston says, "Oh, then by all means Captains..."

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "So, I will expect, for that breach of protocol, you will find yourself scrubbing the latrine...for weeks."

Thadston yells, "Boys, bring the boxes down here! Captains want a look."

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "Two weeks."

Stormyrain folds her hands behind her back.

Maags says, "We all do."

Thadston says, "Make it three."

Maags exclaims, "Loves presents!"

Speaking curiously to Thadston, Leafiara says, "By the way, what is your history with Amos? He's only given us the vaguest of hints."

Shinann says, "We can go on board..."

Thadston says, "I clean up half of this town's crap anyway."

Shinann looks thoughtfully at Thadston.

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain asks, "..are you referring to the same crap you step in and track all over?"

Stormyrain raises an eyebrow in Thadston's direction.

Speaking darkly to Draccor, Crime says, "I hear I am being made captain."

Leafiara mumbles, "Never a dull moment, that's for sure."


A Delicate Situation

Some town militia arrive, coming down the gangplank and bringing a huge chest of glass vases.

Speaking to Thadston, Maelkyth says, "I just want you to know that if you have any nasty surprises laying in wait, I'm going to be very, very disappointed with you... on a personal level."

Pietra asks, "Cake vases?"

Thadston glances at a large trunk of glass vases.

Thadston selects a wide red glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Leafiara curiously says, "Well, not weapons, but nothing illegal-looking either."

Speaking to Thadston, Maelkyth says, "Just didn't want any weirdness."

Speaking to a uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman, Stormyrain says, "And every one of you that responded to his orders without checking with your Captains can join him in extra barracks duties."

Speaking to a uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman, Shinann asks, "The whole ship has those?"

Draught selects a squat crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Thadston says, "Fancy."

Chamorr selects a tall grey glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Thadston nods at Draught.

Speaking darkly to Crime, Draccor says, "Keep dreaming."

Chandrellia selects a large blue crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Speaking to Pietra, Sacru says, "Surely, it must be cake."

Leafiara selects a large blue crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Sareyna says, "Nothing worse then stepping in errant crap and tracking it about town ...oh my the very stench of it all."

Kobane selects a large blue crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Draught says, "Empty."

>analy my vas

You analyze your blue crystal vase and sense that the item is largely free from merchant alteration restrictions.

The creator has also provided the following information:

This is a random piece of treasure. Try to BREAK, CLEAN, RUB, or TAP it.

You get no sense of whether or not the vase may be further lightened.

Thadston tosses his red glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched copper plate and picks it up off the ground.

Speaking darkly to Towermen, Draccor says, "Keep feeding him dreams."

Stormyrain selects a large blue crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Roelon selects a tall grey glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Draught drops a squat crystal vase.

Thadston picks up a squat crystal vase.

Speaking suddenly to Thadston, Leafiara says, "Hey, that's fragile."

Speaking to Sacru, Pietra says, "In a lovely shape. Might need a long spoon."

A poofy piebald flop-eared kitten stalks bravely towards a uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman and whaps at him with its paw!

Sacru selects a tall grey glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Thadston tosses his crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched silver wand and picks it up off the ground.

Thadston says, "Oops."

Thadston drops a scratched copper plate.

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth asks, "Did you check the hidden compartments?"

Iskandr selects a large blue crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Shinann clears her throat.

Maags exclaims, "Cake plates and flower vases. Looks like wedding gear!"

Draught selects a smooth clear vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Stellarra selects a short blue glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Chamorr tosses his grey glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a pink topaz and picks it up off the ground.

Loamian asks, "It's just a plate?"

Chandrellia tosses her blue crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, she notices a scratched studded silver crown and picks it up off the ground.

Thadston nods at Chamorr.

Sacru tosses his grey glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched steel crown and picks it up off the ground.

Chamorr selects a wide-lipped glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Thadston asks, "Feels good. Doesn't it?"

Shinann says, "Thadston, let us conduct this. If you are still in the militia, that is an order."

Thadston selects a round gilt-hued vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Iskandr says, "Don't hold my beer very well."

Leafiara slowly suggests, "Maybe don't break the vases apart this evening. Just peek inside if anything--these are Amos' deliveries."

Thadston brushes himself off.

Cryheart asks, "Seems to be hidden items?"

Stormyrain says, "I hope someone is keeping count of all the vases we're breaking that belong to a merchant."

Speaking to Thadston, Goldstr asks, "Dis be yer shipment Sir Andrews?"

Stormyrain folds her hands behind her back.

Roelon tosses his grey glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a tattered light scroll and picks it up off the ground.

Draught says, "Smuggling."

Stormyrain says, "They will need payment for them."

Thadston tosses his gilt-hued vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Roelon deeply says, "Hmm."

Speaking to Thadston, Shinann says, "Stop."

Thadston brushes himself off.

Speaking heartily to Draught, Chamorr says, "Break vase."

Pietra asks, "So we're stealing the vases now?"

Berkana selects a wide-lipped glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Stellarra tosses her blue glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, she stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Iskandr taps a large trunk of glass vases.

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth exclaims, "Check what they got in town behind 'em!"

Sareyna selects a wide-lipped glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Chamorr tosses his glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a large grey pearl and picks it up off the ground.

Berkana tosses her glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, she notices a piece of red jasper and picks it up off the ground.

Wolfloner selects a smooth clear vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Iskandr tosses his blue crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched praying knight statuette and picks it up off the ground.

Draught says, "Perhaps we should let them be inspected."

Draught says, "Rather than smashing them."

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth says, "Pirates are sneaky! Prolly floatin' the booty."

Pietra says, "This will certainly go over well."

Leafiara slowly says, "You're all going to end up paying for this when Amos files with the constabulary, you realize."

Kobane tosses his blue crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched studded ora ring and picks it up off the ground.

Speaking to Thadston, Maelkyth asks, "You are a pirate, yes?"

Leafiara adds, "Justifiably too..."

Some dark hooded figures can be seen watching from the shadows of alleyways.

Roelon deeply says, "Quickest way to inspect..."

Wolfloner tosses his clear vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices an uncut emerald and picks it up off the ground.

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Thadston brushes himself off.

Thadston begins chuckling at Maelkyth!

Guarrin says, "Oh good."

Iskandr says, "This is fun, let's break them all."

Shinann asks, "You only found glass?"

Roelon selects a small green glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Falvicar quietly says, "Here we go again."

Goldstr tosses his clear vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched silver wand and picks it up off the ground.

Roelon tosses his green glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Maags says, "Better the storm had gotten them than has glass all over the docks."

Thadston nods at Roelon.

Thadston turns to Roelon and cheers!

Iskandr asks, "Anyone want a praying knight statue?"

Speaking to Loamian, Leafiara says, "Bring it to Amos when he arrives."

Speaking to Thadston, Pukk says, "I think you have so admirers staring from the shadows at you."

Thadston selects a round gilt-hued vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Chamorr selects a small green glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Thadston tosses his gilt-hued vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a notched studded pewter ewer and picks it up off the ground.

Roelon deeply says, "Hmm."

Chamorr tosses his green glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Speaking to Leafiara, Stormyrain says, "I think Thadston should be responsible, since he created an air of 'town sanctioned' by calling this action a militia inspection."

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "The captains ordered you to stop."

Thadston drops a scratched silver wand.

Thadston drops a notched studded pewter ewer.

Thadston says, "I'm sorry. I didn't hear the order."

Thadston hiccups!

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Thadston says, "It's loud over here."

Leafiara dryly says, "Of course you didn't."

Thadston says, "With all of the shattering glass."

Thadston selects a large blue crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Thadston tosses his blue crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Leafiara concedes, "And you have a fair point."

Cryheart says, "That constitutes destruction of private property."

Shinann says, "You are only to follow orders by me or Captain Stormyrain."

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Chamorr says, "They seem to be smugglin stuff in the vases."

Iskandr selects a tall grey glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Speaking to Thadston, Leafiara says, "This is coming out of your pay. Your... alcohol money, as it were."

Leafiara frowns at Thadston.

Thadston brushes himself off.

Draught says, "Silver wands and pink topazes, though."

Iskandr tosses his grey glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a tiny black pearl and picks it up off the ground.

'Thadston asks, "Very well. Captains, do you wish me to stand down?"

Draught says, "Seems more like prizes at a child's party."

Thadston selects a wide red glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Thadston tosses his red glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched ora barrette and picks it up off the ground.

Thadston drops a scratched ora barrette.

Thadston turns an inquisitive ear toward Shinann.

Thadston turns an inquisitive ear toward Stormyrain.

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "Yes."

Thadston nods.

Speaking to Thadston, Shinann says, "You are drunk on duty."

Cryheart asks, "Having fun, Thadston?"

Straz monotonously says, "Hmm."

Shinann says, "Yes."

Iskandr selects a tall grey glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Speaking to Thadston, Stormyrain says, "Stand down. And sober the hell up."

Speaking to Thadston, Sareyna says, "Oooh a barette that is SO you."

Leafiara says, "Fifth time's the charm."

Speaking darkly to Thadston, Draccor says, "I'll take all of yer alcohol funds."

Speaking darkly to Draccor, Crime says, "You first order is to be coat tail to Towermen, do his bidding well."

Iskandr tosses his grey glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched stone brick and picks it up off the ground.

Thadston brushes himself off.

Thadston says, "You all have a great night."

Thadston selects a large blue crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Thadston tosses his blue crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched pewter plate and picks it up off the ground.

Thadston bows.

Thadston drops a scratched pewter plate.

Lord Thadston just went west.


All Clear

Straz monotonously asks, "Vases, eh?"

Chamorr selects a wide red glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Maags says, "He needs his mother."

Iskandr says, "Whoohoo, next Arena this will come in handy."

Iskandr waves a scratched stone brick around.

Chamorr tosses his red glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a medium black pearl and picks it up off the ground.

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "He knows how to make an exit."

Guarrin says, "What a miserable drunk."

Cryheart says, "He has lost all sensibility."

Leafiara slowly says, "Well, hopefully the more important ships are the ones coming now when he's gone."

Chamorr selects a round gilt-hued vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Chandrellia softly says, "I don't think he has."

Draught says, "And all credibility."

Chamorr tosses his gilt-hued vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Loamian says, "Well I've got some of the stored items."

A grey wolf says, "Woof."

Chandrellia softly says, "I think he suspects hidden within the cargo."

Iskandr selects a round gilt-hued vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Speaking to Chamorr, Stormyrain says, "Bear, stop breaking the merchant's things please."

Iskandr tosses his gilt-hued vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a ripped dark scroll and picks it up off the ground.

Speaking darkly to Crime, Draccor says, "You will never tell me what to do, and you can kill Towermen for all I care, he's not even Black Hand."

Pietra says, "Well that climax was rather... soft."

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Speaking to Chamorr, Leafiara says, "Next time, bring some scotch and try to drag him to Helga's as a distraction or--or something."

Some more militia arrive from the ship and salute the captains. "Captains, all wares seem fine. No weapons, no ogres."

Speaking to Maelkyth, Maags says, "Bless yous."

Pietra says, "I did not just say that."

Speaking heartily to Stormyrain, Chamorr says, "They are smugglin stuf in the vases."

Speaking to Maags, Maelkyth exclaims, "Thank you!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Goldstr says, "Jess a thought but HE Might know wha he doin."

Stormyrain says, "Thank you."

Shinann says, "Thank you."

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Thrassus says, "They are fine except for this one crate of shattered vases."

Speaking to a uniformed Wehnimer's militiaman, Loamian exclaims, "Just as I smelled! No ogres on this one!"

Iskandr selects a smooth clear vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Speaking to Chamorr, Leafiara says, "The goods aren't illegal, so this isn't smuggling any more than putting gems and wands in a crate wouldd be smuggling."

The second ship at sea moves in closer now, gliding through the bay and moving towards Wehnimer's Landing.

Speaking softly to Stormyrain, Chandrellia says, "He has a point, you won't find what you are looking for in the open."

Iskandr says, "I find this kind of stress relieving."

Straz selects a smooth clear vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Iskandr tosses his clear vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a scratched pewter bracer and picks it up off the ground.

Goldstr selects a small green glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Maags says, "Might has left too too soon."

Speaking darkly to Towermen, Crime exclaims, "He's rebellious!"

Goldstr tosses his green glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Pietra yells, "Cake ship! Hooray!"

Straz tosses his clear vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Shinann says, "Another ship."

Chamorr selects a squat crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Chamorr selects a squat crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Straz selects a smooth clear vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Leafiara asks, "Dd anyone notice a third or is that the only other one?"

Iskandr selects a short blue glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Iskandr tosses his blue glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a notched gold pendant and picks it up off the ground.

Straz tosses his clear vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Thrassus says, "That is the second ship."

Maags says, "I onlies saw two."

Draught says, "Only two ships I can see."

Cryheart says, "Think I saw only two ships."

Chamorr tosses his crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Kobane selects a large blue crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Chamorr tosses his crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a violet sapphire and picks it up off the ground.

Straz selects a round gilt-hued vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Speaking to Leafiara, Chandrellia softly says, "I have only noticed the two."

Leafiara amiably says, "Ah, good, hopefully a quickly-resolved night then."

Roelon deeply says, "Aye, just two, unless there is ah third in the shadow of the second one."

Straz tosses his gilt-hued vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a star ruby and picks it up off the ground.

Iskandr selects a squat crystal vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Iskandr tosses his crystal vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Shinann says, "Look, what Thadston did was wrong..."

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Sareyna says, "Come on people, Stormy asked politely that you stop breaking vases. This is at best vandalism at worst petty theft."

Iskandr says, "I enjoy your tradition here in the Landing of 'break stuff in crates night'."

Leafiara says, "Maybe his old buddy Amos will understand and not mind some of the costs. That's about the best we can hope."

Straz monotonously says, "They're slippery, I actually tried to clean one."

Iskandr says, "We don't have anything like this back in Ta'Vaalor."

Iskandr selects a small green glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Chamorr heartily says, "Good stuff in dem vases, we should take em all."

Speaking to Asben, Pietra says, "The ship did not have cake. The next one might."

Iskandr says, "Hmm, kind of like this one."

Iskandr says, "Oh well."

Iskandr tosses his green glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he stares at some silver coins scattered across the ground.

Shinann asks, "Did you all turn into Rooks?"

Straz monotonously says, "Ehhhhlook."

Wolfloner smiles at Shinann.

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "The other night I thought they all turned into Rones since they want a death march on the tunnels."

Iskandr selects a wide-lipped glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Speaking to Shinann, Thrassus says, "I'm just standing here watching the vandalism occur."

Iskandr says, "Oh, that's a nice one too."

Iskandr tosses his glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices an uncut diamond and picks it up off the ground.

Iskandr says, "Woohoo."

Maags says, "Stop."

Sareyna asks, "Are we animals?"

Speaking to Sareyna, Kiwoeachi says, "It's a wonder how they keep the jail empty."

Chamorr selects a wide red glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Speaking darkly to Maags, Crime asks, "Did you mean stop or don't stop?"

Sadnama selects a short blue glass vase from a large trunk of glass vases.

Speaking wryly to Sareyna, Leafiara says, "Well, apparently."

Chamorr tosses his red glass vase to the ground, causing it to shatter, freeing whatever was inside. Glancing around, he notices a green sapphire and picks it up off the ground.


Pylon Fire

As the second ship inches closer to town there is suddenly some quick movements and commotion upon the rooftop of the River Tower East. Some dark hooded figures appear, rising up from their hiding spot and quickly pull away a giant canvas to reveal a blue-white pylon perched upon the roof and aimed towards the bay. The figures tilt the pylon and it flares as a blast of blue-white energy snakes out towards the waters, almost striking the ship!

Goldstr says, "Da tunnels be yer friends hideouts an ye knows wha I feels der."

Loamian says, "Oh no."

Iskandr says, "I'm going to save that diamond for the future wife."

Speaking to Crime, Maags exclaims, "Means what I say!"

Sareyna says, "Uh oh."

Straz monotonously says, "Um, that's a problem."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Here's where the fun begins."

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "No!"

Kobane quietly says, "Thas' nah good."

Leafiara yells, "No firing on the ship or we're coming for you!"

Xayd asks, "To the roof?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Maelkyth asks, "Who was that message for?"

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia asks, "Can we fire this pylon at that one?"

Leafiara says, "Yeah... let me head that way."

Thrassus says, "The longer the Rooks are allowed to exist the more this nonsense will occur."

Wolfloner darkly says, "Perhaps Amos should have considered paying tribute after all."

Speaking to Cryheart, Guarrin says, "Let's go."

The Symbol of Need begins to burn in your mind and an image appears before you of Dord...

[River Tower East, Roof]

A small, roofed structure provides some weather protection on the open top level of the guard tower. The view north across the bay affords a valuable vantage point, looking out towards the island of Glaoveln, home port of the warlike Ice Krolvin. To the west and south, the blue rivers and rocky slopes of the Lower Trollfang region provide a breathtaking vista. You also see a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a glowing blue-white pylon, some polished steps, a modwir wood ladder that descends through a square opening in the slate-covered roof and an iron banded barrel.

Also here: Dord, Loamian

The dark figures begin to tilt the pylon.

[fogging over]

[River Tower East, Roof]

A small, roofed structure provides some weather protection on the open top level of the guard tower. The view north across the bay affords a valuable vantage point, looking out towards the island of Glaoveln, home port of the warlike Ice Krolvin. To the west and south, the blue rivers and rocky slopes of the Lower Trollfang region provide a breathtaking vista. You also see a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, a glowing blue-white pylon, some polished steps, a modwir wood ladder that descends through a square opening in the slate-covered roof and an iron banded barrel.

Also here: Mayor Leafiara, the body of Loamian who is lying down

Leafiara slowly asks, "Who are you all?"

The ghostly voice of Loamian says, "Well I didn't slip and fall."

The ghostly voice of Loamian says, "That's for sure."

Leafiara asks, "Some rogue faction? A splinter group?"

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I've made contact on the roof."

Shinann just arrived.

A shadowy gloom swiftly pushes upward from the ground. When the darkness lifts, Chandrellia is standing in its place.

Speaking to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Leafiara asks, "This doesn't seem like Mother's MO. ...what is going on?"

A dark figure says, "We won't allow Amos to move in, or anyone, without our cut."

Sir Cryheart's group just arrived.

Wolfloner darkly says, "Ah."

Pietra says, "Welp."

Speaking to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Leafiara says, "I'm afraid we can't allow that."

Cryheart says, "Cease and desist."

Kiwoeachi says, "Looks like it's."

Kiwoeachi says, "Out of my abilities."

Speaking to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Leafiara says, "I can't tell whose orders you're under--Mother's, your own, or some new third party."

Leafiara says, "Maybe Stephos."

Dord quietly asks, "They already killed Loamian, why we watchin em?"

Speaking to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Leafiara says, "But we won't let this pass."

Speaking deeply to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Roelon says, "Bunch of low class bandits ye lot are."

A sleek black arrow comes flying out of the shadows and strikes Chamorr in the throat!

... 40 points of damage!

Strike punctures throat and ruins vocal cords!

Chamorr is unable to maintain his bearhug on the figure!

Chamorr drops dead at your feet!

[combat breaks out]

Dord quietly says, "We will not survive this."

[combat]

Speaking to a grey-beaked dark hooded figure, Pukk asks, "You look like a dependable and trustworthy person. Have you seen any suspicious hooligans about?"

[combat]

Guarrin says, "I guess we're doing this."

[extended combat]

[General] Plarfinus asks, "Eh?"

[very extended combat]

The ghostly voice of Goldstr says, "Bah."

Leafiara says, "We need at least one alive... we need information."

Dord quietly says, "It ain't zombie turkey that for sure."

Leafiara says, "Something seems seriously amiss to me."

Guyamon says, "Fire."

Towermen says, "Forgot to clear target."

Speaking in Elven, Stellarra melodically asks something you don't understand.

Towermen says, "Love you crime."

The voice of Straz monotonously says, "Not undead."

Myharl deeply asks, "Who's attacking us?"

Falvicar quietly says, "No."

Thrassus says, "The Rooks have always been this way, nothing is out of the ordinary."

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure just arrived!

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

[combat]

Speaking in Elven, Sacru comments something you don't understand.

[very, very extended combat]

Leafiara says, "I wouldn't even be surprised if these ones are led by Rone. It's mighty convenient that I demand evidence from Rone and it falls right into my lap..."

[combat]

Maags says, "Where he went."

[extended combat]

Leafiara sighs, "And so much for leaving any alive..."

[very, very, very extended combat]

The ghostly voice of Iskandr says, "Oh, that's the luck I get for taking the diamond."

Leafiara slowly asks, "Did all of *you* become Rone when I wasn't looking? Executing justice yourselves?"

Shinann asks, "Did they hit the ship?"

Thrassus says, "I did not notice them fire."

Roelon deeply says, "Ah could nae see if they did."

Speaking in Guildspeak, Kiwoeachi says something you don't understand.

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Mother, where are you? Your Rooks have gotten up to defying the mission statement you once publicly gave."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Namely no longer bleeding our own to protect our own."

(OOC) Leafiara's player whispers to the group, "Kenstrom has to reboot. Fun pause..."

(OOC) Pietra's player whispers to the group, "WOO! I mean. Awww."

The voice of Straz monotonously asks, "Do we need to get back to the ships?"

Speaking deeply to Pukk, Myharl says, "Thanks, I had part of a robed figure's guts on my armor."

Randosa melodically asks, "Think it is safe here?"

[General] Ardwen exclaims, "Stop killing people Maags!"

Pukk exclaims, "Where is Bbee and his pills when we need him!"

[General] Maags exclaims, "Yous are not around to practice on!"

Speaking to Kobane, Pukk asks, "Is that the pill that lightens weight?"

Leafiara asks, "Alright, a moment to breathe... they're somehow managing to cart entire pylons around, but--where from?"

Shinann asks, "Outpost?"

[General] Ardwen thinks, "I am killing bandits across the ocean."

Thrassus asks, "Wasn't there one stationed here before?"

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara says, "Possibly... we'll have to check the normal locations of the pylons and see if anything's amiss."

Shinann says, "No."

[General] Nektarius thinks, "My Bonney went over the ocean."

Thrassus says, "Well, that's disconcerting."

Speaking in Guildspeak, Kiwoeachi says something you don't understand.

Shinann says, "Not located here."

Shinann says, "I will check them."

Shinann just climbed down a modwir wood ladder that descends through a square opening in the slate-covered roof.

Leafiara says, "We've had pylons on roofs, but not this roof to my knowledge."

Leafiara says, "Moot Hall roof was one."

Thrassus says, "Seems the Rooks have been planning for something bigger than just smuggling then."

Chandrellia softly says, "There is one at the north docks."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Right, and we saw it there, so that one wasn't taken at least."

Pietra whispers something to Pukk.

Speaking to Kobane, Maelkyth exclaims, "Did you just hex her?!"

Pukk whispers something to Pietra.

Speaking quietly to Maelkyth, Kobane says, "Jes' unstun in m'gloves."

Guarrin says, "The Rooks opening fire upon ships entering the bay establishes a dangerous reputation for all future trade."

Speaking to Kobane, Maelkyth says, "Seems a likely cover."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pietra exclaims, "You are a cake bringing angel!"

Speaking quietly to Maelkyth, Kobane says, "Ah'm nah ah sorcerer."

Speaking to a jungle samoyed, Iskandr says, "Hey, don't growl at Pietra."

Speaking softly to Pietra, Chandrellia says, "Ran off just to get that for you."

Speaking to Kobane, Maelkyth asks, "Yes?"

Speaking to Pietra, Pukk says, "You're Welcome."


Black Sands Battle

The second ship begins to change course, gliding through the waters and heading towards the Black Sands, further from town.

Speaking quietly to Maelkyth, Kobane says, "Feel free t'inspect them, they're quite safe."

Speaking softly to Stellarra, Chandrellia says, "No hon I am set thank you."

[General] Loamian thinks, "Amos, I have what items I could collect that were left behind by the looters."

Leafiara asks, "It doesn't add up. Why throw their lives away just to attack this ship?"

Maelkyth says, "We shoulda brought the cart."

Nektarius asks, "Now can we go to the bar?"

Thrassus asks, "Defensive manuvers?"

Chandrellia softly says, "To do exactly what they just did."

Maelkyth says, "Ahhh."

Leafiara says, "We might need to split up."

Guarrin says, "It seems. Perhaps we should meet them upon the beach."

Sacru says, "Diversion perhaps."

Shinann says, "Both of ours are there."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Make port further down where we can't inspect it."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "No, not split up!"

Leafiara says, "Some keep an eye on this spot and others move to the Black Sands."

Cryheart says, "Headed to the north sands."

Chandrellia softly asks, "Think we should have a group at the docks?"

Speaking to Shinann, Maags says, "Where yous wants me."

Shinann says, "I did not see any on the top of Moot Hall, but we only have two and I found them both."

Speaking to Kobane, Maelkyth says, "Interesting cut."

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk exclaims, "It was all Pietra's fault! I didn't do it! I was tricked! I'm innocent! I didn't mean to!"

Speaking to Cryheart, Leafiara asks, "Are you moving to the beach or remaining here?"

Speaking quietly to Maelkyth, Kobane says, "Picked them up at Caligos last year."

Cryheart says, "Make me leader."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Pietra says, "That was good. Small."

Cryheart says, "I thought ye were staying."

Leafiara says, "I am."

Sir Cryheart's group just climbed down a modwir wood ladder that descends through a square opening in the slate-covered roof.

Leafiara says, "Give a shout if I'm needed--"

[River Tower East, Roof]

A small, roofed structure provides some weather protection on the open top level of the guard tower. The view north across the bay affords a valuable vantage point, looking out towards the island of Glaoveln, home port of the warlike Ice Krolvin. To the west and south, the blue rivers and rocky slopes of the Lower Trollfang region provide a breathtaking vista. You also see an opal studded jet black bandana, an augmented breastplate, a wooden shield, a broadsword, a chain hauberk, a wooden shield, some light leather, a wooden shield, a broadsword, some cuirbouilli leather, a wooden shield, a mace, some double leather, a hooded cloak, a reinforced shield, a short sword, some full leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a morning star, a dagger, a leather breastplate, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a falchion, some cuirbouilli leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a rapier, some reinforced leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a flail, a wooden shield, a wooden shield, a reinforced shield, a leather breastplate, a broadsword, a ruched blue tabard, some cuirbouilli leather, a hooded cloak, a broadsword, an augmented breastplate, a hooded cloak, a broadsword, some studded leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a dagger, some studded leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a flail, some cuirbouilli leather, a hooded cloak, a reinforced shield, a short sword, some cuirbouilli leather, a wooden shield, a short sword, a stale orange tart, a jungle samoyed, a glowing blue-white pylon, some polished steps, a modwir wood ladder that descends through a square opening in the slate-covered roof and an iron banded barrel.

Also here: the body of Rawdune who is lying down, the body of Lord Guyamon who is lying down, Mayor Leafiara

Leafiara amusedly says, "Grand, alone."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Sir Cryheart and all, just give a shout if more help is needed. I'll continue watching this spot."

[General] Chandrellia asks, "Leafi do you all have a healer in your group?"

[General] Leafiara thinks, "None needed. It's calm here."

Leafiara musingly says, "Maybe I should... keep an eye out regardless."

[General] Nagrad thinks, "Famous last words."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Ok if it starts up someone will be there."

[elsewhere...]

[The Black Sands]

A rough stone pillar rises up out of the surf. Hundreds of black-shelled mussels cling to its sides, black bumps nestled in the wiry strands that connect them to the rock. The mussels are splotched with white, droppings from the sea birds who now sleep soundly in their nests. You notice a patch of rock spotted with connecting fibers, but lacking in mussels. It looks like someone has been out recently harvesting their dinner. You also see the Sareyna disk, a silver-tipped smoke grey wolf, a dour badland spirit that is flying around, a very short marbled grey grik'pwal, a sullen badland spirit that is flying around, an erratic aurora spirit that is flying around and an expressive tree spirit that is flying around.

Also here: Myasarie, Maags, Shinann, Lady in Waiting Chandrellia, Nektarius, Lord Asben, Kiwoeachi, Berost, Horsewoman Ketsimney, Felita, Falvicar, Stellarra, Bernadette, Yakushi, Xayd, Pietra, Sareyna, Xorus, Rasson, Sacru, Luminary Berkana, Grauph, Lord Crime, Draccor, Roelon, Conquerer of Reim Iskandr, High Lord Kobane, Maelkyth, Guarrin, Pukk, Sir Cryheart

[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 a handaxe, a green-eyed grey and white kitten, a poofy piebald flop-eared kitten, the Kippe disk, an amber-eyed tawny range wolf, the Sareyna disk, a dour badland spirit that is flying around, a jungle samoyed, a silver-tipped smoke grey wolf, a very short marbled grey grik'pwal, a sullen badland spirit that is flying around, an erratic aurora spirit that is flying around, an expressive tree spirit that is flying around, a greater kappa that appears dead, a tall wooden archery tower and the waters of Darkstone Bay.

Also here: Kippe, Myasarie, Maags, Shinann, Lady in Waiting Chandrellia, Nektarius, Lord Asben, Kiwoeachi, Berost, Horsewoman Ketsimney, Felita, Falvicar, Stellarra, Bernadette, Yakushi, Xayd, Pietra, Sareyna, Xorus, Rasson, Sacru, Luminary Berkana, Grauph, Lord Crime, Draccor, Roelon, Conquerer of Reim Iskandr, High Lord Kobane, Maelkyth, Guarrin, Pukk, Sir Cryheart, Lord Thrassus

Maelkyth asks, "Why hold?"

Speaking to Maelkyth, Pietra says, "There's a ship stalking us."

Cryheart says, "Ship is moving in our direction."

Maelkyth says, "We could charge on blindly and with great enthusiasm, though."

Speaking to a greater kappa, Maags says, "Run."

Speaking to Maelkyth, Pietra exclaims, "Well that's not new and fun!"

Leafiara says, "No trouble at the beach just yet."

A large grey-blue ship sails up to the shoreline. Crew members can be seen on deck, but they hold their position.

Speaking to Pietra, Maelkyth says, "But sometimes pans out differently... even interestingly, maybe."

Some sand by your feet begins to shift.

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Traps!"

Asben says, "Uh."

Leafiara says, "Alright, the ship has arrived safely... I'll see to it."

Suddenly, from beneath the sand, dozens of hooded figures leap up and strike!

Speaking to Asben, Maelkyth says, "Probably just sand gophers."

Iskandr says, "Great."

Nektarius says, "Bring it."

[General] Leafiara asks, "What's with that shaking ground out there?"

Cryheart says, "They are attacking the crew."

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure ambles in.

A grey-beaked dark hooded figure just arrived!

[combat]

[General] Guarrin thinks, "Rooks."

[combat]

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Contact."

[extended combat]

Rawdune says, "Bad."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I don't think they're capable of causing quakes."

[combat]

[General] Pietra thinks, "They came up from the sand like little crabs with beaks and robes."

[combat]

[General] Guarrin thinks, "Rook ambush on the beach."

[combat]

[General] Pietra thinks, "Pretty clever, ya ask me."

[combat]

[General] Thrassus thinks, "They were lying in wait for the ship."

Nektarius says, "Poor kappas."

[General] Nagrad thinks, "Little sappers."

A black arrow flies out of the shadows and strikes a crew member on the ship in the throat!

[General] Leafiara thinks, "...ah, now that makes more sense."

Guarrin says, "Bah."

[General] Chandrellia thinks, "Like they knew it was going to be here."

Maags says, "Told them to run away."

[extended combat; at some point Leafi fogs over]

[General] Thrassus thinks, "Now they are firing arrows upon the ship."

Speaking surreptitiously to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "That's an interesting point..."

[General] Pietra thinks, "They were probably following US. Because obvious ploy."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Though... there are only so many places to land, regardless."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "I'm tellng you Mayor it's why they attacked this ship to force it there, what they want is in this ship."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Maybe it's that krolvin warlord again."

Speaking wryly to Pietra, Leafiara says, "No, we ended him real good."

[extended combat]

Shinann says, "Oh."

Maelkyth exclaims, "Nuggets!"

Berost deeply asks, "These Rooks or other or somethin I not be knowin?"

Berost deeply says, "I kint keep track."

Leafiara says, "They appear to be Rooks, yes."

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Berost deeply says, "Damned fools ..."

[very, very, very extended combat]

Draught says, "Hmm."

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Iskandr asks, "Any plan?"

Pukk says, "You're not in our group."

Speaking to Iskandr, Maelkyth exclaims, "Press on boldy with much enthusiasm!"

Crime darkly exclaims, "Leave no Kappa alive!"

Xayd says, "Don't die and find whoevers paying me in lemon baked goods."

[combat]

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Mother, this is absurd. If these attacks aren't under your orders, then tell us what's happening within your Brotherhood--but if they are under your orders, we can't allow this. Pull back before you lose your entire organization without reason."

[very extended combat]

A small crimson glass orb rolls in from the shadows.

[combat]

[General] Thrassus thinks, "I would say this tonight is reason enough."

The voice of Pietra says, "Oooh a bomb."

The voice of Pietra says, "I repeat, there's a crimson orb."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "She's getting nowhere for no goal, if this is really her doing."

[General] Pukk exclaims, "Yeah! What she thought!"

Shinann asks, "Where?"

The voice of Pietra says, "I saw it roll in."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "All this to stop one ship? The losses far outweigh the gains."

The voice of Pietra says, "I pay attention, unless there's cake."

[combat]

Roelon deeply says, "Aye, ah saw it. But dinnae know where it ent."

[extended combat]

A small crimson glass orb rolls in from the shadows.

A brilliant crimson light shines out of the crimson glass orb.

The voice of Pietra says, "It's probably sitting there."

[General] Wolfloner thinks, "Greetings."

The crimson glass orb suddenly explodes, tiny shards of glass scattering as a ring of crimson flames bursts forth, rippling out in every direction!

A current of crimson fire causes terrible pain!

... 36 points of damage!

Right eye catches fire, quickly bringing Maags's brain to a boil.

Maags drops dead at your feet!

[various other people hurt; only showing deaths]

A current of crimson fire causes terrible pain!

... 60 points of damage!

Flames engulf body. Chest left a smoldering ruin.

Stellarra drops dead at your feet!

A current of crimson fire causes terrible pain!

... 70 points of damage!

Flame burns through Kippe's abdomen. Greasy smoke billows forth.

Kippe drops dead at your feet!

The blast forces Felita out of hiding!

A current of crimson fire causes terrible pain!

... 33 points of damage!

Felita takes a breath of super-heated air and expires gasping.

Felita drops dead at your feet!

A current of crimson fire causes terrible pain!

... 58 points of damage!

Flames engulf body. Chest left a smoldering ruin.

Roelon drops dead at your feet!

A current of crimson fire causes terrible pain!

... 70 points of damage!

Fire completely surrounds Maelkyth. Blood boils and heart stops.

Maelkyth drops dead at your feet!

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I can't make any sense of it and her silence is either baffling, suspicious, or both."

Pukk exclaims, "Ouch!"

The ghostly voice of Maags says, "Well then."

Ketsimney says, "Ouch."

Falvicar quietly says, "Oof."

Sacru says, "Yes, probably just sitting there."

Pukk exclaims, "Maags down! We have a Maags down emergency!"

Grauph says, "Hm."

Speaking to Sacru, Pietra says, "They have some sort of time thing."

The ghostly voice of Roelon deeply says, "Ouch."

Berkana says, "Ow."

Cryheart says, "Ouch."

[General] Loamian asks, "Perhaps there is a coup within her organization?"

Speaking to Sareyna, Nektarius says, "Appear to have lost it."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "I think that's entirely possible."

Pukk exclaims, "It's those kappas! They are killing us!"

The ghostly voice of Roelon deeply says, "Well. There went that orb."

The ghostly voice of Maelkyth exclaims, "So, did we win?!"


Rone's Maneuvers

Some dark hooded figures move along rooftops in town, heading towards the north gates.

Pukk exclaims, "You did!"

[General] Leafiara thinks, "In fact... right now it occurs to me that there were rumors of Octaven's coffin being taken, and I've seen no sign of Mother in weeks."

[General] Loamian thinks, "Hooded figures heading towards north gate."

Speaking to Pietra, Sacru says, "Curious."

Guarrin asks, "North gate?"

Grauph says, "What happened...."

[General] Guyamon thinks, "Just saw Myharl come thru the roof where we first encountered those hooded figures."

Thrassus says, "Best split into two groups."

Iskandr says, "Well, survived that round better than I thought I would."

Speaking to Grauph, Pukk says, "Somebody passed gas."

Cryheart says, "Some of ye head to the north gate if ye want."

Speaking to Sacru, Pietra asks, "Weren't you on fire last night?"

Cryheart says, "Staying to protect some here."

On a rooftop near the gate, a white cloaked figure suddenly emerges in the midst of the Rooks. Rone swings about in a blur, arms flying, air rippling as the dark hooded figures fly about around Rone, tossed to and fro from the rooftops.

Leafiara asks, "Can someone taken the fallen while the rest move to the gates?"

Speaking to Grauph, Pukk says, "Silent but deadly."

Cryheart says, "Rone."

[General] Wolfloner thinks, "Rooks, Crooks, nursery Rhyme books."

Leafiara absently says, "Well, that's the first time we've *actually* seen Rone and the Rooks in conflict."

The ghostly voice of Felita says, "Oh dernits."

Thrassus says, "No, there have been others."

Speaking to Felita, Pukk says, "I always told you that you were drop dead pretty."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Rone, don't even start with this. Your vigilantism is coming to an end too."

Thrassus says, "That brawl at the docks some weeks ago, for one."

Chamorr heartily says, "Oh no."

Falvicar quietly says, "I can hold the gate if ye want."

[fogging back to the gate]

[Wehnimer's, Land's End Rd.]

Vigilant night guardsmen scrutinize the citizens and travelers arriving and departing through the wide gates spanning the land route into Wehnimer's Landing. The cluttered streets of the city to the south are a far cry from the deceptively calm expanse of the wilds of Elanith outside. Two daunting towers survey the countryside and protect the town, flanking the road to the east and west. You also see a jungle samoyed, a ragged earred wolf, the Sareyna disk, an expressive tree spirit that is flying around, the Myharl disk, the Draught disk, the vivid crimson Darkkstormmer disk etched with a gold-traced wyvern, a sturdy wooden table, a large wooden barrel and the town gates.

Cryheart says, "Errr."

Draccor darkly says, "Rude fire attacks."

Leafiara says, "Gate."

Chamorr heartily says, "Ya left the dead."

[General] Ardwen asks, "Rone? Isn't he like dead?"

Guarrin asks, "Did we leave the dead?"

Chandrellia softly asks, "Who?"

Cryheart says, "Aye...we left the dead."

[General] Nagrad thinks, "Apparently not."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "This is our third Rone."

Some dark hooded figures rush towards the black sands.

Pukk says, "That was a symbol of bravery. Staying behind to hold off the enemy so that a group can press on to save the town."

Xayd says, "Perhaps we should go back for them."

[travel]

Draught says, "They're heading back."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "...well, fourth counting the original founder."

Guarrin says, "Amusing. Get back out there."

[General] Loamian thinks, "The figures are headed towards the black sands."

[General] Pietra thinks, "I can't wait until the seventh Rone, he's going to have cake I just know it."

Leafiara says, "As I said earlier, we'll need to split up."

[General] Ardwen asks, "Rone the IVth?"

Leafiara says, "I'll watch the gates."

[The Black Sands]

Waves roll up onto the dull black beach, the seafoam tracing lacy patterns against the dark background. Flies buzz among the rotting seaweed, rising up in swarms as you pass. To the northwest, a pillar of rock rises out of the water. You also see a handaxe, a handaxe and a tall wooden archery tower.

Also here: Draught, Horsewoman Ketsimney, Pukk, Goldstr, Grauph, Lord Chamorr, Xorus, Lord Thrassus, Berost, Sacru, Lord Darkkstormmer, Kiwoeachi, Myasarie, Shinann, Nektarius, Bernadette, Yakushi, Xayd, Pietra, Sareyna, Rasson, Luminary Berkana, Lord Crime, Draccor, Conquerer of Reim Iskandr, Guarrin, Grand Lord Myharl, Sir Cryheart

[combat over there; travel on Leafi's end]

[General] Scarswyrth asks, "Is that the guy that founded Wehnimer's?"

[combat]

[General] Gailiet thinks, "Yes."

[combat]

[General] Leafiara thinks, "The original one, yes--maybe a topic for another night."

[Wehnimer's, Outside Gate]

Citizens, merchants and assorted dregs of society jostle against you before the great wooden gates of Wehnimer's Landing. Harried guards and militiamen try to keep the chaos to a minimum, but it is hard to keep track of those entering, let alone leaving, this large trading post. A dirt path encircling the wooden palisade of the town leads east and southwest. Nailed prominently to the wooden wall beside the gate is a sign you really should read. You also see the Wayside inn.

Also here: Mayor Leafiara, Lord Asben, Falvicar

Guarrin says, "More to the west."

[combat at the beach]

[General] Scarswyrth thinks, "Old dude."

Leafiara suspiciously asks, "Is all calm here?"

Asben says, "Aye."

Falvicar quietly says, "It is now."

Falvicar quietly says, "I'm holding the fort."

Bernadette softly says, "Sands is bad agin."

Leafiara asks, "Was there an attack?"

Asben says, "Nah."

[General] The ghost of Chandrellia thinks, "Rooks at the ship."

Asben says, "I didn't see one."

Falvicar quietly says, "They are now at the black sands."

[combat at the beach]

Asben says, "They're at the sands."

Leafiara says, "Yes, I just came from there--they have a large group."

Some dark hooded figures appear again at the River East Tower and form around the blue-white pylon and begin to tilt it, taking aim at the Black Sands. Suddenly Rone rises up behind them and attacks, elbows flying, air rippling, skulls cracking as Rone dispatches the Rooks.

[General] Corrig thinks, "Dwi wants number leben, you know."

Xayd asks, "East tower again?"

Draught exclaims, "Move!"

Cryheart says, "They hae us running around."

[combat at the beach]

Thrassus says, "Rone's being useful for once."

Shinann says, "Oops."

Draught says, "That was close."

Cryheart says, "Ok..stop fogging us."

Cryheart says, "We need to separate."

Draught says, "They were aiming a pylon at us."

[meanwhile, Leaf's over there...]

[River Tower East, Roof]

A small, roofed structure provides some weather protection on the open top level of the guard tower. The view north across the bay affords a valuable vantage point, looking out towards the island of Glaoveln, home port of the warlike Ice Krolvin. To the west and south, the blue rivers and rocky slopes of the Lower Trollfang region provide a breathtaking vista. You also see an augmented breastplate, a wooden shield, a broadsword, a chain hauberk, a wooden shield, some light leather, a wooden shield, a broadsword, some cuirbouilli leather, a wooden shield, a mace, some double leather, a hooded cloak, a reinforced shield, a short sword, some full leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a morning star, a dagger, a leather breastplate, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a falchion, some cuirbouilli leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a rapier, some reinforced leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a flail, a wooden shield, a wooden shield, a reinforced shield, a leather breastplate, a broadsword, a ruched blue tabard, some cuirbouilli leather, a hooded cloak, a broadsword, an augmented breastplate, a hooded cloak, a broadsword, some studded leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a dagger, some studded leather, a hooded cloak, a wooden shield, a flail, some cuirbouilli leather, a hooded cloak, a reinforced shield, a short sword, some cuirbouilli leather, a wooden shield, a short sword, a stale orange tart, a glowing blue-white pylon, some polished steps, a modwir wood ladder that descends through a square opening in the slate-covered roof and an iron banded barrel.

Also here: Mayor Leafiara, Asben, Lord Guyamon

[General] Grimhorn asks, "Are the rooks good guys?"

Pukk says, "Are in town."

Shinann says, "That was me and I am sorry."

Cryheart says, "Some of ye head to river tower."

[General] Amos thinks, "...there are bodies here."

Leafiara slowly says, "Well, I guess she quickly solved the problem here."

Draught asks, "Who is headed there?"

[General] The ghost of Chandrellia thinks, "One time sort of, now, no."

[General] Leafiara asks, "Where?"

Pietra says, "Amos is... somewhere."

Guyamon says, "Haven't seen anyone besides Myharl."

[General] Thrassus thinks, "Most assuredly not."

Draught says, "We have to stop that pylon."

Cryheart says, "I am going back to the Black Sands."

[General] Shinann thinks, "I am sorry... was trying to get back here."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Gate clear, River Tower clear."

Guyamon says, "Been keeping watch."

Asben says, "Gate."

[General] Amos thinks, "The beach."

Guarrin says, "I guess I'll just do it."

[General] Leafiara thinks, "Sir Cryheart, you're moving to the beach?"

[General] The ghost of Chandrellia thinks, "Amos is here with us on the Beach Mayor."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I like following you better. Better view."

Amos says, "Unnecessary conflict." [over at the beach]

[General] Leafiara thinks, "All seems clear around town.... on my way."

Guarrin asks, "All clear?"

Speaking to Amos, Thrassus says, "Tell that to the Rooks."

Rawdune says, "You've just been serviced by rescue ranger."

Speaking to Pietra, Iskandr says, "I was raiding ice cold beer from the Paupers wagon when I heard about the docks."

Draught says, "Chest here."

Amos twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.


Amos' Hammers

[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 a greater kappa, a greater kappa, a ragged earred wolf, a handaxe, a handaxe, the Draught disk, the Sareyna disk, the vivid crimson Darkkstormmer disk etched with a gold-traced wyvern, a jungle samoyed, a silver-tipped smoke grey wolf, an expressive tree spirit that is flying around, a very short marbled grey grik'pwal, a great white wolf, a black handaxe, a black handaxe, a black handaxe, a handaxe, a black handaxe, a dour badland spirit that is flying around, a large grey-blue ship, a tall wooden archery tower and the waters of Darkstone Bay.

Also here: the body of Stellarra who is lying down, Goldstr, Kiwoeachi, Lord Darkkstormmer, Sacru, Berost, Lord Thrassus, Xorus, Lord Chamorr, Horsewoman Ketsimney, Draught, Myasarie, Nektarius, Bernadette, Yakushi, Xayd, Pietra, Sareyna, Rasson, Luminary Berkana, Lord Crime, Draccor, Conquerer of Reim Iskandr, Grauph, Sir Cryheart, Lord Amos, the body of Maelkyth who is lying down

Asben, Pukk and Guarrin followed.

[General] Cryheart thinks, "If you are not having difficulty elsewhere...Amos at the Black Sands."

Draught asks, "Are they not being fogged out?"

Amos nods to the crew members on the deck.

Guarrin nods in greeting at Amos.

Maags exclaims, "Tries this again!"

Amos nods at Guarrin.

Amos bows to Guarrin.

Leafiara slowly says, "Well."

Speaking to Amos, Pietra says, "You're probably going to be missing some things."

Speaking in Giantman, Amos says something you don't understand.

Amos nods at Pietra.

Amos says, "I heard."

Speaking to Amos, Leafiara says, "Thadston went a bit wild on your vases as well--it'll come out of his pay."

Speaking in Giantman to Amos, Guarrin says something you don't understand.

Speaking heartily to Amos, Chamorr says, "That was fun."

Speaking to Amos, Loamian says, "I apologize for Thadston and other townspeople, I have some of your belongings that were left behind."

Draught says, "You may want to run an inventory."

Thrassus says, "Thadston and others."

Speaking to Leafiara, Iskandr says, "I broke a few too, but they had fun things inside them. You can ring me up at the Hall."

Amos says, "The Marshal has so very little left. I do not need his silvers."

Speaking heartily to Loamian, Chamorr says, "Don't apolgize fer me."

Speaking sadly to Amos, Leafiara says, "Well--I can't even argue it."

Sareyna offers Amos a wide-lipped glass vase.

Speaking to Leafiara, Iskandr says, "And when I say a few I mean like ten...."

Speaking to Amos, Guarrin admits, "Fair point."

Amos accepts Sareyna's glass vase.

Loamian offers Amos a scratched ora barrette.

(OOC) Shinann's player whispers to the group, "So sorry for fogging... oops."

Amos tucks a wide-lipped glass vase into a weathered black leather pocket inside of his bear hide greatcloak.

Speaking to Leafiara, Iskandr says, "Maybe more...."

Amos accepts Loamian's ora barrette.

(OOC) Guarrin's player whispers to the group, "Heh no worries, it happens."

Leafiara offers Amos a blue crystal vase.

Amos tucks a scratched ora barrette into a weathered black leather pocket inside of his bear hide greatcloak.

Amos has accepted your offer and is now holding a large blue crystal vase.

Loamian offers Amos a scratched silver wand.

Amos tucks a large blue crystal vase into a weathered black leather pocket inside of his bear hide greatcloak.

Amos accepts Loamian's silver wand.

(OOC) Bernadette's player whispers to the group, "It happens.."

Speaking to Amos, Leafiara asks, "In any case, ah--which ship is this one here?"

Xayd asks, "That everyone?"

Amos tucks a scratched silver wand into a weathered black leather pocket inside of his bear hide greatcloak.

Amos says, "The one I am most interested in."

(OOC) Cryheart's player whispers to the group, "Group is ok...we managed."

Leafiara nods at Amos.

Speaking to Amos, Leafiara admits, "We figured, after the first one was so... benign."

(OOC) Shinann's player whispers to the group, "Thank you.. back to the show!"

'Thrassus says, "That must be why the Rooks were trying to blast it out of the water."

Some crew members step down from the ship, carrying a huge trunk.

Amos shrugs at Thrassus.

Arshwikk says, "Oooo."

Arshwikk says, "Treasure."

Amos says, "The Brotherhood feels I should pay them for my ships that come and go."

Leafiara acknowledges, "Going to take a wild guess that's not the ogres."

Pietra asks, "Well what's in that one?"

Pukk asks, "Distraction?"

Kiwoeachi says, "Scary times."

Amos says, "I declined their offer."

Thrassus nods at Amos.

Nektarius says, "So... that's that."

Pietra exclaims, "Tall gorgeous men? Sure!"

Speaking to Amos, Goldstr asks, "So dese gifts gonna buy us off?"

Asben whispers something to Pietra.

Draught says, "Then you know the price you must pay."

Pietra whispers something to Asben.

Draught says, "Or rather the price your hirelings will pay."

Arshwikk says, "Whenever you see a box with runes, always cast a lightning bolt at it."

Asben whispers something to Pietra.

Xayd says, "I need a gift of lemon baked goods."

Amos stands in front of a huge rune-covered trunk.

Amos slowly empties his lungs.

Speaking to Arshwikk, Pietra says, "Make sure you're doing it in a large group of people too."

Speaking to Sareyna, Nektarius says, "I'm like a bad penny."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "It doesn't have any locks on the trunk either."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "There is nothing in it...so it's a open trunk with no locks..."

Loamian whispers to the group, "Does anyone have an extra large sack that they can part with?"

Goldstr exclaims, "Ware gifts from strangers me friends!"

Pietra whispers something to Iskandr.

Amos reaches beneath the neck of his leathers and pulls out a thin necklace with a runic key dangling from it. He wiggles the key free and places it into the palm of one of his gauntlets, turning it slightly to fit inside a small notch within the palm's metal. It flashes with a soft glow. Amos leans forward and places his hand on the trunk.

Xayd whispers to the group, "I might have something."

Sacru asks, "So, what... was... in the trunk?"

Darkkstormmer whispers to the group, "You can just put them in mine lol."

Speaking to Sacru, Pietra says, "He's gotta open it."

Amos turns his hand again and steps back. He replaces the key to his necklace. The lid of the trunk slowly opens and emits a faint mist of steam.

Amos stands in front of a huge rune-covered trunk.

Pietra whispers something to Pukk.

Chandrellia softly asks, "Can we have Pukk check for hidden compartments?"

Amos leans forward into the depths of the trunk with both hands and a moment later lifts up two huge rune-etched blue steel hammers. Archaic carvings have been etched deeply into their metal. The light of the moon almost glimmers off of them.

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kiwoeachi says, "Love your cute accent."

Myasarie quietly asks, "Is he qualified enough to do so?"

Draught says, "Oh."

Speaking musingly to Amos, Leafiara says, "Nice weapons there."

Thrassus says, "Splendid weapons, those."

Speaking to Amos, Asben says, "Those are nice lookin hammers."

Speaking to Amos, Iskandr asks, "All the hammers and no nails, huh?"

Speaking softly to Amos, Chandrellia asks, "What do they do?"

Cryheart says, "Interesting."

Amos hoists both hammers in his hands, tightening his fingers around the grips. He tilts them in his hands.

Kiwoeachi exclaims, "Ready for action!"

Amos flashes a wide grin.

Amos says, "It has taken me some time to acquire these."

Arshwikk says, "Seems like a really inconvenient scabbard to house yer weapons in."

Speaking to Amos, Thrassus asks, "Do they have names?"

Iskandr asks, "All this for some warhammers to put on your bar's fireplace mantle?"

Shinann asks, "Do they have a name?"

[General] Pietra thinks, "Amos has two rune etched hammers and he's pretty excited about it. In a very monotonous way."

Speaking to Amos, Rasson says, "Guessing not really nice forging hammers."

Amos says, "They did."

Speaking quietly to Amos, Myasarie asks, "And now that thee has what will be done with them?"

Speaking to Amos, Guarrin says, "They appear to be well made."

Draught says, "Very nice."

Speaking softly to Amos, Chandrellia says, "What magic is betowed on them is what I want to know, if these are what the Rooks are looking for they must be powerful."

Chamorr heartily says, "Abbott an Costello."

Speaking darkly to Amos, Draccor says, "I'll hold them for safe keeping."

Leafiara acknowledges, "I have to admit, for weapons like that I would have just traveled to get them myself and taken no risks."

Speaking to Draccor, Asben says, "And you can loan one to me to kill stuffs."

Amos says, "I will forge new names for them, in time. When they speak to me."

Cryheart asks, "Thunder and lightning?"

Chamorr heartily says, "Mutt an jeff."

'Amos says, "The ship brings more than just these...."

Amos nods to the crew members.

Speaking to Amos, Thrassus asks, "Oh?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Sareyna asks, "Very very frightening?"


Four-Armed Ogres

Amos says, "My next hunt."

Myharl deeply says, "Fancy hammers aren't so hard to come by."

Draccor darkly says, "Lefty and righty."

Speaking to Amos, Pietra exclaims, "Oh tell us, tell us!"

Thrassus says, "Ah."

Arshwikk asks, "Ya bring the ogres?"

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Leafiara admits, "Yeah, we've been pretty curious to see what's so special about these."

Some crew members arrive at the edge of the deck and roll out a pair of huge mithril-barred cages.

Arshwikk says, "The weapons look tame, let's see the fancy ogres."

Goldstr says, "Bah."

Asben whispers something to Pietra.

Goldstr says, "Cages."

Crime darkly exclaims, "Get in!"

Goldstr says, "Figures."

Speaking quietly to Crime, Myasarie says, "Careful our m'lord might find himself in one of those cages."

Crime darkly exclaims, "Out here we are free, nowhere to go! In the cage we can break out! I have lots of experience in this matter!"

Goldstr says, "May happens sooner den ye tinks."

Speaking to Sareyna, Kiwoeachi asks, "You been eating metal?"

Speaking to Crime, Sacru says, "Wise words."

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Sareyna says, "Sometimes kiki ..a girl needs iron in her diet."

Speaking softly to Amos, Chandrellia asks, "So that is all that was on that ship?"

Speaking to Amos, Thrassus asks, "When do you plan on holding this hunt?"

Speaking to Sareyna, Kiwoeachi exclaims, "Gotta keep up with nutrition! How right you are!"

Speaking to Sareyna, Kiwoeachi says, "Unfortunately, All I eat are Maags' sweets, and Elphi's ice cream."

The cages come closer to the edge of the ship and the moonlight from above shines on the monstrosities within. Each ogre is crouched over, but given their size they appear as if they are nearly twice the size of a giantman if fully upright. Their eyes glow like sallow torches and as they shift in their alloy chains you notice they have four arms, not two. Runic scars cover their bare chests and razor sharp shards of bone protrude from their arms like giant blades.

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Sareyna says, "Remember kiki i gave pie."

Sacru whispers something to Pietra.

Speaking to Sareyna, Kiwoeachi exclaims, "Mmmm yes I do remember!"

Draught says, "Those are big ogres."

Leafiara musingly says, "Hmm, haven't seen ones quite like that before."

Speaking to Amos, Thrassus asks, "Where did you find these?"

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Bernadette softly says, "Ems is bigguns."

Speaking to Amos, Guarrin says, "...where.."

Speaking to Sareyna, Kiwoeachi says, "Surrounded by lovely food people."

Amos says, "The Lords of Jantalar fancy themselves a wide variety of challenges."

Shinann asks, "Who did that to them?"


Iskandr asks, "So maybe I missed something. What are these ogres for?"

Speaking to Amos, Loamian says, "Please tell me they are not a breeding pair."

Draccor darkly asks, "Food people?"

Chandrellia softly says, "I almost feel sorry for them."

Amos says, "Perhaps from the Bleaklands, perhaps the Waste, perhaps beyond the Demonwall..."

Amos says, "Perhaps a basement in Nyrrds."

Amos smirks.

Roelon deeply says, "Nae natural ogres ye would find in the wild..."

Leafiara muses, "Maybe a gnome named Callid."

Amos says, "One cannot say, nor does one ask."

Speaking to Amos, Arshwikk says, "I think we need to test the quarry, make sure it's worthy of your effort."

Speaking to Amos, Sareyna asks, "Exactly why again do you hunt these ogres?"

Thrassus says, "I don't think these are Callid's work."

Amos says, "I enjoy the hunt."

Speaking to Thrassus, Guarrin says, "That is who I was thinking of."

Amos nods at Sareyna.

Thrassus says, "They don't looks sewn together."

Chandrellia softly muses, "And he was chosen to be one selected to have any seat on the council?"

Leafiara says, "Maybe he improved on his craft. Never know."

Speaking to Amos, Asben asks, "By hunt... do you mean to release them?"

Arshwikk says, "Make sure ya poke em with a stick before ya let em out...get em good and riled up."

Speaking to Amos, Leafiara asks, "Do you have a location in mind?"

Speaking softly to Asben, Chandrellia says, "Exactly what he means."

The crew of the ship wheel the huge ogres in their cages down the ramp of the ship and they slowly make their way off into the woods near town.

Goldstr exclaims, "He means jess Killin fer Sport!"

Roelon deeply says, "Ah hope far from any town or village..."

Draccor darkly says, "Sounds good to me."

Speaking to Amos, Sareyna says, "I think i told you that Leafiara is quite the umm..magnificent beast...and stealthy."

Speaking heartily to Leafiara, Chamorr says, "This is not a good idea."

Amos says, "I will inform you when I plan for the hunt. I welcome any to join."

Kiwoeachi says, "So that's where the monsters come from."

Loamian offers Amos a wool hooded cloak.

Speaking to Amos, Thrassus says, "Good, I believe I shall."

Amos accepts Loamian's wool hooded cloak.

Amos bows to Loamian.

Loamian nods at Amos.

Draught says, "They are abominations to be sure...but using them for sport is as well."

Speaking to Amos, Leafiara explains, "It's going to need to be far from town for everyone's safety, I'm sure you realize."

Myasarie quietly asks, "Where are those ogres being taken to and what for?"

Speaking softly to herself, Chandrellia says, "Apparently those that paid for this hunting trip aren't skilled enough to do so in the wild and are scared little boys."

Speaking darkly to Kiwoeachi, Draccor says, "There are plenty of monsters here as well."

Cryheart says, "If any citizen gets harmed by those ogres...there will be payment."

Amos begins chuckling at Cryheart!

Amos says, "No citizens will be hurt."

Arshwikk says, "Well that's no fun."

Kiwoeachi says, "That sounds reassuring."

Amos says, "The will remain under lock and key until we prepare for the hunt."

Speaking to Amos, Iskandr says, "I've heard that so many times..."

Myharl deeply says, "Says the guy who keeps them in giant cages so he doesn't get hurt."

Draught says, "Poor brutes."

Loamian says, "These creatures are abominations of nature, the poor things should be released just as the undead."

Speaking heartily to Amos, Chamorr says, "I will pass."

Speaking seriously to Amos, Leafiara reiterates, "Just keep it far from town. Perhaps halfway to Solhaven."

Draught says, "Monstrously large, though."

Amos nods at Leafiara.

Speaking to Leafiara, Iskandr says, "But not East...."

Arshwikk says, "I don't think two is going to be enough."

Speaking to Amos, Thrassus says, "Best watch them carefully, the Rooks would love to let those loose in town I would say."

Kiwoeachi says, "There's that big empty caravansary out there."

Amos says, "They will be far."

Leafiara nods gratefully at Amos.

Speaking darkly to Amos, Draccor says, "Better keep it cold so near Icemule."

Speaking softly to Amos, Chandrellia says, "Unless you want to release them in Illi then that would be ok."

Speaking to Amos, Guarrin asks, "Are the hammers from Jantalar as well?"

Speaking to Leafiara, Rasson says, "The hanging inn could use another remodel."

Amos looks over at Guarrin and shakes his head.

Speaking quietly to Arshwikk, Myasarie asks, "Why?"

Chamorr heartily says, "Jantalar."

Speaking to Amos, Shinann asks, "Where are they from?"

Speaking earnestly to Rasson, Leafiara says, "Trust me, if I could convince the town council of that, I'd do it immediately. I love that place."

Amos says, "The hammers are a tale for another night."

Shinann says, "I see."

Roelon deeply says, "The north will nae like those things near town."

Amos says, "I am tired."

Chamorr heartily says, "More imperial nonsense."

Felita says, "I dun has tales but I has wings."

Amos says, "Thank you for your assistance this evening."

Speaking darkly to Amos, Draccor says, "Throw the hammers down the well, or in my locker."

Speaking to Amos, Goldstr exclaims, "Well I would nae wants a Hunter fer Sport to be a Marshall a my home!"

Speaking softly to Shinann, Chandrellia says, "He won't say or doesn't know, he said and I quote 'I do not know and one does not ask such questions.'"

Speaking quietly to Draccor, Myasarie says, "At least they nae be taking them to the nations."

Xayd says, "Happy to help."

Xayd says, "For lemon confections."

Arshwikk says, "I wish they would."

Speaking to Amos, Guarrin says, "I don't see much sport here, if that is what you seek. I trust you will be quick about it."

Amos peers quizzically at Guarrin.

Speaking to Guarrin, Leafiara says, "They sure look tough to me, if nothing else..."

Amos asks, "What do you mean?"

Amos peers quizzically at Guarrin.

Myasarie quietly asks, "Has the Imperial ever made sense?"

Amos nods at Draccor.

Speaking to Amos, Loamian says, "I apologize for the damage to your goods, please treat the town and the areas around it with better care than we treated your vases."

Speaking to Guarrin, Thrassus says, "He's not going to slay them in the cages."

Amos grins at Loamian.

Speaking to Amos, Guarrin asks, "Two ogres? You intend to release them and hunt them down?"

Amos says, "There are always casualities."

Amos nods at Guarrin.

Kiwoeachi says, "Someday, someone is gonna have to 'splain who this Rone character is."

Speaking to Amos, Iskandr says, "Yes, I was a bit overzealous on the vases."

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Leafiara says, "A vigilante running around catching criminals in the name of justice, using a pair of magic gauntlets."

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Pietra asks, "Do you have about ten years?"

Guarrin says, "I suppose we will see."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Or that."

Loamian says, "If you do release the ogres then I hope your hunt is swift and they are not put through any more tortures than they already have been."

Siggurd says, "Vases had more contents then I expected."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiwoeachi says, "No way, sounds like a fool."

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Leafiara agrees, "Yeah, tell me about it."

Loamian says, "And most of all that they do not escape into the wild."

Amos says, "Not every hunt is as sastifiying as others. But, it cannot stop us."

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Leafiara says, "This is the third of them and for some reason every Rone wages war on the entire criminal world alone."

Amos bows.

Speaking softly to Amos, Chandrellia asks, "What other hunts have you conducted?"

Amos says, "Good evening to you all."

Amos grins at Chandrellia.

Draccor darkly says, "Night."

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Sareyna says, "Well see kiki sometimes when a mommy rone and a daddy rone ...well thats another story indeed."

Speaking to Amos, Leafiara says, "Good eve to you, Lion."

Amos says, "Many. I never stop."

Speaking to Amos, Goldstr asks, "Stop US?"

Speaking to Siggurd, Iskandr says, "That was why, I was checking for illegal things and random items kept appearing, which still perhaps doesn't justify my smashing spree, but I'll try to work in some kind of logic."

Loamian says, "Good evening."

Speaking softly to Amos, Chandrellia says, "Again avoiding questions."

Amos says, "No. I answered. It is unfortunately not to your liking."

Amos grins at Chandrellia.

Amos says, "Many."

Pietra whispers something to Sacru.

Amos grins at Chandrellia.

Speaking quietly to Draccor, Myasarie asks, "Maybe we could entice Lord Amos to hunt Crime?"

Amos smiles.

Amos waves.

Speaking softly to Amos, Chandrellia says, "We trust you within our town but you do not trust us with your truth."

Lord Amos just went east.


Discussion Afterward

Arshwikk says, "Too easy."

Speaking to Loamian, Iskandr says, "I enjoyed the smashing part too much."

Leafiara says, "So..."

Leafiara asks, "Now that he's gone... given that the Steward of the Guilds position has narrowed to just Amos and Stephos, anyone want to make a case one way or the other?"

Speaking darkly to Myasarie, Draccor says, "Crime is harmless."

Leafiara adds, "Other than trying to convince Renpaw to let me delay that while we investigate."

Leafiara says, "Which is what I'll try to do."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pietra says, "Amos has pretty hair."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "I say we try that first."

Cryheart says, "Ok..folks I am headed to town...leave my group if ye intend to stay."

Speaking to Leafiara, Goldstr exclaims, "BOTH BE BAD!"

Bernadette softly says, "The evil we know an the evil we dunno."

Speaking heavily to Goldstr, Leafiara says, "Yeah, I know."

Draught says, "Does Stephos cage...erm...intelligent...creatures to hunt for sport."

Thrassus says, "Well, Stephos has plotted with Krolvin before."

Cryheart says, "Three....."

Speaking to Leafiara, Sareyna says, "Ok fine I'll do it make it easy."

Leafiara says, "Hopefully I can convince Renpaw we don't need this position filled right now, immediately."

Cryheart says, "Two....."

Speaking deeply to Pietra, Roelon says, "It is fake hair. Dinnae let it convince ye."

Cryheart says, "One."

[travel]

Leafiara says, "I can understand why he feels the marshal position is urgent."

Sareyna says, "Eww I get the willies being at Voln." [someone had fogged us there during the travel]

[Town Square, East]

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

Also here: Guarrin, Falvicar, Arshwikk, High Lord Kobane, Lord Asben, Lady in Waiting Chandrellia, Rasson, Loamian, Great Lord Siggurd, Roelon, Conquerer of Reim Wolfloner, Horsewoman Ketsimney, Felita, Nektarius, Rawdune, Goldstr, Kiwoeachi, Sacru, Lord Thrassus, Xorus, Draught, Myasarie, Bernadette, Yakushi, Xayd, Pietra, Sareyna, Draccor, Conquerer of Reim Iskandr, Grauph, Shinann, Sir Cryheart

Goldstr says, "OK Folks Stephos a criminal an smuggler but may nae be as bad as Amos."

Speaking to Goldstr, Leafiara admits, "I know, I can't believe I'm even contemplating it too."

Shinann says, "We do know Stephos is not married to a firefly."

Nektarius says, "Well, good times as always."

Leafiara says, "Alendrial has kept Stephos in check before too."

Kiwoeachi says, "Well, if ever there were a warrior."

Myasarie quietly asks, "Why be it that when asked direct questions so many choose to nae answer them or skirt around the answer?"

Iskandr asks, "Whose great ocelot?"

Leafiara says, "She did have him arrested once."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I was just thinking about something the town could do to fill its coffers."

Speaking to Arshwikk, Pietra says, "Make it a really big stick."

Guarrin asks, "A criminal ..and a smuggler...against someone that hunts ogres?"

Bernadette softly says, "Some choice."

Speaking to Guarrin, Leafiara says, "That's also smuggling, according to the captains."

Speaking to Goldstr, Guarrin says, "And you're going with the criminal."

Speaking to Iskandr, Loamian says, "We are paired."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "We could offer protection to shops, and ships and so forth. We won't call it protection money or any such...we will name it something else."

Shinann says, "No good choices...."

Speaking to Iskandr, Pietra says, "Thank you for the bottle of liquid cake. It is delicious."

Arshwikk says, "We need to prod them, I'm telling ya it's what your supposed to do to anything caged against it's will."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "A tax you could say."

Speaking to Leafiara, Sareyna says, "Ok fine I'll do it make it easy ...I mean if you insist and stuff."

Leafiara pokes Pukk in the ribs.

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Yes, a tax."

Speaking to Loamian, Iskandr says, "I am not a feline type, but I strongly considered finding one of those cute kitties."

Draccor darkly says, "I know alot about smuggling."

Thrassus asks, "How many times has Stephos been caught making decisions that harmed this town?"

Speaking to Goldstr, Guarrin asks, "Have you not killed ogres yourself?"

Draccor darkly asks, "From books?"

Speaking to Pietra, Iskandr says, "Not a problem."

Goldstr says, "I has known Stephos but dis Amos do seem worse to me."

Arshwikk says, "Maybe bang on the cage a little too."

Loamian says, "He has a special significance to me."

Speaking to Goldstr, Thrassus asks, "Why?"

Leafiara says, "Even Stephos hasn't run for two council positions at once, I have to admit."

Draught says, "There is a difference with what Amos is doing."

Speaking to Iskandr, Loamian says, "So I understand."

Draught says, "It seems...cruel."

Speaking softly to Thrassus, Chandrellia says, "On the other hand Amos seems to be moving quite fast in that area as well."

Roelon deeply says, "At least with Stephos ye somewhat know what yir gettin'."

Xorus says, "And yet it would give the DeArchon's two council seats."

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "I don't know. This Amos sounds like a imp to me."

Speaking darkly to Leafiara, Draccor says, "You know how to contact me."

Roelon deeply says, "Amos mae hae some skeletons yet to be dug up."

Sareyna says, "I find gentlemen with an air of lawlessness quite ..stimulating."

Speaking dubiously to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Nah, I don't know about that. If anything he seems to hate the imperials, or at least Baron Malwind."

Speaking to Xorus, Guarrin says, "That alone seems like a conflict."

Goldstr says, "Good point Amos jess seems CRUEL."

The flower girl nudges you and whispers, "These are magical flowers!"

Speaking to Leafiara, Pukk says, "But he wants two council seats...like a imp."

Speaking to a pretty flower girl, Pukk exclaims, "You know it!"

Leafiara says, "If I can sway Renpaw's mind, I will. If not, well--the Guilds position has a 'very bad' choice and an 'even worse' and I'm not even sure which is which."

Speaking to a pretty flower girl, Sareyna exclaims, "Scram petalpusher!"

Pietra says, "I fell asleep, standing."

Speaking softly to Pietra, Chandrellia says, "It was the cake."

Leafiara muses, "One thing I can say for Stephos, I'm not actually sure what he even gets out of a council seat. He basically already runs the merchant world of the Landing."

Xayd asks, "There was cake?"

Kiwoeachi says, "Vigilantes just tend to think they're somehow better than everyone."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "I know this may seem, a bit fetched."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Go for it."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "However, what if, someone a bit higher up on the chain is setting these people in place for their own gain."

The flower girl smiles and says, "For giving me a few silvers, you can have a whole handful of these petals!"

Speaking to a pretty flower girl, Sareyna exclaims, "Scram petalpusher!"

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "It may not even be about Amos or Stephos."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Well, that would be the town council that selects candidates..."

Kiwoeachi says, "The notion that his idea of moral degeneracy is enough to justify murder. Combined with a very black and white view of the world means he's the least relatable person to me."

Leafiara says, "At least normally."

A lithe blue-cloaked woman, walking in the middle of a small group of local merchants, laughs playfully at a part of their conversation as she pushes away some of the bright orange locks of hair coiling out from the depths of her hood.

Leafiara says, "I think the Judge selected the candidates this time."

Chandrellia softly says, "May be out of place for this, and if I am I am sorry but Renpaw seems to be pushing awfully hard to get these two on a seat."

Speaking slowly to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "...that's an interesting point."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "I do hate to fill your mind with more thoughts Mayor, but I just see things."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "No, I totally understand. That's valuable perspective and worth considering."

Leafiara says, "I'll admit... regarding the marshal selection, I *was* going to just take whoever the captains recommended."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "It may take a few to see it but slowly I can piece it together."

Leafiara says, "But Stormyrain recommended Amos and I just..."

Leafiara tentatively says, "I don't think I can do that."

Leafiara says, "I haven't really heard a compelling reason not to pick Khylon on that one."

Leafiara says, "He's the only one who actually has already *been* the marshal before."

Kiwoeachi says, "Fear not, as we can see, the town is behind you, tonight is no small indication."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia asks, "Lets say you pick Khylon for Marshal, who would you choose for the Guilds seat?"

Speaking earnestly to Kiwoeachi, Leafiara says, "And I count on everyone."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "That I don't know. Like I said, I'll try to convince the Judge to put this off."

Leafiara says, "Too many suspicious circumstances surrounding candidate withdrawals."

Leafiara says, "And whoever I'd appoint for the Guilds would seem to be risking their lives."

Leafiara says, "It seems crazy to force a decision at a time like this."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia asks, "Good luck, but I do have a question, isn't the seat Renpaw is in a voted seat?"

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Nope. He's lifetime appointed."

Chandrellia softly says, "Ugh."

Chandrellia softly says, "Not sure if that's good or bad."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara muses, "Probably a bit of both."

Kiwoeachi asks, "Is there a rulebook somewhere?"

Kiwoeachi says, "I may have to peruse that."

Leafiara says, "He can't be corrupted from the outside since he has the seat for life, but..."

Leafiara says, "If he himself becomes corrupt, there's no getting rid of him either."

Chandrellia softly says, "That, was my point."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiwoeachi asks, "That's a bit short sighted governance, isn't it?"

Kiwoeachi says, "Give a man power, and well."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "If you need me for anything, to pick my brain, or throw ideas off, let me know."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "I will, thanks..."

Leafiara says, "Decision night is tomorrow or the night after, I believe."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "I'll be here the night after but not tomorrow night."

Kiwoeachi says, "So Rone asked you to denounce the Rooks then."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia says, "No."

Speaking to Kiwoeachi, Leafiara says, "Yep."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia says, "Rone informed Leafi to denounce ALL crime."

Leafiara says, "I might end up doing it just because of their actions tonight, but..."

Chandrellia softly says, "Not just the Rooks."

Some burly dwarven town guards march through the area, their grizzly beards each braided with ivory beads and their alert gaze staring out from beneath bushy eyebrows. One of them taps the handle of his axe against his palm as they continue their patrol.

Leafiara says, "Even if I do, I'll be denouncing Rone at the same time."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Yep, that's true too."

Kiwoeachi asks, "But that's why he decided to act on his own?"

Leafiara says, "The thing is, I don't get it."

Kiwoeachi says, "Just making sure I understand his motives."

Leafiara says, "It goes without saying that crime isn't allowed."

Kiwoeachi says, "Most vigilantes tend to only see black and white."

Leafiara says, "Why I need to make such a public statement, I've no idea."

Kiwoeachi says, "Hence, vigilante."

Leafiara says, "What Rone thinks she's accomplishing--it seems beyond me."

Chandrellia softly asks, "She?"

Leafiara says, "We've never seen Rone without the mask, but..."

Leafiara says, "Mother once called Rone a she, yes."

Chandrellia softly says, "Oh I heard mention of a coffin that was missing."

Leafiara says, "That's why one of my theories is that they're the same person."

Leafiara says, "But one of my friends talked with me yesterday and said maybe they're related."

Kiwoeachi says, "Clearly, Rone knows something we don't, someone acting this way even if through misguided intentions, has a cause."

The gypsy fortuneteller smiles at you and whispers, "I know many things unseen."

Leafiara says, "Like perhaps Rone is Mother's daughter or protege who wanted to inherit the Rooks, but Mother denied it and now Rone is lashing out."

Speaking wryly to a gypsy fortuneteller, Leafiara asks, "Yeah, well, can you tell us who's behind these attacks lately?"

Kiwoeachi says, "I say you crush the Rooks, after tonight I've no remorse for fools attacking this town."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Would make sense at this point, this coffin goes missing, someone else outs Mother, she takes up the Mantle of Rone for revenge on said person in the tunnels."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "And yeah, as for the coffin..."

Leafiara asks, "Remember Octaven sealed away in one?"

Leafiara says, "The rumors say she was never unsealed, and the coffin was stolen from the outpost..."

Chandrellia hesitantly says, "Yes."

Leafiara says, "So, suppose she was let out and Mother was captured and sealed away."

Leafiara says, "We haven't seen Mother in almost three weeks."

Chandrellia softly says, "How did they get the coffin out of the outpost to begin with, I mean we couldn't even sneak underneath and Raelee was scaring the troll poop outta me."

Leafiara says, "The Rooks are all over the place and Mother just... vanishes? It makes no sense."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia exclaims, "She did!"

Kiwoeachi says, "Leverage."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia exclaims, "She just poofed right behind me!"

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia says, "She is a sneaky one."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kiwoeachi says, "Can't be having troll poop comin' out."

Kiwoeachi says, "So you think this Mother is taken hostage."

Leafiara says, "I just think it's possible."

Kiwoeachi asks, "Perhaps followers of Amasalen, sacrifices in blood are not uncommon among them are they?"

Kiwoeachi says, "That's a bit terrifying thought tho."

Leafiara says, "The Rooks have been acting the way they did under previous leaders instead of the way they've acted under Mother."

Chandrellia softly says, "I don't think so, I think she is Rone she is adamant about the Rooks and crime in the town."

Kiwoeachi says, "Hmm."

Kiwoeachi says, "A double life."

Chandrellia softly says, "She warned us it would get worse."

Chandrellia softly says, "Not a double life."

Leafiara says, "Another possibility someone raised to me is that Stephos has created a splinter faction of the Rooks."

Chandrellia softly says, "I still think she was outsted, and as revenge took up the mantle to have the rooks removed."

Leafiara says, "Stephos was once involved with them too..."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kiwoeachi says, "But why not make that clear, why hide behind a mask."

Chandrellia softly says, "Kind of like, if I can't lead them no one can."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Leafiara says, "Exactly, that was my friend Khy's theory."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia says, "In order to keep the mysterious effect."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kiwoeachi says, "Always one for drama around here."

Leafiara wryly says, "On the bright side, I can finally eliminate my theory that Mother is me from the future."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia says, "If it's known Mother is in fact Rone then it would all make sense and it would be known she was ousted, it would be embarassing to her."

Speaking to Chandrellia, Kiwoeachi says, "I think it's folly to take up arms behind a mask, we could do more if we knew the truth."

Leafiara suddenly says, "Actually, wait, no. If she's been captured, I can't."

Speaking to Leafiara, Asben says, "That's good... I didn't wanna have to call ya Mother."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia says, "I agree."

Leafiara says, "Wait a minute, what if..."

Leafiara slowly asks, "What if she *is* me from the future, setting up the Rooks to look bad and go on this path of evil so that we have to remove her and I have to take charge of them myself?"

Leafiara distractedly says, "Maybe I'm just running on lack of sleep. Even for me that sounds crazy."

Kiwoeachi says, "Winning a hundred victories in a hundred battles is not the best possible outcome. Best is to subdue the enemy s troops without ever engaging them on the battlefield."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "That would be.... I don't wanna think about it and I am sooo glad Pukk isn't here to hear that."

Chandrellia softly says, "I can see it now."

Kiwoeachi says, "Time traveling clerics."

Leafiara says, "I'm just glad I never once heard Pylasar call me the Rook Queen."

Kiwoeachi says, "That's one for the tabloids."

Chandrellia recites softly:

"This just in, Leafi is in fact Mother, Mother is in fact Leafi, Leafi is running the Rooks in a secret life that isn't her own"

Leafiara explains, "Pylasar is a time traveler who's seen lots of things not yet happened, such as Raelee being a Grand Magister or Balley being 'the Sacrificer,' whatever that means."

Speaking to Leafiara, Kiwoeachi asks, "Whoa, do what?"

Leafiara lightly says, "Long story."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "That is a very long story."

Leafiara says, "Hopefully he'll come back to us one day."

Kiwoeachi says, "Hmm, I'll have to read about that."

Leafiara says, "You'd love him, I'm sure."

Kiwoeachi pets a green-eyed grey and white kitten.

The grey and white kitten kneads its tiny paws against the ground, purring slightly.

Kiwoeachi says, "So cute."

Chandrellia softly says, "Would be nice to have someone worth meeting come back, so far it's just been a lich that was brought back by a Psychopath, a fella that escaped jail and came back as a Godling or so he says."

Leafiara says, "Alright. Let me get word to Renpaw about the council decision..."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "I am so glad I voted for you."

Leafiara says, "And I'll ask Khylon to be extra cautious with the candidates too."

Leafiara says, "Town guard protection and such."

Leafiara says, "I'm amazed we managed to get through another night with no one dropping out."

Chandrellia softly says, "Well if Stephos drops we know why, if Amos drops we know why."

Kiwoeachi says, "It's not exactly a great position at the moment to have."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia says, "Actually it's perfect."

Some burly dwarven town guards march through the area, their grizzly beards each braided with ivory beads and their alert gaze staring out from beneath bushy eyebrows. One of them taps the handle of his axe against his palm as they continue their patrol.

Kiwoeachi says, "But I stand by Chandrellia's umm suggestion about the cavalry."

Speaking softly to Kiwoeachi, Chandrellia says, "Right now there are only two with motives."

Kiwoeachi says, "Will be useful if the time comes to have horsemen riding about."

Chandrellia softly says, "Amos wants the Marshal's seat pretty badly I can tell."

Leafiara says, "Yep, conveniently enough, the two most likely people behind the attack on Walward's wagon are the two left."

Kiwoeachi says, "A muscle for power."

Chandrellia softly says, "If Stephos gets the guild seat, Amos will think he has the Marshal's seat, but Leafi has other plans for that."

Leafiara asks, "The one thing that makes this hard to piece together is, if Amos was really behind this, then why has he narrowed the Guilds seat to just him and Stephos?"

Leafiara says, "He knows I don't like Stephos."

Leafiara says, "I told Amos that to his face."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Exactly so he knows you won't put Stephos as Marshal."

Leafiara says, "Stephos isn't in the running for the marshal."

Chandrellia softly says, "No."

Chandrellia softly says, "But he is for the guild seat along with Amos."

Chandrellia softly says, "As I said."

Chandrellia softly says, "If Stephos gets the guild seat."

Leafiara says, "So it seems like a risk, if Amos wants to be marshal but moves in a way that would make me more likely to give him the Guilds seat."

Chandrellia softly says, "Amos will think he has the Marshal's seat in his pocket."

Chandrellia softly says, "A risk not taken is a risk not gained."

Leafiara says, "Well... hm."

Leafiara says, "Maybe I'll turn him down for both positions just to see what he does."

Kiwoeachi says, "Well, I have limited understanding of time travel, but if it's involved, possibilities are practically endless."

Leafiara says, "Don't worry..."

Leafiara says, "The Chronomages police most time travel."

Chandrellia softly says, "As you said earlier, Stephos seems the easiest to control if needed."

Leafiara says, "That's actually exactly why Pylasar's not with us now."

Leafiara says, "He was, well... in trouble with the Chronomages for his shenanigans."

Leafiara says, "One or two days left to decide."

Leafiara says, "We'll see what happens."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Ok hon, I hope I was at least a little help tonight."

Leafiara says, "You for sure were."

Kiwoeachi exclaims, "Well, I trust in your judgment mayor, I think either way, there's nothing we can't do together!"

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Oh I am so proud of me!"

Chandrellia softly says, "I saved 5 bodies and got em to safety without dying! On the rooftop."

Kiwoeachi says, "You saved so many people."

Kiwoeachi says, "I ducked out immediately."

Chandrellia softly says, "Was doing great at the beach till I transferred to the dead and was killed."

Kiwoeachi exclaims, "Once Chamorr hit the ground I was OUT!"

Kiwoeachi says, "I died there too, Maags got me up and then immediately died thereafter."

Kiwoeachi says, "Rough night all in all."

Chandrellia softly says, "They were brutal."

Kiwoeachi says, "Yea I don't do well with fire."

Chandrellia softly exclaims, "Ok off to the square!"

Kiwoeachi says, "Had enough dodging wights and tree spirits' boils."

Speaking softly to Leafiara, Chandrellia says, "Good luck with your, umm, paperwork."