GM says, "Ahem."

GM says, "As I was saying:"

GM says, "It is a balmy evening in Emelia. The winds off the ocean are cool, and the sun is setting, leaving the lands of de Falisci in dusk."

Giancarlo sniffs the air appreciatively.

GM says, "The parties of Meander Verde de Falisci are renowned for the breadth of entertainment offered."

GM says, "By tomorrow the bazaar will be set up, with merchants and artisans from around Vodacce ready to buy and sell. Nearly anything can be bartered."

Giancarlo grins to himself and suppresses the urge to lick his lips.

GM says, "But tonight is reserved for the opening feast."

GM says, "You have all in one fashion or another managed to get invited to the party, held on the terrace behind Meander's palatial estate."

Chiara surveys the company through her silvered mask.

Wilson rubs his hands together.

GM says, "Amber and Chiara arrive before dinner is served, when guests are mingling about and discussing various topics."

Giancarlo steps casually down to the terrace, tucking his letter of introduction inside his tunic.

Venzi stands a few paces behind Wilson, observing the other guests.

Amber stays discretely in Chiara's shadow, observing the party-goers around her.

GM says, "Wilson and Venzi are the next to arrive; Wilson is announced by the servant at the side entrance to the terrace."

Niccolo fingers the invitation in his pocket.

GM says, "Giancarlo slips in shortly thereafter, handing a letter to the servant by the door. The servant reads the letter and nods. No announcement is made."

GM says, "And finally, Niccolo, though by the greeting the servant gives him Niccolo is well known, and hardly needs his invitation."

Giancarlo scans the crowd.

[vodacce] Wilson says, "http://www.bioc.rice.edu/~lpsmith/IF/7thSea/vodacce/ for those playing at home."

Chiara's glance slides easily over Wilson; rests a moment on Venzi, but moves on with a shrug.

[vodacce] Wilson says, "snrk."

GM says, "The terrace is filled -- there must be over a hundred people present."

GM says, "Eventually Meander calls for everyone to take a seat. There are cards at the plain wood tables, a place for everyone invited."

Giancarlo says, "Hm."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "Including guards?"

Giancarlo sees if he can spot a certain card.

Niccolo glances to the sides, curious whom he's seated by.

Chiara looks for her seat.

[vodacce] GM says, "Guards are also considered guests at this party."

[vodacce] GM says, "Or at least, the guards y'all have."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says (to GM), "looking for my friend's place before finding my own."

[vodacce] GM says, "They won't be announced, but they will have a place."

[vodacce] GM says (to Giancarlo), "No sign, though you don't get to see many cards before you have to take a seat."

Wilson finds his place and sits, chatting amiably with nearby patrons in passable vodacce (vodaccian?)

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Uh, guests, not patrons."

Venzi takes his seat, nodding casually to the people on either side.

[vodacce] Giancarlo asks, "Vodacino?"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "I hope not"

[vodacce] Niccolo asks, "Vodaccuary?"

Giancarlo smiles and winks at the nearest pretty lady.

GM says, "I shall deal first with Wilson and Venzi, whose place is at a table with two men in robes of the Vaticine church and a man in a rathered rumpled outfit."

Bishop_Scipio looks up as Wilson and Venzi approach. "Good evening, gentlemen!"

Livio glances away from Bishop Mancari, his lip curling slightly.

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "'Your Grace' or 'Your Excellency'?"

Venzi says, "Good evening, Your Grace."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "heh, timing"

[vodacce] Livio says, "Trust the true Vodacce to know the title."

Bishop_Scipio says (to Venzi), "And to you..."

Teodor whispers (to Mancari), "Venzi and Mayhew Wilson."

Wilson echoes the greeting, after seeming slighly unsure of himself for a second.

Bishop_Scipio says, "...Venzi."

Teodor asks (of Wilson), "You are not from Vodacce, I take it?"

Wilson exclaims, "Nope!"

Wilson grins.

Livio mutters, "Two churchmen and an addle-wit."

Wilson says, "Born and raised in Avalon. Beautiful place. Beautiful in a different way than here, though."

Bishop_Scipio frowns. "Forgive our...companion. Livio is a scientist, and not given to the social graces."

Livio sticks his tongue out at Mancari.

Wilson asks, "A scientist! Studying the White Plague, perhaps?"

Bishop_Scipio says, "But let me introduce myself. I am Bishop Mancari. This is my assistant, Teodor Eduardo Martinez."

Teodor nods.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "(this suggests that "your grace" is for bishops and "your excellency" is for catholic arch-bishops)"

Livio says (to Wilson), "Bah, if only I could! Meander keeps me on a tight leash."

Bishop_Scipio says, "Meander's leash also keeps you from the inquisition, mind you."

Livio waves his hands airily.

Wilson says, "Indeed."

Teodor says, "It has been a while since I saw Avalon. My recent trips have been between here and Castille."

Wilson says, "I had heard that due to its severity, the inquisition was allowing people to study the Plague. But, if you are accountable to Meander, that would explain it."

Wilson asks (of Teodo), "Aha! For business or pleasure?"

Livio says, "It pleases Meander to keep pet scientists like myself."

Teodor says (to Wilson), "Pleasure, mostly. My father and brother still live in Castille."

Wilson looks sad for a moment, but says nothing to Livio directly.

Wilson says (to Teodor), "So, another non-native, not unlike myself."

Teodor says, "Yes. The Church has called me to Vodacce, and here I serve."

Venzi says, "It is odd how we are called"

Bishop_Scipio asks (of Venzi), "And how are you called, young man?"

Teodor says (to Mancari), "(*Venzi*, sir)"

Venzi says, "at the moment, to eat dinner"

Venzi says, "or at least to sit in contemplation thereof"

Wilson says (to Livio), "My patron used to dabble in scientific pursuits, back in the '50s. What do you study? It might interest him."

GM says, "Oh, this and that. Most recently I have embarked on a study of the effects of warm ocean air on wood."

[vodacce] Livio says, "(pretend that was from Livio)"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Heh."

Livio says, "Most interesting. It *weathers* it."

Livio says, "I had no idea."

GM says, "And now we move to Niccolo and Giancarlo"

Giancarlo takes his seat.

GM says, "who have been seated together at a table with a very well-dressed man, a fat and jolly fellow, and a slender courtesan with a mask."

Giancarlo smiles to the courtesan.

Niccolo nods, in a friendly sort of way, to his companions.

Abrielle says (to Ludo), "You must keep a more careful grip on your monies..."

Ludo gestures at Abrielle, who falls quiet. "Ah, gentlemen. Oh, and Niccolo."

Giancarlo says, "Good evening."

Sabatino exclaims, "Evening, evening, evening all!"

Abrielle says (to Ludo), "Manners, my dear sir, where are your manners? They can buy what coin cannot."

Abrielle says (to Giancarlo and Niccolo), "I am Abrielle."

Giancarlo says (to Abrielle), "The pleasure is all mine, signorina."

[vodacce] Abrielle says, "There are a lot of names flying around right now. If, after you've been introduced, you can't remember who's who, ask and I'll tell."

Giancarlo says (to Abrielle), "I am Giancarlo Bernini."

Abrielle says, "A pleasure. You have the look of one who has traveled far."

Sabatino exclaims, "Travellers! Travellers are my kind of people!"

[vodacce] Venzi asks, "Sabatino is jolly and Ludo is well-dressed?"

Abrielle smiles indulgently. "He is Sabatino Graziano, head of the innkeeper's guild."

[vodacce] Abrielle says, "Yes."

Sabatino asks, "But of course! Who does not know the name of Sabatino?"

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "No, Sabatino is the courtesan, Ludo is fat and jolly, and Abrielle is well-dressed."

Ludo says, "Lucky people, I'm sure."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "hee"

Sabatino says (to Niccolo), "I didn't catch your name."

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino), "Your reputation precedes you, sir. It must somewhere in Duvonque by now."

Abrielle arches her eyebrows.

Giancarlo grins.

Niccolo says (to Sbatino), "It's Niccolo -- a pleasure to make your acquantaince."

Sabatino exclaims, "Aha, a wit!"

Niccolo smiles, with a glance in Abrielle's direction. "But some call me 'Nicky'."

Ludo frowns. "WHy, Niccolo, however did you end up here? I did not realize Meander had instituted a quota system in his invitations."

Sabatino says, "A quota system! That's quite clever."

Niccolo says (to Ludo), "Ah, never underestimate the value of friends who have friends."

Abrielle says, "This already has the makings of quite the evening, I see."

Abrielle says (to Ludo), "When you promised me entertainment here, I had no idea you would be participating."

Giancarlo says (to Abrielle), "Indeed. You, at least, have made all the difference."

Ludo says, "The di Argento family always rises to the occasion."

Abrielle asks, "Are you speaking of now, or later tonight, sir?"

Sabatino chokes on his wine.

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino), "Careful. You do not want to waste the vintage."

[Crows-Nest] Chiara says, "my"

Niccolo takes particular notice of the basket of breadrolls.

GM says, "And finally, Chiara and Amber."

[Crows-Nest] Giancarlo asks, "'Ludo di Argento'? Doesn't that translate to something like 'I play with money'?"

[Crows-Nest] Chiara says, "or "a silver game", one of the two"

[Crows-Nest] Venzi says, "just so long as it's not Ludo di Gastro"

Chiara strolls to her seat.

GM says, "Who are sharing a table with a distinguished-looking young man, a beefy fellow who is staying close to the young man, and a statuesque older woman."

Dixon says, "Ah, company. Welcome."

Rosanella says, "And just in time. I tire of talking shop -- no offense, Sir Guy."

Dixon says, "None taken."

Chiara smiles winningly and extends her hand. "I am Chiara, and this is Amber."

Dixon stands and takes Chiara's hand. "I am quite enchanted already, and the night has hardly begun."

[Crows-Nest] Chiara asks, "wait, Neil's in this game?"

Chiara says (to Dixon), "pray do not spend all your pretty words at once"

Dixon says, "I can hardly be a miser in the face of such beauty."

Chiara laughs and inclines her head.

Rosanella says, "Perhaps Sir Guy has not dealt much with beautiful women in Avalon."

Danel mutters something inaudible.

Dixon says, "Here, let me." He offers seats to both Chiara and Amber.

Chiara says (to Rosanella), "One hears rumors that they lack a certain... spirit, there."

Chiara takes her seat.

Rosanella says (to Chiara), "I do not believe we have met. I am Rosanella d'Angelo, ambassador from Bessarion."

Amber takes the seat Dixon offers.

Chiara says (to Rosanella), "I am Chiara Venterrini. A pleasure to meet you."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo decides that 'spirit' must be a type of garotte.

[vodacce] Rosanella says, "(Bessarion being a neighboring city under the control of a different family than the Falisci)"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "(ah, thanks)"

Dixon says, "I am Sir Guy Dixon, also an ambassador, though from Avalon. My associate, Danel Williamson."

Danel nods.

GM says, "And indeed, Sir Guy's speech is laced with an accent."

[vodacce] Giancarlo looks up Bessarion, eeaghs.

[vodacce] Amber draws upon her vast experience making small talk with nobles, and smoothly joins the conversation.

Chiara says (to Sir Guy), "Then I will be careful to make no further remarks about Avalonian women."

Dixon says, "While your restraint is admirable, I believe Rosanella and I are the only ones required to be tactful."

Chiara says, "Still, one would not want to upset international relations over such a matter."

Venzi's gaze drifts over the room, stopping briefly on Danel before moving on.

GM says, "And the soup course is served by a flurry of waiters. Small talk dies down for a moment."

Giancarlo says, "mmmm"

[vodacce] GM says, "Anyone can feel free now to start small talk with the various people at their table."

[vodacce] GM says, "I shall deal as best I can."

Chiara tastes her soup.

Chiara asks (of Sir Guy), "Is your companion unaccustomed to Vodacce, or merely shy?"

Danel says, "I can speak when I wish."

Dixon laughs. "I wondered if you would spend the entire dinner silent myself."

Danel slurps his soup.

Chiara says (to Danel), "Oh! I beg your pardon. (blushing prettily though perhaps disingenuously.)"

Amber says (to Danel), "Paucity of words is a virtue some could envy."

Venzi says (to Teodor), "tell me, when were you last in Castille? from what I have seen, it is a beautiful country"

Danel says (to Amber), "I prefer action to words, yes."

Teodor says (to Venzi), "It has been several months now. And parts of it are indeed beautiful."

Teodor says, "Though parts have been ill-used of late."

Amber asks (of Danel), "A worthy view. A man of action, I take it?"

Danel nods.

Giancarlo says (to Table), "You seem to have the advantage of me in being familiar with the city. I feel as though I know no-one."

Chiara looks back and forth between Amber and Danel with an expression of condescending amusement.

Dixon asks, "And a good one, or else why have him as my trusted assistant?"

Giancarlo says (to Ludo), "Though the company of your charming companion, and yourself, more than make up for things."

Sabatino exclaims (at Giancarlo), "Knowing the city is my stock in trade!"

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino), "You must know every guest at this party."

Venzi asks (of Teodor), "indeed. dare I ask what you know of the latest news?"

Teodor shakes his head. "Not good. I fear Castille may become mirror cousin to Eisen before long."

Sabatino asks (of Giancarlo), "Not everyone. I didn't know Nicky, did I?"

Chiara says (to Sir Guy), "Ah... but I imagine that your words stand you in good enough stead that you rarely have need of rougher persuasion."

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino&Niccolo), "Well, between the two of you, I'm sure you have the guests here neatly bookended."

Dixon sighs. "If only that were true. Some people, it seems, are immune to soothing words and the road of logic."

Wilson says (to Teodor), "Gracious. I had not heard things were going so badly for them. For you."

Amber gestures in Chiara's direction. "A statement and example all in one."

Venzi frowns. "That would be a great pity."

Bishop_Scipio says, "Still, I trust Castillian faith will see them through."

Teodor says, "Perhaps."

Bishop_Scipio exclaims, "Now, now! Be of good cheer!"

Niccolo says (to Sabatino), "There's much to know about the city -- n one man could hope to keep abreast of it all without help."

GM says, "Soup bowls are whisked away, to be replaced by delicate appetizers and cheeses."

Ludo says, "Help indeed."

Wilson says, "Ah, southern cheeses."

Giancarlo helps himself to a healthy chunk of Gorgonzola.

Amber says (to Dixon), "When persuasion fails, there are always alternatives. Unfortunately, many of them are unpleasant."

Chiara says (to Sir Guy), "Logic! (A bit of a laugh.) There is where you go wrong, sir. The best persuasion is pleasing to listen to, readily presented, and founded in very little logic at all."

Danel says (to Amber), "Exactly."

Dixon says (to Chiara), "Perhaps. My university education oft betrays me when applied to the world as it is outside the towers."

Venzi selects from the appetizers with precise motions and eats them attentively.

Sabatino exclaims (at Ludo), "You shouldn't scoff at help, Ludo!"

Abrielle says, "If he could not scoff, I fear he would not enjoy himself."

Giancarlo says, "Cheese. Marvelous, no? An excellent idea, and thank Theus we got it from the Crescents before the ban on Crescent trade."

Amber casts an amused glance at Chiara and Sir Guy.

Dixon says (to Chiara), "What about you, my lady? You seem well educated despite your disdain of logic."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "somebody needs to find out ludo's job so I can complete my diagram"

Amber asks (of Danel), "Are the 'alternatives' where you come in?"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Hee."

Chiara says (to Dixon), "And among that education was a firm grounding in seeming unbookish."

Ludo says (to Giancarlo), "That ban on trade was the worst thing that could have happened to us."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "You'll have to ask someone who knows."

Danel says (to Amber), "When necessary."

[vodacce] Venzi exclaims, "you're the one at the table with him!"

Abrielle asks (of Ludo), "Your banks still operate, do they not?"

Amber shrugs.

Amber says, "Sometimes it necessary."

Ludo says, "They do, but not nearly as well as they should."

Amber turns her attention towards someone with less paucity of words.

Giancarlo asks (of Ludo), "Oh? Have you had business in the east?"

Chiara says (to Dixon), "You cannot imagine how many otherwise charming gentlemen are frightened off by a carelessly dropped historical reference. It's a worse faux pas than spilling one's soup."

Dixon says (to Amber), "Would that it were not necessary, and you and Danel could have less dangerous occupations."

Wilson says (to Table), "So, what is our host like? I admit to not knowing much about him apart from this event at which we find ourselves."

Ludo says (to Giancarlo), "Pah. Not since the ban went into effect. And with the refugees..."

Sabatino frowns. "Yes. Refugees have little coin to spend at inns."

Wilson says (to scientist_guy), "I take it you work with him fairly closely."

Amber says (to Dixon), "And then where would the adventure be? There will always be those heads hard enough that logic will not penetrate, while cold steel will."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "Livio"

Giancarlo says (to Ludo), "The Bernoulli family still has the Crescent trade, at least."

Bishop_Scipio says (to Wilson), "Meander is, by all accounts, a wise governor, though he deals too closely with scientists for my liking."

[vodacce] Niccolo says (to Venzi), "Right. So if Venzi asks Niccolo, I'll see what I can do... :)"

Livio says (to Wilson), "Only occasionally."

Chiara asks (of Dixon), "It is always a pleasure to find an intellectual equal, but one must be careful when one is not yet sure. Don't you think?"

Livio burps.

Livio says, "He is often too busy to deal with the likes of me."

Wilson nods.

Dixon says (to Chiara), "But of course."

Giancarlo eats right-handed, by the way. And wears his sword on the left side like any good right-hander.

Dixon says (to Chiara), "Though eventually intuition must balance out logic and reason."

Chiara says (to Dixon), "Ah, you almost sound Vodacce."

Wilson asks, "And do those that work on his land recognize his wisdom?"

Dixon says, "Not I. In the end, despite education, I remain stubbornly practical."

Rosanella says (to Chiara), "He does not lie. You should see the trade concessions he has wrangled from Meander. It is enough to make me jealous."

Chiara asks (of Dixon), "(Surprised) And we are not practical?"

Niccolo asks (of Ludo), "It has been a while since last we met. I hope that business matter you were working on concluded favorably?"

Teodor says (to Wilson), "He is respected, and in some cases loved."

Teodor says, "Though he is not without enemies."

Giancarlo glances over at the other tables.

Wilson nods.

Venzi says, "enemies? in Vodacce? surely not"

Dixon says (to Chiara), "Not at all. But we Avalonians occasionally fail to make room for romance."

Ludo glares at Niccolo. "Yes."

[vodacce] Wilson says (to Dixon), "Speak for yourself, buddy."

[vodacce] Chiara says, "heehee"

Abrielle says, "Aha, you do know each other. I had wondered."

Abrielle says, "The gondolier and the financier."

Bishop_Scipio says (to Venzi), "Not all of us have enemies."

Chiara says (to Dixon), "To combine the two is the true skill-- no, art."

Livio sticks his tongue out at Mancari again.

Giancarlo thinks, "Gondolier? Huh. There must be story here...."

[vodacce] Chiara says, "I'm going to have to go back and read everybody else's conversations..."

Bishop_Scipio says (to Livio), "You are too much the trifle to be a true enemy."

Niccolo says (to Abrielle), "The head of a guild cannot be expected to walk everywhere, lest he get his feet wet."

Livio says, "Bah," and bites savagely into a breadstick.

Venzi says, "forgive me, Your Grace, but I must disagree -- you have no enemies that you know about as of yet"

Dixon says (to Chiara), "And a hard-won art at that."

Ludo says (to Niccolo), "You are practical as always."

Amber asks (of Ros), "Oh? And what has he managed to squeaze from Meander?"

Wilson says (to Bishop), "And surely there are some who would consider the church their enemy, however misguided they may be."

Ludo waves his crumbly breadstick at Venzi. "Oh, he has enemies, I'll wager that. Anyone who backs the inquisition as he does--"

Giancarlo says (to Niccolo), "They say it is the gondoliers and the butlers who truly know best what goes on in the world."

Teodor puts his hand on Ludo's arm. "Calmly, sir."

Giancarlo says (to Niccolo), "As you meet with virtually everyone."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "(wait, is Ludo leaning over, or is that Livio?)"

[vodacce] GM says, "Sorry, that's Livio"

Venzi looks shocked at such direct speaking.

Rosanella says (to Amber), "Concessions on the olive trade in return for a favorably low tariff on grapes. I never thought I'd see Meander agree to such."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "the guest list is here: http://www.drizzle.com/~dans/scratch/cast.txt"

Niccolo says (to Giancarlo), "I can't disagree. The many stories I could tell you... the merchants, the scoundrels, the lovers."

Bishop_Scipio pointedly ignores Livio. "Truly, some do see the entire church as their enemy, when we only wish to be of service."

[vodacce] Chiara says, "thanks"

Teodor says, "though some do not agree with what constitutes 'service'."

Giancarlo says (to Niccolo), "You will have to tell us a few of the scandals."

Abrielle says (to Niccolo), "You would be so indiscreet? This truly will be entertaining."

Sabatino laughs and laughs.

GM says, "The appetizer course having concluded, the meat course commences."

Niccolo says (to Abrielle), "No names to be named, of course."

Wilson asks (of Teodor), "Even within the church, you mean?"

Giancarlo says (to Niccolo), "Come now! A story to go with the next course (let's see ... pigeon, is it?)."

Ludo says (to Niccolo), "I trust not."

Chiara eats very gracefully.

Amber asks (of Rosanella), "And is Meander generally difficult to convince?"

Teodor asks (of Wilson), "Within and without. What steps are necessary to save a soul? And how far should such steps go?"

Rosanelle says (to Amber), "Notoriously. He is the most stubborn man I have ever dealt with, though one of the most honest."

Dixon asks (of Chiara), "You enjoyed the cheeses, I take it?"

Chiara says (to Dixon), "One of my particular pleasures. You must forgive me seeming to neglect the conversation for a moment."

Sabatino says, "Such meats! If only our guild could get such for our inns."

Niccolo says, "Well, there was the matter of the certain gentleman, entertaining a young lady friend of his -- three nights in the week, each week."

Ludo says (to Sabatino), "You would adulturate it with meat of lesser quality to squeeze more money from it, undoubtedly."

Amber asks (of Rosanelle), "How long have you been working with Meander? Do you know him well, then?"

Chiara says (to Dixon and Rosanella), "Obviously among our host's qualities is an excellent discrimination in the matter of dairy products..."

Sabatino exclaims (at Ludo), "Undoubtedly!"

Abrielle asks (of Niccolo), "Oh?"

Rosanelle says (to Chiara), "I can take some credit for that, though Meander refuses to pay what the cheese is worth."

Niccolo says, "Mmhmm. Allowing his wife to believe he was away on matters of business..."

Rosanelle says (to Amber), "I have only been the ambassador here for six months."

Chiara says (to Rosanelle), "Oh, indeed?" Chiara raises her glass. "My compliments to you as well, then."

Chiara says, "And I imagine you wrung some corresponding concession from our host..."

Dixon says (to Rosanelle), "You are overly modest. I have learned much about being an ambassador by watching you closely."

Niccolo says, "And each evening, after bringing them to their destination, I would return to ferry his wife and *her* young gentleman to *their* destination."

Giancarlo exclaims, "Ah, the plot thickens!"

Rosanelle says (to Chiara), "I...could not say. A good ambassador never tells."

Abrielle says (to Niccolo), "I fear where this story will end."

Ludo asks (of Abrielle), "You fear from experience?"

Abrielle stares levelly at Ludo. "From empathy. I trust you have at least heard of the word."

Amber asks (of Rosanelle), "Only six months? You seem quite comfortable here. Where were you before that?"

Giancarlo scans the tables behind Niccolo.

Niccolo says, "Mmhmm. They were like clockwork, the two of them. Timing it perfectly, so that I doubt they ever knew about the other. Until the unfortunate evening when his lady friend told him she had to break it off. She had met someone else."

Bishop_Scipio asks (of Venzi), "You have been rather quiet. Where in Vodacce do you hail?"

Chiara says (to Rosanelle), "The added advantage of such discretion being that it encourages everyone else to imagine the most impressive triumphs for you."

Venzi says, "I have been out of Vodacce for some time, as a matter of fact"

Rosanelle says (to Amber), "In Northern Vodacce."

Rosanelle asks (of Chiara), "If people wish to impute more success to me than I deserve, who am I to dissuade them?"

Venzi says, "it is my good luck to be at such a party only a week after my arrival"

Niccolo says, "And wouldn't you know it, my passengers the next evening? The signora's gentleman and the signor's lady. A lovely couple they made, too."

Bishop_Scipio exclaims, "Ah, the luck of the Vodacce!"

Livio says, "There is always a party to be had if you look hard enough."

Venzi says, "luck .. or fate"

[vodacce] Amber says, "afk ellarm"

Livio downs a glass of wine with unseemely haste.

Giancarlo chuckles.

Chiara says (to Rosanelle), "Every triumph *including* a seemly modesty..."

Teodor asks (of Venzi), "Fate?"

Dixon says (to Chiara), "As I said: she is skilled and slippery."

Venzi shrugs. "Who can deny its workings?"

Teodor says, "I like to think that we make our own fate."

[vodacce] Chiara says (to Dixon), "That makes her sound like someone in *my* profession."

[vodacce] GM says, "hee hee"

Chiara says (to Dixon), "One's competition always knows one best, I find."

Rosanella says (to Dixon), "You complement me so much I think you might be trying to plant the seed of overconfidence."

Venzi looks pensive for a moment.

Venzi says, "there are moments when one has one's destiny in one's own hands, it is true"

Dixon asks (of Chiara), "Oh?"

Venzi says, "and the difference between heroes and common men is whether the destiny is grasped firmly and brought to bear"

Wilson says, "Seizing the opportunities presented, whether by luck or by fate, seems the character of the most successful of men."

Bishop_Scipio says, "This is why you must be ready when the time comes and then give yourself over to Theus."

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino), "And you? You must get travellers from all over."

Chiara says (to Dixon), "Oh... Every trick is familiar to them, and they have every reason to observe closely."

Venzi says, "but at the same time, fate has workings of which we know nothing, and her threads are stronger than iron"

Chiara says (to Dixon), "Everyone else is merely a member of the audience."

Sabatino says (to Giancarlo), "Of course! Of course! Though this dreadful refugee situation has caused no end of trouble."

Venzi says (to Bishop), "of course, Your Grace"

Dixon asks (of Rosanella), "Would you agree with our fair dinner companion's assessment?"

Rosanella says, "How could I doubt it? Your comments are, as they have ever been, incisive."

[vodacce] Amber says, "back"

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino), "They must have their own stories, I'm sure. Though I generally prefer the exotic tales of the east."

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino), "And you must surely have catered to people who know such tales."

Rosanella says (to Amber), "Have you worked with Chiara for long? I don't recognize you from any of the local houses either."

Sabatino says (to Giancarlo), "Certainly. Though I am no glib teller of tales."

Ludo says, "We should leave that to Niccolo."

Amber says (to Rosanella), "I've been with Chiara only briefly. I was recently with the Musketeers, but felt I had been away from home too long."

Abrielle says (to Niccolo), "You certainly do have a way with stories. One would think it your profession."

Dixon exclaims, "Musketeers!"

Dixon says, "I have always thought that to be a wonderful organization."

Amber says (to Dixon), "Yes, it was quite exciting."

Chiara says (to Rosanella), "She abbreviates; she had such a hair-raising adventure with the Musketeers it would take the rest of dinner to tell it."

Amber says (to Dixon), "Though I often felt I were in a play."

Giancarlo wonders to himself how he's going to locate R.

Danel says, "Musketeers."

Chiara laughs faintly into her wineglass.

Danel asks (of Amber), "That wasn't...restrictive?"

Amber says (to Danel), "There were restrictions, but there were freedoms and responsabilities which outwayed the restrictions."

Danel says, "Mmm. I do not deal well with rules."

Dixon asks (of Danel), "But you can be swayed by sweet logic, can you not?"

Danel snorts.

Amber says, "It is no great restriction to be forbidden to accost the common citizen."

Danel says, "It is being told when to come and go that would irritate me the most."

GM says, "And now: dessert. Flavored ices."

Niccolo says (to Abrielle), "What money is there in stories? Can they be bought and sold, like a meal or a cloak? Perhaps. But only to a buyer who recognizes a value in them."

Amber says, "Yet when dealing with villains we could go to the end of the earth (and believe me, we did) to deal with them."

Giancarlo says, "Mm. Orange."

Chiara exclaims (at Amber), "And were you not telling me about the most clever swordplay? A flick of the rapier and-- ha! a man's hat flies from his head!"

Abrielle says (to Niccolo), "Sometimes a buyer can be convinced of their value."

Venzi says, "ices? how pleasant"

Sabatino says, "Ah! Meander has the best food."

Sabatino finishes his ice, and looks longingly at everyone else's.

Dixon says, "Fencing can be an art in and of itself."

Niccolo says, "Mmm. With meats so rich, I find I can't even touch this dish."

Giancarlo asks (of Sabatino), "(waving his ice around) Do I smell a potential bribe?"

Chiara says (to Dixon), "It is when it becomes a sort of conversation that it intrigues me. Too brutal and... well. No elegance in that."

Dixon exclaims (at Giancarlo), "Ha! Aha ha! You spot my weakness!"

Amber says (to Chiara), "An excess of elegance equals a lack of expediency."

Ludo says (to Sabatino), "Anyone who looked at your girth could spot your weakness. Your weakness arrives in a room a moment before you do."

[vodacce] GM says, "Darn. That was Sabatino talking to Giancarlo in there."

Chiara says (to Amber), "Oh, no, you confuse elegance with ornamentation."

Dixon asks (of Amber), "Surely there is a middle ground, though?"

Niccolo asks (of Ludo), "Now, now. What is success for if not to be enjoyed?"

Chiara says, "The truly elegant combines, as Sir Guy was just saying, the practicality and the romance."

Abrielle says, "Do not let him fool you into thinking he does not enjoy his success."

Abrielle says, "But he fears ostentatious ornamentation."

Giancarlo pushes his ice over to Sabatino. "A favour, signor. One day, and this day may never come, I may ask a favour of you."

Ludo asks (of Abrielle), "And how to explain you, then?"

Abrielle says (to Ludo), "In some matters, taste will out."

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino), "in return"

sabatino says, "How can I refuse a favor, regardless of the cause? I am at everyone's service; I shall be at yours."

sabatino takes the ice happily.

Venzi finishes his ice, and replaces the spoon in the dish.

Giancarlo thinks, "if only everyone were so easily bought...."

Amber says (to Dixon), "A thing can be beautiful, and retain its practicality. When it loses its practicality in favor of being beautiful, I do not care so much for it. Obviously, my employer has a different view."

sabatino says (to Amber), "Ah, your practical view matches well that of Mister Williamson's."

Giancarlo says (to Ludo), "Indeed. Your choice of companions shows an exquisite taste."

[vodacce] GM says, "s/sabatino/Dixon"

Danel snorts.

Dixon says, "For example, you should ask to see Danel's skill at fighting."

Danel says, "I do not fight merely for the pleasure of others."

Chiara says (to Amber), "On the contrary. I merely believe that the two can be combined in more cases than most believe."

Rosanella says (to Danel), "A wise approach."

Amber asks (of Chiara), "And what do you think most believe?"

Chiara says (to Amber), "Isn't it evident? Men keep wives for a household and... other companionship for other purposes. And while I can hardly complain, it suggests something about the prevailing view."

Amber says (to Danel), "Would you care to go a practice round or two with me? I'd be interested in learning a new style."

Danel says, "That I would be willing to do..."

Danel looks at Sir Guy.

Dixon says (to Danel), "I would not deny you practice."

GM says, "There is a commotion near the head table. A man in uniform marches in, manhandling someone who is obviously a prisoner."

Giancarlo looks up.

Venzi glances over.

Bishop_Scipio says, "I do wish Meander would stop doing this."

Giancarlo tries to make out what is being said.

Venzi asks, "has he done this before?"

Niccolo says, "My."

Chiara looks towards the front.

Fortunato says, "Your attention, so that all might learn what it is to stand against the house of Verde de Falisci."

Bishop_Scipio says (to Venzi), "Yes."

Fortunato looks at Meander, who nods.

Fortunato marches the man over to the carp pond near the edge of the terrace.

Fortunato forces the man to kneel, then holds his head under the water.

Chiara frowns.

Venzi says, "my"

Teodor says, "It is an effective manner of dissuading enemies, much as I dislike it."

Fortunato stands. The man does not.

Venzi says, "dissuading enemies for the moment, anyway"

(From Giancarlo) a lantern suddenly lights up momentarily (and metaphorically) above Giancarlo's head.

Sabatino says, "Blurg. It is enough to put you off your dinner."

Ludo says (to Sabatino), "Be glad you are done eating, then."

Ludo says, "Would that we could all deal with our foes with such dispatch."

Chiara says, "I suppose we should consider ourselves fortunate he did not choose a more bloody approach."

Wilson blanches.

Wilson says (to Teodor), "And this is a sometimes-beloved ruler? Wow."

Livio weaves a bit in his seat. He has had a lot to drink. "Do not be a tiresome enemy, that is all I can say."

Livio puts his head on the table. He begins to snore.

Wilson asks, "Tiresome?"

Teodor says (to Wilson), "The Great Game sometimes requires the iron fist to be removed from its velvet glove."

Giancarlo glances at the others at the table and wonders whom he should use, er, approach first.

Amber is shocked that 'justice' is handled in such a cavalier and public manner.

Bishop_Scipio says (to Wilson), "Powerful enemies are dispatched quietly and efficiently. Ones who are ineffective but make too much noise...well."

Wilson asks, "So this man was not even a real threat?"

Chiara says (to Amber), "(quietly) I imagine he was indiscreet, and indiscretion is a sin that never goes unpunished in this world."

Venzi glances over at Wilson.

Bishop_Scipio says, "He was a member of the vintner's guild. He could have cost Meander, and through him Falisci himself, a lot."

Wilson says, "Well, forgive my culture shock."

Niccolo says, "It is an interesting warning, to martyr a member of a movement."

Giancarlo watches to see what they do with the body.

Giancarlo asks (of Niccolo), "A movement? You know something of why this happened?"

Wilson asks, "The vintner's guild?"

Venzi says, "Falisci is known for their wines, so of course the vinter's guild is of great importance"

Teodor asks, "Wine keeps the family Falisci afloat. Did you not notice the exquisite vintage we were drinking?"

Niccolo says (to Giac), "No details, but he was clearly involved in something distasteful to the de Fallisci."

GM says, "There is another commotion near the head table. A man stands, grabbing at his throat."

GM says, "He staggers, bumping into various guests, who glare at him."

Wilson exclaims, "Ah, I think I--my!"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "diagnose:"

Chiara's eyes narrow quickly as she watches this.

GM says, "The man is turning an alarming shade of violet."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "Wits?"

[vodacce] GM says, "Roll. And yes."

[7thsea] Wilson rolls 3k2: 4 10+4 8 | 22

Giancarlo stares

josh_g arrives, looking for booty.

Venzi says, "wine, and other liquids, that is"

[vodacce] GM says, "The symptoms are similar to drowning, though you can't understand why."

GM says, "He falls to his knees, gasping soundlessly."

Giancarlo asks, "Who is that man?"

Wilson leaps up. "Air! Give him air!"

[vodacce] Chiara asks, "would poison knack give me a chance at guessing?"

Bishop_Scipio rushes to the man's side.

[vodacce] GM says (to Chiara), "Try it."

[vodacce] Venzi asks, "is the guy in the pond still submerged?"

Wilson runs to the man's side, too.

[vodacce] Chiara asks, "poison and wits?"

[vodacce] GM says (to Venzi), "Yes."

[vodacce] GM says (to Chiara), "And yes."

Wilson exclaims (at Scipio), "It is as if he drowns!"

[7thsea] Chiara rolls 4k3: 8 1 4 7 | 19

Giancarlo looks, not at the "drowning" guest, but the people who were at his table.

[vodacce] Chiara says, "er, oops"

Bishop_Scipio exclaims, "I do not understand!"

[7thsea] Chiara rolls 5k4: 6 3 4 8 2 | 21

Venzi stands when he sees Wilson walking over, and walks over to stand beside him.

[vodacce] Chiara says, "there we go"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "forgot I have 4 wits"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "(ironically)"

Amber quietly and discreetly makes sure all her weapons are in easy reach.

[vodacce] GM says, "You may have heard of a poison that can do this, but damned if you can remember its name, let alone how to counteract it."

GM says, "The man's eyes are open and fixed; he is not breathing."

Chiara continues to frown thoughtfully.

Bishop_Scipio bows his head, then begins performing last rites.

Venzi glances over at Meander.

Wilson bends the man's head back, trying to clear the tongue from his throat.

Venzi says, "(and Fortunato)"

Giancarlo watches the reactions at the dying/dead man's table.

Meander exclaims, "No one leaves!"

Meander exclaims, "No one leaves without my permission!"

Giancarlo thinks wryly, "And thank Theus for that...."

GM says, "Men in uniform similar to Fortunato's ring the terrace."

Amber says (to Chiara), "That could be got around, if we were determined enough (in an aside)."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "I would have tried CPR, but that'd be a bit of an anachronism."

Chiara says (to Amber), "(quietly) I am curious to see what will happen."

Giancarlo says (to Table), "(ironically) Our host has some interesting entertainment, to say the least."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Did you check for choking"

Meander says, "I apologize for this ending to the evening's dinner, but no one may leave."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "That was the head movement thing."

Niccolo says (to Gian), "Let us hope it does not continue for the remainder of this extended festivity."

[vodacce] Wilson asks (of GM), "Was his tongue swollen?"

[vodacce] GM says, "Sorry. Nothing in his air passages, no swollen tongue."

[vodacce] GM says, "No water in his mouth."

[vodacce] Venzi asks, "who is 'table'?"

[vodacce] Niccolo says (to Venzi), "The people at his table."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "I assume."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "right"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "oh, ok"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "I have been trying to figure out if someone's name translates to table or something"

Amber says (to Chiarra), "(soto voce) As long as you do not see it happen to us, I will not object unduly."

[vodacce] Wilson laughs.

Venzi asks, "does anyone know who the dead man was?"

GM says, "Meander's men slowly move throughout the terrace."

Chiara says (to Amber), "(more quietly still) I trust we are too insignificant to warrant such personal attention."

GM says, "An older man beside Meander leans over and whispers something to him."

Meander nods.

Giancarlo asks, "Any idea who that poor soul was?"

Amber again discreetly pats her pistols, this time to make sure they can't be seen.

Wilson asks (of Bishop), "Do you know this man?"

Niccolo says, "He looked like a member of the staff."

Meander says, "Touch nothing on the tables, please. Fortunato and his men will separate you into groups for brief questioning. Again I apologize for the inconvenience; this should not take long."

Giancarlo sighs.

GM says, "One man not in de Falisci livery is moving through the seated crowd along with the liveried men."

Giancarlo says (to Sabatino), "I hope it wasn't in the ices."

GM says, "He hands each of you a card."

[vodacce] Wilson asks (of GM), "Just the six of us, or everyone?"

Fortunato says, "Come on, men! Look lively, now! These kind people would like to go home before the end of the weekend."

Niccolo reads his.

[vodacce] GM says, "Just the six of you."

Giancarlo looks at the unliveried man (a plainclothes Hand, obviously) and reads his card. Forming the words with his mouth.

Chiara mutters, "They seem quite familiar with this procedure..."

Venzi . o O ( odd. )

Chiara looks at her card

Venzi glances at his card.

GM says, "The card is plain."

GM says, "On it is your name."

Wilson blinks at being singled out.

Chiara says (to Amber), "Perhaps I spoke too soon."

GM says, "For those of you who read Vodacce, it also says, "Dowager Contessa Sempronia Verde requests the honor of your company at the conclusion of tonight's festivities.""

Chiara turns her card over and looks at the back.

GM says, "Meander's men are now separating people and moving them in groups to the garden."

Venzi . o O ( how kind. )

Niccolo pockets it.

Venzi places his card away unobtrusively.

Wilson looks at Venzi, shrugs, pockets the invite.

Chiara palms her card.

Giancarlo arches an eyebrow and tucks the card away with the letter.

GM says, "The unliveried man culls the six of you from the greater crowd. "Follow me, please.""

Dixon says (to Chiara), "I trust I will see you again."

Giancarlo says (to Table), "If you will excuse me......."

Wilson says (to Bishop), "I'm sorry I couldn't do more for the man."

Giancarlo walks over to the man.

Bishop_Scipio says (to Wilson), "And I."

Chiara says (to Dixon), "I certainly hope so."

Chiara follows the man.

[vodacce] GM asks, "Are all of you following the man?"

Amber gives Danel, Dixon and Rosenella a brief wave.

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Ayup."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "I am."

[vodacce] Amber says, "yes"

Niccolo rises. "If I do not see you again this evening, good night."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Yes."

Venzi says (to Wilson), "(quietly) at the current time it seems safest to cooperate; if things become more dangerous I will find a way for us to leave the estate"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "yes"

Sabatino says, "Ah, ah! You are in a separate group! I trust you had nothing to do with that man's death, of course."

Wilson says (to Venzi), "Oh! Uh, thanks."

Wilson seems just now aware of the possibility of danger.

Wilson frowns, then shakes it off.

Abrielle says (to Giancarlo), "I will look for you in the days to come."

Venzi . o O ( I cannot imagine why someone so clearly capable of taking care of himself needs a bodyguard )

Ludo says, "Imagine."

Giancarlo looks over at the other people who have been singled out. Curious.

Venzi says (to Bishop), "good night, Your Grace"

Giancarlo smiles and winks at Abrielle.

Niccolo exclaims (at Sabatino), "As do I!"

Bishop_Scipio says (to Venzi), "And to you."

GM says, "The man gathers all six of you at a side entrance to the house."

Chiara considers the others in this little group.

Venzi looks over the others, particularly Amber and Giancarlo.

Servant says, "If you will come this way."

Amber cooperates, yet strives to be as unonoticeable as possible.

Giancarlo thinks. "I know the gondolier. Hm. Courtesan and ... maybe another courtesan? Nah. Foreignor, by the looks of him. Swordsman. Why?

GM says, "You are led into the house and through a number of passages."

[vodacce] Wilson says (to Gian), "There's a 'think' command, if you want to use it."

GM says, "At one point you travel into the lower reaches of the house and through a bricked corridor with no windows, before climbing stairs back up to ground level."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "oh right."

Chiara . o O ( Not the part of the house I'm accustomed to... )

GM says, "The servant eventually stops by a closed set of double doors. You have completely lost your sense of direction by now."

Wilson follows blithely, letting Venzi remember the way out.

Chiara . o O ( must be servants' passages. )

Niccolo pays attention to where they've been travelling, and wonders where they are in relation to where they were earlier.

[Crows-Nest] Giancarlo says (to Chiara), "Obviously you don't visit with the Contessa much."

Venzi watches the trail as best he can, but cannot keep up with all the hallways.

[vodacce] GM says (to Niccolo), "Given your innate sense of direction, you've got a reasonable chance of finding your way out, but only reasonable."

Amber keeps an eye out for anything resembling an exit.

Servant knocks on the door, a complex pattern.

Wilson studies the pattern.

Servant pauses, then nods, though you hear nothing. "The Dowager Contessa will see you in a moment. Please wait inside."

Servant opens the double doors.

Giancarlo goes in third.

Venzi steps in immediately behind Wilson.

Niccolo whispers (aside, to Gian), "If she had knocked back, would that have meant she was out?"

Chiara goes inside as nonchalantly as possible.

[Crows-Nest] Chiara says (to Niccolo), "heehee"

[vodacce] GM says, "I trust Wilson is first, or perhaps in front of whomever is first."

Wilson enters with interest.

Niccolo follows in the middle of the crowd.

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Sure."

Giancarlo says (to Niccolo), "Of course."

[vodacce] Chiara asks, "aren't you glad I didn't say Chiara went in eighth?"

GM says, "You find yourself in an antechamber. A doorway with no door is in front of you."

GM says, "There are spiderwebs *everywhere*."

Wilson exclaims, "Oooh! Spiders!"

Chiara looks extremely thoughtful.

Venzi raises an eyebrow.

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

Venzi is careful to disturb as few webs as possible.

Giancarlo reminds himself to kiss no-one.

[vodacce] josh_g says, "I'll have to read the transcript later - gotta study"

Wilson's face displays an unmistakable childish glee, before he catches himself and settles down again.

[vodacce] josh_g says, "and this is far too distracting :)"

Chiara shudders.

GM says, "The webs don't block the doorway, or the grey-colored carpet leading to it."

GM says, "But they hide the corners of the antechamber. Threads dangle down, occasionally brushing up against you as the air stirs sluggishly."

Wilson keeps a sharp lookout for fresh webs instead of the discarded ones, but stays to the path for now.

Giancarlo dredges up fond memories of a time gone by.

[vodacce] Giancarlo asks, "Ook. My lost love's name is....?"

[vodacce] Venzi asks, "on the website?"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Griselda."

GM says, "Time passes."

Chiara asks (of Others), "(quietly) any of you familiar with the Contessa?"

Venzi waits to see if Wilson proceeds onwards.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "ok, I guess it's no on the website"

Niccolo asks, "Are we to enter?"

Wilson presses forward unless his way is blocked.

[vodacce] GM says (to Niccolo), "You have heard of the Dowager Contessa, but all you know is that she was Meander's mother, and hasn't been seen in ages"

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "ah"

GM asks (of Wilson), "It is not. You are going forward?"

Niccolo says (to Chiara), "I would be surprised if anyone here had seen her personally, at least in recent years."

Giancarlo shakes his head to Chiara, never having heard much of the Contessa.

[vodacce] Wilson says (to GM), "Of course."

Niccolo peers around the others, through the doorway.

Venzi follows Wilson.

Amber follows Chiarra's lead.

GM says, "The room opens out into a large sitting room."

GM says, "There is furniture."

Chiara tiptoes in with the others.

[vodacce] Wilson says, "I may be an insect fanatic, but I know enough Etiquette to know you don't hang around in the lobby when invited in."

GM says, "At least, you assume there's furniture under the webs."

Niccolo follows as well.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

Giancarlo strolls along.

Niccolo glances around.

Giancarlo watches his step.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "(nice)"

Amber says (to Venzi), "You are with him? (indicating Wilson)"

Chiara shivers and edges away from the walls.

Venzi nods briefly. "He is new to Vodacce and in need of a guide."

Wilson says, "Ah, let's see if there's a place to sit for the ladies."

Amber asks (of Venzi), "& Wilson (quietly) Neither of you have any idea what is going on here, do you?"

[vodacce] GM says (to Wilson), "There is, if you are interested in moving webs."

Giancarlo . o O ( Do not step on spiders. Do not step on spiders. Angry fate witch, bad. )

Wilson examines a likely piece of furniture (one with older cowbebs, not fresh ones) and clears it off.

Venzi watches Wilson carefully

Chiara says (to Wilson), "On the whole I am perfectly content to stand."

Giancarlo says (to Wilson), "You might not want to do that, signor."

GM says, "There is indeed a loveseat under those webs."

Niccolo looks at the furnishings.

GM says, "It is the color of aged wine."

Chiara looks around for any sign of recent disturbance, of someone having passed through here.

Wilson says (to Gian), "Eh? It's OK, the spiders have vacated this one."

[vodacce] GM says (to Chiara), "Perception, TN 20."

[7thsea] Chiara rolls 4k4: 7 9 2 8 | 26

Venzi . o O ( exactly how aged, I wonder )

Wilson says, "See? All dusty. No self-respecting spider lets dust accumulate on her web like that."

Giancarlo says (to Wilson), "Surely if la Contessa had wished the place dusted off, she would have had her servants do it. That this place is so festooned in webs suggests that she wished it to be so."

[vodacce] GM says, "There are indications that people occasionally pass through the doorway to the right. The doorway to the left, however, hasn't seen traffic in a long time."

Chiara asks (of Wilson), "And you are knowledgeable in the matter of spiders, signor?"

Chiara says, "I think if there is anyone still alive, it will be through the right doorway."

Wilson says, "Oh, the Contessa? Hmm."

Venzi says (to Chiara), "then let us proceed"

Giancarlo asks, "We were instructed to wait, were we not?"

Giancarlo says, "Our hostess might be dressing."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "Can I roll an Etiquette to determine if we should stay or press on?"

Venzi says, "he did not specify where we were to wait"

[vodacce] GM says, "Sure. TN 25 since the situation is FREEKY."

Niccolo watches the table a bit.

[vodacce] Chiara says, "heehee"

[7thsea] Wilson rolls 4k2: 10+1 1 9 8 | 20

[vodacce] Chiara says, "SCARY ETIQUETTE"

[vodacce] GM says, "Sure, it's probably okay to go forward."

Wilson says, "Oh, I think she'd want us to go on."

Niccolo says, "Perhaps we should not."

Chiara says (to Wilson), "After you."

Niccolo says, "Er, knock, I mean."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "You want scary etiquette? You should try figuring out the rules on who escorts whom in to the dining room, and in what order, as dictated in 1915."

Wilson asks (of Chiara), "This door, you said?"

Chiara says (to Wilson), "The one on the right."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "The door's closed, I take it?"

[vodacce] GM says, "No door. Just an open doorway. It's dark beyond."

Wilson peeks through. "Hello?"

Contessa says (from beyond the right doorway), "In, come in."

Chiara is carefully holding her skirts to try to keep them from getting too dusty.

Venzi looks unblinkingly around at the furniture for a moment.

Wilson (brightly) "See! It's all right."

Wilson enters.

Chiara goes cautiously in.

Venzi turns his gaze away and follows.

Niccolo follows.

Giancarlo follows in.

GM says, "The room is dim. There are three hurricane lanters scattered about the room."

GM says, "They don't seem to give much light."

GM says, "There is a canopy bed. The canopy, made of faded silk lace, is lowered."

Venzi pauses for a moment as his eyes adjust to the dimness.

Chiara keeps well away from all the walls.

Amber puts her hand on Chiara's elbow and asks (cautiously) "Are you sure this is wise?"

GM says, "Next to it is a chair. There might be someone sitting in it."

Chiara says (to Amber), "(very softly) I am very sure it is not wise. But whatever it is is also very important."

Contessa says, "Seats, guests are given seats."

Wilson peers at the chair. "Contessa?"

GM says, "Webs pull back from six chairs on one side of the room."

Venzi chooses a chair to the left of Wilson.

Wilson gives a low whistle.

[vodacce] Chiara says, "ok, THAT was freaky"

Giancarlo sweeps a bow. "Signora is too gracious." And sits.

Chiara sits down gingerly.

Wilson says (to Contessa), "We are honored to be in your presence, my lady."

Niccolo also sits, where a seat is left.

Contessa says, "Manners! Long, long since someone has done such for me."

Wilson sits.

Giancarlo sits beside Chiara if possible.

Amber sits next to Chiara.

Contessa says, "Six. Good. Six will stand where less would not."

Chiara mutters, "I thought the idea was that we should sit."

Contessa says, "The gossiper. The guardian. The fledgling. Lover of spiders. He who tracks, and he who seeks revenge."

Wilson pays attention to the Contessa, but keeps making furtive glances into the webs to see if he can see the spiders.

[vodacce] GM says (to Wilson), "Now that your eyes have adjusted, there are a number of spiders nearby, in a number of sizes."

Giancarlo looks up.

Venzi lets an eyebrow flicker up and down.

Wilson turns back guiltily just as he was peering off to one side and his description was mentioned.

Chiara looks around at her companions thoughtfully.

[vodacce] Venzi says (to Wilson), "hee hee"

Giancarlo . o O ( Theus! Which is meant to be me? )

Contessa says (to Wilson), "Your price I know. The others, though. The others."

Venzi says, "you are perceptive, m'lady"

Contessa says (to Venzi), "Flatterer."

Giancarlo clears his throat. "Signora. You know, surely, of my ... loyalties."

Contessa says, "Loyalties. Important. Do not work crosswise to loyalties."

Contessa says, "I am loyal to my son."

Contessa says, "My damned, scared, son."

Chiara looks increasingly uncomfortable. "Perhaps the matter of prices, if that is in consideration, should be worked out on an individual basis."

Wilson asks, "Scared? What is he afraid of?"

Contessa says (to Chiara), "You wish secrets laid bare? I know what you wish, what you feel tugging you, and how you tug back."

Contessa says (to Wilson), "I cannot *see*."

Contessa says, "Thread surround him, thread bind him, threads pull him to death and there are no hands pulling at the other end"

Contessa says, "threads vanishing into darkness."

Venzi nods, slowly.

Wilson says, "The invisible spider."

Chiara asks (of Contessa), "And you choose... us?"

Chiara asks, "To try to mend this matter?"

Contessa says, "I choose? Choose, are chosen, all becomes tangled."

[vodacce] Amber says, "Ellric is finally a-bed."

Giancarlo continues to wonder: why us, and more importantly, why me in particular?

Chiara jumps from her seat.

Chiara forces herself to sit down again. She stares at the Contessa as she does so.

Chiara says (to Contessa), "Please."

Wilson says, "In my experience, the spider sits at the center of the web. So, while each thread may not have an end, if its direction can be determined, that may suffice."

Contessa says, "Threads cross my palm; I direct as I can."

Amber holds on to Chiarra's elbow, determined not to let her jump up again.

Chiara glances at Amber almost as though she does not see her.

Venzi asks, "and I? how do you wish to direct me, then?"

Contessa says, "My son plays games with carps."

Contessa says, "He sees not the shark in the shallows."

[vodacce] Venzi exclaims, "just like mike berlyn!"

[vodacce] Wilson laughs.

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Hee."

[vodacce] GM says, "Dr. Dumont's Wild W.E.B.B.Y is still available."

Giancarlo . o O ( Carpe cyprinium. )

[vodacce] Chiara asks (of Venzi), "that's more of a Jemmy remark, don't you think?"

Contessa says (to Venzi), "You direct yourself. I enable."

Chiara asks (of Contessa), "And that is all you do?"

Contessa says, "What can be done. If you tug, you are pulled. Limited reach, limited effect..."

Wilson asks (of Venzi), "The successful man seizes fates' opportunites, no?"

Wilson smiles.

Contessa says, "Some force seeks my son's death."

Giancarlo wishes the foreignor wouldn't speak so lightly of Fate. Especially not in a Fate Witch's presence.

Contessa says, "I cannot avert, I cannot arise. Cannot prevent."

Niccolo asks, "Can delay?"

Niccolo asks, "Or, is that what we're here for?"

Contessa says, "Threads, smoke in my hands."

Contessa says, "Cannot pull, cannot be pulled."

Contessa says, "I need..."

Giancarlo asks, "us?"

Contessa says, "help, I need, my son needs."

Contessa says, "All of you need."

Contessa says, "Intertwined needs."

Venzi says, "it is odd how that happens"

Amber asks (of Contessa), "What would you wish us do?"

Chiara says (to Contessa), "Everyone needs help, signora."

[Crows-Nest] Giancarlo says, "Okay. That was creepy. Just as the Contessa said what she needed, CD got around to the Commendatore's appearance in final act of Don Giovanni."

[Crows-Nest] GM laughs.

Contessa says (to Chiara), "My son."

Contessa says, "Damn him and his forgetful brain, I will see him helped."

Wilson's head sways slightly, and those of you who can read minds hear him singing an Avalonian ballad, "Mmm, I get by with a little help from my friends."

Amber's mind reading ability gives her a good chuckle (which she needs in this creepy place).

Venzi frowns.

Chiara says (to Contessa), "I understand; but what I do not understand is why us, when you might choose -- well, a better-suited set of assistants, I think."

Contessa says, "Ha! Choose."

Venzi says, "you give us little enough to go on, Contessa"

Contessa says (to Venzi), "There is no *end*, I give nothing for my hands are empty."

Chiara asks (of Contessa), "But if we do help you?"

Contessa says, "Ah! ah ah."

Contessa says, "Titles come with strings attached. People and power attached to strings."

Contessa says, "Help flows in two directions."

Amber mutters "And information in only one."

Chiara nods slowly.

Contessa says (to Amber), "Information is water. It slips between fingers."

Contessa says, "Slides, pools. We drown in information without understanding."

Chiara says, "You know, Contessa, what I seek; I need not say it. If you can help me there, I will do what I can on your son's behalf, little though I may be suited to the task."

Giancarlo is getting uncomfortable.

Niccolo smiles.

Contessa asks (of Giancarlo), "You have better things?"

Contessa asks, "Things to do, things to find?"

Contessa says, "Death will find my son by the end of his fete"

Giancarlo blinks. "Signora. I have my own instructions."

Wilson puts his hand up. "Likewise, my lady."

Venzi says, "I, too, will aid, investigating what ails your son and seeking to stop it, insofar as it does not interfere with my other loyalties. In return I will expect what help from you you can offer."

Amber looks at Chiara.

Venzi looks at the Contessa.

Contessa says, "Do not cut crosswise your responsibilities. Severed ends whip, scar."

Chiara says (to Amber), "The choice is yours; I will not command your assistance in this matter if you cannot give it freely."

Contessa says, "But help given will redound; you have my word."

Contessa says, "Work to save my son. My resources will be yours regardless of the outcome."

Giancarlo asks (of Contessa), "Ours ... and my lord's?"

Contessa says (to Giancarlo), "Pulls weaken at each point of connection."

Venzi says, "and what of the others here? it will be difficult to work without their support"

Giancarlo asks, "?"

Amber says (to Chiara), "I am with you for the nonce. Whatever you do, I will do."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "'rebound'?"

Chiara nods.

[vodacce] GM says, "No, redound."

Contessa says (to Venzi), "Meander cannot know. He shrugs off threads."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Must be some Vodacce word of which I'm unaware ;-)"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "'to have an effect for good or ill', 'to become transferred or added'"

Contessa says, "but still I command a household"

Giancarlo . o O ( Well. If Fate can somehow do my work for me.... )

Venzi asks, "and may I have a token of this? or will you instruct them?"

Contessa says, "Ridolfo. Ridolfo will know what must be done"

Contessa says, "Ask of him your requests."

Giancarlo says, "Signora. You know, I think, my loyalties. You therefore know my price."

Venzi says, "then I am satisfied"

Venzi sits back in his chair, and his attention returns to Wilson and the others.

Contessa says, "But beware. Your loyalties cross. Pull and you may pull another on you."

Giancarlo . o O ( as the montaignais say ... Oh Merde. )

Contessa says, "Help I give, but untangling is left to you."

Chiara smiles slowly

[vodacce] Chiara says, "Countess Yoda Speaks"

Amber raises an eyebrow, but nods cautiously.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

[vodacce] GM says, "She can hear this channel, you know."

Chiara asks, "Where do you suggest we begin?"

Contessa says, "at the morning."

Wilson says (to Contessa), "Oh! Maybe you know something of what we just left--a guest at your son's party died of--something. Looked like he drowned. And that seemed interesting to me, since your son had just drowned a member of the vintner's guild for, uh, treachery or some such. So, it looked like a deliberate rejoinder. To me, at least."

Giancarlo says, "If my business here is concluded to my lord's satisfaction, you have my word. But only as far as my aid to you does not run counter to my lord's interests."

Wilson asks (of Contessa), "Does any of that sound familiar to your, uh, threads?"

[vodacce] Amber says, "i need to quit soon."

[vodacce] GM says, "We're coming up on a good break."

Contessa says (to Wilson), "That man's death leads into the blankness I cannot penetrate."

Wilson says, "Huh. Well, at least that's consistent, again."

Chiara asks, "Knowing... ah... little of these matters... Is it possible the blankness is deliberate?"

Contessa says (to Wilson), "The vintner, though, is unconnected."

Chiara asks, "That someone somehow conceals the workings of the threads intentionally?"

Contessa says (to Chiara), "My eyes *burn* when I look into it. Threads do not taper off, but yet they do."

Amber asks, "So someone's magic kills an associate of your son by whatever means he kills someone else?"

Wilson sits back in thought.

Venzi says, "party died of--something. Looked like he drowned."

Wilson blinks. "Magic?"

Chiara asks (of Contessa), "Then the enemy is another Fate witch?"

Niccolo asks, "Magic?"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "(er, mispaste)"

Contessa says (to Chiara), "No witch is unconnected. This is other, this is different."

Amber says (to Wilson), "Or some advancement I've never heard of."

Contessa says, "Ask of Ridolfo. Ridolfo can direct."

Contessa says, "I watch, and tug with care."

Niccolo asks, "Who is Ridolfo?"

GM says, "There is no answer from the chair."

GM says, "A large spider trundles over towards the six of you."

Wilson stands. "By your leave, my lady."

Giancarlo . o O ( uh-oh )

GM says, "The spider wanders towards the exit."

Wilson, even, balks at the size of the spider, but recovers and follows gamely enough.

Venzi stands, and follows Wilson.

Giancarlo stands and takes a step towards the spider. That's Ridolfo?

Chiara goes as well.

Niccolo rises and goes with the others.

Giancarlo says, "Good night, Signora."

Amber departs.

Wilson examines the spider in minute detail as he goes, exclaiming to himself over a bit of the thorax usually too small to see, but now in fine detail.

Giancarlo . o O ( hm. "Lover of spiders" must refer to the foreignor, and not to my relationship with.... )

GM says, "As you get near the double doors, the servant who led you here opens them."

Ridolfo asks, "She's done with you, then?"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Heh."

Giancarlo says, "Si."

Wilson asks (of servant), "Indeed. Can you take us to see Ridolfo?"

Ridolfo says (to Wilson), "Yes."

Venzi looks Ridolfo over carefully. "For now, yes."

Ridolfo turns away, then back to Wilson. "And here you are, sir, brought to Ridolfo."

Chiara smirks.

Wilson blinks, then laughs.

Niccolo says, "Aha."

Ridolfo turns to the women. "One of you must be Amber and the other Chiara. Who's who?"

Chiara says (to Ridolfo), "I am Chiara."

Niccolo looks to see where the spider went.

Ridolfo gives Chiara and Amber letters.

Amber says, "I'm Amber."

Chiara takes hers and moves a little apart to read it

[vodacce] Amber says, "timing"

Amber opens her letter and reads it carefully.

[vodacce] GM says, "I'll need to know who can read Vodacce, by the way. Or perhaps who can't read it."

[vodacce] Chiara says, "I can."

[vodacce] Chiara says, "For once."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "I can."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "I can"

[vodacce] Amber says, "I can"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "I can."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "I can"

[vodacce] Wilson says (to Chiara), "Heh."

Ridolfo asks, "Niccolo?"

Chiara folds her paper carefully and conceals it on her person.

Ridolfo says, "And don't crowd, I got one for each of you."

Niccolo asks, "Yes?"

Ridolfo gives Niccolo a letter.

Niccolo says, "Thank you."

Amber blinks at her letter.

Ridolfo says (to Wilson), "Let me guess. Wilson."

Wilson grins. "That's me!"

Niccolo puts it away.

Chiara asks (of Amber), "(helpfully) Trouble reading it?"

Ridolfo says (to Venzi), "So you're probably Giancarlo, then."

Amber says (to Chiara), "The script is quite clear."

Venzi says, "I am afraid not"

Chiara asks (of Amber), "but not the meaning?"

Ridolfo asks, "Good thing I'm not a gamblin' man, eh?"

Ridolfo gives Venzi a letter.

Venzi says (to Ridolfo), "thank you."

Giancarlo smiles and holds his hand out for his letter.

Wilson says (to Ridolfo), "You'd have made your bet with me, but the odds were dreadfully in your favor, so you dind't make out with much."

Ridolfo exclaims, "Ah, the gentleman has sussed the pattern!"

Ridolfo gives a letter to Giancarlo.

Venzi's face reveals a bright, fierce smile, which is hidden as quickly as it appeared.

Giancarlo says, "Thank you."

Wilson happily puts away his letter.

Chiara looks unnerved at Venzi's expression.

Giancarlo says, "hm."

[vodacce] Chiara says (to Wilson), "Lemme guess, she's going to give you a spider petting zoo of your very own."

Ridolfo says, "I've got your things from the inns and houses and whatnot."

Giancarlo tucks the letter away thoughtfully.

Amber says (to Chiara), "It took me a moment, but the meaning is becoming clearer."

Ridolfo says, "Sempronia wants you near her son, I figure."

[vodacce] Wilson looks innocent. "Spiders? Moi? What gave you that idea?"

[vodacce] Venzi laughs.

Venzi nods.

Giancarlo says (to Ridolfo), "Si. And access to the guest list."

Ridolfo says, "If you've got questions, I can answer them. Otherwise I'll lead you to your rooms."

Venzi says, "I have questions, but nothing that cannot wait until morning."

Ridolfo shrugs. "I don't sleep much. Working with her can do that to you."

Amber says (to Ridolfo), "At the moment, my only question is where my room is, so that will do quite nicely."

Wilson says, "I do wonder if the matter of the dead guest has been resolved."

Ridolfo says (to Wilson), "I dunno. Hadn't heard from any of the other servants."

Ridolfo says, "They sometimes avoid me."

Ridolfo grins.

Chiara steps backward slightly.

Niccolo asks, "Have all of the other guests been sent on their way?"

Wilson asks, "And, uh, should we expect to be questioned later, since we slipped out before it could happen?"

Ridolfo says (to Chiara), "No, no, I'm not the dangerous one. It's her they're worried about."

Chiara says, "With some justification, I imagine."

Giancarlo says, "As I would imagine...."

Ridolfo says (to Niccolo), "Yes. Meander can only keep people around so long."

Ridolfo says (to Wilson), "The Dowager Countessa has spoken for you."

Ridolfo says, "Well, not spoken, really."

Ridolfo says, "Sent notes."

Wilson says, "Oh, good."

Ridolfo says, "That sort of thing."

Venzi says, "how kind of her"

Ridolfo says (to Venzi), "Right. Kind."

Chiara looks thoughtfully at Venzi for a bit.

Chiara . o O ( Dreadfully stupid or simply extremely deadpan? Who can tell? )

Giancarlo asks (of Ridolfo), "I do have one request. Might we be provided with a guest list?"

You say, "Indeed! She seems very charming."

[vodacce] GM exclaims, "Aah! A mechanical man!"

[vodacce] Chiara laughs

[vodacce] Venzi laughs.

Ridolfo says (to Giancarlo), "That shouldn't be a problem."

Ridolfo says, "I can have it for you tomorrow morning."

Giancarlo says, "I am much obliged."

Giancarlo says, "And now. Rooms."

[vodacce] Venzi asks (of GM), "oh, one general question -- were there other guests at the party not sitting with one of us?"

Ridolfo says, "Look, most of the servants won't be of much help, but they won't get in your way either."

Ridolfo asks, "Those of us who work for the Countessa have this patch, see? On our shirts?"

[vodacce] Chiara asks, "there were supposed to be like a hundred people there, right?"

Giancarlo examines patch. Hm.

Niccolo asks, "Will we be involved in any sort of, er, itinerary?"

GM says, "When you look, you indeed see a little spider patch sewn to his shoulder sleeve."

Venzi observes the patch

Niccolo says, "Tomorrow, I mean."

Ridolfo says (to Niccolo), "You should take part in the festivities, like."

Niccolo nods.

Giancarlo . o O ( handy disguise if i ever wanted to sneak around other parts of the house. )

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Oops! Heh."

Ridolfo says (to Niccolo), "Stay near Meander. I'll probably introduce you."

Ridolfo says, "Tomorrow's the bazaar and the afternoon exhibitions."

Ridolfo says, "Feats of strength and wits, that kind of thing."

[vodacce] Amber says, "my eyes are crossing, so I'm going to go shut them in bed. g'night all. Lucian will update me on any developments."

Ridolfo says, "And then the masked ball."

Venzi glances over at Wilson at the mention of the bazaar.

[vodacce] GM says, "G'night! There won't be much more."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "night amber"

[vodacce] GM says, "Just some additonal fill-in."

[vodacce] Niccolo waves to Amber.

[vodacce] Amber exclaims, "its been fun - see you guys next week!"

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "'night Sara"

Amber has disconnected.

Ridolfo says, "If Meander lives through that, there's the ceremony of dowries in two days and the afternoon of races to top everything off."

Ridolfo shrugs. "You'll get paid either way."

Ridolfo says, "Oh, and don't let Carinna know what you're up to. She's the nervous type."

Venzi asks, "Carinna?"

Ridolfo says, "Come to think of it, so's Ludovica."

Niccolo asks, "Ludovica?"

Wilson asks, "Geez, who's *not* nervous in this country?"

Ridolfo says (to Venzi), "Oh, you don't know Meander's family? Ludovica is his wife. Carinna's his daughter, and he's got two sons, Quieto and Riccalbano."

Chiara asks, "Quieto, right. Bit taciturn, is he?"

Ridolfo says, "Though Quieto isn't around any more. Too incomptent for the family business, so they shipped him off to Eisen."

Giancarlo says (to Wilson), "Generally, the ones who give other people nerves."

Ridolfo says (to Chiara), "It pays to be quiet around here, m'lady."

Ridolfo says, "Not that you can tell it by me, what with me running my mouth and all."

Wilson asks (of Gian), "So the Contessa wasn't nervous, then?"

Giancarlo says (to Wilson), "I don't know. I was too nervous to notice."

Chiara says (in a frail, piping voice), "Nerves are threads. Pull both ways."

Ridolfo's eyes widen.

Ridolfo says, "You're...uh."

Ridolfo steps back a bit.

Chiara recovers her composure and winks at Ridolfo.

Venzi asks (of Ridolfo), "making you nervous?"

Chiara says, "No disrespect meant, of course."

Ridolfo says (to Venzi), "I'm just going to stand over here by someone more cautious, that's all."

Ridolfo says, "I mean, she hasn't hurt anyone in a long time, but you don't ever know."

Ridolfo says, "Them fate witches can do just about anything, they live as long as she does."

Venzi nods, quietly.

Chiara says (to Ridolfo), "Let us say that I fear her so much that all will even to attempt self-preservation has gone."

Giancarlo says, "Knowing the ways of the strega, if she hurt anyone you wouldn't know it was her."

Venzi says, "perhaps it is time to retire"

Wilson laughs heartily.

Wilson says (to Chiara), "I like your stile."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Er, style."

[vodacce] (from GM) Wilson says, "I shall climb that stile to get into yon pasture."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "or -tto"

[vodacce] Wilson doesn't go there.

Chiara nods to Wilson with a smile.

Ridolfo says, "I don't even think that group of ruling fate witches, the whats-their-names, Tessatura, mess with her."

Giancarlo glances back towards the room.

Chiara looks around. "I believe Amber was right; it has been a long evening."

Ridolfo says, "I'll take you to your rooms, then."

GM says, "And off you go, winding through the house, though seemingly by a different route than you took to get to the Dowager Countessa's room."

GM says, "There are four rooms: one for Wilson and Venzi, one for Amber and Chiara, one for Niccolo, and one for Giancarlo."

Giancarlo says (to Chiara), "indeed. (though I wouldn't be averse to making it a little longer, given present company)"

GM says, "(The rooms with two occupants have two beds, and curtains for privacy.)"

Chiara gives Giancarlo a cold, hard stare.

Niccolo again tries to keep track of where they go, to strengthen his mental labyrinth.

Venzi nods, pleased that he did not have to make the request, and inspects the room carefully before permitting Wilson to enter.

GM says, "All of your things have indeed been moved into your rooms, though you're not sure how Ridolfo and the other servants knew where to get them."

Giancarlo says (to Chiara), "Did I ever mention you remind me of someone? Can't imagine who right now, though I'm sure it'll come to me."

Wilson takes the opportunity in the hallway to arrange with Ridolfo to spend an hour sketching, uh, stuff, and also to be woken an hour early for the same tomorrow.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "Lost Love (2), Amnesia (3)"

[vodacce] GM laughs.

Ridolfo says, "Good night, then. I'll return in the morning to help you get sorted out."

Chiara says (to Giancarlo), "Odd... I might almost say the same of you."

Ridolfo says (to Wilson), "And that won't be a problem."

Niccolo says, "Hmm. My room at Raggio's must be quite bare, now."

Giancarlo says (to Chiara), "Perhaps it is Fate."

Ridolfo says (to Niccolo), "Oh, don't you worry. And your berthing costs are being covered, courtesy of the de Faliscis."

Giancarlo smiles and bows to kiss Chiara's hand.

Chiara says (to Giancarlo), "Or perhaps it is bad lighting. Good night, sir."

Giancarlo says, "Good night."

Ridolfo says, "Pleasant dreams."

Niccolo says (to Ridolfo), "Very convenient."

[vodacce] Wilson blinks suddenly.

Ridolfo says, "Don't let the bed spiders bite."

Chiara goes into her own room and looks carefully through her own possessions

Ridolfo wanders off.

Venzi inspects his sword, various knives and the contents of his small bedroll, before drawing his curtain and retiring.

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "How old is everyone?"

Giancarlo goes into his own room and examines possible escape routes, just in case.

[vodacce] GM says, "They know about the birds and the bees, if you were thinking of giving a little speech."

[vodacce] Chiara exclaims, "ha!"

[vodacce] Wilson snorts.

[vodacce] Giancarlo asks, "why?"

GM says, "Your rooms are nicely furnished -- one step up from servant's quarters, one step down from those given to visitors of high rank."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "If we're all within, say, 10 years of each other, then never mind. I had a theory."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "(an OOC theory)"

[Crows-Nest] Giancarlo says (to Wilson), "Spill it. Now."

GM says, "They are clustered together, two on one side of the hall, two on the other."

[vodacce] (from Chiara) Wilson says, "To wit, my theory is that that Amber character is kind of cute."

GM says, "And everything else can wait until next session."

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says, "I was just wondering if Gian was old enough to be Chiara's dad."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo says, "Ack."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

[vodacce] Wilson laughs.

[Crows-Nest] Giancarlo says, "no."

[vodacce] GM says, "Excellent."

[vodacce] GM asks, "Any last bits before we close the session?"

Niccolo acquaints himself with where everything is in the room.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "nothing except that this was excellent"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "yes, yay setup"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "I was thinking of poking around a bit in the hallways."

[vodacce] GM exclaims, "Woo!"

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "Yay."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Also, yes, great setup."

[vodacce] GM says (to Niccolo), "If you want, we can handle that at a later date."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Yeah, this was fun."

[vodacce] Niccolo says (to GM), "OK."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "Also, when do we meet next?"

[vodacce] GM says, "Also, 1 XP for everyone. Drama die for Chiara for table banter, to Niccolo for storytelling, and to Wilson for barging in on the Contessa."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "I'm going to have to c&p that exchange between Chiara and myself and keep it."

[vodacce] Chiara says, "woot"

[vodacce] Niccolo exclaims, "Woohoo!"

[vodacce] Wilson exclaims, "Yay!"

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "How are we working drama dice?"

[vodacce] Venzi says (to Giancarlo), "well, it'll be logged"

[vodacce] GM says, "Drama dice have nothing to do with XP."

[vodacce] GM says, "Otherwise they are as described in the manual."

[vodacce] Wilson nods.

[vodacce] GM says, "I'll be handing them out more frequently as we go along."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "That's probably bb'd isn't it? Oh, well ;-)"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "in other words, Spend Spend Spend"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "and yay, because that makes things more fun"

[vodacce] GM says, "And yes, do feel free to spend. I want them to flow freely."

[vodacce] GM says, "Future scenes will have more opportunities for 'em."

[vodacce] GM says (to Wilson), "You are going to get the transcript up so's I can see what everyone said at dinner, right? :)"

npc1 has disconnected.

npc2 has disconnected.

[vodacce] Wilson exclaims, "Ayup!"

[vodacce] GM says, "Good. I, uh, don't remember much about that whole scene."

You say, "Log off."

[vodacce] Chiara says, "heh"