[Crows-Nest] Gunther asks, "7thsea?"

[ussura] GM says, "I see no Sarge today."

[ussura] PerrySimm says, "Log on."

Eolo has connected.

[Crows-Nest] Duchess says, "aye"

Miseri arrives, looking for booty.

Miseri says, "arr, I say"

Pyotr says, "Arr, indeed"

[ussura] GM says (to Duchess), "Hey, get over here ;-)"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i am here already!"

Raelynn arrives, looking for booty.

Miseri draws a card from the sorte deck: The Hermit (inverted).

[ussura] GM says, "You are not in the room...ah, there you are."

GM says, "OK, woot, everyone but Sarge here."

GM says, "And while Sara's upstairs putting Ellric down, let's talk schedule."

Pyotr says, "we're busy the 26th"

GM asks, "Sarge can't make it in two weeks; I think we'll probably be busy next week. Anyone for three weeks from now?"

Charles says, "I think I can do any of those three weeks."

Sebastien says, "me too"

Pyotr says, "October 3rd is iffy for duchess, good for me"

GM says, "OK, that's three no-cans for 2 weeks, so that's definitely out."

GM checks his own calendar.

Charles says, "Waiting three weeks between sessions seems potentially bad for momentum."

Charles asks, "Is anyone free on any of the respective Saturdays?"

GM asks, "The 25th, you mean?"

Charles says, "Yeah, 18 or 25."

Sebastien says, "I'm not free on the 25th, but the others are ok"

Pyotr says, "we'd be free the 25th"

GM says, "These next two weeks may be fairly busy for us. We're house-shopping."

Pyotr says, "woo woo"

Sebastien says, "right on"

GM says, "So, 3 people out the 26th, inky out the 25th, Oct 2/3 look OK, but somewhat distant."

GM says, "Sarge unknown for the 25th."

GM says, "OK, let's say we're definitely on for Oct 3rd, and if we can find a time between now and then when we can meet, all to the better; I'll check with Sarge."

Sebastien says, "sounds good"

Pyotr says, "cool"

Charles nods.

GM says, "OK, time for the inter-session cut-n-pastes:"

GM exclaims, "Drama dice!"

GM says, "Awards so far:"

GM says, "Pyotr, for living up to his 'hot-headed' hubris: 2 drama dice"

GM says, "Charles, for actually punching Sebastien: 1 drama die"

GM says, "Sebastien, for the Devoe confusion and many humorous remarks: 2 drama dice"

GM says, "Raelynn, for courage in the face of certain peril: 1 drama die"

GM says, "Alixandre, for humorous remarks and remembering the importance of good hygiene in the face of certain peril: 2 drama dice"

GM says, "NPCs in Pyotr's intro: 1 drama die each"

GM says, "(I believe that's Raelynn and Sebastien in the PC group? Schep can have one too, if he likes ;-)"

Charles says, "Oh yeah."

[ussura] Era exclaims, "okay, I misread that as cut-n-pasties . . .quite different!"

[ussura] GM says, "Snrk."

GM |
GM | Once again, the story so far:
GM |
GM | Everyone has now met in Sredbirskyoye, which we shall have to either
GM | leave soon or learn to pronounce.  Charles has the NPC Louis in tow, who
GM | was supposed to help him recognize Edmund Devoe when they met: a task
GM | Louis singularly failed to do.  Era is escorting Raelynn out of Eisen,
GM | and keeping her out of trouble and away from Raelynn's double, Fleur,
GM | and Fleur's evil father, Gerard.  Pyotr's past caught up with him and is
GM | along for the ride.
GM | Their meeting with Sebastien and Alixandre (Montaignian diplomats in
GM | trouble with Montaigne and told to report to Devoe) starts with Louis
GM | mistaking Sebastien for Devoe, and Sebastien mistaking Charles for
GM | Devoe.  That sorted out, Raelynn heads to the market while the rest of
GM | the group searches for clues of Edmund's whereabouts.  Pyotr finds that
GM | they recently bought climbing equipment for four.  The rest find smoke
GM | coming out of the floorboards, and discover a secret room underneath the
GM | embassy, the desk of which is peasant-like in that it is on fire.
GM |
GM | After the fire is quenched, a passage is discovered that leads to a
GM | neighbor's root cellar.  The burned papers are examined, which mention
GM | a Dreng Rissanova, and something called "Sud'ya".  Pyotr manages to
GM | track the firestarter from the root cellar, and the group tramp out to
GM | the woods, where a makeshift campground is found, and Marceau in the trees
GM | above them.  Charles gets shot, but gets back up again, and Marceau
GM | eventually gives up in exchange for being allowed to go.
GM |
GM | Back at the embassy, a naked bathing Marceau explains:  Devoe, he, and
GM | three others at the embassy had not been getting on well with the
GM | Rissanovas, and Devoe was only too happy when war broke out between
GM | their respective countries.  Two weeks ago, upon learning the
GM | whereabouts of Dreng Rissanova, erstwhile brother of Tamara Rissanova
GM | and would-be ruler of Gallenia, four of them headed off to the Sud'ya
GM | monastery where he was being held after his aborted coup five years ago.
GM | Then:
GM |

(From GM) Raelynn flings open the door, rushes inside, and slams it shut behind her. "Help me," she says, with wide eyes.

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

[backstage] * GM has removed Era from the channel.

Raelynn looks around wildly

Sebastien hastily rises. "My lady, is something amiss?"

Pyotr asks, "What's wrong?"

[backstage] GM says (to Raelynn), "Some city guards are after you."

Era jumps to her feet and feels for her sword. "What? Who?!"

Marceau rises, dripping. "My lady! How can we help?"

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

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "someone give that man a hat"

Era absently passes Marceau a towel.

[backstage] Raelynn asks, "am i being chased?"

Maxwell has connected.

Raelynn says, "there are some people chasing me"

[backstage] GM says, "Yeah--they seemed ready to arrest you."

Raelynn says, "city guards"

Raelynn panting, can barely get the words out

Pyotr says, "Bah, we can take them."

Sebastien says, "I am afraid the brigands in this area are very -- oh"

Pyotr says, "Let's go."

Era asks, "How far back - how many?"

[backstage] GM says, "You think your father got word to them."

Pyotr heads for the door.

[backstage] GM asks, "10 or so?"

Raelynn says, "i ran all the way, i don't know if they saw me come in here"

Raelynn says, "there is about 10 of them"

Raelynn says, "and they are after me. they must have found out that i was here."

Era glances around for somewhere to stash her friend.

Raelynn says, "oh no, how did they find me? i've been so quiet and hiding too!"

Charles says, "The basement."

Raelynn tries not to wring her hands in dismay

Sebastien says, "I suppose we can make use of the secret passage once more"

[ussura] GM asks (of Pyotr), "Do you open the door?"

Raelynn asks (of Era), "you will help me?"

Sebastien says, "but if there is some trouble with the law, perhaps it would be easier to straighten things out"

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "No!"

Sebastien shrugs.

[ussura] Pyotr says, "yes"

Raelynn says, "they will take me back, they will take me away, i know it"

Era says (to Raelynn), "Get down to the secret passage; we'll cover for you."

Sebastien says, "well, if you insist, then, into the basement"

Raelynn asks, "secret passage? basement?"

[ussura] GM says, "Down the street are a group of five guards or so, knocking on doors."

Sebastien says, "but I must warn you there is some danger of your clothing becoming slightly dirtied"

Sebastien fumbles for the trapdoor opening again.

[ussura] Pyotr says, "cool"

Pyotr asks, "Anyone coming to help me?"

Gunther arrives, looking for booty.

Marceau exclaims, "I shall accompany you!"

Era gives Sebastian an irritated look. "Now is hardly the time to concern oneself with appearances, sir!

Marceau says (to Pyotr), "Er, I meant the lady, not you."

Pyotr says (to Marceau), "It's a bit cold out. You might want more than a towel and suds."

Charles says (to Pyotr), "I will."

Sebastien looks wounded. "There is no time when appearances do not matter."

Marceau looks down, blinks.

[7thsea] * Gunther has joined the channel.

Marceau says, "Ah, right."

Era sighs, and shoves Sebastian after Raelynn.

[ussura] * Gunther has joined the channel.

Raelynn looks slightly bewildered

Sebastien exclaims, "no, no, that's quite alright, I have no need to -- alp!"

Raelynn asks (of Sebastien), "perhaps you should lead the way?"

Sebastien says, "apparently I am given no choice"

Sebastien climbs the rest of the way down into the trapdoor

Era grabs another towel and tosses it after Sebastien.

[backstage] GM says (to Raelynn), "If you can get the guards off your *and* Raelynn's back, that'd be great, of course. If it looks like they're heading towards protecting only R, you might note that Fleur is innocent, too, and that if F is safe, R will be."

Sebastien says, "You seem to be under some illusion as to the state of my -- oof"

Sebastien closes the trapdoor once Raelynn's climbed down also.

[backstage] Raelynn says, "hm. good point"

Marceau, pulling on some now-wet trousers, follows S & R into the recess.

Charles follows Pyotr.

Guard1 nods to Pyotr as he knocks on Khristen's door.

Pyotr asks (of Guard1), "What are you doing?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[nobilis] (from Duchess) inky says, "give me my name back, dammit."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "man, I hope somebody covered up the other end of the passage"

Raelynn asks (of Sebastien), "um. where are we headed?"

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "hmm, did we hire people to fill it in?"

Guard1 says, "We're looking for an escaped convict from Montaigne we have reason to believe has taken up residence in this city."

Gunther has disconnected.

Gunther has connected.

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

Gunther arrives, looking for booty.

[ussura] Maxwell says, "don't think you've had time for that yet"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "drat"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah, there's been no real break in the action"

Pyotr says (to Guard1), "Oh, interesting."

Pyotr throws a punch at the guard.

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[ussura] Maxwell says, "I would think Khristen would close it, but probably not hide the tracks."

Khristen arrives, looking for booty.

Khristen answers the door. "Hello?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "at some point I will have to give Pytor a few tips about diplomacy"

[ussura] Era says, "ussura and possibly style."

Pyotr says (to Khristen), "Hello again, just getting rid of this riffraff for you."

[ussura] Charles wonders if it's time to roll initiative at this point.

GM tosses a drama die to Pyotr, laughing.

[ussura] Pyotr says, "yay"

GM says, "Roll your attack."

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 6k3: 7 2 10+9 10+10+7 10+9 4 | 65

Raelynn looks around the tunnel.

[ussura] Pyotr coughs

[ussura] Sebastien says, "wow"

[7thsea] Raelynn says, "yow"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "I guess that would be a hit"

[ussura] Charles says, "My."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay, I think I have to retire now"

[ussura] Era says, "woot"

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "i refuse to say "my hero" and swoon"

Guard1 says (to Khristen), "Greetings, miss, we have --erk---"

Guard1 falls over, out cold.

[ussura] Era exclaims, "go Pyotr!"

Khristen exclaims (at Pyotr), "That's the city guard!"

Khristen asks, "Who *are* you?"

Pyotr says (to Khristen), "He was annoying people."

Gunther has disconnected.

Gunther has connected.

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

Pyotr swings for the rest of the guards, too.

Gunther arrives, looking for booty.

[ussura] GM says, "They had spread out."

[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "sorry about this"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "ah ha"

Guard2, from across the street, looks over, and says, "Hey!"

Pyotr heads for Guard2.

[ussura] Charles says, "'Pyotr the Murderer, at your service'"

Charles shrugs and follows, not sure if he'll actually be needed here at all.

Guard2 sputters, "What the--why are you--ack!

Guard2 fumbles for his sword.

Era looks for a small, enclosed space.

Khristen exclaims, "He just knocked out this guard!"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "tell me when to do initiative for this guard"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, let's see. Everyone tell me where you are, and we'll roll initiative."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I'll probably have used up all my exploding dice with that last roll, but hey"

[ussura] GM says, "Heh."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I'm heading across the street for guard2"

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn hangs out in the muddy tunnel, clueless

[ussura] Charles says, "I'm with Pyotr."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "meant that for here"

[ussura] GM says (to R), "*nod*"

Sebastien sits sadly in the dark of the basement also

[ussura] GM says, "Sebastien's also in the basement, as is Marceau."

[ussura] Era says, "I'm in the house, looking out the window."

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

GM says, "OK, everyone upstairs roll initiative."

[interludes] Raelynn asks (of sebastien), "*hesitantly* you don't think your friends will turn me over to the guards, do you?"

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 3 dice: 5 3 4

[7thsea] Guard2 rolls 2 dice: 8 1

[7thsea] Charles rolls 3 dice: 9 5 1

[interludes] Sebastien says, "my friends, my lady? although they seem congenial enough I had assumed they were acquaintances of yours - at least, I can say I never saw any of them before a few hours from now"

[7thsea] Era rolls 3 dice: 2 8 2

[interludes] Sebastien says, "a few hours previous to now, I should say -- all this running about has jumbled my wits entirely"

GM says, "OK, so Charles goes first, then the guards on 1."

[Crows-Nest] Gunther asks, "what's happening currently?"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "I just decked a guard"

[ussura] Charles says, "Holding."

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "more of them are coming over"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "Raelynn is on the run from the guards; some people are fighting them and some of us are hiding"

[ussura] Era asks, "how many guards do we see here?"

[interludes] Raelynn says, "not my acquaintences, at all"

Charles says, "My friend was only reacting instinctively to a perceived threat, I'm sure."

[interludes] Sebastien says, "but I am sure that so charming a lady could not be guilty of, er, whatever the guards are after you for"

[ussura] GM says, "There are maybe 5 guards on this street."

[interludes] Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "*suspiciously* you are montaigne"

[ussura] Era asks, "brutes, thugs, villains, or what?"

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "how close together are they?"

[ussura] Maxwell asks, "counting the unconscious one?"

[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "ok"

[ussura] GM says (to Pyotr), "They're not; there's two together three houses down, this one, and another one the other way."

[interludes] Sebastien says, "I see you are perceptive as well -- indeed, Alixandre and I are in the Montaigne embassy here because, in fact, we are Montaigne diplomats"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "if I didn't roll damage, they're brutes"

[interludes] Raelynn says, "what are you doing in ussura? you tricked me! you are actually working for my father!"

[interludes] Sebastien asks, "your father? is there trouble in the home?"

[backstage] Raelynn debates running away

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says (to gunther), "I rolled 6k3 and got a 65"

[ussura] GM says, "Arr, too many things going on at once ;-)"

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

GM says, "OK, the guards:"

Guard2 exclaims (at Charles), "Perceived threat, huh? Men! We have trouble!"

Guard2 says (to Pyotr), "As you are not a lady, I can only presume that you are working for her."

[backstage] GM says, "Don't forget you're trying to be Raelynn ;-)"

Pyotr exclaims, "I work for no one!"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "(now I am imagining Pytor in a dress)"

[backstage] Raelynn says, "oh right"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I have to look up the rules on reputation-based intimidation someday"

[interludes] Raelynn asks, "what do diplomats do in a country they are invading?"

[interludes] Sebastien says, "er, well, I admit to some confusion on this topic myself"

Guard2 asks, "Then why interrupt a criminal investigation that doesn't involve you?"

[interludes] Sebastien says, "currently Alixandre and I plan to go with these others to seek out the man who previously held our position here"

Pyotr exclaims, "Rargh!"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "always a good comeback"

[ussura] GM says, "We'll say those are held actions; phase 2 for anyone wanting to do something."

[interludes] Sebastien says, "there appears to be some sort of political web here which it seems to be our duty to untangle"

[ussura] GM says, "Anyone can say anything at any point."

[ussura] Era says, "holding action, holding breath"

[ussura] Era waits for the fighting to break out again.

[ussura] GM asks, "Phase 3? Anyone waiting at this poitn?"

[ussura] Alex says (to GM), "Awwwk! Word on the street is that Phase 3 is PROFIT."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I hold 3, attack on 4"

[ussura] GM says, "point."

[ussura] GM says (to alex), "Snrk."

[ussura] Alex exclaims (at GM), "Awwwk! You're a great crowd! I'll be here all night -- try the tarte au chocolat aux cork nuts!"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "(ha ha)"

(From Guard2) The other guards are running up at this point, bristling.

[ussura] Era asks, "how many, now?"

[interludes] Raelynn asks, "are they going to be able to get rid of the guards, you think?"

Guard2 says (to cronies), "This man works for this 'Fleur' character. He's dangerous. Robyn, go get the others."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "tell me when we reach 4 :)"

[interludes] Sebastien says, "I must say they certainly look very efficient"

[ussura] GM says, "And indeed--phase 4."

Pyotr punches Guard2, too.

[interludes] Sebastien says, "and I can personally attest that Charles has quite a brawny arm"

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 6k3: 8 9 10+3 10+2 10+4 2 | 39

Guard6 runs off.

[7thsea] Era rolls 7k3: 8 9 1 9 1 6 8 | 26

Guard2 sprawls out in the snow.

[interludes] Raelynn says, "does this tunnel go anywhere? i feel like we've been here forever"

Pyotr exclaims, "You'd all better leave me alone!"

[interludes] Sebastien says, "it goes above-ground, to the neighbor's house, I believe Alixandre said"

[interludes] Sebastien says, "but it seems a little unwise to take it if the guards are nearby"

[interludes] Sebastien says, "I am sure they will be here to retrieve us in no time, and we can all change our clothes"

[interludes] Marceau says, "It goes to a nearby root cellar, just about--ah, here we are."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "on 5 I'm taking out two of them"

[interludes] Sebastien asks (of Raelynn), "but tell me, if they aren't your acquaintances, why did you come running to this house?"

Guard3 says (to Pyotr), "Uh, everything is fine sir."

Charles asks, "Perhaps this would be a good time to make the arrangements to leave town?"

Guard3 asks (of Charles), "Can you contain your friend?"

[ussura] GM exclaims, "Phase 5!"

(From Era) A black wolf boils out of the house, racing after guard6 and growling.

Pyotr punches Guards 3 and 4.

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 6k3: 1 10+4 3 8 5 2 | 27

Guard3's head knocks against Guard4's head, and both drop.

[ussura] Maxwell says, "bwa-ha-ha"

Charles says (to Guard3), "Er. I'm afraid not, n."

Pyotr asks (of Charles), "Going to help, or watch?"

[ussura] Charles says, "+o"

Guard5 runs away.

Charles says (to Pyotr), "I was thinking of waiting until one of them actually tried to hit back."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "I'm afraid you might be waiting a while"

Pyotr says (to Charles), "Why don't I go get mountaineering supplies, and you get the rest of the group together."

(From Guard5) General shouts emerge from the city around you.

Pyotr says, "Oh, and do you have any cash? I'm a bit short."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "oh man"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "I can just tell this is going to end with you guys fleeing the city and nobody telling us in the root cellar"

Era races after guard6 and barrels into him.

Charles nods, "Not a problem." He gives Pyotr a handful of shillings before going to find the others.

[ussura] Sebastien asks, "(two days later) guys? guys? anyone there?"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "Don't worry. "The Murderer" will track you down whereever you go."

Era stradles the guard, and snarls in his face.

[interludes] Marceau asks (of Raelynn), "Do tell--why are the guards after you?"

Pyotr walks over to the market, the same stall he visited last time.

[ussura] Charles says, "I'll fetch them by way of the embassy, so as not to draw attention to the other exit."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "man is it hard to be social with a guest when you are playing online"

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

[ussura] Pyotr says, "just for the record: I was being subtle, otherwise I would have used my axe"

[interludes] Raelynn says (to sebastien), "er. it was the first house i saw"

Guard6 exclaims, "eeeagh!"

[interludes] Raelynn says, "and the furthest from the guards"

[ussura] Era says, "I like your subtle."

Guard6 exclaims, "Get off me! Bad wolf!"

Charles says (to Passage), "Psst."

(From Era) The wolf closes its mouth (gently) on guard6's throat.

Guard6 freezes.

[interludes] Sebastien says, "[man, the GM is so evil]"

[interludes] Sebastien asks, "hist, do you hear something?"

(From Era) The wolf snarls again, then races after guard5.

[interludes] Raelynn says (to marceau), "the guards are trying to take me back to Montaigne"

Charles crawls partway into the passage. "Anyone in here?"

[interludes] Marceau asks, "But why?"

[interludes] * GM has added Charles to the channel.

[backstage] Raelynn says, "one thing i am not clear on"

[interludes] GM says, "And Charles comes up behind you all, as you're hanging out in the root cellar."

[backstage] Raelynn asks, "does fleur known that raelynn exists?"

[backstage] Raelynn says, "-n"

[backstage] GM says, "Yes."

[backstage] GM says, "Sorry."

[backstage] Raelynn says, "ah ha. so she is impersonating on purpose? okay, that wasn't clear"

[interludes] Sebastien asks, "ah! thank goodness! are the guards gone?"

[interludes] Charles says, "Pyotr and... I think Era have them under control."

[interludes] Raelynn says (to marceau), "i will explain later"

[interludes] Raelynn asks (of charles), "excellent! what next?"

[interludes] Raelynn says (to charles), "i dearly hope that under control means they are all dead"

[interludes] Marceau says (to Raelynn), "Lady, I have a place on the outside of town you could hide until this blows over."

[interludes] Sebastien says, "(shocked) my lady, surely that is a trifle bloodthirsty"

[interludes] Charles says, "Pyotr's getting supplies right now; if we're all here, we should go out to meet up with them."

[interludes] Charles says (to Raelynn), "They're probably breathing. I didn't stop to check, though."

Guard5 looks behind him, does a double take, and dashes into the first house he sees.

[interludes] Raelynn asks (of sebastien), "true. but we don't want to deal with them, again, do we?"

[ussura] GM asks (of Pyotr), "You're off to the market?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "yeah"

[interludes] Raelynn says (to marceau), "that sounds wonderful!"

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn sings "To Market To market, to buy a pig..."

[interludes] Sebastien says (to Charles), "excellent -- please, lead the way"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, I'll do that bit next, after one of the other two scenes ends."

[ussura] GM says, "(I have the underground folks on a channel)"

Era looks around for any remaining guard types.

[interludes] Raelynn follows Charles and Sebastien

[interludes] Charles, after a moment's consideration, crawls backwards to the basement.

[interludes] Marceau asks (of Raelynn), "Do you want to go with me, while they gather stuff?"

[backstage] GM says, "Hint--you do ;-)"

[interludes] Raelynn says (to marceau), "yes please"

[ussura] Gunther says, "good thing that in CoC, splitting up == instant death"

[ussura] Era says, "if there are some, I chase them, if there aren't, I head back for Khirsten's and attempt to change back to human."

[interludes] Raelynn says (to marceau), "lead the way, my dear sir"

[backstage] GM asks (of Era), "Do you want to keep them away from the embassy, then?"

[backstage] GM says, "Er, channel."

[interludes] Sebastien follows Charles out.

[interludes] Marceau says (to others), "We'll meet up with you all later, then."

[ussura] GM asks (of Era), "Do you want to keep them away from the embassy, then?"

[interludes] Raelynn waves. "Thanks!"

Charles checks the window to make sure there are no guards waiting outside before leading towards the market where Pyotr went.

[interludes] Charles checks the window to make sure there are no guards waiting outside before leading towards the market where Pyotr went.

Charles says, "(Ilac.)"

[backstage] Raelynn says, "you are tricky :)"

[ussura] Era says, "I want to keep them away from summoning more of their friends. That's why I'm trying to scare them, but not hurt them. No point in spreading pernicious rumors about man-eating wolves in the town."

[backstage] Raelynn says, "i like tricky GMs...the story gets fun!"

[interludes] Charles says, "I can't stop you, but I wouldn't recommend splitting up again."

Marceau cautiously pushes up the door to the cellar, looks around, and leaves the other way with Raelynn.

Sebastien says (to Charles), "(as we're walking to the market) it was most chivalrous of the two of you to charge out against the guards to help a passing stranger"

Marceau says, "(except on channel)"

[backstage] GM grins.

GM says, "OK, Pyotr."

Charles says (to Sebastien), "She's a friend of Era, so she's a friend of mine."

GM says, "And, I think, on a channel."

[interludes2] * GM has added Pyotr to the channel.

[backstage] Raelynn says, "now that fleur is out of the way, let me know when raelynn appears back, and with no idea what the gang means...alt: don't let the gang leave without me!"

[interludes2] Pyotr says, "I walk into the same store where I heard about the equipment Devoe bought."

[interludes2] Pyotr says, "and I try and get some of the same, and a map. And whatever rations they'll sell me."

[backstage] GM says (to R), "You're about to meet Pyotr in the market."

Sebastien says, "odd -- I thought she said that she knew no one in the house"

[backstage] GM exclaims, "In fact, you see him enter the store, so you might as well show him all the neat stuff you bought!"

Sebastien says, "and just came in to get away from the guards"

Sebastien says, "but no doubt I misunderstood her"

[interludes] Raelynn says (to pyotr), "oh hi!"

[interludes] Raelynn says, "ilac"

[interludes2] Raelynn says (to pyotr), "oh hi!"

Charles says, "Odd indeed."

[interludes2] Pyotr asks, "Hello, why are you here?"

[interludes2] Raelynn says (to pyotr), "buying supplies, of course!"

[interludes2] Pyotr says, "Good plan."

[interludes2] Raelynn says (to raelynn), "in this cold winter, there is no way i can survive without some warm clothes, and i have been geting some food too"

[interludes2] Raelynn says, "to pyotr i mean"

[interludes2] Pyotr says, "What do we have so far? I've spent quite some time in these mountains, we want to be prepared."

Sebastien says, "do you have any idea why the guards might have been chasing her? she seemed somewhat reticent on this point, except that she was worried they were going to take her back to her father"

[backstage] Raelynn asks, "does pyotr look battered at all?"

[interludes2] Pyotr says, "Well, food is important, but you need to travel light over the snow. Iron rations are the thing, and we can always hunt as we go."

[backstage] GM says, "No, nobody got in a shot ;-)"

Sebastien says, "I do regret these little bits of familial strife that sometimes arise"

[interludes2] Raelynn says (to pyotr), "so far i have a bunch of fur blankets. it's cold out here"

Charles says (to Sebastien), "From what I gathered, there's been a case of mistaken identity."

[interludes2] Raelynn asks, "also, travel light? are we not going by pack mules?"

Charles says, "Which, as we know, can arise at times."

[interludes2] Raelynn asks, "and horses?"

[interludes2] Raelynn says, "the mules can carry our supplies quite easily"

Sebastien sighs. "These things are so unfortunate."

[interludes2] Pyotr says, "A mule might make it in the mountains"

[interludes2] Pyotr says, "but the amount of food we'd have to carry for a mule would mean the mule couldn't carry much else, I think."

Sebastien asks, "still, here's the market -- was Pyotr to buy equipment for our trip?"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell exclaims, "!!"

[interludes2] Raelynn asks (of pyotr), "but. what are you suggesting?"

GM says (to Sebastien), "There's a likely-looking equipment store at the end of the row."

Sebastien says, "perhaps he went in there"

[ussura] Era asks, "are all the guards gone?"

[interludes2] Raelynn asks, "no greens? no spices?"

[interludes2] Pyotr asks, "What are these things?"

[interludes2] Raelynn asks (of pyotr), "what do you eat?"

[interludes2] Pyotr exclaims, "Jerky! That is what we eat in the mountains!"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "There are some that show up now and again, and you've been chasing them off."

[interludes2] Raelynn shudders

Charles nods and enters.

[ussura] GM says, "Since everyone has been gathering around the market, you've been making sure they steer clear of it."

[ussura] Era asks, "okay. what time of day is it?"

[interludes2] GM says, "And, Sebastien and Charles enter, so:"

[interludes2] Raelynn asks (of pyotr), "can we at least keep these blankets i bought?"

[interludes2] * GM has removed Raelynn from the channel.

[interludes2] * GM has removed Pyotr from the channel.

GM says, "The two of you enter to see Pyotr and Raelynn, chatting and purchasing equipment."

Pyotr says (to Raelynn), "Of course we should, furs are important."

[ussura] GM says, "Getting late, I think."

Charles asks, "Raelynn?"

Sebastien asks (of Raelynn), "ah, so you didn't go with Marceau after all?"

Raelynn says (to raelynn), "i need some proper boots, too. On our trip up, Era lent me some furs to wrap my boots to ward off the chill."

Raelynn says (to charles), "charles!"

Raelynn says (to sebastien), "marceau? no, i've been at the market"

Pyotr says, "Yes, warm clothes are vital."

Sebastien glances at Charles.

Raelynn shows Sebastien the furs and bottles of spices she's purchased

Charles says (to Sebastien), "Yes, I'm wondering the same thing."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "(that was so awesome)"

[ussura] GM says, "(yay ;-)"

Raelynn says, "but pyotr (disdainfully) doesn't think much of the spices"

Charles says (to Pyotr), "This is apparently not the same person who just told us she was being chased by guards."

Pyotr asks (of Charles), "What?!?"

Raelynn looks back and forth at the men

Pyotr asks (of Raelynn), "Who are you?"

Raelynn asks (of Charles), "excuse me?"

Charles says, "It may be in our best interests to find who that person is. Perhaps quickly."

Raelynn says (to Pyotr), "manners, please!"

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "what the heck is my last name?!?!"

Pyotr asks (of Charles), "Have you seen Era?"

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Make one up! ;-)"

Charles says, "Come, we can discuss it as we go..."

Pyotr says, "She'll know."

Charles says (to Pyotr), "I think I have, but she was still busy with the guards."

Raelynn says (to Pyotr), "Haven't we gone through the introductions already? I am Raelynn DuVille"

Raelynn says, "i came into Ussura with Era"

Charles decides not to wait, and goes to where he last saw Marceau and 'Raelynn' leaving.

Pyotr asks (of Raelynn), "And when did the guards start chasing you?"

Pyotr says, "Let's all stay together this time."

Raelynn says (to Pyotr), "I haven't seen guards since I arrived to Ussura"

Pyotr grabs Raelynn's arm and follows Charles.

[ussura] Era asks, "I'm assuming all the guards are gone, now, and I can shift back?"

Raelynn runs after charles while being dragged by Pyotr

Raelynn says (to Pyotr), "unhand me you, you, mountain man!"

Raelynn asks (of Charles), "the guards were after me?"

[ussura] GM says, "Actually, they seem to be congregating just out of the area you've been patrolling."

Sebastien says (to shopkeeper), "I must extend my apologies on their behalf -- I'm sure they'll be back for later purchasing as soon as they are able"

[ussura] Sebastien says (to Raelynn), "ha ha"

Raelynn says, "oh no, that means..."

Pyotr lets go, now that she is moving.

Sebastien hurries after the others.

Pyotr says (to Raelynn), "The guards were after someone who I thought was you."

Charles says, "Marceau said he had a place just outside town... he and the other Raelynn were on their way there; I thought to meet us..."

Raelynn disdainfully brushes off Pyotr's smudge marks on her cloak from his dirty hands

Charles asks, "I split up with them here. They went that way -- can you track them, Pyotr?"

Pyotr says, "Let's see if I can follow."

Raelynn asks (of Charles), "did she say anything?"

[ussura] GM says (to Pyotr), "They last were seen at the root cellar."

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 4k2: 7 9 4 9 | 18

Era heads for the other side of t he secret passage, trying to hide along the way.

[ussura] Pyotr says, "there's my tracking roll"

Pyotr says (to Charles), "I wasn't sure that Marceua was trustworthy."

Charles says (to Raelynn), "She said the guards were after her. And -- I think Sebastien spoke with her more than I did."

Pyotr says, "I never trust a man who bathes in winter."

Pyotr exclaims, "It's unhealthy and indecent!"

Era makes sure to ditch any potentially-trailing guards before heading into the hidey-hole.

Sebastien exclaims (at Pyotr), "my dear sir!"

Charles says (to Pyotr), "Nor was I, but Rae-- er, that woman seemed to be content with him."

Raelynn asks (of sebastien), "what did she say to you? did she mention the artifact?"

Sebastien says, "artifact? no, not to my recollection"

Sebastien says, "just that she had some problems with her father and did not wished to be returned to him"

Raelynn asks (of Sebastien), "but she looked like me?"

Sebastien says, "the resemblance is most uncanny"

Raelynn mutters. "I thought he was crazy"

Sebastien says, "it is possible that by diligent inquiry we could get directions to Marceau's residence"

Pyotr is still examining the ground.

[backstage] Raelynn says, "a part of me doesn't want us to find Fleur. what did you have in mind? (although it would be nice to get rid of the guards)"

Charles waits to see what Pyotr finds.

[ussura] GM says (to Pyotr), "Oops, sorry."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "rolled an 18"

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "she must have seen me with all of you. otherwise she wouldn't have known you would help her"

[ussura] Era says, "what are you all doing wandering around the market when I'm running my legs off trying to keep a dozen guards distracted and off your tail? Y"

GM says (to Pyotr), "The ground is too muddy--it's hard to tell the difference between Marceau's tracks last time vs. this time."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "hee hee"

Raelynn asks, "maybe we should ask the people here what they know of her?"

[ussura] Era says, ""y'all are nuts."

Pyotr says (to Charles), "I can't see anything."

[ussura] Sebastien exclaims (at Era), "we're back at the embassy now!"

[backstage] GM says, "Oh, they're safely away for now ;-)"

[backstage] GM asks (of Era), "Actually, did you want to check in on that group of guards?"

[backstage] GM says, "Bah, channel"

[ussura] GM asks (of Era), "Actually, did you want to check in on that group of guards?"

[backstage] Raelynn says, "much thanks"

Raelynn murmurs a small prayer of safety

Charles says, "Drat... well, if she's not Raelynn, and if he's not worried about protecting Devoe, it might be just as well get get Era and leave town now, rather than trying to hunt them down first."

Charles looks around to see how well this suggestion goes over.

[ussura] Era says, "sure, I scout them out, mostly with smell and hearing."

Pyotr says (to Charles), "I always dislike leaving live enemies behind me. Or even live maybe-enemies."

Raelynn says (to pyotr), "she is not an enemy"

Raelynn says (to pyotr), "she is a victim, an innocent"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "that seems like jumping to conclusions"

Pyotr says, "ANyone who tries to trick me is an enemy."

Pyotr says, "Much less anyone who succeeds."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says (to maxwell), "the "she", you mean? no jumping. it's fact :)"

Sebastien says, "I'm not sure there was intentional trickery"

Era takes to the shadows, scouting out the group of guards from a safe distance.

Raelynn says, "If she came to you, she truly needed help. I am glad you did help"

Pyotr asks, "Where is Era, anyway?"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "You slink up an alley and hear snatches of conversation of a bunch of them. "..derer's working for her, looks like.""

Raelynn says, "I just hope Marceau is trustworthy"

Sebastien says, "and it is true that this business with Devoe may need to be settled as soon as possible"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), ""...damned wolf...""

Pyotr says, "Very well, let's go back for supplies. Again."

Era bristles, and supresses a snarl.

GM says (to Pyotr), "Actually, you had just purchased what you needed before you left."

Pyotr says, "Oh, wait, I still have a shopping bag."

Raelynn points to her bundle of blankets, and secretly hides the spices under her cloak

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "I was hoping to make little miss rich pay so I could pocket Charles' money"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), ""...diplomats. If she wants to throw in her lot with them, I guess...""

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "hee hee hee. Fur hat, axe, Macy's bag."

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

Charles says (to Pyotr), "The last I saw of her, she was keeping the guards at bay."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says (to pyotr), "my nose hurts keeping it in the air so as not to smell you"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "aww"

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

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "(we have years of practice at bickering)"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "About 25 have gathered together at this point."

[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "without looking I'd have guessed Emily for Raelynn, but alas"

Pyotr says (to Charles), "Well, let's find her and go. Probably safer not to stay here tonight."

[ussura] GM says (to Era), ""OK, are we ready? If we can avoid that wolf, let's go.""

Raelynn asks, "i guess whistling for her is not a good idea?"

Charles says, "Right. Let's meet at the edge of town," he points, "that way."

Pyotr says, "I mean, the guards might come back, and I'd get tired after about 3 am."

[ussura] Era says, "25? that may be more than the group of us can handle in a straightfoward fight."

Charles goes to signal Era.

[ussura] Charles asks, "Pyotr and Charles are the only ones who know about Era, right?"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "yeah"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "yes"

[ussura] GM says, "Unless R was told on the trip, right."

[Crows-Nest] Gunther asks, "I think the MUD has a hard limit on 9 guards... or is that guests?"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr asks (of charles), "whistling?"

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

Era slinks off, sticking to the shadows. If I find a place to hide, I'll shift.

Charles says, "Hsst."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i thikn i prefer not to know yet"

[ussura] GM says, "Sure."

Charles hisses from a distance, assuming that Era will be able to hear much better than the guards can.

GM says, "The rest of you gather up your equipment, and head out, unable (again) to lock the embassy behind you."

Pyotr says, "Eh, we won't be back."

GM says, "Charles meets up with Era, and the two of you head out a different way, just ahead of the group of guards."

GM says, "And just about moonrise, you all meet each other on the outside of town."

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "I picked up this fur hat for you at the store earlier. It matches your scarf perfectly"

Raelynn says, "Era!"

Pyotr asks (of Era), "Is this the Realynn you know? Or is it the impostor?"

Raelynn glares at Pyotr

Raelynn looks around for a big branch to whack at his head

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "only settle for the real-Lynn"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "hee"

Sebastien asks (of Raelynn), "while fur hats are not, strictly speaking, the fashion in this season, I must agree that whilst here we must do as the natives do, eh?"

GM says, "There are lots ;-)"

Sebastien says, "and it is true your style is most impeccable"

Raelynn grabs the largest one she thinks she can pick up

Raelynn waves it wildly at Pyotr's direction

Pyotr steps idly out the way, without noticing.

Raelynn grrs

Era examines Raelynn.

lpsmith leaves, crying "Save us, Geobacter! Save us, and run out little toy cars!"

Raelynn waves her left hand with a slight movement and a twitch

Era asks, "This is Raelynn. Did you meet the other one, I take it?"

[ussura] GM says, "Had to be npc3 myself ;-)"

Pyotr says (to Era), "Ah good."

[ussura] Era asks, "what was that?"

Pyotr asks (of Raelynn), "Sorry I had to suspect you, but how can we be sure?"

[ussura] GM says, "(I logged on as lpsmith)"

Raelynn says (to Era), "I think the others met Fleur"

Pyotr says (to Era), "You were there, too."

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "er, was she?"

[ussura] GM says, "(yes)"

[ussura] GM says, "The resemblance is startling."

[ussura] GM asks, "Any other chit-chat? What's the plan at this point?"

Raelynn aside to Era, "It's so odd to think of another girl with my face."

[ussura] GM asks, "Hmm, anyone have some sort of lore knack?"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "is that part of actor or something?"

[ussura] GM says, "No, more likely under scholar or the like."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i am scholarly"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "just history and philosophy"

Era says, "The resemblance is striking, I admit - I thought she was you."

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "did I get a map?"

[ussura] GM says, "Yes."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i got history, math, philosophy, research, astronomy and natural philosophy"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "(my god i am a nerd)"

[ussura] GM says, "There's a trade route that goes north from here right by the monastery."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

[ussura] GM exclaims, "Ha!"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "excellent, let's go"

Pyotr says, "Let's make some distance before we camp."

[ussura] Raelynn says (to sebastien), "i got fashion, too, so assume i used that for your hat"

Pyotr says, "None of us want to be met here again."

[ussura] Sebastien exclaims, "thank goodness!"

Pyotr walk walk walk

Charles says, "Indeed."

Raelynn walk walk walk walk walk walk

Raelynn says, "(damn, people with longer legs)"

Sebastien promenade promenade

Pyotr exclaims (at Raelynn), "Running is good for you!"

Era stride stride stride btw, it is impressive how little Era's embroidered split-skirt catches on the local plant-life - a sign of good quality fabric and thread.

GM says, "And, </scene>"

[ussura] GM asks, "OK, you're all travelling just on your own? Want to join any other caravans, etc?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "are we still going, or done for today? I am game"

[ussura] Raelynn chants, "We Want More"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "if we meet one, sure, but no sense waiting"

[ussura] GM says, "We can still go, I was just going to skip ahead."

[ussura] GM says, "But wanted to know what you wanted to do."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I think we can handle brigands"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "not that this occurs to Pyotr to doubt"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah, if we meet up somebody we should try and join up"

[ussura] GM asks, "Watches at night?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "of couse"

[ussura] Era says, "I'll take the watch that ends at dawn."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I'll start"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "I need my beauty sleep, but I guess in theory I could be talked into a watch if I have to"

(From GM) Caption: Three days later...

[ussura] Era says, "or beaten into it, if talking fails."

[ussura] Charles says, "I'll take whatever watch is n't already taken."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "(I guess Alixandre feels the same way)"

GM says, "The group has just settled down around the fire, and Pyotr is up wandering around."

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "Seb & Alix having the same attitude? Gosh."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i will keep sebastien on watch, since we can talk the same language"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "(in more ways than one)"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "I'll have you know we have disputes by as much as an inch about trouser-leg-length"

GM says (to Pyotr), "As you watch the smoke, it *twists* for a second, then goes back to normal."

Pyotr asks, "Hmm, what was that?"

Pyotr takes a stick and pokes the fire.

(From GM) spark spark

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "does my magic-dar work even when i am asleep?"

GM says, "There's a rustle of leaves as the night wind blows gently."

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "or do i have to be awake to sense magic?"

[ussura] GM says, "Yes, but it doesn't wake you."

Pyotr continues sharpening his axe.

[ussura] GM says, "Also, there are now many sorcerors around, so it just tingles all the time."

(From GM) schick schick schick

(From GM) (faintly, a very deep voice) heh heh heh

Pyotr asks, "Who is that?"

Pyotr goes over to Charles and wakes him up. "We have company."

Charles asks, "Mrf?"

Charles looks around.

Pyotr says, "I heard a voice, I'm going to investigate."

Pyotr asks, "Keep an eye out, okay?"

Pyotr heads towards the sounds.

GM says, "It's hard to say exactly where it came from, but as you walk by the fire, the smoke *twists* again."

Pyotr asks, "Did you see that?"

Pyotr stops.

Charles nods.

[ussura] GM says (to Charles), "*maybe*"

(From GM) (fading) heh heh

GM says, "And then, nothing."

Pyotr exclaims (at Everyone), "Wake up!"

Raelynn wakes up immediately, hand on knife hilt

[ussura] Charles asks, "Is it possible to guess what direction the voice came from?"

Pyotr says, "Something was here."

Era sits up in her bedroll, her hand on her sword.

Pyotr says, "I don't know what, and I don't know how."

Sebastien asks, "er .. what .. beh?"

Raelynn listens to her magic-dar. Is it stronger than usual?

Sebastien rummages through his pack, then sighs.

Sebastien says, "luckily my socks have remained undisturbed"

Pyotr walks around outside the camp, looking for tracks.

Charles says, "This would probably be as good a time as any to start travelling again."

Sebastien says, "but -- but --"

Pyotr says, "Good idea."

Pyotr kicks dirt over the fire.

Sebastien sighs, and rolls up his blanket.

Sebastien says, "I do not understand how you all can cope with this rustic lifestyle"

Pyotr exclaims (at sebastien), "It's the only wya to live!"

[ussura] GM says, "Arr, sorry; disconnected."

[ussura] GM says (to Raelynn), "Try a roll for that, with wits."

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 4k3: 4 9 5 1 | 18

[ussura] Raelynn says, "pyotr i am not"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, there's no more sorcerors around. There might have been a twinge of something else, but clearly no more sorcerors."

Era has disconnected.

Era has connected.

[ussura] GM asks (of Pyotr), "Want to roll tracking?"

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 4k2: 9 10+7 5 3 | 26

Raelynn says, "okay, we aren't dealing with sorcerers, whatever they are"

[ussura] GM says (to Pyotr), "You find nothing."

[ussura] Era asks, "what did I miss?"

Pyotr says, "Hmm, nothing here."

[ussura] Raelynn says (to era), "nothing so far"

Pyotr says, "Let's go."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I heard something weird, we're moving on now, at night."

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "it was probably Matushka and you're all worked up for nothin"

GM says, "And you pack up and travel without further incident."

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

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "heh"

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "matushka should at least say hi to her own people, even if she wants to ignore the rest of us"

GM says, "Though it throws off Sebastien and Alixandre's sleeping schedule something awful."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "clearly her mama didn't teach her no manners"

Sebastien inspects his eyes for dark circles beneath in his travelling mirror.

Era says (to Sebastien), "If you would like a black eye, I'm sure Pyotr can oblige you."

GM exclaims (at Seb), "Ack! Two shades darker than is stylish!"

Pyotr says (to Era), "I rarely hit friends these days."

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "or maybe Charles would like another swing"

Era exclaims (at Pyotr), "Not even in the practice ring? I declare, you're becoming downright Civilized!"

Pyotr says (to Era), "Ah, in the Ring everything goes."

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "there there. The haggard look is coming back in fashion, I hear"

Raelynn says (to sebastien), "not that you are in any way haggard, of course"

Raelynn smiles charmingly

Era says, "Besides, in Ussura, fashion is less worshiped than in milder climes."

Sebastien shakes his head mournfully.

Pyotr says (to Era), "The ruling fashion is not freezing."

Sebastien exclaims (at Pyotr), "you people have such strange priorities!"

Era says (to Pyotr), "True."

Era says (to Pyotr), "Fur, for example, is q uite fashionable, as is wool."

GM says, "Four days later, you get to where you need to cut off from the main route to get to the monastery, and do so. Another day's travel, and you get to the cliff, at the top of which is supposedly the monastery."

[ussura] Era says, "That 'supposedly' tossed casually in mid sentence is somewhat alarming."

Pyotr says, "Ah, here we are."

Sebastien looks around.

Charles peers up at the cluiff.

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "is there a path, or are we climbing?"

Sebastien says, "well, all we have to do is make contact with Devoe and have our documents ratified, and we'll be all set"

Raelynn says, "i hope the good monks have beds and warm baths that we can make use of tonight"

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "No path was marked, and the climbing equipment that Devoe &c bought would be suitable to cliff-scaling."

Era says, "Right. After the last few days journey, that should be no problem at all."

[ussura] GM says, "Except mentioned here."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "cool"

Pyotr says, "Okay, let's brak out the climbing gear."

Pyotr sets up the harnesses and gets out the pitons.

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "how does the climbing knack apply to this?"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "or does it not?"

[ussura] GM says, "Let's see."

Sebastien eyes the gear extremely dubiously.

Charles looks for signs of any particular route up the face having been used more often than others.

Sebastien says, "you would think these people would want to put their monastery somewhere more convenient"

[ussura] GM says, "The first one up will have to make a straight climbing roll."

Raelynn asks (of Pyotr), "can't you track to see if they even went up this cliff?"

Charles says (to Sebastien), "If they did, then they'd have to deal with people like us coming to visit them."

Sebastien says, "I don't see how they're to make their way to their tailors, not to mention what to do when they want to dine out"

Pyotr says (to Raelynn), "I could, but I'd have to climb it anyway."

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "I have a Climb of 2, anyone got better?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "if not, I'll lead"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "1"

[ussura] Charles says, "I have the same."

[ussura] Charles says, "Er, 2, that is."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay"

Pyotr puts on the harness, grabs some rope, and starts up.

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "Finesse+ or Brawn+?"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, climb with finesse vs. TN 25 to make it up. Then a climb with Wits to see how much easier you make it for others coming behind you."

Raelynn makes sure her harness is on tight

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "this will be my critical failure for the night, I'm sure"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "cool"

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 5k3: 6 4 4 1 9 | 19

[ussura] Pyotr says, "and drama"

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 1 die: 6

[ussura] GM says, "W00t."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "whew"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Is it more useful to have a decent climber at the end or in the middle, if something goes wrong?"

Pyotr scrambles to the top, almost falling, but making it safely at the last second.

[ussura] GM says, "At the end, let's say."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "front and back, with weak in the middle, is the rule i've heard"

[ussura] Charles says, "(Or, we're not linked together?)"

[ussura] Charles says, "OK, I'll go last."

[ussura] Pyotr asks (of GM), "I was assuming I'm climbing alone, and throwing ropes down to the bottom, right?"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, now to see how much you lower others TN's--15 means lowered by 5, plus another 5 for every 10 above that."

[7thsea] Era rolls 5k1: 7 6 4 8 6 | 8

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 4k2: 1 7 10+1 2 | 18

[ussura] GM asks (of Era), "k1?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "and another drama"

Era straps on her harness and attempts the cliff.

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 1 die: 1

[ussura] Pyotr exclaims, "ow!"

Era says (to GM), "I'm bad at goshawk."

[ussura] Charles asks, "How much does that raise the TN by?"

[ussura] GM says, "The k should be your resolve."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "i am lost"

[ussura] Era says, "I think the k is your skill."

[ussura] GM says, "That means everyone now has to make TN 20."

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "Nope, other way 'round."

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says (to Raelynn), "Pyotr's blazing a trail up the cliff"

[ussura] Era says, "okay, I'll try again."

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "and dangling stuff behind to make it easier for us"

[7thsea] Era rolls 5k4: 7 6 5 2 7 | 25

[ussura] GM says, "There we go."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "nice"

Era ripples, and a goshawk wings her way up the cliff.

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says (to Raelynn), "so you've got to roll climb+finesse vs dc 20 when you climb"

Sebastien raises an eyebrow.

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "okay. the rolls still confuse me. thanks"

Sebastien says (to Alixandre), "clearly our companions are full of surprises"

Pyotr clears a space for Era to land.

Raelynn says, "(softly) that explains so much"

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "can other people who successfully climb make the same "make things easier" roll?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "(I am thinking of the fops here :)"

[ussura] GM says, "Heh."

Raelynn asks (of Sebastien), "my turn?"

[ussura] GM says, "If Charles wants to, he can do that."

[ussura] GM says, "Or, let's say, he can shout insructions from below."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "heh"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell asks, "what, they don't have significant Finesse?"

[ussura] GM says, "insurrections, sorry."

[ussura] GM says, "wait"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "they don't have a Climb skill, I am guessing"

Sebastien says (to Raelynn), "feel free, my lady"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "maybe they do. maybe I am wrong."

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 4k3: 10+5 1 4 10+3 | 32

Sebastien eyes the cliff a little dubiously

[ussura] Pyotr says, "nice"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "we should have sent you up first"

Raelynn flies up the cliff without trouble

Pyotr leans a hand down to help Raelynn, who ignores him and goes past.

[ussura] GM asks (of Raelynn), "You're a bird, too?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

Sebastien exclaims, "very impressive!"

Raelynn says, "This is a breeze, compared to the cliffs at my grandmother's place.""

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "bah. I always put Athlete in first, and then find some excuse for it."

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "heh"

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "(I do have climbing, as it happens)"

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "if you are a dancer, my dear sir, you will find this easier than the quadrille!"

Sebastien grips the rope himself and attempts an ascent.

[7thsea] Sebastien rolls 5k4: 8 8 10+3 2 2 | 31

Sebastien's hat comes loose at one point, but he grabs it just in time, and continues up to the top, sighing at his near escape

[ussura] GM exclaims, "Yay!"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "hee"

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "see? that was easy"

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "man, why did I go first?"

Era soars above the top of the cliff, looking for the monestary and scouting the path.

GM says (to Era), "And, indeed, there's the monastery just around the corner."

[ussura] Era asks, "anything look suspicious, or catches the eye?"

GM says, "Smoke pours from the central building, indicating a roaring fire inside."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "that would be suspicious, yes"

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

[ussura] Era says, "um, I'm hoping it is pouring from a chimney of some sort, and not out the wall or windows."

[ussura] Sebastien asks, "like, the building's on fire, or they have a fire in the fireplace?"

[ussura] GM says, "(not an on-fire smoke, just--right)"

[ussura] GM says, "No peasants here."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "oh, whew"

Raelynn says, "nice view. I think I will sketch while we wait for the others"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "hee"

Raelynn starts sketching

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "can we magic up Alix?"

GM says, "Indeed--from the top of the cliff you get a breathtaking view of the forest below, and can even see the river you've been following. To the north and south of you, the mountains stretch off into the distance."

Sebastien exclaims, "simply glorious! the open countryside!"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, we'll just say he makes it, along with Louis."

[ussura] GM asks, "Just Charles left?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I had totally forgotten Louis"

Sebastien says, "it is too bad there are no bathing-houses or cafes to be seen, but no doubt they will show up just around the corner"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "oh yeah, Louis"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "everyone else is up, I believe"

Raelynn says, "i wonder what the mountains are called"

[ussura] Charles says, "(Got knocked offline. Catching up...)"

Pyotr says (to Sebastien), "Once we reach there, I'll heat us up a bottle of vodka and we can start a party"

[ussura] GM says, "np."

Sebastien says, "vodka, you say? I am not entirely sure I am acquainted with this beverage"

[7thsea] Charles rolls 5k3: 9 10+9 10+2 10+8 3 | 49

Pyotr says, "It warms both the body and the soul."

Raelynn adds a goshawk to the sketch

[ussura] Pyotr says, "and the liver"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

[ussura] GM says, "Snrk"

[ussura] Pyotr says (to jota), "ow"

GM says, "And indeed, you all make it up handily."

Charles walks up the cliff face, only occasionally bothering with his hands.

[ussura] GM says, "(afk a sec..)"

[ussura] Sebastien says (to Charles), "wow, nice"

Raelynn puts her sketch away as she sees Charles

[ussura] Pyotr says, "we need to inspect the mud's RNG, I think"

[ussura] GM says, "(ok, back)"

Charles says, "Sorry I'm late -- I had a bit of trouble pushing Louis up the rope."

GM says, "Following the circling goshawk (and carrying Era's equipment for her), you treck into the mountain area, around a spire, and see before you a set of simple buildings, walled, but with a gate in the center."

Raelynn says, "pretty"

Pyotr says, "Ah, here we are."

Pyotr says, "Let's go ask them if they've seen Devoe"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "... so that we can chat/beat him up, as each is motivated"

Charles checks for a knocker.

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "right"

[Crows-Nest] Charles says (to Maxwell), "Let's just put it all under the heading of 'interrogation'."

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "I was actually giving people a chance to gently ask Pyotr not to beat people up, but if they don't want to stop him..."

[ussura] Era says, "monestaries don't have knockers. ;-)"

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "maybe you should get in front"

Raelynn says, "our friends are known for more pugilism than oratory"

Charles, if he doesn't find a knocker, tries the gate.

Sebastien says, "it is true that Alixandre and I have the most official desire to see him"

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn asks, "gack. i just called pyotr friend?"

GM says, "As you approach the gate, you see a door open inside, and a figure emerges, and makes their way towards you."

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "don't worry, I could hear the scare quotes"

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "whew"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Does it look like a monk?"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr suddenly realizes why these monks live on a cliff

Charles says, "Greetings."

Sebastien approaches the figure. "Pardon me, can you direct us to Edmund Devoe?"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr exclaims, "they're D&D monks and can fall Level*10 feet without taking damage!"

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

[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, ""sorry, kid, you can't leave the monastery until you're at least level 5""

Katya pushes back her hood, revealing long red hair. "You have travelled far. Welcome to the L'viv monastery."

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "hee"

Katya asks, "Devoe?"

Katya says, "I'm afraid I don't know that name."

Katya says, "But come in, warm yourselves."

Sebastien says, "you are too kind"

Sebastien says, "I am sure we can get this all sorted out -- my companion Alixandre and I were requested to report to him, and we were informed he was in residence here"

Sebastien says, "or, rather, visiting to speak with one of the residents"

Raelynn asks (of Katya), "Do you get many visitors this way, m'lady?"

Katya opens the gate as you talk to each other.

Raelynn follows

Katya says (to Sebastien), "I'm afraid you are the first visitors we have had in many months."

[ussura] GM says, "Hmm, let's see. Everyone roll a perception check."

[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 3k2: 9 1 2 | 11

[7thsea] Sebastien rolls 3k3: 7 5 2 | 14

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 3k3: 2 2 9 | 13

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "Since you're still a hawk, you're 6k2."

[7thsea] Era rolls 2k2: 4 5 | 9

[7thsea] Era rolls 6k2: 1 1 8 3 4 3 | 12

[ussura] GM says, "Not that it helped ;-)"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "we're all blinded by the smoke"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "can i use my drama die?"

[ussura] Sebastien asks (of Charles), "you?"

[ussura] GM says (to Raelynn), "If you want, sure."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i will wait for charles first :)"

[ussura] Era says, "one of the party needs to get a falconer's glove."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "heh"

[ussura] Duchess says, "i am wrapped in layers of fur. feel free to use my head"

[7thsea] Charles rolls 4k3: 6 2 1 3 | 11

Pyotr wraps a fur around his left arm and holds it up for Era.

[ussura] Charles says, "(Got knocked off again.)"

[ussura] GM says, "Oh, just tear up Pyotr's arm; he's sure not to notice."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "man, we are lame"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "okay, i will drama die it."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "should have saved some of those exploding 10s from earlier"

Era lands lightly on Pyotr's arm.

[7thsea] Raelynn rolls 1 die: 1

[ussura] GM says, "Wow."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "bah, what a loss"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "drama dice are terrible today"

[ussura] GM says, "OK, you'll all get a chance to notice later."

[ussura] GM says, "But for now:"

Katya leads you inside, where it is nice and toasty.

Sebastien . o O ( my, this place looks so pleasant, as if nothing unusual is going on )

Raelynn unwinds some fur

Era keeps looking around.

Katya asks, "So, who was this friend of yours, again?"

Charles snorts.

Sebastien says, "one Edmund Devoe -- Alixandre and I must by our duty give him some documents"

Charles says, "Several of us have business with him, although I don't think any of us wouldn necessarily call him 'friend'."

Katya asks, "Edmund Devoe. I'm afraid we haven't seen any Montaignians at all until your group. He was supposed to be meeting someone?"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell asks, "were Seb & Alix to be subordinates of Devoe had things gone normally?"

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

Charles says, "He had intentions to consort with Dreng Rissanova, or so we were led to believe."

Katya suddenly sits up and her face takes on a stern expression.

Raelynn asks (of Katya), "who lives in this monastery?"

Sebastien says, ""consort" is such a harsh word; I am sure it was merely some sort of sociable visit"

Katya says, "There whereabouts of Dreng Rissanova are not generally known."

Katya says, "He failed in his coup, and was exiled."

Katya says, "That is all."

Katya says (to Raelynn), "Followers of the Sud'ya path stay for a time here, should they wish it."

Sebastien says, "no doubt our information was mistaken, then"

Katya frowns.

Sebastien says, "it seemed quite definite that Devoe was headed to this monastery, however"

Katya asks (of Sebastien), "Who are you? And who is this 'Devoe'?"

Raelynn asks (of Katya), "are there any here, now?"

Sebastien bows sweepingly.

Pyotr says, "He would have left several weeks ago. It is unlikely we passed him."

Sebastien says, "Sebastien Delecambre, at your service"

Sebastien says, "Alixandre and I are diplomats from Montaigne"

Sebastien says, "this war has, regrettably, somewhat complicated our position"

Katya says (to Raelynn), "Many. None in this room at the moment; many are eating in the common area, or meditating."

Sebastien says, "but our orders were to speak with Edmund Devoe, who was to hold our commission"

Raelynn whispers to Charles, "Do you think he can be hiding out with the Sud'yas, under a different name?"

Charles says (aside to Raelynn), "Devoe? It is possible. But if he is, then this woman is either lying or particularly underinformed."

Sebastien says, "but if, as you say, he is not here, I am afraid our mission has been at least temporarily thwarted"

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr exclaims, "nap time!"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "or even better, time to sneak around while pretending to take naps"

Raelynn says (to charles), "i am inclined to say underinformed"

Raelynn asks (of Katya), "would it be possible to meet some of the followers?"

[Crows-Nest] Charles says, "Indeed."

Katya says (to Raelynn), "Surely."

Sebastien says, "to request a further indulgence, could we possibly remain here a day or two? it seems at least possible that Edmund Devoe was delayed some in his journey, if he has not arrived yet"

Katya says, "Would you like something to eat? You may meet with some of them in the commons."

Katya says (to Sebastien), "The L'viv retreat is open to all, for however long you wish to stay. We ask only that you participate in the duties of the alcolytes in return."

Sebastien says, "perhaps we could hear more about these duties over a meal"

Sebastien says, "although I am sure we would all be pleased to participate"

GM says, "And the group of you troop off to the common area. And:"

GM says, "</scene>"

[ussura] GM says, "Since it's 5:00, and all."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "cool"

[Crows-Nest] Charles asks, "Do these duties involve 'dive intot he shark infested waters and retrieve a pebble from deep below', 'dangle by a frayed rope over the cliffside', and -- if there's still time after those -- 'murder the outsiders directly before they learn our secrets'?"

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

[Crows-Nest] GM laughs.

[ussura] Era says, "crows-nest Those sound like fun duties to me. :-)"

[Crows-Nest] Maxwell says, "we observers can only hope."

[ussura] Era says, "okay, I've forgotten how to change channels, it seems."

[ussura] GM says, "'#crow text'"

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

[Crows-Nest] Era asks, "is this it?"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "no problem. just about to watch TV anyway :)"

[Crows-Nest] Era says, "cool."

Raelynn goes home.

[Crows-Nest] Era exclaims, "see you guys in a few weeks, but hopefully sooner!"

Era has disconnected.

[ussura] Duchess asks, "when is the new meeting, anyway?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "I believe we said in three weeks for sure, and on the 25th (a saturday) if folks can make it"

[ussura] GM asks (of Seb), "And you're unavailable on the 25th?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "but if Sargent can make it go for it and I'll read the transcript"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "(as I pass the fopping baton)"

[ussura] GM says, "Hee"

[ussura] Duchess says, "i guess rae gets along with alix just as well as sebby"

[ussura] Maxwell says, "Although Alixandre hasn't had the opportunity to purchase her a charming hat or accessory."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ok, this was fun"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "that Raelynn thing was cool"

Eolo has disconnected.

[ussura] Charles says, "Yeah, I agree."