The Longest Thread (Misadventures)

[xinoehp512 he/him]

17 hours ago, Hawks said:

"well.... he was here. Then everyone showed up. And now hes not. But I did put a failsafe."they hand over a tracker. "So hes wherever there is."

"Excellent! Off we are, then!"

Bacon teleported himself and Erryn to the location of the tracker.

17 hours ago, NameIess said:

"Excellent. If Sequence would allow me access, I can begin construction of the vault immediately."

@Sequence

"If you don't mind," Malevolence butted in. "I would like to accompany you on this adventure. This clone is a security risk that must be dealt with as quickly as possible. The vault plan will be useless with it running around."

Bacon decided that Malevolence would be more useful building the vault than gallivanting. He didn't really seem like a gallivanter.

15 hours ago, Sequence said:

 

Sequence clasped her hands together and smiled, clearly relieved.

”Okay! Wonderful. All have access to my world whenever they should want it, so long as they don’t have ill intent.”

Sequence waved her arms and the three of them were transported to the cabin atop the snowy peaks on Sequence’s World.

”I think it’s important that we all collaborate on this… Let’s start with location. Deep underground, perhaps? Under the ocean? We have options, and I can manipulate the terrain too, if needed.”

Bacon nodded and smiled.

12 hours ago, Hawks said:

"uh- well cause. Your a stubborn brat! Honestly you kept threatening people even when i was like telling you to NOT do that!" Erryin didnt have an actual reason to not like him. They just didn't. "I dont like anyone unless they prove that I can like them. Like two people here have. And thats Cep and bacon. And Sequence but shes the best."

"Thank you," said Bacon humbly.

[Keke They/he]

1 minute ago, xinoehp512 said:

Excellent! Off we are, then!"

Bacon teleported himself and Erryn to the location of the tracker.

great! Now its obv a place that is in NotBacons memory. So a planet that holds importance to them 

erryin looks around. 

its not letting me quote the last line but whatever

"that can change. According to info you can be an annoying slontze but Im not sure i trust said informers opinion."

[Through the Living Heir he/him]

On 8/28/2025 at 11:02 PM, Hawks said:

wait him and symbol were a thing? Add thar to the wiki. Its nice to knoe who relatuonshipping who

With the new info they had just gotten from their author erryin their face goes from anger to empathy. "Symbol.... I recognize the name. Who was she to you?"

On 8/28/2025 at 11:41 PM, Hawks said:

evaiya narrowed her eyes but the vines loosed a bit. "So you had a psrtner. Is she alive?"

@Dragonheir thisss

Rebus definitely has feelings for Symbol, and I think vice versa, but they’re not actually dating (they did dance at the party, and they’re running away together - though of course, it’s less for romantic reasons and more to get away from the Lady Bug). That much information 
“Symbol is my closest friend. I would burn the world if it meant we could be safe together.” Rebus meant every word, and said this with nearly no expression, as if it were an ordinary thing to say. “Some would say I already promised to do just that.” 
“She is. Lady Bug hurt her, though, damaged her memories and her powers.” 

On 8/28/2025 at 11:38 PM, ChipsAHoid said:

It slowly began to transform, writhing and screeching.

now I get betrayal pov

———

Betrayal stood watching. How could this monster still stand? Perhaps he was the one who needed to make a stand. He crept up behind Rebus. Time to put an end to all the nonsense. A few steps away, the floor became slick and he slipped. He glared at the sprite and crept back ever closer.

The sprite knows Rebus can see what’s behind him so she isn’t concerned. Betrayal has nooooo idea what he’s in for…

Rebus stood in parade rest, watching the Horror’s slow demise. Just as Betrayal came within reach, Rebus spoke softly. “Of all the Horrors, I know you the best. The others might be parts of me, but you are how I started. Subtle, sudden, bringing the downfall of those foolish enough to trust me.” Rebus turned around, smiling. “Do you think, Betrayal, that you can strike me down?” 

On 8/29/2025 at 12:18 AM, CoderDrag0n8 said:

You know your lore. Respect.

“I was called?” A man appears with a red sword that has a gilded trim. “Oh. My old power. I guess it is time.”

The man, God Killer, finally released his 3rd name. He knew he would continue to use it, but he could finally regain his second. If only he could regain his first…

God Killer stared down at this Dragon Fanatic and recognized his truth. He was the owner of this power. “You fools.” He said. “You were supposed to guard it, use it well. Instead you wasted it.”

You see the fighter and watcher disappear and their power slowly drain towards God Slayer. “Thank you for returning my power,” he says, moving to leave.

Rebus frowned. “You cast off this much power to those who would use it poorly, then you simply reclaim it and go on your way?” 

On 8/29/2025 at 2:46 AM, Sequence said:

Sequence listened quietly.

”… It isn’t worth it.” She said, voice soft. ”There’s… Other ways. And even if there isn’t…” Sequence shook her head, looking down at the floor. “Take it from me, of all people, you don’t want anything to do with the Witherlord.”

“Why do you say that, Sequence? The Witherlord represents destruction and corruption, yes, but that does not mean the bearer of the Mantle has to use it for only those purposes. Just as there can be Narrators who seek to destroy and control, and Ennullers who desire to upend the rule of law, Chaotic Darkness can be used for growth - assuming you take the proper precautions. Do you remember - was it X’s Avatar - and the self control he displayed?” Rebus smiled. “For what I want, and what the Thread needs, there really is no better option. But if you are intent on dissuading me - and likely resulting in Malevolence taking my place - what alternative would you suggest?” 

On 8/29/2025 at 7:47 AM, TwinStorm said:

Fael nodded. "You'd rather rule and die than remain. Interesting."

“Being forgotten and ignored is worse than death - I would rather have an impact and a chance to save myself on my own merits than to watch the Thread and myself sink into obscurity. And really, do you think I’d be fully dead even if they defeated me?” 

On 8/29/2025 at 8:22 AM, Kansas Stormcursed said:

Nice to finally know Rebus's motivations. Respect for how much work you put into this character.

"Well then." Cep sighs. "I suppose there is no stopping the inevitable then." With that, he disappears.

That you - though given that he’s existed for over a thousand pages, it was kinda inevitable. 
Rebus grinned. “You are exactly right.” 

On 8/29/2025 at 9:01 AM, Bird Furious said:

Symbol looked thoughtful. “If you think that’s best, I trust you.” 

“I’m down,” Keys chirped. 

Rebus smiled. “Good, then. This next portion might be dangerous - the interference could cause a fairly drastic shift in where we appear, so we might end up in the ocean. Though that’s survivable, we’ll still probably want something like a diving helmet.” 
If and when these were conjured or improvised, he continued. “The last thing you’ll want to remember is that once we get there, it’s important not to think too much until we find somewhere to stand. Consciousness and magic are similar, and will often interact.” 

On 8/29/2025 at 11:21 AM, Ashkaloda said:

Um, Taeidin is currently with Bacon and Malevolence and a whole bunch of people. This would probably work better as telepathy, or happening later. 

In a brief burst of Narration, Rebus brought his statement into the past, so Taeidin remembered it in the present. 

On 8/29/2025 at 12:11 PM, Hawks said:

Dragonheir

it disappeared from the room it and symbol were in

Rebus looked around, feeling that something had happened but not being sure what. Perhaps those ninjas were back, or had just left. 

18 hours ago, xinoehp512 said:

"No need. There's only one reason to want it, specifically."

“There are a number of people at least claiming they want it to protect it, and there is surely someone who would want to put it in a museum or collection of some sort.” Rebus smiled. “I, of course, have neither of these motives, but I did begin this quest because Fate requested it.” 

On 8/29/2025 at 9:49 AM, Ancient Elantrian said:

But exist long enough in the way you are... you will end... you will die... nothing lasts for the authors. You will never last.

Everyone dies eventually. I have no way to reach the real world, but if I exist here and have an impact, that will be the closest I can get. 

On 8/29/2025 at 6:45 PM, NameIess said:

"Is it?" Said the Priest, voice suddenly icy calm. "You are, without a doubt, one of the most despicable men I have ever met." The gathered throng roared in assent. "You deny life and love, you murder, steal, destroy with abandon. I will never stand by and allow these things to stand." He strode forwards, carrying, as always, the book of Happy Endings. "I give you this one chance, Rebus. Repent. Turn from your evil ways, abandon your cursed Plotblade, and end your tyranny."

Rebus did… something. His eyes grew less bright, the air around him dimmed, his posture changed slightly. Most importantly, his crown disappeared. The man who looked like Rebus dropped to the ground, and smiled. “Ok.” he said calmly. 

Edited August 31, 2025 by Dragonheir

[TwinStorm He/Him]

5 minutes ago, Dragonheir said:

Rebus definitely has feelings for Symbol, and I think vice versa, but they’re not actually dating (they did dance at the party, and they’re running away together - though of course, it’s less for romantic reasons and more to get away from the Lady Bug). That much information 
“Symbol is my closest friend. I would burn the world if it meant we could be safe together.” Rebus meant every word, and said this with nearly no expression, as if it were an ordinary thing to say. “Some would say I already promised to do just that.” 
“She is. Lady Bug hurt her, though, damaged her memories and her powers.” 

Rebus stood in parade rest, watching the Horror’s slow demise. Just as Betrayal came within reach, Rebus spoke softly. “Of all the Horrors, I know you the best. The others might be parts of me, but you are how I started. Subtle, sudden, bringing the downfall of those foolish enough to trust me.” Rebus turned around, smiling. “Do you think, Betrayal, that you can strike me down?” 

Rebus frowned. “You cast off this much power to those who would use it poorly, then you simply reclaim it and go on your way?” 

“Why do you say that, Sequence? The Witherlord represents destruction and corruption, yes, but that does not mean the bearer of the Mantle has to use it for only those purposes. Just as there can be Narrators who seek to destroy and control, and Ennullers who desire to upend the rule of law, Chaotic Darkness can be used for growth - assuming you take the proper precautions. Do you remember - was it X’s Avatar - and the self control he displayed?” Rebus smiled. “For what I want, and what the Thread needs, there really is no better option. But if you are intent on dissuading me - and likely resulting in Malevolence taking my place - what alternative would you suggest?” 

“Being forgotten and ignored is worse than death - I would rather have an impact and a chance to save myself on my own merits than to watch the Thread and myself sink into obscurity. And really, do you think I’d be fully dead even if they defeated me?” 

That you - though given that he’s existed for over a thousand pages, it was kinda inevitable. 
Rebus grinned. “You are exactly right.” 

Rebus smiled. “Good, then. This next portion might be dangerous - the interference could cause a fairly drastic shift in where we appear, so we might end up in the ocean. Though that’s survivable, we’ll still probably want something like a diving helmet.” 
If and when these were conjured or improvised, he continued. “The last thing you’ll want to remember is that once we get there, it’s important not to think too much until we find somewhere to stand. Consciousness and magic are similar, and will often interact.” 

In a brief burst of Narration, Rebus brought his statement into the past, so Taeidin remembered it in the present. 

Rebus looked around, feeling that something had happened but not being sure what. Perhaps those ninjas were back, or had just left. 

“There are a number of people at least claiming they want it to protect it, and there is surely someone who would want to put it in a museum or collection of some sort.” Rebus smiled. “I, of course, have neither of these motives, but I did begin this quest because Fate requested it.” 

Everyone dies eventually. I have no way to reach the real world, but if I exist here and have an impact, that will be the closest I can get. 

Rebus did… something. His eyes grew less bright, the air around him dimmed, his posture changed slightly. Most importantly, his crown disappeared. The man who looked like Rebus dropped to the ground, and smiled. “Ok.” he said calmly. 

Atreides smiled. Symbol. That was . . . interesting, to say the least. Leverage? It could work, but it could also bring down the full wrath of the Antagonist upon himself.

---

"No. It's strange, really. Why do they struggle? You've subjugated most of the Thread, and yet few are willing. They harbor resentment."

[Keke They/he]

2 minutes ago, Dragonheir said:

Symbol is my closest friend. I would burn the world if it meant we could be safe together.” Rebus meant every word, and said this with nearly no expression, as if it were an ordinary thing to say. “Some would say I already promised to do just that.” 
“She is. Lady Bug hurt her, though, damaged her memories and her powers.” 

"i understand." They said softly. "That feeling when you would kill everyone just to save one person."

3 minutes ago, Dragonheir said:

Rebus looked around, feeling that something had happened but not being sure what. Perhaps those ninjas were back, or had just left. 

Mwuahahha

[TwinStorm He/Him]

11 hours ago, Sequence said:

“Right! Of course…” Sequence waved her hand again, and the three were in a deep, underground chamber, deep beneath the mountains. It was hot, almost unbearably so. The walls were smooth, without a blemish or a crack, and it was dark. Sequence’s Narrationblade lit up enough to illuminate the chamber.

“… So.. What metal would that be? Hopefully you can provide it?”

1 hour ago, xinoehp512 said:

"Excellent! Off we are, then!"

Bacon teleported himself and Erryn to the location of the tracker.

Bacon decided that Malevolence would be more useful building the vault than gallivanting. He didn't really seem like a gallivanter.

Bacon nodded and smiled.

"Thank you," said Bacon humbly.

Cricket appeared, dressed in army fatigues. "A vault? I can help."

[Through the Living Elan He/Him]

43 minutes ago, Dragonheir said:

Everyone dies eventually. I have no way to reach the real world, but if I exist here and have an impact, that will be the closest I can get. 

But why not an impact for good—one that will truly last through the ages.

[CoderDrag0n8 He/They]

48 minutes ago, Dragonheir said:

Rebus frowned. “You cast off this much power to those who would use it poorly, then you simply reclaim it and go on your way?” 

God Killer turned around. "I am a Killer of Gods. As you can see, it has become my identity. So, when I ascended, I was... afraid. I had become the thing I wanted to destroy. I, and I see now hastily, gave it away to seek my truth. They were always temporary holders of The Dragon Fanatic, which holds the powers of an Avatar. These people had power. They squandered it, not me. I might have made a mistake giving it to them, but I was not the one who had to be shackled in order to prevent immense destruction." He paused, then turned to Rebus. "And don't think I don't know about you. One who wishes to summon a God. This Witherlord. One who wishes to become the god of this thread." He turned back around. "Dear Rebus, as long as you wish to be a god, you will find me on the other side of this battlefield." He paused. "I might not know your motivations, but your actions reek of godhood so." He starts to leave.

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

1 hour ago, CoderDrag0n8 said:

God Killer turned around. "I am a Killer of Gods. As you can see, it has become my identity. So, when I ascended, I was... afraid. I had become the thing I wanted to destroy. I, and I see now hastily, gave it away to seek my truth. They were always temporary holders of The Dragon Fanatic, which holds the powers of an Avatar. These people had power. They squandered it, not me. I might have made a mistake giving it to them, but I was not the one who had to be shackled in order to prevent immense destruction." He paused, then turned to Rebus. "And don't think I don't know about you. One who wishes to summon a God. This Witherlord. One who wishes to become the god of this thread." He turned back around. "Dear Rebus, as long as you wish to be a god, you will find me on the other side of this battlefield." He paused. "I might not know your motivations, but your actions reek of godhood so." He starts to leave.

Hey Coder have I talked to God Killer yet?

 

@Hawks can't quote it bc I'm on mobile and I don't wanna rely on the anti-doublepost bot.

Cep hugs Erryin back. "That memory," he says, "is one of fragments I hold. I am the one who holds the memories, but many are locked away. We all fear what we will find when we unlock them."

Edited August 31, 2025 by Kansas Stormcursed

[CoderDrag0n8 He/They]

15 minutes ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

Hey Coder have I talked to God Killer yet?

 

@Hawks can't quote it bc I'm on mobile and I don't wanna rely on the anti-doublepost bot.

Cep hugs Erryin back. "That memory," he says, "is one of fragments I hold. I am the one who holds the memories, but many are locked away. We all fear what we will find when we unlock them."

No, but he does know Rebus's intentions to summon the witherlord.

And he views the Witherlord as a sort of God.

[Keke They/he]

16 minutes ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

Hey Coder have I talked to God Killer yet?

 

@Hawks can't quote it bc I'm on mobile and I don't wanna rely on the anti-doublepost bot.

Cep hugs Erryin back. "That memory," he says, "is one of fragments I hold. I am the one who holds the memories, but many are locked away. We all fear what we will find when we unlock them."

they nod. "When you figure it out. Let me know" 

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

1 minute ago, Hawks said:

they nod. "When you figure it out. Let me know" 

"I will."

[Keke They/he]

Just now, Kansas Stormcursed said:

"I will."

they break the hug "thanks" they wipe their eyes. 

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

1 minute ago, Hawks said:

they break the hug "thanks" they wipe their eyes. 

Cep produces a tissue. "'Ere ya go."

[Keke They/he]

4 minutes ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

Cep produces a tissue. "'Ere ya go."

they dry their face and delete it. "Alrighty." 

*jeopardy music plays*

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

1 minute ago, Hawks said:

they dry their face and delete it. "Alrighty." 

*jeopardy music plays*

Why jeopardy music?

[Keke They/he]

1 minute ago, Kansas Stormcursed said:

Why jeopardy music?

Idk what to do now other then wait for @xinoehp512

[Kansas Stormcursed he/him]

2 minutes ago, Hawks said:

Idk what to do now other then wait for @xinoehp512

Alrighty then

[ThroughTheLivingSequence she/her/they/them]

2 hours ago, Dragonheir said:

“Why do you say that, Sequence? The Witherlord represents destruction and corruption, yes, but that does not mean the bearer of the Mantle has to use it for only those purposes. Just as there can be Narrators who seek to destroy and control, and Ennullers who desire to upend the rule of law, Chaotic Darkness can be used for growth - assuming you take the proper precautions. Do you remember - was it X’s Avatar - and the self control he displayed?” Rebus smiled. “For what I want, and what the Thread needs, there really is no better option. But if you are intent on dissuading me - and likely resulting in Malevolence taking my place - what alternative would you suggest?” 

“Any alternative,” She said, her voice raw. She leaned heavily on her cane again as she was overwhelmed by a particularly nasty fit of coughing.

”… Choosing… To try to undertake that mantle…” She said as the coughing died down. “Tells me that you don’t have that self-control. I’m sorry Rebus, but… I’m really not sorry. You can’t be allowed to have that paper.”

2 hours ago, TwinStorm said:

Cricket appeared, dressed in army fatigues. "A vault? I can help."

Sequence jumped at the sudden appearance. 

“Goodness! You scared me… Lovely to see you, Cricket! I believe we could use your help… It is a large project after all. Malevolence is currently building the outer structure. You can ask him what he needs.” She gestured to Malevolence. 

“Bacon and I are going to focus on the more magical protections, I suppose.”

[TwinStorm He/Him]

2 minutes ago, Sequence said:

“Any alternative,” She said, her voice raw. She leaned heavily on her cane again as she was overwhelmed by a particularly nasty fit of coughing.

”… Choosing… To try to undertake that mantle…” She said as the coughing died down. “Tells me that you don’t have that self-control. I’m sorry Rebus, but… I’m really not sorry. You can’t be allowed to have that paper.”

Sequence jumped at the sudden appearance. 

“Goodness! You scared me… Lovely to see you, Cricket! I believe we could use your help… It is a large project after all. Malevolence is currently building the outer structure. You can ask him what he needs.” She gestured to Malevolence. 

“Bacon and I are going to focus on the more magical protections, I suppose.”

Cricket nodded. "For the Page? I can help. I am an Enuller. I think . . . I have some ideas how to create Nullite."

[ThroughTheLivingSequence she/her/they/them]

1 hour ago, TwinStorm said:

Cricket nodded. "For the Page? I can help. I am an Enuller. I think . . . I have some ideas how to create Nullite."

Sequence stared at Cricket for a moment.

”… Enuller? Nullite? Uhh.. Congratulations! I think… I know I’m a Narrator and I really should know these things, but I don’t really know the full scope of Nullite’s properties, if I’m being honest… I know that it… Nullifies things, I think, so perhaps surrounding the vault in a layer could help?”

[echo74 she/her]

6 hours ago, SpiritOfWrath said:

There was a man, pale skin and black eyes. “Hello.”

There were tear stains on his face, and he looked slightly sick.

@Hawks

drins best friend

um

yeah

um

oop

Arra frowned at him. “Are you well?”

[xinoehp512 he/him]

6 hours ago, Hawks said:

great! Now its obv a place that is in NotBacons memory. So a planet that holds importance to them 

erryin looks around. 

its not letting me quote the last line but whatever

"that can change. According to info you can be an annoying slontze but Im not sure i trust said informers opinion."

"I'll keep that in mind," said Bacon, also looking around.

The setting seemed to be fairly traditional fantasy kingdom. A castle sat atop a large hill- almost a small mountain, really- surrounded by a dense and dark forest. Houses spilled forth beneath the castle, covering the mountainside with a vibrant tapestry of humanity.

The group stood atop an adjoining mountaintop, viewing the kingdom from afar.

"Hmm," remarked Bacon. "Interesting that I would come here, of all places."

5 hours ago, Dragonheir said:

Rebus definitely has feelings for Symbol, and I think vice versa, but they’re not actually dating (they did dance at the party, and they’re running away together - though of course, it’s less for romantic reasons and more to get away from the Lady Bug). That much information 
“Symbol is my closest friend. I would burn the world if it meant we could be safe together.” Rebus meant every word, and said this with nearly no expression, as if it were an ordinary thing to say. “Some would say I already promised to do just that.” 
“She is. Lady Bug hurt her, though, damaged her memories and her powers.” 

Rebus stood in parade rest, watching the Horror’s slow demise. Just as Betrayal came within reach, Rebus spoke softly. “Of all the Horrors, I know you the best. The others might be parts of me, but you are how I started. Subtle, sudden, bringing the downfall of those foolish enough to trust me.” Rebus turned around, smiling. “Do you think, Betrayal, that you can strike me down?” 

Rebus frowned. “You cast off this much power to those who would use it poorly, then you simply reclaim it and go on your way?” 

“Why do you say that, Sequence? The Witherlord represents destruction and corruption, yes, but that does not mean the bearer of the Mantle has to use it for only those purposes. Just as there can be Narrators who seek to destroy and control, and Ennullers who desire to upend the rule of law, Chaotic Darkness can be used for growth - assuming you take the proper precautions. Do you remember - was it X’s Avatar - and the self control he displayed?” Rebus smiled. “For what I want, and what the Thread needs, there really is no better option. But if you are intent on dissuading me - and likely resulting in Malevolence taking my place - what alternative would you suggest?” 

 

Bacon choked. "Uh... excuse me, what do you mean by self-control?"

5 hours ago, Dragonheir said:

 

“There are a number of people at least claiming they want it to protect it, and there is surely someone who would want to put it in a museum or collection of some sort.” Rebus smiled. “I, of course, have neither of these motives, but I did begin this quest because Fate requested it.” 

Bacon stared at Rebus for a long moment.

"You're serious?" he said. "Well, $#!*"

5 hours ago, TwinStorm said:

Cricket appeared, dressed in army fatigues. "A vault? I can help."

"Cricket!" exclaimed Bacon joyfully. "Long time, no see! How has it been?"

2 hours ago, Sequence said:

“Any alternative,” She said, her voice raw. She leaned heavily on her cane again as she was overwhelmed by a particularly nasty fit of coughing.

”… Choosing… To try to undertake that mantle…” She said as the coughing died down. “Tells me that you don’t have that self-control. I’m sorry Rebus, but… I’m really not sorry. You can’t be allowed to have that paper.”

Sequence jumped at the sudden appearance. 

“Goodness! You scared me… Lovely to see you, Cricket! I believe we could use your help… It is a large project after all. Malevolence is currently building the outer structure. You can ask him what he needs.” She gestured to Malevolence. 

“Bacon and I are going to focus on the more magical protections, I suppose.”

"I already have my protections all planned out!" exclaimed Bacon.

Edited August 31, 2025 by xinoehp512

[Keke They/he]

14 minutes ago, xinoehp512 said:

"I'll keep that in mind," said Bacon, also looking around. "Hmm. Interesting that I would come here, of all places."

The setting seemed to be fairly traditional fantasy. A castle sat atop a large hill- almost a small mountain, really- surrounded by a dense and dark forest.

"why? Whats here? It looks like we spawned into a stereotypical fantasy roleplay game..... ignore the irony of that statement." they said trying to not seen like they were admiring the view 

Edited August 31, 2025 by Hawks

[xinoehp512 he/him]

1 hour ago, Hawks said:

"why? Whats here? It looks like we spawned into a stereotypical fantasy roleplay game..... ignore the irony of that statement." they said trying to not seen like they were admiring the view 

"Well," mused Bacon, "I simply haven't been to this place in a very long time, is all." He stepped forward, waving his hand as he did so, and they moved. Suddenly, they stood amidst the clatter of cart-wheels on cobblestones and the shouts of merchants peddling their wares. 

"A very long time indeed," murmured Bacon, a curious expression on his face.