Diablotin 1 session 4

Diablotin 1 session logs Previous Session 4 Next

A.k.a. "The Manroot Session" apparently...

Summary

Second-month, 2196:

• 3rd: Loch visits his friends at the Castalia; Boden visits Lygia at the Southern Stars and meets Davilas and Couramance, then later goes to Couramance's home (BP1); Belden speaks to Brother Butler (Solo 1); Pavo goes to The Theatre to see friends; Eglorine comes to Kalman's house.
• 4th: Kalman goes to the hunting lodge in the woods with Eglorine; Belden goes to the Athenaeum with Brother Butler. (Game 4)
• 15th: Kalman meets Eglorine at the Mink and Miniver.
• 18th: Kalman visits his music teacher, Gregoire. (Solo 2)

Logs

Session Start: Mon Oct 07 18:01:00 2002
(Narrator) Did folks get the extra NPCs I mailed out?
(Boden) I did.
(Belden) I haven't had time to check my e-mail...
(Narrator) Okay. They're just the ones you met last game, so it's not super urgent or anything.
(Belden) ok
(Loch) YEs
(Pavo) Could you email in TXT form the NPCs to thecat@nbnet.nb.ca? This mac can't open anything else.
(Narrator) Okay, will do.
(Loch) Just so you know... I will be specializing in Invocation. Just making it official
(Narrator) Okay.
(Loch) My restricted school will be conjuration
(Boden) More attacking for Terry!

• Narrator notes that down.

(Narrator) Okay, are we ready to start?
(Belden) yub
(Narrator) Then here we go.
(Narrator) Two weeks have passed since your most recent adventure, and it is now the month of Second, a month known for its erratic weather. After your accomplishments at the Riverbend Ridge, you have enjoyed the recognition of your fellow guards and the praise of Lieutenant Svodoba. Even Captain Niemi personally congratulated you in his gruff but hearty way on a job well done.
(Narrator) The analysis of the remains of what was once a barmaid named Minalda was conducted at the Castalia, under the supervision of Professor Alexior Blessing, the head of the department of Thaumaturgical Research, known to be a sorcerer of no small skill. The results were not made public, though you did receive copies of a brief which informed you that it was a creature known as an 'aranea'.
(Narrator) Loch, what have you done with the stuff you found in the tunnel? The money, upon being counted, amounted to 138 Imperials, 12 crowns, and 55 pence. There were also two daggers, one of ordinary quality, and the other of excellent quality, bearing a piece of lapis lazuli in the hilt, in addition to the tinder-box, the bone set of dice, and the ring.
(Loch) I will keep the daggers, the tinderbox, dice and ring, but I will share equally the money amongst the other members of my team, except Belden, who I do not tell about it.
(Narrator) Okay.
(Belden) (Does anyone tell me about it?)
(Boden) (Yeah!)
(Boden) (not me)

• Kalman wouldn't take any because, well, he doesn't need it

(Kalman) (would you tell people not to tell belden?)
(Pavo) (Shit,my weapons enabled character sheet is still at home... I have standard whip, sickles (2) and the clawed gauntlets which are 1d6 crit: 17-20
(Narrator) So the money is being divided between Pavo, Loch, Boden, and Dizon, if I understand correctly?
(Loch) (I would tell them that I am not going to tell him, and its up to them, but I dont want someone elses moral judgements being forced upon me)
(Belden) (I am a GIRL)
(Loch) (Yes)
(Loch) (sorry her)
(Narrator) So each of those people will have received 35 imperials and a bit of change, by my count.
(Pavo) (Plus our wages!)
(Narrator) (Yes, in addition to your two weeks of wages)
(Narrator) Boden, your birthday passed on the 21st day of First. Your brother Franek took you out for a night on the town, of which you remember bits and pieces. You also received a package from your parents, containing a new cream-coloured wool sweater fresh from your mother's knitting needles, and a brass belt buckle bearing your family's crest, a bear holding three arrows in its mouth.
(Loch) (I would like to try and research and find out wht the magical properties of the ring is)

• Boden will start wearing the belt.

(Narrator) (okay. The best way you can think of to do that is to take it to one of your profs at the Castalia, who would likely do it for free)
(Loch) (I will do so)
(Pavo) (1 imperial a day, isn't it?)
(Narrator) (Okay, you can do that on your day off, which is upcoming :)
(Narrator) At the beginning of Second, you and the rest of your squadron are granted two days off in succession, a rare occurrence indeed. What do each of you intend to do with your exceptional days of rest?
(Pavo) l
(Narrator) (In case you hadn't figured it out yet, this is another individual-based session - taking turns and such :)
(Loch) (So, who are you starting with?)
(Narrator) (Since you jumped in, I'll start with you :)
(Narrator) The morning of your first day off is bright and clear, the piercingly blue sky dotted sparsely with clouds. The temperature is just below freezing - a perfect winter's day.
(Narrator) Loch, you awake early from a strange dream, a dream of being in a dark, narrow hallway or tunnel, hearing the shrill chittering and skittering of rats around you, feeling fur that is at once rough and soft brush against your bare arms and legs.

• Loch will wake up, slightly disturbed by the dream, but will quickly recover
• Loch will then get cleaned up and head for Castalia

(Narrator) You walk through the streets, across the Imperial Island Way, to the Castalia on the other side of the river.
(Narrator) The old stone buildings of the university seem welcoming to you.
(Narrator) Who are you going to see?
(Loch) (I will try to track down the best help first, Guthlac Crim)
(Narrator) You find Prof. Crim's quarters in the rickety tower where he has always been.
(Narrator) A knock brings him to the door.
(Loch) Prof. Crim, good to see you. May I take a moment of your time?
(Guthlac) Hmm? Oh, certainly, certainly, Loch. Do come in, won't you?
(Loch) Thank you

• Loch enters
• Guthlac is dressed in a somewhat ratty robe.

(Guthlac) So, what can I do for you?
(Loch) A trivial task for one of your skill, but something beyond mine.

• Guthlac scratches his beard absent-mindedly.

(Guthlac) Oh?

• Loch will pull out the ring from his pocket

(Guthlac) Ah, a mysterious object.
(Loch) I happened apon this ring and it carries an enchantment
(Guthlac) May I?

• Guthlac extends a hand.

(Loch) of course

• Loch gives Guthlac the ring
• Guthlac squints at the ring carefully.

(Guthlac) I can certainly help here, but it will take some hours for me to study the ring.
(Guthlac) Could you return for it this evening, or tomorrow?
(Loch) I can come back this evening, if it is not too soon. I was planning on visiting a few people around Castalia today.
(Guthlac) I should have an answer for you by nightfall, if all goes well.
(Loch) Thank you, Proffessor. I appreciate your assistance.

• Guthlac nods, seeming almost to have forgotten you were there, he is so intently examining the ring.
• Loch will leave Guthlac to his work and head for the library

(Narrator) You find the library nearly deserted - perhaps most of the students are out enjoying the good weather.

• Loch will start looking for Antje Dinh, the library seemed a good place to start

(Narrator) You can find Antje in a small alcove, seated at a desk piled high with yellowed scrolls

• Antje is bent over one of them
• Antje seems not to have noticed you.
• Loch will walk quietly up behind her and anounce himself by clearing his throat
• Antje looks up, startled, then smiles when she sees you

(Antje) Loch!
(Antje) How are you doing?
(Antje) I'm so glad to see you!
(Loch) I am doing well Antje, and you?

• Antje shrugs

(Antje) I'm well enough, though this scroll is giving me a pain at the moment. I don't suppose you know ancient Gravonian, do you?
(Loch) Unfortunately no. I wont be much help with that.

• Antje blows a wisp of hair away from her face.

(Antje) It's alright... no one does.
(Loch) Ancient Gravonian isn't a language one runs into often while working as a guard
(Antje) Right. How's that working out for you?
(Loch) Well enough, I guess. I wasn't very keen on it at the start, but the work is starting to grow on me.

• Antje nods

(Antje) I'm glad you're happy, then.
(Loch) Are you enjoying your peering over scrolls?
(Antje) Oh, it's alright. They give the juniors the worst jobs.
(Antje) Anyway, I could use a break. Take a walk to Uncle Barm's with me?
(Loch) I know what that's like.
(Narrator) (Uncle Barm's is the nearest tavern/student hangout)
(Loch) Of course

• Antje smiles and stands up, dusting off her hands from the grime of the ages.
• Antje takes your arm as you walk to the Uncle Barm's.

(Antje) So, did you come here just to see me?
(Loch) I did come here to see you, but I also visited Prof Crim.
(Antje) Oh yes? Need to find something out, or just wanted to see how you would have turned out if you'd stayed here?

• Antje teases

(Loch) Actually, I wanted to find out how you were doing. Unfortunately he told me to just go ask you.

• Loch teases back

(Antje) I wouldn't be surprised to wake up one morning and see that *I'd* started to sprout a beard in this place.
(Antje) Studying too much does strange things to people - you're better off.
(Loch) You don't have to stay here and study. There are other things you could do.
(Narrator) The two of you arrive at Uncle Barm's Last Rest, an eccentric little hole in the wall sort of place that makes its money mainly serving coffee to students.
(Antje) No, no, I like it. Don't get me wrong. It's just a bit... claustrophobic at times.

• Loch will order something for the both of us

(Antje) Once I'm a full professor, it'll be better.
(Antje) Thanks.
(Loch) You'll make an excellent professor.

• Antje sips her coffee
• Antje laughs

(Antje) It would be hard to be worse than some of them...
(Antje) Oh hell.

• Antje says under her breath

(Loch) speaking of would be professors, how is Artaban doing.

• Antje nods towards the door

(Antje) See for yourself.
(Narrator) Artaban has just entered the room, in fact.

• Loch will glance over

(Loch) I read that there were ancient demons that would come to harrass those who spoke there name...

• Artaban approaches the table where the two of you sit
• Artaban nods politely to Antje.
• Antje snickers at your comment
• Artaban comes closer

(Artaban) Loch, I'm surprised to see you here.

• Artaban smiles unpleasantly.

(Loch) Surprise? How so Artaban?
(Artaban) I thought you had given up your scholarly pursuits for a life as a guard.

• Artaban draws up a chair and sits beside you
• Artaban is dressed in the red robes of a junior researcher, like Antje.

(Loch) Even us lowly guards get a few days off from keeping the city safe.

• Artaban sniffs delicately, as if smelling something unpleasant.

(Artaban) Oh, I'm sure it's very fulfilling for you.
(Artaban) Defending the weak and such.
(Artaban) You must be so proud. Marzel speaks of you often, you know.

• Artaban 's lip quirks in a slight sneer.
• Antje frowns.

(Loch) Well, he always did have a thing for people of our house who went out into the world and did something with themself.
(Artaban) Oh, indeed. He very much admires your... gumption.
(Loch) You know there is always room for more on the guard, I mean if you seem so eager to earn praise.
(Artaban) Ah no, the active life is not for me, I'm afraid. I earn sufficient praise here for my tastes.
(Artaban) Well, I'm glad to see how you are doing, Loch. Sadly, I must be on my way, though.
(Loch) Really? I am impressed. I didn't think there was enough praise in the whole city to satisfy you.

• Artaban rises, taking with him his warm mug of coffee.
• Artaban pretends he didn't hear that last bit as he leaves.
• Antje frowns at his back

(Antje) Pompous ass.
(Loch) I would have to concur.
(Loch) Has he been giving you trouble?
(Antje) He's all puffed up because he made some sort of important discovery. He won't even say what it is, though. Only he and Blessing know about it...
(Antje) No, he doesn't give me any trouble, but then again, he's not usually in the library.
(Antje) You always seem to handle him well, though.
(Loch) There is very little he can say to me that would bother me. I'm sure it grates him, and it makes him easier to deal with.
(Antje) You don't even seem upset. It's impressive, really.

• Antje smiles warmly.

(Loch) You grow up in a farming village, you'll meet people who think even more of themselves than he does, but still aren't really all that.

• Antje chuckles
• Antje gulps down the rest of her coffee.

(Antje) I should get back to my work... thanks for the break, though.

• Antje grins broadly

(Antje) You should stop by more often, Loch.
(Loch) Thank you for the most enjoyable company
(Loch) I will try

• Loch smiles back at Antje
• Antje gives you a hasty hug with one arm and leaves.

(Narrator) Boden, you awake in your makeshift bed in the barracks. You have heard that your new, longer bed is to be delivered within the next few days, and you stretch your cramped legs in anticipation.

• Boden groans and gets up.

(Narrator) So Boden, what are your plans for the day?
(Boden) Well, first I think to the market district...I want to price a few things like armour and such.
(Narrator) Okay - what kind of armor?
(Boden) a chain shirt I think, but he's just looking today.
(Boden) He will also buy some fresh fruit to much on...
(Narrator) A chain shirt in your size would need to be specially made, say all the vendors you talk to. It would cost over 100 Imperials, they say.
(Narrator) Fresh fruit, on the other hand, is much cheaper ;)

• Boden frowns a bit at that...but will get estimates from a few smiths anyways...

(Narrator) Estimates range from 100 to 150 Imperials.
(Boden) Well then...none of that for me.
(Narrator) The Place D'Iena is busy today, as people take advantage of the fine weather to browse or shop.

• Boden will grumble a bit, but take solace in the simple pleasure of fresh fruit.

(Narrator) You can easily pass several hours in the marketplace without noticing the time passing. There is always something new to look at.
(Boden) after a while I will go to Pearl, were I allways end up...
(Narrator) Okay. Any particular destination?
(Boden) I think I will go to the inn that Lygia performs at.
(Narrator) The Southern Stars, then.
(Boden) (its still afternoon so I can't really go whoring until tonight...)
(Narrator) The Southern Stars is fairly busy, given the good weather. It is crowded with people.
(Boden) (I will try and get a table for something to eat and drink.)
(Narrator) Boden never has any trouble finding a table, somehow ;)
(Narrator) You place an order with the barmaid and sit, waiting for your meal, gazing around the room.
(Boden) Good, then I'll order some food and ale, and ask if Lygia is around.
(Narrator) The barmaid says she should be around a bit later.

• Boden will thank her and ask her to mention that I'm here if she sees her.

(Narrator) The barmaid nods and says she will.
(Narrator) You notice a group of young people seated at a table in the centre of the room. The table is heavily laden with drinks, which might explain the loud burst of raucous laughter that meets your ears.
(Boden) (for the record, I'm not in armour but I do have my gauntlet on and and carying the short sword.)
(Narrator) (okay)
(Narrator) There are three men and three women in the group, dressed in garb that would better suit a ball than a tavern. All are striking, but your eyes are particularly drawn to a beautiful woman with silver-blonde hair swept up in a complicated knot. She must be over six feet tall, and leans forward as she laughs, showing an ample expanse of creamy white cleaveage over the red silk and lace of her gown.

• Boden will watch them since they are interesting, but try not to stare at the woman. I need to be on good behavior in this place.

(Narrator) The group laugh frequently, and are quite loud.
(Narrator) The rest of the people in the tavern are giving them a wide berth.
(Boden) (they don't seem to be getting out of hand?)
(Narrator) (Hard to say. They're not trying to kill anyone yet, if that's what you mean.)
(Narrator) (But they are certainly very rowdy)
(Boden) Well then I'll continue to watch, but I'll not drink to much myself...incase I need to help the inkeeper out.
(Young_man) What do you think you're looking at, clod?

• Young_man says to you after a while.

(Boden) Just watching the fun.

• Boden smiles like he isn't upset.
• Young_man is muscular, with a long blond ponytail slung over his shoulder, wearing a black doublet embroidered with thin threads of gold. He sneers at you.

(Young_man) Fun, is it? You're looking for some fun?
(Narrator) Another young man, lounging idly, drawls "Davilas, leave him alone - he's just a peasant."
(Boden) I'm just enjoying my day off.

• • • Young_man is now known as Davilas

(Davilas) Day off? From what, dung shoveling?
(Boden) I'm a member of the Imperial Guard.

• Davilas grins most unpleasantly.

(Davilas) Reeeaaaaly.

• Boden continues to smile like nothing is wrong.
• Boden nods and sips his ale.

(Davilas) Well, I'm a member of the Imperial family, so technically I believe you have to do whatever I say.
(Boden) Not today.
(Boden) Its my day off.
(Davilas) You like your job, do you?
(Boden) Its a good job.

• Davilas pulls a dagger and hold it casually in his left hand.

(Narrator) The other people at the table look variously surprised, unsurprised, or worried.

• Boden will put his gauntleted hand on the table and drum his fingers quietly.

(Narrator) Other people in the tavern are also clearing away.

• Boden is still sitting but I'll look to the innkeeper to see what his face is like.
• Davilas stands, grinning.

(Narrator) The innkeeper looks worried, but not about to interfere.
(Davilas) Come then, if you wish to test your strength.
(Boden) Why would I want to do that?

• Davilas makes the "c'mere" gesture with his other hand
• Boden is still sitting, and not looking like he is going to fight.
• Davilas sighs, annoyed.

(Davilas) Are you afraid, then?
(Boden) No.

• Davilas looks petulant and rather put out.
• Davilas flips the dagger neatly in his hand and sheathes it.
• Davilas nods to the other people at his table

(Davilas) Come, friends, let us leave these uncultured bumpkins. Enough slumming for today.
(Narrator) The other nobles at the table start to rise, putting on cloaks and such.

• Boden will nod politely goodbuy to the group.

(Boden) (then go back to drinking his ale.)

• Silver_haired_woman approaches you, just as the others are leaving
• Boden will look up at her and smile.
• Silver_haired_woman smiles at you sexily, lays one finger across her ruby-red lips, and presses something into your hand as she turns and leaves in a swirl of red silk.
• Boden will nod goodbye to her again and watch her leave.
• Silver_haired_woman departs after the others.

(Narrator) In your hand is a square of stiff white paper, stamped with the sign of a silver lion. Written below the stamp in black ink are the words "Silveira House, The Grand Vallon, after sunset. Show this card. C." You can smell a faint scent you can't quite identify coming from the card - musky, yet somehow exotic.
(Boden) I'll put the card in my pocket.
(Narrator) Okay.

• Boden will go up to the innkeeper.

(Boden) I hope you don't mind that they left. I'd hate to think I cost you money.
(Innkeeper) No, no.. It's fine. Those nobles more often than not just cause trouble.
(Innkeeper) They had already spent more than enough.
(Boden) I was thinking they were reaching that point of causing trouble.....but didn't want to mess things up for you.
(Innkeeper) I appreciate your caution, good sir.
(Boden) no problem.

• Boden will offer him my hand to shake.
• Innkeeper nods and gives you a drink on the house.
• Innkeeper shakes you hand firmly.
• Boden is more than happy with that and will go enjoy his drink.

(Narrator) The afternoon show begins a bit later, and you spend your time enjoying that.
(Narrator) You can spend time with Lygia as well, after her performance is done.
(Narrator) But for now, I will turn to someone else.
(Narrator) Belden, you are awakened from a sound sleep by the sound of a carriage clattering over the stones outside the barracks.

• Belden sits up quickly.

(Belden) (Is it light out?)
(Narrator) It's light, yes. For some reason, your first thoughts upon waking are of Brother Butler, but you're not sure why. Perhaps the remnants of a dream?
(Belden) Oh dear, I've overslept...

• Belden gets out of bed and hurriedly dresses.
• Belden will go through her various morning rituals: prayers, breakfast at the barracks, etc, and then head out to see her mentor.
• Belden has been planning on visiting Brother Butler anyway...

(Narrator) You walk the Eagle Bridge across the Ousel to the Pavillion, where Brother Butler dwells near the seminary you attended.
(Belden) . o O (It certainly isn't because of that ... weird feeling I've got...)

• Belden knocks on the heavy wooden door.
• Brother_Butler answers the door.
• Brother_Butler beams when he sees it's you.
• Belden smiles, feeling slightly relieved, for some reason.

(Brother_Butler) Pasith, I was just thinking about you.
(Belden) Good morning!
(Brother_Butler) Good morning to you as well. Will you come in?
(Belden) Certainly, thank you.

• Belden steps inside.
• Brother_Butler will take your cloak to hang it up.

(Brother_Butler) Lovely day, isn't it?
(Belden) Yes, not too cold...

• Brother_Butler ushers you in to the humble sitting room of his home.

(Brother_Butler) I was just making some tea for myself, would you like a cup?
(Belden) Yes, please...

• Brother_Butler bustles about in the kitchen, getting tea for the two of you.

(Brother_Butler) Here you are, dear.

• Brother_Butler hands you a steaming cup of herbal tea.
• Belden takes a seat, and looks around the room. Nothin has changed... of cuorse, it's only been a couple of weeks since I was last here!

(Belden) Thank you.

• Belden says again.

(Brother_Butler) How are things? Are you faring well in the guards?

• Brother_Butler takes a seat on the wooden chair opposite yours

(Belden) Well enough.
(Brother_Butler) Are you content there?
(Belden) Well, yes...
(Belden) And no...
(Belden) Well, that isn't quite right.

• Brother_Butler looks concerned

(Belden) I know that I am doing good, helping the city, assisting those who need it...
(Belden) And I know that my fellows are good men, I'm sure of it...

• Brother_Butler listens intently

(Belden) But some of them do seem to be less... concerned than I am..

• Brother_Butler purses his lips and nods gently

(Belden) Can you believe that they expect to be paid a gratuity for upholding the law?
(Brother_Butler) A holy calling can make acting in the secular world a challenge, it is true.

• Brother_Butler nods at that

(Belden) Yes... I knew that when I joined the Guard...
(Brother_Butler) The system is sadly corrupt in some ways.
(Belden) And so I am trying to be patient...
(Belden) But I wish I could hit upon a way to reach them.
(Brother_Butler) That is good. You should show them by your example that there is a better way to live.
(Brother_Butler) Preaching to them will only make them more ... resistant.
(Belden) I do try.

• Belden nods.

(Belden) I must remember that...

• Belden sighs, and takes a sip of tea.
• Brother_Butler sips his tea as well

(Belden) Patience...

• Brother_Butler smiles at that.

(Brother_Butler) I have some news - I'm retiring as head of the seminary here, at the end of this month.

• Belden looks surprised.

(Belden) Might I ask why?
(Brother_Butler) Well, I've been asked to take up another role.
(Belden) You were such an excellent teacher... um, if you will excuse the flattery.
(Belden) Oh?

• Brother_Butler reddens slightly at that.

(Brother_Butler) I'm going to be working with the Patriarch himself - such an honour!
(Belden) Congratulations!
(Belden) What will you be doing?
(Brother_Butler) Thank you.
(Brother_Butler) I'll be in charge of the Imperial Libraries. Sister Janna, who has run them so well for so many years, is very frail indeed, and perhaps not long for this life. I hope to make my transfer there soon, in order to learn whatever she might have to teach me before it is too late.
(Belden) Will you stay in the Imperial City?

• Belden asks, wide-eyed.
• Belden drinks some more tea.

(Brother_Butler) Oh yes. I'll be moving to the Imperial palace complex, actually.
(Belden) Oh my!

• Brother_Butler nods

(Brother_Butler) Sister Lebea will be replacing me here. She's a good woman, I'm sure she'll do a fine job.
(Brother_Butler) I'm a bit nervous about it all, to tell you the truth, but if this is what I have been called to do...
(Belden) I suppose that means I won't get to see you so much anymore, hmm...

• Brother_Butler shrugs, as if to say "what can you do?"

(Belden) I'm sure you'll do a wonderful job!
(Brother_Butler) You know, if you ever decided to leave the guards, you would always have a place by my side, Pasith.
(Belden) Oh, thank you for the offer...

• Belden smiles.

(Brother_Butler) And you are welcome to visit me at my new post. I'll make whatever arrangements I have to.
(Belden) I think my work is not quite done there yet, though.

• Brother_Butler nods

(Brother_Butler) I understand, of course.
(Belden) That would be wonderful, thank you... I'd hate to think I'd be cut off from your advice!
(Brother_Butler) I was planning to go to the libraries some time this week, actually, to meet with Sister Janna. I've only been there a few times before this - it's quite an experience.
(Brother_Butler) Would you care to come with me? If you're not too busy, that is.
(Belden) They must be magnificent...
(Belden) Oh I'd love to! --

• Brother_Butler nods happily
• Belden looks suddenly crestfallen.

(Brother_Butler) Splendid!
(Brother_Butler) What is it?
(Belden) .. but today and tomorrow are my only days off.
(Belden) I don't know when I'll get another.
(Brother_Butler) Oh, well, I could certainly go tomorrow. I hadn't planned any particular day, after all.
(Brother_Butler) Would that be satisfactory?
(Belden) Truly? It wouldn't be inconvenient?

• Brother_Butler grins

(Brother_Butler) Not at all!
(Belden) It would be very satisfactory!

• Belden beams.

(Brother_Butler) Wonderful, wonderful.
(Brother_Butler) Shall we meet at the Market Bridge tomorrow at noontime?
(Belden) I'll look forward to it.

• Brother_Butler nods, bobbing his head happily

(Brother_Butler) I as well.
(Narrator) (You can spend some more time chatting with Brother Butler, about trivial matters)
(Narrator) (And I'll move on to Pavo)
(Narrator) Pavo, you wake to find that sometime in the night you have thrown off your wool blanket, and you are freezing.

• Pavo sivers and figures he needs to buy a bigger blanket.

(Narrator) So, what are your plans for the day, Pavo?

• Pavo dresses himself in some tight clothing and covers himself with winter clothes and figures he'll wander the market for a while.

(Narrator) You probably spot Boden at a distance, then, as he also peruses the goods for sale.
(Narrator) He's easy to spot ;)

• Pavo heads in his direction to say hello.

(Pavo) Ho, big boy.
(Boden) oh? Hi.

• Pavo looks to see what good's he's looking over.

(Boden) Hows it going.

• Boden is eating an apple.

(Pavo) Cold!

• Boden looks at you strangely.

(Boden) Its not so bad today.
(Pavo) I'm not a fan of the winter...

• Boden is buying fruit, but seems preocupied with something.

(Boden) I guess I'm used to it.

• Pavo picks up some fruit for breakfast and waves to Boden in parting.
• Boden will wave back.

(Boden) .oO(there is something about that guy I just can't put my finger on...maybe I should buy him a whore...)

(Narrator) So, Pavo, any plans?

• Pavo wanders around to see if there's anything interesting, or might look particularly fetching on him.

(Narrator) You spot a fine pair of kid leather gloves on sale for only 5 crowns (sp, that is)

• Pavo oohs and buys them, slipping them on and stuffing his mittens into his pockets.

(Pavo) (Pavo doesn't know what to do during the daytime :o)
(Narrator) They are nice and soft against your skin, and you wonder why anyone would sell them...

• Pavo might take a spin by the Theatre...

(Narrator) (If you like we can skip ahead to the evening)

• Pavo gets it regularly, big boy :)

(Pavo) Nah, Pavo will see if he can meet p with Karolis
(Narrator) Okay, the theatre would be a good place to try that.
(Narrator) The Theatre is a very old wooden building in the Castalia. It was the first theatre in the city, hence the simple name.
(Narrator) You enter through the stage door, not the main entrance.
(Narrator) You can hear from the stage the clink of swords.
(Narrator) You find yourself in the wings, where you can see Karolis and another young man sparring with the theatre's swords

• Pavo leans against a pillar and watches the two duke it out

(Narrator) They seem to be practicing various moves over and over again, not really fighting.
(Narrator) After a while, they stop, and Karolis notices you leaning there.

• Pavo calls out "You both seem to have a great mastery of your swords!"
• Karolis turns to you and laughs

(Karolis) Didn't hear you come in, there.
(Karolis) But of course you never keep quiet for long. ;)
(Pavo) Cat's are sneaky, don't y'know? :)
(Pavo) And a bit mouthy too.
(Karolis) Don't I.

• Karolis rolls his eyes expansively

(Karolis) I should introduce you to the newest cast-member here

• Pavo clucks his tongue and looks the new guy over.

(Narrator) As you look him over, you realize that he's a she.
(Karolis) Tatiane, meet Pavo.

• Tatiane bows gracefully to you
• Tatiane is a very slender young woman with short blond curls - she really could pass for a boy from a distance away.
• Pavo bows his head in return. Hello.

(Pavo) You haven't been beating on Karolis too hard, have you?
(Tatiane) Pleased to meet you, Pavo.

• Tatiane chuckles

(Tatiane) Not too hard. He's been teaching me, actually.
(Tatiane) He's very good.

• Karolis waves his hand

(Karolis) It's nothing, really
(Pavo) Don't be modest, I can attest to your skill with the sword...

• Karolis reddens slightly at that

(Pavo) Ah, ever modest, isn't he Tatiane?
(Tatiane) He certainly is! I've learned more this morning than I would have thought possible.
(Tatiane) My arm is sore now, though.

• Tatiane rubs her right bicep and shoulder

(Pavo) What are you two practicing for?

• Karolis takes the two practice swords and puts them away

(Tatiane) Oh, I just wanted to learn stage fighting. Karolis was teaching me some basic moves.
(Pavo) Ah... nothing spectacular in the works here at the Theatre?

• Karolis returns sans swords

(Karolis) We're working on "A Lady of Leisure" - it should go up in a couple of weeks.
(Pavo) Sounds rather risque *tilts a brow*
(Karolis) It's a light comedy, nothing too naughty.
(Pavo) Ah...
(Karolis) One of those ones where everyone ends up married at the end, you know.
(Karolis) And I'm playing the important role of "Messenger"
(Pavo) What do you have planned for the day? (said mostly to Karolis, but not obviously)

• Karolis jokes

(Karolis) Nothing too much. Rehearsal is in the evening, but until then.. I have some free time.
(Pavo) They don't even give you a name?
(Karolis) Sadly no, but I'm calling myself "Jacomardus." It sounds important.

• Karolis smiles impishly

(Karolis) Just to myself, of course. To get into character.

• Pavo looks a bit dubious as to the dignity of that name.
• Karolis winks at you
• Pavo elbownudges Karolis

(Karolis) Okay, I'm kidding. No, the messenger doesn't have a name, but I do get a lot of lines, at least.
(Pavo) (Such is the burden of the lower classes, all the work but not even a name in reward...)

• Pavo keeps his Marxism OOC :D

(Pavo) Well, I'm bored.
(Karolis) You must be, to come by here. Day off, I take it?

• Tatiane lounges against one of the pillars by the side of the stage

(Pavo) Yeah, daytimes are such a waste when you're a nightowl.

• Karolis chuckles

(Karolis) Want to go over to the Lord's for a drink?

• Pavo offers to toss Tatiane a fruit.
• Tatiane will accept the fruit happily

(Pavo) *toss*

• Pavo offers one to Karolis

(Pavo) Won't it be dreadfully boring at this time of day?
(Karolis) No thanks, I've eaten.
(Karolis) Not if we're there!

• Karolis says cheerfully

(Pavo) Good point:)
(Pavo) I'm game then
(Karolis) Splendid!

• Tatiane rises from her perch

(Tatiane) Where are we going?
(Karolis) Ah...

• Karolis glances at Pavo
• Pavo munches on his fruit, sucking at the sweet insides rather lasciviously.
• Pavo shrugs.
• Karolis swats you and gives you a "What should I say to her?" look

(Pavo) It's our favourite hangout.
(Tatiane) Oh, sounds fun!

• Pavo aims a swat to the bottom at Karolis when Tatiane is focused elsewhere.
• Karolis shrugs

(Karolis) Okay, let's go, then.
(Narrator) The three of you gather up your cloaks and head out across the river.

• Pavo shows his sexy gloves off on the way across the bridge

(Narrator) And now, I should turn to Kalman, last but not least.
(Narrator) Kalman, you are awakened in your warm featherbed by knocking at your bedroom door. By the angle of the light shining in your window, it must be mid-morning.
(Narrator) The knocking grows louder and more urgent.
(Narrator) *knock knock knock*

• Kalman will blink awake

(Kalman) Come in?
(Narrator) It is your housekeeper, Jolande, a stout, plain woman from the House of the Wolf. She stands there looking somewhat flustered, which is uncharacteristic for her.

• Kalman sits up

(Kalman) what is it, Jolande?
(Jolande) Sir, you have a visitor. It's...

• Jolande clears her throat

(Jolande) It's Milady Eglorine, sir. She's alone.
(Kalman) ...what?

• Jolande says in a somewhat disapproving voice.

(Kalman) oh..

• Kalman sounds absolutely flabbergast

(Jolande) She's waiting downstairs, sir. What should I do?
(Kalman) well..ahh..
(Kalman) show her in... to the sitting room, I'll just get.. dressed...

• Jolande nods and leaves, smoothing down her apron
• Jolande closes the door behind her
• Kalman will blink for a moment, and then quickly scramble out of bed to make himself presentable

(Narrator) You hear voices downstairs, and then what you presume is Jolande bustling in the kitchen

• Kalman feels apprehensively excited
• Kalman agonizes briefly over what to wear, and decides on something casual
• Kalman will brush his hair back
• Kalman will give himself a look over in the mirror to make sure he looks okay

(Narrator) You think you look fine :)

• Kalman wonders if he is going to seem too eagre or.. something... :o
• Kalman has no idea what to expect

(Kalman) . o O (I don't even know what she looks like anymore... she could be *married* :o)

• Kalman will go downstairs after he takes a moment to calm himself
• Eglorine smiles when you enter the sitting room. She is even more lovely than you remembered, with her long wavy brown hair caught back in a loose braid, a few strands escaping. Her skin is tanned a light brown, and her cheeks are rosy from the cold. She wears a split skirt of dark scarlet, for riding, and a white blouse with slightly puffed sleeves and pearl buttons.
• Eglorine stands to greet you

(Eglorine) Kalman.
(Kalman) ...
(Kalman) Eglorine!

• Kalman smiles
• Eglorine smiles when she sees you smile

(Eglorine) I'm so glad to see you.
(Kalman) what a wonderful surprise!
(Eglorine) I wanted to surprise you.
(Eglorine) I didn't want to give you time to think about how... how this would work.
(Kalman) well...it's certainly worked...
(Kalman) can I get you anything?

• Jolande enters just then bearing a tray laden with delicate sweetmeats and two cups of hot black coffee.
• Jolande gives you a stern glance, and retreats to the kitchen once again.

(Kalman) ...thank you Jolande...

• Kalman mutters after her, and then turns back to Eglorine
• Eglorine will take one of the cups of coffee and a sweetmeat to nibble on

(Kalman) (She's not wearing any significant rings, is she ;D)
(Eglorine) How have you been?
(Eglorine) (no)
(Kalman) (sweet ;d)
(Kalman) I've been well....
(Eglorine) This is a nice house you have...

• Eglorine looks around the room

(Kalman) Thank you. I felt I needed some independance form the familly...

• Eglorine nods

(Eglorine) I can understand that...
(Kalman) How about yourself?
(Eglorine) I've been at my family's estate at Lach Dera. It's beautiful there, but soo far from anything else. It's good to be back in the city.

• Kalman will sit near her and pick up his coffee cup

(Eglorine) I've had nothing to do but ride horses and sew for the past three years.
(Kalman) (Not too near, though... maybe in a chair across or something ;)

• Kalman looks somewhat apologetic

(Eglorine) Don't... it's not your fault.

• Kalman smiles again

(Kalman) well, it seems to have been good for you... You look lovely

• Eglorine smiles sweetly, blushing a little

(Eglorine) That's kind of you to say.
(Eglorine) You look very well yourself.
(Kalman) I've been trying to keep active...
(Eglorine) You got taller, too.

• Kalman laughs at that

(Kalman) I expect we both have, somewhat...
(Eglorine) I suppose that's to be expected...

• Eglorine chuckles
• Eglorine grows serious again.

(Eglorine) Father doesn't know I'm here - if he did, he would tan my hide. I told him I was going out for a ride in the countryside.
(Kalman) I've heard that he ...doesn't think well of me.

• Eglorine grimaces slightly

(Eglorine) That's putting it mildly, I think.

• Eglorine sighs
• Eglorine sips her coffee, looking away from you
• Kalman does as well

(Kalman) What finally brought you back here?
(Kalman) To the city, that is.

• Eglorine chuckles

(Eglorine) Father did.
(Kalman) . o O (Well, *that* didn't sound arrogant)
(Kalman) oh?
(Eglorine) I think it finally dawned on him that I was never going to get married sitting by the lake in the middle of nowhere.
(Eglorine) And that he couldn't keep an eye on me there.

• Kalman smiles at that
• Eglorine grumbles

(Eglorine) He'll soon find out how well that plan will work out, I tell you.
(Kalman) I really don't think it is fair that women don't get much say in those matters....

• Kalman says, thinking also about his sister
• Eglorine arches an eyebrow.

(Eglorine) And how much say do you have, good sir?
(Kalman) I suppose that depends on who you ask

• Eglorine moves slightly closer to you, so that your knees are almost touching

(Eglorine) I'm asking you.
(Kalman) Oh...well

• Kalman blushes
• Eglorine claps her hands delightedly

(Eglorine) You were always so sweet when you were young... I see you haven't changed in that regard, at least.
(Kalman) You've always had that effect on me, I think.
(Eglorine) Don't be embarassed.

• Eglorine gently reaches out to stroke your cheek, then withdraws her hand quickly
• Kalman will catch her hand
• Eglorine inhales sharply

(Kalman) I'm not embarrased.
(Kalman) Nervous, maybe

• Kalman will kiss the back of her hand, and then let it go
• Eglorine blushes in her own turn

(Eglorine) It's been so long...
(Eglorine) I was worried you would have forgotten about me.
(Kalman) ...
(Kalman) I could never

• Eglorine lowers her eyes delicately
• Eglorine slides away from you again
• Kalman has a vague danger sense going off in the back of his head about how staying here in close quarters might be a bad idea, but also doens't want her to get in trouble :o
• Kalman coughs and sips his coffee
• Eglorine seems to be having the same sort of thoughts

(Kalman) . o O (we're both still acting like we're fifteen...)
(Eglorine) Can we meet somewhere? Maybe tomorrow? We could go riding, or ... whatever you like.
(Kalman) Riding would be lovely.

• Eglorine smiles with a nod

(Kalman) We can meet..

• Kalman thinks for a moment of a discreet place to go riding, possibly neat the outsirts of town...)

(Narrator) There is a large lightly forested area to the North of the city, often used for hunting by the nobles. It's likely to be deserted this time of year, though.
(Kalman) (Sounds good... what's it called?)
(Narrator) (The Elura woods)
(Kalman) near the Elura woods?

• Eglorine smiles

(Eglorine) That would be perfect.
(Eglorine) I should get going... Father will wonder if I don't look red and out of breath enough when I get back.

• Eglorine blushes a little at that

(Eglorine) I mean... I should get going.

• Kalman smiles and blushes himself a bit
• Kalman will keep his mouth shut on *that* subject, however ;0
• Eglorine offers you her hand before she leaves.

(Kalman) I understand..

• Kalman stands and offers her a hand up
• Eglorine accepts it

(Eglorine) Until tomorrow, then.

• Kalman nods

(Kalman) what time?
(Eglorine) Ah.. noon?
(Eglorine) It will take a bit of time to ride there, after all.

• Kalman nods

(Kalman) perfect

• Eglorine smiles then, and readies herself to leave
• Kalman will help her with her cloak or whatever, if needed
• Eglorine accepts your gallant help :)
• Eglorine smiles once more, dazzling you, and slips out the door.
• Kalman will wander around the house for the rest of the day plesantly dazed, and then go practice his music stuff, semi-distractedly ;)

(Narrator) And with that, we will turn back to Loch.
(Narrator) Loch - did you have any other business to attend to, or shall we go ahead to your talking to Prof. Crim again?
(Loch) Yeah... lets head there first

• Loch will knock on Prof Crim's door

(Narrator) It is evening when you return to Prof. Crim's tower
(Narrator) A distracted voice calls from within..
(Guthlac) Come in!

• Loch opens the door and enters

(Loch) Evening, Professor.

• Guthlac emerges from another room, looking even more disheveled than usual

(Guthlac) Loch.. Good to see you. What can I do for you?

• Guthlac absent-mindedly scratches his head

(Loch) Uh... Professor, I left a ring with you earlier today...
(Guthlac) Ah yes, you were the one with the ring.
(Loch) Have you been able to determine the enchantment it carries?
(Narrator) Prof. D'Ameron emerges from the same room
(Harielle) Loch, how good to see you!

• Guthlac coughs

(Guthlac) Ah yes, I called Har... Prof. D'Ameron over to have a look at it.
(Loch) Good to see you as well
(Guthlac) It falls into her area of expertise as well, you see.

• Harielle smiles warmly, smoothing her robes casually

(Guthlac) The ring has the ability to bring animals under the wearer's command.
(Loch) An interesting enchantment

• Harielle perches on a bench that's not covered with books and papers.

(Harielle) Indeed it is. I was glad to have a look at it.
(Harielle) Where on earth did you come across it?
(Loch) I found it in the sewars

• Guthlac and Harielle both look surprised

(Loch) after the battle with the Arenea
(Guthlac) Goodness. Whatever were you doing down there?

• Harielle nods in understanding

(Harielle) Right, the aranea. I was part of the team that studied its remains.
(Guthlac) Very interesting...
(Loch) I was expecting the ring to be something a little more comon, but to control animals...

• Loch shrugs

(Guthlac) Anyway, the ring will allow its wearer to bring one animal under his control, but it can be used again and again, on many animals.
(Loch) On the farm, I could think of at least a hundred uses for an item like that.
(Harielle) If the wearer mistreats the animal the spell is broken, as with any charm
(Loch) of course. I remember your lessons.

• Harielle nods, proudly

(Loch) Did you learn any clue as to who made the ring?
(Guthlac) I suppose I should get it for you, then.

• Guthlac wanders back into the other room to get the ring.

(Harielle) It's very old.
(Harielle) Very, very old indeed, I would say.
(Harielle) A most unusual piece.

• Guthlac returns with the ring, and extends his hand towards you

(Guthlac) Here you are, lad.

• Loch will take the ring

(Loch) Thank you
(Guthlac) Most interesting, most interesting.
(Guthlac) Was there anything else I could do for you?
(Loch) No. You have done quite a bit for me. Thank you again.

• Guthlac bobs his head

(Loch) If I can return the favor, please just ask.
(Guthlac) It was no trouble.
(Guthlac) I'll keep that in mind.
(Guthlac) Thank you again for the opportunity to examine such an interesting item.

• Guthlac ushers you out the door.

(Loch) You are welcome Professor.

• Loch will leave
• Guthlac smiles and nods

(Narrator) As you make your way down the rickety staircase, you hear what sounds strangely like giggling coming from the rooms behind you.

• Loch will pause and listen

(Narrator) It was only brief... definitely coming from Prof. Crim's rooms, though.

• Loch will examine the ring

(Narrator) It seems the same - a plain gold band set with a tiger's eye stone

• Loch shrugs and continues on his way

(Narrator) Any further plans, Loch?

• Loch will try to locate Gabrielia Ragusa

(Narrator) Okay. That will require some asking around - let me make a roll for you.
(Narrator) You ask a few people in Uncle Barm's if they know of her, and eventually you find someone who tells you that she is staying with Peran Haupt now, and can give you his address.

• Loch will go there

(Narrator) You make your way to the humble loft above a chandler's shop.

• Loch will knock on the door
• Gabrielia answers the door, surprised to see someone.

(Gabrielia) Hello?
(Gabrielia) Oh, it's you!
(Loch) I hope I am not disturbing you. May I come in?

• Gabrielia smiles and opens the door to let you in

(Gabrielia) Of course.
(Narrator) The room is sparsely furnished, with a bed in one corner - clearly this is the only room of the dwelling. Peran lies in the bed.
(Loch) (is he awake?)

• Peran waves a hand at you and sits up slightly

(Loch) How are you doing, young man?
(Gabrielia) I'm afraid there's really nowhere to sit...
(Peran) I'm doing well, thanks. I feel much better these past few days.
(Peran) I never had a chance to thank you properly...
(Loch) No need. Just doing my job.

• Peran smiles weakly

(Gabrielia) What can we do for you?
(Loch) but you need to recover quickly, or else you will fall behind on your studies.

• Gabrielia perches on the edge of the bed
• Peran nods

(Peran) I've been catching up on my reading.
(Loch) I take it you're keeping a good eye on him, Gabrielia?

• Peran gestures to the pile of books by the bed

(Gabrielia) Oh yes.
(Gabrielia) He's doing much better now - he's been walking around and everything.

• Loch looks around the room

(Loch) Good
(Narrator) There's not much to see - a couple of boxes, a pile of books, the bed, a narrow window
(Loch) (how much does a decent appartment run in this section of the city)
(Narrator) (Decent? Maybe 5 Imp a month?)
(Loch) No... this wont do

• Gabrielia and Peran both look a bit confused

(Gabrielia) What do you mean?
(Loch) Two promising students in Castalia need something better than this, is you're going to live up to your potential.

• Gabrielia and Peran still look confused
• Loch will walk over to Gabrielia, reach into his pocket and pull out a fist full of coins, then give them to her.

(Gabrielia) Oh...oh.
(Gabrielia) Oh, you can't.
(Gabrielia) We can't take this, can we?
(Loch) That should make a difference
(Loch) Why not?

• Gabrielia looks up at you, tears in her eyes

(Gabrielia) I... I thank you.
(Peran) We will repay you in any way we can.
(Peran) If you ever need anything, just let us know.
(Loch) You can repay me by being true to yourselves and becoming accomplished Socerers

• Peran nods
• Gabrielia is still looking at the money, dumbfounded
• Loch looks at both of them with that statement

(Gabrielia) Yes... yes, we will.
(Gabrielia) Thank you.

• Gabrielia carefully places the coins on the bed and stands to shake your hand
• Loch will return the handshake

(Loch) I've been through this myself, being from a poor farming family
(Narrator) And with that heartwarming scene, we will turn to someone else. If you don't mind, Rob, we'll go to Belden, because I know Hazel is tired and its' getting late
(Loch) (I think I will take my leave of the group then... good nite all)
(Narrator) (I know Rob will be willing to stay later to finish up ;)
(Narrator) (Night, terry)
(Narrator) (Is that okay, people involved?)

• • • Loch has quit IRC (Quit: _)

(Boden) (I'm fine with that.)
(Narrator) (Okay)
(Narrator) Belden, you meet Brother Butler at the Market Bridge and cross over to the Imperial City. At this time of day, the main crush of the crowd is going the other way, towards the markets of the Place D'Iena.
(Narrator) As you step onto the Imperial Island, the day suddenly seems slightly warmer, the winds less biting. The skeletons of trees line the road on which you walk, but somehow you can almost smell spring around the corner.

• Belden looks around a bit nervously, feeling out of place.

(Narrator) Ahead are the pale walls of the Imperial Complex. Jutting above them you can see towers fashioned of the same white stone, topped with banners on which you can barely make out the emblem of the Dyess family - a black bear standing on its hind legs on a gold background, holding in each paw an orb.

• Brother_Butler walks steadily up to the guards at the ornate gate and announces himself.

(Narrator) The two of you are allowed to pass.

• Brother_Butler leads the way along a well-swept path towards a broad, squat building, made of the same white stone as the main Imperial palace.

(Brother_Butler) That's the main Imperial library, the Athenaeum.

• Brother_Butler says, pointing at the pillar-fronted edifice.
• Belden nods.

(Narrator) Inside the library, the air is still and cool. Marble statues stand in niches along the walls, depicting emperors and empresses dead for hundreds of years. Off the main hall, you can see doors leading to various smaller rooms, no doubt containing many, many books, scrolls, and archives.
(Narrator) A frail, thin white haired woman totters over to you.
(Sister_Janna) Brother Butler, so good of you to come.

• Sister_Janna is dressed in a simple white robe, and you can see that her eyes are somewhat cloudy with age.

(Sister_Janna) And who is this you've brought with you?
(Brother_Butler) My student and friend, Sister Pasith.

• Belden waits politely to be introduced.
• Belden smiles at the older woman.

(Belden) Good day.

• Sister_Janna nods politely at you

(Sister_Janna) Good day to you too, Sister.

• Belden bows her head with respect.
• Sister_Janna squints to make out your features

(Sister_Janna) It is good to see the young taking an interest in our Empire's history, our heritage.
(Sister_Janna) Is there some subject in particular that interests you, my dear?
(Belden) Thank you, Sister...
(Belden) There is so much to learn,one has to start early.

• Sister_Janna nods

(Sister_Janna) That is very true. This one seems wise, Brother. You've chosen well.

• Brother_Butler nods proudly

(Brother_Butler) Yes, she is. I am very proud of all she has accomplished in her short life so far.
(Sister_Janna) Come, shall I show you around the Athenaeum?

• Belden looks a little embarrassed at all the praise...

(Sister_Janna) We can continue speaking as we walk, of course, as long as we are quiet, so as not to disturb any who might be studying here.

• Belden nods.
• Sister_Janna leads you through the great hall with its large domed ceiling
• Belden looks around, a bit awed.
• Sister_Janna points out various sites of interest there - a sculture by some great master of five centuries past, a faded stained glass window that dates from the reign of the Emperor Marek (that's about 1400 years ago), and so forth
• Sister_Janna finally leads you into a large room lined with shelves, very different from the ornate section you have left.
• Belden glances at as many titles as she can as she passes through the stacks.

(Sister_Janna) Here are the records of all Imperial censuses... Here is an original copy of Apolixina's "Praises"...

• Sister_Janna points out other notable works
• Brother_Butler looks very impressed
• Sister_Janna leads you into another room, this one filled with desks, where scribed sit copying works by hand

(Belden) (q)Amazing... It is a shame that so few are able to see them...
(Sister_Janna) The scriptorium... the heart of the Athenaeum.
(Sister_Janna) Oh, the public are allowed to peruse works here, as long as they fill out the proper paperwork.
(Sister_Janna) We get a great many scholars from the Castalia, of course.
(Belden) So anyone could come here?
(Sister_Janna) Most ordinary folk have little interest in such matters, I fear.
(Belden) Even though it's in... the Imperial city?

• Sister_Janna nods

(Sister_Janna) As long as they had the proper paperwork, as I say.
(Belden) Ah.
(Sister_Janna) The riches of the Empire in the service of the Empire, as they say.

• Brother_Butler nods, looking around
• Belden has a sad suspicion that isn't entirely true...
• Sister_Janna leads you through what seem like endless halls, some filled with scrolls, others with bound books. You even see a printing press in one room, tended by busy workers.
• Belden doubts, say, Maze would ever be allowed to come in here...
• Sister_Janna leads you at last to a locked door.

(Sister_Janna) In here are kept the magical tomes and other works of the greatest value.

• Belden nods.

(Sister_Janna) No members of the public are allowed in here.

• Sister_Janna says, glancing at Belden

(Sister_Janna) If they need to examine something from this room, it will be fetched for them, and a librarian will supervise their use of it.
(Brother_Butler) Ah.. an understandable precaution, I suppose.

• Brother_Butler looks a bit overawed by it all.

(Sister_Janna) Do you have any questions so far?

• Sister_Janna seems quite alert and hale for someone who is supposedly on death's door.

(Sister_Janna) I fear I have tired myself out, and would prefer to sit down for a time, if you have no further inquiries at the moment.
(Belden) I'm afraid I'm still simply in awe of it all...

• Sister_Janna nods

(Sister_Janna) It is an understandable reaction to such grandeur.
(Sister_Janna) You'll get used to it in time.

• Brother_Butler nods again

(Brother_Butler) Is there perhaps someplace where we might sit and ..ah.. digest what we have seen?

• Sister_Janna nods

(Sister_Janna) There is a parlour, just down this hall and take a right.
(Sister_Janna) Just ask any librarian if you get lost.

• Sister_Janna smiles at the two of you and totters off.

(Brother_Butler) Well... It's all a bit much to absorb, isn't it.
(Belden) This place is like... a palace!

• Brother_Butler nods

(Belden) I don't know how you'd ever get used to it...

• Brother_Butler is making his way to this aforementioned parlour
• Belden walks beside him.

(Belden) I'd be sort of disturbed if I ever did, I think...
(Narrator) The parlour is ornately furnished, with a warm fireplace at one end, and several large leather-covered chairs

• Brother_Butler flops down in one, clearly tired

(Brother_Butler) I'm not sure how I can do this, Pasith.
(Brother_Butler) I'm... I'm a teacher.

• Belden sits down as well, running her hand over the leather on the arm almost apprehensively.
• Belden looks up.

(Belden) How do you mean?
(Brother_Butler) I just... it seems so different from what I'm used to.
(Brother_Butler) I'm positively frightened to see my chambers.
(Belden) I suppose it is...
(Brother_Butler) They're probably coated with gold or something.
(Belden) I know what you mean...

• Brother_Butler sighs

(Belden) I don't understand people who live like this... surrounded by excess beyond belief, that they take completely for granted, while others have to little.

• Belden says sadly.

(Brother_Butler) What would you do, Pasith? If you were in my situation, I mean.
(Belden) I really don't know...
(Brother_Butler) I could turn the position down, of course...I'm sure they could find someone else to take it...

• Brother_Butler says a bit uncertainly

(Belden) It is a very important job... serving the Empire...
(Brother_Butler) I know.
(Brother_Butler) And I think I could come to enjoy some aspects of the job...
(Belden) But...
(Belden) Yes...
(Belden) I don't know...
(Belden) Do you really want to know what I think?

• Brother_Butler rubs his balding head

(Brother_Butler) Yes, of course.
(Belden) I guess... I guess I know how this serves the Empire, but I'm not sure how it serves the people, you know?
(Belden) I mean, it's important to remember our history, and culture...
(Belden) But who cares about history and culture when they can't read because their parents couldn't send them to school?
(Brother_Butler) Yes. Though Sister Janna is correct that few ordinary people care about this sort of thing... well, there's a reason for that.
(Belden) And what good are tomes of ancient knowledge when you have no food...

• Belden says sadly.
• Brother_Butler nods in agreement

(Brother_Butler) Perhaps...
(Brother_Butler) Perhaps I could do some good here. I'm not exactly sure how, but surely... there must be something I could do.
(Belden) I'm sure you would think of some way!

• Belden says, brightening.

(Brother_Butler) Yes. Yes, it will bear thinking on, but I'm sure I could.

• Brother_Butler brightens as well.

(Belden) If there's any way I could help, I'd be glad to...
(Brother_Butler) I appreciate that, I do.
(Brother_Butler) I'm sure that at some point I'll have to call on you for a bit of help, no doubt.
(Belden) More than anything, I want to help the people - the real people - of Diablotin...
(Brother_Butler) Yes... as do I.
(Belden) I'm just not sure what the best way is for me to do that, yet...
(Brother_Butler) Perhaps a scholarship fund of some sort could be established....

• Brother_Butler says, thinking out loud

(Belden) That would be a wonderful idea.

• Belden says, thinking of the pickpocket children again.
• Belden smiles.

(Brother_Butler) You know, the part of this job I hadn't even considered until now is how close it will put me to the Emperor himself. I'm sure if I could gain his ear, he would understand...
(Brother_Butler) How much this city needs.

• Belden 's eyes go wide.

(Belden) Really? You think so?
(Brother_Butler) I don't know. Perhaps.
(Belden) I will pray for it...
(Brother_Butler) I have heard that he is a good man, but I think he must be very out of touch with what really goes on in the city...
(Brother_Butler) I will pray as well.
(Belden) He is... very old, isn't he? He must not be able to even leave the Imperial City very often.

• Brother_Butler nods

(Belden) It would be no wonder, then...
(Brother_Butler) He is over eighty years old, yes.
(Brother_Butler) I don't think he gets out very often anymore, though when he was younger, he was a magnificent sight to behold, truly.
(Belden) He's been old as far back as I can remember...

• Brother_Butler chuckles
• Belden says with a bit of a smile.

(Brother_Butler) I can remember when he was still a young man.. younger than I am now, in any case.
(Brother_Butler) After his wife Neima died, he... lost much of his will to live, so they say.

• Belden nods...

(Brother_Butler) But still he has lived on, for thirty years...
(Belden) That is sad...
(Belden) He has a whole Empire of people to live for, after all...
(Brother_Butler) Yes, perhaps it was that - the Empire. And the Warlord, of course.

• Brother_Butler stares into the fire, thinking

(Brother_Butler) I hope... I hope that the Emperor is still a good man, the way I remember him in my youth.
(Belden) As do I.

• Brother_Butler nods firmly

(Belden) If anyone can show him the way, it will be you!
(Brother_Butler) I will take this post, and I will use the wealth and the influence at my disposal to help the city. It is the only thing I can do, in the end.
(Brother_Butler) For if I refused it, it would go to another, who might abuse it, or hoard the wealth to himself.
(Belden) That is true.
(Brother_Butler) Thank you, Pasith, you've helped me a great deal today.
(Belden) I am glad... You've helped me so many times.

• Brother_Butler smiles at that

(Belden) If you ever feel the need to escape all this comfort and excess, please come and pay me a visit at the barracks!
(Brother_Butler) Now, should we try and find our way out of this maze alone, or ask for help right now?

• Belden says with a smile.

(Brother_Butler) Of course, I will.
(Belden) Well, I wouldn't mind looking around a little more...
(Brother_Butler) Yes, why not? It's not every day one has access to all of the learning of two thousand years.
(Brother_Butler) Although I suppose it will be, soon enough, for me at least.

• Belden chuckles.
• Brother_Butler wipes his forehead again, but seems more composed than before.

(Narrator) You and Brother Butler spend the rest of the day perusing the stacks of ancient books, enjoying your time in the great library.
(Belden) (yay!)
(Narrator) (If there's anything particular you want to look up, let me know, and I'll email you whatever you find :)
(Belden) (I'll think about it)
(Narrator) Okay, who is most tired? (i.e. who should I go to next?)
(Narrator) Pavo, Kalman, or Boden?
(Boden) (I'm ok, I'll bow out to others if they want...)
(Narrator) Okay, Kalman it is, then, I think.
(Boden) (but I'm doing something that night...not the next day)
(Narrator) (that's okay - there will be a minor time distortion ;)
(Narrator) Kalman - what are you going to do?
(Narrator) The second day of your respite dawns cloudy and grey, and the wind has picked up again.
(Kalman) (It is that night or the next day, or what?)
(Narrator) (For Kalman it will be the next day, unless he has something he needs to do first - for everyone else, it will still be the same day - time distortion, like I said ;)

• Kalman looks anxiously out the window and wonders whether or not his 'date' will still be on or not

(Narrator) ... No way to know...
(Kalman) ...
(Narrator) Short of going to her house, of course.

• Kalman will practice some music in the morning to calm his nerves, and then get some stuff ready, just in case....

(Narrator) (Are you going out to meet her, or were you going to meet at your house?)
(Kalman) . o O (It won't kill me to go riding in the rain... If she's not there, I certainly won't blame her, though...)
(Kalman) (I think we were going to meet somewhere either just outside or just inside the city)
(Narrator) (Okay, meet just outside - that's best, I think)
(Narrator) The day is overcast, but it doesn't seem too bad, other than a bit windy. At least it is not terribly cold.

• Kalman will wear clothing apprpriate to the weather, but bring a blanket, and get Jolande to pack some sort of light food though, in case we get hungry ;)
• Jolande will do so, and cautions you to be careful

(Kalman) Of course...

• Kalman will thank her, and head out to make sure he gets there on time ;)

(Narrator) You meet Eglorine just outside the north gates of the city, where you had arranged.

• Eglorine is wearing a heavy white cloak and is dressed for the weather as well

(Eglorine) I'm glad you decided to come.. the weather isn't that great, but we'll just have to make the best of it.
(Kalman) yes, I was just thinking the same thing...
(Kalman) the woods should provide some shelter if it does start to rain, as well...

• Eglorine smiles at that

(Eglorine) Yes, that's true. Shall we be on our way?
(Kalman) of course

• Eglorine rides, then, at a good speed. She is clearly an accomplished equestrian.

(Narrator) (You manage to keep up, though ;)
(Narrator) The ride to the Elura woods takes over an hour, during which time the sky lowers, but does not open.

• Kalman keeps an eye on the sky ;)
• Kalman mostly keeps his eyes on Eglorine, though. and on the riding stuff ;)

(Narrator) Finally you make it under the shelter of the trees. There are paths leading through the woods in various directions, for the hunters, and though they are snow-covered, they are easy enough to follow
(Kalman) (does my city lore cover this area? probably not?)

• Eglorine slows to a gentle walk

(Eglorine) (What did you want to know?)
(Kalman) (Just if I'm familiar much with these trails...)
(Eglorine) (you've probably been here before, but that would have been in the summer or fall, not the winter)
(Kalman) I've never been here in winter before... it's quite pretty
(Eglorine) Yes... it's so quiet and peaceful.
(Eglorine) Tell me, what have you done with yourself for the past few years, Kalman?

• Eglorine rides carefully, avoiding any branches bent low from the snow.

(Kalman) Well... After Ivona fell ill...
(Kalman) I concentrated on my music for a while, but I suppose I was restless.

• Eglorine nods

(Kalman) I spend some time, well, exploring the city, I suppose
(Kalman) . o O (This isn't going to go over well.. sigh)
(Kalman) recently, I joined the guard

• Kalman watches her reaction to that
• Eglorine seems a bit surprised

(Eglorine) Really?
(Eglorine) Why?

• Kalman nods

(Kalman) Well...
(Kalman) I suppose I've seen how badly off some of the people who live in Diablotin are

• Eglorine nods

(Eglorine) I guess I can understand that.
(Kalman) I just felt I could be doing something to help them
(Eglorine) Is it fun, at least?
(Eglorine) I mean, it must be exciting...
(Kalman) well, sometimes it is...
(Kalman) Most of the time it is just patrolling, making sure people aren't getting in too much trouble..

• Eglorine grins at that

(Kalman) Last week, however, we had to investigate a dissappearance in Pearl...
(Eglorine) Really? That sounds interesting, at least.
(Kalman) Interesting isn't the word for it
(Eglorine) Oh?
(Kalman) It turns out some spider creature from Rhenea had been preying on the customers from a tavern
(Eglorine) I've never even been to Pearl City...

• Eglorine looks surprised at that

(Eglorine) And you killed it?

• Kalman nods

(Eglorine) That's very brave of you.
(Kalman) It tried to enchant one of the other members of our squad
(Kalman) (it)
(Eglorine) That must have been frightening!
(Kalman) It was a bit unnerving...

• Eglorine shivers herself

(Eglorine) I think it's getting colder.
(Kalman) But we dealt with it.
(Narrator) The wind has picked up a bit, blowing snow across your field of vision
(Kalman) would you like my cloak?

• Eglorine laughs at that

(Eglorine) No, I'm fine. Silly.

• Kalman grins

(Eglorine) I don't want to have to explain to your parents how you froze to death.
(Kalman) Well, I wouldn't wantyou to come down with anything and give your fatnher even more cause to hate me
(Narrator) The trail you've been following opens into a clearing, at the centre of which sits a small chalet.
(Eglorine) Oh, look. A little cottage.
(Kalman) It's probably used by the hunters during the season....
(Narrator) No smoke comes from the chimney - it seems closed up at the moment.
(Eglorine) Yes, that makes sense.
(Narrator) The wind blows more strongly, and snow is now starting to fall.
(Kalman) hmmm...

• Eglorine dismounts and walks her horse around a bit, checking out the back of the chalet

(Kalman) I wonder if it is open...
(Eglorine) There's even a stable back here!

• Eglorine calls from the other side of the building
• Kalman will dismount as well
• Eglorine returns, having presumably stabled her horse.

(Eglorine) Is it open?

• Kalman will check and see
• Eglorine clutches her cloak around herself

(Narrator) The door is barred shut with a simple piece of oak - easy enough to lift and open.
(Kalman) It seem to be...

• Kalman will lift the bar, then

(Narrator) Inside, the chalet is plain but decent and well-kept. At one end, a fireplace sits, with dry logs and tinder beside it. A table and some chairs, a fur on the floor for a rug, and a ladder leading up to a loft.

• Eglorine enters the room, still shivering a bit.

(Eglorine) Seems deserted.
(Eglorine) Perfect spot for a picnic, wouldn't you say?

• Eglorine grins at you

(Kalman) I think so :)
(Kalman) I had Jolande pack some things...
(Kalman) should I see if I can get a fire lit?
(Eglorine) Yes, please.
(Eglorine) I'll have a look at the food, shall I?
(Kalman) go ahead
(Narrator) The pack contains some cold chicken and sausages, bread, cheese, and a bottle of wine. Jolande knows how to pack a romantic lunch ;)

• Kalman will see if he can get a fire lit... not his fort�
• Eglorine sets the food out on the table, after hunting around for and finding a cloth to lay over it.

(Narrator) You manage to light the fire without much difficulty.
(Kalman) (I had packed a blanket ;)

• Eglorine will use that, then :)

(Narrator) Soon enough the small cabin starts to warm up.

• Eglorine will tuck in to some of the food.
• Kalman will too

(Eglorine) Nice here.
(Kalman) Very cosy...

• Eglorine nods

(Eglorine) No one for miles around, I suppose.

• Eglorine smiles innocently.

(Kalman) I suppose not...

• Kalman smiles as well

(Narrator) Your repast is soon finished (well, except for some of the wine - I presume you didn't polish all of that off ;)
(Kalman) (no, probably not...)

• Eglorine takes the wine and goes over to sit in front of the fire, then.
• Kalman goes and sits with her, then

(Eglorine) I missed you, you know.
(Kalman) I missed you too...
(Eglorine) Every day I was away, I thought of you.

• Eglorine lays her head on your shoulder
• Kalman will stroke her hair
  • • Retrieving #changeling info...
    • Eglorine changes topic to 'Give her the Manroot!_'
• Eglorine sighs gently
• Kalman will lean in and kiss her, assuming she doesn't object
• Eglorine doesn't object at all
• Eglorine will respond quite enthusiastically, in fact

(Kalman) (well... I'm willing to succumb to hormones ;)
(Narrator) You spend the rest of the afternoon in front of the fire on the bearskin rug.
(Kalman) (whee!)
(Narrator) So, Pavo?

• Pavo steals Kalman!!!

(Narrator) Off to the Likely Lord's, then?
(Pavo) Is this in the afternoon, or evening?
(Pavo) afternoon :)
(Pavo) Works for me
(Narrator) (It's late afternoon, let's say, by the time you get there)

• Karolis goes to the bar to order drinks for the three of you.
• Tatiane looks around, clearly never having been here before

(Tatiane) This seems like a nice place...

• 
  (Pavo) leads Tatiane to one of their favourite tables.
• Karolis returns shortly with a bottle of wine and three glasses.

(Karolis) Might as well... my rehearsal's not for another two hours.

• Karolis laughs

(Karolis) And I'm sure I could do my lines dead drunk if I had to.
(Karolis) "My lord, the Queen does beg the honour of your presence" and so forth.

• Karolis pours some wine

(Karolis) A toast?
(Pavo) To?

• Karolis thinks for a moment

(Karolis) To love. That's always a good one.

• Tatiane will willingly raise her glass in a toast
• Karolis raises his glass and drinks deep.
• Pavo raises his glass, a bit dubiously, and clinks his glass with the rest.
• Pavo downs his glass as well, might as well toast well if you toast at all

(Karolis) Oh fine, you can propose the next one, if you didn't like that toast.

• Karolis grins at you.
• Karolis pours some more wine

(Narrator) Before you can propose another toast, though, Karolis looks up at the door, which just opened

• Pavo snickers

(Karolis) Well, look who the cat drug in.
(Narrator) You look up to see Lyrias entering the bar.

• Lyrias comes over to your table, the bar being fairly empty at this time of day

(Pavo) Ho! It's been ages since I've seen you, you rascal.
(Pavo) Business can't be THAT good.
(Lyrias) Hallo, all! It's good to see you again.

• Lyrias takes a seat at the table after grabbing himself a glass from the bar.

(Pavo) You just missed our toast to love... so perhaps you can suggest another toast?

• Lyrias pours himself a glass and raises it.

(Lyrias) To money - it's better than love.
(Karolis) I'll drink to that.

• Pavo shrugs and raises his glass... again not quite satisfied...
• Tatiane drinks as well

(Karolis) Oh yes - Lyrias, this is Tatiane, Tatiane, Lyrias.
(Pavo) I better get both, if I toast to both!

• Tatiane and Lyrias shake hands
• Karolis chuckles at that

(Karolis) So, Pavo?
(Karolis) You never got to make your toast.

• Karolis pours some more wine, finishing off the bottle between the four of you.
• Pavo grins... and thinks a moment...

(Pavo) Lets say, to friends!

• Karolis smiles

(Pavo) *clinkslurp*
(Karolis) To friends, then.
(Karolis) (Everyone drinks to that)

• Lyrias seems quiet, however

(Pavo) I was actually quite tempted to toast to swordplay!

• Karolis chuckles

(Karolis) You could buy the next bottle, if you like...
(Pavo) Oh I suppose... I made a bit of a bonus squashing a spider the other day.

• Pavo will go to the bar and get another bottle

(Karolis) Oh? Do tell.

• Pavo indicates he'll explain when he gets back
• Pavo returns with the bottle... "So Lyrias, where HAVE you been hiding the past two weeks?"
• Lyrias sits quietly, not really talking very much except when spoken to.

(Lyrias) I've been busy, that's all.

• Lyrias says in a tone of voice that suggests he doesn't want to talk about it.

(Pavo) Well you'd better be making good money if you're going to neglect to visit us!

• Lyrias nods silently

(Karolis) So, a spider?

• Pavo pats him on the shoulder
• Karolis says, changing the subject
• Pavo turns back to Karolis

(Pavo) Yes, a big nasty spider

• Pavo looks around conspiratorially, and drops his voice to a stage whisper.
• Karolis and Tatiane lean in to listen to your story

(Pavo) A woman at a hotel in the city was really a giant spider! She was capturing the men who'd "visit" the lady tenants... and eating them!
(Karolis) *gasp*
(Pavo) We found one man alive, two dead, and were perhaps nearly killed ourselves by the thing!
(Karolis) Goodness, I guess being a guard must actually be dangerous at times!

• Karolis teases you
• Pavo sticks out his tongue impishly.
• Tatiane giggles, maybe a bit tipsy from the wine

(Pavo) Well actually, she had a siren's call or something. She'd lure the men into the sewer and eat them... she called a partner in that way too... he nearly got himself killed running off down the tunnel towards her.
(Pavo) Luckily, I was in full form, and slew the beast valiantly!
(Karolis) Sounds positively frightful.

• Karolis grins

(Karolis) Well done. I'd say that deserves a toast.
(Pavo) Well, to be honest it was rather unpleasant.

• Karolis raises his glass

(Karolis) To Pavo, killer of spiders!
(Pavo) *raises his as well*
(Pavo) To spiders smaller than cats!

• Tatiane will also toast you
• Lyrias doesn't seem to be entirely listening

(Karolis) Quite.
(Pavo) Perhaps I will have to write a play for you all!

• Karolis grins

(Pavo) The story of the evil spider woman!
(Karolis) I'm sure it would be wonderful.
(Pavo) Bah
(Karolis) (Kiss of the Spider woman?)
(Pavo) *juliebeating*
(Narrator) (*snick*)

• Karolis stands

(Karolis) I'm sorry to cut this short, but Tatiane and I have rehearsal.
(Karolis) I'll see you later, though.

• Karolis gives you a quick peck on the top of your head
• Pavo pouts melodramatically... (Sed+8) :D

(Karolis) Much though I'm tempted...

• Pavo lets the pout dissolve under the kiss and pats Karolis on the rear

(Pavo) Get!
(Karolis) If I ever want them to give me a lead part, I have to keep showing up for researsals.

• Karolis nods and leaves with Tatiane.

(Narrator) You are left with Lyrias, who is sipping his wine quietly
(Pavo) So, why so quiet today, friend?
(Lyrias) Hmm?
(Lyrias) Oh, I've just been thinking, I guess.
(Lyrias) Wondering whether I shouldn't get out of the business.
(Pavo) (Is this something he's mentioned before?)
(Lyrias) I'm getting a bit old for it, maybe.
(Lyrias) (Not really, no - and he's only 23)
(Pavo) Bullocks.

• Lyrias looks surprised

(Pavo) And nice ones, too :)

• Lyrias gives a small chuckle at that, at least.

(Pavo) I mean, it's entirely up to you...
(Lyrias) Thanks.
(Pavo) I've seen whores walking the streets who've obviously been trampled by wagons... and they do quiet fine.

• Pavo pats Lyrias on the back again.

(Lyrias) Well, I just don't think I want to be doing this my whole life...
(Lyrias) I've had a good run at it, after all.
(Pavo) I can imagine. I definitely won't be a guard forever.

• Lyrias nods
• Lyrias puts an arm around you in a friendly way

(Pavo) You know, I think that picking up another trade might be a good idea.
(Lyrias) You're a good friend, Pavo. A good guy.

• Pavo squeezes his arm around the other man

(Pavo) I try my best, most of the time.
(Lyrias) I'll have to give it some thought.
(Lyrias) I don't know what else I might be good at, to be honest.
(Pavo) What did you dream of, as a child?

• Lyrias looks a bit surprised

(Lyrias) Mostly of not being hungry, I think.

• Pavo shakes his head solemnly

(Lyrias) My mother was a whore too. She got old before her time.
(Pavo) No wild fantasy?

• Pavo nods

(Pavo) And that's why I'd like to see you figure something out

• Lyrias shrugs

(Pavo) I'd hate to see youat the point where you might really have reason to feel too old for your profession.
(Lyrias) I don't know... I used to think I wanted to be a sailor, but there's not much call for that around here.
(Lyrias) I'll have to think about it, I guess.
(Pavo) Well, I shouldn't be so stupid as to suggest you leave us here, and travel... but maybe for a while...

• Pavo nods

(Pavo) So...
(Lyrias) At least I have saved up some money... I can afford to take some time and just be.
(Pavo) Ah! A smart man!

• Lyrias nods

(Pavo) My pocket has far too many holes to do any such thing...
(Pavo) Not yet at least :)

• Lyrias gives you a quick kiss on the cheek

(Lyrias) You'll do fine.

• Pavo hugs his friend tight

(Narrator) You think Lyrias might actually be crying, but when you pull away from him, his eyes are dry
(Pavo) (When he pulls back from the hug... he changes the subject) So... inquiring minds want to know...
(Lyrias) Know what?
(Pavo) Just who you went off to visit the last time I saw you?

• Lyrias laughs, a bitter laugh

(Pavo) A present for the master, a treat for the squire... or a shared event? :)
(Lyrias) It was the Duke of Brissarthe, alright. His valet... he didn't join in, exactly, but he was there.
(Lyrias) I shouldn't say too much, though. Most of the money was for my silence on the subject.

• Pavo sighs dramatically... "Ah... the life of the noble..."

(Lyrias) I'll just say this - the Silveiras are debauched, all of them.

• Lyrias shakes his head, as if clearing away an unpleasant vision
• Pavo tilts a brow into the air...

(Lyrias) I'd rather not think about it any more.

• Lyrias takes another drink

(Pavo) I get the impression you earned your money that night. So... lets talk of money then.
(Pavo) :)
(Lyrias) What about money?
(Pavo) I don't know... but I've got some in my pocket and perhaps we could go wander the market so I can rid myself of it before it falls from my pockets and gets lost!
(Lyrias) Sure, that sounds good.
(Narrator) You and Lyrias spend the evening at the market, which is lit by many tiny lanterns.
(Pavo) (I would keep my eye out for something ... nautical)
(Narrator) (hehe)
(Narrator) ship in a bottle, perhaps?
(Pavo) too bulky
(Narrator) pin shaped like an anchor
(Pavo) An anchor on a chain?
(Narrator) pendant of a merman with a trident
(Narrator) The anchor is more of a stick-pin, actually
(Pavo) How much is the pendant.
(Narrator) 3 crowns (sp).

• Pavo will get it

(Narrator) The merchant compliments your impeccable taste.

• Lyrias arches an eyebrow at your purchase

(Pavo) A cat can't help but have good taste...
(Lyrias) Nice.
(Pavo) It's for you. A reminder that you might have to look back far into the past to see where you want to go in the future.

• Lyrias grins wryly at that and accepts the gift.

(Pavo) One can be trite and true at the same time :)

• Lyrias gives you a kiss on the cheek and takes your hand, apparently not caring who might see the two of you.

(Narrator) The merchant doesn't bat an eyelash.

• Pavo will wander the market and stuff

(Narrator) And with that, I think we should turn to Boden, before I collapse ;)
(Boden) so, I have this letter from some dukes daughter...
(Narrator) Indeed.
(Boden) some time in the afternoon I will ask someone I can trust what the correct title for a dukes daughter is...
(Narrator) You can spend some time with Lygia before you go there, if you're not afraid it will tire you out ;)
(Narrator) "My lady" is always safe.
(Boden) ok.
(Boden) (talk about living vicariously through a character.)
(Narrator) (hehe)
(Narrator) Well, it's up to you.
(Boden) (ok, I'll start with Lygia...)

• Boden is hanging out in the tavern with the note well hidden in a pouch.
• Lygia joins you at the table after her afternoon show.

(Boden) . o O (Politics are very dangerouse, but she had great tits.)
(Lygia) Hi. I saw you watching the show.

• Boden will smile broadly at her.
• Lygia smiles shyly back.

(Boden) yeah, I had some time off and thought I'd stop by.
(Lygia) That's nice.
(Boden) Had to avoid a little trouble early on in this rowdy place.

• Boden give her a little wink.

(Lygia) Oh yeah, I sort of heard that. What was it all about?
(Boden) just a noble trying to be tuff.
(Boden) wasn't anything much.
(Lygia) Oh. I hate it when that happens.
(Lygia) You didn't have to fight, did you?
(Boden) no, truth is I seldom do.

• Lygia smiles at that

(Lygia) I can imagine.
(Boden) but the guy had his knife out and everything....

• Boden shakes his head at the thought of the drunk.

(Boden) but on the plus side when he realised he looked like a git he left.

• Lygia chuckles

(Lygia) That's good, at least.
(Boden) How have you been?

• Lygia puts her small hand over yours

(Lygia) I've been good. I'm less nervous about the shows now, at least.

• Boden will turn his hand over so we can hold hands.
• Lygia smiles up at you

(Boden) thats good, a little confindence can go a long way.

• Lygia blushes a bit

(Lygia) I guess.
(Boden) How long do you have until your next show?
(Lygia) About three hours.

• Boden will search his memeory for a restaurant a little more upscale in the area...

(Boden) Would you like to go out and get something to eat?
(Lygia) Sure.
(Boden) (I must know Pearl pretty well now that I've been patroling it for a month.)
(Boden) (have I thought of kinda a fancy place to go?)
(Narrator) (There's the Emerald and Eagle - it's quite nice)
(Boden) ok, lets try the Emerald and Eagle, I've heard good things about it.

• Lygia will get her cloak and leave with you, then.

(Narrator) You go to the Emerald and Eagle, which is a fairly upscale establishment, and have a lovely dinner there.

• Boden will have an arm around her as we walk since I'm a little tall to hold hands with her.

(Boden) (yeah us!)
(Narrator) Indeed - she's about 5'10 or so, but you're still over a foot taller than her ;)

• Boden will tell the spider-lady story, only He'll have gotten free a little faster and did more damage.
• Lygia makes smalltalk with you during the meal, and expresses considerable awe at your story.

(Boden) (and he'll leave out the gory bits, girls never like the gory bits.)
(Lygia) (hehe)
(Lygia) You're very brave, you know.
(Lygia) It must have been scary.
(Boden) well, its what I'm good at.

• Lygia looks impressed
• Boden shrugs like its no big deal.
• Boden of course will pay for the meal...its his treat.

(Narrator) Okay. What a gentleman! :)
(Boden) (well I didn't have to buy her diner last time so I kinda owed her one....)
(Narrator) (hehe - true)

• Lygia thanks you for the lovely dinner
• Boden will walk with her back to the southern stars

(Boden) (how much time do we have left?)
(Lygia) (about 30 minutes before she has to start getting ready for her show)

• Boden will be very friendly with her as long as she is amiable to it.
• Lygia is amiable indeed, though still a bit shy and awkward.
• Boden will be enamoured by her shyness.
• Lygia is very sweet, though you don't really have time to get everything you might want before she says she has to start getting ready for her show.
• Boden will be very understanding.

(Boden) I really enjoyed myself today.

• Lygia is grateful for your understanding

(Lygia) I did too.

• Lygia gives you a kiss and shoos you out of her rooms so she can warm up for the show.
• Boden will take the kiss, then steal one more before he leaves.
• Boden will head back to the barracks humming to himself.

(Narrator) As you leave the Southern Stars, the sun has set.
(Boden) oh crap!

• Boden will change direction and head the the manor house.

(Boden) (m) No time to change.
(Narrator) Silveira House is easily located. It is a palatial estate in the Grand, bordered by a wrought-iron fence. Two guards dressed in silver and black livery stand at the gate, stiff despite the cold wind.

• Boden will straighten up his coat and such so I look presentable.

(Boden) (oh, and I'll have my sword peace tied as well.)

• Guard looks at you a bit curiously, but not like he's going to kick you away or anything.

(Boden) Hi, um...I was told to give you this.

• Guard looks at the card, nods, and opens the gate for you.
• Boden will show the guard his card.

(Boden) Thanks.

• Boden will nod to the guards as he enters.
• Guard returns to his guarding, closing the gate behind you with a clang.

(Boden) . o O(I hope this isn't a big mistake...)
(Narrator) A paved path leads up to the grand staircase at the front of the house.
(Boden) .oO(politics are a bad business, just please the lady and don't get involved in politics...)

• Boden will try and walk casually, but be alert to danger.

(Narrator) The grounds seem quiet.

• Boden will walk up to the staircase.

(Narrator) The large door looms ahead of you.
(Narrator) A silver knocker, shaped like a lion's head, faces you.
(Boden) .oO(crap...are they going to announce me or something....Guard Boden, here to have sex with the Dukes daughter...)

• Boden will gather his courage and knock using the Knocker.

(Narrator) A maid, similarly dressed in black and silver, opens the door to you.
(Boden) goodevening.

• Maid looks at you curiously, much like the guard did.

(Maid) Yes?
(Boden) I am hear to see my Lady.

• Boden won't say that too loudly.....

(Boden) .oO(I wonder if her father knows she's a slut)

• Maid steps back, allowing you to enter. She strains behind to you close the heavy door against the wind, but manages.
• Boden will look around and wait for the maid to lead me where I'm going....

(Narrator) You stand in a grand entryhall, the likes of which you have never seen in your life. The floors are black marble, gleaming in the light of the many magical tapers that line the walls. A marble staircase sweeps up to a second level. Coming down the stairs is the beautiful woman you saw before.
(Narrator) She is now dressed in a white silk robe shot through with silver threads, tied at the waist with a black and silver belt as thick as your arm. Her long pale hair flows in waves down her back. Her feet are bare.
(Boden) (she was quite tall right?)

• Boden smiles at her with more confidence than he actually has.

(Narrator) (She's well over six feet - probably 6'4 or 6'5)
(Couramance) So glad you could come.

• Couramance waves the maid away, and she departs hastily.

(Boden) Thank you,
(Boden) You are looking splendid this evening.
(Couramance) Thank you.
(Couramance) Won't you join me for a drink?
(Boden) It would be my pleasure.

• Couramance turns to head back up the stairs, waiting for you to follow her.
• Boden will walk up beside her and offer her his arm.
• Couramance takes it, looking up at you with an almost predatory smile.
• Boden will feel more confident now that he is touching her...and will smile back with lust behind his eyes.
• Couramance leads you up the marble staircase, down a hall lined with paintings and busts, to a dimly-lit room with a burning fireplace, a low couch, and a very large bed.

(Boden) .oO(she is going to eat me alive, this will be fun if I don't end up on the headsman's block for it.)
(Boden) (does she close the door behind her.)
(Couramance) (No)

• Couramance indicates that you can sit on the couch.

(Boden) You have a wonderful house my Lady.

• Boden will sit on the couch.

(Couramance) It's my father's house, but thank you.
(Couramance) Do you prefer red or white wine?

• Boden a note of worry will flicker across his face for an instant when she mentions her father, but then it is gone and he is confident again.
• Couramance seems to notice your look of worry.

(Couramance) My father is out this evening.
(Boden) Red thank you.

• Boden will smile a bit more at her reasurance.

(Boden) (how old do I think she is?)

• Couramance will pour two glasses of red wine from a carafe on a table by the bed, and comes to sit at your feet on the floor.

(Couramance) (She is definitely older than you - mid twenties, you'd guess)
(Boden) (does it look like she wants me to join her on the floor?)

• Couramance rests her arms on your legs and looks up at you.

(Narrator) (No, there's just not room on the couch for both of you ;)

• Boden will look into her eyes.

(Narrator) (But she seems happy where she is - the carpet is thick)
(Couramance) Tell me your name, soldier.
(Boden) My name is Boden of Gouge my Lady.

• Couramance smiles at that.

(Couramance) Tonight you don't have to call me "my lady", Boden of Gouge.

• Couramance is trailing her long fingers over your thigh in a most intriguing (and distracting) way.
• Boden will allow himself to be distracted a bit and sip some of the wine.

(Couramance) My name is Couramance, so you might as well call me that.
(Boden) gladly Couramance. Gladly.

• Boden will play with her hair a bit with his hand.

(Couramance) Why did you come here, Boden of Gouge?
(Boden) because you are far to lovely a woman to disapoint by ingnoring such an invitation.
(Couramance) You're very brave, you know.

• Couramance says in a low voice

(Boden) Why is that?

• Couramance laughs, a throaty laugh.

(Couramance) Most men are scared of me.
(Couramance) I can be ... intimidating.
(Boden) really? I can tell you have a very strong presence, but I guess, with certain things I am not easily intimidated.
(Couramance) That's good, Boden of Gouge. That's excellent.

• Couramance smiles, showing pearly white teeth
• Boden is confident now, her hands on his legs has made him stop thinking of politics.

(Boden) please, just Boden.

• Couramance finishes her glass of wine and sets it aside, chuckling

(Couramance) Whatever you say, soldier.

• Boden will finish his wine as well, placing his glass aside and still playing with her hair.

(Boden) .oO(I bet I'm not her first guard...and I bet she won't have trouble handling my package.)

• Couramance stands and undoes the belt of her robe. Beneath it, she is naked.
• Couramance has a truly amazing body, and you get to know it very well over the next few hours.
• Boden will have all kinds of fun with that.

(Narrator) Throughout the night, Couramance never closes the door, which is a bit distracting at first, but you soon forget about it.
(Boden) (do I have to take off the gauntlet?)
(Narrator) (She would probably ask you to sooner or later, yes. Maybe not until the second time around, though, when she notices it's there ;)
(Boden) (ok)

• Boden will be distracted at first by the door, but soon find he kind of likes the danger element.
• Couramance is insatiable - she even tires you out eventually.

(Boden) (wow, Boden will give it his best, and this is one area were he truly is fearless.)
(Boden) (I bet she's kinky too.)
(Couramance) (very.)

• Boden will play all the games she wants, and will happily let her call him soldier.
• Couramance eventually falls asleep for a while, almost purring.

(Boden) (I will stay all night if I can...and sleep next to her on the bed.)
(Couramance) (Yes, she's not kicking you out)
(Boden) (I guess I spend the next day with her as well then eh?)
(Narrator) (Yes, you can.)
(Boden) (two days of sex! yeah me.)
(Boden) (do I actually learn much about her in that time...other than she is a nimphomaniac?)
(Narrator) (Let's see - you learn that her mother is dead, her father is often absent, and she's very, very bored most of the time, and she likes men who are taller than her ;)
(Narrator) (She's an only child, never married, and has a very creative imagination)
(Boden) Thats good. At some point...probably when we stop to get something to eat...I'll ask who the guy with the knife was.

• Couramance chuckles

(Couramance) Davilas Dyess, Prince-Imperial.
(Boden) (so can I have a little write up about what kind of things her imagination came up with?)
(Couramance) (hehe - we'll see)
(Boden) ahhh, so I guess its just as well I was on my day off.

• Couramance nods
• Boden will say as a joke.

(Boden) and then I will eat fruit diped in chocolate off her lovely body.
(Couramance) (yum :)
(Boden) (yummmmm, chocolate and nakeness.)
(Narrator) All of you eventually fall asleep pondering the events that have befallen you. Despite the pleasure of having time off, in a way it will be a relief to get back to the comparatively simple and straightforward business of being Imperial Guards on the morrow. For now, however, the city sleeps.
(Narrator) The End.
(Narrator) Okay, we'll stop there, before my hands fall off from typing ;)
(Boden) I think thats it for me.
(Boden) Thanks a lot.
(Narrator) Woo. Marathon game tonight!
(Narrator) You're welcome :)
(Boden) I just keep seeming to have sex.
(Narrator) Hehe. I have to make you happy before I can start making you suffer ;)