Landing Events - 2019-04-17 - Oldest Trick in the Plaguebook (log)

Olaesta 17-18, 5119

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

Summary

Short Version

A woman seeming to be the future Stormyrain reaches out and, through her past self and Balley, shows visions of a destroyed Landing to present-day adventurers. Stormy, Balley, Larsya, Disean, and the maggot abomination from the Bleaklands appear to be survivors, though the future Balley is kept in enruned chains, Larsya is underground perhaps in shelter, and Disean wields a sword squirming with maggots. Back in the present day, after the visions fade, scarabs swarm the area and a magical plague and moulis sweep the population.

Bullet Points

• Balley's eyes begin flashing from forest green to blood red and back to green. Stormyrain asks her to concentrate, and soon enough the outline of an ethereal figure with sanguine-runed hands briefly appears near Balley. An ethereal figure leads the group toward the [[::Wehnimer's Landing|Wehnimer's]] Museum before melting away.

• Matching lines of blood appear along Stormy's and Balley's arms. Some blood begins to flow before suddenly slowing and stopping, as if forming designs, and soon the area becomes a vision of a future of blackened earth and a destroyed museum. Stormy suggests: "We failed to stop the future we were shown before. The Paragon was not stopped, nor was the future destruction of the Landing."

• Soon the ethereal silver-haired, grey-cloaked figure with sanguine-runed hands, appearing similar to Stormy, is seen in the vision leading a chained sylvan with honey-hued hair and blood red eyes--appearing similar to Balley. The red-eyed sylvan is led to mutter something in a metallic voice, pointing toward a patch of ground near the museum, and the grey-cloaked figure taps a rhythm with her foot--until an echoing pattern returns from below the ground. A crude trapdoor presents itself and a tawny-haired woman climbs out, wearing a hawk feather on a chain from her neck--appearing similar to Larsya.

• • OOC note: Several people seemed to interpret Larsya as being significantly older, with a couple even later implying that Thadston either wouldn't be alive in this future or at very least would look notably different than he does now, given Larsya's age. But I'm not confident to present that as a sure thing. The fact that she's described as a "woman" does make her older, but how much so isn't clear; her description does say "Her eyes are tired," but in a post-apocalyptic situation that's easy enough to explain.

• The future Larsya presents her palm to the future Stormy and the two perform a small ritual with a trail of blood appearing from Larsya's palm, but the future Stormy sighs with surprise and disappointment. A demonic roar comes from the sky and the three women turn to see a flying oily black maggot covered in teeth and eyes, similar to the one that the present-day adventurers had seen multiple times in the Bleaklands, which begins to descend. The vision begins to fade, but not before a grey-eyed man with blood red crown-shaped scars on his head enters the image, wielding a blackened sword squirming with maggots--appearing to be Disean.

• In the present day, dozens of beetles and scarabs emerge from the ground and attack the area. They're rather swiftly dispatched, at first seemingly with no casualties, but then people begin showing symptoms of a plague--and later others additionally begin showing symptoms of moulis infestations. Chaos ensues as scarabs and moulis spread throughout town, but eventually the fallen are tended and the problems are purged.

Highlights

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth asks, "Just curious, how much have you had to drink tonight?"
Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan asks, "The usual?"
Speaking to Lazaryth, Leafiara explains, "All of it, every night, when it's Maylan."
Speaking to Lazaryth, Lylia says, "I believe 'the usual' is measured by the bucket."

The quiet corner of Erebor Square seems to shift, no longer filled cobbled stones and polished wood benches. Instead, the very earth beneath your feet is broken, scarred, blackened and charred. To the west end, the low broad dome of the Museum is a remnant of what it once was, shattered and cracked, absent of its once true shape and form.  In the center of the square, a tarnished bronze sculpture still stands but has been long-ago stained with blood that has failed to wash away, and its base is covered in soot and ash.
Pukk quietly says, "Okay, I really need to stop eating food I find on the ground."
Speaking to Pukk, Ysharra says, "You say that, but you won't."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "I'd like to study your blood at some point, if you are willing."
Speaking wryly to Maylan, Cruxophim remarks, "Good luck with that."

All three women look to the sky at the wake of the beast. The slate-hued sky swirls about like whorls of ink in muddy water. But the heavens are broken up by the shadow of a huge, enormous creature that could only be described as a goliath of a maggot.  Its oily black body is covered in a mass of razor-sharp teeth and eyes and it drips with a sickly black ichor.  It is larger than several of broken buildings in the area, and begins to descend.
Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok asks, "We ran like hell from that, didn't we?"
Speaking teasingly to Hapenlok, Cruxophim muses, "You did."
Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok says, "Well, I didn't run. But I walked rather briskly."

Roblar deeply says, "Only one ay to kill dat beast in sky."
Roblar deeply says, "Will let it swallow me."
Roblar deeply says, "Must hack it from da inside."
Speaking eagerly to Roblar, Leafiara says, "Oh, I like it. Great plan."
Pukk quietly exclaims, "Best way to kill that thing is for somebody who can throw things to pick up Happy and throw him at it!"
Speaking deeply to his rolaren plate armor, Roblar asks, "How long kin you resists corrosion?"
Speaking insistently to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Hey, some of us want a turn too."
Evician says, "Oh yeah throw Leafi at it too."
Speaking to Roblar, Claudaro says, "Maybe far enough in the future for another trip to Duskruin, to get more acid resistance."

Zosopage says, "Mass visions are usually not good."
Balley softly says, "Welcome to my world visions are my way of life."
Saranja mutters badmushrooms.

Speaking fondly to Balley, Cruxophim praises, "You done good, kid."
Speaking teasingly to Stormyrain, Cruxophim praises, "You too.  And by the by, future you?  Pretty hot."

[Scarabs attack]
Leafiara suspiciously says, "That was unusually tame by her standards."
Your skin begins to burn, as if your flesh is on fire!
Leafiara slowly says, "Oh..."
Red spots appear on your skin suddenly.  The edges are slightly raised and seem to be spreading rapidly.
A series of reddish blebs begin to appear randomly over Evician's skin.  Though probably not very painful in and of themselves, they may signal something much more dangerous on the way.
Leafiara thoughtfully says, "Oh, now -that's- more like what I expected."

[Scarabs attack]
Lylia says, "If you contain those things, go and die."
Lylia demands, "Get out of town. Go and immolate yourselves."
Evician exclaims, "Fine, I'm going to your office!"
Great Lord Evician just went west.
Lylia says, "If he is..."
[Scarabs attack]
Lylia snarls, "In MY office!?"
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "A very good idea."
Lylia says, "Bringing that disease to..."
Cryheart asks, "Your office?"
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "As you command."
Land Pirate Maylan just went west.
Mayor Lylia just went west.
Sir Cryheart's group just went west.
[In Lylia's office]
Speaking to Lylia, Maylan exclaims, "You just told us to come here!"
Lylia shrieks, "Get out now, or die!"
Cryheart asks, "Want me to take them out?"
Evician says, "Umm I'm on fire, so I half expect I'll be dying anyways."
Lylia exclaims, "ALL of you! Out!"
Sir Cryheart's group just went through a varnished modwir door.
Pukk quietly exclaims, "So much for her open door policy!"

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "We've all seen much worse tonight.  Heck, just in the past few minutes."
Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "You should have seen the black veins some of us had a couple of years ago."
Leafiara notes, "The black blood disease was quite a bit worse than this, unless you all stay sick for months."
Leafiara suddenly says, "Wait... the black blood disease. Shinann didn't seem especially afflicted either..."
[Later]
Speaking curiously to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "Are you alright... relatively speaking?"
Shinann says, "I cannot heal them."
Shinann says, "So no."
Leafiara urgently asks, "But you're not as hurt as them... correct?"
Shinann says, "No."
Shinann says, "I was able to keep myself alive."
Leafiara affirms, "And I'm not as hurt as others either..."
Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara speculates, "We might have built up a resistance because of the last curse..."

Log

Flashes

[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 an herbal remedy donation bin and some stone benches with some stuff on it.

Thunder rumbles on the horizon.

[Idle chatter, but soon enough...]

The color of Balley's eyes flicker for a moment, quickly turning from forest green to blood red, then back to green.

Speaking curiously to Balley, Leafiara asks, "You alright there?"

[More idle chatter...]

The color of Balley's eyes flicker for a moment, quickly turning from forest green to blood red, then back to green.

Speaking inquisitively to Balley, Leafiara repeats, "You alright there?"

Balley softly asks, "What?"

Xorus says, "Your eyes turned blood red."

Speaking tentatively to Balley, Leafiara says, "You're having a bit of an eye problem there and it looks more flickery than the ones I sometimes have."

Balley softly says, "They did."

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia asks, "Hmm? Whose?"

Speaking thoughtfully to Balley, Leafiara says, "Oh, right, I suppose you can't see it."

Balley softly says, "I did not notice."

Speaking to Lylia, Xorus says, "Balley."

Speaking helpfully to Balley, Leafiara suggests, "Look in a mirror."

Balley softly says, "Who has a mirror."

Leafiara grabs a coral-bordered ivory cameo from a small pocket inside of her red silk cape.

Leafiara offers Balley a coral-bordered ivory cameo.

Balley accepts Leafiara's ivory cameo.

Balley gazes fondly at her reflection in the ivory cameo.

Shinann says, "They changed back."

Speaking nonchalantly to Balley, Leafiara says, "Just, you know, keep an eye on that in case it happens again."

Leafiara slowly says, "...pun not intended."

Balley offers Leafiara a coral-bordered ivory cameo.

Hapenlok rolls his eyes at Leafiara.

Balley softly says, "They are green to me."

Balley shrugs.

Leafiara insistently claims, "Pun not intended, really."

Leafiara accepts Balley's ivory cameo.

Pukk recites quietly:

"Evi and Bernie sitting in a tree...."

Bernadette softly says, "Jolly joker."

Speaking quietly to Pukk, Taloin says, "What did the tree do to you."

Speaking innocently to Bernadette, Pukk exclaims, "I didn't do nothin!"

Balley softly says, "You know me if I jump to my visions I have no clue."

Bernadette softly says, "Ye know I have a fiancee'."

Zosopage recites:

"Fall out and land on Pukk's head......"

Balley softly asks, "My eyes are not red now are they?"

Speaking surprisedly to Balley, Leafiara says, "Oh, I actually didn't know that. Good information."

Speaking helpfully to Balley, Leafiara exclaims, "Nope!"

Speaking slowly to Shinann, Stormyrain confesses, "Myself."

Speaking to Bernadette, Goldstr says, "Ah I nae knew."

Speaking to Shinann, Stormyrain explains, "But..not now."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "Alright mister. If you're bored we can have a little contest."

Speaking quietly to Zosopage, Pukk says, "Don't give up on being a warrior and try becomin a bard...you will go hungry."

Speaking to Balley, Evician says, "Bright green."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth asks, "Oh, yes?"

Speaking to Balley, Stormyrain says, "Concentrate."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "It's called who can jump out of the tree better."

Speaking to Shinann, Stormyrain asks, "It was..a glimpse? A wrinkle?"

Maylan exclaims, "We will need a judge!"

For the briefest of moments, the faint outline of an ethereal form appears behind Balley, and slender arms reach up and out from behind her before thin hands seem to clamp over her eyes. Upon the back of the opaque, ethereal hands appear to be a series of sanguine runes. Balley looks unaware, and a moment later the ethereal figure vanishes.

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "Here's a hint. It won't be anyone."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth asks, "Just curious, how much have you had to drink tonight?"

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan asks, "The usual?"

Speaking quietly to Saranja, Tanisstra says, "Mistress, every girl has dreams of being a princess...thus my reaction to the cape...and....it's from you."

Maylan exclaims, "Ysharra shall be our judge!"

Speaking to Lazaryth, Leafiara explains, "All of it, every night, when it's Maylan."

Stormyrain rests a gentle hand on Balley's arm.

Lyrna asks, "Was that typical as well?"

Speaking to Balley, Stormyrain asks, "Balley?"

Speaking to Lazaryth, Lylia says, "I believe 'the usual' is measured by the bucket."

Balley softly says, "Yes."

Speaking to Balley, Evician says, "Gotta love those ethereal huggers...yeesh."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "And the trough."

Speaking to Balley, Stormyrain says, "I need you to concentrate please."

Lazaryth says, "Unfortunately, you're way out ahead of me already."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "That means you go first."

Maylan recites:

"Alllllrighty any who wishes to judge our fantastical jumping out of the Treehouse contest, make your way over yonder to the well"

Speaking to Lazaryth, Maylan says, "Naturally."

Pukk offers Tanisstra a deep red garnet medallion.

Tanisstra accepts Pukk's red garnet medallion.

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "You're learning."

Speaking to Ysharra, Maylan says, "You have to go because you're judging."

Dord offers Khobra a bundle of cobra skins.

Speaking to herself, Tarine admits, "That -does- sound fun..."

Evician says, "If you fall in the well, you win."

Speaking to Ysharra, Maylan says, "Scoot scoot."

Khobra accepts Dord's cobra skins.

Neopuron says, "Oh I don't think this is going to end well."

Speaking to Balley, Stormyrain says, "I've seen the figure you've seen previously twice now. I believe she? me? Is trying to make contact."

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Roblar deeply asks, "Jumpin contest?"

Speaking to Maylan, Ysharra asks, "You think I'm going to miss this?"

Khobra playfully responds, "Yoink! Thank que."

Lylia coldly says, "I do not know about that business of every girl dreaming of being a princess."

The voice of Claudaro asks, "It won't end well... at the well?"

Speaking quietly to Tanisstra, Pukk says, "If you analyze it you will see what to do with it."

Speaking quietly to Pukk, Tanisstra says, "A gift? Thank you."

Dord quietly says, "I don't fear fangs."

Evician says, "All's well, that ENDS well."

Pursuit

An ethereal figure steps out from behind Balley, the figure's form barely discernible if not for the rain. It turns towards Balley, then wanders east.

Ysharra says, "Make Strygor the judge. He'll eat the winner- oh..."

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[Town Square, East]

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

Pietra says, "Uh."

Evician says, "Annnd it's gone. Shocker."

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Evician says, "So surprised."

Leafiara bemusedly says, "Maybe, just maybe, we need Balley."

Envoy Leafiara just went west.

Leafiara just arrived, dragging Balley with her.

Cryheart says, "Dinnae see it in the vicinity."

An ethereal figure steps out from behind Balley, the figure's form barely discernible if not for the rain. It turns towards Balley, then wanders east.

Evician tickles Leafiara as they grin at each other.

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[Wehnimer's, Penna St.]

The distant sounds of the merchants and tradesmen around the shops to the west are muted here. The cracked pavement, scattered cobblestones, and dirt drainage ditches along the side of the road form a not-so-gradual transition between the busier avenues of the main bazaar and the less frequented, humbler, and more unsavory sections of the town. You also see a low stone gate.

Speaking to Zolis, Ysharra says, "He's the Cryblob."

Gypsy Scribe Balley just arrived.

Speaking sagely to Evician, Leafiara says, "Whatever works."

Pukk yells, "Stop walking will ya!"

Pukk quietly exclaims, "I'm lazy!"

Felita asks, "Whats goin on with Balley?"

Evician says, "Something tells me we're going fishing again."

Lylia says, "If it were not raining, I do not know that we would see that at all..."

Lilitigress says, "What a sneaky figure."

Cryheart says, "Perhaps we may find out."

The figure can be seen stepping off into the mist of the rain, heading easternly.

Stormyrain tugs on the pampilion-trimmed lambskin hood of her ebon lambskin jacket, allowing it to shadow her face.

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[Wehnimer's, Cheridin Ave.]

The broad avenue intersects here with the narrower byway connecting to the bazaar to the west, where occasional sounds of distant revelry rise from the lamplit streets. Older wood and stone buildings, mostly small shops and offices with upstairs lodgings overlooking the street, predominate here.

The figure can be seen stepping off into the mist of the rain, heading southernly.

Phalos says, "Can't go east anymore."

Sir Cryheart's group just went south.

[Wehnimer's, Cheridin Ave.]

On the west side of this narrow stretch of Cheridin Avenue is the unlit back of the Moot Hall, and the dour building that houses the local constabulary and its jail looms along the other side of the street. To the southeast, a stone dome rises over the compound that surrounds the Landing's largest temple. Passers-by here move quickly north and south without much pause.

A circular ebonwood cart comes rolling slowly into the room and stops.

Evician whispers to the group, "Is Easternly a word?"

Hapenlok says, "At least the drinks cart isn't far behind."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "It is like a sliver of fog down from the overcast sky."

Cryheart says, "We are being led astray."

Speaking pleasedly to Hapenlok, Leafiara says, "Not as long as I'm around."

Xorus says, "Toward the temple it seems. We saw it ruined last time."

Bernadette whispers to the group, "It is now."

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Cryheart.

Speaking to Cryheart, Pietra says, "We are being led a-south."

Evician says, "No no, we are being lead southernly in an easternly manner."

Sir Cryheart's group just went south.

[Wehnimer's, Cheridin Ave.]

Several small shops crowd along the street, which is composed of the back walls of the high buildings bordering the central square. Each storefront vies with the others for street space and the attention of the many travellers who pass through here. A few traders, hoping to take advantage of some late business attracted by the nearby temple, have set up stands and pushcarts filled with clothing, trinkets and souvenirs. You also see the clerics' shop.

Cryheart says, "Missed it."

Stormyrain clenches her jaw.

Stormyrain folds her arms over her chest.

Ysharra asks, "Did any of you Volnites see if it's undead?"

Lyrna says, "No."

Speaking to Ysharra, Stormyrain says, "I'm not undead."

Pukk quietly says, "Didn't even think to check."

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Shinann says, "Going to the graveyard."

Cryheart says, "I just see an ethereal spirit."

Shinann says, "I bet."

Lylia says, "I could not get a good enough look to see much."

Some town scholars wander by, sipping coffee in the late of the night and seem to be squabbling amongst themselves, "....so, eastern is acceptable, why not easternly? I believe it is, and if not, it shall be now...we'll make sure we contact the town clerk to get it...." and they wander off.

Leafiara optimistically says, "But maybe it's a ghost of the captain of the future returned to the past."

Ysharra says, "The figure who's watching our seer..."

Balley blinks.

Speaking quietly to Evician, Pukk says, "See what you started now."

Zosopage says, "Thought it was eastward."

Evician exclaims, "You ARE welcome!"

Speaking evenly to Ysharra, Stormyrain asks, "Yes, the one in grey robes with sanguine runes on the back of her hands like these?"

Speaking to Ysharra, Maylan says, "I won."

The figure can be seen stepping off into the mist of the rain, heading eastern-ish-ly.

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[Wehnimer's, Erebor Square]

The dome of a large temple rises above this peaceful square, silhouetted against the starlit sky. The circular building is surrounded by marble porticos and teak columns, and a promenade leads to two pillars, through which the inner sanctum can be glimpsed. Priests and worshippers wander here and there, engaged in various rituals of devotion or study. A locked almsbox is securely bolted to an iron pole alongside the pillars. You also see a glowing white stone and a wrought iron gate.

Stormyrain traces the lines of her sanguine runes.

Balley softly says, "I wonder where I am being led."

Evician says, "Eastern ish ly."

The figure can be seen stepping off into the mist of the rain, heading eastern-ish-ly.

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "I'm sorry, I got distracted. You do win."

Shinann says, "Maybe."

Sir Cryheart's group just went east.

[Wehnimer's, Erebor Square]

This quiet corner resembles a calm island amid the bustling life of Wehnimer's Landing. At the west end, a low, broad dome is visible. In the center of the square, several benches of polished wood and smooth stone surround a sculpture that stands as a sentinel before the Wehnimer's Museum. Cast in bronze, the work imparts a sense of peace, calm and protection to the landscaped surroundings. A gold plaque mounted on a gracefully chiseled malachite base stands before it. You also see an ironwork gate.

Evician says, "See."

Ysharra says, "It looks like we're headed toward the museum."

Speaking to Maylan, Lazaryth says, "I'll give you your prize later."

Hapenlok says, "As long as this vodka is still on the cart, I'll follow it."

You feel something lean against you and note the faint scent of blood, raw meat, and pungent soil, overshadowed by the tenebrous fetor of decaying flesh, but when you turn no one is there!

Felita says, "For fun for fun."

Leafiara brightly says, "Evenin', Crux."

Balley softly asks, "What is at the museum?"

You hear someone chuckling.

Zosopage says, "I think the figure drank too much vodka."

Balley shivers.

Diamondelille says, "Mebee we gonna laff."

Evician says, "Evening brother. We are going easternly in a southernly manner."

Balley softly says, "Who um is leaning on me."

The figure turns slowly, stopping, and melts away.

Speaking quietly to Balley, Pukk says, "Old stuff...not as old as Sir Shiny, but still..old."

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Ysharra says, "Hello, Blood Bug."

Speaking to herself, Maylan says, "It melted."

Pietra says, "We should ring the mentor bell. All of us."

Goldstr says, "Figure mus be mad."

Stormyrain twists her head slightly, cracking her neck. She looks relieved.

Cytiger says, "Just like that....he...or she is gone."

Speaking amusedly to Balley, Leafiara says, "Crux has a very distinctive scent."

Blood Lines

A small line of blood appears along Stormyrain's right arm.

Ysharra says, "Not necessarily."

Cryheart says, "Well."

Ysharra says, "Perhaps..."

Stormyrain glances down.

A small line of blood appears along Balley's right arm.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Hapenlok says, "I know you don't have time to....but you're bleeding."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Ysharra asks, "Same arm?"

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Evician says, "Well that's rude."

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Balley.

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk exclaims, "It's catching!"

Felita says, "I see bloods."

Roblar deeply asks, "Who want to be cut next?"

Roblar taps a horn-handled straight razor, which is in his right hand.

Beldannon softly says, "I am not a fan of blood."

Two lines of blood form along Stormyrain's left arm, looping around each other.

Beldannon softly says, "Well my own that is."

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

Cruxophim fades into visibility.

Speaking to Roblar, Hapenlok sighs, "Put that away."

Two lines of blood form along Balley's left arm, looping around each other.

Leafiara inquisitively says, "We practicin' blood magic again tonight? It's been almost a year since the last time..."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "That's a nifty tattoo, all for free."

Lilitigress says, "Oooo..."

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

Cruxophim casually greets, "Evenin', all."

Cryheart asks, "Blood spell?"

Cruxophim calmly assures, "I didn't do that."

Pukk quietly asks, "Ooh they are doing blood magic?"

Speaking to Cryheart, Stormyrain murmurs, "Mayhaps."

Speaking to Balley, Maylan says, "This means you're supposed to kiss her."

Lilitigress asks, "Is that a new way of healing?"

Cryheart says, "We shall see."

Evician asks, "Bloodbug?"

Balley softly says, "Um no.. I like blood though as a healer." [Could have been a response to Pukk, Lilitigress, or Evician]

Lylia offhandedly says, "There is no prohibition on blood magic."

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "Maybe they will be able to tell me where I left my socks a couple months ago."

Speaking tentatively to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Kinda looks like it, but I'm not a practitioner myself, so I can't say for sure."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Evician asks, "Bloodbug?"

Four thin lines of blood appear along Stormyrain's right arm, just above her wrist. Moments later, the same markings appear on Balley.

Cytiger says, "I don't like the way that looks...change is never a good thing in my books."

Speaking to Lylia, Hapenlok says, "....and I didn't agree with it then, I damn sure don't now."

Balley softly says, "Oh my."

Evician asks, "That a bracer?"

Cryheart says, "Hmmm...twin spells."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Lylia says, "Noted."

Speaking baffledly to Cytiger, Leafiara says, "Then how do you live? Every day brings change."

Balley softly asks, "What is happening?"

Maylan says, "This is quite clearly a wedding ceremony."

Speaking suspiciously to Stormyrain, Cruxophim inquires, "You ladies been... kissing?"

Speaking to Balley, Ysharra asks, "How do you feel?"

Madmountan says, "Nothing like a good blood show."

Cytiger says, "Do the same thing....every day."

Stormyrain can offer Cruxophim only a blank expression.

Speaking coolly to Stormyrain, Cruxophim observes, "Seems like you caught something."

Speaking to Ysharra, Evician says, "Generally with her hands."

Cytiger says, "Keeps me sane."

Speaking quietly to Balley, Pukk says, "Don't look now, but some blood lines are on your arms."

Speaking to Cytiger, Lylia says, "There is a certain comfort in routine."

Speaking slowly to Cytiger, Leafiara says, "Alright then... back to the more interesting thing..."

Leafiara turns to face Balley.

Balley softly says, "Oh I am usually covered with blood."

Speaking quietly to Stormyrain, Lyrna asks, "Is there anything we can do to help?"

Zosopage says, "Lots of times it's mine."

Balley softly says, "I guess I was lost in the sight."

Speaking to Balley, Evician says, "True, but umm I think this is different."

Speaking slowly to Lyrna, Stormyrain says, "Not as of yet--because I'm not quite sure what we're being shown."

Blood begins to seep out of the lines from Stormyrain and Balley's wounds, but then suddenly slows and stops. The pattern of the blood looks almost like designs, some blood streaks thinner, some longer, some angled, but the blood has stopped flowing regardless, as if it was shifted into position and froze.

Stormyrain glances down.

Evician says, "Vambraces, bracers, armor of some sort."

Pukk quietly says, "Okay, that is a neat trick."

(Stormyrain inspects the designs on her arms carefully.)

Claudaro asks, "A map?"

Madmountan asks, "Anybody read Bloodinese?"

Cryheart asks, "Sigils?"

(Balley looks at her arm in awe.)

A faint red hue begins to infuse the air around Erebor Square.

Leafiara inquires, "Ancient sylvan sigils?"

Speaking to Balley, Lilitigress asks, "How you feeling? Alright?"

Evician says, "Oh that's different."

Shinann says, "Hmm."

Stormyrain looks over at Shinann and shakes her head.

Cryheart says, "Great Kai, protect us from this magics if it be evil."

Balley softly says, "I feel fine I think."

Speaking quietly to Balley, Pukk exclaims, "That is the first sign something is wrong!"

Balley shrugs.

Evician says, "I probably shouldn't have talked about the spirit moving in the manner it was... I'm sorry spirit."

Speaking to Balley, Zosopage says, "If you need blood, you can take some of mine."

Balley softly asks, "When have I ever been normal?"

Speaking sharply to Zosopage, Stormyrain says, "No. No more blood until this is over."

Diamondelille says, "Sumpin funny goin on for shure."

Speaking fondly to Balley, Leafiara agrees, "Never, it's true."

Speaking to Balley, Evician says, "Never."

Tanisstra quietly says, "I would assume that would depend on the definition of 'normal.'"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Zosopage says, "As long as it doesn't drain her to death."

Speaking to Zosopage, Stormyrain says, "If this is a blood magic spell, adding another's blood to it will only convolute or distort it."

Stormyrain carefully looks herself over.

Felita says, "Alll about the bloods."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "Or enhance it."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Zosopage says, "Could be a good or bad thing, not sure."

Speaking calmly to Stormyrain, Hapenlok says, "That doesn't fill me with a great deal of confidence, you not knowing."

Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain says, "If she was the caster and wished it, mayhaps. But she is not."

Visions

The quiet corner of Erebor Square seems to shift, no longer filled cobbled stones and polished wood benches. Instead, the very earth beneath your feet is broken, scarred, blackened and charred. To the west end, the low broad dome of the Museum is a remnant of what it once was, shattered and cracked, absent of its once true shape and form. In the center of the square, a tarnished bronze sculpture still stands but has been long-ago stained with blood that has failed to wash away, and its base is covered in soot and ash.

Cryheart says, "A vision."

Zosopage says, "Erebor Square."

Zosopage says, "Oh, we're here."

Lilitigress asks, "Did anyone else see that?"

Speaking quietly to Saranja, Tanisstra asks, "Boom?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "I'd like to study your blood at some point, if you are willing."

Stormyrain nods faintly at Lilitigress.

Ysharra says, "I think we all did."

Speaking to Balley, Maylan says, "And yours."

Stormyrain distractedly glances at Maylan.

Speaking softly to Maylan, Beldannon says, "I am sure Cruxophim would like to drink it."

Speaking to Lilitigress, Khobra says, "Drink thiz before I can anzver."

Speaking wryly to Maylan, Cruxophim remarks, "Good luck with that."

Goldstr says, "Thought we was shifted to Talador fer a sec."

Pukk quietly says, "Okay, I really need to stop eating food I find on the ground."

Shinann says, "I heard footsteps.."

Speaking to Goldstr, Stormyrain murmurs, "It's as destroyed as Talador, isn't it?"

Lilitigress says, "Ahh...."

Balley softly says, "Where is this soot and ash from I wonder."

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Speaking to Pukk, Ysharra says, "You say that, but you won't."

Neopuron says, "Approaching too."

Speaking to Balley, Hapenlok says, "The rest of the town."

Cryheart says, "Either we see what is to come...or someone is sending us a potential warning."

Pukk quietly says, "I think I'm seeing things."

Hapenlok says, "I'd wager."

Felita says, "I say we was fer a sec."

Cryheart says, "Or threat."

Flecks of grey fall from the sky, fluttering about like ashen snowflakes.

Balley shivers.

Zosopage says, "I'm guessing it could be from the town burning to the ground."

Balley softly says, "More is coming."

Evician asks, "Don't eat ashen snow?"

Speaking to Balley, Stormyrain says, "We failed to stop the future we were shown before. The Paragon was not stopped, nor was the future destruction of the Landing."

Diamondelille asks, "Ash snow flakes?"

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Tanisstra quietly says, "Hurry up and wait....always a good plan."

Claudaro says, "A fire... but Maylan is here."

Footsteps grow closer, now accompanied by the sound of dragging chains.

Evician says, "Something is coming guys."

Balley softly says, "Someone is coming."

Speaking to Claudaro, Maylan says, "Not very tasty."

Bernadette softly says, "Ware the chains."

Balley shivers.

Stormyrain murmurs, "Someone."

Cytiger asks, "Am I living in a nightmare?"

Cryheart says, "That sounds ominouse."

Cytiger says, "Blood, ash, chains...."

Lylia impatiently says, "Settle down and govern yourselves."

Khobra says, "To zober for violence."

Speaking casually to Cytiger, Leafiara says, "Life is what you make it."

Hapenlok says, "It's most likely not a physical manifestation. So everyone calm down. Have a drink. And don't panic."

Balley softly says, "I wonder who or what is headed our way."

Speaking casually to Cytiger, Cruxophim muses, "All the good things."

Speaking quietly to Cryheart, Pukk asks, "Did you just say this sounds like a lonely moose?"

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "The chains could be from the crypt bindings below us."

Hapenlok mutters, "Idiots. Jumping at shadows."

Stormyrain looks over at Shinann and shakes her head.

Hapenlok says, "...they have no idea this is not the time to be jumping. That's later."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Evician exclaims, "I resemble that remark sir!"

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "Many of them are in poor repair. And we all know there's roaming spirits down there."

Speaking quietly to Saranja, Tanisstra says, "Yes, Mistress, I'll protect your back."

Stormyrain slowly empties her lungs.

Goldstr says, "May be a ghost of a prisoner we know."

Pukk recites quietly:

"Everybody stop jumping and hide...I mean guard Sir Shiny's back!"

(Balley gazes at her arm.)

Commander Roblar just went west.

Speaking to a snow white raven, Ysharra says, "This is your sort of evening, malorna."

Shinann just went west.

Balley leans softly against Zosopage.

Commander Roblar just arrived.

Shinann just arrived.

Leafiara glances between Shinann and Roblar.

Leafiara curiously asks, "Find anything interesting?"

Emerging from a wall of falling ash and slate-hued skies, a slender figure appears, wrapped in an ethereal grey cloak, with wispy locks of silver hair protruding from the shadows of the figures shadowy hood. Sanguine runes cover the figure's slender hands, and there are numerous cuts along her right and left arm, patterned in some design. Behind the grey-cloaked figure is another woman, a sylvan with blood red eyes and honey-hued hair. Thin, bloody wounds cover her arms as well in a pattern, but are not the only visible aspect on her limbs. Rune-etched chains clasp her hands together, connecting with clamps around her ankles. A long chain leads from a waist belt from the red-eyed sylvan, and is wrapped around one hand of the grey-cloaked figure.

Stormyrain raises her eyebrow, the dark bloodjewel half-ring set within only enhancing her skeptical expression.

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Sylvans, why does it always have to be sylvans!"

Lylia glances at Stormyrain.

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Lylia.

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Balley.

Cryheart says, "Interesting."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Ysharra asks, "What sort of distortions did you mean, now?"

Cryheart says, "Both be Sylvankind."

Evician says, "Ayep."

Zosopage says, "Hrmm that looks like them."

Evician says, "So one of them is missing."

Neopuron asks, "Who is missing?"

Speaking to Ysharra, Stormyrain asks, "I--what?"

Speaking quietly to Cruxophim, Pukk whispers aloud, "Be prepared to eat something if anything goes wrong!"

Speaking to Neopuron, Stormyrain asks, "Missing?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Ysharra says, "You were saying that the visions would be distorted."

Neopuron shrugs at Stormyrain.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Ysharra says, "Diluted."

Evician says, "Yeah but you can't take a sylvankind and turn it into a half elf. That's all I'm saying."

Speaking to Ysharra, Stormyrain says, "If blood was added that wasn't the caster's choice, yes."

The grey-cloaked figure yanks hard on the chain, and the red-eyed sylvan jerks in return. The blood-eyed woman mutters something, almost archaic, her voice almost sounding metallic in nature. She then points towards the broken dome of the museum, or more so, a patch of broken ground near it.

Speaking to herself, Stormyrain murmurs, "I don't think we have to worry about that just now though."

The grey-cloaked figure taps along the ground with her foot.

Tarine mumbles, "Weird."

Roblar deeply asks, "Someone gets possesed by Ithzir in da future?"

Pukk quietly says, "I think the figure is upset that we haven't fixed anything yet."

Cryheart asks, "Perhaps the grey-cloaked figure is someone else?"

Speaking to Pukk, Leafiara protests, "But nothing's broken yet."

Lyrna distractedly asks, "Haven't fixed anything?"

Balley softly asks, "Maybe I break it?"

Goldstr asks, "Stormy an Balley?"

Cryheart says, "Once a captain...always a captain."

Roblar deeply says, "Patch of ground by museum."

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Cryheart.

Maylan asks, "Should we be...letting them do whatever it is they are about to do?"

Neopuron says, "It seems like all this is happening again, or has."

The grey-cloaked woman stops, tapping her foot to the ground. Thud, thud. Thud-thud. Thud.

Lylia says, "I see no reason to dispel them before they impart their knowledge."

Diamondelille asks, "Should we go in?"

Lylia says, "They have some reason for being."

Cryheart says, "Aye, let it play out."

Zosopage says, "Hrmm some kind of code."

Pukk quietly says, "Oh, she wants a bard or bardess to play a tune to dance to."

From the ground, an echo returns. Thud. Thud. thud-thud. Thud.

Stormyrain raises an eyebrow.

Stormyrain glances down.

Ysharra says, "Something wanting in. Or something wanting out."

Felita says, "Someone's walkin about."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "In that case, I'll help the thudding."

Maylan thumps her mop-fringed pegleg on the ground in three rapid successions.

Neopuron says, "That was a long delay."

(Tanisstra yells at the grey-clad woman, "What do you want?!?")

Roblar deeply says, "Da musuem iz where Grishom sacrified countless lasses once."

Evician says, "Probably not a good idea to yell..."

Stormyrain says, "Someone. Someone hidden away mayhaps."

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Diamondelille asks, "Kin we let em out?"

Speaking softly to Raelee, Ysharra whispers aloud, "How far down would you say the Grand Magister was?"

The grey-cloaked figure steps back and the ground before her begins to shift, but in a moment later, it appears the ash covering the ground has slid away, as a panel of earthen ground is lifted and a crude trapdoor revealed beneath the broken ground.

Speaking to Cryheart, Goldstr asks, "Shall we check da basement?"

Speaking to Ysharra, Raelee says, "No."

Zosopage says, "Hrmm."

Maylan asks, "Was that there this entire time?"

Balley softly asks, "What is that trapdoor?"

Shinann says, "How odd."

Roblar deeply says, "In a dark future perhaps."

Leafiara speculates, "Maybe it hasn't been built yet."

Cryheart says, "Either that is under the museum...or somewhere in Talador."

Zosopage says, "I don't see it still."

Speaking to Raelee, Ysharra says, "Just a shared memory, Magister, not conjecture."

Stormyrain clenches her jaw.

Roblar deeply says, "It iz here."

Roblar deeply says, "One day."

Speaking to Ysharra, Raelee says, "I am not entertaining attempts to unearth him. That has not changed."

Cruxophim raspily croons, "Things dark and decrepit lurk beneath...."

Cryheart says, "If it portends of the future...aye."

Goldstr says, "Museum basement has a trapdoor to da Burrows."

Bernadette softly says, "Aye."

Speaking to Raelee, Ysharra says, "I like the Bourthian...eh, Bourther? Bourthling..? Better, too."

Stormyrain shifts her weight.

Speaking quietly to Lyrna, Tanisstra asks, "Might this be a vision of a past event come back to haunt us?"

Evician says, "Or future."

Stormyrain distractedly glances at Tanisstra.

Balley ponders.

Cryheart says, "Either."

Zosopage asks, "So the ground opens up and reveals that trapdoor?"

Shinann says, "I think we are seeing the future. Or a possible one. Hopefully the latter."

Neopuron says, "It's all too familiar to be future."

Balley softly says, "I never remember having red eyes before."

Balley softly says, "So it must be future."

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Neopuron.

Zosopage says, "Has to be."

Zosopage says, "Or might be."

Shinann says, "I mean... possible it might not happen."

Speaking quietly to Balley, Pukk says, "If you have seen Zoso naked, I'm sure you had red eyes."

Lylia says, "No future is utterly ineluctable."

Emerging from the depth of the earth, a woman climbs into view. Her eyes are tired, and the color of violets. Old blood and dirt cakes her dark tawny hair. Dust, and freckles, cover her nose. She stretches as she climbs up and out, a single hawk feather on a chain dangling from her neck. She and the grey-cloaked woman nod in a silent greeting.

Stormyrain raises her eyebrow, the dark bloodjewel half-ring set within only enhancing her skeptical expression.

Speaking quietly in Sylvankind to Balley, Saranja asks, "Does the seer's talent run your bloodline? Your past?"

Tanisstra quietly asks, "Is that the missing third person?"

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "Your smoke demons bring that up, I think."

Neopuron exclaims, "No more wishful thinking!"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "Try prodding your new tattoo. See if it has the ability to speed up or replay this vision."

Cryheart asks, "Who wore a hawk feather?"

Xorus says, "Strange. Larsya."

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Maylan.

Speaking to Stormyrain, Maylan encourages, "Poke at it."

Speaking to Xorus, Ysharra asks, "So we are seeing a possibility...?"

Shinann says, "Larsya."

Speaking to Xorus, Goldstr says, "Mayhaps."

Stormyrain nods faintly at Xorus.

Speaking to Maylan, Stormyrain asks, "New tattoo?"

Neovik asks, "Maybe it's Lich Landing where the trapdoor is at?"

Balley softly says, "I am not sure Saranja do not know my parents I was adopted."

Lyrna asks, "Who is Larsya?"

Speaking calmly to Neovik, Cruxophim reminds, "Lich's Landing is phased out of this plane now. And it's off a bit and to the side."

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Cryheart says, "A daugther of a Baron."

Xorus says, "But quite a bit older than she is now."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Neovik says, "Aah..."

Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara explains, "The sister of Breshon, the head of the Hendoran outpost near here. We recently cured a magical ailment that aged her."

Cryheart says, "Who died at the hand of a poison bolt."

Speaking to Xorus, Lylia adds, "Yet not so old as she once appeared."

Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "Right now she's a little girl."

The violet-eyed woman offers her palm, and the grey-cloaked woman gestures with one finger, a trail of blood appearing along the other's palm. The grey-cloaked woman studies the blood as it seeps out, staring intently. She then sighs, looking a mixture of surprise and disappointment. Just then, a loud almost demonic roar fills the sky.

Xorus says, "Though she was more wrinkled than grown."

Speaking affably to Neovik, Cruxophim reminds, "You can peep it from Goblyn's place."

Cryheart says, "Not that is nae good."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Neovik says, "Neat! I'll have to take a look."

Maylan asks, "You believe this woman is Larsya?"

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Stormyrain gives a sidelong glance at Neopuron.

Speaking distractedly to Maylan, Hapenlok says, "Yes. now WATCH."

Evician exclaims, "Don't make me throw Roblar at it!"

Stormyrain shifts her weight.

Evician exclaims, "Cause I'll do it!"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Ysharra asks, "The back way still open?"

Roblar deeply says, "It's not 'ere."

Speaking to Hapenlok, Maylan whines, "I AM watching."

Shinann says, "Or.. someone that took her."

Hapenlok offers Maylan a tall shot of cherry vodka.

Speaking quietly to Cruxophim, Ysharra says, "Good. I need more."

Maylan accepts Hapenlok's cherry vodka.

Speaking to Maylan, Hapenlok commands, "Drink. And be silent."

You notice Chaoswynd moving stealthily into the area.

Speaking quietly to Chaoswynd, Pukk exclaims, "About time!"

Speaking to Hapenlok, Maylan says, "Yes to the former, no to the latter."

Leafiara musingly says, "If it were any other human I'd say this must not be a very distant possible future, but with her connection to the Wyrdeep, I guess that's not a safe bet..."

Zosopage says, "The clouds have moved off."

All three women look to the sky at the wake of the beast. The slate-hued sky swirls about like whorls of ink in muddy water. But the heavens are broken up by the shadow of a huge, enormous creature that could only be described as a goliath of a maggot. Its oily black body is covered in a mass of razor-sharp teeth and eyes and it drips with a sickly black ichor. It is larger than several of broken buildings in the area, and begins to descend.

Tanisstra quietly asks, "Why do we need a ladder? To go down the trapdoor?"

Lylia says, "I have seen that before."

Xorus says, "The bleak abomination."

Maylan yells, "Larsya run!"

Stormyrain stares upward.

Leafiara surprisedly asks, "Wait, that thing's still alive? Roblar hasn't killed it by this future?"

Lylia hollowly says, "Above the Bleaklands."

Speaking fondly to Lylia, Cruxophim agrees, "Bleaklands."

Roblar deeply says, "Dat was seen."

Ysharra says, "It's...not unlike the Goleb."

Roblar deeply says, "Maybe am ded."

Leafiara speculates, "Unless there's more than one..."

Speaking to Leafiara, Claudaro says, "Roblar must have been napping."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok says, "I was about to say that."

Speaking to Lylia, Stormyrain asks, "..but here, not there. So the Bleaklands extend?"

Goldstr exclaims, "Now dat be a biggun!"

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok asks, "We ran like hell from that, didn't we?"

Shinann says, "We have seen that before."

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Ysharra says, "But that was undead."

Ysharra says, "Not a demon."

Speaking teasingly to Hapenlok, Cruxophim muses, "You did."

Footsteps approach, almost rapidly.

Speaking to Cruxophim, Hapenlok says, "Well, I didn't run. But I walked rather briskly."

Zosopage says, "Slime-covered maggot. Nice."

Lylia says, "They grow, yes, but this far? I had not thought so. Nor does the burning look like the devastation there, not quite, but --"

Stormyrain blinks.

Lilitigress asks, "Something bad coming?"

Roblar deeply says, "Only one ay to kill dat beast in sky."

Cryheart says, "A vision."

Speaking to Lylia, Ysharra says, "It's been a long time since I looked upon those plains."

Roblar deeply says, "Will let it swallow me."

Speaking to Roblar, Pietra exclaims, "Fireworks!"

Roblar deeply says, "Must hack it from da inside."

Speaking eagerly to Roblar, Leafiara says, "Oh, I like it. Great plan."

Evician exclaims, "Good idea Commander!"

Zosopage says, "Mass visions are usually not good."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "Best way to kill that thing is for somebody who can throw things to pick up Happy and throw him at it!"

Balley softly says, "Welcome to my world visions are my way of life."

Saranja mutters badmushrooms.

Cryheart says, "Clouds hae passed as someone stated."

Speaking deeply to his rolaren plate armor, Roblar asks, "How long kin you resists corrosion?"

Speaking insistently to Pukk, Leafiara says, "Hey, some of us want a turn too."

Evician says, "Oh yeah throw Leafi at it too."

Speaking to Roblar, Claudaro says, "Maybe far enough in the future for another trip to Duskruin, to get more acid resistance."

The red mist of Erebor Square begins to quickly fade, as the image of the three women slowly breaks apart, but not before the arrival of a fourth figure is seen. A man enters from a wall of ash, his eyes as grey as steel and the ash itself. He wields a large blackened sword squirming with a host of oily black maggots. A ring of blood-red scars in the shape of a crown are carved into the flesh of his bald head. He rushes in as the mist finally disspiates and Erebor Square returns to normal.

Speaking quietly to Leafiara, Pukk says, "It will try to eat Happy, but he will get caught in its throat and suffocate."

Stormyrain gives a short little hum of surprise.

Leafiara thoughtfully says, "Hrm."

Evician exclaims, "Oh!"

Lyrna asks, "Who was that?"

Maylan frantically asks, "What's that one? Who is that?"

Lylia asks, "Thadston?"

Leafiara asks, "I didn't get a look, but... Disean? Thadston?"

Cruxophim affably muses, "Disean?"

Neopuron says, "Oh my."

Tanisstra quietly exclaims, "Eeeeew!"

Cryheart says, "Disean."

Evician exclaims, "That's the guy who did that thing to the horse, and got Thadston in his gut!"

Cryheart says, "I am guessing."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Raelee says, "My thought as well."

Stormyrain inquires, "But ..how?"

Speaking calmly to Leafiara, Cruxophim repeats, "Disean."

Shinann says, "Disean."

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Evician says, "Dibs on his sword."

Zosopage says, "Looks like a crown burned on his head."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Leafiara agrees, "That's what I thought at a glance."

Lylia says, "He looked like his father, surely enough, but...yes. That would make sense from Larsya's age."

Speaking fondly to Balley, Cruxophim praises, "You done good, kid."

Goldstr asks, "Chaston?"

Lylia says, "And Thadston has fewer scars about his head."

Roblar deeply says, "Thadston's son jus been a mess."

Speaking to Shinann, Stormyrain asks, "His mom was half-elf?"

Maylan says, "But she is okay, yes? She will be okay."

Roblar deeply says, "Shud been slapped about moar az a child."

Balley softly asks, "What did I do?"

Speaking teasingly to Stormyrain, Cruxophim praises, "You too. And by the by, future you? Pretty hot."

Maylan says, "We simply need to tell her not to go to those Bleaklands. She can stay away."

Maylan says, "And she can stay safe."

Stormyrain can offer Cruxophim only a blank expression.

Suddenly, Scarabs

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

A skittery blue-black scarab bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A spotted dark-spiked beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A long-horned deep crimson scarab bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A spotted lustrous sable scarab bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A long-horned deep crimson beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A spotted glossy red beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A tiny dark sanguine beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A spotted blue-black beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A long-horned deep crimson beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A tiny light vermilion beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A long-horned dark-spiked beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A skittery deep crimson scarab bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A stubby-legged deep crimson beetle bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A tiny lustrous sable scarab bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

A skittery shadowy black scarab bursts forth from its mound, chittering and testing the air with its antennae!

Roblar deeply says, "Dat apple fell a."

In one blurring motion, Roblar snatches an immense rolaren waraxe from his scabbard, brandishing it for all to see.

Speaking to Maylan, Lylia says, "People rarely listen when you tell them what not to --"

[Combat ensues]

Dord quietly says, "Yup."

Leafiara exclaims, "Ooh!"

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

Tanisstra quietly says, "Simply, she says..."

Cryheart says, "Wow."

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

Hapenlok exclaims, "... I knew it!"

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

>look

[Wehnimer's, Erebor Square]

This quiet corner resembles a calm island amid the bustling life of Wehnimer's Landing. At the west end, a low, broad dome is visible. In the center of the square, several benches of polished wood and smooth stone surround a sculpture that stands as a sentinel before the Wehnimer's Museum. Cast in bronze, the work imparts a sense of peace, calm and protection to the landscaped surroundings. A gold plaque mounted on a gracefully chiseled malachite base stands before it. You also see a spotted light vermilion scarab that appears dead, a stubby-legged light vermilion beetle that appears dead, a long-horned shadowy black scarab that appears dead, a long-horned shadowy black scarab that appears dead, a long-horned dark sanguine scarab that appears dead, a miniscule dark sanguine scarab that appears dead, a spotted blue-black scarab that appears dead, a tiny shadowy black scarab that appears dead, a miniscule dark-spiked beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged glossy red beetle that appears dead, a miniscule dark-spiked beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged dark sanguine beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged glossy red beetle that appears dead, a spotted shadowy black scarab that appears dead, a long-horned deep crimson scarab that appears dead, a spotted lustrous sable beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged blue-black beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged lustrous sable scarab that appears dead, a spotted light vermilion beetle that appears dead, a tiny dark-spiked scarab that appears dead, a skittery light vermilion beetle that appears dead, a miniscule glossy red scarab that appears dead, a miniscule deep crimson beetle that appears dead, a spotted shadowy black beetle that appears dead, a miniscule deep crimson beetle that appears dead, a skittery dark sanguine scarab that appears dead, a miniscule dark-spiked beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged light vermilion beetle that appears dead, a miniscule blue-black beetle that appears dead, a spotted light vermilion beetle that appears dead, a long-horned blue-black beetle that appears dead, a skittery dark sanguine beetle that appears dead, a skittery light vermilion scarab that appears dead, a spotted blue-black beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged glossy red scarab that appears dead, a spotted dark-spiked beetle that appears dead, a miniscule deep crimson scarab that appears dead, a miniscule lustrous sable beetle that appears dead, a tiny dark-spiked beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged blue-black beetle that appears dead, a spotted dark sanguine beetle that appears dead, a stubby-legged lustrous sable scarab that appears dead, a miniscule shadowy black scarab that appears dead, a tiny dark sanguine beetle that appears dead, a skittery shadowy black scarab that appears dead, a tiny lustrous sable scarab that appears dead, a stubby-legged deep crimson beetle that appears dead, a skittery deep crimson scarab that appears dead, a long-horned dark-spiked beetle that appears dead, a tiny light vermilion beetle that appears dead, a long-horned deep crimson beetle that appears dead, a spotted blue-black beetle that appears dead, a tiny dark sanguine beetle that appears dead, a spotted glossy red beetle that appears dead, a long-horned deep crimson beetle that appears dead, a spotted lustrous sable scarab that appears dead, a long-horned deep crimson scarab that appears dead, a spotted dark-spiked beetle that appears dead, a skittery blue-black scarab that appears dead, the Eheylien disk, a pale orange verlok feather, a spotted great horned owl, a lesser tawny owl, a bacon-wrapped blood pudding donut, a ruffed greatfang, a sharp-eared fire wyrdling, the eel-encircled Evician disk, the cauldron-shaped Vancudais disk, the Repaire disk, a circular ebonwood cart with some stuff on it, the Lazaryth disk, a snow white raven, an expressive luck spirit that is flying around, a gyrfalcon that is flying around, a vexatious snow spirit that is flying around and an ironwork gate.

Stormyrain snarls, "Raznel."

Evician exclaims, "Oh!"

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

Cryheart says, "Watch your swings."

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

Plague

Hapenlok exclaims, "I KNEW IT!"

Ysharra says, "Clever."

Cryheart says, "Scarabs from Raznel."

Stormyrain says, "..drawn by the blood and power I'm sure."

Stormyrain slowly empties her lungs.

Lylia hisses, "I despise those things."

Shinann says, "We know who that is."

Speaking confidently to Stormyrain, Maylan says, "I can fix that."

Speaking cluelessly to Shinann, Cruxophim jokes, "Thadston, right?"

Speaking to Stormyrain, Ysharra says, "Almost like they'd been waiting for a meal to come calling."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Shinann says, "No."

Cruxophim avariciously purrs, "Yum."

Evician says, "Snacktime for Cruxophim."

Speaking to Cruxophim, Ysharra says, "You just want a new pet."

Leafiara suspiciously says, "That was unusually tame by her standards."

Hapenlok says, "No."

Your skin begins to burn, as if your flesh is on fire!

[OOC: Various people begin rolling around, dousing themselves with water, or otherwise reacting, which I've mostly cut out to save you some spamtastic messaging. Throughout the rest of the log I've tried to include only one sample each of how the symptoms look, from both first-person and third-person perspectives, but seemingly dozens of people were affected to varying degrees and in different ways. Leafi didn't get the blood leaks or moulis you'll see later on.]

Zosopage says, "Should have tried to disarm them all."

Leafiara slowly says, "Oh..."

Roblar deeply says, "Now am jumpy."

Balley softly asks, "Why did they come?"

Evician says, "Umm my skin is on fire."

Balley softly asks, "Who were they called by? and Why?"

Hapenlok asks, "This ....is the problem with this magic. Remember what happened when we tried to restore Maags' power? The Hell that we unleashed?"

Cryheart says, "Raznel."

Cryheart says, "Most likely."

Speaking curiously to Hapenlok, Leafiara asks, "What did happen?"

Red spots appear on your skin suddenly. The edges are slightly raised and seem to be spreading rapidly.

Speaking to Leafiara, Hapenlok says, "A lot of bad things almost happened."

Cytiger says, "It burns."

Neovik asks, "Hmm... anyone else burning up?"

A series of reddish blebs begin to appear randomly over Evician's skin. Though probably not very painful in and of themselves, they may signal something much more dangerous on the way.

Cryheart says, "Nae I."

Zosopage says, "Ow."

Pukk quietly says, "Okay my skin is hurting too."

Speaking nonchalantly to Balley, Cruxophim agrees, "She does that, from time to time. Likes to pop up, cause mischief."

Cryheart says, "Cursed."

Evician says, "Oh hell."

Leafiara thoughtfully says, "Oh, now -that's- more like what I expected."

Cryheart says, "Or plague."

Speaking distractedly to Balley, Stormyrain says, "The power it took for the vision, along with the blood magic that likely helped fuel it was like a beacon to the Witch. She is a blood mage, remember."

Lylia says, "If you contain those things, go and die."

Evician exclaims, "I'm on fiya!!!"

Scale-like, shiny blebs begin to appear on Neopuron's skin, growing with frightening rapidity.

Cruxophim gleefully blurts, "Bleebs!"

Lylia demands, "Get out of town. Go and immolate yourselves."

Red spots appear on Pukk's skin suddenly. The edges are slightly raised and seem to be spreading rapidly.

Xorus says, "Fascinating."

Evician exclaims, "Fine, I'm going to your office!"

Ysharra says, "Well, this will get ugly."

Speaking to Stormyrain, Hapenlok says, "Everything you two saw, she saw."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan whines, "I don't wanna."

Balley softly says, "I forgot about her being a bloodmage."

Lazaryth says, "I don't feel well, myself."

Great Lord Evician just went west.

The ground beneath you violently shakes and rumbles causing you to fall down!

Roundtime: 7 sec.

[As does everyone else]

Stormyrain says, "I'm sure."

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

Lylia says, "If he is..."

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

Neovik asks, "Hmm... can we uncurse these things out of us?"

A series of reddish blebs begin to appear randomly over your skin. Though not very painful in and of themselves, they may signal something much more dangerous on the way.

Lylia snarls, "In MY office!?"

Roblar deeply says, "Diseased."

Leafiara advises, "The scarabs... might not exactly be in you. It's more a... curse of sorts."

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "A very good idea."

Lylia says, "Bringing that disease to..."

Cryheart asks, "Your office?"

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan says, "As you command."

Land Pirate Maylan just went west.

Mayor Lylia just went west.

Sir Cryheart's group just went west.

[Travel]

[Moot Hall, Mayor Lylia's Office]

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

Speaking to Lylia, Maylan exclaims, "You just told us to come here!"

Roblar [over the amunet]: "Da plague!"

Lylia shrieks, "Get out now, or die!"

Zosopage says, "Hrmm this is going to hurt I think."

Cryheart asks, "Want me to take them out?"

Evician says, "Umm I'm on fire, so I half expect I'll be dying anyways."

Lylia exclaims, "ALL of you! Out!"

Lazaryth says, "Ugh."

Sir Cryheart's group just went through a varnished modwir door.

[Moot Hall, Landing]

Moonlight filters in through several windows throughout the landing of the second story of Moot Hall. The bannisters are a polished oak that run the length of the upstairs, and sweep down the staircase leading to the lobby. A sign is displayed on a varnished modwir door with a large vertebral bone-framed blackboard hanging next to it. You also see the Registrar's Office and a polished thanot archway.

Tarine relievedly says, "Feeling a little better..."

Sir Cryheart's group just went down a staircase.

[Moot Hall, Great Lobby]

The great lobby is quite spacious, with an oak bannister wrapping around a staircase leading to the second story of Moot Hall. The wall are draped in rich tapestries framing niches that hold marble busts of local dignitaries. To the north is a double door, and to the west, a mahogany door bearing a silver plaque. A carpeted pathway leads toward the Debt Collector's Office. You also see an old stained table with some stuff on it, a blackboard, a veil iron shield-shaped plaque, a large wooden chest and a large wooden chest.

Ysharra says, "Oh dear."

Sir Cryheart's group just went out.

[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 and a bone-framed bulletin board.

Cruxophim: "Permission to murder, Madame Mayor."

Cryheart says, "Dinnae go to town square."

Pukk quietly exclaims, "So much for her open door policy!"

Neopuron asks, "Are we spreading?"

Ysharra says, "That would be rather unfortunate for the rest of the town's inhabitants."

Dark, yellowish nodules erupt from your skin in very inconvenient places, sending threads of pain throughout your entire body. Some of the nodules ooze or bleed, others have made it difficult to move in certain places.

... 1 point of damage!

Your right eye swells suddenly, causing great pain.

Cryheart says, "Well..I felt a pinching."

Lazaryth says, "Don't feel well at all."

Stormyrain asks, "Plague works that way. Pardon me?"

Ysharra says, "Perhaps Goblyn could be called."

Lyrna's face takes on a pinched expression.

Ysharra says, "She might want some new pets, too."

Dark, yellowish nodules erupt from Goldstr's skin. Some of the nodules ooze or bleed, others seem to make it difficult for him to move in certain places.

... 10 points of damage!

Goldstr's finger twitches, then explodes.

Goldstr says, "Diseased us."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara muses, "You know, so far this isn't as bad as the last time."

Cryheart's stomach gives off a loud gurgle.

Pukk quietly says, "It's easier if you just scratch it."

Dark, yellowish nodules erupt from Mistyfall's skin. Some of the nodules ooze or bleed, others seem to make it difficult for her to move in certain places.

... 20 points of damage!

Mistyfall's spine warps and protrudes through skin.

Speaking surprisedly to Shinann, Leafiara says, "I really thought she'd be stronger, not weak--"

Leafiara glances at Mistyfall.

Cytiger asks, "Do I have a scarab inside of me?"

Cryheart says, "Hmm...my stomach is gurgling."

All of your hair begins to turn white, some of it falling to the the ground in clumps. Your nails become weak and brittle, and your teeth seem ready to fall out as your gums bleed steadily.

... 10 points of damage!

Your intestines knot themselves. Painful.

You are stunned for 1 round!

Hapenlok: "Might want to avoid me like the....*ahem* plague."

Hapenlok: "I believe that I am about to give birth."

[OOC: This would be moulis infestations, which happened to some but not others.]

Cryheart says, "Ragnar, stay inside my cloak."

Felita asks, "Whas happnin?"

Goldstr looks extremely weak, as though the dark nodules on his skin were eating their way inside of him.

... 20 points of damage!

Blood flow to Goldstr's right eye cut off.

He is stunned!

Cryheart says, "Diseased."

Newsby: "Ewww!!"

Diamondelille says, "Folks gettin sick."

Ysharra asks, "What about the Healer?"

All of Cytiger's hair begins to turn white, some of it falling to the ground in clumps. He looks extremely weak.

... 10 points of damage!

Tendons in Cytiger's shield arm snap.

Ysharra says, "Surtey."

Pukk quietly says, "This is worse than when I used poison ivy to clean my backside."

Neovik looks extremely weak, as though the dark nodules on his skin were eating their way inside of him.

Neovik is forced to his knees by the crippling effects of leprosy!

... 5 points of damage!

Large lesions sprout on Neovik's weapon arm.

He is stunned!

Lazaryth gasps, "Thank you." [For an unstun]

Leafiara advises, "I suggest not worrying unless it lasts longer than a day."

Zosopage asks, "Where are they all dying?"

Closing your eyes tightly, you concentrate on an image within your mind's eye and murmur a soft prayer to the spirits. As the last syllable falls from your lips, your green eyes fly wide open and you flick your fingers, releasing the Locate Person spell...

Your spell is ready.

You gesture into the air.

Your vision begins to become murky and clouded. You have a sensation of rapidly passing distance. Eventually your sight begins to clear and a vision of Chaoswynd's surroundings fills your mind...

[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 tiny blue-black scarab, a long-horned glossy red beetle, a stubby-legged lustrous sable scarab, a miniscule deep crimson beetle, a miniscule deep crimson scarab, a skittery glossy red beetle, a spotted light vermilion beetle, a skittery blue-black scarab, a spotted shadowy black beetle, a stubby-legged glossy red scarab, a skittery light vermilion beetle, a spotted great horned owl that is flying around, a pure white gyrfalcon that is flying around, a pale-faced coppery barn owl, a mistwood serving cart with some stuff on it, an herbal remedy donation bin and some stone benches with some stuff on it. Also here: Mister Skeevve who is lying down, the body of Mayor Lylia who is lying down, the body of Chaoswynd who is lying down, the body of Lanthok who is lying down, the body of Uldoran who is lying down, the body of Tyfindaer who is lying down, the body of Great Lord Aerowan who is lying down, the body of Laralana who is lying down

The blebs on Zosopage's skin swell and expand, some bursting and horribly disfiguring his skin.

... 1 point of damage!

Blood vessels in Zosopage's forehead burst, spraying blood everywhere.

He is stunned!

Cryheart says, "Beetles in town square...dinnae go there."

Dord quietly asks, "The bugs?"

Cryheart: "Beetles and bugs in town square."

Hapenlok: "Everyone. I'm going to die outside the gates, probably."

Cryheart: "Scarabs."

Mistyfall says, "Well..."

Hapenlok: "Do not fog into me without looking."

Cryheart says, "Hmmm."

The blebs on Goldstr's skin swell and expand, some bursting and horribly disfiguring his skin.

... 14 points of damage!

Strips of flesh flayed from Goldstr's back.

He is stunned!

Pukk quietly says, "I have a hole in my chest if anybody can heal it...or at least plug it."

Shinann says, "They are west... do not go there."

The blebs on your skin swell and expand, some bursting and horribly disfiguring your skin, others simply intensifying the pain.

You are forced to your knees by the crippling effects of leprosy!

... 10 points of damage!

Blood in your left eye boils. Red steam rises from socket.

You are stunned for 3 rounds!

Lazaryth says, "Gods."

Cryheart says, "Amen."

Ysharra says, "Watch out."

Cryheart says, "Great Kai, give us protection."

Zosopage says, "Oh boy."

Ysharra says, "Everyone who isn't infected probably wants to leave. Now."

Cytiger says, "Oh dear."

The gypsy fortuneteller smiles at you and whispers, "I know many things unseen."

Neovik asks, "Where should we all go?"

Speaking quietly to a gypsy fortuneteller, Pukk exclaims, "Now you tell me!"

Bernadette softly says, "Kai be praised."

Though you still feel the effects of the disease that ravaged your body, you begin to feel a bit better.

Cytiger says, "This doesn't bode well for any of us with this bug in us."

Roblar: "Clearin dem ups while me alive."

Tanisstra quietly asks, "Where's Miss Saranja?"

Goldstr says, "Nae good."

Speaking to Tanisstra, Leafiara says, "Outside west gate."

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues]

The ground begins to rumble slightly with a disconcerting humming sound, as if something were digging beneath you. Suddenly, several tiny mounds push upward, each revealing a set of pincers emerging from within!

[More beetles and scarabs; combat continues and concludes]

Commander Roblar just arrived.

Roblar grasps his right arm, his features contorted with agony!

Roblar gasps in pain and shock as a tiny glossy red beetle pulsates, drawing the blood from his body!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's abdomen!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

Roblar grasps his abdomen, his features contorted with agony!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's right arm!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

The skin suddenly ripples on Roblar's left arm!

Roblar gasps in pain and shock as a spotted deep crimson scarab pulsates, drawing the blood from his body!

The skin suddenly ripples on Roblar's abdomen!

Cryheart says, "Darn."

Roblar grasps his right arm, his features contorted with agony!

Roblar gasps in pain and shock as a tiny glossy red beetle pulsates, drawing the blood from his body!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's abdomen!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's abdomen!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's right arm!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's left arm!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

Roblar gasps in pain and shock as a spotted deep crimson scarab pulsates, drawing the blood from his body!

A long-horned shadowy black scarab suddenly bursts out of Roblar's abdomen and crawls across his skin for a moment, before tunneling back in!

Roblar bites back a scream!

Pure white and bold red mana wisps dance around you like wind-borne leaves as you hum a cheerful tune and sing a sylvan phrase, preparing your spell.

Your spell is ready.

You gesture at Roblar.

A stubby-legged shadowy black scarab suddenly erupts out of Roblar's chest and drops to the ground!

A suit of black rolaren plate armor partially deflects the onslaught of the puncture attack.

... 1 point of damage!

Minor puncture to the chest.

Roblar deeply says, "Av some."

Roblar gasps in pain and shock as a tiny glossy red beetle pulsates, drawing the blood from his body!

A stubby-legged shadowy black scarab suddenly bursts out of Roblar's chest and crawls across his skin for a moment, before tunneling back in!

Roblar bites back a scream!

The skin suddenly ripples on Roblar's chest!

Roblar grasps his chest, his features contorted with agony!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's chest!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

Roblar gasps in pain and shock as a spotted deep crimson scarab pulsates, drawing the blood from his body!

Roblar grasps his chest, his features contorted with agony!

Leafiara hums a cheerful tune! Pure white and bold red mana wisps dance about her like wind-borne leaves, then pulse brightly as she sings a sylvan phrase in a strong, clear voice.

Leafiara gestures at Roblar.

A tiny glossy red beetle suddenly pulses a bright crimson and drops away from Roblar!

Leafiara hums a cheerful tune! Pure white and bold red mana wisps dance about her like wind-borne leaves, then pulse brightly as she sings a sylvan phrase in a strong, clear voice.

Leafiara gestures at Roblar.

A stubby-legged shadowy black scarab suddenly erupts out of Roblar's chest and drops to the ground!

A suit of black rolaren plate armor partially deflects the onslaught of the puncture attack.

... 1 point of damage!

Minor puncture to the chest.

Dry skin flakes off of Roblar leaving the new, healthy skin that was underneath.

You hear a wet, muffled ripping sound from under the skin of Roblar's chest!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's chest!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

You see a lump moving about just under the skin on Roblar's chest!

Roblar looks weak with shock and pain!

Roblar gasps in pain and shock as a spotted deep crimson scarab pulsates, drawing the blood from his body!

Roblar grasps his chest, his features contorted with agony!

Leafiara hums a cheerful tune! Pure white and bold red mana wisps dance about her like wind-borne leaves, then pulse brightly as she sings a sylvan phrase in a strong, clear voice.

Leafiara gestures at Roblar.

A tiny blue-black beetle suddenly erupts out of Roblar's chest and drops to the ground!

A suit of black rolaren plate armor partially deflects the onslaught of the puncture attack.

... 3 points of damage!

Strike to the chest breaks a rib!

Lyrna asks, "Does she have to be nearby?"

Leafiara hums a cheerful tune! Pure white and bold red mana wisps dance about her like wind-borne leaves, then pulse brightly as she sings a sylvan phrase in a strong, clear voice.

Leafiara gestures at Roblar.

A miniscule dark-spiked scarab suddenly erupts out of Roblar's chest and drops to the ground!

A suit of black rolaren plate armor partially deflects the onslaught of the puncture attack.

... 4 points of damage!

Strike to the chest breaks a rib!

Speaking to Xorus, Ysharra asks, "How are you feeling?"

Balley softly asks, "Where is who?"

Roblar gives a single weak gasp, and suddenly drops quite dead!

Roblar drops dead at your feet!

A spotted deep crimson scarab suddenly pulses a bright crimson and drops away from Roblar!

A long-horned shadowy black scarab suddenly erupts out of Roblar's chest and drops to the ground!

Cryheart says, "Raznel."

The lesions on Goldstr's skin disappear.

Speaking to Xorus, Ysharra says, "Maybe they don't care for ozone."

A skittery dark-spiked beetle suddenly erupts out of Roblar's chest and drops to the ground!

Balley softly asks, "Are we sure she is here?"

Lyrna says, "Raznel."

Balley softly asks, "Or near?"

Runny blood-soaked sores begin to appear on Neopuron's chest and abdomen.

Lyrna asks, "Would she have to be near to do this?"

Lylia: "If you are unclean, come to the gates of town. I shall kill you and rid you of the infestation."

Cryheart says, "Near most likely."

Leafiara musingly says, "Probably not."

Cryheart says, "Or far away..she is powerful."

Goldstr asks, "Der a healer bout fer me please?"

Lazaryth's face clouds over in pain.

The flushed red look leaves Beldannon's face.

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra asks, "Do you wish to end it?"

Hapenlok: "Moulis outside the gate. she got me, too."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "Lylia will remove the problem."

Speaking wryly to Ysharra, Lazaryth asks, "And miss all the fun?"

Blood begins to run from Cryheart's eyes and ears.

The disease that wracked Mistyfall finally appears to have run its course.

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "You'll die in the process, but you won't spill out a bunch of scarabs to the rest of the town."

Cryheart says, "Blood runing from my ears and eyes."

Cryheart says, "Nice."

Hapenlok: "...I'll take care of them."

Repaire says, "Whew..."

Lazaryth asks, "Is that what's going to happen?"

Dord quietly asks, "That can't be it right?"

Claudaro suddenly grimaces in pain.

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "I'm afraid so. You're both dying and hatching."

Cytiger goes into a sudden coughing fit spraying dark blood-colored spittle everywhere.

Zosopage says, "I seem to have recovered."

Zosopage says, "Or not."

Lazaryth says, "He looks better."

Lazaryth says, "I could get better."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra asks, "It's possible that you'll be spared. How do you feel?"

Balley softly says, "Um that is not good."

Repaire says, "That thing really did a number on ya."

Runny blood-soaked sores begin to appear on Cryheart's chest and abdomen.

Cryheart says, "Appears it needs to run its course."

Neopuron says, "Infections is spreading."

Lazaryth says, "..like hell."

Lylia: "If you are still diseased, come to the gates of town. Be purified with balefire."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "You know, considering what you've gone through you're remarkably calm."

Tarine says, "Feel a little better..."

Hapenlok: "My moulis babies have been ...disposed of."

Lazaryth indignantly asks, "When am I ever not calm?"

Pukk quietly says, "Balley healed me more than Zoso....she likes me more."

Cruxophim: "How heartless."

Repaire asks, "Anyone else need healing?"

Speaking to Pukk, Zosopage says, "You got hurt more."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "It's an odd evening, is all."

Beldannon softly says, "I could use some."

Speaking quietly to Zosopage, Pukk exclaims, "If you are going to cheat and use logic, I'm not going to play!"

Speaking to Ysharra, Lazaryth says, "Better than hanging around town square, bored to death."

Speaking to Ysharra, Lazaryth says, "Not as good as a couple nights ago."

Goldstr says, "Sir Cryheart needs some healin."

Zosopage's stomach bulges outward and his eyes glaze over in pain.

Lylia: "Heartless is allowing this filth to infest the town! Fire cleanses. Maylan had that much of it right, but it is not buildings we must burn, should these...unspeakable things get under one's skin."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra asks, "Absolutely. See how this town treats you?"

Cryheart says, "Sores beginning."

Beldannon softly says, "My head hurts."

Zosopage says, "Just pain at the moment but nothing more."

Hapenlok: "I'd be more than willing to kill the afflicted, but correct me if I'm wrong, they'll lock me up and throw away the key, won't they?"

Maylan: "So I was dead and now I'm alive, but I'm still afflicted. It hurts!"

Claudaro's eyes glaze over with pain and a shudder runs down his back.

Hapenlok: "...I mean that's what almost happened the last time I tried to help."

Zosopage says, "My tummy bulged a bit."

Balley softly says, "All this today has tired me out I must rest."

Speaking gently to Zosopage, Leafiara say, "Maybe you just need some refreshments courtesy of Twilight Hall."

Leafiara indicates the ebonwood cart as a possible option.

Beldannon softly says, "I am not dying by any means but would take a little healing."

Lylia: "Still afflicted?"

Geirrod says, "Wuh e'erywun beh doin o'er 'ere in dah east par' o' town."

Maylan: "Aye my stomach hurts!"

Zosopage says, "Ahh."

Hapenlok: "Outside the gates. Now."

Lylia: "Get out here."

Speaking to Balley, Zosopage says, "Let me know when you are ready."

Lilitigress asks, "Anyone else need any healing?"

Lazaryth weakly says, "I'm sorry."

Geirrod asks, "Weh beh invaydered?"

Maylan: "Do I have to die again?"

Lazaryth says, "That's disgusting."

Hapenlok: "Yes."

Speaking calmly to Geirrod, Leafiara says, "Ah, it's all fine now."

Roblar deeply says, "Bugs."

Cryheart says, "Scarabs and beetles."

Hapenlok: "Don't make me come find you."

Maylan: "All over again??"

Hapenlok: "Yes."

Cryheart says, "Diseased us."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "We've all seen much worse tonight. Heck, just in the past few minutes."

Geirrod asks, "Frum dah chezts er dey jus' come?"

Speaking gently to Geirrod, Leafiara says, "They just came."

Speaking to Lazaryth, Ysharra says, "You should have seen the black veins some of us had a couple of years ago."

Cryheart says, "From a wicked witch, Raznel."

Geirrod says, "Nah good dis news dis."

Beldannon softly says, "That was a mean scarab if it killed Roblar."

Speaking to Ysharra, Lazaryth says, "I'm sure it was -"

Leafiara notes, "The black blood disease was quite a bit worse than this, unless you all stay sick for months."

Roblar deeply says, "Had about ten."

Roblar deeply says, "But aye, one got to da heart."

Goldstr asks, "Der no ways to heal Sir Cryheart?"

Beldannon softly says, "I remember another lifetime where there was this red rot that was pretty awful."

Lazaryth goes into a sudden coughing fit spraying dark blood-colored spittle everywhere.

Lazaryth says, "I'm quite healthy, generally. I'm positive it'll be over -"

Geirrod asks, "Dere beh trezsures amungst dese bee'ls?"

Cryheart says, "It seems it..."

Cryheart says, "Will hae to run it's course."

Leafiara suddenly says, "Wait... the black blood disease. Shinann didn't seem especially afflicted either..."

Zosopage says, "It is taking its time to run its course."

Speaking to Cryheart, Goldstr says, "Less hopes."

Cryheart says, "Amen."

Geirrod says, "Meh always beh missin' dah funs."

Roblar deeply says, "Well time ta rest abit."

Roblar deeply says, "Stop dyin to da undead."

Roblar winks at Sacru.

Geirrod asks, "Ye finds any'ting shiny frum dese bugs?"

Lyrna just arrived.

Speaking curiously to Lyrna, Leafiara asks, "Have you seen Shinann?"

Lyrna goes into a sudden coughing fit spraying dark blood-colored spittle everywhere.

Lyrna nods.

Leafiara slowly says, "...oh."

Lyrna says, "Have you tried removing the curse."

Leafiara hums a cheerful tune! Pure white and bold red mana wisps dance about her like wind-borne leaves, then pulse brightly as she sings a sylvan phrase in a strong, clear voice.

Leafiara gestures at Lyrna.

Nothing happens.

Speaking to Neovik, Geirrod says, "Meh toughts all de dragon beh estinct."

Bernadette softly asks, "Mebee a cleric?"

Lyrna says, "It works on ... the beetles and such if they're on you."

Speaking cautiously to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "Well, as long as it doesn't last for months, it could be worse."

Lyrna says, "Cay is also about where I am."

Speaking to Geirrod, Neovik says, "They are all hiding in my beard and keeping it clean."

Speaking curiously to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "I seem to be much better off than most of you... it might be because I've already overcome one of Raznel's curses..."

Lyrna says, "I know where Shinann and Cay are."

Hapenlok: "Anyone who has abdominal rumblings, please come to the Wayside Inn for purification."

Speaking to Lyrna, Leafiara says, "So I was wondering how Shinann is doing, since she has too."

Leafiara joins Lyrna's group.

[Travel]

[Town Square, Southwest]

This corner of the square seems somewhat subdued. Townsfolk pass through on their way to the shops, the bazaar, or the main well at the center of the square. Others hurry past, anxious to get home or go on about their business. You also see a wood-sided shop and a cobblestone walkway leading up to a wrought iron gate.

Speaking curiously to Shinann, Leafiara asks, "Are you alright... relatively speaking?"

Shinann says, "I cannot heal them."

Shinann says, "So no."

Lyrna says, "Leafi's uncursing didn't work either."

Leafiara urgently asks, "But you're not as hurt as them... correct?"

Shinann says, "No."

Shinann says, "I was able to keep myself alive."

Leafiara affirms, "And I'm not as hurt as others either..."

Shinann says, "There was a scarab in me and he.."

Shinann points at Vancudais.

Shinann says, "Killed it."

Vancudais says, "Good for something."

Speaking to Shinann, Leafiara speculates, "We might have built up a resistance because of the last curse..."

Lyrna says, "That was when the uncursing worked."

Lyrna says, "It was draining Shinann dry, or trying to."

Nikhiliam just arrived.

Nikhiliam asks, "Is it safe now?"

Lyrna says, "No."

Lyrna asks, "Does undisease work?"

Chaoswynd looks over at Lyrna and shakes his head.

Leafiara muses, "Probably not."

Shinann says, "I have been casting that on you both."

Lyrna says, "I cast resistance on myself."

Lyrna says, "It seems to be a matter of waiting."

Speaking speculatively to Shinann, Leafiara says, "If you and I are better off, then maybe getting some of the salve from before would help..."

Shinann says, "I am not sure."

Hapenlok: "Well, those of you in town who never had the misfortune of experiencing such, you just experienced how much torment that Raznel can do from long distance."

Hapenlok: "....anything our neophyte blood mages can do, she can do better. let that be a warning."

Cruxophim: "Who are you calling a neophyte?"

Hapenlok: "Oh, far be it from me, to call you a neophyte, Blackwing."