[vodacce] PerrySimm says, "Log on."

Wilson says (to Niccolo), "Yup."

Wilson says, "And, if anyone didn't catch it earlier (which I guess includes Amber) http://www.bioc.rice.edu/~lpsmith/IF/7thSea/vodacce/drama.txt"

Wilson says, "Has XP and drama die count."

Giancarlo says, "hee"

Giancarlo seems to succeed on the rolls that really matter....

InnocentBystander says, "ok, must sleep"

Niccolo waves to IB.

Chiara says, "yeah, leave so Sarge can show up"

Chiara says, ":)"

InnocentBystander cries. But at least I have an alibi.

Amber waves.

InnocentBystander has disconnected.

Giancarlo polishes brass knuckles.

GM has connected.

GM asks, "Oh, are we having a game tonight?"

Venzi says, "hee hee"

Venzi says, "well, if you insist"

Niccolo asks, "Arr?"

npc2 has connected.

npc1 has connected.

Giancarlo says, "yay GM"

[vodacce] Amber exclaims, "Whoohooo! GM!"

GM says, "I apologize for my lateness. My tutee was a half-hour late tonight."

GM says, "And in the nature of such things the lateness spread downstream."

[vodacce] GM asks, "Everyone paying attention to this window again?"

[vodacce] Giancarlo exclaims, "Si!"

[vodacce] Amber says, "ayup."

[Crows-Nest] RogerCarbol continues to be distracted by >GIVE HEAD

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Aye, cap'n."

[vodacce] Niccolo nods.

[vodacce] Chiara says, "yes"

[vodacce] GM asks, "Any XPenditures before we begin?"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "NO SINCE I AM DED"

[vodacce] Amber asks, "I took knife throwing - does that affect my TN for my boot-knives?"

[vodacce] GM says, "Not in the catching, but will in the throwing"

[vodacce] GM says, "unless you contrive to have your boot knives go flying straight from boot to person."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "I'll raise my Resurrection to 2."

[vodacce] GM says, "Here we go, then."

GM says, "When we last saw #vodacce, everyone but Chiara was busy littering the back lawn with dead people."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Yes! I raise Footwork to 4."

[vodacce] Niccolo exclaims, "Hey, I'm no litterbug!"

[vodacce] GM says (to Wilson), "Seriously? If so, I'll note it."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Yup. 8 XP, right? I have exactly enough."

Niccolo says, "Someone should probably take care of these... gentlemen."

Venzi shrugs.

Niccolo says, "But someone else should check on Chiara, on the chance that Dixon may be trouble."

Venzi asks, "do we know where she is?"

[vodacce] GM says, "So noted. And you have 3 serious wounds"

Niccolo looks to Amber, "I think Amber know where she was last seen."

[vodacce] Wilson nods.

Amber says, "She was going to talk to Sir Guy."

Venzi asks, "right, and where is he?"

[vodacce] Amber says, "Ellric is extremely fussy this evening, so Lucian or I may disappear unexpectedly."

[vodacce] Amber exclaims, "Also, there's lightning, so possible power outages. Whee!"

[vodacce] GM exclaims, "exciting!"

Giancarlo searches Battista for incriminating documents and/or clues.

Niccolo says, "On the gri-- the third hand, Wilson looks a bit cut up. It might be sensible to find a doctor. Perhaps the one who saw to Ridolpho earlier."

Amber says, "That, I do not know, though I might start looking with the Avalon embassy."

GM says (to Giancarlo), "Perception"

Wilson says, "Sir Guy has a room in the house."

Wilson says, "I think that's where Chiara was off to."

[7thsea] Giancarlo rolls 4k3: 1 9 7 1 | 17

Niccolo starts toward the house. "Well, we won't find him out here."

Venzi says, "and on the fourth hand (I think we are presupposing another person by now) somebody should talk to Fortunato about the identities of the men who attacked us in the city"

Venzi says, "right"

[vodacce] GM says, "For general information, since this is something you'd know: there's no general Avalon embassy, though Sir Guy has a house in town. For the duration of the party he has a room."

Venzi follows Niccolo.

Amber says (to Wilson), "You're quite chatty for an almost dead guy."

Wilson says, "Someone should go check on Abrielle, as she is a prime suspect Livio's murder."

GM says (to Giancarlo), "He has a rather incriminating hole in his side."

Wilson says (to Amber), "We Avalonians are hearty."

Giancarlo grunts in exasperation.

GM says (to Giancarlo), "He also has a moderate amount of money on him, bloodstained now."

Giancarlo examines the money.

[vodacce] GM asks, "I never can remember. What's Vodaccean money?"

Niccolo heads for the part of the house where the guest rooms are.

[vodacce] Venzi asks, "senators?"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Senators and something."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "and seats, I think"

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "Oh, never mind then. I was hoping they'd be Avalon pounds."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "it is not a very good name"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

[vodacce] Niccolo asks, "I think a guilder's about half a senator, right?"

GM says (to Giancarlo), "Standard senators."

[vodacce] GM says, "Also, to be perfectly clear: y'all are leaving Battista on the lawn."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "I thought Giancarlo was with him."

[vodacce] Chiara says, "so untidy"

[vodacce] Venzi asks, "what, like he's going to walk away?"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "And possible Wilson, Amber."

Giancarlo says, "Someone's got to stay here and wait for Fortunato."

Wilson says, "I could go talk to Fortunato."

Niccolo calls back, "Ah, good. Let us know later what he says."

[vodacce] GM says (to Venzi), "True. Just wondering how this was going to go down with the guards."

Wilson says, "I'd prefer, uh, that someone go with me."

Giancarlo says (to Wilson), "you look pretty cut up. Fortunato would probably be a bit more sympathetic hearing the story from you."

[vodacce] Venzi says (to GM), "they should be used to it by now"

Wilson says (to Giancarlo), "Right."

[vodacce] GM says, "So you are splitting the party again."

[vodacce] GM says, "I need to know who is going where."

[vodacce] Niccolo asks, "Isn't it always the way?"

Amber says, "I nominate Venzi to go with Wilson. I need to find Chiarra, if there's a chance she may be in danger."

[vodacce] GM says, "I clearly haven't discouraged it enough."

Giancarlo says (to Wilson), "So you stay here. Fortunato should be here any minute now."

[vodacce] GM says, "Perhaps those hell dogs are called for."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Starting us out at three separate tables may have given us the wrong ideas."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

Venzi says (to Amber), "ok, if you are going to ensure Chiara is safe, I will go with Wilson to the doctor"

Venzi says, "and along the way we can let the guards know about the bodies"

Wilson says, "Let's meet up again as soon as possible."

Venzi asks, "where?"

Wilson says, "If we get done first, we'll go to Sir Guy's place."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "(Also, while the others are discussing, I am still on my way inside. Feel free to catch up...)"

Wilson asks, "If you guys do, maybe our rooms?"

Amber says, "I'm going to Sir Guy's room, and see if I can't find either him or Danel.."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "(Fortunato won't need me -- *I* didn't shoot or cut up anyone...)"

Amber asks, "Anyone care to come with me?"

Giancarlo says (to Venzi), "Pfft. Wilson isn't leaving the scene. He's got to be here when the guards come."

Wilson says (to Gian), "I'm going to the guardhouse."

Venzi says (to Giancarlo), "we appear to be leaving the scene right now"

Venzi says (to Giancarlo), "but never fear, Fortunato will be informed"

Wilson says (to Gian), "We'll be back shortly."

Amber says, "And I bet they have an in-house physician at Fortunato's guard house."

Giancarlo says, "It's not a question of whether or not he'll be informed."

Wilson winces.

Venzi says (to Giancarlo), "if you have a spare moment, you could look for Rocca, perhaps"

Giancarlo says, "It's a question of what he'll find when he comes to investigate."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "Rocca?"

Amber asks, "Anyone coming with me?"

Venzi says (to Wilson), "Rocca is Fortunato's quartermaster, and apparently the one who purchased the swords that turned up in the river"

Giancarlo says, "If ALL of you are heading off, then it falls to me to stay here."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Oh--the guy who bought the swords."

Venzi says (to Amber), "Niccolo is -- if you hurry, you can catch him"

Giancarlo says, "Given that I'm not exactly Fortunato's favourite guest right now, I wouldn't give a fig for YOUR chances once he's through with me."

Venzi laughs.

Venzi says, "he's always seemed charmed to see me in the past"

Amber sprints off after Nicollo.

Venzi says this over his shoulder as he walks off with Wilson.

[7thsea] Amber rolls 3k2: 7 9 7 | 16

Giancarlo rolls his eyes and shakes his head, and settles down to wait.

Venzi keeps an eye out for a stray guard or two as they look for the doctor

[vodacce] Wilson says (to Venzi), "I was headed straight for the guardhouse, actually."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "oh, ok"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "So: Gian with the body(s), Venzi and I to Fortunato, Amber after Niccolo after Sir Guy."

[vodacce] GM says, "So while Gian looks after Jesse, you two can go to Fortunato in the lounge."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "Lounge?"

[vodacce] GM says, "The not-#interlude channel."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Oh, right."

Wilson knocks on the guardhouse door.

Venzi says, "ah, here we are again"

Giancarlo examines the purse the money is in, and counts the money.

Venzi says, "it seems like I am constantly visiting this place -- perhaps I should ask for my own entrnace"

Guard says, "Yeah -- oh, no. You two."

Wilson exclaims, "I'm back!"

[Crows-Nest] (from Niccolo) Venzi says, "We just killed a man. Is this where we turn ourselves in?"

Wilson asks, "And, uh, rather worse for the wear. Can I speak to Fortunato, please?"

Chiara has disconnected.

[Crows-Nest] Giancarlo exclaims, "Eek. He killed her! The bastard!"

Chiara has connected.

Venzi says (to Guard), "we are anxious to do our duty as guests and report any dead bodies that may have come to our attention"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "hrmf, oops"

Man exclaims, "He *must* see me! I'm only here for an hour more and then I must be gone!"

Venzi glances over at man

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "Man==channel, or someone by guardhouse?"

[vodacce] Guard says, "Different channel, sorry. Losing track of threads."

Guard asks, "More dead bodies?"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "No prob."

Guard sighs theatrically. "You'll be wanting Fortunato then."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "oh, whoops"

Venzi says, "absolutely"

Guard opens the door and lets them in.

Venzi proceeds to the well-known office

Fortunato looks up.

Venzi knocks politely on Fortunato's door.

Fortunato says, "Theus preserve me."

Venzi says, "ah, hello again"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "heehee"

Venzi says, "I am sorry we cannot meet under happier circumstances"

Venzi says, "but I regret to inform you that some vagabonds out by the hedge maze have met with unfortunate accidents"

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo says, "Like a birthday party or a cheese tasting."

Wilson says, "Hi! I was attacked by a group of ruffians paid to kill me, but fortunately my bodyguard showed up in the nick of time with some other of my friends and fought them off."

Venzi says, "..right."

Fortunato asks, "More dead?"

Venzi asks, "I don't suppose you know a 'Battista'?"

Fortunato says, "I should pay you to join up with the conspirators trying to murder Meander. You would work wonders."

Venzi says, "knew, I should say"

Wilson says, "One, at least--I think a couple others might just be unconscious."

Fortunato says, "Battista."

Fortunato thinks.

Venzi frowns. "I'm not sure what you're implying, sir. We were minding our own business perfectly peacefully when we were attacked without provocation."

Venzi indicates Wilson's wounds. "And really he should be seeing a doctor, but he insisted on doing his duty and notifying you of this event (which, I hate to point it out, but seems to me like it should have been prevented by your guards)"

Fortunato says (to Venzi), "I am implying that all around you people fall dead, or nearly so."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo asks, "Has the Heimlich maneuver been invented yet?"

Fortunato stands. "And you have proven adept at ending up in situations where my guards are not."

Fortunato gestures to the two of you as he gathers Yet More Guards.

Venzi looks around.

Fortunato says (to Guard), "You, go get the doctor. Meet us near the hedge maze, and quick."

Venzi says, "certainly if I am attacked, or my employer is attacked, it is my duty to defend myself"

Venzi says, "and as for the other claim, well, it is true that we wander around a fair amount, but it's such a pleasant estate we would hate to miss an inch of it"

Fortunato leads you on to the maze. "I am impressed by how often you or your comrades are attacked."

Wilson says, "Interestingly, this group was only told about me."

Venzi asks, "it seems to suggest that we are close to something -- but what?"

Fortunato arrives at the maze, the dead people, and Giancarlo.

Venzi asks, "told how, in fact? by name? or by description?"

Giancarlo stands.

Fortunato says, "Ah, good. And Giancarlo."

Venzi says, "it is just like old times, sir"

Wilson thinks.

Venzi says, "or at least like this morning"

Giancarlo says (to Wilson), "I told you you'd have been better off staying put."

Venzi thinks. "Hmm, unless that was Niccolo."

Fortunato says, "Mmmyes, this day continues to go on for a long time."

Venzi says, "it seems to have gone on for several weeks, in fact"

Fortunato looks at Battista.

Venzi says, "we couldn't get much out of him before he passed on"

Fortunato asks (of Wilson), "You didn't cause this terrible great wound in his side, did you?"

Wilson says, "He was told I was a scientist, but I don't think he said any more."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Slow typing--Ellric."

Venzi asks (of Wilson), "so could he, perhaps, have been looking for Livio?"

Venzi says, "assuming for the moment he is not up on the rapid pace of events"

Giancarlo says, "Or perhaps he's responsible for Livio as well. You might want to check his sword."

Venzi says, "an excellent suggestion"

[vodacce] Fortunato says, "Pause for a second."

Wilson says (to Fortunato), "No, that was one of my friends. Dunno which one. I was fleet of foot at the time."

Giancarlo asks (of Wilson), "And usually you have feet of clay?"

Wilson says (to Venzi), "I don't *think* I project the aura of science soforcefully as to be recognisable from it--I assume they were also given my description."

Venzi . o O ( those rumpled clothes, that distracted expression .. are you sure? )

Fortunato kneels and looks at Battista closely. "Did you search him?"

Venzi says, "I didn't"

Giancarlo says, "Si. He had this purse on him."

Giancarlo asks, "Perhaps you see something else I missed?"

Fortunato takes the purse and riffles through the money, then absently wipes his hands on his trousers.

Fortunato says, "Nothing unusual, more's the pity."

Giancarlo . o O ( I'm not THAT greasy. )

Wilson says, "Hey, there's the doctor--great."

Doctor asks (of Wilson), "You the patient?"

Wilson says (to man_Wilson_thinks_is_the_doctor), "I got pretty badly wounded, and Gian here is hurt as well. I managed to stop the bleeding, but..."

Doctor says, "It takes great training to pick out which bloody man is dead and which is standing upright and clearly alive, I'll have you know."

Wilson spreads his hands as if to say, "*I* wasn't going to say anything..."

Doctor says, "Here, sit in this patch -- no, it's bloody. Sit in this other patch of grass and I'll see what I can do."

Giancarlo . o O ( Oh, so I must be the bloody man who's dead. )

Wilson sits.

Venzi asks (of Fortunato), "while you're here, I don't suppose you could tell me anything about that *other* group of men who attacked us mysterious in town a day or two ago?"

Fortunato stands up. "I'll have to talk to these unconscious men. Tell me what happened from the beginning."

Fortunato asks (of Venzi), "Yes. Can you tell me what happened here?"

Venzi says, "Wilson might be able to give a better description -- I was walking back from the market, encountered Niccolo running towards me, who say "Wilson's being attacked! Chiara's in trouble!" so I rushed over here, naturally, and saw Wilson being attacked by several ruffians"

Venzi says, "I demanded they surrender, and when they did not, struck one or two with my sword"

Fortunato asks, "You are a bodyguard, yes?"

Venzi says, "Amber had handled the rest herself"

Venzi says, "such as I am"

Fortunato asks, "And Wilson was not with you, or you with him?"

Venzi says, "he had given me the morning off"

Venzi says, "and, as I said, Amber was with him"

Wilson says, "It was the first time I had seen him since being released."

Fortunato says, "Ah. You have such faith in his judgement. Well earned, I'd imagine."

Fortunato says (to Wilson), "Tell me what the men did when they saw you, and what they said."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "(baby)"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "(back)"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "(ribs)"

Wilson says, "Well."

Wilson says, "We were coming out of the hedge maze, having spent some time exploring them. Amber and Gian were ahead, hoping to find Chiara, who we were worried about."

Wilson says, "When these guys came up and told Niccolo, "You can go. We want him.""

Fortunato asks, "They pointed to you?"

Wilson thinks.

Wilson says, "I think so. At any rate, I took off running, and they all ran after me."

Doctor says (to Wilson), "Hold still."

Doctor says (to Fortunato), "Don't make him talk so much."

Wilson says, "I outran everyone but (ow!) him, who stabbed me in the back."

Wilson says, "I kept running."

Fortunato frowns. "Had you seen them before?"

Wilson says, "Niccolo managed to find Venzi, who came and helped, and (erk!) Gian and Amber came back too."

Fortunato asks, "Any of you?"

Wilson says, "Not I."

Giancarlo shakes his head.

Venzi rubs his chin thoughtfully. "Not that I recall."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "(er, unless I *do* recall)"

Venzi says, "I suppose they couldn't have been affiliated with the other men"

Wilson says, "Most of the battle took place (ow--oh, much better) behind me, but when I finally turned around again, it was over."

[7thsea] Niccolo rolls 5k3: 6 9 9 8 7 | 26

[7thsea] Amber rolls 8k4: 2 1 9 7 3 5 8 5 | 29

Fortunato says (to Venzi), "I have reason to believe they are not, simply given their apparent targets."

Giancarlo says (to Fortunato), "If you don't mind, I'd like to have a few words with those men who attacked us yesterday."

Fortunato asks (of Giancarlo), "You have subtle questions you wish to put to them?"

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

Venzi says, "Giancarlo is well-known for his subtle methods of interrogation"

Giancarlo says, "I have questions."

Giancarlo cracks knuckles.

Fortunato says, "Ah. Those kinds of questions."

Fortunato says, "No, if I wish people beaten, I have a number of people who can oblige without having to call upon the experience of outsiders."

Giancarlo asks, "Who said I was going to beat them?"

Fortunato says, "Your knuckles did, sir."

Giancarlo says, "Oh, there are other uses for knuckles...."

Fortunato says, "I have questioned them at length. They have claimed to be in the employ of any number of people."

Giancarlo asks, "What people?"

Fortunato says, "Meander, for one. diTommaso, for two."

Fortunato says, "They are quite quick to suggest who they work for, and change the name of their employer more often than they change their shirt."

Fortunato says, "But Abrielle seems to be involved."

Venzi asks, "she does?"

Venzi says, "my"

Giancarlo asks, "How?"

Venzi says, "these courtesans are subtle"

Fortunato says, "You are surprised? You must not know Abrielle."

Venzi says, "we've only met briefly, I believe"

Fortunato says, "She has a finger in every calzone."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "mm, calzone"

Wilson says, "We suspected Abrielle too! (ow!)"

Venzi says, "well, yes, but we also suspected Livio, so"

Wilson says, "Well, OK."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo says, "And Wilson! We suspected Wilson, too."

Wilson says, "But Livio might have counted on Abrielle to get him out of the country--as you suggested to him."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo asks (of Amber), "No one hiding in the wardrobe, or under the bed, then?"

Fortunato says, "I do not know that Abrielle was behind the attack. I do not know that she was not behind the attack."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo leads toward the guardhouse as they talk.

Giancarlo says, "In that case, I think I will have a chat with her."

Wilson says, "That's a lot of not knowing."

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

Fortunato says, "I suspect her of being involved, though I do not know whether to aid or hinder."

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

Venzi says, "hmm"

Wilson says, "Hmm."

Fortunato says, "Short of that...I hope to know more shortly."

Venzi asks, "oh?"

Wilson asks, "Oh?"

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Heh."

Venzi says, "I believe as your bodyguard I should be letting you take the lead, sir"

Fortunato says (to Venzi), "Time behind bars can wear down a man working merely for coin."

Wilson asks, "The spy?"

Venzi says, "yes, though if things are connected to the party time is running short"

Fortunato says (to Wilson), "I was thinking of the men who attacked you. Who attacked you the first time, that is."

Wilson says, "Oh! Right."

Fortunato says (to Venzi), "If you have suggestions of how to get correct answers faster, I am listening."

Wilson asks, "Uh, luck?"

Venzi says, "hmm"

Wilson stands and takes a couple experimental steps again.

Wilson says (to Doctor), "Oh, much better. Thank you."

Giancarlo asks (of Fortunato), "Hmmm ... Wilson tells me you mentioned once something about the Dowager Contessa being wrong once ... tell me ... was this in relation to an investigation into diTomaso?"

Fortunato exclaims, "Investigation!"

Fortunato shakes his head. "Truly, all of you are amazing. You have been here, what, two days? And already you know more than many members of court."

Giancarlo raises a brow. "Yes?"

[vodacce] Wilson says (to Fortunato), "The trick is to split up the party."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

Venzi says, "we have an interest in solving this .. problem, as I said"

Fortunato frowns. "Come to think of it, when did I mention the Dowager COntessa being wrong before?"

[vodacce] Amber says, "You can always cover more ground that way. :-)"

Wilson says (to Fortunato), "You told me during my, ah, interview."

[Crows-Nest] (from Niccolo) Wilson says, "Upon my release, I promptly shared it with two dozen of my closest friends."

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

[Crows-Nest] Chiara says, "discretion is Wilson's middle name"

Giancarlo asks, "So ... was it?"

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says, "I'll have you know you guys were spying on me at the time and heard it directly."

Fortunato says (to Wilson), "Good of you to share that so quickly."

[7thsea] Niccolo rolls 6k3: 1 3 10+4 5 9 10+2 | 35

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says, "Which was very disappointing to me, but hey."

Fortunato says, "No, it had nothing to do with an investigation involving diTomasso."

[vodacce] GM says, "Er, only spelled correctly."

Giancarlo asks, "What was it about, then?"

[vodacce] (from Wilson) Fortunato says, "diTomato, I mean."

RogerCarbol arrives, looking for booty.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "you say diTomato, I say diTomahto"

Fortunato raises his eyebrows. "You are in her employ; feel free to ask her."

Wilson says, "She's not, ah, very talkative."

Wilson says, "Though Ridolfo might tell us."

Giancarlo says, "And I would rather hear it from you. Since you are here and she is not."

Venzi says (to Wilson), "I asked him, as you recall -- he knew of no such thing"

Fortunato says, "Ah, well, I would rather I knew who is attempting to kill Meander. I would rather dead bodies don't keep showing up in sheds and on the lawn."

Wilson says, "We all have wants."

Venzi says, "I would rather I had eaten lunch at the market -- it's past three now, I think"

Fortunato says, "And I would rather finish preparing for tonight, when I expect the three of you will entertain me with more puzzles."

[Crows-Nest] RogerCarbol says, "Kill Meander!? Oh wait, I read that as Moander."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo asks, "In sheds, hmm... locked sheds?"

[Crows-Nest] Giancarlo says, "Locked sheds with wide-open broken windows."

[7thsea] Niccolo rolls 2k2: 5 9 | 14

Fortunato says, "Please do not leave the town today or tomorrow until you have spoken with me. Enjoy the market. If you have not had lunch today, I recommend the vendors near the harbor. The fish are excellent today."

[7thsea] Amber rolls 3k2: 1 6 3 | 9

Wilson says, "Southern fish are too oily."

Fortunato says, "I should have guessed my suggestion would fall upon deaf ears with you."

Wilson says, "But maybe I'll give 'em a try."

Venzi says, "I'm was just down there, in fact -- I'm told the fishing has improved recently with the fall in piracy"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "er, "I was""

Wilson exclaims (at Fortunato), "Thanks for getting a doctor for me!"

Fortunato asks, "Your morning off, I take it?"

Venzi says, "but of course"

Fortunato says (to Wilson), "Of course. In general I try to minimize deaths in and around the house."

Venzi says, "I must make the most of what spare time I have"

Wilson asks, "Hey, did you hear anything more about those swords?"

[7thsea] Amber says, "afk"

Fortunato asks, "Mm?"

Fortunato says, "Ah, right. As soon as you stop bringing dead people to my attention, I will see what I can find out."

Fortunato says, "Good day, gentlemen."

Wilson laughs. "Go forth, then, good sir."

Venzi says (to Fortunato's back), "we could not notify you about them, if you would prefer .."

Venzi asks (of Wilson), "now, lunch?"

Wilson says (to Venzi), "Sure. I was thinking--maybe I *should* go see the Contessa."

Venzi says, "it might be enlightening"

Giancarlo . o O ( you just want to see her spiders. )

Wilson says, "I should be pretty safe there, at least."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

Venzi asks, "would you care to have me accompany you, then?"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "The spider hits. The spider bites! The spider's bite was poisoned--More--"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "whuh-oh"

Wilson reaches down and fiddles with something on his leg.

[7thsea] Amber says, "back"

Wilson says, "Um, hey."

Wilson seems to be inspecting another spider. "Remarkable."

Giancarlo says, "I'm all for taking a quick lunch right now."

Wilson says, "Apparantly, Abrielle has enemies, Carinna Sabatino, Stefano ambitions, Fortunato followers, but all four have threads."

Giancarlo blinks.

Venzi asks, "threads?"

Wilson says, "That's what the spider said."

Wilson exclaims (at spider), "Bye!"

Venzi stares at the spider, then at Wilson.

Wilson watches the spider run off through the grass.

Giancarlo catches Venzi's eye and discreetly twirls a finger by his temple.

Wilson says, "Maybe I don't need to visit the contessa after all."

[7thsea] Amber asks, "Sir, we just came from the house, and have not seen him. Do you know where else he might be?"

Venzi says, "you think it is a message from her? I suppose it is not entirely impossible"

[7thsea] Niccolo says, "(Ylac)"

[vodacce] Wilson asks (of GM), "Had I learned about that type of spider yet?"

Giancarlo says, "I should like to speak to Carinna, then. I don't know what I hope to find, but..."

[vodacce] GM says, "No."

Wilson says, "Hang ona sec..."

Venzi asks, "but whatever does "Carinna Sabatino" mean?"

Venzi asks, "does Carinna *have* Sabatino? and if so, in what sense?"

Giancarlo says, "Carinna has Sabatino. In her pocket, as it were"

Wilson pulls out a piece of paper and quickly sketches the salient features of that spider.

Venzi says, "ah, hmm"

Venzi says, "he seems like the sort that might fall for a lady, yes"

Venzi says, "but I would not think he would stay fallen"

Giancarlo asks, "Did you not see them on each others' arms yesterday night?"

Wilson says, "I assume all those things were, indeed, possible motives for killing Meander."

Giancarlo says (to Venzi), "Perhaps she has fallen for him."

Giancarlo says, "(wistfully) stranger things have happened."

Venzi says, "that would cause problems for the impending marriage, I daresay"

Venzi thinks.

Wilson asks, "Maybe if Meander was dead, she could run off with him?"

Wilson says, "But hey, she has a thread, so."

Giancarlo turns and strides off towards the house.

Venzi says, "in which case, I suppose, it might be to Stefano's advantage to see that Meander dies before ..."

Wilson asks (of Venzi), "Shall we check on Sir Guy ourselves?"

Venzi says, "they do seem to be taking a while about it"

Wilson says, "But all four of those were *not* behind it all."

Venzi says, "also, I note that the spider did not mention him"

Venzi asks, "did the spider say that?"

[7thsea] Chiara rolls 4k4: 6 8 4 7 | 25

Wilson says, "We should stop by our room first. I need to change these bloody and, I'm sad to say, fairly ruined pants."

[vodacce] Giancarlo is going to pop into the kitchen and grab a quick something (maybe a hunk of cheese) and then seek out Carinna.

Venzi sighs. "Adventuring is very hard on pants."

Venzi says, "very well then"

[vodacce] Wilson exclaims, "YOU CAN'T ROLL WHEN YOU'RE DEAD!"

[vodacce] GM asks, "Haven't you heard of spinning in your grave?"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "trying to get into the underworld. Hush."

Venzi stops by the kitchen also on the way to their room and gets some bread.

[vodacce] Niccolo exclaims (at GM), "Yay!"

Wilson grabs some fruit.

[Crows-Nest] (from Niccolo) CharlesAlgun says (to Venzi), "And shirts."

[Crows-Nest] Wilson exclaims (at Venzi), "Bring me by brown pants!"

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo asks (of Wilson), "They don't show the blood so much?"

Cook exclaims, "Shoo! Shoo! I have a banquet to prepare!"

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says, "Something like that."

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says, "(surely you've heard the joke?)"

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

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo ahems.

Giancarlo grabs a hunk of cheddar and shoos.

[vodacce] GM . o O ( It would help if you wouldn't mention it in your @emit. )

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says, "http://www.netfunny.com/rhf/jokes/95q2/pants.html, for those playing at home."

Giancarlo asks (of passing_servant), "Excuse me, have you seen Signorina Carinna?"

Servant says (to Giancarlo), "I believe she is in her room, resting after her afternoon riding."

[7thsea] Chiara rolls 6k3: 10+5 1 8 1 4 6 | 29

Servant says, "I can lead you to her if you would like, Signor."

Giancarlo says (to Servant), "Yes, thank you."

Wilson and Venzi head to their room for pants.

[vodacce] GM asks, "So Wilson & Venzi not going with Giancarlo?"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "apparently not"

[vodacce] GM says, "Remember: NEVER SPLIT THE PANTS"

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says, "We could."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "Wilson already made that error once, and look where it got him"

[Crows-Nest] Giancarlo says, "Hm. I wonder if I should raise Seduction...."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "I don't really have a preference, although I will find Rocca if I get some free time"

[7thsea] Chiara rolls 4k4: 7 1 8 4 | 20

[vodacce] Wilson says, "And I'm not leaving you at this point. Yeah, let's go find him."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Or Sir Guy, as we originally planned."

[vodacce] GM says, "So Venzi & Wilson to find Rocca after pants."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "oh yeah"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "you're the boss here, you can pick"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "So, that's four parts..."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "If we were *really* good at this, we could split the party into seven."

[vodacce] Wilson says, "Yeah, but you're the one taken with Chiara. ;-)"

Wilson knocks on the other party's rooms. "Anyone home?"

[vodacce] GM says, "Ooh, do split the party into seven."

Servant leads Giancarlo to Carinna's room.

Giancarlo thanks and tips the servant, brushes down his shirt and knocks.

Carinna asks, "Yes?"

GM says, "(the door is still closed, by the way)"

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Must always have neatly brushed knocks."

Giancarlo knocks again. Quiet, servant-style knocking.

Carinna asks, "*Yes*?"

Giancarlo says, "...signorina, might I have a few words...."

Carinna asks, "Who is it?"

[vodacce] (from Wilson) Giancarlo says, "Land shark."

Giancarlo says, "Signor Bernini."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

[vodacce] Venzi asks, "giancarlo has a last name?"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "(it's M-E-Y-E-R)"

[vodacce] GM says, "'Tact'"

[vodacce] Wilson falls over.

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee hee"

[Crows-Nest] RogerCarbol says, "Candygram."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "(his middle name, of course, being "what's?")"

Carinna opens the door. "I fear I don't have much time to spare, Signor."

Wilson asks (of Venzi), "Well, hmm, who to next? The Contessa? Sir Guy, to see if we can meet the others? This Rocca person?"

Wilson says, "I'm concerned about Chiara, but we did send Amber and Niccolo after her."

Venzi says, "yes"

Venzi says, "I suppose (grudgingly) they will be able to handle it"

Venzi says, "I am not sure at this point if Rocca is involved or not"

Venzi says, "nor about Sir Guy"

Giancarlo smiles. "Allow me to express my congratulations. I would have come at a better time, but for being set upon by assassins earlier.

Venzi says, "I suppose in theory Amber and Niccolo have located Sir Guy"

Wilson says (to Venzi), "But he could help trace the swords."

Venzi says, "exactly"

Carinna says, "Assassins? It must be something in the air."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "Erk, "congratulations with regard to your engagement", I mean."

Venzi says, "well, if you do not object, I would prefer to speak with Rocca, if we can find him"

[vodacce] GM says, "'Congratulations! You were able to open your door!'"

Giancarlo asks, "Indeed. Might I sit down?"

[vodacce] Niccolo asks, "Not 'congratulations on your father not quite being killed yet'?"

Venzi says, "although he is likely at the guardhouse"

Venzi says, "and I am not entirely sure Fortunato would be pleased to see us"

[Crows-Nest] Rob has joined the channel.

Rob arrives, looking for booty.

Wilson says, "Well, maybe he'll have a local abode, too."

Carinna grudgingly opens her door wide and offers Giancarlo a seat.

[Crows-Nest] Venzi says, "ar"

Carinna says, "One moment, signor."

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says (to Rob), "Hey there."

Giancarlo says, "Thank you."

Venzi says (to Wilson), "a good point"

[7thsea] Rob has joined the channel.

Carinna leaves, then returns with a servant in tow.

Venzi says (to Wilson), "a servant might be able to direct us to him"

Wilson nods.

Wilson and Venzi wander to the end of the hall, where they find a passing servant and enquire about Rocca.

[vodacce] GM says (to Venzi), "One will, as soon as I finish up with Giancarlo."

Giancarlo says, "Chaperone? You are careful of your reputation, I see."

[vodacce] Wilson nods.

Giancarlo says, "Always a wise thing."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "right-o"

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says (to Rob), "http://www.bioc.rice.edu/~lpsmith/IF/7thSea/vodacce/ although there's a lot there to catch up on."

Carinna inclines her head. "I am certain you are trustworthy, but better to give no one a reason to talk.

[Crows-Nest] Venzi says, "the summary is that somebody is trying to kill Meander, and we are wandering around trying to figure out who as dead bodies keep showing up and/or being caused by us"

Giancarlo says, "Of course. I am a stranger here, after all, and ... certainly not a close family friend with whom more liberties may be taken."

Giancarlo says, "I don't recall seeing you at the dinner the first night, though...."

Carinna says, "Oh? I was at the head table for most of the evening."

Giancarlo asks, "Most?"

Giancarlo shakes his head. "Your pardon, signorina. Your mother must have neglected to mention it when we spoke."

Carinna says, "I often help greet people at my father's parties, and help them feel welcome."

Carinna says, "That duty took me from the table from time to time."

Giancarlo says, "I see."

Giancarlo judges Carinna's height and build and considers how many women might likely be able to pass off as her in the right dress, veil and lighting.

Giancarlo says, "Now, if you could tell me one or two more things...."

Niccolo follows.

Niccolo follows.

Carinna asks, "Oh?"

Niccolo likes a channel, twice.

Giancarlo asks, "What is Sabatino Gratiano to you and your family?"

[vodacce] Chiara says, "Giancarlo, Prince o' Subtlety"

Carinna asks, "He is head of the guild of innkeepers. You have met him, yes?"

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "Arr, things always blow up in my face when I try to be subtle."

[Crows-Nest] Wilson says, "Arr, I want to make a suggestion."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "I suggest punching her"

Giancarlo says, "I was at his table."

Giancarlo says, "I was more interested in his position as a ... family friend."

[Crows-Nest] RogerCarbol says, "Vee haf vays of makink you talk."

[7thsea] Amber rolls 6k3: 8 2 9 3 1 5 | 22

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "The knife-to-the-throat worked on Livio."

Carinna says, "He is very friendly -- he *is* head of the guild. And as head of the guild he often has business with my father at court."

[vodacce] Niccolo says, "Well. He did get killed the next day. But we can probably assume it's unrelated."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "yeah, since he was killed by a knife to the chest"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "next let's try threatening someone with a knife to the chest and see if their kneecaps get cut off"

[vodacce] GM says, "Try the kneecaps. That way the victim will only lose toes and you can question them later."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "toes don't say much"

Giancarlo grimaces. "Signorina. Understand my position. When I return to my prince, he will expect a full account of the entertainments. He will want to know who danced with whom, and in particular what the various members of your family did."

[vodacce] Niccolo asks, "What happes if we do the toes? Does it wrap around and give them a haircut?"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

[vodacce] Venzi says, ""why am I suddenly standing in this hole?""

Carinna says, "Goodness. With that much information, he had best visit himself."

Giancarlo says, "If I told him that you spent the better part of yesterday night wandering the hall on the arm of an innkeeper, even if he were the head of his guild, my prince will want to know the full details."

Carinna asks, "Ah. So you wish information and the coin you offer in trade is the threat of slander and innuendo?"

Giancarlo says, "On the contrary. I offer you the chance to avert such slander."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo says, "Ah, Gian's made a friend."

[Crows-Nest] Chiara says, "always sweet-tongued and gentle, our Giancarlo"

Giancarlo says, "It would, after all, be far easier for me to simply shrug and allow the unthinkable to be thought."

Carinna says, "What an interesting view you take of your statement. I fear I am terribly busy preparing for tonight's dance. I trust I will see you there, and I will be sure to talk to no one but my father for fear of you misconstruing the situation."

[Crows-Nest] (from Chiara) Giancarlo rolls Tact: 1k1 | 0

Giancarlo asks, "You will allow me to misconstrue the past night, then?"

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo asks, "Is this going to turn out where everyone did it?"

Carinna says, "I am sure you will do as you see fit, regardless of my actions. Ellenna will show you out."

[Crows-Nest] Niccolo says, "Carinna set the poison, Stefano placed the swords, Dixon arrange the chandelier..."

[Crows-Nest] (from Chiara) Carinna says (to Giancarlo), "Care for a fourth cup of coffee, sir?"

Giancarlo says, "Very well."

Carinna smiles sweetly. "If you would like, talk to my fiance, Stefani diTommaso. I am sure he will be intrigued by your notions."

Giancarlo says, "Oh, I have already spoken to him."

Carinna says, "Your initiative is to be commended, then. I will let his answer to your suggestion stand."

Giancarlo lowers his voice. "believe me. most ladies in your position would envy you your freedom, and i do believe that it is a degree of freedom they deserve. but society does not expect them to have it.

Giancarlo says, "be careful. i might not be the only pair of eyes, and others might not be so charitable."

Giancarlo says, "Good day, Signorina."

Carinna says, "Thank you for the suggestion. I will see you this evening."

Giancarlo bows and departs.

[vodacce] GM says, "Meanwhile, near Venzi and Wilson..."

Venzi glances around for a servant.

[vodacce] GM says, "Ceri is currently stationed in the room where the ball is to be held later tonight."

GM says, "I know this will surprise you, but there is one to be found."

[Crows-Nest] Chiara laughs

[Crows-Nest] Chiara says, "FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER"

Venzi . o O ( my, how efficient they are )

[7thsea] Amber says, "I must go soon."

Venzi asks (of servant), "excuse me, we were hoping to speak to Rocca. I don't suppose you know where he is to be found?"

[7thsea] GM says, "I don't want to go terribly much longer, esp. since we're getting close to time for the ball."

[vodacce] Venzi says, "right-o"

[7thsea] Wilson says, "We just had lunch! ;-)"

[7thsea] GM says, "Have you seen how long it takes Venzi to dress for parties? *Hours*, I'm telling you."

Servant says, "He is helping coordinate preparations for tonight's ball."

[7thsea] Venzi says, "hee hee"

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "Hey, I have a question--is today the last day of the party?"

Venzi asks, "I hate to disturb him, but do you think I could take a moment of his time ..?"

[vodacce] GM says, "The last full day. There will be races tomorrow, both chariot and boat."

Servant says, "He'd know better than me. He's in the ballroom."

[vodacce] Wilson asks, "And anything that night? A big send-off?"

[7thsea] Amber says, "I think we should stick together (if for no other reason than the GM having to run so many threads. Its hard.)"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "ah good. we'll just go over there, then"

[vodacce] GM says, "The night after the races? No."

Venzi says, "ah good. we'll just go over there, then"

[vodacce] GM exclaims (at Amber), "You wound me!"

Venzi says, "thank you for your help"

Venzi and Wilson head over, I guess.

Servant coughs discreetly and holds out a gently upturned hand.

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "hee"

[vodacce] Giancarlo may lack tact, but not tips.

[vodacce] Wilson says, "I really want to give him a bloody coin ;-)"

[vodacce] GM says, "and upon the coin...the BLACK SPOT"

Wilson tips the man.

[vodacce] Chiara laughs

Venzi hands a small coin over, bows, and proceeds on.

Servant exclaims, "Thank you, sirs!"

Servant exclaims, "Doubly so!"

[Crows-Nest] (from Chiara) Servant says, "ka-CHING"

GM says (to Venzi and Wilson), "As you enter the ballroom, you spy Amber and Niccolo entering from another entrance."

Venzi says (to Wilson), "why, look at that"

Wilson waves cheerily.

Venzi heads over there.

[vodacce] GM asks (of Giancarlo), "What are you doing at this point?"

Niccolo nods congenially to the fellows.

Amber returns Wilson's cheery wave.

[vodacce] Wilson says (to GM), "He's still chatting with Carrina."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "I am getting out of these icky bloody clothes and into something more suitable for tonight."

[vodacce] Giancarlo says, "Also, going to my room."

[vodacce] (from GM) Giancarlo says (to closed door), "So are you busy tonight? Because I'm going to this kick-ass party..."

[vodacce] Wilson exclaims, "That's right--you went to see Carrina covered with blood. Hee!"

[vodacce] Niccolo asks, "So you went to visit the signorina while still dressed in those icky bloody clothes?"

Venzi asks, "so, did you find Chiara?"

[vodacce] GM says, "The two of you arrive at your rooms at nearly the same time."

Rob has left.

Amber says (to Venzi), "Unfortunately, we've been unable to locate Chiara. The guard who was in Sir Guy's area this morning is nearby, and I plan to ask her."

Amber says, "I'll be back shortly."

Venzi says, "reasonable enough"

Amber heads off to find Cier.

[vodacce] GM says (to Amber), "yay noting the gender f the guard"

Venzi says, "and Rocca was here, so I thought we could talk to him"

Niccolo stays with Venzi and Wilson.

[vodacce] Amber says (to GM), "Thanks."

Venzi looks around for a servant to point out Rocca

GM says (to Venzi), "You do notice one very harried looking man directing things."

Wilson says (quietly) "I got a message from the contessa--although Carrina, Abrielle, Stefano, and Fortunato all have potential motives, they all have 'threads'.

Niccolo says (to Venzi, Wilson), "That Dixon has made himself scarce today, it seems."

Wilson asks (of Niccolo), "You couldn't find him at all?"

Niccolo asks (of Wilson), "Threads? Like, connections?"

Venzi asks (of prospective Rocca), "excuse me, can you possibly spare a minute?"

Niccolo shakes his head. "The servants didn't know where he was, his room was empty, and we even checked his house in town."

Wilson says, "Like, the sort of thing that the contessa says the person behind all this doesn't have."

Niccolo says, "Although... we did hear something interesting."

Wilson perks up. "Yes?"

Rocca asks, "What? What?"

Venzi says, "I see that you are very busy arranging things here, but I was hoping to make a query in respect of your other duties"

Venzi says, "namely, as Fortunato's quartermaster"

Rocca says, "Yes, yes, I count the swords so the lunkhead guards don't have to."

Venzi says, "that, specifically, is what I was wondering about"

Rocca asks, "What?"

Venzi says, "do you also handle the guard scheduling, by the way? I wanted to speak to someone about that ..."

Venzi says, "anyway, I was wondering if you'd counting the swords recently"

Rocca says, "Scheduling is done by duty guards."

Niccolo says (to Wilson, aside from where Venzi and Rocca are speaking)), "A friend of Sir Guy's was here, looking to speak with him. And he mentioned someone else whom he expected to see -- but whom apparently no one else is aware of."

Rocca says, "What is this about? --no, the floral arrangement goes against the *south* wall."

Wilson asks, "Did he have a name?"

[vodacce] GM asks (of Amber), "So are you seeking out Ceri? And if so, how?"

Venzi says, "since -- I must apologize for the roundabout way in which I am proceeding -- I had noted those swords in the river that nearly led to an unfortunate accident a few days ago were marked with the same insignia as the ones the guards use"

[vodacce] Wilson exclaims, "Hey, it's the Mischanneled Man from Scene 24!"

[vodacce] Amber says, "Asking a servant or two, and possibly another guard if they've seen here and where she likely is currently."

Venzi says, "and I would hate for there to be any confusion on this point, so I was wondering if you had noticed any of the supplies of the armory missing"

[vodacce] Venzi says, "hee hee"

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

[7thsea] Venzi rolls 2k2: 1 10+8 | 19

Rocca says, "I -- the thing is --"

Rocca wipes futilely at the damp circles spreading under his arms and around the neck.

Niccolo says (to Wilson), "Yes, 'John' -- and a description."

[vodacce] GM says (to Venzi), "Feel free to put on the pressur