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Mjoll is attending a post-sermon Q and A, listening idly to Fezzix answering questions when suddenly....
(Bloodloch): A colossal Teradrim guard says, "I heard a cry for help at 'Southern Charred Bridge!'"
Tetchta just thought:
"Shit".
Your gauntlet outstretched, you begin to focus upon your city's pylon and a humming fills the area as the gauntlet begins to
resonate with it.
Instantly, Commander Mjoll and Ser Tetchta head to the bridge.
Southern Charred Bridge.
The tenebrous cavern ceiling looms ominously high overhead. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the
ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. There are 3 corpses of an arachnid Chiav patroller here.
Containing corpses of various races, a pile of dead bodies is here. Surrounded in an aura of defilement, a figure wrapped in
darkness is here.
You see exits leading north and down.
The shrunken head in your inventory sneezes violently.
(Tells): Tetchta's psychic whisper trails through your mind, "Let me know if you need backup."
"monolith sigil332802" a monolith sigil.
"sigil388073" a cube sigil.
"Chiav224987" the corpse of an arachnid Chiav patroller.
"Chiav231023" the corpse of an arachnid Chiav patroller.
"Chiav241847" the corpse of an arachnid Chiav patroller.
"pile343085" a pile of hooded corpses.
"warhound128372" a ghostly warhound.
"warhound128849" a white warhound.
"warhound129004" a white warhound.
You scowl miserably at a pile of hooded corpses.
Zenobia arrives from the north.
Freshly fallen corpses lie in a heap here, containing an assortment of races.
It weighs about 62 pound(s).
A figure wrapped in darkness gives an icy hiss.
Rapping his twin iron bracers against one another in a display of unparalleled strength, a colossal Teradrim guard stomps in from the north, leaving a trickle of shale in his wake.
Rapping his twin iron bracers against one another in a display of unparalleled strength, a colossal Teradrim guard stomps in from the north, leaving a trickle of shale in his wake.
The clanging of armour from the north precedes the entrance of a domineering Carnifex knight.
The clanging of armour from the north precedes the entrance of a domineering Carnifex knight.
Muttering darkly, an Indorani scion of despair approaches from the north.
Muttering darkly, an Indorani scion of despair approaches from the north.
A figure wrapped in darkness says, "Chiav, can someone alert me of what happened here?"
Your shroud dissipates and you return to the realm of perception.
You say, "None live."
You glance towards the north.
A figure wrapped in darkness taps her head. "Chiav minds are connected. They could have communicated."
Vharen arrives from the north.
You glance towards the north.
You fluidly swap the war-blessed bardiche, Onslaught with an eye sigil in your left hand.
You relax your grip.
You cast the eye sigil at the ground, and it bursts with a flash of light.
You detect the following presences:
Zenobia is here.
Ayukazi is here.
Vharen is here.
You glance towards the up.
You realise that there is nothing upwards.
You glance towards the down.
Nearing the Charred Bridge.
Vharen eyes a pile of hooded corpses, giving it the once over.
A figure wrapped in darkness says, "Scout the area."
Vharen leaves to the north.
You say, "Ulgar doesn't smell anyone out of place."
Haztragrim enters from the north, followed by a shadowy figure.
He is followed by a diminutive nightingale.
The loud rattling of chains arises from above, quick and frantic.
You say to Iori, "Out! Now!"
At the sound of rattling chains, Mjoll's alert rises and she rushes to the Redoubt.
In a trying test of strength, you scale an immense chain, climbing up the links towards the fortress carved into the
volcano's upper walls. Fiery updrafts from the lava below roar past you, buffeting your body, but soon you reach the top,
emerging onto a wide ledge above the city.
Fortified entry to the Iron Redoubt.
A menacing warhound hulks here, growling quietly. A burly Atavian woman in blackened platemail stands sentry here, guarding
the entrance to the Fort. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. An immense chain of
charred iron links stretches down towards the city below.
You use Warhounds Sniff.
Knuckles, a white warhound turns its snout upwards and sniffs out the traces of scents in the air.
The corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight at Open-air barracks.
Wraithlord Gruxmal at Cavernous martial hall.
A miniature fire elemental at Stone-walled junction in the training quarters.
Arakarn, the houndsmaster at Kennels.
Abietatve, Corruption's warhound at Kennels.
Open-air barracks.
An iron chest is here, its engravings depicting the basics of Carnifex skills. A slate board hangs here, listing tasks and
messages for the Keep's recruits. The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented
and stained with his own blood. Armour dented by warhammer blows, the dead Carnifex guard lies dead with tufts of black fur
surrounding him.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
You pull an eye sigil from your weaponbelt fluidly in your left hand.
You cast the eye sigil at the ground, and it bursts with a flash of light.
You scowl miserably.
(Officers): Fezzix says, "Who is Usham?"
(Carnifex): You say, "CARNIFEX! TO THE REDOUBT WE'RE UNDER ATTACK."
Mjoll continues to sweep the Redoubt with the Carnifex present.
Tetchta's voice resonates across the land, "CARNIFEX! TO THE REDOUBT!"
--- Area 88: Bloodloch ----------- v53837 ---
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--- Open-air barracks ------------ 0:-7:2 ---
Open-air barracks.
An iron chest is here, its engravings depicting the basics of Carnifex skills. A slate board hangs here, listing tasks and
messages for the Keep's recruits. The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented
and stained with his own blood. A ghostly white warhound stands here, silently watching. There are 2 white warhounds here.
Ominiously silent, a peppery warhound stands here, teeth bared. Almol is here. He is riding on a diseased pony. He wields a
brutal, jagged bardiche of the Carnifex in his hands. Tetchta is here. She wields a spiked kite shield in her left hand and a
shining steel longsword in her right. Armour dented by warhammer blows, the dead Carnifex guard lies dead with tufts of black
fur surrounding him. A dense haze of blood lingers in the air.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
Ayukazi arrives from the southwest.
You read what is written on a recruit's duty board:
--------------------------------------------
Hail, Cadet, and welcome to the Redoubt, the Bloodlochian fortress of the Carnifex knights.
--------------------------------------------
--->> CURRENT JOBS, PROJECTS AND TASKS <<---
--------------------------------------------
- Anyone ambitious who wants to earn a few coins might want to check out GHELP ACTIVITY.
- Want some credits, grunt? Check out GHELP HUNTING PROJECT and talk to an Officer.
--------------------------------------------
To get started, follow these basic steps:
--------------------------------------------
---[ GEAR ]---
--------------
o GET a uniform FROM the CHEST near the door.
o GHELP UNIFORMS details about our uniforms.
o GHELP GUILD SHOPS explains how to get to the guild shop for additional gear.
o All members are granted a free suit of fieldplate, and hammer once they graduate from the Academy.
--[ TRAINING ]---
-----------------
o GHELP BASICS covers the basics of Aetolian life.
o GHELP CADET details your training goals for advancement in the Keep.
o GHELP SPONSORS lists Knights who can be approached for a direct mentor relationship. Take advantage of them and make the
most of your training!
---[ HUNTING ]---
-----------------
o GHELP HUNTING reviews the basics of hunting as a Carnifex.
o Your primary attack will be HAMMER BASH or POLE HACK, until you increase in skill and circle.
o Look at HELP FIRSTAID for assistance with reflexive curing.
---[ NAVIGATION ]---
--------------------
o GHELP DIRECTIONS covers directions to useful landmarks.
o HELP NEWBIEAREAS details useful hunting spots for recruits.
o AREAS lists all of the hunting areas within Aetolia.
o HELP MAP describes how to path find to places.
You scowl miserably.
A figure wrapped in darkness gives an icy hiss.
You can see the following 6 objects:
(Curing) Removed dementia from your possible affs.
"chest92625" a Carnifex recruit's gear chest.
"board172343" a recruit's duty board.
"carnifex172664" the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight.
"warhound128372" a ghostly warhound.
"warhound128849" a white warhound.
"warhound129004" a white warhound.
Almol enters from the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented and stained with his own blood.
He is undead.
He weighs about 250 pound(s).
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Almol squares his shoulders and crisply salutes you.
Tetchta yells, "Where Commander?!"
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "On my way Commander, I will finish this shrine off later then."
Tetchta arrives from the southwest.
You demand, "Where's Azrax?!"
Tetchta eyes the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight, giving him the once over.
Tetchta's veins pulse with crimson energy as they begin to bulge and quiver. With an audible burst, the excess blood ruptures
from her body, covering the area with a lingering hazy mist.
Tetchta runs a shining steel longsword across her wrist and blood spurts from the open wound.
You use Warhounds Sniff.
Knuckles, a white warhound turns its snout upwards and sniffs out the traces of scents in the air.
A hulking warhound at Fortified entry to the Iron Redoubt.
Sentry Tarlan at Fortified entry to the Iron Redoubt.
Wraithlord Gruxmal at Cavernous martial hall.
A miniature fire elemental at Stone-walled junction in the training quarters.
You use Racial Scent.
You tilt your head back and deeply inhale any scents from the air.
Azarae: 53831 Narrow ledge above a lava-filled chasm
Zenobia: 9126 Entering the barracks proper
Almol: 53837 Open-air barracks
Haztragrim: 53831 Narrow ledge above a lava-filled chasm
Xarian: 1331 Bloodloch West Gate
Rhyot: 42903 Standing before the ebon pylon of Bloodloch
Ayukazi: 53837 Open-air barracks
Tetchta: 53837 Open-air barracks
Vharen: 6823 Edge of an abyss
Balance Used: 2.33 seconds
Ayukazi leaves to the southwest.
Tetchta runs a shining steel longsword across her wrist and blood spurts from the open wound.
Almol says, "Rest of the Redoubt been searched, Commander?"
You carefully investigate the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight but find nothing of interest.
You say, "I ran a quick eye, didn't see anything out of place."
Ayukazi arrives from the southwest.
Almol opens a Carnifex recruit's gear chest.
A dark aura surrounds Azarae, bringing the smell of decay in from the southwest.
Azarae begins to follow you.
Almol sucks thoughtfully on his teeth.
Tetchta exhales a ragged, haggard breath through her mask after emptying her veins, her sword covered in blood.
A nightmarish figure says in a shrill chatter, "Who was it Commander?"
Almol says, "Azrax is missing, I'll check the kennels."
Almol leaves to the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
You say, "Spread out! They can't have gotten far!"
Azarae follows you to the northeast.
Fortified entry to the Iron Redoubt.
A wide ledge juts out from the rocky interior walls of the volcano housing Bloodloch, creating a precipice here that offers a
stunning view of the city's central cavern. Wide enough to serve as a modest sort of parade ground, the landing features a
heavy gate leading into the walls of the mountain itself, opening into a vast network of tunnels, halls and chambers - an
entire fortress, burrowed through the rocks high above the city. This entry, as well as the precarious path up the chain
below, are guarded by stalwart fortifications, with ramparts and arrow slits ensuring the fortress can serve as a final
bastion against invasion to the city proper. A menacing warhound hulks here, growling quietly. A burly Atavian woman in
blackened platemail stands sentry here, guarding the entrance to the Fort. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular
monolith is on the ground. A ghostly white warhound stands here, silently watching. There are 2 white warhounds here.
Ominiously silent, a peppery warhound stands here, teeth bared. A carrion beetle feasts on rotting flesh here. Almol is here.
He is riding on a diseased pony. He wields a brutal, jagged bardiche of the Carnifex in his hands. Haztragrim is here,
shrouded. He wields a blackened warhammer in his hands. Tetchta is here. She wields a spiked kite shield in her left hand and
a shining steel longsword in her right. An immense chain of charred iron links stretches down towards the city below.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
You can see the following 7 objects:
(Curing) Removed dementia from your possible affs.
"warhound91704" a hulking warhound.
"Tarlan227027" Sentry Tarlan.
"monolith sigil359865" a monolith sigil.
"beetle340534" a carrion beetle.
"warhound128372" a ghostly warhound.
"warhound128849" a white warhound.
"warhound129004" a white warhound.
Tetchta arrives from the southwest.
The air seems to smell more fresh and light filters into the area as Azarae escapes to the southwest.
Tetchta carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
You demand to Sentry Tarlan, "Who came up the chain?!"
Sentry Tarlan suddenly looks sharper and more alert.
Almol enters from the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
With a wistful look on his face, Almol touches Sentry Tarlan.
Almol ponders Sentry Tarlan's profile, deep in consideration.
Haztragrim climbs up onto the ledge, having scaled the immense chain.
Haztragrim leaves to the southwest.
Almol says to Sentry Tarlan, "You noticed anything strange?"
Haztragrim arrives from the southwest.
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Sentry Tarlan squares her shoulders and crisply salutes you.
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "We are missing a few monolith sigils, I will repurchase them. I'm not picking up anyone's scent and I have been touching my bell tattoo."
(Officers): You say, "I dun't know, Ireti. SOrry, emergency in 'loch."
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, you square your shoulders and crisply salute your fellow soldiers.
(Officers): Fezzix says, "Let me know if you need help."
You say, "At ease and report."
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "Infact, if there are cube sigils available, I will get those too."
A dark aura surrounds Azarae, bringing the smell of decay in from the southwest.
Tetchta yells, "Commander, come take a look at this."
Azarae carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
Sentry Tarlan releases herself from her tensed posture, lowering her shoulders to a more relaxed position.
You close your eyes momentarily and extend the range of your vision, seeking out the presence of Tetchta.
You see that Tetchta is at Southern Charred Bridge in Bloodloch. (?) (9105)
From your knowledge, that room is in Bloodloch.
(Carnifex): Almol says, "Sentry Tarlan has news at the entry."
Tetchta climbs up onto the ledge, having scaled the immense chain.
Ayukazi arrives from the southwest.
Shadows roll off Ayukazi's gown, rising above her to display a glowing insignia of crossed fists before dissipating.
Almol slams his soulstone into his chest, eliciting a howl of deafening rage as a soul is violently ripped from it, embedding itself within Almol's breast. With a snarl, he wrenches it free before closing a hand over his chest, silencing the soul as a deadly glint
flashes across his eyes.
Azarae climbs up onto the ledge, having scaled the immense chain.
"Afternoon, Commander," Sentry Tarlan greets. "Nobody of note entering the Redoubt. A couple of Carnifex did leave, a bit
ago, carrying a sack."
The air seems to smell more fresh and light filters into the area as Azarae escapes to the southwest.
You narrow your eyes to thin slits.
Ayukazi mutters a war chant under their breath, paying homage to Iosyne as hundreds of skittering insects come to guard their body while their soul is away.
Tetchta gives an icy hiss.
Almol says to Sentry Tarlan, "Did the contents of the sack seem to be... struggling?"
You ask, "What about that body in the barracks? Did you hear that?"
A dark aura surrounds Azarae, bringing the smell of decay in from the southwest.
Azarae carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
<<Carnifex>>: You say, "There are Carnifex in the ranks of the conspirators."
Tetchta takes two massive steps toward Sentry Tarlan, ripping off her mask to reveal wild, bloodshot eyes, crazy, feral. She grabs Sentry Tarlan by the neck of her plate armor and screams, her face inches from the sentry, "THE PIT DO WE HAVE A SENTRY FOR?! I should beat you until your bones are POWDER!!"
Tetchta loosens the straps on a silver mask and removes it.
Azarae climbs up onto the ledge, having scaled the immense chain.
The air seems to smell more fresh and light filters into the area as Azarae escapes to the southwest.
A dark aura surrounds Azarae, bringing the smell of decay in from the southwest.
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, A nightmarish figure squares her shoulders and crisply salutes you.
A nightmarish figure says to you, "I placed a monolith in every room that was missing one, Commander."
You can see the following 8 objects:
(Curing) Removed dementia from your possible affs.
"warhound91704" a hulking warhound.
"Tarlan227027" Sentry Tarlan (alert).
"monolith sigil359865" a monolith sigil.
"warhound128372" a ghostly warhound.
"warhound128849" a white warhound.
"warhound129004" a white warhound.
"pony366664" a diseased pony.
"warhound377806" a peppery warhound.
7059 4360|100% 100% 164% 100% 0 csdb ebs [Caitria] [100]
You see the following people here:
A nightmarish figure, Almol, Haztragrim, Tetchta.
Sentry Tarlan screws up her face, thinking as she searches her memories. "Nothing outside the normal hubbub of the Redoubt, Commander. Clashes from the training yard, some yelling, conversations." The sentry stands still against the crazed words of Tetchta, her attention focused only on you. "Has something happened?"
Azarae carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
Mjoll nods to Azarae, but focuses her attention on Sentry Tarlan, awaiting answers, responding after the report lands, "One dead in the barracks, Soldier and his warhound missing."
Commander Mjoll searches the redoubt further with purpose, returning to the entrance.
Tetchta shoves Sentry Tarlan away with an icy hiss and replaces her mask, seething as she walks away.
Tetchta dons a silver mask and tightens its straps.
Almol says to you, "The Kennel Master didn't report anything odd from the hounds. No suspicious scents."
Sentry Tarlan puts two-and-two together, the colour draining from her face as a snarl warps her lips. "Son of a...from INSIDE?"
Tetchta just thought:
"I fucking knew it, fucking knew they'd escalate, get fucking bolder, but to come after the Carnifex? It's fucking SUICIDE."
Tetchta just thought:
"In our own FUCKING REDOUBT."
Almol says to Sentry Tarlan, "And if you saw no one coming, that means you let the ones responsible walk out of here."
Mjoll's anger is starting to crack her stoic facade, "They were Carnifex."
Almol seems to think for a moment before nodding slowly at you.
"Or," Tetchta says through ragged breaths, trying to pull her composure together through the madness, "Reasonable facsimiles."
Almol says to Tetchta, "That would mean they've been among us for a while, Ser."
Tetchta points a shaking hand at the chain leading up to the Redoubt, her back to everyone, posture hunched slightly. "Just need armor and strength to climb the chain," she replies.
Turning her gaze out to sweep over the volcano, you say, "And they've taken Soldier Avrax."
You say to Almol, "Set a hound to tracking that dead one's sent, see if you can follow anything."
Almol says to you, "Aye, Commander."
Cautiously, Almol says to you, "You don't think Soldier Avrax could have something to do with this, though?"
(Bloodloch): You say, "Report! Anyone see anything?"
Sentry Tarlan doesn't seem to disagree with Almol, snarl widening. "Scuffed it, didn't I? Sack wasn't moving." She clenches her fists, audible cracking in her knuckles. "I will report for penance, Commander. I have failed my duty."
Tetchta grips a shining steel longsword covered in blood, wordlessly fuming.
A mirror-polished venantium eye tinges red as it reveals Iori trying to locate you.
Tetchta just thought:
"Where the FUCK are they coming from?"
(Tells): An abrupt memory strikes you - the notion of Vaeth telling you, "Of what nature, Overlord?"
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Almol squares his shoulders and crisply salutes you.
Mjoll responds to Almol without hesitation, "No."
Almol says to Sentry Tarlan, "Do better."
Almol leaves to the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "I have not, Commander. I have been defiling this shrine when the incident occurred. There was shipment of wares that came into the city a few days ago, but I noticed nothing. Unsure if there had been another one since. Though if not, they could be trying to leave through the carriage. But is simply a guess."
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Vaeth, "The call for help, the pile of bodies! People posing as Carnifex and carrying a sack contaINING ONE OF MY CARNIFEX IN IT?!"
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "There was a mention about a shipment or something along those lines at the end of this month, was there not?"
(Carnifex): You say, "The caravan from the farms rolled in recently - that's all I know about."
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Either it was accomplished with the murder of Raynard, or something else awaits."
(Tells): An abrupt memory strikes you - the notion of Vaeth telling you, "I just woke. I will make as another pair of eyes for you, and report if I see anything."
(Carnifex): You say, "Spread out. Search the city, find Avrax!"
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Tetchta squares her shoulders and crisply salutes you.
Tetchta carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "The newly-made tunnel is showing little activity, Commander."
Haztragrim carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "I nearly wish to suspect that vampire officer. They threw a non-combatant at him to leave a letter
that was poorly encrypted mentioning next month and then this strike. Where they obviously had a combatant on their side to
take out one of our guards. But I do not wish to jump to conclusions just yet."
You say to Sentry Tarlan, "Eyes up, question everything and note \everyone\ that walks through here."
You snarl viciously and head to the barracks.
Open-air barracks.
An iron chest is here, its engravings depicting the basics of Carnifex skills. A slate board hangs here, listing tasks and
messages for the Keep's recruits. The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented
and stained with his own blood. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground
is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Ominiously silent, a peppery warhound stands here, teeth bared. Almol is here. He is riding on
a diseased pony. He wields a brutal, jagged bardiche of the Carnifex in his hands. Armour dented by warhammer blows, the dead
Carnifex guard lies dead with tufts of black fur surrounding him.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
(Carnifex): Almol says, "When's the last time we've seen Ser Naos? His blood has been spilled here in the barracks."
You ask, "Any luck?"
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "What?"
(Carnifex): You say, "Been months."
A distant yapping reaches your ears from the fort's kennels.
(Carnifex): You say, "Old scent."
Almol says to you, "Old blood, nothing of note."
The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented and stained with his own blood.
He is undead.
He weighs about 250 pound(s).
You scowl miserably.
With a wistful look on his face, Almol touches the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight.
Almol ponders the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight's profile, deep in consideration.
Almol carefully investigates the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight but finds nothing of interest.
Raising your hand, you snarl a guttural chant that causes a smoke-grey glyph to appear within your palm. Moments later, an ethereal stream of silver-white motes flows up from the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight and you snatch it from the air.
Almol says, "Perhaps his soul will yield something of value."
Almol says, "I've read there have been rituals practiced that have allowed the 'Fex and their predecessors to commune with those longer dead than this one."
Mjoll holds the soul tightly in her demonic grip, "You better talk or I swear to every God I'll shred you to pieces."
<<Carnifex>>: Tetchta says, "Where the pit could they be going."
<<Carnifex>>: Tetchta says, "It has to be nearby."
<<Carnifex>>: Tetchta says, "Can't carry a whole bloody body in a bag around a damn city without getting seen at all."
Tetchta arrives from the southwest.
<<Carnifex>>: You say, "Right?!"
Tetchta eyes the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight, giving him the once over.
Mjoll stands here holding a soul in a demonic grip, staring at it expectantly. Angrily.
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Commander. Citizen Vaeth has informed me Usham was seen twice in the city, once earlier this week
to speak with the Primus on some matters about the Dominion. He suspects Usham may have to do with the appearance of the
tunnel in the market."
A compass-inlaid ilmenite bracer glows warmly against your skin as it senses an approaching danger.
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "His whereabouts are accounted for during this."
(Carnifex): You say, "Usham was talking to Fezzix at Yggdrasil when the call for help hit the city aether."
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "It is more likely that his business has to do with the Treason accusations levied against Callidora."
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "Not impossible it's related, still."
Almol sucks thoughtfully on his teeth.
With a wistful look on his face, Almol touches the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight.
Almol ponders the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight's profile, deep in consideration.
Almol says, "Either of you recall the color of Avrax's pup?"
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Mm. If he is displeased, he would have at least one reason to consider joining the recent goings-on."
Almol says to you, "I don't believe this guard was slain by an impostor, Commander."
You say, "I think this is Avrax's kill, yeah."
You say, "He favored the hammer, and this body is beat to death right proper."
Almol says, "He -has- been training quite a while."
Mjoll squeezes the soul in her grasp tortuously, "SPEAK DAMN YOU!"
You close your eyes momentarily and extend the range of your vision, seeking out the presence of Fezzix.
You see that Fezzix is at Turn in the descent in the Itzatl Morass. (?) (60723)
From your knowledge, that room is in The Itzatl Morass.
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Fezzix, "Did Usham say anything interesting?"
(Tells): From an unseen place, Fezzix communicates to you, "Hold on."
(Tells): From an unseen place, Fezzix communicates to you, "I'll send you a transcript."
Almol says, "Is all in order at the Northern Outpost?"
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Medeya, the gatewarden, "Eyes up! We're under
attack, and they're posing as Carnifex."
Almol uses Savagery Cruelty.
Almol raises a fist to the sky and roars out a vicious shout, drumming upon a minimalist suit of fieldplate with his free hand.
You say, "No reports from Medeya."
Open-air barracks.
An iron chest is here, its engravings depicting the basics of Carnifex skills. A slate board hangs here, listing tasks and
messages for the Keep's recruits. The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented
and stained with his own blood. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground
is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Ominiously silent, a peppery warhound stands here, teeth bared. A ghostly white warhound
stands here, silently watching. There are 2 white warhounds here. Almol is here. He is riding on a diseased pony. He wields a
brutal, jagged bardiche of the Carnifex in his hands. Tetchta is here. She wields a spiked kite shield in her left hand and a
shining steel longsword in her right. Armour dented by warhammer blows, the dead Carnifex guard lies dead with tufts of black
fur surrounding him.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
(Carnifex): Medeya, the gatewarden says, "Increase patrols and security protocols are in effect until further notice. Check your back for tails before entering the Redoubt or the Keep. Bell tattoos and SOUL PRESENCES are mandatory until further notice."
A homing pigeon flutters in towards you, gliding over you as it drops an elegant white letter into your hands before flapping
away once more.
A frown wrinkles Tetchta's brow as she articulates a "Hrm...."
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Understood, gatewarden."
<<Carnifex>>: Tetchta says, "I'm going to beat the shit out of whoever is responsible for coming INTO OUR BLOODY REDOUBT."
Tetchta uses Racial Scent.
Tetchta tilts her head back, inhaling sharply several times.
Almol uses Warhounds Sniff.
A peppery warhound turns its snout upwards and sniffs at the air.
A deep groan bellows through the stone around you, echoing throughout the halls.
Almol tilts his head back, inhaling sharply several times.
Mjoll's impatience starts to win out, the soul she's grasping seems to catch flame as she reaches her other hand into it maliciously.
Almol winces in pain.
(Bloodloch): Rhyot says, "What's happened at the Southern Charred Bridge?"
(Bloodloch): Rhyot says, "Beyond the obvious deaths."
(Carnifex): Haztragrim says, "I saw a couple of shifty figures passing near the exit to shamtota."
Tetchta creases her brow in a frown.
You say, "No underhalls for you. I'LL BURN YOUR SOUL UNTIL NOTHING OF YOU EXISTS."
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Shifty how, Cadet?"
Tetchta leaves to the southwest.
(Bloodloch): Xyla says, "Hail."
(Tells): Tetchta's psychic whisper trails through your mind, "That FUCKING SENTINEL."
You close your eyes momentarily and extend the range of your vision, seeking out the presence of Iori.
You see that Iori is at West of the glowing core of the Great Oak in Duiran. (?) (43743)
From your knowledge, that room is in Duiran.
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Tetchta, "That our 'shifty figure'?"
(Tells): Tetchta's psychic whisper trails through your mind, "Asshole left their fucking animals at the redoubt."
(Tells): Tetchta's psychic whisper trails through your mind, "To fuck with us."
The faint noises of despair can be heard, coming from the soul clutched in tightly Mjoll's hands.
(Carnifex): Haztragrim says, "They were cowled and they were trying to hide their gaze. seemed to have glowing red eyes."
Mjoll's eyes light up with the cries, "SPEAK BEFORE I DESTROY YOU!"
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Ah, those abound in Bloodloch. Mostly harmless."
(Carnifex): Almol says, "That's an acceptable level of unseemliness."
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Tetchta, "PROGRESS! THE SOUL DESPAIRS!"
A heavy hammering echoes through the fort as a knight toils away at the forges.
"Where am I? What happened?" The faint whispers and echoes of the soul can be heard.
It is now dusk on Kinsday, the 24th of Khepary, year 491 of the Midnight Age.
Tetchta arrives from the southwest.
Growling with the effort of holding the ephemeral, you demand, "You're in the Redoubt. You were carrying out a mission, what
was it? What happened?!"
Almol says to Tetchta, "The soul's starting to crack under the Commander's grip."
Tetchta holds an index finger up to the grim skeletal teeth of her mask at Almol before lowering it again.
"Murdered." The word echoes, bouncing around the room, droning in your ears.
Mjoll's hand wreathes in a black flame as she snarls, "Worse if you don't tell me where Avrax is!"
(Bloodloch): A humble bellman says, "The shadows shall soon embrace us."
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "If anybody wants some bloody coin, Iori was recently enemied to the guild for interfering with our murder investigation. First one to bag him gets a 50,000 coin reward."
Tetchta leaves to the archives to compose some text.
Tetchta has finished writing and returns from the editor.
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "Bloodloch, have we considered the connection between the dissidents and "Might?""
"Alive." The soul despairs as it's gripped tighter, the black flames engulfing it. "Misssssssion."
The shrunken head in your inventory sneezes violently.
The black flames totally engulf the soul and its stone, cracking under the pressure of Mjoll's indomitable grip and the
ethereal spirit fades in a scream of anguish.
Tetchta just thought:
"Piece of shit."
(Carnifex): Taj says, "Hail Keep."
Almol gives an icy hiss.
"WHERE?!" Mjoll roars as the spirit fades into nothing.
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Squire."
You say, "Son of a BITCH."
The shrunken head in your inventory sneezes violently.
Almol says, "Was it Avrax's mission, or was Avrax the mission?"
A mirror-polished venantium eye tinges red as it reveals Rhyot trying to locate you.
Curtly, you say, "We'll assume Avrax is the victim of the plot."
"It means he is alive somewhere. As for the mission, it's too vague," Tetchta says, shaking visibly.
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "They took issue with the replacing of the city Patron. They are publicly using a tenet of another
Divine in their slogans. Whether Lady Chakrasul is involved with this or not, if She is the paragon of Might they have chosen
to uphold we could think of some locations that ought to be further watched."
Almol nods his head emphatically.
(Bloodloch): Tetchta says, "Taking their statements at face value is folly. They are intentionally duplicitous, and they
likely do not care for the values that they espouse."
You say, "Impostors in disguise made it into the redoubt, one was slain by Avrax in the struggle, two others managed to
overpower him and take him."
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "Possible headquarters ought to be watched if resources are available, but I understand your points."
Tetchta rubs the chin of her mask thoughtfully.
You angrily say, "I won't hear different unless there is evidence."
Tetchta says, "Commander."
Almol exclaims, "COMMANDER!"
Tetchta says, "They hit the Dominion, then the Carnifex."
Tetchta says, "One left."
Tetchta says, "Either omitted intentionally or is the final target."
Tetchta says, "Not that there is to be an escalation, but if they're going in an order..."
Tetchta says, "It is a pattern."
You say, "An enemy that won't fight is irritating, but they can't hide forever."
Tetchta nods her head at you.
Tetchta says, "As much as it pains me to say it, perhaps we should inform Zenobia to keep watch over the Teradrim with double the eyes."
You nod your head affirmatively at Tetchta.
The haze of tension that clings to your bulk intensifies, sending a momentary thrill down your spine as the images of battles yet to come flash quickly before your eyes.
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Zenobia, "Yours is the only guild that hasn't been outright attacked yet. Be on guard."
You tap your foot with mild impatience.
You say, "I don't want to give this report to the Keeper."
Mjoll's face twists into a disgusted scowl, "The Carnifex. Attacked in our own fortress, with no leads."
You angrily say, "Right under our noses!"
(Bloodloch): Azarae says, "That means taking into account 'not light' which does not make sense considering the Malevolent is now our patron, not a Divine of Spirit. So I do not how you get that conclusion. I am also at Her chapel constantly and am often at Her Isle of Despair. Just as that poorly encrypted message was laid out just for this to happen right after."
Tetchta uses Racial Scent.
Tetchta tilts her head back, inhaling sharply several times.
Almol uses Warhounds Sniff.
A peppery warhound turns its snout upwards and sniffs at the air.
You yell, "WHEN I CATCH YOU. I PROMISE AN ETERNITY OF SUFFERING. NO REST IN THE UNDERHALLS FOR ANY OF YOU."
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "Their accusations of Light itself was meaningless save for the infants that were sent to Enorian.
My thought was that "Might" may have just as much significance as the slander regarding "Light," but at least two locations
are ruled out."
And I swear its 'when' not 'if'
Penned by my hand on Kinsday, the 24th of Khepary, in the year 491 MA.
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "Are you speaking of the one with a bounty on their head, Commander?"
(Carnifex): You say, "No. The conspirators who have taken one of our own."
(Carnifex): Taj says, "...Pardon?"
Tetchta leaves to the southwest.
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Almol squares his shoulders and crisply salutes you.
Almol leaves to the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
(Tells): Taj tells you, "One of ours is missing?"
(Carnifex): You say, "Soldier Avrax was taken hostage after killing one of three impostors within the Redoubt."
Taj arrives from the southwest.
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Taj squares his shoulders and crisply salutes his fellow soldiers.
(Carnifex): You say, "I interrogated the soul of the slain, but learned nothing before the soul was destroyed."
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "You learned one thing."
You say, "At ease."
Staring at the dead body as he kneels down beside it, Taj says to you, "What did him in?"
(Carnifex): You say, "Avrax is alive, and will fight back with all his strength."
You say, "Avrax, certainly."
(Bloodloch): A colossal Teradrim guard says, "I heard a cry for help at 'Southern Charred Bridge!'"
Tetchta just thought:
"Shit".
Your gauntlet outstretched, you begin to focus upon your city's pylon and a humming fills the area as the gauntlet begins to
resonate with it.
Instantly, Commander Mjoll and Ser Tetchta head to the bridge.
Southern Charred Bridge.
The tenebrous cavern ceiling looms ominously high overhead. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the
ground. Resting on the ground is a cube-shaped silver sigil. There are 3 corpses of an arachnid Chiav patroller here.
Containing corpses of various races, a pile of dead bodies is here. Surrounded in an aura of defilement, a figure wrapped in
darkness is here.
You see exits leading north and down.
The shrunken head in your inventory sneezes violently.
(Tells): Tetchta's psychic whisper trails through your mind, "Let me know if you need backup."
"monolith sigil332802" a monolith sigil.
"sigil388073" a cube sigil.
"Chiav224987" the corpse of an arachnid Chiav patroller.
"Chiav231023" the corpse of an arachnid Chiav patroller.
"Chiav241847" the corpse of an arachnid Chiav patroller.
"pile343085" a pile of hooded corpses.
"warhound128372" a ghostly warhound.
"warhound128849" a white warhound.
"warhound129004" a white warhound.
You scowl miserably at a pile of hooded corpses.
Zenobia arrives from the north.
Freshly fallen corpses lie in a heap here, containing an assortment of races.
It weighs about 62 pound(s).
A figure wrapped in darkness gives an icy hiss.
Rapping his twin iron bracers against one another in a display of unparalleled strength, a colossal Teradrim guard stomps in from the north, leaving a trickle of shale in his wake.
Rapping his twin iron bracers against one another in a display of unparalleled strength, a colossal Teradrim guard stomps in from the north, leaving a trickle of shale in his wake.
The clanging of armour from the north precedes the entrance of a domineering Carnifex knight.
The clanging of armour from the north precedes the entrance of a domineering Carnifex knight.
Muttering darkly, an Indorani scion of despair approaches from the north.
Muttering darkly, an Indorani scion of despair approaches from the north.
A figure wrapped in darkness says, "Chiav, can someone alert me of what happened here?"
Your shroud dissipates and you return to the realm of perception.
You say, "None live."
You glance towards the north.
A figure wrapped in darkness taps her head. "Chiav minds are connected. They could have communicated."
Vharen arrives from the north.
You glance towards the north.
You fluidly swap the war-blessed bardiche, Onslaught with an eye sigil in your left hand.
You relax your grip.
You cast the eye sigil at the ground, and it bursts with a flash of light.
You detect the following presences:
Zenobia is here.
Ayukazi is here.
Vharen is here.
You glance towards the up.
You realise that there is nothing upwards.
You glance towards the down.
Nearing the Charred Bridge.
Vharen eyes a pile of hooded corpses, giving it the once over.
A figure wrapped in darkness says, "Scout the area."
Vharen leaves to the north.
You say, "Ulgar doesn't smell anyone out of place."
Haztragrim enters from the north, followed by a shadowy figure.
He is followed by a diminutive nightingale.
The loud rattling of chains arises from above, quick and frantic.
You say to Iori, "Out! Now!"
At the sound of rattling chains, Mjoll's alert rises and she rushes to the Redoubt.
In a trying test of strength, you scale an immense chain, climbing up the links towards the fortress carved into the
volcano's upper walls. Fiery updrafts from the lava below roar past you, buffeting your body, but soon you reach the top,
emerging onto a wide ledge above the city.
Fortified entry to the Iron Redoubt.
A menacing warhound hulks here, growling quietly. A burly Atavian woman in blackened platemail stands sentry here, guarding
the entrance to the Fort. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. An immense chain of
charred iron links stretches down towards the city below.
You use Warhounds Sniff.
Knuckles, a white warhound turns its snout upwards and sniffs out the traces of scents in the air.
The corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight at Open-air barracks.
Wraithlord Gruxmal at Cavernous martial hall.
A miniature fire elemental at Stone-walled junction in the training quarters.
Arakarn, the houndsmaster at Kennels.
Abietatve, Corruption's warhound at Kennels.
Open-air barracks.
An iron chest is here, its engravings depicting the basics of Carnifex skills. A slate board hangs here, listing tasks and
messages for the Keep's recruits. The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented
and stained with his own blood. Armour dented by warhammer blows, the dead Carnifex guard lies dead with tufts of black fur
surrounding him.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
You pull an eye sigil from your weaponbelt fluidly in your left hand.
You cast the eye sigil at the ground, and it bursts with a flash of light.
You scowl miserably.
(Officers): Fezzix says, "Who is Usham?"
(Carnifex): You say, "CARNIFEX! TO THE REDOUBT WE'RE UNDER ATTACK."
Mjoll continues to sweep the Redoubt with the Carnifex present.
Tetchta's voice resonates across the land, "CARNIFEX! TO THE REDOUBT!"
--- Area 88: Bloodloch ----------- v53837 ---
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--- Open-air barracks ------------ 0:-7:2 ---
Open-air barracks.
An iron chest is here, its engravings depicting the basics of Carnifex skills. A slate board hangs here, listing tasks and
messages for the Keep's recruits. The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented
and stained with his own blood. A ghostly white warhound stands here, silently watching. There are 2 white warhounds here.
Ominiously silent, a peppery warhound stands here, teeth bared. Almol is here. He is riding on a diseased pony. He wields a
brutal, jagged bardiche of the Carnifex in his hands. Tetchta is here. She wields a spiked kite shield in her left hand and a
shining steel longsword in her right. Armour dented by warhammer blows, the dead Carnifex guard lies dead with tufts of black
fur surrounding him. A dense haze of blood lingers in the air.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
Ayukazi arrives from the southwest.
You read what is written on a recruit's duty board:
--------------------------------------------
Hail, Cadet, and welcome to the Redoubt, the Bloodlochian fortress of the Carnifex knights.
--------------------------------------------
--->> CURRENT JOBS, PROJECTS AND TASKS <<---
--------------------------------------------
- Anyone ambitious who wants to earn a few coins might want to check out GHELP ACTIVITY.
- Want some credits, grunt? Check out GHELP HUNTING PROJECT and talk to an Officer.
--------------------------------------------
To get started, follow these basic steps:
--------------------------------------------
---[ GEAR ]---
--------------
o GET a uniform FROM the CHEST near the door.
o GHELP UNIFORMS details about our uniforms.
o GHELP GUILD SHOPS explains how to get to the guild shop for additional gear.
o All members are granted a free suit of fieldplate, and hammer once they graduate from the Academy.
--[ TRAINING ]---
-----------------
o GHELP BASICS covers the basics of Aetolian life.
o GHELP CADET details your training goals for advancement in the Keep.
o GHELP SPONSORS lists Knights who can be approached for a direct mentor relationship. Take advantage of them and make the
most of your training!
---[ HUNTING ]---
-----------------
o GHELP HUNTING reviews the basics of hunting as a Carnifex.
o Your primary attack will be HAMMER BASH or POLE HACK, until you increase in skill and circle.
o Look at HELP FIRSTAID for assistance with reflexive curing.
---[ NAVIGATION ]---
--------------------
o GHELP DIRECTIONS covers directions to useful landmarks.
o HELP NEWBIEAREAS details useful hunting spots for recruits.
o AREAS lists all of the hunting areas within Aetolia.
o HELP MAP describes how to path find to places.
You scowl miserably.
A figure wrapped in darkness gives an icy hiss.
You can see the following 6 objects:
(Curing) Removed dementia from your possible affs.
"chest92625" a Carnifex recruit's gear chest.
"board172343" a recruit's duty board.
"carnifex172664" the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight.
"warhound128372" a ghostly warhound.
"warhound128849" a white warhound.
"warhound129004" a white warhound.
Almol enters from the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented and stained with his own blood.
He is undead.
He weighs about 250 pound(s).
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Almol squares his shoulders and crisply salutes you.
Tetchta yells, "Where Commander?!"
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "On my way Commander, I will finish this shrine off later then."
Tetchta arrives from the southwest.
You demand, "Where's Azrax?!"
Tetchta eyes the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight, giving him the once over.
Tetchta's veins pulse with crimson energy as they begin to bulge and quiver. With an audible burst, the excess blood ruptures
from her body, covering the area with a lingering hazy mist.
Tetchta runs a shining steel longsword across her wrist and blood spurts from the open wound.
You use Warhounds Sniff.
Knuckles, a white warhound turns its snout upwards and sniffs out the traces of scents in the air.
A hulking warhound at Fortified entry to the Iron Redoubt.
Sentry Tarlan at Fortified entry to the Iron Redoubt.
Wraithlord Gruxmal at Cavernous martial hall.
A miniature fire elemental at Stone-walled junction in the training quarters.
You use Racial Scent.
You tilt your head back and deeply inhale any scents from the air.
Azarae: 53831 Narrow ledge above a lava-filled chasm
Zenobia: 9126 Entering the barracks proper
Almol: 53837 Open-air barracks
Haztragrim: 53831 Narrow ledge above a lava-filled chasm
Xarian: 1331 Bloodloch West Gate
Rhyot: 42903 Standing before the ebon pylon of Bloodloch
Ayukazi: 53837 Open-air barracks
Tetchta: 53837 Open-air barracks
Vharen: 6823 Edge of an abyss
Balance Used: 2.33 seconds
Ayukazi leaves to the southwest.
Tetchta runs a shining steel longsword across her wrist and blood spurts from the open wound.
Almol says, "Rest of the Redoubt been searched, Commander?"
You carefully investigate the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight but find nothing of interest.
You say, "I ran a quick eye, didn't see anything out of place."
Ayukazi arrives from the southwest.
Almol opens a Carnifex recruit's gear chest.
A dark aura surrounds Azarae, bringing the smell of decay in from the southwest.
Azarae begins to follow you.
Almol sucks thoughtfully on his teeth.
Tetchta exhales a ragged, haggard breath through her mask after emptying her veins, her sword covered in blood.
A nightmarish figure says in a shrill chatter, "Who was it Commander?"
Almol says, "Azrax is missing, I'll check the kennels."
Almol leaves to the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
You say, "Spread out! They can't have gotten far!"
Azarae follows you to the northeast.
Fortified entry to the Iron Redoubt.
A wide ledge juts out from the rocky interior walls of the volcano housing Bloodloch, creating a precipice here that offers a
stunning view of the city's central cavern. Wide enough to serve as a modest sort of parade ground, the landing features a
heavy gate leading into the walls of the mountain itself, opening into a vast network of tunnels, halls and chambers - an
entire fortress, burrowed through the rocks high above the city. This entry, as well as the precarious path up the chain
below, are guarded by stalwart fortifications, with ramparts and arrow slits ensuring the fortress can serve as a final
bastion against invasion to the city proper. A menacing warhound hulks here, growling quietly. A burly Atavian woman in
blackened platemail stands sentry here, guarding the entrance to the Fort. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular
monolith is on the ground. A ghostly white warhound stands here, silently watching. There are 2 white warhounds here.
Ominiously silent, a peppery warhound stands here, teeth bared. A carrion beetle feasts on rotting flesh here. Almol is here.
He is riding on a diseased pony. He wields a brutal, jagged bardiche of the Carnifex in his hands. Haztragrim is here,
shrouded. He wields a blackened warhammer in his hands. Tetchta is here. She wields a spiked kite shield in her left hand and
a shining steel longsword in her right. An immense chain of charred iron links stretches down towards the city below.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
You can see the following 7 objects:
(Curing) Removed dementia from your possible affs.
"warhound91704" a hulking warhound.
"Tarlan227027" Sentry Tarlan.
"monolith sigil359865" a monolith sigil.
"beetle340534" a carrion beetle.
"warhound128372" a ghostly warhound.
"warhound128849" a white warhound.
"warhound129004" a white warhound.
Tetchta arrives from the southwest.
The air seems to smell more fresh and light filters into the area as Azarae escapes to the southwest.
Tetchta carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
You demand to Sentry Tarlan, "Who came up the chain?!"
Sentry Tarlan suddenly looks sharper and more alert.
Almol enters from the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
With a wistful look on his face, Almol touches Sentry Tarlan.
Almol ponders Sentry Tarlan's profile, deep in consideration.
Haztragrim climbs up onto the ledge, having scaled the immense chain.
Haztragrim leaves to the southwest.
Almol says to Sentry Tarlan, "You noticed anything strange?"
Haztragrim arrives from the southwest.
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Sentry Tarlan squares her shoulders and crisply salutes you.
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "We are missing a few monolith sigils, I will repurchase them. I'm not picking up anyone's scent and I have been touching my bell tattoo."
(Officers): You say, "I dun't know, Ireti. SOrry, emergency in 'loch."
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, you square your shoulders and crisply salute your fellow soldiers.
(Officers): Fezzix says, "Let me know if you need help."
You say, "At ease and report."
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "Infact, if there are cube sigils available, I will get those too."
A dark aura surrounds Azarae, bringing the smell of decay in from the southwest.
Tetchta yells, "Commander, come take a look at this."
Azarae carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
Sentry Tarlan releases herself from her tensed posture, lowering her shoulders to a more relaxed position.
You close your eyes momentarily and extend the range of your vision, seeking out the presence of Tetchta.
You see that Tetchta is at Southern Charred Bridge in Bloodloch. (?) (9105)
From your knowledge, that room is in Bloodloch.
(Carnifex): Almol says, "Sentry Tarlan has news at the entry."
Tetchta climbs up onto the ledge, having scaled the immense chain.
Ayukazi arrives from the southwest.
Shadows roll off Ayukazi's gown, rising above her to display a glowing insignia of crossed fists before dissipating.
Almol slams his soulstone into his chest, eliciting a howl of deafening rage as a soul is violently ripped from it, embedding itself within Almol's breast. With a snarl, he wrenches it free before closing a hand over his chest, silencing the soul as a deadly glint
flashes across his eyes.
Azarae climbs up onto the ledge, having scaled the immense chain.
"Afternoon, Commander," Sentry Tarlan greets. "Nobody of note entering the Redoubt. A couple of Carnifex did leave, a bit
ago, carrying a sack."
The air seems to smell more fresh and light filters into the area as Azarae escapes to the southwest.
You narrow your eyes to thin slits.
Ayukazi mutters a war chant under their breath, paying homage to Iosyne as hundreds of skittering insects come to guard their body while their soul is away.
Tetchta gives an icy hiss.
Almol says to Sentry Tarlan, "Did the contents of the sack seem to be... struggling?"
You ask, "What about that body in the barracks? Did you hear that?"
A dark aura surrounds Azarae, bringing the smell of decay in from the southwest.
Azarae carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
<<Carnifex>>: You say, "There are Carnifex in the ranks of the conspirators."
Tetchta takes two massive steps toward Sentry Tarlan, ripping off her mask to reveal wild, bloodshot eyes, crazy, feral. She grabs Sentry Tarlan by the neck of her plate armor and screams, her face inches from the sentry, "THE PIT DO WE HAVE A SENTRY FOR?! I should beat you until your bones are POWDER!!"
Tetchta loosens the straps on a silver mask and removes it.
Azarae climbs up onto the ledge, having scaled the immense chain.
The air seems to smell more fresh and light filters into the area as Azarae escapes to the southwest.
A dark aura surrounds Azarae, bringing the smell of decay in from the southwest.
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, A nightmarish figure squares her shoulders and crisply salutes you.
A nightmarish figure says to you, "I placed a monolith in every room that was missing one, Commander."
You can see the following 8 objects:
(Curing) Removed dementia from your possible affs.
"warhound91704" a hulking warhound.
"Tarlan227027" Sentry Tarlan (alert).
"monolith sigil359865" a monolith sigil.
"warhound128372" a ghostly warhound.
"warhound128849" a white warhound.
"warhound129004" a white warhound.
"pony366664" a diseased pony.
"warhound377806" a peppery warhound.
7059 4360|100% 100% 164% 100% 0 csdb ebs [Caitria] [100]
You see the following people here:
A nightmarish figure, Almol, Haztragrim, Tetchta.
Sentry Tarlan screws up her face, thinking as she searches her memories. "Nothing outside the normal hubbub of the Redoubt, Commander. Clashes from the training yard, some yelling, conversations." The sentry stands still against the crazed words of Tetchta, her attention focused only on you. "Has something happened?"
Azarae carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
Mjoll nods to Azarae, but focuses her attention on Sentry Tarlan, awaiting answers, responding after the report lands, "One dead in the barracks, Soldier and his warhound missing."
Commander Mjoll searches the redoubt further with purpose, returning to the entrance.
Tetchta shoves Sentry Tarlan away with an icy hiss and replaces her mask, seething as she walks away.
Tetchta dons a silver mask and tightens its straps.
Almol says to you, "The Kennel Master didn't report anything odd from the hounds. No suspicious scents."
Sentry Tarlan puts two-and-two together, the colour draining from her face as a snarl warps her lips. "Son of a...from INSIDE?"
Tetchta just thought:
"I fucking knew it, fucking knew they'd escalate, get fucking bolder, but to come after the Carnifex? It's fucking SUICIDE."
Tetchta just thought:
"In our own FUCKING REDOUBT."
Almol says to Sentry Tarlan, "And if you saw no one coming, that means you let the ones responsible walk out of here."
Mjoll's anger is starting to crack her stoic facade, "They were Carnifex."
Almol seems to think for a moment before nodding slowly at you.
"Or," Tetchta says through ragged breaths, trying to pull her composure together through the madness, "Reasonable facsimiles."
Almol says to Tetchta, "That would mean they've been among us for a while, Ser."
Tetchta points a shaking hand at the chain leading up to the Redoubt, her back to everyone, posture hunched slightly. "Just need armor and strength to climb the chain," she replies.
Turning her gaze out to sweep over the volcano, you say, "And they've taken Soldier Avrax."
You say to Almol, "Set a hound to tracking that dead one's sent, see if you can follow anything."
Almol says to you, "Aye, Commander."
Cautiously, Almol says to you, "You don't think Soldier Avrax could have something to do with this, though?"
(Bloodloch): You say, "Report! Anyone see anything?"
Sentry Tarlan doesn't seem to disagree with Almol, snarl widening. "Scuffed it, didn't I? Sack wasn't moving." She clenches her fists, audible cracking in her knuckles. "I will report for penance, Commander. I have failed my duty."
Tetchta grips a shining steel longsword covered in blood, wordlessly fuming.
A mirror-polished venantium eye tinges red as it reveals Iori trying to locate you.
Tetchta just thought:
"Where the FUCK are they coming from?"
(Tells): An abrupt memory strikes you - the notion of Vaeth telling you, "Of what nature, Overlord?"
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Almol squares his shoulders and crisply salutes you.
Mjoll responds to Almol without hesitation, "No."
Almol says to Sentry Tarlan, "Do better."
Almol leaves to the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "I have not, Commander. I have been defiling this shrine when the incident occurred. There was shipment of wares that came into the city a few days ago, but I noticed nothing. Unsure if there had been another one since. Though if not, they could be trying to leave through the carriage. But is simply a guess."
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Vaeth, "The call for help, the pile of bodies! People posing as Carnifex and carrying a sack contaINING ONE OF MY CARNIFEX IN IT?!"
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "There was a mention about a shipment or something along those lines at the end of this month, was there not?"
(Carnifex): You say, "The caravan from the farms rolled in recently - that's all I know about."
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Either it was accomplished with the murder of Raynard, or something else awaits."
(Tells): An abrupt memory strikes you - the notion of Vaeth telling you, "I just woke. I will make as another pair of eyes for you, and report if I see anything."
(Carnifex): You say, "Spread out. Search the city, find Avrax!"
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Tetchta squares her shoulders and crisply salutes you.
Tetchta carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "The newly-made tunnel is showing little activity, Commander."
Haztragrim carefully climbs down the immense charred iron chain.
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "I nearly wish to suspect that vampire officer. They threw a non-combatant at him to leave a letter
that was poorly encrypted mentioning next month and then this strike. Where they obviously had a combatant on their side to
take out one of our guards. But I do not wish to jump to conclusions just yet."
You say to Sentry Tarlan, "Eyes up, question everything and note \everyone\ that walks through here."
You snarl viciously and head to the barracks.
Open-air barracks.
An iron chest is here, its engravings depicting the basics of Carnifex skills. A slate board hangs here, listing tasks and
messages for the Keep's recruits. The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented
and stained with his own blood. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground
is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Ominiously silent, a peppery warhound stands here, teeth bared. Almol is here. He is riding on
a diseased pony. He wields a brutal, jagged bardiche of the Carnifex in his hands. Armour dented by warhammer blows, the dead
Carnifex guard lies dead with tufts of black fur surrounding him.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
(Carnifex): Almol says, "When's the last time we've seen Ser Naos? His blood has been spilled here in the barracks."
You ask, "Any luck?"
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "What?"
(Carnifex): You say, "Been months."
A distant yapping reaches your ears from the fort's kennels.
(Carnifex): You say, "Old scent."
Almol says to you, "Old blood, nothing of note."
The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented and stained with his own blood.
He is undead.
He weighs about 250 pound(s).
You scowl miserably.
With a wistful look on his face, Almol touches the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight.
Almol ponders the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight's profile, deep in consideration.
Almol carefully investigates the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight but finds nothing of interest.
Raising your hand, you snarl a guttural chant that causes a smoke-grey glyph to appear within your palm. Moments later, an ethereal stream of silver-white motes flows up from the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight and you snatch it from the air.
Almol says, "Perhaps his soul will yield something of value."
Almol says, "I've read there have been rituals practiced that have allowed the 'Fex and their predecessors to commune with those longer dead than this one."
Mjoll holds the soul tightly in her demonic grip, "You better talk or I swear to every God I'll shred you to pieces."
<<Carnifex>>: Tetchta says, "Where the pit could they be going."
<<Carnifex>>: Tetchta says, "It has to be nearby."
<<Carnifex>>: Tetchta says, "Can't carry a whole bloody body in a bag around a damn city without getting seen at all."
Tetchta arrives from the southwest.
<<Carnifex>>: You say, "Right?!"
Tetchta eyes the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight, giving him the once over.
Mjoll stands here holding a soul in a demonic grip, staring at it expectantly. Angrily.
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Commander. Citizen Vaeth has informed me Usham was seen twice in the city, once earlier this week
to speak with the Primus on some matters about the Dominion. He suspects Usham may have to do with the appearance of the
tunnel in the market."
A compass-inlaid ilmenite bracer glows warmly against your skin as it senses an approaching danger.
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "His whereabouts are accounted for during this."
(Carnifex): You say, "Usham was talking to Fezzix at Yggdrasil when the call for help hit the city aether."
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "It is more likely that his business has to do with the Treason accusations levied against Callidora."
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "Not impossible it's related, still."
Almol sucks thoughtfully on his teeth.
With a wistful look on his face, Almol touches the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight.
Almol ponders the corpse of a domineering Carnifex knight's profile, deep in consideration.
Almol says, "Either of you recall the color of Avrax's pup?"
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Mm. If he is displeased, he would have at least one reason to consider joining the recent goings-on."
Almol says to you, "I don't believe this guard was slain by an impostor, Commander."
You say, "I think this is Avrax's kill, yeah."
You say, "He favored the hammer, and this body is beat to death right proper."
Almol says, "He -has- been training quite a while."
Mjoll squeezes the soul in her grasp tortuously, "SPEAK DAMN YOU!"
You close your eyes momentarily and extend the range of your vision, seeking out the presence of Fezzix.
You see that Fezzix is at Turn in the descent in the Itzatl Morass. (?) (60723)
From your knowledge, that room is in The Itzatl Morass.
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Fezzix, "Did Usham say anything interesting?"
(Tells): From an unseen place, Fezzix communicates to you, "Hold on."
(Tells): From an unseen place, Fezzix communicates to you, "I'll send you a transcript."
Almol says, "Is all in order at the Northern Outpost?"
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Medeya, the gatewarden, "Eyes up! We're under
attack, and they're posing as Carnifex."
Almol uses Savagery Cruelty.
Almol raises a fist to the sky and roars out a vicious shout, drumming upon a minimalist suit of fieldplate with his free hand.
You say, "No reports from Medeya."
Open-air barracks.
An iron chest is here, its engravings depicting the basics of Carnifex skills. A slate board hangs here, listing tasks and
messages for the Keep's recruits. The body of this once-proud knight has been brutally mutilated, his armour heavily dented
and stained with his own blood. A sigil in the shape of a small, rectangular monolith is on the ground. Resting on the ground
is a cube-shaped silver sigil. Ominiously silent, a peppery warhound stands here, teeth bared. A ghostly white warhound
stands here, silently watching. There are 2 white warhounds here. Almol is here. He is riding on a diseased pony. He wields a
brutal, jagged bardiche of the Carnifex in his hands. Tetchta is here. She wields a spiked kite shield in her left hand and a
shining steel longsword in her right. Armour dented by warhammer blows, the dead Carnifex guard lies dead with tufts of black
fur surrounding him.
You see a single exit leading southwest.
(Carnifex): Medeya, the gatewarden says, "Increase patrols and security protocols are in effect until further notice. Check your back for tails before entering the Redoubt or the Keep. Bell tattoos and SOUL PRESENCES are mandatory until further notice."
A homing pigeon flutters in towards you, gliding over you as it drops an elegant white letter into your hands before flapping
away once more.
A frown wrinkles Tetchta's brow as she articulates a "Hrm...."
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Understood, gatewarden."
<<Carnifex>>: Tetchta says, "I'm going to beat the shit out of whoever is responsible for coming INTO OUR BLOODY REDOUBT."
Tetchta uses Racial Scent.
Tetchta tilts her head back, inhaling sharply several times.
Almol uses Warhounds Sniff.
A peppery warhound turns its snout upwards and sniffs at the air.
A deep groan bellows through the stone around you, echoing throughout the halls.
Almol tilts his head back, inhaling sharply several times.
Mjoll's impatience starts to win out, the soul she's grasping seems to catch flame as she reaches her other hand into it maliciously.
Almol winces in pain.
(Bloodloch): Rhyot says, "What's happened at the Southern Charred Bridge?"
(Bloodloch): Rhyot says, "Beyond the obvious deaths."
(Carnifex): Haztragrim says, "I saw a couple of shifty figures passing near the exit to shamtota."
Tetchta creases her brow in a frown.
You say, "No underhalls for you. I'LL BURN YOUR SOUL UNTIL NOTHING OF YOU EXISTS."
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Shifty how, Cadet?"
Tetchta leaves to the southwest.
(Bloodloch): Xyla says, "Hail."
(Tells): Tetchta's psychic whisper trails through your mind, "That FUCKING SENTINEL."
You close your eyes momentarily and extend the range of your vision, seeking out the presence of Iori.
You see that Iori is at West of the glowing core of the Great Oak in Duiran. (?) (43743)
From your knowledge, that room is in Duiran.
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Tetchta, "That our 'shifty figure'?"
(Tells): Tetchta's psychic whisper trails through your mind, "Asshole left their fucking animals at the redoubt."
(Tells): Tetchta's psychic whisper trails through your mind, "To fuck with us."
The faint noises of despair can be heard, coming from the soul clutched in tightly Mjoll's hands.
(Carnifex): Haztragrim says, "They were cowled and they were trying to hide their gaze. seemed to have glowing red eyes."
Mjoll's eyes light up with the cries, "SPEAK BEFORE I DESTROY YOU!"
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Ah, those abound in Bloodloch. Mostly harmless."
(Carnifex): Almol says, "That's an acceptable level of unseemliness."
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Tetchta, "PROGRESS! THE SOUL DESPAIRS!"
A heavy hammering echoes through the fort as a knight toils away at the forges.
"Where am I? What happened?" The faint whispers and echoes of the soul can be heard.
It is now dusk on Kinsday, the 24th of Khepary, year 491 of the Midnight Age.
Tetchta arrives from the southwest.
Growling with the effort of holding the ephemeral, you demand, "You're in the Redoubt. You were carrying out a mission, what
was it? What happened?!"
Almol says to Tetchta, "The soul's starting to crack under the Commander's grip."
Tetchta holds an index finger up to the grim skeletal teeth of her mask at Almol before lowering it again.
"Murdered." The word echoes, bouncing around the room, droning in your ears.
Mjoll's hand wreathes in a black flame as she snarls, "Worse if you don't tell me where Avrax is!"
(Bloodloch): A humble bellman says, "The shadows shall soon embrace us."
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "If anybody wants some bloody coin, Iori was recently enemied to the guild for interfering with our murder investigation. First one to bag him gets a 50,000 coin reward."
Tetchta leaves to the archives to compose some text.
Tetchta has finished writing and returns from the editor.
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "Bloodloch, have we considered the connection between the dissidents and "Might?""
"Alive." The soul despairs as it's gripped tighter, the black flames engulfing it. "Misssssssion."
The shrunken head in your inventory sneezes violently.
The black flames totally engulf the soul and its stone, cracking under the pressure of Mjoll's indomitable grip and the
ethereal spirit fades in a scream of anguish.
Tetchta just thought:
"Piece of shit."
(Carnifex): Taj says, "Hail Keep."
Almol gives an icy hiss.
"WHERE?!" Mjoll roars as the spirit fades into nothing.
(Carnifex): Galilei says, "Squire."
You say, "Son of a BITCH."
The shrunken head in your inventory sneezes violently.
Almol says, "Was it Avrax's mission, or was Avrax the mission?"
A mirror-polished venantium eye tinges red as it reveals Rhyot trying to locate you.
Curtly, you say, "We'll assume Avrax is the victim of the plot."
"It means he is alive somewhere. As for the mission, it's too vague," Tetchta says, shaking visibly.
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "They took issue with the replacing of the city Patron. They are publicly using a tenet of another
Divine in their slogans. Whether Lady Chakrasul is involved with this or not, if She is the paragon of Might they have chosen
to uphold we could think of some locations that ought to be further watched."
Almol nods his head emphatically.
(Bloodloch): Tetchta says, "Taking their statements at face value is folly. They are intentionally duplicitous, and they
likely do not care for the values that they espouse."
You say, "Impostors in disguise made it into the redoubt, one was slain by Avrax in the struggle, two others managed to
overpower him and take him."
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "Possible headquarters ought to be watched if resources are available, but I understand your points."
Tetchta rubs the chin of her mask thoughtfully.
You angrily say, "I won't hear different unless there is evidence."
Tetchta says, "Commander."
Almol exclaims, "COMMANDER!"
Tetchta says, "They hit the Dominion, then the Carnifex."
Tetchta says, "One left."
Tetchta says, "Either omitted intentionally or is the final target."
Tetchta says, "Not that there is to be an escalation, but if they're going in an order..."
Tetchta says, "It is a pattern."
You say, "An enemy that won't fight is irritating, but they can't hide forever."
Tetchta nods her head at you.
Tetchta says, "As much as it pains me to say it, perhaps we should inform Zenobia to keep watch over the Teradrim with double the eyes."
You nod your head affirmatively at Tetchta.
The haze of tension that clings to your bulk intensifies, sending a momentary thrill down your spine as the images of battles yet to come flash quickly before your eyes.
(Tells): Your authoritative, commanding voice reaches the consciousness of Zenobia, "Yours is the only guild that hasn't been outright attacked yet. Be on guard."
You tap your foot with mild impatience.
You say, "I don't want to give this report to the Keeper."
Mjoll's face twists into a disgusted scowl, "The Carnifex. Attacked in our own fortress, with no leads."
You angrily say, "Right under our noses!"
(Bloodloch): Azarae says, "That means taking into account 'not light' which does not make sense considering the Malevolent is now our patron, not a Divine of Spirit. So I do not how you get that conclusion. I am also at Her chapel constantly and am often at Her Isle of Despair. Just as that poorly encrypted message was laid out just for this to happen right after."
Tetchta uses Racial Scent.
Tetchta tilts her head back, inhaling sharply several times.
Almol uses Warhounds Sniff.
A peppery warhound turns its snout upwards and sniffs at the air.
You yell, "WHEN I CATCH YOU. I PROMISE AN ETERNITY OF SUFFERING. NO REST IN THE UNDERHALLS FOR ANY OF YOU."
(Bloodloch): Galilei says, "Their accusations of Light itself was meaningless save for the infants that were sent to Enorian.
My thought was that "Might" may have just as much significance as the slander regarding "Light," but at least two locations
are ruled out."
And I swear its 'when' not 'if'
Penned by my hand on Kinsday, the 24th of Khepary, in the year 491 MA.
(Carnifex): Azarae says, "Are you speaking of the one with a bounty on their head, Commander?"
(Carnifex): You say, "No. The conspirators who have taken one of our own."
(Carnifex): Taj says, "...Pardon?"
Tetchta leaves to the southwest.
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Almol squares his shoulders and crisply salutes you.
Almol leaves to the southwest, riding a diseased pony.
He is followed by a peppery warhound.
(Tells): Taj tells you, "One of ours is missing?"
(Carnifex): You say, "Soldier Avrax was taken hostage after killing one of three impostors within the Redoubt."
Taj arrives from the southwest.
Straightening into rigid, militant attention, Taj squares his shoulders and crisply salutes his fellow soldiers.
(Carnifex): You say, "I interrogated the soul of the slain, but learned nothing before the soul was destroyed."
(Carnifex): Tetchta says, "You learned one thing."
You say, "At ease."
Staring at the dead body as he kneels down beside it, Taj says to you, "What did him in?"
(Carnifex): You say, "Avrax is alive, and will fight back with all his strength."
You say, "Avrax, certainly."
Toz says, "Dishonor on you (Mjoll), dishonor on your family (Seirath), dishonor on your cow (Bulrok)"
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