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Night falls over Fort Lizard. There seems to be a bit of activity up by the manor house. The lights are on and there is a lot of movement visible through the windows. Cori the barmaid comes up to the room and announces that dinner is available for all who want it hot. She gives a little wink to the male contingent of the room as she says this. Nuyok went down early to get a drink or two. I need to know:

A) Who went early for drinks?
B) Who is going to have dinner with Vance?
C) If you aren't, what are your other plans?

(BTW, the inn is rather crowded. Innkeeper Jame apologises, but says he can only give you two rooms. It will be pretty cramped, but he'll have pallets and hammocks set up where possible)

If anyone was having a problem linking to the map, it should be fixed.

Edited to fix Bank Link

[EDITED on Sun June 27, 2004 @3:34 PM (PDT)]

Nuyok will be there for early drinks with whoever else would like, and will stick around for Vance's dinner if Beka wants him to. He'll also wink back at Cori, as well as generally observe those present for anyone who may be sighted or taking any interest in him.

Vagrant is also interested in a Savage Earth drink or two.

OOC: Hey, that sounds like a pretty cool shooter - "I'll take a Savage Earth please!"

Vagrant, Cori comes up to you, obviously a little nervous around your mysterious cloaked visage. "What would you like, Mr. Vagrant? We just tapped some of Jame's Golden Brown, but we have stronger spirits if you're interested. We have Adalan Brandy, and Mister Jame just bought a case of some mystery wine from Boothia of all places."

[EDITED on Mon July 5, 2004 @4:16 PM (PDT)]

"Ah. Well. The Golden Brown sounds fine. I thank you, Cori is it? Thank you."

Vagrant attempts to sit near the Kit and let him overshadow him a bit so he isn't overly noticed by strangers. In a moment he realizes he is back into his standoffish groove yet again.

He mumbles to himself mostly, "I still can't shake the out of place feeling I wrestle each day. Friends or not...when am I going to feel right in this place?"

Vagrant continues to nurse his "beer" and watches all the people and their interactions. He listens to the conversations and tries to make sense of things without allowing his archaic ideas interfering. He sees Celeste enter and seems somewhat relieved. He gives the Kit a squeeze to the shoulder after the various toasts and then meanders toward Celeste.

With a barely audible mumble he asks, "You look nice this evening, Celeste. May I buy you one of these Golden Brown drinks?"

to be sought out. "Golden Brown?" She looks as if she is trying to recall something and smiles, "I think we may have had something by a similar name back on Devils Island. Something we took...(pausing and remembering James' reaction to 'stealing') something we 'salvaged' from a sinking ship.(smile, teeth) Yes, I would like to try a Golden Brown, James (James Brown?)Thank you." OOC: Ah, the presence of microbreweries in the Savage Earth....not so 'savage' after all.
When Cori comes back with the Golden Brown, Celeste takes the drink and samples it. "Even better without the salt water added," she jokes. Celeste finally relaxes a bit and enjoys the companionship of those about her, still keeping an eye on Beka and those around her.

Faliol smiles (no teeth) at James when the latter gets up to greet Celeste.

Then his eyes fall upon his big sister...

.oO(Ah, Big Sister is seeking to attract a mate! And James is her first suitor. A fine match they would make! I must closely observe this human mating ritual... So far the flip of the hair by the female predicted by Nuyok has not yet happened. Maybe it is too early in the courtship? Will Beka, as dominant female challenge Celeste?)

The fox kit watches carefully, eyes roving from Celeste to James to Beka.

.oO(Remember young kit, the human mating ritual is a complex one, fraught with vagaries in how it is accomplished...)

OOC: Boys, boys, boys! Let's not forget that this thread is all about Beka and Vance's forthcoming marriage ceremony tomorrow! Geez! a girl can't even change out of her dirty old, travel-battle-muddy-gator blood-coverered clothes and some guys think she's on the move. Tsk, tsk, tsk...mating rituals....flip of the hair...women are sooooo much more subtle than that. I mean, look at Beka, she's got Vance thinking she doesn't even like him....now her next move should be to go up and punch him really hard in the shoulder...and then he should dip her hair in the inkwell....and my goodness, we all know what they say about the size of a man's chin....what that indicates....Hey, speaking of chins, I have 2 KAMLAK, (of The Shattered Isles ™ ) trading cards I'm willing to trade for 1 Persia, Cat Goddess of Tallon....any takers??

OOC:...Oh, thank you! Lieutenant Jonnit? I was just telling my friends about our meeting and I realized that I didn't know your name. Now I do and I also believe I owe you the first drink tonight......(smile, blush) ..... Merchant Beka.
Once again, it is nice to meet you (bat, bat, coy hair toss).

Vagrant notices the flashes of eye contact and smiles from the other 'boys' and lets out a long sign.

He mutters to himself, "These bastards would fit perfectly back in 9th grade."

...booted out of school IN the ninth grade!

Celeste catches the growl from James. and raises an eyebrow in question....oO(9th grade? That must be a reference to this New York place he spoke of... 9th grade? Sounds like poor quality trade goods...)

Vagrant looks briefly at Celeste and back at the 'boys'.

Then speaks to Celeste without looking at her, "The kids are damn cute aren't they? They have such an imagination at that age."

"Want another of these brown things or can you suggest something else?"

Catching the exchange of looks between James and 'the boys,' Celeste sighs, "Yes, but they grow up so fast...." Not looking at James, she smiles (teeth) first at Faliol then at Nuyok. "Hmm...these Golden Browns are not bad, perhaps another round for our friends on Mister Vances tab?" Celeste leans in close to Vagrant, she appears to be whispering something.

Leaning close to James, Celeste whispers, "Perhaps Miss Cori has something more 'potent' in the cellars for our friends over there...we had a saying in the Shattered Isles...'three sheets to the wind. Although it would be difficult to put something over on the adept...." "Maybe we should just leave and see if they follow?"

Vagrant attempts to whisper as best he can with his throaty voice, "Nuyok is the puppetmaster in this one, that is for sure. I'd say he has a lesson coming on this one. It'll take a bit to dust off my skills as a prankster from my police academy days. Do you have any suggestions?"

Celeste takes another obvious drink of the golden brown, "Yes, I think we give them what they are expecting. I think we order a couple more of these golden browns and then leave separately. Kind of 'discreetly indiscreet' if you know what I mean. Then we find a place for them to come looking for us and see who has the last laugh. What do you think? Can he really read minds? (meaning Nuyok) We will have to not think about jokes if he can." Celeste stands up and touches her cup to James' in a mini toast and smiles again. She does not look back in Faliol and Nuyoks direction again.

"I think these boys may be in need of what we said in my world 'A cold shower'. Perhaps, a few buckets of the coldest water may quench the thirst for the steamy hot fantasies they have playing in their head."

"The first of us to leave, should gather and fill the buckets and then we'll send them toppling off onto our sarcastic childlike friends."

Celeste looks at James in surprise, "I was actually thinking the same thing!" (really) "There is a rain barrel just outside the yard, but I don't think the water is very cold...perhaps there is cooler water in the cellars? And then there is the question of where we should meet....in one of the rooms upstairs,but that would leave a mess to clean up. Or someplace more 'secluded' like the stables, or the boathouse...?"

OOC: Celeste is enjoying this, it's the first real 'fun' she's had in a long time. Guarding is such 'serious' work.

"How do we guarantee that they come? Maybe as you leave you can whisper to the Kit that he may watch."

"Hmm...no, I think that would probably put him off, even though he is curious about human mating rituals. I believe he has questioned Master Nuyok about this before and I think the adept is...what is the saying....'feeding him a line' ? No, I think his interest has more to do with us as friends of his than with the fact that we are 'human'. Here's the part that I think will do it--act suspicious. As if we are trying to be 'discreet', but are really doing a bad job of it."

"All right, here's what we are going to do. I'll beg off the rest of the dinner with some problem...a headache perhaps, I'll get the buckets and take them to the loft above the stables. When you leave, make sure they see you. Look over your shoulder before you leave as if to make sure that no one is watching. If they follow, when you get to the stable, call my name quietly and I will answer. We can make some noise or something once you are in the loft, as if we think we are alone. If they get close enough, we can give them that cold shower you spoke of."

"I'm going to go tell Beka that I am leaving. They can't see that you are watching them, they can't see my face...watch them now..." and Celeste says just a bit louder, enough for anyone listening to catch , "someplace less public...", and then she turns and walks over to Beka.

"Agreed. You begin and I'll do my best to dust off my acting skills from high school."

Leaning over to Nuyok, "Explain this to me, please. Big Sister is showing her teeth. Does this mean she thinks we will woo Vagrant away from her? You humans are utterly perplexing, if you don't mind the observation..."

"Faliol, sometimes a human woman will bare her teeth to protect her territory, but this would be against another human woman trying to take her claimed man. In an instance like this, however, it is an indication that she is a maneater...," noting Faliol's reaction, "not literally of course, but rather than she perceives herself to be the dominant one in the mating ritual, a role reversal if you will, and that she will have her way with her intended victim, or target, depending on the one being subjected to her 'delights'."

"Thank you, Master Nuyok. I was very confused about this turn of events. It just stands to reason that a human female with the fighting prowess of our Celeste would become a maneater. So, what happens now? Will she knock him about the head and shoulders in an attempt to force him to her lair so she can have her way with him?"

.oO(Poor James! He has only recently come out of his shell and he is beset by a maneater!)

OOC: It's very hard to type with Pepsi coming out your nose...

.oO(Actually, I drink Coke but having Coke come out your nose gave a different image.)

OOC: Coke goes in the nose, Pepsi, Rootbeer or sometimes milk comes out the nose.
Too bad we don't have a 'snarf' smiley

OOC: Carbonated beverages are bad enough, but Gumbo burns when it flies out your nose!

Shudder

OOC: Yeah but it's really,really painful when Harpo flies out your nose....that harp really hurts on the way out!!!

I said "Gumbo" not "Groucho"!

OOC: Was their dad, Groucho was a brother....Zeppo, Chico, Harpo, Groucho, Faliol...

[EDITED on Fri July 9, 2004 @2:34 PM (PDT)]

OOC: No Barbara, that's a lighter

And the fifth brother was Karl.

OOC: Nuyok is enjoying his exaggerated explanations of human mating rituals to Faliol

...I mean that in the comedy sense, mind you!



You always know the right thing to say in these circumstances!

OOC: Ah, but that is because of the experiences I've had, heh.

"Actually Faliol, the human mating ritual, even for maneaters, is more subtle than that. The dominance may play itself out publicly, but that typically would not involve anything physical, but rather mental and social, potentially including verbal berating. However, in the closed confines of the mating den, the dominance may well turn physical, depending on the particular couple. Usually that would be fairly benign, but in some extreme cases could result in physical trauma to the man. Celeste may be this latter sort, but likely she would recognize Vagrant's unique frailties and spare him from any excesses."

OOC: Actually, she recognizes Nuyok's unique frailties and is sparing him the excesses...besides Beka has her eye on him anyway....

OOC: No frailties, Nuyok is spiritually enhanced

OOC: And he means that only in the most pure and innocent of ways....

Celeste has her back turned to the rest of the room, she nods at something that James has said and then takes another drink of the golden brown ale. She leans in closer to him, close enough that he could embrace her if he so chose. Anyone observing could see her touch her cup to his in a mini toast. For the moment she has ceased watching the room for trouble and has eyes only for the man in the hooded cloak.

Leaning towards Nuyok, "Does he need rescuing? Maybe a male version of that cock block you spoke of earlier? His lust has blinded him to her maneating ways. We, as his friends, should intercede before she gets him to her lair!"

"Oh no, definitely a rescue would be a poor option, as this could mentally emasculate the man or raise the ire of the woman such that she could transform into a she-devil, again, figuratively speaking. No, it is necessary to allow this ritual to play itself out, whatever the outcome may be."

"Yes, Master Nuyok, I agree with your wise advice in this matter. There is a sadness in both of them that they may heal in each other. I hope Celeste is gentle with J...Vagrant no matter the outcome of their pairing and that he is likewise responsive to her individual frailties. Perhaps each of them can lead the other to happiness? Again, thank you for sharing your wisdom in human affairs of the heart. Human mating rituals is such a complex dance that it is a true wonder one of you is ever conceived. It is much more of a wonder that your species is so numerous."

Celeste straightens a bit, no longer leaning in toward the cloaked man, still speaking low, but not whispering, "...someplace less public...." She stands and seems to say something to him, but then turns and walks over to where Beka is sitting(?)(standing?) "Beka, Mr. James Golden Brown is more potent than I had believed. It has put me out of sorts with something of a pain and all the 'noise' in here seems to have aggravated it." Celeste places her hand on her temple indicating it is her head that hurts. "I believe I will take in some fresh air and quiet and then return to one of the rooms assigned to us. I hope your dealings with your friend go well. " She turns and walks toward out the door.

Vagrant looks up at Celeste as she talks to Beka and then leaves the tavern. He nervously looks at both Faliol and Nuyok and then takes a long drink from his Golden and stares at the floor.

Faliol looks at Celeste leave and watches James stay. He may be a fox, but even he knows when James is letting an invitation get away.

He walks around the table to James and leans close, whispering...

"Go to her...stop thinking with your brain and start letting your heart direct your actions. I am sorry if Nuyok and I messed things up for you two...we didn't want that. My curious nature is at fault. She is a good woman and you are a good man. Don't let this perfect opportunity slip through your paws. You may die tomorrow so why not live tonight?"

.oO(Get up, James! Stand up from that table. Discard your old worries and gain some new ones!)

[EDITED on Sat July 10, 2004 @10:38 AM (CDT)]

OOC:That's so sweet of him to be concerned....now I feel bad about dumping water on his lil ol' fox head... . Not!

Vagrant looks at the Kit and slowly answers, "I did not know what to tell her, Faliol. I believe I led her on. She would not want a man such as me. It's one thing to buy her a drink and another for her to see what is under here. " He glances at his rags and back to the kit.

"I won't be able to take the look on her face when she sees what I hide. I have ruined our friendship with the offering of one free drink."

The Kit can see Vagrant's eyes from within the hood. A tear may be forming but it is difficult to tell.

... are evil.

Vagrant is just trying to fit in.

OOC: If I didn't know better, I'd be falling for it too...

Faliol hesitates a moment then, in typical vulpine fashion, jumps in muzzle first.

"Not everyone is as vain as me, James. Some people actually value inner beauty over outer beauty. Now, I am not one of these poor souls, for I am very shallow. I look fine, heck, let us be truthful, there hasn't been a word to describe my outer perfection! But I am not very nice to look at on the inside. It is my firm belief that Celeste, with her own scared muzzle, is one that values inner beauty over outer beauty. She already knows that you don't wear that sweltering getup to hide physical beauty and it matters naught. If you can look beyond the scars on her muzzle and see the beautiful woman beneath, I think she can look beyond whatever scars you possess and see your inner handsomeness..."

"Faliol. I am not just scarred or disfigured. I am diseased or sick. I am probably dying. I have made a grave mistake, today, in trying to be a normal part of this world. Faliol, I beg of you. Take Nuyok with you and go to Celeste. I need the pair of you to tell her things are moving too fast for me. Tell her I need more time to figure out what to do. She's at the stables waiting for me. Will the pair of you see if you can salvage my reputation with her. I let things go too far. I cannot face her now. I need to find out if I can be healthy before I could ever do what she asks of me."

Presumably Faliol will let Nuyok know about this, and Nuyok will say "you know, this is clearly a trick, but it is one we might be able to turn on them..."

Faliol lets his mouth drop open... He shakes his head from side to side.

"This is NO trick. I saw his eyes, they brimmed with tears. I heard his breaking voice. He is dying and asks this simple request. I am going to Celeste, Master Nuyok. I won't take that chance. I won't add to the hurt that this shitty world has already inflicted on that poor human."

Faliol jumps up and runs for the door.

In a low voice, Nuyok will follow up with his "explanation", saying "you may not believe it, but consider it - there will either be a comical trap awaiting you, or possibly Celeste acting as if she has been spurned or "allegedly" waiting for Vagrant. Your best response would be to say that Vagrant has made arrangements for private use of one of the rooms for a time, and requests your presence. This way the trick can be turned on them, and I'm sure Beka would assist."

When he hears the words spoken by James "...I am dying..." Faliol's ears droop and he lets out a morrowful "....no, not you too!"

When James makes his request, Faliol's ears point straight up, his tail sticks straight out, and he surges to his feet.

"You can count on us!"

He dives under the table and appears next to Nuyok, whispering softly "Our dying friend has made a request that we speak to Celeste on his behalf explaining that he is sick and unable to mate with her. She awaits him at the stable. Let's go!"

He stands and waits for Nuyok.

Nuyok leans in toward Faliol to be heard over the din of the room, and says "Vagrant does as he wants, but if you want to help him,..." and leans in closer to explain what to do.

Celeste will hurry off to the stables. Looking around for a couple of buckets she will fill them with water and make her way to the upper level. Sitting back within the shadow she will watch and wait for James to appear. If there is a stableboy hanging around, she will pay him to 'get lost' for a while. While waiting, she thinks about her mother, Solisti, far away in Yslond now. .oO(It took almost everything I stole from Astercaar to get her back there. At least she had safe passage with the Kislani. At least she still thinks I am safe and happy with Tjen...Tjen...he did not deserve what Astercaar wrought upon the Sea Dog. I survived, maybe he did too. I'd rather he be dead though, than in the hands of my father. Gods of the Deep! If he did not make landing upon this strange place, let him have perished. I should have died with him, but since I did not...there will be payment. By the Gods there will be payment!) Celeste sits in the dark and continues to wait. She wipes the angry tears away and vows not to think of dark things tonight. She purposefully turns her thoughts back to the plot of tonight's revenge..oO(: Did I hear them call me a "maneater?")

Beka will primp and preen a bit and then follow Nuyok. She will nurse a drink for the evening and be ready for dinner with Vance. She will not get in the way if he wants to flirt with Cori, just being near someone sighted makes her feel safer.

OOC: First Rath, then Nuyok! Who next? Mr. Kent? No, please no, not Konnur?!?!

:devilgm:

Cas goes when Beka does, but doesn't bother with all that silly human grooming junk.

OOC: No self-respecting vulpine says no to free food and drink!

"So fox, how about a toast?"

"Yes, Mr. Nuyok, give us a toast! It is tradition for the war leader to raise the first mug and make the toast!"

Faliol sniffs his glass briefly...

.oO(Doesn't smell like oxen piss, must not be berry ale...)

Nuyok will raise his mug to those of the caravan near him, and solemnly say "To Rath and Handle, solid companions whose time was too short, may the remaining journey not charge such a price," and in a brighter completion, "and to the rest of our caravan, may we enjoy this drink for our grand successes as well."

Faliol stands up straight and tall, raises his mug of not-berry ale, and yells out, "To Rath and Handle! Departed friends! To Miss Beka and Mr. Kent!"

Beka smiles at this toast and Raises her glass, "To Rath, best friend and better person than I. To Handle, always good in a pinch. To the Hamilton caravan and friends, profits fit for Promethius!"

Following Faliol, Celeste stands and raises her cup, "To Rath and Handle, may they rest easy in the halls of heroes." Sitting down, she keeps an eye out for Vance, who has yet to make his entrance.OOC: Hey Keith! Did you get my question from the bank?

Not sure what the question was. Money back from where?

From the creep in Adala, when they were going to hang Celeste, they took all her stuff....did she get her gold back??? They gave her clothing and weapon back, or it was stolen back....but you didn't say about the gold....

Yes, you got back everything

OOC: Okay, thanks......just wanted to make sure....

Yes, you got back everything

Early drinks it is.

Riccoco thirstily works his tongue along his muzzle, one leather padded paw twisting at his whiskers. "Ah, nothin' be like the bit-o-time afore a serious bout o' the drink! Oy Cori, be ye havin' the Berry Ale my gums be achin' for? The Fox-kit be likin' nothin' but! A smart one there." The 'coon is putting on a brave face and there's no sense not taking this bit of relaxation before reaching Tallon and closer yet, Dinner with Vance!

OOC: Early drinks!

"Nothing like berry ale in all the land!"

.oO(Thank the demon kings!!!)

Faliol is going to approach the waitress once they enter the bar. He will quietly tell her that everytime he orders a berry ale for himself, he really wants a plain ale. If she follows his instructions and he remains free of berry ale poisoning, he will leave good tips.

Rather than going for something to drink, Celeste will clean up (bathe) before dinner. She does none of the primping and preening that Beka does, but she will see if any of the traders within the fort have clothing items that fit her so as to at least have something clean to wear.

Celeste is looking for some clean alternative clothing and a big knife. She won't take the falchion to dinner, but she will have the replacement knife strapped to her thigh. She will sit as close to Beka as she can and keep track of what Vance says and does. She still considers herself on duty as Beka's guard (especially since Beka showed such apprehension at the appearance of Vance.)

How much will this stuff cost?

Big Knife, $40 for a good knife. $80 for a machete-sized one.
1/5 the cost for a cheapie that might break in combat. For jungle-hacking, a cheapie will do fine.

Clothing, 8 dollars for a basic set

As Haven is leaving the "emporium", she detects an odd odor in the air. Following it out of curiosity, she sees a couple of off-duty soldiers taking in the night air. One of them seems to be holding a fire close to his mouth. The fire sputters out after a second (You have seen Handle use matches), but a dull red glow remains. The smokey aroma comes from these two.

You can continue to interact with the rest of the party at dinner. This takes place just beforehand.)

OOC: A tall woman with white hair looks out of the fourth wall at you....She reaches out and grabs you and drags you into the frame....'You look.....familiar....are you a wizard??? Calling out to someone behind her..."Argus! Look what I have found sneaking around here. I do believe it is Master Galan's bastard son...."

????

OOC: Classic She Hulk (Byrne style)
Now Celeste will respond...you meant Celeste didn't you?

oops.

OOC: I had a post here, but it went the way of my other sock

Leaving the emporium, Celeste intends to return to the inn, to clean up and change clothes. however, she notices an odd burning odor and follows it. Seeing the two soldiers with a burning stick, she approaches. As smoke pours from the mouth and nose of one, Celeste resists the urge to grab him and plunge him into a nearby water trough. Visions of the burning Wickerman haunt her..oO(He looks as though he is ready to burst into flame...)Does Celeste recognize either one from the prior stay at Fort Lizard? She approaches them and politely asks, " Is that a sig-ar-et?"

"Nah... issa wossname, roll-up." He proffers it to you. "You never 'ad one, en? Give it a try. Ya gotta suck onnit fair reg'lar or it goes out, see?"

[insert response here]

"Issa rolla tobacco, from Haven. Good stuff comes from Boothia, but Kingwell leaf ain't too bad."

"Nah... issa wossname, roll-up." He proffers it to you. "You never 'ad one, en? Give it a try. Ya gotta suck onnit fair reg'lar or it goes out, see?"

"Roll-up...no, not for me. I have no wish to burst into flames. I was mistaken then. My friend was looking for something called a sig-ar-et, sig- ar- it? Why I don't know, he said sig- ar- ets would kill you, but he is still alive. " Celeste recalls James' description of the sig-ar-et. "He said "Its a bit of tobacco rolled up into a slim stick to smoke". It sounds like what you have, but he called it a sig-ar-et.

"Issa rolla tobacco, from Haven. Good stuff comes from Boothia, but Kingwell leaf ain't too bad."

"Hmmm..Do you know of a merchant or trader that sells this? Looking at the two soldiers, "You are new to Fort Lizard? I don't recall you being here during the battle and the night that..." she suddenly stops remembering the admonition not to speak of Ash's true role that night.

OOC: If you want to shorten this up and get back to the dinner, we can just say I found out where to buy this stuff and did so. My thanks to the soldiers for their assistance. I'll check and see if you have tobacco on you cost list, otherwise how much will it cost me to buy a reasonable amount..(also do they use papers to roll the tobacco, or just roll it like a cigar, in which case you have to buy the leaf unshredded....?.

(you know, it never occurred to me that Ricco's dreamleaf might be something they smoke....I thought perhaps it was chewed like catnip....) Although some players may have spoken about smoking, I don't recall...so I am playing as if Celeste has no experience with this.....How odd that Red Tide either never acquired the habit, or never knew what to do with the stuff if they found it on a ship...perhaps they tried to make tea (ugh) out of it, and the results just being nasty, tossed it overboard, we are after all Barbarians. I think I'll just go with never happen to run across it. I think it's a flatlander habit, not one of the Shattered Isles. After all Kamlak (of the Shattered Isles ™ ) wouldn't defile that Temple of a Body, now would he?

Tobacco-enough for someone's personal use
Paper?
Pouch?
Matches?

OOC: Yeah, we can cut it short. You can buy tobacco by the leaf. People either roll it up as is or shred it and roll it in paper. Assume the cost to make 5 paper roll-ups (cigarette) = $1 = 1 big roll-up (cigar).
Matches are on the list at 20 matches = $1.
Oilcloth pouch = $2 and up
$2 is enough to see if Vagrant likes it, $4 if you want to give him a pouch as well.

As for Celeste having encountered it before, let's just call it random chance. Although tobacco is not a huge feature of society, I never meant for it to be non-existant. Besides, it's a good trade item. Since it doesn't have modern additives, it probably requires more work to keep lit. Would pipes make more sense for this?

And dreamleaf is infused and drunk as a tea.

$4 for the pouch,tobacco, matches, and paper. For 5 cigarettes, thats probably pretty expensive by today's standards, but on the other hand, there is no such thing as mass production. Definitely a luxury item at those prices. Pipes on the other hand would be more economical I think.... although I think modern tobacco for pipe or cigarrette is treated with something to slow the burning, (or to keep it burning....not really sure.

I will adjust my bank accordingly, return to the inn and clean up and change clothes. I will assume the standard clothing would be something similar in cut to Bekas, but simpler, probably more revealing than her other clothing....Tallonite clothing is pretty skimpy compared to Red Tide styles.

OOC: I was trying to find the post where Beka paid us...I think it was 31 gold and I don't recall the silver....but essentially Celeste was had no money remaining until she got paid and hadn't spent anything until now. So --good knife and basic clothing 5 G 8 S. Okay.
Celeste straps the knife (in it's sheath) onto her thigh. Taking the clothing, she exits the traders shop intending to return to the inn, clean up, change clothing and meet the others for dinner.

... investigating the soldiers or going directly to the inn? If the latter, we'll just cut this sub-plot short.

see above...

When Celeste shows up at the inn, she is not wearing her usual leather/armour clothing. She obviously has visited a merchant at the fort. She wears clothing similar in cut to Beka's (taking my cue from the boss) but simple. A new big knife is strapped to her thigh, replacing the one taken from her by Bones during the previous visit to the fort. She wears her hair tied up but not braided. She greets her friends and stays within arms reach of Beka if possible. .oO(Too many people, too many unknowns...)

"You look nice."

"It's a bit different from what I'm used to wearing. It will take some getting used to...actually, I was surprised to find anything already made that fit me." Smoothing the brown suede with her hands, "Everything else I ever had to wear was made by my mother. (smile) She never expected me to grow so tall. She..." A troubled look crosses Celestes' face, .oO(I'll never see her again...or....)"When is your friend (with the big chin) supposed to arrive? Do you need me to stand by? He seems nice on the surface, but I don't trust him. I don't know why, I just don't."

Lekchock is with Nuyok, trying the weak "civilized" spirits (one thing Cajuns know how to do is drink and make moonshine)

Noticing Lekchock's apparent unfamiliarity with the ale, Nuyok calls over Cori "hey there, have you anything stronger for our jungle friend here? And while you're at it, I'll take one too on trader Vance's tab."

[EDITED on Fri June 25, 2004 @10:40 AM (EDT)]

Nuyok will imbibe a fair amount, to feel it, but avoid getting too drunk in case something happens later this evening.

The common room is crowded. Not only are the members of Hamilton, Kent, Riccoco, and Bergen there, there are quite a few new faces. Beyond the four tables normally used in the common room, the staff has added four more tables, leaving the room between fairly cozy.

In attendance:
People you know:
Vagrant, Lekchock, Faliol, Riccoco, Celeste, Cas, Beka, Nuyok
Kent, Peaches, Jareek, Angilak
Bergen, Umbra, Konnur, Dashel
Cadbury, Wickersticks

People you don't know:
Three large Doberman dogs;
A human guide/scout

Two trader/merchant types in Tallonite garb;
Five guard/guide types apparently attached to them

Two otters, one old, one young; not military;
A Bulldog
A lean, weathered-looking adept, in sailor gear;
A youngish woman with black hair tied in pirate headband-fashion, also in sailor gear

Two officers of the Tallonite Navy, one has an large parrot.

This is about three dozen people. Cori and Jame are hopping, and apparently have temporary help: a girl and a boy that you have seen about the civilian areas of the fort. They are in their early-mid teens.

Although the outside tables are still there, they seem to have been appropriated by a navy crew, about a dozen sailors.

Vance is not in attendance as you all trickle in, though one of the dobies is probably saving him a seat. They also have other seats available for your party. Service is naturally a bit slow, and it doesn't look like you can squeeze into a single group. There will have to be some mixing. The room is a hubbub of conversation. It will be very difficult to whisper.

Beka, you recognize the Dobies and human as Vance's regular cronies
Fang, Duke, and Max are the dogs, the human is a scout named Tharl.
Whether you like any of them is up to you to decide. As your father's employees by extension, they have always treated you with deference.

Side-by-side with Vagrant and with Ricco just behind, Faliol enters the common room.

He looks briefly at Konnur then away before the World's Tiniest Brain notices...he has had enough grief for one day.

Passing by Umbra, Faliol gives a respectful nod of greeting. He is sorry to have disappointed her.

He smiles at Bergen (no teeth) but then hurries onward.
.oO(Staying on that one's good side is a must till Mako decides my punishment.)

He walks over to the otters and with suitable tail flourish, he says, "Greetings! I am the fox kit known as Faliol. Would you be relatives of the Lizard's resident otters?"

The younger otter says, "Oh yeah, we're all related. Just last week down at the otter meeting we were mentioning that we don't --"
The elder smacks him (gently) on the back of the head. "Mind your manners, Tip! It was a fair enough question. Streak is your second cousin and you know it."
The second otter extends a paw. "I'm Salvator and this bigmouth is my nephew Tip." Tip grins without shame. "We're merchant sailors aboard the Columbia. She's the big double-wheeler out in the anchorage. If you don't mind a bold observation, you look a bit old to be a 'kit'." He also grins.

As young Tip gently pokes fun at Faliol, the fox KIT cannot help but break into a smile (no teeth).

.oO(I like otters. Always have. Basically aquatic foxes, with puny tails.)

"Streak is your second cousin!?! Lemme tell you a story about old Streak and that Raccoon over yonder..."

Points to Ricco

"That 'coon be named Riccoco, and a finer friend a fox kit never had. Why do I refer to myself as a fox kit, well that wrinkled, gray old fox over there..."

Points to Jareek

"...is my foster sire. And that fine looking she vulpine is my friend Cassandra. So, with three vulpines running loose, being the youngest and by far the most handsome, I am known as THE fox kit! Where was I? Oh, yeah! I was going to tell you how I saved Riccoco from the sea monster of Fort Lizard Bay."

Faliol tells a much embellished story of the trick played upon Ricco by the resident otters of Fort Lizard.

Ricco does his best to cajole with the others as Faliol tells the story of another f the many near-misses he's had since this fateful trip started in Tallon many moons ago. he does his best to grin and nod, even chuckle in the right places. Still, Vance's Dobies warrant a careful eye and Ricco does his best to keep an eye on them without seeming to.

He needs to be a Merchant here, and find the coin for buying a wagon. As long as he's alive, getting the cargo to Tallon is a priority.

.oO(So... This be what it be like to be a Merchant!)

Sticking one thumb in his vest, Ricco preen himself, the thought (and the Berry Ale) putting a bit of a damper on his suspicious nature for the evening.

The otters chuckle deeply over Faliol's tale. "Hoo! that's a tailslapper!" cries Tip. And he bought the story about the gator? Hee-hee-hee!"
Tip leans over and grins conspiratorially.
"Listen, would you like to get even?"
Sal rolls his eyes and takes another piece of fish from their platter.

Faliol looks at Ricco and winks, "Takes an otter to get even with an otter! I am all tail...err, I mean ears."

He starts that weird little dance he does when excited...

Ricco's eyes gleam.

.oO(This be better than any wish Ol' Riccoco could be havin'!)

Leaming forward into the Beastly huddle, Ricco pauses to cry for more drinks as the scheming begins!

The need to get sweet revenge on the otters made Faliol a bit impatient.

He makes an urging motion with his paws to the silent otter, "Tell us how to trick them, Tip!"

He hops up and down, waiting for the answer...

.oO(Tell me! Tell me! No one outpranks a Vulpine for long!)

"Well, give you an arrow; you decide where and how to shoot it. Streak is married to a fine and upstanding woman named Britta. She's a stern one, Britta. Very large, very opinionated, very loud. You know how they say that every male has a female inspiration? Well she inspired him to take a post half a hundred kliks from the City..."

He leans back. "There, you got the beginning. Write an ending and let me hear the tale. Let me know if it's worth the Golden Brown you're going to buy me." He smiles and signals Jame for a beer.

Ricco glances out of his cup at the Otters.

.oO(They be wantin' us to shoot the poor wife with an arrow?)

OOC: Good catch, Jason! I completely missed the arrow reference!

OOC: These otters must not have seen our competence in Adalla during the storm of Throne's Mansion.

Ricco and Faliol shoot.

Faliol falls out of tree...

OOC: Faliol then smartmouths that woman-slapping paladin fellow. You know, the one that kicked the iron gate off its hinges!!!!



OOC: Keith is a merciful GM or my poor character would be a greasy red spot many times over!

At first Lek is noticable uncomfortable in such a crowd. He stays near Nuyok taking in all the sights, but asking questions a mile a minute. He eventually figures out that Nuyok has long since tuned him out as a parent does a whining child, and his curiosity get the best of him. His intention was to go over to the "tallonite" merchants to ask about their clothes. On the way over he notices the parrot and goes to ask the man about his pet.

"Where you fin' dat kinna bird der? You from da jungle too ya?"

OOC: My wife's family, who are all Cajun, have come down for a visit allowing me to brush up on my cajun accent

The officer looks at the jungle man with a bemused expression. "We're all from the jungle in one way or another, eh? As for Aleutia, maybe you'd better ask her yourself."
The bird straightens indignantly, "Find me, indeed! I'm a specialist courier for the Tallonite Navy, dear boy. And you look to be a Tree Folk, if I don't miss my guess."

Lekchock's jaw drops when the bird speaks, "Uh sorry, bu' yeah I'm wat dey call Tree Folk. So was' a Tallonite an' was a Navy?

The parrot clucks and chuckles. She flaps over and lands on your shoulder. "Do you mind? It's easier than squawking across the room. Be a dear and grab some small fruits, would you?
"Now Tallon is a city. Even barbarians and mutants know of them. Big place, lots of people crowded together? Tallon is one of the nicer ones, if I do say so myself. And I do, dear boy, I do.
"As for 'navy', well, you must be from deep in the jungles indeed, very deep. Imagine a hunting party, or better yet, a war party, maybe even a patrol, hmm? Now increase the numbers many times over. And imagine that that's all those people do, all the time: Hunt, fight or guard the city. That's an army, eh? Now, put that lot on boats and La!, there's your navy."
She munches on some fruit, "Rather simple, dear boy, clear and simple."

Nuyok smirks when the bird lands on Lekchock, as he probably looks like he's about to jump out of his skin.

Faliol thanks the powers that be that the bird didn't land on Cassandra instead of Lekchock. Lekchock looks as if he might bolt for the trees, but at least he wouldn't pluck it and eat it raw.

.oO(Of course, a good bar fight with a bunch of sailors could make for a pleasant change of pace...)

"Dat make sense I supose. So you make war on other tribes on boats 'stead o' through da trees. Tallon a city like dis den? Same as da jungle we jus put our huts up higher...an we use the natural surroundin' 'stead o' changin' it to suit."

"Oh, dear boy, Tallon is much larger than this dreary little fort. If you are truly raised in the Wilds, you might do well to apprentice as a scout there. Get some decent clothes. What you're wearing simply won't do. Far too drab. I daresay one of these merchants has cloth. Though you might be hard-pressed for a tailor.
"Word of caution, though. Cities have their own dangers. If you're with one of these groups, stick with them till you have your city legs."

Lekchock looks down at his legs, wondering if they are going to turn into "City Legs" and not sure if that's a good thing or bad. Then looks at his loin cloth and belt and wonders what could possible be better than that?

"Tanks for de advise, hopefully Beka keeps me on for a bit..till my city legs."

Just a reminder, though Lekchock comes from the Jungle, he is not ignorant of talkers and beasts. They are a universal phenomenon within the general experience of Merikian lands. Lekchock is naturally cautious around things outside of his experience, but is naturally not disturbed by a talking bird. (Good RP, Brian)
Also, Lekchock has a good idea what a city is. He was held prisoner in one.

Cas will wander over to Wickersticks before the fun begins and see how he is doing.

Out of deference for the meat-and-bone types, Will is standing instead of using one of the benches. He nods to Cas as she approaches.
"Hello, Miss Cassandra. I hope you are finding your accomodations comfortable, if cramped?"

"The accomodations are in fact, comfortable, the cramped does not bother me. It is actually quite good to see this place busy again. The last time we were here, it was not in such a pleasant shape."

After a couple of drinks, Nuyok will strike up a conversation with Will, "so, how do you find life now compared to before? Without wine and women, what provides pleasure, travel, learning, something else?"

The wooden man looks at the pair. "I'm not sure I could explain it to you. Your sort, begging the expression, is so ruled by your stomach and other needs that it shapes nearly every aspect of your behavior. To be sure, there are traces of that kind of thinking left. Paradoxically, I do miss wine. I seem to remember knowing quite a bit about it. Rather pointless now."

OOC: Okay, I know Hanks head is carved out of one piece of wood, and he forever has this silly smile plastered on his face....but what about Will?? He should have a bit more flexibility in his face no?

"Well, all that matters is that you find some enjoyment from your existence, whatever form it takes. Are you able to at least smell the wine?"

"Actually, you might be able to help me, I've bought a cargo of wines to take back to Tallon and I could use some help pricing them."

Will looks at Beka regretfully. "I'm sorry to say that I no longer remember any of that. It's not something terribly important anymore. Woodwork I can price with some accuracy. Cas here for example is very talented. But wines? You might as well ask a gator to price lace gloves. No need."

"Will," Cas says, "It seems once again we have something else in common. I wonder though, is it better to have skill and forgot or to have a never to have had the skill at all?"

OOC: I have this visualization of the skeleton from The Last Unicorn drinking down a bottle of spirits right now.

Nuyok will meander over the sailor adept and strike up a conversation, "so what brings you to Fort Lizard?" And follow up with "What craft are you associated with?"

The man, whose lined face and bald pate have seen a lot of sun, strokes his mustache. "I'm navigator, off the Columbia. This is a regular route for us. Leastways, either we or the Sunrunner make it twice a month."
He offers a hand. "My name's Yosemite. You?"

Nuyok shakes his hand, "name's Nuyok, I'm with the Hamilton caravan. What sort of craft is the Columbia, naval? Make the trip from Tallon?"

"Columbia's a spirit ship. Two wheeler merchant. You can't have been working the trade routes long and not heard of her. Finest ship afloat."
He gestures toward his companions. "Tip and Sal are busy plotting something nefarious with your friends there or I'd introduce 'em. This here's Maia, the mate." He indicates the girl with the shock of black hair. She nods amiably, but doesn't offer a hand.
"We just brought in Mistress Sasha and her entourage, and the second half of Hamilton." He nods his head toward Vance, who is seating himself next to Beka.

Nuyok will nod in return to Maia, and continue "I thought you may have been a merchant vessel carrying Vance, but I did not want to assume. I was hired on by the merchant Beka Hamilton, and am unfamiliar with Vance, what kind of merchant is he?"

OOC: for the fixie.....

Vance suddenly makes an entrance from the front of the inn. He is smiling and gregarious. He waves at the otters, adept and woman from the Columbia, as well as the two officers. He also winks at the caravan members. He briefly has a word with one of the Dobies, who immediately greets him. Vance smiles and nods and ambles towards Beka. Just before he reaches the table he turns and makes a sweeping gesture to the room. Unbelievably, he commands enough charisma to gain the general attention with this gesture.
"Good evening all! I've just come from the anchorage. Mistress Sasha has asked me to inform you that the ceremony will take place tomorrow at noon. She promises to keep the speech short and the table long. I've just come from dinner and believe me, her cook is a marvel. So please everyone come and enjoy tomorrow. As for now, have a round on Hamilton-Vance!"
This is met by general praise and backslapping.

[EDITED on Mon July 5, 2004 @4:10 PM (PDT)]

.oO(More Free Drinks!)

Faliol, a little giddy at the thought of sweet revenge finally at hand, stands and yells, "To Vance!" Lifting his nearly empty mug.

Then he catches Cori's eye and orders another golden.

When it arrives, he sneakily slides it to Tip.

"There you go my slick friend! Payment for services rendered!"

He makes his way back to where the Hamilitonians sit and leans towards Beka in passing, with a whispered, "Just being courteous, Miss Beka."

He plops downs by James and says, "Drink up, my friend! Working a caravan is 8/10ths boredom with 1/10th pure terror and 1/10th pure fun. This is that 1/10th of pure fun time. Don't let it get away!"

OOC: I bet Riccoco wishes he had thought of it.

OOC: Using my Tongue of the Elvi magic item, "Thank ya, thank ya verra much!"

OOC: I had Monday off and Boz beat me to a great idea. I want to apologize to everyone if Ricco seems to be losing some consistency. I'm too friggin' busy RL to give him and this campaign the creative thought it deserves.

Either way, it was a clever to take advantage of the opportune moment!

WTG Boz!

Still taken aback by the Otters morbid gag, Riccoco glances around, disconcerted during Vance's entrance.

Faliol pays the Otters and slips away, Ricco still doumbfounded by the goings-on taking place so quickly around him.

.oO(Best be gettin' back onna track, Riccoco Ol' boy... Night be slippin' away an' we be havin' those Dobey's to be takin' a lookin' on. )

Trailing after the wily Fox-kit, Riccoco takes a seat at Hamilton table. He doesn't bother taking the free drink, as to keep his adled wits about him.

Cas will take her free round and pass it off to someone who wants it more. She has been trying to be social but trying to remain sober. She moves over to Beka's location and prepares for the meeting to begin.

Celeste watches Vance as he makes his announcement, then she watchs Beka for her reaction. .oO(Ceremony? What ceremony? Mistress Sasha? Mistress? Master? Sasha? New Adept? There was a lot of activity at the manor house, wasn't there?) Celeste looks at Nuyok to guage his reaction. Otherwise she says nothing.

Beka smiles (with teeth ) as Vance sits down. "Well, Hamilton-Vance now is it. Have I really been gone that long?"

OOC: I've been meaning to ask, and I'm sure everyone else is curious as well, Just how long has it been since we left Talon.....this journey has lasted nigh on to two years real time and we are only just now returning to Ft Lizard. Call me curious.... just don't call me late for dinner....

OOC: By a strict accounting of time, about 5-6 weeks. By a loose (and more dramatically satisfying) accounting, about 2-3 months.
Basically (and this is from memory, not from accounting):
4 days to Ft. Lizard
2 weeks in the Fort (there was some real healing to be done)
3 days to Adala
4 days in Adala
6 days back to Fort Lizard.

Let's call it 5-6 weeks that feels like 2-3 months. Or a lifetime.

OOC: Hmmm....looking at that, I come up with 4 1/2 weeks.....However, it feels like 2 years.... )

[EDITED on Tue July 6, 2004 @5:04 AM (PDT)]

OOC: Here and there we've had a day or two of healing / resting, not sure how much of that is in the #s...

OOC: Wow have we really been doing this for 2 years?!?!

Sept 6, 2002
Nearly two years....wow!

OOC: Considering the staying power of TSE, and we've only lost one player. Not bad....not bad at all....

Vance nods amiably, "It hasn't been that long at all. It did take a while to find out where a quantity of bolts and a wagon and team got off to, but we worked it out eventually. Your father's so worried, he's been turning a lot of the day to day matters over to me."
He grins frankly. "Of course, that didn't stop me from dropping everything once we discovered where you went. I trust you made well in Adala?" He gestures to Cori for a bottle and two glasses.

[EDITED on Sat July 10, 2004 @12:23 AM (PDT)]

Cori approaches with the requested items and places them on the table. The room is sitll filled with raucous noise. Anyone nearby could hear a normal conversation, but if Beka wished to whisper (ie restrict visibility), she could be reasonably assured of not being overheard.

Faliol scoots past Cori, intent upon his goal of arriving at the stable ASAP to deliver his important message.

He looks backwards to see if Nuyok is following...

.oO(That Nuyok is helpful and quite informative, but he can be oh so cold sometimes!)

Nuyok will look over from his conversation with the sailor adept to catch Beka's eye and see if she indicates any need for him to be closer.

As you look, Beka is staring at the table. She is conversing with Vance but not looking at him. She looks... dejected? forelorn? lost? ready to bite? all of the above?