Carussa says, "Apparently they disagree."
Peldumeion says, "No, in fact, we think we're finally getting somewhere with all this."
Peldumeion asks, "Don't you agree, Carussa?"
Peldumeion glances at Carussa.
Imaar emphatically raps the tip of his ironwood cane upon the ground.
Imaar says, "Listen to me..."
Imaar says, "Both of you, closely...."
Peldumeion writes furiously in his little notepad.
Imaar says, "You are just pawns in this game if you really don't know the truth."

You bow to Imaar
You bow to Peldumeion.
Peldumeion looks up with a start.
You bow to Carussa.
Imaar nods to you.
Peldumeion nods to you.
Imaar says, "I think these two need to be escorted out of town."
Peldumeion raises an eyebrow.
Carussa says, "And I think you may be the source of our trouble all along."
Carussa squints.
Peldumeion takes a small step back, still writing.
Imaar says, "I am not the source, I am just the manager of it."
You say, "I'm Elfverhan of the Rathian Fencibales"
Peldumeion blinks at Imaar.
Peldumeion asks you, "Er, ah... I'm sorry, what?"
Imaar says, "The council has gotten thier platinum coins, just as I have."
Carussa raises an eyebrow.
You say, "the local Militia"
You smile.
Peldumeion says, "Oh I see."
You get an odd feeling that someone is watching you. It quickly passes.
Peldumeion looks a little suspicious.
Carussa says, "Apparently you are witnessing the confession of something, sir."
Imaar asks, "So, will you leave with this gentleman or not?"
You say, "was a bit concerned"
Imaar says, "There is no confession."
Imaar says, "This is the way of the guild."
Peldumeion gazes silently at Imaar.
Imaar says, "I'm just amazed that you seem to be the last to know."
Carussa scribbles some notes and stares at Imaar intently.
Imaar says, "They sent the blind to find an answer."
Carussa asks, "Why would the Council have us investigate you if they knew all along, mmm?"
Peldumeion scratches his head.

[Ratha Traders' Guild, Reception]
A jewel-toned carpet covers the floor of this cozy office, giving it a cheerful quality despite its cramped quarters. Teak paneling surrounds the room, supporting a rich exhibit of wall displays by local artists. A curved corner desk dominates the room, manned by the guild secretary, and directly across from it sits a brocade-cushioned bench. Just to the side of the desk is an arch that leads to the hallway, the faint noise of workers beyond. You also see Penelope Fraie, a corner desk with a framed portrait on it and some oversized swinging doors.
Also here: Guildleader Imaar, Carussa, Peldumeion
Obvious exits: out.
Imaar says, "Because people complain, and they have to cover thier involvement in the proceedings."

Guildleader Imaar, a S'Kra Mur Trader.
His scales are neither too dry nor too oily, and his clothing is the finest that the Crossing has to offer. Ever watchful, he eyes you unblinkingly, a prime example of confidence and quiet intelligence.
He is in his middle years judging by the handsome mottling of his scales.
He is in good shape.

He is holding a smoothly finished ironwood cane in his left hand.
He is wearing a jadeite gwethdesuan, a kyanite gwethdesuan, a black tail coat, a white silk shirt, a diamond studded platinum ring bearing the crest of the Trader's guild, a white silk cummerbund, a darkened platinum tailband inset with a faceted ruby crowned by tiny black pearls, some black linen trousers, some black leather boots and an elegant silver rapier that rests at his hip.

You see Peldumeion, an Elf.
Peldumeion has pointed ears and dark eyes. His brunette hair is short and straight, and is worn loose. He has fair skin.
He is young for an Elf.
He is clean shaven.
He is in good shape.

He is holding a small notepad in his right hand and an ivory stylus in his left.
He is wearing a black leather cavalier hat with a striped eagle feather plume, a jadeite gwethdesuan, a kyanite gwethdesuan, a glossy black scroll case clasped by a moon-shaped ruby, a dark grey messenger's satchel reinforced with thick black leather, a finely woven crisp white shirt with pleated ruffs on the collar and cuffs, a button-front tailed leather coat with a high collar, a pair of carefully tailored trousers in a subdued brocade and some muted black leather dress shoes.

You see Carussa, an Elothean.
Carussa has tilted almond-shaped dark eyes. Her dark brown hair is short and wavy, and is worn unkempt. She has dark brown skin.
She is in her prime for an Elothean.
She is in good shape.

She is holding an ivory stylus in her right hand and a lined notepad in her left.
She is wearing a green faience necklace, a broad-brimmed black leather hat, a supple leather coat, a long black skirt, a black leather satchel, some black suede boots fastened with a silver lightning bolt, a kyanite gwethdesuan and a jadeite gwethdesuan.
Imaar says, "It was near thirty years ago, the last one."
Carussa asks, "What people? Who are they?"
Carussa exclaims, "You're speaking in circles!"
Peldumeion turns a page in his small notepad.
Peldumeion turns a page in his small notepad.
Imaar says, "Traders, shopkeepers, name it."
Peldumeion flips through some pages of his notepad.
Imaar says, "Unless..."
Peldumeion raises an eyebrow.
Imaar asks, "The council has decided to actually rebel?"
Imaar emphatically raps the tip of his ironwood cane upon the ground.
Imaar says, "That's it."
Imaar asks, "Isn't it?"
Peldumeion says, "Sir, we can tell you with confidence that they are in earnest researching this... mess."
Carussa says, "Rebel against bribery? That seems an easy choice to me."
Imaar says, "Yes, I can see that it would be."
Peldumeion says, "And frankly, we've come to a number of startling conclusions."
Imaar asks, "Oh, have you now?"
Peldumeion says, "Indeed we have."

Carussa asks you, "What do you know of this? Local militia, you said...have you been bribed too?"
Imaar asks, "Care to elaborate?"

You say, "bribed never"
Peldumeion gives Carussa a meaningful glance.
Carussa says, "It just seems suspicious that the guildleader would so readily have you show us the edge of town..."

Peldumeion clears his throat.

Peldumeion says, "Isn't that curious..."

You say, "na I'm not here on that acount"
Peldumeion writes more notes on his notepad.

You say, "heard some skull duggery tis all"
Peldumeion glances at you.
Imaar asks, "What have you heard?"
Peldumeion asks, "Such as?"
Carussa says, "And you see? Just like that black haired Elven woman who was here a few moments ago..."

You say, "so as my duty to what is transpiring"
An elderly lady approaches the desk a bit hesitantly. Penelope chats happily with her, and lets her know where to find her son.
Peldumeion says to Carussa, "I think we should take our findings directly back to the council."
Imaar says, "The black haired woman was probably a trader...didn't you just see that woman, this is a guild, and has a steady influx of pedestrians."
Imaar asks, "What have you found?"
Carussa says, "Not ones who disappear from sight."
Peldumeion says, "We know the names of the people behind this."
Peldumeion closes his small notepad.
Imaar says, "Impossible."
Peldumeion gazes silently at Imaar.
Imaar says, "No one knows thier name."

You say, "most traders do find it usefull to train the art of hidding"
Peldumeion glances at you.
Carussa says, "Well now it all makes sense."
Peldumeion puts his notepad in his messenger's satchel.
Carussa says, "It didn't before but now..."
Peldumeion puts his stylus in his messenger's satchel.
Imaar asks, "What does?"
Carussa flips the page, underlines a word and then closes the notepad.
Carussa puts her notepad in her leather satchel.

You say, "keeps lots more coin in thier pocket than out"

You chuckle.
Carussa says, "The name we have...I didn't see a connection before but now that we've followed the paper trail..."

Imaar asks, "What name?"
Carussa raises an eyebrow.
Peldumeion nods at Carussa, obviously agreeing with her views.
Carussa asks, "Well apparently, since we're the last to know, you don't need us to answer that question. Do you?"
Carussa puts her stylus in her leather satchel.
Peldumeion folds his arms across his chest.
Peldumeion gazes at Imaar.
Imaar says, "Don't be cute, little lady."
Peldumeion smirks.
Imaar says, "Give me the name."
Carussa says to you, "Don't be surprised if you're called on to make an arrest soon."
You smile.
Carussa squints at Imaar.
You say, "that would be up to the high Marshal"
Carussa says, "No...no I don't think I will."
Carussa says, "I think we'll be taking this back to the Council."
Imaar says, "This is the way of the guild, no need to bring in the militia."
Carussa says, "You can expect the report after they get it. In some fashion."
Carussa smirks.
An elderly lady approaches the desk a bit hesitantly. Penelope chats happily with her, and lets her know where to find her son.
Peldumeion says, "Good evening, sir."
Peldumeion bows sharply.
Carussa says, "Sleep well."
Carussa smiles.
Peldumeion's group just went out.
Imaar blinks.

You say, "odd"
Imaar asks, "How dare they?"


You say, "I had heard they where doing something for your guild but not what"

You ponder.
Imaar says, "Investigating."

You nod.
Imaar says, "Commodities."
Imaar says, "They think they've made a large discovery."

You nod.
>'of some thing anyways

Imaar says, "They are being used."
You say, "ahhhh "
Imaar says, "Nothing will change."

You ask, "need I follow them?"
A young man in an obvious hurry rushes into the room. Just as he opens his mouth, Penelope drops a stack of forms into his hands, letting him know that she can't do all his work for him.
Imaar says, "No, they will give thier report, naming the names and be sent to the cellar to look through more records."
You nod.
You nod.
Imaar asks, "The commodities aren't going to change, are they?"

You say, "not likely"
Imaar says, "It's been this way for close to three hundred years."

You say, "unless something has been errr short changing"

* A meteor streaks across the sky as Peldumeion's soul departs forever to walk the Starry Road.
Imaar says, "Money talks, young man.
You say, "what"
You say, "he just was murdered"
Imaar asks, "Who?"



* A meteor streaks across the sky as Carussa's soul departs forever to walk the Starry Road.

[Ratha, Port Walk]
The eastern end of the Ratha warehouses stands like a wall at the side of the Port Walk. Some very shady-looking characters pass by, maybe an uneasy blend of pirate and trader, legal when they have to be, otherwise when opportunity offers. You also see a blue moonbeam, a cheerful salesgirl, a news stand with a grinning imp on it and the Neh Dock.
Obvious paths: east, west.

[Ratha Traders' Guild, Reception]
A jewel-toned carpet covers the floor of this cozy office, giving it a cheerful quality despite its cramped quarters. Teak paneling surrounds the room, supporting a rich exhibit of wall displays by local artists. A curved corner desk dominates the room, manned by the guild secretary, and directly across from it sits a brocade-cushioned bench. Just to the side of the desk is an arch that leads to the hallway, the faint noise of workers beyond. You also see Penelope Fraie, a corner desk with a framed portrait on it and some oversized swinging doors.
Also here: Elemental Bloodbath Mordimer, Malzard, Fateweaver Caelumia, Guildleader Imaar
Obvious exits: out.
Malzard says, "No, but I had met the members of your Council."
Imaar asks, "Can I help you?"
Imaar asks, "Well, did you fix it?"
Imaar peers quizzically at you.
Caelumia says, "I was wondering where those two you were with had gotten to."
Imaar says, "He knows."
Imaar points at you.

You say, "nope I can't find them only a moonbeam"
Caelumia raises an eyebrow.
Malzard raises an eyebrow.
Caelumia says to you, "Do tell."

You shrug.
You say, "its the only thing on the port walk"

You say, "they are not on the kree'la"
Caelumia makes a careless gesture as she begins an almost musical chant.
Caelumia gestures.
Caelumia makes a careless gesture as she begins an almost musical chant.
Imaar says, "They would be packing, they said they were leaving."
Caelumia gestures.

You ask, "perhaps the inn?"
Imaar asks, "Why the inn?"

You shrug.

You say, "where I would stay nice place on the first tier"

Caelumia says to Malzard, "When I walked in the two were in the process of leaving and the Researcher said 'it's time.' So I wonder..."
Caelumia makes a careless gesture as she begins an almost musical chant.
Malzard frowns at Caelumia.
Caelumia gestures.
Caelumia makes a careless gesture as she begins an almost musical chant.
Caelumia gestures.
Imaar says, "They were staying here at the guild."
Malzard says to Caelumia, "I would hardly put it past him..."
Caelumia makes a careless gesture as she begins an almost musical chant.
Caelumia seems to be concentrating intently on something.
Caelumia gestures.

You ponder.
Caelumia asks, "Where was the moonbeam?"
Imaar says, "They didn't seem religious."
You say, "just before the carosel"
Caelumia whispers something to Malzard.
Malzard gives a slight nod.
Imaar asks, "I think the safest thing to do would be to check my guild?"

You nod.
Malzard just went out.

Imaar says, "Perhaps I am in danger as well."
You ponder.


Malzard just arrived.
Malzard joins Caelumia's group.
Caelumia asks Imaar, "Do the names Wolfbelg and Senwin ring any bells?"
Imaar says, "No."

Malzard quietly says to Caelumia, "Aslain."
Mordimer joins Caelumia's group.

[
Mordimer says, "The two recently deceased traders"
>go arch
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Hallway]
From here the sounds of the warehouse beyond the steel door in the northern wall are fairly clear, though the specifics of things are hard to discern. Neutral-colored low-pile carpeting runs the length of the hall, showing a distinct traffic pattern at both ends of the hallway as well as back into the reception area through the arch. You also see a steel door.
Obvious exits: east, west.
>e
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Hallway]
Bright artwork lines the cream-colored walls, splashes of design and color in an otherwise gloomy section of the hallway. To the side is the lounge established specifically for the guild and its members.
Obvious exits: west.
>w
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Hallway]
From here the sounds of the warehouse beyond the steel door in the northern wall are fairly clear, though the specifics of things are hard to discern. Neutral-colored low-pile carpeting runs the length of the hall, showing a distinct traffic pattern at both ends of the hallway as well as back into the reception area through the arch. You also see a steel door.
Obvious exits: east, west.
>w
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Hallway]
An ornate door dominates this end of the corridor, carvings upon its surface serving to enhance the inherent beauty of its wood. A natural hush falls upon this end of the guild, as though the impressive architecture commanded such respect.
Obvious exits: east.
>e
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Hallway]
From here the sounds of the warehouse beyond the steel door in the northern wall are fairly clear, though the specifics of things are hard to discern. Neutral-colored low-pile carpeting runs the length of the hall, showing a distinct traffic pattern at both ends of the hallway as well as back into the reception area through the arch. You also see a steel door.
Obvious exits: east, west.
>go door
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Warehouse Floor]
Piled high in rows of freight, sturdy wooden crates mark the boundaries of walkways, orderly passages in which cargo trolleys are loaded and unloaded. Every shipment is carefully labeled with various markings, denoting point of origin and destination. You also see a steel door.
Obvious exits: north, northeast, east, west, northwest.
>e
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Warehouse Floor]
The entry is wide enough to accomodate the largest cart, opening a small alley between the back facade of the office section of the guild and the seemingly endless rows of arranged shipments. The atmosphere is one of barely contained frantic efficiency as guild clerks check and double-check shipments as they arrive and are sent out again. A large door in the outer wall, nearly half the size of the entire outer wall itself, is stuck in the open position.
Obvious exits: north, west, northwest.
>n
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Warehouse Floor]
The warehouse ends in a dim corner, tall stacks of freight providing a modicum of privacy in this otherwise open-ended space. Here the containers are stacked for long-term storage, in tidy rows for ease of storage as well as reclaimability.
Obvious exits: south, southwest, west.
>w
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Warehouse Floor]
The area opens up in a conscious effort to make room for larger amounts of foot traffic, the crates and shipping containers stacked tighter together than anywhere else in the warehouse. The floor is worn smooth in spots, kept swept clean by the passage of so many over time. You also see the body of an Elven man, the body of an Elothean woman and some crates.
Obvious exits: east, southeast, south, southwest, west.

You sigh.

You search around for a moment.
Roundtime: 3 sec.
You don't find anything of interest here.
>drag woman e
That cannot be dragged.

>look man
The body lies in a seemingly unnatural position, due in large part to a portion of its head having been brutally bludgeoned which makes recognition almost impossible. The only identification is a black leather cavalier hat with a striped eagle feather plume clutched tightly to its chest.
>look woman
What was once a vibrant Elothean woman is now scratched and beaten viciously. A vivid purple bruise on her right temple and an awkwardly twisted right arm give evidence that she did not go down easily. A lock of grey hair curls over her forehead, in stark contrast to her regular brown hair.

You sigh.

Malzard just arrived.
Malzard just went east.
Malzard just arrived.

You point at the body of an Elven man.
Malzard frowns
You point at the body of an Elothean woman.
Malzard sighs.

You say, "don't see anything here"
Malzard says, "It's them."

You say, "but they where thugged"
Malzard nods to you.

Malzard leans toward the body of an Elven man, but it's out of reach.
You say, "I can not move them"
Malzard leans toward the body of an Elothean woman, but it's out of reach.
Malzard reaches toward the body of an Elven man, but stops before he touches it.
Malzard reaches toward the body of an Elothean woman, but stops before he touches it.

Malzard says, "Lets inform the Guildleader."
Malzard just tried to join you but you avoided him.


As you reach for Malzard's hand, he politely pulls away.

You grin.
Malzard chuckles to himself.

As you reach for Malzard's hand, he politely pulls away.
Sounds echo around you; the scrape of boots and a soft brush of cloth over the floor. Faint and teasing, it is impossible to tell what direction the noise comes from. Moments later, all is quiet again.
Malzard casually observes the area.

Malzard searches around for a moment.
You sling a battle-worn black steel tower shield off from over your shoulder, placing it in your left hand.
You draw out your broadsword from the weapon harness.
Malzard says, "Lets scoure the area and meet back near Imaar."
Malzard just went east.
You nod.


[Ratha Traders' Guild, Reception]
A jewel-toned carpet covers the floor of this cozy office, giving it a cheerful quality despite its cramped quarters. Teak paneling surrounds the room, supporting a rich exhibit of wall displays by local artists. A curved corner desk dominates the room, manned by the guild secretary, and directly across from it sits a brocade-cushioned bench. Just to the side of the desk is an arch that leads to the hallway, the faint noise of workers beyond. You also see Penelope Fraie, a corner desk with a framed portrait on it and some oversized swinging doors.
Also here: Malzard, Elemental Bloodbath Mordimer, Fateweaver Caelumia, Guildleader Imaar
Obvious exits: out.
Malzard gazes at Imaar.

You sheathe the broadsword in your weapon harness.
Caelumia asks, "Did you find them?"
>'found them
Imaar asks, "What bodies?"
You say, "found them"
Malzard sadly says, "...they're inside."
Caelumia mumbles something under her breath.

You say, "they have been thugged"
Caelumia joins Malzard's group.
Mordimer's jaw drops.
Caelumia puts her sapphire in her velvet bag.
Mordimer joins Malzard's group.
Imaar joins Malzard's group.
Malzard's group went through an arch.
You say, "and there is someone in there yet"

The area opens up in a conscious effort to make room for larger amounts of foot traffic, the crates and shipping containers stacked tighter together than anywhere else in the warehouse. The floor is worn smooth in spots, kept swept clean by the passage of so many over time. You also see the body of an Elven man, the body of an Elothean woman and some crates.
Also here: Fateweaver Caelumia, Elemental Bloodbath Mordimer, Guildleader Imaar, Malzard
Obvious exits: east, southeast, south, southwest, west.
You can't go there.
Imaar asks, "You, militia, what have you discovered?"

You say, "nothing yet other than A NOISE"

Imaar asks, "A noise?"
Protect what? Type 'PROTECT HELP' for syntax!
You nod.
Imaar says, "Get a cleric."
Imaar says, "An empath."

Caelumia quietly says, "I believe it is a bit late for that."
Mordimer says, "Doesn't look like it would do any good..."
Imaar asks, "What do you mean?"

Mordimer says, "You said it yourself, weren't very religious"

Imaar frowns.
You nod.
Malzard winces.
Imaar says, "Well, then find out who did this."

You move over to guard Imaar.
Imaar makes a sweeping gesture around the crates and bodies.
Imaar says, "There must be something here."
You move into position to cover Imaar from harm.
You search around for a moment.
Roundtime: 3 sec.
You don't find anything of interest here.
Mordimer says, "I'm just hoping they don't come back to the scene of the crime"
Mordimer fidgets nervously.
Caelumia says to Malzard, "Was Varnuriun the one that enjoyed garroting..."


Mordimer appears to be concentrating intently on something.
Malzard leans toward the body of an Elven man, but it's out of reach.
Caelumia leans toward the body of an Elven man, but it's out of reach.
Mordimer traces an arcane sigil in the air.
Fateweaver Caelumia went behind some crates.

Imaar stares at the bodies and mumbles under his breath,
Fateweaver Caelumia came from behind some crates.

Caelumia shrugs.
Mordimer leans toward the body of an Elven man, but it's out of reach.
Malzard searches around for a moment.


Imaar says, "They said they had the name."

Caelumia asks, "The name?"

[Ratha Traders' Guild, Warehouse Floor]
The area opens up in a conscious effort to make room for larger amounts of foot traffic, the crates and shipping containers stacked tighter together than anywhere else in the warehouse. The floor is worn smooth in spots, kept swept clean by the passage of so many over time. You also see the body of an Elven man, the body of an Elothean woman and some crates.
Also here: Fateweaver Caelumia, Elemental Bloodbath Mordimer, Guildleader Imaar, Malzard
Obvious exits: east, southeast, south, southwest, west.

Imaar says, "Someone tell Penelope."
Mordimer says, "Looks a bit too violent to be a mugging"
Mordimer scratches his head.

You say, "I can't find nothing out of place"
Imaar asks, "Can we arrange to have the bodies moved yet?"
Caelumia asks, "Is there any other way to get back here that isn't through the main room?"

Caelumia reaches toward the body of an Elven man, but stops before she touches it.
Caelumia reaches toward the body of an Elothean woman, but stops before she touches it.
Imaar nods.
Caelumia mumbles something under her breath.

You say, "the platform area "

You say, "above the crate"

You say, "something is moving about I think"
Mordimer searches around for a moment.

Mordimer traces an arcane sigil in the air.
Caelumia gets a tear-shaped star sapphire from inside her velvet bag.
Mordimer seems to be concentrating intently on something.
Caelumia gets a dusky tempest sapphire from inside her suede haversack.
Imaar says, "Mice, this is a warehouse."
Caelumia puts her sapphire in her suede haversack.
Mordimer gestures.
A glistening green light rises around his shoulders in a shimmering cascade, tumbling down his body toward the floor like a collapsing rockslide.
Caelumia stretches out a hand imploringly to Mordimer.
Mordimer gets a tear-shaped star sapphire from inside his burlap bag.

Mordimer offers Caelumia a tear-shaped star sapphire.
Caelumia accepts Mordimer's star sapphire.
Caelumia says, "There's no one else here."
Caelumia puts her sapphire in her velvet bag.
You nod.
Malzard glances at the body of an Elven man.
Mordimer sighs.
Malzard says, "I'll look around a bit more."
Malzard just went east.

Caelumia raises an eyebrow in your direction.
Caelumia says, "That sounds like a refractive field. But it's night time and my sapphire detects nothing."

Caelumia says, "I still wonder what they meant by 'it's time' if not this."

Imaar says, "Just a moment."

Guildleader Imaar just went south.

Caelumia reaches toward the body of an Elven man, but stops before she touches it.

Mordimer looks at Imaar and shrugs.
Mordimer says, "This certainly wouldn't happen in Crossing"

[Ratha Traders' Guild, Warehouse Floor]
The area opens up in a conscious effort to make room for larger amounts of foot traffic, the crates and shipping containers stacked tighter together than anywhere else in the warehouse. The floor is worn smooth in spots, kept swept clean by the passage of so many over time. You also see a grumpy Shadow Servant, the body of an Elven man, the body of an Elothean woman and some crates.
Also here: Guildleader Imaar, Fateweaver Caelumia, Elemental Bloodbath Mordimer
Obvious exits: east, southeast, south, southwest, west.
Imaar asks, "But they didn't have the name in Crossing, did they?"
Caelumia glances at the body of an Elven man.
Malzard just arrived.
(Caelumia unfolds her blanket and drapes it over the two bodies.)
Caelumia drops a royal blue woolen blanket.

Shrill braying and deep, resonant cries drift in from the large open door to the east of the building.



[Ratha Traders' Guild, Shipping Corner]
A much smaller structure than the guild, but still a part of it, this squat building sits across the walkway from the main establishment. Here special shipments between guild members are stored or shipped, according to their destinations. Rich teak wainscoting lays against the painted brick walls and a dark carpet covers the floor. You also see a rickety stand with a shipping crate on it and a shipping clerk.
Obvious exits: west.

The shipping clerk looks just like what you would expect a shipping clerk to look like.

>look on stand
On the rickety stand you see a shipping crate.
>look in crate
That is closed.
>ope crate
It'd be rude to open that without paying for it first.
>look under crate
There is nothing under there.

>look behind crate
There is nothing behind there.
>tap crate
You tap a shipping crate atop a rickety stand.

>ope crate
It'd be rude to open that without paying for it first.

>w
[Ratha Traders' Guild, Staging Area]
Nestled against the outside wall of the guild, a plain but sturdy structure has been erected comprised of a roof and two walls, the front open to allow even the largest freight through. Drivers mill about as cargo is loaded and unloaded, crates borne on carts moving in and out of the guild through the door that has been rolled back out of the way. Pack animals fidget and add to the cacophony with their loud cries, the overall effect creating the general controlled chaos in which the guild operates. You also see a large door.
Obvious paths: east, out.
>ouit
Please rephrase that command.
>out
[Ratha, Port Walk]
To the south looms a wooden building, painted a leering red. Its gaudy, golden window shutters are closed, but the door has been jammed open. Raucous screams of rage and pain and laughter, shouts for drink, and scraps of music flow unceasingly from inside the doss-house. Guards glance away self-consciously as they pass by, and merchants perceptibly quicken their pace on the road northeast or west. You also see a sturdy structure.
Obvious paths: northeast, northwest.

[Ratha Traders' Guild, Warehouse Floor]
The area opens up in a conscious effort to make room for larger amounts of foot traffic, the crates and shipping containers stacked tighter together than anywhere else in the warehouse. The floor is worn smooth in spots, kept swept clean by the passage of so many over time. You also see a royal blue woolen blanket, a grumpy Shadow Servant and some crates.
Also here: Guildleader Imaar, Fateweaver Caelumia, Elemental Bloodbath Mordimer
Obvious exits: east, southeast, south, southwest, west.

You ponder.
Mordimer asks, "Something that could potentially get them killed?"
Mordimer peers quizzically at Imaar.
Imaar says, "No, I can't see that it would."
Malzard just arrived.

Malzard mutters cryptically to himself.
Imaar says, "Perhaps..."
Caelumia gives Malzard a little prod between the shoulder blades.

Malzard nods to Caelumia.
Malzard gestures.
Malzard says, "Wolfbelg, yes."
Imaar says, "If they found the name of the family for certain..."
Malzard says, "It's exactly why I ran off, I located him on Taisgath."
Imaar says, "She wrote in her book."
Malzard says, "Then back here."
Malzard frowns at Caelumia.
Caelumia mumbles something unprintable.
Malzard says, "On Ratha, I mean."
Caelumia asks, "Where?"

You say, "speaking of her notebook "
Malzard says, "The Imperial Palm."
Malzard says, "I cannot find him now."

You ask, "did anyone find it?"
Caelumia shakes her head.

Mordimer gestures.
Mordimer looks steadier.
Caelumia asks Imaar, "Which family?"
Malzard gazes at a royal blue woolen blanket.
Malzard sighs.

Mordimer smirks.
Imaar says, "If I knew the answer to that..."
Mordimer says, "Like he'd tell ya"

Caelumia says, "Well. With regards to what."

[Ratha Traders' Guild, Warehouse Floor]
The area opens up in a conscious effort to make room for larger amounts of foot traffic, the crates and shipping containers stacked tighter together than anywhere else in the warehouse. The floor is worn smooth in spots, kept swept clean by the passage of so many over time. You also see a royal blue woolen blanket, a grumpy Shadow Servant and some crates.
Also here: Malzard, Guildleader Imaar, Fateweaver Caelumia, Elemental Bloodbath Mordimer
Obvious exits: east, southeast, south, southwest, west.
Imaar says, "I don't know, we never have known."


Imaar says, "I suppose they did back in the days of the war."
Imaar says, "But it's not discussed now."

You peer quizzically at Imaar.
Imaar says, "The payoffs happen, and everything stays the same."
Imaar says, "I must report this to the council."
Guildleader Imaar just went south.
Caelumia says, "What the..."
Mordimer coughs.
Mordimer says, "That guy can't be trusted"
Caelumia says, "He's a bloody guildleader."

You say, "they where in a heated discussion when I arrived"
Malzard glances at you.
Mordimer nods to you.
Malzard asks, "Who?"
With a few arcane words, Malzard's eyes darken unnaturally to a shade as black as a starless night!
Caelumia asks, "What was he talking about?"
Malzard seems to be concentrating intently on something.

You say, "he asked them to be escorted of the Island"
Malzard gestures.
Malzard asks, "Had they not just arrived?"

You say, "Larceny mostly

Caelumia says, "Explain please."

Mordimer says, "The pair was clearly upset with Imaar on the gweths"

You say, "they seemed to be accusing him of taking bribes"
Mordimer nods.
Caelumia frowns.
Caelumia asks, "From who?"
Caelumia says, "One of the..."
Malzard glances at you and blinks several times.
You feel fully attuned to the mana streams again.

You say, "they didn't say"
Caelumia glances at Malzard.
Malzard asks, "Did they?"
Malzard frowns.
Caelumia fidgets nervously.


You say, "they seem to be threating him by taking the names to council"
Mordimer says, "he did mention that the bank wouldn't allow them access to some records"
Malzard says, "Someone wanted what they found kept under wraps."

You say, "said that the council will sort it out and he could get the name from them"

Caelumia says, "I assume he meant the Council of Nine."
Malzard says, "The Trader Council."
You say, "the guild council"
Mordimer nods.

You nod to Mordimer.

You say, "I came because they seemed to be getting distraught on the gweth"
Mordimer nods to you.

Mordimer says, "They have been asking for guards in the other provinces"

You say, "they had not asked to my knowledge and left before I could ask them if they wanted escort"
Malzard says, "They had been followed every step of the way by that trouble maker."
Malzard says, "I saw his blasted sillouete on Taisgath..."
Malzard mutters cryptically to himself.
You ask, "? Wolfberg?"
Malzard says, "Yes, Wolfbelg"
Caelumia quietly says, "How does Senwin fit in though? And that little token..."
Malzard says, "I..."
Malzard shakes his head.
Caelumia exclaims, "And why the hell was Ralel out here!"
Malzard says, "...as you said, quite a bizare gestalt."




Caelumia picks up a royal blue woolen blanket.
Caelumia says, "The bodies got carted out."
Caelumia looks at Malzard and shrugs.
Malzard says, "Ah"
Mordimer says, "that guildleader managed to get rid of them"
Caelumia asks, "What did Imaar have done with the bodies?"
Caelumia frowns.

Caelumia says, "Isn't that... evidence or something."
Mordimer says, "how convenient"

Mordimer says, "he sure ran off quick "
Malzard says, "Everything does seem to be cleaned up quite nicely."
Malzard frowns.

You say, "was very odd"
Caelumia says to Mordimer, "It's Imaar not some alley thug."
Caelumia puts her blanket in her suede haversack.
Mordimer says, "Just who knows what those two found in his guildhall records"

You say, "they really left in mid sentence "

You say, "he called em insolent"

Sputtering and flickering, the sphere at your forehead spirals in an out-of-control descent until it hits the ground, shattering with a burst of light. The remaining pair of globes begin to slowly rise and fall as they take a position at your shoulders.

Malzard asks, "This was in person?"
Mordimer says, "he did seem a bit condescending with all of us"

You say, "after they left"
Malzard asks, "I mean, he did not call them that over the gweth?"

You say, "no"
Malzard gives a slight nod.
The wings of Mordimer's boots flutter for a moment.
Malzard guardedly says, "He seemed entirely disinterested in hearing about the man who had been following them for weeks."
Caelumia shrugs.

Caelumia says, "Now I know who else to trail."
Malzard joins Caelumia's group.
Malzard says, "Lets go."
Malzard frowns.
Mordimer asks you, "Will you speak to the authorties about this
You say, "aye"
Caelumia says, "I wonder if Shard would care to know."
Caelumia takes a blackened chain coif with an ornate steel facemask bearing a serenely impassive countenance off her head.
Caelumia sighs.

You say, "next time I see the high marshal"
Caelumia pulls down the hood of her longcoat.
Mordimer nods to you.

You say, "was very odd"
Malzard nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

You say, "heard a leather boot"

You say, "was the only sound"

You ponder.


Caelumia mutters cryptically to herself.
Mordimer says, "The bodies were mutilated, wasn't a professional that did it"

You say, "looked like thugs "
Caelumia says, "Wolfbelg's partner was the cleaner one."
Caelumia says, "Old partner, I suppose."

You say, "but might have been ment to look like that"
Malzard raises an eyebrow.
Malzard asks, "Varn?"
Malzard frowns at Caelumia.
Caelumia asks, "Was he not the one that garrotted whatshisface?"
Malzard says, "Ah, cleaner. I misunderstood."
Malzard says, "I thought you meant...legally."
Malzard chuckles to himself.




Malzard says, "Yes, and he nearly killed the girl too, as if she were not anxious enough already."
Caelumia gives a slight nod.
Mordimer mutters cryptically to himself.
Mordimer joins Caelumia's group.
Caelumia says, "I need to check with...well."
Caelumia says, "People."

The only thing to add is that the second entrance to the guild is just south of the Dwarf Guard and infront of the red building.

Huh..color me lost! Interesting though, too bad as well, I liked those two.

Leucius

Never argue with an idiot, they bring you down to their level and then beat you with experience.

Anything else ever come of this?

~ Mordimer

>>Long story short, Imaar isn't looking very kosher at the moment.

Thats what i gathered from the way he was acting when they were killed, and when i pressed him on the issue of them possibly finding something they shouldn't have in his guild he freaked out and left.

~ Mordimer

Being nice and naive at times it actually took my by surprise. I was sitting there listening to him talk and thinking wait a minute, he's straight up lying.

Leucius

Never argue with an idiot, they bring you down to their level and then beat you with experience.

As I understand it much is going to change.

I'm very curious as to what happens next.

From a log I was able to obtain:

Mardan says, "It's the end of an era."
Mardan says, "A lifetime of era's."



"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." --Eleanor Roosevelt

"We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them." --attributed to Albert Einstein