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GoldenH's IRC Campaignthe log: game 4* Tabius watches as the two IO's go down the stair way into thelightly glowing darkness. [Storyteller] okay [Storyteller] ya'll ready? * Cicada stare warily after them as well. [Vanal] [Stone Cold] Aw hell yeah * Storyteller bites on his cigar and picks up his notes [Storyteller] alright [Cicada] [[quite ready]] [Storyteller] when we left off last week, Tala and Tei were descending the stairwell into the caverns in the temple [Vanal] "I hate this place." [Storyteller] Tabius and Cicada were transcribing the bloodied walls * Tabius nods. [Vanal] Maris and Vanal were milling around, looking important, I assume ? * Maris isn't there [Vanal] oh yes, that's right [Storyteller] By this time, Tabius probably recognized that it's Old Realm, just in really bad handwriting [Storyteller] Maris is getting laid, but you don't know that yet * Tabius works his best at taking down the horribly scrawled work. [Vanal] I...see [Storyteller] Vanal you were out with your troops [Vanal] remind me to give his hedonistic Cynis ass a good DI-style chewing out * Vanal nods [Storyteller] They're pretty spooked [Storyteller] alright then [Storyteller] and *go* [Tabius] [ground floor] It does look like old realm, but as if a child had written it, while in a cart, on a ill kept road. * Cicada does not understand the characters, so she just copy them directly... [Storyteller] [stairwell] you descend slowly and carefully into the cavern. It is dark, and you can barely see. Your anima is still glowing brightly, but you can't count on it for long. The caverns seem devoid of life. The only thing of note is the huge hole in the middle of the cavern, like somebody lit off a stack of dynamite [Vanal] "Yarna, Gehn, take your fangs and cover the Prefect. Karna take your scale and set up a watch. If it approaches, I want to know about it. The rest of you, check out the area. It's not pleasant, but I want to know what the HELL happened here." [Storyteller] They nod, salute, and take up the appropriate positions. [Cicada] [whispering to Tabius] My lord, should we not be ready to assist the two monks below if they run into trouble? This may be an Immaculate temple, but I think the Dragons would prefer no more dead Immaculates... [Tala] [if my anima drops to stage 1, I spend 1 mote to bring it back to stage 2] [Storyteller] The Prefects wife is looking out over the forest surrounding the temple, sword drawn [Storyteller] [okay] [Tala] [just tell me when so I can mark it spend] * Vanal scowls and looks over the temple...."Whoever did this is going to fucking pay." [Tabius] [in a whisper back to Sable] If one survives the school of hard knocks one will either become humble and ask for help or proud and think oneself able to take on anything. [Storyteller] [don't worry about it yet] * Vanal heads into the temple, to catch up with his fellow dragon-bloods [Cicada] [to Tabius] Yes my lord, I understand... * Tabius herms as he finishes his work. [Storyteller] Vanal: when you enter the room.. well did you see me describe it? [Vanal] I read the log * Tala slowly approaches the hole [Storyteller] alright [Tala] [we said don't follow us] [Tei] [stairwell] "Are you in tune with the spirits sister?" [Cicada] [I know] [Vanal] [Hey, you're monks, who the HEL EVER listens to a Monk ?] [Storyteller] [stairwell == cavern you have just bottomed out] [Tala] [i forget if I turned off that charm] [Storyteller] [nah] [Storyteller] There doesn't seem to be any spirits around the hole * Tala nods * Vanal blanches at the room [Tala] [cave] "I see no spirits here." [Storyteller] The hole extends several feet down, into what seems to be another smaller chamber. Your light barely shines down the hole enough, but it seems as if it's had a huge explosion [Vanal] [mutter]"I'm going to rip their fucking heads off myself." [Storyteller] [you know, like a nuclear crater] * Tei moves over to look down as well [Tabius] "such language in a temple Vanal.....please." [Vanal] "I'm sorry, but after what transpired here, I doubt the Dragons would mind overmuch." * Cicada while working on the scribbling, tries to remain close to the stairwell down. [Tala] [spend 1 mote to bring my anima to Stage 3 for more light] [Storyteller] Your anima flares. Tei, you feel... quite uncomfortable standing around Tala [Storyteller] There's nothing down there but dirt [Storyteller] it's about 20' deep [Tala] [stay 3' away] [Storyteller] some of the dirt seems glazed * Tala is surrounded by a blue-green aura a that ripples softly like the surface of the ocean. * Tei moves to a comfortable distance * Vanal kneels to examine the poor guy with the swords in him, looking for further clues [Tei] [cave] "we need to get down there, somehow." [Tala] [how hard does it look like it would be to climb?] [Storyteller] [You could just jump in, but you'll need a rope or some kind of jumpin' charm to get out] [Tei] [cave] "I think it's safe to bring the others down now." * Tala nods * Tei heads back up the stairs * Tala moves to the stairwell, * Tala returns her sight to the material world [charm off now] [Storyteller] Vanal: As I said before, the guy with the swords in him is the guy in the mural on the wall [Vanal] I know THAT [Storyteller] there really isn't much to be said. He doesn't seem hurt except for the swords [Vanal] more specifically, I'm trying to see if the swords are any specific swords of note... [Vanal] [been reading a few detective stories, so forgive me] [Storyteller] nope, just good 'ol fashioned straight swords, normal issue for guards around here [Storyteller] [heh that's okay] [Storyteller] [you got investigation?] * Vanal scowls [Vanal] [1] * Tala emerges from the stairwell, shaking her head, her anima occasionally rippling lightly, but otherwise calm [Storyteller] [well you can roll it] [Vanal] "It seems wrong to just leave him here with these swords in him." * Tei emerges from a safe distance behind her [Vanal] !ex 4 [Storyteller] Vanal, 10, 7, 9, 4, Successes : 4 [Vanal] ...boo-yaka [Tala] "Just a hole. Something powerful exploded." [Vanal] "could they have used firedust ?" [Storyteller] Vanal: Yea, the swords are the same exact swords that the Prefects guards use.. and seeing as three of the prefects men lying dead on the temple floor don't have swords near them, you get two and two together [Tei] "Or someone blasted there way out. There seems to be another chamber below." * Tabius tries after writing it all down to get a good idea about what the message on the wall said. [Tala] [if I rolled Investig, might i be able to tell if Firedust was even a possibility?] * Storyteller ponders [Storyteller] [yes you would] [Tala] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tala, 6, 10, 8, 6, 6, Successes : 3 [Storyteller] There is not a hint of firedust in the air. But, you do find a few tiny crystal shards in the floor. They seem to be melting like ice, although you can't actually see it melt [Tei] "my guess is whatever left down there wouldn’t have needed firedust." [Tala] "I will need help getting out of the hole if I can get down." * Tala shakes her head. I have seen firedust used. This was not firedust. The hole was easily 20' deep [Storyteller] Tabius: it'll take you about an hour to finish the transcription. You're about 5 minutes in * Vanal scratches goatee * Tala turns to go back down the stairwell * Cicada looks at the stair up to the living quarters. * Tala looks around to see if any of the crystal shards were propelled out of the hole * Tabius continues working away doing the scholarly thing. [Storyteller] Tala: there is all kinds of cuts and holes in the ceiling above the hole, but you really don't find anything. [Vanal] "Well, my men have secured the area. I doubt the bandits will have enough manpower to take this place from a couple of scales of heavy infantry. We gonna root around here some more ?" [Cicada] [to Tabius] My lord I am of little use here. And nobody has checked the upper story... [Tabius] [to Cicada], Please do so. [Cicada] [to Tabius] Yes, my lord. [Vanal] [to the duo] I'm going up there, too. [Storyteller] [I forgetting anything?] [Tabius] [to Vanal] Fortunately there seems to be no end to the clues here as to what Might have happened here. I have the better part of an hour left transcribing this. * Cicada goes up the stair, hand ready on her chakram on the small of her back. [Vanal] [to Tabius] Keep at it, bookworm, I'm gonna root around [Storyteller] The Prefects wife comes in, seeming less effected by the stench than her husband whom walks back outside with her. Having a small conversation, just out of earshot * Vanal follows Cicada, hand on his daikalive's pommel [Storyteller] Cicada: You go upstairs, and find a large room, open to the north. A wide view of the land can be seen out this opening - not a window, just open - but the panorama isn't very impressive [Cicada] [would one be able to see the path of the sun from the window?] [Storyteller] no [Storyteller] The walls are covered with paintings of this view, ranging through all the seasons * Tala stands at the edge of the hole patiently. [Tei] "Can anyone get me some rope?" [Storyteller] other than that, it is hardly decorated at all, a mat in the corner, that's about it [Storyteller] The front door, btw, with the sunburst above it opens to the east. [Storyteller] Vanal comes up right behind you [Cicada] [top floor] [To Vanal] Sir Cathak, pardon me my assumption, but we should probably search this place for clues too. [Vanal] "[to cicada] "Of course. I doubt we'll find much, though." * Cicada tries to find a lamp and light it. * Vanal commences with the rummaging [Storyteller] There are already-lit lamps hanging from the walls on this floor and the main floor giving off plenty of light * Cicada examines the paintings. [Storyteller] The rummaging goes through very quickly, and nothing is found besides painting supplies and a rather large and old copy of the immaculate texts [Storyteller] there is only the one room * Vanal shrugs [Vanal] "Well, at least he wasn't a lip-service monk." * Tei goes off looking for rope * Vanal sighs * Tala sits down quietly, hand on her second hearthstone [Storyteller] The paintings are very well done * Vanal examines the paintings closer [Storyteller] Tei: You find rope quickly, as soon as you go outside and yell to the prefects guards they bring you a coil * Tei takes rope down to Tala [Cicada] [is there any development in the paintings, that could give clues to the artists state of mind or such?] [Storyteller] Vanal: They are really just paintings. very well done paintings, but still paintings [Storyteller] Nah, they're just exquisitely well done at regular intervals so that he's got a few complete cycles already. There is an unfinished painting standing in front of the open section, but that doesn't look very interesting yet. * Vanal nods * Tala stands and nods to Tei, then dons her claws and begins sliding down the side, using the claws to slow here descent [Vanal] "There doesn't seem to be anything up here" * Vanal quickly leafs through the immaculate text [Storyteller] Good 'ol immaculate text in High Realm, looks like your good 'ol copy you've got at home, or would have at home, if you were an immaculate monk. [Tala] [looking for porn?] [Storyteller] [heh of course there's porn in there ;] but nothing unexpected] * Tala looks around the crater and collects some of the crystal she saw earlier, and investigates more closely [Tala] !ex 5 [per +inv] [Storyteller] Tala, 3, 10, 3, 8, 1, Successes : 3 * Vanal sets the book down [Storyteller] The crystal shards are rather unexciting, and you don't find anything else of note [Vanal] "Okay, there's DEFINETLY nothing up here. Let's head down." [Cicada] [top floor] [to Vanal] Yes, sir Cathak. * Vanal hustles down the stairs [Storyteller] You get back downstairs [Storyteller] Tabius: You realize that the text is repeated several times, so it's only going to take you 5 more minutes if you only want to copy it down once * Cicada goes downstairs and moves close to the prefect and his wife, kneeling on one knee a meter or two away from them. [Storyteller] They notice you and stop talking about whatever it was. It was getting pretty heated though. [Cicada] [trying to look inconspicuous, as if she was just watching the entrance.] [Storyteller] The prefect looks inside, shudders, and walks over [Storyteller] "Anything?" * Tabius continues being a book worm, as it were. [Storyteller] His wife follows behind, having finally resheathed her sword [Cicada] My lord Prefect, nothing of any help yet... [Tei] [is Tala at the bottom of the shaft yet?] [Storyteller] Alright [Tala] [thought I was there] [Cicada] [to prefect] But rest assured, lord prefect, that my lord will get to the bottom of this. [Storyteller] Tala reaches the bottom of the shaft and finds a second small cavern, mostly filled with dirt. You could rummage through it if you wish, but there isn't anything really of note * Vanal leans against a wall * Cicada is by the way mostly there to guard the Prefect and his wife. But there is no need for them to know that. [Vanal] "Any luck there, Tab ?" * Tala does anyway [Storyteller] The prefect nods sadly, and his wife sighs, putting his hand on his shoulder. They exchange a glance and he shakes his head sadly. [Storyteller] Tabius finally finishes one copy of the transcription [Storyteller] Cicada: They don't seem to notice you following them, you see them get into a discussion with the captain of the guards, who fought in the arena earlier [Tabius] "It seems like a more personal and detailed version of the prophecy where the Anathema return. * Cicada study the Captain closer. [Storyteller] He seems kinda stiff, but not wounded. Another man stands close by. By the notches in his armor, he's the captain's student. [Vanal] [to Tabius] "Elaborate" * Tala exits the small cavern after searching it and looks up at Tei, shaking her head [Storyteller] [he really can't] [Storyteller] [not yet, anyway] [Tabius] [ :-l ] * Vanal frowns and looks for something to kick [Tabius] Well I can tell you this after a very quick scan, the man with the 3 swords, with the face from the mural, he is more than likely the one that wrote it, while he was bleeding to death from the handwriting. [Storyteller] [It doesn't talk about his death, but it looks like he finished before he died] * Tei braces himself for Tala's climb back up * Tala waits at the bottom of the hole. [Vanal] "Lovely." * Tei throws down rope * Tala begins climbing up [Tabius] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tabius, 2, 7, 7, 7, 2, Successes : 3 * Tala reaches the top and removes her claws, cleaning the dirt off them and then puts them away and brushes her clothes off a little. [Tei] "anything?" * Tala shakes her head. * Vanal paces around, nervously twirling his daiklaive around [Tala] "No. I discovered a smaller cavern but it was empty." * Tala holds up the pieces of crystal she collected. [Storyteller] you notice that the pieces of crystal have shrunk imperceptibly [Tei] "Perhaps we should let the sorcerer have a look, before they melt away." * Tala nods * Tei moves back up the staircase * Tala follows Tei up the stairs. [Storyteller] Tala and Tei return [Storyteller] Everyone = in main room, except for Cicada, outside with the prefect * Tabius looks to Tala and Tei, "Anything interesting?" * Tala holds up the crystals [Tala] "These were in the hole." * Tabius looks at the crystals. [Tabius] !ex 11 [Storyteller] Tabius, 5, 2, 7, 2, 2, 4, 5, 4, 6, 7, 5, Successes : 2 [Tala] "It was very large, twenty feet deep. At the bottom I found a smaller cave but nothing of interest there." * Tabius upon identifying them as magical in some way Tabius takes one and puts it up to the torch light for a much closer inspection. [Vanal] "There's nothing upstairs. Just some paintings, a window to the north, a mat, and an immaculate text." [Tabius] !ex 11 [Storyteller] Tabius, 9, 4, 9, 3, 9, 3, 10, 2, 3, 6, 4, Successes : 5 [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 7, 4, 2, 3, 6, Successes : 1 [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 2, 9, 10, 5, 6, Successes : 3 [Tabius] 'Tala, how big was the chamber below? * Tala describes the chamber * Tala goes upstairs and retrieves the Text, and looks around at the paintings. [Tabius] It sounds as if they were trapped in a Stasis spell of some kind. This crystal was the material that encased them. [Storyteller] It was a smaller chamber that was mostly caved in, dug out of the earth but otherwise unremarkable * Tala returns downstairs. [Tabius] I am amazed that they were able to break out of it, if the bandits didn't help them that is. [Tala] "Brother Tei, we cannot let our Brother's body lay out in such a manner. We must give him the proper funerary rights. [Tala] " [Tei] "Agreed sister, let us do so" * Tabius privately notes that only the empress and a very few others could even cast that powerful of a spell. To break out of it from the inside would be a feat of monumental strength and willpower. [Vanal] "So, if the bandits didn't break out...we've got something immensely powerful on our hands ? [Storyteller] Prefect Tatatshwhan, and his wife-to-be Lady Malena return inside. Tatatshwhan announces "I'll have this temple cleaned.. and hopefully.. we can avoid any further problems." [Tabius] something immensely Dead I would have to say. * Tala goes outside the temple and asks the guards to collect wood for a pyre. [Vanal] "Something is VERY fishy about all this." [Storyteller] The prefect orders the people to help Tala do so, although the wood will be wet and unfit for burning. And it's about to start raining again. [Tala] After she talks to the guards and they begin collecting, Tala goes to speak with the prefect * Tei follows and watches the pyre being assembled [Tala] "Please collect our Brother's remains so that they can be properly taken care of once the rain passes." [Storyteller] The prefect bows "of course" [Tala] [that was to the guards instead, i didn't realize the wood was wet, forgot] [Tala] to the prefect she asks "I would like to have our Brother's artwork brought to another temple for our brethren to care for." [Storyteller] The prefect bows "of course" [Vanal] "I can't help but feel we're missing something." [Storyteller] The prefect gives the orders to a his men. They enter the temple and they start cleaning and repairing it while a few scribes start making detailed notes of just about everything * Tabius scans the rest of the witting on the wall, making sure that the other versions do not contain some small discrepancy that might be exploited. [Storyteller] The prefect returns and says to you "I do not know the proper channels to ask this, but, we will need another of the order here, correct?" [Storyteller] you : Tala [Storyteller] Tabius : you don't find anything else of note [Storyteller] The prefect's wife mounts her house * Tala 's anima has settled to a soft luminescent [sp?] [Storyteller] yeap [Storyteller] cripey I am super-typo man. The prefects wife mounts her horse. * Vanal frowns [Vanal] ...mounting a house ? * Tala nods to the Prefect. [Storyteller] "My servants will take care of everything else here... unless there's something else we need to do here?" [Vanal] [Yeah, that prefect's wife is so big, when she sits around the house, she really sits AROUND the house] * Vanal shrugs * Tabius looks to Cicada and then goes outside to mount up, after putting the papers into the pouch and then into the saddle bags. [Vanal] "I know little about investigations." [Tala] "When we return to the city I can prepare a message to send to someone I know." * Cicada mounts, and prepare to ride. [Storyteller] "Shall I have the writings preserved?" [Tala] With her anima having subsided to a less harmful level, Tala mounts her horse. * Tala looks to brother Tei. [Tabius] "Negative, please wash the blood away and make the temple clean again. * Tala frowns [Storyteller] the prefect nods, and as the rest of you mounts your horses a small contingent of guards prepare to ride off with you. [Tala] "I do not believe it matters. It is no longer a temple. It has been violated and tainted." [Storyteller] Vanal do you want your troops coming back with you? [Storyteller] The prefect nods sadly [Storyteller] "A new one then? I am certain the expense can be spared" [Vanal] if there's enough city guards to cover the place [Tei] [hows the pyre coming] [Storyteller] alright [Tala] [told them to collect the body instead] * Vanal pulls on his cloak as he exits the temple [Tala] [since we can't make a proper one,] [Tei] [I see] [Storyteller] the pyre burns solemnly in the night, for night has fallen now. The bodies of the dead are being burned, and as you ride, returning to the city of Malkor's guard, you come with what remains of the poor immaculate monk's body in tow [Tala] [afk, need a drink] [Storyteller] Anything while you return to the city? * Vanal shrugs * Cicada spends the time looking for ambushes and like, staying close to the prefect and his wife. * Tabius lets his mind wonder enjoying the smell of the rain. * Tala takes out her claws and finishes cleaning them and keeps her hands on/near the hearthstone * Tei walks before the monks body, hands folded in his sleeves * Vanal is running through various possibilities both possible & ludicrously far-fetched, with his Second-in-command [Storyteller] Your return to the city is rather un-heralded. [Storyteller] The prefect invites you all to return to his party * Vanal makes sure to get a status report form the men he left back in the city [Tala] [back] [Storyteller] The prefect and his wife return to the party, after thanking you all again, and his men return to their posts * Maris is sitting on a couch talking with a couple of attractive women as the prefect come back in the party. * Tabius tells his men to go back to their normal routine after they deliver his saddle bag to his rooms. He then joins the Prefect again at the part. * Vanal heads off to get cleaned up and in proper clothing again [Vanal] [and of course, orders his men to return to whatever it was they were doing] [Storyteller] Vanal: nothing exciting happened while you were gone [Tala] [how long is the ride?] [Storyteller] that was an hour and a half ride [Storyteller] not quite as neckbreaking as on the way there * Maris lounges smoking qat and a sipping wine but his head turns to the entrance as the Prefect comes in and raises a hand in greeting. * Tabius stays at the party for about half an hour before heading off to another engagement. [Storyteller] The party has moved into a more personal setting. People are dancing with pairs in the ballroom [Storyteller] The bards are playing quiet, slow music * Vanal smiles and decides to schmooze some more * Cicada makes sure to groom her lord to look perfect for the "another engagement". [Tala] "Brother Tei, do you have a robe in which we could prepare our deceased Brother's remains in?" * Vanal also feels a tremendous urge to get plastered and try to wipe away the memory of what he just got back from [Tei] "Unfortunately I carry no clothing with me save my dress robes, I suppose I could change into it and let him hve what i've got on" [Tala] "Your dress robe might be more appropriate I suppose." * Maris gets up and goes over to Vanal after excusing himself, "Vanal it is a pleasure to se you again." * Vanal nods "Likewise." [Storyteller] [party] You all manage to get dance partners of similar status.. apparently the peasantry has turned in for the night, leaving dynasts and wealthy patricioners to have the floor [Tei] "Maybe, but I hate to dishonor the prefect by performing the ceremony in this" [Storyteller] [party] The dress fits [Maris] "You went out with the Prefect on his Fact finding mission?" [Vanal] "Yes. It...wasn't pleasant." * Tabius wonders at whom would think they were the status of a Sorcerer from House Cathak. [Maris] "How so? More bandit trouble?" [Storyteller] [io] the body has been brought to a quiet room in the back of the manor, and this is where you are currently speaking. Honestly, the monk looks waay to beat up to ever be made presentable, but the robes were nice. [Storyteller] [io] He had robes of his own there, if you wanted to pick them up [Vanal] "Something like that. they hit the temple. The resident priest was well....it's not the type of corpse one sees on the battlefield." [Maris] "That's too bad. Did they loot the temple?" [Storyteller] Vanal and Maris talk in the background. The song changes, and so do partners. What is everyone doing? * Maris talks with Vanal curious of what went on [Vanal] "That's the odd part. there was a big hole in the sub-level, but there seemed to be nothing of any value to steal." [Tei] io] "better I think to burn the body quickly as is. Than waiting around, for him to decay further * Tabius is still wondering who would partner him for a dance? [Tei] if he is worthy of the dragons they will accept him no matter what he is wearing * Maris eyebrows raise, "Wasn't there supposed to be some Anathema sealed in that temple?" [Storyteller] Tabius: your next partner seems to be the woman whose invitation you turned down earlier [Tala] "I thought that we might find drier wood here with which we could prepare a proper funeral pyre for him." * Vanal nods [Vanal] "I've got a bad feeling about it." * Cicada gives a sigh of relief that she made her lord look his best. [Tei] io] "must be some fire wood somewhere" [Maris] "Tell me everything that was there. Maybe another head will help you unravel the mystery. [Maris] [[if you agree could we just say you tell me since I already know what happened]] * Vanal explains * Tala prepares a message for one of the Prefect's messengers to take to another temple [a specific one she knows of through her Connections] * Tei [io] pops his head out and motions over the nearest servant [Storyteller] A servant has been following you around since you returned, attending to your needs. "Sirs, if I may. There are large stores of wood around the city if you need any?" [Storyteller] [io] * Maris looks fairly phased at the mention of the two corpses that look just like the murals. [Maris] "Seems a bit too coincidental for them to be bandits." [Tei] [io] "Yes. We need enough for a funeral pyre, and preferably a torch to light it with." * Tala takes out the priest's Text and kneels before the body, reading the preparatory prayers. [Vanal] "Yeah. For all we know, though, it could've been ANOTHER anathema. Hell, for all we know, it could've been the Monk himself." [Vanal] "Though I dislike the idea of TWO anathema running around." [Maris] "Funny that there would guard swords in the males body. [Maris] "Wouldn't the bandits have taken care of the guards before going downstairs?" [Maris] [[there were even]] * Tabius [on the dance floor] Ah, good to see you. Sorry I could not join you for dinner, the prefect had need of me and I could not refuse the man on his wedding day. [Vanal] "The guards were dead." * Vanal sighs [Maris] "Yes but how did there swords end up in the male's body if they were already dead?" [Vanal] "...the bandits picked up the guards swords, and stabbed the Monk." [Vanal] "or whomever." [Vanal] "maybe their swords got broken, maybe they had to replicate the image in the mural to do whatever they were doing. " [Vanal] "We don't know. That's the problem." * Vanal sighs [Maris] "The Upstairs. Was it rifled through?" [Storyteller] [tabius] Juniper purses her lips in a smile "Oh don't worry, I understand completely." she laughs, and scores a drink from a passing tray "Perhaps you can make it up to me?" * Cicada leaves to party at her lord's request to prepare the mansion for an extra guest. [Maris] "Because I'm not sure if there even were any bandits." [Vanal] "Nope, it seemed intact." [Maris] "From your description. * Vanal shrugs [Maris] "The bandits we saw took everything they could carry off." [Maris] "I think they would have taken the paintings you mentioned [Vanal] "...good point." * Vanal takes a gulp of his wine [Maris] "I'd love to get the exact wording on the wall. It might explain a bit better." [Vanal] "You'll have to talk to Tabius about that." * Tei [io] is assuming that the pyre is being assembled [Storyteller] [at the Cathak mansion] you manage to get some servants to help you clean a room near Tabius' suite [Maris] "And my guess would be as improbable as it seems that the two anathema escaped there prison and were killed trying to escape the tomb." [Storyteller] [io] Of course, the servant in your presence will have it made as soon as you give the word * Vanal nods [Tabius] [to Juniper] perhaps later this evening after some more dancing we could get a midnight snack? [Maris] "Though from what I've heard of the anathema I don't see how the 8 guards and the priest stopped them." * Cicada prepare a light snack as well as the room. Cicada takes great pride in working personally for her lord... * Tala finishes the prayers [Tei] [io] then make it so [Vanal] "You're assuming the anathema WERE stopped." [Maris] "They're bodies were there weren't they?" [Maris] "Maybe they were weakened by whatever it was they were imprisoned in. The spell you said Tabius mentioned." [Storyteller] [Tabius] Juniper takes a sip of wine and smiles brilliantly. "Of course," her hair sways as she pulls you towards a nearby chair "I intend to take full advantage of your hospitality" [Vanal] "bodies that looked like the faces on the murals were there, NEVER trust stuff like that." * Maris nods [Maris] "That makes sense. And all and all it seems quite a depressing event" [Vanal] "It is. I need wine, and pleasure to drown out the images." [Tei] [IO] "Shall we attend to our brother then" [Maris] "I trust the Order will deal with it properly though.' * Tabius lets himself be pulled into the chair smiling, almost like a school boy. [Vanal] "they will, they're the order. They'll do ...a sufficient job." * Maris nods, "Sounds like a plan." [Storyteller] [io] The pyre is prepared quickly in a pavilion outside. It is raining heavily at the time, however, so it would probably be a bad time. [Vanal] "There are many lovely ladies here tonight, even if they are mortal...it's wasteful to stand around talking about such dire matters." * Maris reaches into his jacket and pulls out a pouch of something or the other and hands it to Vanal, "Start with this. I'd suggest more but I wouldn't want you to embarrass yourself in the ballroom." [Storyteller] [Tabius] "So tell me, what brings you to [rivendell, er, i mean] Malkor's Guard?" * Vanal looks at the stuff [Vanal] "I'm sorry, but I don't indulge in that." * Maris smiles, "Suit yourself." [Vanal] "Dulls the mind." * Vanal smiles [Tei] [io] Then I suppose Tei returns to the party. leaving the body locked in the room * Maris pockets it. [Storyteller] [io] ko [Tabius] [in the chair] the wedding of a new prefect that looks to House Cathak, of course. * Vanal chuckles "You haven't changed a bit." [Maris] "No I don't suppose I have." * Maris says with a smile. [Tei] [io] "we can do little now sister shall we return to the others?" * Tala looks for the Prefect, a sealed message in her hands [Maris] "Haven't had much chance I suppose." [Vanal] [To Maris] "I've been meaning to ask you, have you ever met my fiancée, Cynis Ari...se's mentioned a Maris a few times, but I'm not sure if it's you." [Cicada] [brb, gotta go "wash my hands"] * Tei follows Tala [Maris] "Though I dare say I hope to join the Legions one of these days." * Maris stops to think for a moment * Vanal nods [Storyteller] [Tabius] "Of course," she smiles, and takes another sip of the wine. She then puts it down on the table. "Who was your tutor at Heptagram?" [Storyteller] [IO] The prefect is dancing with his wife to your left * Tala leaves them and waits elsewhere until the Prefect is not occupied. * Tabius names several tutors for Lady Juniper at the Heptagram, having studied under many. [Maris] "I know her passingly. We haven't had much of a chance to talk though." [Storyteller] [tabius] she laughs, recognizing a few of them, and makes some appropriate jokes, and tells you about the one who turned most of her class into goats.. accidentally of course [Cicada] [back] * Vanal nods "Just curious. I must commend your house though...no-one is better after a long campaign than a Cynis wife." [Storyteller] [wb] * Maris surveys the crowd for a dancing partner. [Storyteller] [IO] The prefect and his wife don't look like they're going to stop anytime soon * Vanal smiles and starts looking around for a possible partner * Maris nods, "So most of my fellow Cynis tell me." * Maris says with chuckle * Vanal raises an eyebrow [Storyteller] Maris: There are a number of partners. Roll Socialize + Wits to get a good one ;] * Vanal hunts for a partner, too [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 2, 4, 6, 6, 6, Successes : 0 [Tabius] [Chair] "Of course there was Dyranik during my time, but he turned all the females in the class in to birds with long legs and necks that could not fly" laughs lightly and letting the stress of the evening previous seep out. [Storyteller] Maris: Nobody lookin' good right now [Vanal] !ex 6 [Storyteller] Vanal, 10, 5, 5, 4, 6, 7, Successes : 3 [Cicada] [feels sorry for Maris] [Vanal] [Shot down in a flaming wreck ! *g*] [Storyteller] Vanal: There are a couple dynasts who don't have a partner yet. * Vanal smiles "Sorry my friend, but I've got a long night, and many women to court." [Cicada] [sad to see a fine young man cut down in his prime...] * Maris gets a refill on his glass and mills the room searching for an partner. [Maris] [[I wasn't shot down. I just couldn't find one]] * Vanal claps Maris on the shoulder and scoots off * Maris nods to Vanal [Vanal] [[I know, just bugging you]] [Storyteller] [remember you can always roll again at one higher difficulty ;] [Tabius] [[Speck in your eye, yeah that’s it]] [Cicada] [[me too]] [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 7, 5, 2, 1, 6, Successes : 1 * Maris is not liking the pickings apparently [Vanal] [So as a result, he gets to have a dance with Whoopee Goldberg] [Tabius] [[once you have had the best, none of the others can pass the test]] [Storyteller] nah. you can get it on with a peasant though * Maris won't waste his time with one and goes to sit down and watch for a bit smoking some qat. * Vanal chats casually with the dynast * Tei watches several dancing couples swerve noticeably to avoid him [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 5, 6, 4, 2, 9, Successes : 1 [Storyteller] [Vanal] So you are a warrior? [Storyteller] [Tabius] After a heartwarming session of chatting, Juniper suggests that you come back to her place [Vanal] [To the dynast] Yes, actually. I'm the Talon commander of the 10 Days Talon. [Storyteller] Maris: Dude, you really can get a peasant if you need one [Storyteller] ;] [Tabius] "Well could, but I have made arrangements at my manner for a midnight snack if you would like to stop there first? [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 9, 2, 9, 7, 9, Successes : 4 [Vanal] [Tab's gonna score tonight *g* [this has been your male chauvinist pig announcement for the evening]] * Cicada returns to the party and give Tabius the ok sign that the mansion is prepared. [Maris] [[well at least I got one success that time]] [Vanal] [Must...resists...urge...to make...MST3K...joke] [Storyteller] [tabius] She bats her eyes "Well, I suppose since you've went through the trouble..." [Storyteller] Maris: alright. there's a wealthy patriconer's daughter pulling on your hand [Tala] !ex 5 [just a test roll] [Storyteller] Tala, 3, 4, 3, 8, 5, Successes : 1 [Cicada] [whispering to Tabius] Will my lord be all right on 'his own'? * Maris sighs and puts on a face before going to dance with her [Storyteller] Storyteller, 4, 10, 2, 5, 10, Successes : 4 [Storyteller] !ex 5 [Tala] [eh, I wouldn't have done much better than you if I tried =] ] [Tabius] [whispers back to Sable, "Yes thank you". [Tabius] [to Juniper] It seems that things are prepared, shall we be off?" * Cicada bows deeply to her lord and the Lady Menemon. [Storyteller] [tabius] "of course!" She smiles at cicada, and allows herself to be led away * Vanal finishes telling a joke "so then, the Fair Folk says...but that's not a duck !" [Storyteller] [vabal] lol * Vanal smiles, and his teeth made a visible sparkle and a audible *ping !* [Storyteller] the songs change, so everyone gets a new partner [Storyteller] [vanal] nice meeting you, Cathak Vanal [Vanal] [Dynast] You as well, m'lady [Storyteller] [tala] you notice that the prefect is taking a break * Tala waits elsewhere until the Prefect is not occupied. * Tala approaches the Prefect * Cicada notice Tei in the crowd [he is hanging back as much as she is] * Vanal fetches himself another wine, and another partner [Storyteller] roll for yer partners [Cicada] [I suppose...] [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 5, 1, 9, 10, 9, Successes : 4 * Tabius leads Juniper back to the Cathak manner where things have been prepared, making small talk as they stroll. [Vanal] ex! 6 [Vanal] err [Vanal] !ex 6 [Storyteller] Vanal, 10, 10, 6, 8, 10, 2, Successes : 7 [Maris] [[got to one up me don't you]] [Cicada] [[Vanal gets to dance with the Empress]] [Vanal] [...so, do i seduce the wife right out from under the prefect ?] [Tala] "Lord Prefect, I would like to send this message about what we have seen to one of my brethren at another temple." [Storyteller] Vanal: While the lord prefect is busy refreshing something, you manage to pick up a dance with the Lady Malena [Storyteller] Maris: You move up in the world, getting a dance with Lady V'neef * Vanal smiles widely [Tala] [psht, hands off me] * Cicada approach Tei. [Tala] [is V'neef] [Storyteller] [tala] The prefect raises his eyebrows, and bodes shortly. "I'll have it sent immediately" [Storyteller] [tala, no no Lady V'neef. V'neef , the house founder V'neef] * Maris smiles at the honor, "I thank you for this dance my Lady. * Tala nods. "Thank you." [Tala] [hehehe I know] * Vanal dances and twirls around, enjoying every minute of this, like a little schoolboy [Vanal] [Hey, it's the simple pleasures....] [Storyteller] Vanal: roll Dex + Socialize in order to dance well [Cicada] [to Tei, while avoiding eye-contact] Sir Tei, you appear.... alone.... * Maris does his best to ooze charm [Vanal] !ex 7 [Storyteller] Vanal, 10, 5, 7, 3, 4, 1, 10, Successes : 5 * Vanal oozes more charm by 10 AM than most do before midnight [Storyteller] [Maris] She laughs and says "So tell me, are there any good parties tonight I should be aware of?] [Tei] [cic] "yes well these functions aren't exactly my cup of tea" [Storyteller] Vanal: Yea you're the pimp [Storyteller] [Vanal] Well you are quite the dancer! [Vanal] [Malena] Why thank you...you're very skilled yourself, madam. [Storyteller] [Vanal] Tatatshwhan comes up and taps you on the shoulder, grinning widely [Storyteller] "If I may cut in?" [Cicada] [Tei] I was wondering if dancing with the daughter of mortals was below your exalted station....? * Vanal smiles "By all means, sir." [Storyteller] "thank you" he and his wife continue dancing.. of course not as well as you were * Vanal kisses Malena's hand politely and bows out * Vanal beams and finds a pillar to lean against [Tabius] [[Never ceases to be amazed at the dice machine]] [Vanal] [erk, brb] [Tei] [cic] "Not if the mortal has steel feet, I haven’t danced with anything but my blades for so long." [Cicada] [Tei] I see, you should not let me inconvenience you.... [face reddens] [Maris] "Of course. I'm sure Lady Falen would be delighted to have you join her at the Cynis Houses. Febaris is having a bit lower key party on his Yacht." [Storyteller] The music changes, and something more .. fast .. comes on [Vanal] [back] [Storyteller] [Maris] V'neef smiles and does a quick curtsey "I'll see if I can make it" [Storyteller] okay Vanal wb, and roll to get a new partner [Storyteller] Maris: roll again [Vanal] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Vanal, 2, 9, 7, 10, 4, Successes : 4 * Maris bows much deeper, "Again I thank you for the dance. You are quite an amazing one." [Vanal] and the hits just keep on comin' ! [Cicada] [Tei] I am no dancer myself [lie], but I have worked a little on those steps you taught me all those years back... [Maris] !ex [Storyteller] Maris, 5, Successes : 0 [Storyteller] Vanal: you get another very attractive woman along with you [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 6, 9, 2, 8, 1, Successes : 2 * Vanal is the pimp masta tonight [Vanal] [To partner] Greetings, m'lady [Storyteller] [Maris] V'neef looks around smiling and takes her leave [Tei] [cic] "Well then, maybe you can re-teach them to me." [smiles] [Storyteller] Maris: roll again [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 3, 1, 7, 4, 6, Successes : 1 [Cicada] [Tei] [blushes more] If you would do me the favor... [Storyteller] care for another wealthy patritioner? [Vanal] Hey, keep 'em comin' of any variety * Maris feels like dancing on and does so. [Vanal] [Everybody SALSA !] [Storyteller] okay everyone do dex + socilalize in order to keep up with the dance, it's kinda fast [Vanal] !ex 6 [Storyteller] Vanal, 9, 2, 1, 9, 2, 5, Successes : 2 [Maris] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Maris, 1, 6, 7, 1, 6, Successes : 1 [Maris] [[damn dice]] [Tei] [cic] "then shall we?" [offers hand] [Cicada] [Tei] Shall we? [Storyteller] Storyteller, 4, 9, 10, Successes : 3 [Storyteller] !ex 3 [Storyteller] Storyteller, 2, 3, 7, 9, Successes : 2 [Storyteller] !ex 4 * Cicada takes hand and dance. * Tala leaves the party and returns to her quarters [Storyteller] Vanal: your partner manages to keep up with you easily, and the dance is no problem * Vanal dances around, his red cape all aflutter around him and his lovely partner [Storyteller] Maris : Your patrician partner laughs as you barely keep up with her, as she dances around you "I don't suppose you would like lessons?" [Cicada] !ex 7 [Storyteller] Cicada, 6, 1, 8, 3, 4, 9, 10, Successes : 4 [Storyteller] [Tabius] damn sorry man. Anyhow, you make it back to your room and start schmoozing [Tala] !ex 7 [test] [Storyteller] Tala, 4, 6, 2, 5, 10, 9, 1, Successes : 3 * Vanal zips by Maris with his partner "see what I mean about that stuff ?" [Tala] [just to see how I would have done] [Tei] dex+soc [Tei] !ex 7 [Storyteller] Tei, 10, 9, 10, 9, 2, 9, 4, Successes : 7 [Vanal] ... [Storyteller] [tabius] juniper takes a bite out of a melon "Very good, I like your taste in fruit" [Tala] [nice] [Storyteller] cicada and Tei really fucking own the scene. [Vanal] [Damn, you dance a hole in the floor...and look good doing it !] [Tei] [dances while juggling his blades in the other] [Cicada] [Those Martial Arts "move as one" lessons prove useful at last...] [Storyteller] [hey now, that's just showing off :p] [Vanal] [You know...that is sooo appropriate that it's that duo that's tearing up the floor] * Maris chuckles at himself and tells the Patrician in a smooth voice, 'Well if you insist. I'd prefer to take the lesson somewhere a bit more private. Say my suite downstairs?" [Tabius] [[Is not worried about it] [Vanal] [Maris:Mello Yello...now that's smooth] * Tabius nods to Juniper, "Really, what other tastes do you admire?" [Storyteller] Maris : She chuckles, and allows you to lead her away [Storyteller] [Juniper] "You're taste in servants, for one" she looks at you intently. * Tei barely hides his surprise as the moves just seem to flow out of him * Cicada use the flowing sleeves of her kimono to help make Tei look even better. [Storyteller] back at the ball, the music changes again. This time, it's polka! * Maris leads her downstairs wondering how wealthy her family is. * Cicada ... as the two of them spin around the floor. [Vanal] [POLKA ?! Who's the Maestro, Weird al ?] [Maris] [[what's the girls name?]] [Storyteller] [lol hell it sounds like it, they're doing it with guitars and xylophones] [Tabius] [room] "Oh? I guess only the best will do for me when it comes to such matters. What about you, what kinds of tastes do you have that I might admire?" [Storyteller] Maris : Livian * Vanal smiles at his partner "You're very talented, my dear." [Storyteller] She does a slight curtsey "Thank you" [Maris] "How do you like the party so far Livian?" [Storyteller] and of course as it's a new dance, roll for your partner Vanal [Vanal] alrighty... [Vanal] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Vanal, 9, 7, 6, 10, 9, Successes : 5 [Vanal] ...BOO-YAKA [Vanal] ...maybe I should book a trip to Vegas ? [Storyteller] [Livian] "It's great! So many people... I don't believe I've ever been to a party this big lately" * Tala prepares a bath and relaxes, meditating on the day's discoveries. [Vanal] [See, now I'm getting cocky...this would a good time to lay the almighty GM smackdown on me *g*] [Storyteller] Vanal: I wouldn't count on it. But you end up dancing with a beautiful southeastern girl, dressed in something you'd be more expecting a dynast to wear in private [Tei] [cic] "Tell me, what have you been doing with yourself?" [Storyteller] [Vanal] "Good evening, sir" [Cicada] [Tei] You mean since we parted? [Vanal] [South-eastern girl] "Good evening, my dear...and who might you be ?" [Maris] [livian]"It is fairly big. Though the capitol does provide a much more centralized local in my opinion. [Storyteller] [Tabius] "Well, I quite enjoy a man who can understand what I have to say" she smiles brilliantly [Maris] [[bastard. Stealing my girl]] [Tei] [cic] "Yes, and you know it is alright to look at me." [Storyteller] [vanal] "Rebecca," she says, smiling "And yours?" [Vanal] [Rebecca] "Cathak Vanal." *big ol' rakish grin* [Maris] [livian] "And where do you hail from?" [Storyteller] [livian] "Oh I would imagine so! the imperial city must be a grand place" [Storyteller] [livian] "I'm from the Rajah Prefectorate to the north. My Grandfather is the Prefect. And yourself?" [Storyteller] [rebecca] she smiles [yo dude, roll willpower] [Cicada] [tei] Yes, sir Tei.... Mainly I have been training for the duties as my lords valet and servant. I have been kept busy following him on his travels. The life of the servant of a military sorcerer is very busy. Yet I regret not keeping up my correspondence with you, please forgive my negligence, sir Tei. [Vanal] !ex 6 [Storyteller] Vanal, 8, 10, 9, 5, 1, 7, Successes : 5 [Tabius] [Juniper] in a bit of a quizzical tome, "Oh there are so few I take it?" smiles teasingly, “and what have you been saying that so confuses them?" [Storyteller] [rebecca laughs at your joke] " And are you having as good a time as me?" [Tei] [cic] "There is nothing to forgive. I doubt you could have gotten any letters to me had you tried. I spend most of my time hunting this or that for the order" [Vanal] [Rebecca] "Very much so. Best time I've had in a good, long while." [Storyteller] [juniper] Juniper says something in old realm effectively meaning "They know just enough to realize that they don't understand a word I'm saying" [Maris] [livian] "Pangu Prefectorate." [Maris] Prefect even [Tabius] [[Falls over with a heart attack at DarthToms dicing]] [Vanal] [[Hail to the king, baby] [Storyteller] [livian] she nods "I went there once, with my father. It's so much different than here!" * Maris leads Livian to his room and opens the door for her. [Storyteller] Livian and Maris, sitting in a tree, the rest is censored, okay? [Maris] [gotcha] * Vanal smiles at Becky and cranks on the Cathak charm [Cicada] [Tei] I understand, sir Tei. I just longed to hear that had befallen you. Though, it is not the position of a mere mortal to pry in the matters of her betters.... [Storyteller] Rebecca bows out, after another scene change. Unfortunately, you can't seem to get another partner! fark. [Vanal] ... [Storyteller] it's getting kinda late * Vanal chuckles * Cicada and Tei has moved to a balcony for some fresh air, I suppose. * Tabius smiles with a twinkle in his eye and in old Realm says, "Thou are as fair as a lily of the valley." [Storyteller] Tala: The rain stops, so you can have your ceremony now [Storyteller] [Tabius] She laughs "Oh come on now, they know that much" ;] "Say something... more interesting" [Tei] [cic] "It would not have been prying. I have done nothing you would not be welcome to hear" * Vanal pulls down on his pristine white gloves and dusts himself off, grinning like a madman [Storyteller] some time passes [Cicada] [Cicada only has Manipulation *, so it is very clear that there is something she longs to tell her old friend...] * Tabius wonders if Vanal even knows that much, but thinks a bit and then recites a very old poem from the first realm used to teach young students at the Heptagram their first shapings. However, he puts tones and inflections into it in just the right places to make it sound hilarious. [Tei] [cic] "Is something wrong?" [Storyteller] [Tabius] She laughs "Well good, I think you could've passed with skill like that" [Cicada] [Tei] No!...ehh, no, sir Tei. I am just happy to see the favor that life has granted you. * Vanal pulls a pipe of form under his tunic and lights up [Vanal] err [Vanal] [okay, I'm the typo KING tonight] * Tabius keeps having this nagging feeling in the back of his head that Juniper is not just on a regular social call, but goes along with all the giggling and joke making as best he can. [Storyteller] [Tabius] "So tell me," she looks at you softly, "How much do you know about that young servant of yours?" [Tabius] [Juniper] A bit guarded, but not overly much, "Enough to know that she is good at what she does, kind, obedient, everything one could wish for and more." [Maris] !ex 10 [Storyteller] Maris, 2, 3, 6, 4, 9, 1, 4, 9, 1, 9, Successes : 3 [Storyteller] [Tabius] She looks at you slyly "And her mother?" [Tei] [cic] "Yes. I hope I can do enough to repay them" [Storyteller] Vanal: want to pick up another partner? [Vanal] sure [Cicada] [Tei] [avoiding his gaze again] Please tell me of your illustrious life, sir Tei. [Vanal] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Vanal, 4, 3, 2, 10, 4, Successes : 2 [Storyteller] a dynast of moderate looks offers to dance * Vanal smiles and accepts [Tabius] [Juniper] "Yes, I am aware", smiles and reaches for another piece of fruit, which he then starts pealing. [Storyteller] [tabius] She raises her eyebrow and bites into a piece of orange . "I see" [Tei] "Well, I Graduated from the cloister not long after we met last, and took a possession walking the circuit between Sijan and Great forks." * Cicada nods to Tei and smiles. [Storyteller] [tabius] she pulls out a small envelope out of her blouse and hands it to you. "Make sure she gets this, will you?" [Storyteller] Storyteller, 1, 8, 5, 6, 6, 6, 4, 5, Successes : 1 [Storyteller] !ex 8 * Tala finishes her bath and meditation and does some training. [Maris] [where are you training?] [Tei] [cic] "Not the most glamorous of lives I can assure you. The road is very lonely." He looks rather sad * Tabius looks at the envelope, takes it, "Of course." the master giving the servant a message from his own mothers house, very odd. [Tabius] "So, is this visit purely business?" [Storyteller] [tabius] She laughs * Vanal continues dancing along, completely oblivious to all the goings-on [Storyteller] [tabius] she smiles, flirting. "Thank you, but not really, but I must be going... would you care to accompany me? There is a gateway competition later tonight at my residence tonight." [Cicada] [Tei] I see, I myself has been with my lord on his expeditions, mostly to the North... Unfortunately I have but few skills to contribute... [Storyteller] Vanal: you can roll more dices * Tabius smiles, "of course I will accompany you and I would very much like to engage in the competition. [Vanal] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Vanal, 8, 1, 5, 10, 2, Successes : 3 [Storyteller] again, normalcy [Vanal] [damn you...you broke my mojo ! *g*] [Storyteller] lol [Tei] [cic] "I doubt he would take you along if you were so useless." [Storyteller] Storyteller, 8, 1, 1, 3, 9, 10, Successes : 4 [Storyteller] !ex 6 [Cicada] [Tei] I do what little I can to repay the favor he has shown me. [Maris] !ex 7 [Storyteller] Maris, 2, 10, 3, 9, 4, 5, 7, Successes : 4 [Tei] [cic] "I'm sure you are more help than you know" [Cicada] [Tei] [looks down, blushes] I would never presume on my station. * Maris walks out of his room in a new set of clothes gives Livian a parting kiss and heads off towards House Cynis [Storyteller] Livian hugs back and then wanders back home * Vanal finishes the dance, shrugs, and goes off to get some food & drink * Maris spots Vanal on the way out, "How have you faired so far then?" [Tei] [cic] "You do yourself a disservice. To much modesty is as bad as vanity you know." [Cicada] [Tei] Can I beg a favor of you, sir Tei.... [Tei] [cic] "If it is in my power." [Storyteller] it's getting kinda late, and the dance is just about to end for the night. The prefect starts giving a speech, something about thanking everyone for having a great night, but eh. His wife interrupts him with a kiss and everyone laughs, and they take off. It kinda starts slowing down after that. [Vanal] "not too bad. Didn't quite get as much luck as I wished, but...I made a few impression, I'll try and follow up on them." [Maris] "I saw you with Malena. Quite impressive." [Vanal] "Thanks, that was the favor of the dragons." * Maris nods [Vanal] "I see your inability to dance actually became a boon." [Cicada] [Tei] I greatly worry that my meager skills at Martial Arts will not be sufficient to shield my lord in a crisis. Could I ask you to help me improve? Like when we were children? [Maris] "I'm headed to the Cynis party if you'd like to join me. Plenty there willing and ready." [Storyteller] [Tabius] The games are going great. Eventually, of course, you get drafted... and have to play. Your opponent is a distant cousin, whom you know will probably kick your bluddy ass. They're playing a time game, of course, so that you don't take all day long. [Tei] [cic] "I would be delighted to help in any way I can. Old friends must stick together." [Storyteller] [Tabius]: so basically, roll int + lore [Storyteller] Storyteller, 9, 6, 9, 5, 4, 1, 6, 3, Successes : 2 [Storyteller] !ex 8 [Tabius] !ex 5 [Storyteller] Tabius, 5, 3, 6, 7, 5, Successes : 1 [Vanal] "No thank you. I'm looking to charm and love tonight, not hurl myself onto the heaving masses of flesh like the other day." [Tabius] [[Yeah.... damn you darthtom, you took all the successes for the whole evening]] [Vanal] [[Bow to my mojo, mortal] [Cicada] [Tei] Sir Tei, your favor me over my worth [bows deeply enough that Tei cannot see just how happily she is smiling] * Maris chuckles, "If your sure." [Storyteller] Your cousin Finias gets a head start on you, taking a strategic position early on the top level using a old combination called the cutting goose chase. He smiles, and then a few more moves go by as you try to offbalance it." [Tabius] [[Bow to they flying Gillotine or you will be headless ;-P]] [Vanal] "Quite, my friend." [Vanal] [The penitant man...the penitant man.....] * Maris heads towards the party anyways with a hearty clap on Vanal's back. [Storyteller] Tabius: You can use intelligence if you're going to try something old, or wits if you're going to try to think something out on the spot * Vanal chuckles and idly looks around for Rebecca or someone else he danced with [Tei] [cic] "one thing about the road I do miss. no one bows" [smiles] [Storyteller] the party has slowed down enough so that you can't find any of your old partners [Storyteller] Tabius: Also, you can use Performance instead of Lore if you're going to try something just plain cool. * Vanal shrugs and decided to FINALLY get some shut-eye [Maris] [[or presence to psych him out I'd bet]] [Storyteller] [sure] * Tabius is going to take a bit of time to figure out his cousins strategy and likely moves on how he has played so far already. [Storyteller] [tabius] Like I said, he's going for an old combo, works pretty well, but naturally isn't perfect. so roll teh dice ;] [Vanal] [I'd probably best get some sleep in a few] [Cicada] [Tei] I shall do what I can to make my Immaculate brother feel comfortable [laughs a gentle laugh] [Storyteller] and tell me what you're rolling * Maris enters the Cynis party and begins to Carouse hopefully spotting Lady V'neef [Storyteller] [heh allright. when we go to sleep is when you all go to sleep] [Storyteller] [Maris] : You don't see Lady V'neef straight out. [Vanal] [But...Maris is going to a Cynis party...one generally doesn't SLEEP at a cynis party !" [Cicada] [[sleep around, yes. Sleep, no]] * Tabius is going to try a maneuver far beyond his actual real abilities. Something he saw a master do with this same strategy years ago at the Heptagram. He is going to lull his cousin into thinking he is a complete dolt leaving but 1 piece behind in what seems an ineffectual position, but once all the piece and position trading is done, will be perfectly set to end the game with. [Tei] [cic] "..and I can only hope to help my sister protect herself." * Maris moves through the party talking to old friends and meeting news ones briefly but mostly going in a circular pattern through the place hoping she might be somewhere. Basically looking without seeming like he's looking. And taking his time at it. * Maris will also take stock of the rest of the party goers as well [Storyteller] Cool, +2 stunt + lore + INT [Cicada] [Tei] I am most grateful... [remembers her station] ... on the behalf of my lord. * Vanal yawns to himself and heads to the Cathak pad, slightly tipsy form all the wine [Tabius] !ex 7 [Storyteller] Tabius, 7, 5, 7, 3, 2, 4, 5, Successes : 2 [Vanal] [A Gateway STUNT ?!...woah, there's something I thought I'd never see] [Storyteller] Storyteller, 10, 9, 10, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, Successes : 5 [Storyteller] !ex 8 [Tabius] [[Bangs head on Table then wall, then........gets some aspirin.... [Storyteller] Alas for you, he sees the trick, and manages to steal your piece successfully [Tei] [cic] "Leave you're lord out of this, I don't do this for him." * Tabius has to admit that he is not a master and smiles, "it was worth a try at the very list since you got the jump on me early." [Storyteller] [Tabius] "You're good... but unfortunately, I don't think you read the notes for that game all the way through." he smiles, and makes another move which you totally don't recognize [Wits + whatever] [Storyteller] Storyteller, 6, 7, 4, 8, 4, 4, 7, 4, Successes : 3 [Storyteller] !ex 8 [Cicada] [Tei] Ah, yes sir Tei, I understand.... I am very grateful as well... [Vanal] [...okay, I'm a success vampire, what're you gonna do ? Stake me ?] [Cicada] [Tei]... And not only for the practice... I am very happy to see you again.... [Cicada] [Tei] [looks away in shock at her own daring].... I .... I really must find my lord...! [Tabius] !ex 5 [wits + presence/performance] [Storyteller] Tabius, 9, 4, 7, 7, 8, Successes : 4 [Tei] [cic] "I understand, it was good to see you again as well." * Tabius smiles at his cousin, "Thank you for the compliment, how true it might be we will find out at the end of the game." [Storyteller] You manage to come up with something completely out of the blue, winning back a couple squares.. unfortunately the game is far from over [Storyteller] Your cousin laughs "Maybe you didn't read the game, but your strategery certainly isn't laughing." He takes a few moments to try and figure out his current position, and then makes a purely defensive move [Cicada] [Tei] I thank you again [bows to Tei and run off - a bit faster than would be appropriate for a servant] [Storyteller] Storyteller, 6, 5, 6, 5, 3, 10, Successes : 2 [Storyteller] !ex 6 * Tabius cheats and takes a peak to see what his cousin is planning. [Tabius] !ex 11 [Storyteller] Tabius, 10, 8, 10, 6, 7, 10, 1, 2, 9, 5, 4, Successes : 9 [Storyteller] cheater? [Storyteller] how the hell [Storyteller] cheater! * Storyteller pouts * Vanal chuckles * Tei looks out across the grounds for a while before heading off to bed * Maris finds a particularly beautiful female Dynast he doesn't know so well and decides to spend some quality time remedying that. He makes sure he does so within view of the door so he can see who goes in and out. [Tabius] [[Thanos LHAO, I am sorry, I am having a giggle fit that for once I get a good roll out of 11 dice and its for a game within a game ]] [Storyteller] your cousin is fucking confused as hell where you pulled that one off, and concedes the game * Cicada drinks some cold water, tries to calm down. And then heads off to find her lord. * Vanal walks into the mansion, climbs up to his chambers, gets changed and falls into bed [Vanal] [*golf clap* well-played old chap] [Storyteller] [Maris] you spy V'neef nearby, chatting to a friend [Storyteller] enjoy thine sleep [Vanal] 'night [Storyteller] okay [Storyteller] Anybody want to do anything else? [Tei] not I [Storyteller] allright yuo = teh sleep [Storyteller] cicada? [Maris] Well I could talk to V’neef but it's not that important [Cicada] Find my lord and be at his side. [Storyteller] alright maris you can chat with V'neef for a while [Storyteller] and g'night to teh sleeping tala/werlynn [Maris] How serious does the conversation she is having seem? [Werlynn] In the morning if it is still clear weather I do the funeral [Maris] and is this person an elder of mine? [manxcat] I attend that as well [Storyteller] not really [Storyteller] oaky [Maris] how powerful is the person she's talking to? [Storyteller] anyhow gg everyone [Werlynn] I would think the head of house V'neef would be pretty old ne? [Storyteller] about the same as you * Maris does excuse himself and heads over to where V'neef is with a glass of wine, "My Lady, I am pleased to see you here." [Werlynn] any who [Storyteller] V'neef eventually breaks off her conversation and talks to you * Storyteller takes a sip of wine [Storyteller] .. [Maris] "How does the evening find you?" * Storyteller gets drunk [Storyteller] "Great," she flashes you a winning smile. "This is certainly.. interesting" she nods towards the .. VERY exotic dancers [catgirls] [Storyteller] ]y'ap i'm drunk[ [Storyteller] [not really, just in emulation mode] [Tabius] !ex 3 [Storyteller] Tabius, 3, 1, 7, Successes : 1 * Maris nods, "Yes they are. I believe Sly Thunder picked them up in the deep east. He claimed to have had a lot of trouble training them. But they are very nice on the eye aren't they." * Maris says this conversationally [Storyteller] She nods drunkenly [Storyteller] and the night passes.... okay. [Maris] gotcha [Storyteller] that's all folks [Maris] night [GoldenH] g'nighty [GoldenH] hope it was worth your whatever you paid to come here [Hikari] Now that got to be quite exciting... [Thanos] Hehehee [GoldenH] fighting soon, I promise [Hikari] What wicked schemes does the Lady Menemon have for the innocent servant-girl? * GoldenH wanders around drunkenly [GoldenH] heh heh heh heh heh [Thanos] fighting...... what’s that? all the enemies of the realm just get on their knees and beg for death or mercy. [Hikari] Join us for the next episode of; Exalted: The Dragon-Blooded! [GoldenH] 5 xps [Werlynn] [I still need 13 days of training and [6-x] xp for my form charm. I can wait =] ] [GoldenH] Exalted: This story still doesn't have a name [Werlynn] [make that 1 xp, and 13 days =] ] [Thanos] Tabius and Friends? [Werlynn] ooo another modification to make to my character sheet [manxcat] I've got enough xp for another charm but I haven’t learned the first one yet [Werlynn] To calculate remaining xp [Thanos] I know the feeling..... going to have to wait for some down time.....erm except..... [Thanos] Dear GoldenH, I would like to spend 3 exp to increase Lore, a favored ability from 2 to 3. [manxcat] the how about we call it Exalted: No time for downtime Writing on the Wall05/06/2002 at 04:00 I, Malkor, rule this land I strive to rule fairly, to rule justly, I saved my people's forfathers I protect them even now from danger I slept and they plotted against me I woke one day to look over my realm I cried and could do nothing against them I succumbed to the madness and cried out I was pummeled until I fell into the darkness I dreamed of what happened and what would I waited without knowing I waited I feel the sickness spreading underneath me I will avenge what has been done against me I will fight for those who betrayed me So let the world know Malkor has returned |