[early_musketeers] PerrySimm says, "Log on." [7thsea] Amber says, "early" [Crows-Nest] Amber has joined the channel. [Crows-Nest] Amber says, "'" [7thsea] Giraud says, "I'm pretty much ready now." [early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "ok, shall we go then?" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Ayup." [early_musketeers] Amber exclaims, "yup!" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Aye" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "I realize I have left my sheet of names at home, so you will have to bear with possible errors on my part" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'm jota." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "hee hee" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "So we are on horseback, ride-ride-riding to the manor?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "er, right." [early_musketeers] Game_Master gives up on trying to find previous session's transcripts [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "http://www.bioc.rice.edu/~lpsmith/IF/7thSea/musketeers/musket-a2.html" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Never fear, we'll remind you of things." [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "For instance, you were going to give me some 16 xp." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Yay" Game_Master says, "as I recall, the situation was thus: when we last left our heros, they had come to the small village of Font-Arrant at the behest of Bron, their, ah, supervisor, to investigate some issues with an inheritance" Giraud nods. Game_Master says, "upon arriving at the village, they encountered the fair lady Celeste and her fiance or somesuch, Oliver" Game_Master says, "also the villainous lawyer Gregor" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "and subsequently met a sweet, innocent young woman, supposedly beset by a vicious, predatorial lawyer." Game_Master says, "and the head village guy, Lorenz" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "um, gotta go for a sec." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to GM), "I prefer the name 'PlowBoy' over 'Oliver', myself." [early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Ellric on fire?" Game_Master says, "oh, and Celeste's father's name, the one who was deceased and owned the manor supposedly supposed to be left to her, was named Martin" Game_Master says, "and then there was Colin, Martin's servant" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Do we know about Colin yet?" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Yes." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Oh, the runaway." Game_Master says, "right, Colin had wandered off when Gregor dismissed him a week or so prior" Game_Master says, "it is now nighttime, and I believe there was some intention of investigating the manor" Game_Master says, "although I am not sure you are exactly aware of its location, beyond a vague idea that it is to the northwest" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Perhaps...it is north by northwest." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(so, nu, what are you doing?)" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "Did we have any clearer idea where Colin went?" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I imagine we're riding northwest." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "And looking for something that looks like a manor?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "alrighty then" Game_Master says, "you pick your way silently northwest" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "back" Game_Master says, "the night is dark, but the moon illumines the ground well enough to see, showing the cliff as a looming presence to the north" Game_Master says, "the village is dead quiet, and then you leave the small cluster of houses behind and all is desolate" Game_Master says, "but eventually you spot what must be the manor, on a small hill, silhouetted against the sky" Giraud asks, "What time is it?" Game_Master says, "a small light burns in one window" Louis-Phillipe says, "It might be more polite to wait 'till morning, now that I think of it." Jean-Sebastien says, "Not more than an hour past sunset, I don't think." Jean-Sebastien says, "Although it's possible we tarried with Celeste and Oliver longer than I thought." Game_Master says, "more like midnight -- you've had to make your way somewhat slowly with the darkness and not knowing where you are" Giraud says, "I suspect it is getting on towards Compline." Giraud says, "Not an auspicious time to be hammering on people's doors." Jean-Sebastien says, "There is a light." [early_musketeers] Amber asks, "did we decide to search the place?" [early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Not yet. Getting itchy to do so?" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "yup. :-)" [early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Can we see anything about the light other than it glows?" Jean-Sebastien asks, "Perhaps some, ah... subtle observation might be helpful?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "it appears to be a candle or lantern" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "ie, not the normal lights of the room" Giraud asks, "Amber, might you be willing to scout ahead?" Giraud says, "We can wait with your horse." Louis-Phillipe hangs back, staring into the darkness uneasily. Amber says, "Well, if no one is home, we could always, uh, procure evidence on our own, since the owner isn't around to ask." Amber says, "Willing? You need but ask." Giraud says, "Do remember to be discreet." Giraud says, "If all else fails, you can claim you were going to knock." Amber says, "I am the sole of discretion." Amber winks. Game_Master says, "some noise comes from the house, carried by the wind -- perhaps people talking" Louis-Phillipe is not reassured. Amber says, "A little soft-shoe is in order." Jean-Sebastien sits as quietly as possible on his horse. [early_musketeers] Amber says, "Lucian says he is the herring of discord." Giraud takes the reins of Amber's horse. Giraud yay [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "yay" Amber leaps lightly to the ground. Giraud says (to Jean-Sebastien and Louis-Phillipe), "Were the light better, we could try a game of dice." [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Grm rrm hyphenated names." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Just call us Jean and Louis." Jean-Sebastien whispers back, "Best not rattle the bones, when silence is a virtue." [early_musketeers] Giraud says (to J and L), "Will do." Louis-Phillipe says, "Cards, perhapes." Amber says, "I'll head on up, and just take a listen for a bit. If I find a quiet corner, I may try sneaking in." Jean-Sebastien nods. Giraud says (to Amber), "Should you need a distraction, let us know." Amber says, "I'll whistle like a mourning dove." Louis-Phillipe says (to Amber), "Yes, just holler." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "lag" [Crows-Nest] (from Giraud) Amber says, "OKAY I'M TRYING TO BE QUIET HERE!" Louis-Phillipe grins. [7thsea] Amber rolls 7k3: 1 3 10+2 5 3 6 4 | 23 [early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "*7*k3?" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Mon theus." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Stealth 3, + Small." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "stealth 4, finesse 3" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "She is the invisible musketeer." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "and then I get a 23! sheesh." Giraud says (to Amber), "Be quick about it. It's been a long day." [Crows-Nest] Louis-Phillipe says (to Giraud), "HA HA Funny lag joke." [7thsea] Game_Master rolls 4k3: 5 9 10+9 6 | 34 Game_Master says (to other three), "you hear a faint barking, far-off" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks (of Amber), "Why couldn't *you* have rolled a nice 4k3 like that?" Giraud exclaims, "Hsst!" [early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Any good place to tether the horses if necessary?" Jean-Sebastien is more concerned about cooing doves than barking dogs. [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "there are some small shrubs and stuff, yeah" Game_Master says, "the barking is getting a bit louder" Amber says, "Well, there are at least two guard types, and I heard other snoring." Amber asks, "Um, did you hear barking?" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "Is the barking coming from towards or away from the mansion?" Jean-Sebastien almost jumps when Amber suddenly appears. Amber says, "In another life, I think I had a bad experience with canines." Giraud says (to Amber), "Yes. You might want to mount up." [Crows-Nest] Giraud exclaims (at Amber), "Ha!" Amber says, "Sorry, Jean, didn't mean to scare you." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "the mansion is a bit north, the village is back south, the barking is west-ish" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(and approaching)" Jean-Sebastien says, "Quite alright." Giraud asks (of Amber), "What was the light we saw?" Jean-Sebastien asks, "Perhaps we should move into the bushes, out of sight?" Amber says, "The guards, with unloaded crossbows, are apparently afraid of the dark." Giraud casually draws his sword and lets his dagger rest in his gauche hand. [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(are you mounting as you talk? or hiding?)" Amber says, "They leave a candle on." [Crows-Nest] Giraud says, "I keep trying to tell that hand to have better manners." [Crows-Nest] Amber exclaims, "Ha!" Amber mounts. Game_Master says, "the barking becomes more distinct, now -- more than one dog, probably less than a half-dozen" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "We could move the horse into the shadows, while mounted." Amber says, "Any water around? Let's cross it, if so." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Horses, I mean." Amber says, "Shadows won't stop dogs." Jean-Sebastien asks, "Are we being hunted?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(are you riding? or waiting?)" Amber says, "Maybe not yet, but we may be if we stick around." Louis-Phillipe says, "Maybe we should retreat to the mansion..." [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I'm for riding." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'm not sure why we should be afraid of Gregor and his pups." Louis-Phillipe says, "Being forced to take shelter by a pack of wild dogs would give us a good excuse to be there without revealing our tru intentions." Amber says, "Shall we run? Or try to kill the dogs? I have a suspicion they're not wild." Game_Master says, "that may be movement over there to the west -- or maybe just the wind on the grass" Jean-Sebastien nods, "I'm with Louis." Giraud says (to Louis), "Not bad...not bad. Let's for the mansion." Giraud eyes the grass. "And quickly." Amber exclaims, "And where do we put the horses when we're in the mansion? Let's run!" Jean-Sebastien says, "If the dogs attack us, we're well within our rights to fight back. We are musketeers." Jean-Sebastien says, "And we happen to have swords." Amber snorts in disgust. "Fine, then." Giraud says (to Jean), "Better not to cause offence before we mean to." Louis-Phillipe starts off towards the mansion. Giraud exclaims, "Let us ride!" Game_Master says, "you can definitely see movement in the distance, now, although the barking of the dogs still seems relatively wild, suggesting you have not yet been spotting" Amber wheels her horse around, and races for the mansion. [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "er, spotted" Giraud follows Louis. [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "perhaps they are dalmations" Jean-Sebastien rides with the others. Game_Master says, "you are relatively close to the manor -- it is only a few minutes before you are at the door" Jean-Sebastien says, "If we tie up our horses at the side of the house, we could just tell the guards to let us in." Game_Master says, "there seems to be some confused waking-up type noises from the inside" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "Is there a stable?" Jean-Sebastien says, "Or ask them if they know whose dogs those are." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "a small one" Louis-Phillipe says, "Let's wait until the dogs get close enough to force their hand..." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Is it occupied?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "not at the moment" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "but it's basically big enough for one or two horses" Game_Master says, "the barking of the dogs continues to get closer again, after having been lost for the moment when you rode away" Amber palms a pistol. Game_Master says, "eventually the sound becomes even more distinct, and then turn to snarls as they sight you" Louis-Phillipe asks, "Our horses won't all fit in the stable - should we leave them to fend for themselves?" Giraud leaps down. "Take my horse." Jean-Sebastien says (to Louis), "We're probably better off mounted." Amber says (to Louis), "All but two, with which to recatch the rest." Louis-Phillipe gathers up Giraud's reigns in one hand. Game_Master says, "but restrained snarls -- the two dogs are on leashes" Giraud raises an eyebrow, and follows the leashes from collars to hand. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Do we see the dogs, or just hear them?" Louis-Phillipe mutters. "Damn. So much for our ruse." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "hear them, now" Amber stays mounted. She examines the dogs, and handlers (as soon as she can see them). Game_Master says, "the two men are rough-looking and hold crossbows in their hands, and leashes in the other" Game_Master says, "one man hands his leash to the other man, and steps forward" Jean-Sebastien says, "Hail." Giraud says, "Good e'en." Thug says, "what are you doing here? this is private land" Amber says, "Riding through. We have business in the area." Thug exclaims, "Didn't you hear me? This is private land! No riding through!" Jean-Sebastien says, "We ahve business here, actually." Giraud asks, "Private to the agents of l'Empereur's justice?" Amber raises an eyebrow, and spins her pistol around her finger, but says nothing. Thug asks, "justice? is there a problem here?" Thug asks, "what business do you have?" Giraud says, "We appear to be building to a problem, yes." Amber says, "But nothing is certain." Thug asks, "I said, what's your business here?" Giraud asks (of his companions), "Persistent, is he not?" Louis-Phillipe says (to Thug), "We came to speak to the master of the place." Jean-Sebastien says, "There has been some dispute of the dispensation of this property." Thug says (to Louis), "Gregor? he ain't here tonight" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I thought we wanted to avoid the master of this place :)" [Crows-Nest] Amber says, "yeah, but its a good cop-out." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "ilac" Jean-Sebastien says, "We can handle our business without him here, for the time being. We need only to inspect the building, tonight." [early_musketeers] Amber asks, "actually, I wanted to search it. think we can take 'em?" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I suspect you could slip away from the main party if we can get inside." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Sure. But let's see if we can talk our way in first." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "Even better." Thug asks, "tonight? you came here at midnight to do this?" Giraud says, "Midnight already? Then we'd best hurry up and inspect the place." Amber says, "We got lost." Thug has, presumably, noticed the uniforms by now. Thug says, "no wonder, wandering around at midnight, troubling honest folk ..." Louis-Phillipe says blandly, "It took us longer to get here than we expected. Thug asks, "can't this wait until morn?" Louis-Phillipe says, "We were about to turn around and leave it till tomorrow, in fact. But then we heard the dogs, and decided to stay." Jean-Sebastien says, "We would like very much to get this matter taken care of quickly." Thug sneers. "Afraid, eh?" Thug says, "well, very well" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "It's too bad we're good guys." Giraud says, "Ah, yes." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "yeah, no fighting." Thug says (to other thug), "Alden, you go back on patrol. I'll wake Rudo." Giraud says, "Terrified." Giraud says, "That is certainly our condition." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "It'd have been so much easier to just claim the estate for l'Emp, kick everyone out, and search it at our leisure." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "'course, in my previous life, fighting canines turned out to be a bad idea." Thug opens the door and gestures impatiently for you to come in. Jean-Sebastien dismounts. Giraud walks past Amber and whispers, "Consider slipping away first chance you have." Amber nods at Giraud to let him know she heard him. Jean-Sebastien does whatever need be done to the beast, before entering. Thug says, "(tie it up, I suppose)" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Oh, and I take care of the horse, too." [early_musketeers] Amber exclaims, "hee!" [early_musketeers] Giraud laughs. Thug has meanwhile gone into the room and returned with Rudo, who is blinking sleepily. Louis-Phillipe dismounts and scowls at the thug as he marches past. Thug says (to Rudo), "show 'em around. they're musketeers, so you'd better let them do whatever they want, even if it means getting us up at midnight on no cause." Giraud says (to Thug), "Your hospitality speaks volumes of your master's taste and breeding" Giraud says (to Thug), "My thanks." Thug goes into the other room and lies down himself. Rudo asks, "well?" Jean-Sebastien looks around. Amber examines the room, and the exits. Game_Master says, "this is the dining room" Game_Master says, "you took a short hall from the front door to get in" Game_Master says, "there's the room where the men are sleeping, double doors leading out, stairs up, and another door" Giraud asks (of Rudo), "Did this originally belong to Martin?" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "Anyone mapping?" Jean-Sebastien takes the stairs up. Rudo says, "'fore he croaked? sure" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "not I. I'm bad at it." Rudo says (to others), "well, c'mon" Rudo heads up the stairs after Jean [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Drat, he's following me." Giraud follows Rudo, incidentally blocking his view of the hall behind them. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien exclaims, "Split up, split up!" [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "(it's a pretty simple house, I think)" Amber asks, "is that all there is to the first floor? A hallway, and dining room?" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Amber), "Two other rooms, one with men sleeping in it." Amber asks, "Did the master have an office?" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Amber), "I think you and Louis are alone downstairs." Jean-Sebastien looks to see what's up here, at the top of the stairs. [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "it splits at the top of the stairs, with rooms to either side" [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "(two, not three)" Amber says (to Louis), "To avoid accusations later, we may need a witness when we find the will." Jean-Sebastien goes one way. Amber says, "I don't want to be accused of planting it." Rudo says, "it's a bedroom" [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "er." Louis-Phillipe says, "Hmm." [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "it's a bedroom, dark. looks like servant's quarters." [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "desk, bed, table" [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "wash-basin" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "kibitzing from Cadiz suggested a witness." [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "one window looking out into the night" Amber asks (of Louis), "What do you think?" Jean-Sebastien checks the desk, any other obvious places-to-put-things, chests or wardrobes, under the bed. Giraud stays close to Jean. Amber says, "If not, I'll go search stuff." [early_musketeers] Rudo says (to Jean), "nothing here" Rudo asks, "hey -- where's the lady?" Jean-Sebastien says, "Mmhmm..." Jean-Sebastien says, "She's probably checking the outhouse." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "back to plan A." Jean-Sebastien says, "You know how it is with ladies." Rudo exclaims, "haw haw! that's for sure!" Amber slips around, searching things as quietly as possible. [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Wait - Amber's left alre - ok, I guess she has." Jean-Sebastien goes to the other room. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "No other doors, I presume?" [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "no other doors" [early_musketeers] Rudo asks (of Amber), "searching where?" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "Dining room, first." Giraud says (to Rudo), "Sorry about waking the house so late. It's been a long day." [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "there's table, paintings, cabinets, small rug, doors out" Rudo says, "for us too. guardin' all day and patrol shifts all night." Rudo grumbles. [early_musketeers] Amber says, ">EXAMINE CABINETS. MOVE RUG." [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "the other room is a dressing-room of some sort, presumably for the lord of the house" [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "it has a doorway leading out, and a wardrobe and stuff" Giraud asks, "Really? Why's Gregor got you working so hard?" [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "*leading out to another room)" Rudo shrugs. Jean-Sebastien searches the various features of the dressing room, inside and under things, particularly anything desk like. Also behind stuff. Rudo says, "he just don't want nobody on the property, I expect" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "Er, should we be searching the place openly?" [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "no desk here. wardrobe,mirror, stuff like that. all of which are apparently empty." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "I assumed we were just looking at the layout." Giraud says, "Can't say that I blame him. Beautiful land." Game_Master says (to Amber), "you don't find under the rug or in the cabinets" Game_Master says (to Amber), "then you hear a noise behind you" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Louis), "Well, Giraud is keeping Rudo busy, so I'm taking every opportunity." Jean-Sebastien moves on to the next room. Thug asks (of Amber), "hey, what are you doing here?" Amber says, "Examining the property in detail." Thug exclaims, "Rudo was supposed to stay with you!" Thug says, "clearly I'll have to keep an eye on you myself" Amber says, "Feel free to join me." Thug grumbles and stands against one wall. Thug says (to Jean), "the next room is the master bedroom, probably" Amber looks behind paintings. Game_Master says, "bed, desk, wash-basin, etc" Game_Master says, "there's nothing behind the picture frames, nor within the cabinets" Thug taps his foot impatiently. Giraud asks (of Rudo), "Do you have to deal with Gregor's dogs?" Amber examines the table. Thug asks, "bored yet?" Rudo says, "I take 'em out once in a while, yeah" Amber says (to Thug), "Not at all." Jean-Sebastien searches some more, in under behind desk, under behind bed, in behind wardrobe, and so forth. Rudo says, "nasty buggers -- bite your arm as soon as look at yer" Giraud says, "They didn't look too nice." Louis-Phillipe lurks in doorways, being vaguely menacing. Game_Master says, "nothing around the desk, or behind the wardrobe, or -- no, wait" Game_Master says, "lifting the mattress of the bed reveals a smallish rectangular shape" Giraud says, "I swear, my da would have had to beat his dogs to get them that mean." Jean-Sebastien takes the shape, standing so he's between it and Rudo. Rudo exclaims, "whatever works, Gregor says. haw haw!" Jean-Sebastien kneels down to pretend to examine the rug, while examining the object. Giraud says, "It looks like his methods work. I wouldn't dare get my hands too close to their teeth." Game_Master says (to Jean), "it's not real bright in here, but in the faint light streaming through the curtains, you can make out the letters on the envelope -- LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF MARTIN d'ARRANT" Jean-Sebastien stands and walks over to Giraud. "I think we're all through up here." Rudo asks, "eh? you done?" Amber still searching the dining room. Game_Master says (to Amber), "still nothing, although the thug looks increasingly bored and tired." Giraud asks (of Jean), "Good. With any luck we will be able to speak to Gregor...tomorrow?" Amber searches the adjacent rooms. Giraud glances at Rudo for confirmation. Rudo shrugs. Rudo says, "he don't come out here much" Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "I do hope so. We'll probably have a lot to talk about." Rudo says, "you'd be better off looking for him in the village" Rudo appears cheerful at the prospect of being able to get back to bed soon. Giraud says (to Rudo), "Oh? With a place like this, I'd figure he'd be here often." Rudo shrugs. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "There's nowhere around here that would have decent enough light to read by, I assume?" Giraud says, "Who can tell. Men with money, they can do what they like." Rudo says, "he just said we weren't to let anyone on the land until he said, and he'd be back to check on it occasionally" Rudo exclaims, "I'll say. haw haw!" Amber emerges from the last room downstairs as the upstairs crew trundles back down. [early_musketeers] Rudo says, "well, there's the candle in the room. or presumably you have a lantern on your horse or back at the village" Rudo asks, "now, you done here?" Jean-Sebastien says, "I think so." Amber says, "Nothing down here." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "It's funny the way he keeps saying not to let anyone one the land." Louis-Phillipe continues to lurk, not speaking. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "It's a good thing we're not just anyone." Giraud says (to Rudo), "Thanks for your help." Rudo exclaims, "my pleasure. come back any time -- in the day time, y'hear? haw haw!" Giraud says, "Of course." Jean-Sebastien chuckles. Rudo escorts you to the door. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Are we behind or in front of him?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "nearer to the door than he is, I would think" Jean-Sebastien heads down the stairs. Jean-Sebastien heads out the door, or wherever he's escorted. [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(you folks all going outside?)" Amber heads out. Giraud follows, joining up with Amber and Louis. [early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "so, now what?" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "None of us but Jean know about what he found." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'm waiting until we're a ways from the house." Amber says, "I take it by your satisfied expressions that you found something." Jean-Sebastien mounts his horse. Louis-Phillipe asks (of Jean), "You stopped abruptly there. What did you find?" Jean-Sebastien pulls out the envelope. "It appears to be a will." Giraud says, "Aha." Jean-Sebastien opens the envelope, to read by lantern. Giraud says, "Poor Rudo never noticed." Louis-Phillipe groans. Game_Master says, "it is indeed a will" Louis-Phillipe says, "You realize when we present this, Gregor will just claim we forged it/" Game_Master asks, "anyone here have some kind of legal skill?" [early_musketeers] (from Jean-Sebastien) Game_Master says, "It's Gregor's will." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I don't." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "apparently, Cadiz's kibitzing may be correct." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Politics is the closest." [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Nothing here." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "nada." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Oratory -- so I can pretend to be a lawyer." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "I could've sworn I took Law. But I guess I dropped it." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "hee hee" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I may not know what I'm talking about, but I can sure make it sound good." Game_Master says, "ok, well, it is nevertheless a hand-written document which certainly looks like a will" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "and it has been found by law-enforcement agents, specifically under orders to resolve this situation." Game_Master says, "it says "last will and testament of Martin d'Arrant" at the top, and leaves his property in two parts, one the manor and nine-tenths of the land, the other the remaining land" Game_Master says, "the latter to Gregor for loyal friendship, the former to his daughter Celeste" Game_Master says, "and is dated a few weeks ago" Jean-Sebastien says, "This appears to be exactly what Celeste was looking for. Dated a few weeks ago." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Witnessed?" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Also, did Celeste or Lorenz tell us when the first will was dated?" Louis-Phillipe asks, "Is it signed at witnessed?" Game_Master says, "yes, one witness --" Game_Master says, "'my loyal servant, Colin'" Jean-Sebastien squints. "I'm looking -- it's hard to see in this light." Jean-Sebastien says, "Ah, it seems to have been witnessed by Colin." Amber asks, "Isn't Colin the one who left?" Amber says, "I'd bet a new pair of shoes Gregor paid him off." Jean-Sebastien nods, "Mmhmm. The one dismissed by Gregor." Giraud says, "How convenient." Jean-Sebastien folds up the will and puts it away. Amber says, "Or killed him." Louis-Phillipe says, "But Lorenz claimed to witness the other." Jean-Sebastien says, "He may well have." Louis-Phillipe says, "And if it was dated after this one, it is the true will in any case." Giraud says, "We should speak to Colin as soon as possible." Louis-Phillipe says (to Giraud), "Indeed." Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "Yes." Amber says, "As soon as we can find him." Jean-Sebastien says, "Let us hope it still is possible." Jean-Sebastien says, "We should speak to his cousin, Denis." Jean-Sebastien says, "But for now, I suggest returning to the village." Amber smothers a yawn. Amber says, "Yes. Its been a while since I kept these hours." Giraud says (to Louis), "And to your comment: if the will had been superceded, why hide the old one? Old men change their minds all the time." Giraud says, "But I am with the others. I too could use some sleep." Jean-Sebastien says, "In the morning, we can ask Lorenz where to find this Denis." Amber heads out the door to fetch her horse. Louis-Phillipe asks (of Giraud), "Why keep the old one at all? Why has this not been burnt?" Amber asks, "Gentlemen, shall we finish this discussion on the ride back?" Giraud says (to Amber), "By all means." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Erk." Giraud says (to Louis), "As to that, I have no idea." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I didn't mean to take the will out until we were on the ride back already." Giraud asks (of Louis), "Perhaps Celeste had it planted, but how would she or someone else gain access to the manor?" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "well, let's just say we were on the ride, then." [Crows-Nest] Giraud asks, "Unless she were to the manor born?" Louis-Phillipe says, "Humm..." Game_Master says, "you continue riding back. it is perhaps a few hours before dawn by this point" Louis-Phillipe trails off and sucks on his lip. Jean-Sebastien brings his horse to the stable, or tethering post, or whathaveyou. Amber pulls out a piece of beef jerky, and chews on it a while. Game_Master says, "barn, yes" Louis-Phillipe says, "That room you found it in - Gregor never used it. Rudo said he just came by to look at the building on occasion." Louis-Phillipe says, "He may not even know this exists." Jean-Sebastien says, "True. But Colin would." Amber says, "If he was confident the building was going to be his, why would he never use it? That seems odd." Jean-Sebastien says (to Amber), "Perhaps he intends to sell it." Game_Master says, "(actually, you've always been handing off your horse to someone else to put away before now, but you find open stalls at the front of the barn to stick horses)" Jean-Sebastien continues to the house. Amber chews away, mulling over the situation. Game_Master says, "the house is dark (of course)" Giraud sighs, ready for sleep. Game_Master says, "you can hear faint snoring from within" Jean-Sebastien knocks as quietly as possible. Amber says, "I'm ready for snoring, myself." Game_Master says, "no answer -- but the door proves to be unlocked" Amber lets herself in, and goes upstairs. Game_Master says, "(it's one story)" Jean-Sebastien follows suit. Game_Master says, "(but you can go in and go to sleep)" Giraud watches Amber mime climbing invisible stairs, then hands her a coin. [early_musketeers] Amber says, "I thought I slept upstairs? Oh, back at the town. Right." Amber says, "Its part of my stealth training - to move silently." Giraud says, "To bed, all." Jean-Sebastien tries not to let Giraud's talking wake up. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Er, 'wake him'" Game_Master says, "(anything, or cut to next morning?)" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "morning." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "cut" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "morning" Game_Master says, "you are awoken by the sun streaming in the window" [early_musketeers] (from Louis-Phillipe) Giraud says, "to" Game_Master says, "it is in fact rather late morning" Jean-Sebastien sits up, blinking a bit. Amber rubs her eyes, and goes to make coffee. Giraud says, "Mrf." Giraud says, "Normally I prefer to wake up this late because I have had a good time the evening before." Amber says (to Giraud), "Remember to tip the ladies well." Jean-Sebastien smirks. Giraud says, "But of course." Giraud says, "Though I suppose you will now have to tip that thuggish man we met last night." Amber asks, "Coffee, anyone?" Giraud says, "Ah, wonderful. Yes, please." Jean-Sebastien dresses and performs such activities necessary to become he who is 'Jean-Sebastien'. Amber says (to Giraud), "Any tipping will be of the decking variety. Here's your mug." Game_Master says, "moving about the house to rustle up breakfast (there is bread and fruit and cheese on the table, again), you notice a note slipped under the door" Giraud asks, "What's this?" Giraud picks up the note and opens it. [Crows-Nest] Louis-Phillipe says, "You'd think those activities would take hours..." Game_Master says, ""Please, come see me at once: an terrible matter has arisen!! -- C."" Jean-Sebastien follows the others out to the kitchen, where he cuts up an apple and a cheese. Amber helps herself to fruit and cream. [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe goes afk for a bit. Giraud says, "She has spirit, but an appalling grasp of grammar." Jean-Sebastien asks (of Giraud), "What's that?" Giraud says (to Jean), "A note, presumably from Celeste." Giraud hands it to Jean. Amber says, "So, do you think its really an emergency, or is she just being, er, flighty." Giraud says, "Anyone have her previous note? I'd like to compare handwriting." Jean-Sebastien raises an eyebrow, reads it, and raises the other one. Amber produces the previous note from a pocket. Jean-Sebastien gives this note to Louis. Jean-Sebastien says, "We should go at once, as the lady says." Louis-Phillipe hands the note in turn to Amber, giving Jean a funny look. Game_Master says, "to your untrained eye (unless anyone is trained) they appear fairly similar" Jean-Sebastien prepares to go, still munching on the apple and cheese in process. Amber says, "Sure. We should at least see what has put the bee in her bonnet." Giraud says, "If we do not want to split up, I suggest we handle this as quickly as possible." Amber asks, "All for one, eh?" Jean-Sebastien says (to Amber), "That's catchy." Amber says, "Thanks. Thought of it myself." Jean-Sebastien says, "It needs a finish though. Something like 'and one for all' -- to give it that extra bit." Amber heads out the door. Amber says (to Jean), "You're right, that does have a nice ring." Jean-Sebastien says, "Or maybe 'and none on Veldi'." Amber says, "Maybe it will catch on." Jean-Sebastien finds his horse. Giraud says, "Mmm. I prefer the former." Game_Master says, "you walk over to Celeste's, and knock" Louis-Phillipe shakes his head. "I don't like it. Too saccharine." (From Game_Master) Celeste Game_Master says, "(er)" Celeste hurries to the door, clearly all in a tizzy. Jean-Sebastien asks (of Celeste), "What terrible thing has befallen you, dear lady?" Celeste exclaims, "it is Colin!!" Giraud rolls his eyes behind Jean's back. Celeste exclaims, "he is in trouble!!!" [early_musketeers] Amber asks, "anachronism much?" Giraud asks, "Oh?" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Befell?" [early_musketeers] Giraud exclaims, "Like, sha!" Amber asks, "What kind of trouble?" [early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Jean), "'tizzy', from the band 'Thin Lizzy'" Celeste says, "I received a note from him this morning" Jean-Sebastien asks, "He was here in town?" Celeste exclaims, "he writes that he has been made captive by bandits! they captured him a few days ago as he accidentally stumbled upon their hideout and are holding him for ransom or torture!!" Celeste wrings her hands. Celeste exclaims, "all this, and the will yet unfound!" Jean-Sebastien tries to look consoling. "But... how did he get this note to you?" Amber looks pointedly at her companions. Celeste raises her chin nobly. "But you must not worry about my problems -- you must go rescue Colin!" Amber says, "Yes, quite right. We must go rescue Colin." Celeste says, "the note was fished out of the river -- he must somehow have managed to place it therein and let it drift downstream in a bottle" Giraud asks, "Could we see the note?" Jean-Sebastien says (to Celeste), "Before this day is through, I suspect the sun will shine again." Amber says, "That was fortunate for him." Amber asks, "Did they say how much ransom? Which river was the note found in?" Celeste hurries inside and comes out with the note, which says more or less what she says it says. Louis-Phillipe says, "Lucky for him it was found by you." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Does the note give any indication as to where he might be?" Celeste exclaims, "oh, I did not find it myself! but it was brought to me to read!" Jean-Sebastien asks, "By whom?" Giraud asks, "Brought to you?" Celeste gestures vaguely. "Marcel, as he was going out to fetch water from the river before going out to his field." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe asks, "Who is Marcel again?" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Was he the one who thought PlowBoy was dim?" Celeste says, "I sometimes read letters and things for the less-educated of the village" [early_musketeers] Celeste says, "he's nobody" [early_musketeers] Celeste says, "or, rather, hasn't been mentioned before" Jean-Sebastien nods. "How sweet of you." Giraud asks, "Where could we find this Marcel?" [early_musketeers] Celeste says, "and, sorry, from before: it mentions no specific ransom amount, and says that the last landmark he recalls was two rocks, one on either side of the river, in the forest on the top of the cliff" Giraud says, "He might have more information about where we could find Colin." Celeste thinks. Celeste says, "he must be out in his field by now" Celeste asks, "I am sure he will be back for supper -- but do you really think you must wait to talk to him??" Amber says, "I say we just follow the river." Jean-Sebastien says, "I agree." Jean-Sebastien says, "No time should be wasted." Celeste wrings her hands again. Amber asks (of Celeste), "I assume you are unfamilar with the landmark he mentions?" Celeste says, "oh dear -- bandits are so *dangerous*" Louis-Phillipe says, "Yes. Let us be off." Jean-Sebastien puts his hand reassuringly on Celeste's shoulder. Celeste looks over the letter again, absently patting Jean's hand. Celeste points at the cliff Jean-Sebastien says (to Celeste), "Do not worry. We can handle this; rest." Celeste says, "the river flows down the cliff -- this forest is a few hours' ride from the top of the cliff" Celeste exclaims, "you could take the horses up the hills to the side -- it is steep but I am sure you could manage!" Amber asks (of Celeste), "Is there an easy way up?" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "Er, timing." Giraud asks (of Celeste), "Have you told anyone else about this?" Celeste exclaims, "just Lorenz, of course -- he said there that I was right to ask you to help!" Amber wheels her horse around. "And help you we shall. We're off!" Louis-Phillipe says, "Ah. Ah ha." Celeste exclaims, "oh, and I sent someone to tell Denis -- his cousin should know he is in danger!" Jean-Sebastien smiles, giving Celeste's shoulder a gentle parting squeeze, and turns to follow Amber. Amber heads for the hills. Louis-Phillipe says (to Celeste), "I suspect this is a ruse, in fact. But we should go anyway, in case the man needs us." Louis-Phillipe turns to leave without another word. Celeste says, "a ruse?? but who do you think could be so -- oh." Giraud catches up with Amber. "Have you considered at least finding Lorenz and verifying this story?" Celeste gazes soulfully after as you ride off. Amber says (to others), "I think it's a trap. This is frighteningly convenient." Amber says (to Giraud), "Presumably, the only evidence is this note." Louis-Phillipe says, "Especially as Lorenz is all for it." Jean-Sebastien says, "Mmm. But it's our only lead, aside from Denis." [early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "How far from our route to the hills would Lorenz be?" Jean-Sebastien takes out the will, to compare handwriting on the signature. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Where would Lorenz be, for that matter?" Louis-Phillipe says, "We should talk to Denis first. If he knows where Colin is, he might be able to tell us if this note is a fraud." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "We just came from his house, didn't we?" [early_musketeers] Celeste says, "you're staying with unnamed villager. denis has, I think, been mentioned to live way out east someplace" [early_musketeers] Celeste says, "Lorenz is in the village" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I vaguely remember Denis's house being mentioned. How far -- aha." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "All Lorenz will be able to say is that Celeste showed him the note, and we already have it." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Theoretically, Denis will be on his way here, unless someone waylays Celeste's messenger." [early_musketeers] Giraud says (to Amber), "Though it might be interesting if Lorenz said, 'Note? What are you talking about?'" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "And I didn't get the impression that she'd likely told Lorenz about said messenger." [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "So many random leads in so many directions." Amber says, "I still say we head for the hills. We should just be prepared." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'd suggest keeping the way we're going, but to watch out for -- what she said." Louis-Phillipe is riding eastward as he speaks. Giraud shrugs. "I doubt we'll get much useful information from anyone in town, and if this is true, time is of the essence." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(hills are north, denis is east)" Jean-Sebastien calls out to Louis, "So... we'll meet up with you?" Giraud exclaims, "Hold on!" Giraud says, "If we're going to face bandits, I'd rather there be four of us than three." Louis-Phillipe turns his horse. "Fine. But don't say I didn't warn you!" Giraud says, "I too would rather talk to Denis, but am willing to be convinced otherwise." Jean-Sebastien says, "If this is an ambush, and I agree it probably is, the time spent routing it will probably not severely impair our meeting with Denis later." Jean-Sebastien says, "But if not, taking the time to find Denis first may bode ill for Colin." Amber says (to Jean), "I agree. Lets' go." Game_Master says, "you continue onwards, then" Game_Master says, "to the hills and up them, following the river" Game_Master says, "it is a fine day" Game_Master says, "early afternoon now, I suppose" Amber says, "Once we think we're close, I volunteer to scout ahead." Louis-Phillipe unobtrusively moves his horse to the outer edge of the path, farthest from the river. Game_Master says, "eventually you spot the landmark mentioned -- a boulder juts up on either side of the river" [early_musketeers] Amber asks, "anyone have tracking?" [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Does street navigation count? :)" Jean-Sebastien looks for a trail into the woods. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Sorry." Louis-Phillipe looks at the boulders. "Do those look climbable to you/" Jean-Sebastien says, "Probably worth a try." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "you could climb them -- they're, like, refrigerator sized, although a bit pointier on top" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Oh, I was picturing bigger spires. I was thinking I could get a panoramic view from the top." Amber says, "The boulders may be visible from whatever campsite they have. I say sneaking in is better." Jean-Sebastien asks (of Amber), "Sneaking in where, though?" Amber shrugs. "The woods, I guess. Giraud draws a pistol. "At least let us peer around the boulders." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(and what about the horses?)" Jean-Sebastien brings his mount a bit further along the river, to see if anything 'jumps out at him', to coin a phrase. [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Are we skulking? I thought we were out in the open." [early_musketeers] Giraud asks, "Are there convenient trees or bushes for tying?" Louis-Phillipe checks the priming on his pistols and rides with one cocked in the air. [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says (to Jean), "We suspect an ambush. Of course we're skulking." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "yeah, this is turning into a forest, so there's little shrubs and then larger trees" [7thsea] Game_Master rolls 3k3: 10+7 2 1 | 20 [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to Louis), "But we don't know where we expect the ambush." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says (to GM), "BTW, when I compared the note to the will's signature a while back, I missed the result." Game_Master says (to Jean), "a brief snatch of conversation drifts your way" Amber skulks. [7thsea] Amber rolls 73k: Arr. Jean-Sebastien stops, listening. Louis-Phillipe asks, "The undergrowth is getting a bit thick - should we tie the horses and proceed on foot?" [7thsea] Amber rolls 7k3: 7 1 1 7 6 9 9 | 25 Jean-Sebastien waves his hand at Louis to hush him. [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "to the will's signature? probably not the same, no" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "The witness signature, I mean." Game_Master asks (of Amber), "I assume you're skulking off-horse?" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "its a good thing I have a 7. I can't roll anything." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "right" Giraud ties his horse and dismounts quietly. [early_musketeers] Amber says, "off-horse skulking, yes." Giraud then moves towards Jean. Game_Master says, ""a nine .. a queen..."" Game_Master says, "the voices fade" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Oh, it's just thumper and Ryan." Amber slinks closer to the conversation. [7thsea] Amber rolls 7k3: 10+9 2 7 5 7 5 1 | 33 [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "The channels must be bleeding together again." Jean-Sebastien quietly dismounts as well, and then crouches to hear better. Game_Master says (to Amber), "it's coming from further inside the forest -- there, around the side of that hill" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "I'd like to make a Tactics roll..." [early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "um, ok. what does that do?" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "...to decide if we'd be better served by having mounts, for the height advantage, or if the undergrowth is too thick for them." Amber says, "slink, slink, slink." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Or at least, I'd like to ask that question, and Tactics seems like the skill I'd use to get the answer." Amber heads to the hill in question. [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "alrighty. but it's probably about to be a moot question--" Game_Master says (to Amber), "aha -- there's a narrow entrance into the hill, almost hidden by the shade of two large trees" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Ok, nevermind then." Amber examines the entrance, then heads back to the party. Giraud raises an eyebrow at Amber. [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "(and now..?)" Amber describes the entrance, and details its location. Amber says, "We could go charging madly in there, or come up with a subtler plan." Jean-Sebastien nods. Jean-Sebastien asks, "Do we know for certain they're bandits?" Amber says, "We could suprise them." Amber says, "Well, it seems to me that honest folk wouldn't be hiding out in the woods." Jean-Sebastien asks, "As opposed to being someone we're being set up to kill?" Giraud says, "In fact, were one of us to lead several horses loudly past the cave, the other three might get the drop on anyone who came out." Jean-Sebastien says, "True." Louis-Phillipe says (to Amber), "Unless they've been, say, driven from town by an usuring lawyer..." Amber says, "Too true." [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "It would be like Calvin and Hobbes. 'Oh, look. Here I am, a fat rolly-polly kid who is getting into his bed. Oh, dear. I think I might be about to fall out of bed.'" Jean-Sebastien says (to Giraud), "But we should only attack them if they attack first." Giraud says, "Agreed." [early_musketeers] Amber asks, "how about next week?" Louis-Phillipe says (to Giraud), "Good idea. And it will give us an idea of their character by how they respond." [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says (to Giraud), "Hee hee." Jean-Sebastien asks, "Any volunteers to play the decoy?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "hrm, right, it's getting on 8" Giraud says, "Certainly." [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "I can play for thirty more minutes, if we're likely to wrap up by then." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "Yeah. So Sunday's good, at the normal time?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "I admit I had wanted to get this bit out of the way this session, but I'm not sure it can really be wrapped up for sure in 40 minutes" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "so I think we'd better push it" [early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "yeah, everyone ok for next week?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master asks, "er, this sunday, I mean?" [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "Sure." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "sunday is easter." [early_musketeers] Giraud says, "Sunday's fine." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "hrm, yes" [early_musketeers] Amber asks, "will that be a problem for anyone?" [early_musketeers] Louis-Phillipe says, "Sunday is good." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien says, "I'm clear by game time." [early_musketeers] Amber says, "works for me." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "ok? good." [early_musketeers] Alex says (to Game_Master), "Awwwk! Word on the street is that OK is 'ook' typo." [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "hee hee" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "I regret I'm going to be out of town the next weekend" [early_musketeers] Giraud says (to GM), "As well you should." [early_musketeers] Jean-Sebastien asks, "And on Sunday, we'll figure out how and when we can manage the last part?" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "but s'possible we can squeeze something in before/after it" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "yeah" [early_musketeers] Amber says, "sure. Sunday/Monday" [early_musketeers] Game_Master says, "alrighty. until next time." Game_Master has disconnected. [early_musketeers] Giraud exclaims, "And I'm off to bed as well. Good game!" Giraud has disconnected.