The City of Adala

Shacks
OK, this thread will cover pre-dawn activities and be divided up as the characters go on separate activities. Visibility-limted posts to follow...

Riccoco and Jareek have departed, but Faliol and Cas are not far behind. Jareek is noticeably distant from Cas, but not overtly confrontational. Pubs seem to be non-existent, but Jareek insists he has a kind of Spirit Sight for alehouses. Eventually, at a major crossroads, you all see evidence of some public buildings. As you approach the cluster, an armed woman in uniform rides up on a horse. She addresses your group as a unit.
"The hour be late. What do ye abroad?" She does not appear hostile, but she does have the attitude of an official who is used to getting answers.

With a flourish of my bright shiny tail...
"Greetings, we are simple caravaners that wish to partake in a berry ale or two. Could you direct us to a tavern friendly to beasts?"

[EDITED on Mon April 21, 2003 @3:33 PM (CDT)]

[EDITED on Mon April 21, 2003 @3:34 PM (CDT)]

Her reply is matter-of-fact. "Yon public house is for humans. Ye may find a place for beasts along this road and down the third leftward turning. The ale there is reputed to be strong, so I would advise moderation. The constabulary frowns 'pon public drunkenness."
She is about to ride on and then stops, intrigued. "By the High Circle, a raccoon. Ye be strangers from afar, then?"

Exchanging quick furtive glances with his Beastly buds, Riccoco flashes a quick bow, "Yes, Ma'am, a 'coon it is. Bandit of Racoon Lake at your service."

"Bandit be a name of ill-omen. I hope ye intend to keep the peace while ye stay. How long do ye intend? And Raccoon Lake, ye say? Sorry, never heard of it. Be it of Haven, Cambridge, Tallon? Or be ye barbarians?"

Riccoco quickly shakes his head negatively, "No, no, Bandit be a common name among the 'coon folk." He motions at his particular features, "The Raccoon's o' Raccoon Lake be quiet folk near Tallon. The Hoomans o' Tallon be usin' the name o' Bandit for 'coons. Bein' a guard, Bandit here be aroun' the Tallon folks more than the common 'coon."

Adding belatedly, "No trouble from the likes of this one. Only be about town until the Merchants ready to be movin' on."

Cas politely introduces herself, "I have been called many names, not all of them polite on the ears. Cassandra the Storyteller to some, Cas the Ear-acher of Karkul to others, and most recently Foot-in-the-mouth Cas." The last one was said with a half-bow and a glancing smile to Jareek.

"Down the third leftward turning? Thank you kindly. I will drink in moderation, I assure you (quick glance at Pops). Yes Ma'am, you could say that we (indicating Jareek) are strangers from afar. The caravan routes are our true home, but off season we normally reside in Tallon."

The soldier or constable feels satisfied by your account of yourselves. As you pass through the smal town square, you become aware of an odd smell. Sure enough, there is a strong tall tree nearby from which depends a rotting body, hanging from a stout rope. The body is difficult to see in the gloom, but there is a sign hung round it with simple block letters that says: "ROBBER".
Presuming you do no further investigation, a short walk takes you down a rough stony path towards a large shed-like building from which a dim light glows. As you approach, the sound of conversation can be heard from within. There is only a half-door so the interior is plainly visible and proves to be an alehouse. It is a low building and at first you can't see how anyone could stand up inside. As you look through the saloon-style door, you can see that it is actually a roofed pit.
The alehouse seems to be mostly filled with rabbits, though there are a few squirrels and mice as well. There are tables, but most of the clientele seems to be satisfied to recline on a low bench that follows the walls of the building. Here is a quick-n-dirty map and cross-section.

Cas says audible only to those in the immediate viscinity, "It is probably a beast but I would prefer not knowing."

OOC: This place do be infested with rodents. The squirrels took all the insulation, the mice took all the food, and the rabbits took all the space.

LOL!

OOC But not one bloody dog or rat, thank Prometheus!

I push my way through the doors, stand a moment in the center. Then I spread my arms wide, perform a bow and flourish my tail to those present.

"Faliol of Tallon, at your service gentle beasts! Fear not, the life of the party has arrived!"

Cas looks amused and a lot of weight seems to lift from her shoulders. "He isn't lying. For Faliol Proper Tail is a hero and, of course, splended entertainment. Once I have had a moment to whet my lips I shall tell you a tale of how Faliol and his good pall Jareek wrestled a gator from the neck of our friend Riccoco here."

Cas winks at Riccoco and chases after Faliol.

Riccoco slaps Jareek on the shoulder and nods his head towards the Foxes. "The wise Beast be movin' slowly on the Ale. The better to be savin' his energy for the like o' drink instead of to be cavortin'."

He begins to move towards the tender, "The first round o' Berry Ale be on ol' Ric... Bandit, here."

Riccoco will be swiping a close look on the other Beasts. He's looking for guards and merchants. He's got a mind to find a Beast Market for his goods and this is as likely of place as any to find clues to its whereabouts.

Perception 15-
3d6: 10 Tue April 22, 2003 @10:20 AM (CDT)

Streetwise 12-
3d6: 9 Tue April 22, 2003 @10:20 AM (CDT)

He may also strike up a 'CONVERSATION' with the aletender to find hints of a Beast Market as well.

Conversation 12-
3d6: 12 Tue April 22, 2003 @10:20 AM (CDT)

There's not a wealthy or dangerous looking beast in the house. They are all simple farmer folk and this looks like their watering hole. Any comparable place in Tallon would have a few enterprising beasts in it.
The bartender is a fat old rabbit with one chewed ear. His name is Old Rosemary, as you can tell from the frequent calls for more beer. He interacts with your crew as described in the previous post. After you are getting your second round, he seems pleased that you are all set on drinking. He seems to have no aversoin to starting a conversation and actually seems rather curious.
"So Mister Raccoon, wha's this Berry Ale ye bespake? We hae not the like hereabouts."
When you bring up the subject of beast markets, he seems a little perplexed. "What exactly be ye lookin' to sell or buy, good sir?"

Ricco takes the wheat ale with a long sigh of longing, "Berry ale be a treat from this 'coon's heart, Rosemary. It not be so very different from this stout. It be made o' the drippings of the berries instead o' this honey dripped wheat. Both sweet an' rich, just the foam o' the mug be enough to send the shivers down ol' Bandit's hide."

"Ol Riccoco be a long way from Tallon an' his Sabre, but, he got some Dreamleaf. It be a might better sellin' to my own folk if you be knowin' what this 'coon be sayin'?"

The bartender gives a conspiratorial wink, "Oh, aye. I understand ye rightly enough. If'n ye want to sell, I reckon ye can find a buyer soon enough. How much ye be lookin'to move?"

"Not enough to be causin' any trouble, but, mayhap more an' enou' for any buyers. You be knowin' a place? How about some other items? Spirit Chess set or artifacts of the Demon King sort?" Ricco takes a hefty draught of his ale. "Not that this 'coon be the type to be messin' with the likes o' that, mind you."

As to yer Dreamleaf, I reckon half the lads here would buy a bit.
Fer the rest, these be hard workin' folk wha' ain't got time ner coin fer fancy niceties like a hoity chess set. as for [drops voice] Demon King truck, nobody in their rightmight would touch the stuff. You might find plenty o' folk what ain't in their right mind inwall though. They's crazy in there.

Riccoco's business and trading sense tells him a bit more than what the bartender is saying. He reckons you could sell your Dreamleaf to individual buyers pretty easily enough. You know that this might take weeks, however. The people out here are too poor to buy large quantites of luxury. A City buyer might take the whole sack at a go, and if not, you are much more likely to sell larger parcels within the walls, where people have more money. Of course, you'll have to pay that annoying tarriff that way.

The general poverty of the working folk applies to other luxury items like the chess sets and Demon King items.

Of course, the bartender could be ignorant of any large scale black market. These sorts of things are not easily discovered.

"Put your money away, Bandit! I am buying the first round at this table. You can buy the next round..."

I lean forward towards Ricco, "Please let me buy the first round, Ricco. I can't stay very long. I promised Celeste that I would take her spot watching over the cargo after one round of drinks..."

Riccoco moves on towards the aletender calling to Faliol, "Two rounds o' the Berry won't be keepin' the Barbarian a waitin' too long! You be gettin' the next one!"

Cas smiles, "I have no problem with who is first buying me my drink and who is second. I only planned on two and it looks like my generous friends have covered things for me."

I let Ricco buy the first round. When the drinks arrive, I raise my mug and say, "To good friends! May your profits be high and your troubles be few..."

I take a sip of berry ale.

.oO(Blech! The possum stink must have killed my sense of taste, for it is not as horrid as memory tells me...)

"To good friends and the stories they keep!"

Come to the Chat room!

Please!

When Cas, Jareek, and Ricco have made a significant dent in their drinks, I order the three of them a round of drinks. I do not order me a drink. I pay the barkeep for this round. (Keith, how much for the three drinks?)

"Ricco, thanks for the drink. It has been fun, but I have to go and relieve Celeste from the oh so interesting duty of watching the cargo. Have fun and be safe. Everyone knows the way back, correct?"

The first reaction from the alehouse is stunned silence. The assemblage stares at you as if you were a bunch of humans. A few mutters are overheard, but nothing intelligible.
As you enter flamboyantly, some of the folk look nervous. Your entrances fall a little flat.
Faliol and Cas note the problem first, for they have run into it before, particularly from less "advanced" beasts. They are prey animals looking at the arrival of carnivores. When you show nothing but the most friendly intentions and quite obviously display your intentions to drink, they relax a bit.
Once you are seated and not walking aaround bullying anybody, they resume the friendly (if dull) chatter that you heard as you approached.
Your requests for berry ale, however, are met with stares again. The bartender (a fat old rabbit with a chewed-up left ear) says, "Sorry, sirs, but I'm never a hearin' o' that. Sounds foreign. We got wheat beer, and good enough golden brown it is. It'll do your bellies a good turn and help ease the pain of the world. Can I set you up?"As you look closer now, you can see that everyone is drinking the same brew. Though there are a number of barrels, they all dispense the same libation.
The alehouse is exactly that, and nothing like the rich and varied taverns and bars of Tallon and the Saber Valley. Still, the brew is good and warm and holds a decent head.
Soon you are all well into your first round.
Riccoco seems to be engaged in a conversation with the bartender, who though he is obviously male, goes by the name of Old Rosemary.
Faliol buys a second round before standing to leave.

OOC: The general attitude is siimilar to the tavern scene at the beginning of "An American Werewolf in London". A bunch of locals are surprised by outlandish foreigners, but are convival enough once the strangeness wears off. Riccoc suffers this effect mainly because of the company he is keeping.

Price per drink is 1 copper, a deal considering that the quality is not that bad. The servings are rather small though (as are most of the clientele)

Cas leans over towards Faliol, "I do think that the squirrels drank all the Berry Ale. Damned squirrels." This is of course said in a very light tone.

.oO( I never noticed it the last time I was here but... there are no predators here at all. I hope they didn't kill them all. )

Whispering to Cas, "Careful, they could nibble you to death if the boredom doesn't get you first..."

Once seated, I look around at the locals and then whisper to those at our table. "Cas, they know about you and that chicken...."

Riccoco nods and smacks his lips, "Nothin' better than a nip o' the berry ale to fix what... ales you..."

.oO(Just like the 'Guild' documents you got in the pack, Ricco. Steady now. Don' be lettin' the rumor o' the Hoomans spook ya.)

Riccoco has just finished urging Jareek to give up on his angry mood, using Cas and Faliol's ages as excuses for their absolvement, "... the Kit and Vixen be knowin' the error o' their ways, Jareek. No sense is stewin' on the err o' youth, eh?" Winking conspiratorily he continues, "Where would the two o' us be iffin' that be the case a..."

Ricco trails off as the hooman rider approaches and the two other caravaneers catch up.

Cas relaxes from having her first drink. "Well this place seems... exciting. They don't seem very up to a story. Maybe someone would be interested in a tale or two later." Cas scans the place looking for someone who might.

Cas takes a drink of second cup of Wheat Grain Ale, "This is better than usually Berry Ale Riccoco. We should get the recipe." Whether or not Riccoco hears this is strictly up to the player.

"Ah, Ricco. That is a shame. Had my heart set on having a berry ale."

.oO(By the stones, I am fortunate! Don't know which upsets my stomach more, possum stink or berry ale?)

Ricco nods sadly, "The lack o' the berry is somethin' we be havin' to live through, Beastly friends. The honey dripped wheat do the job well enough, eh, Jareek?"

Quieting, the 'coon matches the tone of the others. "The Beasts hereabout be a dour sort. Too much o' the heavy hooman hand be the guess of Ol' Riccoco."

"This city is high on my 'least favorite' places list. The sooner we move on the better..."

Jareek chuckles at Faliol's comment, "We always had the wagon's round us when we travelled here before. Nothing like carrying home around with ye. Still, the lot of furred folk be better here than in, say, Karkul. I remember when Tallon would have made Adala look like a beast's paradise. But that was before the time of anyone here."
"My advice is to take what pleasure you can, while ye can."
To everyone's total shock and amazement, Jareek orders a round for the table.

"The best place to live," Cas begins lifting her drinking apparatus, "is on the road by a campfire with your friends. Riven, Reavers, Gators, and even cursid barbarian raiders are worth those moments while they last."

Cas drinks from her drinking apparatus. "Thanks for the drink you guys. I'll call us even Riccoco."

"Best place to live, eh? Well I can't disagree with that. But it Stones is a lousy enough place to die." He lifts his mug. "To fallen comrades." He drains it pretty quickly. and sets it down with a somber expression.

That one kind of hits Cas hard but she still toasts along with Jareek, "To fallen friends." Cas realizes she has lowered the mood a notch and lifts her head up. If anyone happens to see her face at this moment they can tell she is getting an idea.

Cas stands up from the bar and turns to face the entire room. She speaks up so that the entire room can hear, "I travel here with three very important friends and heroes. Just as everyone here is with a friend or someone important to them. So I would like to propose a toast here. To our friends! May they be with us always!"

Cas will retake her seat in a much better move even if the entire place is looking at her like she is crazy. "If you guys want another round, I think I have that much on me."

.oO(Better slow down on that alcohol, kit)

"To fallen comrades!! Thanks, Pops."

.oO(Jareek paid for a round!!!)

After Cas proposes a toast, I raise my mug in salute.

"To our fwends...err, f-r-i-e-n-d-s!"

When Cas offers to buy the next round, I wave my hands.

"Very generous, Cas, but I must decline this round. I have to go relieve Celeste while I can still stand..."

I shakily get to my feet, "Friends, I had a good time tonight."

"Maybe you should walk back on all fours." She says and then lets out a laugh, "Would you like some help getting back Faliol? There isn't a heck of a lot to do here and until I've sold that spirit chess set I'm not going to be able to get myself some good quality carving wood."

The assorted critters raises their cups to honor Cas' toast. The good humor has long since returned, but it is painfully obvious that the folk who drink here are quite dull. This is not a rollicking tavern, but a place where uneducated field workers go to spend money and buy alcohol. Riccoco still seems taken in conversation with the bartender and Jareek insists on "one for the road." It occurs to Faliol that this is not the best place and condition to leave his sire. After some cajoling, Jareek downs the small tankard and joins the departing foxes. (Riccoco can accomanpy, but I don't want to speak for him.)

As the foxes make their way down the road back towards the laborer shacks, they notice a horseman galloping full-tilt toward the picket from the direction of the city. He aappears to be a courier or soldier of some kind and he is pressing his horse quite insistently, despite the general darkness. You are fairly sure he did not see you, for instance.

"I Wonder what could be going on so urgent this time of night," Cas says as she makes sure she isn't run over. "I am looking forward to getting back to the others and see how things are going."

"Watch it, Pops!"

Eventhough the horse/rider are probably nowhere nearby, I protectively grab Jareek by the shoulders and move him gently back out of the road. I look both ways before allowing us to cross the road.

"Might be another one riding reck..., err, too fast..."

Turning to Cas, "I just hope it isn't related to any riven attack. One Houma is enough for several lifetimes..."

"Ol' Riccoco just hopes it ain' got a thing to do with this band o' Beasts... Or the Hoomans with us." Riccoco trails off thoughtfully.

.oO(So many things it could be bein' about. It can't be bein' about us... Can it?)

OOC: I'd like to think Ricco missed much of the Caravaneer drinking but, finished his dealings in time to head out with the other Beasts.

...these savages never heard of berry ale (!)

Despite nearly being plastered by a travelling currier, Cas will do her best to assist in getting everyone home. She keeps looking back occassionally just incase the currier has a friend. Otherwise her goal is to make sure Faliol doesn't land in a mud puddle or something unidentifiable.

The night is quiet, especially after the others have left. Kent is with you. The wagons are secure and the animals have been cared for. Eventually, people begin fixing simple meals at the communal cook-pits. Room is made for whatever provisions you care to prepare. The people are friendly, but extremely uneducated farm workers.
They approach you cautiously, since you are openly armed. Eventually, you are addressed by an elderly woman who eyes you appraisingly. "Well, you be wearin' iron-mongery, but ye have not the eyes of killers. Will ye sit with us?"

"Uh, I don't know if I should. You see Beka's not around...Well I guess
it couldn't hurt to sit and talk right? Sure I'll sit with you."

"Where do ye come from? Are ye from another city? I heared they was other cities yonder of the jungle." The faces of most of the workers betray little interest in you, since you are not opnely threatening. However the old woman and a couple of youths (around ten years old) seem curious.
A young girl is staring at Celeste and tracing her finger along her (own) face. The boy seems impressed by Rath's musculature.

"Yes we come from a city called Tallon. Well actually Celeste and I live
outside of the city in the wilds. There are a lot of cities out
there...Well I don't know if I'd say a lot, but quite a few. A few
villages and forts too. It's pretty exciting."

Celeste bends down and motions for the girl to feel the scars on her arm or her face. "You can touch them if you want..."

The girls seems hesitant and glances at the old woman. If she signalled the girl you are unable to detect it, but she declines the offer to touch your scars.
As for Rath, the old woman looks surprised and says, "Excitin'? Well that be one word for it I suppose. Ye could'na get me out beyond the picket fer all the grain in Adala. They's queer folk in the wilds, no disrespect meant. I would'na last a day. And neither would you, ye little scoundrel, so drop them ideas right now!" She aims a look at the lad who had been staring at Rath's axe with unmistakeable awe.
"It must be somethin' powerful to cause ye to travel so far and then stay with such humble folk as ourselves." It's casually said, but you can sense her interest.

"Actually it was my friend Beka brought me out here. She needed help
getting her wagons here to do some trading, and I said I'd help. They
all went into town to get a grip on what's going on, and Celeste and I
and a couple of the others stayed behind to watch the animals and the
carts."

"'Get a grip on what's going on'? Stones, but ye have a powerful curious turn of the tongue. Is they somethin' goin' on? We don't get many strangers until the time o' the Games, and few o' them stays wi' the likes o' us."
The old woman, turns to Celeste and says to her, "Ye both look like the Gamin' sort. Strong built, but sharper than the simpletons who do the heavy workin'." She gestures at the crowd of laborers, who seem to take no offense at the term "simpleton".

Celeste looks at the old woman with curiosity--"We look like the 'gaming' sort? What kind of games are these that take place in the city?" Celeste will pursue this line of questioning with the old woman to find out when the games take place, who can compete and whether or not there are any cash prizes.

The woman looks at you in surprise. "Stones, know ye not o' the Games? Why they be famous. Right famous throughout the whole world for fair certain. Folk come from near and far to show they skill.
"Now they be not for another month or three yet, the casters'll tell when it nears."

The young boy interrupts, "And there's prizes for certain. Bags of gold and precious gems, bottles of the Adept's Vintage and more. They race and wrestle and-- Ow!"

The Old Woman hands him the back of her hand (not too rough). "Mind yer place, lad. Keep a mindful tongue when elders is talkin'."

Celeste smiles at the young boys enthusiasm, "Oh, too bad they're so far off. It would be interesting to see these games. Who are the 'casters'? Are they Adepts?"

OOC: Sure is slow out here, wonder what they're doing in town, I see lots of post numbers....

"Nay and adept wouldna' do any 'castin'. 'Caster is a quick-like way o' sayin' "Broadcaster". Do ye nae have Broadcasters out in the Wilds? I suppose ye might have 'em, iffen only to say who got et by what. A Broadcaster travels about tellin' news and words for the Archon, 'Metheus Preserve Her Spirit."
One of the hulking farmworkers brings her a plate of choice bits from the cookfire.
"Ye can see an' hear 'em at the crossroads most every Highday. Marketday, too, like as not."

Before long, the meal has passed and the night is growing older. Faliol has yet to return from his "one round" and there is not a peep from the City explorers.

"Broad caster, " Celeste muses, "What an odd term, no, we have nothing like that were I come from."

"Rath,do you suppose it's time we got back to the wagon and see if the others have returned from the city. " Celeste turns back to the old woman, "Thank you for the conversation and the information....perhaps we will see you tomorrow."

The four of you (five including Peaches) walk up to the gates. Occasioanlly, you see a person in uniform riding through the farmlands. Handle immediately recognizes them as police, who apparently look about the same everywhere.
The Gates are massive city gates and the wall is an imposing stone edifice. There are many guards in evidence, despite the lateness of the hour. There is a small iron door set in the gates. This seems to be the place to approach since the great portal is shut for the night. Tallon has a similar arrangement.
A soldier is visible through a small window in the door. He addresses you.
"What business have ye at the gates, travellers? The hour is late and the way closed to traffic."

Looking at the others before addressing the guard,

"We came in to late to find a place within to stable our horses and rent rooms but we would like to enter and find a place to eat and drink, perhaps find some entertainment, without the smell of these beasts we have seen in the outer city."

Acting 8-, Conversation 12-, Persuation 12-, perception 14- use for back up rolls or as needed.
Trying to seem tired, harmless and wanting to spend money.
Conversatoin to read intot he guards tone anything that may need inquiry or jsut general pereptions
Perception to pick up on anything from the guards or near by that may be worth noting.

The guard seems to accept your story at face value and giving you a quick once-over glance, draws some sort if deadbolt and opens the iron door. Beyond is a high (15') arch extending perhaps twenty-five feet inwards. It is dimly lit with lumina. Before beckoning you inside, he asks, "Do ye have a writ?"
You can see other guards inside, including a bored and heavy-lidded man who bears a lumina crystal around his neck. He sits in a comfortable chair and wears no military uniform. His clothing is austere (for the Savage Earth), though well-tailored.

Nuyok steps forth, his lumina also evident, and says "Yes, we have our writs," offering to show him as necessary. Nuyok will also glance toward the apparent Adept, making an appropriate wave or other greeting as appropriate.

"Here you are."

Where would I go to sell the cloth and/or buy spirit cloth?

In Tallon, there are often a few establishments that stay open a bit later (and charge more, accordingly). You know that Adala has a Market District, but it is arranged haphazardly. Nevertheless, since your father is a silk merchant, you have enough of an idea to point you in the right direction and should be able to find a source in an hour or two.
You will get a better selection and price during daylight, but you might be able to find something not too expensive.

Alternatively, you could inquire of the adept in the archway, since his clothing is enhanced.

"I have no specific writ. I am but their companion and hireling."
I indicate Nuyok and Beka.

OOC: I thought everyone got writs?

Each group leader (Beka, Kent and Vagrant) got an information packet, a letter of declaration at the picket gate. This is useful only if you intend to enter the city proper. Once this is presented at the city, you are each individually given writs of passage (The papers you show when someone says 'where are your papers?')
Nuyok recalls Judge Bane saying that Tallon used to have a similar system in the time of Kanukka and the Karkulite War, but it was abolished by Archon Ningan about ten years ago (ten years after the hostilities abated). It might be noted that trade has flourished since then.
In any case, Beka and Vagrant are issued writs, with Beka receiving writs for Handle and Nuyok. The others will have to present themselves with their specific caravan leaders to receive theirs.
To those of you who make Streetwise (-2), Bureaucratics or Trading rolls, you come to the conclusion that the number of people who pass through during the day make this process pretty perfunctory. You will receive much greater scrutiny at night since there is more time and the gurads have nothing better to do than hassle people.

So, do they let us in?

Handle, it suddenly occurs to you that there is an adept here, probably for the purposes of detecting smugglers and such. Unless you have posted somewhere that you have stashed your stash, it dawns upon you that you have several pieces of high-priced undeclared jewelry upon you.

[EDITED on Thu April 24, 2003 @7:59 PM (PDT)]

Is there anyway to have it concealed form an adept who isn't really looking for anything specific. Does the armor bits and my own body obscure it to his spirit sight.

I willhave tried to hide it on my person as well as I am able form past experience with such things.

Her's hopiong that I make a real good concealment roll so he misses his perception.

I had not thought to stash it and had hoped to get it in to maybe actually sell it tonight if the occasion allowed.

concealment 14- used extra time to find what I thought was the best place, probably to get another +3. Most likely hidden somewhere near my crotch, probably behind weapons and armor bits.

3d6: 6, 1, 1 (STUN: 8, BODY: 2) Fri April 25, 2003 @12:46 AM (PDT)

"Master," addressing the adept sitting at the gate. "I am Beka, a merchant of Tallon and I am seeking spirit cloth. I have been bitten by too many things on the road here and wish to make it more difficult for the trees to eat me." This is said with a smile and an open look.
Acting, 14-
3, 4, 4
STUN: 11 BODY: 5
High Society, 14-
1, 5, 4
STUN: 10 BODY: 2
Conversation, 13-
3, 2, 6
STUN: 11 BODY: 4
Streetwise, 14-
3, 6, 3
STUN: 12 BODY: 4

"You will find most of the clothing merchants closed at this hour, but if you can locate Blue Street, you may be able to find a late merchant or two. Inquire within the city for directions." His answer seems rather distracted as he is spending much time scrutinizing Vagrant.

Your papers are examined, you are questioned briefly. You get the idea they don't like doing this at night. The adept in the chair examines all carefully during the process. He spends a great deal of time looking at Handle and Nuyok. Vagrant he seems very puzzled at, but finally tells the Sergeant at the gate that the bandaged one is deformed, but no riven. The soldier s nearly ready to turn him out anyway, but the adept seeems curiously insistent that Vagrant be allowed to pass.
The sergeant relents and each of you is given a writ of passage. This is a sheet of paper, dated, that has your name, description, and point of origin. Nuyok can confirm that the ink is enhanced to reduce the ease of forgery. The enhancement is not one that would last long, however. You will probably need new writs before too long. (a few weeks). As you enter the city proper, the adept stares after you curiously until you are out of sight.

Adala is quieter by night than Tallon, but it is still a couple hours before midnight, so there is some street activity yet.

.oO(Hmm, that adept seemed a bit too interested in Vagrant, I better keep an eye out for possible stalkers.)

Once within, Nuyok will say to everyone "It seems we should seek out Blue Street first, and it likely will be the area with other merchants, such as everyone else may need to deal with when they are open." Nuyok will look around for someone who seems to be approachable to ask directions from, or an apparent inn or tavern from which directions could be obtained, while paying attention to which direction he is going to avoid getting lost.

You are easily able to find directions to Blue Street. It seems to be the most active area of the city at this time and it is easy to see where it gets its name. All of the lumina street lamps along this lane (and there are many more than average) are various intensities of blue. Attempts have obviously been made to color match a particular hue, as well. It does have an odd effect of drowning out color, but the street is well-illumined. The insides of some shops turn out to be lit by candles, lamps and rarely white lumina, but there is probably a city ordinance which restrict s there illumination to the building interiors.

The street is initially narrow and winding, but widens out to a broad forum at the end. The opposite end of the forum is one of the great bridges to the island Inner City.

This is where the night life of Adala gathers.

The map has been updated

"Let's go!"

.oO(I din't like much the way that 'dep was lookin at me overlong. Not like I have two heads or anything. Better keep an eye open for any tails.)

shadowing 13-
3d6: 2, 2, 6 (STUN: 10, BODY: 4) Sun April 27, 2003 @2:19 PM (PDT)

"What say we get ourselves lost in this city's nightlife. I can't say I cared much for the way they were looking o'er Vagrant and Nuyok back there. We don't need any trouble from the local squints."

"I agree, let's see what Adala has to offer late-night," Nuyok says with a smirk.

The winding and narrow party of Blue Stret seems easier to be unseen. After an hour or so of searching, you find many tavernsand shops are still open, including armorers and clothiers. It takes you quite a while to find a clothier who is displaying a lumina pendant upon his chest. This seems to be the most likely place.
The is a short, boney person with a thin mustache and a large hooked nose. He notices your attention and hails you.

"Ahhh, Travellers from Tallon, if I'm not mistaken. What would you have with a humble clothier of Adala? Surely we have nothing to match the finery offered by the Jewel of Merrikia, hmm?" You're not sure if he is serious or mocking.

"Well humble clothier, we have some interest in spirit cloth, some for clothing him," pointing to Vagrant, "a large shirt for a giant of a man, and a belt pouch for myself," Nuyok pauses, "provided the prices are right," he says with a smile, and gestures toward Beka, continuing "Ms. Beka is probably the best one for you to speak with about such negotiations."

Hello good sir. I am Merchant Beka of Tallon, I also deal in cloth though not of the Spirit type,
to establish my credentials:
PSp: Merchant, 15-
3d6: 2, 2, 2 (STUN: 6, BODY: 3) Mon April 28, 2003 @7:21 PM (PDT)

this is Master Nuyok and this is Handle. We are, as the Master said, in search of Spirit cloth.
I look around at his wares while I am talking, fingering and discovering the higher priced materials.
Trading, 15-
3d6: 3, 1, 4 (STUN: 8, BODY: 2) Mon April 28, 2003 @7:21 PM (PDT)

We had a bit of difficulty on the road and I would like my guards to be a little more than an easy meal for a plant.
Coming across as I am used to these negotiations
Acting, 14-
3d6: 5, 4, 3 (STUN: 12, BODY: 3) Mon April 28, 2003 @7:21 PM (PDT)

While Tallon does have some fine cloth, I am in need of completed clothing, you seem to have a fine selection here. I would love to wear one of these to Mistress Novia's next ball. I'm sure she'd wonder where I got it!
Name dropping
High Society, 14-
3d6: 2, 5, 1 (STUN: 8, BODY: 2) Mon April 28, 2003 @7:21 PM (PDT)

Where do you manage such diversity in the designs? you must have a Master Designer in there as well... So, how about this shirt?
(holding up a very plain, very large shirt, and are you interested in some very fine Silk?
Throwing in the kitchen sink...
Conversation, 13-
3d6: 1, 6, 1 (STUN: 8, BODY: 2) Mon April 28, 2003 @7:21 PM (PDT)
Streetwise, 14-
3d6: 3, 1, 3 (STUN: 7, BODY: 2) Mon April 28, 2003 @7:21 PM (PDT)


[EDITED on Mon April 28, 2003 @7:25 PM (PDT)]

OOC: The dice Gods LOVE me!

OOC: Guess you get the goods for free!

OOC: He's going to give me the whole store! I get to be a Master! I own the world! I...
what? who? GM?
Rats!

"Mistress, a nice waterproof spirit cloak would be nice as well."

I finger my old, heavy oil cloak.

"We'll see."
"How much you got?"

at the moment nothing, But then I haven't been paid yet either. I do have a few items I may be able to trade you for it though. I don't know the cost of such things but having a nice cloak would serve me for a long time to come and would be it. If there is one with a few pockets on the inside as well, that would be nice."

[EDITED on Wed April 30, 2003 @7:45 PM (PDT)]

"Ahhh.. Merchant Beka, is it? I've not heard the name before, but Tallon is far away and has many fabric merchants. Hmm... We do have a small and select quantity of garments made from Spirit Cloth. Obviously, you know your way around a bolt, hmm?" He watches your expert perusal of the goods.
"I see a good Master is with you. He will carry the lines, I assume, hmm? Will you wish the lines retained for a while, or directly and completely transferred?" The former is cheaper, the latter is safer in case anything happens to Nuyok in the city
He blinks at the name "Novya" and nods his head. You are not sure if he is familiar with your local Grandmasters. Your rummaging has found the only shirt likely to work on Rath, as the others are rather form-fitting. It is, unfortunately, more than a bit fancy and bright. There are oil cloaks here, but they are all very fine and probably quite expensive.
Estimated cost of Spirit Shirt 2 DEF, 11- coverage, 15g
Estimated cost of Spirit Cloak 2 DEF, 15- coverage, 22g
Of course, these are Tallon price estimates. They are likely to be a little higher here, where textiles are not a major export. I am keeping in mind all of your rolls in this negotiation; you don't need to roll anymore unless you adopt new tactics.
"As for the designs, we are a custom house. That shirt you are holding was made for a rather... large adept who unfortunately, died in a duel before he could claim the garment. Since I am unlikely to be able to sell it to others, I would be willing to make a deal, just for you. You did mention you had silk to sell, hmm?"

OOC: Spirit cloth belt pouch price?

OOC: Sorry, didn't know you were serious.

"Oh, how unfortunate for him! Well, I don't see that we can't make a deal for it, it is unlikely you will find another buyer for it, it is quite large, still... it may just do for one of my guards. Yes, I have 16 bolts of the finest Tallon silk, quite beautiful!
Oh, here is a belt pouch Master Nuyok!
(aside to Nuyok) I'll buy it for you for you holding the lines!
Many different colors and patterns. I would be happy to bring them to you first in the morning if you are interested. They are, as I said, the finest Talloneese silk! So, I will take this shirt, that cloak, and this belt pouch now with the ley line transfer, for 35 gold and I will bring my silk to you first thing in the morning?

The clothier adept looks a bit taken aback by the price, but eventually is cajoled into accepting it upon the promise of a big silk delivery in the morning. It is obvious that he is expecting really fine textiles. He continues, "Of course, I cannot guarantee I will be able to buy ALL your silk. I don't usually carry that much inventory. But if you deliver a good price, I would be willing to point you towards clothiers of a higher quality who will likely be able to buy the remainder, hmm?"

Now why don't you two (Nuyok and the Master Merchant) work on those lines while I browse, just in case something else strikes my fancy. Here is 35 Gold and it's been a pleasure!

Nuyok will go about the ley lines transfer (presumably this'll just occur, given no big hurry?).

Vagrant, you will need to decide what you want to do. The cloak is very expensive, but will give you armor and concealment. Beka has negotiated the price down a bit.

The cloak is lighter and cooler than the rags and leather you wear, but it is embroidered and fine, marking you as well-to-do. You are unlikely to find spirit cloth of a drab or non-descript nature.

"Your generosity is appreciated Beka."

OOC: I was serious, but didn't expect you to pay for it

"I do want the cloak. I may need to sell off my posters before I can afford it. I'm good for it though."

Vagrant is rumaging through his cloaks looking for spare change.

I can wait. Here you go. I talked him down to 20 gold.

"Thank you. You'll have your money as quickly as I
can get it."

__________________________________
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As Kent, Celeste and Rath finish checking the carts again, they hear the approach of the foxes and the raccoon. The beasts are pretty happy; Jareek is attempting to remember a fox folk tune about a fox who wakes up next to a weasel. The camp has quieted down a bit now, and most of the laborers have retired. One of the cookpits still has a bit of fire, enough for a bit of light. Heat, is of course unnecessary.
"Yoo halloo!" cries Jareek, though not at the top of his voice.

"Hello, big shister! Didja know that squirrels make a potent acorn brew? I suppose its made outta acorns, what's a squirrel gonna make brew outta if not acorns?"

I squint at Celeste, looking left to right of her.

"You never told me you were triplets! What's your name?" I go to shake Celeste's sister's hand and fall to the ground.

"Hello dirt! Why did you rise up and hit me?"

"Yeah, that was some strong brew," Cas says with a smile and plops herself down in the dirt. "So anything exciting going on here?"

Celeste looks from Cas to Faliol lying in the dirt, "No, it has been fairly quiet out here, though we did learn that they will be having some sort of games in another month or so." Celeste walks over to Faliol and bends over to pick him up and gently set him on his feet. "We should get this one into bed." She looks at Cas sitting in the dirt with a loopy grin on her face, "We should get you into bed as well, Cas."

"So, what did you learn in town? Do you know where Beka and the others are?"

After being set on my feet, while looking at Celeste number 2, "Thank you kindly. I seem to have tipped over."

Addressing Celeste number 3, "Almost got run over by some 'hooman' on a horse. Very rude fellow. Didn't say, 'By your leave' or nuttin'. Just tore off towards the picket like the Demon Kings was after 'im. We didn't go inta town. Went drinking up that road." This is said with a weak wave in the direction of our pub.

Mostly quiet since the courier raced by, the plucky 'coon calls out to Cas. "You should be knowin' Cas, ol' Riccoco be lookin' for a buyer of your Spirit Chess set."

He shakes his head, "It be seemin' the Beasts hereabouts been takin' a beatin' for a long time. No Beasts be wantin' your fine work. Only inna Gates will a buyer be found."

Cas nods a bit of thanks to Riccoco about the Spirit Chess piece. "I tell you, I have seen a good number of squirrels in my day but I have never seen a set so, unenergetic in my life."

Regarding Celeste's offer for sleep, "I'll get some sleep soon. I want to wait up for Beka and the others to get back before I'll feel alright sleeping."

Still holding up the wobbly Faliol by the back of his shirt, (vest?) Celeste looks to Cas, "Why do you think they are so un-energetic? Too much acorn brew? or maybe what Ricco was saying?"

Looking over my shoulder at Celeste number one, "You know there is a tavern...uh...where did that strange talking guard say the hooman public bar was, Cas? Never heard so many ye's and yon's from a person in my life! Hiya Rath! Hello, Mr. Kent!"

Since I have not heard otherwise, I am going to assume that all business for the eveining has been conducted. The merchant exchanges the goods for the gold (whether the deal is made on the Spirit Cloak will have to wait until I hear from Vagrant, but it can go either way)
As you approach the gates to the city, you notice that there seems to have been a change of guard, for a higher-ranking officer is present. The same adept is there, as well as the lesser guards.
The officer approaches and says, "Ho, I understand from Adept Kana here that you have entered the city little more than an hour ago. Why wish you to leave again after dark? Was there no inn to your liking? You'll find none of better quality in the Greens."

[EDITED on Mon May 12, 2003 @8:06 PM (PDT)]

Nuyok was primarily wanting to get a taste of a new city (especially at night), check out the spirit cloth situation, and get an ale somewhere (presumably we can do that on the way back out).

Nuyok will wait for Beka to respond to the officer (since she's the smoozer).

...but I was able to conduct a bit of business that I wasn't expecting and we need to go get my silk ready to transport first thing in the morning.
We will have to partake of your lovely city more tomorrow night! Then we will be bound for a comforatable bed, good meal and good company! Perhaps you could join us?
I intend to wear the cloak until Vagrant decides he has the $ for it.

To your surprise, the officer takes you up on your offer. "I would be delighted to spend time with a party of merchants from Tallon. My mother was Tallonite. Where may I call upon your party?"

We will be conducting business all Morning and perhaps the first part of the afternoon. Would you like to meet for dinner? Why don't you suggest a place and I will meet you there, say around "x" bells?

The officer looks pleased. "There is a small tavern on the street of small cobbles. About a third of the way down Blue Street. You can't miss it, there is a sign which shows a sailng ship. The place is called the Fireboat." He looks at the entire party. "You are all welcome, but I don't get off until late. When the big bell strikes the ninth hour, look for me there."

After the group is away from the officer, Nuyok comments "So did he seem a suspicious sort, or just interested in Beka? No disparagement meant, but it seems the former is the case, given how we were viewed upon entry..."

I was planning to look out for what may be a place to fense the jewelry I have. I don't know their specific worth but have trading at 12- which may let me have some idea what I am able to get for it. I do not have streetwise as I had the KS Talon undersorld and so knew some fences in Talon. But should perception 14- or maybe a reduced talon undersorld 12- allow for me to spot what may be the type I would want to try and get rid of these things and get some spending money.

If their is any chance at this I'll RP it otherwise I am just scoping out the city and looking for likely places to make such a deal later.

Actually, there were many narrow streets leading off of Blue Street that might have had such establishments. You might have to find a local to direct you to a safe fence, being a stranger. He'll probably want a cut.
You can check them out when you re-enter. Right now, it's late and I want the party to re-join...

I have no idea how much money I even have on me. Did we figure that out at the start of the game? Also, we need to deal with how I am to sell off the posters. Hopefully, after paying off Nuyok and Beka I will have a nice amount left.

Vagrant's finances
Keep in mind the projected sale value is highly speculative.
Also figure minor expenses have eaten up about five silver.(Rags don't grow on trees.)

Did Vagrant already have a buyer for the posters or does he have to look for one?