Solmundi says 'What's worth waiting for?'

You say 'A new Mystique is, in fact.'



The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Dearest Readers,

Clutched within your claws, hooves, tentacles--why, even in your hot, little
hands--you hold issue 1 of Volume 16 of the Serin Mystique. Esteemed members
of the Consortium have worked tireishly to bring you all the news that's fit
to print and gossip that's ready to spready. In fact, you'll discover so much
quality poetry herein that soon I'll be eating my own words instead of
children. Curating this issue has been a sincere honor, so please forgive
me if there's something in my eye.

I think it's your finger.

1) News (see QuoNo, DemonPrince, EndOfInvasion, CorruptAgain)
2) Cabal Reports (see Storm, Mighty, Meek, JusticeDead)
3) Poetry (see RapII, Tear, ToLosla, BlackHat, LiveAtMockers, TranscriptionRap)
4) Prose (see OnHistorians, OlynsHeadache)
5) Adverts (see Sausages, Transcriptions, BerserkerBalm)
6) MAGIC (see Meditations, Arcana, GeneralInquiry, Contemplations, EnLightning)
7) Odds&Ends (see GnomishEngineering, Research, GuideToForgin, TheSzkrech)
8) Obituaries (see Ravia, Szrevan, Tiram, Skeggi)
9) Serials (see Intro, Tiamat1)
10) Poetry Contest Winners (see Sausage, FireAndAir, CounterRap, Return, Sisters3, TheWind, Pillars, King)

This Mystique authored by:

- High Herald Valindra Skitterwit
- Polymath Ilromie Illistarre
- Master Scribe Avenar
- Savant Wylsin Plindane
- Doyenne Elewyn Fairwinder
- Lore Keeper Trillian Triffle
- Oracle Foggledonk
- Annotator Pauwyr Rauwyr

With thanks to our Immortal Guides:

- Lady Vanisse the Myth Weaver, Mirage of Fortune
- Lady Vevier the Collector of Secrets
- Lord Phostan, Headmaster of the Consortium
- Lord Varliv, Supreme Magistrate of Serin
- Lord Davairus, God of Blood


<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>




Dwiggans closes his eyes momentarily.

A Beer Garden
F-*-F | You step outside the Mocker's Tavern into a beer garden, filled
| | | with tables for its patrons to sit down on and chug back their
* *-* | drinks. A well-groomed carpet of grass blankets the ground
| | | | beneath your feet, and a six feet high wooden fence protects
* *-@ | the garden from the nosy intrusions of passersby on Main Street.
| There is a rather large white canopy sitting over your head,
| protecting the garden from the rain. Doors back into the tavern
| are to the north and west. To the east you spy a small window
| in the fence, just about big enough to wriggle through.
---------+

You see 2 of a string of sausages here.
(Magical) A magical spring flows from the ground here.
You see 3 of a raspberry flan here.
A long polearm with a curved blade is here.
A lowball glass filled with whisky is on a table.
A lava shot is on a table.
(Glowing) A shot of sticky pickled pixie juice is on a table.
Some tables with white chairs are arranged under the awning.
(White Aura) Valindra the Poetic Prognosticator, High Herald of Myth is here.
(White Aura) Avenar the Holy Patriarch of Healing, Master Scribe of History is here.
Solmundi the Vanguard of the Covenant is here.
Dwiggans is here, breathing heavily with a gleam of sweat on his brow.
(Charmed) A blood fanged wolf is here, looking hungry.
Militha the Unholy Lady is here.
(Charmed) A young lion is here, faithfully guarding its master.
Eyston is sitting on a chair.
(Pink Aura) Trillian the Grand Spectre of Beguilement, Lore Keeper of Myth is here.

Solmundi says 'Oh.'

Avenar shows his approval by clapping his hands together.

Valindra takes steps larger than her stubby legs should be able to in order to reach Dwiggans.

Solmundi says 'That is a valid excuse.'

You put The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.

Wylsin walks in.
Minimani the razor-clawed manticore miniature flies in.

You put The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.

Valindra takes a sip from a round wine glass.

Dwiggans nods in enthusiastic agreement with you.

Wylsin puts a lowball glass filled with whisky on a table.
Wylsin puts a lowball glass filled with whisky on a table.
Wylsin puts a lowball glass filled with whisky on a table.
Wylsin puts a lowball glass filled with whisky on a table.

Wylsin walks west.
Minimani the razor-clawed manticore miniature flies west.

Solmundi says 'Commence with the book club, then murdering.'

Valindra puts The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.
Valindra puts The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.
Valindra puts The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.
Valindra puts The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.
Valindra puts The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.
Valindra puts The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.
Valindra puts The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 on a table.

Wylsin walks in.
Minimani the razor-clawed manticore miniature flies in.

Wylsin puts a large glass beer stein on a table.
Wylsin puts a large glass beer stein on a table.
Wylsin puts a large glass beer stein on a table.
Wylsin puts a large glass beer stein on a table.

Valindra arrays her handiwork handily.

Wylsin puts a round wine glass on a table.
Wylsin puts a round wine glass on a table.
Wylsin puts a round wine glass on a table.
Wylsin puts a round wine glass on a table.

Wylsin walks west.
Minimani the razor-clawed manticore miniature flies west.

Wylsin walks in.
Minimani the razor-clawed manticore miniature flies in.

Wylsin puts a juice box on a table.
Wylsin puts a juice box on a table.
Wylsin puts a juice box on a table.
Wylsin puts a juice box on a table.

Militha gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 from a table.

Solmundi says 'Valindra!'

The pink aura around Trillian fades away.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.
Avenar's eyes are filled with serenity.

Wylsin gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 from a table.
Dwiggans gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 from a table.

Avenar gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 from a table.

Dwiggans gets a lowball glass filled with whisky from a table.

Solmundi says 'Mistress goblin.'

Dwiggans drinks whisky from a lowball glass filled with whisky.

Wylsin opens The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

You invite Valindra to bask in the limelight.

Wylsin looks in The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Eyston says 'Fantastic, thank you!'

Solmundi says 'You are to be wed?'

You nod at Valindra.

Eyston gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 from a table.

The sky is getting cloudy.
Wylsin's protective shield dissipates.
Garp the citizen of Seringale yells 'Demons seen comin' outta 'da woodwork! They everywhere!'

Valindra croaks, a sharp gleam in her eye 'Welcome, all, to the release party for Issue 1 of Volume 16 of the Serin Mystique.'

Valindra's protective shield dissipates.

Wylsin yells 'No they aren't, we solved that!'

<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips: 'Valindra is basking in the limelight!'

Dwiggans nods in enthusiastic agreement with Wylsin.

Eyston says 'That's no way to talk about... some of the people here...'

Eyston avoids looking at anyone in particular.

Dwiggans says to Wylsin 'Garp lost his mind, he did.'

Militha smirks.

Valindra continues, though her eyes narrow 'Within this issue, you will find works by all my favorite Consortium members. And others too.'

Wylsin says to Dwiggans 'Quite a leap of logic to suppose that he had one to begin with.'

You grin evilly.

Avenar chuckles politely.

Dwiggans throws back his head and cackles with insane glee!

Valindra gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 from a table.

Valindra licks her lips delicately, though bits of flan dot her many chins.

Valindra continues 'I was especially pleased with the entrants to our recent Poetry Contest.'

Wylsin utters the words, 'detect invis'.

Dwiggans's eyes squint as he inhales and then releases an enormous sneeze, covering the room in mist.

Dwiggans says 'Sorry 'bout that.'

Avenar shakes his head at Dwiggans.

Trillian is moving faster.

Trillian utters the words, 'ghix'.
Trillian starts to move in slow motion.

Valindra looks around at those assembled, in pantomime, as if seeing them for the first time. She inhales some of the dwarf's vapor.

Ilromie grimaces and discreetly wipes the snot away.

Valindra continues 'In fact, several of our honorees are here to celebrate this most auspicious occasion!'

Valindra says 'Would any care to read their poem?'

Solmundi says 'Yes would anyone care?'

Solmundi says 'Sausage maker?'

You grin evilly.

Dwiggans says 'Aye.'

Wylsin whispers loudly to Valindra ''Auspicious.''

Dwiggans hacks loudly, clearing his throat.

Militha smirks.

Valindra wiggles her stubby, emerald fingers at Solmundi. Her manicure looks exquisite. And sharp.

Avenar looks to Dwiggans, then back to Solmundi several times.

Dwiggans says 'The Sausage Experience.'

Dwiggans says 'A Haiku.'

Dwiggans says 'Grind the pork. Extrude.'

Eyston looks at Dwiggans, rapt.

Dwiggans says 'Popping. Hissing. Heavy breath.'

Solmundi says to Valindra 'Your nails...'

Dwiggans says 'Bite. Chew. Gulp. Wheeze. Sweat.'

You clap your hands together.

Valindra bursts into spontaneous applause.

Dwiggans thanks you heartily.

Dwiggans thanks Valindra heartily.

Trillian giggles.

Valindra utters the words, 'detect invis'.

Wylsin politely, but quietly, claps briefly.

Solmundi says 'Is that it?'

Solmundi says 'Any more to the poem?'

Valindra says to you 'Dear sister, would you read yours?'

You say 'In fact, that was the winning entry.'

Dwiggans says 'It's a haiku.'

Dwiggans shakes his head.

Solmundi says 'Oh yeah?'

You say 'Of course.'

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian is surrounded by a pink outline.

Solmundi says 'That's the best...?'

Wylsin says to Solmundi 'As a haiku, it is structurally limited in length.'

Trillian says 'The impact never fades. Just as it was the first time.'

Solmundi says 'Wow.'

Valindra says, rather off-handedly 'You would think an immortal lifespan would entreat one to a more fulsome appreciation of the arts.'

Solmundi golf claps.

Ilromie stands tall as the limelight basks over her.

Dwiggans says 'What ye got, Solmundi?'

Dwiggans says 'Let's hear it!'

Trillian says 'Now now boys, no new works.'

Trillian says 'This is about the Mystique!'

Valindra nods at Trillian, her chins wobbling.

Solmundi says 'There once was a dwarf who thought he was a baker.'

Ilromie recites 'We Sisters Three.'

Ilromie chants 'Elemental forces our pedigree.'

Solmundi says 'But really he was going to find himself in a maker.'

Ilromie chants 'Trined together were we.'
Ilromie chants 'Powerful, curious, carefree.'
Ilromie chants 'Now we are two: one absentee.'

Ilromie chants 'Fire burns hot and laden.'

Solmundi says 'Of break here and to.'

Ilromie chants 'With visions of lava and raven.'
Ilromie chants 'What is left now to trade in.'
Ilromie chants 'To defeat the demons? She's shaken.'

Ilromie chants 'Quite and serene, there's another.'
Ilromie chants 'With patience matched by no other.'
Ilromie chants 'Her grace led us to discover,'

Solmundi says 'He found himself made in two.'

Ilromie chants 'But this Paradigm we cannot recover.'

Ilromie chants 'Small in stature yet fully grown.'
Ilromie chants 'The wind blows her far from her home.'
Ilromie chants 'Quick and daring, vicious to the bone.'
Ilromie chants ''Ware the words she might intone.'

Ilromie chants 'We sisters three in power united.'
Ilromie chants 'Cast flames and spells farsighted.'
Ilromie chants 'Will this world be blighted or lighted?'
Ilromie chants 'Three could say, two are less clearsighted.'

Solmundi says 'Illness I was making a poem.'

Wylsin bows his head in worship of Denadlyr.

Ilromie blinks suddenly and takes a deep bow.

Valindra snaps slowly as her sister finishes.

Trillian gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1 from a table.

Solmundi says 'What your speech next time.'

Dwiggans claps at your performance.

Ilromie rises from her bow and casts a disinterested gaze at Solmundi.

Trillian whistles at the sight of you.

Trillian giggles.

You say to Solmundi 'Were you speaking?'

Wylsin gives a more enthusiastic clap for your poem.
Trillian says 'Elvish recitals always have such a refined flair.'

Solmundi says to you 'Were you speaking?'

Valindra flips idly through the Mystique open in her hands.

You smile at him.

You say to Solmundi 'In fact, you are exceptionally rude.'

Trillian gets a large glass beer stein from a table.

Solmundi says 'ENOUGH OF THIS. IS THAT THE LAST POEM?!'

You say to Solmundi 'It is a wonder you are not uninvited.'

Trillian drinks beer from a large glass beer stein.

Valindra takes a sip from a round wine glass.

A magical spring dries up.

Militha drinks water from a magical spring.

Solmundi says to you 'Silence you sick thing.'

Wylsin whispers something to Trillian.

Solmundi says 'Behold Valindra before you.'

<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips: 'Solmundi has been barred from the tavern by Valindra.'

Trillian gasps in astonishment.

You smirk.

Trillian says 'But I invited him!'

Solmundi kneels and kisses Valindra's hand.

Valindra says to Trillian 'Then I question your taste level.'

Solmundi says 'Such nails you have.'

Valindra says to Trillian 'As I have never done so before.'

Solmundi says 'Nails not made for baking sausages.'

The sky is getting cloudy.

Valindra retracts her hand quickly, nearly stumbling backward.

Trillian says to Valindra 'It isn't a matter of taste.'

Avenar watches the scene unfolding with widened unbelieving eyes.

Solmundi gasps in astonishment.

Trillian says to Valindra 'It's a matter of mixture.'

Wylsin gets a string of sausages.

Wylsin eats a string of sausages.
Valindra steadies herself with a hand upon Dwiggans' shoulder.

Solmundi says 'Have you fogotten bats? the shadows?'

Valindra intones 'Have you forgotten, Darksworn?'

Solmundi says '...blood of those who lost innocence?'

Valindra intones 'The promises you made and broke?'

Solmundi glows dark.

Solmundi says 'Are you saying I've forgotten you?!'

The pink aura around Trillian fades away.

Solmundi says 'You know better, goblin.'

Dwiggans sits down and thinks deeply.

Solmundi kisses Valindra.

Trillian gasps in astonishment.

Valindra recoils from the kiss, this time nearly falling to the floor.

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

Valindra sits down on the ground.

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

Solmundi catches Valindra.

Solmundi mutters something quietly to himself.

Solmundi says 'You must be more careful my dear.'

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian is surrounded by a pink outline.

A bouncer arrives at Wylsin's side.
A bouncer says 'It's clobbering time!'

A bouncer yells 'You aren't allowed here, Solmundi!'
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

You nod.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.

Dwiggans says 'Stand down, Solmundi. She's not havin' it.'

Trillian winces in agony.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash scratches Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Solmundi has fled!
A bouncer tosses Solmundi out of the room!

Valindra stands slowly, pointedly.

Solmundi yells 'Guards! Guards!'

Dwiggans stands in front of Valindra.

Solmundi walks in.
Solmundi jingles merrily.
A special guard walks in.

Solmundi growls.
A bouncer yells 'You aren't allowed here, Solmundi!'
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash scratches Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound scratches a bouncer.

Solmundi says 'Let the woman speak.'

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash scratches Solmundi.

Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Wylsin gathers a few sticks and rubs stones together to make a fire.

Krask yells 'Militha, the Lord has called thy name!'

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Solmundi's pound scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's pound scratches a bouncer.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Wylsin says 'Oh dear, things really are taking a turn.'
Trillian yells 'Not now Krask!'

Istina the usher yells 'Alert! The guild is being attacked by Krask!'
<PATRON> Istina the usher gossips: 'Help! Krask is attacking the tavern!'
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Solmundi utters the words, 'waouq wuggurz'.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile injures a bouncer.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Trillian yells 'Important things are happening.'

Solmundi utters the words, 'waouq wuggurz'.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile injures a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.

A bouncer's slash scratches Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound scratches a bouncer.

Solmundi utters the words, 'waouq wuggurz'.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile injures a bouncer.

You frown disapprovingly.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Trillian yells 'Have some decency man!!'

Militha says 'Somebody bar him.'

Solmundi utters the words, 'waouq wuggurz'.
Solmundi's magic missile injures a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile hits a bouncer.

Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.
Solmundi's pound scratches a bouncer.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Wylsin says 'He is.'

Solmundi utters the words, 'waouq wuggurz'.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile hits a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile injures a bouncer.

Militha relaxes her posture.
The white aura around Avenar fades.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.
Avenar is surrounded by a white aura.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.

Solmundi utters the words, 'waouq wuggurz'.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile injures a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile scratches a bouncer.
Solmundi's magic missile grazes a bouncer.

Dwiggans nods in enthusiastic agreement with Militha.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Players near you in Seringale:
<PK> Krask Outside Mocker's Tavern
<PK> Wylsin A Beer Garden
<PK> Dwiggans A Beer Garden
<PK> Valindra A Beer Garden
<PK> Solmundi A Beer Garden
<PK> Militha A Beer Garden
<PK> Avenar A Beer Garden
<PK> Trillian A Beer Garden
<PK> Ilromie A Beer Garden

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.

Krask is already barred from the tavern.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Valindra says to Solmundi 'If you held any affection for me, any at all . . . you will not ruin this night.'

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Militha becomes poised and ready for battle.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Players near you in Seringale:
<PK> Krask Outside Mocker's Tavern
<PK> Wylsin A Beer Garden
<PK> Dwiggans A Beer Garden
<PK> Valindra A Beer Garden
<PK> Solmundi A Beer Garden
<PK> Militha A Beer Garden
<PK> Avenar A Beer Garden
<PK> Trillian A Beer Garden
Eyston A Beer Garden
<PK> Ilromie A Beer Garden
A bouncer's slash scratches Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.
Solmundi's pound scratches a bouncer.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound misses a bouncer.

Eyston's thirst grazes him.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
Solmundi's pound scratches a bouncer.

Eyston drinks water from a magical spring.

Wylsin walks west.
Minimani the razor-clawed manticore miniature flies west.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Valindra says to Solmundi 'I am best loved in front of an audience, yes?'

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

Wylsin walks in.
Minimani the razor-clawed manticore miniature flies in.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.
A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer's slash misses Solmundi.

A bouncer slowly disappears.
Eyston says 'I did not expect this.'

The sun slowly disappears in the west.

You say 'In fact, I suspected this tyrant would show his face.'

Militha quaffs a purple potion.
Militha is surrounded by a white aura.

Trillian says to Eyston 'As we said, atypical.'

Dwiggans puts a lowball glass filled with whisky on a table.
Dwiggans gets a lowball glass filled with whisky from a handy haversack.

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

Dwiggans drinks whisky from a lowball glass filled with whisky.

Trillian says to Eyston 'But wonderful fodder for a young bard looking to make his mark!'

Avenar says 'Most poetry readings are less violent.'

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

You say 'He has ever been keen to enforce his own rules and disregard those of others.'

Solmundi lets out a loud angry hiss at everyone in the room.

A grey sphere of light envelopes Solmundi then dissipates.

It starts to rain.

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

Valindra drinks water from a magical spring.

Militha yells 'Die! Krask, you sorcerous dog!'

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

Valindra exhales a breath she did not appear to be holding.

Eyston lets out a hearty laugh.

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

Wylsin says 'There certainly never is a dull moment for this party.'

Eyston says 'I suppose this is one way to get to know the city.'

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

Valindra croaks 'I hope you will forgive me for such a display.'

You say 'In fact, it is clear who was to blame.'

Eyston says 'Oh, this is the most interesting thing I've seen in years.'

Avenar hugs Valindra.

Avenar says 'We are here to do what we can.'

You say 'Let us return to the topic at hand.'

Eyston says 'I only hold anything against one person.'

The pink aura around Trillian fades away.
The town clock tolls twelve times as midnight arrives.

Valindra grasps Avenar's hand in one of her own. She takes care not to leave half-moon impressions upon the Master Scribe's hand.

You say 'Lore Keeper Trillian, I was quite enamored of your story regarding Tiamat.'

Eyston drinks red wine from a round wine glass.

The rain stopped.

You say 'Will you summarize the story and discuss your inspiration?'

Valindra says 'Where is Trillian Triffle?'

You say 'Trillian?'

The white aura around Avenar fades.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.
Avenar is surrounded by a white aura.

Eyston looks at a round wine glass.
Wylsin peers intently at Trillian.

Valindra looks around the beer garden consideringly.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.

Solmundi arrives through a gate.

Solmundi says 'You are wrong in your judgements.'

Eyston sighs.

Valindra says 'I wished him to read some of his offerings.'

Solmundi says 'You know better.'

Eyston looks at Solmundi.
The eyes of this jotun are filled black with no whites in them. His skin
is the color of overcast skies filled with melancholy. Like a distant and
forsaken watch tower, he stands tall and silent. Muscles disappear into his
armor and it is difficult to tell where the flesh ends and the equipment
begins. Overall he makes no noise or forwards an expression. Always gazing
to what is in front of him.
Solmundi is in excellent condition.

Solmundi is using:
<used as light> (Unidentified) (Magical) (Glowing) the Iron-Trenched Banner of Justice
<worn around neck> (Unidentified) (Glowing) (Humming) odoacer's badge
<worn on head> a jingly wheel of cheese
<worn on torso> (Unidentified) A shirt that says 'I Love Resatimm A Lot More Than You Think'
<worn on feet> fuzzy bunny slippers
<wielded two-handed> a quarterstaff
<worn as shroud> (Magical) the soul of Solmundi
<floating nearby> (Unidentified) (Glowing) (Humming) the pouch from hell (open)
<tattooed> (Glowing) a longsword sheathed in everflowing water

Solmundi says 'Better than this pig lover.'

Wylsin looks at Solmundi.
The clouds disappear.
A cooking fire crumbles into dust.

Solmundi says 'Unless you think you're kind is to be treated as pigs?'

Dwiggans says 'Trillian!'

Dwiggans says 'Where ye at!'
Solmundi says 'Is that what you've come to Valindra?'


Avenar says 'He is here...just ethereal.'

Dwiggans nods.

Valindra says 'Trillian Triffle, you proper scamp, read something for your dark mistress!'

Dwiggans says 'Can't see the ethereal plane meself.'

Solmundi growls.

A grey sphere of light envelopes Solmundi then dissipates.

A soft buzz of words hangs in the air around Wylsin.

Valindra stamps her foot impatiently, and a little bit of smoke plumes half-heartedly into the air.


Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

Valindra says to Eyston 'Have some flan, dear.'

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian is surrounded by a pink outline.

The town clock tolls once as the day begins.

Trillian says 'Apologies apologies.'

Trillian says 'I am suffering from the most inconvenient of afflictions at the moment.'

Militha says 'Pesky little Knight.'

Valindra says to Militha 'Did you bring me his head?'

Militha says to Valindra 'Not yet.'

Wylsin utters the words, 'locate object'.
Militha grunts as she begins to struggle with her belongings.


Valindra says to Militha 'World enough and time, dear.'

A special guard slowly disappears.

Wylsin looks at Militha.
Trillian says 'Was there a particular piece you wished to hear?'

Istina the usher yells 'Alert! The guild is being attacked by Krask!'
<PATRON> Istina the usher gossips: 'Help! Krask is attacking the tavern!'

Wylsin sighs.

Militha becomes poised and ready for battle.

Wylsin utters the words, 'sanctuary'.
Militha is surrounded by a white aura.

Militha quaffs a purple potion.

Wylsin looks around and whistles innocently.

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

<PATRON> Istina the usher gossips: 'Help! Militha is attacking the tavern!'

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

You tell Militha 'Do not hide in here again or you will be barred.'

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

<PATRON> Istina the usher gossips: 'Help! Militha is attacking the tavern!'

Valindra says to Trillian 'I enjoyed all the works you offered to this issue.'

Eyston puts his head in his hands.

Valindra says to Trillian 'But perhaps you could start with Quo No?'

Militha yells 'Die! Krask, you sorcerous dog!'

Trillian says to Valindra 'I would love to!'

Valindra soldiers on bravely, though her typical emerald color has paled to chartreuse.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.


Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

Militha is now barred from the tavern.
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips: 'Militha has been barred from the tavern by Ilromie.'

Krask yells 'Help! I am being attacked by Militha!'

Eyston gets a lowball glass filled with whisky from a table.
Eyston gives a lowball glass filled with whisky to Valindra.

It starts to rain.

Valindra takes a sip from a lowball glass filled with whisky.

Eyston says 'Here, to brace yourself.'

Valindra slugs the whisky back after the first sip.

Dwiggans says 'Not enough whiskey fer everythin' happenin''

Dwiggans says 'Bottoms up!'

Dwiggans gets a lowball glass filled with whisky from a table.
Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.
Avenar is surrounded by a white aura.

Dwiggans drinks whisky from a lowball glass filled with whisky.
Dwiggans puts a lowball glass filled with whisky on a table.
Dwiggans puts a lowball glass filled with whisky on a table.

Valindra drops a lowball glass filled with whisky.
A lowball glass filled with whisky shatters into fragments.

Eyston drinks water from a magical spring.

Avenar says 'I think even I need a drink...'

Valindra looks down to her hand as the glass slips from it.

Eyston looks at shattered pieces of glass.

Avenar gets a lowball glass filled with whisky from a table.
Eyston gets a round wine glass from a table.
Eyston stops holding a round wine glass in his hand.
Eyston holds a round wine glass in his hand.
Eyston drinks red wine from a round wine glass.
Avenar gets a lowball glass filled with whisky from a table.

Dwiggans closes his eyes momentarily.
A string of sausages suddenly appears.

Avenar gets a lowball glass filled with whisky from a table.
Dwiggans looks at the sausage, pupils dilating, and begins breathing heavily.
Dwiggans gets a string of sausages.

Dwiggans eats a string of sausages.
Avenar drinks whisky from a lowball glass filled with whisky.
Trillian says 'Quo No - By Me1.'

Dwiggans wheezes.
Trillian says 'The realm fell silent.'

Wylsin gets a round wine glass from a table.

Trillian says 'A giant chewed.'

Wylsin drinks red wine from a round wine glass.

Wylsin drinks red wine from a round wine glass.

Trillian says 'The power structures.'

You sit on a chair.

Dwiggans gives a round wine glass to Valindra.

Wylsin gives a round wine glass to Lusheng the young lion.

Trillian says 'Been renewed.'

Shattered pieces of glass crumble into dust.

A miniature chess piece transforms to form a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity!

Trillian says 'Munch munch.'

Trillian says 'From the shadows.'

Trillian says 'Legion stirred.'

Trillian says 'The Dragon's dead.'

A dwarven city guard yells 'Militha! Now you die!'

Trillian says 'They're undeterred.'

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity swoops from the rafters to land upon Trillian's head.

Avenar whispers something to a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity.

Trillian says 'Crunch crunch.'

Trillian says 'Justice braces.'

Dwiggans drinks water from a tin canteen.

Dwiggans drinks water from a tin canteen.

Dwiggans drinks water from a tin canteen.

Trillian says 'For the storm.'

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity peers intently at Avenar.

Dwiggans closes his eyes momentarily.

Trillian says 'Keepers wake.'

Trillian says 'To a new norm.'

You nod at Avenar.

Trillian says 'Munch crunch.'

Trillian says 'The status quo.'

Trillian says 'Is torn asunder.'

Trillian says 'Find this giant.'

Trillian says 'Take his plunder.'
The pink aura around Trillian fades away.

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian is surrounded by a pink outline.

Trillian says 'Crunch munch.'

Trillian says 'Wait a moment.'

Trillian says 'He's right there.'

Trillian says 'He beckons you.'

Trillian says 'With a stare.'

Trillian says 'Come, come.'

Trillian says 'Skeggi want lunch.'

Trillian winces in agony.

Trillian mutters to himself 'My worst performance ever...'

Valindra applauds uproariously. Again, she nearly tumbles.

Ilromie hesitates a nervous second, then claps along.

Dwiggans claps at Trillian's performance.

Eyston says 'It was excellent!'

The sun slowly disappears in the west.
The rain stopped.

Avenar gives a round of applause.

Trillian says 'I assure you all Skeggi was still alive when I wrote this!'

Dwiggans says 'Ye have a fan in me, Trillian!'

Wylsin shows his approval by clapping his hands together.

Trillian says 'You are all too kind.'

Dwiggans says 'Believe it er not, I miss the giant.'

You say 'In fact, your performance was exemplary.'

Valindra says to Trillian 'You cannot always say such, but perhaps this Renewal it is true.'

You say 'I confess, I was too moved at first to shatter the moment with applause.'

Avenar says 'There's pausing for dramatic effect, and then there's disappearing and reappearing...'

Valindra says to Avenar 'Pixies.'

Valindra shrugs as if to say . . .
The clouds disappear.

Trillian says to Valindra 'As fair as you are fare.'

Eyston chirps out a laugh.

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity caroms wildly around the room, getting essence EVERYWHERE! She finally returns to the Lore Keeper, planting a wispy kiss upon his cheek. It does not smoke at all.

Avenar pats the wisp gently and whispers something to it.

Ilromie sheds the essence from her hair with practiced efficiency.

Trillian says 'We have our charms! But reliability has rarely been an accusation levied at us. It is positively impressive I made it this far!'

Trillian looks side-to-side for agreement.

Dwiggans says 'Hullo, Hibbadibbity!'

You say 'You undervalue your own skill.'

Dwiggans nods at a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity.

The town clock tolls twelve times as midnight arrives.

Wylsin chuckles at Trillian's joke.

Dwiggans says 'Aye. Don't sell yerself short!'

Trillian says 'Ahh Hibby!'

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity winks at Dwiggans.

Dwiggans says 'Even if ye are short.'

Trillian says 'I've missed you.'

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity kisses Trillian.

Trillian attempts a running jump hug at Hibbadibbity.

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity falls to the floor under Trillian's exorbitant weight. They both crash.

Trillian giggles.

Eyston winces and closes his eyes in expectation for the crash.

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity sits up.

Trillian rolls to his back with the wisp on top.

Dwiggans closes his eyes momentarily.

You say 'In fact, this issue also features several articles on the use of magic.'

Trillian whispers something to a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity.

You say 'A topic near and dear to many of our hearts.'

Valindra says to you 'Thank you, sister. Which were your favorites?'

The sky is getting cloudy.
The pink aura around Trillian fades away.

Ilromie invites 'Wylsin?'

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

Valindra nods in enthusiastic agreement with Wylsin.

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

Wylsin says 'Yes?'

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian is surrounded by a pink outline.
Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

You say 'Would you like to discuss the articles you wrote?'

Dwiggans says 'Trillian, enough with the spells!'


Wylsin says 'Oh, of course.'

Trillian says 'I'm trying I'm trying!'

Vargan walks in.
A majestically-antlered jackalope walks in.

Vargan gallantly tips his hat.

Valindra says to Wylsin 'Master Plindane, you are the most accomplished thaumaturgist I know.'

Vargan sits down and rests.

You smile at him.

Dwiggans bows before Vargan.

Valindra says to Vargan 'Welcome, patron!'

Wylsin says to Valindra 'Thank you.'

Vargan says 'Made it!'

Wylsin gives a bottle of champagne to Vargan.

Valindra capers over to greet Vargan warmly. She wears bright, red lipstick as she kisses the halfling upon the cheek. It smokes slightly.

The sun rises in the east.
The town clock tolls once as the day begins.

Vargan says 'No champagne or alcohol no more..'

Vargan bows deeply.

Vargan puts a bottle of champagne in a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

Wylsin says 'Now, I confess, I do not have a proper lesson plan at the ready.'

Vargan stands up.

Dwiggans closes his eyes momentarily.

Vargan stops wielding a long, brazen dagger.

Wylsin says 'The section with the greatest depth is the discussion regarding the Evocation of Fire.'

You agree absolutely.

Valindra nods, her chins wobbling.

Wylsin says 'It is under the 'Arcane' heading within the Mystique, for those following along.'

Vargan looks at Eyston.

Wylsin says 'I apologize, the 'Arcana' section.'

Vargan says 'Ah, it seems fine to have a weapon drawn.'

Dwiggans tells you 'Me thinks Militha wishes to return to the tavern. She promises peace.'

Wylsin says 'Please forgive my misspeak.'

Trillian looks at a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity.

You tell Dwiggans 'She attacked Istina.'

Trillian looks at Valindra.

Vargan sits on a chair.

Wylsin says 'As the section details, one must focus their will to influence the Ether.'

Dwiggans tells you 'Me thinks it was her fireball, tryin' to rid Krask from breakin' the peace here.'

Dwiggans tells you 'Either way, just passin' the word along. The choice be yers.'

Wylsin says 'This is not something that every individual is capable of.'

You tell Dwiggans 'In fact, she also perpetuated the breaking of the peace by returning here to heal in the midst of her battle.'


Wylsin says 'But for those of us with sufficient focus, it can be learned.'

You tell Dwiggans 'If she wishes entry, she may request it herself.'

Valindra seems to be making notes in her Grimoire as the Savant speaks.

Eyston looks at Vargan.

Wylsin says 'Some find it useful to close their eyes to better focus, should they be relatively inexperienced. I will do so for demonstrational purposes.'

Eyston looks at Dwiggans.

Wylsin closes his eyes.

Valindra also closes her eyes.

Trillian shrugs helplessly.

Trillian closes his eyes.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.

Eyston closes his eyes momentarily, peeking below the lids after a few seconds.

Wylsin says 'As the section instructs, focus your will into the Ether.'

A majestically-antlered jackalope dashes about wildly while cackling like a fiend.

Dwiggans sits down and thinks deeply.

Trillian snores softly.

Wylsin says 'Direct your will to alter the first elemental chakra.'

Wylsin slightly tilts his head.

Eyston opens his eyes, having lost all threads to the lecture.

Valindra opens her eyes, but they are white.

You nudge Trillian.

Avenar looks at Valindra.

Vargan gets a juice box from a table.

Vargan drinks apple juice from a juice box.

Trillian stirs and rouses.


Avenar says 'Valindra...'

Wylsin says in a softer voice 'Rotate the dominant chakra..one hexcontade...leeward.'

Valindra says to Avenar 'Do not interrupt, dear.'

Wylsin tilts his head slightly to the other side.

The sun slowly disappears in the west.

Vargan puts a juice box on a table.

Trillian whispers very softly "Sorry! Closing my eyes was a bad choice.'

Wylsin says in a softer voice 'Now will the second chakra..to turn..'

Valindra rotates her dominant chakra in time with Wylsin.

Dwiggans scratches himself on the head, confused.

Valindra stretches like a cat as she turns her second chakra.

Vargan sits on a chair.

Wylsin says in a softer voice 'To turn...to turn one..two..keep going...and to twelve grads...anticlockwise.'

Trillian walks in.

Ilromie leans in to hear better.

Wylsin straightens his head and a bright flame envelops his body.

Eyston glances at Trillian.

Vargan waves at Eyston cheerfully.

Valindra mirrors Wylsin, the flame around her a little less strong.

Eyston waves at Vargan cheerfully.

Eyston whispers something to Vargan.

Wylsin opens his eyes, peering out through the warm flames.

Wylsin smiles at Valindra.

Wylsin says to Valindra 'Well done.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'Takes some practice, I see.'

Militha tells you 'So, there was a mishap during my fight with Krask. I accidentally attacked Istina because of faltering.'

Wylsin shakes his head slightly and the flames vanish.

Valindra's flames collapse as soon as she speaks, dissipating to the floor.

Eyston nods.

Trillian says 'I must say, this has me borderline embarassed about the research I proposed as an initiate...'

Wylsin says to Valindra 'As with all things.'

Trillian says 'An impressive lecture!'

Militha tells you 'I was aiming for him but found myself redirected to Istina.'

Dwiggans agrees absolutely.

The town clock tolls twelve times as midnight arrives.

Wylsin looks about the rest of the room.

Militha tells you 'If he comes back I will leave the tavern.'

Dwiggans says 'Got me confused somethin' fierce but I don't question yer intellect.'

Militha tells you 'May I come back inside please?'

Wylsin says 'Nobody else managed to evoke the lesser flame profusion?'

Eyston agrees hesitantly.

Militha is no longer barred from the tavern.
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips: 'Ilromie has lifted the bar from the tavern on Militha.'

You tell Militha 'You may.'

Trillian says 'Our eyes were all closed, yes?'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'It is best if my sister does not try.'

Avenar says 'I was communing...something very important.'

Trillian says 'Then yes! I succeeded! I just didn't hold it as long.'

Militha walks in.

You say 'The flames tend to escape my control, as of late.'

Eyston nods.

Valindra looks down to her hands, abashedly.

Militha thanks you heartily.

You stand up.

Wylsin says 'Do not be disheartened. The intricacies can come more slowly to some. I would be happy to provide greater instruction to those who may wish it.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'Thank you, Plindane.'

Valindra smirks at Wylsin's saying.

Wylsin says 'I also have great anticipation to read the responses to the General Inquiry section.'

You say 'In fact, it occurs to me I have been remiss not to seek your expertise in taming my...tumultuous talent.'

Valindra moves as if to pinch Wylsin but then thinks better of it.

eat flan
You get a raspberry flan.

You eat a raspberry flan.
You are full.

You drink water from a silver chalice ornamented with pearls.
Your thirst is quenched.

Valindra says to Avenar 'Why don't you read something?'

Wylsin says to you 'I have offered it many times afore this time. Though, in fairness, you have been rather distracted from devoting to proper study.'

Vargan gets The Serin Mystique, Volume 15, Issue 6 from a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

You say 'Avenar was forefront in reporting on the war against the demons.'

Valindra shivers uncomfortably.

Wylsin sits down and rests on a chair.

Dwiggans says 'Aye, I'd hear o' these demon princes.'

You say to Wylsin 'In skill and technique, you surpass me, old friend.'

Eyston looks at a round wine glass.

Eyston stops holding a round wine glass in his hand.
Eyston holds a round wine glass in his hand.

Wylsin shifts back and forth as the chair rocks on a short leg.

Eyston drinks red wine from a round wine glass.

Wylsin frowns.
The pink aura around Trillian fades away.

Wylsin stands up.

Eyston looks at a round wine glass.

Vargan gets a juice box from a table.

A soft buzz of words hangs in the air around Wylsin.

Vargan drinks apple juice from a juice box.
Eyston drinks red wine from a round wine glass.

Vargan puts a juice box on a table.

Eyston drops a round wine glass.
A round wine glass shatters into fragments.

Avenar says 'I can offer an update on those reports, if anyone is interested.'

Dwiggans says to Wylsin 'Over me head, yer whole guild.'

Eyston stops holding a round wine glass in his hand.
Eyston holds a silver flute with golden lining in his hand.

Eyston drops a round wine glass.
A round wine glass shatters into fragments.

You say 'In fact, we are.'

Valindra says to Avenar 'What a showboat.'

Vargan gasps in astonishment.

Dwiggans nods at Avenar.

Valindra pinches Avenar's bottom and grins.

Dwiggans closes his eyes momentarily.
A string of sausages suddenly appears.

Vargan says 'No littering.'

Valindra pinches a little harder than is strictly necessary.

Wylsin places his hand flat upon the ground, and pulls it upwards to summon an earthen chair.

Trillian mutters softy, 'So much for no new works. As if I didn't have a new song or anything...'

Wylsin sits and rests upon an earthen chair.

Avenar says 'As many of you know, two Demon Princes were defeated recently. This was enough to quell the constant portals that plagued the land.'

Dwiggans says to Eyston 'Place yer empties on the table.'

Eyston says 'Sorry.'

Avenar says 'However, two Princes still remain hidden from us.'

Dwiggans chuckles politely.

Eyston says 'I am not precisely used to glasses.'

Dwiggans pats Eyston on his head.

Dwiggans drinks water from a magical spring.

Valindra says to Avenar 'You found the grimoire in the Witch Wood.'

Avenar says 'In past tales, when the Demon Princes invade Serin, they do so in concert. So it is likely that they may be doing so again. But perhaps in different methods.'

Valindra amends 'My grimoire.'

The barely audible hum within the room drops into silence.

Avenar says 'Ahh yes, the book.'

Eyston looks at a round wine glass.

Eyston gets a round wine glass from a table.

Eyston drinks red wine from a round wine glass.

Vargan looks in a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

Vargan gets fuzzy bunny slippers from a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

Vargan removes a pair of turtle shell boots from his feet.
Vargan's eyes glaze over as they let out a satisfied sigh.

Avenar says 'The grimoire descended from the sky in a bolt of lightning immediately upon the destruction of the Shadow Prince, the Demon Prince of Acadia.'

Vargan walks in.

Vargan says 'I throw pet out.'

Vargan mutters something quietly to himself.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.

Valindra says to Avenar 'But have I met him?'

Vargan says 'Can be noisy..'

Valindra says to Avenar 'What was he doing with it?'

Valindra says to Avenar 'These are my questions.'

Avenar says 'Well...we do not know exactly what he may have done to the book.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'Wylsin Plindane.'

Avenar says 'But it is clear that he and the book were linked in some manner.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'I will surrender my grimoire to you for inspection, but --'
Avenar drinks water from a magical spring.

Wylsin says to Valindra 'Valindra Skitterwit.'

Valindra wields her stubby, emerald finger like a knife.

You say 'In fact, the three sisters were casting some type of ritual.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'You must promise to return it to me, no matter what you find.'

Valindra drinks water from a magical spring.

Eyston drinks red wine from a round wine glass.

Wylsin raises an eyebrow at Valindra's weird actions.

Valindra says to Wylsin 'Otherwise, a curse upon you and your line!'

Vargan looks in a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

You tell your group 'Separating her from the grimoire may be the best chance we have to succeed.'

Valindra drops her finger after some long time.

Dwiggans gasps in astonishment.

Avenar tells the group 'Then tell him to run.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'Will you . . . look at it?'

Vargan sits down and rests.

You say 'I recommend against her curse.'

Eyston says 'That seems rather strong.'

Valindra says 'The terms are clear.'

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.
Avenar's eyes are filled with serenity.

Wylsin says to Valindra 'Given my present interaction with the opposite sex of my kind, that curse may come to naught.'

Trillian tells the group 'Wait, Avenar, did you actually not have a plan when you gave it back to her?'

Valindra comforts Wylsin.

Dwiggans chuckles politely.

Valindra says to Wylsin 'I only wish to know you will return it.'

Avenar tells the group 'I cannot reveal that.'

The sun slowly disappears in the west.

Valindra says to Wylsin 'I do not think I could pry it from you, dear, as hard as I tried.'

Trillian tells the group 'But Avie! Sharing is caring!'

Wylsin says to Valindra 'I have every intention of returning it to you.'

Avenar tells the group 'Unfortunately I am under the strictest of confidence.'

Eyston pulls out a tarot card for himself.

Trillian drinks water from a water jug.

Trillian tells the group 'Confidence with whom?'

You tell Wylsin 'In fact, it would be convenient if you held the grimiore until after I have recited my gift for Valindra.'

Militha looks in an oversized sack.

Vargan gets a juice box from a table.

Avenar tells the group 'I cannot say.'

Valindra croaks 'Then we are at terms.'

Eyston stops holding a silver flute with golden lining in his hand.
Eyston holds a round wine glass in his hand.

You tell your group 'In fact it sounds as if there were not plan at all.'

Valindra smiles as the light in the room flashes with the incitement of the curse.

Vargan gets a juice box from a table.

Trillian tells the group 'I'd like to see this contract! I doubt it is so thorough.'

You tell your group 'I will do what must be done.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'You don't trust me enough.'

Trillian drinks water from a magical spring.

Valindra says to Wylsin 'For me to give it to you.'

Wylsin glances about, more intrigued than nervous.

Dwiggans says 'I'd like to know the findin's, if I may.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'Which is honestly an indictment . . . considering our close personal work relationship!'

Vargan puts a juice box on a table.
Vargan puts a juice box on a table.

Wylsin raises an eyebrow.

Wylsin says 'That is an odd thing.'

Militha looks at a puddle of water.

Vargan looks at a puddle of water.

Eyston glances from one person to the other, following the conversation with rapt attention.

Valindra gives a leather grimoire to Wylsin.

Eyston looks at Wylsin.

Wylsin looks at a leather grimoire.

Valindra says to Wylsin 'It seems to respond only to me.'

Wylsin nods at Valindra.

Avenar closes his eyes and begins whispering.

Valindra says to Wylsin 'And we have written new spells too.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'So take care, dear.'

Vargan looks at Militha.

Militha looks at Vargan.

The town clock tolls twelve times as midnight arrives.

Valindra looks at Militha.

Wylsin says to Valindra 'As it happens, I recognize this book, as I examined it when it was manifested.'

Militha looks at herself.

Valindra nods, her chins wobbling.

Trillian says 'We?'

You say 'Before this party ends, I would like to express my supreme pride for Valindra's accomplishment.'

Valindra peers at you intently.

Trillian nods.

Trillian nods.

You say 'I know from experience it is no simple matter to wrangle the writings of our reporters.'
It starts to rain.
The pink aura around Trillian fades away.

Avenar claps at Valindra's actions.

Valindra says to you 'You always made it look easy.'

You say 'In fact, if you will permit a brief foray into new works, sister, I have prepared something for you.'

You grin evilly at her.

Trillian points sheepishly at his own chest.

Wylsin lightly taps the grimoire, half paying attention to your words.

Valindra's eyes have gone completely white.

Wylsin raises an eyebrow at Valindra's weird actions.

Vargan stands up.

You say 'The greater skill is required to portray such grace.'

Vargan sits on a chair.

You tell your group 'I nearly forgot, I do have a role for you both in this matter.'

You tell your group 'You will know your line, I hope.'

Valindra gazes upon you tenderly. She does not speak.

Eyston prostrates himself and worships the gods!

Ilromie shifts to the full center of attention.

Trillian tells the group 'Oh dear.'

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips: 'Ilromie is basking in the limelight!'

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian is surrounded by a pink outline.

Eyston looks at you.

You say 'I grant you this gift, that you may produce a great number of issues in this volume.'

Eyston opens The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Wylsin raises an eyebrow at you.

Valindra shivers a little. Tiny motes of flesh stand at attention on her emerald arms.

Ilromie recites 'Witch's Rap, Sisters Verse.'

Ilromie recites 'She's just a witch in a goblin suit?'
Ilromie recites 'That's just so rich. *My* vision's acute.'
Ilromie recites 'Ancient itch I got my eye on you.'

Ilromie recites 'Got a lock of hair, just in case.'
Ilromie recites 'Sister, you're ensnared - better brace!'
Ilromie recites 'Olgarda, I swear you'll be displaced.'

Ilromie produces a folded handkerchief from which a clump of scraggly hair protrudes.

Ilromie recites 'Say her name!'

Valindra's eyes bulge.

Trillian says 'Valindra!'
Ilromie recites 'Say it!'
Wylsin says 'Valindra!'
Eyston says 'Valindra!'
Dwiggans says 'Valindra!'

Valindra can't seem to breathe.

Trillian says 'VALINDRA!'
Ilromie recites 'The flame, I seized - it was always mine.'
Avenar says 'Valindra.'

Ilromie recites 'I call the breeze now to you, unbind.'
Vargan says 'Valindra.'
Dwiggans yells 'Valindra!'
Ilromie recites 'Your soul, to release uncombined.'

Ilromie recites '"Where to go?" "Whom to eat?"'
Ilromie recites 'Don't be slow, Ol, you're not free.'
Ilromie recites 'To the orb you go, but you'll still foresee...'

Ilromie recites 'Say her name.'
Eyston says 'Valindra!'

Ilromie summons a small twister to spin the hair about.

Ilromie recites 'Say it again!'
Trillian says 'Valindra!'
Wylsin says 'Valindra!'
Avenar says 'Valindra!'
Eyston says 'Valindra!'

Ilromie recites 'That which takes what's mine, beware.'
Vargan says 'Valindra!'
Ilromie recites 'These rhymes sublime (I know she can hear!)'
Ilromie recites 'Will her confine, inside this sphere.'

You get the Ask an Orb from a chic corderoy cape.

Valindra writhes upon the floor.

Ilromie recites 'Just one more step remaining yet.'
Ilromie recites 'You must consent: grasp your freedom, abet.'
Ilromie recites 'Aid, augment. Help us help you orient.'

Trillian looks at Valindra uncertainly.

Ilromie summons a small twister to spin the hair about.

Dwiggans gasps in astonishment.

Ilromie places the Ask an Orb within the twister of hair.

Ilromie recites 'Say her name.'
Wylsin says 'Valindra!'
Eyston says 'Valindra!'
Trillian says 'Valindra.'
Dwiggans says 'Valindra!'
Avenar says 'Valindra!'

Ilromie recites 'Say it again!'
Vargan grimaces painfully at the thought.
Eyston says 'Valindra!'
Dwiggans says 'Valindra!'
Wylsin says 'Valindra!'
Avenar says 'Valindra!'

Ilromie recites 'Say it louder for the bitch is in the back.'
Wylsin yells 'Valindra!'
Dwiggans yells 'Valindra!'
You yell 'VALINDRA!'

Valindra births a live toad through her mouth.

Vargan shakes his head.
Eyston yells 'VALINDRA!'
Trillian yells 'VALINDRA.'
Avenar yells 'Valindra!'

Ilromie looks at Valindra, and the Orb-tornado-hair construct floats closer.

Trillian grabs at the toad.

Eyston winces uncertainly.

Valindra yells 'VALIIIIIIIIIIINDRAAAAAA!!!'

Valindra sits up.

Trillian casts about for Hibbadibbity.

You put the Ask an Orb on a table.

Vargan gets a juice box from a table.
Trillian looks at the Ask an Orb.

Vargan drinks apple juice from a juice box.

Trillian says 'Val?'

Ilromie looks at Valindra intently, the wind blowing back her reddened hair.

Vargan puts a juice box on a table.

A tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity slams from the rafters into the little witch crumpled on the floor.

Dwiggans claps at your performance.

Dwiggans claps at Valindra's performance.

Vargan gets a bottle of champagne from a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

Vargan puts a bottle of champagne in a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

The pink aura around Trillian fades away.
The white aura around your body fades.

Trillian pokes a tiny wisp named Hibbadibbity in the ribs.

Dwiggans says 'To call that entertainin' would be an understatement!'

Valindra croaks 'Where is she?'

Valindra looks around the room sheepishly.

Vargan peers around himself intently.

Wylsin stands up.

Trillian paws softly at Hibbadibbity.

Wylsin utters the words, 'detect invis'.

The white aura around Avenar fades.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.
Avenar is surrounded by a white aura.

Valindra adds 'Where is Olgarda?'

Trillian stares deeply into Valindra's eyes.

Valindra says to Wylsin 'I am sorry, old friend.'

Dwiggans says 'Ye just missed her.'

Valindra says to Wylsin 'But you cannot give me that book.'

Wylsin says 'I believe Trillian captured the toad.'

The sun slowly disappears in the west.

Valindra's eyes flash to Trillian Triffle.

Trillian shrugs weakly.

Valindra says 'Put the toad down, dear.'

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.
Avenar's eyes are filled with serenity.

Trillian stares into the toad's eyes.

Valindra says 'Do not look at the toad, dear.'

Dwiggans buys a lowball glass filled with whisky.
Dwiggans buys a lowball glass filled with whisky.

Dwiggans drinks whisky from a lowball glass filled with whisky.
Dwiggans gives you a lowball glass filled with whisky.
Dwiggans buys a lowball glass filled with whisky.
Dwiggans gives a lowball glass filled with whisky to Valindra.
Valindra drinks whisky from a lowball glass filled with whisky.

Wylsin peers intently at Trillian.

Dwiggans drinks whisky from a lowball glass filled with whisky.

Wylsin says to Trillian 'As hungry as you are, do not eat that toad.'

Trillian whispers into the toad's ear.

Valindra exhales another breath. This one takes a whole Renewal.

Dwiggans puts a lowball glass filled with whisky on a table.

Trillian shrugs helplessly.

Dwiggans says 'Might've given one o' ye an empty glass. Apologies.'

Trillian puts the toad on the table.

Vargan gets magic dust from a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

Eyston looks at the Ask an Orb.

Valindra says to you 'I will never repay you, sister. That, I can see.'
Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.

Eyston looks at the Ask an Orb.

Trillian utters the words, 'yazfuz yucandus'.
Trillian is surrounded by a pink outline.

Valindra gets the Ask an Orb from a table.

Ilromie sits in front of Valindra.

Eyston looks in The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Valindra says to you 'But you must make sure.'

Militha opens The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Eyston gets a very valuable prize voucher from The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Vargan looks in a Big Ol'Pack Sack.

Militha looks in The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Eyston looks at a very valuable prize voucher.

You sit down.

Eyston looks at a very valuable prize voucher.

Trillian gets a string of sausages.

Trillian eats a string of sausages.

Eyston looks at a very valuable prize voucher.

Vargan scratches his head, looking very confused.
Valindra crouches so that she and the Polymath are eye to eye on the floor.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.

Valindra says to Eyston 'Congratulations, dear.'

Vargan opens The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Vargan looks in The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Eyston smiles uncertainly.

Trillian holds his breath.

Vargan gets a very valuable prize voucher from The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Vargan looks at a very valuable prize voucher.

Militha gets a very valuable prize voucher from The Serin Mystique, Volume 16, Issue 1.

Militha looks at a very valuable prize voucher.

Eyston looks at a very valuable prize voucher.

Eyston looks at a very valuable prize voucher.

Trillian says 'So... what now?'

Valindra says out of the corner of her mouth 'Wylsin, get that toad!'

Militha looks in an oversized sack.

Trillian says 'Wait why does he get the toad!'

You say to Valindra 'I'll let no one take your legacy away from you, Valindra.'

Trillian says 'Is this about my goat?'

Trillian says 'I know I know he's been dead for ages. But I'm ready to try again

Wylsin snaps his fingers and the toad is encased in a small cage of flame.

You say to Valindra 'I did not build this consortium for the whims of some other witch.'

Avenar says 'As she said...we need to be sure.'

Valindra says to you 'Will you stand, at the wedding?'

Valindra looks sheepishly at Dwiggans

Vargan looks at you.

Militha looks at Valindra.

You say 'Will you risk another verse?'

You say 'I learned to curse from the worst.'

Trillian giggles.

Valindra says to you 'Potent too.'

Trillian nods appreciatively to Ilromie.

Vargan licks his mouth and smiles.

Valindra says to you 'Few could have dislodged Olgarda. I'm glad I cursed you first.'

Dwiggans delicately touches Durindel to the sausages, searing them to perfection.

Ilromie says quietly 'Me too.'

Dwiggans gives you a string of sausages.

You smile at him.

You say to Dwiggans 'Thank you.'

You eat a string of sausages.
You are full.

Valindra says to you 'This is a new recipe.'

Ilromie wheezes slightly.

Dwiggans smiles at you.

Valindra cackles gleefully at you. Better keep your distance from her.

You say 'In fact, this is potent as well.'

Dwiggans drinks water from a magical spring.

<SCHOLAR> (Polymath) Ilromie : 'Let us conclude this affair.'

Valindra claps her hands sharply.

Avenar closes his eyes momentarily.

Valindra says 'The party is over.'

Wylsin makes a delicate gesture and the toad in a cage of flame rises off the table and floats to him.

Valindra says 'Those who wish to see my painting my adjourn to my office.'

You are no longer in the limelight.
<HERALD> Odile the Crier gossips: 'Ilromie is no longer in the limelight.'

Trillian says 'A paper, a party, a wedding, an exocism! It had it all.'