We were paranoid after learning about Imeon's "agent" arriving at Dubkov and performing some strange magic on Old Witherspoon.
So, we decided to board the ISK RALGR into LONG mode. Dipped out into the shores of the growing town, we took time to rest in open waters. We spent an extended night on watch before mulling about exactly what we should be doing next.
Ripley stood on the deck alone that eve, and was encountered by The Mysterious Masked Bird, an entity we are not so familiar with.
After being scared off by Xael, some scrying from Woodsworth Moure, and contemplating with the party: we determined that Ripley needed a night alone to meet with the bird directly.
Before we departed, we handled an accounting problem. Echur was called to the ship via Sending, and we discussed matters around Niles' base (leaving much out). We then turned in the cursed amulet.
Then, to Skaraysk! Arriving on the outskits to keep Milu Soma and Rye Soma from the grips of their huntress, we formed a flowery hideaway and rested for the eve.
Ripley got a chance to meet with the bird, and was given a message:
"Bring this to one who can speak. The language you use is inconvenient. I will speak in simple terms for your convenience if you need to translate this yourself.
You will die, as all things do, but don't yet. Death here is bad for you, don't do it.
Noki can not guide a stolen soul when the door is closed. You can help by learning to speak, give me more paper, the child's paper is bad and greasy.
If you do not understand, i can simplify further.
I will be following. Help me find Noki when the door next opens.
Can you leave?
~Croak"
It was handed to Captain Woodsworth, where he read it easily. It was in the language of divine spirits, Celestial.
We rested for the eve, and then wandered into the city center to begin searching for places that the "Royalty" of Servalian Council hang out...