Gamma Logs
Shortly after Gamma opened, parchments appeared on the gates announcing Vek's impending coronation. Bards and other entertainers were invited to audition for the privilege of performing at the ceremony, and this is the official announcement of those auditions.
This log takes place a few weeks after a mysterious and odd-smelling trunk arrived in Kaezar. It was either addressed to Duchess Sarafina, or the Duchess was alerted to its presence when the trunk began to make odd noises. Either way, she and her Housecarl decided to try and get it open. Somehow, Teru had managed to acquire a key which was believed to open the trunk, and when Sarafina requested he give it up, he refused and was arrested. His key was confiscated and used to open the trunk (which contained a girl named Tansy, but that's another story entirely). In this log, the key is returned to him, and Tad overhears what he plans to do next. From Tad's point of view.
Teru, ever vengeance-minded, began spreading discord in Kaezar: speaking out against the King, the province, the Imperial Guard, and most especially Duchess Sarafina for her "treatment of the commoners." Anonymous parchments containing seditious writings appeared in the inns and bars around town. After they were attributed to Teru, he and Rusty were accused of treason by a number of townsfolk. In this log, the couple tries some spin control with Merow.
In which Jurion rats Teru out to Traiver the Housecarl.
Tad tells Traiver what she heard, and he outlines the dangers inherent in making accusations against Tax Collector Rade.
In this log and in "A Wonderful Friend and Ally," mention is made of Rade's sister. As the coronation approached, a number of noble and less-than-noble ladies came forward to vie for Vek's hand... and the throne of a queen, should he choose to wed one of them. Among these was Dierdre, Baron Davell's niece, and Ronelda, Rade's sister. Details follow in the editions of the Kaezar Scratch.
An early issue of the Kaezar Scratch, an anonymously authored, player-run newspaper which appeared on parchments around town for several months. An excellent source of gossip, the Scratch was short-lived and apparently fell victim to ego-itis, the most common malady afflicting the players of Unwritten Legends. This issue discusses Lady Ronelda, the auditions, and various other happenings.
Deloria's rather confusing post in the old UL Forum responding to the accusations published in the Scratch. I believe "Clarita" refers to Lady Ambassador Caritas.
Pulled from the boards, this is Jecquelynn's post about current events in Kaezar, namely the search for the Penjari Talisman and the strange happenings around Barbel's Tower in Fishbourne. She concludes by mentioning a note Teru purportedly left for Sarafina at the gates of Green Apple Gables.
Official announcement of the Crown Prince's intention to grant an audience to five citizens of Kaezar whose petitions are deemed worthy of his attention.
This log was kindly sent to me by Rusty's player and is from Rusty's point of view. In it, she petitions the Prince, is rather rudely rebuffed by the Lady Ambassador Caritas, and is told she must testify against Teru if charges are ever brought.
This official announcement addresses the petitions, the coronation auditions, and the Scratch.
Among other events, this issue discusses the auditions for the coronation and the fortunes of the petitioners to the Crown.
A meeting at Cappy's with Shala, in which Jurion and Tad first hear about the idea of building a temple to Eyssa...
... although the proposal is less innocent than it seems.
In which an important element of the Temple plan is revealed.
The final issue of the Scratch relates how Baron Davell's daughter, Dierdre, was murdered by an unknown assailant, and how Shade (sometimes known as Garotte) was arrested for the attack.
Regarding Killings and Whisperings
A conspiracy theory-laden meeting with Sceen.
The very first appearance of the infamous headcage.
Despite Teru's pardon, he continued to pursue his own personal vendetta against Tad, harassing and attacking her whenever he could locate and catch her. In this log Jurion supplies her with a fael, which she puts to good use later.
An official parchment regarding the resurrection of Dierdre, the case against Shade, and the continuing investigation into the less than law-abiding activities of Teru.
He's Too Stupid to be Predictable
Kot refines his plan for the Eyssan Temple.
As the orcish presence around Kaezar increases, travelers on the major trade routes come under attack. This log details our failed expedition to recover gear stolen from an engraver named Bargo, who lost his cart to orcs on the road to Never-Upon-Vinre. Skip to the next log if you'd prefer to read the digest.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 1
Khregen's report on the events surrounding Bargo. Taken from the boards, this post neatly summarizes the events in "Hero Stuff."
Shala relates the events of Shiman's death to an Imperial Guardsman named Thind, and the possibility of an orc-jhakor alliance is discussed.
In which Teru gets his due.
As the campaign for the Eyssan Temple gets rolling, Xelian, Kot and Jurion get together and count up the donations.
More on the Temple (this time with Severin), though this log is distinguished by an inexplicable segue into the length of Kot's... well, you'll just have to read it.
A Gharkin With a Heart of Gold
Another meeting about the Temple; in this one, Kot talks about the plaque listing donors' names and the crew discusses the exact wording of the royal writ.
A quiet evening of gossip in Jael's, wherein the topic is the kidnapping and probable murder of a small girl.
Jurion's (very) brief encounter with Sally's mother, Carlena, outside Shiman's Hostelry. This log actually occurs before "Bring Me the Head of Shiman," but I've presented them out of order because the context of this log is better understood after reading the other one.
Setbacks, second thoughts, and the writing of a royal writ.
On an expedition to Never, Sally's body is found, and everyone goes a little mad.
An unscrupulous cad threatens to derail the Temple to Eyssa.
This log contains the first reference to Arknor, a cloaked figure who would occasionally surface in Breen's, throw large amounts of coin around, make enigmatic pronouncements, and then vanish. While Arknor doesn't appear here (the first actual log of him is in "A Night to be Festive"), he has been skulking about town for some time, and has just offered Denita two hundred imperials to hire mercenaries from Emerald Jake to help the Imperials combat the orcs.
An official parchment, authored by Guardsman Merow Ghurak, announcing that Jayden Kirtawn is wanted on charges of treason. What's really going on won't be clear for some time, but if you want to jump ahead, go and read "In the Gazebo," in which Raeh explains it all to Jurion, long after the fact.
Shala, Kot, and Xelian reveal their suspicions about Merow to an unwilling audience.
Severin speaks to Shala about Jayden and Merow. From Severin's point of view. For those of you who are following along, take note of his speculations regarding Raeh.
In an acrimonious meeting at the Stumbling Dwarf, the Eyssan Temple group agrees to stop collecting donations.
Sinjinn suggests a malevolent course of action.
After the Temple collections ended, Xelian and Jurion decided to write a letter of thanks to the Prince for his support of the project. That month, the House of the Compass sponsored a Winter Festival in Kemstead, and the Lady Ambassador Caritas was scheduled to attend. Though Jurion was lucky enough to catch her there and deliver the letter personally, their innocent little missive had some unexpected consequences.
Ever since the wanted poster went up on the gates ("Loyal Citizens of Kaezar IV,") Jayden Kirtawn has been on the run. In this log, a pair of halflings try to sneak a troop of orcs into the city, and when Jayden shows up, things get complicated. This one is going to be long, so skip to the next log if you'd prefer a summary.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 2
Merow's post in the Imperial Guard folder about the halfling wagon.
The day after the halflings come to town, Kot, Paltheis, and Merow have an entertaining conversation about the wagon in the town green.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 3
Remember the letter Xelian and Jurion wrote to the Lady Ambassador about the Eyssan Temple? Well, so do the orcs...
This post is taken from the old UL Forum and was written by Vo's player.
Jurion tells Merow about the letter that was stolen, and the guardsman's reaction is not quite what was expected.
A Dragyn's Hoard of Sovereigns
A short while after he discovered Sally's body in the King's Woode, Imperial Guardsman Adaen became obsessed with destroying the orcs and led a brutal raid on an encampment in the wilds beyond the Southron Gate. Following the raid, an orcish child was found under circumstances that aren't clear to me, and Kahund took it to the Abbey, claiming sanctuary there. In this log, Xelian and Jurion divvy up the last of the money for the Eyssan Temple and discuss what's been going on at the Abbey with the orc child.
Aljeron's report about Merow. This was posted on the boards by Aljeron's player.
Vo's report about Merow, posted on the boards. This actually precedes the last log, but since it contains more ranting than reporting, it makes more sense if you read Aljeron's post first.
To the Good Citizens of Kaezar
Official parchment on the gate regarding Jayden's innocence and Merow's guilt.
Hunted by citizens and guards alike, Merow fled to Never-Upon-Vinre and issued a deadly ultimatum. In this log, Jurion encounters him on the Vinre road, and then the posse encounters them.
Immediately after "Chasing Merow," Jurion meets Shala, Xelian, and Severin in Jael's and delivers the news about Merow.
A meeting in Never, on the eve of an execution.
Taken from the boards, this is Valorian's post about the circumstances of Merow's capture.
Merow is executed.
This log was also pulled from the boards, but at the time of this writing I can't remember who posted it. I'll list the author as soon as I sort through the archives and find out who it was.
The official parchment announcing Merow's fate.
Tempest's post to the old UL Forum about Sydreal's encounter with Bargo. Yep, the same Bargo whose tools we so fruitlessly searched for in "Hero Stuff". Seems he's lost his cart... again...
As a side note, "Happenings" will contain posts pulled from the boards which concern events of interest around town. Most of these I missed or heard about second-hand, so I have no logs about them. However, they're relevant to what you've been reading, and so deserve to be included here.
The first of many fireside chats in the Silver Plum with Xelian, in which she tells Jurion of Raeh's journey, and he makes a decision.
Another evening chat in the Plum, discussing the consequences of the theft of the letter to the Lady Ambassador, and the aftermath of Merow's execution.
A clandestine appointment...
...and a fateful meeting.
Khregen questions Jurion about the writ.
Teg and Fyren's posts about Arknor's latest appearance in Breen's, and the orcish attack on Curt's wagon.
Sinjinn and Jurion have a conversation about Kregen, which is rudely interrupted by the appearance of a pie-plate.
After Raeh returns from Kuthgard, Jurion shows her what he's learned in her absence.
A collection of posts by Saebra's player on a variety of topics, ranging from Jhanaiyeth to Arknor to the jhakor known as Ghuk.
Neither a log nor a current events post, this document contains a bit of back history that became very important to the citizens of Kaezar, as you'll see.
All Hail the Queen of Nellcwyln
When Queen Llwyellia shipped Shades of Night ale to Kaezar, Breen's was the first and only inn to carry it. Here Shala and Khregen comment on the boards about the ale and the rumors surrounding it.
Wherein Jurion learns that the ale is not what it seems.
In which Jurion does his best to get folks to drink the ale, and later speaks to Xelian and Dracan about Raeh.
A conversation in the Hidden Nook with Raeh, in which Jurion tells her about the ale and its connection to the orcs.
Xelian and Shala come up with a theory about Merow, the orc child, and the letter that was stolen from the Lady Ambassador.
Arknor brings his son Breliv to celebrate in Breen's.
When Jurion's nap is interrupted, he learns that working for the orcs is no way to get rich.
You will recall Saebra's posts about Ghuk in "Happenings 3;" this is the meeting she called to discuss whether the town would agree to the alliance.
Khregen asks a compelling question about the Palace.
Immediately after the meeting, Raeh and Jurion meet and plan how best to disrupt the alliance.
A dart game at Jael's is broken up by the jhakor, and Saebra promises to take Jurion to meet Ghuk. This log is rather long, so skip to "Saebra's Post" if you'd rather read a summary.
Saebra's player put this up on the boards the day after the attack in Jael's.
Khregen's theories strike perilously close to the mark.
Jurion's first official report to the orcs, in which he details plans for disrupting the jhakor alliance, and lists the folks known to have imbibed the ale.
An Imperial Courier comes looking for Saebra. Posted to the old UL Forum by Maris.
Though it doesn't take long for Saebra and company to decide that the jhakor attack on Jurion was purely random, it doesn't dissuade her from taking him into her confidence. In this log, Saebra also tells him about the message Maris posted about in "The Imperial Courier".
An official proclamation announcing a contest for the national anthem of Kaezar.
You may wonder why, after all this time and the fuss over the Coronation auditions, the Prince was never crowned... well, we're wondering, too. Did they forget about it? Did something happen that prevented the event? Nobody knows!
Raeh and Jurion prepare their assassin for the meeting with Ghuk, but circumstances prevent him from carrying out his mission.
Immediately after the meeting with Ghuk, Raeh and Jurion rendezvous with the assassin and their newest recruit to figure out an alternate plan.
In which Tracker makes the details of the secret meeting very public, forgetting that orcish spies are citizens, too.
And being one of those citizen spies, Jurion reports the meeting to the orcs.
After regrouping and dispatching another report to the orcs, Leyrn is equipped with a more substantial mask and sent to disrupt the alliance at the Essence Inn. This is a lengthy log, so impatient readers may want to skip to "That Particular Orcish Spy"and read Saebra's summary of the events.
At the Hidden Nook, the conspirators rant about the failure of Leyrn's mission.
Political discussions with Shadeark and Dracan in Breen's.
Saebra's post on the boards about the meeting at the Essence Inn.
With the loss of Leyrn, the conspirators recruit another ally and receive some vital equipment from the orcs.
As the entire town turns out to hunt for him, Leyrn hides in plain sight. This log immediately precedes the events in "Khrenix", and is from Leyrn's point of view.
In which Arknor announces that the ale is poisoned, and everyone promptly runs out and drinks it.
Posts pulled from the boards regarding the ale. These three are written by Xelian, Aurora, and Khregen.
They Ain't Paying Me to Make Policy
A conversation with Aljeron, Khregen, and Vurlak about Arknor, the jhakor, and a missing shipment of ale.
Sergeant Khregen's Rockdelver's announcement of the alliance between the province of Kaezar and the jhakor known as Ghuk.
Xelian retells the events in "Khrenix" over an ale in Mariposa's. Keep an eye out for Wuntvor wandering in and out of this log. I'm not sure what he's doing, but he's definitely confused.
Jurion passes more intelligence on to the orcs; this report covers the alliance with the jhakor and Arknor's visit to Breen's.
In which it is revealed that Calan sent Saebra and Dracan to Calvexia to seek the cure for the ale.
After Leyrn led a band of orcs to the secret meeting with Ghuk, and was captured in the act of trying to assassinate the Lady Ambassador Caritas, everyone expected he'd go to the axe. Lucky for him, as Khregen's post on the boards shows, the Imperials were feeling unusually lenient that week...
...and you can read the reasons why in this log, which Leyrn's player kindly sent to me. From Leyrn's point of view.
An hour before the premiere of The Road to Maldon, and the upset stomach isn't stage fright, it's the poisoned ale.
When people begin to blame Breen for selling the poisoned ale, he closes the Crossroads and takes a long vacation. This is the notice posted on the door to the inn, which was closed for about a fortnight.
Fresh from the performance of Severin's play, Sinjinn and Jurion retire to the Hidden Nook and inspect a package for the orcs.
A chance meeting with an orc in Shiman's Hostelry, in which Jurion is instructed to set up a meeting with the Lady Ambassador.
A busy night in Breen's: Emerald Jake comes in and a bar fight breaks out, Gavronte makes him an offer, and Migo peddles Calvexia's half-finished cure to whoever cares to pay for it.
What Gavronte offered to Emerald Jake.
The fourth in Jurion's series of reports, this one covering Gavronte's meeting with Emerald Jake, Leyrn's fate, and the cure for the ale.
The Management is Not Responsible
During Arknor's post-ale visit to Breen's, the citizens learn that they are not the only ones suffering the effects of the poison.
Jurion tries to convince Raeh that Leyrn is a liability.
Months of cultivating Saebra finally pay off when she teaches Jurion the secret Jhakor signal.
Taken from the boards, Jayden tells a tale without a shred of truth in it. Okay, the bit about the orcs is true, but as for the rest of it...
Also in this log are replies by Saebra and Boreas Notus (yes, THEE Boreas Notus).
If You're Loyal and You Know It / All For Kaezar / Not One Guard
Raeh, Xelian, and Vurlak learn the secret signal (in that order).
Calvexia is ready for the cure, but she needs some help first. Also, the Maestro shows up at the very end of this log. From Saidah's point of view.
The long-awaited contest for the anthem of Kaezar.
Vo's offers a belated entry to the anthem contest, and Jurion learns that the Lady Ambassador has contracted Ralkur to take her to Shiman's Hostelry.
Some background is in order here. Jurion had written another letter to the Lady Ambassador, mentioning the first letter that was stolen from Green Apple Gables and suggesting that they meet personally at Shiman's to discuss its contents. Though she received the letter, and apparently was planning to meet him, he heard nothing further about it, and the meeting never took place. You'll read his complaints concerning this in the rest of his field reports.
Jurion's emergency report to the orcs, begging them to be ready for his (supposedly) impending meeting with the Lady Ambassador.
Shala takes Jurion to meet Calvexia, and he does his best to dissuade her from helping the witch with the cure.
Jurion reports on his failure to meet with the Lady Ambassador, explains the jhakor signal, and warns the orcs that Calvexia is preparing a cure for the ale.
Xelian and Jurion have a fireside chat about Calvexia.
A quiet discussion with Saebra in Breen's, and a letter from the Perfect One.
An idle conversation with an Imperial Guard about Bargo and Barrakketh.
In one of the more unfortunate convergences of OOC and IC behavior, the player of Barrakketh decided it would be fun to stun female characters, then use the ACT verb to abuse them in ways I can't repeat here. As word got around about what he was doing, staff stepped in and dealt with the issue by banning the player and exiling the character...
...which you can read about in this log. Another character headcaged, but as you'll see, he was not the last to wear the device.
Shala collects some rather exotic ingredients for Calvexia's cure. Those of you who would rather read a summary of this and the following few logs can jump to "Tales of the Seekers" which contains the board posts relevant to the search for the cure.
As the cure draws nigh, Jurion reports Calvexia's latest request to the orcs.
The Seekers take the final ingredients to Calvexia.
From Shala's point of view, this log relates how the Seekers got the cure from Calvexia, and takes place immediately after "Ye Carries Their Smell."
Shala and Deloria's posts about the events surrounding the Seekers, up to and surpassing "Watch them Rot." You'll note that the worst effects of the ale haven't kicked in yet (although a few people have reported mild symptoms of nausea and headaches), which is why we're wondering whether Calvexia is putting one over on us.
In hopes of delivering a bottle of the cure to the orcs, Jurion tries to wheedle some out of Deloria.
The Society of Orc-Friends meet to discuss the cure.
With no contact from the orcs since the cure was distributed, this report is a summary of the conspirators' failures to date, and suggests an alternate course of action.
After Jurion's argument with Deloria, Kot gets him a bottle of the cure. Unfortunately, he and Xelian end up needing it...
... and the next evening, Jurion's fireside chat with Xelian takes on a decidedly ominous tone.
Jurion dashes off a note informing the orcs that the ale actually does kill people.
Smoothing things over with Deloria.
Why was Vek absent from the Anthem contest? As the rumors spread, a royal page appears and makes a surprising pronouncement.
The Maestro comes looking for Shala...
... and she wins the golden lyre.
Since Minerva was supposedly the last person to have spoken to Prince Vek before his disappearance, any speculations about where he went naturally fall on his final meeting with her. Rumor had it she was raised at the Abbey, so Xelian and Jurion trekked out there to do some investigating, and find out what happens when monks are cloistered for too long.
About this time, a silver (and apparently supernatural) wolf began to haunt the wilds outside the city. My information about this wolf is sketchy, but I did pay attention when that plot intersected with Jurion's treasonous interests. In this log, for instance, the gossip in Breen's turns to the wolf's particular interest in Myrahhge, and to a message it somehow asked her to deliver to the Prince.
Jurion's report on Myrahhge, the silver wolf, and Vek's disappearance.
The Truth May Not Be Flattering
The mysterious Minerva reveals her intentions, and the Kaezarian Eye opens for business.
The first issue of the Kaezarian Eye, reporting on a gargoyle attack in Breen's, an assault on Lord Grilla, and the winner of the anthem contest.
Yet another field report, this one concerning Minerva, a secret passage in the Summer Palace, and thoughts on what the orcs ought to do with Myrahhge.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 5
Sergeant Aljeron Silverlock reports on his discovery of a half-finished letter, the author of which shall remain nameless.
Xelian, Raeh, and Jurion meet with Duwg, the assistant editor of the Kaezarian Eye, and listen to his theory of what happened to the Prince.
A Vashian Walked Into A Bar...
Shadeark offers up a startling idea.
The second issue of the Kaezarian Eye, containing stories about the orc-and-flummog invasions, happenings at Dhond's tower, and sundry other events.
The Kaezarian Eye, Issue 2 (corrected edition)
The same issue, with an important piece of correspondence included - Xelian and Jurion's open letter to the Palace.
Weeks after their last contact with the orcs, Jurion reminds Raeh who her enemies are.
Third issue of the Kaezarian Eye. In this issue, Aira and Aljeron's wedding is covered, and there is a piece about the new embassies opening up all over the city.
When a mysterious gharkin who greatly resembles Merow comes into Kaezar, Raeh goes into a flutter. In this log, Jurion confronts her about who and what he may be.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 6
Here begins the saga of Cabalar and Kiana, a human and his darkelven half-sister who managed to cause more trouble in Kaezar than any other characters in the history of the game. This stack of guard reports covers their crime spree, from initial incidents to final arrests.
The duo in Breen's. After reading all those guard reports, you may be asking, "Just who were those two, anyway?" This log, "Wanted Posters" and "Cleaner Than Breen's" all take place during the period of time covered in the Imperial Guard reports, and show the two interacting with the townsfolk and the guard before their final arrest.
Kiana and Cabalar are wanted... again.
Jurion accompanies Guardsmen Vurlak, Khregen, and Shadeark to interview Kiana in jail.
The fourth edition of the Kaezarian Eye, reporting on the return of Prince Vek, Skye and Vladomere's handfasting, Cabalar and Kiana's crimes, and a complaint against the Imperial Guard.
Official announcement of the gala ball to celebrate Prince Vek's impending return to the city.
With Kaezar under martial law, Jurion reports the news of Vek's return to the orcs.
Over tea, Merow's treason is finally explained; Jurion commits himself to a dangerous course of action, and Raeh wonders exactly how much Xelian has figured out.
A failed attempt to recruit new allies to work with the orcs.
The official announcement of Kiana and Cabalar's trial, posted inside Breen's.
Lord Barrister Tomlin, the prosecutor, comes to interview Deloria.
Kiana and Cabalar's defense attorney, Lord Barrister Frederick, interviews Vurlak.
A rollicking good time is had by all as the Empire tries Kiana and Cabalar for treason. Loyal citizens are encouraged to leave their pets at home.
The execution of Cabalar Earl and Kiana Days.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 7
Sergeant Aljeron Silverlock reports that justice has been served.
A drunken interlude in Breen's, followed by a night in gaol.
Xelian visits Jurion after his breakdown in Breen's. From Xelian's point of view.
For those with gruesome tastes, here is a time-lapse picture of the newest adornments on the Southron Gate.
The fifth issue of the Kaezarian Eye. In this issue, Vladomere discovers an ancient enruned bone, and the paper catches up on the saga of Kiana and Cabalar.
A not-so-friendly dart game in Jael's with Vurlak and Shala. This log is from Shala's point of view.
Xelian and Shala rendezvous at the Stumbling Dwarf, and come to an unpleasant conclusion. From Shala's point of view.
Several weeks after his last communiqué with the orcs, Jurion is surprised in Brom's by a very nasty-sounding fellow.
Severin proposes to Shala. From Shala's point of view.
When one lovely lady returns my token of esteem, a second lass proves to be more useful than she appears.
Desperate for allies, Jurion learns of Severin's rejection by Shala, and takes dreadful advantage of the situation.
An unlikely plan pays off, and Jurion dupes Vladomere into handing him the orcish bone. Then he runs off with it. Okay, I was reaching, but it worked!
Destruction for Destruction's Sake
Wherein we learn that the orcs have seen the Maltese Falcon, and Severin and Xelian get morbid in Jael's.
Jurion returns an ancient enruned bone to Vladomere...
...and is questioned by the Guard.
Wanted: a date for the ball. Applications welcome. Any race, any gender.
Shala gets Jurion exceptionally drunk, but not quite enough to spill the beans.
Some background is in order before you read this log. A few weeks before, guardsman Myrahhge's torn cloak and bloody quartz dagger were found on Seton Road, just before the drawbridge to Seton Keep. The townsfolk went wild (well, most of them), and search parties were dispatched, to no avail. Before Myrahhge was given up for dead, the silver wolf began to reappear, this time within the walls of Kaezar, and this log contains an encounter that Xelian, Severin, and Jurion had with it one dark evening at the Royal Wict. Astute readers will recall Jurion's recommendations in "Field Report 11", which may explain the wolf's behavior.
Valorian jumps to conclusions regarding our encounter with the silver wolf.
As the ball approaches, Shala and Xelian talk about Raeh. From Shala's point of view.
In which Jurion questions Xelian, hoping to discover whether Raeh has ratted him out.
The last act of Gamma draws to a close. As the lights dim, Xelian, Severin, Shala and Jurion have a game of darts and innuendo in Jael's.
Jurion's final report to the orcs.
Murder and mayhem at the Royal Ball. From Shala's point of view.
Dearest M.I.T., C.U., W.R.M., Et Al
These posts, pulled from the old UL Forums, detail an exchange of letters between Master Illusionist Trillian and Archmagus Krendeg, representative of the Lyceum Archmagus, Kemstead Adjunct. With so few words is a mighty conflict begun...
For those of you who haven't the patience to sort things out by reading the letters, I'll give you a precis: A mage named Zyzyl delved into the magic of reality, changed the fundamental order of the Weave, and became the first illusionist. This cheesed off the Council of Wizards and they tried to kill him. They failed, but their attack wounded Zyzyl to the point where he vanished or went crazy or something, and his apprentice, Trillian, took over his research. Trillian was either foolhardy or an egotist or both, since rather than keep his head down he wrote a series of increasingly virulent letters to Krendeg, boasting of his power and insulting the wizardly arts. This culminated in the Wizards' Council sending Inquisitor Zarick to Kaezar to find and kill Trillian, his master Zyzyl, and whatever illusionists happened to get in the way.
In this edition, published on the 31st of Kolbre, the top headline is the assassination attempt on His Royal Highness. Also included are stories about Kemstead's new citizens, the death of Myrahhge Lytewevyr, Korth's visit, the upcoming fair in Briarbrook, various Imperial Guard Patrol Reports, and as always the wit and gossip of Aunt Anony. Although several of the logs that follow take place before this issue of the Kaezarian Eye came out, I have listed it first because it provides a nice summary for what happened last phase.
Back in Kaezar, those who knew Severin and Jurion try to make some sense of their deaths. Convinced of Shala's innocence, Vurlak requests permission to open an investigation into the assassination attempt on the Prince.
A Grouchy Man / A Hard Call / Official Business / Very Peculiar
The first four interviews in Vurlak's investigation. Presented in chronological order, the interviewees are Persephanie, Elli, Xelian, and Lazarus. By their very nature, these logs recap a lot of Gamma One, but they may be interesting reading if you're into Rashomon... or Clue, for that matter. Those of you without a love of detail may skip down to "Final Report" and read Vurlak's conclusions.
Vurlak interviews Lady of Shame Shala about the happenings at the royal ball. This log takes place between "No One Left To Question" and "An Answer To My Prayers," but since this is from Saidah's point of view, I have listed it separately.
We Were Estranged / A Bone That Size / No One Left To Question / An Answer To My Prayers
Vurlak completes his investigation by interviewing Raeh, Vladomere, and Chandelar, and re-interviewing Xelian. Like the first series, this set of logs is recapitulated in "Final Report," below, and they are all from Vurlak's point of view.
Posted to the old UL Forums, this is Sgt. Kordatar's official report on the events of 29 Thistle, 637 AoD.
An early meeting of the Imperial Guard, in which Jr. Guardsman Naught is promoted and Sgt. Kordatar is briefly posted to Port Keyne. From Saidah's point of view.
In perhaps the darkest hour of her exile, Shala meets with Dracan and Xelian in Kemstead. From Shala's point of view.
Severin's farewell letter to Shala.
A tense evening in the Rusty Scupper, as Sinjinn comes face to face with Shala for the first time since the ball. Be warned − this is a long one, due in part to an unwelcome visit by Tazmak the hunchback about halfway through.
Shala meets a shadowy figure who offers her the chance to end her exile... for a price. This log is from Shala's point of view, and any notes in the text are her player's.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 01
The first installment of the Imperial Guard Patrol Reports, taken from the old UL Forums. These bookend the posts in "When Titles Collide" and illustrate the troubles between Teru and Tracker around the time Teru allied with Inquisitor Zarick.
On the last day of Winte, Soth introduces Narza to Shala, and they come to a mutual arrangement.
Teru Darkspire (Sentinel of the Dragyn, Prophet of the Unnamed yet Feared, Son of the Fourth Lord) is snubbed by Trillian (Master Illusionist, Conjuror of the Unseen, Watcher of the Reality Matrix), and comes to an agreement with Zarick (Inquisitor). When Tracker (Berefoot) takes the side of the illusionists, he and Teru come into conflict, with unhappy results for the dyari. These posts were pulled from the old UL Forums.
With two powerful figures roaming around town, the citizens of Kaezar are choosing sides and taking up arms. Turncoats and double agents are the order of the day, and the assassins are not always working for coin − as we see in this log, wherein Bibo makes an attempt on the life of Master Illusionist Trillian. Tracker's player provided this log, and it is from his point of view.
Other than his barrel-wearing habit, Bibo never came off as any more disturbed than any other halfling, so this encounter is a bit of a surprise. However, it does illustrate how complicated the entire affair was getting. When Trillian turned down his offer of help, Teru took it upon himself to order the deaths of as many illusionists as he could find, as Saebra relates in "Mister Popularity"). The lightbenders reacted by hiring their own assassins, and something very close to open warfare broke out in the streets of Kaezar. People who had nothing to do with either side took advantage of the chaos to go after their enemies, and partisan retaliation for those attacks drew others into the fray.
In Never-Upon-Vinre, a knave known as Wuntvor visits an aptly named tavern and dangles a memento before Shala and Sinjinn. Also in this log is some final correspondence from Jurion − a bit briefer than Severin's, but no less passionate. From Shala's point of view.
A chance meeting in the King's Woode with Wuntvor, in which he lets slip a clue or two and speculates about Shala's future. Once again, this is from Shala's point of view, and notes in parentheses are from her player.
Shortly after Narza first came to Kaezar, she found Kot brawling with veckles outside the West Gate of Kaezar and helped him get to Calan after one managed to crack his skull. From this chance meeting, she became acquainted with his wife, Xelian. The friendship which resulted set the stage for some crucial events later on in the phase. In this log, Xelian and Narza discuss Wuntvor's plans for Shala and decide how best to go about helping her fulfil her tasks.
This issue relates the tale of the horse auction in Trapper's Landing, as well as what happened to Kaeli, the strange happenings in the Mandrake hole, a treatise on Vash, and a review of the Boar's Den Inn.
Xelian escapes from a discussion of gharkin cuisine in the Plum. In this log they meet in the Tankard, go to dinner at the Plum with Vurlak, discuss gharkin cuisine, and Narza tells Xelian why she has come to Kaezar.
Inquisitor Zarick threatens to harm Illuriel if Tracker continues to protect the illusionsists. This post is taken from the old UL Forums.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 02
On a busy day in mid-Morde, Aljeron reports on an outbreak of violence between the wizard and illusionist factions. Captain Litmann calls an emergency Guard meeting to deal with the situation, and a posse helps Chandelar arrest Teru and Rajel. The final report in this series is Captain Litmann's release order for Rajel, plus an update on the charges against Ashe.
A notice posted on the West Gate by Captain Litmann, announcing the arrest warrants for Teru Darkspire, Ashe Miryal and Rajel Vidore, and requesting that Tracker Berefoot and John Faelligan come in for questioning. The warrant appears as a result of the incidents in the last Imperial Guard Patrol Report, and the posts therein bookend this one.
Taken from the old UL Forums, this post not only sheds some light on Teru's violent and unpredictable behavior, but provides a novel defense for generations of future barristers: "My armor made me do it!"
You may remember that Master Illusionist Trillian remarks upon the cursing of Teru's armor in "Heads and Tales". What the exact circumstances of the curse were and why Teru put the armor on are unclear at this point, but this log contains Teru's version of events, which is always fun to read. Knowing Teru's prediliction for violent behavior, his excuse seems a little thin, but following his arrest the armor was dispelled and the higher-ups ordered his release without further charges.
Summoning practice in Hesperis' back room, followed by a chat with Xelian at the Stumbling Dwarf concerning the interests of Martaigne Shardleigh, and his new assignment from the Black Rose Mercenary Company.
A late-night chat on the Tempest Road Bridge between Saebra and Xelian, who speculate on the rumors surrounding the assassination attempt upon His Royal Highness. Xelian's player supplied this log, and it is from her point of view.
About halfway through the conversation, Saebra mentions a prophet who warned the ball-goers to beware of one wearing golden armor. Astute readers will remember "Official Business," in which Xelian claimed to have had a vision of danger on the eve of the ball. Her reaction here makes me suspect that the "prophet" was Xelian herself, and like the telephone game, the vision and the source were distorted by passing through many mouths, the last three of which were Aira, Aljeron, and Saebra.
Tracker puts an arrow through Inquisitor Zarick's eye. This post is taken from the old UL Forums and is what I call a "fictionalized log," in that it's half a log and half a retelling of what happened. Like the last post in "When Titles Collide", it was posted by Tracker's player and provides some insight into his character's motives.
Master Illusionist Trillian rants about the death of Inquisitor Zarick. This log is from Qaiia's point of view and overlaps the events in "Very Rude." Qaiia's player originally titled it Trillian Doom Blah, which I thought was rather apt.
In the aftermath of Zarick's death, Xelian, Narza, and Soth meet in the Plum and are interrupted by first Saebra and then Tracker, who have their own (regrettably typical) take on the situation.
As the Imperial Guard opens an investigation into Zarick's death, Xelian speaks to Vurlak about what she overheard in Breen's, and warns him that Wuntvor may be behind the whole messy business. When they leave Narza's room in Cappy's, guess who's outside talking to Soth?
Narza briefs Shala on the circumstances surrounding the death of Inquisitor Zarick.
Shala admits her failure to Wuntvor and is given another chance to earn her freedom.
Tax Collector Rade meets with Vurlak to discuss the consequences of Inquisitor Zarick's death for Kaezar, the 8th Imperial Regiment, and the politics of the Empire. From Vurlak's point of view.
Two guards in a bar. 'Nuff said. From Saidah's point of view.
Also known as "The Wooing of Shala Vaurien," this log showcases Wuntvor's efforts to recruit Shala for the nascent thieves' guild in Kaezar.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 03
In this series of patrol reports, Vurlak reports on his meeting with Tax Collector Rade, and the Guard moves to arrest the fugitives fleeing from the investigation of Inquisitor Zarick's death. These reports summarize the events in "I Hain't Got No Key", which is on the long side, but funny if you're a Froggy fan.
Observant readers will note that there are two posts in this series which were not written by members of the Imperial Guard, but were posted to the Patrol Reports folder anyhow. I have left them in for continuity's sake, and also because one of them recounts how Teru and Rorien formed a posse to help arrest Tracker, Saebra, and Illuriel. Turnabout is fair play, I suppose, given what happened in the last Imperial Guard Patrol report.
... or, "How the might of the Empire was stymied by a wooden door." When Saidah and Krum attempt to apprehend Illurel and Saebra for questioning regarding the murder of Zarick, they are ambushed by Froggy, Tracker, Shade, and a whole bunch of boglurkers.
As a conscientious citizen of the Empire, Shade respecfully requests the return of his weapons, which were confiscated in "I Hain't Got No Key." This is from Saidah's point of view.
Sr. Guardsman Krum Meister and Jr. Guardsman Saidah Muzakir are recognized for their efforts in "I Hain't Got No Key." A guard is set on the Plum to prepare for the Imperial visitors, martial law is announced and the 8th is warned about how seriously they must take the security of the Imperial visitors. Like the other guard-related logs, this log is from Saidah's point of view.
Immediately after the Guard meeting, the 8th is reprovisioned with new cloaks, and Tax Collector Rade throws his weight around.
Shala inquires about Narza's faith.
An excellent summary, posted to the UL Forums by Saebra Souleblade, of the events surrounding Zarick's death and their impact on the politics of Kaezar and the Empire.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 04
In the fourth patrol report taken from the old UL Forums, Aljeron announces the arrival of the first Imperial representative, an Exquisitor known as Epheba. The first list of citizens wanted for questioning regarding the death of Inquisitor Zarick is posted, and Vurlak hears from the Jakobite faction.
The meeting between Staff Sgt. Kordatar and Crusader Guy Taillefer, as reported upon in the last log.
Tragedy strikes the 8th Imperial Regiment as Guardsman Shadowlight succumbs to a terrible loss. This post was taken from the old UL Forums.
Exquisitor Epheba makes a humanitarian gesture.
Limit Your Answers / Lips Flap / Odd Logic / Only A Few Questions
One by one, the citizens on Epheba's list are brought in to face questioning by the Exquisitor. A mixture of logs and posts made to the old UL Forums, these tales are worth reading, if only because it's so rare for players to put their experiences up on the boards for everyone to see. In order, the interviewees are Timyr, Mimika, John, and Martaigne.
Topics on the agenda include the guard on the Plum and the need for someone on the rear entrance, plus a few promotions, a review of new applicants, a key check, and payroll.
Immediately following the guard meeting, a memorial service is held for Sr. Guardsman Vladomere Shadowlight and his wife Skye.
Saidah interviews Chloe and Leyrn about a purported theft. I include this log as an example of everyday Guard business; the "he said, she said" and the attitude of the citizens toward the crime illustrates pretty well what Guards deal with on a daily basis.
Lord Barrister Frederick visits Breen's and elaborates on Exquisitor Epheba's role and status in the Empire. From Martaigne's point of view.
Martaigne and Xelian catch up over a brandy in the Silver Plum. When Sinjinn and Soth pay them a visit, Martaigne elaborates on his business in Kaezar, and asks an uneasy question − if we cannot find the truth among the living, can the dead can be compelled to answer?
Over tea, Sinjinn contemplates Martaigne's plan to raise Jurion's shade, and Narza explains the cult of the dayhr kihrvar.
Shala's exile is lifted...
...and she returns to Kaezar.
Imperial Guard Patrol Reports 05
Selected from among the reports in Imperial Guard folder of the old UL Forums, these posts cover about a month of game time and track the progress of Epheba's interrogations, the threats against her person and the reaction of those pulled into the investigation.
Strange happenings in Kaezar may bode ill for the seance, as the participants are distracted by grief and self-doubt. By the time of this log, which is from Narza's point of view, Shala has acquired Jurion's pendant from Wuntvor, and Martaigne's family has been lost in an off-camera tragedy.
Xelian and Narza prepare for the seance.
The souls of Jurion and Severin speak. Though this is a long log with a slow start, I have left all the bookending events intact to illustrate the preparations and nervousness of the participants, the difficulty of getting everyone together, and the aftermath.
The Oaths of the Dayhr Kihrvar
Two priests, a channeler, and a Lady of Shame walk into a bar, but Soth is the only punchline in this solemn discussion of the seance and its aftermath. Those of you who have been following along from the beginning may notice that Sinjinn is now doing some of Jurion's characteristic emotes.
Sinjinn and Narza discuss the soul, women's rights and gharkin cuisine.
After Teru Darkspire is arrested for another murder, Captain Litmann orders Staff Sgt. Kordatar and Guardsman Muzakir to conduct a thorough investigation of the suspect and his associates.
A Most Dastardly Plot / The White Daisy Mercenary Company / Fear Distorts / Mister Popularity
Though locked away in gaol, Teru Darkspire is the topic of the hour as Staff Sgt. Kordatar interviews Malikayl, Martaigne, Zylic, and Saebra about his doings. "A Most Dastardly Plot" contains a visit from Crusader Guy Taillefer, the Jakobite representitive alluded to in the fourth Imperial Guard Patrol Report.
Continuing the investigation of Teru Darkspire, Saidah interviews Rorien Meros about his faith and his friends.
After volunteering his services to the Guard in "The White Daisy Mercenary Company", Martaigne visits Teru in gaol and attempts to elicit a confession. This log is from Martaigne's point of view.
As the investigation of Teru Darkspire continued, Guardsman Muzakir submitted regular reports to Captain Litmann to keep him informed of their progress. Since they were an internal Guard communication, these reports were not posted to the UL Forums and have never been made public until now. They summarize all the interviews between "A Most Dastardly Plot" and "Devout Followers", so if you have already read those you may wish to skip to the last report in this document, which contains the investigators' conclusions.
Captain Litmann finishes up the investigation by interviewing Lleto Caowyn about his knowledge of Teru and his allies. Posted to the old UL Forums, this is a fictionalized log which contains comments made after the fact by Lleto's player.
A night of fortune-telling in Cappy's is interrupted by a visit from Lord Barrister Tomlin.
From Saidah's point of view, this is a very brief log wherein Lord Barrister Tomlin makes some demands about Teru's welfare.
She Can Be Difficult / Pressure / End in Screams / Small Mercies
In this series of logs, which are grouped together as variants on a theme, Martaigne Shardleigh becomes entwined in Lady Epheba's affairs, and is interrogated about his visit to Teru by Lord Barrister Tomlin.
In the last gasp of the Exquisitor plot, Rowen is arrested for making threats against the life of Lady Epheba, as documented in the last Imperial Guard Patrol Reports.
With the interrogations long concluded and no resolution to the affair in sight, Lady Epheba and the Imperial representatives fade from the scene for the rest of the phase, leaving their civilian contacts hanging. Never fear − the orcs are always available to liven things up, and in this log they pay a brief visit to the Palace itself.
A night in Breen's, and the topic of the evening is an odd letter found in an orcish box. As in the wizard-illusionist conflict, unscrupulous persons were quick to take advantage of the situation and plant letters of their own in various places, as the next few logs will show.
Another night in Breen's, and another orcish parchment, this time addressed to Malikayl. From Saidah's point of view.
A third orcish letter, this one addressed to Ralabac and presented to the Imperial Guard by the upstanding citizens of Kaezar.
Saidah interviews Evade about the letter addressed to Ralabac.
Litmann announces that the Imperial envoys have left and martial law is revoked. The full text of the letters addressed to Malikayl and Ralabac is repeated here; promotions are handed out, and Rowen's release is ordered.
Five mortals venture to Vaen's temple to see what the Goddess of Pain will demand for the release of two souls. Be patient with this one, it's worth it.
Shaken by Messeth's demands, Sinjinn, Shala, and Narza consider how best to counter them.
Shala and Narza travel through the Serpent's Eye to make Messeth another offer.
Pentacles and roses tell a tale of peril, as Shala and Narza brief Xelian on the success of their venture.
The Trouble With Oaths / A Good Trick
"You have learned not to play with the gods."
Two versions of the same event, but both are worth your time. "The Trouble With Oaths" is from Shala's player, and is the storytelling version of what happened on the 25th of Morde, 638 AoD. It is excellently written and captures the atmosphere of the event in a way that a bare log cannot. I have taken the liberty of giving it a title here, as it did not have one when I received it. "A Good Trick" is a conventional capture which has been edited for clarity and size, but is a more detailed account of the event. It is from Narza's point of view.
As the phase comes to a close, the Imperial Guard welcomes a new recruit and prepares to bait a trap for a thief.
It's "better late than never" as an ambassador arrives with a personal message for Prince Vek MacVahl from His Imperial Majesty, Anthemian the Just. In time-honored Kaezarian tradition, the meeting takes place at the gates of Malcomb Castle, in full view of the entire town and any irate members of the Wizard's Council who may feel like setting everyone on fire.
I can't comment on this one, except to note that − as always happens when a lot of players stand around in the same room with a lot of SPCs − there is a lot of extraneous activity in this document, which I have taken out where I could. Martaigne's player provided the source log, and it is from his character's point of view.
Agent 00-Trillian activates the Mind Eclipse in order to protect the Illusionist Collective while they execute Plans Solar and Nightwash... no, seriously.