Diablotin 3 session 12

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Session

Session date: March 29, 2015

Diablotin date:

Prologue

<DiablotinNarrator> It is early in Twelfth-month, and snow drifts lightly over the city, covering it with a pristine blanket that conceals many of its flaws. For a little while, the streets are pretty, the rooftops elegantly draped with white, the windows glazed with delicate patterns of frost.

• Hettienne mourns the end of bicycle season.

Hettie meets her new niece

<DiablotinNarrator> Hettie, your brother Thierry and his wife Rosalie have a new baby girl! You've given them a couple of weeks for things to settle down and for Rosalie to recover, but now you're looking forward to going to visit them.

<Hettienne> :D

• Hettienne has packed a basket of food and the knitted things she's made...
• Hettienne rings the doorbell at her brother's house.

<Hettienne> (do I know the name yet?)

• Thierry 's house is small but pretty nice, for a house in the Shambles - it's close to the edge of Rhenea, so not so bad.
• Thierry comes to the door

<DiablotinNarrator> No, last you heard they were still debating over a name

<Hettienne> Hey there, Dad!

<Hettienne> ;)

• Thierry grins and gives you a hug to welcome you

<Hettienne> How's everyone holdin' up?

<Thierry> Hi sis, come on in! The little one's awake, so you'll get to see her in action - or as much action as a baby ever has, anyway.

<Hettienne> I brought you some things...

<Thierry> oh, thanks :)

• Hettienne passes over the basket.
• Thierry takes it inside, setting it down on the table

<Hettienne> There's a pie an' a casserole - don't worry, Denise made 'em - and some bread and such I got at the bakery down the way...

<Thierry> You didn't have to, that's real nice of you.

<Hettienne> Aw well, it's the least I could do!

<Hettienne> Don't want you all wastin' away...

• Thierry chuckles, his large frame shaking with laughter

<Thierry> Don't think there's any worry of that for me, anyway

<Hettienne> Heh.

<Hettienne> So where is the little doll? :3

<Thierry> Come on inside, Rosalie's in the sitting room with her :)

• Hettienne resists the urge to make grabby hands
• Hettienne follows Thierry, then...
• Rosalie is sitting with the baby wrapped up in the blanket you made for her

<Rosalie> hi Hettie - it's good to see you :)

• Rosalie looks pretty well, a bit tired, but that's to be expected

<Hettienne> Hi darlin'!

• Hettienne gets close so she can see the little one.

<Rosalie> This is Avionne :)

<Hettienne> Oh! What a pretty name!

<Hettienne> She is so *precious*!!

<Rosalie> She's got her dadddy's hair - gonna be big like him too, I bet.

• Hettienne 's voice involuntarily pitches up an octave or two... :3 :3
• Rosalie says, ruffling the baby's thick black hair

<Hettienne> I bet she's a good eater!

<Rosalie> Here, you wanna hold her?

<Rosalie> You're telling me! She's hungry all the time, seems like.

<Hettienne> Ohhhh, of course!

• Rosalie offers you a cute little bundle of baby :3
• Hettienne will carefully take the tiny person in her arms.

<Hettienne> (what colour are the eyes now, just regular baby blue?)

<Rosalie> (yeah, a dark blue right now)

<Rosalie> If you don't mind, I'm gonna take the chance to run to the bathroom.

<Hettienne> Ohhh, it's been way too long since I got to snuggle one of these! :3

• Rosalie says, stretching

<Hettienne> Aren't you just the sweetest li'l thing...

• Hettienne coos

<Thierry> She likes you - or at least, she ain't cryin' :)

<Hettienne> I'll take it! :D

• Rosalie excuses herself for a moment to go and take care of things that are harder to do while holding a baby ;p

<Thierry> How's things with you, Hettie?

<Hettienne> Not nearly as ADORABLE

<Hettienne> :3

• Thierry chuckles

<Thierry> She's a sweetheart. Healthy, too.

<Hettienne> I'm so happy for you, hon!

<Thierry> Some of the old folks, you know, the ones who like to poke their noses in everything, came 'round to check that everything went okay.

<Hettienne> Heh.

<Thierry> But they saw she's got all her fingers an' toes, and went away happy.

<Hettienne> Have Alain 'n' Pat been by?

<Thierry> Yeah, Alain was here yesterday, an' Pat last week.

• Hettienne nods.

<Thierry> I took a couple days off work but 'course I had to go back or we don't get paid.

<Hettienne> :/

<Thierry> But Rosalie's sisters are helpin' out too, and some of the neighbours come 'round when they can.

<Hettienne> Well, if Rosalie needs any help, I can come by some durin' the days...

<Thierry> I'm sure she'd appreciate that, if you got the time.

<Hettienne> Ain't no trouble at all...

• Thierry smiles

<Hettienne> Specially if I get to spend some time with this little cutie! :3

<Thierry> Well, that's the idea :)

<DiablotinNarrator> There's a ring at the doorbell again

<Thierry> Oh, lemme get that.

• Hettienne nods, but is mostly focused on tickling the baby's chin :3

<DiablotinNarrator> The house isn't big, so you can easily tell who it is once the door opens - you can hear Patric's voice.

<Hettienne> <w> Oooh, it's grumpy uncle Patric, booo, boo!

<Patric> Just came by to drop off a few things - some of Yvie's stuff...

<Thierry> Oh, thanks. Uh... Hettie's here. Do you wanna come in?

<Hettienne> . o O (Just say no!)

<Patric> Well... I really oughta get home to Elcie. I just wanted to make sure you got those baby clothes an' such...

<Thierry> Okay - well, thanks for thinkin' of us. We really appreciate it. Come on by another time, how about?

• Hettienne feels a small pang of guilt... but only a small one.

<Patric> Sure - I'll bring Yvie over, she's been askin' to see the baby.

<Thierry> Yeah or, you know, we could bring her over to you, so Elcie can see her too.

<Patric> Sure, that'd be nice. Maybe for dinner on Sunday?

<Thierry> Yeah, that sounds good. We'll see you then.

• Patric takes his leave, then, and Thierry returns to the sitting room, where you wait with the baby

<Hettienne> Pat's still scared of his big bad little sister, huh? ;)

<Thierry> Well... I dunno. I guess maybe he just needed to get home. Things are rough right now, I think.

<Hettienne> Oh?

<Hettienne> Somethin' happen?

• Hettienne frowns.

<Thierry> Nothin' too serious, but you know Mikel helps out a lot with Elcie... I guess he's lookin' at movin' out, an' gave some money for Pat so's they could maybe get a helper to come in now an' then instead. Pat wouldn't take it.

<Thierry> You know how stubborn he is :/

<Hettienne> Uuuughhh PAT.!

<Hettienne> Talk about cuttin' off yer nose. >:(

• Thierry just sighs

<Thierry> He doesn't wanna have Yvie leave school, but things go on like this, I dunno what other choice they'll have.

<Hettienne> Don't he get that helpin' your family is what you're supposed to do?!

<Hettienne> Or he could just take the damn money!

<Thierry> Yeah, well...

<Thierry> he thinks it's, uh, ill-gotten gains >.>

<Hettienne> Oh, for...

<Hettienne> >_<

<Hettienne> Can't you talk some sense into him?

<Thierry> I can try.

<Thierry> Guess I'll see him on Sunday, so maybe then I can have a word.

<Hettienne> Mik should just hire the damn helper his own self.

• Rosalie returns, looking somewhat refreshed

<Rosalie> Everything all right?

<Hettienne> Hey sweetie! :)

<Hettienne> Oh... you know, Pat.

<Thierry> Sure, no problems - Avionne's fine, just happy with her Aunt Hettie :)

• Rosalie nods

<Hettienne> Such a sweet lil dumplin' :3

<Rosalie> Well, if she's happy to stay there, how about I make us some tea?

<Hettienne> I'm more 'n happy!

• Rosalie will head to the kitchen to do that, then
• Thierry will change the subject to talk more about baby-stuff and not about awkward family situations.
• Hettienne is pleased to oblige

<Hettienne> . o O (BABIIIIIIIIIIIIIIES!!!)

Lathra and Aubrienne commission the services of Orecalo Reasearch and Exploration Services

<DiablotinNarrator> Lathra and Aubrienne, you are headed to talk to one M. Xandhil Orecalo, who it seems may have some knowledge of the matters you're investigating.

<DiablotinNarrator> M. Orecalo's place of business is an unobtrusive doorway on Griffin Road in the Castalia District, marked only by a subtle brass plate beside the door: "Orecalo Research and Exploration Services"

<Aubrienne> Well, that sounds promising.

<Lathra> This seems to be the place...

• Aubrienne will open the door for Lathra
• Lathra half-curtseys a thankyou

<DiablotinNarrator> The room you enter into, with the faint tinkling of a bell to acknowledge your arrival, is appointed like a comfortable lounge in a library, rather than a shopfront or office. Bookshelves line the walls, and there are various strange artifacts displayed as well - items that look very ancient, or that seem to come from far-off lands.

• Aubrienne looks around, impressed

<DiablotinNarrator> A tall young man emerges from a back room to greet you. He's got light brown hair that sticks up somewhat, and blue eyes. As he approaches you, you can tell that he's got elven blood, probably a half-elf.

<Halfelf_man> Good day, ladies, how can I help you?

<Aubrienne> (Do we have reason to know what Xan looks like?)

<Lathra> Hello sir, we're looking into a rather mysterious and historical matter and we were told that your research institution might be the place to, well, research.

<DiablotinNarrator> (I think Aubrienne probably knows some of his other family members, at least via the temple of Serpent - his sister Em, at the least? She's red-haired and has wings, so she's fairly noticable ;)

<Aubrienne> (cool cools)

<Aubrienne> Also, I have a delivery for M. Orecalo, from Gelin te Kenep.

• Aubrienne will produce the book.

<Halfelf_man> Certainly, you've come to the right place. My name is Leiris Cuville, and I'm M. Orecalo's assistant.

<Leiris> Oh?

• Leiris looks at the book curiously

<Aubrienne> It was on order at the shop, and happened to be pertinent to our research interest.

<Aubrienne> Gelin let me take a look at it so long as I delivered it to M. Orecalo.

<Leiris> I see...

<Leiris> Please, have a seat. Can I offer you something to drink? Tea, coffee?

<Aubrienne> Tea would be lovely, thank you. I'm Aubrienne, by the way.

• Aubrienne will take a seat

<Lathra> Yes, tea would be lovely. Lathra Scales, at your service.

<Leiris> Lovely to meet you both.

• Leiris says, although maybe slightly more in Lathra's direction ;)

<Leiris> M. Orecalo is presently in a meeting, but hopefully I can assist you. If I'm not able to, I can see if he's able to meet fit you in after his present, uh, engagement.

• Leiris will fetch some tea, and then return to join you

<Lathra> (Can I make a sense motive on that hesitation?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (sure)

<Lathra> !roll 1d20+8

• Zola rolls for Lathra: [ 1d20+8 ] getting [ 20 ] which, after the modifier [ 8 ] totals [ 28 ].

<DiablotinNarrator> Lathra, you believe that he thinks you're cute, and is being polite but flirty with you.

<Lathra> ( Well now :o )

<Leiris> So, can you explain your .. what was it, mysterious historical question?

<Lathra> (Does he seem ebarassed by the "engagement" his employer is engaged with?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (oh with a 20, you think it's probably not a "professional" engagement - maybe he's with a friend? or "friend"?)

<Lathra> ( Ok, that's what I suspected :) An, uh, "friend")

<DiablotinNarrator> (not embarrassed exactly, but maybe just not the kind of thing to discuss with potential clients ;)

<Lathra> Yes, well in broad strokes, in the course of our business we've come across various references to something called "those who came before", and "the Forestheart", and it may all be bound up with a military event that went tragically wrong.

• Leiris makes some notes, listening

<Lathra> And we're looking to find out more about what these things are, and whether they're real, or fancy, and if they're real, what it all could mean.

<Leiris> I see... that sounds very intriguing, to be sure.

<Lathra> Isn't it?

• Lathra flashes a smile
• Leiris smiles back

<Leiris> Is it also connected with the book you brought - on the First World? or is that simply an unrelated delivery :)

• Aubrienne grins to herself
• Lathra turns to Aubrienne, inquisitively

<Aubrienne> Oh, yes, uh, we believe that these references to "those who came before" may mean the fey.

<Aubrienne> Gelin was skeptical, but, then again, he is of most everything.

<Lathra> Ooo! A name!

<Leiris> hmmm... a tantalizing possibility.

<Lathra> You didn't tell me that, Aubrienne!

• Lathra is delighted

<Aubrienne> But it seems to line up.

<Aubrienne> (Oh, sorry, I assumed Aubrienne would have filled her in on this :/)

<Lathra> It rather deepens the question about reality in my mind, though...

<Aubrienne> It's certainly intriguing...and continues to be concerning.

<Leiris> Now, you say this is connected to .. military matters in some way? So not simply an academic question, I gather?

<Aubrienne> Not precisely.

<Leiris> You're not military personnel yourselves, though?

<Lathra> No, but we've acquaintances.

<Aubrienne> And, uh, had family members.

• Aubrienne adds quietly
• Leiris nods, jotting down a few more notes

<Aubrienne> The "Forestheart" was apparently some sort of magical site located at Seda Grove.

<Lathra> There was a catastrophe a while ago in a place called Seder Grove, and several of the survivors, some among my clients, have had nightmares about these themes, with startlingly similar details, and they aren't the only ones.

• Leiris 's pencil flies more quickly, writing all this down

<Leiris> Your clients?

<Leiris> Are you a healer?

• Leiris guesses

<Lathra> Yes,

<Lathra> I ministrate, in my work as a cleric.

• Leiris nods

<Leiris> Well... I think this is certainly a fascinating topic, and one that my employer would be interested in discussing further with you. As to what services we might be able to provide, well - it rather depends what you're looking for.

<Leiris> We can provide anything from research at the Castalia or other libraries, upwards to engaging an expedition to investigate this Seda Grove site

<Aubrienne> Well, I'm not sure we can afford an expedition...

<Leiris> You don't have to decide right now, of course. And M. Orecalo may have other suggestions of what might be feasible.

<Lathra> Well, from my point of view, we have two rather pressing questions. Chiefly, do these themes refer to things which are real or fictional - and Aubrienne's book may provide a starting point there. And secondly, if real, there is also a theme or resurgence and reclaimation, and it seems prudent perhaps to take precautions against such an event.

• Lathra looks to Aubrienne for assent
• Aubrienne nods

<Aubrienne> Ultimately, we just want to help. This isn't exactly something we're familiar with, and, as Lathra pointed out with the them of resurgence, we're worried these issues could escalate.

<Aubrienne> So we're looking for any information or assistance.

<Lathra> Yes exactly!

• Leiris nods
• Leiris looks as though he's about to say more, but...

<DiablotinNarrator> At this point, from somewhere at the back of the shop, a door opens and a man - red haired, bearded, wearing a nice suit - strolls out, straightening his tie.

<Justen> Oh, hey, customers :)

<Leiris> M. Olivier

• Leiris says politely

<Justen> Sorry, I'll get out of your way, let you get on with the real work. You still coming round for dinner tonight, Leiris?

<Leiris> Uh... probably, yes. Is M. Orecalo free now?

<Justen> Yeah, he's all set. See you later!

• Justen gives you each a friendly wave and strolls out the door.

<Leiris> I'll just... check if he can see you now. Please wait a moment :)

• Lathra smiles and waves to Justen
• Leiris hustles off through the doorway to the back of the building
• Leiris returns a few moments later

<Leiris> M. Orecalo would be pleased to see you now. If you would follow me?

<Lathra> Excellent!

• Aubrienne follows along
• Lathra rises with her tea to follow
• Xandhil is a shorter, slim, blond-haired man with somewhat elven features, but it's hard to pin down exactly what he might be - not a half-elf, probably, but not fully human either. He's dressed in a Cozovode-style tunic, at any rate.
• Xandhil 's private office is also lined with books, and there are a couple of chairs, as well as his desk, which is covered with papers (neatly organized, though, not just scattered all over)

<Xandhil> Pleased to meet you - come in, have a seat. My assistant has given me the gist of your situation, but I still have a few questions.

<Aubrienne> A pleasure to meet you as well, and thank you for seeing us.

<Lathra> Likewise pleased! I'm sure there are questions all around.

• Lathra sits
• Aubrienne takes a seat

<Xandhil> I know of the tragic events at Seda Grove, but perhaps you could provide some more information about how it connects to this issue?

• Leiris is still there, however, and will keep on taking notes ;)

<Aubrienne> We're given to understand some of the soldiers stationed there before the tragedy heard voices beckoning them to "the other side."

<Lathra> Well, this all came to our attention through similarities between visions afflicting our acquaintances.

<Lathra> Yes, and several of those having visions were at Seda Grove at the time of the event.

• Aubrienne nods

<Lathra> We should add that we ourselves experienced something rather odd that may be connected - an attack on one of the city businesses by an unusual magical creature.

<Aubrienne> Fey, in fact, which somewhat reinforces that supposition.

• Xandhil tents his fingers, listening

<Xandhil> What sort of magical creature?

<Lathra> Oh it was a horrible little sneaky creature!

<Lathra> It POISONED somebody, can you imagine?

<Xandhil> How awful - did they recover?

<Aubrienne> Yes, the victim was fine fairly soon after. It seemed to just knock him out.

<Lathra> Well yes, with timely medical intervention, thankfully.

<Aubrienne> Our employer said the Castalia identified the creature as a quickling.

<Aubrienne> Of course.

• Aubrienne gestures in Lathra's direction.

<Xandhil> That's odd - especially in the city.

<Lathra> Oo a Quickling! That sounds much more endearing than it was, really it was awful.

<Xandhil> Such creatures are very rare, and I've never heard of them being encountered in urban areas.

<Xandhil> Where did this occur?

<Lathra> I've never heard of one at all! And there it was, right in the building. So yes, that's why we're *extra* concerned about this "coming back" business.

<Lathra> It stole something, didn't it?

<Aubrienne> Titania's Cabaret. Some of this was in the papers...

<Lathra> Yes and some of it wasn't, so we'd appreciate a little discretion on that matter.

<Aubrienne> Well, there was a staff left behind the same night, that seemed to have some connection to the fey, and it did go missing later.

• Xandhil nods

<Aubrienne> It was a...difficult night, for a variety of reasons.

<Xandhil> This all sounds very fascinating - I have to say, it certainly raises a number of questions.

<Aubrienne> Given how dangerous that night was, and it involved what I understand was a relatively minor fey, I think you can see our concern.

<Xandhil> Indeed.

<Xandhil> This is purely speculation at this point, as I would have to do more research to try and ascertain what might be going on.

<Xandhil> But perhaps Seda Grove was an important site for the fey, and after its destruction perhaps they have fled here? Possibly even are looking for those responsible?

• Aubrienne casts a concerned look at Lathra

<Aubrienne> Well, that doesn't sound good for your clients.

<Lathra> It certainly doesn't - and for one at least the visions have taken a serious toll on his health.

<Lathra> What was the other thing, about the forestheart? Oh yes - we were told that it was eternal, rather like the arch. That if destroyed, it would merely show up somewhere else, later - and there were insinuations that it may have been "destroyed" at Seda Grove, and that it may even have been here at one point!

<Lathra> At least, that was the impression that I got...

• Xandhil 's eyes widen somewhat at that

<Xandhil> I feel that this is potentially an important matter. I'm willing to take on the case, if you would like.

<Aubrienne> Really? Thank you so much!

<Xandhil> I'll waive my usual fees for research for two weeks, do what research I can locally, and we can see how to proceed from there.

<Lathra> Oh my! Thank you awfully!

<Aubrienne> That sounds amazing. Any help you can offer would be greatly appreciated.

<Xandhil> How should I get in touch with you?

<Aubrienne> (I *think* Aubrienne and Jed have a phone)

<DiablotinNarrator> (sure, seems likely :)

• Aubrienne will write down the number for her and Jed's apartment.

<Aubrienne> You should be able to reach me here.

<Aubrienne> Or you could leave a message for us at Titania's.

<Xandhil> All right. I'll contact you when the two weeks are up, or if I find something amazingly significant, I'll be in touch sooner :)

<Aubrienne> Thank you again.

<Lathra> Our thanks again! I hope we aren't wasting your time.

<Xandhil> Thank you

<Xandhil> Whatever else it may be, the research should be interesting.

• Leiris will finish taking his notes, and rise to show you out

<Leiris> Say, uh... Mlle. Scales, is that correct?

• Leiris says to Lathra as you're preparing to leave

<Lathra> Yes, it is...

• Aubrienne will move as far away as she can to give them some privacy...

<Leiris> I wondered if you might like to meet sometime? Maybe for drinks, or dinner?

<Lathra> Well how charming! I don't have a *lot* of free time, but I'm sure I can squeeze in a drink or two of an evening.

<Leiris> Lovely :)

• Leiris offers you a piece of paper, clearly torn from his notebook, with his name and phone number on it

<Leiris> Anytime you're free, just let me know :)

<Lathra> Well yes, I'll check my schedule. Have a lovely day!

<Leiris> You too!

• Lathra stashes the paper

<Aubrienne> Thanks for all your help, M. Cuville.

• Aubrienne waves from the door, holding it open for Lathra and grinning at her.
• Lathra blushes and smiles back

Dorien learns about Misery's situation

<DiablotinNarrator> Dorien, you are busy with the investigations into the odd fungus and other items you gathered, so that's been occupying most of your free time lately

<Dorien_Voclain> (I assume Misery has been helping?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (yes)

<Dorien_Voclain> (Excellent. Hands on training for her :) )

• Misery shows up a bit late one morning

<Dorien_Voclain> Well, look who the cat dragged in.

• Misery glowers at you, brushing snow off her boots

<Dorien_Voclain> You seem annoyed. Or rather, you seemly strangely annoyed in a way that is different from your usual level of annoyance. Is everything ok?

<Misery> It's fine >.>

<Dorien_Voclain> You sure?

<Misery> Are we making some product today, or more messing with mushrooms?

<Dorien_Voclain> Well, it looks like we've probably hit a dead end with the mushrooms. Nothing that we can really use as a new product. Poisons, maybe, but that's not our bag. I still would like to know how it got there, though.

<Dorien_Voclain> But we're also starting to run behind on production, so probably back to that for today.

<Misery> Probably just some stupid wizard messing around with things that they shouldn't have been :p

<Dorien_Voclain> Possible

• Misery does seem unusually cranky today
• Dorien_Voclain raises an eyebrow slightly at her.

<Dorien_Voclain> You sure you're ok?

<Misery> Look, let's just get on with work, so they can see I'm being productive here and this isn't just a waste of time.

<Dorien_Voclain> They?

<Misery> >.>

<Misery> You don't even know who you're working for, do you.

<Dorien_Voclain> I try not to ask. The less I know the better. Are you saying you do?

• Misery gives you a Look.

<Misery> Nobody, okay? You're working for Nobody.

<Misery> You're right, it's better if you think of it that way.

• Dorien_Voclain pauses and looks Misery over. "Look, if you need to tell me something then tell me. I'm not big on games, kid."

<Misery> Nhau'kel.

<Misery> (does Dorien speak SK?)

<Dorien_Voclain> (Yes)

<Misery> (then he would know that that means "nothing". can also make a k:local check on other meanings ;)

<Dorien_Voclain> (24)

<Misery> (It's also the name of the Shadar-kai mob)

• Dorien_Voclain nods.

<Dorien_Voclain> So is that why you're here? Your family deep in with them or something?

<Misery> My mother.

• Dorien_Voclain nods again.

<Misery> It's this or whoring, and I won't do that.

<Dorien_Voclain> Yeah. You said. I don't blame you.

<Dorien_Voclain> Is your mom forcing you into it?

<Misery> well, it wasn't her idea. Puce suggested it.

<Dorien_Voclain> Puse is a piece of shit.

• Dorien_Voclain looks sympathetic.

<Misery> yeah

<Dorien_Voclain> I guess he's got us both by the balls, then.

<Misery> But my mother needs to work off her debts, or they're gonna ... I don't know. Kill her, maybe.

<Misery> so here I am

<Dorien_Voclain> Shit.

<Dorien_Voclain> I'm sorry.

• Dorien_Voclain puts a hand on her shoulder
• Misery shrugs

<Misery> it is what it is

<Dorien_Voclain> What kind of debt are we talking?

<Misery> not just the usual 'we'll help you get set up here' kind of fees

<Misery> she borrowed money from them to set up a restaurant.

<Dorien_Voclain> Void...

<Misery> it didn't work out so well. Fucking colour guard assholes kept messing the place up. She couldn't keep it going.

<Dorien_Voclain> The Nhau'kel wouldn't help with that? seems like they would have wanted to protect their investment.

<Misery> Yeah, what good's having a criminal organization if they can't keep us safe :p

<Dorien_Voclain> Ok, fair.

<Misery> They keep a low profile - if they get arrested, it isn't like humans, where you'd get a fine or something, maybe a little jail time.

<Misery> They'll get kicked back to the Shadow Plane, or worse.

• Dorien_Voclain nods

<Misery> anyway.. it's not your problem.

<Misery> You can just get me trained up and get out of here :/

<Dorien_Voclain> Well, I may not be able to help directly, but I can show you how to make money.

• Dorien_Voclain looks a bit paler than before

<Misery> hey...

<Misery> sorry to dump my problems on you

<Dorien_Voclain> No, hey... it's ok.

<Dorien_Voclain> I'm... I'm sorry that things are so shitty.

<Dorien_Voclain> I wish I could fix them, you know?

• Misery shrugs

<Misery> you're helping

• Misery gives you a bit of a smile
• Dorien_Voclain half smiles back.

<Dorien_Voclain> You want a drink? I think I could use one before we start.

<Misery> well... okay.

• Dorien_Voclain grabs the bottle of gin and two glasses, pouring one for each of them.

<Misery> thanks

<Misery> and then we make, what, some cherry nectar?

• Dorien_Voclain shrugs. "Yeah. I need to stock up the supplies for Tits' place. starting to run low."

<Misery> that stuff always seems to sell fast. people think they need it to get laid?

<Dorien_Voclain> Some people do.

• Dorien_Voclain smirks

<Misery> that's sort of sad.

• Dorien_Voclain raises his glass slightly, "A little. But hey, if they want to spend their money on it, I'm happy to oblige"
• Misery nods

<Dorien_Voclain> Besides, it's not bad stuff. ever tried it?

<Misery> no

<Dorien_Voclain> It's very... relaxing.

<Misery> uh huh...

<Dorien_Voclain> I try to make it a point never to sell anything I haven't tried once. Keeps me honest.

<Misery> I guess then at least you can give testimonials to the customers.

• Misery sips her gin

<Dorien_Voclain> Pretty much.

• Dorien_Voclain sighs.

<Dorien_Voclain> Well, here's to better living through chemistry.

• Dorien_Voclain downs his drink
• Misery will drink to that

Gen turns herself in and finds an old friend

<DiablotinNarrator> I wasn't sure if we were totally done with your thread with August, but I think it was close enough to go ahead with your plan?

<Genevriel> I think so... I figured we were done.

<DiablotinNarrator> okay, cool

<DiablotinNarrator> So, how is Gen going to turn herself in?

• Genevriel was just going to get herself to whichever authorities are in charge of war crimes and identify herself. She hasn't really thought about it much beyond that.

<Genevriel> (I wasn't sure if there were military police, or if it'd just be normal imperial guard types)

• Genevriel was going to work out which day she and August would both be free to do this, though.

<DiablotinNarrator> There's a military justice system which is (more or less) separate from the ordinary legal system. There's a headquarters where they hold courts-martial and such on the Imperial Isle, that would be the most likely place to turn yourself in.

• Genevriel will go there, then. She makes sure she is as clean and presentable as she possibly can be, and wears her best clothes (not that they're anything to write home about...)
• Genevriel will have arranged to meet August somewhere on the way to the military justice HQ
• August accompanies you

<August> Is there anything you'd like me to do? Or just be there?

• Genevriel looks pale and anxious.

<Genevriel> Just be here, please. You don't know me well enough to try to say anything on my behalf. I'm not expecting you to do anything like that.

<August> All right.

• August puts a hand on your arm, comforting you
• Genevriel smiles wanly as she lays her own hand over top of his.

<August> Whatever happens, I'll be there.

• Genevriel nods.

<Genevriel> That's all I need. To know I'm not completely alone.

<DiablotinNarrator> You approach the building, a stern brick structure with soldiers posted out front

• Genevriel approaches the soldiers with trepidation.
• Genevriel isn't sure if she has to announce herself to them, or if she can just walk in.

<DiablotinNarrator> People are walking in and out of the doors, but probably none of them are criminals... you think...

• Genevriel walks towards the doors... no one can tell she's a criminal either. :P
• August sticks near you
• Genevriel wants to do this with as little fanfare as possible so hopefully the guards don't give a shit as we walk past them.

<DiablotinNarrator> Nobody interferes with your progress up the stairs and through the doorway

• Genevriel steps inside and gets her bearings... is there a wicket or anything like that with a receptionist?

<DiablotinNarrator> Inside is a large entry hall, and to the left there's a window with a young man sitting there who seems to be directing people or answering questions for them

• August gestures in that direction
• Genevriel nods and heads there.

<DiablotinNarrator> After a short wait, you are at the front of the line

<Receptionist> Next?

• Genevriel swallows anxiously.

<Genevriel> Good afternoon. My name is Genevriel Doucette... formerly a Sergent with the Fifth Squadron, Princess Tessera's Royal Infantry.

<Receptionist> How can I help you?

<Genevriel> I've recently encountered some of my old squadmates who... told me that our squadron might be under investigation for war crimes. So I've come to... cooperate with the investigation.

<Receptionist> I... see. Please hold on a moment.

• Receptionist steps aside to make a phone call
• Genevriel glances at August, uncertain now if this is the right decision, but it's too late to turn back now.
• August gives you a slight reassuring nod
• Receptionist returns after a moment.

<Receptionist> Wait on the bench over there, and someone from the war crimes division will be here to see you in a moment.

• Genevriel nods.
• Receptionist gestures to a bench against the opposite wall

<Genevriel> Thank you.

• August will accompany you to sit on the bench, then

<August> there... that part wasn't so bad, at least.

• Genevriel takes a seat rather woodenly, and nods absently at August's comment.
• Genevriel turns to him after a few moments.

<Genevriel> I don't know if I can do this. I'm going to have to talk about it. Relive it.

<August> You'll have to talk about it, but it won't be the same as going through it.

<August> I have faith that you can do this.

<DiablotinNarrator> You wait for what feels like hours, but isn't really that long.

• Genevriel struggles to maintain control and not bolt.

<DiablotinNarrator> Probably in fact only about fifteen or twenty minutes have passed when someone approaches you.

• Genevriel probably only doesn't bolt because August is there.
• Genevriel tries to take the measure of the person approaching us.

<DiablotinNarrator> He's tall - very tall - and walks with a limp. He has his face down, looking at some papers, as he approaches, but looks up to see you sitting there, and you recognize Madds.

<Madds> ... Gen?

<Genevriel> ... Madds?

<Madds> I... I didn't know if it would really be you.

• Genevriel is losing her hard-won control.
• August puts a comforting hand on your back, but has no idea what is going on here, other than that you evidently know each other

<Madds> Will you come with me?

• Madds asks, trying to maintain a professional tone
• Genevriel glances with panicky eyes at August.

<Genevriel> Alone... or... can my friend come?

<Genevriel> He's just here to support me.

<Madds> If you're all right with having him there, he can come. This is just a preliminary briefing.

• Genevriel nods gratefully.

<Genevriel> Do you mind, M. Merrion?

<August> Of course, that's fine.

• Genevriel wants to make sure August is comfortable with this.
• August will rise, offering you his hand
• Genevriel takes it and follows Madds wherever we're going.

<Genevriel> I'm... I'm glad you made it through, Madds.

• Genevriel says softly as he leads us wherever.

<Madds> You too.

• Madds leads you both downstairs, along some hallways, and into a small office.

<Genevriel> I should have... I should have listened to you.

<Madds> Don't... let's not talk about that now.

• Madds says with a slight glance around

<Genevriel> (Too late, I am crying and having trouble breathing.)

• Madds gets you inside the office and will shut the door. He offers you a handkerchief.
• August also tries to help calm you down
• Genevriel struggles to conquer her inner demons.

<Madds> Gen, listen... whatever happened, we'll sort this out.

• Genevriel shakes her head.

<Genevriel> I don't think it's right for you... for you to be the one doing this.

<Madds> The first thing we're going to do, is get you an advocate. Uh, unless.. you're not a lawyer, are you?

• Madds says to August

<August> Not as such, no.

<Madds> Okay.

<Madds> You're right, Gen, I can't be the one to handle this case. But I can make sure that you get fair treatment.

• Genevriel nods through her tears.
• Madds goes to his desk and gets a card out of a drawer

<Madds> This guy is good, he can help you out.

• Madds hands the business card to you
• Genevriel glances at it, but probably has trouble reading since her eyes are leaking.

<DiablotinNarrator> The card, once you can make it out, says "Noren Errazuris" and has contact information

<Genevriel> Thank you. But I... I don't even know what the charges are, yet?

<Madds> It doesn't matter - you need advice from someone on legal matters, and he'll be able to help.

<Madds> Now, here's what I can tell you.

• Genevriel slips one hand into August's and dabs at her leaky face with the other.

<Madds> There is an ongoing investigation surrounding your squad. They are definitely going to want to talk to you, and that's why you will have a lawyer present.

<Madds> I can't say whether there will be charges, or whether they'll just need to interview you.

• Genevriel nods, listening.

<Madds> Coming here was a good decision, though. It'll make things go smoother.

<Madds> It shows that you want to cooperate, and they'll appreciate that.

<Madds> Now, I'll set up a meeting for you with the people in charge of the investigation, and you should go and talk to your lawyer.

• Genevriel nods, sniffling.

<Madds> It'll be all right, Gen.

<Madds> We look after our own.

<Genevriel> I don't want strings pulled. I want whatever happens to be justice.

<Madds> Let's just get your contact information down here...

• Madds will take down your address and place of work and so forth, whatever ways of getting in touch with you are available
• Genevriel hesitates before telling him that stuff, embarrassed that she lives in the slums.

<Madds> All right. Someone will be in touch with you soon, I expect.

<Madds> It won't be me, but like I said - I'll try and keep an eye out for you.

<August> Thank you

<Genevriel> Thank you.

• August says with a polite nod
• Genevriel plainly has mixed emotions about having someone looking out for her. :P

<Madds> And... I'm glad you made it.

• Madds says as he sees you out
• Genevriel nods, wisely keeping to herself that she wishes she didn't.

Hugo and Zola go to Luc Berthillon's funeral

<DiablotinNarrator> Hugo, you are perusing the papers idly in your dressing room backstage when a familiar name catches your eye. Scanning back, you read the following story:

<DiablotinNarrator> "Celebrated author Luc Berthillon, 34, was found dead yesterday at his home in the Place D'Iena. He had not been seen by neighbours or friends in over a week. At last, fearing the worst, his door was opened by officers of the city guard, who discovered his remains. The cause of death is currently undisclosed, but sources indicate it is under continued investigation."

<DiablotinNarrator> "Berthillon was the acclaimed author of "The Setting Sun", his first novel, published when he was only 22, which was a great popular and critical hit, and has recently begun filming as a movie. However his second and third books did not reach the same levels of success, and he struggled to live up to his early promise."

<DiablotinNarrator> "Sources who were at the scene spoke on conditions of anonymity of a considerable amount of paper on Berthillon's desk - perhaps one final manuscript? His publisher, Jirair Kienast, refused to comment on the matter."

<DiablotinNarrator> "Berthillon's funeral will be held in two days' time, at the Ring Cross Temple. He is survived by a sister, Norma, and two nephews."

<Hugonel> Oh ... oh my! That poor man ...

• Hugonel muses aloud, thinking to himself how lucky he is to have survived.

<Hugonel> I shall have to purchase a new scarf for the funeral.

• Hugonel resolves steadfastly, then goes out shopping.
• Hugonel goes to talk to Zola later that day, newly enscarfened.
• Hugonel knocks on your dressing room door.

<Zola> Who is it?

<Hugonel> It's me, Hugo.

<Zola> Oh, come in!

• Hugonel enters.

<Hugonel> Did you hear about M. Berthillon?

• Zola is in the middle of putting on her face before a brightly lit vanity

<Zola> The author you told me about?

• Zola can be assumed not to have heard anything of interest, from her tone.

<Hugonel> Yes ... he died, mysteriously.

<Hugonel> It was in the news earlier today.

<Zola> Jeepers creepers!

<Zola> Do you think it was his red haired friend?

<Hugonel> I'm afraid I do. The death is under investigation by the guard. He was found at home - hadn't been seen for a week.

<Hugonel> The papers said there were manuscripts and papers found scattered about, which I suppose could just be a new novel - or something else.

<Zola> That's so sad, you said he was quite taken with her :(

<Hugonel> I just don't understand why she'd kill him, and not me? Not that I'm objecting, mind you.

<Zola> What if she's some sort of... vampire muse... ensnaring brilliant minds and then draining them of their energies ;_;

<Hugonel> Then my question is even more pertinent, don't you think?

<Zola> If it's the same songbird, well... perhaps it's only because of all the drama that night scaring her off.

<Hugonel> I'm going to go to the funeral.

<Hugonel> I bought a new scarf.

<Zola> Yes, it's a lovely shade.

<Zola> Do you need a companion?

<Hugonel> Would you like to come? I probably could use the company to keep my courage up.

<Zola> I'm sure I could spare the time, though I don't imagine she'll be there anyhow, if she truly is responsible for his demise.

<Hugonel> Maybe not. But he was well-loved and there will be a lot of people there.

<Zola> Since when do you need courage in crowds? :)

• Hugonel laughs.

<Hugonel> When my life is in danger, I suppose.

• Zola looks at him.

<Zola> You really think you're in danger there?

• Hugonel considers.

<Hugonel> No, probably not.

• Zola nods, and turns back to the mirror and begins to outline her lips with a pencil.

<Zola> I didn't think so either... surely she'd need a few days to ensnare you with her charms and work you into a creative frenzy.

<Hugonel> No doubt.

<Zola> What if she isn't there?

<Hugonel> Well, Klara Dannan certainly will be. They're good friends.

<Zola> Hmm.

<Zola> Still haven't figured out of whom they remind you?

<Hugonel> No, I really haven't.

<Hugonel> That's partly why I want to go there.

<Zola> If you didn't say the same thing about her as Klara I'd accuse you of just having an infatuation with Eirini.

<Hugonel> It truly is odd.

• Zola presses her lips together a few times and puts her things away

<DiablotinNarrator> okay - so you two are going to go to the funeral?

<Hugonel> (yup)

<Zola> Well, the least I can do is come along and keep people from thinking you're there to troll for sad young ladies.

• Hugonel laughs.

<Hugonel> Not only.

<DiablotinNarrator> You can attend the funeral in two days' time, then.

<DiablotinNarrator> It's in the morning, so you'll have to actually get up before noon - or just stay up after work.

• Hugonel will try to be well-rested, in case someone tries to ensorcel him.

<DiablotinNarrator> As you predicted, Hugo, the temple is quite packed with people. You do see some you recognize - Klara is there, as you anticipated. Dasra is also there, and a number of other people you recognize from her salon, and from other artsy circles.

• Zola dresses rather conservatively, in a black dress, dark wool coat, and a black wool hat to keep out the winter chill.
• Hugonel has a long black jacket and, of course, his new scarf.
• Hugonel will make sure to sit/stand where he will be seen.

<DiablotinNarrator> The funeral proceeds fairly normally - nothing untowards happens during the ceremony. People seem upset, there are certainly some who are weeping, but it's not anything especially unusual.

• Zola keeps an eye out for Eirini, and Klara
• Hugonel definitely is scanning for anyone with red hair.

<DiablotinNarrator> You don't see Eirini there.

<DiablotinNarrator> Is there anyone you'd like to try and talk with after the service?

<Hugonel> (Klara, definitely, if she's available)

• Zola lets Hugo lead the way.
• Klara has a cluster of people around her, but you can get over to see her

<Klara> Oh, thank you for coming, so good to see you...

<Hugonel> Klara, I'm so sorry.

• Klara nods sadly

<Klara> It was so unexpected...

<Hugonel> Have they said anything about what happened?

<Klara> I know he had been working on a new novel... he felt it was going to be his best yet. He was devoting all his energy to it.

<Zola> So tragic ;_;

<Klara> I don't know what happened, but I worry that perhaps he was overindulging in substances to help him work longer hours, and it could be that it affected his health... but please, don't repeat that - I don't know, and I don't wish to start rumours.

<Hugonel> No, no, of course not.

<Klara> We can only hope that, whatever he was working on, he managed to finish it - as his legacy.

<Hugonel> What of that 'songbird' he was seeing? Is she here?

• Klara shakes her head

<Zola> She must be devastated.

<Klara> I haven't seen her, and ... truthfully, I don't know if they were still together. He seemed purely devoted to his work the last few times we spoke.

<Hugonel> Ah ... I can only imagine that they broke up, if she's not here.

• Zola looks sad at that.

<Klara> Relationships with artists can be so difficult...

• Hugonel chuckles.

<Hugonel> Do tell.

<Klara> Would you care to join a few of us for dinner later?

<Hugonel> I'd be delighted ... Zola?

<Zola> Yes, it does sound lovely.

<Zola> I wonder if we should send flowers of condolence to ... I'm sorry, I don't think Hugo told me her name...

<Klara> To his sister? Her name is Norma, I believe. He didn't have any other family as far as I'm aware.

<Hugonel> I think Zola was talking about his lover.

<Zola> I just think of how dreadful she might feel if she stayed away because she ended it... unable to cope competing with his other love...

<Klara> Oh... her name was Laurel. I'm afraid I don't know an address to send anything, though.

<Zola> A pity.

<Hugonel> Probably best not to interfere. And I'm sure the family will have a lot to sort out with the estate.

• Klara nods

<Klara> Well, if you wish to join us for dinner, we'll be at my home, on Lilac Close in the Pav. Just a small gathering, really, nothing fancy.

<Hugonel> We'll be there.

• Zola nods earnestly

<DiablotinNarrator> (okay - gotta move on or we'll be super over time, but you guys can plot for that, and we can do it as a solo or a thread, whichever you'd prefer)

Argent and Denise sell their hot knife

<DiablotinNarrator> Argent, you receive a message at the post office box you had set up

<Argent> (sweet!)

• Argent will gather the Swarm to review the details... i'll read it first in private (with detect magic to avoid any potential traps)

<DiablotinNarrator> "I would like to meet with you and discuss the knife you've come across. Please meet me at the cafe on Piper's Green at 2 on the 8th of the month."

<DiablotinNarrator> It's unsigned, but the paper is clearly expensive

<Argent> So... who's going?

<Collete> Well, I guess you oughta. An' maybe Denise, as backup?

<Denise> :D

<Denise> I'll prolly just keep my mouth shut, though >.>

<Collete> I'm tryin' to decide if you oughta take the knife with you or no

<Argent> Maybe we can get a photo done of it

<Collete> I mean, if we want her to pony up cash for it, she'll have to know it's the right one... but we don't wanna just let her grab it.

<Argent> safer than bringing the knife

<Collete> yeah, that could work

<Collete> Good thinking :)

<Argent> pose it with todays paper, like in the movies

• Francois nods

<Argent> See... I was watching a little bit

• Argent comments to Denise

<Francois> Let's get that taken care of, then, an' then you can meet with her to work out the terms

• Denise grins

<Argent> ok

<Collete> I really don't know what we can expect for this. Just as much as you can get, I guess. See how bad she wants it back.

<Denise> what is it ain't cash she's got to offer, like?

<Francois> like what?

<Denise> I dunno... If she used to be in the hush though, who knows >.>

<Collete> if she's really Hush, like a get outa jail free promise or somethin?

<Denise> yeah, or somethin'

<Collete> I'd rather have cash, but honestly, we ain't gonna unload this knife anywhere, it's too distinctive.

<Denise> yeah

<Collete> so.. I guess we take what we can get.

• Denise nods

<Denise> as long as it covers us all

<Collete> yeah

<Collete> An' you can always say you gotta think it over

<Collete> if you ain't sure if it's a good deal

<Argent> So what do we know about the meeting place?

<Denise> !roll 1d20+6

• Zola rolls for Denise: [ 1d20+6 ] getting [ 1 ] which, after the modifier [ 6 ] totals [ 7 ].

<Denise> uhhhh

• Denise shrugs

<Denise> I don't even know where in the city that is >.>

<Collete> Piper's Green, it's like a little park in the Place D'Iena, an' there's this shop in the middle of it where folks can sit out with their coffee an' watch the other folks walk by

<Denise> huh

<Argent> wide open and lots of public

<Collete> Yeah

<Denise> that's good

<Collete> We could even be nearby, like, in case somethin' goes wrong.

<Argent> we can do a walk by the day before, spot the best escape route if things don't turn out well.

<Collete> Maybe hangin' out in the bushes or whatever

<Argent> sounds like we know what to do.

• Francois nods
• Denise nods

<Collete> All right, let's do this :)

• Denise grins again

<DiablotinNarrator> You can get a photo of the knife (with today's paper for proof) and scope out the cafe the day before, and Collete and Francois can find a good hiding spot nearby, where they can see the cafe

• Argent will arrive for the meet with Denise

<DiablotinNarrator> The cafe is busy on this wintery day, as people stop in to get a cup of hot chocolate or tea or coffee to warm up on their walk.

<DiablotinNarrator> Are you going to arrive a bit early, or right on time, or late? ;)

• Argent will follow suite with a couple cups of hot chocolate

<Argent> (a little early)

<Denise> (a little early)

<Denise> thanks!

<Argent> no sense freezing

<Denise> yeah

<Denise> if we have to wait too long, I can get the next round

• Argent will keep an eye out for our would be buyer

<DiablotinNarrator> You are getting your drinks when a woman walks in - old, well-dressed in a fur coat, and looking around the place

<Argent> <w> thats likely our girl

• Argent will check to see if there is anyone with her

<DiablotinNarrator> She goes to the counter and asks for a cup of tea, and a muffin with butter. "And could I have a knife with that," she asks the server, who will give her one politely.

<DiablotinNarrator> Argent, you can make a Perception check

<Argent> !roll 1d20+15

• Zola rolls for Argent: [ 1d20+15 ] getting [ 1 ] which, after the modifier [ 15 ] totals [ 16 ].

<DiablotinNarrator> she's clearly alone

• Denise nods and looks around as well

<Denise> !roll 1d20+6

• Zola rolls for Denise: [ 1d20+6 ] getting [ 2 ] which, after the modifier [ 6 ] totals [ 8 ].

<Denise> (lol)

• Denise loks to Argent

<Denise> <w> Well?

• Old_woman looks around for a place to sit
• Argent will approach her once she is seated
• Denise tags along

<Old_woman> Good afternoon, young man :)

<Argent> Good afternoon... I overheard you were looking for a knife. I may have one that you could be intersted in. May I have seat so we can discuss?

• Old_woman is quite small, slender, with long slim fingers as she offers you a seat.

<Old_woman> Certainly.

• Argent will pull a chair out for Denise then take a seat for himself

<Old_woman> To whom do I have the pleasure of speaking?

• Denise smiles at him and nods to the old woman

<Argent> People call me Jean

• Old_woman glances to Denise as well

<Denise> Den, ma'am

<Old_woman> Very well, Jean and Den. Tell me about this knife.

<Argent> easier to show you, I brought a recently aquired photo. It should cement any interst you have, or not.

• Old_woman nods
• Argent will slip her the photo in an unsealed envelope and guage her reaction as she looks at it.

<Old_woman> !roll 1d20

• Zola rolls for Old_woman: [ 1d20 ] getting [ 10 ].

<Old_woman> (you can roll a sense motive check)

<Argent> !roll 1d20+14

• Zola rolls for Argent: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 14 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 28 ].
• Old_woman keeps her face relatively impassive, but you sense that she has seen this before, and that it has some kind of meaning to her

<Old_woman> And you took a photograph with a newspaper, too, how clever of you :)

<Old_woman> I do have an interest in the item in question.

<Old_woman> But I also have an interest in how it was acquired - where it came from.

• Denise lets Argent do te explainming >.>

<Argent> both the item and where it was found is available for the appropriate compensation, of course

<Old_woman> Of course

<Old_woman> and what would be appropriate compensation, in your opinion?

<Argent> (did we have a price in mind?)

<Argent> (its worth like what 8K?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (yeah, that would be its sale price)

<Argent> Eight

<Old_woman> Eight imperials? You've undervalued it a little, if I may say so.

<Old_woman> Don't sell yourselves short.

<Argent> thousand

• Old_woman smiles slightly
• Argent is a little put off by the comment and purposely shows it

<Old_woman> I think we both know that's not going to happen.

<Old_woman> But permit me to make a counter-offer.

• Denise tries not to sigh

<Argent> by all means

• Old_woman looks to 'Den' for a moment.
• Denise blinks

<Old_woman> Girl - are you a Murodea? You look like one.

<Denise> uhh.

<Denise> yes ma'am

<Old_woman> I thought as much.

• Denise is a little surprised, not that she looks like her family, but that someone like her would know

<Old_woman> Your... hmm... Not mother, surely. Aunt? Made quite a name for herself.

• Argent is on edge now, looking for an ambush, while keeping straight faced, as if unphased by the questioning
• Old_woman looks back to 'Jean'

<Denise> Oh, yeah. I mean - yes' ma'am

<Old_woman> Two thousand.

• Old_woman makes her counter-offer, though still perhaps musing on other matters

<Argent> Six seems more reasonable to me

• Old_woman smiles as if this is all very cute

<Old_woman> Two and a favour from me at some point in the future. I'll do what I can to help you on a matter of your choice.

<Old_woman> With that comes not only the knife, but the full story of how you acquired it.

<Argent> and thats the most you're going to offer?

<Old_woman> Well, I doubt you'll be able to dispose of it elsewhere.

<Old_woman> Certainly not at a better profit than that.

• Denise eyes argent
• Denise purses her lips because clearly he will think of this >.>

<Argent> I have to take you're offer back. If its acceptable there will be another letter with a place to do the swap... it will be like this. The story comes with the knife then.

<Old_woman> All right.

<Argent> Thank you for your time Miss?

<Old_woman> I appreciate your candour, and I'll look forward to hearing from you again.

<Denise> ummm

<Old_woman> And girl - say hello to your grandfather from Alea, if he's still kicking.

<Denise> o_O

<Denise> yes ma'am...

• Old_woman finishes her muffin and tea, and will depart before you, because that's just how polite criminals work

<Denise> well... huh

• Denise says after she's gone

<Argent> Lets go

<Denise> yeah...

• Argent will get up and head out to stroll the park, making sure they are not being followed

<DiablotinNarrator> You can do so, and you don't think you're being followed

<Denise> I guess grampa was in the guard,,,

<Argent> well that was intersting

<Denise> yeah

<Denise> well, like 500 each - that still lots of cash, right?

<Argent> it is

<Denise> it really ain't like we got any other choice

<Argent> assuming the drop goes well

<Denise> yeah

<Argent> true enough

• Collete and Francois will join up with you from their hiding spot, eventually

<Collete> How'd it go?

<Argent> as well as it could when the person knew we didn't have much other choice than to sell it to them

<Denise> she said 2 thou an' a favour

<Collete> Two is still pretty good...

<Denise> but she want the full story, too

<Collete> and a favour... well, I dunno what that's worth, but I guess it's better than a kick in the teeth.

<Denise> of how we got it

<Collete> So, we can tell her - it ain't gonna bounce back on us, *we* didn't steal it.

<Collete> well... not from her.

• Collete amends slightly

<Argent> thats why I didn't argue too much about the story

<Denise> yeah

<Denise> I dunno if, like, that coulnts all of how we found out about the place or just how we got in or what

<Collete> Five hundred apiece is still better than nothing.

<Denise> yeah

<Argent> more than the rest combined

• Collete nods

<Collete> Okay - I say we make that deal.

<Collete> You can handle gettin' back in touch with her? Maybe wait a couple days so she worries more :p

<Argent> you pick a place and ill get the note delivered. Pick something like that cafe

<Collete> Sure thing.

<Argent> I'ld rather do it quick so if she's up to anything squirly she doesn't have much time to set it up

<Collete> Good work :)

<Collete> Yeah, that's a good point I guess. We can do it pretty soon.

<Francois> We shoulda got a hot chocolate too.

• Argent laughs
• Francois rubs his hands together from sitting freezing in the bushes

<Collete> Well, once we get paid, we can do that, baby.

<Collete> All the hot chocolate you want ;)