[7thsea] PerrySimm exclaims, "Log on!"

[ussura] * Russet has joined the channel.

[ussura] Russet says, "(just watching)"

[ussura] npc1 waves.

[ussura] Jota exclaims, "Ack, it's after five!"

[ussura] GM wave!

[ussura] * Charles has joined the channel.

[ussura] Charles says, "Sorry, my modem has been flaking on and off, and I got distracted with that."

[ussura] GM nods.

[ussura] Sebastien says, "haven't missed anything yet, although lps's started up Perry already"

[ussura] Charles says (to Sebastien), "Er. Oops."

GM says, "My connection hasn't been the greatest, so if I idle, I probably got disconnected."

[7thsea] Alixandre says, "yeah, like that helped inky all that much"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "there is 7thsea, crowsnest, ussura. how are we using the channels?"

[ussura] Sebastien says (to Charles), "no biggie"

[7thsea] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[ussura] Russet says, "or, reading bb #2, I might be able to act as a simple NPC today"

[ussura] GM says, "Mostly we use #ussura and #crow's-nest"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay"

[ussura] Alixandre says (to Raelynn), "#crows-nest is for out-of-character quips and the like"

[ussura] GM says, "I've also made a #backstage where I might tell you character motivation or stuff."

[ussura] Alixandre says (to Raelynn), "#ussura will be mostly for general game chat"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "should we join that now?"

GM says, "Let's see. I also might make more cuts than has been typical; i.e. end one scene and start up another much later without saying "OK, you go home and brush your teeth, sleep four hours, etc."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "never mind"

[ussura] GM says, "Not #backstage; that's flagged #private."

[ussura] GM says, "I'll add you as needed."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "okay"

Alixandre says, "Please remember that I require at least eight hours of sleep in order to look my best the day following."

GM asks, "Anyone have any questions?"

GM says, "So noted ;-)"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Is PS #backstage?"

Pyotr says, "it takes me eight hours just to comb out my beard"

GM writes down: Alixandre gets 7 hours sleep = minus 1 Panache.

Era says, "I need at least 8 hours just to look like a normal person."

[ussura] GM says (to Charles), "Yes, thanks for asking."

GM says, "OK! Here we go."

GM says, "Scene 1: We open on a close-up of Charles, walking into a tavern. The door opens letting some snow blow in behind him, and he shuts it heavily. From the decor, we surmise that the setting is somewhere in Vendel. Not surprising, from those who have seen the prequel to our adventure, which left Charles pondering the intriguing conclusion of the Affair of the Black Talon in Vendel."

GM says, "Charles walks up to the bartender and speaks."

[ussura] GM says, "And this is where I would tell him #backstage "You're thirsty.""

Charles asks, "Got any ale?"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "ah ha. i get it"

Bartender says, "1 guilder."

Charles fishes one out and slides it across the bar.

[ussura] GM says (to Charles), "OK, roll perception."

[Crows-Nest] Alixandre says, "we'll know how good a bar it is by how far the guilder slides before sticking in a puddle of old drink"

[7thsea] Charles rolls 4k3: 3 3 4 1 | 10

GM says, "There's some commotion in the back of the bar, and a small crash."

Bartender gives an ale to Charles.

Charles ignores it for the moment. He's thirsty.

Charles takes a long drink, then nods to the bartender and goes to find a seat where he can casually observe the room.

GM says, "As Charles turns to survey the room, a blast of cold air hits him again, and he sees the back door swing shut with a bang."

GM says, "There's a perfect table for surveying the bar--and an overturned chair behind it, with a tankard of ale rolling to a stop below."

Charles rights the chair and the tankard and sits on the former.

Charles idly looks to see if anyone else is reacting to whatever just happened.

GM says, "There are a few people looking at you curiously."

Charles nods to them, in a friendly sort of way.

GM says, "After a minute or two, a refined gentleman comes over to talk to you."

[Crows-Nest] Russet says, "I find myself wondering if Charles still has that ugly old ship."

[ussura] GM says, ""Hmm, I need a Vendel name--a short one."

Charles says, "Afternoon."

[ussura] GM asks, "Anyone want to be this guy?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "sure"

[ussura] Era says, "'k"

[backstage] * GM has added Sebastien to the channel.

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "OK, you'll be next."

[ussura] Era yields the floor to Sebastien

[backstage] GM says (to Seb), "OK, Louis, who just ran away, looked like he had seen a ghost. You're curious because you think he owes Charles money, but you're the moneylender in town, and want to make sure he doesn't infringe on your territory."

[Crows-Nest] Charles says (to Russet), "It's a good question, which probably won't be answered here, since it depends on the consequences of Ghogg."

[backstage] GM says, "You're a Vendel-style Vendel, not a Vestenwhatever."

[backstage] Sebastien asks, "want to make sure Charles doesn't?"

[backstage] GM says, "Right."

[backstage] GM says, "(Louis is Montaignian)"

Eldi pulls a seat over and sits down at the table.

Eldi asks, "greetings, friend -- new in town?"

Era has disconnected.

Charles says, "Relatively speaking, aye."

Eldi says, "a travelling man? I'm always looking for stories from out of town"

Charles smiles. "Ah, I've a few of those. Have a seat -- the name's Charles, by the by."

Eldi says, "kind of you to offer"

Eldi says, "Eldi's the name"

Eldi asks, "so how'd you end up here? know anybody in town?"

Charles shakes his head. "I came here with friends, on... call it a quest. But we've all parted ways by now."

Charles says, "It's a bit too soon, I think, to talk of the thing that sent me to these isles, but let me tell you a different tale."

Eldi says, "hunh, strange -- Louis sure looked like he knew you"

Eldi says, "probably just a chance resemblance"

Charles asks, "Louis?"

Eldi says, "sorry, please, tell on"

Eldi says, "he was just sitting here a minute ago -- left in some haste when you came in"

Era has connected.

Eldi asks, "probably owed you money, eh?"

[ussura] Era says, "hello, again"

[ussura] GM also back. Yay setting things up to run without me ;-)

[ussura] Charles says, "I'd like a Wits check to remember Louis before I start."

[7thsea] Charles rolls 3k3: 10+4 7 8 | 29

[ussura] Charles says, "(Or rather, to remember the various Louises I might know.)"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "nice roll"

[ussura] GM says, "You're fairly certain you've never heard of a Louis."

[ussura] Eldi says, "besides the kind of montaigne"

Charles starts telling the tale of a noble Castillian ship and its role in the War.

Eldi listens with polite attention, but seems slightly distracted.

[backstage] GM says (to Eldi), "Now that's interesting--Louis has told what sounds like the same tale."

Eldi suddenly shakes his head and listens closer.

[backstage] GM asks, "But only in fits--something about him being captured?"

Eldi says, "that's very interesting, friend"

[backstage] Eldi asks, "does it matter what Louis looks like, or can I make it up?"

[backstage] GM says, "Feel free."

[backstage] GM says, "He's more a Wits guy than a Brawn guy."

[backstage] GM says, "Kind of nervous."

Eldi asks, "you sure you don't know Louis? short man, straw-blond hair, goatee? maybe a little twitchy?"

Charles chuckles. "That describes a great many people."

Eldi says, "true enough, true enough"

Eldi says, "it's just that story you tell reminds me a little of one he used to tell when he was in his cups"

Eldi says, "and, well, the way he left when you came in made me wonder"

Charles leans in. "Aye? How's that one go?"

Eldi says, "but since you say you don't know him -- and if he owed you money, I'm sure you'd remember --"

Eldi says, "well, let's see what I remember"

Eldi says, "he talked about the ship and some of the battles -- then something about being captured"

Eldi says, "he never talked about his past much when he was sober"

[backstage] GM says, "The part that didn't make much sense was that he would be attacked, captured, then attacked again."

Charles asks, "What ship was that?"

[backstage] GM says, "Captured by some Avalonian ship."

Eldi strokes his beard. "Can't rightly recall the same -- some Avalonian ship. He made it sound like he'd seen it a couple times and been captured every time."

Eldi says, "but you know how drunkards are, keep repeating stories"

Eldi says, "goodness knows my wife says I retell *my* stories enough after I've had a glass or two"

Charles says, "Mmm. Do you know where I might find this Louis? It sounds as though he and I might have tales to trade."

[backstage] GM says, "Yeah, he's been staying at a local inn."

Eldi says, "he's been at an inn -- let's see -- The Golden Stag, I think"

Eldi says, "just down the way -- anyone could tell you where"

[backstage] GM says, "Make sure he's not encroaching on your territory before you let him go ;-)"

[backstage] GM says, "(if you can)"

Charles says, "Thank you. I think I'll pay him a visit."

[backstage] Eldi says, "well, Charles doesn't seem to be a moneylender, and I figure he would have spoken up if there's anyone who owes him money"

[backstage] GM says, "Sure."

[backstage] Eldi says, "but I plan on maybe following him when he goes out"

Eldi nods. "Anytime, friend."

[backstage] GM says, "Ah, OK, excellent."

Eldi finishes his ale and stands.

[backstage] GM says, "OK, you can wait in the wings."

Eldi says, "If you're in town a while longer, I'll buy you a drink -- these tales from out of town are always interesting"

Charles touches his brow, and returns to the bar to purchase a bottle of brandy to bring with him, perhaps to loosen Louis' tongue.

Eldi says, "but if you'll excuse me"

Eldi heads out the front door.

GM says, "Charles buys a brandy, and heads out the front door, turning west, away from the wind and snow. Loping around from the back are deep footprints, beginning to fill, heading straight down the street."

Charles follows the prints -- pausing briefly on the way to find out if this direction is towards or away from the Stag.

GM says, "Getting confirmation from a passerby, you head to the Golden Stag and again find shelter from the cold. It's a 3-story building, with lights on in most of the rooms, given the late hour. As you enter, there's a yelp."

npc2 exclaims (at Innkeeper), "Never mind! Keep it!"

Charles observes.

[ussura] Louis says, "Er, as Louis."

Charles says, "Hallo there."

Louis, holding a trunk with clothing hanging out of it, sprints for the back door.

Charles follows. "Hold up, why the rush?"

Inkeeper says, "Now, hang on a sec, I can refund..."

Louis's bag slams against the doorframe, and a shirt or two tumbles out. Louis runs into the snow.

[ussura] GM says, "Let's roll another perception check."

[7thsea] Charles rolls 4k3: 10+9 10+1 9 4 | 39

GM says (to Charles), "You're sure you heard him say, "Carlos, no, carlos, no" on the way out."

[ussura] Alixandre says, "As far as I am concerned, when accompanying me that man may watch for skulking types any time he wishes."

[ussura] Alixandre says, "insofar as he is willing to stay downwind"

[ussura] GM says, "Heh."

Charles drops the bottle in the trunk, hops over it, and chases after him.

Louis exclaims, "No! Leave me alone! Haunt somone else!"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Rolling sprinting?"

[ussura] Louis says, "Sure."

[7thsea] Louis rolls 4k3: 2 3 2 7 | 12

[7thsea] Charles rolls 4k3: 2 9 5 5 | 19

GM says, "Charles runs forward, grabbing at Louis's shoulder before he has a chance to round the first bend."

Louis stumbles back, shielding his eyes.

Charles pushes Louis against the wall. "What do you know about Carlos?"

Louis asks, "You're... you're not?"

Charles says, "My name is Charles. Carlos Algun was my father."

Louis melts against the wall in relief.

[ussura] Sebastien says, "oh ho ho"

Louis says, "His son, of course. You look... just like him."

Louis says, "I'm sorry, I tried, I really tried, they're just too powerful. It was too much for me; I ran away."

Charles asks, "Who are they?"

Charles asks, "And what did you try?"

Louis asks, "Your father saved my life. I tried to avenge him, but Lavache is too well protected. What could I do?"

Charles relaxes slightly. "Come inside. It sounds as though we have a lot to talk about."

GM says, "Louis and you return inside, straighten out things with the bartender, and go upstairs."

[ussura] Russet says, "bartender, innkeeper, whatever."

[ussura] GM says, "Heh, right."

Charles opens the brandy and plies Louis for the whole of his story.

GM says, "Louis explains that he was on a Montaignian ship when it was attacked and overpowered by La Halcon. Later, La Halcon itself was attacked and outgunned, but when it ran up a surrender flag, the Montaignians ignored it. Carlos Algun released the prisoners so they could try to swim for safety as the ship began to sink."

[ussura] GM asks (of Charles), "Do you have Cold Read?"

[ussura] Charles asks, "I do not. Is it an advanced skill?"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, I think so."

[ussura] GM says, "Never mind."

[ussura] GM whistles innocently.

Louis says, "When the final explosion threw me clear of the ship, I thouht I would sink for sure, when an arm hauled me out of the water--it was Carlos."

Charles says, "And you seem to know the ship she was attacked by, and it's captain."

Louis says, "I... found that out later."

Louis says, "Seeing that I couldn't swim, he took his belt and tied me to the plank we clung to."

Charles asks, "He... he survived?"

Louis says, "Then Lavache started straffing the seas with grapeshot to kill the survivors. Your father was hit in the back."

Louis says, "Before he died, he told me to hide underneath his body."

Louis says, "I spent the next three hours, my nose barely out of the water, staring at Carlos's empty eyes. I swore I would avenge this stranger who died for me."

Charles doesn't interrupt this time.

Louis says, "I remembered the crest of the Montaignian ship, and inquired later as to its owner. But Lavache was no longer a captain by the time I found out--he was entrenched as some sort of noble at the Palace."

[Crows-Nest] Charles . o O ( I'll have to make friends with someone with connections in the Montaigne court... but how will I possibly manage that? )

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "haw"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "ha"

[Crows-Nest] Alixandre says, "hee hee hee"

Louis says, "I did discover that his first mate, Edmund Devoe, had been given a post as a diplomat in Ussura. But by that time, I had survived two attempts on my life. I thought it was because I asked too many questions, and I feared to go after even Devoe by myself... so I took the next boat as far away as it would take me."

Charles says, "...Devoe..."

Louis says, "And here I am. I've escaped Lavache, but... I'm sorry. I've prayed every day for Carlos' soul, but it's not enough."

Charles asks, "Do you know where in Ussura this man is?"

Louis says, "I can give you the name of the town. I believe it is in an area of the country they call Gallenia."

[Crows-Nest] * Inkeeper has joined the channel.

[Crows-Nest] * Louis has joined the channel.

[Crows-Nest] Alixandre notes down where he and Sebastien are undoubtedly to be posted.

Charles says, almost to himself, "I will go."

GM says, "And </scene>"

GM asks, "Scene 2! Raelynn and Era! You ready?"

Raelynn snaps off a salute

[Crows-Nest] GM asks, "Hmm, how do you boot someone from a channel, again?"

[ussura] Era says, "Ready, boss"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "remfromc"

[backstage] * Sebastien has left the channel.

[7thsea] Era says, "lilac"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "Nah, this is good."

[ussura] Era says, "'k"

GM says, "OK. This scene opens on a busy street in Frieburg, Era heading over to her contact at Sophie's Daughters."

[ussura] Era says, "stride, stride, stride"

[ussura] Russet says, "[Freiburg]"

GM says, "She enters a fencing academy, nods to the woman at the front desk, and makes her way to the basement."

GM says, "The place has a clean smell, with a twinge of sweat and old blood emanating from the racks of epees and other swords on the walls."

[ussura] GM says, "Gotcha."

Adeline looks up at Era's entrance, a bit surprised, but relaxes when she recognizes her. She's in the middle of a conversation with a small, violet-eyed Montaignain woman.

[backstage] * GM has added Raelynn to the channel.

Raelynn ducks her head at the sight of a newcomer.

[backstage] GM says (to Raelynn), "Anything you're interested in happening, you're asking her about. They've smuggled you out of the country, and there have been no incidents so far, but you've not been able to contact any of your family yet."

Adeline says, "Ah, Era. This is Raelynn. Raelynn, Era."

Era nods at Raelynn

Raelynn nods back and offers a tentative smile

Era asks, "Greetings, Adeline. How is your mother?"

Adeline says, "Doing well, thank you. Her scrying has been particularly helpful this month."

Era says (to Adeline), "Excellent, I'm pleased to hear things are improving. I'm afraid I have some sad news."

Adeline asks, "Oh?"

Era says (to Adeline), "We need to balance my account with the academy, as I have decided to return home. I have been away a long time."

[backstage] Raelynn asks, "do i interrupt or wait?"

[backstage] GM says, "Whichever."

[backstage] GM says, "Go ahead and say something if you have something to say."

Adeline nods. "I suspected as much. We'll have need of you in Ussura, as well. I trust you will look us up once there?"

Raelynn tries not to look impatient as she listens quietly

Era says (to Adeline), ""Of course. I have learned much here, and it will be well-come in my homeland."

Era says (to Adeline), ""Please inform me if you hear of others traveling in that direction. I would prefer not to travel alone. A lone brigand is no challenge, but they have begun to run in packs of late."

Adeline asks, "You'll have to leave soon if you're to make it over the passes before the snows come, but perhaps you can help us before we go?"

Era says, "If it is brief, I am at your service."

Raelynn asks (of Adeline), "(impatiently) what does my family know about my disappearance? when i can i get word to my parents?"

Raelynn says (to era), "i apologize for interrupting, but I am quite anxious about my family."

Era asks (of Adeline), "Is she new to the sisterhood?"

Era says (to Raelynn), "Think nothing of it."

Adeline says (to Raelynn), "I apologize we had not thought of this before--any letter you wish to write your family, we can convey to them in secret."

Adeline asks (of Raelynn), "I trust you will find Eisen safely out of the reach of this... what was his name, again?"

Raelynn says (to Adeline), "I will write one then."

Raelynn says, "Gerard"

Adeline says, "Gerard."

Era asks (of Raelynn), "When did you join the sisters? Are you from Eisen, then?"

Raelynn says (to Adeline), "I would mention his name to my father, but I fear this man is even more powerful than my own"

Raelynn says (to Era), "I am from Montaigne"

Adeline says (to Era), "Raelynn was kidnapped much against her will and threatened with the loss of her life for the crime of looking like this Gerard's ertwhile daughter."

Era says, "Ah, hence the slight build. I see. That sounds most dreadful."

[backstage] Raelynn says, "i always assumed Elaine (Mommy) was also Sophia's"

[backstage] Raelynn asks, "is that okay?"

[backstage] GM says, "Sure."

Raelynn says (to Era), "my mother is also a sister"

Era puts a sympathetic arm around Raelynn's shoulders. "You poor thing, how terrible!"

Raelynn says (to Era), "she taught me what I needed to know before I was initiated about a year and a half ago"

Raelynn asks (of Adeline), "Has there been any word about this artifact that Gerard is looking for?"

Adeline shakes her head.

Raelynn asks (of Adeline), "and anything about his true daughter?"

Adeline says, "As far as we know, nobody has been able to locate her, including Gerard."

Raelynn says, "poor lady"

Era says, "My dear, take it from me. Artifact hunting is a very serious business."

[Crows-Nest] GM chuckles.

Raelynn says (to Era), "it must be, if he is willing to harm his own daughter over it"

Raelynn says (to Era), "pardon me for interrupting earlier. I will quickly write my letter now while you go back to your conversation."

Era asks, "So he did not kidnap you, then, others did it for him?"

Raelynn says (to Era), "he hired this monster, named Bayol"

Adeline says (to Era), "There's a city east of here, Luebeck, where we have the resources to get Raelynn set up in a new position, at least until this blows over. Would you escort her there? I believe you can find a caravan from there going to Ussura."

[Crows-Nest] Russet says, "hey, I've been to the real Luebeck."

Era says, "I'm pleased to help a sister in need."

Raelynn murmurs quietly, "I hope Delarue has that scar from when I attacked him..."

Era asks, "What sort of position did you have in mind?"

Era says (to Raelynn), "I hope he does too, dear."

Era asks (of Adeline), "I'm a reasonable hand with a sword, but I think having more than two women traveling might be a good idea. Any suggestions for more brawn?"

Adeline says, "I'm afraid I can't spare anyone from Frieburg, but Luebeck isn't far--a couple hours ride. I can lend you horses, if you wish--go to the Halicon Corral, across town and mention my name."

GM says, "Era and Adeline chat for a while while Raelynn writes her letter. Adeline then tucks it away, promising to get it to Elaine (R's mom) soon. Era and Raelynn head out towards the Halicon."

Era asks (of Raelynn), "So how well do you ride?"

Raelynn says (to Era), "I have been taught how to ride - and I ride passably"

Era says (to Raelynn), ""And do you need to pack much? We may need to travel lightly."

Raelynn says, "i can't promise any fancy tricks"

GM says, "OK, both of you roll perception."

Raelynn says, "i have nothing of my own, when i was kidnapped i didn't get a chance to pack :)"

GM says, "(3k2 for Era, 3k3 for Raelynn)"

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 3k3: 4 1 4 | 9

[7thsea] Era rolls 3k2: 3 9 5 | 14

GM says, "As you walk along, Era sees a rough-looking group of people pass, going the other way. Just as you walk past, the last in the group starts, and does a double-take, looking at Raelynn."

Era exclaims (at Raelynn), "Then we may need to do a bit of shopping on the way!"

Raelynn says (to Era), "I wouldn't mind a change of clothes or two *grin*"

Era puts one hand on her sword-hilt, the other on Raelynn's elbow, and starts walking faster.

mean_guy jogs forward and talks to the rest of his group.

Raelynn keeps up

Raelynn asks (of Era), "(noticing the sword) something wrong?"

Raelynn readies her knife in reaction to Era's move

Era asks (of Raelynn), ""Someone noticed you, I think. Are you armed, in case there is trouble?"

mean_guy & friends <huddle, gesture, point>

Raelynn shows the dagger she is holding under her cloak

Raelynn says (to Era), "my mother made sure I was trained"

Era says, "Or should you run? No offense, but you look a bit, um, slight."

Raelynn says (to Era), "i would rather not get separated from you."

Era says, "Excellent. Small does not necessarily mean helpless . . .You should have met some of my friends . . ."

Era looks around for a place to run.

GM says, "There's a place down the street you know well where you might be able to lose them."

GM says, "By the place they dye linen."

Era tugs Raelynn around a corner. "Let's try to lose them."

mean_guy & friends <turn, grumble, follow>

(From GM) <cut-scene>

[Crows-Nest] Russet exclaims, "high-stain fight!"

GM says, "Charles is walking through a street in Frieburg, having had to land his ship in Eisen, what with the Montaignians patrolling the Ussuran border closely."

GM asks (of Charles), "Hey, wait--was that Era running by?"

[ussura] Era exclaims, "sweet!"

GM says, "And, whoops, a large group of toughs following."

[ussura] GM says, "Oops, he's idle."

[ussura] GM says (to Jota), "Hey, wake up."

[ussura] Raelynn laughs

Charles follows Era.

[ussura] Charles asks, "Huh, wha, who, me?"

[ussura] GM says, "Heh."

Raelynn pulls the hood of her cloak over her head as she keeps up with Era

[ussura] Charles asks, "Are these generic toughs, or are they toughs of a recognizable national origin/social class/whatever?"

Charles asks, "Hallo -- having trouble?"

Era exclaims, "Charles!!"

Raelynn quickens pace at the sound of a stranger's voice, and stumbles in surprise

[ussura] GM says, "They're a fairly motly-looking group, but well-armed."

Miseri arrives, looking for booty.

GM says, "As a group, you turn--and the street Era intended to travel is blocked off by a dye spill--it stinks something awful, and the alley is filled with toxic fumes."

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "mmm, toxic"

Raelynn wrinkles her nose and tries to stop breakthing

mean_guy grins, moves in.

GM exclaims, "And, roll initiative!"

Era exclaims (at Charles), "Quick! We need a wall!"

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 2 dice: 7 10

Era puts her back to a wall and draws her sword.

Raelynn finds a sheltered spot that she would be able to defend, and readies her knife

[7thsea] Era rolls 3 dice: 8 3 4

[7thsea] Era rolls 3k3: 6 7 3 | 16

GM says, "OK, these guys are all brutes, so all you have to do is hit 'em and they go down."

GM says, "They attack as a group on..."

[7thsea] GM rolls 3 dice: 3 7 3

GM says, "Wow, everyone goes on 3."

[7thsea] Charles rolls 3 dice: 7 9 10

[ussura] Charles says, "Well, not quite everyone."

[ussura] GM asks, "OK, looks like they go first and last on phase 3?"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "hey, about all those wounds from my intro, am i healed?"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, you're healed up."

[ussura] Charles says, "Also, a wall? A piece of cheese or a length of twine, sure, but I'm not sure about a wall..."

[ussura] GM laughs.

[7thsea] Era rolls 6k3: 6 5 8 9 1 10+1 | 28

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "Hold on, they go first."

[ussura] GM says, "But that'll be a hit."

mean_guy's group moves in, five of them focussing on Era and four on Raelynn.

[ussura] Sebastien says, "wow, that's a lot"

[Crows-Nest] mean_guy says, "Yeah, we'll see."

[Crows-Nest] mean_guy says, "Er."

[7thsea] mean_guy rolls 5k3: 10+10+1 6 7 4 5 | 34

[7thsea] mean_guy rolls 4k3: 5 7 8 10+2 | 27

[ussura] mean_guy says, "Wow."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "eek"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "yikes"

GM says, "OK, if either of you want to try an active defence, you can do that, since you both have 3's."

[ussura] Era says, "So, we'll be partying with ghosts in a minute. :-)"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i don't have 3 - charles does"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "only era, then"

[ussura] GM says, "Oh, oops--Era rolled twice."

[ussura] Era says, "with rolls like that, I'm thinking defense is a good plan. Era is not the swordswoman Amber is."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "you can always sacrifice two to get an earlier one, of course"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, you can spend two dice to go now, then."

[ussura] Era says, "go with the fist one - the second one I rolled incorrectly"

[ussura] GM nods.

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i will take the hit"

[ussura] Era says, "so 3 & 4 are defense, on 8 I get to attack, IIRC"

[ussura] GM says, "(this is my first time rolling brutes, so I'm going a bit slow here, too)"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "Your active defense is 5k2, which you can try to get better than a 20, and hopefully better than a 34."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "i always got yelled during parchesi that i can't roll high numbers...seems that's the case still"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[ussura] GM says, "(I'm talking IRL to Sara ;-)"

[7thsea] Era rolls 5k2: 4 2 8 5 3 | 13

[ussura] Era exclaims, "nuts!"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, they both hit, then."

[ussura] Era says, "that was my defense, such as it was."

[ussura] GM (flip flip flip)

[ussura] Sebastien says, "I believe they do 6 points for every 5 or 10 they hit by"

[ussura] GM nods.

[ussura] GM says, "OK, Era takes 18 flesh wounds, and Raelynn takes 12."

[ussura] GM says, "Roll a wound check--3k2 for Era, 2k2 for R."

[7thsea] Era rolls 3k2: 5 7 7 | 14

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 2k2: 8 2 | 10

[ussura] GM says, "That's one dramatic wound for each of you--and, go ahead and roleplay it out."

Era clutches her left shoulder as her green dress takes on a redish hue. "Damn! And on my best dress, too!"

Raelynn tries to avoid the brutes as they charge, but is unable to dodge out of the way of a meaty fist

mean_guy &co laugh evilly as they swarm over Era and Raelynn. It seems they haven't quite noticed Charles, however.

Raelynn grunts as she falls

[ussura] GM says, "(actually, you don't fall yet)"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "yeah, katre is saying the same thing"

[ussura] GM says, "Heh."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i meant like stumbling, losing balance"

[ussura] GM says, "Gotcha."

Era unclutches her shoulder to give Raelynn a bloody hand.

mean_guy press their advantage and attack again!

[7thsea] mean_guy rolls 5k3: 6 9 5 2 1 | 20

[7thsea] mean_guy rolls 5k2: 5 7 5 4 6 | 13

[ussura] mean_guy says, "Er, that 2nd was wrong."

[7thsea] mean_guy rolls 4k3: 9 9 2 1 | 20

mean_guy and friends are almost rebuffed, but manage to get in a couple knocks around the back, where you can't defend as easily.

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "can i have the first roll anyway?"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "j"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "j/k"

[ussura] GM says, "Well, in deference to that, Era takes 6 flesh wounds and R takes 3."

[ussura] GM says, "Roll another wound check."

[7thsea] Era rolls 3k2: 3 9 4 | 13

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "that's successful."

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 2k2: 5 1 | 6

[ussura] GM says, "As is that! Yay."

GM exclaims, "Phase 4!"

[ussura] GM says, "I should explain, first:"

[ussura] GM says, "Their TN is 20, but for every called raise above that, you can take out an extra guy."

[7thsea] Era rolls 6k3: 7 7 2 2 3 10+1 | 25

[ussura] GM exclaims, "One goes down--roleplay it!"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "also, you guys all have drama dice you can be spending"

Era neatly skewers a thug, despite favoring her left shoulder.

[ussura] GM says, "Right."

[ussura] Charles asks, "How many are left in each group?"

[ussura] GM says, "4 in each, now."

[ussura] Charles says (to Sebastien), "I was just thinking about that myself."

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "brutes attack as one, but we still need to take them down individually?"

[ussura] Charles says (to Raelynn), "You can take raises to attack several of them at once."

[ussura] GM says, "For every one you take out, they roll one less die."

Era exclaims, "Charles, why are you standing about?!"

GM says, "Otherwise I'd be rolling for 9 guys until the cows came home."

Charles says, "Sorry, just watching for the right moment..."

Era exclaims, "Several 'right' moments have come and gone - get to it, man!"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Phase 5-6-7?"

[ussura] Era says, "j/k - I know you can't go yet."

GM asks, "Phase 5, then 6, then 7--what do people have left?"

[ussura] Charles says, "I have 7 9 10."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "7 10"

[ussura] Era says, "8"

[ussura] Charles says, "WHich I think puts me first in phase 7."

[ussura] GM asks, "Higher goes first, or lower?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "highest total goes first"

[ussura] Charles says, "Higher total."

[ussura] GM says, "If higher goes first, then oops."

[ussura] GM says, "Sorry about giving the thugs the edge ;-)"

[ussura] GM says, "Go for it."

[ussura] Era exclaims, "s'alright, we'll show them the edge right quickly!"

[ussura] GM says, "I'll get this down eventually."

Charles charges into the group attacking Raelynn, trying to take down three at once.

[ussura] Charles says, "Adding a drama die..."

[7thsea] Charles rolls 7k4: 3 6 2 4 8 7 6 | 27

[ussura] Charles says, "Arr. And another."

[7thsea] Charles rolls 1k1: 5 | 5

[ussura] Sebastien says, "awesome"

[ussura] GM says, "W00t"

[ussura] Era exclaims, "sweet!"

[ussura] Raelynn cheers, mainly because she now knows how drama die work

[ussura] GM says, "Heh."

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "OK, we have to re-connect, just a sec..."

Charles slashes one thug across his right arm while charging past, jabs his blade into the gut of a second one, and the spins around to cut a third across the face.

Raelynn stares open-mouthed at this stranger

Era has disconnected.

Era has connected.

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "And, back."

[ussura] GM says, "And Raelynn, you're up next. There's one on you, four on Era."

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 6k3: 9 8 10+7 3 2 8 | 34

[ussura] Era exclaims, "you rock!"

Raelynn takes her dagger and handles it with ease as she skewers the brute's face

mean_guy, who had just turned around to face the newcomer, screams as he's taken out from behind.

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "i so need to learn more dagger-fight words"

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

mean_guy's group on Era attacks her again.

[7thsea] mean_guy rolls 4k3: 3 8 9 10+3 | 30

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "isn't there a way to intervene to help somebody out?"

Gunther arrives, looking for booty.

GM says, "That's another 18 flesh wounds, plus 6 from last time--roll wound check."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "(having katre to give me advice helps)"

[ussura] GM says (to Ra), "You can try to take out more than one at a time, but you have to announce it first."

[ussura] Charles asks, "In which sense? To help boost their roll, to defend tem against attacks...?"

[ussura] Russet says, "sometimes you can use an action to get in front of somebody, but that has to be done ahead of time."

[ussura] Raelynn says (to charles), "the latter"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to russet), "ah ha"

[ussura] Russet says, "also, probably depends on the situation"

Era has disconnected.

Era has connected.

[7thsea] Era rolls 3k2: 7 5 6 | 13

[ussura] GM says, "OK, that's a second dramatic wound."

mean_guy grins as he pummels Era, but his face looks worried as he notices that half his group is down.

Era stumbles and almost goes down as her leg is badly cut.

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "mean mean_guy!"

GM exclaims, "And, phase 8!"

[ussura] Charles says, "Yeah, I probably could have helped defend instead, but I figured it might help more to use my actions try to finish them off this round, so they couldn't keep attacking next round."

[ussura] GM nods.

[ussura] Era says, "I'll raise 2 and add a drama die . ."

[7thsea] Era rolls 7k4: 2 8 10+8 8 2 6 4 | 40

[ussura] Sebastien says, "baddaboom"

[ussura] Charles says, "Nice."

[ussura] Era says, "this is starting to look like a Van Damme movie"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[ussura] Era says, "with swords"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, roleplay that out."

Era spins on one foot, pulls a fancy Zoro move, and takes out three with one blow!

lone_mean_guy's eyes widen.

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn has a Brave Little Tailor moment watching Era

GM asks, "Phase 9?"

Era exclaims, "Sons of carrion eaters! Run whilst you've still breath!"

lone_mean_guy tries to run.

[7thsea] Charles rolls 6k3: 2 3 4 5 4 2 | 13

[ussura] GM says, "Snrk."

lone_mean_guy dodges away from Charles' knife.

GM says, "And phase 10."

Charles tries to spin *back* around to take out the last fellow, but he's still slightly off-balance after his last show.

[7thsea] Charles rolls 6k3: 8 3 8 3 6 1 | 22

[ussura] GM says, "And a hit! Roleplay."

Charles, after missing on the fore-swing, swings his arm back to hit him in the head with his hilt, as if that's what he'd meant to do all along.

Raelynn pouts, I don't get to do anything fun.

lone_mean_guy gasps, "It's too late, Lady Fleur. He knows you're here, and will stop at nothing to get it back."

lone_mean_guy expires.

Raelynn stamps her feet. "I am *not* Fleur!"

lone_mean_guy lies there.

Era raises an eye-brow. "And Fleur is the fellow's daughter, I take it?

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

Raelynn asks (of Era), "i wonder if he has other men here?"

Raelynn says (to Era), "yes. I apparently resemble her somehow"

[Crows-Nest] Russet says, "guess there's no need for a scene kicking and interrogating a guy, then"

Charles, apparently not being introduced, says, "Greetings, Lady Not Fleur."

[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "hey, that's Joe, not Charles"

Era says, "Raelynn, this is Charles Algun, an old friend."

[Crows-Nest] GM laughs.

Charles bows.

Raelynn says, "Nice to meet you, Monsieur Charles. I am Raelynn DuVille"

Raelynn says, "Thank you for your assistance"

Era says, "Charles, meet Raelynn, whom I've been assured is NOT Lady Fleur, and is badly in need of some protection, as you have no doubt noticed."

Charles says, "It was a pleasure."

Charles asks (of Era), "Indeed -- what did the two of you do to incur the wrath of these fellows?"

Raelynn coughs. "It's filthy here. Can we chat where the air is fresher?"

Era asks, "And where is the constablary in this benighted town? The taxes to support them are surely high enough, but where are they when they are needed?"

Charles offers a hand to help Raelynn step over the unconscious bodies.

Raelynn tugs the hood that had fallen off during the fighting back over her head, casting her face (and eyes) in shadow, and then accepts Charles's hand

Era says, "I think I know a place to get patched up - it is near the sist- It is near the fencing school."

Era says, "Lots of opportunities for patching, when one is learning to fence."

Charles offers the same to Era after, unless she's already crossed on her own.

[backstage] Raelynn asks, "does my Thomas knack work to tell me that Charles and Era are magicians?"

Era takes Charles free arm.

[backstage] GM says, "Yes, it does."

[backstage] GM asks, "Did you pick a sorcery style to recognize?"

[backstage] Raelynn says, "Glamour"

[backstage] GM says, "In that case--Charles has Glamour. Era has somthing else ;-)"

[backstage] GM says, "Although you did hear her say Ussura was her home."

Era attempts to walk casually, despite her shoulder and leg.

[backstage] Raelynn asks, "so basically, i know that era is something, and charles is glamour, right?"

[backstage] GM says, "Right."

GM says, "Right, so, the group of you head to a doctor Era knows to get patched up."

[backstage] GM says (to R), "You're not so sure Eisen is actually that safe for you now."

Raelynn says (to Era), "I am a bit concerned"

[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "eeeagh! raelians!"

Raelynn says, "That guy did say Gerard has other men here. I don't think my new position will be as safe as we thought it would be"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

[Crows-Nest] Alixandre laughs.

Raelynn asks, "Do you think Gerard has men in Luebeck, too?"

Era says (to Raelynn), "Would you care to travel with me? Ussura would surely hold these brigands back."

Charles asks, "Did you say Ussura?"

Raelynn wrinkles her nose. "Ussura? Isn't that the land of snow and never-ending cold?

Era says (to Charles), "I did. I just informed my fencing teacher that I am going home soon."

Charles says, "Would you care for an additional companion? I have business that takes me there as well."

Era says, "Ah, but she is lovely if you know her. I miss my land and my family."

Raelynn says, "I've heard such tales from people..."

Era says (to Charles), "I would by quite appreciative of your company. Do you know anyone else traveling in that direction? As I was mentioning to my instructor, brigands have begun to run in packs hereabouts."

Raelynn says, "It sounds so fearsome..."

Charles says, "I was originally planning to join one of the caravans going east; I 'm told there are still a few yet to leave before the end of the season."

Era says (to Raelynn), ""The land can be unkind to strangers, but Matushka loves her own. As long as you are with me, she shan't bother you."

Era says, "Much."

DavidW arrives, looking for booty.

Raelynn gulps

[Crows-Nest] * DavidW has joined the channel.

[ussura] GM says, "Oh, come on, Ussurans are supposed to be friendly to strangers, not tease them ;-)"

Era says (to Raelynn), "Seriously, though, the tales you hear are from those who have fled. Many have stayed. Ussura is wild, but it it beautiful."

[ussura] Alixandre says, "she's been away a while"

[Crows-Nest] DavidW says, "I'm just here to watch; sorry to interrupt."

[Crows-Nest] Charles says (to W), "Currently, Era and Raelynn and Charles are in Freiburg (a city in Eisen, the equivalent of Germany), making plans to travel to Ussura (the equivalent of Russia)."

[ussura] Raelynn laughs

[ussura] * DavidW has joined the channel.

[Crows-Nest] GM says (to DW), "No problem."

[Crows-Nest] Alixandre says, "Sebastien and I are counting our spats."

Raelynn says (to Era), "I will trust my safety to this wild land, then"

GM says, "And, </scene>"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "who else is there? oh, right, Pyotr"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "but he's got no spats at all"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr exclaims, "<snap> Ow!"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "darned traps, they are so hard to set in the cold."

[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "OW MY SPAT POINTS"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[Crows-Nest] Charles asks, "I've sure he's had a spat or too in the past -- isn't that how he came to flee Ussura in the first place?"

[Crows-Nest] Charles says, "(Or 'too'? Yeesh. Sorry.)"

[ussura] Era says, "I'm supposed to convice this frail whisp of a girl, who looks like a strong wind will blow her away, to move with me to the land of eternal ice and snow? I dunno."

[ussura] Alixandre says, "once she's buried in a snowdrift, the snowdrift will insulate her"

[ussura] Era says, "<checks character sheet> Nope, my diplomacy skills are not that high! :-)"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i feel like i should defend myself but i am laughing too hard"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "give her a few shots of vodka, the"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "hey, if the wind is strong enough, can't i just *fly* to ussura?"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "oh wait, wrong rpg"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, I don't think I have quite enough time here to do another full intro--can we do the last couple next week? Sorry, not-got-to-people."

[ussura] Era says, "oh, right, dehydrate her in the process. That's a *great* idea! :-)"

[ussura] GM grins.

[ussura] Pyotr says (to gm), "sure, although I'm up for it if everyone else is"

[ussura] Era exclaims, "ha ha!"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "I gots no place to go"

[ussura] (from Pyotr) Eli cries!

[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah, what they said"

[ussura] Alixandre says (to Pyotr), "thankfully he is a sleep right now, draped across misty"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "after having been draped across me"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "but if the GM gotta go, the GM gotta go"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "aww"

[ussura] GM says, "I have family clamoring for attention ;-)"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "heh"

[ussura] Era says, "four-year-old family. :-) You and Misty just wait. :-)"

[ussura] GM says, "Nap + movie gets us about 3 hours ;-)"

[ussura] Russet asks, "so this is weekly? and could I jump in two weeks from today?"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Oh yeah, are we weekly or every other weekly?"

[ussura] GM says, "In general, I'd like to have an every-other-week schedule."

[ussura] Alixandre says, "we were originally talking every-other-week, but I'd be up for next week to try to catch up"

[ussura] Era asks, "I think it is 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month, IIRC?"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, right."

[ussura] GM says, "We get an extra week this month anyway, what with 5 sundays and all."

[ussura] Alixandre asks, "the first sunday of next month is labor day weekend, right?"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "because I will be unavailable that sunday"

[ussura] GM says, "Oh, right, neither will we."

[ussura] Charles says, "Heh."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "I am so confused"

[ussura] Raelynn asks (of sebastien), "what kind of a diplomat are you?"

[ussura] Charles asks, "So, playing on the 29th, then the 12th?"

[ussura] GM says, "OK: next week: Pyotr intro, and Alix & Seb intro."

[ussura] Era asks, "so do the rest of us need to be here, too?"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "YES"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "FEEL OUR PAIN"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[ussura] Era says, "hee hee1"

[ussura] GM says, "Aww."

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "next week == 7 days from now?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I am so lost"

[ussura] GM says, "The 22nd: Pyotr + Alex + Sebastien."

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "the the 22nd, right? not the 29th?"

[ussura] Charles says (to Alix), "You're just worried the two of you will get chased down by a back of mean_guys, I bet."

[ussura] GM says, "The 29th: Maybe everyone."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "that's great"

[ussura] GM says, "The 5th: Off."

[ussura] Alixandre says, "Pyotr + Alex + Sebastien? we're already doing slashfic. excellent"

[ussura] GM says, "(Labor day)"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "I'm down with that"

[ussura] Charles says, "Y'know, I still don't know which one of you is Alixandre, and which is Sebastien."

[ussura] GM says, "Oh, duh, I should have had onlookers play mean_guy pack."

[ussura] Alixandre says, "I'm the natty dresser"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "whereas I am the dapper diplomat"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Will it ever be necessary to find out, or can I just permanently lump you together as Sebandre?"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "yikes"

[ussura] GM laughs.

[ussura] Era says, "two sword-slinging fops, right? I like it. :-)"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "I actually prefer knives and arrows, just to help tell us apart"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "not at the same time, mind you"

[ussura] Alixandre says, "I tried that but the bowstrings kept getting cut."

[ussura] Era exclaims, "hee!"

[ussura] Era exclaims, "sounds like we're done, then. See you all next week!"

Miseri takes the biscuit.

Era has disconnected.

[ussura] GM exclaims, "Thanks, everyone!"

lone_mean_guy has disconnected.

[ussura] Charles says, "Fun session, I say as the person who got to play in all parts of it."

GM says, "Oops, forgot to rename him."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"