[colonial] PerrySimm says, "Log on."

G_M says, "arrr."

Tymen says (to Reginald), "Yeah, I've been doing it (almost) every session."

G_M says, "So, when last we left out intrepid heroes, they were all back on ship planning their next move."

G_M says, "Except for Tymen, whom you now hear snoring in his room and muttering about puzzle pieces."

G_M says, "(and we shall assume that Alonso has other duties ... nightly prayers, perhaps.)"

Reginald says, "Hmmm."

Tymen says, "...nodctor... ...gimmetha..."

Brianna says (to Reginald), "Do you remember what the tattoo that man was drawing looked like? Pretty impressive, considering the awful conditions."

Reginald says, "Mmm. Quite."

Reginald asks, "Do you think we can still save the queen? Do you still think we should?"

Brianna says, "Well, it would be the right thing to do. Whether it would be a good idea for us personally is another question."

Tymen stumbles in from the hall. "Ah. Thought I heard voices... where'd all you people get to last night?"

Reginald says, "Twas a rough night."

G_M says (to Tymen), "('s not yet dawn...)"

[colonial] Tymen says (to GM), "I was figuring I'd hear them talking."

Reginald quickly recaps for Tymen.

Brianna says, "Reginald tried to entice a bunch of wharf rats to chase that boat we saw."

[colonial] Tymen says, "If not, I'll pretend I'm still in bed."

[colonial] Brianna says, "We'll yell a couple times, just for verisimilitude."

Tymen says, "Boat, huh? Huh."

[colonial] Tymen asks, "Could you give me the short version of your recap on-channel?"

[colonial] Tymen says, "I'm having trouble remembering the details of your bit -- since I read it quickly."

Reginald says, "I believe we're caught up in some rather sinister international political scheming, in short."

Tymen says, "Mmm. I'll keep to the random murders, then. Easier to deal with."

Reginald says, "Our suspect is about to sail away, as far as I can tell. I don't think we're in a position to haul him in."

Brianna says, "Selva was kissed in public by an unkown (to us, at least) assailant, whom we chased to the beach."

Tymen asks (of Brianna), "And there you caught him, and dragged the no-good-doer to judtice, right?"

Reginald says, "Who is possibly in cahoots with the Avalon second-in-command, and also the ubiquitous Dr. Strange."

Brianna says, "Well, we're still working on that part."

Tymen nods, "Ah, Dr. Strange. He's a doctor, isn't he?" He stops to think. "Yeah. He is, I'm pretty sure."

Brianna says, "The footprints becamse two sets - one out to the water, and one to the docks, where we lost him."

Tymen asks (of Brianna), "Did you lose both of him?"

Brianna says, "Both of him, in very deed. But we met some of the nice local constablry."

Brianna says (to Reginald), "I think you should tell this part - you had more to do with them."

Tymen nods, "Ah, yeah. They're nice guys. Overworked, though. Oughtta buy 'em a drink some time. But not grog."

Brianna winces at the memory of recent grog.

Reginald says, "Well, as I recall:"

Reginald says, "We followed one set of steps down to the water, where apparently a boat had been pushed off."

Reginald says, "That set of tracks also led up into the garden, of course. But there was the tracks of a different person, wearing boots of some sort, perhaps military, into the harbour district."

Brianna says, "That being the boat Reginald tried inciting the wharf rats to follow, I believe."

Tymen asks (of Brianna), "Did they follow?"

Reginald says, "Eventually we saw teh Captain wander back along the beach, get into the boat, and travel back to the ship anchored in the bay, yes."

Brianna says, "We don't know yet. Its still a bit early."

Reginald says, "The ship is going to sail first thing in the morning."

[colonial] G_M wonders if he missed the wharf rats thing.

[colonial] Reginald says, "When I was going on about how my treasure was on board and if only someone would row me out there, etc etc"

[colonial] Brianna says, "at the bar, with al the seedy, unhelpful characters."

Tymen asks, "Hmm. And then Alonso went for a drink?"

Reginald says, "In short, I think our only shot is to stop that ship from sailing. Whatever that might require."

Brianna says, "I think we should approach the authorities with what we know. This is their jurisdiction."

Tymen asks, "OK. So, while Reginald goes for a swim, what's this paper?"

Reginald says, "We may have enough to convince either the Rajah or the Colonel to detain them. Perhaps. This could easily turn into the sort of things that wars are fought over."

Tymen asks, "Is it against the law to kiss the General's wife, too?"

Tymen asks, "Or just for the General's wife to have been kissed?"

Reginald says, "I think the point is that she appears to be having an affair."

Brianna says, "To have been kissed, I believe. Whether she was an active participant or not does not seem to make any difference."

Tymen says (to Reginald), "Well, yes. I'm just wondering whether the kisser would be a criminal too."

Reginald says, "If we could prove that she was the victim of a sinister plot, she may be saved."

Tymen says, "If so, the authorities might be more willing to have the ship stopped."

Reginald says, "Well... who has the motive to do this? Who wants the queen rubbed out? I can think of one person."

Reginald says (to Tymen), "I imagine they'd prefer to burn the two of them together, if they had their way."

Brianna says, "By the way, the note you were asking about said ""I have listened in on the conversations between the General and the Rajah ... there is to be an alliance with the Crescent Empire, of course with certain concessions such as the delivery of known criminals (that is the word they used)...""

[colonial] Tymen says, "(Erm. Which Queen is this aggin?)"

Brianna says, "I don't think the speaker was Eisen, though that's the language they wrote in."

[colonial] Reginald says, "Err, the general's wife, er whatnot."

[colonial] G_M says, "Selva, I'm guessing. General's wife, not queen, but if you want to call her a queen, by all means (not as if you know the customary title)."

[colonial] Reginald says (to G_M), "Yeah, exactly."

Tymen asks (of Brianna), "Aha. Is it signed or addressed?"

Brianna says, "No. And it was gained suspiciously."

Tymen says, "Hmm."

Tymen asks, "Speaking of known criminals, any of you heard of the 'Running Blades'?"

Reginald says, "I'd hardly say that. Someone merely littered it about, and I was feeling cleanly."

Reginald says (to Tymen), "Can't say that I have."

Brianna says (to Reginald), "Very concientious of you. Timely concientiousness, that."

G_M says (to Brianna), "you may have heard the term once, you think. Nothing definite, though."

Brianna says, "I've heard the term before, but I can't really say I know what it is."

Tymen says, "Hrm. Probably nothing to do with this, really."

Tymen asks, "So, are we swimming out to the ship, or are we going to tell the harbormaster to have it recalled, or what?"

Reginald says, "Let us posit that someone is trying to orchestrate a maneouver to stop this alliance. Finding the queen having an affair with a foreigner would be a threat to that."

Brianna says, "Swimming while armed presents a challenge. If we go that route, lets get a small rowboat."

Reginald says, "I'd rather take them on, if it comes to that, and well it might, with something more like a navy. Presumably the harbour, and the Colonel, have some forces at their disposal. And our own ship, of course."

[colonial] Brianna says, "checks character sheet"

[colonial] Tymen asks, "Do they know it was a foreignor?"

[colonial] Tymen asks, "Do we know that, even?"

Brianna says, "Okay, let me amend that to "Swimming presents a challenge.""

[colonial] G_M says, "The kissing bandit? Yes, it was quite obviously a foreignor (ie, Thean)."

[colonial] Reginald says, "I believe we know that the person was of a dress and a complexion not native to this area."

Tymen says (to Brianna), "You have a point."

Tymen exclaims, "Right. To the rowboat, then!"

[Crows-Nest] Tymen says, "it's a good thing Tymen is still slightly drunk."

Reginald says (to Tymen), "Wait. The three of us are not going to board a fully-crewed naval vessel from a rowboat."

Brianna grabs Tymen. "Slow down, just a minute."

Tymen says (to Reginald), "Alright, I'll stay behind and watch the ship, then."

Reginald says, "I think we should present our case to the chief investigators, and move, hopefully quickly enough, through some semblance of official channels."

Brianna says, "We still need to inform the local authorities of what we've found. Charging in without backup is suicide."

Tymen says, "Right-o."

Reginald says, "Let's... let's leave the good Colonel and Dr. Strange out of this loop for the moment. I'm not entirely sure what side of the fence they're on any more."

Tymen says, "Not a problem. I think they know me."

Brianna checks the clock.

Tymen says, "Not sure if they *like* me, but that's beside the point."

[colonial] Tymen asks, "Given our longitude, is our clock likely to be any use for telling the time?"

[colonial] Tymen says, "(Er. Or is that lattitude? I always forget which is which.)"

Brianna asks (of Reginald), "Then whom do you suggest? Or does the three of us versus a boat sound reasonable to the two of you?"

Reginald asks, "The official investigators are in the prison, yes?"

Brianna asks (of GM), "Can I make a strategy roll for that?"

Tymen says (to Reginald), "Maybe, but at least one seemed to be on the outside of the bars."

Tymen says (to Brianna), "Well, it is nighttime."

G_M says (to Brianna), "Nah, you don't need to."

Tymen says (to Brianna), "They'd be less likely to notice a rowboat than a whole ship."

Reginald says, "If they'd wanted to openly declare war against this nation, they would have just come in with cannon blazing. I don't think they'll fire against the constabulary in the execution of their duties, at least not yet. I hope."

Brianna asks (of Tymen), ""You want to ambush them in their sleep?"

Tymen says (to Brianna), "I do? OK."

G_M says (to Brianna), "You'd figure that a bit of reconnaisance (maybe even infiltration) would be possible, but an outright attack would be very risky."

Brianna says (to Reginald), "if they do, that would surely tip their hand."

Reginald says, "Perhaps we can discuss this on the way there."

Tymen says (to Brianna), "Let's just not wake them up, though."

Tymen says, "Ambushes work so much better when the other side is allowed to sleep through it."

Tymen asks (of Reginald), "On the way which way, though?"

Reginald makes motions towards the gangplank.

Reginald says, "To the local officials."

Reginald says, "If they don't help, we've lost nothing."

Brianna tries to interject enough sarcasm into her remark that it penetrates Tymen alcohol-induced foggines. "You're brilliant."

Reginald says (to Tymen), "We can get a quick drink on the way over. I know this quaint little place on the wharf..."

Tymen says (to Brianna), "Thank you, my dear. But I think Reginald has a point."

Brianna exclaims (at Reginald), "No!"

Tymen says (to Reginald), "Grar. No more grog."

Reginald says, "Alright, perhaps later."

Brianna says (to Tymen), "I'm so glad you think so."

Reginald asks (of Brianna), "You've a copy of this note, yes?"

Tymen says (to Brianna), "Have you *tasted* it? Maybe a Marsh whisky instead."

Brianna says, "Let me make one right quick . . .<proceeds to do so>."

Reginald lies the pieces in his notebook, and closes it firmly to hold them (more or less) in place. After Brianna is done.

G_M says (to Brianna), "You manage to copy everything except the handwriting."

Reginald says (to Tymen), "I trust you've armed yourself."

Tymen points, "Onward, then! We have nothing to lose but our pants!"

Reginald proceeds onward.

Tymen marches across the gangplank, to the prison.

Tymen says, "And our lives, possibly. But just that. Pants and lives..."

G_M says, "Prison looks the same as before, just darker now. Guards still there."

Brianna says (to Tymen), "I happen to like my pants. I'm rationing your drinking from now on, mister."

Reginald says, "Take us to your leader. Please."

Tymen says (to Brianna), "Yes, alright, they are very nice pants."

Brianna can't help but chuckle.

Tymen looks in the doorway and waves at whoever's inside.

Brianna says (to Tymen), "Thank you. Your opinion means so much to me."

G_M says (to Reginald), "They have no idea what you're saying. But since their leader is the only translator they know nearby, that works out okay."

(From G_M) Official: "What, what, whaaaat?"

Tymen exclaims, "I've found some witnesses!"

(From G_M) Official apparently pulled out of bed yet again this night.

Reginald says (to Official), "We know where the Kissing Bandit is, the one who assaulted Selva."

(From G_M) Official: Swear to that, crossyourheartandhopetodie?

Brianna mutters "I'm sure we will soon, hope to or not."

Reginald says (to Official), "This is what will happen. If we're right, it's all your idea and you're a hero destined to greatness. If we're wrong, it's all our fault because we're stupid foreigners, and you've lost nothing."

Tymen nods. "He's right. Probably both true, either way..."

Reginald says, "He's on that ship in the harbour, the one at anchor, with the strange figurehead. The ship is scheduled to leave first thing in the morning. We need to capture him before that, and before Selva is executed."

(From G_M) Official: and both ways my men will be busy. Fine, where is he?

(From G_M) Official: Oho, there? Hm. That would be "Firestorm". Diplomatic ship, I think.

Reginald says (to Official), "That 'diplomatic ship' is trying to get your General's wife killed. Hardly very sporting of them."

Brianna asks, "Will that be a problem?"

(From G_M) Official frowns. "sounds more like a job for the General."

Reginald says (to Official), "Excellent idea, sir."

(From G_M) Official: The General will see about having the man handed over. I will be waiting.

Tymen salutes.

[colonial] Tymen asks, "Does that mean it's our job to wake the general?"

(From G_M) Official (calling one of the men over): This is Gopal. He will accompany you to the General's house.

Reginald follows Gopal.

Brianna says, "Greetings, Gopal."

(From G_M) Official writes a short note (of the "I sent you" variety) and hands it to one of you.

Tymen tries to read it.

(From G_M) Gopal looks inscrutable and unintelligible.

Brianna says (to Reginald(inawhisper)), "I hope this isn't one of those "Please execute on sight the bearer of this note" kind of deals."

Reginald nods.

G_M says (to Tymen), "It looks like Crescent letters turned upside down, crossed out, and given a few rounds through a Montaigne omelette factory."

[colonial] Brianna says, "Mmmm, Montaigne omelettes. My favorite breakfast."

Tymen squints, turns the paper upside down, and crosses his eyes.

G_M says (to Tymen), ""Kilroy was here"? Nah...."

G_M says, "There does appear to be activity in the General's house, incidentally. You can see the light of candles winking back and forth in the windows, as if people were moving around hurriedly."

Tymen asks, "Shall we?"

Reginald says (to Tymen), "Let's follow Gopal's lead for now."

[colonial] Tymen asks, "Has Gopal gone anyplace yet?"

[colonial] G_M says, "He's with you all. If you're heading towards the General's, that's where he is. Otherwise, he's wherever you are."

[colonial] Brianna says, "I thought we were at the General's house by now. Winking candles, and all."

[colonial] Reginald says, "I'm expecting him to do some knocking and bowing any second now."

Tymen gestures to the door. "Well, Gopal's not knocking, so let us."

Tymen knocks.

G_M says, "Okay, you're at the General's. Servants are scurrying around."

Tymen then promptly steps back so tht Brianna and Reginald are in front when the door's answered.

G_M says, "A servant looks out. "Please. Is bad time."."

Brianna makes sure her panzerhand and sword are comfortable.

Reginald shows the note to the servant impatiently.

G_M says, "The servant hesitates, and lets you all in."

[colonial] Reginald asks, "Do we see the General running around in here somewhere?"

Brianna says (to Servant), "Where is the General. He needs to see what we have found."

G_M says, "Central hall. Stairs going up. The General is standing at the top of the stairs, in robes, looking a little put out."

Brianna salutes. "General!"

Reginald waves excitedly. "General!"

(From G_M) General: What is it? Why are you here?

Brianna says, "General, I think you need to see this <produces note>."

G_M says, "The General waves some nervous-looking servants away. Elsewhere, you hear things being moved around, and doors opening and closing."

Brianna says, "We have reason to believe that Selva was framed. We followed the perpertrator to the beach, near Firestorm."

(From G_M) General glances at note. "Okay, so you have found this ... this thief of women. He will say what my wife is to him.

(From G_M) General barks some orders at an open doorway. You hear feet scurrying off in the direction of the barracks.

(From G_M) General: Normally I would go personally, but I am in the middle of the most frightful mess.

Brianna says (to General), "If they are interested in creating an international incident, his story and your wife's may not match."

Reginald says, "We'll let an elephant step on him until he decides to tell the truth."

Reginald says, "But we must capture him quickly! His ship is set to sail at morning."

(From G_M) The General snorts. "What sort of incident can there be? There is no-one who stands to gain from this."

Reginald says (to General), "There are some who are not happy with the alliances you've built with foreigners, sir."

(From G_M) The General: Very well. Go. I give you some men, you go insist that the man be handed over. I will send a scribe to your Colonel to negotiate."

Reginald bows.

(From G_M) The General (to Reginald): What alliances? Only alliance I know of is with your kingdom of Castille, and that is an old old story, hardly worth the trouble now.

[colonial] Reginald is from Avalon, actually, but I guess we all look the same.

[colonial] G_M says, "True, that you do."

Reginald says (to General), "Sir, my suspicion is that this has something to do with the Crescent Empire. But we'll get the story out of him."

[colonial] Brianna says, "ellarm-afk."

(From G_M) Some soldiers clatter into the room and snap to attention.

(From G_M) The General: Wait!

(From G_M) The General: What is this about the Crescents?

Reginald says (to General), "We found a message from one of the people will suspect. Brianna, read it out, if you could."

Brianna says, ""I have listened in on the conversations between the General and the Rajah ... there is to be an alliance with the Crescent Empire, of course with certain concessions such as the delivery of known criminals (that is the word they used)...""

(From G_M) The General doesn't seem quite so anxious to get rid of you now.

Brianna says, "As I've said before, it doesn't sound like an Eisen native writing this."

(From G_M) The General: That is a lie! The Crescents are our enemies, they have always been and always will be. It is well known that they seek only to enslave our kingdom.

[colonial] Brianna says, "afk ish"

(From G_M) The General: That is a lie! The Crescents are our enemies, they have always been and always will be. It is well known that they seek only to enslave our kingdom.

Reginald says (to General), "Then this person must be lying to both sides, using one enemy to take out another. The sort of manouver that a "diplomat" might think of."

[colonial] G_M says, "(oop, darn enter key)"

Reginald says (to General), "The man who received this note, who was very upset by it, gave us the name 'Demitri'."

(From G_M) The General: Very well. I will see that no ship leaves the port until this matter is settled.

Reginald bows.

[colonial] Brianna says, "back"

[colonial] Brianna says, "is the ship in port? I thought it was moored off of the beach."

[colonial] Reginald says, "It's in the harbour, I think, which has a beachy part."

(From G_M) The General: Demitri ... I know many men with that name. It is very common in the Arcathon district.

(From G_M) The General: If he is upset, it is no surprise. The Arcathonians are all refugees from the Crescent Empire.

(From G_M) The General: Enough talk now. Go find this man and we will see what is what.

Reginald bows again.

[Crows-Nest] (from G_M) Reginald develops back pains from all the bowing.

Reginald says (to Brianna), "Leading men into battle is probably more your forte', I expect."

[Crows-Nest] Brianna says, "Try saluting. It takes fewer muscles."

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "I'm saluting right now... oh, erm, nevermind."

Brianna says (to Reginald), "Mmmmm. We need information about that ship."

Reginald moves towards the massed force the General has given us.

Reginald says (to Brianna), "Then we'll wring it from the scrawny necks of her crew."

Brianna asks (of Menthegeneralgaveus), "Tell me about Firestorm. What class ship is she, do you know how many may be on board, how fast is she and how manueverable? What ships are available?"

G_M says, "Not big enough for a full-blown battle, but enough to indicate that the nation is interested in the outcome."

G_M says (to Brianna), "The men look at each other, and finally one of them (presumably the one with the best command of foreign languages) comes forward."

Brianna asks, "What kind of arms and armor does she carry? How many cannon?"

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "Well, according to Ye Olde Juan's Fighting Ships..."

Brianna says, "I'd rather intimidate them into giving up, rather than having to fight them. You lose fewer fighters that way."

(From G_M) Soldier: Firestorm. Avalon war ship. They say she has more guns than she needs, and the woman in front is a goddess who has blessed the ship.

Alonso has connected.

[Crows-Nest] Reginald exclaims, "Huzzah!"

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "So evidently I have no working memory"

[Crows-Nest] Brianna says, "Greetings Doctor Grenade."

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "Gr*a*nade. :)"

[Crows-Nest] Brianna says, "Right, sorry. But I got the Doctor part right."

G_M says (to Alonso), "The others left the ship while you were saying Matins."

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "But we're probably on our way back very shorty."

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "aha. Good save for idiot me. :)"

[Crows-Nest] Brianna says, "Idiot, genius. Its all the same."

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "Erm, shortly."

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "Okay. I'll be finishing my duties, planning on meeting the rest of you shortly"

Reginald says, "Hopefully knowing that firing on us would be an act of war will be intimidation enough."

Reginald says, "Also, we may have to drag the good Colonel along."

Brianna says, "Having two ships to bracket her would be helpful. One may not be sufficient to block her from fleeing."

Reginald says, "A cannonball to the bridge usually slows them down, too."

Brianna says, "Yes, and if we can't avoid it, that is an excellent plan B."

Reginald exclaims, "To our ship, then!"

Brianna says, "I like a good fight as well as the next person. More, probably."

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "Game to Tymen, game to Tymen, come in, Tymen."

G_M says, "The General calls for a servant and more soldiers, and begins barking orders at them. The servant runs out towards the docks, the soldiers marching out behind."

Brianna says (to GM), "did the general give us a ship? I missed that."

G_M says (to Brianna), "No, he's giving orders to close the harbour and keep all the ships from leaving, though."

[colonial] Reginald says, "I think we're using our own."

[Crows-Nest] Brianna says, "okay."

Brianna says, "To our ship, then."

G_M says (to Alonso), "You hear shouting from the docks. There's a servant-type banging on the door of the harbourmaster."

Alonso has disconnected.

Alonso has connected.

G_M says (to Alonso), "You hear shouting from the docks. There's a servant-type banging on the door of the harbourmaster."

Alonso hurries off-ship and to the docks.

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "Maybe my oconnection will stay up now"

Reginald heads toward our ship.

Brianna leads the men toward our vessel.

G_M says (to Alonso), "Hurried, excited words. up the street, a contingent of soldiers is approaching."

Brianna says (to Alonso), "Father, I hope you had a good sleep. We need you."

G_M says (to Alonso), "Very close behind, another contingent, this time with Brianna leading."

Alonso asks (of Brianna), "I fear I've been overwhelmed by recent events. What is the latest news?"

Brianna says, "We have reason to believe the man who kissed Selva last night is trying to start an international incident."

Brianna says, "He is hiding on the Firestorm, and the General has ordered the harbour closed until we apprehend him. He has sent these men to help."

Alonso says, "Aha. It is as I feared and suspected."

Brianna asks (of Alonso), "Are you familiar with the equipment needed for grappling another ship?"

Reginald says (to Alonso), "Exactly."

Alonso says, "I will help as I can."

Alonso says, "I...well, I do not like to admit it, but I have been involved in ship-to-ship combat before."

Alonso says, "And I have some knowledge of grappling equipment."

Reginald boards our ship, starts waking the crew.

Brianna asks, "Can you see if we have the necessary equipment?"

Alonso nods and heads for the ship.

[colonial] Alonso says, "Looking for what equipment is on the ship."

G_M says, "You have necessary equipment."

Reginald exclaims (at Crew), "You men there, load those cannon!"

Alonso starts dragging grapnels from chests and attaching ropes

Reginald exclaims, "Prepare to cast off!"

Brianna says, "Firestorm is that way <points>. Let's get moving."

G_M says, "You get moving."

Brianna directs some men to assist Alonso in setting up.

G_M says, "A little way out, you see the Firestorm, sitting there in the water as peaceful as can be."

Brianna says (to Crew), "Pull up beside her."

G_M says, "You pull up closer to the Firestorm. The sailors on the Firestorm seem a little surprised and puzzled."

(From G_M) Firestorm sailor: "Ahoy there!"

Reginald exclaims (at Firestorm), "Ahoy! By authority of the General and the Harbourmaster, prepare to be boarded!"

(From G_M) Firestorm sailor: "Boarded! Why?"

G_M says, "Some frantic whispering, and someone runs off to get the captain."

Alonso has disconnected.

Alonso has connected.

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "argh"

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "The last thing I saw was me dragging out grapnels and such"

Reginald says (to party), "We'll get them to muster the crew topside and then look for our man. It probably won't be that easy, though."

[Crows-Nest] G_M says, "You are now beside the Firestorm, announcing the intention to board."

Reginald keeps an eye on their anchor cable.

Alonso says, "We'll need to be ready to move onto the other ship at the first opportunity"

Alonso says, "And watch for torches! If they burn through enough rope, the two ships will separate"

Reginald says (to Alonso), "Why don't you speak as captain of our ship, to theirs."

G_M says (to Reginald), "You see a rat climbing down and swimming off. Mm, bubonic plague."

Alonso asks, "I can do so. We have the general's authority here?"

G_M says, "Captain Corley eventually appears."

Reginald says (to Alonso), "Yes."

Brianna says (to Reginald), "Apparently those wharf rats you attempted to incite took your advice."

Reginald slips behind a capstan.

(From G_M) Corley: "Ahoy! What seems to be the problem?"

Alonso says, "Ahoy! Captain Corley! We must come aboard."

(From G_M) Corley shrugs. "Be my guest." and orders someone to extend a gangplank.

Alonso asks, "Brianna? Care to accompany me?"

Reginald says (to Alonso), "(quietly) Ask him to muster his entire crew on deck."

Brianna says (to Alonso), "After you, Father."

Alonso says (to Corley), "We need you to muster your crew on deck as well."

Brianna stands at Alsonso's shoulder, trying to look more intimidating than usual.

Alonso murmurs to the other sailors, "Be ready to grab the Firestorm if necesssary."

(From G_M) Corley raises his eyebrows. "Would you care to tell me why?"

Alonso moves across the gangplank. Tap, tap, tap.

Alonso draws near to Corley. He says, quietly, "You may have someone hiding amongst your crew."

Reginald moves among the crew, waiting.

(From G_M) Corley: oh?

Alonso asks (of Corley), "Are you aware of what happened with Selva earlier?"

[colonial] Alonso asks, "Do we know where Corley stands in all of this?"

[colonial] Reginald says, "Not exactly. Suspicions, certainly."

[colonial] Brianna says, "No."

[colonial] Alonso says, "I'll pretend he's innocent, then, and see what happens."

[colonial] Alonso asks, "Where's Tymen in all of this?"

(From G_M) Corley: (smiling slightly) Of course. It was certainly the most entertaining thing all night.

[colonial] Reginald says, "He seems to be no longer with us."

Alonso says, "The situation seems to have been contrived without her knowledge or acquiescence."

[colonial] Reginald says, "Idle almost a full hour, now."

(From G_M) Corley shrugs. "That's not my problem. Why are you telling me this?"

Alonso says, "Because the conspirator or conspirators appear to be based on your ship. And that could make it your problem."

Brianna eyes the crew, looking for Kissing Man.

[colonial] Reginald says, "The old Good Pirate, Bad Pirate routine."

[colonial] Alonso says, "arr"

(From G_M) Corley: "I see. And why do you think the conspirators might be based here?"

G_M says (to Brianna), "No sign of the kissing bandit topdeck...."

[colonial] Alonso asks (of Brianna), "Mind if I pitch the explaining of this to you?"

[colonial] Brianna says, "not at al."

Brianna says, "Captain Corley,"

Alonso says, "I'll let Brianna explain."

Brianna says, "We traced the footprints of the man seen kissing Selva to the edge of this beach, and saw a small boat approaching your ship. The conclusion seems obvious."

Brianna says, "The General shares our conviction, and has given his support in searching your ship. Your cooperation would be greatly appreciated."

(From G_M) Corley: I see.

Brianna says, "So far there has been little evidence showing whom the man may be working with. It is imperative that we find him so we can discover this."

Brianna asks, "Do we have your cooperation, then?"

(From G_M) Corley: Well. Be that as it may, I'm afraid I must refuse. I know perfectly well what would happen if this person were handed over, and I object to such barbaric forms of "justice."

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "Yay! I mean, boo."

(From G_M) Corley: Besides, what is one little kiss, anyway?

Alonso spreads his hands. "To us? Very little. To them? An act worthy of a terrible death for Selva."

Brianna says, "Captain Corley, I agree with your views of the local justice system, however, may I point out that refusing to turn this individual over may result in all of you being on the receiving end of said 'justice.'"

(From G_M) Corley: Then if I were you, I'd see about rescuing that fair woman from the mob.

Brianna says, "A situation I'm sure we would all like to avoid."

Alonso says, "I can certainly understand your reluctance. But think: what will happen if this spirals out of control? At this point we might still be able to reign in tempers."

(From G_M) Corley: It's a very simple matter. Leave the natives to their own justice, and let us Theans deal with our own.

Reginald instructs one of the cannon crew to aim directly at the figurehead.

Brianna examines the crew with an eye toward a fight breaking out.

G_M says (to Reginald), "Hmmm ... deja vu ... something oddly familiar about that figurehead."

Reginald blinks and takes a better look.

Brianna says, "Captain, this man will recieve no justice if we do not find him. That is what we Theans are here to do."

Alonso says (to Corley), "I cannot stand idly by while someone innocent is murdered, Thean or not. I find it sad but expected that you can."

Brianna also measures up Captain Corley, looking for weaknesses.

(From G_M) Corley: I am not handing the man over, and I daresay Colonel Abernethie will back me up on this.

(From G_M) Corley: I do not see how justice would be served by handing him over.

Brianna says, "Then you know who it is, and that he is on your crew. Interesting."

Alonso pauses. "Sir, you know you have the man?"

(From G_M) Corley: Actually, he's a passenger. A captain is expected to protect the interests of his passengers while they are on board his ship, no?

Brianna says, "Not when they are criminals, no."

Alonso asks, "To a point, yes. When that passenger engages in acts that not only endanger an individual's life, but can send nations to war?"

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "I'll just ignore our own actions in that regard."

Brianna says, "And if you do not hand him over willingly, we will have to take all of you unwillingly. I would hate to fight my fellow Theans for the sake of these foreigners."

(From G_M) Corley: So you would engage in bloodshed over this miniscule matter? How is it important to you?

Alonso says, "A matter that could plunge nations into war is hardly miniscule."

[Crows-Nest] Brianna exclaims, "'Cause we're the good guys!"

Alonso says, "I do not want to go to war at all. I would prefer that this be settled peaceably and to the satisfaction of as many as possible."

(From G_M) Corley (a little incredulous): How can one kiss plunge nations into war?

Alonso says, "Before now? It would not have. The incident would have ended with the death of the innocent Selva."

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "Exactly the same way it can plunge two ships into battle."

Alonso asks, "Now? Now that the General believes -- rightly, it appears -- that a Thean ship is sheltering someone who wishes to see Selva dead?"

Brianna says, "Captain, it staggers the imagination that you could be posted here for any length of time, yet have less knowledge of the local customs than we, who have been here merely a few days."

[colonial] Reginald asks, "So... what's this about the figurehead looking familiar?"

[colonial] Brianna says, "It looks like you! :-)"

[colonial] Reginald asks, "We've got a small boat or skiff or something, don't we?"

[colonial] Brianna says, "That's standard with having a ship, I believe."

G_M says (to Reginald), "The figurehead is an improbably thin woman with masses of hair curling back across the front of the ship like tongues of flame. Her hands are crossed demurely over her chest. You're not certain, but it appears that a ring, similar in design to Gina's, has been carved onto the ring finger of each hand."

Reginald says, "You men there, prepare that boat for launch."

[colonial] Brianna says, "So, it looks like we may have to fight this culturally insensitive blockhead. Looks like Stella (my other character) is rubbing off. I'm avoiding a fight! :-)"

Reginald says (to Alonso), "Captain, I'm going to pick up the Colonel. Perhaps insubordination holds more fear for men such as these."

(From G_M) Corley (frowning): I don't know that his intention was specifically to see the woman arrested. If you will excuse me....?

[colonial] inky says, "hee hee"

Reginald gets into boat, tells men to row fast, damnit.

Alonso says (to Corley), "I'd suggest you let Brianna or me accompany you. One of us alone cannot overthrow your will, but we can then testify in your behalf if necessary."

G_M says (to Reginald), "Row row row"

(From G_M) Corley: You have my word as a gentleman that I have no intention of any treachery. But I must have a few words in private with my guest.

Alonso says (to Corley), "You know my profession. If necessary, I can vow that I will not speak of what I see."

Brianna says, "Captain, I think you can understand why we must disagree."

Brianna says, "Father, this is not the confessional."

Reginald walks the plank to adventure. Arr!

Reginald arrives, looking for booty.

(From G_M) Corley: I must satisfy myself that this man's actions were, as you say, designed to cause this woman's destruction.

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "Rowed myself right off the net, there."

[Crows-Nest] G_M says, "hee"

Alonso says (to Brianna), "It can be, if necessary, and if the man wishes to confess to me."

[Crows-Nest] Brianna says, "hee"

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "heh"

Brianna looks skeptical, but acquiesces.

Alonso says, "Of course, this discussion may be moot."

Alonso turns to Corley.

(From G_M) Corley (to Alonso): ...?

Brianna says, "Father, if you are not back in less than half an hour, we will consider your position comprimised. Please be careful."

Alonso says, "We ask that you allow one of us to go with you. If necessary, and if your passenger agrees, I can come and give the man the sanctity of confession."

[Crows-Nest] Reginald exclaims, "Remember kids, always split your party up!"

[Crows-Nest] G_M asks, "where's Reginald now?"

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "Rowing, then to the Colonel's house."

(From G_M) Corley: Thank you, Father, but no.

Alonso asks, "Then if your passenger flees? You are willing to take responsibility?"

G_M says (to Reginald), "The Colonel's house, as you recall, is right through the woods opposite the ship."

[colonial] Reginald says, "Indeed I do so recall."

(From G_M) Corley: We're on a ship. Where could he possibly flee to?

Alonso says, "With your help? I can but imagine."

[colonial] Tymen says, "Grarr. Wonky connection."

[colonial] G_M says (to Tymen), "Arr."

[colonial] Tymen says, "(Are we still going, or wrapping up?)"

[colonial] G_M says (to Tymen), "Well, you're back on the ship. Brianna and Alonso are arguing with Corley about handing over Corley's passenger the kissing bandit."

[colonial] G_M says (to Tymen), "Reginald just rowed off towards the Colonel's."

[colonial] Tymen asks, "Does Corley know he's the Kissing Bandit?"

[colonial] G_M says (to Tymen), "Corley's insisting on having a few private words with the passenger before deciding on whether to hand him over. And yes, he knows."

[colonial] Tymen says, "Ah. So he wants to kill him, to make sure he doesn't testify to save his own skin."

[colonial] Brianna says, "Alonso and I are against private words, and Alonso has volunteered to witness in a confessional sense."

[colonial] Reginald says, "And I"ve run off to get the Colonel to order him turned over."

[colonial] Tymen looks at scrollback comment about figurehead. Hmm...

G_M says (to Reginald), "You eventually get to the Colonel's. A lamp is burning in one room."

Reginald dashes up to the house.

Reginald exclaims, "Colonel! You must come quickly!"

Reginald pounds on the door.

(From G_M) Corley shrugs, shakes his head, and walks back to the sterncastle where the staterooms are.

Reginald tries the door.

G_M says (to Reginald), "The door is yanked open. There's the Colonel, looking a little worse for wear (hungover) and a few native scribes jabbering at him about the Situation."

(From G_M) Corley bangs on one door. "Anders! Open up!"

Reginald says, "Sir. I need you to accompany me back to the ship. We're having some... difficulties with Corley. Surely he'll respect your orders as a ranking officer."

(From G_M) Colonel: So I've been hearing. (not so loud, please)

Reginald says, "Sorry, sir. The boat is this way."

G_M says (to Alonso), "the door opens a crack, and Corley slips in ... and slams it shut behind him. You hear his voice through the door: "what in legion's name have you been playing at?""

Alonso sidles closer to the door while trying to look like he isn't sidling closer to the door.

(From G_M) Abernethie (annoyed): what do you want me to do, now?

G_M says (to Alonso), "Corley sounds pretty angry, but is trying to keep his voice down. But you do catch a few snippets of conversation:"

(From G_M) Anders: ...favour for a friend ...

Reginald says (to Colonel), "I would like you to come with me back to the ship, sir. Your personal handling of this crisis would surely be appreciated by your superiors."

(From G_M) Corley: ... who ... contracts from others ... good mind to just turn you in...

[Crows-Nest] Reginald says, "Cmon, kick it down; you know you wanna."

[Crows-Nest] Alonso exclaims, "Not me! I'm *good*!"

(From G_M) Anders: I'll tell ... don't ... Martinez ...

(From G_M) Corley: Don't threaten me ....

G_M says (to Reginald), "The Colonel sighs. "Listen. Even if this whole thing was done as a prank, I don't believe for an instant that they're going to believe that it was. This man will be dead in the morning if we hand him over, and so will the woman. I can't have that on my conscience."

(From G_M) Anders: ...know too much ... secrets ...

G_M asks, "And in the meantime, what's everyone else doing?"

Reginald says (to Colonel), "Sir, I've good reason to believe it was much more serious than a prank. Indeed, I believe the entire incident was orchestrated to throw this entire region into full-blown war. This man, whomever he is, has committed an act of high treason."

Alonso sidle sidle sidle, listen listen listen.

[colonial] Brianna says, "I'm waiting for alonso and reginald to get back, while looking (semi) intimidating to the crew on deck."

(From G_M) Abernethie: Well, it appears to be working. If it's a plot, as you say, then the mastermind must know that I would never allow a fellow Avalon to be (shudder) stoned by the locals.

Reginald says, "Perhaps we can convince the General to allow him to stay in our custody. As it is, he's inclined to sink the Firestorm where she floats."

(From G_M) Corley: ...occurs to me ... so-called friend ... see you die. What about that?

(From G_M) Abernethie: In that case, I should be speaking to the General himself. If you'll excuse me....

(From G_M) Anders: <silence>

G_M says (to Alonso), "the door suddenly opens and Corley strides out. "I'll hand him over to the General and no-one else. In the meantime, he stays in my custody.""

Reginald says, "Sir."

(From G_M) Corley: If you wish to remain on board to see that I don't attempt anything underhanded, you are more than welcome to.

Reginald rows back. Row row row.

Alonso asks, "Oh? And why the willingness to turn him over now?"

(From G_M) Corley: I am quite satisfied that this kiss was an act of malice. Let him suffer the consequences.

Alonso asks, "How...interesting. May I speak to him?"

Brianna says, "Then here we will wait. I believe our companion went to fetch the Colonel."

(From G_M) Corley: NO. um. No, I don't think so.

G_M says (to Reginald), "Back."

Reginald walks up to Alonso & Brianna.

Alonso asks, "No? Again, interesting. I'm willing for you to hold him, but where will I take him?"

Brianna says (to Alonso), "If we can pull this off without bloodshed, my superiors will be impressed."

Alonso says, "All I ask is to see him."

Alonso sails towards the door, as if not used to being stopped.

[Crows-Nest] Alonso says, "Ah, Indomitable Will"

(From G_M) Corley: As I said, I hand him over to the General and to no-one else. If they want him, let them come for him.

Reginald says, "The Colonel shares your reluctance to turn him over to the local authorities, and wants to take personal custody of the man. He's in negotations with the General now."

Reginald says, "This may yet turn out peacefully."

Reginald says, "For the moment, your ship serves as good a prison as any."

(From G_M) Corley positions himself between the door and everyone else.

Alonso asks, "Come, sir, what are you hiding?"

Alonso's eyes narrow. "A man escaped? Or worse, dead?"

Brianna unsuruptitiously makes sure her panzerhand and sword are comfortable.

(From G_M) Corley: The stateroom's windows are over there, if you wish to keep watch. In the meantime, he's not going anywhere until the General himself claims him.

Reginald says (to Corley), "We appreciate your co-operation in this matter."

Brianna says, "We had hoped to resolve this peacefully, and we may yet. However, I like to keep in mind the words of one of my former captains, "When diplomacy fails, use force.""

Alonso stumps his way over to the window and looks through it.

Brianna says, "Janeway was quite an inspiration."

[colonial] Reginald says, "I'm happy to break any time."

G_M says (to Alonso), "Leaning over, you can just see a man pacing back and forth inside. The pin on his lapel (a broken swordsman's pin ... why doesn't he get that thing mended?) catches the light as he walks past. He pauses and picks up a bottle from a table -- you recognise the distinctive mark of a Falisci wine. Attached is a card, which he reads, smiles to himself, and tosses aside. Then he opens the bottle."

G_M says, "....end"

[colonial] Brianna says, "whoohoo! nice cliff-hanger."

[colonial] Alonso says, "Woo actually getting here for some of the game"

Reginald says, "Woo! Fun game; a lot came together."

[colonial] Alonso says, "and just as I was about to crank up the Oratory"

Reginald says, "Nothing like a diceless session to get that plot moving."

[colonial] Brianna says, "congratulations, Dr. Grenade."

[colonial] Alonso laughs.

[colonial] Brianna exclaims, "See you guys next week - I'm off!"

G_M is curious to know everyone's suspicions now.

Brianna has disconnected.

Alonso says, "Clearly Corley's got some skeletons in Davy Jones's Locker"

G_M says, "Heh, true...."

Reginald says, "Also, there's another character who is potentially quite important who has been suspiciously suspicious in her absence."

Alonso says, "mmm"

G_M asks, "Suspiciously suspicious?"

Reginald says, "The General's other, newer wife."

Reginald says, "Lots of balls in the air; it'll be interesting to see where they all come down."

Alonso says, "and how many of them try to squash us"

G_M says, "Oh yeah, Annika."

G_M says, "Too bad they didn't have cigarette-holders in the 1660s."

Reginald says, "Anyway, I'm already late for the rendezvous with my girlfriend, so... until next time. (Also, Oct 14th will be no good for me -- Canadian Thanksgiving.)"

RogerCarbol departs.

RogerCarbol goes home.

Alonso says, "And I think I'll switch to the real me as well"

Alonso exclaims (at G_M), "thanks!"

Alonso has disconnected.

G_M says, "arr"

Wilfred has disconnected.