Rasping Desperation (Cont'd) Restday, day 3 of the month Fashanos in the year 5102

Nekales says, "the soul is bound to the body until released, or so i have been taught"

Robinblood whispers, "Remember, we must be the advancers through mind games, not threats"

Nekales shrugs.

Achillea asks, "you do not understand the nature of undeath, Joter?"

You whisper quietly to Robinblood, "I have no way to threaten her."

You pace back and forth.
You pace back and forth.

Tjaran sighs.

Robinblood whispers, "Keep your calm"

Tjaran says, "I have someone waiting on me."

Witcheaven sighs softly.

Joter says, "Oh, I do, sort of. I don't believe in it."

Arimantis mutters something about lichs.

Witcheaven takes a drink from her warm golden brandy.

Tianni says, "So does Nekales."

Tianni winks at Tjaran.

Ilvane leans on Tjaran.

(Iscikella clenches her hands into tight fists as she paces.)

Tjaran says, "Please inform me if there is a major develpment."

Nekales grins.

Robinblood glances at you.

Robinblood shifts his weight.

Nekales nods to Tjaran.

Niqi just left.

Achillea asks, "so then you dispute the teachings of the foul order of Voln?"

Achillea peers quizzically at Joter.

Joter asks, "You mean like a liche killing me for my singing?"

Joter says, "No I don't"

Tianni looks rather confused.

Alyxandrah gazes heavenward.

You tilt your head up.

(Alyxandrah rubs her temples.)

You mutter something about lich.

Robinblood scratches his chin.

Skyfawn rubs Alyxandrah gently.

Joter says, "I understand the undead. I don't believe you can sell your soul."

You whisper quietly to Alyxandrah, "She sways them. I cannot believe it!"

Achillea begins chuckling at Joter.

Arimantis sits down.

Joter says, "That the difference."

Ilvane grins.

You whisper quietly to Alyxandrah, "They main and kill and try for souls."

Ilvane snuggles up to Arimantis.

Ilvane just kissed Arimantis on the nose.

Achillea says, "oh indeed one can, but usually not on the black net"

Tjaran says, "Well, I must be of.."

You whisper quietly to Alyxandrah, "And she sways them."

Tjaran says, "off."

Achillea stares off into space.

Alyxandrah whispers, "It's a pity, they're so easily swayed. Too bad Thurfel couldn't be the one to sway them."

Arimantis cuddles up with Ilvane.

Tjaran coughs.

Robinblood says, "Take care Tjaran"

Robinblood smiles.

Tjaran says, "Please take care."

Aranrhod sighs.

Tjaran bows.

You curtsy to Tjaran.

Joter says, "Like I said, different beliefs."

Tjaran just hugged Tianni.

(Witcheaven glances at Joter with pain in her eyes.)

Tjaran just hugged Ilvane.
Ilvane just hugged Tjaran.

Tjaran bows to you.

Witcheaven says, "Its.. been known to happen."

Lord Tjaran just went southwest.

Ilvane says, "See you tomorrow, Tj."

Ilvane smiles.

Alyxandrah rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Robinblood leans on Alyxandrah.

Ilvane says, "Oops, there goes Jestin."

(Iscikella continues to pace back and forth, her hands white from the tightness with which the are clenched.)

Alyxandrah says, "Seems a certain lich is killing people..."

Arimantis grins at Ilvane.

Robinblood whispers, "Relax"

Nofret asks, "Which one?"

Ilvane glances at you.

Nekales frowns.

Alyxandrah says, "Excuse me a moment."

Aranrhod raises an eyebrow in Alyxandrah's direction.

Alyxandrah just went southwest.
Achillea just went southwest.

Ilvane stands up.

Joter says, "Iscikella, you and I need to talk sometime. I think you don't understand me and I want you to."

Witcheaven frowns.

Arimantis stands up.

Renowned Lady Skyfawn just went southwest.

Witcheaven stands up.

Nekales nods.

You blink at Joter.

This log is from the viewpoint of Opalina and the "you" references, therefore, are in connection to said character.

***TECHNICAL NOTE***
Begins concurrent to Iscikella's previous log, starting at Opalina's exit from the Hall of Mind...
***END NOTE***

[Icemule Trace, North Gate]
Several well-armed guards stand to either side of a hole in the glacier. People wander in and out of the opening, which apparantly serves as a gate to the town. Within the ice you can see the faint shadow of what once must have been the actual gates. However, the glacier has devoured it over time, and the resourceful halflings have taken advantage of the natural wall created by the ice. You also see an old beer barrel.
Obvious paths: south, west.

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

You say, "I am in the process of searching for the barrer of the staff"

Silon just arrived.

Silon taps you lightly on the shoulder.

You glance at Silon.

Silon whispers, "I'll guard you till the lich leaves"

You say, "I need no guard the moment"

Jestin just arrived.

Jestin smiles.

Silon whispers, "I know what happened to Aran"

Silon whispers, "I don't want that to happen to you"

You say, "it won't "

Silon whispers, "How can you be so sure?"

You say, "at least not yet"

Jestin peers quizzically at you.

Silon grumbles.

Jestin slings a rolaren banded eonake shield off from over his shoulder.

You hug Silon.

"Do you think for a moment that I believe you know not who bears it? While I am aware the others are known to have knowledge of its location."

Silon hugs you.

Jestin asks, "He bothering ya lass?"

You say, "Oh I know who bears it"

Silon makes a wheezing sound.

You say, "I know full well"

Silon whispers, "Well, I'll watch ya, in case the lichs do attack ya"

You say, "she's just sneaky"

"Let your friends stay, so if I sense you lying to me, I have targets easily at hand."

Silon nods to you.

You frown.

You check your footing.

Jestin says, "Always interesting hearing one side of a conversation"

You say, "okie"

Jestin chuckles.

Silon grins at Jestin.

You say, "stay then Jestin and Silon"

Silon asks, "Where are you going?"

You say, "please have a seat"

Silon asks, "Where are you going Opalina?"

You say, "no where"

Jestin frowns.

You say, "Im standing here"

Silon sits down.

Jestin asks, "What's worng?"

Jestin peers quizzically at you.

"Now what progess have you in obtaining the staff?"

Jestin nods to Silon.

You say, "I will have what I believe to be it by nightfall tomarrow evening if I am wrong then I will continue my search."

Silon asks, "What do you have?"

Jestin nods to Silon.

You close your eyes for a moment.

You say, "The staff Silon"

Silon nods to you.

Silon whispers, "Please... don't say that outloud"

Jestin asks, "Why would you want that?"

"If you do not have what we seek, I should hope by now that you are aware of the consequences that will be incurred if you do not."

You say, "of course I know"

You say, "If I seek it and fail all are lost.. if I don't seek it all are lost."

You frown.

You ask, "How can I not know?"

You gaze in wonder at your surroundings.

Silon whispers, "Can you give it to someone else? I can't imagine wha would happen if a possessed had it"

You place your arms akimbo and look about as if waiting for something.

You ask, "who was the other one in the temple?"

Jestin says, "I thought the vessels where now the key"

Silon whispers, "I think it was just Gavrail"

Silon says, "Them.. and the staff..."

You ask, "was that indeed Gavrail? like the other's thought?"

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Silon says, "It might'v, not sure"

You gaze in wonder at your surroundings.

Silon whispers, "Please Opalina, I only wish ta know fer yer safety and the town's. I really don wanna see the staff in yer hands"

"That is of no concern to yourself, as is my true identity. I gather the sudden feeling that you are telling me half-truths. What are you holding back from me?"

You say, "I am holding back nothing.. I told you I will have what I believe is the staff by tomarrow evening..."

You stamp your feet.

Silon whispers, "From Xeldria?"

Jestin says, "You should leave it or let someone else get it"

You say, "I will not"

"You should better hope so for if not, what you have seen previous from me will be delivered ten fold unto those loved ones of yours."

You turn to face Jestin.

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Silon whispers, "Why not...?"

Jarlstrom's group just arrived.

Felisity smiles.

Jarlstrom removes a step-cut star ruby earcuff from in his spidersilk backpack.

You glance at Jarlstrom.

Jestin says, "You have an essence trying to take over your body, bad idea to have the staff too"

Jarlstrom offers Silon a step-cut star ruby earcuff.

Silon whispers, "Wha's this fer?"

Silon grunts.

Jarlstrom hugs you.

You say, "I will Do what I have to do to protect my family and my home"

Felisity hugs you.

Jarlstrom says, "frem da box yas gaf me "

The spider-shaped clasp lurking upon Felisity's chest languidly stretches its foremost pair of legs before freezing again into sedulous immobility.

Jestin asks, "And if ya get it what would ya do with it?"

Jarlstrom nods to Silon.

Silon accepts Jarlstrom's star ruby earcuff.
Silon put a step-cut star ruby earcuff in his spidersilk cloak.

Jarlstrom asks, "wats up?"

Jarlstrom asks, "sumun need smushins?"

You say, "and it is my concern as to who you are"

Jarlstrom peers quizzically at you.

"If that fool be one detering you, I can easily dispose of them to make your work much easier."

You close your eyes for a moment.

You say, "I want no deaths"

You say, "not even of my enemies"

Silon whispers, "They are already dead..."

You say, "and especially those who love and protect and help this town."

Felisity snuggles up to Jarlstrom.

Jestin asks, "They already dead lass, and if you have the staff what would ya do with it?"

Jestin shrugs.

A colorful flare rises into the air high above Icemule Trace.

You say, "Jestin please"

Felisity pushes back the latch holding the crank in place on her lapis-inlaid bluebird. The mechanical sound of clicking gears can be heard. Suddenly the bluebird seems to come to life as it flaps its wings in a rhythmic motion and begins to sing a hauntingly beautiful melody.

Jarlstrom asks, "Yas got da staff jestin?"

As Felisity's lapis-inlaid bluebird continues to sing, a beautiful and hypnotic melody lilts through the air as if the bluebird is pouring out its mechanical heart for the world to hear.

Jestin says, "No"

Jarlstrom says, "dey it really dun matter"

Jestin says, "If I had it I would take it to Eonak's fires"

A high pitched trill fills the air as Felisity's lapis-inlaid bluebird flexes its wings elegantly and brings its melodic tune to a beautiful crescendo.

Silon whispers, "Opalina, it's not jes Jestin sayin it. Please, ya'll only hurt those ya love wit the staff"

Jarlstrom pushes back the latch holding the crank in place on his red mithril hummingbird. The mechanical sound of clicking gears can be heard. Suddenly the hummingbird seems to come to life as it flaps its wings in a rhythmic motion and begins to sing a hauntingly beautiful melody.

Felisity says, "Ooo"

Felisity's lapis-inlaid bluebird begins rocking back and forth on its perch as it trills out a jaunty, fast paced tune. Its jerky movements almost seem to resemble some sort of avian jig!

A stern voice bellows throughout the area, "I suggest that you not deter my vessel or your fate shall be sealed this very moment. Heed her wishes strongly or you shall not survive. Assist her and you may be rewarded."

As Jarlstrom's red mithril hummingbird continues to sing, a beautiful and hypnotic melody lilts through the air as if the hummingbird is pouring out its mechanical heart for the world to hear.

Jestin says, "Bah"

Felisity smiles softly as a gentle lull in the tune brings her lapis-inlaid bluebird's song from a fevered pitch to a calm, soothing melody.

You bite your lip.

Silon stands up.

Silon growls ferociously!

Silon exclaims, "Leave her alone!"

A high pitched trill fills the air as Jarlstrom's red mithril hummingbird flexes its wings elegantly and brings its melodic tune to a beautiful crescendo.

Jestin says, "Someone does not like the idea of the staff being destroyed I see"

Jarlstrom asks, "eh?"

A mournful dirge pours out from within Felisity's lapis-inlaid bluebird. Its lament for the end of the song is readily apparent.

You say, "Silon Be quiet"

You say, "do not try his patience"

Jestin says, "Best thing for it"

Jarlstrom says, "Das me mum"

Jarlstrom's red mithril hummingbird begins rocking back and forth on its perch as it trills out a jaunty, fast paced tune. Its jerky movements almost seem to resemble some sort of avian jig!

Felisity's lapis-inlaid bluebird winds down as it reaches the end of its power. Its song fades and slows until the last note is sung and the bluebird's wings fall motionless against its sides.

Silon blinks.

Jestin asks, "Mum?"

Jarlstrom says, "Nae sum vessel"

Felisity says, "If dat will make all this craziness stop, I think it best"

Silon whispers, "I never knew..."

Jestin asks, "In front of threats?"

Jarlstrom smiles softly as a gentle lull in the tune brings his red mithril hummingbird's song from a fevered pitch to a calm, soothing melody.

You close your eyes for a moment.

Jestin says, "No"

A colorful flare rises into the air high above Icemule Trace.

A mournful dirge pours out from within Jarlstrom's red mithril hummingbird. Its lament for the end of the song is readily apparent.

Silon whispers, "How could someone as strong as you loss their power to fight against the Nine.... when your friends and loved ones stand in front of you..."

Felisity idly taps the beak of her lapis-inlaid bluebird. The lapis-inlaid bluebird shuffles uncomfortably as if it just awakened. It leans from foot to foot a moment before arching its neck and letting forth a beautiful trill.

Silon sighs.

Silon just went south.

Jarlstrom just kissed the hummingbird!

Jestin folds his arms over his chest.

Jarlstrom's red mithril hummingbird winds down as it reaches the end of its power. Its song fades and slows until the last note is sung and the hummingbird's wings fall motionless against its sides.

"I will suggest that you honor her wishes as she is well aware of what I am capable of."

Felisity asks, "huh?"

Jarlstrom says, "Ohhh poooh ta yas"

Jarlstrom says, "Yas big ol fert"

You exclaim, "Jarlstrom!"

Felisity asks, "Opal is possessed again?"

Jarlstrom says, "Like me cares bout sum silly ded ting"

Jestin says, "Someone is good at voices"

"Your fate has been sealed."

Felisity nods.

Jestin yawns.

You touch Jarlstrom.

You say, "I care about you though"

Jarlstrom says, "Dey sa silly"

You say, "please stop"

Jestin asks, "Now who was that one talking to?"

Jestin chuckles.

Jarlstrom says, "was me"

Jestin says, "Ah"

A bolt of lightning streaks down from the sky and strikes Jarlstrom!
... 35 points of damage!
Explosive bolt of electricity vaporized neck. Head drops to shoulders then on ground. Never knew what hit 'em.
* Jarlstrom drops dead at your feet!

A tremendous crack of thunder follows instantly!

Jestin says, "Wasna aware you said anything"

Felisity screams!

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "Big deal"

Jestin gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Jestin gestures at Jarlstrom.
A luminescent web briefly forms around Jarlstrom, then fades into the body.

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

You sigh.

Felisity glances at you.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "yer still a ded smeely fert"

Jestin says, "VEry good at lightning bolts from the sky"

Karamozov asks, "need assistance?"

Jestin snorts.

You touch Jarlstrom.

Felisity bursts into tears!

Jestin says, "Not much else"

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

You nod to Jestin.

You say, "he is"

You hug Jarlstrom.

Karamozov nods.

Felisity kneels down.

Lord Karamozov just went south.

Jestin says, "Rotted brain"

Felisity reaches down and tenderly cradles Jarlstrom's lifeless hand in hers.

Felisity bursts into tears!

Jestin says, "Rotted soul"

Felisity gazes up into the heavens.

You are already standing.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "heyas smeely ded man come 'ere sa me cin eat yas"

You close your eyes for a moment.

Jestin says, "Needs to worship Eonak"

Felisity exclaims, "Damn yas all ta hell!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "jus roast yas o'er da fire"

Jestin says, "Get his head on straight"

You bury your face in your hands.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "Bah"

Jestin just touched an azure Eonak medallion.

Felisity removes a white flask from in her spidersilk cloak.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "Me fine"

Felisity forces Jarlstrom's mouth open, and pours in a small amount from her white flask.

Jestin says, "Already lk'd lass"

Jestin smiles.

Felisity put a white flask in her doeskin satchel.

You remove an opal-set veniom-threaded sack from in your leather pack.

"I suggest you get those you care for under control as I do not wish to destroy them all, but I will if I must."

Felisity removes a feverfew potion from in her doeskin satchel.
Felisity forces Jarlstrom's mouth open, and pours in a small amount from her feverfew potion.
Jarlstrom's neck looks better.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom ask, "Smeely ded man yas comin or yas scareds?"

You nod.

Jestin asks, "Want me to get you up?"

Felisity forces Jarlstrom's mouth open, and pours in a small amount from her feverfew potion.
Jarlstrom's neck looks better.

Draques just arrived.

Felisity put a feverfew potion in her doeskin satchel.
Felisity removes some acantha leaf tea from in her doeskin satchel.

Jestin says, "I think the Voice has shot his bolt for the night"

Draques hugs you.

Felisity forces Jarlstrom's mouth open, and pours in a small amount from her acantha leaf tea.
Jarlstrom looks a little better.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "me gonna find dat staff an whack yer behind wif it"

You put an opal-set veniom-threaded sack in your leather pack.

Felisity forces Jarlstrom's mouth open, and pours in a small amount from her acantha leaf tea.
Jarlstrom looks a little better.

You hug Draques.

Felisity forces Jarlstrom's mouth open, and pours in a small amount from her acantha leaf tea.
Jarlstrom looks a little better.

Felisity forces Jarlstrom's mouth open, and pours in a small amount from her acantha leaf tea.
Jarlstrom looks a little better.

Draques works his fingers under his straw hat and scratches his head.

Jestin gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Jestin gestures at Jarlstrom.
A silvery translucent thread extends from Jestin encompassing Jarlstrom's corpse.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "Tanks"

Jestin says, "One of the mighty council"

You hear the faint thoughts of Felisity echo in your mind:
"Jarly was murdered by a lightin bolt from da sky"

Draques asks, "Mighty?"

"Your fate has been sealed as well, ye of many tongues."

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "da mity smeely dedmen"

You hear the faint thoughts of Fyrentennimar echo in your mind:
"those are just kisses"

Jestin says, "Showing his bravery from striking from the shadows"

You hear the faint thoughts of Fyrentennimar echo in your mind:
"from the liches"

Jestin snorts.

A bolt of lightning streaks down from the sky and strikes Jestin!
... 45 points of damage!
Surprisingly large electrical arc destroys neck and moves up around head making a flashy halo. Rather classical death occurs.
* Jestin drops dead at your feet!

A tremendous crack of thunder follows instantly!

Felisity says, "Ta hell wif ya shadow"

Draques exclaims, "Priest Jestin!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "feh"

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

You hear the faint thoughts of Felisity echo in your mind:
"now jestin"

You hear the faint thoughts of Alyxandrah echo in your mind:
"What killed Jestin, lightning?"

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "c'mere dedman"

Felisity put some acantha leaf tea in her doeskin satchel.

You hear the faint thoughts of Fyrentennimar echo in your mind:
"where"

Draques growls something vile beneath his breath.

Felisity removes a white flask from in her doeskin satchel.

Draques gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Draques gestures at Jestin.
A luminescent web briefly forms around Jestin, then fades into the body.

You say, "please don't no more"

You hear the faint thoughts of Felisity echo in your mind:
"North gate"

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

You hear the ghostly voice of Jestin say, "Don't give in lass"

Zehnduul reaches down and tenderly cradles Jestin's lifeless hand in his.
Zehnduul reaches down and tenderly cradles Jarlstrom's lifeless hand in his.

whimper
Poor baby!

Charra just arrived.

You hear the faint thoughts of Felisity echo in your mind:
"Aye it kilt bof Jarly n' Jestin"

Zehnduul clasps Charra's hand tenderly.

Lord Dravnum just arrived.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jestin say, "Ware the bolts"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "show yerself smeely man"

Zehnduul reaches out and holds Dravnum's hand.

Alyxandrah just arrived.

Zehnduul clasps Felisity's hand tenderly.

Alyxandrah asks, "How did they die?"

Zehnduul clasps Alyxandrah's hand tenderly.

Zehnduul's group blurs into a white fog and vanishes!

Achillea just arrived.

Draques rubs Jarlstrom gently.

You turn around.

You say, "please no more"

Felisity just arrived.

Felisity just hugged Jarlstrom.

Draques whispers, "Don't worry, we'll have them back alive in a moment"

Felisity sits down.

Alyxandrah just arrived.

Felisity says, "I not leave ya Jarly"

Alyxandrah asks, "Was it the Nine?"

Nofret just arrived.

Alyxandrah peers quizzically at you.

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Journeyman Fyrentennimar just arrived.

Fyrentennimar just hugged Alyxandrah.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "jus sum silly ded man"

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Fyrentennimar just hugged Felisity.

Felisity says, "Der been a voice"

Fyrentennimar hugs you.

Nofret taps you lightly on the shoulder.

You say, "just one"

Felisity just hugged Fyrentennimar.

You say, "of the nine"

Alyxandrah asks, "What did the voice say?"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "aye please"

Charra just arrived.

"You have no need to know which I am at this time, but when the time comes, you shall be forewarned that those that do not resist my vessel may be well rewarded."

Nofret says, "That, I heard."

Felisity exclaims, "ya cowrard, hidin in th' shadows!"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "she me mums yas putz"

Fyrentennimar says, "i wont resist"

Achillea smiles to herself

Fyrentennimar grins.

Draques asks, "Your vessel?"

Alyxandrah says, "They always hide in the shadows."

Achillea just kissed the symbol!

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "she look lika cup ta yas"

Felisity says, "Der yellow"

You check your footing.

Achillea places her hand on her Luukos symbol.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "ijit"

Alyxandrah asks, "And what is your vessel, lich?"

Felisity says, "yas nae evera gonna get wut ya seek."

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "opalina is"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "or sa it tinks"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "silly ded man"

Draques rubs Jarlstrom gently.

Journeyman Fyrentennimar just went south.

You say, "Jarlstrom that's enough "

Felisity says, "der always gonna be jus' dat"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "aye"

Achillea grins at you.

Felisity says, "while we enjoy life"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "dey sa silly"

Felisity says, "no"

Felisity reaches down and tenderly cradles Jarlstrom's lifeless hand in hers.

Felisity exclaims, "no!"

Draques pants.

You say, "no they be quiet serious"

Felisity points at Charra.

You sigh heavily.

Alyxandrah gazes up into the heavens.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "dey be quite silly"

Draques is admiring Jarlstrom.

Charra says, "he's linked to Jestin"

Felisity says, "ya kin here"

Alyxandrah asks, "Speak, Lich! You can kill so easily...can you not speak so easily as well?"

Draques nods to Charra.

Felisity says, "Jestin is dead"

Charra says, "needs to unlink"

Nofret removes a carved thornwood staff from in her threaded harness.

Charra says, "Jarl unlink"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "did"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jarlstrom say, "sorra jestin"

Charra gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Charra gestures at Jarlstrom.
Charra concentrates for a moment then sighs weakly.

Charra gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Charra gestures at Jarlstrom.
A silvery translucent thread extends from Charra encompassing Jarlstrom's corpse.

Robinblood just arrived.

Robinblood gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Charra gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Charra gestures at Jarlstrom.
Charra suddenly looks very drained.
A bolt of soft white light streaks down from the sky bathing Jarlstrom in it.
A brilliant glow forms around Jarlstrom, lingers for a moment, and finally fades. Jarlstrom awakens looking somewhat confused and seriously drained.

Alyxandrah says, "I will warn the others."

Felisity gestures at Charra.
The glazed look leaves Charra.

Charra says, "thanks Felisity"

Felisity gestures at Jarlstrom.
The glazed look leaves Jarlstrom.

Alyxandrah asks, "Coming?"

Jarlstrom sits up.

Alyxandrah peers quizzically at Robinblood.

Felisity says, "welcomes "

You ask, "warn the other's of what?"

Robinblood nods.

Jarlstrom searches around for a moment.

Felisity says, "thankee fer helpin Jarly"

"I grow weary of toying with these mere mortals. If they not hold their tongue, I will destroy the lot of em."

Felisity just hugged Charra.

Alyxandrah says, "What the fool lich said."

Alyxandrah's group just went south.

Charra says, "my pleasure"

Jarlstrom asks, "yas still der ded man?"

Jarlstrom sniffs.

You say, "they are not worthy of your strength"

Felisity just hugged Jarlstrom.

Jarlstrom says, "smeely ded man"

Achillea just went south.

Jarlstrom says, "ifn me gets dat staff me whack yer hinny"

Charra says, "I think it's gone"

Nofret taps her foot impatiently.

Felisity grins at Jarlstrom.

Felisity says, "aye n' ya kin do it toos"

Jarlstrom stands up.

Journeyman Fyrentennimar just arrived.

Fyrentennimar smiles.

Jarlstrom hugs you.

Felisity stands up.

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Jarlstrom rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Charra says, "dangerous business"

Charra shudders.

Nofret taps the tip of her thornwood staff on the ground.

You say, "go get some dinner Jarly"

Jarlstrom grins.

"If I shall hold their tongue, it would be most permanent, which I know you do not seek to occur."

Jestin just arrived.

Jestin growls ferociously!

Jarlstrom says, "needa find imy agin"

Nofret nods to you.

Jestin searches around for a moment.

Jarlstrom says, "sorra jestin"

Jestin asks, "Where is that bugger?"

Jestin glares.

Charra says, "gone prolly"

Fyrentennimar asks, "hmm?"

Aranrhod just arrived.

You ask, "may I see it?"

Jarlstrom says, "e scared me gonna eats em"

Nofret offers you a carved thornwood staff. Enter ACCEPT to accept the offer or DECLINE to decline it. The offer will expire in 30 seconds.

Fyrentennimar touches one finger to his lips.

Charra begins chuckling at Jarlstrom.

You accept Nofret's offer and are now holding a carved thornwood staff.

You thumb your thornwood staff.

Jestin says, "I just want to stick me broadsword up his arse"

Jarlstrom grins at Jestin.

Fyrentennimar asks, "is that the famous staff?"

Fyrentennimar smiles.

Aranrhod just went south.

Jarlstrom says, "Nae"

Charra just went south.

Fyrentennimar says, "awww"

Jestin mutters under his breath.

Jestin says, "They are really starting to irritate me"

Felisity nods to Jestin.

Fyrentennimar says, "i love them"

Felisity glances at Fyrentennimar.

You ask, "is this the staff you seek?"

You raise your thornwood staff skyward!

Felisity says, "ya have it"

Felisity peers quizzically at you.

Fyrentennimar leans on you.

Jestin gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Jestin gestures.
The area becomes brighter.

Nofret says, "I think she's asking a lich or two."

Jestin searches around for a moment.

Jestin growls ferociously!

Jestin says, "MAke him come out and get it"

Jarlstrom says, "me got a flawless ruby staff"

Jestin glares.

Felisity says, "break th' damned staff"

Felisity says, "burn it"

Draques says, "It left. It seems it's far past the Councilmembers bedtime"

Fyrentennimar says, "give it to them"

Fyrentennimar says, "or give it to me and ill give it to them"

Felisity asks, "why?"

Felisity peers quizzically at Fyrentennimar.

Fyrentennimar grins.

"DO YOU SEE ME AS A FOOL? I would be well aware of the presence of the staff if it were near."

Fyrentennimar says, "because i belive they shall rule us all"

You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Felisity says, "ya already gave up"

Fyrentennimar says, "they should be worshiped"

You peer closely at a carved thornwood staff, but see nothing of interest. Maybe if you examined it closely, you would see more.

You say, "well it looked like it"

Felisity begins chuckling at Fyrentennimar.

look staff
The staff is crafted from one piece of fine-grained thornwood. Except for natural wood patterns, the bottom half of the staff is unadorned. From the middle to the cap, a two-headed serpent carved of richest porphyry twines about the staff. The cap is carved in the likeness of a twisted, blood-colored fist, though the coloring seems natural rather than decoration. Positioned on either side of the fist are the heads of the serpent, each poised for a lethal strike.

Felisity says, "ya weak"

Fyrentennimar smirks.

Nofret asks, "Why should dead people be worshipped?"

Fyrentennimar says, "i just like gav"

Everlyn just arrived.

Everlyn smiles at Fyrentennimar.

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Fyrentennimar says, "hiyas"

Jestin mutters under his breath.

Everlyn says, "Came to say goodnight."

Everlyn smiles.

Nofret exclaims, "Especially dead people who don't have the brains to lie down and stay dead!"

You ask, "It's not this one then I take it?"

Fyrentennimar says, "gavrail shall rule us"

Fyrentennimar nods.

Jestin nods to Nofret.

Everlyn waves to Fyrentennimar.

Fyrentennimar says, "gavrail shall be worshipped"

Felisity exclaims, "Dun rule me!"

Fyrentennimar nods.

Jarlstrom says, "feh"

Jestin says, "He'll rule nothing not even the worms eating his stinkin corpse"

Felisity says, "I nae will worship em eithers"

"For your attempted deception, one other you care for shall lose their life."

Draques whispers, "Why are you offering the staff Miss Opalina?"

Fyrentennimar says, "will"

Everlyn just went south.

Fyrentennimar says, "we all shall"

You offer your thornwood staff to Nofret, who has 30 seconds to accept the offer. Type CANCEL to prematurely cancel the offer.

Nofret says, "You should get together with Tierus. He worships Yfa."

Felisity says, "tis weak ones dat worship em, ones dat scart"

Nofret has accepted your offer and is now holding a carved thornwood staff.

Fyrentennimar says, "gavrail is a woman"

Fyrentennimar grins.

Fyrentennimar says, "and a very hot kisser"

You say, "was not deception I was just weeding out all.. I wasn't sure"

Nofret says, "The two of you could have a lot of fun, worshipping undead women."

Jarlstrom says, "feh"

Fyrentennimar grins.

Jarlstrom says, "time ta get magikeds agin"

Felisity snuggles up to Jarlstrom.

Felisity nods to Jarlstrom.

Nofret says, "Not my kind of fun..."

Fyrentennimar says, "she literally sets you on fire when you kiss her"

Jestin says, "Bah"

Felisity says, "so does Jarly when he kisses me"

"You said you knew who the bearer of the staff was, yet you hand me something obviously not from that person? Would that not be deception in YOUR eyes?"

Felisity says, "but I dun worship em"

Jarlstrom just kissed Felisity on the lips.

Felisity says, "I love em"

Draques nods to Nofret.

Jestin gestures into the air.
Jestin momentarily gets a faroff look in his eyes, and then returns to normal.

Felisity just kissed Jarlstrom on the lips.

Fyrentennimar says, "i dont see your clothes smokeing"

Jarlstrom bows to Felisity.

Fyrentennimar grins.

Jarlstrom bows to Felisity.
Jarlstrom bows to Felisity.
Jarlstrom bows to Felisity.

Felisity grins at Jarlstrom.

Jarlstrom hugs you.

Nofret says, "Although technically, Yfa isn't undead. She just hangs around with undead."

Felisity hugs you.

Felisity says, "keep safe Opalina"

You frown.

Jarlstrom waves.

Felisity waves.

Jarlstrom just went south.

You say, "don't kill Alyxandrah"

Felisity just went south.

Jestin says, "Stay away from that staff lass"

Jarlstrom just went south.

Nofret put a carved thornwood staff in her threaded harness.

Jestin nods to you.

Lord Haxley's group just arrived.

Witcheaven furrows her brow.

Draques nods to Arimantis in greeting.

Nofret waves.

Draques waves to Nofret.

Jestin says, "methinks that one sleeps again"

"Your deception has forfeited their life as you knew the consequences if you had deceived me. You will choose who will falls or I shall destroy the one I wish to."

Draques nods to Haxley.

You say, "I will choose no one because I wasn't sure if that wan't the staff or not.. things change."

Haxley nods to Witcheaven.

Arimantis nods to Witcheaven.

You say, "and it looks very much like the staff you are seeking"

Fyrentennimar smiles at you.

You place your arms akimbo and look about as if waiting for something.

You say, "I choose me"

Fyrentennimar says, "they shall have the staff"

Draques whispers, "May Koar grant you solice"

Draques gestures at you.
A pearlescent emanation extends outward to encompass you and those nearby.
Your spirit is bolstered by a great sense of faith and conviction.

Draques bows.

You say, "you wish to kill someone then kill me"

Draques just went south.

Jestin asks, "Still in your head lass?"

"For her attempted deception, she has forfeited one of your lives."

Arimantis smirks.

Witcheaven winces.

Jestin searches around for a moment.

Jestin says, "Again from the shadows"

A bolt of lightning streaks down from the sky and strikes Witcheaven!
... 50 points of damage!
Powerful blast reduces Witcheaven to a smoldering pile of ash!
* Witcheaven drops dead at your feet!
* Witcheaven was just vaporized!

A tremendous crack of thunder follows instantly!

Arimantis says, "Oh.. that is the voice of someone that doesn't want us dead"

Haxley snarls menacingly!

Your sense of faith and conviction wane. You are less sure of yourself.

Fyrentennimar smiles.

Arimantis says, "Bah"

Jestin growls ferociously!

You sigh.

Haxley stares at you.

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Jestin gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Jestin gestures at Witcheaven.
A luminescent web briefly forms around Witcheaven, then fades into the body.

Fyrentennimar says, "thus is the fate of all who oppose the liches"

Nofret says, "Poor Witch."

Jestin says, "So it doesn't sleep"

You hear the ghostly voice of Witcheaven say, "Love.. I do know.. what that felt like now."

Haxley rubs Witcheaven gently.

Arimantis asks, "Witcheaven.. would ya like me ta do the honors?"

You say, "Im sorry Witch"

Haxley says, "Long as the athame stays asleep."

Arimantis smiles at Witcheaven.

Haxley kneels down.

You hear the ghostly voice of Witcheaven say, "Yes, please."

Haxley sighs.

Haxley rubs Witcheaven gently.

Arimantis nods.

You say, "I will try again"

Fyrentennimar says, "give them the staff opalina"

Arimantis gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Arimantis gestures at Witcheaven.
A silvery translucent thread extends from Arimantis encompassing Witcheaven's corpse.

Fyrentennimar smiles.

Jestin says, "They actually think intimidation works"

Fyrentennimar bounces around happily.

Jestin shakes his head.

You say, "then hand it to me Fyren"

Jestin says, "Foolish"

Nofret says, "Intimidation often does work, sadly."

Arimantis just opened a black rune-covered bag.
Arimantis removes a blackened silver-bound prayerbook from in his rune-covered bag.

Fyrentennimar says, "i thought you had it"

Fyrentennimar frowns.

Arimantis just opened a blackened silver-bound prayerbook.

Haxley rubs Witcheaven gently.

Haxley sighs.

Arimantis removes a soft black tassled bookmark from in his silver-bound prayerbook.

You say, "the one I had wasn't the right one obviously"

Ichiko just arrived.

Arimantis kneels down and begins to recite prayers.

Ichiko gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Fyrentennimar sighs.

Arimantis just touched Witcheaven.

Haxley says in Half-Elven, "I'm doin' a horrible job of protecting you tonight."

Haxley sighs.

Fyrentennimar says, "then the search goes on"

Jestin says, "Actually it usually just makes people angry"

You say, "or you'd be dead too"

Eugenides just arrived.

You turn around.

Arimantis recites:
"By the grace of Ronan, arise"

Fyrentennimar smiles at you.

"Do not attempt to deceive me again or a worse fate shall occur to those for which you care. I shall be within your mind on tomorrows eve. You are aware of what may happen if you fail me yet again. Remember, deception is not something that you may avoid, so do not try again." The presence ebbs from your mind.

The spirit of Witcheaven sighs softly, raising the hairs on the back of your neck.

Arimantis gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Arimantis gestures at a bottle of strong sacred wine.
A gigantic burst of magic explodes over the head of Arimantis. He reels from the backwash of pure spiritual energy!

Haxley winces.

Jestin says, "And if you had the right one and gave it to them we would all be dead"

Fyrentennimar cackles!

You frown.

Haxley stands up.

Jestin gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Jestin gestures at Arimantis.
The glazed look leaves Arimantis.

You whisper quietly to Nofret, "well it was a try"

Haxley says, "Don't miss."

Haxley pokes Arimantis in the ribs.

Arimantis gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Arimantis gestures at Witcheaven.
Arimantis suddenly looks very drained.
A bolt of soft white light streaks down from the sky bathing Witcheaven in it.
A brilliant glow forms around Witcheaven, lingers for a moment, and finally fades. Witcheaven awakens looking somewhat confused and seriously drained.

Fyrentennimar says, "then let us all die"

Fyrentennimar grins.

Jestin says, "Fool"

Fyrentennimar smooths his rounded snowball to even further perfection.

Dravnum gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Dravnum gestures at Arimantis.
The glazed look leaves Arimantis.

Dravnum gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Dravnum gestures at Witcheaven.
The glazed look leaves Witcheaven.

You say, "no you are all fools"

Haxley kneels down.

You say, "every one of you."

Fyrentennimar winds up and hurls a perfectly rounded snowball towards Jestin. At the last moment Jestin tries to dodge the rounded snowball but ends up sticking his face right in its path. That had to hurt!

Witcheaven sits up.

Haxley clasps Witcheaven's hand tenderly.

You say, "for coming here"

Haxley just kissed Witcheaven on the lips.

Haxley smiles at Witcheaven.

Nofret whispers, "Well, it did get a response, and now we know that your lich, at least, knows what the staff looks like very well."

Ichiko glances at you.

Haxley just touched Witcheaven.

Eugenides raises an eyebrow in your direction.

You say, "he uses you all againt me"

Arimantis smiles at Witcheaven.

Arimantis says, "Welcome back"

Jestin says, "Bah"

Witcheaven smiles at Arimantis.

Witcheaven says, "Thank you."

You say, "Everyone of you whom I love"

Jestin says, "That would be your choice"

Arimantis put a soft black tassled bookmark in his silver-bound prayerbook.

You say, "he uses"

Arimantis just closed a blackened silver-bound prayerbook.

Haxley just kissed Witcheaven on the nose.

Haxley pokes Witcheaven in the ribs.

Witcheaven stands up.

Haxley grins.

Haxley stands up.

Jestin says, "We have free will"

Ichiko asks, "Who is 'he'..?"

Arimantis shows Witcheaven his silver-bound prayerbook.

Aranrhod just arrived.

You say, "in order for me to keep you alive I have to do as he wishes"

Jestin says, "If we did not come then he would win"

Arimantis put a blackened silver-bound prayerbook in his rune-covered bag.

Witcheaven smiles.

Arimantis stands up.

Witcheaven says, "It is beautiful."

Jestin says, "You wrong if you think that"

Nofret says, "He is Opalina's lich. And he won't say his name."

You whisper quietly to Nofret, "aye he said he would be able to feel it."

Jestin says, "The moment he gets what he wants he will kill all of us"

Jestin says, "And you should know that"

Aranrhod asks, "The one in the Hall?"

You shake your head.

You say, "you have no idea Jestin"

Arimantis paces back and forth.

You weep softly, quiet tears falling from your eyes.

Jestin says, "Actually I do"

Aranrhod rubs you gently.

Eugenides begs.

Eugenides turns around.

Eugenides just went south.

Jestin says, "I am around death every day"

Fyrentennimar leans on you.

Jestin says, "And I do know about trust and honor"

Arimantis grins.

Haxley just kissed Witcheaven.

Jestin says, "That one has none"

Dravnum says, "it's really the lesser of two evils, if you fight, as we all fight, some die, if you don't fight and get them the staff we all die"

Arimantis ponders.

Arimantis's group just went west.

Ichiko just went south.

Jestin says, "As long as we fight we win"

You ask, "you all want to help?"

Fyrentennimar peers quizzically at Dravnum.

You say, "find those Vessels before I get the staff"

Fyrentennimar says, "how would the second choice be evil"

You say, "I can't hold him off much longer"

Dravnum says, "they get the staff and they come back to kill us"

Aranrhod asks, "They told you that you will get the staff?"

Ichiko just arrived.

Ichiko gazes in wonder at her surroundings.

Jestin says, "if I knew how to get the vessels I would"

Jestin says, "If I knew how to get the staff I would get it and destroy it"

Dravnum says, "It's not a burden you can shoulder alone Opalina, you must allow others to help you share it."

You say, "If I don't get the staff Aranrhod you are all dead anyway. because he will kill you all if he doesn't get it.."

Fyrentennimar says, "you cant deafeat them"

Fyrentennimar sneers.

Jestin says, "LAss that is there plan all along"

Ichiko asks, "And if he gets it, will we not die anyway?"

Fyrentennimar smiles.

Journeyman Fyrentennimar just went south.

Aranrhod says, "The one in me told me I would get the staff for it also..."

You ask, "Please tell me Dravnum what then? What part of the burden do you wish to carry?"

Dravnum asks, "what part can I carry that would help you?"

You ask, "do you wish to stand with me every moment of every day and take the lighting for those around you?"

You ask, "for when he asked me who shall die today because I don't have the staff I can point you out?"

Dravnum says, "Is it to be here and show that youa re not aloone? is it so search for the vessels is it all of thsoe things. whatever we can do we will"

Jestin asks, "Would you stop looking for the staff then?"

Jestin peers quizzically at you.

Jestin says, "If so i will galdly take the bolts"

You say, "I don't have to look for the staff Jestin I know where it is"

Jestin says, "Everyday if need be"

You say, "I am amazed by your lack of faith in me"

Aranrhod says, "There is dissention among them"

You say, "to know what the right thing to do is."

You turn around.

This log is from the viewpoint of Iscikella and the "you" references, therefore, are in connection to said character.

***TECHNICAL NOTE***
Begins concurrent to Opalina's previous log -- starting at when Zehnduul fogged Jestin's corpose into Voln, and subsequent to Iscikella's previous log...
***END NOTE***

[Icemule Trace, Ice Garden]
Alpine flowerbeds ring this tucked-away courtyard, their bright colors a feast for the eyes in comparison to the white of all the snow that lies beyond the gate. Tamped snow paths keep footsteps soft in this small haven as travellers make their way to and from the chambers north of here. Centered in a bed of white edelweiss and aromatic purple-flowered calamintha is an ice fountain, its watery spray frozen in a sparkling plume. You also see the Charra disk and a wrought-iron gate.
Also here: the body of Jestin who is lying down, Zehnduul, Charra, Lord Dravnum, Renowned Lord Myrefalcon, Kelgea who is seated
Obvious paths: north.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jestin say, "Didna like what I had to say"

You see a white blur form near you, which quickly fades into Arimantis's group.

You ask, "What happened?"

You rub Jestin.

Arimantis glances at Jestin.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jestin say, "Council member"

Myrefalcon says, "he slow"

Myrefalcon nods to you.

Ilvane gently rolls the lifeless body of Jestin over.

You hear the ghostly voice of Jestin say, "From the shadows"

You say, "Aye, she was in the Hall of Mind."

Ilvane asks, "Why did it kill you?"

You ask, "Gavrail of raspy voice?"

Zehnduul asks, "a Lich?"

You nod to Zehnduul.

Kelgea meditates over Jestin.
Kelgea takes Jestin's neck damage.

You say, "the Nine."

Myrefalcon says, "jestin a male"

Arimantis asks, "You say somethin ta anger it, er it jus come outa the blue?"

Zehnduul mutters gavrail.

Kelgea meditates over Jestin.
Kelgea takes all of Jestin's blood loss.

Kelgea grins at Myrefalcon.

Myrefalcon says, "last i checked"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jestin say, "Did not like what I had to say about destroying the staff"

Lady Witcheaven's group came through a wrought-iron gate.

Kelgea says, "He is"

Jestin gives a ghostly chuckle.

Haxley blinks.

Witcheaven frowns.

You say, "Of course not."

Kelgea says, "Broke his neck"

You hear the faint thoughts of Zehnduul echo in your mind:
"is Jarlstrom gettin help?"

Ilvane says, "We said plenty of destroying it."

You hear the faint thoughts of Draques echo in your mind:
"Aye"

Kelgea just hugged Jestin.

Haxley says, "Love...head to the north gate."

You ask, "But they are to trusted, aye, Ilvane?"

Ilvane works her fingers under her inlaid silver circlet and scratches her head.

You turn to face Ilvane.

Myrefalcon asks, "who killed ye jestin?"

You hear the ghostly voice of Jestin say, "He trying to get Opalina to do his bidding"

You say, "They tell the truth."

You scoff.

Ilvane says, "I never said they should be trusted, and you know it."

[Magical Burrow, Dervish Park]
The snow and ice which dominate Icemule Trace stop abruptly at the fenceline of the park. In their place sits a wide open greensward full of laughing children running everywhere. A strange glow hangs about the area, an odd magical field, slightly shimmering, its outer edge falling right at the snowline. A tall statue comprised of ten wizened halflings in enruned robes stands majestically at the center of the field. You also see a corroded silver coffer, a simple ochre skirt, an abandoned hall, a plain residence, a splendid colorful tiled home, a low mithril gate and a hand-carved felwood manor.
Obvious paths: north, west.

(Iscikella stares at the statue.)

You belt out, "Lich!"

You tilt your head up.

You belt out, "Unhide yerself!"

(Iscikella glowers at the statue.)

(Iscikella tilts yer head back and screams out, "Lich!")

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

Alyxandrah's group came through a low mithril gate.

Alyxandrah says, "Isci.."

Alyxandrah says, "A lich killed Jestin and Jarl at the North Gate."

You glance at Alyxandrah.

You say, "I heard."

Alyxandrah says, "It said...something about it's vessel."

You say, "Saw Jestin in Voln."

You blink at Alyxandrah.

You ask, "What did it say?"

Robinblood sighs.

Alyxandrah says, "It warned us that those that did not resist its vessel may be well rewarded."

Robinblood says, "Bribing us now"

You say, "Oh, it means the possessed."

You laugh softly, trying to hide your amusement.

You say, "And they trust them."

(Iscikella glances askance at the statue.)

Robinblood says, "That's quite a statue"

You say, "Is the Ten."

Robinblood nods to you.

You say, "In life of course."

(Iscikella glances again at the statue.)

Robinblood says, "Right, I don't see the bits of dangled flesh here"

You clench your fist.

You exclaim, "That damnable lich!"

Robinblood says, "Isci..."

You shake your head.

Alyxandrah says, "I think that's how you got lightning bolted the last time."

Robinblood says, "They take pleasure in your attitude right now"

Alyxandrah says, "We'll leave you to your cussing at the statue."

Alyxandrah says, "The lich had nothing important to say."

Alyxandrah says, "Just wanted to let you know."

Alyxandrah nods.

You smile at Alyxandrah.

(Alyxandrah glances warily at the statue.)

Robinblood says, "Just try to keep a clear mind"

You say, "I am sorry, Alyx."

You say, "I am very angry."

Alyxandrah nods to you.

Alyxandrah says, "I know, m'lady."

You say, "And she wants me to get her the staff..."

A raspy voice intrudes upon your mind yet seems to echo off the statue, "The blood of all Icemule, milady. Remember this, believe it, and do what must be done. Stand a bit away from your beloved Thurfel, and let the blood not stain your hands. Get us the staff."

You blink.

Robinblood glances at you.

Alyxandrah peers quizzically at you.

You cock your head at Alyxandrah.

You say, "Ye did not hear her."

Alyxandrah asks, "Nae, what did she say?"

You ask, "Telling me if I got it not, the blood of all IceMule was on my hands?"

Robinblood says, "Mind games"

Robinblood nods to you.

Alyxandrah gazes up into the heavens.

(Iscikella stares at the statue.)

Robinblood says, "So far she's winnng"

Alyxandrah says, "Dunna pay her any heed, Iscikella."

Robinblood says, "Winning too"

Robinblood glances at something inside a tattered and torn warrior's cloak.

You say, "She tries to say I know what must be done."

You ask, "Done?"

You ask, "Submit to them?"

You shake your head.

Robinblood peers quizzically at you.

Alyxandrah says, "Well, she's right."

Alyxandrah says, "You do know what must be done."

Alyxandrah says, "Unfortunately, it won't be to help her in any way."

Robinblood says, "But it's not what she says must be done"

Robinblood nods to Alyxandrah.

Suddenly you have the strangest feeling that you are being watched.
The feeling fades as quickly as it came.

You say, "They watch everywhere."

Alyxandrah says, "I'm getting frustrated."

(Iscikella points at the statue.)

Robinblood says, "We all are"

You say, "Even that came to life."

Alyxandrah says, "I need to find Thurfel."

You nod to Alyxandrah.

(Alyxandrah glances back at the statue.)

You say, "I surely wish we could."

Alyxandrah says, "Thurfel knows who can be trusted..."

A white cat prances into the area.

Alyxandrah asks, "Why won't he speak to any of us?"

There is a twinkle in a white cat's eyes.

Alyxandrah gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Alyxandrah gestures at a white cat.

Robinblood says, "He failed to show that aweful night until the very end"

You say, "I have a fear, Alyx..."

You say, "Those claws..."

Robinblood glances at you.

You shudder.

Robinblood asks, "What of them?"

Alyxandrah asks, "He would let us know, m'lady. He would reach out to someone, wouldn't he?"

The white cat begins purring.

You say, "Very like those of the..." glances around, lowering her voice, "...the unnameables."

Alyxandrah's face turns slightly pale.

You say, "If he could."

You say, "What if he can't."

Robinblood asks, "So you think they are related to this?"

You wring your hands.

The white cat rubs up against you.

You say, "No."

You say, "Not directly."

You say, "But times are difficult."

Robinblood says, "But they have him.."

Robinblood blinks.

(Iscikella glances down at the cat.)

You blink.

Alyxandrah rubs her chin thoughtfully.

You say, "I heard a knell."

You concentrate on 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 Witcheaven's surroundings fills your mind...
...[Icemule Trace, North Gate]
...Several well-armed guards stand to either side of a hole in the glacier. People wander in and out of the opening, which apparantly serves as a gate to the town. Within the ice you can see the faint shadow of what once must have been the actual gates. However, the glacier has devoured it over time, and the resourceful halflings have taken advantage of the natural wall created by the ice. You also see an old beer barrel.
...Also here: the body of Lady Witcheaven who is lying down, Arimantis, Lord Haxley, Jestin, Lord Dravnum, Journeyman Fyrentennimar, Nofret, Lady Opalina
...Obvious paths: south, west.

The white cat sits down.

You say, "The North Gate again."

It may be only your imagination, but it seems for an instant that a blue glow issues from an object held in the hands of one of the halfling mages.

Robinblood blinks.

You blink.

Alyxandrah narrows her eyes.

Robinblood asks, "Did you see that?"

(Iscikella stares at the statue.)

You nod.

You say, "I think..."

Robinblood idly scratches himself on the neck.

(Alyxandrah leans closer to the statue, studying it.)

You say, "A blue glow..."

Robinblood says, "Yes"

(Iscikella strides up to the statue.)

Robinblood says, "Be careful"

The white cat meows loudly.

(Iscikella cautiously touches the statue.)

Robinblood says, "What takes shelter within the statue? Name yourself"

(Robinblood watches the statue)

(Alyxandrah searches around the statue.)

Robinblood says, "We're being watched..."

You say, "Aye, we are."

(Iscikella stares intently at the statue.)

Alyxandrah gestures and utters a phrase of magic.
Alyxandrah gestures.
A dense fog gathers around Alyxandrah, but soon fills the area.

Robinblood says, "No need for silence, please, make yourself known"

You say, "They watch all that need to be watched."

Silence is your only answer.

You say, "First lesson."

Robinblood blinks.

You blink.

Alyxandrah shakes her head.

Robinblood breaks out in a sweat.

Alyxandrah kneels down.

(Iscikella stares at the statue.)

The white cat yawns.

Alyxandrah asks, "Who's there? Who watches us?"

Robinblood says, "No words come from the statue, yet the silence pierces my soul"

The white cat licks at one of its paws.

You nod to Robinblood.

You say, "A deep silence..."

(Robinblood reaches out, touching the statue gently)

The white cat rubs up against a low mithril gate.

(Robinblood pulls back)

(Iscikella stares at the statue, her eyes wide, the pupils unmoving.)

You say, "A deep, deep silence."

(Iscikella touches the statue.)

Robinblood says, "Let what you seek be known to us"

Alyxandrah asks, "Do you see the object? What is it?"

Alyxandrah stands up.

(Iscikella watches the statue with a mesmerized stare.)

(Robinblood can hear his short breaths grow more rapid)

(Iscikella reaches slowly toward the statue again.)

A radiant heat assaults the flesh of your hand, as if was being held near an open flame of burning intensity... blue flame. The heat draws you...

Robinblood says, "Please, speak and let yourself be known"

The white cat yawns.

Robinblood says, "We listen"

Alyxandrah says, "Isci.."

Arimantis's group came through a low mithril gate.

You ask, "Do ye feel, alyx?"

Haxley blinks.

A blue mist rises from the statue, takes on the shape of a staff, and then dissipates in the cold night air.

You say, "The heat."

Haxley blinks.

Arimantis glances at something inside a black rune-covered bag.

Alyxandrah gasps.

The white cat licks at one of its paws.

Robinblood says, "They seek the staff"

Haxley says, "...damn."

(Iscikella stares at the statue.)

Witcheaven frowns.

Witcheaven says, "Blue.."

You say, "Did ye feel it..."

You say, "The heat..."

The white cat licks at one of its paws.

You say, "From the blue flame..."

Arimantis paces back and forth.

Alyxandrah says, "Nae."

Alyxandrah says, "I did not."

(Iscikella touches the statue warily.)

Alyxandrah says, "I felt nothing..."

Robinblood says, "Give us more information, please"

(Iscikella looks dazed.)

Robinblood rubs you gently.

Haxley cracks his knuckles.

Alyxandrah says, "Although, I'm beginning to wish I didn't have so many flames on my outfit."

Alyxandrah folds her arms over her chest.

Haxley begins chuckling at Alyxandrah.

Robinblood glances at Alyxandrah.

Robinblood grins.

You say, "Gavrail, I sense the essence of yer flame."

The white cat begins purring.
Alyxandrah pets the white cat.

You say, "Somewhere... I feel it..."