** Not a perfect log by any means. There are leading spaces and other issues.**You say 'Welcome home.'You curl your face into a sneer.The Foyer of Ardenwood Manor Imported walnut panels line the walls and every sound echoes off of the bare,forest-green marble floor. At the center of this small room, a glass vase filled with a willowy bundle of dead and dried flowers sits is displayed upona small table. The air smells of wood and leather, but also faintly of bothlife and decay. Oil lamps affixed to the walls cast a soft glow over thisentranceway, offering a sense of coziness to contrast with the grand staircase and golden chandelier visible to the south. A portrait hangs on theeastern wall, and an empty coat rack sits to the west of the entranceway. (White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Vizgrathol suddenly takes form from motes of gathering light.look allYou look north: Stained-glass windows showing ivy leaves surrounding a red-and-orange 'A'are set into doors of ornate wood and metal banding.You look south: A grand staircase and a golden chandelier grace a larger but dimmer room.You look east: Rich, walnut-wood panels cover the wall. A couple of oil lamps are lit besidea small portrait.You look west: Rich, walnut-wood panels cover the wall. A couple of oil lamps are lit besidea coat rack.You look up: The plaster ceiling is painted with vines and flowers.You look down: The floor is made of rich, forest-green marble. A thin layer of dust gathersin the corners.Vizgrathol peers around himself intently.Veldren suddenly takes form from motes of gathering light.Tristhana moves to step closer to Vizgrathol.Ansellus suddenly takes form from motes of gathering light.The Foyer of Ardenwood Manor Imported walnut panels line the walls and every sound echoes off of the bare,forest-green marble floor. At the center of this small room, a glass vase filled with a willowy bundle of dead and dried flowers sits is displayed upona small table. The air smells of wood and leather, but also faintly of bothlife and decay. Oil lamps affixed to the walls cast a soft glow over thisentranceway, offering a sense of coziness to contrast with the grand staircase and golden chandelier visible to the south. A portrait hangs on theeastern wall, and an empty coat rack sits to the west of the entranceway. (WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Umbrand says 'Hm.. this place.'Scyreth suddenly takes form from motes of gathering light.Veldren curses loudly.Ansellus shudders at the thought.You feel your grip return to normal.Veldren says to Vizgrathol 'Thoouught foor aa daamneed sseecoond 'eem taakeen yeer aarssee'Ansellus says 'Oh hells.'Scyreth snorts.Vizgrathol rubs a finger across the wall, frowning at the dust sticking to his finger.You say 'South is back to the street. I'd not advise it.'The Foyer of Ardenwood Manor Imported walnut panels line the walls and every sound echoes off of the bare,forest-green marble floor. At the center of this small room, a glass vase filled with a willowy bundle of dead and dried flowers sits is displayed upona small table. The air smells of wood and leather, but also faintly of bothlife and decay. Oil lamps affixed to the walls cast a soft glow over thisentranceway, offering a sense of coziness to contrast with the grand staircase and golden chandelier visible to the south. A portrait hangs on theeastern wall, and an empty coat rack sits to the west of the entranceway. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.In this oil painting, a man with curly, white hair and a sharp and bitter faceglares off to one side. The style of his garb seems quite old.A plaque beneath the painting reads:Dolphenburt Ardenwood VWho blessed us with many childrenAnd blessed them with greater wealthLeft us on the 27th of the Month of the Grand Struggle, in the year 946 (3rd Age)Umbrand says 'Let's all keep our heads together, won't we?'Veldren scans south.Veldren says to Vizgrathol 'Yeer knoow whaat sshiitee oouur paareentss diid?'Vizgrathol pauses, a thoughtful look on his face.Scyreth scans south.Veldren says to Vizgrathol 'Yeer reeckoon yeer coouuld doo iit toooo?'Umbrand says 'I don't know what's coming.. but I know each one of you still gets to make your own choices today, like any other. Don't forget that.'Vizgrathol says 'Burn the entire building down?'Scyreth says 'Burn building.'Veldren says 'OOr bloow thee baasstaard uup'Some unleavened bread appears before Umbrand.Umbrand gets some unleavened bread.Umbrand finishes eating some unleavened bread.Vizgrathol says 'Perhaps.'Scyreth says 'Eat all it.'Ansellus says to Umbrand 'Do you remember this Dolphenburt?'Vizgrathol scans north.Ansellus gestures to the painting half-heartedly.Vizgrathol scans south.Umbrand says 'Dolphen..what?'Veldren says to you 'OOii, Triisst, wheen 'eem coomee foor yeer, II geet yeer sstaaff, yeeh?'Vizgrathol says to Umbrand 'A descendent of yours.'You glare icily at him.Vizgrathol says 'Ancestor rather.'Veldren says to you 'Yeer aaiin't sstroong eenoouugh too wiieeld iit proopeer aanywaay'You snap your fingers.Umbrand is surrounded by a white aura.Zorellaia suddenly takes form from motes of gathering light.Vizgrathol says 'Third age.'Zorellaia is surrounded by a white aura.Scyreth glances at the portrait.Andreste suddenly takes form from motes of gathering light.Umbrand says 'Far before my time..'Veldren looks at Andreste.The slimy sheen slips away from Vizgrathol's flesh and armor.Veldren says to Andreste 'The hells yer been hidin' all these years'The Foyer of Ardenwood Manor Imported walnut panels line the walls and every sound echoes off of the bare,forest-green marble floor. At the center of this small room, a glass vase filled with a willowy bundle of dead and dried flowers sits is displayed upona small table. The air smells of wood and leather, but also faintly of bothlife and decay. Oil lamps affixed to the walls cast a soft glow over thisentranceway, offering a sense of coziness to contrast with the grand staircase and golden chandelier visible to the south. A portrait hangs on theeastern wall, and an empty coat rack sits to the west of the entranceway. Andreste the human is here.(White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.(Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Vizgrathol raises an eyebrow at Andreste's weird actions.Stained-glass windows showing ivy leaves surrounding a red-and-orange 'A'are set into doors of ornate wood and metal banding.Andreste says 'that shadow... right there.'Zorellaia's features sharpen, taking on a more intimidating shape.Zorellaia sits down and rests.Vizgrathol whispers to you 'Hmm...'Vizgrathol whispers to you 'You said south is out?'Zorellaia drinks water from a crude water skin made from the corpse of Zorellaia.Zorellaia puts a crude water skin made from the corpse of Zorellaia in a large saddle bag.You nod at Vizgrathol.Veldren says to you 'A more fittin' weapon'Umbrand frowns.Vizgrathol stops using a swirling black orb.Vizgrathol holds an iridescent orb in his hands.Vizgrathol brandishes an iridescent orb.You look north: Stained-glass windows showing ivy leaves surrounding a red-and-orange 'A'are set into doors of ornate wood and metal banding.You look south: A grand staircase and a golden chandelier grace a larger but dimmer room.You look east: Rich, walnut-wood panels cover the wall. A couple of oil lamps are lit besidea small portrait.You look west: Rich, walnut-wood panels cover the wall. A couple of oil lamps are lit besidea coat rack.You look up: The plaster ceiling is painted with vines and flowers.You look down: The floor is made of rich, forest-green marble. A thin layer of dust gathersin the corners.Scyreth utters the words, 'sagg eaaf'.Scyreth utters the words, 'ghaiz gtui'.Vizgrathol stops using an iridescent orb.Vizgrathol holds a swirling black orb in his hands.Scyreth utters the words, 'yrl'.Scyreth's feet rise off the ground.Ansellus glares around himself.Vizgrathol scans north.Ansellus looks at Vizgrathol.You whisper to Vizgrathol 'Maybe not.'The sweet sound of children's laughter echoes through the manor.Vizgrathol leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.Ardenwood Hall This grand room is clearly designed to be an opulent showcase to awe visitors,but the years have dulled its luster. Worn, blue-and-gold rugs that lay uponthe marble floor dampen sound. Dual staircases, crafted entirely from richwalnut wood, lead up to a platform on the second floor, which appears toextend further to the south. Above, an ornate chandelier hangs unlit from theceiling, capable of holding over three-dozen candles. The scent of old foodwafts in from the east. A large portrait of a jolly-looking man hangs on thesouthern wall between the two staircases, clearly the focus of the room. up](Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.l portraitIn this oil painting, a man with curly, white hair and a bulbous red nosestares blankly outward. His clothes seem too large for him.A plaque beneath the painting reads:Archduke Dolphenburt Umbrand Ardenwood IVHe who blessed us with our Fortune And built for us this HomeLeft us on the 4th of the Month of Futility, in the year 95 (3rd Age)Vizgrathol says 'Nothing ventured, nothing gained.'Veldren has arrived.Vizgrathol scans west.Scyreth has arrived.look allYou look north: A cozy foyer lies beyond a simple doorway.You look south: Ornate dual staircases lead up to a platform on the second floor. Betweenthem, a large portrait of a jolly-looking man hangs.You look east: A doorway leads into a formal dining room.You look west: Rich, walnut-wood panels cover the wall. A couple of oil lamps are litbeside a closed door, letting off a faintly rancid odor.The door is closed.You look up: The white plaster ceiling is covered with flaking paintings of vines andflowers around tree branches. The staircase leads up to a second floor.You look down: The floor is made of rich, forest-green marble. A thin layer of dust gathersin the corners.Ansellus has arrived.Vizgrathol scans up.Vizgrathol scans east.Veldren joins Vizgrathol's group.Vizgrathol leaves up.Veldren leaves up.You follow Vizgrathol up.At the Top of a Grand Staircase The staircase terminates on an awkward platform that overlooks the grand hallbelow. A massive chandelier hangs from the ceiling, with parts of it quiteclose to the railing. Two smaller hallways lead off to the east and west, eachending after just a few feet. To the south, a threadbare runner with floralpatterns leads down a dark hallway. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Vizgrathol scans south.l chandelierAntlers of some great beast curl upwards, supporting wide, metal rings studdedwith candle holders, most of which are empty. Below the antlers is a tier ofgilded material designed to look like ivy. The entire structure is secured tothe ceiling with a thick, iron chain.Scyreth has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves down.You follow Vizgrathol down.Ardenwood Hall This grand room is clearly designed to be an opulent showcase to awe visitors,but the years have dulled its luster. Worn, blue-and-gold rugs that lay uponthe marble floor dampen sound. Dual staircases, crafted entirely from richwalnut wood, lead up to a platform on the second floor, which appears toextend further to the south. Above, an ornate chandelier hangs unlit from theceiling, capable of holding over three-dozen candles. The scent of old foodwafts in from the east. A large portrait of a jolly-looking man hangs on thesouthern wall between the two staircases, clearly the focus of the room. up](Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Ansellus leaves east.Vizgrathol scans east.Vizgrathol leaves east.Veldren leaves east.You follow Vizgrathol east.A Formal Dining Room The fragrant ghosts of meals long past linger in the air above an ornatedining table crafted from expensive wood. Gouges cover the table's surface,appearing more the work of some animal or child over months or years than theaftermath of some singularly violent event. On the table, several silverplates frame rock-hard bread crusts and chicken bones cleaned of any meat.Elegant, forest-green wallpaper has begun to peel away from the walls inplaces. A simple chandelier dangles over the table. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Vizgrathol says 'Mold...'l chandelierYou do not see that here.Scyreth has arrived.You say 'I think...'Ansellus leaves west.Vizgrathol says 'Water damage, in a building this new?'You say 'I think that Erithan cooked for us in here.'Scyreth joins Vizgrathol's group.A Formal Dining Room The fragrant ghosts of meals long past linger in the air above an ornatedining table crafted from expensive wood. Gouges cover the table's surface,appearing more the work of some animal or child over months or years than theaftermath of some singularly violent event. On the table, several silverplates frame rock-hard bread crusts and chicken bones cleaned of any meat.Elegant, forest-green wallpaper has begun to peel away from the walls inplaces. A simple chandelier dangles over the table. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren nods.Vizgrathol says 'Erithan...'Vizgrathol leaves west.Scyreth leaves west.You follow Vizgrathol west.Ardenwood Hall This grand room is clearly designed to be an opulent showcase to awe visitors,but the years have dulled its luster. Worn, blue-and-gold rugs that lay uponthe marble floor dampen sound. Dual staircases, crafted entirely from richwalnut wood, lead up to a platform on the second floor, which appears toextend further to the south. Above, an ornate chandelier hangs unlit from theceiling, capable of holding over three-dozen candles. The scent of old foodwafts in from the east. A large portrait of a jolly-looking man hangs on thesouthern wall between the two staircases, clearly the focus of the room. up](Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves up.Veldren leaves up.You follow Vizgrathol up.At the Top of a Grand Staircase The staircase terminates on an awkward platform that overlooks the grand hallbelow. A massive chandelier hangs from the ceiling, with parts of it quiteclose to the railing. Two smaller hallways lead off to the east and west, eachending after just a few feet. To the south, a threadbare runner with floralpatterns leads down a dark hallway. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.You feel your grip return to normal.Vizgrathol scans south.Scyreth utters the words, 'ghaiz gtui'.Scyreth's skin turns to stone.Veldren says 'The Butcher would always lay out the table'Vizgrathol leaves south.Scyreth leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Vizgrathol scans west.Veldren drinks beer from a cold mug of beer.Veldren drinks beer from a cold mug of beer.Ansellus has arrived.Veldren gets a wicked concoction.You say 'I recalled it, some time ago. Some food good, some... less good.'Vizgrathol says 'Fifth age.'The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. (White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren drinks peppermint schnapps from a wicked concoction.Veldren drinks peppermint schnapps from a wicked concoction.Vizgrathol scans west.Vizgrathol scans south.Vizgrathol leaves south.Veldren leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.The End of a Dark Hallway The carpet - although threadbare up the hallway - is downright plush here,showing a design of tangled leaves of pink and gold against a royal-bluebackground. The hallway is quite dark here, and there is little decorationaside from a rather severe portrait on the southern wall. A fringe of blackmold grows upon a doorway to the east. ]Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.l eastA door is covered in veins of black mold.Vizgrathol says 'More mold...'Vizgrathol leaves north.Scyreth leaves north.You follow Vizgrathol north.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.Veldren has arrived.Vizgrathol scans west.Ansellus has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves west.Veldren leaves west.You follow Vizgrathol west.The Cot-Lined Master Bedroom A grand, canopied bed that appears designed to be the centerpiece of a mastersuite has been stripped of its covers and soiled many times over. All aroundit, crude cots are arranged haphazardly, but close together. A motleyassortment of fabrics are strewn about, partially covering many of the cots,indicating they may have been used as sheets and blankets. Faint scents ofurine, child-sweat and dust mingle to form an odor at once nostalgic andrepulsive. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.Scyreth says 'Stink of old earth.'You say 'Oh no.'Tristhana barely manages to fight back the rising bile.Vizgrathol raises an eyebrow.Zorellaia says 'Just put down the paladins first'You say 'This place...'Zorellaia is surrounded by a white aura.Veldren drinks beer from a cold mug of beer.Zorellaia's features sharpen, taking on a more intimidating shape.Ansellus has arrived.l cotTwelve identical canvas cots are arranged closely about the bed, almost as though huddled together. The cots are fairly large and would be able to accommodate even an adult human with minimal discomfort. Some of the cots arecovered with scraps of valuable fabric scrounged from other places in themanor such as curtains and tablecloths. On one cot, there is a small,leatherbound book. On another, there is a colorful and fluffy minotaur toythat appears to be made from stitched-together parts of several differentdolls.Zorellaia sits down and rests.Vizgrathol says 'How queer.'Ansellus grumbles and growls. You wonder what's wrong...Vizgrathol says 'And disgusting.'You say 'We slept here...'Scyreth says to you 'What remember?'You say 'Ahrloire scratched at the floors... I stayed awake... Veldren cried.'Vizgrathol leaves east.Scyreth leaves east.You follow Vizgrathol east.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Veldren says to you 'Cuut yeer sshiitee'Tristhana balls her hands into fists.Scyreth utters the words, 'oculoinfra uizug'.Ansellus has arrived.Vizgrathol mutters something quietly to himself.Umbrand has arrived.Andreste has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves north.Veldren leaves north.You follow Vizgrathol north.At the Top of a Grand Staircase The staircase terminates on an awkward platform that overlooks the grand hallbelow. A massive chandelier hangs from the ceiling, with parts of it quiteclose to the railing. Two smaller hallways lead off to the east and west, eachending after just a few feet. To the south, a threadbare runner with floralpatterns leads down a dark hallway. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves south.Scyreth leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Andreste the human is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.(White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.Veldren has arrived.Vizgrathol says 'Andreste, can you pick any of these doors?'Andreste gets some bone lock picks from the girdle of endless space.Andreste holds some bone lock picks in his hands.Vizgrathol says 'South of us'Andreste says 'can try'Scyreth says 'Scyreth remember boy.'Vizgrathol leaves south.Veldren leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.The End of a Dark Hallway The carpet - although threadbare up the hallway - is downright plush here,showing a design of tangled leaves of pink and gold against a royal-bluebackground. The hallway is quite dark here, and there is little decorationaside from a rather severe portrait on the southern wall. A fringe of blackmold grows upon a doorway to the east. ]Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.Andreste has arrived.Umbrand has arrived.Andreste says 'I cannot'A warm breeze blows through the manor, carrying the sounds of children's laughter and clinkingplates.Vizgrathol says 'The kitchen.'Vizgrathol leaves north.Scyreth leaves north.You follow Vizgrathol north.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Ansellus leaves south.Vizgrathol leaves north.Veldren leaves north.You follow Vizgrathol north.At the Top of a Grand Staircase The staircase terminates on an awkward platform that overlooks the grand hallbelow. A massive chandelier hangs from the ceiling, with parts of it quiteclose to the railing. Two smaller hallways lead off to the east and west, eachending after just a few feet. To the south, a threadbare runner with floralpatterns leads down a dark hallway. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves down.Scyreth leaves down.You follow Vizgrathol down.Ardenwood Hall This grand room is clearly designed to be an opulent showcase to awe visitors,but the years have dulled its luster. Worn, blue-and-gold rugs that lay uponthe marble floor dampen sound. Dual staircases, crafted entirely from richwalnut wood, lead up to a platform on the second floor, which appears toextend further to the south. Above, an ornate chandelier hangs unlit from theceiling, capable of holding over three-dozen candles. The scent of old foodwafts in from the east. A large portrait of a jolly-looking man hangs on thesouthern wall between the two staircases, clearly the focus of the room. up]Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.A Formal Dining Room The fragrant ghosts of meals long past linger in the air above an ornatedining table crafted from expensive wood. Gouges cover the table's surface,appearing more the work of some animal or child over months or years than theaftermath of some singularly violent event. On the table, several silverplates frame rock-hard bread crusts and chicken bones cleaned of any meat.Elegant, forest-green wallpaper has begun to peel away from the walls inplaces. A simple chandelier dangles over the table. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.You nod.Umbrand has arrived.Ansellus has arrived.Scyreth says 'They ate all chicken!'Umbrand leaves west.You say to Scyreth 'Wouldn't you?'You smile happily.A Formal Dining Room The fragrant ghosts of meals long past linger in the air above an ornatedining table crafted from expensive wood. Gouges cover the table's surface,appearing more the work of some animal or child over months or years than theaftermath of some singularly violent event. On the table, several silverplates frame rock-hard bread crusts and chicken bones cleaned of any meat.Elegant, forest-green wallpaper has begun to peel away from the walls inplaces. A simple chandelier dangles over the table. (WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Scyreth the half-drow is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren says to Scyreth 'Waass eeaagleess, noot chiickeen'Scyreth gathers up the rock-hard crust shoving them in his maw.Andreste has arrived.Andreste sits down and thinks deeply.Umbrand has arrived.Andreste says 'these locks aren't made for my picks'Andreste stops using some bone lock picks.A Formal Dining Room The fragrant ghosts of meals long past linger in the air above an ornatedining table crafted from expensive wood. Gouges cover the table's surface,appearing more the work of some animal or child over months or years than theaftermath of some singularly violent event. On the table, several silverplates frame rock-hard bread crusts and chicken bones cleaned of any meat.Elegant, forest-green wallpaper has begun to peel away from the walls inplaces. A simple chandelier dangles over the table. (White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Andreste the human is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.Scyreth the half-drow is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Vizgrathol says 'See those gouges?'Umbrand says to you 'Taking notes, Tristhana?'Veldren says 'Weell, whaat aaree wee waaiitiin' foor?'l gougesEleven simple plates made of tarnished silver are strewn haphazardly about the tabletop. Upon most of them lie bits of near-petrified food. The table's surface is damaged, as though many meals were devoured here by many a carelessdiner. Aside from the gouges, dings and dents likely caused by dropped platesand misused silverware, some carvings have been left on one corner of thetable.Vizgrathol says 'He always was an angry child.'Thirteen children, mostly human, save for some half-elves and an arial, sit around the table,chatting loudly."Where's the food?" "Yeah, we're hungry!" "He's sooo slooow!" "You guys, be nice. We're lucky hecooks for us at all." "Shut up!"Vizgrathol gets some unleavened bread from a floating chest.Vizgrathol finishes eating some unleavened bread.One sullen adolescent quietly etches his corner of the table with a knife.A door opens and slams across the grand hall and two sets of footsteps approach. A lithe half-elfand a fat little human boy soon arrive, holding platters.Ansellus narrows his eyes dangerously."Finally!" "What'd you make this time, chef?" "This better be good." "Thanks, Erithan andDollerveim."Umbrand says 'He was troubled. But let's not speak ill of the parted.'Vizgrathol gets an oddly aromatic scroll from a floating chest.Erithan smiles and lifts the lids off of the large platter, revealing crude, eggy casseroles studdedwith ham and green vegetables.Andreste frowns.The chatter quiets and the children pounce.Scyreth covers his ears then spots the bread.The scene suddenly vanishes, leaving the table empty and the room lifeless once more.Vizgrathol blinks innocently at Scyreth.Veldren sips his beer slowly, watching closely.You say cautiously 'Looks like one of Erithan's better dishes.'Veldren finishes eating a side of deer venison.Ansellus drinks water from a metal canteen insulated in a wolf's pelt.Veldren drinks peppermint schnapps from a wicked concoction.Vizgrathol says 'Chef Erithan. My.'Andreste says 'My old friend.'Andreste sighs.Vizgrathol leaves west.Scyreth leaves west.You follow Vizgrathol west.Ardenwood Hall This grand room is clearly designed to be an opulent showcase to awe visitors,but the years have dulled its luster. Worn, blue-and-gold rugs that lay uponthe marble floor dampen sound. Dual staircases, crafted entirely from richwalnut wood, lead up to a platform on the second floor, which appears toextend further to the south. Above, an ornate chandelier hangs unlit from theceiling, capable of holding over three-dozen candles. The scent of old foodwafts in from the east. A large portrait of a jolly-looking man hangs on thesouthern wall between the two staircases, clearly the focus of the room. up]Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Invis) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Andreste has arrived.Vizgrathol turns translucent.Tristhana continues staring ahead, attempting to etch the scene into memory.Umbrand has arrived.Andreste scans north.Ansellus has arrived.Scyreth scans his surroundings.Vizgrathol sits down and thinks deeply.Veldren says to Vizgrathol 'Goot thaat sshiitee sstiinkss woorssee thaan thiiss plaacee'Vizgrathol says 'That door.'Vizgrathol says 'Reeks.'Ardenwood Hall This grand room is clearly designed to be an opulent showcase to awe visitors,but the years have dulled its luster. Worn, blue-and-gold rugs that lay uponthe marble floor dampen sound. Dual staircases, crafted entirely from richwalnut wood, lead up to a platform on the second floor, which appears toextend further to the south. Above, an ornate chandelier hangs unlit from theceiling, capable of holding over three-dozen candles. The scent of old foodwafts in from the east. A large portrait of a jolly-looking man hangs on thesouthern wall between the two staircases, clearly the focus of the room. up](White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Andreste the human is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.look westRich, walnut-wood panels cover the wall. A couple of oil lamps are litbeside a closed door, letting off a faintly rancid odor.The door is closed.Vizgrathol says 'It leads to the basement, I suspect.'Zorellaia's features sharpen, taking on a more intimidating shape.Vizgrathol gets a crude water skin made from the corpse of an exiled dark-elf priestess from afloating chest.Vizgrathol drinks water from a crude water skin made from the corpse of an exiled dark-elfpriestess.Vizgrathol puts a crude water skin made from the corpse of an exiled dark-elf priestess in afloating chest.Scyreth sits down and thinks deeply.A warm breeze blows through the manor, and the sounds of children playing echo from the grand hall.Vizgrathol says 'I think we'll learn much if we can get inside.'Vizgrathol scans north.Several children run through the hall, running up and down the staircases, hiding behind them, and darting to and fro."You can't get me!" "Haha, Dollerveim can't get anyone 'cause he's full'a chocolate!" "You won't be laughing when I tag you!"Scyreth snorts."Well, I'm not gonna cry like Nastrella does." "Haha, that's messed up, Vrimold!"Veldren lets out a drunken laugh.The children dash back and forth, and finally, Dollerveim lands a tag on Vrimold.Seeing the humorous events before him, Umbrand chortles loudly.Scyreth says 'Nastrella!'"I let you do it." "Liar. No tag-backs!" "It'd be too easy anyway. You run like a girl and have the#### to match." "Shut up, Vrimold." Tristhana smiles happily.Vizgrathol says 'Ah, poor Nastrella. Never grew into the image of ferocity I had hoped she would.'"Shut up? Why is a little girly bitch telling me to shut up?" "Stop it, Vrimold. I'll tellErithan."Andreste snickers softly.Vrimold shoves Dollerveim to the ground. You say 'Oh...'"Go ahead and tell Erithan. Next time I go digging through the trash so you can stuff your fatface, I'll be sure to find you a bra."Tears well in Dollerveim's eyes as the other children silently turn their heads away in fear andshame.The scene suddenly vanishes, leaving the grand hall quiet and lifeless once more.Scyreth snorts.Veldren chuckles once more.Andreste scans east.Umbrand frowns.You say 'Brother...'Veldren says 'Gooood too sseeee thee Buutcheer aand Waar Miisstreessss aagaaiin'Umbrand is surrounded by a white aura.Veldren says 'Waass aalmoosst aa ssiign oof thiingss too coomee'Veldren drinks beer from a cold mug of beer.Veldren drinks beer from a cold mug of beer.Andreste leaves east.Scyreth scans east.Umbrand scans his surroundings.Vizgrathol scans east.Andreste has arrived.Vizgrathol scans south.Vizgrathol leaves up.Veldren leaves up.You follow Vizgrathol up.At the Top of a Grand Staircase The staircase terminates on an awkward platform that overlooks the grand hallbelow. A massive chandelier hangs from the ceiling, with parts of it quiteclose to the railing. Two smaller hallways lead off to the east and west, eachending after just a few feet. To the south, a threadbare runner with floralpatterns leads down a dark hallway. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.Andreste has arrived.Umbrand has arrived.Umbrand leaves south.Tristhana sighs and reaches to her where her eyebrows once were, clearly agitated.Ansellus has arrived.Veldren says to you 'Whaat'ss wroong, Triisst?'Vizgrathol gets a golden key engraved with an elaborate "A".Vizgrathol leaves south.Scyreth leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves west.Veldren leaves west.You follow Vizgrathol west.The Cot-Lined Master Bedroom A grand, canopied bed that appears designed to be the centerpiece of a mastersuite has been stripped of its covers and soiled many times over. All aroundit, crude cots are arranged haphazardly, but close together. A motleyassortment of fabrics are strewn about, partially covering many of the cots,indicating they may have been used as sheets and blankets. Faint scents ofurine, child-sweat and dust mingle to form an odor at once nostalgic andrepulsive. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Scyreth has arrived.You no longer feel in control of your translucence.Vizgrathol leaves east.Scyreth leaves east.You follow Vizgrathol east.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Andreste the human is here.Veldren has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves south.Veldren leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.The End of a Dark Hallway The carpet - although threadbare up the hallway - is downright plush here,showing a design of tangled leaves of pink and gold against a royal-bluebackground. The hallway is quite dark here, and there is little decorationaside from a rather severe portrait on the southern wall. A fringe of blackmold grows upon a doorway to the east. ]Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.Scyreth has arrived.Veldren says to you 'Yeer diidn't doo sshiitee theen, why yeer piisssseed noow?'Zorellaia is surrounded by a white aura.Vizgrathol unlocks the door.The door creaks loudly as Vizgrathol opens it.Vizgrathol scans east.Scyreth nods.You turn translucent.Scyreth scans east.Vizgrathol mutters something quietly to himself.Umbrand has arrived.Zorellaia scans east.Scyreth utters the words, 'sagg eaaf'.Vizgrathol gesticulates gracefully, forming a weave of the elements.Scyreth scans east.Umbrand leaves east. A sneer crosses the face of Zorellaia as her eyes flicker with a golden glow.You scan east.***** EAST: *****(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Vizgrathol says 'Into the breach.'Vizgrathol scans east. Vizgrathol leaves east.Scyreth leaves east.You follow Vizgrathol east.A Moldy Bedroom that Smells of Death Mounds of fuzzy, black mold coat every wall and hang in sheets from theceiling, thickening the air with moisture and spores. The centerpiece of thisfungal feast is a badly infested bed with a skeleton lying in its center. Thestench is absolutely primal, a perfume of alien life and oozing death. Someletters and a dry cup rest upon a nightstand by the bed. A rotten dresserslouched off to the side of the room, topped with a mirror fogged withmoisture and spores. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Veldren has arrived.Scyreth sniffs at the air curiously.Scyreth drinks water from a crude water skin made from the corpse of Lonfedric.Zorellaia's features sharpen, taking on a more intimidating shape.Ansellus has arrived.Tristhana coughs loudly and shields her mouth with her hand. lA Moldy Bedroom that Smells of Death Mounds of fuzzy, black mold coat every wall and hang in sheets from theceiling, thickening the air with moisture and spores. The centerpiece of thisfungal feast is a badly infested bed with a skeleton lying in its center. Thestench is absolutely primal, a perfume of alien life and oozing death. Someletters and a dry cup rest upon a nightstand by the bed. A rotten dresserslouched off to the side of the room, topped with a mirror fogged withmoisture and spores. (WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.(White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.l moldYou do not see that here. l bedThe skeleton is mostly intact, except that its bones are cracked where blackmold has slurped the marrow. The bones are loosely sheathed in a modestnightgown of a style that a wealthy old widow might favor. Beneath theskeleton, mold spreads across the expensive, floral bedspread where itfollowed rivers of necrotic fluids off the edges of the bed, like the blackwings of some deity of rot. l skeletonVizgrathol says '...Odd.'The skeleton is mostly intact, except that its bones are cracked where blackmold has slurped the marrow. The bones are loosely sheathed in a modestnightgown of a style that a wealthy old widow might favor. Beneath theskeleton, mold spreads across the expensive, floral bedspread where itfollowed rivers of necrotic fluids off the edges of the bed, like the blackwings of some deity of rot. Scyreth says 'Smell like home.' l dresserYou do not see that here.l mirrorYou do not see that here.Vizgrathol says 'One of these things is not like the other.'Scyreth utters the words, 'ghaiz gtui'.Scyreth's skin turns to stone.Umbrand says to Scyreth 'I am truly sorry if that's true, Scyreth.'Andreste has arrived.Vizgrathol says to Umbrand 'Thoughts?'Umbrand says 'I.. I just don't know.'Scyreth says 'Letter'lA Moldy Bedroom that Smells of Death Mounds of fuzzy, black mold coat every wall and hang in sheets from theceiling, thickening the air with moisture and spores. The centerpiece of thisfungal feast is a badly infested bed with a skeleton lying in its center. Thestench is absolutely primal, a perfume of alien life and oozing death. Someletters and a dry cup rest upon a nightstand by the bed. A rotten dresserslouched off to the side of the room, topped with a mirror fogged withmoisture and spores. Andreste the human is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.(White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.l letterMost of the letters are ruined, save one. Moist and moldy around the edges,it reads: Dear Nelcidra,I am sorry to inform you that your funds are depleted. I am not required tooffer you advice, but given our longstanding business relationship, I feelcompelled to ensure you understand that unless you are able to secure fundingor, alternatively, tax forgiveness from the Empress herself, I am afraid youwill be subject to eviction and perhaps jailing when taxes come due.Using the last of your funds, we have paid your current bill, keeping a roofover your head. This also gives you some time to liquidate some of yourassets and find some other means of income before your situation goes fromdire to, well, abject poverty and loss of all family assets.I have done you a kindness, as well. Using a loophole in the law, I havedelayed any possibility that your property would be seized. This is not anindefinite delay, however. If you fail to pay your taxes next year, you haveat most five to seven years, depending on politics and how quickly thebureaucracy decides to move. I implore you to alert your grandchildren, aspainful as it may be for you. You deserve to live out your days in comfort,and I believe that while they may initially be angry, they will come to be gladyou contacted them and protected their interests.We wish you the best,Englefirth FamstockYour Trusted Wealth AdvisorBank of Seantryn ModanVizgrathol nods at Scyreth.Andreste concentrates for a moment, then resumes his position.Scyreth finishes eating a handful of mountain berries.Umbrand says 'Nelcidra?'Scyreth gets a handful of nuts from a cured hide sack made from the corpse of a shikra.Scyreth finishes eating a handful of nuts.Scyreth sits down and thinks deeply.A warm breeze blows through the manor, and the sounds of children talking echo from the hallwayupstairs.Vizgrathol leaves west.Veldren leaves west.You follow Vizgrathol west.The End of a Dark Hallway The carpet - although threadbare up the hallway - is downright plush here,showing a design of tangled leaves of pink and gold against a royal-bluebackground. The hallway is quite dark here, and there is little decorationaside from a rather severe portrait on the southern wall. A fringe of blackmold grows upon a doorway to the east. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves north.Scyreth leaves north.You follow Vizgrathol north.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Your vision blurs for a moment before refocusing with greater clarity.Ansellus has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves north.Veldren leaves north.You follow Vizgrathol north.At the Top of a Grand Staircase The staircase terminates on an awkward platform that overlooks the grand hallbelow. A massive chandelier hangs from the ceiling, with parts of it quiteclose to the railing. Two smaller hallways lead off to the east and west, eachending after just a few feet. To the south, a threadbare runner with floralpatterns leads down a dark hallway. Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.Umbrand has arrived.Ansellus has arrived.Vizgrathol leaves south.Scyreth leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.The Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. (Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Veldren has arrived.Umbrand has arrived.Ansellus has arrived.l allYou look north: The hallway continues into a lighter room that overlooks a chandelier.You look south: The hallway continues, appearing to end before long.You look east: Rich, walnut-wood panels cover the bottom half of the wall. Forest-green wallpaper covers the top half, though it blisters and peels away in places,revealing black mold. A large portrait is affixed here.You look west: A large doorway offers entry into a large but cluttered bedroom.bedroom doorYou look up: The plaster ceiling is painted with vines and flowers, but it is lightlytinged with what appears to be black powder.You look down: The floor is made of rich, forest-green marble. A thin layer of dust gathersin the corners.Scyreth scans his surroundings.l powderYou do not see that here.lThe Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. Andreste the human is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.(White Aura) A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Vizgrathol scans north.Vizgrathol scans south.Umbrand is surrounded by a white aura.Erithan stands before a portrait of a kindly man, lecturing four younger children.Andreste leaves north.Andreste has arrived.Scyreth runs a dirty hand on the portrait."You need to keep the story straight or this all goes away and we'll end up in some orphanage, or maybe with some awful family."The younger children nod."Now, who are your parents?"Andreste leaves north."Umbrand Ardenwood watches us, m'lord," they answer in unison.Vizgrathol says 'I see.'Vizgrathol says 'A tax scheme.'Erithan deepens his voice and furrows his eyebrows. "Ardenwood. I know the name. Where do you live?"Scyreth snorts.Vizgrathol grins at Umbrand mischievously."Ardenwood Manor, m'lord."frownWhat's bothering you?"Funny," Erithan says. "You don't look related."Zorellaia is surrounded by a white aura."We're adopted, m'lord. The Ardenwoods are kind and generous to care for us."Veldren begins to drink more heavily, his mood darkening. "Why are you digging through the trash behind the markets?"Veldren drinks peppermint schnapps from a wicked concoction.Veldren drinks peppermint schnapps from a wicked concoction.Umbrand says 'I..what? No.. that doesn't make any sense.'Veldren drinks peppermint schnapps from a wicked concoction."On a dare, m'lord. We're looking for buried treasure."Veldren drinks peppermint schnapps from a wicked concoction."I see. Well, run along, and I'd better not see you after dark, or it's off to the dungeons withyou!"Vizgrathol says 'They dug for trash to eat because the family was too poor to feed them.'Erithan cracks a smile and the children laugh. "Well done."Vizgrathol says '...Because the Ardenwoods were bankrupt.'"Umbrand looks really nice," one little girl says.Vizgrathol gets some unleavened bread from a floating chest.Ansellus frowns."I'm sure he was. In a way, you're not really even lying. He really does watch us from here. Ithink he would have taken us in."Vizgrathol finishes eating some unleavened bread.You whisper 'Well I was right. This place was wretched.'"I wish he was real."Scyreth slowly floats to the ground.Veldren curses loudly."I think we all do, Tissie."Vizgrathol nods sagely at Umbrand.flinchYou flinch in obvious pain.Ansellus raises an eyebrow at Umbrand's weird actions.Scyreth snorts.Zorellaia's features sharpen, taking on a more intimidating shape.Umbrand swallows deeply, eyes dipping to the floor for a moment.The scene suddenly vanishes, leaving the hallway quiet and lifeless once more.Scyreth says 'Tissie!'Veldren says to Umbrand 'SSoo iit bloooody truuee theen'You say 'Tissie?!'Zorellaia sits down and rests.Scyreth snorts.Zorellaia yawns.Zorellaia goes to sleep.Veldren says to Umbrand 'Yeer aarssee reeaally iiss aa daamneed dreeaam?'Scyreth glares at Umbrand.Zorellaia wakes and stands up.Scyreth says to Umbrand 'You!'Vizgrathol looks at Zorellaia.Vizgrathol says 'So it would seem.'Umbrand says to Veldren 'I'm here before you now, Veldren. I know that much is true. What was then..I don't know.'Vizgrathol says 'And yet...'Veldren says to Umbrand 'Yeer juusst ssoomee daamneed, taax-aavooiidiin' sscheemee?'Ansellus says 'And yet.'Tristhana blinks. Her expression changes to one of confusion and anger.Vizgrathol points at the portrait in the hall.Vizgrathol says to Umbrand 'The resemblance really is striking. A fifth age philanthropist, broughtto life.'Andreste concentrates for a moment, then resumes his position.Veldren says 'Waaiit, thaat ooveer 00 bloooody yeeaarss aagoo'Vizgrathol turns translucent.l portraitIn this oil painting, a fatherly looking man smiles warmly, his eyebrowsbushy and streaked with gray. He glows with understated nobility andrelaxed kindness.A plaque beneath the painting reads:Umbrand Excelsian Ardenwood IIWho blessed us with his kindnessAnd whose philanthropy blessed our family nameLeft us on the 26th of the Month of the Old Forces, in the year 25 (5th Age)Vizgrathol says to Veldren 'More than that. It is the sixth age currently.'Erithan appears in the doorway outside of the bedroom, looking in.Umbrand says 'I may be old, but.. 'Scyreth sniffs the portrait then Umbrand.Veldren says to Vizgrathol 'Quuiieet, Viizz, yeer knoow nuumbeerss aaiin't my thiing'Stepping toward Veldren, Vizgrathol bows deeply and flourishes his cloak behind him.Ansellus looks at Vizgrathol."We have a real home, here. A real family. It isn't perfect, but it's better than trying ourchances outside..."Vizgrathol says 'How fortunate I am here to help you with those tricky details.'You whisper 'Lies.'Scyreth glances at the doorway.Vizgrathol winks at Veldren.Umbrand says queitly 'He was the second of his name.. stands to reason there'd be others named after him, doesn't it?'"How long can this last?"Vizgrathol says to Umbrand 'And yet, the children never knew him to be true?'Scyreth says 'Manor of lies!'Erithan turns away and heads downstairs to wash dishes as the rest of the children sleep.The door creaks loudly as Vizgrathol opens it.Vizgrathol scans west.Scyreth scans west.lThe Southern Wing of Ardenwood Manor The threadbare runner that lines this hallway is in awful shape here, in frontof a doorway set into the western wall. To the north, however, it seems farmore fresh, as though little traffic continues past the doorway. The hallwayis musty and dark and no decorations are visible aside from a portrait of a smiling man that graces the eastern wall. A wicked looking mixed drink sits here.(White Aura) Zorellaia the dark-elf is here.Andreste the human is here.(WANTED) Ansellus the half-drow is here.A sense of gentle authority surrounds Umbrand's tall, easygoing frame.Veldren the half-drow is here.Scyreth the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.look wA large doorway offers entry into a large but cluttered bedroom.bedroom doorVizgrathol leaves south.Veldren leaves south.You follow Vizgrathol south.The End of a Dark Hallway The carpet - although threadbare up the hallway - is downright plush here,showing a design of tangled leaves of pink and gold against a royal-bluebackground. The hallway is quite dark here, and there is little decorationaside from a rather severe portrait on the southern wall. A fringe of blackmold grows upon a doorway to the east. ]Veldren the half-drow is here.(Translucent) (Slimy Sheen) Vizgrathol the half-drow is here.Scyreth has arrived.Vizgrathol unlocks the door.The door
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