These are the events following the fight. Depending on reactions, This thread could last hours or days.

After the passage of several hours, all the ambulatory folk have been settled.
You are allowed three rooms in the east wing to divide however you wish. The normal residents of the house are confined to the west wing. To your surprise, there are two children, and Throne's wife Larana in addition to servants and staff. They were all hiding during the altercation.

Eventually Healers come to attend the severely wounded. Beka, Vagrant and Handle all receive their attention.

Beka
Your healer is a woman. She looks you over carefully and says, "This would have healed without my intervention. You will feel a tightness in your abdomen and shoulder for a few hours, but then you should be close to your ideal."

Handle
Your healer is the same woman as Beka. Though you are a bit nervous about an adept examining you so closely, you realize the necessity of it. The healer confirms your concern when she tells you, "It is fortunate you went to no doctor for this. Your hands would never be as skilled as once they were. I sense a strong anima to them. Are you a musician?"

Vagrant
You have a male healer, bald and middle-aged. He has a ruddy charm to his countenance. "Vagrant, eh? Odd name, but I've heard odder. My own tag is Klink. Bet you've never heard anything so outrageous, ha!
"Odd morphia you have there, stranger. But we can true you up and ship you out just the same. Wow, that's a mess down there. Good thing I can see you're in a bit of shock, otherwise I doubt you'd be able to think straight. That kind of gut wound gets infected almost by itself; I've heard the pain is indescribable.
"Oh now, never you fear. This is no back alley doctor you've got on the case. We'll fix you up better than new."
Though his words are light and breezy, you can see hidden concern in his eyes.

Each of you can see your wounds visibly close and knit before your eyes. In a few hours to half a day, depending on severity, they have mostly vanished. There are some marks that the healers assure you will fade with time. They will not even leave scars.

While all are being setttled, during the healing time, Kent and Jareek are escorted into the manor. Both look intensely worried, and are deeply relieved to hear that all ave survived.
Jareek approaches Faliol (though any nearby can join the conversation).
"Faliol, me kit! You're all in one piece. Thank the Stones!
"We had a fright for sure, I can tell you. When all these high folk started descendin' upon the bakery, I thought we were fair knackered. They started askin' a lot of questions and the next thing you know, that there Rakeen fella is using his touch on us. Says he needs to verify some fella's story. Next thing I know he seems to know everyone's name and business. I didn't even feel anything.
"Then he tells this paladin fella o' his to go and give you lot help. Says to arrest Throne if'n he has to. I heard Paladins were a fierce lot, but I didn't see what he thought he could do against all them barbarian types. Looks like it all turned out fer the best though, eh?"

Faliol is happy to see his sire and his employer in one piece. The grin fades when Jareek mentions the Paladins...

"Pops, trust me. If a Paladin decides to take on an army of Hill Tribers, bet on the Paladin to win."

"It be good to be seein' you be aright, Old Fox!" Riccoco steps up to Faliol and Master Kent with a backward glance at the guards stopping him from leaving the Mansion. "Mayhap, the rest o' the group will be bein' around an' all will be comin' out for the best. Cept for ol' Rath, o' course."

Ricco's demeanor lessens visibly. "We be doin' all that can be done for Rath..." Quieting, the 'coon returns to cleaning his trident. He stays near the two foxes and Master Kent, though.

OOC: Where is our favorite Adept?

OOC: Nuyok, Leckchock and Celeste all had wounds that were far more serious. In fact, mortal wounds. They were taken to the Ward of Chthon, wherever that is. The event takes place in Assault.2 under the heading "Help Arrives".

Is it at all possible for Cas to get someone to pick her up some supplies. She doesn't mind being under house arrest as long as she is able to put her time to good use. She would like get her carving kit and get someone to pick her up some decent wood. If it is not possible there will definitely be guards who will be hearing the same 100 stories 200 times.

Someone brings Cas her carving kit eventually. As for the decent wood, there are a number of stores of nice wood in the cellar. You are allowed to collect some.

I just nod at the adept and try to smile pleasantly.

.oO(A musician? Hmm, I guess I do play my own sort of music, though it be with knife and leather pouch string. Damn watch your thoughts you idiot. Um one two three, no something more complex, harder to read, um- mix calimine with oyster and then powedered aloe plant and let sit till it becomes a paste. Use this for sunburn or light fire cuased wounds. Treat aching stomach with cod liver and egg of goose, add milk and watered beer if vomit is wished to be induced...)

After a full day has past and into the next morning, you are beginning to feel restless. No one has come for you and no one has returned from this "Ward of Chthon" to bring word of your companions. The guards are professionally polite, but are either ignorant of the matter or intentionally withholding.
Eventually, as you are being given your morning meal, you are visited by Orlando. The Paladin looks larger than life in the confines of the dining room, and he takes a few choice morsals from the table without invitation.
"Greetings Tallonfolk," he begins. "I cannot tarry long, for I have duties. I thought you might like to know that all of your companions have survived. They have been tended to by healers of the Ward of Chthon. They were a hair's breadth from death as I understand, but it's said that if a man is decapitated, the Healers of the Ward will only ask, 'for how long?'" He winks.

Faliol's ears go from 10 and 2 o'clock to full noon.

.oO(Joy and happiness, YES!)

He forgets to be scared of Orlando, greeting the lethal paladin warmly.

"Hello, Mr. Orlando! Thank you for that most welcome of news! Tells us more, please!"

Hopping about like a little kit on free chicken day,

"Celeste is recovering? Master Nuyok, too? What about poor Lekchock's fingers? Re-attached and functional would be good..."

Orlando finishes raiding your table and rises. "They should be here sometime today, barring anything unforseen. I heard that there was some legal confusion over one of them, but only rumor and poorly heard. I wouldn't worry. As long as they have broken no Adalan laws, they should be cleared for release anytme."
He takes a deep swig of the table wine.
"And now, I must go."

Ricco's fork clatters to the table and he grins sheepishly. "Be keepin' well, Paladin Orlando." The 'coon offers a weak wave of farewell.

.oO(Nipgin be legal in Adala. No Adala laws bein' broke here... All be well.)

"That's great news! I'm glad they are alright. Now that begs the question of how often do people get decapitated in this town. Do they heal from the neck down or from the neck up? And is it possible to make two copies of the same person like that?"

Embarrassed silence briefly touches the table. Apparently, everyone but the addled vixen realized this for a Tall Tale.

"Ol' Riccoco be sure they'd be makin' sure there weren't two Vixen's like you comin' outta a single beheadin', Cas." He chuckles nervously, eyes occasionaly edging over to the Paladin.

"So... Sir Orlando... How long this lot be needin' to stay in this Mansion? There be a few of us bein' Merchant types and be needin' to attend to business..." He lets the word trail off meaningfully.

"Justice is swift in Adala," he says proudly. "As long as there are no loose ends to be pursued, and assuming he has indeed acted without spiritual coercion he should be on a Hanging tree in another day or two at the most. I doubt you will be here as long as that."

You awaken, feeling oddly refreshed. Your axe hand is wrapped in some kind of stiff hard bandages. There is an attendant nearby. She is a matronly human female. She looks pleased. "Ah, awake at last. Here is a bit of Yano juice. It should restore you a bit. Drink it slowly."

"Wha' 'appened? Where am I?"
Lekchock takes a sip of the liquid.
"Who are you?"

"You are in the Ward of Chthon, Mister Leckchock, the place of highest healing in Adala. I am Nurse Wenda. Your injuries were mortal and you would have died were it not for the healers here.
"Your hand should have fully recovered by this evening. It may feel fine to you now, but the Healers recommend leaving it immobilized until that time.
"You will also be pleased to hear that your companions have all survived as well. Master Nuyok is in a separate ward, while your Sea Tribe woman is under custody for some acts of piracy, I believe."

" An Throne, wha 'eppen to him?" Lekchock askes as he examines his hand.

Nurse Wenda's face clouds, "Oh he's in the Hole for sure. I hope they bury him there, too."

"Wha is dis hole you talkin' 'bout?"

"Oh properly it's the 'Pit of Mahabbis' ", She replies. "It's The Prison, if you understand me. Only the best of the worst go there, or the worst of the best. Impossible to escape from, eh?"
She looks at you a moment, and then says, "Well, your heart and lungs are strong, the hand has knitted. I'll see about getting you out of here and back with your travellers."

She pauses before leaving. "Forgive my forwardness, but when I was a little girl, my nanny told me stories of the forest men, who climbed the great trees as easily as we walk on pavement..." Her eyes look questioningly.

Lekchock gives the woman a sidways smile, "You're nanny was right, I am one o' da forest men. We live in da trees, make our homes there..." At this point Lekchock's eyes glaze over and is almost as if he forgets the woman is there

.oO(At least I useta live in da forest, can' go back der now dough, not wit everythin' dat happen. Don' know where I'm gonna go now...)

Her eyes shine a bit at this revelation. "I knew it!" she exclaims. "I'll be back as soon as I may."
She is in fact not gone very long before returning to report, "The High Justice has conferred with Master Healer Dannel and you are to be released to be with your companions at Throne's house.
"Well, you and the Tallon Master, that is. The pirate woman is to remain here for the time being. I'm sorry to say so, but that woman is frightening, with her fierce face and warlike manner. I hear she threatened her orderly."

.oO(I guess I should tank dem for der help wit Throne, at least before I go...go where ever it is I'm goin')

"Tank you for da healin' and for your 'ospitality."

You awaken, feeling oddly refreshed. Your ribcage is wrapped in an immobilizing bandage material. There is a healer nearby. He is an older man, who radiates bedside manner. "Good morning, Adept Nuyok. You are recovering well. The bandages are merely an aid towards restoring the morphia to the ideal. They'll come off in a few hours, once we're sure everything has taken well. Before you ask, yes, all your companions have survived as well. You may see them soon, High Justice willing."

"I take it I have you to thank for the healing? If so, thank you...forgive me, but you have me at a loss, your name is?"

"So is this the morning after being at Throne's? What of Throne?"

Carefully moving to not aggrievate his injuries, Nuyok will adjust so as to glance about the room and toward any existing window and survey his surroundings.

"Yes, I tended your wounds. Let's see, three broken ribs, a collapsed lung as well as multiple lacerations of the serratus and latissimus muscles of the left side. You should be fine by now, though a bit tender.
"I am Healer Dannel. You are in the Ward of Thone upon the Island. Two of your companions are in the ward as well, though in different rooms. The others I believe are still at Merchant Throne's.
"As for the Merchant himself. He is in the custody of the High Justice, awaiting investigation and sentencing. I think that your companions will be required to be available until then, but I really couldn't say."

The room you are in is nicely, if not richly furnished. There is a braod glazed window that overlooks a garden and then the sea.

"Thank you again, then Dannel. Say, I have been looking to expand my healing knowledge, so perhaps you could direct me somewhere after I'm better to pick up books on healing poison, disease, and anatomy at the least, and perhaps other areas as well? Any bits of wisdom that you could share on such topics would be appreciated as well, but I assume you can't spend all day with me," Nuyok politely smiles.

"I've got a bit of time, but not enough to impart the secrets of the Universe." He smiles. "As for books, well, those would be part of the Grand Archives, for University study. You understand why such things cannot just be sold to anyone."
The two of you talk for some time. He is quite knowledgeable, but ultimately unhelpful. Too much of what adepts learn is based on exersizes and directed learning. Still, you might be able to do a bit of cross-devotional healing with a really excellent roll. At the least, you learn a little about identifying poisons and some new anatomical insights (his specialty).
After a while he is summoned away, leaving you to your thoughts. You are advised to stay put. He comes back soon enough, but his face is not nearly so convivial.
"Well, you and the Forest Man are to be released, sort of. The majority of your companions are still at Throne's until sentencing, a day or so at most. You will be taken to them."
Orderlies have entered at this point and begin removing the bandaging material.
"The pirate woman is to stay here, however, until the Quarterjudge decides her fate. It seems she might have been involved in a number of attacks against Adalan shipping and fishing vessels."

"Thank you for the healing information, as well as the update on our status. Given the complicated circumstances, it is understandable that we may still be wanted to be available for questions. As for sentencing, do you mean Throne's?"

Nuyok shows a bit of surprise at the comment about Celeste, and responds "Are you saying she's accused of piracy? Would it be possible for me to see her before we leave? I would very much appreciate it, and can't see the harm...," Nuyok finishes politely.

"The High Justice anticipated that request. I'm sorry, but he gave explicit instructions that you be denied a visit. He felt it a bad idea for someone under investigation to be visited by a foreign adept, Master or no."
No amount of debate will sway him, he is under orders from a Grandmaster.
Please continue under "Almost Reunited".

You awaken, feeling oddly refreshed. Your torso is wrapped in an immobilizing bandage material. There is an attendant nearby, as well as a pair of guards. You notice that your left leg is shackled to the bed. The attendant is a female, late thirties with ash blonde hair and an over-angular face. She speaks as you get your bearings. "Please don't strain.The healing is new and we must make sure it takes well. The bandages will help to keep everything in place." She glances at the soldiers in irritation. "Must you stand in here? Can you not wait outside the door?"
One of the soldiers begins to protest, but the other says, "Yeah, we can do that." The other looks at him in puzzlement, but he replies, "Jornu's a pal o' mine. She deserves that much." They leave you alone with the attendant.

Celeste looks at the attendant as the two guards leave (Does she recognize one as Melkut? Is there anyone else in the room? As in -is this a ward type room or just a single bed, or does it look more like a jail?) Eyes narrowed, she asks, "What did he mean by that? Why am I chained to this bed? Where are my companions!?" She sizes up the attendant to see if she can take her.

Neither guard is Melkut or Jornu. The bed is a heavy wood and iron creation and matches the room's decor, which is pretty fine. This is definitely not a prison cell, but the shackle to your leg runs around the bed frame in such a way that it could not be removed with tools or a key. It is conceivable that you could drag the bed, since you are fairly strong, but it would take a great deal of effort, make a lot of noise, and take forever to get through a door.
Your arms and armor are gone and you are wearing a simple white shift.
There are glazed windows in the room that look out over the ocean. Seabirds fly past occasionally. The angular woman is no match for you; she is a simple nurse apparently.
She attempts to calm you down. "Please Miss, take it easy. I am not certain what the guards meant. I believe you are awaiting judement from the High Justice regarding some acts of... well, piracy."
From reading your history it seems you were navigator on board a Red Tide raiding ship. This would make you culpable of any actions were carried out against Adalan shipping. Boothia, Cambridge and Melvil are more in the path of the Red Tide, but Adala has certainly suffered from them as well. It's up to you if your character remembers ever attacking an Adalan ship.

You know I had posted a perfectly good response here the other night,but it seems to have evaporated....That has happened a couple of times over at MD as well....I have no idea why...Yes, I suppose we probably had raided Adalan ships from time to time, but we didn't really care who they were as long as the haul was good. Except for my father's wild foray in Raiding Izlond in order to steal my mother, I think we mostly stayed away from raiding other pirate types...besides fat merchants have better stuff....

Celeste attempts to get out of the bed, "Since when does rescuing my friend from the dungeon of that bastard merchant Throne constitute piracy? He's already killed one of my companions. How will your High Justice deal with Throne? Let him buy his way out?"

Celeste will attempt to break the wooden parts of the bed loose from the metal in order to loose the chain....it could make a great weapon you know...

The nurse looks panicky and cries out.
The door opens and the guards re-enter the room. Neither has a weapon drawn. The one who said that he was a friend of Jornu says, "Hold on there, Miss. Calm down. That bed is solid ironwood with metal fittings and rivets. It's not going anywhere and neither are you."
"Now what were you saying?"
Celeste repeats, "Since when does rescuing my friend from the dungeon of that bastard merchant Throne constitute piracy? He's already killed one of my companions. How will your High Justice deal with Throne? Let him buy his way out?"
"I see. Well I don't kow the details. I'm not a judge. I don't think your actions at the Merchant's have anything to do with your charges. And watch your tongue when you speak of the Grandmaster Rakeen."
The other guard seems less friendly. "He's worth a thousand of those Red Tide murderers. If I had my way you'd all be stretching ropes in the Hanging Trees."
The first guard silences him with a look. "That's for the High Justice to decide." He looks at Celeste again and then at the nurse. "I think at least one of us should stay in here to make sure things stay civil."

"Not have anything to with the charges?" At the other guards mention of Red Tide, realization dawns on Celeste that the evil Adalans must have had one of their adepts invade her mind. Her eyes narrow as she looks at the guards, her voice shakes with rage as she stares at them, "If you know that much then, you must also know I am no longer Red Tide and I would as soon see them all fed to the monsters of the deep." She turns away from them and looks out the window to the ocean. Pressing her hand on the glazed pane and as if speaking to someone not in the room, "Why didn't the gods let me die when they took you....?"

Celeste, you are allowed to stew for awhile. After some time, you have a visitor. He is obviously a dignitary of some sort and is obvioously an adept. He is flanked by heavy-looking guards. (Remember, you are unarmed, unarmored and shackled (1/2 DCV)).
"Hello Miss Celeste," he begins, "I am the Quarterjudge for Maritime matters. I am here as a favor to the High Justice, who asked me to handle your case personally. Normally, a member of Red Tide would be summarily executed, after they were probed for secrets.
"This is not done for casual cruelty. The Red Tide are a vicious pack of murderers. They deserve nothing more. It is a testament to the mercy of his honor that he accords you an audience, let alone leniency.
"Now you and the others have been read, it is true. We needed corroborating evidence of Throne's guilt. This has been received. However, during the process, your complicity in at least three separate attacks upon Adalan shipping has been uncovered. Many Adalan citizen died or were taken into slavery at those times.
"I understand that you beleive you have been reformed since then and have nothing but a similar contempt for those cutthroats."
He sighs, "This may be difficult for you to understand, though with a Red Tide upbringing I marvel that you wonder at it at all, but law is not based upon a model of reformation or repentence. How you feel about it has absolutely no bearing upon the fact that the crime was committed. Merikian Law, for whatever reformist Archons in Tallon may claim, is based upon a model of Retribution and Deterrence. Restitution also has some bearing. If a thief knows they will be summarily hung and allowed to rot before their victims, they will be less likely to risk theft. It's really very simple.
"Now, the High Justice has indicated you were in some small way helpful in the Throne case. Not pivotal in any way, mind you, but marginally helpful. This combined with the fact that you never physically harmed an Adalan in a personal manner has convinced me to lean towards a period of restitutionary labor rather than execution."
He leans back and smiles beneficently, as if he has granted you an enormous favor. You suddenly realize that by his viewpoint, he probably believes he is being a kind and merciful person.
He feels the need to clarify. "A period of five years laboring in the Tin mines should generate sufficient revenue to compensate widows, orphans and the Archon's mercantile for their losses. It's either that or a Hanging Tree."

Celeste gathers some measure of restraint, "No! I do not accept your judgement. You said he would accord me an audience. I request to meet with your High Justice myself." She takes a wild guess that flatlander law is as far from Red Tide law as possible, she adds, "It is my right."

The Quarterjudge sighs. "I was afraid you would insist on that. Let me clarify a few things.
"First. You are a Red Tide Raider. Now-now-now, I am aware of your history. I know that you no longer consider yourself Red Tide. If I suddenly decided I was Boothian, it would not exempt me from crimes comitted in Adala. If Merchant Throne were to repent, would you forgive him for Rath's death? What this means is that you have no rights. You are not a citizen.

"Second. I have been apointed by the High Justice specifically. Sparing the life of a Red Tide raider is unpopular and the High Justice is very high profile. If he were to pardon you, there would be a great protest. Grandmaster Rakeen wishes to reward you for your service, but not at his own expense of course. That is why I am here. I can reduce your sentence quietly. If the Grandmaster were to see to your case, he would need to make it death by hanging.

"Third," and here his voice becomes harder, "You ARE guilty. You sailed upon a craft which preyed upon merchant vessels and fishing vessels. You really have a great deal of audacity asking for favors. Can you think of any other way of making restitution?"

Celeste stares stonily at the Quarterjudge as he speaks...

The Quarterjudge sighs. "I was afraid you would insist on that. Let me clarify a few things. "First. You are a Red Tide Raider. Now-now-now, I am aware of your history. I know that you no longer consider yourself Red Tide. If I suddenly decided I was Boothian, it would not exempt me from crimes comitted in Adala. If Merchant Throne were to repent, would you forgive him for Rath's death? What this means is that you have no rights. You are not a citizen.

"Second. I have been apointed by the High Justice specifically. Sparing the life of a Red Tide raider is unpopular and the High Justice is very high profile. If he were to pardon you, there would be a great protest. Grandmaster Rakeen wishes to reward you for your service, but not at his own expense of course. That is why I am here. I can reduce your sentence quietly. If the Grandmaster were to see to your case, he would need to make it death by hanging.

"If Grand Master Radkeen wishes to reward me for my 'service' as you put it .oO(You and your godless spirit-eating mind-rapers...) then five years in a tin mine is no reward...it is death. I may be a barbarian by your flat-lander definitions, but I am not stupid. I know what happens to people in mines, any mines...they don't come out! Ever!"

"Third," and here his voice becomes harder, "You ARE guilty. You sailed upon a craft which preyed upon merchant vessels and fishing vessels. You really have a great deal of audacity asking for favors. Can you think of any other way of making restitution?"

Celeste continues to stare at the Quarterjudge. She paces the small length afforded her by the shackles until he suggests there may be another way. She whirls around to face him, the angry look on her face becomes a smile, but it is a terrible smile, augmented by the ritual scarring, it is enough to make even the Quarterjudge afraid even though there is no way she can reach him.

"Restitution? Why yes, I can and it would be reward enough for me. It should be more than enough restitution for Adala and your other flat-land cities. "

The Quarterjudge's eyes widen as you make your face. He blanches, but does not jump. He sighs again.
"I'm sorry you are so filled with anger. I see no remorse in you. If you cannot see the harm you have done, If you cannot see the favor that is being done for you.. then I am afraid I must make my recommendation to the High Justice."
He moves towards the door. "It is possible the Justice may yet see grant mercy in this matter, but I doubt he will intercede."
He looks at you oddly. "You are young yet, and strong. I really think you could have survived the mines..."
He leaves the room very slowly, as if willing to allow you to call him back.

"You're not interested in what I have to offer in 'restitution'?" Celeste queries as the Quarterjudge turns to leave.

[EDITED on Sat November 22, 2003 @10:05 AM (PST)]

See response under the Judgement thread.

"Anyone seen Peaches? Did you find Rath axe? We need to find a return cargo, any leads? When can we get out of this place?"

[EDITED on Sun November 16, 2003 @4:04 PM (PST)]

"How about spirit axes?" Cas snickers and goes back to her carving.

Nuyok Friendship Knot*
PS Woodcarving: 16-
3d6: 13 Sat November 15, 2003 @6:38 PM (EST)

* The Friendship knot that Cas is making is a small wooden tube about as wide as a wooden nickle and as tall as the prong of a force. The outside design is a similar Celtic knot. The inside is smooth and simple. It is designed for a number of small tasks like lacing a rope belt knot through or holding back hair in a pony tail. It covers the knot over with with something nice looking essentually.

If the one for Nuyok comes out alright, Cas will work on making one for everyone.

Vagrant sleeps awhile in one of the rooms allotted him. He says very little to the others due to his injuries and healing ordeal but now feels a bit better and looks for the others. Likely, he discovers Cas whittling away at here latest creation. Vagrant approaches her and sits near her.

"Hello Cas. I am happy to see you are unhurt. I am at a disadvantage to know a lot of what has transpired. I fear that Rath is dead and it was my fault. I was so mean to him the last time I saw him and I think he truly didn't understand my intentions. I was trying to get him and Nuyok to safety when I saw Throne's intention to hold me and force me to do his will. It would have come to their lives or my obedience in the end. No good officer of the law would put innocents in jeopardy. I guess in the back of my mind I hoped for a full caravan rescue too. I told myself when it didn't come for quite some time that it was too difficult and unlikely. Then I realised that you were all lured back into Throne's game. I haven't felt worse about something...well not for along time anyway. Can you tell me what has transpired. I need to know how much pain was caused to the caravan due to my inclusion."

"If you blame yourself for Rath's death, you are mistaken," Cas says setting down her equipment, "I will explain as best I can. You see Beka and I went to try and trade the silks to Throne but were turned away. It would seem that whatever interest he had in them was lost once he had you. Don't blame yourself for that either, Beka got a much better deal on them elsewhere. Well some guards told us he suspected that there was something unusual going on and wanted us to share what. But the guard disappeared and as I mentioned, we were not allowed it."

Cas thinks about things for a moment, "Faliol and Riccoco had some business that nearly got Celeste and I killed. They ended up doing well. We realized that the three of you were still at Thrones and contemplated what to do when Nuyok came. He told us the rest of what happened. You see, Vagrant, Throne would have had them killed regardless. The fought hard and took out main barbarians but Rath was killed in the battle. Nuyok escaped with that guy named Lechook."

Cas is making sure that Vagrant is understanding all of this, "We discussed what we knew and what we should do. Beka wasn't taking Rath's death too well and there was a big fight over whether we should flee by sea or land when it was over. But everyone agreed that after Throne had Rath killed, we weren't going to leave without trying to save you first. We all knew the risks and we used a modified version of the Devious Darku Plan with some great suggestions from Beka and Faliol."

"Do not blame yourself though. There was nothing that could have been done to avoid Rath's death. As far as what happened with Nuyok and Celeste, well they both knew what we were doing when we came tonight. They live so you should be happy. We all wanted you back."

Kent replies to Beka, "Peaches lit out when the High Justice and company came calling. He's a GrandMaster, by the way. She said she would get help if we needed it. I don't know what kind of help she could get or where she's gone. I doubt they could catch her." He smiles reassuringly.
"I heard one of the guards saying that the spirit axes have all been confiscated. I believe they are trying to find the master who made them, to determine his share of the guilt. We can ask for Rath's axe. It's decomissioned from the Tallon Army, so I doubt they'll want to keep it. As for us, I doubt they will hold us for long. Unless anyone has done something illegal..."

Ricco takes a big, hesitant gulp and blanches. (Can fur covered animen blanche?)

He immediately goes back to scrubbing at his trident with a bit of grit muttering, "Right. All be well... Nothin' ilegal to report here... Nothin' a t'all."

OOC: Boy howdy, am I ever glad Faliol doesn't understand the true nature of Ricco's cargo!!! It sure does pay to be young and dumb! Only guilty thing on the Fox Kit's mind is trading with the Beast Market...

Faliol winces. He looks like a little boy, with his hand caught in the cookie jar. Funny, he isn't looking anyone but Ricco in the eye...

"It's not like they know where we have been and what we have done. I, mean, will they interview the entire city? No of course not."

Still not looking at the others in the eye, Faliol mumbles, "Our minds are like open books to that Rakeen. Doesn't have to interview the entire city....hey, maybe he read Cas' mind before ours, Ricco? Be like eating a terribly hot pepper before sampling desert."

.oO(Try to think before speaking, kit...)

"...cause everyone knows an artist's creativity shines like a noon-day sun when Master Adepts try the soul reading."

"He can read my mind all he wants. I can assure you he won't get much. The memory gnomes have done a good job to see to that."

I have no idea how long it would take to make these but I also know not how long we will be here.

PS: Wood Carving 16-
Celeste
3d6: 8 Tue November 18, 2003 @9:35 AM (EST)

Vagrant
3d6: 9 Tue November 18, 2003 @9:35 AM (EST)

Faliol
3d6: 10 Tue November 18, 2003 @9:35 AM (EST)

Beka
3d6: 7 Tue November 18, 2003 @9:35 AM (EST)

Riccoco
3d6: 13 Tue November 18, 2003 @9:35 AM (EST)

Handle
3d6: 17 Tue November 18, 2003 @9:35 AM (EST)

Cas isn't sure that Lekchock would be joining the group or not so she hasn't thought to make one for him for now.

It's probably a full day of carving per person. While travelling, it will probably take longer or even be impossible due to terrain.

OOC: Good idea, BTW.

OOC: looks at the one you indicated above was for me

'That one doesn't lok much like the others, doesn't look like much of anything, actually. Maybe a rock... But who'd want a wooden rock?"

When Cas gets to yours she will curse as she carves a little too close and snaps the piece in half.

OOC: We really haven't had much chances to talk about such things but this will give us an opportunity here to do so. If you consider the fact that we may be getting experience points soon, this would be a good excercise.

Cas, even though carving a project, manages to still find time to hunt people down. "You know," she says as she corners Riccoco, though others are probably in earshot, "We don't know much about each other. Like you Riccoco, you didn't spend your whole life in Tallon. Where were you raised anyway?"

"The 'coon bray at Raccoon Lake." Riccoco looks over at Cas a little confused. "Ol' Riccoco be one o' those products o' the environment." He pauses to chuckle slipping a battered cheroot from one of his pouches.

"Ol' Riccoco be doin' more tradin' along the Sabre River than a Carnobroc be havin' heads!" He grins knowingly and eases back on the cushiony sofa. He's obviously content that Orlando or one of the other Masters isn't about to give him trouble.

"What brought you to Tallon? You didn't have your own wagon or anything like that. Surely trade couldn't have been enough."

"Wagon's don't be the only way to be movin' good, Cas. Ol' Riccoco's trade consisted mostly of movin' along the River tradin' from those that have and on to those that don't. A time or three, the best market be in Tallon. So, Ol' Riccoco be goin' into Tallon."

Nuyok and Leckchock have their bandages removed. They are not totally healed, but what were once mortal wounds or permanent disabilities are now a temporary inconvenience.
The two are both escorted (under guard) to a large, convalescent garden where they are re-united.
The guards let you greet each other for a moment. A fairly professional-looking Master (Healer Dannel) accompanies Master Nuyok.
The garden is beautiful, with a sweeping cliffside view of the ocean and the barrier islands. Ships and seabirds are visible in the distance and a warm breeze is blowing frm the east.

"Lekchock, how are you doing," Nuyok scans over him to see how he's been treated. Nuyok gestures towards Donnel, and says, "Lekchock, here is Master Donnel, an accomplished healer. He tells me we will be reunited with the others soon, but must wait a day or so before being allowed about our business, as Throne is to be sentenced and we may need to be available in that regard. Also, apparently Celeste has been mistaken as a pirate, an issue we may need to clear up."

"Donnel, will the others be brought here, or will we be taken to them?"

Healer Dannel turns to the head guard, who responds, "We'll be taking you to Throne's house, where the others are quartered."
And sure enough, within twenty minutes, you have been bundled into a covered carriage and trotted over to the mansion. (Adala seems to lack the prevalence of spirit coaches so common in Tallon).
The outside is patrolled by watchmen bearing the livery of the High Justice. There are also a few adepts visible. You are walked to the front door and turned over to their captain, who escorts you to a suite of upstairs rooms where the others are staying. Some are bandaged, but all are healthy and walking about.

"I'm doin' awright, da hand little stiff, but workin'."

Riccoco trundles over to the Fox-Kit's sleeping form and his voice is a harsh whisper, "Faliol... It be time for us to be makin' out from this safe keepin' the Archon be layin' on us. Let's be havin' a look around."

The 'coon was quiet, but not quiet enough. Handle overheard the soft conversation from his nearby pallet.

OOC: This was for a bit of adventure for the thiefly types. If it would be too much a pain in the ass, let me know. My thinking was that Ricco is gnawing at the bit to be out of here. A walk-a-bout the Mansion might dissolve some of the boredom and fill a 'coon's pocket. You never know what Throne might have laying about...

Faliol was dreaming when Ricco woke him, "Ash's reavers are right on top of us! Huh?"

The sleepy fox kit blinks three times, then whispers, "Ricco? Good morning..."

He sits up, the mental fog slowly lifting and quietly asks, "What did you have in mind?"

OOC: Assuming Ricco gives details...

Whispering, "You wish to do this under a mind reading Grand Master's gaze? You are a bold raccoon! No, my friend, while tempted, liberating goodies under these conditions is pure folly. We are certain to be caught!"

Riccoco scratches bleary-eyed under one jowl. "Ol' Riccoco be knowin' you be havin' the right o' it. Let's just be forgettin' the whole thing, then."

That afternoon, a contingent of guards brings a couple of old faces. Nuyock and Leckchock are escorted into the suite of rooms you share. Nuyok looks perfectly fine; even his clothes have been laundered and repaired. Leckchock's loincloth needed no repairs, and his hand is whole, though a bit pink and new-looking.

Nuyok calmly surveys the assembled group, and says "So, how is everyone? How is it that we are staying at Throne's? Does anyone know anything about Celeste? It would appear she is being held as an alleged pirate. I requested the opportunity to visit her, but it was denied."

"They will not let us go until they are sure that none of us our criminals. In the meantime, they are letting me use all of Throne's wood to carve. It is a bit boring in here and I wouldn't mind doing some shopping but free wood and free room and board is a plus. I just hope that Celeste is alright now that the rest of you are back."

"Carving anything interesting?"

Cas sets down her carving tool and reaches into a pouch. She produces a wooden tube with a Celtic Knot design on the outside. "This is yours, Nuyok. It is meant to hide a knot, hold hair back, or have a belt looped through it. It is called a Friendship Knot and as soon as I have more, the others will have ones like it."

Nuyok smiles at Cas, "thank you for the gift," and Nuyok clearly contemplates where to place it, eyeing his belt.

As Nuyok and Lekchock return healthy and whole, Faliol's heart lifts.

He waits for Big Sister to return, .oO(Where is Celeste?)

Upon hearing Nuyok's revelation about Celeste being held as a pirate, Faliol's joy turns to anger...

His paw starts to grip his sword hilt, "Why can't all these uppity bastards just leave us be?!? Celeste is no pirate! I am getting SICK and TIRED of people messing with my friends!!!"

Faliol draws his sword and strikes the nearest unoccupied chair with full force.

Then he goes to find their cagers, sword in hand...

Leckchock stays in the background close to Nuyok and observing everyone. He gives a nod and a small smile to the raccoon at his greeting

Vagrant reaches out to shake Nuyok's hand, "It's good to see you again, my friend, I'm aghast to hear that Rath was killed. I can't help but feel responsible. How did it happen?"

"It is not your fault, the blame lays squarely on the shoulders of Throne. Rath and I were escorted away from you, and we're then being taken to the pits area below. Not liking the way things were looking, especially with the apparent plan to disarm us, I attacked the guards and Rath joined in. We battled the initial group, with Rath slaying their leader, but we had to run since we knew pursuit was coming. We thought to run inside and rescue you, but ran into too much opposition, and Rath was felled. We were put into a pit cage, and I tried to heal him, but to no avail. Lekchock here," Nuyok introduces Lekchock to Vagrant, "was also caged, but between us, we were able to get free, travelled down the well area to the underground river, and found our way outside through caves and digging through the mud."

"So, what transpired with you while here? What ever happened to Pakkard?"

"So, I nievely thought he'd actually let you guys go. Stupid of me. I knew he wouldn't let me go without probing my brain but I thought you guys might escape him. While, I am so unhappy to find Rath dead I am happy we stopped Throne from getting the secret to making firearms. That scared me much more then any hoard of barbarians would. While I am not usually like this, I am happy to have taken him down with his own illegal weapondary! He was an evil man that's for sure. As for Pakkard he is still at large. He left down the tunnel that the barbarians came up. He should be found and punished for those that he has abused just as much as Throne."

"Firearms are the ancient weapons he wanted you to help him make? Like at Ash's? Why could he not make them?"

"No idea, Nuyok. They looked correct but they didn't work. You saw the little gunpower show and tell that Throne did for you me and...Rath. It's something about this world and what has happened to it. It piques my interest even more in what happened since my time until yours. It's common science that made these weapons possible but for some reason science is hindered here in a big way. Strange. Pakkard tried to find the answer to this question in my head but, thankfully, I disappointed him."

Ricco looks up from his lounging, his furry muzzle splitting into a massive grin. "A welcome back be in order, Master Nuyok! We be happy to be havin' you back!" He hops up and trundles over.

"No offense to the Lekchok o' course. He looked to be givin' as he got down in the cellar!" The plucky 'coon reaches up to pack the jungle man on the back.

Suddenly his features droop and he looks past the two as if he'd previously overlooked something. "Where be Celeste? She be caryin' your bags, Master Nuyok?" His knowing grin is there, albeit a bit forced.

Riccoco steps back a pace, his arm falling to his side. "A pirate? Since when? She be with us for nigh on a cycle! Any piratin' be from the ol' days! They can't be stringin' her up for things done in the days o' old, can they?"

He pauses, a thought occuring to him and his eyes grow. He mutters speaking to himself, "Can they?" He swallows visibly.

Calmly ignoring the rants by Faliol and Beka, Nuyok responds "yes, they can. Hopefully it will all get cleared up...," Nuyok convey much confidence in saying that though.

"I have had it!"
I am making as much noise as I can. I am rousing the household. I am in my "barbaric splendour" (or spoiled child) routein. I am trying to gather everyone in one room. And then...
"This is ridiculous! You people can't hold us here forever. We haven't done ANYTHING wrong. You're the ones with the merchant selling enhanced wepons to your ennimies. If wed hadn't come along you might never have know about it. Your merchant held my ADEPT against HIS WILL! WE AR MISSING PEOPLE AND NOT BEING TOLD WHY! WE MIGHT BE ABLE TO CLEAR THIS UP IF YOU WOULD ONLY ASK US! WHERE IS PEACHES? I WANT SOME ANSWERS...NOW!

Beka's tirade and Faliol's blow-up are not long in coming to a confrontation with the guards.
There are two guards immediately outside the rooms.
They listen to your complaints and threats, then one of them summons their captain to listen to your grievances.
Captain Schon is a hard-looking man, but he listens and does not interrupt.
"I hear their are some complaints about your treatment up here. If you'd like to give them directly to me instead of my men, I'll be happy to hear them. Anything I can't answer, I'll forward to my superiors as soon as conveniently possible.
"The only thing I ask before we begin is that you sheathe your weapons."

.oO(That's the problem with being human... you can't use your own hands as lethal weapons.)

[EDITED on Thu November 20, 2003 @12:28 PM (EST)]

Faliol is so darn mad that he is making direct eye contact with one of the guards, the biggest one. His fur is standing on end and his tail is thrashing, and a low growl is coming from his muzzle. Both ears are flat and teeth are showing...

This is one angry fox kit that has had enough annoyance for 10 lifetimes...

Too angry to speak civilized he just stares at the big human and keeps his sword in hand. But he doesn't wave it about or threaten anyone. He keeps his distance, but looks ready to pounce.

"GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!"

Cas looks at the tense situation. She has done so much and come so far to not kill everyone around her. She nearly lost Nuyok who is her only chance of getting healed and now she is at a tempermental situation... And then suddenly Cas gets a brilliant idea.

"Hey Faliol," Cas calls out. "I was thinking of getting you something special since we are the only two foxes. Why don't you come over here in private and we can discuss measurements. I'll even teach you a cool meditative technique. It is one of the things I learned from my childhood and seems to be the only thing I remember before meeting Darku and whats-there-names. I'll teach it to you if you come over here."

Faliol turns his head and growls briefly beforing realizing the target is a friend.

Blink...blink redux...

Sheathing the sword, he turns and pads over to Cas, keeping a watchful eye on the big guard.

1....2...3...

He stops growling and the fur lays back down to its normal flatness.

"You know, I was thinking earlier that the one you carved for Nuyok accentuate my tail rather nicely..."

Cas leads Faliol further from the scene. "Do you intend to wearing it on your tail? I'm not sure how well it will fit but I can make on large enough. My idea was taking a look at some cloaks in town and find something very fox like that we could get. We could use the knots for tying off the cloak. But if you have an idea on how it will make your tail radiate, I may be able to work something out with that."

Nuyok approaches the guard captain, and turns on his adept poise, "as I am new here, I do not have any complaints about my treatment here, but I do have concerns as to how the legal matter for our comrade, Celeste, is being handled. If there is someone I could get an audience with regarding this matter, I would appreciate it."

The captain regards Faliol with caution, not sure the fox might suddenly turn and strike. His manner remains professional, but is less sympathetic than before.
"Master Nuyok, I shall relay that request to my superiors. If there is no further business?" He stands straight and does a tight little head nod.

OOC: Tell me it isn't so! Tell me I haven't ruffled the feathers of one of these bigoted, Big Sister kidnappin' Adalain @#$holes! I feel so shamed!

OOC: Now Nuyok won't be able to save her!

Nuyok simply stares at him unblinkingly for a moment, then turns back to the group's area.

Nuyok, there are some insights you might have due to your association with you late mentor.

Merikian Law is based more on retribution and deterrence that an ideal of prisoner reform. "Kill the criminal and he won't do it again."

Tallon, under Ningan's influence, is closer to an idea of penance for the criminal. Punishment is there to deter, certainly, but once released, the criminal is expunged of guilt. In other cities (like Adala), they are always criminals, even after a period of imprisonment. Forced labor is often used to recompense the state and victims.

If Celeste raided with the Red Tide, the knee-jerk reaction would be to execute her. That this has not already been done means it is not likely to occur. However, anyone in her position (foreign barbarian) would not get a trial, just a reading and a judgement and sentencing.

Your aid in bringing down Throne probably mitigates in her favor, but this is up to the judgement of the authorities on just how much you have exactly helped. It was Melkut who went to the High Justice, after all.

Finally, Throne is probably guilty of treason. He will most likely be publicly executed. Selling spirit weapons to barbarians is bad. In this particular case, as the whole scheme is eventually revealed, it is very bad.

Returning to the group after the guard captain interaction, Nuyok gathers everyone together out of earshot of the guards and says "it appears we can do nothing for Celeste, for now, as much as we might want to. While some may be entertaining notions of freeing her, that would entail breaking free from here, where were are already under a cloud of suspicion, and recklessly assaulting whatever fortified prison she is located in, and then fleeing the city. I'm sure no one considers that feasible, or sees any other alternative?," Nuyok lets his eyes wander over the assembled group.

OOC: Celeste is not here.

OOC: Not that you have revealed anything that I didn't already suspect her loyal friends might be considering....just exclude me from future posts along this line.....

Cas looks up while still taking measurements (with her paws) for the circumference of Faliol's tail. "I am done with invading forts. We will get Celeste out or I'll threaten them the truth about Fort Lizard."

.oO( Ash was getting Reavers ot make Riven to form a city of riven wasn't it? )

Kent looks up. "The truth about Fort Lizard? What good would that do? It's a Tallonite fort, Ash was of Tallon. Adala couldn't care less about what--" He stops short, realizing that he is responding to a crack-brained Cas comment.
"Never mind." He begins to pace.
"It's hopeless. You try and you work and you save and you risk and then poof! Some idiot with a greedy scheme comes along and cocks it all up. I should have stayed home!" He slams his fist agains the wall three times. He turn to storm from the room and realizes there are guards outside, then flops down on the divan in a black foul mood.