All intial posts for the time being will visible all characters. This is so I can easily add or subtract charcaters should someone change location. Unless you are addressed in a sub-thread, assume you are not there.
The City of Adala

The pre-arranged time for Ricc-- Bandit to be in Ketzer's Vineyards was midnight, an appropriate hour for skullduggery.
Cas and Celeste hang back a a discrete distance.

Ketzer's Vineyards is apparently a large farm, possibly privately held. The land is rolling and hilly, with many narrow lanes between different vineyards*. Not far from where the main road enters the central vineyards, there is a small foreman's shack. Strangely enough at this hour, there is a lamp burning outside. There is an unsavory looking mouse in front, probably more than half-rat. He appears to be sitting in on a barrel and working on splicing a bit of rope by lamp light.
His attention is obviously drawn by the appearance of two strange beasts. He nods at you, noncommittally. Since there was no pre-arranged signal, it seems this is the best place to start, so the raccoon and the fox cautiously approach.
From a roadside waymarker, a hundred yards back, Celeste and Cas can only watch the pair enter the dim circle of light. Though the night is quiet, no sound travels to them.

---

*Many varieties of produce not normally equatorial have been developed by the adepts of Merikia over the centuries. Adala is particularly successful with a variety of wine grapes. Hence, wines are one of their main exports.

[EDITED on Thu June 19, 2003 @3:25 PM (PDT)]

The "mouse" looks you up and down. He is not armored, though the knife he is using to work the rope looks wickedly sharp. His fur is well-kept and one ear is torn to rags. He shows none of the timidity of a mouse, though he is shorter than any rat either of you has ever seen. "Raccoon, eh? Hrrr... Fox as well. Strange time o' night to be about. I hear there's... bandits about." His eyes fix on Riccoco in a meaningful look.

[EDITED on Thu June 19, 2003 @3:19 PM (PDT)]

I keep a neutral expression on my muzzle and only speak when addressed. Hopefully, I will not draw much attention...

The rat nods knowingly. "Right, then. Ye'll want ta take the third road after the mill pond. Go up to the far end. Ye'll unnerstand when ye get there." He seems about to go back to his rope work but looks up. "Oh, anna word of advice. Don't go blabbin' nuthin. Loose lips slit throats, as me mam used to say."

After following the directions, you arrive at a shadowy section of dirt road. It appears to be little-used and nearly in danger of being overgrown by tall weeds. Several huge treas grow directly ahead and there are piles of cuttings for burning nearby. Your paranoia-honed instincts tell you this would be a good place for an ambush.

However, you are greeted by a lone human who is sitting on one of the piles. As you approach he slides off and walks cautiously into the path. He has a patch over one eye and is poorly shaven. Although he is clearly fully human, he looks more like a rat than the mouse you just left.
He sizes up Faliol and then looks at Riccoco. He rubs his chin and says, "Ye must be Bandit. I unnerstan' ye got sumpin' ta sell?"

There is no sign of a market.

Ricco swallows a lump that has begun to form in his throat. Thoughts race about his 'coon mind:

.oO(Now you be findin' it old 'Coon. What you be doin' with it? Be it ambush? Where the Hole o' the Market be?)

His outward facade as calm as possible, Riccoco can't help but slowly reach up to finger the dirk sheathed at his side. "This 'coon be Bandit, a' right. he be havin' things to sell or buy, 'pendin' on the price."

The man notices your knife hand but says nothing of it. Instead he replies, "If yer city watch or their snitches, we'll water the vineyard with yer blood. He beckons for you to follow him behind on eof the piles of cuttings. Picking one indistinguishable from the others he heaves aside a bundle to reveal a narrow passage in the side of a low rise. It looks to follow one of the roots of the great tree.
He calls in, "Two fer the Hole. Fox and 'Coon. Take their mark and let 'em in."
From the hole emerges a wrinked bloodhound. He apparently intends to sniff you. He addresses you, "Now don' make no sudden moves. I'm jus' gonna get yer spoor."

My hair stands on end. My tail starts swishing rapidly and my ears slick back along my head. I bare my teeth at the dog and hiss at him.

"Rover, the only way you are getting MY scent is when I grab those flabby jowels and tie them to yonder pine tree!" I move my hands wide and prepare to grappel the mutt.

OOC Sorry, Ricco. 1 point disad. Dislikes dogs... Be thankful it wasn't a rat or we would be dead...

The dog quickly backs off down the hole. He does not appear to be a combatant-type. The rat-faced man's face turns sour.
"Now, now. We all wanna be friends-like. I really doesn't want this to turn sour. Bodies is so hard to hide these days.
Sorry gents, but that's the ticket of admission. Now ya know where the gate is, the only way out is through."
He draws his sword slowly and meaningfully. He seems awfully confident for someone who is seemingly alone outside the hole.

I calm down a little. Reason returns in small bits and pieces. I take off my sweaty neckerchief. "I was gonna buy another one of these anyways. Rover can get my 'spoor' off this without getting close to me."

I put the sweaty neckerchief on the ground and back off about 10 feet. I will my tail to stop swishing and fold my arms across my chest.

.oO(The things I do for friendship! Hurry the hell up, stupid mutt...)

The rat faced man relaxes. A little.
"Right then, I knew we could settle this peacable-like. Snoops! C'mon back. We're all friendly again."
The bloodhound emerges cautiously, becoming a bit bolder when he sees faliol hanging back. He sniffs carefully at the scarf and nods at the sentry.
Riccoco, any objections to being smelt?

Ricco breathes a sigh of relief and allows himself to calm down. He calls out, "That be the right o' it. We all be friends agian, then."

The 'coon gives the dog a knowing grin, "Sniff away, Hound. This be the finest 'coon fur in the League. You be savorin' a single whiff for days, now!"

.oO(This be gettin' worse an' worse, Riccoco... You best be knowin' what you be doin' blasted, Coon!)

Riccoco slips to cover Faliol's flank. He doesn't draw his dirk, but he does take a quick look around to ascertain whether unseen foes must be dealt with.

Whispered with a shrug, "Just pray to whatever Gods you 'coons hold sacred that Cas behaves herself. I think those two will be ok. Celeste will get them out if things go sour."

"So Celeste," Cas starts ponderously, "What do you plan on doing, after this trip is over and everything?"

OOC: Sorry for the wait. There was a bit of a logjam there.
After speaking with the mouse or rat for a brief interchange, Riccoco and Faliol head off down the road. The road runs directly by the rat, and there are fenced vineyards on either side. The two beasts rapidly vanish into the darkness.

Celeste looks at Cas for a moment, "I don't know Cas, I had not thought about it too much since getting here was the main thing. Now that we have reached our destination and Beka is selling her silks, I guess the trip back to Tallon will go easier." Pausing, she looks off towards the shack where Ricco and Faliol waited. "I think I would like to get back to my husband's people's village and collect a few things and say goodbye. After that, I don't really know. What about you? Do you have any plans?"

"Well, I'd like to get my own wagon some day with my own crew. So I'm trying to save as much as I can and make really fancy items so I can make more money. Really, I don't have much plans beyond that."

Celeste indicates the direction Ricco and Faliol have gone, "Do you suppose we should follow them, 'discreetely'?"

Engaging 'stealth barbarian' mode.

"They did want us nearby just in case," Cas says. She proceeds to engage in Stealth Beast Mode.

Please describe how you are going to follow them. Remember the general layout from the previous post.

OOC: Four copies of 'Stealth Mode Active.' But which one is real?? I'll choose........this one!"
Celeste watches the two beasts begin down the road. Looking at Cas, "That rat is still sitting there, we are going to have to go through the rows if we are going to follow them."
Do the vineyard rows parallel the road? Or are we going to have to 'go against the grain....er..grape?

going against the grape vine oh yeah I thought I'd lose my mind...

OOC: This bad joke was brought to you by the letters D and T and the number 5.

Please describe how you are going to follow them. Remember the general layout from the previous post.

Please describe how you are going to follow them. Remember the general layout from the previous post.

Please describe how you are going to follow them. Remember the general layout from the previous post.

Bueller?

OOC: I responded to the first of the four copies of this post.....my question was , do the rows of vines parallel the road, so we can sneak along easier than going across the rows?

Sneaking parallel to the road.

OOC: Hmmm.. Again I am not seeing all the posts of a thread. Perhaps they were sent while Dan was upgrading something. I'm not about to bring it up to him.
Yes they do. By walking very quietly and carefully, so as to avoid breaking any fallen leaves, you manage to sneak past the rat. After a few hundred yards, you come across an old mill pond and the ruins of a mill. It does not look large enough to hold a market or even a meeting in, since it is in such poor condition that the insides are plainly visible.
However, just beyond the pond the road continues but also branches to the right. The right hand branch looks smaller than the straight path.
There is no sign of your friends.

OOC: It could be the upgrade did something 'odd' since there were four copies of your post, all neatly in a row, I responded to the first one.....??
OOC: Four copies of 'Stealth Mode Active.' But which one is real?? I'll choose........this one!"
Celeste watches the two beasts begin down the road. Looking at Cas, "That rat is still sitting there, we are going to have to go through the rows if we are going to follow them."
Do the vineyard rows parallel the road? Or are we going to have to 'go against the grain....er..grape?

"Cas, can you tell which path they took?"

As a character, Cas probably could point to the path they took. As a player, I have no clue what-so-ever.

OOC: Wouldn't this be a good time to make your nose roll?Celeste looks at Cas and indicates her own nose, whispering, "Mine doesn't work as well as yours does."

Sneaking all stealthfully through the grapevines and trying to follow the trail of the others.

Perception 13-:
3d6: 13 Tue July 1, 2003 @7:13 PM (EDT)

4, 1, 1
STUN: 6 BODY: 1

Good roll!
As you look about the mill pond, a faint sound of shouting sounds from far up the main road. It is quickly silenced. You are fairly certain it was Faliol.

Cas looks to Celeste, "I think we may want to drop stealth for haste. Something seems wrong up ahead. Faliol may be in trouble."

Celeste nods at Cas' suggestion, draws her falchion and heads down the main road.

Cas frowns at Celeste's weapon drawing, "I would suggest not doing that until we know what kind of trouble Faliol is in. That could cause more problems than we want seeing as you are human."

OOC: Sorry, it's the training kicking in....

OOC: Cas responded to my post as well....

Keith, I feel like there has been a fairly long lull in this segment of the story. I understand abotu vacations and all and don't hold it against you.

I do feel however, that I'm sort of grasping at straws with Ricco. I was hoping we could take a few posts to figure out what he may be trying to do at Hole Market.

Now, I've just learned that smuggling anything but the most ammoral of objects is useless in Tallon. Since Ricco has that vapid habit of being drawn to do good things, he can't hardly smuggle poison into Tallon.

So, could I try some rolls and maybe get a hint or two? With the situation as it is in the storyline, Ricco could sell his (and Kent's) Dreamleaf for a bit of profit. He could use those funds to purchase some wine and make an even greater profit back in Tallon. Is this realy the wisest choice?

I could use some help.

Thanks,

Riccoco "Suave" Raccoon

Well, smuggling is illegal by definition, but I understand your dilemma. It's tough to be a "good-guy" smuggler without an evil empire to rebel against. One of the problems is that the Archon of Tallon, Ningan, is the closest thing to a progressive and benevolent ruler in the League. That's one of the reasons I asked for any suggestions. If you can think of something cool or a class of items that would fit the bill, I'm ready to run with it.

Of the top of my head:
One of the reforms Ningan has allowed is a greater amount of control over trade by the merchant guilds. These are mostly non-adepts. Perhaps some guilds have self-imposed tariffs or require licenses to sell certain goods. I really haven't explored this area and am willing to work it out in a way that makes Ricco's character work.
Once we have it hammered out, I really should add a "guilds" entry in the World book.

Here is the rough list of guilds I have so far:

Name - Guild
Darwin, Skoya - Weavers and Textiles
Balboa - Shipbuilders
Brillo - Moneylenders
Jun - Millers
Samovar - Smithies
Tempera - Jewelers
Vandik - Arena Fighters
??? - Pathfinders (Scouts)
Martingale - Brewers
Harker - Vice (unofficial)
Rodrik - Carpenters

Basically, we're looking for the Evil Tyrant that Ricco is smuggling under, right?

I think you've touched upon a good idea right here with the guilds. We've already established that Ricco uses forged documents of Guild membership.

We could take it one step farther: he's used the Night Folk caverns to get un-tarrifed items under the nose of the Guilds.

I was also thinking that Adala is known for its exotic liquor. What if a particular type of liquor has been banned due to its dangerous nature? A type of liquor similar to a halucinagenic or poison. It could be highly addictive or nigh-poisonous.

I'm thinking of something similar to the narcotic in Outland. Fatal uses of the drug are few and far between but, some time in the past it was banned in Tallon. Adala still manufactures it but, hasn't been able to get a market in Tallon due to the ban. As Ricco may not see it as dangerous and the ban frivilous, he would not be against bringing it under the radar.

He could also bring in imported liqour without the tariffs of Martingale and his Band of Brewers. I could see how Tallon Brewers would not want imported stuff from Adala if it is better.

This is good.

Let's go a bit further with the idea. Perhaps the brew is only intoxicating for most species, but poisonous for others, like chocolate for dogs or or only intoxicates one species liek catnip for cats. Then Riccoco could feel morally comfortable about dealing with it since it's not his responsibility if it is used incorrectly.

An additional possibility is that the merchant guilds charge tariffs on imported goods by using adept "sniffers" at the city gates. These people would not have the authority of the Archon, but would be able to stop people from selling without a particular license in the city byt refusing them space in the market circle. Thus you could be dealing with imported goods and using guild papers to justify your right to sell them.

You could offer to be a person who gets Adalan merchants' goods through the gate for sale in the city. If it's the afore-mentioned liquor, all the better, since it is doubly-controlled. You'll need to find a merchant who trades in Tallon and is not afraid of risk taking or lawbreaking. The Hole Market is a good start.

This is good!

I imagine the merchant Guilds fairly powerful entities capable of many underhanded and violent reprisals to someone sniping funds off the top of their due. Forged Guild documents and slipping by their sniffers at the front gate is a good idea and excellent scheme. That will certainly be his scheme and reason for coming to the Hole Market. (Well, one of them anyway. Thanks for working with me for it!)

Do you have a name and the particulars for this new drink? Something similar to catnip or chocolate is actually pretty brilliant and reflects the skewed physionomy of Savage Earth creatures. A very cool extrapolation from reality!

Nipgin ("NIP-jin")
This is a strong alcohol, similar to gin but smoother. It is a strong intoxicant and mixes well with other drinks. It does however have a several effects on felines that other species are immune to.

Firstly, it is fairly addictive to them.
Second, it is a hallucinogen and can occasionally induce periods of temporary psychosis (in the form of a murderous rage).
For these reasons, the Archon has discouraged its sale and the Brewers Guild carefully controls who may sell or serve it.

Other species enjoy it for its strength and flavor, and the macho reputation as a "Dangerous Brew".

AKA Catbane, or "Hair-o-the-Cat"

I've never taken a drink in my life, so let me know if this could be improved upon.

Now, how much of all this is common knowledge to Ricco? How about in Tallon? What about Adala?

You know, that does remind me of the narcotic in Outland! Good job!

As one who's taken too many drinks in his life... It sounds too realistic.

Nipgin is made only in Adala, though there is a really weak knock-off made by Tallon. The "real stuff" is Adalan.
It is fairly well-known, at least by reputation. It is of course, rarely seen. By trading in it, you would be about morally equivalent to a prohibion-era Rumrunner, i.e. lauded by some, reviled by others.

This is great!

Did you see my other posts on this and the Bank thread?

I tossed a query over on The Bank thread. I was trying to figure out how much disposable cash Ricco had after his excesses in the various AleHouses and such. Any idea?

OOC: Is this like "Whole Foods?", or like we call it "Whole Paycheck?"

The dog appears satisfied and nods to the rat-faced man, who gives Faliol back his bandana.
"Tha's the attitude, chum. No reason we can't all be friends. No down into the hole with you. But before ya do. We ain't got no signboard like the Archon. We only got's four rules:
"If Black Basil tells ya to do somethin' you don' ask no questions. He says 'Jum' ya don't wait for no 'P'.
"You draw, yer out. All the way out."
"Keep yer paws to yerself. No one picks a pocket in the Hole."
"Oh, and lastly. What goes on down there stays down there. You squeal, you finger, you let yerself get followed, and that's the end o' ya."

The tunnel leads directly towards the largest tree, and the reason for this becomes quickly apparent. The great roots of the ancient plant form a suppor structure for a fairly large dome under the ground. Folk have moved earth and shaped the wood of the tree into an underground gathering area of respectable size. The entirety might be sixty feet, but this is broken up by pillars of root. Tables and chairs adorn the interior and the light is provided by dim oil lamps.
The air is thick, though there must be ventilation from somewhere. The room is filled with beasts and humans, gambling, drinking and conducting business. Either that or they are servants, distributing vices and services to the clientele. The whole chamber has less the feel of a market and more the feel of a prohibition-era speakeasy.
There is even a small musical combo in one corner. It is loud down here, but not one peep reaches the surface.

I nod at the rat-faced man, ashamed to have lost my cool over such a little thing. Once we are out of hearing and down the tunnel, I whisper to my chubby buddy, "Sorry, Bandit. I...don't like dogs very much. I will try to behave better." I follow Ricco.

I keep my hand away from my sword in accordance to rule number two...

Ricco nods, whispering to Faliol, "Nothin' to be done about it, now. We be makin' our way in and we could be bringin' in the other two." He motions vaguely towards the humans and other Beasts.

"Which one you be thinkin' be Black Basel?"

Finally reaching a table... Ricco sets down to try and eavesdrop a bit on his fellow Marketters.

Ricco grins over at Faliol as they step down the tunnel and into its underbelly. His 'coon eyes rove about the area with barely suppressed anticipation.

Adjusting his leather vest with leathery padded paws, the plucky raccoon makes his way over to an empty table. He murmurs, "Mayhap, they have a bit o' Berry Ale. All your prayers be answered, Red!"

Eavesdropping on business is difficult, since that seems to be mostly conducted in whispers. Several beasts and humans look receptive to an inviting eye, but unless you motion someone over, they quickly move on. Watching closely, it seems that the M.O. is to buy a drink or other vice for a prospective business partner.
Fortunately for your parched throats, berry ale and many other concoctions are in abundance. A scantily-clad servant girl (rabbit), walks up to you two and asks, "Anything you boys want?"

I smile at our waitress, "Thank you, but I never drink on duty."

.oO(What is that old fox saying? "He who mixes liquor and business will lose his pelt...")

Ricco offers the foxy rabbit a sly, knowing grin. "Don' be lettin' ol' Red fool ya, Lass. He'll be havin' a Berry Ale as ol' Bandit will."

The 'coon slips a fat coin from his pocket out and onto the table. "Ol' Bandit here be new to the Hole... An' he be lookin' for a partner o' business. You got a suggestion or two?"

The drinks are unreasonably priced priced at 3 copper per. Nevertheless, she takes your dollar and will not make change unless you reach for it.
Instead she leans over in a friendly fashion and says in a low voice, "What kind of business is Bandit in?"

Ricco grins and reaches up to twirl at his whiskers. "Any, all, and a might few o' the ones between. Ol' Bandit be in from Tallon way along the Lizard. Between the two o' us, the Archons be a taxin' bunch. Hard on the Beastly lot. Ol' Bandit be wantin' to make some mutual coin for him an' another inter-es-ted partner."

The bunny gives you a solid wink. "Yes, sir. If you have a wide variety of interests and you prefer dealing with beasts, you might try Sangiyok. That's him over there talking to those two weasels."
She indicates a huge brown bear sitting on a shaped root seat. He is nearly seven feet tall and probably weighs over 300 pounds. The weasels seem to be doing most of the talking, while he sits and listens with a bored expression.

I briefly move my eyes over to the bear and weasel party.

.oO(Demon Kings, that guy is HUGE. Probably stronger than Rath...)

I concentrate on the rest of the crowd, particularly anyone looking in our direction...

I pretend to sip my drink, but take no liquid into my muzzle.

.oO(This berry ale could be used to clean rusted weapons...)

Pausing in his watching of the Bear, Ricco slowly lowers his tankard to the tabletop and turns to his good friend. "He not be havin' much for business judgement, eh?" He murmurs. "The Bear Sangiyok be dealin' with the weasels. It be a might right step up to the likes of us."

"What you be makin' of it? He be seemin' tired o' talkin' with the likes o' the weasels."

The 'coon can't help but look around after he queries the Fox Kit.

.oO(I be knowin' we should o' been keepin' Cas an' Celeste with us... Where could they be?)

OOC: Reply to this and we can actually do some of the plotting IC!

Looking at the bear and weasel party, I murmur, "Weasels. (snicker) Not many species have a more sullied reputation than foxes, but Weasels are the exception to the rule."

Ricco nods as he watches the other group, grinning knowingly. "There be no doubt about that, Red. A Weasel walkin' be trouble waitin' to be happenin'."

Turning towards his friend, the 'coon leans forward. His eyes are alight with the gleam of the many candles and perhaps a bit of mischief as he speaks in a low tone. "You be here in good confidence, Fox Kit. Be you knowin' Ol' Ri.. Bandit's scheme?"

I lean closer, "Can't say that I do know what your scheme is. Is this a private enough place to discuss your strategy?"

[EDITED on Thu July 10, 2003 @4:24 PM (CDT)]

"That be the thing to be askin', Red." Ricco gives a tiny shrug as he glances about conspicuously. Fixing his gaze once more on Faliol, he continues in his hushed brogue, "This 'coon ain't got the surety of it, but he be plannin' on playin' it by ear." He wriggles one white-tipped ear.

"At this point, ol ' Bandit be hopin' to be seein' the need o' that Bear. Iffin' he got goods that be sellin' in Adala, maybe we can take them back with Master Kent an' the rest." Nodding thoughtfully, he continues, "Otherwise, we be meetin' his ship back in Tallon in a week or two. Ol' Bandit be showin' the goods into the city, right under the Archon's nose."

Obviously pleased, Riccoco leans back in his chair, resting his berry ale on his paunchy belly, a knowing grin and a wink for Faliol.

Leaning back, cozy in his own cleverness, Riccoco itches behind one ear, while resting his mug on his paunchy belly. He comments to his friend, "It might be a might easier iffin' Ol' Bandit be havin' that load o' Dreamleaf to sell afore lettin' his cat out o' the bag where a trip to Tallon be the talkin' peice."

He takes another swig of his ale happily smacking his lips. "There be bein' no help for it. Master K.. The master be havin' that load o wares..." His voice trails of whimsically. Having the Dreamleaf seems a wish lost to the plucky Racoon.

"I think Mr.....the person that has your dreamleaf is back at his sleeping quarters. Would you like to go get the dreamleaf and return? We could see how those two we lost track of are doing..."

Riccoco leans forward, concern touching his Beastly features. "That be seemin' a mite risky, Red." Bandit glances around at his surroundings, "This lot be tricky enough to join. The way o' leavin' an' comin' back right aways... That could be bein' seen as doin' somethin' underhanded, eh?"

The 'coon scratches at the tuft of hair just under his muzzle. "Havin' me paws on the 'leaf might be a good-a-ways to cut the grit? What you be thinkin'? Be it worth o' the risk?"

I thought some rolls might be in order if Ricco knows what is best for him and his Foxy companion.

Trading 12-
3d6: 11 Mon July 28, 2003 @11:52 AM (CDT)

Streetwise 12-
3d6: 10 Mon July 28, 2003 @11:52 AM (CDT)

OOC: Mr. Kotter, Mr. Kotter!

Did you see the above post? I'm looking for direction/adjudication from you before I post agian. I'd love to move forward with this and sort of need input from you in order to do so!

Sorry, I missed these. The Dreamleaf would be an excellent "gift" to seal a bargain. You know that the gatekeeper would frown on too much coming and going, but another "gift" of some sort might make him a bit more tractable.

Right! Thanks!

Better late than never!

"If I remember correctly, the rules didn't say anything about leaving and returning. As long as we don't divulge any secrets or lead the Adalian police back here, we should be ok. We can ask permission, if they say 'No', we can simply forego selling the dreamleaf here...."

I shrug, indicating that the choice is entirely Ricco's.

Ricco nods at Faliol's words, one eye squinted nearly shut with a crooked, knowing grin. "It be the rules unspoken that has Bandit worried, Fox-kit."

OOC: I made some RP rolls and I'm waiting for Keith adjudication.

Mostly cause I miss him so!

Ricco winks at the Rabbitess, "Many thanks be yours, Lady." Riccoco takes a long quaff of his Berry Ale and smacks his lips happily. "Nothin' be better, Red!"

I pretend to take another sip of the berry ale. "Thanks for the ale, Bandit! This place sure is lively. Maybe you should strike up a conversation with the big fellow."

I nudge Ricco and motion with my head towards the big ursine.

.oO(This is what you wanted, Ricco. Go rattle the bushes and see what takes flight...)

Playing only in a single campaign at Hero Central, I'd be able to make sure I never got googly eyes. Ah well. We do what we can!

I'll ponder the best way for Ricco to approach the strangely neamed Bear Beast...

Any ideas? We've got three weeks to discuss.

OOC I am not really sure what it is you are selling here. Dreamleaf was it? I would be polite in any case, since he can squash you like a bug. Are you planning on setting up contacts now for return trips?

I guess my main question is - "What are your goals?" Then I can give better advice...

Good question. My goals, as my aspirations, are a vague glow at the end of the tunnel. There were many reasons for finding the 'Hole Market' for Ricco.

Now, that he's found it, he has this intangible need to make a profit off of it. It is made up mostly of Beasts. Making a connection to a powerful mercantiler here in Adala has to be a good move. The Beast that controls the Tallon side could become wealthy in short order.

None could say he was not successful. Unfortunately, he already handed his Dreamleaf off to Master Kent for him to sell it with his (I think. Keith will correct me if I'm wrong.)

Ricco hopes to use the cash from that sale to make a purchase here or at least set up some sort of smuggling operation into Tallon. He already has the means in Tallon, he just needs the merchant and goods from Adala.

Keith,
From what Ricco and Faliol have observed, what small items would fetch a handsome price in Tallon?

The principle export of Adala is alcohol in it's more exotic forms. The problem in smuggling into Tallon is that the Archon imposes no tariffs, in an attempt to encourage contact with other cities. This has made him very popular with some merchants and unpopular with others, depending upon the type of goods they produce.

There are rare and expensive spirits that could be traded, but with no reputation or bond to "insure" them, a stranger would be unlikely to risk using your group to work as agents. If you are looking to use your particular knowledge and skills to bring things into the city that would be otherwise prohibeted, you will need to find a substance that would be criminal or immoral to possess, sell, or use: drugs, slaves, relics and artifacts, military-grade spirit weapons, etc.

Further Notes: Tallon does have slavery, but these are generally indentures or "war-captures". There is no slave market.
"Illegal" Drugs would have to have some illegal effect, ex: highly effective toxins, mind-controlling, extremely addictive, etc.
Relics and artifacts can be confiscated as property of the city (Archon), but this is usually reserved for items of genuine cultural heritage, or that someone powerful takes a fancy to. i.e. ya takes yer chances.


Finally, I'm open to suggestions...

OOC: I thought Ricco had previously set-up a 'smuggling' situation through his contact with the Night Folk? Or, were these previous deals one-shots of illegal goods? I adn't realized the Tallon Archon didn't impose tariffs. What is she trying to do? Run is dishonest merchants out of business?

Kent returned with Riccoco's unsold bag (plus some of his own unsold supply). The others left him at the shacks while they went to find the plucky one. The bag is thus outside the city, but not immediately at hand.

Faliol knows that Ricco's dreamleaf is back at the Shacks?

Has he voiced this knowledge to Ricco? If so, weren't we back at the Shacks for quite a while as we discussed what we were going to do about getting into the Hole Market, tonight?

Was there no possibility of Ricco running into Kent at that point? I feel like it was months ago that all of that took place! Agggh!

OOC Just guessing, but Faliol probably knows that Kent hasn't sold his (or your) dreamleaf. He/Jareek have volunteered to help Kent sell the dreamleaf. Whether or not he has communicated this to Ricco, I couldn't tell you....

You could always ask in character...

1. Ricco explores the Greens
2. Others enter city
3. Ricco makes contact
4. Others leave city
5. Others leave Kent and Jareek at Shacks to look for Ricco
6. Ricco and Others rendezvous at Hanging Tree, discuss things there.
7. The four proceed to the Hole Market.
No one went back for anything or inquired about the bag

Boz, that other thread was getting too skinny for me. Or, I miss my GM capabilities of starting new threads. :shrug: Either way I started this new thread for us to continue discussing and plotting while the GM is away.

OOC Ok. You are a buyer looking to establish the Adala link to your network. Point 1 - there probably exists a beast that handles the Tallon end of business. If there is money to be made, someone already has their hand in that cookie jar. We need to know what sort of competition is already in place in Tallon. You need to offer the bear an improvement over the status quo. You need to be prepared for retaliation if you are successful in replacing the Tallon person.

Ricco already has an improvement. He can offer a method of bypassing tariffs of the Tallon Archon. If there is already a Beast on the Tallon end of a 'black market' trade agreement in Tallon, Ricco probably already knows him.

Further thought says: Any trading going on with Tallon probably doesn't require to be 'illicit'. The only reason this market, or perhaps one of the reasons, is just the fact that Beasts are allowed. That isn't necessary in Tallon.

Retalliation sounds like a good hook, eh? I doubt Ricco would want to be the known 'figure' of such an operation. His survival instinct would kick-in and that would be the end of that.

Yours or mine?

Are the pages looking strange to you?

Something seems hosed, but I don't know what it is...

Frames have gone missing or something.

OOC Jason, it is my turn. Sorry for not posting, working two jobs at once until this weekend.

The main storyboard page does look weird.

I look back at Ricco, not wanting to seem to stare at the bear.

"Bandit, we need to find something valuable in Tallon, that sells cheaply here. Plus, it needs to be small or you will attract unwanted notice. Any thoughts come to mind?"

Though thirsty, I only pretend to take another sip of this nasty berry ale. Raccoons must lack a vulpine's keen sense of taste...

OOC: I'm not sure which of the two active threads we should be persuing. I suggest making a new one and following that. (After Keith helps me decide what would be best for Ricco according to a couple of rolls I disclosed. )

Ricco nods slowly and shoots Faliol his now-familiar (and annoying) knowing grin. "Ol' Bandit be havin' an idea or two, Red. You be wantin' to hear 'em afore we take 'em to the big bear over yonder?"

The 'coon nods towards the table of lupine and vermin, taking another healthy draught of his berry ale.

I lean forward and look Ricco in the eye. I rotate my ears till they face the plucky coon.

"Bandit, I am all ears..."

OOC: I'm still waiting on those rolls. If I don't hear anything in the next couple of hours, I'll just bypass and move forward.

I thought that said, "My good Mamma!"

I was like, WTF?

The 'coon slams back his Berry Ale and lowers the empty tankard to the table as he leans conspiratorily forward. "First off, Red, me fine fellow, we best be bein' off for that Dreamleaf. Then, we return to speak," Riccoco pauses, nodding towards the vast bulk of the Bear, "with the weasel friend."

"We be needin' to risk the ire of gate guards. The Dreamleaf be too good a gift." Not waiting for a reply, 'Bandit' shifts on his seat, scooting backwards and coming to his feet.

I thought I'd put the sentiment out here as well as Campaign Messages.

I've really missed playing Ricco. I'm glad to have the opportunity for this Ricco-specific story thread. I'm also glad that at least Faliol could be involved in it as well.

Thanks to both of you!

Thanks, Jason! Savage Earth wouldn't be the same without the plucky coon. For an old dude, Keith sure GMs well. Geritol must help the creative process...

Boz, I thought you mentioned being in your 30s. Do we notice some self-fulfilling prophecy here?

Ware your words, Bozimus!

The MAN hath spoken!

Last Thursday I turned 40.

I am gonna get it now....

When you are as old as I am (in three days), you'll see things with the perspective and wisdom of age.

Kid.

ARE old!

Strangely, I don't get email notices from this thread, though I get them from other threads in the HOLE MARKET thread.

Does that seem weird to you guys?

OOC: I don't know where I'm supposed to respond IC/OOC. I'm all confused!

The horror that occurs when Silent Keith loves us to ourselves!!!

Running hrough the rows, you make more noise than you would like. It's so difficult to get good speed in the dark, that you eventually give this up in favor of the road. Passing several small turnoffs, you reach the third dirt road past the millpond. This is where Cas is certain she heard the voices. There is no one there now. This side road dead ends after a short while. At the far end are piles of agricultural waste set aside for burning. Beyond them are some huge trees on a low rise.

No sign can be found of Faliol or Riccoco.

Good perception roll, Celeste!

There is no one openly visible, though you saw a human duck* quickly behind the largest pile of cuttings as you approached. Also, some of the shadows in branches of the nearest tree look suspicious.

OOC: * No, not a "human duck".

"Celeste," Cas says with a start, "I don't like this one bit. I'm sure I heard Faliol give a distressing cry. I'm going to check the rubbish over there unless you have a better idea."

In a low voice, Celeste replies, "Cas, I'm sure I saw someone human duck behind that pile, and look at the shadows in the branches of those trees. Don't they look--odd." Her voice takes an unusual tone.

Cas flexes her claws and is suddenly very prepared for a fight. "You may want to draw your weapon now Celeste... I don't like the look of this at all."

Celeste, never having put the falchion away, easily settles into a low guard position facing the side of the clearing with the most trees. Scanning the shadows for movement. "What do you mean, 'humans should be here', this was supposed to be the beast market."

OOC: There should be a "n't" on that one.

Cas considers the situation carefully, "Celeste, I am going to make a blood oath here. Back when we dealt with the 'reaver' problem some of us were careless. I will not leave you behind so long as I can still stand."

Cas contemplates crying out to Riccoco and Faliol. However, the surprise the two may now have is too valuable for such a tactic.

"Cas, if anyone was careless, it was me. If the Gods had decreed that it was my life in exchange for Ash, then so be it. Besides, I seem to recall a certain lady fox who was in need as much as I. But thank you, I will not leave you either." A stillness falls over the clearing. "If anything evil has befallen our friends, let us be quick about it and send these villains to their maker."

What actions will you take?

Examing the Rubble... if nothing stands out the woods will be our next examination.

OOC: I draw my sword and disbelieve.....oh, wait, I already have my sword drawn....

Celeste will watch Cas' back whilst she checks the rubble pile.

As Cas approaches the cuttings and branches, a figure raises its head from behind the pile. It is a man, lean and rat-faced.
"Well, I haven't never seen your face round here fox-- vixen. That sure as the DK's ain't no agricultural implement in yer paw. Mind explaining what you and your tall friend is doing here in the vineyards in the middle of the night?" He stands, apparently unafraid of being outnumbered.
"Ketzer don't employ neither of you. Now you can either give me a damn good explanation, or turn your.... tails and walk on out of here."

Cas looks at the guy firmly in the eyes, "You are lying so thick I can smell it on your breath. Not minutes ago I heard the cry of my lover." Cas blushes a bit at this statement but she is trying to make a point here. "I was quite content on my walk with my friend here until I heard the cry. Being as my kind are rare, perhaps we can shorten this excersion by dropping the deception."

Cas will scan the ground for blood or perhaps a struggle.

Perception 13-
3d6: 11 Sat July 19, 2003 @12:36 AM (EDT)

Celeste slowly advances on the rat-faced man's position.

[EDITED on Thu July 10, 2003 @2:00 AM (PDT)]

The rat-faced man becomes a bit more tense as the barbarian approaches. Nevertheless, he takes the time to answer Cas' words. "Well, now, them's harsh words between folks what just met. I don't recall sayin' anything that could be a lie. So you can understand how my feelin's might be hurt.
His head snaps around to Celeste. "That's close enough sword-cakes. If we wanna continue to be friendly-like, you probably want to hold your ground."

Cas, there is no sign of a struggle or blood, but you can clearly see Faliol's bandana or one much like it on the ground near the brush pile.

Cas tries to bite back her rage. She makes a motion to Celeste that indicates stay as you are although she would prefer having a hand gesterure that could say a much more complex message, "I will ask you this one last question. Has there not been a fox beast here recently besides myself?"

The rat-faced man appears to take some small satisfaction in your ire. "Actually, that would be yer first question now, wouldn'it?
"Take a piece of advice, Fluffy. People what walk out this way don't wanna have no one know they been by here. I ain't gonna spell things out for ya no further, so's you and Legs here can turn around and enjoy the dawn tomorrow or stay here and kiss all yer tomorrows g'bye." His mocking sneer never leaves his face.

It occurs to Cas that she may actually be putting Faliol in danger instead of coming to his help. This creates a minor conflict in her mind but she is sure that the rat has a very good point. It is also clear that no battle took place here which means he may be alright, despite the signs that something unwanted took place here earlier.

Cas eyes the rat, "Alright then, I'll find my way back to my walk but if I don't see my friend alive and in one piece come morning I will be sure to hunt you down."

Without giving him a chance to respond, Cas turns and starts to walk towards Celeste. Her claws are almost digging into her paw in frustration.

"Friendly? I don't recall saying anything that could be 'friendly' "
Celeste holds her ground, but ceases advancing on the 'rat'-faced man.


(editing for test purposes)

[EDITED on Wed July 30, 2003 @1:10 AM (PDT)]

"Friendly is as friendly does. So please. Take a friendly walk back to less dangerous areas. Friendly advice, that."

Celeste looks at Cas to see her response to this "friendly advice"

Once out of sight from the guard, Cas will ease up on her claws, a small trickle of blood flowing down them. "I swear that if Riccoco and Faliol don't come back in perfect condition that guy is dead."