[aboveground] Eolo says, "comparing star charts"

GameMaster says, "We did that."

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "Marquis was just here talking about the star book."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "the actors had arrived"

GameMaster says, "Right."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "and were meeting with the marquis, I think"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "I was wandering around checking stuff out, and not finding anything of interest."

Marquis has entered from behind the curtain.

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "No, that was that knight guy."

Marquis says, "Arr."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "you were wandering the grounds, I think"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Where's a good place for me to meet you?"

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "oops, right. the marquis was meeting the knight. so who was talking to the actors? the servant?"

Marquis says, "Also, you were failing to convince me to lend you the book and all that."

[aboveground] Maxwell says (to Jack), "I think you wander into the ballroom about now."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "The servant went to check on the actors, but came back. They're generally just getting ready."

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Pierre around?"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "we'd all left the ballroom, I think"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "and were in either the gallery or the libary"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "although I don't remember why we were led back to those places by pierre"

Marquis says, "In any case, I need to make sure everything is set for supper, I'll have a maid tell you when we are set."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "We just went back to check on stuff."

Marquis heads out

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "supper == lunch?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "yes."

GameMaster asks, "Anyway, what is everyone doing?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Actually, we'd all ended in the ballroom last session."

Cadiz surveys the room.

Maxwell motions Diego aside into a corner.

Cadiz says, "This talon is interesting..."

GameMaster says, "Right, everyone in ballroom, except for Jack, who was wandering."

DiegoValdez asks (of Maxwell), "...?"

DiegoValdez goes over to Max.

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "I think we were back in the artifact room."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Oh, wait--you're right."

GameMaster says, "You were in ballroom"

[aboveground] BastardJack checks his transcript, finds out he got disconnected before it ended.

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "eh?"

Maxwell asks (of Diego), "You said the Marquis' study was in the northwest wing upstairs -- which room was it?"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "I remember pierre leading us out"

Maxwell says, "[quietly]"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "it doesn't matter to me, of course"

Cadiz "You can see no such thing." >UNDO.

GameMaster asks, "Ok, what now?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Eolo), "That was the first time. We were back to check the stars."

DiegoValdez asks (of Max), "At the west end of the hallway. Why?"

GameMaster says (to BastardJack), "also, you can do stuff, remember"

Cadiz asks (of Jack), "Find anything outside?"

Eolo says, "well, we've done a far amount of exploring of the interior thus far"

[aboveground] Eolo says (to Cadiz), "oh, duh, right"

BastardJack wanders in. He seems to have taken the time to touch up his ruffles and wig.

Eolo says, "perhaps we should survey the grounds"

Eolo says, "and speaking of."

Maxwell says (to Diego), "Oh, just for future reference."

Eolo asks (of Jack), "you've been exploring the grounds, have you not? did you find anything of interest?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "heh ... flashback scene?"

BastardJack shakes his head. "Not a lot. The only other building of any size is the stables, but I didn't go in there."

Eolo says, "hmm, I wonder what kind of horse the marquis keeps"

Cadiz asks (of Jack), "You didn't happen to see a knight ride by, did you?"

DiegoValdez smiles. "Well ... the last time we saw a manor with stables...."

Eolo says, "but I can't imagine his stables are set up the same as on that island"

Eolo grins.

BastardJack cocks his head at Cadiz. "Nay."

Cadiz says, "Heh."

Maxwell says, "I think I need to check my wig and suit. I'll catch up with you all later."

Cadiz says (to Jack), "A Rosicrucian stopped by to talk with our host."

DiegoValdez glances at Max.

Eolo says, "are the guests expected to arrive for supper? I had not expected them until later"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Wait, did he leave, or is he staying for the party?"

DiegoValdez says (to Max), "Oh ... mind the floorboards."

Maxwell heads back to the gallery and upstairs.

BastardJack says (to Cadiz), "And isn't staying for supper? How rude of him."

Cadiz says (to eolo), "I don't think so, though we can ask Pierre."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "He left. We don't know if he's coming back for party."

Cadiz asks, "Well, would it be kosher to explore the rest of this building?"

DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "Speaking of etiquette, I must say ... I never expected to see you in courtly attire ...."

Cadiz says, "I must say I'm becoming more wary of the festivities tonight."

Cadiz says, "Being Castillian and all..."

Eolo says, "hmm"

BastardJack gives a crooked grin. "Ah, I been here and there. Had my ups and downs, an' all that."

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "Do as I do, m'sieur. When in Charouse...."

Eolo says, "well, I can't flatter and say you could pass for Vodacce"

DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "remind me to ask you about it sometime."

(From GameMaster) There's an odd <swirsh> noise from behind the actor's door to the north

DiegoValdez glances to the door.

Cadiz says, "I'm afraid even if I don the appropriate attire, my accent will give me away."

BastardJack says (to Diego), "Ask what you want - I'll answer what I want."

Cadiz frowns at the door.

Cadiz shrugs, and walks over to it.

Cadiz listens for a second.

BastardJack says (to Cadiz), "Pretend to be mute. It's worked for me in the past."

DiegoValdez raises a finger to his lips. (to Jack:) "later...."

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 2k2: 4 1 | 5

Cadiz, hearing nothing, knocks once on the door.

GameMaster says, "<nothing>"

DiegoValdez thinks back about what Mlle Lacroix used to tell him about Montaignais customs.

Cadiz attempts to open the door.

(From GameMaster) There's another two <swirsh> sounds

GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "It is locked."

Cadiz knocks again, louder this time.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "is there a stage?"

Cadiz asks, "Hey, is everything okay in there?"

Cadiz listens.

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 2k2: 1 4 | 5

[7thsea] Maxwell rolls 6k3: 10+6 7 3 3 1 5 | 28

GameMaster says, "Cadiz almost gets pushed over as the door opens"

[7thsea] DiegoValdez says, "If it's *Max* who emerges at the door........"

GameMaster says, "There's someone with some sort of white makeup on his face, and is bald, or at least that's how he's dressed to be..."

[7thsea] DiegoValdez says, "Er."

Eolo asks, "a ghost, eh?"

GameMaster says, "Striped red outfit."

GameMaster says, "He says, "Performance not until tonight. We are practicing. Please go away.""

Cadiz asks (of actor), "Renaldo?"

GameMaster says, "The actor shuts the door"

[7thsea] Jota asks, "Yes? If it's Max...?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Stock character? Harlequin? Punchinello?"

GameMaster says, "You hear a click"

Eolo shrugs.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Can we figure out what the play is going to be from the actor's costume?"

[aboveground] GameMaster asks, "you have acting skill right?"

Cadiz asks, "Any particular accent?"

[7thsea] DiegoValdez says, "Hah."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "I do."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "(also)"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Yes."

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Who's this Renaldo?"

GameMaster says, "It's fairly neutral accent, but probably someone from montaigne"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "ok, do a wits + acting"

Cadiz says (to Jack), "Renaldo's just a actor friend of mine."

[7thsea] DiegoValdez rolls 3k2: 4 3 10+3 | 17

BastardJack asks (of Cadiz), "Do you know he's in this company, or are ya jut hoping?"

Cadiz tries to place the swirshing sound.

Cadiz says (to Jack), "Just hoping."

Cadiz says, "I don't even know what company this is."

[7thsea] Maxwell rolls 3k3: 8 10+5 10+3 | 36

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "it looks like a character in a 'commedie'...this is in Montaignese fashion right now...3 actors who improvise stock character parts in comedic situations"

[aboveground] Cadiz exclaims (at Max), "Woo-hoo!"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "masks are sometimes used, usually depending on the troupe's inclination"

[aboveground] Cadiz rolls wits+acting to try to place the sound.

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 3k2: 1 9 10+7 | 26

DiegoValdez says, "Hm. Something tells me tonight's entertainment is aimed at laughter."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "some sort of magic effect"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "you aren't sure what"

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "magic effect?"

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Real magic, or a standard noise meant to indicate magic?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "such productions may also include special effects"

Cadiz relaxes.

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "it could be either"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "there are actors who can also practice real magic"

Cadiz frowns again.

[7thsea] Maxwell rolls 3k2: 3 3 7 | 10

Cadiz says, "Well, that sound was either a special effect, or someone's casting some sort of magic back there."

DiegoValdez asks (of Cadiz), "Come now, what seems to be the problem?"

Eolo shrugs.

Eolo says, "I hate to spoil the performance"

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "ah ... well, probably part of the act...."

(From GameMaster) Maid walks in

(From GameMaster) Maid says, "The food is ready."

DiegoValdez says (to Maid), "Merci...."

Cadiz says (to Maid), "Thank you."

BastardJack stops the maid and talks to her in a low tone.

Cadiz asks (of Maid), "Do you know when the guests are due to arrive?"

(From GameMaster) Maid walks back into foyer, alongside Cadiz

BastardJack asks (of Maid), "Who is in charge of the wine cellar? Pierre?"

[aboveground] (from Eolo) Jack says (to maid) "HEY THERE LADY"

[aboveground] Cadiz exclaims (at Eolo), "Yay!"

GameMaster says, "Scheduled to start having people at 4 hours, sir, although some will come later."

GameMaster says, "Pierre manages the wine, yes."

BastardJack nods, and grins. "Thank you, madame."

DiegoValdez reaches into his pocket to make sure that his lockpicks are there.

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Erk. Meant Mlle."

(From GameMaster) trudge trudge trudge

GameMaster says, "At dining hall again"

DiegoValdez says, "Ah, I could get used to this."

Marquis says, "Greetings."

GameMaster says, "Some sausage, fruit, and bread is laid out."

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "(best Montaignais accent) Bonjour, m'sieur le marquis."

BastardJack tugs at his ruffled collar. "Never liked the layers of pleats, myself - ah, good even, sir.

Marquis says (to Diego), "wits+acting"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "BTW, manor is http://www.drizzle.com/~dans/scratch/manor-map.html"

Eolo sits, and starts slicing his fruit and sausages, then eating them.

[7thsea] DiegoValdez rolls 3k2: 7 8 6 | 15

Marquis says, "Feel free to sit where you please...this room will be quite a bit more crowded pretty soon."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "although... given Diego's upbringing...?"

Eolo asks, "you're expecing the guests to arrive soon, then?"

Marquis says (to Diego), "Reasonable job on the accent, there, you'd fool everyone except myself with it."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Yeah, I was thinking the same thing--Diego probably is virtually bilingual."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Is there no door nw of the annex with the artifacts room and library? Or just a door we haven't been in yet."

Marquis says, "4 or 5 hours for the first."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "we haven't been there"

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "Well ... I *am* a Beauchamp on my mother's side."

Eolo asks, "so who are to be our table companions?"

Cadiz says, "I'm afraid my accent is not nearly so accurate. At least, not consistently."

Maxwell walks in, looking vaguely disappointed.

Marquis says (to Eolo), "Oh, we won't have it set like that."

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "also, I should update this map with the study. where is it again?"

BastardJack nudges Eolo. "We've not even said Grace yet, you buffoon!

Maxwell asks, "You weren't going to eat without me, I hope?"

Marquis says, "Platters for food, and chairs and smaller tables."

DiegoValdez says (to Max), "Ah, there you are. We were wondering where you went."

Cadiz asks, "Who is arriving?"

Marquis bites into an apple

Maxwell says (to Diego), "Just adjusting my outfit."

Maxwell sits down with the rest of the group.

Marquis says, "Hm, soom of my neighbors, as I mentioned, also a couple of my Eisen friends."

Eolo asks, "eisen?"

Marquis says, "A few enemies, even, but I have to follow common courtesy."

Maxwell raises one eyebrow.

DiegoValdez smiles.

Cadiz asks, "Hmm. Would it be a good idea for me to make myself scarce?"

Marquis says (to Eolo), "Yes, there's someone I know in a group visiting our province."

Eolo murmurs "first rule: keep your friends close and your enemies closer"

BastardJack says, "Hmm. Eisen's one place I've never been."

Eolo says (to Jack), "I wouldn't recommend it at the moment"

Marquis says (to Cadiz), "Do what you please."

Eolo says (to Jack), "although the schools are excellent"

Maxwell says between bites (to Jack), "You really ought to visit sometime."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Next time I build a character, I give it more than just two languages + Thean."

BastardJack looks from Eolo to Maxwell. "I'm getting mixed messages here."

Eolo says (to Jack), "he *is* a diplomat."

Marquis says, "Anyway, I don't know all three of them, but one is a Heinrich Studmayer, who I've known for quite some time."

BastardJack laughs.

[aboveground] Eolo says, "Studmayer? We'd better keep Giovanna away from him"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "My n... damn."

Marquis asks, "Oh, anything else of interesting in the library?"

[aboveground] Cadiz laughs.

Marquis asks, "Did you find the book I mentioned?"

Cadiz says (to Marquis), "Yes, we did."

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "It was quite entertaining."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "the Studmayer has an umlaut over the u but I can't type it"

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "Stuedmayer would be equivalent."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "studmeyer? I'd better keep my stew-pot away from him"

Marquis says, "In any case, it wasn't something I felt like recounting myself."

[aboveground] (from Cadiz) Giovanna says, "Studmayer? What a coincidence! I'm the studmaker!"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Also, her hubris is Arrogant, not Lecherous. (fondly remembering when we tried to talk her into taking "Lecherous"....)"

Marquis asks, "Have you met any of the actors?"

Cadiz says, "Just one, briefly."

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "very briefly."

Cadiz asks, "Is there supposed to be magic during the show?"

Eolo asks, "do you know what they're planning on performing?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "You could use Stu:dmayer for the accent."

Marquis says, "Well, one of them called it The Comedy of the Bear but he said it's different every time so the title is sort of nonsense, anyway."

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "Or Stu"dmayer. Three choices."

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "Ah, improvisational theatre. I've heard of it."

Cadiz asks (of Marquis), "Did they have any equipment with them, besides costumes?"

Marquis says, "Two large crates, I think, although Pierre would know better."

Cadiz nods.

Marquis says, "They are connected with one of my friends, which is why I requested them."

BastardJack recalls the time he met a bear. "I was hunting in..." He glances at the Marquis. "Uh, nevermind. 'Tis too long a tale."

Eolo asks, "old adventuring companions?"

Marquis says, "Well, I know him because of my explorer connections...he's one of the ones I talked with about getting the Explorer's Society in here."

Maxwell says (to Jack), "I once ran into a bear myself, during an Eisenvogel hunt..."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "A bear once bit my sister..."

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "*ding*"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "eisenvogel? heh"

DiegoValdez has disconnected.

DiegoValdez has connected.

Marquis munches

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "IDGI"

Cadiz asks, "So, he recommended the troupe?"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "vogel = bird, according to babelfish"

[aboveground] Marquis has joined the channel.

[aboveground] Maxwell exclaims (at Diego), "You missed it!"

Marquis says, "Yes, he spoke highly of it."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Arrgh, recap from when the Marquis talked about his explorer connections?"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "just that the troupe was recommended by an explorer friend"

Cadiz asks, "Recently?"

Giovanna has connected.

[aboveground] Eolo says (to Giovanna), "we're having lunch with the marquis"

Marquis says, "He has a couple times, he's only persuaded me until recently to try them."

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "Greetings! We're eating lunch with the Marquis."

Maxwell says, "Hmm, it seems connections to the Explorers' Society are exactly what we need now."

Marquis says (to Giovanna), "Ah, welcome, I was wondering when you would show up."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "we peeked at the acting trip, and they're doing a comedy"

Giovanna says (to Marquis), "Forgive me, I was not feeling quite myself."

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "aha"

[aboveground] Maxwell says (to Diego), "I used 'eisenvogel', that's all."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Improv comedy, no less."

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "We knew that already, by the way."

Cadiz says (to Marquis), "I have what might seem an odd request."

Marquis says, "Go ahead."

[aboveground] BastardJack just got it.

DiegoValdez thinks, "probably the effects of that ... talon."

Cadiz says (to Marquis), "If they ask for an 'audience volunteer', don't volunteer yourself."

Giovanna murmurs, "A touch of dizziness..."

Marquis asks, "What's an audience volunteer?"

Cadiz says, "A trope of improvisational comedy."

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "Oh? I love volunteering for these."

Marquis asks (of Giovanna), "Oh, dear...can I get you anything?"

Marquis says (to Cadiz), "Ah. Interesting."

Cadiz says, "They'll have someone from the audience come up to perform something with them."

Giovanna says (to Marquis), "Perhaps a glass of water."

Marquis says, "I have never heard of this practice."

Marquis says, "Hm, I think the maids are gone, I'll fetch it, one moment."

Marquis stands up and goes east

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "I'm assuming that I'm not being anachronistic here?"

Eolo asks (of Giovanna), "an apple, perhaps?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "actually, yeah, you are, but that's ok"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Probably, but... oh."

Giovanna says (to Eolo), "An excellent suggestion."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "it's not Real Life, remember? :-)"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "It's a new thing. Besides, this isn't Earth, so...."

Eolo puts an apple onto a plate, slices it efficiently, and slides the plate over.

Giovanna begins eating the apple thoughtfully.

Marquis returns with a glass of water

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "So when they're doing 'Improvisational comedy', they don't actually mean 'improv', right?"

DiegoValdez suddenly recalls an Eisen folktale involving an apple and a fair maiden ... but nahhh....

[aboveground] Eolo says, "well, they improvise themselves"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "I'd rather not give a full rundown on 17th century theatre, just wait and see"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Heh."

Eolo says (to Diego), "there's rather an older tale about an apple being transferred between a man and a woman, but I don't think it went this direction"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Well, some of us would already know ;-)"

Giovanna chokes, but recovers quickly.

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Sounds like an euphemism to me."

Marquis asks (of Giovanna), "There...anything else?"

Giovanna says (to Marquis), "No. Thank you very much."

Giovanna sips at the water.

Marquis sits down again

Cadiz says (to Marquis), "Would you mind if I took some of this food upstairs after the meal? I was going to give some of it to your cat."

Marquis asks (of Cadiz), "Hm?"

DiegoValdez glances at Cadiz. Cat?

Cadiz says, "I assume it was yours. White and orange, hanging out around my balcony this morning. Looked well-fed, so I assumed it wasn't a stray..."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "oho...."

Marquis says, "Hm..."

Marquis says, "I'll have to ask Pierre if he knows any of the servants who have a fondness for cats."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Cadizerella finds her way to the ball...."

[aboveground] Cadiz grins.

Marquis says, "Now, if you excuse me, I have some work to do..."

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "of course. You have been too kind."

Cadiz pockets a bit of sausage.

Eolo says, "I will perhaps explore the grounds a bit before the guests arrive."

Marquis says (to Giovanna), "And if you need anything else, ask Pierre, he'll know where to find me."

Giovanna says (to Marquis), "Thank you."

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Yes ... that sounds like the thing to do...."

Marquis heads east

Maxwell says (to Eolo), "Count me in."

Cadiz says, "Well, now I trust this troupe even less."

BastardJack says, "We should perhaps explore the rest of the house as well - discretely, of course."

Eolo asks (of Cadiz), "eh?"

DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "There IS that fourth room off the annex ... and we have 4 hours...."

Cadiz asks, "Does anyone else think that his explorer-connected friend may be behind both Umberto and this troupe?"

Eolo says, "there are several possible theories"

Eolo says, "that's certainly one of them"

Cadiz nods.

Eolo says, "another, of course, is that Umberto is not actually affiliated with the explorer's guild"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Is the passage across from the ballroom a dead end?"

DiegoValdez laughs. "Well, if *Brother Cadiz* distrusts the troupe, what are the rest of us supposed to think?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says (to BastardJack), "you haven't looked yet"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "it's not"

Cadiz looks abashed, but grins.

[aboveground] Eolo says, "er, I mean, that's as far as we've glanced down it"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Ok. Cause there's no +, which I assume is a door..."

Cadiz says (to Eolo), "Not with the explorer's guild directly, but with the friend with explorer connections."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "yeah, sorry, it's kind of unclear"

Giovanna asks, "Has there been any more word about the talon?"

Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "Not that I've heard."

Cadiz asks (of Giovanna), "Why, what happened?"

Eolo asks (of Cadiz), "was that story about the cat true?"

Giovanna is still haunted by her experience.

Cadiz says (to Eolo), "There is a cat around the manor, yes."

BastardJack says, "I'd like to get a look inside those other cases..."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez exclaims (at Cadiz), "Heh!"

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "Really? I haven't seen sign of it."

Maxwell says (to Jack), "Why? I'm not sure what Syrne artifacts or whatever they are have to do with the situation at hand."

BastardJack says, "I think I saw it when I was wandering around outside."

Cadiz says, "I mentioned seeing it this morning, so the rest of you would have already been at breakfast."

BastardJack winks it Cadiz when noone else is looking.

Cadiz nods slightly at Jack.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "damn that Thomas knack."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Heh."

BastardJack says (to Maxwell), "Anything could have to do with the situation..."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "I don't necessarily know that his magic has anything to do with his cat story. I just recognize a put-up when I see one."

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Maxwell), "Well, the title of this episode *is* "The Black Talon" ;-)"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "heh"

DiegoValdez asks, "Well, what say we look at that fourth room, check out the corridor opposite the ballroom, then wander outside?"

Maxwell says (to Jack), "Well, if you really think it's worth a look."

Cadiz asks, "Shall we ask Pierre to show us around?"

BastardJack stands abruptly. "Well, time is wasting."

Giovanna asks (of Cadiz), "Or shall we just look?"

Cadiz asks, "Or shall we ask for forgiveness instead of permission?"

BastardJack says, "I'd prefer to - what he said."

Giovanna says, "Yes."

Maxwell stands up. "Exploring around first then?"

Eolo says, "ok then"

Cadiz says, "Also, there were some doors in the hallway between here and the main room."

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "Ah, to forgive is divine, and the Montaignais food is sublime.... similar things, really."

Cadiz grins.

DiegoValdez stands along with Jack.

BastardJack heads for the door.

Cadiz munches on an apple as we leave.

DiegoValdez follows Jack, brushing crumbs from his shirtfront.

(From GameMaster) trudge trudge trudge

GameMaster asks, "where are we trudging?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Last room off the annex?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Yeah. Let's ignore the 4 doors for now."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Artifact, library, salon ... mystery fourth room"

Cadiz pauses as the group passes the first couple doors (south of the kitchen and dining room)

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "What about all the rooms in between? They're closer."

Cadiz asks, "Shall we look in here?"

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "Perhaps just a passing glance."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "I don't want to run into the Marquis by accident. The annex seems more important."

Maxwell tries the handle on the west door here.

Cadiz nods, and pokes his head inside the ne door.

BastardJack shrugs and tries the se door.

GameMaster says, "locked"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "All?"

GameMaster says, "yes"

BastardJack says, "Well, that be that."

Cadiz listens for a second.

Maxwell says, "Well. I don't expect much interesting in there anyway, myself."

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 2k2: 7 3 | 10

GameMaster says, "nope"

Cadiz says, "One more..."

Maxwell says, "Not that we couldn't get in if we really wanted to..."

BastardJack heads south to the annex.

Marquis steps behind the curtain.

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "where is the study? second floor, west side?"

Cadiz checks the sw door, just to be sure it, too, is locked.

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Eolo), "Yup."

GameMaster says (to cadiz), "yes"

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "at the west end of the hall?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Eolo), "NW."

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "Yeah, nw corner."

DiegoValdez notes all the door-trying, then walks south towards the annex.

GameMaster says, "<in annex>"

jdoe hollers, "help"

Jota hollers, "Yellow Submarine!"

Maxwell follows and looks at the door to the northwest.

BastardJack opens the last door and peeks in.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Hah. For a moment there I thought jdoe was an NPC calling for help...."

GameMaster says, "ok, I'm confused now..."

GameMaster asks, "which door?"

Maxwell says, "oops. northeast, sorry"

Cadiz says, "NE, off the annex. North of the artifact room."

BastardJack says, "ne from the annex. The last one we haven't looked at."

GameMaster says, "Right...opens...."

GameMaster says, "It's a fairly dark room, no windows"

DiegoValdez says, "Hm. Gruesome."

GameMaster says, "Although there's some blueish glowing"

Cadiz raises an eyebrow.

GameMaster says, "Further inside..."

DiegoValdez blinks. Walks into the room.

GameMaster says, "There's a bunch of rocks and plants set out"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Your room is glowing with a faint blue glow."

Maxwell asks, "Glowing? Now where have I heard that before?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Yay! ;-)"

Maxwell enters.

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "does it look like a museum-ish sort of thing?"

DiegoValdez says, "How ... odd."

Giovanna says (to Maxwell), "I saw glowing in my vision..."

GameMaster says, "Also a small pond of sorts, although it doesn't quite look like water...that's what's shimmering blue"

Cadiz tries to find the source of the glowing.

BastardJack prowls around the room, looking at items.

DiegoValdez says, "I don't like this place."

Maxwell says, "ah, just a trick of the light. I think."

Cadiz bends down next to the water, and peers inside.

BastardJack looks into the pond.

Cadiz (er, squats)

BastardJack asks (of Diego), "Where's your sense o' adventure?"

GameMaster says, "hm. there's a roll here but I'm trying to work out which stat"

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "panache?"

[aboveground] Cadiz exclaims, "Panache! Or Finesse!"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Unless Giovanna's the one rolling; then wits."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "since panache is the stat for Thomas knack"

Giovanna reaches out to touch the water, then pauses.

DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "I prefer a human opponent, m'sieur."

GameMaster says, "ok, anyone with history, wits+history"

Maxwell asks, "who said there's an opponent?"

DiegoValdez asks (of Giovanna), "Haven't you touched enough, already?"

[7thsea] Maxwell rolls 4k3: 10+4 2 2 7 | 23

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 3k2: 2 10+9 3 | 22

[7thsea] DiegoValdez rolls 4k2: 2 3 10+4 6 | 20

Eolo says (to Maxwell), "there is *always* an opponent"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Can we get a more complete description on the pond before we fiddle with it?"

Giovanna says (to DiegoValdez), "More than enough, perhaps. But once one has already run certain risks..."

Giovanna shrugs.

GameMaster says, "Ok, pond..."

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "I'm not really fiddling with it."

GameMaster says, "It doesn't look like there's anything more than a surface"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, ">TAKE POND."

[aboveground] (from Eolo) Giovanna says "Unless licking counts as fiddling"

BastardJack says (to Giovanna), "I like your style, milady. But allow me this time..."

GameMaster says, "Sort of a glowing blue faux-pond"

Maxwell says, "the place reminds me of what I've heard of Cathay somehow..."

BastardJack plunges his hand into the pond.

GameMaster says (to BastardJack), "it doesn't make it in at all..."

Cadiz says (to Jack), "It's a fake... Sigh."

GameMaster says, "It feels like something lying on a flat surface, although the illusion is quite interesting."

DiegoValdez says, "Hm."

BastardJack asks, "What texture is it? Glassy?"

DiegoValdez goes and closes the door. With all of us in the room.

Cadiz asks (of Maxwell), "Yeah, I think I might know what you're talking about. Like a rock garden, or some such?"

GameMaster says, "The only light now is from the 'pond'"

BastardJack tries to pick up the pond.

Maxwell says (to Cadiz), "Well, we have the rocks and plants."

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Also, did only Maxwell recall anything?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says (to Cadiz), "Thanks for the idea."

GameMaster says, "You can't get any sort of handle on it..."

GameMaster says, "There's a slipperiness to the edge"

DiegoValdez looks at all the plants and rocks, in the new lighting.

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Jack), "Heh."

BastardJack pulls out his stilleto and tries to slip it under the edge of the 'pond'.

Maxwell looks at the rocks and plants.

Cadiz frowns at Jack. "Careful, now..."

GameMaster says, "Sort of pretty, really...the rocks are tinged in soft light"

Cadiz says, "Exploring is one thing, but vandalism something else entirely."

BastardJack says, "Don't ye worry. I won't break it."

DiegoValdez says (to no-one in particular), "I wonder if there's a secret exit from here..."

GameMaster says (to BastardJack), "there's not enough under to do the slipping"

BastardJack says, "I just want to see if it's held down."

DiegoValdez asks (of Jack), "Incidentally. You were outside ... were there any sections of the manor that seemed windowless? Assymetrical?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to GM), "I only understood you as far as "There's not enough under.""

BastardJack says, "Hmm. I weren't looking at the shape o' the house, to tell the truth."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "BastardJack pulls out his stilleto and tries to slip it under the edge of the pond. There's not enough under to do the slipping"

BastardJack says, "But I didn't notice anything, no."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "I'm still not parsing 'do the slipping'."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "(sorry)"

DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "the windows on the house. Or lack thereof."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "slip"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "tries to slip"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "he can't fit the stiletto under the pond"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "slipping"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "Jack tried to slip his stiletto--"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "I could not slip my dagger under, cause there wasn't enough space."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "OK, got it. Thanks, all ;-)"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "also, I hear he slips his stiletto as much as the next guy"

Eolo shrugs.

Eolo asks, "done here?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Hee."

GameMaster says, "wits+keen"

Giovanna asks, "There's nothing else in the corners of the room that we're not noticing?"

Cadiz examines the plants.

[7thsea] Maxwell rolls 3k3: 5 7 8 | 20

BastardJack says (to Eolo), "Not remotely."

[7thsea] Giovanna rolls 5k4: 3 8 1 2 8 | 21

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 2k2: 8 3 | 11

[7thsea] DiegoValdez rolls 2k2: 1 8 | 9

GameMaster says (to Giovanna), "it's too dark to see if there is"

Giovanna nods

DiegoValdez shrugs and opens the door.

BastardJack asks, "Has anyone seen lanterns or torches around? In the cellar, perhaps?"

Cadiz says, "I have a lantern in my room, as does Eolo, I believe."

GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "just short stubbly things with fronds"

DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "I had a lantern. It's up in my room."

Eolo steps out into the corridor.

Cadiz checks to see if any are medicinal.

Maxwell walks out.

GameMaster says, "No, just decorative."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Also, I recall now that we're supposed to just say, "I pull out my lantern" for trivial things like that..."

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "So that's what was in your pocket."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Carrying a lantern to supper would be a bit strange, of course."

[aboveground] Eolo says (to Gio), "really sheds a new light on the situation"

DiegoValdez always thought plants needed light to grow ... but then, he didn't exactly spend a lot of time on the Natural Philosophy classes.

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "har har"

BastardJack puts his hand firmly on the center of the 'pond' and attempts to slide it sideways.

Giovanna prods the pond experimentally.

GameMaster says, "Weird ridged feeling..."

GameMaster says (to BastardJack), "also, your hand has some bluish stuff on it that glows now"

GameMaster asks, "Ok, people who left, what now?"

BastardJack asks, "Like a paste? Or powder? Or ink?"

GameMaster says, "Powderish"

GameMaster says, "but also sticky"

Eolo walks down to the corridor across from the pallroom.

Cadiz sniffs at the powder.

[aboveground] Eolo says, "(er, ballroom)"

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to eolo), "Little bit of foreshadowing there..."

Giovanna goes out into the corridor as well.

GameMaster says, "No smell you can detect"

BastardJack tweaks Cadiz' nose as he sniffs.

Cadiz exclaims, "Hey!"

Cadiz grins.

DiegoValdez waits at the gallery for the others.

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Is it just Jack and I in here?"

Maxwell looks back into the room. "What are you doing there?"

GameMaster says, "yeah"

DiegoValdez asks, "(calling to Cadiz & Jack) Well?"

BastardJack touches his finger to his tongue and tastes the powder.

Cadiz says (to Jack), "I was going to do that..."

[aboveground] (from Giovanna) Cadiz says, "Great! smoochietime!"

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "*thwap*"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "(sorry)"

[aboveground] Cadiz grins.

Cadiz says (to Diego), "We'll be there in a sec..."

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Er, do you have powder on your fingers, too? Or were you going to lick it off mine...?"

(From GameMaster) You hear the sound of something large shuffling around, far below you

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Jack), "I was going to get my own, thanks."

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "below the floor?"

Giovanna listens intently.

GameMaster says, "below the floor"

[aboveground] Maxwell asks, "Everyone did?"

Cadiz says, "Whoah."

GameMaster says, "yes"

Eolo says, "odd."

BastardJack drops to the floor and places his ear to it.

Giovanna says, "Any sense of what part of the floor it's from?'"

Cadiz asks, "Even those not in the plant room?"

Eolo says, "I do wonder what Umberto is up to."

Maxwell says, "That was odd."

GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "yes"

DiegoValdez frowns. Walks quickly back towards the kitchen.

(From GameMaster) You hear the vague rumbling...perhaps it is just a natural earthquake

Cadiz goes and stands inthe doorway.

DiegoValdez says, "I'm heading for the cellars...."

BastardJack jumps to his feet and follows Diego.

Maxwell says, "Good idea."

GameMaster says (to Giovanna), "also, it sounds like it's WAY far down, so no sense"

Giovanna says (to GameMaster), "Aha"

(From GameMaster) trudge trudge trudge

BastardJack remembers to shut the door after himself.

GameMaster says, "Ok, in cellar"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "More like 'run run run', in my case."

Cadiz stands in the north door to the hallway, watching for others.

GameMaster says, "also, you shut the door, and the room goes completely dark"

Maxwell says, "Ah, I don't think this helps much."

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "er, wait. which room is dark?"

DiegoValdez walks around the cellars quickly, looking for anything different.

[aboveground] Cadiz asks (of GM), "In the pool room? Isn't nobody there?"

GameMaster says, "However, you can hear something a little better..."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "Cellar"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "er? The pond went out? How would we know?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "no light in cellar"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "No, I closed the pond room door as I left."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "I think we didn't mean to shut the cellar door, but oh well"

[aboveground] Giovanna asks, "doesn't someone have a lantern?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "oh... I just misread, then"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "I thought everyone was out of pool room"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Take the gift already, people ;-) You can hear better."

GameMaster says, "Ok, you still hear the rumbling"

BastardJack again places his ear to the floor.

Maxwell does likewise.

GameMaster says, "It's sort of a regular pattern...thump thump thump thump....thump thump thump thump....thump thump thump thump...."

Cadiz, on impulse, looks inside the artifact room.

(From BastardJack) You notice some bowls of milk have been left in the corners.

GameMaster says, "And extremely faintly, you think you hear breathing."

Giovanna says, "eeagh"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "(I put those out earlier - when I was looking for fairies.)"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "(I think I'm the only one upstairs. I'm also watching for running servants and the like.)"

GameMaster asks (of Cadiz), "artifacts still there...anything you want to do in particular?"

Giovanna backs up so her back is against the wall

Maxwell pales.

BastardJack focusses on the breathing.

DiegoValdez draws his sword.

Cadiz says (to GM), "See if one is shaking or something."

(From GameMaster) thump thump thump thump...thump thump thump thump...

GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "They all look normal"

Cadiz looks around for servants again.

Pierre has entered from behind the curtain.

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Where is the breathing coming from?"

Pierre asks (of Cadiz), "Anything wrong, sir?"

Cadiz asks (of Pierre), "Do you feel the shaking?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "same place as the thumping"

[aboveground] Giovanna asks, "inside the cellar?"

Pierre says, "We have had a few minor earthquakes, sir."

Maxwell shouts (with his head still on the floor), "Hello?"

DiegoValdez tries to slowly walk over to wherever the thumping is.

Cadiz asks (of Pierre), "Like this?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Must be some mighty loud breathing if we can hear it from for below..."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "thumping and breathing all that are far below"

BastardJack motions Maxwell quiet.

Pierre says (to Cadiz), "Yes indeed, sir."

Cadiz asks, "When did they start?"

Pierre says, "Oh, we've had minor earthquakes since I've been here, sir."

Cadiz frowns.

Cadiz says, "This doesn't exactly feel like a normal earthquake to me."

Pierre says, "Is there anything I can get you? You look flustered, sir."

BastardJack stands. "There's something goin' on below - but we can't do much from here. Best to do is get on with finding that passage."

Pierre says, "It'll pass shortly, sir."

Cadiz says, "It seems more... regular, somehow."

[aboveground] GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "you don't know that"

BastardJack sucks his lip and looks closely at one of the bowls of milk he set out earlier.

Cadiz says (to Pierre), "I suppose. No, I don't need anything else. Thank you."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Oh, sorry."

[aboveground] Eolo asks (of Jack), "shades of jurassic park?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, ">UNDO."

[aboveground] BastardJack says (to Eolo), "Yep. Also wondering if any of its been drunk."

Pierre says, "Very well then, sir."

DiegoValdez follows Jack's gaze. "Aha, milk. I guess there really IS a cat about here someplace, being cared for by one of the servants!"

Pierre heads north towards the kitchen

[aboveground] Cadiz exclaims (at Diego), "Ha!"

GameMaster says, "Thumping gone now"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "excellent"

Eolo says, "ok then"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Well, what am I supposed to think?"

Eolo walks back upstairs.

Cadiz says (to Pierre), "Oh, one more thing."

BastardJack shakes his head. "No, I put those there. Lure for the kobolds, y'see."

Pierre asks, "Hm?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "(Re-read Bujold's _The Spirit Ring_ a while ago.)"

DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "Oh. Well, so much for the cat...."

GameMaster says, "milk not drank"

DiegoValdez turns and heads upstairs.

Maxwell stands up and looks around.

Cadiz asks (of Pierre), "I saw a cat outside my balcony earlier, but the Marquis said it wasn't his. Could it have been one of the servants'?"

Pierre says, "He's already informed me of the situation, sir."

Cadiz asks, "And?"

Eolo resumes his original plan of walking to the corridor opposite the ballroom.

Pierre says, "I'm making inquiries, I don't know at present, sir."

Pierre says, "I really must be back to my duties."

BastardJack goes upstairs, arriving in the annex just in time to see Pierre talking to Cadiz.

Pierre steps behind the curtain.

Cadiz shrugs. "OK, thanks again."

(From GameMaster) Trudge trudge trudge

BastardJack says (to Pierre), "Ah! I wanted to talk to you."

GameMaster says, "You don't see anyone named 'Pierre' here."

Maxwell asks as he walks along, "What do you suppose that breathing sound could be?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Too late."

Cadiz starts. "Breathing?"

Giovanna says (to Maxwell), "Something very large."

Eolo says, "hmm"

Cadiz asks, "That was a *thing*?"

Cadiz says, "Pierre said that there have been earthquakes like that for as long as he's been here."

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Steam engines are anachronistic, right?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "yes"

Giovanna says, "I think there is at least one *thing*, possibly several, at work here."

Eolo says, "in vodacce people talk about the sea as being a breath underground the island, and indeed, in the tunnels you can hear it breathing"

Eolo says, "but -- mm"

Maxwell says (to Cadiz), "From the cellar, it sounded like a regular thumping, and some sound like breathing."

Giovanna says, "The talon..."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Tolkien had giant engines buried underground..."

Giovanna says, "Perhaps whatever beast it came from haunts this place; perhaps it draws other things than people."

Eolo says, "I would hate to think that whatever that talon belonged to has come back for it"

Cadiz shudders. "There's a nasty thought..."

BastardJack says, "I've a thought that the 'pond' is covering a shaft of some sort - but I couldn't move it."

Cadiz asks, "How long has the Marquis had the talon?"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Are we walking as we talk?"

GameMaster says, "yeah"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "yes."

GameMaster says, "in foyer"

DiegoValdez asks, "And what about that ghost?"

Cadiz says, "Hey, I'll catch up with you guys in a sec."

Maxwell asks (of Eolo), "But how exactly do enchanted talons show up in Inismore?"

Giovanna says (to Eolo), "I don't know that what owned the talon would necessarily be an evil creature -- if what I felt was its memory, its mind, then it felt-- well. Not necessarily evil. I don't know how to put it more clearly than that."

Giovanna says, "There was a sort of euphoria."

GameMaster says, "Also, as you walk in the foyer, you notice..."

BastardJack says, "Eventually, everything enchanted shows up in Inismore."

Cadiz goes back to the pool room, uses a piece of paper to scoop some of that glowing powder into a small vial, then goes back to the group.

DiegoValdez asks (of Giovanna), "amoral rather than immoral?"

GameMaster says, "There's a huge chalk drawing of the bent trident"

Eolo coughs.

GameMaster says, "It's about 5 feet long"

Eolo says, "well."

Maxwell says, "Oh my."

Cadiz blinks.

DiegoValdez exclaims, "...!"

Maxwell prays briefly.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "I wonder ... is Maxwell Vaticine or Objectionist?"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Is Cadiz Father or Brother?"

Giovanna touches the chalk.

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Could I have seen the area where it was drawn during the earthquake?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Jack), "I'm ordained, but spent most of my time as a missionary. So, Brother works."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "it would have been around the corner"

BastardJack bellows, "Cadiz! Brother Cadiz!"

Cadiz returns, pocketing a small vial.

Cadiz asks, "Yes?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "I just remember we had a priest and a monk, and I wondered which you were."

BastardJack points at the symbol. "You were here while we were below. Did you see anything?

Cadiz blinks.

DiegoValdez drops to one knee, and touches the chalk.

Cadiz says, "No, not at all."

Cadiz goes back to the door Pierre disappeared behind, and knocks.

Giovanna says, "Well, I suppose that suggests that at least Pierre didn't draw it..."

BastardJack goes into the ballroom and calls for the actors.

GameMaster says, "It seems like regular chalk"

GameMaster says, "Mashed together *very* finely"

DiegoValdez says, "Fine chalk, this."

BastardJack pounds on the stage door.

Eolo asks, "does it match the powder from the pool?"

Pierre has entered from behind the curtain.

Pierre asks, "Yes?"

GameMaster says (to Eolo), "no"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Is Pierre talking to me?"

Cadiz says (to Pierre), "You might want to have a look at the foyer before the guests arrive."

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to BJ), "No, me."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Oh, ok."

Cadiz says, "There's another chalk drawing."

Pierre says, "Ah. One moment then, sir."

Pierre heads back in and closes the door

GameMaster says, "Two maids walk out with cleaning implements"

Cadiz raises an eyebrow, muttering "Well, that was pretty blase..."

DiegoValdez says, "Hm."

BastardJack runs back to the ballroom entrance to yell, "Don't touch that drawing!"

Cadiz walks down the hallway with the maids.

Cadiz says (to maids,), ""How often do you have to do this?""

GameMaster says (to BastardJack), "no response"

BastardJack ducks back into the ballroom and pounds on the door again.

[aboveground] Eolo says, "that brother cadiz is quite a many for the ladies."

DiegoValdez calculates the time interval in between when Giovanna touched the talon, and when the thumping started.

[7thsea] BastardJack rolls 3k3: 5 2 9 | 16

Maxwell asks (of Maids), "Are they often this large?"

GameMaster says, "One of the maids drops her bucket"

Giovanna says (to DiegoValdez), "Remember that others have been touching it as well..."

Cadiz says, "Jack seems somewhat excited..."

BastardJack emerges from the ballroom, more calmly.

GameMaster says, "The maid who dropped her bucket runs up the stairs"

DiegoValdez says (to Giovanna), "Yes, but you were the last, I think. Other than the Marquis, of course, but the timing was close enough."

GameMaster says, "You see her enter the west wing"

BastardJack says, "The actors are gone. I'd hoped one of them had seen something. You've not touched the symbol?""

Eolo shrugs.

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "re: time difference, one sec..."

Cadiz pulls out a piece of paper and sketches the trident.

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 4k2: 4 4 3 1 | 8

Eolo says, "it'll have to be cleaned up before the guests arrive"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "I guess it was a couple hours"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Erk."

Eolo says, "and I doubt it is much different than all the others"

Maxwell follows the maid upstairs, if she's not out of sight.

GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "it's a very simple shape, you manage"

Cadiz frowns, and draws it again.

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 4k2: 10+5 5 8 8 | 23

BastardJack says, bluntly, "It's magical."

Eolo says, "although it might be useful to know where they are appearing, and if they've been coincident with previous quakes"

Eolo raises an eyebrow.

Giovanna asks (of BastardJack), "But what does it do?"

GameMaster says, "The other maid walks over to the symbol and looks at it."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Oh, OK."

Pierre steps behind the curtain.

Marquis has entered from behind the curtain.

Giovanna asks, "Is it a casting -- to cause something -- or merely evidence, a sign of something?"

Marquis enters, with maid

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Have they been ignoring our questions?"

BastardJack shrugs. "All I know is it pains my thumb."

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "I don't think any of us could forget this symbol, senor...."

Marquis says, "Excuse me..."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Is there something unusual about this symbol, other than its size?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "it's size"

DiegoValdez asks (of Marquis), "oui?"

Marquis says, ""My."

Marquis asks, "Who saw this?"

DiegoValdez says, "We all did."

Eolo asks, "saw it being sketched?"

Marquis asks, "When, though?"

DiegoValdez says, "Only just."

Eolo says, "it was here when we arrived, after the quake"

Maxwell says, "Just after the shakings and sounds."

Marquis says, "I must have been gone...not more than...30 minutes...I passed through here."

DiegoValdez says, "We walked in, and there it was."

BastardJack asks (of Marquis), "Have they been this big before?"

Marquis says (to BastardJack), "Oh, the quakes are normal."

BastardJack says, "No, the symbol. Although the quakes are odd, as well."

Maxwell asks (of Marquis), "Normal?"

Marquis says, "No, they've just been tiny scribbled things."

Marquis says, "This is definitely abnormal."

Marquis asks, "I don't suppose anyone heard the use of Porte magic?"

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "I have...."

BastardJack asks, "The last one we saw didn't seem magic. I wonder if the size causes it, or if it's just because it's new?"

Cadiz asks, "What does it sound like?"

Eolo asks, "heard?"

Maxwell looks to Cadiz, then starts at Diego's statement.

Marquis says, "It's rather impossible to describe in words, unfortunately."

DiegoValdez says, "(er wait ... "heard", not "heard of" ... >UNDO.)"

Marquis turns to the maisd

Marquis says, "Go ahead and clean it now."

BastardJack says, "wait..."

Cadiz says, "I've not heard the real thing, but I've heard what passes for it on stage."

BastardJack says, "It might prove interesting to let it lie..."

Cadiz ponders.

BastardJack says, "And see how the guests react."

Marquis says (to BastardJack), "Hm..."

[aboveground] Cadiz tries to place that earlier backstage sound with Porte.

DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "It might create a new fashion trend."

Marquis says (to BastardJack), "that's an interesting proposal, but I have another idea."

Marquis says, "Hm...yes..."

[aboveground] (from BastardJack) Marquis says, "Why don't we clean it up so I don't look like an idiot in front of my neighbours?"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "heh"

[aboveground] Cadiz laughs.

(From GameMaster) the maids scrub it away

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Wait--he didn't tell us his other idea."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Arr ... memories of childhood with Indian neighbours ... and the flour-pattern drawings on their doorstep...."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "his new idea is to stab everyone coming in with a trident, and see who doesn't look surprised"

Marquis says (to BastardJack), "I do have something in mind along similar lines...I'll handle the arrangements...it shouldn't take too long."

BastardJack asks (of Marquis), "You said the quakes were normal. How long have they been going on like this?"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "the play's the thing..."

[aboveground] Eolo says (to Marquis), "the play's the -- dammit"

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Did that earlier sound sound porte-ish?"

Marquis says, "Oh, long before I was here."

BastardJack asks, "Have you ever listened closely too them?"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "yeah, inky would have been faster."

Marquis says, "In any case, I really must be off again, I now have even more to do."

Maxwell asks (of Marquis), "What sort of idea do you have then?"

Marquis says (to BastardJack), "Yes, yes, I'm sure we can talk about it later."

Marquis heads out

Maxwell says, "hmph."

Marquis goes up the stairs and into the west wing again

DiegoValdez says, "He's hiding something. I'm sure of it."

Marquis steps behind the curtain.

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "sorry, afk for a moment"

Eolo says, "heh"

Eolo says, "unlike his previous behavior"

BastardJack raises his eyebrows. "He can't have been serious. Or mayhap he was just giving me the brush-off."

(From GameMaster) The maids finish scrubbing

Eolo says, "might as well glance down this corridor"

BastardJack says, "Ah, yes! That."

GameMaster needs to idle for a sec...brb

BastardJack puts the strange symbol out of his mind and starts down the hall.

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Good timing. I need food."

GameMaster says, "talk about something"

Maxwell says, "I suspect the timing of the 'earthquake' and this symbol may not be coincidence."

DiegoValdez says (to Maxwell), "I guess not."

DiegoValdez asks, "What do we have now, though?"

Eolo says, "hmm"

Eolo says, "well, we don't have the symbol, since it was erased"

Giovanna asks (of Maxwell), "But did one cause the other, or are they both signs of a third thing?"

Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "Exactly."

Giovanna says, "I'd have hoped that touching the chalk would give me some sense of connection -- because of the talon -- some idea of what the relation was."

Eolo says, "I would very much like to know more details about the talon."

Giovanna says (to Eolo), "So would I. Believe me."

BastardJack says, "We should have saved some of the chalk. In a vial or flask or somewhat."

Cadiz asks, "Why did the Marquis ask about Porte, do you suppose?"

DiegoValdez ticks the problems off on his fingers. "Our friends are trapped underground ... some mysterious presence is printing tridents all over the house ... there's some sort of Beast lurking under the house ... should I count the so-called ghost as well?"

Eolo says, "it would be the easiest way to draw the talon here"

Cadiz asks, "Is this symbolic of porte magic, or was he simply wondering if someone ported in to draw this, then ported out again?"

Maxwell says (to Cadiz), "I believe he suspects a neighbor of coming in and drawing these."

BastardJack says, "I think we may have put the idea in his mind earlier..."

Eolo says, "unless you believe it was the ghost who was responsible"

Eolo says (to Max), "but clearly that's nonsense"

Cadiz says, "But if so, they would have to come to a blooded item..."

BastardJack asks, "Didn't we mention Porte when he first showed us the Talon?"

Maxwell says, "That wouldn't seem very feasible now."

Giovanna asks, "To the room?"

Cadiz says, "Which would have to be nearby."

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "Porte magic causes bloodstains, not chalk symbols."

Eolo asks (of Maxwell), "why would they draw dozens of tiny sigils all about the manor?"

Giovanna asks, "With the stain above the door?"

GameMaster says, "<intermission music ends>"

Maxwell says (to Jack), "I believe he already had the idea."

Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "That wasn't human blood, though."

BastardJack blinks. "Could the whole HOUSE be blooded?"

Giovanna nods. "I know almost nothing of Porte."

Giovanna asks (of BastardJack), "Because of those who died here?"

Giovanna shivers.

BastardJack says, "Ah, well then."

Cadiz says (to Jack), "Erk."

Cadiz says, "There could be an item around here that a porte magician could be coming to..."

Cadiz looks around the foyer.

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 2k2: 6 2 | 8

DiegoValdez says (to Giovanna), "I almost wish now that you were a Fate Witch ... or at least someone who might know something about curses."

Cadiz says, "But I can't seem to find anything."

GameMaster says, "There's that table with the bells you saw when you first came in"

BastardJack shakes his head. "It doesn't feel right for Porte. It feels... inhuman."

Maxwell says, "Couldn't be any of the artifacts, if I understand this rightly."

GameMaster says, "Also a nice flowerpot"

Giovanna says (to DiegoValdez), "Such powers are rarely as simple as they sound to the uninitiated."

Giovanna looks closely at the flowerpot.

BastardJack looks more closely at the bells.

Cadiz searches the table, bells, and flowerpot for stains.

GameMaster says, "wits+keen"

[7thsea] Giovanna rolls 5k4: 10+7 10+8 8 10+8 5 | 61

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Any bonus for examiner?"

[7thsea] BastardJack rolls 3k3: 10+10+8 9 10+7 | 54

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Hm. Have I already asked if the bloodstain on the door was a Porte thing?"

[7thsea] Maxwell rolls 3k3: 3 5 9 | 17

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Though I don't seem to need it ;-)"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "ok, I think giovanna and jack found stuff."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Woo! wish I'd raised"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "or found there was no stuff."

GameMaster says (to Giovanna), "Well, they are very nice flowers. None of them have blood on them."

GameMaster says, "Same for everyone else."

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 2k2: 7 6 | 13

[aboveground] Maxwell says (to Diego), "We concluded it couldn't be."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "same for cadiz"

Cadiz asks, "It's just a pot? No flowers?"

Giovanna shrugs, sniffs the flowers, and restores its original arrangement.

DiegoValdez strolls over to the bells. Hm.

GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "w/ flowers, yes"

BastardJack picks up a bell and rings it lightly.

GameMaster says, "Lilacs"

DiegoValdez begins tapping out a tune on the bells....

GameMaster says (to BastardJack), "<tinkle> <tinkle> <tinkle>"

Eolo is walking down the east corridor.

BastardJack puts the bell down. "Well, enough of this." He follows Eolo.

Maxwell follows Eolo, since there's not much else to do there.

GameMaster says (to Eolo), "It's another gallery of sorts...."

GameMaster says (to Eolo), "Although there's a structure in the center...lemme describe walls first"

Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "There could be other items besides these obvious ones..."

GameMaster says, "Lots of paintings hanging on the walls...more landscapes..."

Giovanna says (to Cadiz), "I looked at the furnishings here when we first arrived..."

Giovanna catches up with Eolo and company

GameMaster says, "Also, in the center, there's what looks like a small ruin"

DiegoValdez goes through the bells from one end of the scale to the other. Then plays a quick Castillian patriotic tune. Then follows the others down the corridor.

Cadiz says, "But I can't find the keys to my own house half the time, so I'm not much good at that sort of thing."

GameMaster says, "Er, trying to describe...hmm"

Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "Ah."

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "a small ruin?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says (to Giovanna), "I'm kind of bitter about that waste of six 10's between us."

GameMaster says, "It's this circular gazebo-like structure with slotted columns"

[aboveground] Eolo says (to Giovanna), "hey, don't listen to him. I still think you're a 10."

[aboveground] Giovanna asks, "yeah, where's that kind of luck when it'd be useful?"

Cadiz hums along with Diego.

[aboveground] Giovanna says (to Eolo), "Aw"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "I'm touched."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "..."

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "metaphorically"

[aboveground] Eolo exclaims, "a gazebo? I run away!"

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "*I* wouldn't let him touch me if..."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Heh."

GameMaster says (to inky), "although it looks like something out of a Syrenth ruin"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Is there a teapot in the gazebo?"

Giovanna asks, "Slotted columns?"

Giovanna asks, "Fluted?"

GameMaster says, "almost"

DiegoValdez grins to Cadiz as he enters the gallery. "Perhaps not an entirely politic tune, in our circumstances."

[aboveground] Eolo asks (of GameMaster), "are there any other exits from the hall, and does it dead-end?"

Cadiz grins back.

GameMaster says, "They go deeper in"

BastardJack runs his hand down a column.

GameMaster says, "Also, no other exits"

Giovanna says, "The Marquis keeps a very interesting house."

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Can one enter the gazebo?"

GameMaster says, "Yes"

GameMaster says, "Although it's not very big"

Giovanna goes into the gazebo.

(From GameMaster) East Galley (in the gazebo)

[aboveground] Eolo says, "hee hee"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Yay! ;-)"

Giovanna searches for anything interesting... objects, marks...

GameMaster says, "wits+keen"

[7thsea] Giovanna rolls 5k4: 4 4 1 4 8 | 20

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "man"

GameMaster says, "There's some symbols marked near the bottom of one of the columns"

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "tridents?"

Giovanna shouts (to the others), "Hey, have a look at this..."

Cadiz peeks in.

Giovanna tries to read the symbols.

Maxwell looks at the gazebo, comparing the style to anything from history, not expecting to notice any such similarity.

GameMaster says, "They looked carved in, not drawn in chalk :-)"

[7thsea] Maxwell rolls 4k3: 2 7 10+10+2 5 | 34

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "Assuming History applies."

DiegoValdez looks at the symbols.

GameMaster says (to Maxwell), "It looks like either a reproduction or an actual part of a Syrenth ruin from Vodacce"

Eolo frowns.

BastardJack tries to poke his finger into one of the slots.

[aboveground] Maxwell didn't think he knew anything about Syrneth architecture.

Eolo says, "he seems to feel he has the right to carry off whatever bits of Vodacce suit his fancy"

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Do I recognize the symbols?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "it's pretty common knowledge stuff for historians"

Giovanna says (to Eolo), "Indeed."

Maxwell says, "[repeats roughly what GM said]"

DiegoValdez asks (of Eolo), "This is genuine, then?"

Eolo shrugs.

Eolo says, "I am no expert. it may be a replica"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "what about the symbols?"

Cadiz, assuming he doesn't recognize the symbols, copies them onto the back of the paper he sketched the trident on.

GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "They look like some sort of numbering system"

GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "although you aren't familiar with it"

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "Can I roll math to see what I can discern about it?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "sure"

[7thsea] Cadiz rolls 3k2: 1 1 7 | 8

[aboveground] Eolo says, "if there's a sundial in this gazebo, I'm suing for copyright infringement"

GameMaster says, "You have no idea"

GameMaster says, "There is no sundial."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "heh"

GameMaster says, "Also, aren't there like 5 games with sundials? :-)"

Giovanna asks, "They're just on the base of the one column?"

GameMaster says, "yes"

Cadiz ponders the numbers, then sighs.

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "At LEAST 5"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "I expect so"

Cadiz asks, "These seem to be a sort of numbering system. Anyone else want to take a look?"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "dunno about sundials in gazebos, though"

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "Sure, let me...."

Maxwell says, "Hmm."

[7thsea] Maxwell rolls 4k3: 1 8 8 9 | 25

[7thsea] DiegoValdez rolls 3k2: 6 5 5 | 11

Eolo glances at the symbols.

[7thsea] Eolo rolls 3k3: 6 10+1 10+6 | 33

[aboveground] Cadiz says (to eolo), "And you with no math..."

[7thsea] BastardJack rolls 3k3: 9 10+5 8 | 32

[7thsea] Giovanna rolls 4k4: 2 8 5 3 | 18

[aboveground] Eolo says (to Cadiz), "clearly preconceived notions and training are more a hinderance than a help"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Heh."

[aboveground] Eolo exclaims, "I'm never studying anything again!"

Maxwell says, "That's a date of something."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "yay"

Giovanna asks (of Maxwell), "The building of the place, perhaps?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Well, this is why I said people should just up their traits, and forget about skills above 1 ;-)"

[aboveground] Eolo says, ""Fred Syrne wuz 'ere 06BC""

Maxwell says, "Could be. I'm not sure to when it refers."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "well, notice Eolo didn't find anything from his roll"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Heh."

DiegoValdez says, "Didn't the Marquis mention something about a shifting-base numbering system from that book in the library? I wonder."

Cadiz says (to Diego), "He did, though I thought he was referring to something else..."

Cadiz asks, "But if this is Syrneth, who knows?"

DiegoValdez says (to Cadiz), "Perhaps I'm just drawing random connections that don't exist."

Maxwell says, "We could study the Syrne for years if we really wanted to."

Cadiz asks Maxwell to explain the bits about the dates, and marks up his copy appropriately.

GameMaster says, "You hear a door opening and some talking out in the foyer"

Maxwell says (to Cadiz), "I'm afraid I don't know much about it."

DiegoValdez pricks up his ears.

Cadiz says (to Maxwell), "Just what you figured out."

[aboveground] Maxwell asks, "Can we see anyone there?"

Cadiz asks, "Are the guests arriving already?"

DiegoValdez asks, "Someone coming...?"

BastardJack heads back towords the foyer, softly.

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "the instructions to the players?"

DiegoValdez goes over to the doorway and listens.

[aboveground] Eolo says, "I hope he's telling them not to wave their hands too much"

BastardJack pauses at the corner to listen.

GameMaster says, "Pierre is talking with some people outside the door"

Cadiz goes to a window and looks out.

GameMaster says, "(front door)"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Can I make aut the words?"

GameMaster says, "You see a horse n' carriage setup outside the window"

Maxwell says, "If that's the guests, let's see if we can go meet them."

GameMaster says, "Pierre lets them in..."

Maxwell heads off behind Jack.

Giovanna says, "(Wasn't some general coming to see the Marquis, as well?)"

GameMaster says, "3 noble-looking types, although one is slightly scruffier than the other two."

Cadiz says (to Giovanna), "I think he already came."

Maxwell says (to Giovanna), "He left already."

Giovanna says (to Maxwell), "Ah, yes."

Giovanna remains a bit muddled, perhaps.

DiegoValdez straightens his jacket and strolls out to the foyer.

BastardJack follows.

Giovanna goes after them

Eolo is not changed yet, so glances down the corridor past the gazebo before returning to his room.

GameMaster says, "Pierre turns and sees you come in"

GameMaster says, "(one sec, let me bring him on again)"

Pierre has entered from behind the curtain.

Pierre turns back to the 3 newcomers....

Pierre says, "These are some guests that have been here for the da."

Pierre says, "day."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "(presumably I sheathed my sword again after leaving the cellars....)"

GameMaster says, "You get a better look..."

GameMaster says, "Three fairly bulky looking men."

GameMaster says, "bulky=muscle instead of fat"

[aboveground] Cadiz asks, "'have been here'? They didn't just arrive?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Talking about us, not to us."

[aboveground] GameMaster says (to Cadiz), "he said *to the newcomers*"

Maxwell says, "You must be the Eisen guests the Marquis told us about. Es freut mich, Ihnen kennenzulernen."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Oh, right."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Man, I'm just not parsing stuff this evening."

[aboveground] Giovanna exclaims, "yay German!"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Bulky=Eisen? How stereotyped."

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "er, "Eisen""

GameMaster says, "The scruffier one approaches Maxwelll."

GameMaster says, "Maxwell."

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "Yeah, well, he also said there were three, so."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "See, I don't actually know any spanish, so if I tried the same trick on fellow Castillians, I'd be, "So, you must be the Castillians the Marquis told us about. Ole, ole, ole!""

GameMaster says, "He shakes Maxwell's hand and says, "Greetings. My name is Maxwell Gruenwald.""

Maxwell pauses.

GameMaster says, "(call him Gruenwald from now on to avoid confusion)"

Maxwell says, "Maxwell Eigenspiel."

DiegoValdez chuckles.

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "It is very dark. You are likely to be eaten by a Gruenwald."

GameMaster asks, "Ah. Been giving a good name to Maxwells everywhere, I presume?"

DiegoValdez stops short in mid-chuckle.

Maxwell says, "Yes, I would hope so."

GameMaster says, "While you are chatting the other two noblemen head up north with Pierre"

DiegoValdez thinks, "GRUENWALD???"

Pierre steps behind the curtain.

[aboveground] Maxwell says (to Diego), "Yup..."

Gruenwald has entered from behind the curtain.

Gruenwald asks (of Maxwell), "Anyway, what brings you to these parts?"

Maxwell says, "Well."

Maxwell says, "To get right to the matter, some of our friends are trapped in a cavern nearby."

DiegoValdez murmurs to Jack, "...by the pricking of your thumbs...."

Gruenwald pauses

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "pauses all around."

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "wait, gruenwald?"

Gruenwald says, "Well, that's a bit rich, yes."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "yes indeed"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Exactly."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Right."

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "no, I mean, what's the ref?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "The ghost story."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "ah, duh."

Gruenwald asks, "What were the circumstances of the manner?"

BastardJack looks at Diego and shakes his head slightly.

Gruenwald says, "matter"

DiegoValdez watches Max & Max, carefully and attentively.

Maxwell says, "We were going to explore it together, but an unexpected cave-in separated us just as we were entering."

Gruenwald says, "Dear..."

Gruenwald says, "I'm afraid Ian's the one who knows more about these things, though."

Maxwell asks, "Oh?"

Gruenwald says, "Did a bit of exploring himself, I think."

GameMaster says, "(anyone else feel like doing something?)"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "I was going to wait for this to end ... but I'd like to find Pierre and talk about room arrangements."

Eolo is glancing down the corridor past the gazebo and then going upstairs and getting changed.

Giovanna lacks the privacy to do a sorte reading.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Specifically, I'd like to make sure that Max Gruenwald is NOT going to be in the haunted room ... and if so, request a room exchange."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "I'd like to pump the Marquis' brane."

[aboveground] BastardJack says (to DIego), "Ooh... good thought."

[aboveground] Eolo asks, "really? don't you want to try it and see what happens?"

Maxwell asks (of Gruenwald), "It seems I recall a Gruenwald family who used to live in this part of Montaigne from my history studies. No relation, I suppose?"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "ah, come on, it'll be fun"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "trust me"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "no skin off my nose if he's found dead, with claw-marks on his throat"

Gruenwald says, "Hm..."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "What, spending the night in the haunted room?"

Gruenwald says, "I'm not up on my geneology, but..."

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "that's the thoughtful Eolo we all know and love"

Gruenwald says, "Second cousin somewhere along the line. Maybe closer. I'm not sure."

Maxwell says, "Oh, really? Interesting."

DiegoValdez whispers to Jack, "Something tells me that one of us at least should request a room exchange ... for a room on the southeastern side.

BastardJack introduces himself to the Eisen (as Jack MacEwen, wish you suspect isn't his real name since it's Highland rather than Inish).

Gruenwald shakes BastardJack's hand

[aboveground] Eolo says, "highland, inish, all these primitive countries are the same"

BastardJack says, "Have you stayed at this house before, sir? The Marquis mentioned one of the three Eisen traveller's was a good friend of his."

DiegoValdez introduces himself as Diego Beauchamp ("My father had a fondness for all things Castillian....")

Giovanna says, "And I am Giovanna da Nola."

Gruenwald shakes hands. "Pleased to meet you."

Maxwell says (to Jack), "I believe that was Ian, who I now recall being mentioned earlier."

DiegoValdez says, "Now if you'll excuse me...."

DiegoValdez heads off in search of Pierre.

GameMaster asks (of Diego), "where?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "up north, where he was headed with the other two?"

Gruenwald says, "I think my companions were going to the salon, I'll see if I can find them"

Gruenwald says, "Join us if you like."

BastardJack says, "Thank you, I will."

Giovanna looks ready to accompany Gruenwald.

Maxwell says, "Sounds amiable to me, thank you."

(From GameMaster) trudge trudge trudge

GameMaster says (to Diego), "Pierre not in gallery"

BastardJack follows Gruenwald. "So, ye've not been here before? Fascinating place." He points out some of the art on the way past.

DiegoValdez continues to annex.

Cadiz emerges from the room, after hearing Eisen being spoken, and follows to the salon.

Gruenwald says, "Oh, here and there. My job takes me across the continent."

Giovanna asks (of Gruenwald), "Oh?"

Giovanna asks, "And what is that?"

BastardJack nods. "I've travelled a fair bit myself, though I've never made it to your home country."

Gruenwald says, "We are, how shall I put it, trade relations management for Duke Nolander."

Gruenwald says, "/s/Duke/Count"

GameMaster says, "ook. too many titles"

Giovanna raises an eyebrow. "And that brings you to the Marquis?"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Gruenwald speaks Perl? Cool."

Gruenwald says, "Oh, Ian's the artifact specialist."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "he's well-travelled"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "Spent some time with the oyster-divers in the East"

Gruenwald asks, "The Marquis Jean-Claude knows him. I haven't met the Marquis yet. What is he like?"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "heh"

Giovanna says (to Gruenwald), "A gracious host."

Maxwell says, "I can't complain about the accomodations."

GameMaster says, "Also, <in salon>"

Maxwell says, "He's been as helpful as he can to us, although he's been quite busy."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Pierre? Marquis?"

GameMaster says, "Two other men are sitting down and chatting"

GameMaster says, "They look up"

GameMaster says, "And resume chatting"

Gruenwald says, "Hmm."

[aboveground] Maxwell asks, "Can I listen in?"

Gruenwald says (to Diego), "They are friendly once you get to know them."

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "I don'"

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "I don't think Diego is with us."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "I probably looked in, greeted the fellows, and then withdrew."

GameMaster says, "<pokes a stick at players to see if they move>"

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Heh."

Giovanna introduces herself to the two men.

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "That outta get things moving ;-)"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "Perhaps a bit forward, but..."

[aboveground] Maxwell was hoping Gruenwald might do something. Like introductions or something.

BastardJack introduces himself as well. "Has anyone seen our host?"

GameMaster asks, "They greet back -- 'Ian' -- 'Macmillan' -- how do you do?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "I'm still looking to arrange a room change. If I can't find Pierre, I'll go speak to the Marquis. I think I know where he is."

GameMaster says (to Diego), "you can't find pierre"

Giovanna asks (of Ian), "So your friend tells me you are interested in artifacts?"

DiegoValdez goes resolutely upstairs to the study.

GameMaster says (to Diego), "trudge trudge trudge"

BastardJack says, "Well, he should be along soon enough."

BastardJack takes a chair and settles down.

GameMaster says, "Ian says, "I consider myself abit knowledable, ma'am.""

DiegoValdez pauses outside the door, listening a bit before knocking.

GameMaster says (to Diego), "Someone is writing furiously"

Giovanna asks (of Ian), "About artifacts from this region? Or everywhere?"

GameMaster says, "Hm. Let me log on another character"

Maxwell takes a seat and listens to Giovanna and Ian.

Ian has entered from behind the curtain.

Ian says, "I've been everywhere."

Giovanna takes a seat near Ian and leans forward, trying to make her interest seem merely social.

DiegoValdez knocks.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Leans forward? Merely social? Make up your mind."

GameMaster says, "The door pops open a little and the Marquis says, "Yes?""

[aboveground] Eolo says, "that sort of thing is fine when you're being .. social"

Giovanna asks (of Ian), "And you study these things for their historical interest?"

Ian asks, "Well, that, and also, economic interest. Plenty of nobles wanting 'em baubles. Were you interested in owning one?"

[aboveground] Giovanna says (to DiegoValdez), "social/flirtatious as opposed to using him for whatever raw data he can give me"

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "I beg your pardon ... I understand you're busy. But frankly I was wondering if I might arrange a room change. So sorry to bring it up now, but your hospitality earlier quite made me forget."

GameMaster asks, "To where, may I ask?"

Giovanna tilts her head thoughtfully. "To be honest, I hadn't considered it. But now that I think about it, the idea appeals very much."

Ian asks, "Well, what sort of thing would you like?"

Giovanna says (to Ian), "I'd want something... unusual, I suppose."

Ian asks, "Intricate and dizzying? Simple but mysterious?"

DiegoValdez asks (of Marquis), "Further down south ... A southern exposure?"

Giovanna says, "Mysterious... yes, I think something that would intrigue people."

Ian says, "I've got this whole batch of odd-lookin' spheres just fresh from some island ruins."

Giovanna says, "Something whose power wasn't obvious."

Giovanna asks, "Island ruins? You mean up north?"

Ian says, "It's a location the public isn't very aware of."

Maxwell asks (of Ian), "I suppose the general style changes depending on where the excavation is?"

Ian takes out a notepad

Ian says (to Maxwell), "Oh, absolutely."

Giovanna leans so that she can see the notepad.

GameMaster says, "It's very messy handwriting"

GameMaster says, "And you can't read, so :-)"

Giovanna says (to GameMaster), "I thought there might be sketches :)"

Giovanna leans back with a faint sigh.

Giovanna asks, "What sort of spheres?"

Ian flips through the notebook

Ian says, "Funny little indentations on the side."

Ian flips some more

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Bowling balls?"

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Three holes?"

Ian says, "Like this..."

[aboveground] BastardJack says (to Diego), "Damn you."

Ian turns the notepad towards Giovanna

Giovanna looks at the notepad

GameMaster says, "There's a very ruddy sketch of a circle with a little chunk out of it"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says (to Jack), "my arcana IS Legion...."

Ian says, "Now, this be the simple yet mysterious type."

Giovanna frowns. "Simple, yes... but how do you know they're not, well, simply damaged?"

Ian says, "A whole lot of 'em, all the same."

Giovanna asks, "And you've no idea what the use is?"

Maxwell asks, "Hmm. So that's from islands up north. What sort of things are found around here?"

Ian says, "Here you can get some of the complex and dizzying type stuff."

Ian says, "Lots of knobs in odd places, that sort of thing."

Giovanna asks, "Traps and triggers?"

Giovanna looks knowing.

Ian says, "Mm...well, like..."

Ian says, "There was this one box, see."

Ian says, "You had to brush a finger along at exactly the correct rate, and it would pop open"

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "And it made a soothing hissing noise."

Ian says, "Still worked like a charmed. Damned if I know how it survived in good shape that many years"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "Now TS... never mind."

BastardJack asks, "How do you ferret out the secrets of these things?"

Ian says, "Intuitive from seeing lots of 'em, mostly."

BastardJack asks, "That box, say - is it just chance that you draw your finger along, or are there techniques?"

Ian says, "That one was sheer luck, to tell you the truth."

Giovanna asks, "And you find mostly artwork and tools and such? or are you also interested in animal remains and that sort of thing?"

BastardJack nods.

Ian says, "Some of the exotic ones, yes."

Giovanna says, "See, I might be interested in something that seemed a bit-- primitive, if you know what I mean. Some kind of animal relic."

Gruenwald whispers something to Ian

Ian asks, "Mm...really?"

Giovanna says, "If you know of such things."

BastardJack says, "Our host has some fascinating items I'd fain learn more about. But he's been too busy to speak about them, much."

Ian asks, "Er, have you folks been leading me on?"

BastardJack waves to Giovanna. "But I'll no more interrupt you. My curiosity can wait."

Ian says (to BastardJack), "Some of them were purchases from yours truly."

Ian asks, "What's this about friends being trapped?"

Giovanna looks quizzically at Ian.

Maxwell says (to Ian), "I wouldn't, sir. I was going to bring it up as soon as Giovanna was finished asking about artifacts."

Ian says, "Ah. Ok, then. Now, animals..."

Giovanna asks (of Ian), "Yes?"

Ian asks (of Giovanna), "I've got a few skulls in stock that might suit you, yes. What is the planned setting?"

[aboveground] Maxwell blinks.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Hmmmmmmm...."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "lady likes a good skull now and again, you know how it is"

BastardJack says, "Ah. Well, the Marquis has some men trying ta dig them out, and there doesn't seem to be any way to hurry the process... so we've been trying to put it out of our mind, to tell the truth."

[aboveground] BastardJack is a little slow tonight.

Giovanna says (to Ian), "Just a small room I use for more quiet entertaining."

Ian says, "Mm...reminds me of a dig 4 years ago...trapped some people that never got out."

DiegoValdez is making room-change arrangements, blissfully unaware....

Ian asks (of BastardJack), "Structural collapse?"

Giovanna falls silent at this mention of her friends.

BastardJack says, "Aye. The roof fell in just as we were entering."

Ian says (to Giovanna), "Well, I suggest a low light level when showing. Adds to the effect."

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "mmmm skullz"

BastardJack says, "split the group in half. Our guide, fortunately, was in front, so they at least have a skilled caver with them."

Ian asks, "Aye. Who is the caver?"

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Odd how Ian is carrying on two conversations at once."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Ack. What's the name again."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "umberto"

[aboveground] Cadiz suddenly blinks.

Giovanna says (to Ian), "Is it all just effect, though? Or... I'd heard there are some animal artifacts where you can almost FEEL the power -- as though perhaps they were used in ancient ritual..."

Cadiz suddenly blinks.

Maxwell mumbles, "skilled at something, at least."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "ILAC..."

Ian also blinks

Ian says (to Giovanna), "Never heard of anything like that."

Giovanna laughs

Giovanna says, "Perhaps just some kind of story, then."

Maxwell says (to Ian), "A fellow named Umberto, who claimed to be with the Explorer's Society."

Giovanna says, "I daresay there are funny stories about Vodacce, up in the north."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez plays Who's-The-Villain.

Ian says, "Probably. You'd be amazed at what people say."

Giovanna says, "Well. A passing fancy, then."

Ian asks (of Maxwell), "Er....who?"

Ian says, "My apologies, I seem to be talking in all directions at once."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez spins the Who's-The-Villain and comes up with ... Ian.

Giovanna gestures to Ian please to go ahead and speak with Maxwell.

Maxwell says (to Ian), "The leader into the cave was Umberto. Explorer's Society, he said."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "enh"

Ian says, "Good lord."

Giovanna asks, "The name means something to you, then?"

Ian asks, "And, er, how did you meet this fellow?"

Ian says, "Yes indeed."

BastardJack chuckles.

Ian asks, "Are you good friends of his?"

BastardJack asks, "Bit of a replay of our first meeting with our host - isn't it?"

Cadiz says, "A former acquaintance of a friend of ours."

BastardJack says, "It's occurred to you all, of course, that since this is a friend of his, there's not much point in trying to be secretive..."

Maxwell nods to Jack.

Ian says, "Well, I'll tell you...you won't like to hear this..."

Ian says, "He's the slimiest individual I've ever run across."

Ian says, "Came on with us on a dig once, made off with half the loot."

Giovanna asks, "What sort of loot?"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "there's the vodacce spirit"

Maxwell says, "That's about what we already heard of him, from another explorer Charles."

Cadiz says, "There has been some speculation that he caused the cave-in purposely."

[aboveground] BastardJack asks, "Memory jog: did the Marquis mention Ian and/or Umberto being in on the Talon episode?"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "heh"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "I have to critique his failure to clean up properly, though"

Ian says, "Don't know why he's always using Umberto as his name. It seems like everyone knows him these days. Ego, maybe."

Ian says (to Cadiz), "I wouldn't doubt it at all."

[aboveground] Cadiz says, "Marquis didn't recognize Umberto's picture."

[aboveground] Maxwell says, "No, just some different Charles guy"

[aboveground] (from Giovanna) Ian says, "Eco, maybe."

[aboveground] BastardJack says, "Oh, yeah. I remember now."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Or maybe both Umberto and the Marquis are perfectly nice people, and Ian is playing them off against each other."

[aboveground] Eolo says, "s'possible"

Cadiz asks, "And it just occurred to me--if Umberto was carrying a blooded item, a Porte sorceror could come and get him, no?"

Maxwell asks, "It's a pseudonym?"

Ian says, "Yes indeed, although from rumor I think he only works alone."

Maxwell says (to Cadiz), "Oh dear."

Ian says, "More share of the pot, that way, or maybe he was double-crossed early."

Cadiz asks (of Ian), "Is he known to be able to perform magics on his own?"

Ian says, "He doesn't have any magic in him, no"

Cadiz says, "Well, he didn't hear of the ruins from the Marquis."

Maxwell says (to Cadiz), "Not directly."

Ian asks, "Say, does Jean-Claude still have that talon?"

Ian says, "I only saw it once, and he wouldn't let me touch it, looked interesting, though."

Giovanna blinks

GameMaster says, "whole lotta blinkin' going on"

Maxwell says (to Ian), "We could take a look at it in its case, and maybe you could tell us about the other artifacts he keeps there."

BastardJack says, "Aye, he does. He's quite protective of it, though."

Ian says, "After what he went through to get it, I don't blame him."

Maxwell says, "Oh? I'm not sure he told the whole story, just where it was found."

Giovanna asks (of Ian), "Have you ever seen anything else like it?"

Ian says, "Anyway, I'm sure the Marquis will want to show off to his guests when the party gets rolling, and maybe I'll come along that and tell you want interested you."

Ian says, "about what interested you"

Ian says (to Giovanna), "Nope."

Maxwell nods.

Ian says (to Giovanna), "Unique artifacts are hard to come by, makes it all the more interesting."

Giovanna says (to Ian), "Indeed."

Giovanna says, "And desirable."

Ian says, "Yep."

Ian chuckles

Maxwell glances sideways at Giovanna.

Ian says, "I had one once...you should've seen what it went for..."

Ian says, "Could've bought a castle with it. Think the Count might've. Not sure;"

Giovanna catches Maxwell's glance, and smiles faintly.

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Meanwhile ... any news re: room change?"

Ian says, "Mmf..."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "oh, sheesh, I totally forgot about that thread"

[aboveground] GameMaster exclaims, "too many threads!"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "'s okay ... was just waiting for an opening."

[aboveground] GameMaster asks, "anyway, when he asked 'where/why', what did you say?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "(also, tell THAT to the Fate Witch....)"

Ian says, "This noble wear...so itchy..."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "That I needed a southern exposure."

Ian says, "Ah, well. Should be worth it to meet the interesting sorts at the party."

Maxwell asks (of Ian), "I take it you don't know of any other entrances to caves reasonably near here, though?"

Ian says, "You all seem an interesting bunch, if I may say so myself."

Ian says (to Maxwell), "Hmm..."

Ian says, "I heard rumor of something discovered high up in the mountains."

Ian says, "But I don't remember anything about it."

Ian says, "Maybe it was just a monster cave."

Giovanna asks, "Monster cave?"

DiegoValdez says (to Marquis), "I should be quite happy to see to the rearrangements myself, if I could find Pierre...."

Ian says, "It does border Eisen, y'see. Eisen is renowned for having monsters."

Giovanna frowns. "Of what sort?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "(Hmmm ... isn"

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "ah, well, can you ask when we are closer to that? I'm busy myself."

Ian says, "Green things. Sharp pointy teeth."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "(Hmmm ... isn't it supposed to be fashionable to have a Vodacce woman telling fortunes at a party? Whether or not she's a bona-fide strega?)"

[aboveground] Eolo says, "that's what I hear"

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "Things aren't really in full swing yet..."

[aboveground] DiegoValdez asks, "Er. "closer to what"?"

Ian says, "Bite 'yer head off if you aren't careful."

Giovanna says (to Ian), "I thought those were stories for children."

Giovanna says, "Bad children, specifically."

[aboveground] GameMaster says, "when we go to sleep, of course. Now, I *am* busy..."

BastardJack stirs. "So they are. A lot of truth in children's stories sometimes."

Ian says, "Nope. Them'r real."

Giovanna asks, "Have you seen one?"

[aboveground] DiegoValdez says, "Of course. Thank you....."

Ian says, "Sliced one in two with my own axe."

Giovanna draws back. "You're playing on my credulity, sir."

Cadiz grins. (to Giovanna) "What do you think that talon came from, if not a monster?"

Ian says, "Aye, plenty of strange things in this world. Don't see how you can doubt much appear in some sense."

DiegoValdez bows, bids the Marquis good day, then heads off to see if Eolo is still in his room.

Maxwell asks (of Ian), "Hmm, but you don't remember who would know more of that entrance?"

Giovanna says (to Cadiz), "If it were "simply" a monster, then no doubt there would be more of these talons about."

Eolo is sitting out on his balcony, but comes to the door at Diego's knock.

Ian says, "Maybe as one of the more local nobles...don't think Montaignians are much the adventurous type, though. Jean-Claude is a unique one."

Giovanna says, "What I wonder is whether there are creatures past that do not exist now..."

DiegoValdez asks (of Eolo), "Still dressing?"

Cadiz nods. "No doubt the creature was unique."

Ian says, "They like their Syrenth tours handed on a platter."

Eolo says (to Diego), "just let me grab my cloak"

Ian says (to Giovanna), "Aye, I hear rumors, possibly true ones."

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Don't worry. I'd rather we spoke up here for a moment."

Eolo says, "you can close the door, if you like"

DiegoValdez slips inside and closes the door behind him.

Giovanna asks, "oh...?"

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Well, this is a fine mess ... I don't remember when I last felt this jumpy...."

Ian says, "Arr, now lemme see..."

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "I'm seeing danger everywhere."

Eolo says, "hmm"

Eolo asks, "where, specifically?"

Ian says, "These goat-things with 6 horns I heard about once."

DiegoValdez asks (of Eolo), "I don't suppose you caught the name of the Eisen gentleman who just arrived?"

Ian says, "Oh, all over. But of course as I mention Eisen gets the most stories."

Eolo says, "it seems a bit auspicious, yes"

DiegoValdez asks (of Eolo), "Auspicious?"

Eolo says, "or"

Eolo says, "inauspicious, if you like"

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "I call it suspicious."

Ian says, "Oh, this thing called a 'unicorn' I heard about once...like a horse, but with one horn, black mane, fierce as lightning."

Giovanna nods

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "The others are talking to him right now ... as for me, I'd like to get a room where I can see who comes visiting the so-called haunted room in the middle of the night."

Eolo says, "hrm"

Ian says, "A couple more. I can't think of 'em right now. Ask me late.r"

Eolo says, "the only thing which there is clearly evidence for are the chalk markings around the house"

Eolo says, "it is possible that there is something in this tale of the haunted room, especially with this visitor, but many old manors have ghost stories"

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "don't forget the rumblings which seem to have been occurring since time immemorial."

GameMaster says, "[heh, story tide moving upstairs while people downstairs run out of questions]"

Ian says (to Giovanna), "So, tell me about yourself."

Eolo says, "mm"

Eolo says, "speaking of stories, there are also stories of earth-spirits bound deep underground"

Giovanna says (to Ian), "There's not much to tell"

DiegoValdez asks (of Eolo), "You don't suppose the rumbling may be connected to the ghost story, do you?"

DiegoValdez asks (of Eolo), "Earth spirits?"

Eolo says, "and their shaking as they attempt to free themselves from bondage is the shaking of the ground"

Giovanna says, "I have been visiting various friends in Montaigne..."

Eolo shrugs.

Giovanna says, "My life lacks any stories as interesting as yours, I'm afraid."

Eolo says, "children's tales, I had always thought"

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Brother Cadiz or Father Ochoa might have something to say about that...."

Eolo says, "but there is no sea nearby to create that breathing sound"

Ian asks, "No critter vanquishing yet, eh?"

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Yes. That breathing sound."

Giovanna says (to Ian), "Not yet, no."

Eolo says, "I am not sure if there is much we can do about it without getting down into the tunnels"

BastardJack says (to Ian), "Speaking of monsterns... well."

Giovanna smiles. "In truth, I'm greatly fascinated by such things. As must be evident."

Eolo says, "I have no doubt our compatriots below ground will find out the truth of it before we"

Maxwell says, "we were shut out from that sort of adventure."

Ian chuckles

Eolo shrugs.

Eolo says, "I do not know if they will survive the encounter"

BastardJack asks, "Let me start that again. Have you stayed in this houle often?"

Ian asks (of Maxwell), "What about you? Anything of interest?"

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Senor Benigni, I think it may be advisable that we find a way to get a room next to the haunted room. Or possibly that room itself. If this Gruenwald knows anything...."

BastardJack says, "s/houle/house"

Maxwell says (to Ian), "Well. That depends who's asking."

Maxwell smiles.

Eolo says, "we cannot go interrogating the marquis's guests"

DiegoValdez asks (of Eolo), "Ah ... but if we catch him in a place he should not be?"

Eolo says, "that seems to be a privilege he reserves for himself"

Ian says, "As a fellow Eisen, I s'pose."

[aboveground] Giovanna says, "snrk"

Maxwell says, "I'm also a diplomat, myself, you see."

Eolo says, "we could perhaps keep an eye on the room after dark .. I assume that is when the ghost appears"

Ian says, "Aye? Not too many of those in our country."

Ian chuckles

Maxwell says, "in the service of Eisenfu"rst Lo"wenherz."

Ian says, "'course, we seem to know war best."

Eolo says, "but certainly, if we can induce him to explain things to us, that would be a great asset"

Maxwell says, "Hmm. I strive to know peace better than war."

Ian says, "We think alike, I guess -- always delvin' into the mystery."

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "Si! For the first, that is why I thought to obtain a room closer to the ghost."

Eolo nods.

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "For the second ... if he knows anything, I feel almost certain that he will want to visit the haunted room."

DiegoValdez says (to Eolo), "I, uh, happened to have this handy...."

Eolo looks.

DiegoValdez takes out the lockpick.

Eolo says, "my my"

Eolo asks, "is this the stealth-disdaining Valdez I thought I knew so well?"

Eolo grins.

Ian says, "Mm...getting close to time for others to arrive, methinks."

DiegoValdez grins sheepishly.

Eolo asks, "can you use it?"

Maxwell says (to Ian), "Well, thank you for putting up with our barrage of questions."

DiegoValdez says, "Perhaps ... I have no training, unfortunately."

DiegoValdez says, "Though I could try."

Eolo nods.

Eolo says, "it is not that difficult .. or so I hear."

Ian says, "No problem."

Cadiz frowns.

DiegoValdez asks (of Eolo), "'or so you hear'?"

Eolo says, "but what I know for sure is that hosts tend to take it badly if discovered."

Cadiz says, "I'm not feeling that well."

Eolo says, "I would not try anything foolhardy unless in an emergency."

Eolo thinks.

Maxwell asks (of Cadiz), "Perhaps you should go upstairs a