Diablotin 3 session 40

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Session

Session date: September 11, 2016

Diablotin date: End of Fifth-month

Prologue

<DiablotinNarrator> It is the end of Fifth Month, and the weather is basically back to a seasonally normal temperature, although there are concerns that the unnaturally long winter will have affected crops, as they are being sown late.

<DiablotinNarrator> People are gradually being allowed back into the Shade - the damage there is extensive and will need repair, but as areas are deemed to be safe enough for habitation, people are permitted to return to their homes.

<DiablotinNarrator> The strange grove of trees remains, carefully guarded to prevent unwary folks from getting too close.

<DiablotinNarrator> (guarded by the military, I should add - not city guards)

Lathra returns home

<DiablotinNarrator> Lathra, you're one of the lucky ones who is able to return home and see how your place has fared.

<Lathra> (Woo!... ooo...)

<DiablotinNarrator> Aside from some debris and cosmetic damage to the outside, it seems fine, if perhaps suffering the effects of not having been lived in for a while.

<DiablotinNarrator> There is also, you find on arriving, a note that has been slipped under your door

• Lathra is relieved despite the indifference she felt on the way over, and reaches curiously for the note

<DiablotinNarrator> It says "Lathra, I hope you're all right. I know you made it back safely, at least - I heard about it from Xan. I'd like to see you when you have time. - Leiris."

<Lathra> . o O (Woohoo!)

• Lathra fishes a bottle out from behind a dessicated houseplant and has a celebratory swig

<DiablotinNarrator> (heh)

<Lathra> . o O (I should probably tidy up a bit...)

• Lathra goes to see whether any nice outfits have survived instead

<DiablotinNarrator> Your nice outfits are unscathed.

<Lathra> (Are we during working hours? Would Xan's shop be open at this time of day?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (let's say it's mid-afternoon, so probably yes, he'd be open for business.)

• Lathra picks something playful that's almost suitable for cycling, sighs at the state of the floors and cycles over to Xan's
• Leiris is at his desk in the front office, and doesn't quite glance up when you come in, being absorbed in a book.

<Leiris> Good afternoon, how can I help... oh :o

• Lathra looks at some picture on the wall

<Lathra> Hello sir, I have a dreadful problem I was hoping you could help me with

<Leiris> Oh, really?

<Lathra> Why yes, really!

• Lathra says earnestly, taking a chair

<Leiris> Well of course I'd be happy to help however I can.

<Lathra> It's terribly tragic, you see - I find myself quite without a companion for dinner and drinks tonight. I was hoping that your establishment might be able to research a date for me?

<Leiris> Oh! certainly, I think we could help with that. I mean... I could. Xan probably isn't needed ;)

<Lathra> Oh my, is my terrible problem really too trivial to bother him with?

• Lathra wink!

<Leiris> Well, if we brought him, then we'd have to bring Justen as well, and then it's more of a party and less of a date :)

<Leiris> I don't know if you'd be interested, but as I came into a bit of a bonus lately, we could check out Oracle's in the Grand.

<Lathra> It sounds like you're already on the trail! I'll leave you to work, you contact me when you've found the solution.

<Leiris> Are you free tonight? I could pick you up around 8.

• Lathra sweeps out the door and flashes Lieris a little smile as it closes behind her

<Leiris> ... I'll take that as a yes.

• Lathra heads back to her bicycle and fishes out a jacket from the saddlebag
• Leiris will knock on your door promptly at 8
• Lathra has swept the entryway, and cracks the door open to answer

<Lathra> Oh, sir! Did you have any success resolving my problem?

• Leiris wears a very nice suit and holds some flowers for you

<Leiris> Well, I've been working very hard on the case.

• Leiris offers you the bouquet.

<Lathra> I'm very excited to see the results!

• Leiris smiles
• Lathra tips out one of the dead houseplants on to the unswept floor around the corner and deposits the bouquet

<Lathra> Well you simply must take me to your research immediately!

• Lathra takes his arm and sweeps him out the door

<Leiris> If you'd care to join me, I'd be glad to demonstrate ... oh, well, yes, okay :)

• Leiris is swept
• Leiris takes you to Oracle's, as promised.

<DiablotinNarrator> Oracle's is a casino in the Grand, a magnificent building that gleams with polished wood and bright lights. Its windows are hung with red velvet draperies and what you can only assume are expensive paintings decorate the walls.

<DiablotinNarrator> The doorman seems to know Leiris, and lets him in with a polite nod.

<DiablotinNarrator> Inside the crowd is very well-dressed, and presumably very rich. There is background music, somewhat drowned out by the chatter of voices and the rattle of roulette wheels and dice, the cries of excitement or disappointment depending on how they fall.

<DiablotinNarrator> There is also, you can't help noticing, a very well-stocked bar.

<Lathra> This place certainly looks like it fits the bill!

<Leiris> It's a fun treat once in a while. And uh... I can't really go back to the Chance House, so.

• Lathra tries obviously to restrain herself, and fails
• Leiris will guide us through the crowds to get drinks ;)

<Leiris> I think they might break my kneecaps if I do.

<Lathra> No, I can't help it, what happened at the chance house?

<Leiris> Weeelll. I'm a fairly decent card player. Better than they'd expected.

<Leiris> ... I cleaned them out one night.

<Leiris> Then there were some uncomfortable conversations with their manager.

<Lathra> Well not that's a feat!

<Lathra> (*now*)

<Lathra> So now you're banned for being good at cards? That hardly seems fair.

<Leiris> Uhh technically I might be banned for telling the manager he could kiss my ass.

<Leiris> It's a bit of a blur.

<Lathra> Ahahaha, how delightful!

<Lathra> What I'm hearing is that it's past time we played some cards

<Leiris> That would be lovely :)

<DiablotinNarrator> You can find a table with a couple of free spaces for you and Leiris to play cards. He is indeed very good, although he seems to be not trying to win tooooo hard.<DiablotinNarrator> As you're enjoying your drink and game, you spot a familiar face in the crowd - there aren't many other Shadar-kai here, so Jed rather stands out. He's there with a short human woman in a hat and dark glasses.

• Lathra waves to him
• Jedrezej wanders over with his date (?) to say hello

<Jedrezej> Hi Lathra, having fun? <Lathra> I certainly am!

• Lathra offers her glass for clinking
• Jedrezej will clink
• Jedrezej 's date smiles as well and despite her efforts at disguise you recognize Princess Vera.

<Lathra> You must know my good friend and date tonight Lieris, the renowned researcher?

<Jedrezej> Pleased to meet you!

<Leiris> Likewise.

<Vera> We were just heading to one of the private rooms - would you like to join us?

<Vera> With four we could play some better games :)

<Lathra> Oh, I don't know... do they have drinks?

<Jedrezej> They have so many drinks @_@

<Lathra> Then we're in!

<Leiris> Excellent - I've never gotten to see the private gaming rooms here.

<Vera> Well, I have some connections with the owners...

• Lathra wink wink

<DiablotinNarrator> As it turns out, the private rooms are extremely comfortable, and have a running supply of refreshments for your enjoyment.

<DiablotinNarrator> (but we should probably move on :)

Dorien pays off Lhyphena's debt

<DiablotinNarrator> Dorien, with your newfound monies, you could theoretically pay off Misery's mother's debt, and still have at least some left over for your own purposes. Or you could do something else, it's up to you :)

<Dorien> (Oh, I thought her debt was significantly more than I got?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (no, I looked up in the logs and it was 5000, and I assume it's been at least somewhat paid down, between her efforts and your's and Misery's repayment plan deal)

<Dorien> (Oooooh, ok. Then yeah, definitely pay that off first thing. Then start working on finding a cheap office to start my business.)

<Dorien> (Once I save up enough)

• Lhyphena has been staying with you, although hopefully she'll be able to return to the Shade soon and stop cramping your style ;)

<Dorien> (Heh)

<DiablotinNarrator> (so how will you break the news to her? ;)

• Dorien will take them both out to dinner and surprise them with the news there :)

<Dorien> (Somewhere decently nice after everything we've all been through.)

<DiablotinNarrator> okay - you can take them to a nice restaurant :)

• Misery is mildly suspicious
• Dorien holds the door open for them.
• Misery goes in, looking around.

<Misery> Well I guess it's okay.

<Dorien> I'm glad you approve ;)

<Lhyphena> It looks very nice.

• Lhyphena says politely.
• Misery is happy with the complimentary breadsticks anyway ;)

<Dorien> I thought you two deserved a decent meal. I'm sure what the baracks food wasn't great.

<Misery> It was awful. I never want to see another lentil or bean.

<Dorien> Well, I can't promise that, but there's one thing I can promise you'll never see again.

<Misery> What?

<Dorien> Tilkiira or her organization.

• Dorien will pull out the check and put it down on the table.

<Misery> Well I might still have to see her, since she's boning my father but... what's that?

• Misery picks it up to have a look at it, and her eyes widen

<Dorien> A thank you. From the government for services rendered.

<Misery> Fuck :o I mean, uh, wow.

<Dorien> Yeah. That's basically what I said.

<Misery> This would be enough to pay off everything. But... you can't use your money on that.

<Dorien> I can use it on whatever I want.

<Misery> It's your money, though. You could use it to start up a business, like you wanted. Or ... on hookers and drugs, I don't know. It's for you :p

<Dorien> I can make all the drugs I'd ever want, and hookers are overrated. I've got something better.

<Lhyphena> Dorien, it's very generous of you. ... What are you expecting in return?

• Lhyphena asks cautiously

<Dorien> And the business...

<Dorien> That'll happen.

<Dorien> One way or the other.

<Dorien> Nothing. I'm buying the two of you freedom, not transferring your lease.

<Dorien> You don't owe me anything.

<Lhyphena> I could never repay you.

<Dorien> You don't have to.

<Dorien> This is something I need to do.

• Misery leans over and hugs you.

<Dorien> Misery, if you decide you want nothing to do with me after tonight, then I would still want you to have this.

<Misery><w> you're so getting laid tonight

<Dorien> Though I would be pretty broken up about it, I'm not gonna lie

<Dorien> :)

• Dorien will hug her back, hard.

<Lhyphena> ... Thank you. I don't know what else to say, but ...

<Dorien> Just promise me one thing.

<Dorien> Don't ever go to a loanshark again.

<Lhyphena> I won't.

<Dorien> :)

• Misery orders a ridiculously large steak.
• Dorien will order a bottle of wine and toast to a new beginning

<DiablotinNarrator> Then the next day, I'll assume you can take the note to a bank and get the necessary amount to pay off the balance of the debt. It will leave you with, say, 800 GP, which is still a nice amount to allow you to pay rent on some office space and buy equipment.

<Dorien> (Yay!)

<Dorien> (That night I will take Misery home and show her some of the things I can do with my new "talent")

<DiablotinNarrator> (hahah)

<DiablotinNarrator> (I'm sure she's very impressed ;)

<Dorien> ::3

Aubrienne learns a little something about the Wastelord

<DiablotinNarrator> Aubrienne, you're obviously quite busy lately with caring for a new baby :3 Hyacinth is very cute, but does require a lot of work. Fortunately Tits and Gabby don't mind helping out, so between all three of you, you're able to still manage to get sleep and go to work and so on.

<Aubrienne> (Heh, Three Women and a Baby. We're our own sitcom.)

• Aubrienne will be sure to thank them both for their help and patience (though obviously Tits moreso ;))

<DiablotinNarrator> One day, your aunt Svara comes to pay you a visit.

• Misery is now known as Svara
• Svara is really there for the baby, though, let's be honest

<Aubrienne> Aunt Svara! Hi, come on in. :)

• Aubrienne hugs her and shows her in.

<Svara> How are you and the little one doing? :)

<Aubrienne> (I'm assuming Hyacinth is still perfectly fine? Nothing unusual?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (yup, so far normal baby things)

<Aubrienne> Well enough. Babies aren't terribly respectful of things like sleep schedules, but we're managing. :)

• Svara chuckles

<Svara> Well, let me hold her for a while and give you a break :3

• Aubrienne smiles at that and hands her over.

<Aubrienne> How are you doing? I haven't had time to catch up with family goings-on as much as I'd like.

<Svara> I'm all right.

• Svara can give you some family gossip about how cousins and in-laws and so forth are doing.
• Aubrienne will listen and comment accordingly :)

<Svara> I did have some more serious matters to talk to you about though, if you have time.

<Aubrienne> I'm not currently occupied, no.

<Svara> All right.

<Aubrienne> What can I help you with?

<Svara> This might seem like an odd question, but can you do a Harrow reading for me?

<Aubrienne> I'm sorry?

• Svara is perfectly skilled at reading the Harrow, so it is a bit odd for her to ask you

<Aubrienne> I mean, of course I can, but, I mean...why not do one yourself?

<Svara> I'll explain after.

<Aubrienne> All...right. o.O

• Aubrienne goes to retrieve her heirloom deck.

<Aubrienne> What's the question?

<Svara> The question is, who is the Wastelord?

<Aubrienne> o.O

<Aubrienne> Okay...

• Aubrienne casts Harrowing

<Aubrienne> (Did you want me to do a spread, or is that not necessary?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (I have a spread for you ;)

<Aubrienne> (Coolio :))

<DiablotinNarrator> Okay - and I hope I'm doing this right :p

<DiablotinNarrator> First row: The Survivor, The Wanderer, The Empty Throne

<DiablotinNarrator> Second row: The Vision, The Midwife, The Hidden Truth

<DiablotinNarrator> Third row: The Tangled Briar, The Snakebite, The Big Sky

<DiablotinNarrator> (it's not actually urgent for you to interpret them, although of course you can if you want! I don't want to put you on the spot too much though :)

<Aubrienne> (Okay :) I totally want to, but it'd take me a while)

• Svara looks ... worried/resigned at the spread of cards you laid out.

<Aubrienne> Well, that's certainly interesting.

<Aubrienne> Can I know what this is about now?

<Svara> All right... now look at this. It gets more interesting.

<Svara> Here, I need to hand you the baby for a minute.

• Svara passes Hyacinth to you carefully, trying not to wake her.
• Aubrienne takes Hyacinth equally carefully, but is very interested in what's going on
• Svara draws out her own deck of Harrow cards, which are newer than yours, printed on paper instead of leather.

<Svara> My question: who is the Wastelord?

• Svara then proceeds to draw the exact same spread you just did, laying it out on the table beside your cards.

<Aubrienne> Huh

<Aubrienne> Odd, but not completely out of the question, I guess.

<Aubrienne> Is something going on with, uh, Rat?

<Svara> It's happened to half a dozen different Harrow readers that I know of. Same reading, over and over. Sometimes the cards come in a different order, but it's always the same nine.

<Aubrienne> Why the interest in the Wastelord? That's kind of...historical now, isn't it?

<Svara> That's a good question.

<Svara> The Vjestaci continue to ... take an interest, let's say, in that Harrow deck you found.

<Aubrienne> I'll trust their judgement, but I still think it's best to leave it alone.

<Svara> In their efforts to learn more about it, they've sought advice in divinations.

<Svara> More specifically - they want to know who has it right now. The answer they got back was 'The Wastelord.'

<Svara> As you can imagine, that was a puzzler.

<Aubrienne> Wait, what?

<Aubrienne> It said 'The Wastelord' has it?

<Svara> That's my understanding, yes.

<Aubrienne> Is that maybe something we need to interpret? Like, the Wastelord has it because the Rats have it?

<Svara> I don't know. I'm not sure anyone knows. We're trying to figure it out - if it refers to a specific person.

<Svara> But I assume you might already know - since you know who has the deck.

<Aubrienne> I do...

• Svara says gently but a bit pointedly, perhaps.

<Aubrienne> But I'm still not prepared to disclose their identity.

<Svara> I understand.

<Svara> But if they're a friend of yours, you might want to consider warning them about this.

<Aubrienne> I will, however, be looking into this as soon as possible.

• Svara says, gesturing to the cards

<Aubrienne> Yes.

<Svara> All right.

<Svara> I won't push you - but there are a number of people who are quite concerned about what all this means. And they might not be as patient in trying to find out answers.

<Aubrienne> How concerned do I need to be?

<Svara> I don't think you're in danger, if that's what you mean.

<Aubrienne> All right.

<Svara> But something strange is going on.

<Aubrienne> Isn't it always?

• Aubrienne says with a weary chuckle.
• Svara nods.

<Aubrienne> I promise I'll look into as soon as I can. A day or two at most, I would think.

<Svara> All right. Please let me know anything you can.

<Aubrienne> Of course.

• Svara gives Hyacinth a goodbye kiss, and a hug for you.

Denise learns that Janelle Rionet is going to try to be the next Emperor

<DiablotinNarrator> Denise, Ander has a meeting this evening at some fancy restaurant, not at the club.

<Denise> (oooh fancy!)

• Denise feels maybe not fancy enough, but that's okay, she is rich now :V
• Ander is plenty fancy for both of us ;)

<Denise> so who're you meetin'? :3

<Ander> Janelle Rionet. Politics stuff.

<Denise> oh, huh

<Denise> She's a channel, right?

<Ander> Yeah. But she's also helpin' me out as far as organizin' stuff for my campaign.

<Denise> awww, right

<Ander> She knows more of the folks in the Great Council an' the rich sorts who do stuff like donate money an' all that.

• Denise nods

<Denise> I guess that's good

<Ander> Yeah, she's not a bad sort.

• Denise doesn't relly know how these things work and will take your word for it!
• Ander says, only slightly grudgingly

<Denise> well, prolly you won't need me so much.

<Ander> Well, I oughta keep security around even if I think I don't need it. You never know.

<Denise> yeah.

• Denise nods

<DiablotinNarrator> You arrive and are escorted to a table where a very pretty and elegant blonde woman is waiting.

• Lhyphena is now known as Janelle

<Ander> Mlle. Rionet, good evenin'.

<Janelle> It's nice to see you, M. Suterre. And your guest, Mlle...?

<Denise> Um, Murodea

• Denise is not used to being mlle-d

<Janelle> A pleasure to meet you, Mlle. Murodea.

<Denise> you as well, Mlle. Rionet

• Ander holds the chair for you to have a seat, then sits down himself.
• Denise will sit but feel a litle awkward
• Ander glances at the menu long enough to see there's steak, which is always a good bet at one of these posh places ;)
• Denise struggles to read though it, not knowing what half the things are D:
• Denise puts is aside and decides she will justorder whatever Ander orders
• Ander orders a steak ;)
• Denise will also, feelign a little relieved
• Janelle orders the fish.

<Ander> well... so, where are things at?

• Ander says once the ordering of food is out of the way.

<Janelle> The deadline for filing the paperwork to stand for election is next week. Yours is all already in, of course, no problems there.

<Janelle> Two other candidates have put in their names for the Shambles district so far - barring any last-minute changes, it will be three of you running.

<Ander> Who're the other two?

• Denise listens but only ever paid vague attention to any kind of politics before

<Janelle> Loren Talmadge, House Bear, he's a foreman at the West End docks. War veteran as well, so that might be a problem if he cuts into your support in that area.

<Janelle> And Taveras Derant, a barber. He's a little older, and he's been part of various organizations for the betterment of the Shambles, so he probably already has a strong base of supporters.

• Ander nods and then pauses for a moment

<Ander> Derant?

<Janelle> Yes?

<Janelle> Do you know him?

<Ander> No, just the name's familiar. Maybe some of his kin.

• Ander takes a drink of his wine
• Denise wonders if she has heard of him.... (K local?)

<Denise> !roll 1d20+8

• Zola rolls for Denise: [ 1d20+8 ] getting [ 15 ] which, after the modifier [ 8 ] totals [ 23 ].

<DiablotinNarrator> Well, you think you might have walked by his barber shop before. But the name doesn't particularly mean anything to you, I don't think.

<Denise> (okay)

<Ander> Well, so I got a one in three chance, that ain't so bad.

<Janelle> It could be worse.

• Janelle agrees.
• Ander and Janelle talk for a bit more, and your food arrives after a while, and that's a good distraction from boring politics stuff because it's a really good steak.
• Denise daydreams abotu eating steak like this alll the time @_@

<Janelle> There's something else I'd been meaning to talk to you about.

• Janelle says eventually, once the plates are cleared and you're pondering dessert.

<Ander> Oh yeah?

• Denise wonders if they have ice cream :3

<DiablotinNarrator> (probably some kind of fancy sorbet ;)

<Denise> (close enough :V)

<Janelle> It's only indirectly related, but I thought you ought to know.

• Janelle seems a bit nervous, and lowers her voice.
• Ander looks curious
• Denise seems a bit more interested in secrets :V

<Janelle> It may not be an issue for a long time, or ever.

<Janelle> So I'd appreciate if you kept it to yourselves.

• Janelle says, including you with a slight smile
• Denise nods

<Denise> Of course, ma'am

<Janelle> It's long been my ambition to put myself forward as a candidate for the throne - if I should still be young enough when the opportunity arises, which it may not for many years.

<Ander> You think they'll let you? Like, I can't imagine the House Owl folks are gonna be real happy 'bout waitin' on their turn.

<Janelle> I agree that will be a problem to contend with. But our House needs to take its place one day, and few people are ever going to want to delay their own House for us.

<Janelle> Maybe I won't succeed. But in order to even have a shot at trying, I'll need people like you in the Great Council.

<Ander> Rats?

<Janelle> Allies.

• Ander nods

<Ander> Well, you know, if I even get elected.

<Janelle> That's what I'm here to try and help with :)

<Denise> huh

<Denise> you think that would really ever happen? :3

<Denise> I mean, a rat Emperor...Empress, I guess

<Janelle> I hope so.

<Janelle> I don't think it's impossible, although it will be difficult.

<Janelle> It would have seemed impossible to have a Rat Patriarch once too, but institutions can change, if people have the will to change them.

• Denise nods

<Denise> well, i think it'd be real swell

<Denise> maybe folks'd take us seriously

• Janelle nods

<Janelle> I hope you're right.

Argent returns to the sewers with Margaux; they find something malevolent

<DiablotinNarrator> Okay, Argent, you wanted to make a return trip to the sewers and check out how things are in the (former) kingdom of fungus

<Argent> (I did)

<DiablotinNarrator> Margaux will go with you, of course. I know Denise wanted to as well, but since Heather had to step out I'll say you couldn't quite make your schedules match up, and you were concerned enough to not want to wait too long.

• Ander is now known as Margaux

<Argent> (ok)

<DiablotinNarrator> (well if he finds something interesting, you can always go back as a solo or something ;)

<DiablotinNarrator> Did you want to retrace the route you guys took the last time?

• Argent will take a similar route we took the first time, assuming it is still intact.

<DiablotinNarrator> Okay

<DiablotinNarrator> One thing you notice early on is that the growths of fungus you had seen last time in the tunnels are mostly dead or dying.

<Argent> Thats a good sign

<Margaux> Hopefully...

• Argent will keep a reasonably cautious pace

<DiablotinNarrator> You head to the cavern area with the tree roots, where you encountered Amanita.

<DiablotinNarrator> There's a terrible smell there - piles of rotting fungus + the festering remains of the dead zombie-things you fought.

<Argent> best have a good look around and be gone from here

• Argent wrinkles his nose at the smell

<Margaux> It hasn't gotten any more pleasant, definitely.

<Argent> (how do the roots look? Better? Worse?)

<DiablotinNarrator> The roots look like they're still alive, anyway - fungal growths on them have shriveled and turned to a powdery mess, though.

• Margaux looks around, trying to see if she can sense anything strange
• Argent will bring some magical sense on line (detect magic/detect evil)

<DiablotinNarrator> Argent, you don't detect evil but you do sense magic centered on that little structure/temple/whatever it is that Amanita was inside

• Sirris is now known as Margaux
• Argent will focus on it to try and get a read on its strength... (an however unlikely with his K:arcane, the school)

<Argent> !roll 1d20+4

• Zola rolls for Argent: [ 1d20+4 ] getting [ 9 ] which, after the modifier [ 4 ] totals [ 13 ].

<Argent> (and that wont be enough for the school, I assume)

<DiablotinNarrator> you don't know the school, but you sense that it's moderate power

<Margaux> There's a lingering power here.

• Margaux adds

<Argent> There is still some magic on the temple where Amanita was... not weak, but not powerful either

• Margaux nods

<Argent> what it could be, I don't know

<Margaux> We should check it out.

• Argent nods and moves forward
• Margaux stays near your side

<DiablotinNarrator> You approach the little building, which now that it's not completely covered in fungus, you think must be some sort of old Rat building - or at least, you don't know who else would have built it, it's clearly old and made of stone.

<DiablotinNarrator> Checking inside?

<Argent> (are there any distinguishing markings on it?)

<Argent> (and yes check inside)

<DiablotinNarrator> There aren't any markings on the outside that you can see, but it's still partly coated in dead/dying fungus, so maybe if it was entirely cleared off, there would be something. It's just cleared off enough for you to tell it's an old building.

<Argent> (after... inside first)

<DiablotinNarrator> (are you still keeping up your DM?)

<Argent> (if I can yes)

<DiablotinNarrator> (okay)

<DiablotinNarrator> Inside, there are some things you notice at once. There are some items that radiate with magic - sitting over to the side, there's a metal cauldron, a pair of white leather gloves, a cloak, a circlet, and a necklace. Also in the center of the floor is what looks to you like a summoning circle.

<DiablotinNarrator> And also, you can make a Perception check

<Argent> !roll 1d20+21

• Zola rolls for Argent: [ 1d20+21 ] getting [ 10 ] which, after the modifier [ 21 ] totals [ 31 ].

<DiablotinNarrator> You hear faint whispering in here. It reminds you uncomfortably of the voices of those fungus-brain-tentacle-things.

• Argent will cast see invisible
• Margaux looks unsettled as well

<Argent> (nothing invisible or etherial here?)

<DiablotinNarrator> You don't see anything invisible - it's as if the sound is just coming from all around you. Make a Will save. and Margaux needs to make one as well.

<Argent> (for me)

<Argent> !roll 1d20+12

• Zola rolls for Argent: [ 1d20+12 ] getting [ 17 ] which, after the modifier [ 12 ] totals [ 29 ].

<Argent> (for Margaux)

<Argent> !roll 1d20+7

• Zola rolls for Argent: [ 1d20+7 ] getting [ 9 ] which, after the modifier [ 7 ] totals [ 16 ].

<Argent> (but she's immune to fear)

<DiablotinNarrator> !roll 1d100

• Zola rolls for DiablotinNarrator: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 25 ].

<Margaux> Something's not right...

<DiablotinNarrator> !roll 1d100

• Zola rolls for DiablotinNarrator: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 13 ].

<Margaux> We should get out of here.

<DiablotinNarrator> !roll 1d100

• Zola rolls for DiablotinNarrator: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 8 ].
• Argent will attempt to dispel magic what might be affecting her
• Margaux moves as if to take the items

<Margaux> !roll 1d100

• Zola rolls for Margaux: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 65 ].

<Argent> (make a caster roll?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (sure)

<Argent> !roll 1d20+8

• Zola rolls for Argent: [ 1d20+8 ] getting [ 19 ] which, after the modifier [ 8 ] totals [ 27 ].
• Margaux then draws her own sword and tries to stab herself with it.

<DiablotinNarrator> !roll 1d8

• Zola rolls for DiablotinNarrator: [ 1d8 ] getting [ 5 ].

<Argent> (+4 str bonus)

<DiablotinNarrator> so she takes 9 damage, and looks very confused

<Margaux> !roll 1d100

• Zola rolls for Margaux: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 77 ].
• Argent try one more thing, cast circle of protection from evil, to try and ward out the compulsion

<DiablotinNarrator> okay, you can try that - the Dispel Magic alas didn't help :/

<DiablotinNarrator> !roll 1d8

• Zola rolls for DiablotinNarrator: [ 1d8 ] getting [ 2 ].
• Margaux cuts herself again for another 6 points

<Argent> (can I try and tackle her out of the room?)

<DiablotinNarrator> (yes)

<Argent> (since nothing else is working)

<Argent> !roll 1d20+10

• Zola rolls for Argent: [ 1d20+10 ] getting [ 19 ] which, after the modifier [ 10 ] totals [ 29 ].

<Margaux> !roll 1d100

• Zola rolls for Margaux: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 71 ].

<Argent> (that will beat her CMD)

<DiablotinNarrator> She isn't really fighting back, she's mostly just trying to attack herself anyway, so I'll say you can push her out of the room

• Margaux looks pale and shaky as she looks down at her wounds

<Margaux> What happened?

• Margaux asks once she's outside the structure
• Margaux Lays on Hands on herself

<Argent> you heard the voices and started acting strange, then started cutting yourself.

<Argent> Nothing I tried would free you of it until I forced you outside

<Margaux> I heard whispers - voices telling me to hurt myself

• Margaux leans against you

<Margaux> Let's get out of here.

<Argent> Do you remember what was inside?

<Margaux> there were some things... a circle on the floor... that's all I remember.

<Argent> (cant see the items from outside, have to be inside, correct?)

<DiablotinNarrator> yeah

<DiablotinNarrator> Do you want to go back in and take the items?

<DiablotinNarrator> Or just get out and/or come back another time?

<Argent> I'm scared to leave whats in there, just lying there for someone to wander in and take, or worse, end up

• Margaux nods

<Argent> confused.

<Margaux> I felt like whatever it was, it was all around - not one of the items doing it.

<Argent> Ill cast silence, maybe if I cant hear it, I wont be vulnerable, go in and grab the stuff in my cloak, and if I have time, and there is no sign of anything in the circle, break it.

<Margaux> All right. if I think anything's going wrong, though, I'm going to come in and try to pull you out.

• Argent pulls out his rope and ties it around himself.

<Argent> give me a 50 count, if I'm not out, pull me out if you can

<Margaux> all right

• Margaux holds the end of the rope
• Argent will cast silence and run in

<DiablotinNarrator> Okay - you're able to grab the things, although you still feel like some unpleasant force is in there with you

<Argent> (do I see anything in the circle?)

<DiablotinNarrator> No, you don't

• Argent will use searing light to destroy part of it

<DiablotinNarrator> okay, you can do that.

• Argent then runs out

<DiablotinNarrator> Okay, you can make good your escape, and return up to the surface.

<Argent> (we do not examine the items until I can detect evil/chaos etc on them to make sure they arent messed up)

<DiablotinNarrator> (okay - none radiate evil or chaotic)

<Argent> (and magic, just in case...oh look, lets handle these gloves of overwhelming magic aura.. not)

<DiablotinNarrator> (I'd need to check each to tell you the strengths, so let's do that later - I can email you or let you know this evening if you're around then)

<Argent> (ok)

Hugo learns that Eletheni is still with him

<DiablotinNarrator> Hugo, it's good to be back on the stage at last. And fortunately, the audience seems to have missed you :)

• Hugonel is very good at pretending like nothing happened and all is well ... I hope
• Hugonel has broken out his repertoire of springtime patter at long last
• Zola claps from the audience with a cherry bomb and a cigarette :3

<DiablotinNarrator> You're getting back into the swing of things, bantering with the other performers, amusing the audience.

<DiablotinNarrator> (make a Perform check)

<Hugonel> !roll 1d20+16

• Zola rolls for Hugonel: [ 1d20+16 ] getting [ 16 ] which, after the modifier [ 16 ] totals [ 32 ].

<DiablotinNarrator> Hugo, you're really feeling it tonight - as though your return to the stage is bringing out power you didn't even know you had

<DiablotinNarrator> So it's a bit of a surprise when suddenly your voice turns into a woman's.

<DiablotinNarrator> The audience, of course, thinks it's part of the act, and laughs accordingly.

• Hugonel tries not to act too startled ... but is surely startled.

<Zola> :o

<Zola> Eletheni!

• Zola claps excitedly! :D

<DiablotinNarrator> You're able to wrap up your intro of the next act smoothly(ish) and get off the stage.

• Hugonel gets a drink at the bar before heading back to his dressing room.
• Zola /of course/ intercepts him

<DiablotinNarrator> Of course, the next act was Lydienne and she thinks you were making fun of her, so that might come back to bite you later.

<Hugonel> (can't it be both things?)

• Hugonel is in his dressing room, almost hyperventilating

<DiablotinNarrator> (presumably, since the audience thought it was hilarious ;)

• Zola knocks rapidly *rapraprapraprap* and then opens the door!

<Hugonel> Go away! ... oh, Zola, no, I didn't mean you. But ... I have to go.

<Zola> Go where? What was that? That was Eletheni wasn't it? :o

<Hugonel> Yes. I could feel her inside me. It wasn't just her voice, it was *her*.

<Zola> Really? :o

• Hugonel downs his drink and starts to weep, hands over his face.

<Zola> Ohhh, honey...

• Zola will go over and embrace him.

<Zola> It's OK.

<Zola> Everything will be fine.

<Hugonel> I have to get out of here.

<Zola> OK.

<Zola> Do you want me to come?

<Hugonel> No.

<Hugonel> I'm fine.

<Zola> OK. I'll walk you out?

<Zola> Give me a ring later maybe?

<Hugonel> Yeah. Sure.

• Zola smiles and gives him a kiss on the forehead, then wipes away the lipstick she leaves.
• Zola will give him his space.
• Hugonel gets into his street clothes and then heads out to find Sirris.
• Sirris can be found at the temple

<Hugonel> (is he alone or with people?)

<DiablotinNarrator> There are almost always people around, but it's not in the middle of a ceremony or anything like that - you could get him alone if necessary

<Hugonel> Sirris. Oh good, you're here.

• Hugonel says, while almost rushing up to him.

<Sirris> Hugo, is everything all right?

• Sirris can tell you're agitated

<Hugonel> Ahhhh ... no?

• Hugonel doesn't seem so sure himself.

<Sirris> Is it something you want to talk about?

<Hugonel> Yes.

• Hugonel seems *very* sure of that.
• Sirris will take you into one of the back rooms and sit you down.

<Sirris> What's wrong?

<Hugonel> Well ... I don't know where to start.

• Hugonel gives a synopsis of his time as Eletheni in the First World, and how she used his voice for her magic.
• Sirris listens with interest and confusion

<Hugonel> And now I'm back here, and everything is normal, except that ... now I have *her* voice. She's here, in me.

<Sirris> Your voice sounds like it always has, to me.

• Sirris says gently.

<Hugonel> I mean, in my show, just now, I was performing and then out her voice came, clear as could be.

<Sirris> Hm.

<Hugonel> Others heard it too. It wasn't just me.

• Sirris nods

<Sirris> So there is still some kind of connection between you, it would seem.

• Hugonel nods.

<Hugonel> And for Eletheni, that connection had *always* been there. Hugo had been her ... muse? She knew of him, remembered him.<Hugonel> But I thought, when I got back here, that maybe I had just made her up, that she wasn't a real lillend, just a ... product of whatever magics took me there in the first place.

<Hugonel> But if she's in me and her voice is still in me, how can that be?

• Hugonel is trying to get it all out despite his agitation.

<Hugonel> It wasn't just her voice, it wasn't just an emulation, or a memory. Her power was there, behind it. I could feel it, just as when I was in the First World.

<Sirris> How does it feel when you speak with her voice? Are you still under your own control?

<Hugonel> I ... yes, I guess in the sense that I can do everything I would normally do. I think so? It's not like she is controlling me ... but then, it's not like I was controlling her, when she sang with my voice, either.

• Sirris nods

<Hugonel> But lillends are so very ancient and powerful. I'm hardly an expert on celestials but even I know that

<Hugonel> So if she's real, I mean, really real and has always been real even before me ... she's still *somewhere*? Maybe?

<Sirris> It seems like that must be the case.

<Hugonel> I need to talk to her again. I need to understand what happened to me, what's happening to me, what she knows about all this.

• Sirris considers that

<Sirris> I think before you attempt that, you need to think about what such a contact would mean. As you say, she is presumably a very powerful being, and her motivations and desires may not mesh with yours.

<Sirris> Would you be able to cope if her reaction was not what you hope for?

<Hugonel> I don't know. But how would I know? It's not like I have anything to compare this with?

<Sirris> I recommend meditating on the question of what you are seeking. It may be that the answers are already within you.

<Hugonel> You know what else is in me? An immortal snake lady!

• Hugonel says snappily.

<Hugonel> ... I'm sorry, Sirris.

<Sirris> I understand. And what I mean is, if she maintains some form of contact with you, perhaps you can reach out to her that way first.

<Hugonel> I will try. I ... have to try.

• Sirris nods

<Sirris> If I can help at all, I will.

<Hugonel> Have you ever heard of such a thing before?

<Sirris> Communication, or even bonds, between celestials and humans, certainly - but not precisely of this nature.

<Sirris> Would you be willing for me to talk about this, not naming names of course, with others who might have expertise in the matter?

• Hugonel nods.

<Hugonel> Of course.

<Sirris> all right.

• Sirris gives you a hug

<Hugonel> Thank you, as always, for keeping me grounded.

<Sirris> I know it must be distressing for you. I hope that eventually it proves to be a blessing, though.

• Hugonel heads off to try to figure this all out ... possibly with liquor.

Zola and Noren have dinner with her family; she discovers her father has purchased the Dark Tapestry

• Zola gets all gussied up and helps Bastien put on a tie and a nice hat.
• Noren will accompany you to a nice dinner with your family - were you wanting to go to a restaurant, or to their house?
• Zola was thinking the house.

<Elianne> (okay, that's fine)

• Noren squeezes your hand as you approach

<Noren> It'll be all right.

• Zola was also thinking Zola would have given Eliane the heads up by phone about the changes too
• Zola smiles broadly, Bastien in arm

<Zola> Of course it will.

• Zola gives him a kiss on the cheek
• Noren smiles back
• Zola is feeling pretty good about it, actually... what could get her down?

<Zola> Especially with my two favourite boys at my side ^_^

<Elianne> (you head inside, then)

• Elianne gives you a hug when you arrive

<Elianne> You look lovely :)

<Zola> Thank you! You too!

• Zola squeeeeze<3
• Elianne shakes hands with Noren as well

<Noren> It's good to be here, thank you for having me over.

• Zola will set Bastien somewhere on a chest or table out of tail-stomping danger.
• Mylene and your father come in, hearing that you've arrived

<Allaude> Good evening, both of you.

<Mylene> ... did you do something different with your hair?

• Mylene asks you

<Zola> Good evening, Daddy...

• Zola gives him a hug
• Allaude hugs you back

<Zola> Oh, this? It's just one of my regular wigs?

<Mylene> Hm.

• Mylene purses her lips, scrutinizing you.

<Zola> Good evening, Mother, thank you for hosting.

<Mylene> Certainly, thank you for bothering to come.

• Noren shakes your father's hand politely
• Zola shrugs off a swell of vulnerable feelings... .oO( Ugh, how can she still make me feel like a freak? )

<Allaude> Oh, before we sit down to dinner, let me show you my latest acquisition :)

<Zola> Oh?

<Mylene> Your father spent a ridiculous amount of money...

<Allaude> on a priceless antique!

<Zola> If it was priceless shouldn't it have been free?

• Zola grins

<Allaude> Hahah, if only!

• Allaude will bring you into the drawing room to show you something hanging on the wall - it's a large tapestry in an unfamiliar style.

<Allaude> It's Cozovode, do you like it? Very rare.

• Zola examines it.

<Mylene> It takes up the whole wall :p

<DiablotinNarrator> It looks to you like it's a star chart of some kind. Like you can see it's black, and has little specks of gold and silver in patterns that look like constellations.

• Zola gawps a little

<Zola> .oO( Well, no, it can't be... )

<Allaude> I think it brings a certain class to the place.

• Zola casts Detect Magic

<Mylene> It smells of smoke :p

<DiablotinNarrator> Zola, you detect overwhelming magic.

• Zola resumes gaping

<Zola> Daddy, where did you get this?

• Zola sounds a little alarmed

<Allaude> Oh, why, do you want one? I don't think they have another...

• Allaude pats it fondly

<Zola> No, I don't think there IS another... do you have any idea how powerful the magic is in this?

<Allaude> It's magic?

<Mylene> Well that explains why they charged so much.

<Zola> Yes, *extremely* powerful...

<Zola> (Do I know what the Dark Tapestry does, again?)

<Zola> (oh, charts stars, predicts futures)

<DiablotinNarrator> (in theory, predicts the future)

<Zola> This is... how did it...

<DiablotinNarrator> (but presumably you need to know how to use it)

• Zola looks back and forth between it and her father.

<Noren> Are you okay, dear?

<Zola> ... yes, it's just... this ties into the book that Amanita had...

<Allaude> The what now?

<Allaude> Should there be a book that goes with it? That would be quite a coup, to have the matching set.

• Zola scrutinizes the rug for signs it may instead just be a regular extremely powerful tapestry >_>

<Zola> Have you told anyone you have this?

<Allaude> Well, yes, I've told some friends, had them round for tea to admire it, that sort of thing. Everyone was very impressed.

<Zola> Gods... don't tell anyone else.

<Mylene> What's wrong with it?

• Mylene asks, perfectly aware that you're freaking out quietly on the inside

<Zola> It's an extremely important artifact...

<Zola> (Is it known that this was stolen?)

<Zola> I don't think it's something you can just BUY.

<DiablotinNarrator> (I forget how much I told you before. but basically the monastery or temple or wherever where it was stored burned down and the thing disappeared.)

<Zola> Especially not if they didn't tell you what it was...

<Zola> It disappeared after the monastery where it was kept �burned down�.

<Mylene> Allaude!

• Mylene turns her anger on her husband instead of you at least ;p

<Mylene> You are going to take this right back where you got it and get your money back.

<Zola> No!

<Zola> They shouldn't have had it either! @_@

<Allaude> Well, it was this young Cozovode lady - or I think she was young. It's hard to tell with them. She seemed to want to get it off her hands - said something about being done with it.

<Zola> We need to call the police...

<Zola> How much DID she charge? >_>

<Allaude> Twelve thousand >.>

<Zola> Well if it wasn't stolen, that'd be a steal.

<Zola> (Do I have Loick's office number now? :P)

<DiablotinNarrator> (yes, I think he gave you all his card)

<Zola> We should call the Chief Sorcerer...

<Zola> He can take it into custody and they can figure out what to do with it...

<Allaude> Oh, do you really think so?

<Mylene> And we'll be reimbursed for the expense, I assume? :p

<Zola> Maybe we can get some of your money back?

• Zola smiles :)

<Zola> We can spin it, maybe...

<Mylene> Well it wasn't that good anyway. It has a tear.

<Zola> You saw it, and figured it was stolen, and that it should rightfully belong in Cozovode... we get your picture in the paper...

<Zola> A... tear?

<Zola> (Should it even be tear-able?)

<Mylene> (you presume not!)

<Zola> Something this powerful shouldn't ... tear

• Zola looks for the tear

<Mylene> Yes, just here.

• Zola looks
• Mylene points it out, and once she does you can see - black against black, it's easy to miss, but it's definitely torn.

<Zola> Well that's not at all distressing.

<Allaude> I was going to get that mended.

• Allaude says a bit defensively
• Zola tries to think of what that might mean, if the rend is the result of the Codex, or if the location of the rend has meaning...

<DiablotinNarrator> You don't know.

<Zola> It's probably worth 12 thousand just to get it out of the house, Daddy.

• Zola will go over and hug him
• Allaude hugs you back

<Zola> Aside from the stolen part, it was a really good find, in a way :)

<Allaude> Well... if you think so. But I did like how it tied the room together.

<Zola> Maybe we can have a reproduction done to commemorate it :)

• Allaude smiles at that

<Zola> Is the phone in the same place?

• Allaude nods
• Zola will go call the Chief Sorcerer's office

<DiablotinNarrator> Okay... that will take some explanation, but I imagine you can get Loick himself out there once you manage to convince them you're not crazy.

• Zola presumes she might have to emphasize to an assistant how important it is...
• Zola would probably just tell them to tell Loick it's about "the Codex" and the First World

<Zola> I suppose we could have dinner while we wait... >_>

<Mylene> Yes, before it all gets cold.

<Allaude> The Chief Sorcerer, coming here - how exciting. I feel like I ought to change into a nicer suit.

<Zola> He's a lovely man, Hugo's uncle.

<Mylene> I think he has two sons who are unmarried too, Elianne.

• Zola wonders if this all makes it a better or worse time to tell her story >_>

<Elianne> Oh good.

• Elianne says, plainly unthrilled :p
• Zola gives Eliane a grin

<Zola> The Silveiras are known for being a quite fun time :)

<Elianne> All right.. I'll take your word for that.

<Zola> Anyway... I guess this all ties into my big news so I might as well get that out...

<Allaude> hm?

• Zola will tell her parents about the fairy monarchs and how we hoped to free Amanita from control of the C- er... evil extraplanar forces sounds more appetizing

<Zola> Well it worked, and she whisked us away by ripping something called the Codex of the Dark Tapestry... the Dark Tapestry being what I think is in the drawing room >_>

<Allaude> well it is rather dark

<Mylene> gloomy :p

<Zola> .oO( And rent >_> )

<Zola> And once we got to the other side... we were all fairies ourselves... and she asked us to try to convince the winter king to help end the Blight...

<Mylene> o_O

<Zola> I was a teeny little green fairy!

• Zola gestures how high and for once is not describing a cock

<Zola> It was quite a shock

<Allaude> I imagine so!

<Zola> But we persevered, and were sent home... and the Emperor even gave us a reward for our achievements ^_^

<Mylene> He did? :o Why wasn't there something in the papers? Or a ceremony? Why weren't we invited?

<Zola> Well, you can understand it's a little complicated?

<Mylene> Hmph.

<Zola> All the details about the blight, and the Irminsul in the Shade, and the Cyst...

<Zola> Five big ones is probably worth more than celebrity to most of us >_>

<Zola> Anyway, that's not really the big news...

<Zola> When I got back... I was changed.

<Zola> I'm... all woman now.

<Mylene> You're what?

<Zola> And I don't mean that in the usual stubborn way

• Zola looks at her mother

<Mylene> I can't believe it.

<Noren> She's telling the truth - I've checked.

• Noren says calmly
• Zola chokes a bit
• Mylene as well
• Zola swallows and takes another drink of wine<Allaude> Some sort of magic?

<Zola> I guess?

<Zola> I don't think it's temporary though... and my friend Sister Valeen doesn't it's just cosmetic.

<Zola> It means Noren and I could have little ones some day :)

• Zola gives him a smile and a kiss on the cheek
• Mylene coughs again at that

<Mylene> Well. I ... I don't know what to say.

<Allaude> Congratulations? Is that all right?

<Zola> Yes, it is :)

<Zola> I was happy before, but this is a good thing too.

• Zola shrugs at her mother.

<Zola> It's official now.

• Mylene frowns, uncertain of how to react - perhaps having mixed feelings of her own

<Mylene> I suppose that's that, then.

<Zola> It is.

<Mylene> You got what you always wanted.

<Zola> Besides, don't you think Noren makes excellent son in law material? :)

• Noren smiles at that

<Zola> He's decided to run for office, you know?

<Mylene> Maybe if he shaves that mustache :p

• Zola laughs
• Mylene can always find something new to criticize!

Hettie learns of the Phantom Rat

<DiablotinNarrator> Hettie, it's early afternoon, probably you're just puttering around the house having gotten up not super long before, when your brother Thierry shows up, along with baby Avionne.

<Thierry> Hey Hettie, how's things?

<Hettienne> Oh howdy!

<Hettienne> HOw's my little punkin butt :3

• Hettienne coos over the baby

<Thierry> She's doin' good, but her mam needed a bit of a break so I thought I'd bring her out on a walk, now the weather's nice.

• Avionne gurgles and waves her hands cheerfully

<Hettienne> Finally!

<Thierry> Yeah. It felt like it was gonna be winter forever.

<Hettienne> D'you want a coffee? I think there's some left.

<Thierry> Sure, that'd be swell.

<Hettienne> Awright, c'mon in the kitchen :)

• Thierry follows you in and will have a seat
• Hettienne will find a clean mug and pour him some.

<Hettienne> Now hand over that baby :3

<Thierry> seems like a fair trade :)

• Thierry passes you Avionne in exchange for the coffee
• Hettienne makes stupid faces and blows raspberries for Avionne :3
• Avionne giggles
• Avionne 's hair is coming in thicker now, dark like yours

<Hettienne> You're gettin' so biiiig!

<Denise> (she's almost 6 month now :3)

<DiablotinNarrator> (and her father's but whatever ;)

<Thierry> She's sittin' up on her own some now :)

<Hettienne> Gonna be a tough cookie, I can tell

<Thierry> uh huh, she's one of our kind ;)

<Thierry> So how're you doin'?

<Hettienne> Oh, can't complain

<Hettienne> Uh, I dunno if Serge Yves told you, I've been with Nycki again...

<Thierry> Yeah, word sorta got around 'bout that.

<Hettienne> I figured

<Hettienne> Well it's pretty serious, an' it's goin' good...

<Thierry> I guess I figure that's your business. You're a smart lady, you can figure out who's worth spendin' your time on.

<Hettienne> Well I'm gonna be spendin' a lot of time with her. A whole lot.

<Thierry> Yeah?

<Hettienne> We're gonna be movin' in together.

<Thierry> oh, huh. In here?

<Hettienne> Probably...

• Thierry nods

<Thierry> Well, good luck to you, I hope that works out.

<Hettienne> It will.

• Hettienne says stubbornly.

<Hettienne> (sm)

<DiablotinNarrator> (you can roll)

<Hettienne> !roll 1d20+13

• Zola rolls for Hettienne: [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 19 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 32 ].
• Thierry seems a bit concerned for you, but not too upset about it or anything.

<Hettienne> (alrighty then)

<Thierry> Where's Denise gonna move to, then?

<Hettienne> She an' her boy are gettin' a place.

<Thierry> Oh yeah? That's good. Bet they'll be glad to have their own place :)

<Hettienne> She's a grown girl... she don't need to be bunkin' with her boring old aunt ;)

<Thierry> Heh

<Thierry> Well, I'm glad it sounds like things are goin' good.

<Thierry> Say, so... did you hear 'bout the Phantom Rat?

<Hettienne> The... the what now?

<Hettienne> Is that like, one of those costumed mystery men from the comics?

<Thierry> Yeah, I guess. 'Cept in real life.

<Hettienne> You're pullin' my leg. Really?

<Hettienne> What are they doin'?

<Thierry> Well, like, he goes around I guess in a costume, like you said - like with a mask an' cloak an' hat, so you can't tell who it is.

<Thierry> An' helps out folks in trouble.

<Hettienne> An he's a Rat? How can you tell?

<Thierry> Well, I don't know that he is, really. But that's what folks are callin' him. He's got a little silver clasp on his cloak that's shaped like a rat, I guess.

<Thierry> But maybe that's just to throw folks off.

<Hettienne> Is it for sure a man?

<Thierry> Well, I ain't seen him or nothin', but I heard about it from some folks who did.

<Thierry> So close by where I work, yeah, there's a paint factory.

<Hettienne> Uh-huh...

<Thierry> An' we all knew it was kinda a bad place - like not real safe, folks get hurt there, don't pay good wages, that sorta thing.

• Hettienne listens, frowning.

<Thierry> So, anyway, one night they're runnin' overtime for some big shipment or whatever. Workin' folks real hard.

<Thierry> An' a fire breaks out. An' in a paint factory, I don't gotta say that's real bad news. But they had the doors locked so as folks couldn't sneak out for a break or a smoke or whatever.

• Hettienne looks horrified.

<Thierry> It was lookin' real bad. Prolly a lotta folks would've died. 'Cept from out of nowhere, I guess, this guy shows up.

<Hettienne> Damn...

<Thierry> There's some scufflin', he busts open the doors an' lets the folks inside out.

<Thierry> Place still burned to the ground of course.

<Hettienne> Did they all get out?

<Thierry> Yeah, a few got singed some, but everyone was okay.

<Hettienne> Damn... Phantom Rat, huh. :o

• Thierry nods

<Thierry> An' in the confusion an' all that, he just disappears.

<Hettienne> I wonder if Denise knows about this fella.

<Hettienne> And how long afore she's gonna hunt him down askin' to be his sidekick :p

<Thierry> There's even a story on him in the newspaper. Well the Rat newspaper.

<Thierry> 'WHO IS THE PHANTOM RAT?'

<Hettienne> What's it say?

<Thierry> Talks 'bout other folks who said he helped 'em out. Some Shadar-kai lady who was gettin' hassled by Colour Guard types, an' he an' some other fella swoop in an' beat 'em up. She said that other guy was Shadar-kai too, but who knows?

<Hettienne> Huh. :o

<Hettienne> Sounds like I need t' start readin' the paper more.

<Thierry> There was some other stories too, I forget all the details, but yeah, I wondered if you heard of this guy at all.

<Hettienne> Nope, all new to me :o

<Thierry> Pretty crazy.

<Hettienne> Maybe he can track down that fucker that did Serge Yves' boy.

<Thierry> Yeah... :/

• Avionne starts to get a bit fussy

<Hettienne> Aw, baby girl.

<Hettienne> You lookin' for lunch?

<Thierry> Yeah, I guess it's about that time... I oughta get her home.

<Hettienne> Alrighty.

• Hettienne somewhat reluctantly passes her back.

<Hettienne> COme 'round anytime. :)

<Thierry> Sure thing, an' you an' Nycki come by our place for dinner or somethin' some night too.

<Hettienne> Really?

• Hettienne grins ear to ear.

<Thierry> Yeah, sure.

<Hettienne> That'd be real swell, Thierry.

• Thierry smiles back

<Thierry> Well Rosalie's never even met her I don't think.

<Hettienne> No, I guess not. :)

• Thierry will give you a hug as he takes Avionne back
• Hettienne hugs you back

<Thierry> Take care, then. See you later.

<Hettienne> See you soon! :)