The City of AdalaUpdated 5/30

Shacks

This thread will cover the separated activities of the party. Visibility-limited posts follow.

[EDITED on Fri May 30, 2003 @12:15 AM (PDT)]

Jo recommends a ver nice public bath house: The Kinly Baths, overlooking the North Bridge. They are fairly reputable-looking. The baths themselves are a combination of indoor and outdoor facilities. They are fairly busy, with folks of many different stations moving about frely. there is a low yet omnipresnet din of conversation. You are met in the great lofty pillared lobby by a clean and charming young woman who politely asks, " What services do you require, honored guests?"

I need to be stunning and georgeous in 1 hour. Then tell me where I can buy a fabulous dress to completely knock someones socks off please!

The woman gives you a frank but polite once-over.
"Yes, we can help you. It is rather short notice, so the expense might be a bit higher."
You know from experience that you could expect to pay ten silver for a rush job like this.

She turns to the others, "And the Gentlemen?"

OOC: No funny business Handle

"Several of our group are interested in private bathing facilities, though I am less so in need of such privacy, I'd be interested in hearing your available options. Additionally, I'd like to be reasonably close to Ms. Beka for security reasons."

Not saying need to be in the same bath as Beka , just that in case she gets jumped with the cash note, Nuyok wants to be close by.

Nuyok will also want to briefly inspect the private bathing quarters, especially wherever Rath ends up, so that he is shielded from prying eyes, including Adepts.

The young woman smiles, responding to Vagrant as well as Nuyok.
"We offer a full array of bathing services. Hot, Cold and Warm baths as well as steam and sauna. We offer full personal grooming facilities and a number of massage options.
"All of these options may be either had in company or in private. You can even have a group room should you so desire" The implication that all of these things cost money is left unspoken but implicit.
She turns and raises a hand to an extremely tall woman who looks indescribably antiseptic. "Rochelle, would you please take Miss--Beka? Thank you-- Miss Beka to a free salon. She needs a rush makeover."
Rochelle gazes at Beka with a critical eye and says, "I think there will be no problem. The base material is good; the rest is just enhancement. Please come this way."

The hostess returns to the remaining assemblage. "My name is Kalanda. Have you decided what you wish, or do you need more time or information?"

"Hot bath and massage for me, privacy unnecessary, thank you," assuming that the security consideration will be taken into account for the location of this.

Nuyok will glance over the private facilities for the others, however.

You are informed that the price is 2 dollars (Silver), for the bath and massage, for an extra silver you can throw in a shave-and-haircut.

As for the private facilities, they are non-enhanced. An adept could see through the walls. The bath that Vagrant (and presumably Rath) have ordered is a cast-iron tub, with pre-drawn water. There is an attendant outside who will inform them when the time is up.

Rath whispers to Nuyok, "I should be okay in a private one right? Where do you want me to meet you when I'm done?"

Nuyok informs Rath and Vagrant that the private baths are not enhanced against spirit sight, less of an issue for Vagrant, but certainly a consideration for Rath.

"Once all are done, meet back by me, since I'll be near Beka, we can give her security for the time being."

[Unless Nuyok missed something...] Separate from prying ears, "By the way Beka, given your date and need to be alone, what are your plans for protecting the note from sales? One possible suggestion would be to give it to Peaches, and give Peaches to Rath, to fully allow you to be alone on your date, and provide you with the peace of mind that it will be secure," Nuyok says with the knowing look of not giving it to Rath on his own for obvious reasons.

Nuyok will go with the hot bath, massage, and hair grooming for 3 silver dollars (duly noted), and plan to meet with everyone nearby to Beka to coordinate and ensure her (and the note's) security, but also to follow up with Vagrant's sale and ley line transfer first off.

Nuyok, Kalanda guides you to the main bathing area. This is a huge pool filled with hot water. There are perhaps fifty people in the main area. Small pools touching the main one appear to sell wine. There are several adepts visible, as well as merchants and well-to-do craftsman and attendant families. Men and women, young and old share the facilities. Children seem to have a somewhat isolated area. A fountain graces the center of the baths. For all their beauty, they still cannot match the splendor of Tallon's Florian Baths, which you have often enjoyed with Judge Bane.

Kalanda leaves after introducing you to the servant who will attend your hair. When you are finished bathing, go to her for a grooming.

During the bathing process, if possible, Nuyok will meander near another adept and say "Well met, I'm new in town from Tallon, and was interested in finding out the location of adept-related facilities."

The adept is an older man with a green lumina pendant. He motions you over. "Ah, not from around here, eh? Well, well. Try some of this vintage. I think you'll agree it is superior to that found in any of Merikia." He indicates a bottle and motions a servant to bring a glass.
"Tallon, eh? Rough voyage?
"Well, let's see. If you wnat adept services, you won't find them out here in the low city. You want the High City." [you can hear the capitals]. Take a walk across the bridge and head towards the stones. You'll have to surrender any weapons before the Circle, but you'll find libraries, eating establishments and such that cater to a... more refined clientele.
"Myself, I find it unbearably stuffy. I like being out here among the populace."

"Yes, it was quite a rigorous overland trip, fraught with peril actually. Thank you for the wine." After taking a sip, Nuyok continues "Thank you for the directions, my stay will be short in Adala, but I thought I should at least take the opportunity to see the sights. As for the stuffiness, I quite agree," Nuyok says with a smirk.

Nuyok, you finish your glass of wine with the adept, who gives his name as Manto. Unless you have any other questions, you have just enough time for a haircut. After that is taken care of, it has been long enough for Beka to be done and for Rath and Vagrant to get nervous.
You can continue your conversation, I am just trying to reunite some characters.

[EDITED on Wed June 11, 2003 @10:19 AM (PDT)]

Nuyok will engage in a bit more casual conversation with Manto (introducing himself along the way, feeling much more at ease to do so here), thank him for the wine, wrap up his bath, and head on his way.

Bring it on!

Rochelle leads you to a room with a sunken tub. You are stripped by female attendants who douse and scrub you until your skin tingles. Afterwards you are dried with scented oils. (The cheap stuff, unless you want to splurge). Your weapons and armor have been set aside.
Rochelle is directing the attendants as she begins working with your hair. She is rather matter-of-fact in her approach, not nearly as charming as the hostess.

"When we are finished, you will not wish to put your blades and leather back on. Raise your chin. They will still be filthy from the road. We can provide you with simple clothing or send your equipment out to be cleaned. Lean to the left. We do not often get warriors wishing this treatment. Braids? Trim? How short? We have no time for color, unfortunately. Meeting a man? Hm?"

I will want the blades back on thank you very much. How long to get the leather cleaned? Braids would be good, nice and tight please.

Beka, your hair is pulled into five tight braids, the largest in the back. Your nails are trimmed and you are scrubbed and scented. Your armor and weapons are returned clean, but still travel-and-battle-worn.
Rocehlle gives you a once over before letting you go.
"Hmm, not bad for a rush job. I really suggest you find new clothing though. I thought Tallonites were into fashion."
As far as you can tell in the mirrored wall, you look pretty killer. What does she know?

Outside of the salon, you are on a balcony overlooking the baths proper. This is a mostly a huge pool filled with hot water. There are perhaps fifty people in the main area. Small pools touching the main one appear to sell wine. There are several adepts visible, as well as merchants and well-to-do craftsman and attendant families. Men and women, young and old share the facilities. Children seem to have a somewhat isolated area. A fountain graces the center of the baths. For all their beauty, they still cannot match the splendor of Tallon's Florian Baths, which you have often enjoyed.
By one of the side pools, you can see Nuyok, who has had a simple haircut in Adalan Fashion, and who looks considearby cleaner, bidding farewell to an Adalan adept. There is a set of stairs leading to the main foyer.

[EDITED on Wed June 11, 2003 @10:21 AM (PDT)]

I either missed or you did the plans to sell the jewelry I had. Was I successfull, did I need to play it out?. Let me know so I have an idea of what kind of money I may have. It will decide what I may ask for here.

I don't miss it, but I should have mentioned it. Oops.
The caravan kept you busy until bathtime. You had stated you wanted to do both. Since all the characters were headed for the baths, I lumped you in with them, since the one activity would preclude the other. If you would rather be on your own fencing, let me know and I will subtract you from the thread and begin a new one.
Or better yet, if you do decide to take that route, just describe your actions and that will save us a "post-and-response"

I would have liked to have gotten it done with, but I do not want to cause you to retroactively remove me from the group. So...

Once the others are in their baths, I will slip out and try and do what I need to and get back before they are done.

Having already scoped out the area nd hopefully have seen some likely contacts, I'll move quickly but only in a busy manner not a guilty one, I'll make my way back into Blue street or whereever I have noticed likely dealers.

Hopefully, while there the last couple times, I noticed something that looks similar to Talon's fences or places where such could be found. I will not attempt to find the best fence or the best deal only one that seems to be safe. I do not want to get in trouble here. I'll look for someone who is not surrounded by guards or a gang, though a single guard or even two would not put me off.

I'll look for the type that seems to be making the small deals to the side of the main and open trading and then offer my goods for quick sale. I'll attempt to affect an act of being one of the people of the fringes of society in this town, copying the lower class mannerisms if I can. I will also remove most of my weapons and armor only keeping what seems approppriate for this city travel as I have seen, roling the rest up in my oil cloak as before and making it into a back pack. (lower my armor act to 9-, and only carry one good long knife).

Before approaching I'll find the exits and quickest way of escape should things seem to be turning against me in any way.

"I notice you were making a few simple purchases and wondered if you would offer me something for this. "

I'll show one of the smallest but perhaps better of the items, in a non suspect but hidden way. I'll haggle some but will let him get the better of me if he is interested and hint to the fact that I may have more.

Perception14-
Fam: Acting 8-
PS: Appraisal, 11-
Trading, 12-

Persuation, 12-
Slieght of Hand, 13-
Security Systems, 14-

KS: Talon Underworld, 11-
KS: Talon Law, 11-
KS: Talon City Gaurd, 11-
(talon info in case it has some applicaton here)

"If you would, I have a few more Items I would like to let you see. Is there a place we can meet in ten minutes where it would be safe to show them?"

If he says it is fine now that is great, I don't want to really take him off to some private place but I want to leave the impression I am not carrying everything and need to go and get it, in case he has ideas of jumping me.

I'll sell what ever I can, taking a loss if needed, in order to get rid of it, though I am wanting to get enough to party a bit here perhaps and then live off for a time back in Talon. I'll settle for 20% lower than is usual for such items being fenced but will take as much as I can get. I'll try and make it seem like I am not professional in this but only need to make money quickly or as if it is a first time thing for me and that I am inexperienced if it will get them to buy it more easily.

Hopefully this won't take more than an hour and I can get back to have a cursory bath and meet the others.

Handle, after some quick negotiation and some clever detective work, you manage to find people willing to buy jewelry from a foreign street kid. Due to a lot of experience in this sort of thing, you even receive what you feel to be a fair price, about 20% of what you appraised the value at. You manage to sell all but the cheaper of the two brooches, which no one seems to want, since it has a name worked into it. (Indelibly: to remove the name would ruin the piece entirely. The name is "Luna".)
Hurrying back to the baths to meet the others, you are 60 dollars richer. (60 silver or 6 gold). This is in coins of various Adalan denominations.

Vagrant saunters up and whispers, "The road has been
hard on me. Do you have a reasonably priced private
place for me to wash the road from my body?"

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She smiles, "Certainly, sir. If all you wish is to clean yourself, there are a number of private rooms available at a nominal cost. I think a dollar will cover your needs. That will give you ten minutes in a small tub room. If privacy is not an issue, then there are cheaper and longer options."
This speech is said at a subdued volume and closer to Vagrant, as if the speaking aloud of money matters is somehow frowned upon.

"The private offer you mentioned will do nicely. I'm
ready whenever the bath is. Thank you."

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Vagrant and Rath are each led to simply-furnished rooms. Nothing more than a cast-rion tub of hot ware and some towels. The attendant tells you you won't be disturbed for ten minutes, at which time he will knock.
Are either of you taking any special precautions?

Rath will look around make sure there are no peep holes (PER 12-)and not take
off his shirt until he is in the tub, trying to keep the shirt as dry as
possible and close by.

Vagrant disrobes and begins his bath. His crossbow is
at the ready if need be. He will also wash out his
bandages as best he can.

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Rath and Vagrant, your baths are concluded without incident. As promised, neither of you is disturbed. You also feel better than you have in weeks.
Vagrant, you might feel a little guilty about the quality of the water you're leaving behind, but oh well. They got your money.

Once clean and dressed, you rejoin in the corridor and are usherd back to the foyer by an attendant. It will still be some time before the others are done. Outside, you can see Peaches perched atop a lamppost, giving evil eyes to passers-by. She seems to be largely unnoticed.

If you approach her, she will greet you warmly, "Well, you lot cleaned up pretty. I'd put some dirt back on of you want to be respected as a warior, though. While you pretty-boys have been getting gussied, I've been out here safeguarding the mission"
Which is a funny attitude for her to take, seeing as her fur is nearly always immaculate.
You guys can converse out here in this thread, but I am going to join up the group

Returning to the shacks, you spend a bit of time securing the goods. Jareek is tired from the day's activities and says he will sleep in the cart. Faliol remembers Ricco sayin he wil start by the Hanging Tree, so the party begins there.

As you get to the crossroads of the hanging tree, you see that the swinging body is in fact human. There is a hood over the face (to protect the sensibilities of children?), but the body, with its block-printed "ROBBER" sign, looks to have been swinging at least a week. It is not a sight you would see in Tallon, but it would appear to be an effective crime deterrent. It does make you feel a bit more confident in the safety of your cart, at least.

There are a few folk here and there going about the business of afternoon. Few are beasts, though there is a pair of rabbits carrying some large grain sacks. A constable is visible far down the road. The rest are simple folk of farm and village.

What next?

I scrunch up my face in disgust. My fur begins to stand on end. If this body had been Ricco's, the judge, jury, and executioners would find themselves the victim of my own version of 'justice'.

With narrowed eyes, I turn and look at Cas and Celeste, "Ladies, the sooner we find the little guy the better. I will go ask the rabbits about Ricco. Celeste will you go ask the human? Cas, it would probably be better if you stayed with me while Celeste talks to the human..."

I approach the rabbits, I let them see me coming from a mile off and appear as non-threatening as possible before asking, "Excuse me, kind rabbits. I have lost track of my friend, a raccoon. Could you tell me if you have seen him lately?"

Cas nods, "A very sensible plan. Though I might point out two minor things. Don't approach humans unless absolutely necessary, and if you see someone running it is best to leave them be."

"Good ideas, Cas. I will keep them in mind."

You would think there were sporelings around.

OOC: I knew there was something Rotten in Io....uh Adala.


I just like watching them pop up in the preview

The rabbits are not startled by your presence as the ones last night in the bar. In fact, the youner one seems quite convivial.
"Oh, aye. I saw him, all right. At least ways if'n I didn't then there's two of him. They was a raccoon round here this morning. I saw him walking off towards the game fields."

BTW, to clarify something a bit. The hanging tree shows signs of long term usage. Bits of rope from previous hangings are tied upon several of the stout branches. Some of the remnants are so old that they have nearly rotted away. There is also the foundation for removable scaffolding around the base of the tree. This is a genu-ine Hangin' Tree, not a convenience spot for vigilante justice. The judge jury and executioner responsible for the "ROBBER" were probably an actual Judge, jury and executioner. Or at least the first and the last. Trial by jury is probably spotty in the Savage Earth...

I nod my head towards the rabbits, "Thank you for your assistance. I hope your day is a pleasant one."

I move to a spot well away from the constable but visible to Celeste. When she returns, I tell her "Those rabbits told Cas and me that Ricco was headed for the game fields..."

OOC: I have a different concept of justice than most others. My dictionary has multiple definitions 1. the conformity to moral principals or laws: just conduct. 2. merited rewards or punishments.

Some people strickly follow number 1. I follow number 2. And so does Faliol.

To me, simply having an actual Judge and Jury follow the culture's laws doesn't mean someone has been afforded "Justice". It cannot be "just" to have the death penalty in one country for theft and have a 2 year prison term in another country for the same crime, IMO. Two vastly different punishments, one crime. How can both be just? So when Faliol said, "Judge, Jury, and Executioners" it doesn't matter much if it is an actual Judge, an actual Jury, or actual Executioners or just a bunch of vigilantes. If Ricco had been that swinging body, those people would have killed him for a crime that doesn't deserve death (IMO). I don't care if they are legitimate representatives of their society or not. For me, justice is not determined by a mob or by a majority. It is NOT subject to the whims of the people. True "Justice", one crime - one set of circumstances - one punishment. The above is just my OPINION. Feel free to disagree with me, everyone else does...

Reverend Bozimus now steps off his podium so that your regularly scheduled roleplaying can continue...

Of course. I understand, though I tend to let the law reflect the society. I don't know if there can be a truly objective definition of justice by those criteria. It would be "my" justice then: what "I" think is an appropriate response. But this is really a discussion for elsewhere. Faliol's reaction is entirely appropriate an in-character. It's just not shared by the majority of the population of the League. The purpose was to of course, highlight some differences between Tallon and Adala and to reinforce the milieu's medieval moral and ethical response to crime.

IOW: It's a

OOC I expected some confusion concerning Faliol's actions. Most of the time he is law-abiding. Other times, he willingly breaks laws. He is a fox, after all. He does not model his personal morality after the majority's mores. There will be times when he is the only one to believe a certain punishment (like hanging a robber) to be unjust. There will be times when he agrees with the majority (not likely, in Adala) and there will be times when he is the only one to think a punishment perfectly just (his own vengeance inspired justice, as shown in my preachy prior message).

Didn't want you guys to think Faliol had recently flaked out, he has always been flaky...

Celeste walks in the direction of the constable, trying to keep upwind of the foul odor of justice. "Good day to you Constable, I am in need of assistance, I seem to have lost track of one of my party. Perhaps you have seen him? A male raccoon about this tall (she indicates Ricco's approximate height with her hand, probably about level with her breasts).

The constable looks you up and down, as if to assess your threat level. Although he is not antagonistic, he does not seem to be overly helpful either.
"Raccoon? No, we have few raccoons in Adala. I think I would have noticed one. What is your business here?"

OOC: And just what, pray tell, in the names of all the Gods of the Deep, is so funny about saying "racoon"? Celeste draws her falchion, takes a wide stance and looks menacingly at the GM.

Towering over the short, squatty, ugly constable, Celeste informs, "My name is Celeste and I am in the employ of Miss Beka Hamilton of Tallon. I am looking for a beast-raccoon by name of Riccoco who is employed as a scout by another merchant in our party. If you have not seen him then I will trouble you no further. Thank you and good day." Celeste turns away from the constable and walks back to the others.

The guard appears to accept your declaration without further challenge.

OOC: But boy, when he gets back to the constabulary, he's gonna tell the story differently to Andy. You're just lucky that he didn't pull the arrow out of his shirt pocket, missy. You're messing with the LAW!

OOC: hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha,snort

Was that an arrow in his pocket or was he just happy to see me?

I don't know where I'm supposed to answer!

You're fine on your own thread. You are in the lead visibility of this one should you rejoin the others. It's hard to add and subtract a character sometimes. I'll post something visible here when the situation requires it.

As Celeste turns to rejoin the foxes, the guard speaks up behind her. "Hey barbarian!" He calls. Upon seeing the warrior's fierce expression as she turns her full gaze back on him, he continues lamely, "There's a raccoon over there."
His pointing finger indicates the content form of Riccoco walking up the road from the south east. He rapidly comes to within hailing distance as the constable leaves the area.

Celeste walks up the road to meet Ricco. "You're looking incredibly smug Ricco...Faliol's been worried about you."

When Ricco spies Celeste, he steps up his pace a bit, a knowing grin wrinkling his muzzle. "Ahh! Celeste!" His eyes seem to slip along the Barbarian's muscular form. It isn't quite apparent what he might be looking at or why, though.

"The Fox Kit'll be fine, just as ol' Ban... Riccoco be!" The 'coon chuckles a little and smacks his lips. "What be the happenin's o' the rest o' you lot?"

I run over to the plucky coon. I commence to jumping up and down in my excitement at seeing my little buddy not hanging from some tree...

"RICCO!! You are alive!! We were very worried about you!!"

"Faliol!" Riccoco shouts clapping the Fox Kit on the shoulder, "How be the site seein' in Adala, now?" Knowing grin plastered on his muzzle, Ricco asks, "What be the plan o' you?"

Tucking one paw in his vest pocket, eyes rolling over the Beasts and Barbarian, the 'coon continues, "I might could use a bit o' help, iffin' you three would be willin'..."

"That is why we three are here. To help you. What can I do to help?"

Riccoco grins and stretches out his arms, "That be why Ol' Riccoco threw in with the lot o' you. Finer folks a 'coon couldn't be findin' anywhere in the Merikan League!" He quiets, leaning forwad, white-circled eyes darting to and fro. In a hushed tone, he murmurs, "Mayhap, we be best findin' a quieter, more... private place?"

"Back to the shacks, ladies and gentlebeast?"

OOC: Presuming everyone else goes along and no other folks are at the shack...

Riccoco shuts the door behind the last person to enter and moves about the shack, making quite certain no one else is here. That taken care of, he motions emphatically for the others to crowd around him.

Meeting Faliol's eye and speaking in a hushed tone, "Ol Riccoco found it, Faliol, the Beast Maket. This 'coon be knowin' there have to be one!" His eyes sparkle and he grins knowingly. "Ol' Bandit be meetin' up with the likely leader o' the group, Black Basel."

My ears perk up, "You found it, eh? Maybe you and Cas can sell your goods here after all... Who is this Black Basel beast?"

"Ol' Riccoco not knowin' what manner o' Beast he be." Ricco shakes his head sadly at this bit of news, "An' Master Kent be havin' Ol' Riccoco's bit o' Dreamleaf. This 'coon be hopin' to gather up o' bit o' goods to be taken back the other way!"

Puffing out a quick breath, the 'coon adds, "It be a risky thing, messin' with the likes o' Black Basel from what Ol' Bandit," Ricco adds a wink here, "can tell. It be o' way to cut the overhead, though."

"Ol Bandit be meetin' the others at the mid o' night, tonight. It might be a bit hairy, an' takin' other folks with me now, might be causin' a bit o' a problem..."

"Well, count me in. He can't get mad if he doesn't see me lurking. Celeste and Cas, are you two supposed to help guard Beka tonight at One Eyed Lars'?"

"Well, I offered since I thought she would be carrying a bit of gold after the sale of the silks, but she has a voucher for the gold and I don't think she will be cashing it out today." With a knowing grin Celeste continues, "and besides, I don't think she wants and 'guarding' tonight. We will need to make sure someone is available to guard the cart, but I think we are mostly free tonight." She looks at Ricco with a question, "Do they allow humans into the 'beast market' Ricco?"

"Ol' Ricccoco don't be knowin' the whole o' the Beast Market." Ricco sadly shakes his head at this pronouncement. "It be no easy task to learn what he did..."

"You keep mentioning 'Old Bandit.' Who is 'Old Bandit?' "

The old 'coon slips Celeste a wink, "You be havin' a look at him, Celeste! Ol Riccoco be thinkin' he best have a bit o' cover in case things be goin' bad."

Celeste winks back at Ricco and gives him a thumb up.

OOC: Assuming still that this is in private.

"A beast market?" Cas looks exstatic. She has been behaving too good for too long, "I would love to get me some supplies from real folks at a decent price. I need to get me some supplies so I can start making more wares. I'm thinking a really fancy foot locker or some sort of lock box."

Ricco looks askance at Cas, his head titled a bit. "Ol' Riccoco had to do a bit o' the ol' legwork, but he be findin' what he knew must be there." he shrugs a little short arms outstretched, "This 'coon be hearin' word that the artworks and such be havin' a better market at the Hooman side o' the Adala Wall."

Hunkering down once more, Ricco murmurs, "Ol' Riccoco only be tellin' Balack Basel o' he himself makin' his way to the Hole this night..." He trails off leaving the threatening remarks to hang in the air.

I scratch one ear, deep in thought, "So...If only you can go to the beast market, what exactly can the three of us do to help you?"

"You be havin' the right o' it, Red. A fine question it be. First, ol' Riccoco be needin' a blade. The trident be a bit on the long side for this sort o' work." Ricco reaches up to twist at his long whiskers with a leathery paw.

"Next, we'll be needin' one o' you Beasts to go in with this 'coon." He pauses thoughtfully.

.oO(Cas be cracked but Faliol could be usin' Betsy to help out...)

"The Vixen be a trader an' should go. Celeste and Faliol be needin' to sneak in unawares o' the other Beasts an' be ready for things to be goin' wrong. If there be the chance an' things be on the up an' up... Ol' Bandit will let the Black Basel's crew know the chant. A right with the rest o' you lot?"

I unbuckle my belt that holds my scabbarded sword and hand both to Ricco. I take his Trident in return. "There you go. One blade for Bandit. One fish sticker for the fox. I am okay with sneaking in and keeping an eye on you, but I am worried about Big Sister."

I attempt placating gestures that soothe some humans, "I know you are damn good in a fight, Celeste. And a more trustworthy person I have never met. Those beasts may not be happy to see Cas and me, but they are gonna be even less pleased to see a human. Is there anything Celeste can do that will entail less risk?"

I look down at my feet, worried that I may have offended Celeste...

OOC: I think Ricco's trident was confiscated at that first gate checkpoint...?

OOC Didn't want to drag that fish sticker around anyways!!!

After the Lizard, you know Faliol's main lot in life is holding onto Ricco's baggage while he saves the day... Right?

Batman has Robin...
Robin Hood has his merry men...
Lone Ranger has Tonto...
Ricco has a kit with a narcissistic tail fetish...

When did Ricco step on the tail of the Bad Karma Bunny?

With a wary eye for the kit and Celeste, Ricco adds a few words, "Mayhap, Celester here can be bein' nearby, ready at a moment's notice to join any fray. Iffin' she be interested in that, o' course."

Laughing at Ricco, "Either my belt has shrunk or you have had way too many berry ales..."

I help the jumbo-sized raccoon put my sword on his belt...

Ricco eyes Faliol's belt dubiously, "That be the belt of a young Beast, not yet filled out! Ol' Riccoco be as filled out as a Beast may be! Ouch! Careful! That skin fur be part o' this 'coon's hide!"

The sword shifting degrades to a Stooges' Routine.

OOC Less poetry, more posting please! ::jab:: ::nudge::

Chop!! Chop!!

[EDITED on Fri June 6, 2003 @6:24 AM (CDT)]

I thought you guys missed RPing with Ricco!

Let's get in an argument or something!

"Of course I'm interested, Ricco. I would never leave you to fend against forces unknown. You just have to figure out a good explanation for me to be around."

Celeste looks at Faliol with understanding..."Don't worry about me little brother. Considering the way the Adalans treat beast-folk, it's not surprising that they might not appreciate the appearance of a human in their domain. I'm sure Ricco will come up with a plan. On the other hand, my presence in another part of the Beast Market could provide some sort of diversion."

I look up at Celeste, "Not worry about you in such a place? Do you not worry about us beasts and riven while in Adala proper? I am not overly worried about individuals, yet I am terrified of 'mobs'."

Turning to Bandit, "I am helping you do this because you are my close friend. Because you are my close friend, I want to make sure that you don't get hurt. But Celeste is also my close friend. Riccoco, all the riches of Adala is not worth Celeste losing her life! FIND a plan that minimizes the risk to her. I am not going to minimize the risk to one friend by endangering another. You are seasoned and crafty, finding a way for us to protect both of you is well within your considerable abilities."

Cas looks thoughtful for a moment, "I would not worry about Celeste's safety in this venture. Celeste has proven her trustworthiness to me and in such I will treat her as a fox sister. Any who would wish harm to Celeste would wish harm to me. Therefore, my proposal is that I will stay by Celeste's side and stand with her. She will be recieved as a beast so long as she can do her best to remember her place."

Cas watches reactions.

"Thank you Faliol, for your concern, and Cas for your confidence in me. In this you will need to be my guide as I have no idea what my 'place' should be in the Beast Market. Am I to be a hired guard or pretend that I am one of the merchants? Faliol, I do not think you need fear for my safety", she smiles, "There are no carnobrocs or master adepts about. " Turning to the 'plucky' 'coon, "Ricco, do you have a plan ready?"

"Celeste you will be with me as a friend. There will be no pretending necessary during our trip."

"How can you make such guarantees? You didn't get an invite to attend either."

"I make no guarantees that our company will be tolerated. I only promise that Celeste will not be treated with disdain while she is beside me. I have nothing on the market that I am in need of acquaring but you never know what might catch my eye."

Ricco says twirling the whiskers on one side of his muzzle, "Be wonderin' iffin' the lot o' you be knowin' what we be headin' into...?"

Fixing each with a baleful glare, "Adala here be nothin' like Tallon or the Lizard. Beasts be a lessor sort. The Hoomans just be waitin' for a paw outta line! This be makin' the leader o' the Market a mean go getter. Black Basel will be thinkin' to use claw and tooth first, then be askin' questions."

"We be needin' to take her slow and easy. This be no place for standin' tall and pride be the enemy."

Cas frowns with disapproval, "I don't know if I made myself clear. I've sat on my rear taking orders like a nice obedient subservient. If it is going to be a problem for Celeste to go into the beast market with me that is fine. Where it has also been clearly pointed out that I also do not have an invitation to the market, I have decided to take off from the city for a bit."

Cas turns to Celeste, "How about we let the boys do business with beasts the die if you say boo too loud and go outside and hunt something?"

Just for note: Cas isn't particularly annoyed at anyone. She is just showing signs of having a lot of built up frustration.

Riccoco glances from Cas to Faliol to Celeste and back again to Cas, a few times. Finally, his masky features screwed up in confusions he says, "Any one o' you know what the vixen be sayin'?"

"Ol' Riccoco be needin' a spot o' help for sure. He just wantin' all to be knowin' the threatenin' nature o' the situation..."

The four of you stand about and discuss for a while. The sun begins to sink lower upon the horizon. Riccoco manages to get across the idea that Black Basil's market (which is underground) might be the equivalent of spending the evening in the court of Jabba the Hut. It is definitely by-invitation-only, but the welcome-ness of humans is a total unknown to him.
I'll need a concensus of action before I can advance you.

The Fox Kit's plan is to follow Ricco's plan. Unless it endangers any of them needlessly.

If too much danger is involved, then argue, pout, and sulk until the greedy raccoon comes up with a better plan...

Repeat until danger is lessened.

Only one Beast should go in with Ricco. Any more than that and they'll have us for dinner. If Cas and Celeste would rather go hunting, then Ricco will ask Faliol to come in with him.

If the other two want to help, Ricco will take Cas with him and ask Faliol and Celeste to try and sneak into the Market and be back-ups in case a fray ensues. He'll offer up a particular yell or whistle as the sign.

1. The market is invitation only
2. Cas is set that whatever she does, is going to be with Celeste
3. Bringing Celeste is more of a risk than an assistance to Riccoco
4. Cas has nothing to buy/sell at the market

Therefore, Cas is going to base her decision on whether Celeste is more interested in going to the market or hunting. Cas would prefer, at this point, hunting.

OOC: Insert Shaggy Voice, "Celeste... where are you?"

[EDITED on Wed June 11, 2003 @2:27 PM (EDT)]

Celeste looks at each of her friends, "It sounds as though my being along on Riccos particular venture would not be an asset. However, there are other parts to the beast market are there not? Cas and I could be nearby if you need us. I should like to see what kinds of goods are sold in the beast market, perhaps Cas could be my guide, and we could be conveniently nearby." Looking at Cas, she says, " I feel we should be around to help out if things get to...precarious. Going hunting does not seem like a good thing to do at this time. We should stay."

Ricco gives Celeste a sidelong glance. "Celeste, you don't be understandin' the nature o' the place. The Market be illegal in Adala. Iffin' the Archon be knowin' all o' the Beasts be killed. That be why it such a closely guarded thing..."

"Ol Riccoco could be wrong o' course... That be his thought on the matter, though."

Ricco flings up a leathery paw, "Ol' Riccoco be havin' a plan! See here... It be a dangery thing! Ol' Bandit," Ricco pauses pointing at himself with wink and knowing grin, "Be havin' one o' the invitation. He'll be takin' Faliol as Guard. Cas be comin' of her own with Celeste as Guard.The two o' you be comin' later than this 'coon an' the Fox Kit!"

"That could work. I certainly could care less if people think I'm risking the safety of hte beast market as long as they don't think Riccoco is." Cas corrects herself, "Not that I want people to be thinking I plan on exposing the market. This could be doable."

I remove my knife/sheath from its accustomed place on my right hip and transfer it to my left hip so that it may be drawn by my right paw.

Catching the others looking at me, "If I am to be a guard, I should look the part. Not having been to many secret markets, I do not know what to expect. However, I don't think they will let you just stroll in and start shopping. So, how are you ladies getting inside?"

Celeste looks at Ricco, "We still don't have an invitation to come in to the Beast Market..." Celeste looks at Cas as if to say "Suggestions"

Cas smiles at Celeste's direction, "I was invited. This little squirrel, I forget the name, told me about it and said I should check it out."

Riccoco nods slowly, "Iffin' you be thinkin' that be enough, Ol' Riccoco won't be nay-sayin' you!"

"Mayhap, Faliol," Ricco says slipping the short sword from his hefty girth, "You should be havin' your sword back? You be the guard an' Ol' Bandit the merchant, eh?"

Nodding, "I would look rather pathetic as a guard with this dinky blade as my 'weapon'. Here, you take the knife..."

I accept my sword back from Bandit and offer him the knife in its place...

Blackmarket? .....oh, well it is a isn't it?

OOC: hee hee, if you can't steal from your friend (the GM), who can you steal from?

OOC: Very nice of the lot of you to leave me to come up with a plan! Sheesh!

You get the profit, you make the plan!

My profit is your profit.

What's yours is mine and what's mine is mine!

I'm down!

OOC: Looking at the others..."What's he talking about?"

The group rendezvous outside the Baths, where there is a stately town square.
Peaches informs Beka and Nuyok, "Mission accomplished", and adds a conspiratorial wink while patting her belly pouch.
Rath looks nearly presentable with a clean face and pretty shirt. Instead of a hulking pit fighter, his outfit and boyish face makes him look almost like a pampered dandy. Only his weaponry and leathery hands belie this image.
Beka looks stunning. Her hair is plaited in five long braids and she is nearly glowing with cleanliness. Her armor is still nicked and worn, but it shows signs of being cleaned and oiled.
Vagrant looks a little damp, but his rags look cleaner. Any odor you might have noticed is vastly diminished.
Nuyok looks clean and neat. His hair is trimmed in Adalan fashion. His clothes are still travel worn (unless you wanted to pay for that service, in which case they would still be damp).
Handle looks unchanged, though his countenance is a little more carefree than it was an hour ago.
It is time to start upon your various activities. Beka, I know, wants to go directly to One Eyed Lars'. Vagrant I believe has a contact he wishes to pursue, for which Nuyok will be needed.
What will the others do?

Provided Beka and the note will be safe, Nuyok will accompany Vagrant as planned, and meet with the others later on as planned (i.e., later in the evening at One Eye'd Lars).

Nuyok will be on the lookout to buy a book on poisons and diseases treatment and curing, presumably available once he goes to Adept-land later on.

"Beka you look really pretty. Musta been that mud bath I gave you."

Rath will follow Nuyok around like a little puppy. He does not want to be left behind and miss out on where the Adepts hang out.

Nuyok will let Rath know of the Adept hang-outs, and based on what they observe when they approach the area, he'll let Rath know how safe it is to proceed within.

Nuyok will let Vagrant decide whether he is concerned with Rath's presence for Vagrant's deal.

Nuyok will ask Handle what his plans are, but not in an intrusive way.

Afer reaching the bath house and everyone finding private rooms or heading off to become beautiful Handle seems to not be in sight.

Since everyone was busy washing no one noticed him.

OOC: once Keith returns, hopefully things will come together and we will know if you all notice I left or just not notice me around for a while.

OOC: No big deal, you know where to meet us later

I had posted that you arrived the same time as the others. I need to know whether you will follow Beka to One-eyed Lars' or the others to Merchant Throne's.

have I had any success in selling the loot?
I haven't seen any posts dealing with it.

... until you find the post labeled "Cash!"

OOC: Was Throne who Vagrant is to go see?

Beka seems oddly pleased with herself as she heads off to One Eyed Lars'.
"Peaches, are you coming?"
"Wouldn't miss this for the world!"
.oO(She looks ridiculous!)