The Khyshev Commune (kē-shĕv)

aka The Underwhisper, The Whisper Tunnels, City of Whispers

by Koragath via watabou + gimp

Most esteemed Lord Glom,
I have finally received an update from my agent in Khyshev. While it is not as much as I had hoped for, I am glad to know he is still alive. Attached to this message you shall find a rough map of the fabled Kynekin "City of Whispers." I have done my best to discern my agent's notes and I am both amazed and infuriated by what he reports. There is still much work to be done.
Aer door schaud,
S

— Letter from an Elven Spymaster

Report

For years we have been tracking on a small, well-funded, and loosely organized effort to steal our peoples' servants. Tales of rabble rousers and freedom fighters have become something of a folk legend among the working class. "Khyshev" they speak in reverent tones; like it's some kind of holy place.
According to the rumors, it is indeed a physical place, a location. Most of the information we've been able to extract thus far through a variety of methods points to a complex set of underground caves, though we are loathe to admit as of yet we're not entirely certain where (Yes, even with someone inside. More to follow on this).

Population & Demographics

Our information indicates there are approximately 150 dwellings in Khyshev occupied by an estimated 200-300 inhabitants. We believe they are predominantly Kynekin (more specifically the Mahnkii, Arjeev, and Vyrian species). They are believed to be largely transient as they are removed, in some cases forcibly from their Elven homes, indoctrinated into the Vath mindset, and relocated to remote locations of Gokrenxia. We also understand there are some number of Myndikin sympathizers there, though specifics have been lacking on this particular point as of yet.

Defenses

As far as we know, there is a small protective force of maybe 20 guards that is always on alert. Their weapons and equipment are antiquated, but cared for. They seem to be organized enough that we suspect someone close to Audrey, or perhaps Audrey herself, is either former military or city guard.
We are confident there are deadly traps in the numerous tunnels leading into the settlement meant to deter intruders. More critically, we assess with high confidence Khyshev's defenses are not solely physical. We now believe part of the reason we have had so much difficulty locating the seemingly mythical site is due to some sort of arcane influence. Some among our ranks believe Audrey and her organization may have somehow come into possession of verstin stones or spells, rituals or relics that cause the mind to become foggy and unable to focus clearly. If that is in fact the case, the permanent residents would require some form of suppression magic to allow them navigate the tunnels.

Organization: Government & Districts

We have reason to believe the leader of Khyshev is a human female who goes simply by the name of "Audrey". She is suspected to be originally from Rolighav, but little more is known. We know that she rules the city with an stern hand. Her laws dictate that everyone contributes to and benefits from the cause during their stay. For as long as you are present, you are expected to pull your weight. As long as you pull your weight, you share in whatever the community has.
It seems while there are not proper "districts" in Khyshev, there are several distinct areas designated for specific purposes. The center of this ringed community is divided between supplies and guard. The inner ring seems to be for permanent residents and trusted members of the cause.
On one side (Northeast in the drawing, though admittedly there were no marks for orientation), are medical facilities. The other (Southwest) side is used for temporary resident living space.

Guilds & Factions

While we have no direct evidence of the presence of Vath spies, it would only make sense for Shaf Yadursmaj to have agents in place, collecting and disseminating information. We do strongly believe Khyshev is connected with one or more external groups, but to date we have had little luck identifying them.

Industry & Trade

Khyshev seems to have a steady flow of supplies, even though they have no specific commodities to trade (unconfirmed). That said, it would make sense there is some value to be found in the trading of slaves (ours) and information. Inside the walls, we understand money has little value. The local economy is largely driven by favors and in-kind trading.
Some amongst our members have suggested approaching one or more of the Houses of the Stormbreak Dwarves, to assess if they are collecting taxes on the Khyshev operations. If not, they may be interested in assisting our search.

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