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GoldenH's IRC Campaignthe log: game 319/05/2002 at 08:42Start of #pvpexalted buffer: Sun May 19 01:33:48 2002 * Hikari realise that she just started a political discussion and dives for cover. * DarthTom is a canuck, he knows only that he dislikes the PQ, 'nuff said [Hikari] Oh well, almost time, guys. [Hikari] Do we miss anyone? [GoldenH] no [GoldenH] everyone else isn't coming [Hikari] So we do without Tabius and....? [manxcat] maris [Storyteller] okay so this is what is going to happen with those two [Hikari] The...... Cynis character. Ok. [Storyteller] Maris already dissapeared, and i'll think something up for him [DarthTom] Tabius jsut wanted to get the hell away from me ? [DarthTom] or not ? [Storyteller] Tabius will be entangled in.. private matters, and you'll have to leave him alone [Storyteller] actually [Hikari] So he give Cicad "the day off"? [Storyteller] pretty much [DarthTom] alrighty [Storyteller] I'm probably supposed to NPC him * Storyteller ponders [Hikari] Maybe he locks himself up in his room for meditation. Sorcerers are a strange breed... [Storyteller] true [Storyteller] alright, that works then [Storyteller] everyone ready? * Storyteller thinks this is the dragon's way of manipulating fate to his own whims, but thanks God, for now the plan will go easier [Storyteller] anyhow * Storyteller pokes Werlynn [Storyteller] Alright, what is Vanal and Cicada doing? Maris went off to see the gardens. The Immaculates went to see the boy [Vanal] I guess I zipped off early to attend to a coupla matters with my Talon [Cicada] Cicada too is off to see the children, and try to recover Puuhda, her familiar. [Storyteller] *nod* [Storyteller] The Immaculates got a head start on you [Storyteller] Vanal, I don't know what matters you are attending, so you'll have to tell me [Vanal] Um, a coupla troops got into a brawl with some indigs, I guess [Storyteller] ok [Vanal] and the Captain was needed to bawl them out [Cicada] So, Vanal, your troops are more or less the security at the Cathak compound or what? [Vanal] Pretty much [Storyteller] eh [Storyteller] should I wait for Werlynn ? [Cicada] Did he say he went anywhere? [Storyteller] just afk [Storyteller] good [Storyteller] wb [Storyteller] now I can start [grin] [Storyteller] Tala and Tei arrive at the boy's room [Tala] I was meditating [Storyteller] oh? [Storyteller] weren't you both going to the check up on him? [Tala] [we went to see him and then split up, Tei went to sleep and I went to meditate] * Storyteller checks his notes [Cicada] [so I get to be all alone with Tei... Slaps her own head] [Tala] [cooking food] [Storyteller] [I dunno, I don't think so. Can we start from when you went to check on the boy?] [Cicada] [Right after the Arena Show thing] [Storyteller] this is directly after the arena [Storyteller] i can't find anything about you going to sleep in the log [Tala] [ok] [Tala] [that was around when you were going LD] [Storyteller] Vanal, you arrive at the guardhouse to find the troops involved in the brawl locked up in clean cells [Storyteller] [LD?] * Vanal scowls [Storyteller] the guards turn to look at Vanal as he enters the room [Vanal] "ATEN-HUT !" [Tala] [linkdead] [Storyteller] Tala and Tei arrive in the boys room. He is talking to somebody, a woman and a man sitting in chairs. The little girl is playing with Puudah on the floor. [Storyteller] [ah] * Tala enters the room quietly [Storyteller] [guardhouse] The two men who had gotten into brawls immediately rush to stand, putting their food down [Tala] [room] Good day. [Vanal] "What the HELL happened ? Report !" [Storyteller] [room] "bed." he turns his head to look at you two. "Ah, good morning" [Vanal] [guardhouse]"what the HELL happened ?Report !" * Tei enters room [Storyteller] [guardhouse] "Sir! We were drunk, sir." [Tei] [room] greetings [Storyteller] [room] the boy nods at you. "Mother, Father, these are two of the people who resuced us." [Storyteller] [room] The boys mother and father quickly rise and bow [Vanal] ,Guardhouse. "Drunkenness is NOT a license to beat up on the locals ! Who started it ?!" * Tei dips head in acknowledgement [Storyteller] [guardhouse] The man swallows. "Sorry sir, we thought he was trying to steal our swords." * Tala bows in response [Storyteller] [room] "Please, if there is anything we can do to help.. let us know." [Storyteller] [room] Cicada enters the room [Vanal] [Guardhouse] "So you started it." [Storyteller] [Guardhouse] "Yes, sir." The lead guard looks wearily at the two, and turns to speak to you. [Tei] [room] Hello Cicada [Storyteller] [guardhouse] "Your men are well trained, Lord Vanal. Even drunk, they give a good fight." [Cicada] Good morning, how are you feeling? [Notices the two monks] I am sorry I did not mean to interrupt. I will leave again immediately. [Tala] Why? * Tala looks at Cicada [Tei] [room] no need to leave. [Cicada] [Room] I should not disturb your conversation.... [Vanal] [guardhouse] "*chuckle* That they are, constable. the legions would expect nothing less." [Tala] [room] We just arrived [Vanal] [Guardhouse]"How big did the brawl spill out to, and how much damage was there ?" [Storyteller] [guardhouse] He nods. "It was fortunately enough, confined to the tavern they found themselves at. The man nearly lost his arm, but I am told that he will heal in time. Other than that, no real damage. Some broken tables, chairs." [Tei] [room] I assure you, You're presence is not disturbing in the least. [Cicada] [room] I just came to check on the two children and see if Puuhda is behaving properly [Looks over at the girl and Puuhda] [Storyteller] [room] Puddha squeaks happily, climbing up on top of the girls head * Vanal nods * Vanal turns to his men [Cicada] [room] [face flushes a little] Thank you sir Tei. I will make it quick. [Storyteller] [guardroom] your men swallow, but stand straight. [Storyteller] [room] "I am feeling better, thank you. My parents" the parents bow to you as well, even though you are just a servant * Tala remains at the back of the room, watching the children and their parents, pleased that the Order was able to help reuniting them. [Storyteller] [room] "have heard and came as soon as they could." [Cicada] [room] [bows to the parents] I am sorry that I... Eh, we.... I mean, I Could do no better for you children. [bows again] [Vanal] [Guardhouse] "You both are very, very lucky his arm is left, or I'd be MUCH angrier. That being said, you BOTH are in deep shit. you're both confined to barracks, docked a month's pay, and assigned to double shifts for the duration of our stay here. I'm being lenient this time. If you do it again, you're getting lashes, do I make myself clear ?" [Storyteller] [guardhouse] "Sir!" [Storyteller] [guardhouse] they seem obedient [Storyteller] [room] A large woman looks into the room for a moment, then hurries on her way [Vanal] [Guardhouse] "Good. I'll talk to the guards about getting you two released to barracks. And remember, I WILL be watching you both." [Storyteller] [room] The boy laughs. "I'm not supposed to get up for another day still." [Storyteller] [guardhouse] The clench their fists to their chest * Tala smiles * Vanal returns the salute * Vanal walks over to the guard [Tala] [room] It pleases me to see your family reunited. I wish a safe journey back to your home when you are ready to return. [Vanal] [Guardhouse] "Tell me, constable. Who *was* the man they injured ?" [Tei] [room] Would that we could have saved more of you're dwelling. [Storyteller] [guardhouse] The lead guard speaks. "He was a farmer from downriver. Witnesses at the scene say that he was as drunk as them, and that he merely bumped into them." [Storyteller] "Presumably as being bumped by somebody else." [Tala] [room] We left the bandit's horses in the stables of your home. I used one to bring your daughter here, and it is located [insert when I left the horse] * Vanal nods and reaches under his tunic [Cicada] [room] [sits down next to the girl and poke Puuhda with a finger] So you have been enjoying yourself, eh, stinker? [scratch him behind his ears and look at the girl] Has he taught you his favorite game yet? [Storyteller] [room] "Thank you" the wife says. She looks at the boy and the girl. "That is most all of we had." * Vanal pulls out a small satchel of money [Storyteller] [room] The father starts. "I am sure we will find some way to repay the order for what you have done." [Vanal] [Guardhouse]"See that the farmer receives this...and I mean all of it." [Tei] [room] no repayment is necessary, good sir [Storyteller] [guardhouse] The guard nods, and takes the satchel, drops it on the table [Storyteller] [room] "Of course." he nods [Vanal] [Guardhouse]"I trust I can escort my men to barracks ?" [Storyteller] [guardhouse] "Of course." He removes a ring of keys from his belt and walks over to the prison. He quickly unlocks it, and the door opens [Storyteller] [guardhouse] The guard watches the two men shuffle out, and locks the door again. "I assume that you can trust your men." [Vanal] [GH] "Thank you very much, constable. With any luck, we won't have to deal with this unpleasantness again." *motions for the legionnaires to follow him* * Tala smiles. "Simply rebuild and continue your lives, and continue to follow the way of the Dragons [Storyteller] [room] The plump woman returns, with enough cups of tea for you all. [Storyteller] [gh] the legionnaires follow you out into the street. After a quick walk through the roads of the town, you arrive back at the barracks assigned for your men * Cicada gets up takes the tea and goes around serving each person. [Storyteller] [room] The woman shies you off and does it herself [Storyteller] [room] "I am their keeper for the time being here. He'll be doing well in a few more days, but no partying will be his lot" * Tei [room] takes Tea with a smile [Storyteller] [room] The woman opens the window, taking the curtains away that had been barring the windows before [Vanal] [GH] "I don't need to say that I'm am very disappointed in the both of you. Drunken brawls are NOT the way elite troops are supposed to act...report to the duty sergeant and get some bunk time. Your shifts start in 4 hours." * Tala smiles and accepts the tea [Storyteller] [GH] the guards bow and go directly to their rooms. There is a messenger there with a letter waiting for you. [Storyteller] [room] The woman leaves * Vanal [GH] takes the letter [Storyteller] [room] The mother says "That was the headmistress of the servants that came with her lordship's fiancée’s family. If she is anything to show for her mistress, then it will be a fine marriage" [Storyteller] [room] trying to strike up idle conversation, the father nods and comments "Surely, you two have met her already?" [Tei] [room] "only once, very briefly" [Cicada] [room] [sits down with the girl again] You see, Mary, Puuhda is from the far North and so he is mostly air. And so he really likes to be bounced like a ball. [Takes Puuhda off Mary's head and throw him into the wall, Cicada catches him again as he bounce back squealing with joy] [Storyteller] [GH] The letter is an invitation to the Lord Prefect's ball on the fourth floor. It is planned to continue all this day and night * Vanal smiles [Vanal] [GH] "Thank you very much. Tell him I will be attending." [Storyteller] [GH] The servant nods and runs back onto the streets [Cicada] [room] [to Mary] But you should never dribble him. He hates that. [Storyteller] [room] Mary nods solemnly [Cicada] [room] [to Mary] You want to try? [Storyteller] [room] "Jason said he wouldn't like it!" [Storyteller] [room] She rolls him against the wall, and he bounces back * Vanal scratches his chin and sighs [Storyteller] [room] Mary laughs * Cicada laughs too, then remember where she is and stops. [Storyteller] [room] Perception + Awareness tests [Tei] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tei, 8, 10, 7, 5, 4, Successes : 4 [Cicada] !ex 6 [Storyteller] Cicada, 4, 8, 8, 6, 8, 7, Successes : 4 [Storyteller] The boy looks at you interested. "That is your creature?" [Storyteller] [room] the sound of music begins to fill the room. Quite muffled, of course, but you can hear it at the edge of your senses. [Storyteller] it is coming from above * Vanal straightens himself out, adjusts his tunic and cap, and heads off to the par-tay [Cicada] [room] [to boy/Jason] Yes, we met on a travel to the North. We were stuck in the same cave together for days and became friends. [Storyteller] [GH] The troops are cleaning the barracks, and generally getting themselves situated [Storyteller] [yo] [Vanal] [or not] [Tala] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tala, 6, 2, 3, 3, 9, Successes : 1 [Tei] [room] "Sounds like a party going on in the garden" [Storyteller] [your character is doing something elsewhere, so have him show up where you want] * Vanal [GH] does a quick inspection [Storyteller] [Tala you don't notice it] [Tabius] [thanks for understanding]. [Storyteller] [GH] they are doing a good job. They have drafted a guard rotation that seems like it should work, of course, and the bunks have been allocated fairly [Storyteller] [np] [Storyteller] [room] “Ah, nobody is allowed up there these days.” the woman who previously entered said. "It is likely the Lord's ball beginning” * Vanal [GH] nods to the clerk and staff sgt. "Good work. This will do nicely." [Tei] [room] "I see, then" * Vanal [GH] takes care of a few small matters, and hustles off to the partay, as is the burden of a dragon-blooded officer [Cicada] [room] [turns to Mary] But you should never let him know if you have any sweets. He loves sweets and will do almost anything to get his paws on them. He and I have the biggest fights when I get my weekly ration of chocolates. [Storyteller] [room] "Ahhh" she says, bouncing it against the wall a few more times [Storyteller] [party] A group of people have already arrived, elegantly dressed. Although you expect them to be merely peasants, their dress does not so easily give it away. [Storyteller] [party] outside of the Manor, you see that there are a large number of people flocking towards it [Cicada] [room] Now I must go see my lord to the party. Umh... Puuhda, would you like to stay here or go with me to the party? I might be able to sneak a few pastries into my tunic for you... [Storyteller] [Puuhda] squwewek [okay!] * Vanal [party] barely acknowledges the peasants, but takes note of the impressive amount of finery [Cicada] [room] [to Puuhda] So do you want to stay here and play or go see the party with me? * Tala stands and bows [Storyteller] [room] Puuhda struggles to free herself from the girl, but then gives up, obviously not having the strength of will to free herself [Tala] "It would be impolite if I did not at least make an appearance at the party" [Storyteller] [room] the boy's parents bow "Of course, do not let us detain you" * Tala leaves the room and goes upstairs to the party [Cicada] [room] [Get up and bow to the family] I am sorry, I must go see to my lord. [bows to the two monks. The amount of bowing is quite excessive, it looks more like Cicada is trying to avoid eye-contact] [Storyteller] The girl lets go to Puuhda and he starts following you [Cicada] [Room] If you will excuse me... [Storyteller] [room] "Of course" * Vanal [party. commences with the schmoozing * Cicada opens her tunic and lets Puuhda crawl inside. [Tei] [room] "I suppose, I must attend as well. [to cic] I'll just follow along. [Storyteller] Puuhda crawls up inside and squeaks [Storyteller] [room] they bow [Storyteller] [party] You slowly climb up the stairs to the fourth floor, and find there are a quite few people here already. Per+Socialize as each of you enters the room [Cicada] [red-faced, looks down tunic] Stop moving around like that! [Storyteller] Puuuuuuuuuhhhhdaaaaaaa * Cicada nods nervously to Tei and runs off to find her lord. [Vanal] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Vanal, 5, 1, 2, 10, 2, Successes : 2 [Tei] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tei, 9, 6, 3, 9, 2, Successes : 2 * Tei stares after cicada [Storyteller] You both see each other as Tei enters the room. You see a huge difference in the dress of the people, as even despite the splendor of the peasantry, the splendor of the citizens and merchants and nobles far surpass it. [Cicada] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Cicada, 9, 1, 1, 9, 4, Successes : 2 [Storyteller] same for thou [Vanal] "Good morning...Tei, was it ?" [Storyteller] the Prefect does not seem to be here [Tei] "yes, and you are something Vanal. right?" [Vanal] "Cathak Vanal, my dear immaculate. " [Tala] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tala, 10, 10, 8, 4, 6, Successes : 5 [Storyteller] Music fills the room, a variety of bards playing music in two corners of the room. Somehow, they seem to be playing the same piece. [Tei] "Pleasant to see you again." * Tala is quite comfortable, almost able to slip back into for former dynast persona [Vanal] "Likewise." * Vanal nods and sips his drink * Vanal smiles * Tei is still carrying his tea * Tala moves off to her left. [Storyteller] As you move across the room, you find people still moving in. You recognize few, but they slowly talk with each other and their voices raise in greetings. They all seem to be adults * Cicada storms to Tabius quarters to drag him out of bed and groom him for the party. [Cicada] [to Tabius] Hurry my lord! I beg you! [Storyteller] [Tabius seems lagged to hell] [Tabius] *me wakes up and after a few moments of concentration and an mote his outfit is complete. He is clean as always. [Storyteller] [oh] * Tabius enters the room with a good deal of flare. He is wearing clothing that looks like a live fire that seems to flicker and wave as he moves. Cicada is beside him in her white as a virgin komodo. [Vanal] "Amazing. So much celebration for such a relatively unimportant person." [Storyteller] The music seems to increase in pace, and some people take partners to dance [Vanal] [she's wearing a lizard ?] [Tabius] [arg, you know what I mean dang it] [Cicada] [[I'll kill my lord for that]] [Tabius] [[looks down :-[ ]] [Storyteller] [[[ah but he didn't actually say anything, did he? :p]]] [Cicada] [[Kimono?]] * Vanal beams [Tabius] [Yeah, Kimono :-] [Vanal] "Tabius !" [Tabius] "Vanal!" * Vanal walks over and claps Tab on the back, HARD * Tabius coughs. [Tabius] "So good to see you so soon" * Tala bows to the prefect [Vanal] "That it is. I hated to leave the arena so early, but Talon matters and all" [Tabius] [[Social + Perception I guess]] [Tabius] !ex 12 [Storyteller] Tabius, 1, 8, 8, 5, 7, 3, 2, 5, 7, 3, 5, 7, Successes : 5 [Tabius] "Not a problem, we both know the drill." * Tei stands looking deserted before following Vanal [Storyteller] [prefect bows back] "Ah, greetings." the prefect stands and bows [Storyteller] [nobody else sees teh prefect yet, you can roll again if you want to try, but doubtful] [Tabius] ex! 12 [Tabius] !ex 12 [Storyteller] Tabius, 8, 9, 7, 3, 8, 4, 7, 7, 2, 7, 7, 4, Successes : 8 [Storyteller] [It's awe+perception to see the prefect [Tabius] [ooops] * Vanal nods to cicada "A pleasure to see you again as well." [Storyteller] [if that's what you're trying] [Vanal] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Vanal, 3, 1, 9, 8, 9, Successes : 3 [Vanal] err [Vanal] sorry [Vanal] !ex 4 [Storyteller] Vanal, 1, 1, 6, 5, Successes : 0, Botch [Vanal] ... [Tabius] [[1 less in the dice pool, want a reroll or just take away a success?]] * Vanal re-rolled....and botched [Storyteller] [it's 1 harder success, cuz you're trying again, 1 less success cuz you can try to follow Tala [Vanal] [o, I do I plow into the prefect or something ?] [Tei] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tei, 7, 4, 9, 7, 1, Successes : 3 [Cicada] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Cicada, 4, 9, 2, 5, 3, Successes : 1 [Storyteller] Vanal, you think you see your dad in the crowd [Tala] [you probably greet somebody else thinking he's the prefect and he ends up being a peasant] [Tabius] [aw+per] [Tabius] !ex 11 [Storyteller] Tabius, 2, 6, 5, 10, 1, 9, 3, 4, 5, 4, 10, Successes : 5 [Tala] [lol] [Cicada] [Cicada clearly has eyes only for her lord...] * Vanal blinks and rubs his eyes [Storyteller] He's talking to Tabius' dad [Vanal] "Naw...can't be...he's back in Juche." [Storyteller] [Storyteller] Tabius, 2, 6, 5, 10, 1, 9, 3, 4, 5, 4, 10, Successes : 5 [Storyteller] [Tala] [lol] [Storyteller] sry [Tabius] [eh?.....]_ * Vanal tries to go in for a closer look [Tala] "A lovely party." [Storyteller] The men turn their back as you approach, apparently not having seen you, and start walking away * Vanal shrugs [Tabius] [[Thanos has no idea now why he is rolling dice]] [Storyteller] [prefect] "Thank you, I'd like you to meet my wife, Lady Malena." * Vanal won't press the matter...he has PLENTY of time [Storyteller] [to find the prefect.] * Vanal sighs and goes to refill his juice [Storyteller] The servant at the bar exchanges your cup of a new one, filled with ice and a minty juice * Tabius heads off to see the Prefect which he has noticed off to the left but does make sure the Cicada does not get lost in the crowd. * Tei has taken to standing by himself off to the side, arms folded in his sleeves * Cicada remains always two steps behind her lord. * Vanal smiles and nods to the pretty servant girl and resumes partying [Tala] [this old or new?] [Storyteller] [prefect] Ah, good evening. I hope you are having a good time [Storyteller] [the new prefect] [Tala] [sorry, last lap of race, really good] [Storyteller] [old prefect ain't here] [Tabius] "Why yes Lord Prefect I am well entertained. * Vanal tries to re-join his group [Storyteller] [prefect] he smiles, and offers you a drink from a bottle of wine he has obtained by his side * Tala bows to the wife [Storyteller] [did you tell Vanal where the prefect was, Tabius?] [Tabius] [no, but you can't miss what Tabius is wearing [Storyteller] [prefect] " A fine vintage, about three hundred years aged, and tastes it as well" * Cicada bows to the Prefect and his bride. [Storyteller] [you can in this crowd ;] [Vanal] [cripes...and I thought my IRL shirts were loud] [Tabius] [DOH!] [Storyteller] [lol] * Vanal continues his quest [Storyteller] The party hall is like a huge, empty doughnut surrounding a core which is sealed out from the partygoers * Tala takes a pastry from a passing tray and takes a bite. [Storyteller] Large pillars support the ceiling, but otherwise you have a empty room the size [length and width, at least] of the Manor [Storyteller] The prefect is hiding behind one of these [Tabius] [Prefect]"It seems that you party is well on its way to being a great success, as I think your marriage will be also." [Storyteller] Vanal, Per+Awe to find the prefect [Vanal] !ex 4 [Storyteller] Vanal, 4, 7, 1, 2, Successes : 1 [Storyteller] still no prefect [Tala] [*hands Vanal his glasses*] [Storyteller] you manage to avoid a group of Ledall revelers * Vanal mutters some rather filthy curses under his breath...and, being a legionnaire, he knows curses that would make a Cynis pimp blush [Storyteller] [prefect] "Thank you. It is the best I can do" * Vanal tries AGAIN [Storyteller] [prefect] the prefect takes a sip of his wine [Vanal] !ex 4 [Storyteller] Vanal, 8, 6, 9, 7, Successes : 3 [Storyteller] Vanal, you finally see the prefect, off to your right [Storyteller] Tabius and the others are talking to him already * Vanal quickens his walk ever-so-slightly and heads towards the prefect * Tei is scanning the crowd to find the prefect [Tei] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tei, 2, 5, 1, 3, 6, Successes : 0, Botch * Storyteller chuckles [Vanal] do you see my dad, too ? [Tala] [look, it's Mela herself? [Tala] ] [Tabius] "Besides the gifts that Cathak has sent for you, I have a personal gift for both you and your wife. It is a bit complicated, however, and will take a few minutes some time to show you both how they work." [Tala] [he sees one of the Immaculate Dragons incarnate] [Storyteller] [prefect] This is my wife, Malena * Vanal catches Tabius's remark and scowls...he's making him look bad * Vanal finally catches up and gives a brief bow to both [Vanal] "A pleasure." [Storyteller] [tala: you see .. uhh... david bowe] [Vanal] [...oh, so she sees an abyssal ?] [Storyteller] [sure ;]] * Tabius bows to Malena taking her hand and giving it a very light kiss as is customary where Tabius comes from. * Tala stands off to the side, observing the revelry. She finishes her single pastry and requests a glass of water from a servant, as all she sees being served is wine [Storyteller] [prefect] to Tabius: "Interesting.. I'm sure we'll have time to discuss it." his wife blushes as you do so [Tabius] "At your convenience Lord Prefect, of course." [Storyteller] The servant hands you a crystal goblet filled with ice. She waters it down with a bottle next to the wine, since apparently some people don't want to get completely drunk [Cicada] [bows deeply to Vanal] Sir Cathak, thank you for seeing to the safety of my lord with your troops, I, though only an unworthy servant, thank you on my lords behalf. * Vanal smiles "Not a problem, my dear. the least I could do." [Storyteller] [prefect] His wife speaks, her voice tinged with an accent you recognize as a westerner "Have you had a chance to see the gardens?" * Tabius will take a few step back to allow some of the other guests to greet the prefect, "You have other guests that I must not keep you from." bows slightly then turns around. * Vanal hides a smile at the prefects wife's reaction by sipping form his drink [Storyteller] The prefect chuckles. "My subjects no better than to disturb me when I am speaking to friends." [Cicada] [to Tabius] My lord I with your permission I will check out the area. [Storyteller] [the wife's invitation is to you all] [Storyteller] no = know [Tabius] "They are more respectful than most, my compliments to you and your father on all you have done here. *Nods to Cicada* [Tabius] "No my lady I have not as of yet seen them, however, I have heard that they are a wonder to behold." [Tei] [all right, lets see if Tei can spot Cicada wandering around, that is if he's gotten over the bowie thing] [Storyteller] The prefect nods, and says "Indeed they are. I have my father to thank for both, you know. He is a wise man" * Cicada bows deeply first to the Prefect and his bride, then to Vanal and last to Tabius. Then leaves. [Storyteller] [Tei, you can just find them both now, you've been wandering for long enough] [Tei] [thank you] [Storyteller] [sorry, forgot :O dies] [Storyteller] Anyhow the prefect waves you to sit down at chairs his servants have brought him * Tei moves over in time to get a seat * Tabius smiles widely. * Vanal sits down [Storyteller] "Have you time to explore the prefecture on your way in?" * Tabius then takes a seat after the Malena sits. [Tei] "forgive my tardiness, I am not used to dealing with such crowds" * Tala sits down in the chair [Storyteller] The prefect chuckles. * Tabius smiles as Tei and Tala sit down and nods to them both. [Storyteller] "I don't want everyone to see me, you know. There is a lot to talk about." * Vanal nods [Storyteller] "And many of them seem inclined to persuade me to give my allegiances.. elsewhere." * Tei looks intrigued [Vanal] "elsewhere ?" [Storyteller] "To other than House Cathak, my lord." [Tabius] "Except for Vanal we followed the road in only going to the farm to help there. * Vanal nods * Tabius eyes twinkle a little. [Storyteller] "I've had quite a number of invitations over the last few days, far more than I could hope to attend." [Tabius] "How interesting. [Storyteller] he waves his hand. "Indeed. Although I fear they may have more interest in my wife than I" [Vanal] "That wouldn't shock me overmuch." [Cicada] [[Wonder if the Prefect know WHAT he just said...]] [Cicada] [[Must have been a typo....]] [Storyteller] she smiles. The prefect is wearing a white suit, tinged with green flowers and yellow embroidery. His wife is wearing a plain white dress. It seems to be luminescent. [Storyteller] [typo?] [Cicada] [[They are more interested in his wife than he is..]] [Tala] [the people are more interested in his wife than he is] [Tabius] [the people are more interesting in his wife, than they are in the Prefect] [Storyteller] [the prefect's supposed suitors are taking more time than in speaking to his wife than to him.] [Cicada] [[I would have slapped my husband so hard! And called off the wedding.]] [Cicada] [[ok.]] [Tala] [ we know that, it's just how it looked =]] [Tabius] [[Men often seem to say things that taken out of context would be so harsh, but in context is Ok..... [Storyteller] [ I don't see the typo, so heh ] [Storyteller] [ if you want to see if you didn't see my correct, botch your socialize roll :p] [Cicada] !eb 4 [Storyteller] Cicada, 1, 2, 4, 2, Successes : 0, Botch [Storyteller] lol [Storyteller] His wife takes a sip of her wine [Tabius] [*LMAO] [Storyteller] [of course, you aren't there, Cicada, you're wandering around ;] [Storyteller] [roll percetion + awareness] [Cicada] !ex 6 [Storyteller] Cicada, 3, 8, 3, 5, 9, 7, Successes : 3 * Tabius smiles at Lady Malena then looks back to the Prefect, "A tactic that would work on a lesser woman Lord." [Tabius] "If I might ask here, what are your intentions Lord Prefect?" [Storyteller] Cicada: As you wander around testing the security of the party, your attention is drawn to a table where many fruits and drinks are there. You walk over there in order to see the selection in case your lord asks later, and are summarily realize you are being followed [Storyteller] The prefect shrugs. "I intend to keep my families loyalties where they are, and my wife may make her own decisions. Of course, now that her family is here and they may deal with her directly, they seem to have forgotten her for the moment" [Storyteller] She laughs. "You are so protective. They are bureaucrats looking for a new client and ally * Cicada picks up a tray of fruits [and sneak a few sweets into her kimono for Puuhda] and then goes back to Tabius and the group, taking a winding course to give her a few opportunities to see who is following her. [Storyteller] Cicada: As you stop at the table, a young woman [whom you instantly recognize as the House Menemon dignitary] steps besides you and picks up a cookie. [Vanal] [Menemon , wonderful...I *hate* Menemon ] [Storyteller] [heh] * Cicada bows deeply to her glorious person. [Storyteller] She smiles, and looks at you, interested. "Tell me, madam, you are a servant of Cathak Tabius, correct?" [Cicada] Yes, my lady, I have the honor of serving his esteemed person. [Storyteller] She reaches into a pocket at her side, and draws a envelope from her personage, handing it to you [Storyteller] "Could you be so kind as to give this into his keeping?" * Tabius raising an eyebrow slightly. * Cicada kneels before the lady and accept the envelope with both hands holding it over her head, "Yes, my lady, I would be honored." [Storyteller] She smiles, and gives you a small coin. "For your trouble." And disappears into the crowd [Cicada] Thank you my lady. [Storyteller] The prefect offers you all another drink * Tabius willingly accepts, it is a good vintage after all. * Vanal accepts gratefully * Cicada goes back to the group with the tray of fruits and sweets. * Tala sits, sipping her water and listening to the prefect [Storyteller] "As I was saying, " he has smoothly changed topic while we were occupied with that little side note "I appreciate House Cathak's contribution to the security of this city. I should be able to increase the roving guard to permanent positions now" [Vanal] "That would be ideal, sir." [Tabius] [Aw+Per] [Storyteller] He takes a sip [Tabius] !ex 11 [Storyteller] Tabius, 8, 7, 1, 2, 5, 2, 7, 7, 5, 6, 5, Successes : 4 [Storyteller] [what for?] * Tei sits looking properly interested, and still holds his tea [untouched] [Tabius] [side not] [Storyteller] [k] * Cicada rejoins the group, and goes round offering the treats to everybody. * Vanal smiles "Thank you very much" and plucks a few off the tray * Tabius takes one and utters his appreciation for the resourcefulness Cicada has shown. [Storyteller] The prefect and their wife both accept it [Storyteller] "Really, you are too kind." [Tei] "thank you, but no." [Cicada] I do but my duty, Lord Prefect. [Storyteller] The prefect pulls out a something out a handkerchief and dries his hands [Cicada] [the tray shakes just slightly when Tei refuses] [Vanal] [ a wee bit of co-dependence there, eh ?] [Storyteller] "In any case, I am very grateful for your assistance, my lords. I am told that there was a diversion, and the patrols in the area were distracted" [Storyteller] looking at Vanal "It is disturbing. It speaks of a larger bandit force, I fear" * Tala takes a piece of fruit. [Storyteller] "If it is even mere banditry anymore" * Tabius looks to Vanal and then back at the Prefect, "Organized resistance?" * Vanal scowls [Storyteller] He shakes his head [Vanal] "That's not good." [Storyteller] "I haven't managed to track them down, but I have little experience with such." [Storyteller] "Bandits in these parts were very rare, until late" * Cicada stands behind Tabius and whisper in his ear "I have a letter from the Menemon Juniper the dignitary, my lord do you wish to see it now?" [Vanal] [erk, brb] * Tabius eyes narrow a little bit and then shakes his head slightly to indicate no. "There must be a reason, perhaps another Prefect has run off the bandits from their lands?" * Cicada waits on the group. [Storyteller] He shakes his head. [Storyteller] "We've spoken to the surrounding prefects and their guards, they don't seem to be having any problems." [Storyteller] "And they haven't had problems for years, same as us" [Storyteller] wb [Tala] "Hmm... most peculiar." [Storyteller] he nods * Tabius hopes very privately that its not an Anathema guiding this. * Vanal frowns [Tabius] "Worthy of being investigated eh Vanal? [Storyteller] the prefect's servants, dressed in garb almost as exquisite as the guests, but of course all marking them as servants, bring a tray of refreshments according to the tastes you have displayed thus far [Vanal] "Very much so" [Tala] "That so many would suddenly step outside the bounds of their station without reason is disappointing." [Vanal] "Yet not overly shocking." * Cicada taste first what is being served to her lord. * Tabius nods to Tala, "Yes very." [Storyteller] While they do so, they hand the Prefect a letter. He scowls, and the servants leave, taking whatever you have finished with them [Storyteller] The prefect opens the letter and reads through it briefly, and then puts it away. [Tala] "Perhaps if we could locate them we could find out why they do this, and convince them to return to their proper roles." [Vanal] "And if not possible...remove them." [Storyteller] "likely, but I have no idea where they are. Men have been sent to search, but there search is not forthcoming. * Tabius smiles at Vanal, knowing he would say that. * Tala nods slowly [Storyteller] The bards relax their music into a lighter sort, but the noise of the room increases, as people speak more. [Tala] "If they will not be reasoned with, I fear such may be necessary to keep them from interfering in the roles of others." * Tabius stands and looks at the doorway in which the restrooms are located, "Please excuse me for a few moments." * Tabius motions for Cicada to follow. * Cicada follows. [Storyteller] The prefect acknowledges your departure * Tabius heads towards the restrooms to read the letter from Menemon and relieve himself since he did not get to after his nap. [Tei] "have there been any concerted attacks, sir?" [Storyteller] He shakes his head * Cicada present the letter to Tabius. [Tabius] 'Thank you Sable, did she give you anything else, anything at all? [Tei] "odd that bandits wouldn’t be interested in banditry." * Vanal scratches his chin [Vanal] "There's some sort of pattern here, I just can't see it." [Storyteller] "Not yet. So far they have stuck to diversionary attempts, and attempting to raid houses. None have been successful as yet, but now that there are permanent guards, larger attacks may be made." [Cicada] [To Tabius] No my lord, nothing. [Vanal] "What are they diverting you from ?" [Tabius] [to Cicada] Thank you, I will be out in a moment then. [Storyteller] "Just the minor patrols. Luring them away from their route so that more time will be needed to compete their circuits [Cicada] [to Tabius] Yes, my lord, I will wait. [Vanal] "They're leading up to something. But what ?" * Tabius [Restrooms] reads the letter and does his thing then returns to Cicada. * Tabius then heads back to the group. * Cicada follows Tabius back. [Storyteller] Tabius: while you were there, you noticed that It's starting to rain again outside [Storyteller] The prefect shakes his head [Storyteller] "We have little of any great value" [Tei] "the bandits we attacked were trying to kidnap a young girl" [Vanal] "That you know of. Perhaps there is something you don't ?" [Storyteller] The prefect nods sadly [Storyteller] "Slavers, you think? It is incredibly rare for such here, but I have heard of them." * Tabius returns after looking out a window for a moment or two. [Tei] Slavers would have taken both children" [Storyteller] He nods sadly [Storyteller] Anyhow, the good lord prefect changes the topic in good time * Tabius looks a bit worried, "Slavers? If the boy was wounded and would die being taken, they would not have. Mary would have been well suited in their eyes for a Harem perhaps? [Vanal] "I don't even want to THINK about that." [Storyteller] Time passes, hours [Storyteller] maybe he can't keep you occupied for that time, but he tries too [Storyteller] he's got some very entertaining stories about his childhood [Storyteller] in any case * Tabius only tries to get access to a map of the region and the location of the diversions and actual attacks. [Storyteller] If you press hard enough, he will take you to another room where there is a map, and show you marked on this map where the diversions have been so far. They seem completely random. * Vanal idly looks for a knife and ponder seppuku over hearing stories of the prefect's childhood [Storyteller] is there anything anyone else wants to have discussed with the prefect? [Tei] no [Vanal] nope [Tala] nope * Cicada is helping Tabius with the maps. [Storyteller] ok [Tabius] [not really once the maps thing gets out of the way] [Storyteller] you can acquire a smaller copy, if you wish * Tabius does wish. [Storyteller] ok [Storyteller] Anyhow, after that you go back to his party and talk a bit [Tabius] [might even make it himself, he is a good draftsman. [Storyteller] A few minutes later, a servant hustles into the room and darts across the hall to where the Prefect is sitting [Storyteller] "My lord! You must come quickly!" * Vanal blinks * Tabius just knows that its another report of bandits..... [Storyteller] He looks up, blandly [Storyteller] He looks at his wife, and at you all [Storyteller] "It will only be a moment", he assures you, and follows the servant. * Tabius nods to the Prefect. [Vanal] "So, what do you think it is ?" [Tei] must be important to interrupt the ball [Tabius] "Bandits Vanal. [Vanal] "A little attack would hardly be enough to disrupt his ball." [Tabius] "Then its not likely a little attack. [Tei] "I'm liking this less and less, as we go along." * Tabius frowns and hopes his premonitions are wrong. [Storyteller] The lady shakes her head. [Storyteller] "He specifically ordered that he would not be bothered with such things" [Storyteller] she looks worried [Vanal] "What then ? Anathema ?" [Storyteller] "I don't know." [Storyteller] She looks worried more * Tei looks grim "I hope not." [Tabius] "The Dragons forbid. [Storyteller] "Why would it have anything to do with that?" [Tabius] "We often think of the worst dear Lady when things are unknown or uncertain. [Storyteller] she nods sadly, and shivers [Vanal] "I'm a solider, m'lady...it's my job to think up the worst-case scenarios." [Storyteller] The prefect returns, you think he looks nearly white under his powder and such makeup [Vanal] "What's wrong, sir ?" * Tala waits patiently, rather than act or ponder based on guesses and assumptions * Tabius looks expectantly at the Prefect to disgorge what is going on. [Storyteller] "I'm afraid I must be leaving the party. There has been an attack on the Immaculate Temple to the north." * Vanal BLINKS [Vanal] "say again ?" * Tei leaps to his feet [Vanal] "Someone attacked an Immaculate temple ?" [Cicada] [oh fuc*] [Storyteller] "It seems so." * Vanal scowls [Storyteller] he looks at his wife [Vanal] "do you want me to get my men ?" [Tei] "how is the temple faring?" [Storyteller] she interrupts him "oh no you don't" she says "I'm not a realm woman" [Storyteller] "There is nobody at the temple except for one man. I am told the priest is dead." * Tala frowns [Storyteller] "We had ordered a contingent of guards to protect him.. but it seems to not have been enough" * Tei lowers his head in a brief prayer [Storyteller] "They were found by a patrol an hour ago [Vanal] "How large a contingent ?" [Storyteller] "8 men" [Tabius] "I think Lord Prefect that you should enjoy your party and wedding, there are those here more than willing to take this matter in hand. [Storyteller] he shakes his head [Storyteller] "I'm riding there tonight, it seems... ahem." * Tala closes her eyes and makes a silent prayer for the soul of the good priest in his next incarnation. [Storyteller] "It seems that they were more than simple deaths. The messenger does not seem to be able, or willing to tell us more [Vanal] "You are getting married, sir. If you ride, I must insist that I provide you with an escort." [Storyteller] he nods [Tabius] "As do I. [Storyteller] "Of course. But If you are to come, we must be leaving now." [Tei] "I shall accompany you as well." * Vanal nods [Tabius] "Then let us be off. * Vanal sends someone to fetch his gear [Storyteller] he looks around, and gives some instructions to a nearby servant. He nods, and he cleans up the little gathering as you leave the party * Vanal grabs as many of his men as can be spared, at the same time [Storyteller] "I'll be just a moment," he says, and runs upstairs. When he returns, he and his wife are in riding gear, swords at their belts [Storyteller] When you arrive downstairs, fully equipped with whatever it is you intend to bring, 3/5 of your men are waiting for you, as well as a full talon of the prefect's guards. The rest of your men are waiting outside the gates. [Storyteller] Your horses have also been brought, if you care for them. [Storyteller] if you have no horse, one is brought for you * Vanal climbs onto his steed and adjusts his armor, daiklaive and buckler * Tabius during that time Tabius has retrieved his gear, cast ISoB, and told a servant to go to the Manor of House Menemon and inform the lady of the house that Tabius might be late for the dinner. [Storyteller] The rain is falling, but there is still light in the sky [Cicada] [to horse] Nice horsie..... Please don't throw me... * Tala stands and goes to her room. She collects her things and goes back down stairs to meet the others * Vanal pulls his cloak over his head as well [Tala] [ISoB? Poor horse] [Vanal] "I still don't like the idea of you going out there, sire." [Storyteller] "We have two hours of light" one of his men tell the prefect [Storyteller] The prefect nods * Tei pulls on his hat and mounts a horse [Vanal] [I've gotta be going in about 10 minutes] [Tabius] [*Invulnerable Skin of Bronze. Amend that if its so close to dark, no ISoB] [Storyteller] "This town is dedicated to the preservation of that temple." he grits his teeth. "It is for what the temple is named" [Storyteller] [alright] * Vanal nods [Vanal] "Very well then. My men and I will protect you with our lives, sir." [Storyteller] You quickly leave the city. The streets have been emptied of people the way you have chosen to go, and a long ride to the northwest begins. [Storyteller] "Thank you" [Storyteller] "Thank you all" [Tabius] "You are welcome Lord Prefect." [Vanal] "Man, is Maris ever gonna be shocked when he finally shows up." * Vanal smiles grimly [Storyteller] the ride is going into it's half hour when the rain lets up [Storyteller] It is still too cloudy [Storyteller] "15 minutes yet," the prefect announces, and you ride on * Tabius keeps his eyes and ears open as best he can during the hard ride. * Vanal grins at Tabius "Unlike you, some of us don't feel the need to rely on trickery for protection. Good, old-fashioned steel will do !" * Tala rides silently, considering why bandits would attack a temple of the order [Storyteller] You arrive at the temple. It is a masterpiece. Two stories tall, made of stone and wood, it nevertheless seems taller than that. It is painted brilliantly, in the shape of the elements. Carved into the wood is a motif of a sun. * Vanal blinks [Vanal] "I think we've just found a clue as to who did this." [Tala] [is the carving new / crude?] [Storyteller] A handful of guards have are guarding it [Storyteller] [no, it's ancient] [Vanal] [oh, pfhew] * Tala frowns. [Vanal] [then ignore my previous statement] [Storyteller] they nod as their prefect arrives [Storyteller] He dismounts. [Tala] "Curious. " * Tabius notes the beauty of the Temple. [Storyteller] His lady as well * Cicada rides up to Tabius side and watch the flanks and rear. [Storyteller] The Prefect's troops move around the temple, making a circle * Tabius dismounts as well looking around him in a complete circle as he does so. * Tei dismounts and asks the guards "Where's the monk" * Tala dismounts and approaches the sun motif * Vanal dismounts * Vanal examines the sun carving, as well [Storyteller] surrounding you is a deep forest. It springs up here, and continues for miles to the north. The temple lies on a small hill [Storyteller] One of the guards, shudders, "dead" [Vanal] "What happened to him, soldier ?" * Cicada nods once to Tabius and the moves up behind the prefect and his wife. [Storyteller] they look uneasily at the door [Tei] "and where is the body?" * Tabius moves off to search around the hill for tracks of any kind leading into the woods. * Vanal looks into the door [Storyteller] to both, he answers, "I have no idea" * Tala looks to the Prefect [Storyteller] Tabius: what, tracking is perception + survival, so that [Tala] "My lord, was the master of this temple Exalted by the Dragons? [Vanal] [okay, this is where I gotta jet....] [Storyteller] The prefect nods [Tabius] !ex 9 [Storyteller] Tabius, 10, 9, 2, 7, 4, 7, 5, 6, 10, Successes : 7 [Storyteller] [bah] [Storyteller] [lok] [Tabius] [YEAH, Finally a very good roll] [Vanal] [sorry, work in the morning...I hate their timing for those bloody shifts [Storyteller] [indeed] [Vanal] [anyways...later, all] [Storyteller] Tabius: There are large numbers of tracks, but you sort through them all and find that there are none that originate in this area [Tabius] [*ouch early Sunday morning shift has got to suck*] [Storyteller] [must indeed] [Storyteller] The prefect nods "Yes, the monk of this temple was Exalted by the dragons. Of the earth, I believe" [Storyteller] he looks at his guards [Storyteller] "You have done well. Sleep, if you can." [Tala] "This symbol of the sun has always been here?" [Storyteller] The guards nod, and given fresh horses, retire, returning to the city * Tabius looks for where they converge either coming in or going out. [Storyteller] The prefect nods [Tala] "Has the priest ever said why?" [Storyteller] Tabius: There are lots of tracks, and they are scattered around the area. Some merely pass by, some turn around [Storyteller] "It is a offering to an ancient god. It is said that they did not want to do him dishonor by erasing his mark. I have never heard of this God, but my father said it was necessary, as did the monk who lived here [Tei] [can we tell if this is a manse?] [Storyteller] [Yes, it's not a manse] * Tala frowns. [Storyteller] He looks and walks towards it [Storyteller] "One of his priests, I am told. Malkor, the ancient ruler of our city." [Tala] !ex 6 [Storyteller] Tala, 10, 9, 5, 6, 2, 9, Successes : 4 [Tei] "Anathema?" [Storyteller] The prefect nods, walks towards the temple so that he can enter it, and puts his hand on the door * Tabius moves off into the forest a bit to follow the tracks and signs of passage there. Looking for any grouping or anything that would show a general direction the perpetrators went. [Storyteller] *1 sec, Tala's got a lore role I need to resolve* [Cicada] Lord Prefect, please let me go first. [Tabius] [*np] [Storyteller] Tabius: As far as you can tell, nobody left here * Cicada moves to open the door first. [Storyteller] Cicada: You open the door * Tabius oh my dear Dragon. [Storyteller] now then, in other games, I’d ask for a horror check [Storyteller] but here I’m going to ask for willpower * Cicada looks inside. [Cicada] [[where is my SAN score?]] [Storyteller] [lol] [Cicada] !ex 7 [Storyteller] Cicada, 9, 7, 2, 1, 5, 3, 3, Successes : 2 [Storyteller] okay, you failed it [Storyteller] the prefect did as well * Tei moves over to the door peers in [Storyteller] The prefect goes white and throws up over the side of the railing [Tei] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tei, 7, 7, 2, 3, 6, Successes : 2 * Tabius rushes up the hill drawing his sword. [Storyteller] Tei you fail [Storyteller] anyone else care to try? * Cicada screams and fall back on her buttocks. [I suppose...] * Tei turns away and spends the next few moment breathing deeply and trying not to cry. He fails miserably * Tala sees the others and approaches slowly, mentally preparing herself for what lies within. * Tabius once Tabius gets there he looks inside as well, he has to since everybody else is there. [Tabius] !ex 7 [Storyteller] Tabius, 4, 9, 3, 8, 7, 9, 6, Successes : 4 [Storyteller] you pass [Storyteller] tala? [Tala] !ex 2 [conviction first] [Storyteller] Tala, 3, 3, Successes : 0 [Storyteller] no help there [Tala] [nah I don't need to go in right nya] [Storyteller] ok [Storyteller] What happened is this:" [Storyteller] There are seven dead bodies on the floor. One of them is nothing more than a skeleton * Tala looks out to the north, pondering something [Storyteller] The floors are covered with blood, and so are the walls [Storyteller] but the walls are covered with writing instead of smears [Storyteller] it's readable, but not in a language you know well [probably. Old Realm, a variant] [Storyteller] There is one man, who has three swords running through him * Cicada joins the prefect in loosing her lunch. [GoldenH] There is one man, who has three swords running through him [Storyteller] was that too descriptive? [Tei] [I know old realm, can I read the script?] [Storyteller] no it's just too different [Tabius] [*Somebody save the stuff so far before we all get knocked off.] [Storyteller] it seems like it would rhyme [Tabius] [*Please describe again, I missed it completely] [Storyteller] I've got everything saved except between the last thing I said and when I rejoined [Storyteller] oh * Tala tears her gaze from the north and looks around, but she has a strange look in her eyes like she is seeing something other than what is there [Storyteller] There is a woman there as well, dressed in furs [Storyteller] She seems to have died of other wounds [Storyteller] fire and stone [Storyteller] perhaps other things [Storyteller] At the far end of the temple there is a mural of a man and a woman [Storyteller] it is undamaged. * Tabius moves off to his horse and gathers some paper and stylus. [Cicada] [can we act normally again?] [Storyteller] There are entrances into rooms on the side and there is a stairwell which goes both above and below ground [Storyteller] yep [Storyteller] you are freed of your lost willpower checks [Storyteller] Tala if you want to go in you'll have to make a willpower check * Tala 's skin color becomes enhanced and seems to gleam in the fading sunlight, shimmering like the surface of the ocean. [2nd stage anima] [Tala] [what if I am not looking at the material world?] [Cicada] [the skeleton, was he burned or just stripped of flesh?] [Storyteller] stripped of flesh * Tabius moves back to the temple entrance and then picks his way through the room altering as little as possible as he passes. He draws the faces of the dead individuals on the paper. [Storyteller] his inner organs might still be there, but if they are they are quite mushed * Tabius those that still have faces. [Storyteller] Tabius: You recognize the man with swords stick on them and the woman as faces being on the murals [Storyteller] the rest of their faces you copy down as well [Storyteller] The prefect shudders [Tala] "I see no spirits, but the near realm in which the immaterial spirits dwell is disturbed." [Storyteller] "That.. must be the monk who lived here," he made a sign, and is clearly disturbed. He is looking at the one stripped of flesh. [Cicada] [to Tabius] My lord, you might wish to copy the writings as well. Shall I assist you? * Tabius muddles the significance of the two dead and the mural, "Lord Prefect, who are those two in the Mural? [Storyteller] He shakes his head, disturbed [Storyteller] "anathema. ancient rulers of the city.” * Tabius barely contains himself from cursing as profusely as Vanal normal does. * Tei move to inspect the mural more carefully [looking for any indication of Identity or caste] * Tabius looks at Cicada and then points to the two and then to the Mural. [Tala] "I may know something of what has happened." [Storyteller] There is no sign of caste marks on the murals [Storyteller] the rest of the mural is highly abstract, having more to do with crystal and fire than anything else [Cicada] [to Tabius] Yes, my lord, I see the similarity... [Storyteller] [I'm not going to NPC Vanal] * Tabius turns the sheet over and copies down Old Realm dialect. [Cicada] But the mural is very old is it not...? [Tala] "When the Dragons freed Creation from the tyranny of the Anathema, the one who ruled this land was taken and his soul and that of his wife were imprisoned." [Tabius] [*Vanal is of course organizing the defensive positions of the troops [Storyteller] [of course] [Storyteller] [but he's seen it, just so you know, and is outside with his men] [Cicada] [to Tala] And so they have freed themselves? [Tabius] "Tala, take not of this gent with the 3 swords and this lass here. What make you of this? [Storyteller] it's a linguistics + awareness roll in order to do it correctly. [Tala] "There is a prophesy of their return." [Tala] "The Order bargained with local spirits in order to insure that the prisons would not be disturbed." [Storyteller] linguistics + perception, sorry [Tabius] 'It seems to have been disturbed, if I might state the obvious. [Tabius] !ex 11 [Storyteller] Tabius, 7, 10, 6, 9, 7, 5, 8, 4, 9, 2, 3, Successes : 7 [Storyteller] Cicada? [Cicada] Should I roll too? [Storyteller] you're helping. [Cicada] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Cicada, 1, 7, 9, 2, 3, Successes : 2 [Tala] "What I can recall of the prophesy is that they would free themselves and punish their people for what was done to them" * Tabius with a harsh tone of sarcasm, "Wonderful." * Tala closes here eyes for a second, returning her sight to the material world. [Tala] !ex 5 [willpower] [Storyteller] Tala, 4, 10, 7, 7, 8, Successes : 5 [Storyteller] The prefect swallows and walks towards the stairwell, looking down [Tabius] [*Nice*] [Tala] [*dance*] [Tei] "what's below?" [Storyteller] Tala has no trouble with the problems of this world * Cicada stops her scribbling for a second and look around for Tei. [Storyteller] He shakes his head [Storyteller] "It used to glow down there" * Tala sighs sadly. [Tala] "Glow?" [Storyteller] "We were never allowed to actually go beneath the hill..." [Storyteller] "A strange green light. You could see it at night, if you let your eyes acclimate to the darkness [Tala] "Beneath the hill is where the prison of jade was said to be kept." [Tei] to Tala "Anathema tomb, I suppose?" [Cicada] My lord prefect, please let me descend first. [Storyteller] The prefect looks at Cicada * Tala nods [Storyteller] "I don't know if it is safe." [Tei] "No I must insist here, I and Tala descend first." [Tabius] "It seems that a group of bandits came here to loot the place or something similar. Decided that the old monk just didn't have enough and went to ransack the place, found a prison made of jade and decided they wanted it. [Storyteller] He does not allow Cicada enter * Tala nods in agreement with Tei [Cicada] My lord prefect you should not endanger your esteemed person. [Tei] "If my fears are confirmed, we are all in a great deal of danger already." [Tala] "We will tell you what we find. If it is safe you may follow us." [Storyteller] The prefect looks like he has no intention of going down there [Storyteller] He moves away from the stairwell [Tei] to Tala "then shall we? * Tala nods * Cicada nods. * Tala begins slowly down the steps * Tei draws his blades and follows * Cicada looks to her lord for permission to descend. [Storyteller] Tala and Tei: it is completely dark, you can see no light * Tabius nods. [Storyteller] Tala: your anima glows, but it is not glowing enough * Tei spends a mote of periph to cause anima to glow [Tei] maybe that'll help [Storyteller] You now have sufficient light to see [Storyteller] The stairwell travels some dozens of feet downwards through solid rock [Storyteller] It seems to bottom out in some kind of cavern * Tala looks behind and up the stairs. "Remain outside until we have investigated. This is still a temple of the Order." * Tala moves cautiously, donning her right glove as she descends the stairs. * Tei is carefully scanning the gloom for an ambush or some such [Cicada] [to the prefect] Lord prefect, forgive my intrusion, but what is on the top floor? [Storyteller] The prefect says "The monks living quarters. He was an artist as well, I believe, so his gallery. He preferred them to remain undiscovered [Storyteller] Tala and Tei: Per + Awe [Tei] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tei, 7, 5, 10, 9, 5, Successes : 4 [Tala] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tala, 9, 1, 2, 10, 5, Successes : 3 [Storyteller] As you descend the stairway, it seems that the cavern's bottom is made of dirt. You see no movement [Storyteller] The prefect, watching the two go down, says "Some of his works might be seen in the adjoining rooms" [Tala] [no sign of tracks in the dirt?] [Tala] !ex 5 [per + investigation] [Storyteller] Tala, 9, 9, 10, 7, 3, Successes : 5 [Storyteller] not really. There are, of course, thousands of footprints, but many of them are very old [Tala] [anything else 5 successes would pick up?] [Storyteller] As you descend the stairway farther you find dents and cuts in the stairwell and the planks themselves [Tei] [anything written on these walls?] [Storyteller] no [Tala] [fresh dents and cuts?] [Storyteller] I hate cliffhangers but I’ve got to go soon [Storyteller] yes they are very fresh. [Cicada] [[I love cliffhangers, and I have got to go soon...]] [Storyteller] heh [Storyteller] alright I’ve got to go pick up my sister [Storyteller] so if it's all okay... cliffhanger mode = on [Tabius] Cool. [GoldenH] of course, 5 xp to you all. [GoldenH] hope you Immaculates are getting a bit more play [Hikari] It is okay to let a guy wait, but not for toooooooo long. [GoldenH] in any case, if you'll be so kind as to drop me a note via the exaltedb or private mail [Werlynn] So I haven't gotten any training time in yet? [manxcat] or I [GoldenH] not really [manxcat] ? [GoldenH] but you might spend some time tonight [GoldenH] you're exalted, you only need 4-6 hours of sleep ;] [GoldenH] Anyhow [Werlynn] Aren't we frozen mid-scene? [GoldenH] yes [GoldenH] but I count end things as downtime [GoldenH] so you can busy skills with no training time [GoldenH] sound fair? [manxcat] cool [GoldenH] anyhow, love to hear what you have to think so I’ll just leave the computer on while I go get my sister [maybe 30-60 minutes] [GoldenH] don't bother waiting up ;] [Hikari] I will be off then. See you all later. [manxcat] l8r [GoldenH|pickup] l8r [Thanos] I am going to my parents place to help clean up, will be back later. [Hikari] And wish me luck. he, he. [manxcat] good luck [Thanos] Luck Hikari [Werlynn] Good night [GoldenH|pickup] luck? heh for you [GoldenH|pickup] lucky day to you all [GoldenH|pickup] now where's my wallet [Werlynn] Good luck [GoldenH|pickup] there it is [GoldenH|pickup] and i'm gone [Werlynn] Gnight [manxcat] night all, it's been fun [Werlynn] if I spend 1 more mote of essence I'll start hurting things [Thanos] Hrmmm looks like the party is all cleaned up already. I will have to help with normal chores later on then :-]...... [Thanos] I enjoyed the evening :-] the plot seems to be moving along well with just enough suspense, speculation, and action. [GoldenH|pickup] cool thx' |