[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "ok, here we go"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Where was Amber's sheet?"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "hrm"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "I think she updated it and stuck it someplace else"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "I have an emailed version but it's no longer current"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "now then."

Game_Master says, "Act 2 begins a week later"

Game_Master says, "you have spent the week fairly profitably, tracking down some pick-pockets and false sellers-of-patent-medicine and unlicensed entertainers and so on"

Giraud says, "Ah, life in uniform."

Jean-Sebastien yawns. "Ah, how restful. I feel I've slept a week."

Game_Master says, "also assisting in the tracking down of someone attempting to evade the merchant tax by smuggling in expensive cloths under a layer of apples"

Game_Master says, "finally, you receive a summons to report to Bron at noon"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Her name? Apple Annie."

Bron says, "well, well"

Giraud says, "Commander."

Bron asks, "so what have you been up to this past week?"

Jean-Sebastien says, "Sir."

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Naturally, we confiscated *all* the clothes, IYKWIM."

Jean-Sebastien says, "We have captured four pickpockets, two of whome were working as a team."

Bron says, "good, good"

Bron asks, "anything else?"

Giraud says, "We have also managed to uncover a smuggling operation."

Bron asks, "smuggling?"

Giraud says, "The merchant in question was hiding clothes under loads of apples."

Giraud says, "thus evading the merchant tax on the cloths in question."

Louis-Phillipe says, "We also stopped a pair of charlatans from defrauding the unsuspecting public."

Bron frowns. "Those merchants seem to think as gullible as their customers."

Jean-Sebastien says, "And several street artisans and performers, operating without proper licensing have been apprehended and properly fined."

[early_musketeers] Bron says, "(er, think us)"

Bron says, "mimes, eh? the worst sort"

Bron says, "and I never trust those damn vagrant actors"

Jean-Sebastien says, "The mimes have been permitted to continue to perform, but only from the stocks."

Giraud says, "I understand their 'help, I am trapped in a box' routine has taken on an extra touch of poignancy."

[Crows-Nest] Giovanna laughs

Bron nods, pleased.

Giraud says, "Beyond that, we have made sure to be visible in an effort to help keep things peaceful."

Bron says, "well, in a few days you will be acquainting yourself more intimately with the tax process -- your regiment will be taking over guard duty at the bank"

Jean-Sebastien nods.

Bron says, "today I want you four -- or three, I suppose -- tell your friend if she doesn't show up for a meeting one more time, I'll have her patrolling the sewers for a week -- to go find someone from du Lion to show you the bank"

Bron says, "those are men I can depend on who know what's what, and they just did duty there last week"

[early_musketeers] Bron says, "du Lion being another musketeers regiment"

Giraud says, "Certainly."

Giraud says, "And we will be sure to give Amber your message."

[early_musketeers] Bron says, "currently popular due to their close association with the army and some recent military victories"

[early_musketeers] Bron says, "also due to the snazzy name"

Bron says, "they'll be coming off shift soon. I imagine they'll be heading for the Grey Cat."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "What could be more snazzy than our own Pansy Regiment?"

Bron says, "they'll instruct you in your duties and then in, ah, two days you can assume them"

Bron says, "until then, you can keep doing what you are doing. report in again in another week, or when I send for you"

Bron asks, "any questions?"

Giraud glances at the others. "For my part, no."

[Crows-Nest] Louis-Phillipe RTA 'they'll insult you in your duties...'

Jean-Sebastien says, "It seems clear enough."

Bron exclaims, "very good then. dismissed!"

[Crows-Nest] Jean-Sebastien says, "Nah, that's Bron's job."

[Crows-Nest] Giraud says, "Heh."

Jean-Sebastien files out.

Giraud bows and heads for the door.

Louis-Phillipe follows.

Giraud mutters, as they move away from Bron's office, "Have any of you seen Amber today?"

Jean-Sebastien says, "I haven't seen her, but I did hear a faint snoring from her room when we left this morning."

Giraud says, "For someone who so seldom carouses with us in the evenings, she has a habit of sleeping very late."

[early_musketeers] Bron says, "(ok, so where to?)"

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Do any of us know where the Grey Cat is?"

Jean-Sebastien chuckles, "We know should seldom carouses with us, but do we know she seldom carouses?"

[early_musketeers] Bron says, "yeah, it's a local musketeer hang-out, a couple blocks from HQ"

Louis-Phillipe listens with half an ear to the banter as he walks towards the Grey Cat, a few steps ahead.

Giraud asks, "Guard duty at the bank, eh?"

Game_Master says, "you pass the usual groups of merchants hawking everything from food to 'mystic talismans, one of a kind' to exotic cloth to cheap souvenirs, drunks, firebreathers, jugglers, etc"

Giraud says, "I'd much prefer being out and about."

Game_Master says, "eventually arriving at the bank"

Louis-Phillipe gives drama die to Game_Master.

Game_Master says, "er, the tavern"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe gives back the drama die he still has hanging around from Ghogg's game.

Giraud enters the tavern and looks for any men from du Lion.

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "yeah, but due to the cross-game exchange rate, this is only worth 64% of a drama die"

Jean-Sebastien enters as well.

Louis-Phillipe says (to Giraud), "Moi aussi."

Game_Master says, "the bar is relatively empty of musketeers, unless they're out of uniform, which seems unlikely"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "I'll owe you, then."

Game_Master says, "there are a handful of folks sitting around, drinking, talking, and/or eating"

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Relatively = one or perhaps two?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Have we had lunch?"

[early_musketeers] DuLionMen says, "well, ok, none"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "= except for us, I think."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "Three."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Timing."

[early_musketeers] Giraud laughs.

[early_musketeers] DuLionMen says, "point."

[early_musketeers] DuLionMen says, "I don't know if you ate before meeting bron or not"

Giraud glances around, an eyebrow raised.

Giraud says (to Bartender), "You seem berift of other Musketeers today."

Louis-Phillipe says, "Well - I suppose our orders could be interpreted as 'wait here'."

Louis-Phillipe says, "Which gives us an opportunity to relax on duty. Not too bad."

Jean-Sebastien says, "Perhaps it would be a good time for lunch. And, if Amber shows up, breakfast."

Amber says, "Speaking of . . ."

Bartender says (to Giraud), "I imagine they'll be along soon -- men are always passing in and out as their shifts start or end"

Giraud says (to Amber), "Ah, good of you to join us."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Amber), "Ah, bon matin."

Giraud says (to Amber), "Commander Bron asked us to inform you, in his usual pleasant manner, that one more missed meeting would see you on sewer duty."

Amber says, "Greetings, gentlemen. My apologies for being tardy."

Giraud says, "Fortunately, you've missed little."

Giraud says, "We are to go on guard duty at the bank in two days, relieving men from du Lion."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Is anyone else able to access the transcript page?"

[early_musketeers] Bartender says, "not me"

Jean-Sebastien says, "Whom we are to meet here when their shift is over, to learn the routine."

Jean-Sebastien casually glances around at the other patrons of the bar.

Giraud walks to an empty table and offers a chair to Amber.

Louis-Phillipe pulls up a chair and lays his rapier across the table. "Until then, let us wait."

Amber asks, "Do you suppose Bron would object if I did covered the shift as an undercover?"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "(From Lucian) The bioc computers had to be turned off this morning because of a scheduled power blip."

[early_musketeers] Amber exclaims, "lagaciosness!"

[early_musketeers] DuLionMen says, "erf, lag"

DuLionMen burst in through the door.

Louis-Phillipe asks (of Amber), "Sorry, mademoiselle?"

DuLionMen exclaims, "har har! you should have seen the expression on that merchant's face!"

DuLionMen says, "that'll teach him to try and smuggle good wine in as cheap"

Giraud says (to Amber), "Hard to tell, but it would be worth asking him, I think."

DuLionMen asks, "bartender! where's our drinks?"

DuLionMen noisily order wine and then go looking for a table.

Jean-Sebastien cordially hails the Lionaires with a gesture.

[Crows-Nest] Louis-Phillipe says, "Lionaires - I like it."

DuLionMen ignoring you for the moment, seem to have picked a table with someone sitting at it.

DuLionMen exclaims, "you're in our table, pipsqueak! out!"

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "fill me in - why are we at this bar? waiting for shift-change?"

Pipsqueak asks, "sir? er, sirs?"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "How many are there? And any other free tables?"

[early_musketeers] DuLionMan says, "there are free tables, yeah, although this is probably the good one"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "We're supposed to find out how to do bank duty from the du Lion musketeers."

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "whom are due to arrive shortly, I take it?"

[early_musketeers] DuLionMan says, "there are four of them"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Amber), "Who just arrived."

DuLionMan exclaims (at Pipsqueak), "you heard! you're at our table!"

Pipsqueak says, "er, but --"

Pipsqueak stares around at the burly du Lion folks, winces slightly, and starts to move.

Jean-Sebastien says (to Friends), "Perhaps the musketeers should step in and do something about these ruffians."

Louis-Phillipe stands and picks up his rapier.

Louis-Phillipe holds his rapier casually by the sheath in his left hand, and starts walking towards the du Lion.

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "um, these *are* the other musketeers, right?"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Yes."

[early_musketeers] Pipsqueak says, "mmhmm"

Giraud falls in step by Louis, muttering, "Not too hasty, mind you."

Jean-Sebastien follows, his hand casually within reach of his own sword.

Giraud hails the du Lion men. "Gentlemen! Just the musketeers we were looking for."

Louis-Phillipe asks (of duLion), "Excuse me, sir? You are of the du Lion regiment, non?"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Timing."

[early_musketeers] Pipsqueak says, "and I should point out it's a serious crime to kill another musketeer (outside of an official duel)"

duLionMan asks (of Louis), "eh?"

Amber remains seated, to all appearences, lounging casually

duLionMan says (to Louis), "we are"

[Crows-Nest] Giraud says, "And will go down on our permanent record."

Louis-Phillipe says, "Bron ordered us to seek you out. You're to show us the bank."

Giraud says, "We are to take over your guard duties there in two days."

duLionMan looks annoyed for a moment, then laughs. "Excellent!"

duLionMan asks, "I suppose you're needing someone to show you the ropes, eh?"

Amber says, "That would be nice, yes."

Jean-Sebastien mms. "I thought that only the larger city banks had need of velvet ropes."

duLionMan exclaims, "a lady, eh? man, de la Fleur really does let anybody in!"

Amber says (to Jean), "I'm sure these are plainer, more basic, ropes."

duLionMan says, "well, let me just show you around"

duLionMan says, "name's Francis"

Francis grabs his wine and sits down heavily at your table.

Louis-Phillipe says, "Louis-Phillipe"

Giraud says, "I am Giraud. My companions are Louis-Phillipe, Jean-Sebastien, and Amber."

OtherDuLionMen look around, shrug, and find a different table.

Amber nods.

Louis-Phillipe sits, leaning his rapier up against his chair, out of sight.

josh_g arrives, looking for booty.

Pipsqueak looks relieved.

Jean-Sebastien nods as his name is mentioned.

[Crows-Nest] josh_g has joined the channel.

[early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Louis), "Whoops, timing."

Francis says, "now, just between you and me, this is a bitch of a job"

Francis exclaims, "but somebody's got to do it, and better you then us, eh? haw haw!"

Giraud asks, "Really? How so?"

Francis says, "the hours, man"

Louis-Phillipe says, "Somehow I suspected it."

Amber says, "Sounds ideal."

Francis says, "Bron expects you to be there all day and all night"

Louis-Phillipe asks (of Francis), "Not ... night duty?"

Jean-Sebastien says, "My. I'm surprised it isn't done in shfts."

Francis says, "it is, of course"

Francis says, "but when you're not guarding you're sleeping, and get little enough sleep as it is"

Francis pulls out his dagger and starts carving onto the table-top.

Francis says, "the bank is here, see"

Francis says, "at night, you post two men -- or ladies, haw haw -- outside, one inside, and one sleeps"

Francis says, "rotate every two-three hours"

Jean-Sebastien says, "Interesting."

Francis says, "in the daytime, you only need one outside and one in and the other two sleep"

Louis-Phillipe pulls out a roll of map paper and a stick of charcoal.

Louis-Phillipe says (to Francis), "Mind using these? The table would be hard to take with us."

Francis shrugs.

Francis says, "as you like"

Francis begins scrawling on the paper.

[early_musketeers] Francis says, "(it's a simple diagram -- the point is just two outside/one inside, and then one outside/one inside)"

Francis says, "there ain't no back entrance, so one man inside could stand off an army"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I expect to see a little crayon house with curly smoke on the paper after Francis is done."

Louis-Phillipe . o O ( Hmm. I wonder how many other security maps this guy's left scratched into the bar? If I were a thief I'd be getting ideas now. )

Francis exclaims, "unless they had grenades. haw haw!"

Giraud asks, "Any windows?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "With a tree?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "And a C-A-T"

Francis says, "two, into the inside room where you'll be standing guard"

Giraud asks, "Bars on them?"

Francis nods. "Of course"

Giraud asks, "Any ready way to summon reinforcements in case of attack?"

Amber asks, "What hours is the bank open?"

Francis says (to Giraud), "if you're doing your job properly there won't be an attack"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Wouldn't that be a C-H-A-T?"

Louis-Phillipe asks, "How many are working inside during the day?"

Francis says (to Giraud), "but no, you'll have to run down the street to guard headquarters"

[early_musketeers] Francis says, "I'm being a bit misleading by calling it a bank here -- it's actually more of a vault"

josh_g disappears through an invisible gap in the MUD. You think you may have heard the sounds of chatting before the gap closed again.

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "So one of us will actually be inside a vault? Interesting."

[early_musketeers] Francis says, "people bring big chunks of money or other valuables to it but nobody comes in for withdrawals or anything"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "We passed this on the way in, didn't we? I think I remember you mentioning it."

Amber asks, "Who has access to the vault?"

Francis shrugs.

Jean-Sebastien asks, "How is it locked?"

Francis says, "its main use is to store the festival taxes"

Francis says, "so of course Bron can bring things in"

Francis says, "and the other members of the city"

Francis says, "but mostly it's a lot of sitting around waiting"

Francis says, "and there's nothing I hate more than waiting"

Francis says, "in the army, now, there was always something to do when you were waiting"

Amber says, "And who is authorized to take things out? I assume things come out at some point; the vaul isn't bottomless."

Louis-Phillipe says, "Aye, same with the navy."

Francis asks (of Louis), "navy man, eh?"

Louis-Phillipe rubs his scar. "Was once. Not any more."

Francis asks (of Louis), "so why did you join de la Fleur, of all troops? couldn't you get into anything better?"

Giraud raises an eyebrow.

Amber asks, "Gotta start somewhere. Can only go up from here, eh?"

Giraud says (to Francis), "Do remember we all can hear you."

Francis asks (of Giraud), "aw, you can take a little joshin', can't you?"

Amber sees no point in arguing with the pompous ass.

Francis says, "hey, which reminds me of a story"

Louis-Phillipe knocks his rapier from its leaning position, and it clatters to the floor.

Francis stands up, his hand on his own rapier.

Louis-Phillipe picks up his rapier and lays it on the table. "Oops. Sorry about the noise."

Francis asks (of Louis), "that a challenge, boy?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Right, prove we're klutzes, too :)"

Louis-Phillipe asks (of Francis), "Are all in your regiment so defensive?"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "they already think we're fools, I don't think much we do is going to change their minds."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Mmhm."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud and Amber, aside), "I think we have all we need here..."

Francis exclaims (at Louis), "we are du Lion! we are men of honor!"

Amber says, "Now, ya'll, no need to get your kirtles in a bunch. We're all musketeers, here."

Louis-Phillipe says, "It seems your success sits insecurely, if you take everything for a challenge."

OtherDuLionMen come over and grab Francis's arm.

OtherDuLionMen says, "we don't want to trash another bar -- we'll be banned from everything in the city at this rate"

OtherDuLionMen start dragging Francis out the door.

Jean-Sebastien tries not to smirk visibly.

Louis-Phillipe waits until they're well out of earshot before venting his opinions.

Francis says (to Louis), "we'll settle this later, punk -- don't worry, I'll find you."

Amber says (to Louis&Giraurd), ""Hmm. Seems we're not the only folks he's tried to annoy recently."

Giraud says, "Indeed."

Giraud says (to Louis), "If you stand in need of a second for facing that...man, do let me know."

Pipsqueak comes over to the table.

Pipsqueak says, "thank you ever so much, gentlemen -- and lady"

Louis-Phillipe says (to Giraud), "I'm hoping he tries to challenge me while we're on guard at the vault. With luck, we can mistake him for a robber."

Amber says, "Why bother? Someone large just needs to sit on him."

Giraud says (to Pipsqueak), "Our pleasure."

Pipsqueak says, "I blush to admit I am not much of a man-at-arms and cannot really defend myself against such as he"

Pipsqueak exclaims, "but let me buy you a drink!"

Pipsqueak gestures to the bartender and orders a round for the table.

Amber exclaims (at Pip), "Not a problem. I'm not much of a men-at-arms, either!"

[early_musketeers] Giraud exclaims (at Amber), "Ha!"

Louis-Phillipe exclaims, "Why, merci, monsieur!"

[early_musketeers] Pipsqueak says, "yay"

Giraud says, "Thank you! And do join us for a moment."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "and let us gently pump you for information"

Pipsqueak says, "You are too kid. My name is Claude -- I'm an intinerant performer. I came to Rayure in the hopes of earning a little money at the festival"

Louis-Phillipe asks (of Louis), "You aren't a mime, are you?"

Amber asks, "What exactly do you do?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, ">ASK CLAUDE ABOUT ALL"

Claude's voice from behind Amber says "I am a ventriloquist!"

Claude says (to Louis), "oh, no, I wouldn't associate with their kind"

Giraud says, "Oh, I say, that's quite good."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Hmm. I'd like to try a cold read on Claude. For practice."

Claude says (to Louis), "for one thing, there's always the risk of being trapped in a box"

Louis-Phillipe relaxes. "Ah. Nearly the opposite of a mime, then. Good."

Amber looks startled.

Amber says, "I'm impressed."

[early_musketeers] Claude asks, "um, ok, what are you looking for?"

Giraud asks (of Claude), "Have you had much luck here with your act?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Um. Just a generally read, I guess. Didn't know you could specialize it."

[early_musketeers] (from Louis-Phillipe) Jean says (to Claude), "I can't tell YOU! Then you'd be able to conceal it! I'll just tell the GM."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "general fair info, anyone causing trouble lately, rumors, maybe the fake tax collectors . . ."

[early_musketeers] Claude says, "ok. make a roll then, I guess. wits + cold read"

[7thsea] Jean-Sebastien rolls 4k3: 6 5 10+3 3 | 24

Claude says (to Giraud), "I do well enough -- some people are more generous than others"

[early_musketeers] Claude says, "well, um, he's a ventriloquist"

Louis-Phillipe downs his ale and starts to look restless.

[early_musketeers] Claude says, "or some kind of performer, anyway"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Anything interesting in his mannerisms, details of his mode of dress, accent, etc?"

Giraud asks (of Claude), "I was somewhat surprised at your encounter with the other musketeers. Does that often occur?"

[early_musketeers] Claude says, "well, he's got the odd accent of someone who travels a lot, and of course he's a ventriloquist, so that affects it"

Claude exclaims (at Giraud), "it won't occur again, let me tell you!"

Giraud asks, "Oh?"

Claude says, "I don't always have someone around to protect me from ruffians in uniform like that -- pardon my slur against your profession, but I am overwrought"

Claude looks flustered.

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "brb"

Giraud waves his hand. "Do not worry."

[early_musketeers] Claude says, "I guess there's nothing really interesting to be seen here, except that insomuch as you can tell, his story checks out with his appearance"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien nods, "OK."

MessengerBoy comes into the tavern, looking around, and then walks to the table.

MessengerBoy asks, "are you from de la Fleur, sirs and madam?"

Jean-Sebastien says, "Oui."

Louis-Phillipe curses softly. "Should've left earlier, so Bron couldn't find us."

MessengerBoy says, "Please sir, I have a messenger from Commander Bron, sirs. He says you are to report to the guard building immediately"

Giraud says (to Louis-Phillipe), "I fear you are correct."

Giraud stands.

Giraud says (to Claude), "Another time, perhaps. Duty calls."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Claude), "It ahs been a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Claude exclaims, "thank you again, sirs!"

Claude scurries out of the tavern.

Jean-Sebastien rises and follows, although with less scurrying.

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Er, follows Giraud, I guess I mean."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien misread that.

MessengerBoy shrugs his shoulders and walks out also.

Giraud tosses a coin to the messenger as they leave.

MessengerBoy exclaims, "thank you sir!"

Louis-Phillipe belts his rapier back on as they leave.

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "back - did we catch any rumors?"

Game_Master says, "you find Bron in his office -- he gestures for you to sit"

Jean-Sebastien sits.

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "No. We were summoned by Bron."

Giraud also takes a seat.

Bron says, "I'm glad you responded so promptly"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "Put that back! He doesn't have any to spare."

Bron says, "I recently received word from a small village up north of here that needs help from some musketeers"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Much like his patience."

[early_musketeers] Bron says, "hee hee"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Heh."

Louis-Phillipe has disconnected.

Bron says, "I don't quite understand the situation, but apparently there was some kind of problems with someone's inheritance"

Giraud asks, "Help of what kind?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "A tad too slow today."

Jean-Sebastien says, "Sounds like a matter to be disputed before a magistrate."

Bron says, "I hate to spare you from guard duty, but I suppose better you than anyone else"

Giraud says, "I...see."

Amber says, "Why, thank you sir."

Giraud asks, "How long a journey is it to this town?"

Amber says, "We aim to please."

Bron says (to Jean), "outside of the major cities, the musketeers are the only ones who enforce the laws"

Jean-Sebastien nods.

Amber says (to Giraud), "That will make Francis happy."

Bron says (to Jean), "you will of course go there, investigate, determine the truth of the matter and mete out justice, and then return here and make a full report"

Giraud says (to Amber), "Indeed."

Bron says, "the village -- Fontarrant it's called -- is about a day's ride north of here"

Giraud asks (of Bron), "Should we be delayed, will you have de Lion men continue to guard the bank?"

Amber asks (of Bron), "Will the duLion men continue patrolling the vault, then?"

Bron says, "they'll have to, I suppose"

Giraud says, "A pity."

Giraud says, "We will be sure to return as soon as is possible, then."

Bron says, "but they're worthy men. I'm sure they'll have no problem with it."

Jean-Sebastien says, "We should leave immediately, then. To minimize the inconvenience."

Bron says, "absolutely"

Bron asks, "any questions?"

Jean-Sebastien says, "It seems not."

Bron exclaims, "very well then. dismissed!"

Amber asks, "Just one, sir. Are there any contestor's to the inheritance?"

Bron says (to Amber), "I don't know any of the details -- the note was brief"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Whoops. Sorry."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "lag, again."

Bron says, "and remember, outside of this city it is you and you alone representing the honor of the musketeers"

Bron says, "do not fail us"

Giraud asks (of Bron), "One last question: whom should we report to when we reach Fontarrant?"

Amber asks, "Sir, could we see the note, please?"

Bron says (to Giraud), "the village headmaster, if there is one"

Bron says (to Amber), "let me see .."

Bron shuffles around in the paperwork on his desk.

Bron passes a note to Amber.

Amber reads it.

[early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Amber), "Good thinking."

Game_Master says, "it is written in a flowing hand, somebody well-trained in penmanship"

Giraud glances over Amber's shoulder, not too hard a task.

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "'Bronny -- Meet me at the end of your shift, out by the stables. -Jacques'"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien exclaims, "Wait, this is the wrong note!"

Game_Master says, "it just says "to the commander of the rayure guards -- I am in urgent need of assistance with some problems that have arisen with my inheritance. if some help could be sent out as soon as possible I would be forever in your debt --C.""

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "hee hee"

Amber asks, "And who is C.?"

Louis-Phillipe has connected.

Bron says, "I have no idea. the person who sent the note, I imagine."

Giraud says, "We shall be sure to acquit ourselves well."

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe crashed. "What'd I miss?"

Bron says, "I hope so."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "A moment of lag."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "The note was sent by someone called 'C'."

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "If there's nothing else, shall we go?"

Amber asks, "Might we take this with us?"

Bron shrugs. "I see no reason why not."

Jean-Sebastien stands, salutes.

Amber says, "Thank you."

Amber pockets the note.

Giraud salutes and heads for the door.

Amber salutes, exeunts.

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks (of Amber), "...pursued by a bear?"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "anything you want to do, or just to the stables and then ride?"

[early_musketeers] Amber exclaims, "Ha!"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'm up for a ride."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I'd like to swing by, get a change of uniform for later."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "(small bundle of provisions &c.)"

Amber says, "If we're going to be overnight there, we might need some stuff from our room."

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "mmhmm"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien had assumed that was just a part of riding.

Game_Master says, "you stop by your room and pick up some supplies, and then to the stables and then out the gates"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Jean), "You mean 'a part of "riding"', IYKWIM"

Game_Master says, "it's a fine ride once you clear the city -- the wheat-fields to either side, the sun overhead, pleasant coolness from autumn"

Giraud says, "Ah, a lovely day to be out of the city."

Louis-Phillipe says, "Enjoy it - soon enough we'll be stuck in the vault."

Giraud says, "Pity du Lion may spend more days guarding the bank due to this unplanned excursion."

Game_Master says, "it begins to get a bit dark. you probably won't reach Fontarrant by daylight."

Giraud says, "It seems we shall have to find shelter."

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Any small villages, hotels, the like around?"

Amber says, "I say let's ride on."

Jean-Sebastien says, "I concur with Amber."

Giraud says, "If the two of you are that eager for vault duty, by all means, let us press on."

Jean-Sebastien says, "It is likely better to shelter at daylight, if there be any vagabonds along the roadside."

Game_Master says, "the road is pretty deserted -- just wheat-fields for miles on either side, and no humans except a solitary farmer far-off some hours previous"

Game_Master says, "there's a near-full moon shining down, so you could keep riding, or you have bedrolls and so on if you want to camp"

Giraud glances around. "Though we do seem to be far from any towns."

Jean-Sebastien amuses himself by observing the constellations.

Amber says, "I have a bad feeling about this. I'd rather be a moving target than a stationary one."

Giraud asks (of Amber), "Any particular reason for your concern? Or is it general unease?"

Louis-Phillipe says, "We should stop. It's unlikely anyone could sneak up on us if we set a watch."

Amber says, "Just general unease. This whole situation feels odd."

Louis-Phillipe says (to Amber), "I'm more uneasy about our destination. I wouldn't want to arrive tired."

Jean-Sebastien says, "Giraud and Louis seem tired. I could take the first watch if we do stop."

Amber says, "If we must camp, I'll take first watch."

Jean-Sebastien has disconnected.

Giraud says (to Jean), "Merci. I would be willing to take second, should we decide to stop."

Louis-Phillipe looks around. "In these fields, one place is as good as another."

Amber says (to Louis), "You have a point."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "Also, lag."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "This lag is getting silly."

[early_musketeers] Amber exclaims, "Woo, Back!"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "Man, that was painful."

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "oof"

[early_musketeers] Giraud exclaims, "Mon thieu!"

Game_Master says, "you stop and set up camp for the night"

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "(as Lucian) daveMUD?"

Game_Master says, "the night goes without incident, although whether that is because of your watches or not, it is hard to say"

Game_Master says, "in the morning you rise and resume the journey"

Game_Master says, "you arrive in Fontarrant in early afternoon"

Giraud says, "The town seems further than Bron led me to believe."

Amber says, "Somebody must have moved it during the night."

Game_Master says, "it is a small village. there are some scattered houses and one large barn."

Giraud says (to Amber), "Undoubtedly."

Game_Master says, "off in the distance you can see a cliff as the hills rise, and something sparkling in the sunlight at its base"

Giraud asks, "Can we tell what the sparkling is?"

Game_Master says, "a few people are around -- they seem surprised to see horsemen in their village"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "What exactly did the note say? I missed it."

Amber says (to Giraud), "Probably a waterfall."

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(no, although a pool of water seems like a likely guess)"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(or that)"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "also, "Font" = "fountain""

[early_musketeers] Giovanna has joined the channel.

Jean-Sebastien has connected.

Villager walks over. "Sirs?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Gah."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Louis), "'Having trouble with my inheritance. Send men. --C'"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I hope I can stay conencted now :\"

Amber asks, "Greetings! Where might we find who's in charge around here?"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "And Bron had no idea who C might be?"

Villager says, "in charge? madam, we are too small to have a mayor or the like. I suppose you could talk to Lorenz"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "What did I missed since when we were trying to decide whether or not to stop?"

Jean-Sebastien has disconnected.

Villager says, "he is the one who deals with the leaders of other villages and so on"

Giraud asks (of Villager), "Where might we find him?"

Villager says, "that house over there (he points). although he may be out in the fields now."

Giraud touches the brim of his hat. "Merci."

Villager asks, "will you be staying long in the village? do you wish me to take your horses?"

Louis-Phillipe asks (of Villager), "And where might we find Charles?"

Villager asks, "charles, sir?"

Louis-Phillipe blinks. "I'm sorry. Perhaps I have the name wrong. Never mind."

Jean-Sebastien has connected.

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "How far away are the fields?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Can anyone recap?"

[early_musketeers] Villager says, "they're all around the village"

Amber gives Louis a puzzled look.

[early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Jean), "We decided to camp for the night. Nothing happened. Arrived in town."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Just so, y'know, there'll be less to recap for the next time I'm dropped :\"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "villager said we should talk to Lorenz -- he's the titular leader here"

[early_musketeers] Villager says, "(and the villager offered to take your horses)"

Giraud says (to Villager), "Thank you for the offer, but we may need our horses if we must find Lorenz in the fields."

[early_musketeers] Villager says, "(oh ah)"

Villager says, "of course, sir"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "What was that about a pool earlier?"

Villager asks, "would there be anything else?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Something glinting in sunlight at base of cliff"

[early_musketeers] Villager says, "cliffs beyond the village, a pool or something at the base"

Amber asks (of Villager), "Has anyone here recently received an inheritance that you know of?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Have we met anyone besides that one villager?"

Villager thinks.

[early_musketeers] Amber exclaims, "A sword!"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Jean), "Nope."

Villager says, "ah, you must mean Martin"

Villager says, "he passed away perhaps a month ago"

Amber says, "Tell me about Martin."

Villager exclaims, "he was our village's most prized member -- I hear he was related to l'Empereur himself!"

[Crows-Nest] Louis-Phillipe says, ">VILLAGER, TELL ME ABOUT MARTIN"

Villager says, "he owned a fine manor to the northwest and land around it"

Louis-Phillipe looks skeptical.

Villager asks, "I believe he left it all to Gregor in his will -- is that the inheritance you mean?"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "Who is Gregor?"

Amber says, "Perhaps. And who is Gregor? Tell me about him, if you please."

Villager says, "he is-- was Martin's lawyer"

Villager says, "you know what they say -- even a village too small for a priest will always have a solicitor"

Giraud says, "Indeed."

Amber asks, "A lawyer? He did business outside of town, then?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Oh, *that's* not at all suspicious..."

Villager says, "oh, no"

Villager says, "he drew up contracts here for property and handled the documents to settle disputes and sales of grain and so on"

[early_musketeers] Villager says, "(er, that should be present tense)"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "Did Martin have any family?"

Villager says, "he handles the sale of our grain to merchants and so on"

Amber asks, "I would think a town of this size, everyone would know each other. Why have a lawyer?"

Villager says (to Jean), "of course -- his only daughter, Celeste, the apple of his eye"

Villager says (to Amber), "ah, well, you know, those who know each other best may sometimes get into the worst arguments"

Villager says (to Amber), "but really I think he was mostly here because Martin employed him"

Giraud asks, "How long had Martin employed him?"

Villager says, "and of course Gregor advises Lorenz"

Villager says, "all his life, as far as I know. at least a dozen years."

Amber says, "True. My great-grandmother sued her son-in-law to stay off of her property. They were neighbors."

Jean-Sebastien asks, "Does Celeste still reside at the estate?"

[early_musketeers] Villager says, "(sorry, I keep slipping tenses here. Gregor is not dead. Martin is.)"

Villager thinks.

Giraud asks (of Amber, softly), "Yes, but they were Vodacce, no?"

Villager says, "I am not sure where she lives now that Martin is dead -- perhaps Oliver would know"

Jean-Sebastien raises his eyebrows questioningly.

Amber says (to Giraud), "True. Vodacce are like that."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "actually, it did happen, and they were Magee's."

Louis-Phillipe asks (of Villager), "Oliver?"

Giraud asks, "Oliver?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Clearly we have all been trained well in how to extract information from someone with a minimum of fuss."

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Damn. One more and we'd officially be a chorus."

Villager says, "Celeste's beau -- we are expecting an announcement from them any week now"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "One is forced to wonder... why would Martin leave his fortune to Gregor, rather than to his own daughter?"

Villager says, "a fine lad though (he coughs) not too bright"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "this sounds like a movie. (with sylvester stallone)."

[Crows-Nest] Giraud says, "See, this is a plot to warm Miseri's heart."

Villager scratches his head. "He was friends with Gregor for many years. And perhaps he didn't leave everything to him. But it does seem a trifle odd, now that you mention it."

[Crows-Nest] Jean-Sebastien says, "That hot-blooded Castillian heart."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I see Oliver is not the only potentially slow one."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Hee."

Giraud asks, "Was Celeste surprised at her father's disposition of his holdings?"

Amber asks, "Unless Gregor was an uncaring father? Or thought a woman cannot care for herself without a male gaurdian?"

Villager says, "I could not say, sir -- I was not present at the will reading"

Amber is clearly unimpressed with the second option.

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I guess the good thing about dumb NPCs is that they don't know they're not supposed to talk tos trangers :)"

[early_musketeers] Villager says, "(Gregor being the lawyer, not the father)"

Louis-Phillipe asks, "More to the point - why wasn't anyone else surprised?"

Jean-Sebastien says (to Amber), "Even if he so felt, he almost certainly knew of Oliver."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "right."

Jean-Sebastien asks (of Villager), "Whereabouts does Oliver live?"

Villager scratches his head again. "Perhaps you should talk to Celeste. Or Lorenz, maybe."

Villager says, "ah, or Oliver. that's a good idea."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Wait, who's Lorentz?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Er, Lorenz."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Lorenz is the semi-leader of the town"

Villager says, "he lives over there (points). but he may be out in his field now -- or perhaps out by the waterfall with Celeste."

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "the leader, dude. as in, take me to, ya know?"

Jean-Sebastien nods and smiles, "Thank you."

Giraud says (to Villager), "Our thanks."

Amber says, "Merci, sir."

Villager says, "my pleasure -- anything to assist a musketeer"

Giraud says (to the others), "I think we should talk to Lorenz and garner more information before we talk to any of the principals in the case."

Amber says (to Giraud), "Excellent idea. Lead on."

Villager waves as you leave, and goes back to walking to wherever he was walking to.

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "also, any points for guessing about the waterfall? ;-)"

Giraud rides towards the house the Villager pointed out.

Amber rides.

Game_Master says, "a few minutes later you pull up at the house"

Giraud dismounts and ties his horse to the hitching post.

Jean-Sebastien observes the building while tying up his horse.

Louis-Phillipe follows.

Amber,too.

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Anything out of the ordinary?"

Game_Master says, "it's a relatively nice building, but still a villager's house"

Giraud goes to the door and knocks.

Lorenz opens the door.

Lorenz looks surprised to see a musketeer.

Lorenz asks, "sirs? is there anything wrong?"

Giraud asks, "M. Lorenz?"

Lorenz asks, "that is I -- do you wish to come in?"

Amber doffs her tricorn, and bows.

Giraud says, "If it would not be too much trouble, yes. Our journey has been long."

Amber says, "Greetings! Bron from <insert city here> sent us."

Louis-Phillipe says, "Thank you m'sieur."

[early_musketeers] Lorenz says, "(Rayure)"

Lorenz says, "do come in -- let me just prepare some chairs and fetch some wine"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "We've decided to start collecting taxes from you. We're here for the first pickup.,"

Lorenz ushers you inside and goes around dusting off a table and some chairs and steps into a back room, emerging with some mostly-clean glasses and a wineskin.

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "gotta use the vualt for something, right? give the duLion guys something to do..."

Lorenz says, "please, sit down, sit down"

Lorenz pours.

Jean-Sebastien says, "Thank you."

Jean-Sebastien finds a comfy seat.

Giraud sits and places his hat to one side.

Lorenz asks, "now then -- what brings you to Fontarrant? a pleasure trip, I hope?"

Jean-Sebastien says, "Unfortunately, we are here on business."

Amber asks, "Sir, Commander Bron sent us to investigate some problems with an inheritance. Perhaps you could help us?"

Lorenz thinks.

Lorenz exclaims, "an inheritance? you mean Martin? but there was no problem with his will -- I witnessed it myself!"

Giraud asks, "*No* problem?"

Amber asks, "That may have been the problem. Who inherited?"

Lorenz says, "Gregor did, as I recall"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Perhaps we've found another of the principals in the case."

Lorenz says, "I believe he was left the lands and the house, although of course Celeste was provided with a small dress allowance"

Louis-Phillipe asks (of Lorenz), "And you were present when Martin made out the will?"

Lorenz says, "I was the witness, yes"

Amber asks, "Leaving his young daughter alone to fend for herself? Does that strike you as something Gregor was likely to do?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'd like to try a cold read, to see if there's anything that would lend credence or discredit to his story."

[7thsea] Jean-Sebastien rolls 3k2: 8 10+5 4 | 23

[early_musketeers] Lorenz says, "um, he looks like a villager, albeit a relatively well-off one, and he doesn't seem to be lying"

Lorenz says (to Amber), "Gregor? I assume he would go with whatever the will ordered"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "Or as something Martin would be likely to do?"

Lorenz says, "ah, well, I admit, Martin loved Celeste dearly"

Giraud asks, "Oh?"

Giraud asks, "Was this widely known?"

Lorenz says, "but he and Gregor had been friends for many years"

Lorenz says, "widely known? I suppose"

Lorenz says, "and no doubt he felt Celeste was unfit to take over management of the land at her age and -- you will excuse me, m'lady -- sex"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "What age is that?"

Amber says, "Does it seem strange to you he would leave her only a small dress allowance? Or is that in keeping with what you know of him?>"

Lorenz says (to Jean), "perhaps eighteen years, sir"

Lorenz exclaims (at Amber), "I am hardly in a place to question Martin's actions -- I hear he was related to l'Empereur himself!"

Giraud asks (of Lorenz), "Yes, I'm sure, but were you *personally* surprised at the will?"

Lorenz says, "well, I admit, I think we had been expecting Celeste to be left more, but"

Lorenz shrugs.

Giraud says, "Understand, these questions are not meant to implicate or suggest. We are merely trying to uncover the truth."

Lorenz says, "certainly Gregor has always been forthright and honest and a most-helpful advisor to me in the village's various business dealings"

Giraud says, "That speaks well of him, given the behavior of some solicitors."

Giraud asks, "Do you know where we might find Celeste?"

Lorenz says, "Celeste -- ah, I saw her and Oliver heading out to the waterfall this morning, no doubt to have lunch. They may be back by now."

Giraud says, "As part of our inquiry we will need to speak to her and Gregor."

Amber says, "One of the villagers mentioned he was a nice young man."

Giraud asks, "Do you know of anyone else we should speak to as well?"

Lorenz thinks.

Lorenz asks, "about the will, sir?"

Lorenz says, "I suppose you could speak to Colin, who was the other witness"

Giraud asks, "Who is he?"

Lorenz says, "but really, I don't think there was any problem with the will -- it all seemed quite in order"

Lorenz says, "Colin was Martin's servant -- he left the village a week or two ago"

Giraud asks, "Do you know where he was headed?"

Lorenz shrugs.

Lorenz says, "I don't know -- his cousin might know"

Lorenz says, "Denis lives a few hours' ride east of here"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien wonders if we should be taking notes :)

Lorenz says, "he's something of a hermit, and I don't believe they got on too well, but he may know where Colin is now"

[early_musketeers] Lorenz says, "(this completes the major cast of characters, I think)"

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Anyone have other things to ask him?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'm ready to go to Oliver's place to see if he's back."

Giraud says, "If no one else has any questions, I thank you for your time and patience."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "And if not, to the waterfall. Hopefully to do some spying on before actually talking with :)"

Lorenz says, "of course, sirs. if you have any further questions, do come back"

Lorenz asks, "and tell me -- will you be staying overnight in the village?"

Giraud says, "Possibly, depending on the course of our inquiry."

Lorenz says, "if you do, you certainly must stay here"

Lorenz says, "I will prepare some beds"

Jean-Sebastien says, "Thank you. You are most generous."

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says (to Jean), "Peeping Tom."

Giraud says, "Merci."

Lorenz says, "my pleasure"

Louis-Phillipe stands to leave, and bows slightly.

Giraud stands, then pauses. "And if you could keep the purpose of our visit quiet for now, we would be obliged."

Lorenz says, "quiet? of course, sir"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Louis), "They might... um... be talking about secret plans. Or something."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "or skinny dipping . . ."

[early_musketeers] Lorenz says, "snrk"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "ok, where to now?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "The waterfall?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Oliver's place, just in case they're back?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Or do we go talk to Gregor before he knows we're here?"

Amber says, "I can go ahead, sneaky-like, if we want to overhear some conversation."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I lean towards the latter, in the hopes of catching him in a lie unawares, esp. since Celeste knows we're coming."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "But I don't have a strong preference."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Sure, fine with me."

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Anyone else have a preference?"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "ok, so looking for gregor?"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Sure."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Off we go, then."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "I'd rather talk to Celest first."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "but, whatever."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Do we know where Gregor is, BTW?"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(no)"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "but presumably people can give you directions"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Actually, yeah. We should get all the facts before talking to Gregor - he's a lawyer."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "OK, then to find Celeste."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Hrm."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "If I am outvoted, then let's go."

[early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "so where are you going? to the waterfall?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Does that mean we can assume they haven't come back yet?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Yeah, and let's send Amber ahead."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "if so, I'd like to go ahead, stealth-mode."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien nods.

[early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "on foot? or on horses?"

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "it's a reasonable distance away, so you'll have to ride part"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "But if she sees any skinny dipping, she has to let us know so we can watch too."

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "We should check at Oliver's house first, in case they're back."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Ride, then tie up horses & go on foot"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "but as Louis points out, let's not head there until we know they're not in town"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "then get off & walk. the horse doesn't do stealth."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Amber), "hence the "tie up horses" :)"

[early_musketeers] Amber slaps Jean's hand.

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "alrighty then"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "then again, Amber did come from a House."

Game_Master says, "you ride over to Oliver's house, a few minutes away"

Game_Master says, "as you approach, you see three people standing in the doorway"

[early_musketeers] Amber says (to giraud), "lag. i know."

Jean-Sebastien sopts his horse.

Jean-Sebastien stops his horse, even.

Game_Master says, "one a broad-shouldered plowboy type, holding the hand of a young woman with blonde hair and blue eyes and beautiful as the day is long and so on, tugging her to come inside"

Game_Master says, "but she is engrossed in an argument with a tall, gaunt man with black with a similarly black moustache"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "She's a pretty drink of water"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, ">TWIRL MOUSTACHE"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "My. I think we found all three in one fell swoop."

Jean-Sebastien listens.

TallMan exclaims, "that is all very well, Celeste, but the terms of *this* will are clear -- three sundowns from now, your father's land will be mine!"

Giraud asks (of Amber), "Hsst. Why don't you creep up ahead?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Oh, never mind. They're being loud."

Celeste exclaims, "but -- but -- if only I could find that will, it would prove my case!"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Cold reading him, too..."

[7thsea] Jean-Sebastien rolls 3k2: 5 6 6 | 12

TallMan says, "will? ha! there is no "other will", merely a childish fantasy of yours"

Amber says (to Giraud), "I may be sneaky, but sneaking up on three people in the middle oft eh day, int he middle of a field, is a bit tough."

TallMan says, "now then, if you will excuse me, I must go and survey *my* property"

Giraud exclaims (at Amber), "Ah, but the house shall give you cover!"

[early_musketeers] (from Louis-Phillipe) TallMan says, "And cackle evilly"

TallMan walks to his horse, a black steed, and begins riding off.

Giraud says, "Not that it is needed in this case after all."

Celeste exclaims, "why you! oh, if only!"

Celeste bursts into tears.

Louis-Phillipe rides up as soon as the man is out of sight.

Jean-Sebastien rides forward.

Plowboy says something quieter to her and starts to coax her inside.

Plowboy looks up.

Plowboy asks, "ah, hello, sir?"

Jean-Sebastien asks (of Celeste), "Are you Celeste, daughter of Martin?"

Celeste sniffles.

Celeste pulls out a handkerchief and delicately blows her nose.

Celeste says, "I-- I am."

Giraud says, "We are the musketeers you sent for."

Louis-Phillipe says, "Are you the one who sent this note? Ah - this - um... Someone show her the note."

Celeste gasps.

Amber produces the note.

Celeste asks, "can it be?"

Jean-Sebastien says, "We are here to help ensure justice in the disposition of your father's property."

Celeste exclaims, "but -- four -- this is more than I had dreamed!"

Celeste exclaims, "you must help me!"

[early_musketeers] (from Giraud) Jean-Sabastien says, "And by "justice" I mean "see you skinny-dipping""

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "She can thank me later."

Amber asks, "Ma'am, please calm down. Let's discuss it inside, shall we?"

Giraud dismounts.

Celeste exclaims (at Plowboy), "do let them come in, Oliver. I can explain everything and then they will solve it all!"

Jean-Sebastien dismounts.

DiegoValdez has connected.

Oliver says, "very well, very well"

DiegoValdez concentrates, and disappears.

[7thsea] DiegoValdez says, "oop, forgot about #early...."

[7thsea] Oliver says, "er, right, that reminds me"

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "anyone logging?"

[late_musketeers] NewsBoy hollers, "Extra! Extra! inky has posted message 9, about 'no game today', to the bulletin board! Newsflash: A monkey isn't actually funny!"

[early_musketeers] Oliver says, "I am, yeah"

Amber dismounts, and ground-ties her horse.

Giraud follows Amber's lead.

Amber gestures towards the house. "Shall we?"

Oliver ushers people inside, and finds them chairs.

Celeste exclaims, "now then -- I know you will all be able to help me!"

Celeste says, "I was speaking to Gregor -- he is -- ooh"

Jean-Sebastien asks (of Celeste), "Tell us, what has that man Gregor done?"

Celeste breaks down crying again.

[late_musketeers] Miseri says, "argh"

Celeste composes herself, eventually.

Louis-Phillipe drums his fingers as he waits for her to calm down.

Jean-Sebastien pats Celeste gently on the shoulder. "There, there. I udnerstand this must be hard for you."

Giraud hands her his handkerchief.

Amber is sympathetic, but still skeptical.

Celeste wipes her eyes.

[late_musketeers] Miseri exclaims, "damne ye, Hollywoode!"

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Shall we play good musketeer/bad musketeer?"

Celeste says, "my apologies -- I'm just so overwrought these days with my dear departed father and the will and all and ooh"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien exclaims, "I claim good musketeer!"

Oliver puts a hand on her other shoulder, glaring at Jean.

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "you be bad. being female, she'll probably buy 'good' from me. and i'm unimposing."

Celeste says, "Gregor was my darling father's solicitor and so-called best friend"

Celeste says, "I never trusted him but my father would not hear a word against him"

Celeste exclaims, "and then, when my father died, not a month ago, his will was read -- leaving all to Gregor!"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I agree with Amber. And no need getting plowboy angry"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "your predilections notwithstanding"

Celeste says, "I know there must be some mistake; my father always promised I would receive his manor and his land"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "Er, how long is this going to run today?"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Cause I need to eat before 8:00."

Celeste says, "or at least enough land around the manor to support myself"

Amber says, "Of course, any good father would."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Is that eastern?"

[early_musketeers] Celeste says, "I think we'll be stopping within a half-hour"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Alsom I think Louis would make a good bad musketeer."

Giraud asks (of Celeste), "And he did not?"

Celeste says, "indeed not -- the will left all to Gregor, except for only a small allowance to me"

Celeste says, "there must be some mistake, I just know it"

Giraud asks, "Mistake? Have you any proof?"

Amber says, "How awful for you."

Celeste says, "mistake, I know, or false treachery"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "as opposed to the honest treachery other lawyers practice."

DiegoValdez arrives at home.

Jean-Sebastien asks (of Celeste), "Who were the witnesses to this will?"

Celeste says, "Lorenz and Colin, my father's old servant"

Celeste says, "I have no proof of any misdeed, but I know there must be something wrong -- my father always promised me the manor"

Amber asks, "Would Colin collaberate your side, do you believe?"

Celeste says, "ah, well, I saw the will myself and it did leave all to Gregor"

Celeste exclaims, "but perhaps it was a forgery! or there was another will!"

[late_musketeers] Miseri asks, "going away for a bit ... but if we're all here, can we still play?"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "If there were another will, where would your father have elft it?"

Amber asks, "Was it written in you Father's hand?"

Celeste says, "in sofar as I could make it out"

Celeste thinks.

[late_musketeers] Miseri says, "anyway, checking back in an hour...."

Celeste asks, "in his desk, perhaps?"

[late_musketeers] Celeste says, "well, Rob and TS have said they can't make it"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "Have you looked for it?"

Celeste says, "I have been unable -- Gregor has forbidden anyone to enter the land since the will was read leaving all to him"

Amber says, "Perhaps we could look. But we better move quickly. Gregor was heading that way."

Giraud asks, "So what you are telling us is this: you suspect treachery, but have no proof or examples of prior treachery from Gregor?"

Louis-Phillipe says (to Celeste), "We spoke to Lorenz earlier. He was present during the signing. So it cannot be a forgery."

Amber says, "It could have been switched."

Celeste exclaims (at Giraud), "but it must be treacherous! I just know it!"

Jean-Sebastien says, "I wuggest that we go to the manor. As musketeers, he will have to let us in."

Amber says, "It would do us more good to go to the manor immediately, rather than wait."

Jean-Sebastien nods.

Celeste says, "whatever you do, please do it quickly! the will takes effect the day after tomorrow"

Jean-Sebastien says (to Celeste), "Would you accompany us? You would know the place better than we."

Jean-Sebastien smiles hopefully to Celeste.

Louis-Phillipe asks (of Amber), "If it were switched, Lorenz would have recognized the change at the reading, non?"

Celeste says, "I --"

Giraud says (to Celeste), "We will investigate, but I am doubtful we will find evidence to back up your claim."

Oliver says, "she won't be going"

Oliver says, "you all may break the law as you please, but I won't have her haring off on any wild chases"

Amber raises an eyebrow at Oliver. "Oh? And why not?"

Giraud asks (of Oliver), "Pardon? You are accusing us of breaking the law?"

Oliver says (to Celeste), "besides, we promised to dine with Lorenz tonight, and must get ready."

Louis-Phillipe says (to Oliver), "Sir, we are here to uphold the law."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Cold read on Oliver, while we're here..."

[7thsea] Jean-Sebastien rolls 3k2: 3 2 6 | 9

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien sighs.

Amber says, "Not to put too fine a point on it, but we *are* the law."

Oliver says, "I make no accusations. but, speaking frankly, I think there is no new will, and I expect you to find out as much"

Giraud says (to Oliver), "If that is the case -- and I lean to your opinion -- we will learn of it in short order."

Amber says, "I find your view curious, sir, as you would gain much by having your intended inherit her father's estate."

Oliver shrugs. "If wishes were wheat, I'd have a better crop this year."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Celeste), "I am sorry you cannot join us, but I assure you we will do the utmost in our power to find the truth, whatever that may be."

Jean-Sebastien says, "But now, we should be off."

Amber says, "You merely seem unusually pessimistic."

Celeste exclaims (at Jean), "oh, thank you!"

Amber says, "At any rate, Celeste, the decision is yours whether you come with us or not."

Celeste exclaims, "I know you will not fail me!"

Celeste says, "but, ah, I suppose Oliver is right, and I had best stay here today"

Giraud says, "That is undoubtedly for the best."

Amber says (to Celeste), ""As you wish, madamoiselle."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien is AFK for a moment.

[early_musketeers] Celeste asks, "so it's getting on evening now. do you want to break here and resume next session? and do you want to go to the manor tonight game-time or tomorrow game-time?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "break here; go to the manor tonight game-time"

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Yes"

[early_musketeers] Celeste says, "alrighty"

Giraud says (to Celeste), "As I told Oliver, we will investigate, and do so fairly, but do not be too hopeful."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien unafks.

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "i can game indefinitely."

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Do I have a moment to draw Oliver apart for?"

Celeste says (to Giraud), "I am sure you will do what is right (she sighs) you are musketeers"

[early_musketeers] Celeste says (to Giraud), "sure, after Celeste steps out"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "(for a brief word)"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'm fine for however long."

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "You can keep playing without me, if you want."

[early_musketeers] Celeste says, "er, so whichever"

[early_musketeers] Celeste asks, "what do folks want?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Let's play out this scene to the point that we head for the mansion and then break"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "i'd like to play."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "ok."

[early_musketeers] Celeste says, "alrighty"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Is there anything more to this scene before we go?"

[early_musketeers] Celeste says, "this is about as far as the other group got, so we're on track in that sense"

[early_musketeers] Celeste asks (of Giraud), "what did you want to say to Olivier?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says (to amber), "(you may yet convince me after this scene, poor Louis be damned :)"

(From Amber) Gamemaster says, "You head out to the mansion." <Break>

[early_musketeers] Amber asks (of giraud), "of what?"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Is Giraud taking Oliver outside?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "to keep playing"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "since I have nothing else to do tonight"

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "Misty's out?"

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "No, she's here. Reading on the couch."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "but I finished updating my site earlier today"

[early_musketeers] Amber waves at Misty.

[early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "So, um. Shall we at least finish this scene?"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "Lucian says hi, too."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Misty says 'hi' back"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "I think we're waiting on you."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien greets Misty and Lucian :)

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Oh, I thought Celeste was going to walk out."

Giraud draws Oliver to one side, out of earshot of the others.

Celeste walks into the other room to get ready.

Oliver asks (of Giraud), "yes?"

Jean-Sebastien moves away from Giraud and Oliver, so as not to interfere.

Giraud asks (of Oliver), "You seem to have a more reasonable outlook on this situation than Celeste. She truly had no idea how her father's will would turn out?"

Louis-Phillipe stands. "If you will excuse me, I'm beginning to find the atmosphere here oppressive." He shoots a glare at Oliver. "My companions can learn all that is needed, I'm sure. I will await you outside."

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "And with that, I'm off."

Oliver says (to Giraud), "I admit, I was somewhat surprised by the outcome as well."

[early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe waves.

[early_musketeers] Oliver says, "byebye"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien waves to Louis.

Louis-Phillipe has disconnected.

Oliver says (to Giraud), "but nothing to be done about it now"

[early_musketeers] Giraud exclaims, "Bye!"

[early_musketeers] Amber exclaims, "L8R!"

Giraud asks (of Oliver), "Had you ever heard her father discuss what he would do with his lands when he died?"

Oliver says, "no, but she had often said that the lands would be hers -- ours -- when he died"

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Hmm. So we have the full complement of good/bad musketeers..."

Amber ambles outside, to stand under the window they're speaking next to.

Giraud says, "Strange. Still, fathers do not confide all to their daughters."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Amber: good to everyone. Me: good to Celeste, bad to Oliver. Giraud: good to Oliver, bad to Celeste. Louis: Just generally grumpy :)"

Giraud asks, "I trust she will not do anything rash?"

Oliver says, "you can rely on me to see that she is kept sensible, sir"

Jean-Sebastien slips into the room Celeste went into while Oliver's distracted with Giraud.

Amber personally thinks the rashest thing Celeste is capable of is bursting into tears.

Celeste exclaims (at Jean), "oh!"

Celeste asks, "yes?"

Giraud says (to Oliver), "I do appreciate it."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Celeste), "I am sorry to disturb you. Giraud is talking to Oliver, and I did not want to be in their way."

Giraud says (to Oliver), "Oh, one last thing: Gregor seemed rather angry when we saw him here."

Jean-Sebastien says, "He seems perturbed, Oliver."

Giraud says (to Oliver), "Is that usual for him? I find it hard to imagine him mad at the daughter of his good friend."

Jean-Sebastien asks, "Is he usually this quick to anger?"

Celeste says, "perturbed? I think he considers this problem with the will only a fantasy of mine, and he is always so sensible"

Oliver says (to Giraud), "well, it is true they never got along"

Oliver says, "I admit, I'm not much of a friend of his either, although I treat him polite and he does the same to me"

Giraud asks, "Is he that hard to like?"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "Does he not take your concerns seriously?"

Oliver says, "ah, well, you saw him"

Celeste says, "oh, he is always very practical"

Celeste says, "and adores me dearly"

Jean-Sebastien nods.

Giraud asks, "Always that cheerful, is he?"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "He knows best for you?"

Oliver says, "well, I have known him to be quite playful with his hunting-dogs"

Celeste says (to Jean), "oh, well, I don't know what I would do without Oliver"

Jean-Sebastien asks, "How do you mean?"

Giraud says (to Oliver), "A hunter, is he? I can guess what he will use Martin's lands for."

Celeste shrugs fetchingly.

Celeste says, "he always handles everything for me so well"

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "does this woman have to be so danged cutesy?"

[early_musketeers] Amber asks, "how about a woman with an attitude?"

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "oh, wait, that would be me. ;-)"

Giraud says (to Oliver), "By the by, do you know where we might find Colin? We would like to corroborate Gregor and Lorenz's account of the signing of the will."

Oliver says, "well, there's no forestland there, except a little by the cliffs, but his dogs run down rabbits"

Jean-Sebastien says, "I am certain that a woman of your nature could well care for herself, if need be..."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Heh"

Oliver says, "I know Colin told me he was stopping by Denis's house, out east, to leave some of his possessions before he moved on to the next village"

Giraud nods.

Jean-Sebastien says, "Such beauty and obvious wit could serve you well."

Celeste giggles. "Oh, you're too kind."

[early_musketeers] Amber says, "yeah, like where Amber grew up."

Jean-Sebastien smiles disarmingly.

[early_musketeers] Celeste says, "(ok, so is there more here? or can we just resume next session?)"

Giraud says (to Oliver), "I thank you for your help. I do hope you will be able to calm Celeste should we bring news that the will was indeed Martin's."

Oliver says (to Giraud), "I'm sure she'll see reason -- eventually"

Giraud says (to Oliver), "And let us know if you should hear of anything regarding this inquiry. We will be staying with Lorenz."

Jean-Sebastien takes her hand. "We will return. Pray for our good fortune in our search."

Jean-Sebastien kisses the hand. "Until then, adieu..."

Giraud glances around. "Jean-Sebastien!"

Oliver says, "I'm sure I won't hear anything"

Giraud says (to Oliver), "I'm sure."

Celeste exclaims, "oh, you shouldn't!"

Celeste blushes.

Jean-Sebastien waves, slipping back out into the other room.

Jean-Sebastien asks (of Giraud), "Yes?"

Giraud says, "Ah, there you are. We should be headed for the mansion."

Oliver says, "now, if you will excuse me --"

Giraud says (to Oliver), "Of course."

Jean-Sebastien nods, "You're ready to go, then?"

Giraud heads out.

Jean-Sebastien follows.

Amber (on the road) Had fun flirting? (to Jean)

Giraud says (to the others), "Oliver seems oddly unwilling to believe Celeste."

Giraud asks (of Amber), "does that match your impression of him?"

Amber says, "Yes, and I find it danged peculiar."

Jean-Sebastien grins (to Amber), "Celeste is a charming conversationalist."

Amber exclaims (at Jean), "Or something!"

Giraud asks (of Jean), "Did you learn anything from Celeste other than the color of her eyes?"

Amber says, "First of all, he's her intended, he should trust her about her father, at least somewhat."

Amber says, "Second, he stands a lot to gain from us finding this other will."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "It seems that she relies on Oliver a great deal, and is afraid to stand for herself. She is probably accustomed to her father ahndling all her affairs."

Amber says (to Jean), "There is that. She did strike me as uncommonly silly."

Giraud says, "I begin to wonder if Oliver and Gregor are somehow connected"

Giraud says, "though I am not fully ready to take Celeste's story at face value"

Amber says, "But perhaps all country girls are like that, I don't know."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "Well, Celeste has admitted she doesn't have any evidence, only a suspicion."

Jean-Sebastien says, "Her story is only that the matter bears investigation, and with that I can't argue."

Giraud says (to Jean), "True."

Amber says, "It could be just an act to put us off. A helpless female being taken advantage of by a mean nasty lawyer is pretty believable. Perhaps too believable."

Giraud says, "When we reach the mansion, I shall continue to play the advocate of Gregor's side, if there are no objections."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Amber), "If that's the case, Gregor did an awfully good job of playing his part when no one knew we were watching, earlier."

Amber says, "I think that's an excellent idea."

Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "No objection from me."

Giraud says (to Jean), "And you would make a believable defender of Celeste's interests."

Jean-Sebastien nods.

Amber says, "Well, the mean and nasty part may be true, then."

[early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Okay, food time for me."

[early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "See you later, then."

[early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "alrighty then. I will stop the log, and we will resume next session."