A Touch of Humanity

Logfile from Chiaroscuro.

.-.                              @undefined             Wes Platt's               <>               8@8              Chiaroscuro .::::.            888              A Multiplayer Fantasy Saga @\\/W\/\/W\//@        8@8 \\/^\/\/^\//    _    )8(    _           \_O_<>_O_/     (@)__/8@8\__(@)   Web: http://www.jointhesaga.com ____________________ `~"-=):(=-"~`      Telnet: jointhesaga.com 2003 |<><><> |  |  <><><>|     |.|     |<>      |  |      <>|     |X| |<>     |  |      <>|     |'|                  * Roleplaying Enforced |<>  ..   <>|     |.|                  * Crafting |    |      |     |     |X|                  * Trade |_____| (O\/O) |_____|    |'|                  * Mounts |    \   /\   /     |     |.|                  * Clans/Guilds |--\ \/  /--|     |X|                  * Quests |      '.__.'       |     |'|                  * Refereed Combat |       |  |        |     |.|                  * Character Bio Required :       |  |        :     |X| \<>    |  |     <>/      |'|       \<>    |  |    <>/       |.|        \<>   |  |   <>/        |X| `\<> | | <>/'         |'|           `-.|  |.-`           \ /              '--'               ^

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================================================================ (c) 2003-2006 by Wes Platt and Mongoose Online EntertainmentWelcome to Wes Platt's Chiaroscuro: The Interactive Fantasy Saga Last connect was from pool-71-166-80-117.bltmmd.east.verizon.net on Sun Sep 02 18:58:40 2007. MAIL: 2 messages in folder 0 [INBOX] (0 unread, 0 cleared). Forest  ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ (Indoors) (Cover: Fair) Blue flowers blossom on bushes that flourish around the gray trunks of shardwood trees. The ground is covered in a carpet of leaves and grass. A large, ancient shardwood is here, majestic and tall. A broken tree has toppled to lean against another, angling above the trail as it winds through a gulley. You appear to be alone here. A campfire is burning here. A camp has been constructed here. You can travel: West, North, South, Southwest, Northwest Shoreline 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC) 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC) (Outdoors) (Cover: Fair) A jetty of blunt black stones stretches out into the river from this rocky strand of soil along the murky green edge of the river. The shore slopes gently upward as it leads away from the waterline. A broad prairie expanse can be seen beyond the ridge of the shoreline. It is a warm late evening. The air is stagnant, not stirring with the slightest breeze. The skies are perfectly clear. The following of the six moons are visible in the sky: Herald (blue/waning), Dayhunter (crimson/waxing), Torch I (gray/waning), Torch II (gray/waning). Nantucket is here. Obvious exits: Into the River  You can travel: North

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=================================================================== You have been summoned by Nantucket. Haste has arrived. Atop Haste, Nantucket has left. [OOC] Gale says, "Yar!" Atop Haste, Lucius Nepos picks up Guard Retainer Lucius Nepos dismounts from Haste. Lucius Nepos has arrived. Lucius Nepos drops: Guard Retainer Lucius Nepos takes Haste's reins and leads the horse along. - Look at what? A guard of exceptional loyalty and morale, rolling a Superb on the following skills: Swordsmanship Brawling Small_Blades. It has been engraved with: Hugo Wheat, ex-Blade of 12 years. Currently in the employ of Lucius Nepos. Wears banded plate. Lucius Nepos just looked at you. Gale(#13535PenAC) Cold, electrifying blue eyes stare out from behind the oblivion of this Shadow Mask. Vividly blue, they snap with violet streaks, power always lurking. Thick lashes frame these eyes, which match the light brown hair that has been highlighted with a shade of honey so pure that is reflects of gold in the light and brushes over her jawline. The mask covers the majority of her features, ending just above her mouth, curving along her cheekbones. It is a dark swirling mixture of shadows, solid, while continuing to twist and move. Standing at a medium five feet, six inches, her body is one of activity, but not toned to the condition of labor. She is soft, a small touch of baby fat clinging to her cheeks, and a few extra pounds hovering at her stomach, though she would never be considered heavy, or over-weight. A silk tunic of a deep violet shade graces the upper portion of the freelander's body, accentuating the small curves that she does possess. The shading is similar to that of her eyes, drawing out the natural streaks in an interesting fashion to contrast against the blue that already exists. The top has been taken in against her waist hugging the frame before tapering off over her hips, which lead into the inky black trousers that meld themselves to her lower portion, clinging to her legs and then tuck into a pair of black knee high boots. No gems or precious metals glitter from her body, nor weapons of any type. Her hair has been left to move freely. Gale just looked at you. Shoreline 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC) 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC) (Outdoors) (Cover: Fair) A jetty of blunt black stones stretches out into the river from this rocky strand of soil along the murky green edge of the river. The shore slopes gently upward as it leads away from the waterline. A broad prairie expanse can be seen beyond the ridge of the shoreline. It is a warm late evening. The air is stagnant, not stirring with the slightest breeze. The skies are perfectly clear. The following of the six moons are visible in the sky: Herald (blue/waning), Dayhunter (crimson/waxing), Torch I (gray/waning), Torch II (gray/waning). Lucius Nepos is here. A Guard stands watch here. -- Also here: Haste Obvious exits: Into the River  You can travel: North

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=================================================================== Standing on one of the many large stones that seep their way into the river is a single woman, nothing really out of the ordinary, excluding the mask of shadows that curls its way around her features, hiding them from view. Her eyes are closed, and indeed, as time progresses, the shadows seem to grow darker, more potent than before. You paged Taran with 'Whee! I'm giving Lucky a chance to hack at Gale. :)' Taran (Tar) pages: oh? Taran (Tar) pages: hooboy. You paged Taran with 'It'll be fun!' Taran (Tar) pages: where? You paged Taran with 'If you can find us, you're welcome to join.' Taran (Tar) pages: shorline? Long distance to Taran: Gale nods. I'll retrace my steps... Taran (Tar) pages: hm. lucius gettin' his ass whupped? You paged Taran with 'Ah ha! Downhill from East Leg, east, onto the bridge, to the eastern shoreline, and then south.' You paged Taran with 'Nah. He hasn't posed in yet.' [OOC] Gale nudges. [OOC] Lucius Nepos was afk, just posing now. The sound of twelve steps on the ground at a time begins to enter the area from the south. However, there are certainly no twelve people entering the area, nor are all these steps possessing an equal sound. Eight of the steps belong to shoed horses, one looking stronger than the other but both in good shape, and indeed, good horses. The other four are made by hobnailed boots, which are exceptionally adept at gripping the wet, rough ground near the river bank. So it is that Lucius Nepos and Hugo Wheat both walk along the shoreline in panopoly, leading their horses but otherwise looking vigilant. Perhaps the threat of Wildlings is still fresh in their minds, but they don't relax upon seeing a figure near the bank. Nepos leans in to whisper something to Wheat, who nods. [OOC] Gale would, of course, appreciate you /not/ killing Gale. It would put a damper on my plot. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "I don't think I could even kill her with two people." Taran (Tar) pages: hmmm. The steps don't make too much noise in the shoreline, but just enough that it draws the attention of a pair of eyes - eyes that flicker with a stirring of power. The mask wavers for a moment, slipping back down into translucency long enough to reveal pale skin before resolidifying into what it was before. She makes no movement, just watching both men. "Hail, citizen. Identify yourself." Lucius stops, hand grasping vertically the second strap of his shield which is slipped over his palm. He is still too far to see who exactly it is, though a curious eyebrow raises up at the sight of the dress. It looks.. familiar. Wheat, for his part, taps his fingers against his more standard tower shield. [OOC] Gale says, "Dress? /Pants/." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Bah." "Hail, citizen. Identify yourself." Lucius stops, hand grasping vertically the second strap of his shield which is slipped over his palm. He is still too far to see who exactly it is, though a curious eyebrow raises up at the sight of the pants. It looks.. familiar. Wheat, for his part, taps his fingers against his more standard tower shield. (New BB message (4/42) posted to 'New Features' by Bahamut: NEW: Fast Horse Updates) CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 5 minutes. "Move along, Lightpraiser," the voice says simply, blue eyes focusing on Lucius with, surprisingly, a touch of pity. "Tonight is not your night to die." CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 1 minute. You paged Taran with 'Gonna sit this one out? :)' Lucius Nepos knows that voice. His expression tightens in a not so sublte manner, his shield raising reflexively. Wheat follows in a similar manner. "And you, you praise the Shadow then? Truly, it is you deserving of pity, for those who are misguided enough to praise a force which gives them power at the expense of mental corruption are truly the object of shame." Taran (Tar) pages: Taran did say he wouldn't follow her again. And he has no idea she's out there. The tracking rune only works one way. CHIASQUIRE: Pardon, m'lords and m'ladies. Saving. CHIASQUIRE: Saved, m'lords and m'ladies. You paged Taran with 'Awww.' You paged Taran with 'I'll have to come find you later then.' Taran (Tar) pages: how would he know where to go? You paged Taran with 'He wouldn't. Walk on the shoreline to clear his thoughts?' Taran (Tar) pages: mmm. can try. Gale lifts a brow and gives a deep chuckle, turning fully to stare at both Lucius and Hugo. "Who is to say what causes corrption and shame," she replies. "Reina Seamel was corrupted, her mind twisted by what you Fastheldians all insist on worshipping. Why Light over Shadow? A zealot is a zealot, no matter what they claim to worship. I do know for a fact, however, that the Seamel worshipped power, not your supposed goodness. She was twisted, and had the cruelty of the Church, along with the stupidity." "Perhaps. But she obeyed the law. The law is sacred, and so is the Light. The Shadow builds nothing. The Light has built both Crown's Refuge and Light's Reach, as well as healed many without destroying around it. The Shadow is unrestricted power at the expense of others. That is corruption. That is evil. You, Shadow worshipper, follow NO law but your own." Lucius growls in response, shoulders lowering in a cascade of metal. Wheat is at guard and begins to move away to the side, holding his shield out still. "Touched roam the Empire without being Lessened. You on the other hand deserve nothing but that fate." Gale shakes her head, "You do not have the strength or power to take me and keep me long enough for Lessening," she replies. "Far too many of my brethren have been lost to such a fate, and many of your own kind. Believe me, Lightpraiser, your Light is no better or worse than the Shadow to which I worship and owe my allegiance to." A small frown twists her lips downward, "I have told Taran I would not kill innocents, so move along now, and you will be able to return to your loved ones." Lucius Nepos bellows with laughter, though it is short lived. "I'm so glad you told Taran that. We disbanded the Church for the reason that they were tyrants. Show your face then, let's see if you're unmarked - if you are then Lessening is the sentence you rightfully deserve, but may not get. I will not be ordered by you, for I am a servant of the Empire, and the Light, which makes me superior to you in all but madness and magic power. Show your face, coward." Wheat continues to creep off to the side, circling around very slowly. Gale points a finger in Hugo's direction, shaking her head. "He takes another step, he'll be regreting it." A smile curves her lips. "I am unmarked, and will continue to stay that way. Why should I be forced to reveal my nature to those who would just insist on destroying me to begin with? We have a right to keep our secrets." Announcement: Bahamut shouts, "BAHUMAAAAAT!" "No, you do not. You live in the Empire at the discretion of the Prince of the Blood, who made this legislation to protect you. The Watch protects those who are Marked. It is irrelevant, in any case, for you have broken Imperial Law now, and one of the highest of them, which is murdering a citizen. You are no citizen now, if you ever were, and you will be killed for your efforts. If you harm Master Wheat over there your fate will not be very pleasant." All the same, Hugo does stop, though his sword is out, poking over his shield. He leans in a little bit. Nepos, for his part doesn't move from his ready position. "We all die, Lightpraiser, so why not make life better for those like me?" Gale replies. "You are unTouched. You can walk through the streets without fear or worry of being murdered for what you are. You could never understand what it is we feel. It would be worse for those Marked, especially when bitches like Reina Seamel and her husband walk among us." "Ah yes. And if Reina Seamel took action, then she is no longer a citizen either. It's that simple. I do make life better for those Touched with the mark. Imperial Law is that they are citizens and protected citizens. If someone breaks the law then they are criminals. You have broken the law. Reina Seamel had not broken the law. This makes you a criminal. Cry about your poor predicament, you whore of the Shadow, I don't care. The only thing you deserve is annihilation, and the Light will deal with you swiftly enough in the afterlife." Lucius is at an impasse it seems, gritting his teeth. Prestissimo has arrived. Prestissimo rides in. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Well heeellllooo." [OOC] Gale chirps. [OOC] Taran says, "oo, a guard." You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Where /is/ Hugo, exactly?' From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) will pose now. Lucius Nepos stands four or five metres away from Gale, his leather covered shield in front of him and spear held at the ready. Hugo Wheat stands roughly 90 degrees in a circle to the side of Nepos, a couple of meters away, similarly endowed with a shield and weaponry, while Gale is non-chalantly by the river bank. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: So he's at Gale's side, while Lucius face's Gale's front. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: They're both equidistant from her. [OOC] Gale says, "Well, she's more out in the river on some rocks..." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Oo." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Well then." [OOC] Taran says, "IN the river?" [OOC] Gale says, "Not /far/, but not on the shoreline." [OOC] Gale says, "She was standing on one of the big rocks that jutted out into the river." [OOC] Taran should probably be asking how clothed she is, really. [OOC] Gale says, "She's fully clothed." "If I am no citizen of this realm, and just an interloper," Gale says, looking amused, her features hidden behind the carefully crafted shadow mask, "Then what use do I have for the laws brought down?" she inquires lightly. "I have never belonged to Fastheld, and once my work is done, then I will depart. It is as simple as that." "I don't care if you have use for the laws. You are in this land, and therefore the laws apply for you. You selfish bitch, you do not make the rules here - the Empire does. They are ordained by the Light. Leave this realm now, right now, and we will never search for you again. If you do not, your safety is forfeit." Lucius says coldly. Gale still doesn't seem the least bit worried, shifting to keep a closer eye on Hugo, "My safety and life were forfeit the day I discovered my Touch," she replies lightly. "So you trying to threaten me is nothing more than a less than subtle reminder of the future." Atop Prestissimo, In the warm summer evening, hooves clopping on the dark stones, comes the form of one green-cloaked bard, lighting his mount's path by the strings of a lute. Finding company in this desolate locale, he halts his progress, watching the pair. Prestissimo just looked at you. [OOC] Taran says, "wow. masked, here." Taran dismounts from Prestissimo. Taran has arrived. [OOC] Gale says, "She was practicing her mask when Lucius so rudely interrupted her!" "If you'd have taken the Mark to prove your allegiance to the citizens of the Empire and Imperial Law then the only fear you would have had would be from zealots. As it stands, you make it worse for your Touched brethren, for now you stir the pot and convince those citizens who didn't like Touched already to perhaps take action." Lucius says. Hugo advances two paces and then stops. [OOC] Taran says, "Lucius is good at rude. Soldiers don't learn flattering speech. They learn variations of "we're gonna cut yer balls off."" [OOC] Lucius Nepos girns. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "True dat." "Why should we have to take a mark to prove allegiance?" Gale retorts, a flicker of anger appearing, along with a crackling at her fingertips. "We have existed within Fastheld for as long as the rest of you. Do not even attempt to understand the Shadow, or what it could possibly do to a person. It is /power/, just as the Light is power. There will be those corrupted by it on all sides." "Because the Shadow caused the Cataclysm which ruined us all, and consigned our realm to wallow under curse for near seven hundred years. Now flee our realm, you foul bitch. I'm done arguing with you. Flee, flee now, flee or the Empire will come crashing down on you." Lucius's leading leg extends outward, planting itself. [OOC] Gale says, "Dude, you skipped Taran. :)" Taran remains still on his mare, halted and watching...but he does draw his cloak's folds over the Lute's strings. [OOC] Taran says, "hang on a bit. I have to +str why Jantine's being checked into a hospital." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Ee!" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Sorry man." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Brb too, I'm gonna grab some grub." [OOC] Gale says, "Well fine then! Everyone just leave me. >.." [OOC] Taran says, "no prob. like i said I gotta tell the admins what Jan's being checked in for and why." Lucius Nepos	Before you stands a relatively good looking freelander man. His body seems to be that of a professional soldier & appears to be fit, probably following tough daily training, good nutrition & of good stock. He stands 5 foot 7 inches tall. His skin is what could be called slightly tanned. Below his cropped brown hair, lies two dark green-blue eyes & a prominent Roman nose. His facial bones are somewhat angular. All these feature seem to be further accented by the grey stubble that eternally rests on his face. He seems to carry an air of joviality with him, most generally having a pleasant disposition. This man wears a long sleeved ocean blue tunic. The hem of the tunic reaches to above his knees, & below that are a pair of brown trousers, tucked into his military boots. Over the trousers are a pair of platinum banded steel tassets & greaves of the same construct. The tunic's waist is fastened by a thin brown military style belt. On his left hip is a scabbard which contains a very deadly looking short sword, the blade 26" long with parallel double edges. Over his upper legs hangs a studded leather skirt, obscuring some of the armour down to his thighs.	He wears a banded steel cuirass, made of several different pieces of strong curved & laminated platinum plates attached with hinges & buckles. The top & bottom both consist of these plates, segmented from eachother, with two large shoulder pieces covering his collarbone & shoulders. The cuirass is called Lorica's Soul. It looks both sturdy & flexible. His steel helmet looks protective while remaining fairly open. In the back extends a neckguard which projects outward slighly, while cheek guards rest on his temples & cheeks. An iron crosspiece keeps the helmet from being split open on top. His arms are further covered with banded steel. Finally, a crimson scarf is wrapped around his neck. He carries a long & wide shield of undeterminate construction and form, as a leather cover surrounds it. Carried in a compartment behind his shield are two spears, one steel and one iron. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Back." Gale rolls her Permafrost with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Good (1). CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 5 minutes. Gale lifts a brow, "And yet many of your stature in life have caused wars and strifes within this wall," she points out. "Yet the entire group is not judged based on the actions of a selected group. You choose instead to fear what you cannot know, and make no attempt to understand it." Her eyes narrow, fingers flexing slightly. A thin sheet of ice forms beneath Lucius' feet, not far spread, or everly slippery, but if movement is too abrupt, then he is most likely to fall. That does it. "Suffer your own wrath then." Nepos creeps forward, aware of whats under him until he's out from it. Hugo, on the other hand, moves forward at a much quicker pace, hearing the signal from his comrade. He moves towards a position to subdue Gale, rather than kill her, though in his hands are a shield and sword and nothing else. CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 1 minute. [OOC] Gale says, "Agility -1. :)" [OOC] Gale says, "See if actually doesn't fall on his ass." Lucius Nepos rolls his Agility with a -1 modifier. The result of the roll is: Good (1). [OOC] Gale says, "Is Hugo actually attacking?" CHIASQUIRE: Pardon, m'lords and m'ladies. Saving. CHIASQUIRE: Saved, m'lords and m'ladies.

A guard of exceptional loyalty and morale, rolling a Superb on the following skills: Swordsmanship Brawling Small_Blades. It has been engraved with: Hugo Wheat, ex-Blade of 12 years. Currently in the employ of Lucius Nepos. Wears banded plate. [OOC] Gale says, "Lucky?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "No, but he's moving towards Gale at a rapid pace." [OOC] Gale says, "Taran, you back with us?" [OOC] Taran will still wait, really. [OOC] Taran says, "This isn't his fight - not until it ends." "I will not fight you, Lightpraiser," Gale says, her voice low with force. "So put an end to this." She moves out a bit further on her rock, attention shifting repeatedly from between Hugo and Lucius, though now her attention mostly turns to the one much more rapidly approaching. "Good. Then we can apprehend you without any worry." Says Hugo, slowing down and moving until he's within breathing distance of Gale, if she lets him. The older man's gruff appearance and voice bear an air of irritatedness. His shield and sword remain up, defensively. Lucius moves forward until he's about two metres from Gale. Gale chuckles quietly, "I will not fight you, but I will not let you take me, either," she replies, shaking her head as she moves a bit further back, keeping as much space between herself and her would be captors as possible. "Then you sign your own bloody death warrant." Hugo says, impusively. "I've seen too many Shadow related deaths in my time." And with that, he lashes out at Gale with his bronze shortsword at the ready. Nepos is even taken surprise by this, eyes widening greatly. [OOC] Gale says, "Roll a Superb, Lucky." Lucius Nepos rolls for a Superb level with a modifier of 0. The result of the roll is Legendary+1. [OOC] Gale says, "Oh, sweet Jesus." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "I don't want to see Gale killed. Just have her teleport after she dances around the sword or somethin." [OOC] Lucius Nepos grins. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Or loses an arm, whatever the case." [OOC] Taran says, "she'd have to teleport away in time." [OOC] Taran says, "it's got to be played fair." [OOC] Gale says, "Okay, hold on, boys. Let me think." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "There's always a creative way to confuse a man!" Gale rolls her Anticipation with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Good (1). [OOC] Lucius Nepos grins. "Like anticipation!" [OOC] Taran says, "I still don't know how that works." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Me neither.," [OOC] Gale ponders, debates. Nah, probably not good enough. [OOC] Lucius Nepos knows it does something though. [OOC] Taran says, "my *guess*? totall off the cuff guess?" [OOC] Taran says, "is that that roll there gives her a +1 to other rolls." [OOC] Gale says, "It's like getting a half second warning before being attacked." [OOC] Gale says, "But I wouldn't say the roll was good enough for any mods." Gale rolls her Agility with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Great (2). [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Waiiit." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "I think it's a pass/fail thing." [OOC] Gale blinks. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Good + gives you a modifier of 1." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "That's really the fairest way to do it." [OOC] Gale says, "If you say so, Lucky." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Without it getting super twinky." [OOC] Gale says, "Want to tack on the 1, or should I reroll?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Isn't it you that tacks the 1 on? :)" [OOC] Taran says, "even with the plus one, you still didn't duck a legendary+1" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Oh!" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Reroll." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "It changes the odds." Gale rolls her Agility with a 1 modifier. The result of the roll is: Legendary+1 (5). [OOC] Lucius Nepos grins. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "See?" [OOC] Taran says, "okee." [OOC] Lucius Nepos likes Gale too much OOCly to be mean! [OOC] Gale snickers. [OOC] Taran says, "anticipation's a powerful one though - higher roll'd be higher bonus (more warning)." [OOC] Lucius Nepos thinks that's a bit lame, honestly. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "And it totally skews the gamem echanics because you can use it ALL THE TIME FOR EVERYTHING and get like a +4 bonus." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "With no penalty." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "On anything." [OOC] Gale says, "If it's a bad roll, I'd say you get a neg mod." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "How does that make any sense?" [OOC] Taran says, "me I'd say you get once per (point where you need to do rolls) - so anticipation once per combat." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "I like Pass Fail." [OOC] Lucius Nepos shrugs. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "We'd have to ask Wik and Rar." [OOC] Gale says, "Rules are still vague, but I'm trying to play it as fairly as possible." [OOC] Taran says, "yep." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Anyways, back tozee RP!" About a milisecond before Hugo goes lunging at her with a sharp object, a realization flashes over Gale's expression and she makes a hasty retreat, but not quite fast enough for the veteran ex-Blade. The tip of his blade makes a shallow cut across her arm, and in this process, the Shadow mask which had been protecting her features, disappears, concentration broken. Even as she's in the process of rolling away from the big man with sword, she's gathering her strength, focusing on a teleport. Not far, But putting at least twenty feet between herself and her attackers. Gale rolls her Teleport with a -1 modifier. The result of the roll is: Superb (3). [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Do we get a glance at her face then?" [OOC] Gale nods. [OOC] Gale says, "I'll change desc." [OOC] Lucius Nepos nods. Your description has now been set to wardrobe #1. [OOC] Gale says, "There!" Lucius Nepos just looked at you. Taran just looked at you. [OOC] Gale says, "Roll perception at -1, Lucky." Lucius Nepos rolls his Perception with a -1 modifier. The result of the roll is: Great (2). [OOC] Gale says, "Well, I'd say Gale is royally screwed. :)" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Why, cause we saw her? :)" [OOC] Gale nods. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Not if she wears her mask!" [OOC] Gale says, "Dead giveaway." [OOC] Taran says, "you tellin' me you couldn't tell if it was your girlfriend next to you in the dark, lucky? heh. Shadowmask only really works if you do shadowrobe with it." [OOC] Taran says, "otherwise it's just an effect." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Guess she's gonna have to do Shadowrobe too!" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Where did Gale teleport. Across the river?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos doesn't know how deep it is at this point. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Or wide." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "That would work as far as getaways go though." [OOC] Lucius Nepos can't kill anyone with his ranged weapon, really. [OOC] Gale says, "Nah, just further back into land." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Kk." [OOC] Taran is for the record further along the *shore* - following the shoreline. Hugo is rather shocked as Gale is there one moment, and gone the next. So shocked, in fact, that he stumbles forward into the river, which is thankfully, for him, shallow at this area. He struggles to push himself out of the water, growling obseneties to himself. Lucius, on the other hand, is far enough that the teleportation, while sudden, doesn't knock his wits out too. He does take note of something intriguing, furroughing his brow. Not seeing her in front of him, he looks behind to note the long feminine figure now twenty feet off. His pivot complete, the man takes two running steps before chucking his steel spear at her. [OOC] Gale says, "Aw man, quit trying to kill me!" [OOC] Gale says, "Roll it, Lucky!" [OOC] Gale says, "...Lucky?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "SOrry had a call." Lucius Nepos rolls his Throwing with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Great (2). Lucius Nepos drops: Steel Spear [OOC] Taran says, "wassat you or hugo, lucky?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos didn't +roll for, so me. Gale rolls her Agility with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Great (2). [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Hugo also doesn't have the skill or weapon. :)" [OOC] Gale sighs. [OOC] Gale hates these dice. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "It's not like she's getting hit." [OOC] Taran says, "you dodged?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Defender wins, means she gets nicked." [OOC] Gale nodnods. [OOC] Gale says, "Lots and lots of nicks tonight!" Lucius Nepos equips Steel Spear. [OOC] Gale grunts. Not /another/ one! [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Of course. ;)" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "He's not just gonna let her run off. Though OOCly I hope she runs FAST!" Not a moment of rest for Gale. As soon as she's safely back in the real plane, she's tossing herself out of the way of a spear. Her luck is just barely with her, once again, the edge slicing through more of the fine silk of her tunic, and the pale whiteness of her skin, though the cut is very shallow. She rolls once and moves to return to her feet instead of offering a counter attack of any kind. As the spear is hucked and misses Gale, the hedge-knight's second spear is withdrawn from the compartment at the back of his shield. This being his final ranged weapon, he takes careful aim and runs another two steps towards Gale before letting loose.

In the water, Hugo splashes about making a big commotion and yelling, finally pulling himself from the tide. Of course, it appears his dagger's sheath has come unattached and floats down the river. He jumps towards it to retrieve. Lucius Nepos rolls his Throwing with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Superb (3). Gale rolls her Agility with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Fair (0). [OOC] Gale says, "Uh oh." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "She's not dead." [OOC] Gale says, "I know." [OOC] Gale says, "But not well off either." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "And she's also twenty five feet away. ;)" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Nope, not that!" [OOC] Gale ponders. Y'think shoulder? [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "It'll take Lucius a good two rounds at least to close, that's if she's standing still." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Your call. She have any armour?" [OOC] Taran says, "and on the other side of the river. Drat it. Wonder if my horse can swim." Lucius Nepos drops: Steel Spear [OOC] Gale says, "Nope. No armor." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Well say the river isn't deep here." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "So it's 65 HP. 35 base damage + (3diffx10)" [OOC] Gale nodnods. Was working on it, Lucky! Gale is still in the process of pulling herself back to her feet when the second spear comes raining down on her, arcing, and then finding a new home in her left shoulder, cutting through her flesh. This drops her back down to her knees, letting out a small whimper in pain. [OOC] Gale debates which wounded quirk... it's like inbetween moderate and light. Lucius Nepos removes his sword from his scabbard, looking back to Hugo and catching sight of the two horses, which are standing placidly. "Make haste, comrade! I got her!" His voice and expression display no joy at the fact, merely grim determination. He begins to charge up the small hill towards where he saw Gale go down, his hobnailed boots making good headway into the soil. Wheat, finally, finds his dagger and sheath and sticks it back onto his belt, then begins to try and swim out of the river, thoroughly drenched. Lucky for him it's a warm late summer night. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Should we wait for you, Tar?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Your horse could cross the river we'll say." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Makes it more fun." Taran shakes his head, and withdraws a gemstone from a pouch in his pocket. This is thrown *straight up* into the late evening sky, as hard as he can throw it. And then the bard rides foward, revealing the light from his lute-strings. "Hola!" he calls. "What is all this splashing!" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Oo." Taran drops: Waterstone Gem Taran unequips Steel Quarterstaff. Taran equips Fat Lute. Lucius Nepos equips Steel Shortsword. [OOC] Gale cowers. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Ruuuuuuun forest!" [OOC] Taran says, "well, it's sunset. One can assume dim lighting." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Rune of tracking, hey? :)" Nantucket sets the Moderately Wounded quirk on you. [OOC] Taran is a very popular man. For a very particular definition of popular. [OOC] Lucius Nepos grins. [OOC] Taran says, "but - thrown straight up, and you untouched, y'ain't gonna find it or see it." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Course not." CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 5 minutes. A deep blue gemstone mined from the ground of Fastheld. It contains: Rune Of Tracking CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 1 minute. CHIASQUIRE: Pardon, m'lords and m'ladies. Saving. CHIASQUIRE: Saved, m'lords and m'ladies. [OOC] Gale says, "Oh, hey look, it's my pose!"

[OOC] Gale says, "Hey, how long is the spear?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Non desced, yeesh. About two and a half or three feet." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "It's short." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "In between the size of a proper javelin and a dart." Gale continues to clutch at her new wound, whimpering. The coldness returns to her gaze as she takes a grip of the shaft, pain etched around her features. Taran's voice catches her attention, along with the approaching Lucius, but she remains where she is, on her knees. Hugo looks up at Taran, drenched as he pulls himself out of the river. He points towards the crest of the hill. "Light speed, Master!" Though he's been in Taran's presence before, he doesn't recognize him apparently. "My comrade's chasing a murderer and errant witch up that hill! C'mon, help us out!" Wheat takes off, though his speed is hampered by the fact that he's shedding water like it goes out of style. Lucius, for his part, continues to dart up the hill, sword in hand. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Like it's going." Taran looks skyward for a moment, sighs, and urges his mare toward the designated hill. "One can hardly go for a ride in the countryside any longer without running into trouble," he laments. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Is she going to make a getaway or what? :) You paged Lucius Nepos with 'I'm debating' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: She should. This plot could be interesting. From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) is surprised she didn't teleport away when Hugo started towards her way before. Long distance to Lucius Nepos: Gale is having fun! From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) grins. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: I dunnae wanna cut your plot short though. ;) Gale rolls her Phaseshift with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Legendary+1 (5). It takes a moment of concentration, but in the darkening light, for a moment it seems as though Gale disappears, but there is movement, and the spear hovers in air for a moment before dropping on down to the ground, the mage's blood still staining its tip. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Can I pose him attacking her and the sword going right through? Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: According to the +sinfo she's still partly visible. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Sure! She ain't moving.' As Nepos rounds the crest of the hill, he comes to a woman who is partly here and partly not. His eyes grow wide, but he feels not hesitation. Shield pulled in front of him, he lifts his sword and thrusts it into Gale's neck... only for it to go right through. "What sorcery is this?" Demands Lucius, in a futile manner. He turns back to Wheat. "Hugo! Get horsed and go find the Watch, or a Kissed!" Turning back his eyes flare with hatred. "Was my spear a bit too biting for you, witch?" Taran rides up easily enough. "...Well, good evening master Nepos," he says, as his lute-strings illuminate the area. "I must say such an overgrown locale is not where I would have thought to meet you again." He looks down at the phased Gale, then, and dismounts. "Ah. And what will you do now?" he asks, rather more softly - nor is it quite clear to whom the question is addressed. Gale clears her throat a bit, one hand pressing against her wound, trying to stop the blood. "Apparently bleed to death because I was foolish enough to not fight back," she notes wryly, shivering a tiny bit. "The first rule of combat is to take every advantage you can get." Lucius mentions keeping his combat position. A very soaked Hugo mounts his horse and rides off towards East Leg, some miles off in the distance. Nepos's eyes narrow. "I wait now. I gave you the chance to leave our realm peaceably. Now, I am protecting my fellow citizen by relieving us of an evil, evil woman. It is one thing to talk about killing your enemies, Gale, but another entirely to do it. Reisa Seamel talked about it. You did it. This is why you will not survive the season." [OOC] Gale says, "/Reina/." [OOC] Gale says, "No one can spell this name right!" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Bah!" [OOC] Taran says, "true. I was thinking LKH and went 'raina'" "A good rule of life is to know who your enemies are," Taran replies quietly, and turns his attention to Gale. "I offer you a choice, now," he says. "I can get my kit and try to help you live, or I can give you a swift and painless death. This is the first choice, an ye can not teleport away this time. What do you choose?" Gale eyes Lucius warily, "If he will let me shift back without hacking off my head, I would gladly accept your help," she says slowly. "But it does not mean I will allow myself to be taken and tortured to death in return." "I will not torture you. I am not a cruel man, though I may seem so by telling you should be Lessened. Perhaps you should, perhaps not. I am not an Imperial officer anymore." Lucius states, simply. He does not say anything else. Nor does his position change. He still carries his shield over his body, sword pointed forward. [OOC] Taran says, "watch Taran flub the healing roll :)" Uriel has arrived. [OOC] Taran says, "ah, dar u ist." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Ru-ro." [OOC] Gale says, "Oooo." Listening in ROOM: Uriel [speech]. (connected) Taran [speech]. (connected) Prestissimo [speech]. Wik [speech]. (connected) Wik [commands]. Lucius Nepos [speech]. (connected) Haste [speech]. Gale [speech]. (connected) Listening EXITS: Listening in your INVENTORY: Taran nods, and gets up to retrieve his healer's kit from the saddlebags. "At least you removed the...spear...without doing further injury to yourself," he says. "Let me clean the wound and stop the bleeding..." Hands work with calm, quick efficiency. "As long as you live there are still choices." Gale continues to watch Lucius with mistrust, "If he kills me, Taran, I /will/ return to eat you as some form of Shadow monster," she threatens with a weak chuckle. "There are choices, and... at the moment, I am choosing to trust you. And the dolt with a sword." One final hesitant look before she flickers back into substance. [OOC] Gale cries. Urry, Lucky hurted me! "No. There are two choices here. You are bound by Imperial Law to come with me, Gale, to the nearest Watch Garrison. There you will be tried by a Marshal or a Captain and your sentence will or will not be handed out to you. This is the price of you being healed. You, Master Songbird, are bound by Law to assist me or step back." Lucius states with conviction. "If you do not choose to come, you are a fugitive of Imperial Law and I will hack your hands and feet off right here. It will not be pleasant. Those are your two choices." He doesn't need to move, being very close to Gale already. The three people are at the top of the hill. Prentissimo is standing nearby, while Haste is near the shoreline, drinking from the river. A ways off, Hugo Wheat rides his horse off to East Leg at a gallop. [OOC] Taran says, "There are times I regret that chia does not have an +emote command." [OOC] Lucius Nepos snerks. [OOC] Lucius Nepos is gonna have to AFK for 15 minute ssoon for the dog. [OOC] Taran says, "healing roll, gale? feelin' lucky?" A ways up the hill, an invisible form makes a weak clothy fluttering noise, like a flag on a windy day. The sound slowly, deliberately moves towards the three gathered figures. [OOC] Gale says, "Don't kill me, Taran. :)" [OOC] Gale says, "Else my plot was /very/ short." [OOC] Taran says, "bless the dice." Taran rolls his Healing with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Great (2). [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Nice." [OOC] Taran says, "goddamn. the dice LOVE you." Taran says nothing to Lucius' amendments, but works as he said the moment Gale's solid enough to touch. Vials are taken from the kit to dampen a cloth, used to clean the wound. A thick salve is applied over it, and bandages over that. It seems the bard has gotten some practice recently in such work. Gale winces as the hands come down on her wound. "/Ow/," she grumbles. "That hurt." She bites on her lower lip, still eying Lucius something fierce. CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 5 minutes. "DID YOU HEAR ME? ACKNOWLEDGE ME OR I WILL ASSUME DEFIANCE." Lucius asks in a very loud and one might say commanding voice, glancing over his shoulder to the sound. "Show yourself." He looks back at Gale, before lowering his weapon for a moment to pick up the used spear. His sword is soon back in grip though. + Uriel stares intently at you for a moment. Taran pauses, wincing. "Master Nepos, I am not one of your barracks-sweepers, to be intimidated by a shout," he replies mildly. "I have no power of Imperial Law - all that I can do, you are seeing me do. What agreements the two of you should make are not something I can force - not on either side." [OOC] Lucius Nepos was talking to Gale. [OOC] Lucius Nepos grins. CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 1 minute. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Though I suppose that's not the point." [OOC] Taran says, "well, shout quieter then. The bard has a level of always-on clairaudience and - OW, a'right?" [OOC] Taran laughs. [OOC] Lucius Nepos chuckles. [OOC] Taran says, "go shout in Wolverine's ears, see how he likes it." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "The sound makes him all vibrate-y." CHIASQUIRE: Pardon, m'lords and m'ladies. Saving. CHIASQUIRE: Saved, m'lords and m'ladies. [OOC] Taran says, "actually I think you probably just gave Taran a headache." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Sweet." The flag-waving noise softens as the sound doesn't seem to advance towards the group, remaining just over fifty feet away. You paged Uriel with 'Could you use aurasight on an invisible person?' Uriel (Ur) pages: I suppose it's possible. + You attempt to discern Ur's aura.

>> There is at first little about the aura of this person that is worthy of note, save for the faint touch of light blue upon their skin. Yet beyond the subtle rests the indication of the arcane upon them, for upon the middle of their forehead burns a bright blue eye of knowledge. Their own eye color seems to be hidden beneath a shroud of ethereal white, giving them the impression of being blind to the world, but open to the secrets beyond.

>> Though you can discern no real color associated with this person's aura, the aura itself is quite evident, for it acts as if a motion blur behind each movement they make, distorting the reality behind them and your perception of them as you watch them. To make matters worse, these trailing echoes of motion seem to have an almost refractive quality to them which makes them difficult to watch and track.

>> There yet not there, the aura of this person is interesting indeed. It speaks of attributes that they do not have yet that seem to haunt them all the same. In one moment dark reptilian wings of shadow can be seen behind their form, gone but a heartbeat later. In another moment, their hands exist as whispers of shadow and mist, before taking form once more. Their eyes burn with a red glow; their presence within this plane of reality seeming - at times - tenuous at best, while a faint yet constant maelstrom of magenta swirls around their form with tireless grace.

>> Tendrils of tarnished gold writhe around this person, entwined with streaks of darkness and smoke, as if the Shadow itself has found a place to perch and be content. However, their outline seems at times softened by a shadowy haze, while at others jagged and bold by a darker streak of substance. It is as if darkness itself hides behind this person, shielded by the tainted gold that surrounds them.

>> The fire of the arcane burns overwhelmingly bright upon the aura of this person, their connection to the Shadow manifesting as a deep crimson hue that rolls along their form and swirls around their being. Traces of other colors dance within this powerful manifestation of force, yet none stand out alone as being the dominant aside from that greater ocean of red. It is an aura that makes claim to unspeakable power, as evident as an inferno in the depths of the night, and as potent as any poison.

[OOC] Lucius Nepos is going to AFK after his next pose. Gale's eyes focus in on the direction that the last known sound, a look of concentration passing over her features. Whatever it is she sees, it makes her draw back a little, awe rising up on her features. "Something powerful... very very powerful," she murmurs softly. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Is taran visibly done with his healing stuffs?" [OOC] Taran says, "probably yeah. Just cleaning up the grazes." "I was not talking to you, Master Bard. Stand back." Lucius asides to Taran, his voice returned to a normal volume. Whether Taran stands back or not, Lucius moves to strike at Gale. However, it appears to be calculated - instead of using his blade to thrust, he reaches to smack Gale on the back of the head with the flat of his sword while she's distracted, hoping to knock her out. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Swords at 0?" [OOC] Gale says, "Oh, jeez. Has she not gotten enough abuse tonight?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "He's not killing her at least!" [OOC] Taran says, "only way to stop her teleporting, really." [OOC] Gale nods. I guess that'll work, Lucky. Lucius Nepos rolls his Swordsmanship with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Legendary+2 (6). [OOC] Lucius Nepos runs afk for 15. [OOC] Gale says, "Thanks... just leave me unconscious." [OOC] Taran says, "hm. To be fair, since he's already gotten a headache..." Taran rolls his Sieve with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Great (2). [OOC] Taran laughs. "And for once he rolls well. Goody, I get to be the conscious one." Taran sighes as Gale slumps, shaking his head. "And now what will you do?" he asks Lucius, a hint of pain in his features as he wipes off his hands. The soft flapping noise continues to stay where it is, poised a few dozen feet from the shoreline. Flash of pain, followed by an unconscious Gale. Not a hard sight to follow. [OOC] Taran whiiiistles. Of course he'd take charge and go AFK. :) [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Back" [OOC] Taran says, "woot :)" You paged Lucius Nepos with 'So what now? Are you going to keep her unconscious until you kill her?' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: nO. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Lucius will not kill Gale. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Well, I do need to know what's going to happen so I can plan accordingly. ;)' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: He's going to bring her to the Watch garrison after binding her hands tightly, putting something over her eyes to blindofld her and gagging her. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'She can still teleport, I believe.' From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) shrugs. "That's how he was trained to deal with mages. When she awakens he's going to keep knocking her out until she's in the Watch's posessions." Lucius Nepos kneels down by Gale's unconscious body. He reaches into a pouch and removes three bundles of white cloth, something one might use to staunch a wound. "I'm going to make sure she can't do anything with her bloody magic, the way I was taught to in the Blades, and bring her to a Watch garrison." He firstly ties her hands very, very tightly with one of the lengths of cloth. Then he takes the second one and wraps it a round her head at the eye level, doing the same. Finally, he stuffs part of the third bundle in her mouth and ties that one as well around her head, finishing the process. "Will you accompany me to East Leg, Taran?" Lucius Nepos unequips Steel Shortsword. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Anyways, if she escapes then it's better for the plot! You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Yeah, but I'm coming up on a blank for escape.' Taran nods. "I will," he says, getting to his feet and absently patting his belt pouch. Frowning, he looks into it. "Ah - just a moment," he says. "I'd bought a stone for my sister, I seem to have dropped it in my haste to find out what all the splashing was for. A moment to find it - I know my route well enough, the hoofprints mark it well." Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: They untie her, look away for a second and she's GONE! From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) grins. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Blame it on some newbie Watchman. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: She's not bleeding anymore, anyways. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'If you're keeping her unconscious, then not much I can do.' From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) is talking when Lucky's not around. :D Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Back in the dungeon. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: The new Watchmen aren't all trained in all of the methods, undoubtedly. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Do you know how many people will scream abuse if I just whisk her away?' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: It's a plot. Who cares? She's a mage of HUGE power. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Besides, if you explain in the news article that she was unbound for a short period of time and dissapeared, then it makes sense. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Like I said - blame it on a newbie Watchman. The flapping noise seems to retreat a bit up the hill, growing softer still. "Fair enough. Lead Haste up here, would you please?" Lucius asks in a gentle voice, a far cry from his former gruff tone. He kneels by Gale after having tied her, oncemore wrapping his fingers around the hilt of his sword. He watches her, looks up to the sound, then back down. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Besides, no one is going to scream abuse. I really can't imagine anyone doing that. Taran puts away his healer's kit in his mount's saddlebags, then retraces the mare's route, holding the Lute out for light until a sparkle on the ground reveals what he was looking for. Putting the stone in its pouch and making it quite secure this time, he then moves to bring Lucius his horse. Taran picks up Waterstone Gem Taran places Waterstone Gem in Ashen Leather Pouch Taran closes a Ashen Leather Pouch [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Guess I don't need to wait for Uriel eh?" Lucius Nepos keeps a vigilant watch on Gale, but does not do anything unless he sees her stir somewhat. Taran hands Lucius the reins of his horse. "Why do you wish me to come along?" he asks curiously. "I did not take her." "Well, you're an honest citizen of Fastheld, Taran. I also trust you. Another pair of eyes can never be wasted, really, and you'll be doing the Empire a great service. It looks good for all of us. It especially looks good for Marked mages to have brought in the murderer who killed an honest, Sunkissed citizen. You see where I'm going?" Lucius nods a thanks to Taran, sheathing his sword. He picks Gale up and gently places her over Haste's back. The horse grumbles a bit by snorting but doesn't seem to mind too much. Then Nepos mounts his horse, stepping into the stirrups. His final act is to reach into his left bracer and remove an obsidian dagger from a hidden sheath, tying it with a piece of rope to Haste's saddle so it's in close reach. "Good enough reason?" Lucius Nepos places Steel Shortsword in Ashen Scabbard You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Even so, I'd prefer to do the rolls with you and Taran still there. I'm a fan of things being legit and not just cause I have staffer powers.' You paged Lucius Nepos with 'People have been questioning my judgement and authority enough lately. Don't need to give them another reason.' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Really? You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Yes, and it's been pissing me the hell off.' You paged Lucius Nepos with 'I've been in a pretty crabby mood.' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Damn, that sucks. Far up the hill can be heard the sound of hornets growing in intensity for a moment before disappearing. "I thank you for your vigilant awareness of my political situation," Taran replies cheerfully, and climbs into the saddle. "But it is likely best to hurry." + In the space of but a mere heartbeat, and amidst the sound of buzzing hornets, Uriel utterly vanishes from sight. Uriel has left. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Well sure. How about when we hand her off to the Watch waiting in East Leg. They take her into a building. We stick around and then we hear hornets buzzing... boom! [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Unlock yourself, Gale. :)" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Unless you wanna @tel us." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "That would work too." [OOC] Gale can @tel you lazy bums. :) [OOC] Lucius Nepos Grins. [OOC] Taran wants his horsey too! Lucius Nepos picks up Guard Retainer Lucius Nepos has left. Lucius Nepos mounts Haste and settles into the saddle. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Yarr." Taran has left. Taran mounts Prestissimo and settles into the saddle. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Me too pwease." Atop Haste, "Not only yours, but others like you. With people stirring up discontent about the amnesty this should do something to help, I hope." Lucius says, nodding at Taran's assertation. CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 5 minutes. Prestissimo has left. Haste has left. East Leg  20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)Nantucket 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC) 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)Nantucket (Outdoors) (Cover: Fair) (Owner: House Lomasa) The riverside town of East Leg, founded two centuries ago by Yontalas Lomasa, has over time become a popular settlement area for those who have served in some capacity within the Emperor's Blades until they became too old to ride, patrol or defend against threats within and without. Old horsemen and bladesmen can often be found in the Clanging Gong Tavern, telling stories of their adventures in the Emperor's service. The township hugs the northern shore of the Fastheld River, and a busy dock juts out into the jade green waters. Market Road twists northeast, following the Fastheld on its way toward the city-state's commerce district. The Aegis Road cuts west, similarly following the course of the Fastheld, toward the massive wall that envelopes the realm; and a paved way cuts east to where the the mansion of East Leg's ruler lies: the Heron Hall.

It is a warm night. The air is stagnant, not stirring with the slightest breeze. The skies are perfectly clear. The following of the six moons are visible in the sky: Herald (blue/waning), Dayhunter (crimson/waxing), Torch I (gray/waning), Torch II (gray/waning). Lucius Nepos (mounted on Haste) and Taran (mounted on Prestissimo) are here. A well is here. A barracks building stands here. A Tailor works here. An oak sign is here.

-- Also here: Haste, Prestissimo, Corpse of Vamyla, East Leg Trade Merchant, Fastheld Courier Service, Zeke Sandgrass (NPC Deedgiver), East Leg Healer, East Leg News Post, Directional Sign, East Leg Stables

Obvious exits: Auction Warehouse , Crafters Square , East Leg Estates , Homesteads , Moneychanger , Mercantile , Temple , Clanging Gong Tavern 

You can travel: Downhill, North, South, West, Southeast, Northwest, East

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=================================================================== Type +carriage3/hire to get a ride elsewhere in the River District. [OOC] Gale says, "Oh good, I didn't accidentially send us all to hell." [OOC] Taran says, "nope, just East Leg." [OOC] Gale says, "Which is /like/ hell!" [OOC] Taran says, "Number 667 rather than 666." Atop Haste, Lucius Nepos drops: Guard Retainer Lucius Nepos dismounts from Haste. Lucius Nepos has arrived. Lucius Nepos pays a stableboy to have Haste stabled in East Leg Stables. The boy leads the animal back into the stables. Haste has left. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "There's still a CORPSE here?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "....." [OOC] Gale headshakes. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Glad that Norran takes care of his holdings. :D" CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 1 minute. CHIASQUIRE: Pardon, m'lords and m'ladies. Saving. CHIASQUIRE: Saved, m'lords and m'ladies. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Bah, I forgot one of my spears. I'll go hunting later." [OOC] Taran says, "you realize the only place she ain't breakin' out of is light's reach?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "This is the closest place, T-." [OOC] Gale says, "I'll snag it." After a bit of riding, Lucius and Taran are in East Leg. Nepos stables Haste and drapes Gale over his shoulder, shield strapped onto his back now that he's in safer environs. It turns out that Hugo wasn't sent for nothing - a squadron of Watchmen wait with Wheat for the trio to return to town, and Lucius heads towards them with a bit of a smile. "So here is the murderer who killed Reina Seamel and Kess Kahar last night. She is an unmarked mage named Gale. Taran Songwater assisted me in making sure she didn't bleed to death and then helped make sure she didn't escape while we brought her here. So I hand her over to the authorities now." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Aw, thanks!" Nantucket has arrived. You have been joined by Nantucket. Nantucket drops: Steel Spear Nantucket drops: Steel Spear Nantucket has left. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "You rock." Lucius Nepos picks up Steel Spear Lucius Nepos picks up Steel Spear [OOC] Taran says, "...songwater?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Er." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Songbird." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Whoops." [OOC] Taran laughs. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Least I didn't call him Ruin!" Atop Prestissimo, Taran - riding along behind - bows somewhat in the saddles as he's named, tugging back the hood of his cloak so that his own nature is clear to see in the available light. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: You should probably pose the Watch, hmm? You paged Lucius Nepos with ''M workin' on it!' You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Jeez, hold yer horses.' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Just makin sure! :D The Watchman in charge steps forward giving a gruff nod of his head. "We'll take 'er from 'ere," he says, gesturing two young men, barely out of boyhood, to join him. "Take 'er and make sure she don't go no where." One of the men steps up to retrieve Gale from Lucius' arms, holding out his own for a transfer. "She don't look like no killer t'me," he notes with a faint laugh.

Gale stirs weakly, but doesn't look very good, moaning in her unconsciousness. Her face is pale, and the journey doesn't seem to have done very much for her already weakened state. She does look quite helpless, and small. "Of course she doesn't. Corrupt mages seldom do. I must say though - she is the most powerful mage, or one of the most powerful mages I've ever had the fortune or whatnot of meeting. And I've been to Crown's Refuge and in the Wildlands. Keep a /close/ watch on her, I beg of you." Lucius says, voice stern and rough as he hands the woman off to the young Watchmen. "Well, I suppose our work here is done, Guardian. Please make sure the heralds are aware of all the details, including that the Master Bard here helped. That's important." In addition to being stern and gruff, his voice now carries some sense of urgency to it. Atop Prestissimo, Taran reaches over to lightly brush Gale's hair, and then run over her bandaged shoulder. "The ride does nothing for the injury," he says. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Would you have happened to log this? :) The Watchen just chuckle, "She looks harmless," he says, jostling Gale in his arms a bit. "What does she do, throw flowers at you?" He smirks in Lucius' direction. "Don'tcha worry, boss. We'll be sure to protect you from the big bad mage, when she wakes up. She could be a load of fun while she's wth us... cute enough." The one in charge however, gives both men a murderous look. "You don't touch the prisoner. You don't go near the prisoner. Just make sure she's locked up tightly, and safely unconscious for the time being."

Gale is definitely starting to show more signs of life, but remains mostly still in her captor's arms. Long distance to Lucius Nepos: Gale has log. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Rock on. "New bodies, eh? I know the type. Used to beat 'em over the head with my Marshal's vine staff." Lucius winks at the commanding officer, looking towards the junior Watchmen. "No. She throws lightning bolts at you, or freezes the room over, or throws a Shadow curse on you like she did with three people last night." Finally, Nepos nods at the Watch. "Good night to you, soldiers. Light keep you all. I am Lucius Nepos, former Marshal of the Blades. This is Taran Songbird, master bard. And this is Hugo Wheat, former Guardian Leader in the Blades as well. He helped with the apprehension. A good night to you all." He turns his back and begins to walk away, sighing with relief and smiling. "Thank you Hugo, Taran. I could not have done this alone." Atop Prestissimo, Taran nods, making it a slight bow. "As you say, master Nepos," he replies, though he himself stays near Gale, one hand on her uninjured shoulder. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: How does, 'Sand in the fist' sound for a log name? :D Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Once you think you have her.. she slips away like sand in the fist. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Pretty cool.' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Sweet. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Damn it, make Taran not there! Going to make escape harder. :)' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Have a soldier force him off or something. Or tell him they need to put her in a carriage and bring her away. The officer carrying Gale chuckles up at Taran, "Yer gonna have to feel her up some other time," he says pleasantly. "Gotta take her now, and do as ordered. You can't come with. Sorry."

Whether Gale is actually still unconscious or not is hard to say. But she is very still, perhaps overly so. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Then when the carriage is closed, one of the newbies can take her gag out or something and BUZZZZZZZ> Taran (Tar) pages: would taran pick up any thoughts/emotions from her? You paged Taran with 'She is very still. Her mind is awake, but yeah...' "Come now, Master Bard. Let us go inform the herald of what has happened." Lucius says, rather cheerfully. He looks right, he looks left - the streets are almost completely deserted, other than the group of Watchmen and Lomasa House Guard patrolling the street. He makes way towards the Clanging Gong anyways at a slow pace, that being the usual haunt of the herald at night. Atop Prestissimo, Taran smiles at the watchman, making a show of running his fingers in a swirl sort of gesture across Gale's shoulder. "Why, I would almost think you jealous, good sir," he notes to the man. "Mind you do not give her cause for wrath; for such as she it is only a path to power." He then withdraws, turning to follow Lucius. "Be wise, gentlemen," he offers cheerfully. Taran (Tar) pages: written on her shoulder: find me. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Recharge her hunger before ya roll, eh? :D Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Don't want ya failing here! Taran (Tar) pages: which is to say he's aware she's not as out as she looks, and he's going to cheerfully not tell anyone. [OOC] Taran says, "one would assume a warning like that, coming *from* a mage, might be heeded." [OOC] Lucius Nepos grins. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Not by newblood first and second month Watchmen. :D" [OOC] Taran says, "so Norran loses a lot more watchmen when she fries 'em." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Well these are Imperial Watchmen." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Not Lomasa House Guard." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Guess we'll see." ---< Gale, a Female Shadow-Touched Citizen of Chiaroscuro >--- Exp: 4200      Luck Cards: 0     Hunger: 1440   Minutes: 1458    HP: 355/350 ---< Attributes >--< Value: 42000 >--- Intelligence: Great       (Scale: 1)  Perception:   Great Willpower:   Good         (Scale: 1)  Charisma:     Great Reaction:    Good                     Agility:      Superb       (Scale: -1) Strength:    Good         (Scale: -1) Constitution: Great        (Scale: -1) ---< Skills >-< Value: 605300 >--- Good Acrobatics                     Superb Runecraft Great Anticipation                     Good Shadowing Great Athletics                       Great Shadowmask Superb Aurasight                      Superb Shadowslip Legendary Blasphemy                        Good Singing Good Firebuilding                    Great Sleight of Hand Good Forest Survival                 Great Small Blades Great Galvanism                       Great Speechcraft Good Lore                             Good Stealth Superb Magic Missiles                   Good Street Savvy Great Marketspeak                    Superb Teleport Legendary Permafrost                      Great Throwing Superb Phaseshift                     Superb Torture Great Politics                         Good Writing Good Reading ---< Gifts, Faults, and Quirks >---< Value: 15000 >--- Citizen                               Imperial Conjuration                           Moderately Wounded Divination                            Shadow Mage Evocation                             Shadow Touched --< Skill System 3.00 >--- Long distance to Lucius Nepos: Gale ponders what to do to them... [OOC] Gale says, "Okay, going to do a series of rolls, the results to be used in pose. :)" From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) was thinking a teleport, but meh. [OOC] Taran says, "if they're not bright enough to haul her to Light's Reach, they're *gonna* get fried." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Light's Reach is a long way off, friend. :)" You paged Lucius Nepos with 'She's not leaving it at escaping.' [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Across the Empire." From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) chuckles. [OOC] Taran says, "She's a *really* powerful mage, too." [OOC] Taran grins. "Your funeral." Long distance to Lucius Nepos: Gale goes all out. Gale rolls her Blasphemy with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Legendary (4). Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: NICE! Gale rolls her Phaseshift with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Good (1). Gale rolls her Teleport with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Great (2). [OOC] Taran says, "ummmm, no." [OOC] Gale eyes. [OOC] Taran says, "I don't think she can use Blasphemy. Lucius did pose a gag in her mouth." [OOC] Gale says, "Which is going to be removed in pose, Taran." [OOC] Gale says, "Well, enough." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "We all want this plot to continue. It rocks." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "So let's suspend disbelief and make the newbie Watchmen take her gag out." [OOC] Gale says, "You just want another chance to throw spears at her, Lucky." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Which really isn't that hard to believe, either. They aren't trained in capturing a Shadow mage and prolly don't know that it's important." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Damn right!" [OOC] Taran says, "You got it, guys." The Guard winks. "Why would I be jealous? I'm leavin' with her, aren't I?" he points out, his companion flagging down a carriage. "We'll take her on to the garrison, sir," he adds. "And make sure she's secure by the time you arrive. Though she seems like she's going to be out of it for a long while. Don't know how hard you hit her, Nepos, but I wonder if she's ever gonna wake up." He shakes his head, climbing inside, already loosening the mage's gag, his fingers playing against her lips.

The carriage has only started to move away when it rolls again to a sudden stop, lots of noises coming from within the tinted windows. The Watchmen appear are crying out in pain, there voices growing louder and louder, most likely a little louder than really is necessary, but hey, they're in pain. "LIGHT!" Exclaims Lucius with a start as the noises extend from the carriage, his eyes going wide for the umpteenth time this night. "Do these idiot recruits not listen to a thing?" Too quick to draw his sword, Lucius pulls his dagger out from its hidden bracer sheath once more and darts towards the carriage with it in hand. Lucius Nepos equips Obsidian Dagger. [OOC] Gale giggles. [OOC] Taran says, "she's alone on a riverbank, you get big spears. She takes out a whole CARRIAGE of guardsmen, you get...a dagger. Lucky, d'you have issues you're just not telling us about?" [OOC] Gale laughs. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Quickest thing to reach for. Shield's on his back, scabbard's way down low. :)" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Shield has his spears." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "And yes - I DO!" [OOC] Taran values honesty in his...bladesmen. ;) [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Sides, it's nice to use ALL Your weapons." [OOC] Taran says, "hm." Atop Prestissimo, Taran rolls his Sieve with a 0 modifier. The result of the roll is: Great (2). [OOC] Taran says, "man I love my dice tonight." Atop Prestissimo, Taran shakes his head, wheeling his mare around. "Clearly not," he snaps. "She learned from you to use everything at her disposal - well, she just happens to have a lot more at her disposal than most." Eyeing the carriage, he says, "You fight - shall I go see if his Grace needs a target?" CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 5 minutes. [OOC] Taran says, "and the roll, btw, was to see if he could shield against that kind of pain - the always-on thing has its downsides." [OOC] Taran says, "large numbers of people in mad pain at close range could pretty easily drop him otherwise." CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 1 minute. The door, when opened, shows that the guards in question have, by this point, passed out in their pain, and by the smell of it, wet themselves in fear. There are no immediate wounds present, and no one in the carriage seems to have the ability to move, bodies stiff and expressions dazed. The tools used to bind the mage are in a pile in one seat, along with the bandages that were applied to her wound. This said, there are a few splotches of blood on the seat and floor around this location. CHIASQUIRE: Pardon, m'lords and m'ladies. Saving. CHIASQUIRE: Saved, m'lords and m'ladies. Lucius Nepos slams his fist, and the oak pommel of the dagger down onto the side of the carriage in rage, smashing a piece of the wooden plan that makes up the vehicle in the process. He screams his anger, something that is not characteristic of him to do, and moves around to see the senior Watchmen, who had been conducting the carriage. Seeing that the man is also passed out he grits his teeth. "Can not ANYTHING go right?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos adds something. Between breaths, he mutters, "She is like sand in a fist. You think you have a firm grasp on her and she slips away..." Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: And there is our titular line. ;D Long distance to Lucius Nepos: Gale laughs. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'You're making me edit, aren't you?' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Ooo? Atop Prestissimo, Taran follows when he realizes that Gale is gone, looking into the carriage. He indicates the bandages. "She regarded your strike as a betrayal of trust," he says. "And the bandages say she holds me to blame for it." Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Thought you might include this. :D Long distance to Lucius Nepos: Gale will be editing her logs tomorrow. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Nothing else to do!' From afar, Lucius Nepos (Luc) nods. "There was no betrayal. I did not cut her hands off. I told her I would be taking her to the Watch to face her crimes. I was honest with that bitch, and she slips away from us." Lucius sticks his dagger back into its sheath, the weapon dissapearing as he takes a seat on the ground next to the carriage, leaned up on the spokes of a wheel. He removes his helmet. "Light, and I did it right, too. Would you mind checking these poor saps to see if they're alright?" Atop Prestissimo, "I am tempted to say they deserve to suffer a while for their stupidity," Taran replies tiredly. "The better to remember what they would have done. But certainly." He moves then to look over the injured, checking for any who are more than just dazed. Neither of them are severely injured, but seem to be in some pain. They aren't moving, or speaking coherently, giving little whimpers and groans. [OOC] Taran says, "*dry* Whoops, look who forgot to restock his aspirin supplies. Nope, no sympathy here." "Thank you." Lucius puts his head in his hands and sighs, muttering and mumbling something to himself. Atop Prestissimo, Taran looks the men over, straightening up. "Give them a few hours," he says. "Nothing time won't cure. Once again, she has not used quite the level of force she could have. Perhaps her mercy will teach them wisdom." "Wisdom would be next time to have a Marshal waiting to process judgement on her immediately and confer on her a punishment for her crime." Lucius answers, lifting his head back up. He rises from the ground. Atop Prestissimo, Taran shakes his head, and heads back to his horse. "And you will - what, carry him in your pocket?" he asks. "She will resurface. When she wishes. For my part...East Leg is not a locale I prefer." You paged Taran with 'Once you head out, let me know where to meetcha if you're up for it.' Taran (Tar) pages: I will. "No, I will have Wheat call somebody important next time. I did not think these imbeciles would do something such as they did." Lucius shakes his head. "I agree with you. I do not want to be here now. Thank you for your help, Taran. Keep safe... Light keep you." Lucius Nepos unequips Obsidian Dagger. Atop Prestissimo, Taran nods. "Light guard you and your family," he replies, getting into Prestissimo's saddle. "Until paths cross again." with little movement to be seen, the mare slides quickly into motion, and the bard is away. Prestissimo speeds off at a gallop toward the Southeast. Prestissimo rides away toward the Southeast. Prestissimo has left. MAIL: You have a new message (3) from Voting System 2.00. - From: Voting System 2.00 (owner: Wik) Date: Tue Sep 04 00:01:56 2007   Folder:  0   Message: 3 Status: Unread Subject: You have received a vote for outstanding roleplay. - You have received a vote for outstanding roleplay. -  You have just been rated. Those ranked for the first time in the Relationship Web System receive 200 XP. +rel/help for more information. [OOC] Gale snugsnugs Lucky. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Awesome scene. :)" [OOC] Gale says, "thanks for the help in making sure my plot is still alive and floating." [OOC] Lucius Nepos chuckles. [OOC] Gale has a change though! [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "A change?" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "A chance?" [OOC] Gale says, "A change!" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "I don't get it. Hol on" Lucius Nepos heads into Clanging Gong. Lucius Nepos has left. Lucius Nepos arrives from Clanging Gong Lucius Nepos has arrived. A stableboy leads Haste out from the stables and around to the front, handing the reins to Lucius Nepos. Haste has arrived. Lucius Nepos takes Haste's reins and leads the horse along. [OOC] Gale says, "A change in my original plotline." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Ooh" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "That's not a bad thing, is it?" [OOC] Gale says, "Nope!" [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Coolio!" [OOC] Gale says, "I think it'll be more fun this way." [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "I'm off!" [OOC] Gale says, "Later!" Lucius Nepos has left. Lucius Nepos mounts Haste and settles into the saddle. [OOC] Lucius Nepos says, "Arr." [OOC] Gale gropes. Haste speeds off at a gallop toward the Southeast. [OOC] Lucius Nepos grins. [OOC] Gale says, "You know you want me! I'm hot stuff." [OOC] Lucius Nepos is hotter. [OOC] Gale pshes. Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Gonna make a news post eventually about this? Haste rides away toward the Southeast. Haste has left. You paged Lucius Nepos with 'Working on it. >.>' Lucius Nepos (Luc) pages: Sweet (New BB message (8/57) posted to 'Randomization' by Milora: You're Kind Of Creeping Me Out)

[1] at Carriage - 15374 [2] at Healer's Passage  [2] at Lightholder Tavern  [1] at East Leg  [1] at Market Road <Market District> [2] at Light's Plaza <Light's Reach> [1] at Night's Edge Monastary: Guest Chambers <Forest District> [2] at Southwest Quad <Market District> [1] at Market Road <River District> [1] at Willow Pond Manor - Solarium <River District>

There are 14 players connected and in the IC world. Carriage - 15374 arrives and comes to a halt near the roadside. Nantucket's Island 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)~ 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)~ (Indoors) (Cover: Fair) The private floaty island of Nantucket. Lush beaches, palm trees, and no bad weather. The ideal vacation spot for the wayward staffer. Nantucket is here. A solid Biinwood Chest is here. A large red glass bottle is here. A small clear glass bottle is here. A silver signet ring is here.

Obvious exits: Peace Table <PC>, Admin Town Hall <O>

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=================================================================== You have been summoned by Nantucket. Latest Breaking News: Murderer Apprehended and then Lost! - SEPT07-6 Long distance to Taran: Gale eyes. The Hawk and Dove? From afar, Taran (Tar) has company. You paged Taran with 'I noticed.' You paged Taran with 'Think you'll be able to shake them?' Taran (Tar) pages: may take a bit. I'm popular for interrogation today. Long distance to Taran: Gale snickers. From afar, Taran (Tar) thinks he does a pretty good job overall with dodging it. You paged Taran with 'Just remember that Gale is bleeding still.' Taran (Tar) pages: well - she ripped off the bandages. That's kind of a Statement. Taran (Tar) pages: mind you, possibly a ruse of one. You paged Taran with 'Nah, when she phaseshifted, the bandages came off.' Taran (Tar) pages: ahhh. Yeah, I don't think lessening would entirely negate her powers. Taran (Tar) pages: though Taran would call execution more merciful anyway. Long distance to Taran: Gale nodnods. CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 5 minutes. CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 1 minute. CHIASQUIRE: Pardon, m'lords and m'ladies. Saving. CHIASQUIRE: Saved, m'lords and m'ladies. (New BB message (6/11) posted to 'Roleplay Requests' by Duhnen Seamel: Norran) Nantucket's Island 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)~ 20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)20:05, 4 September 2007 (UTC)~ (Indoors) (Cover: Fair) The private floaty island of Nantucket. Lush beaches, palm trees, and no bad weather. The ideal vacation spot for the wayward staffer. Nantucket is here. A solid Biinwood Chest is here. A large red glass bottle is here. A small clear glass bottle is here. A silver signet ring is here.

Obvious exits: Peace Table <PC>, Admin Town Hall <O>

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=================================================================== Long distance to Taran: Gale peeks at where, snickers. Taran really /is/ popular! Taran (Tar) pages: huh? You paged Taran with 'In his room?' Taran (Tar) pages: oh, guest room. heh. he'll put celeste to bed and find another. You paged Taran with 'How much longer y'think?' Taran (Tar) pages: not much I think. CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 5 minutes. Long distance to Taran: Gale bounces. Taran (Tar) pages: mmm. I don't think I *can* do this tonight at this rate. I have to get a needle jabbed in my eyeball tomorrow morning - need to have some sleep beforehand. Lemme try to get out of this tho. CHIASQUIRE: M'lords and m'ladies, saving in 1 minute. You paged Taran with 'If you can't do it tonight, then at least I get to sleep at a normal hour. :)' You paged Taran with 'I'll steal you tomorrow.' CHIASQUIRE: Pardon, m'lords and m'ladies. Saving. CHIASQUIRE: Saved, m'lords and m'ladies. Taran (Tar) pages: yeah - scoot to bed. When my vision clears up tomorrow, I'll hop back on :) Shall we assume that she'd find him tonight for rebandaging? Long distance to Taran: Gale nods. Probably weak and unable to do anymore teleporting. Taran (Tar) pages: hm. Probably assume Taran's flat, then. You paged Taran with 'Flat?' Taran (Tar) pages: townhouse in freehaven. Long distance to Taran: Gale nods. Shall I hop on down there then? Taran (Tar) pages: heh. if you want - I suppose that boils down to how willing she is to protect him. She gets seen coming out of his flat, that's pretty well a guilty verdict. I'm told Milora already wants to hunt me down. You paged Taran with 'She wouldn't be walking in and out. She'd be using magic.' You paged Taran with 'Eh, we'll figure it out tomorrow!' Taran (Tar) pages: yeah. I've just finished this with celeste and ...could give ya ten maybe? You paged Taran with 'Sure.' You paged Taran with 'Where?'

[2] at Healer's Passage <Imperial Tribune: Palace District> [1] at Nantucket's Island [2] at The Hawk and Dove Tavern and Inn - Guest Room <Market District> [1] at Jade Gardens Keep - Great Hall

There are 6 players connected and in the IC world. Taran (Tar) pages: townhouse.

[2] at Healer's Passage <Imperial Tribune: Palace District> [1] at Nantucket's Island [1] at Central Bazaar <Market District> [1] at The Hawk and Dove Tavern and Inn - Guest Room <Market District> [1] at Jade Gardens Keep - Great Hall

There are 6 players connected and in the IC world. Nantucket has left. Nantucket has arrived.

Common Room - Taran's Townhouse

''A spacious living space with three tall arched windows overlooking the circle outside. The stone walls have, like the foyer below, been plastered over so that they are a bright white, which catches the light from the windows well. Over this brightness, however, are hung tapestries in blue and green and - most notably - bookshelves. Spaces have been set in those shelves for the bard's scrolls, books, and - of course - instruments''.

''Rugs in dark, natural tones of green and blue are laid on the polished biinwood floors, and indeed 'green and blue' sums up the decor of the area quite well - from the rugs, to the rather heavy curtains at the windows, to the furniture. The only dark accents are in the natural wood of the windowframes, doors, and floor, and the spiral wooden staircase leading down to the foyer. To the right is a door leading to the kitchen and dining area, while to the left is the door to the bedroom. Opposite the staircase is a simple stone fireplace''.

Taran is clearly drained, sprawled not in one of his chairs but along the floor and the rugs laid down on it. Stretched full-length, with his hands above his head, the bard almost seems to go wall-to-wall.

No rest for Taran, however. The shadows flicker and in drops Gale, who as soon as she's solidified, drops down to her knees, clutching at her shoulder. More than a little blood has stained the tunic, and she looks paper white, just short of collapsing.

The man is nothing if not a survivor, rolling clear the moment the air near him is disturbed. "Shh," he says quickly. "No blood on the floor." Half leading, half carrying her into the kitchen. "There is water."

Kitchen and Dining Room - Taran's Townhouse

An airy chamber of arched windows, the polished biinwood plank flooring serves to unite the dining and cooking spaces. The kitchen section's walls have been left bare, revealing soot-black stone; the kitchen is equipped with a stove, oven, wash basin and storage pantry. In the dining area, the walls have been plastered white, with tapestries in blue and green, and features a table and several chairs.

Gale leans in against Taran, shivering quietly. "If you can patch me up, I'll go again," she murmurs. "Don't... don't want to get you in trouble."

"If you can teleport out of here, then staying will not put either of us in danger," says Taran, settling her in a chair. "But I do receive visitors here, and it seems the good Arbiter wishes to interrogate me. Possibly over tea, possibly with guards, with her it is always a bit of a gamble." And all the while he rambles, he gets cloths from cabinets and damps them in the washbasin. Carefully tugging off her tunic he starts to clean the wound again, pressing the cloth where he can to halt the bleeding. "You will need to sleep. Fortunately, tomorrow I hunt wildlings - so no one will be seeking me here."

Gale hisses softly as the cloth presses into her wound, "That stings. You see, this is what compassion will get you. A hole in your shoulder, and becoming one of the most wanted people in Fastheld." She cradles her head in her hand, rubbing at her eyes tiredly. "I want... I want to see you before you go hunting," she murmurs.

Taran nods. "It always stings," he says. "There may be help for you, if you will take it." When he's satisfied the area's cleaned again, a rummage through cabinets produces a jar of salve which is then applied to the wound. "You will be weak for a few days...do you wish to die, to kill?" That last is a bit wistful, regretful.

"Some things are worth dying for," Gale murmurs. "But not this." She scowls a tiny bit. "I... I can't do this alone. If there's help to be had, I might take it, depending on who it was from."

Taran sighs. "He will not help you kill," he says, going now to retrieve a roll of bandages. "But there are other ways, more effective for what you have said you wanted and less dangerous to the mages about you. If you are willing." With care, he begins to replace the lost bandaging.

Gale smiles weakly, "I'd be willing to talk to him at the very least," she says quietly. "Is this the mysterious guest that came to visit while you were trying to stop the bleeding the first time around?"

Taran smiles. "Yes," he says. "And if you wish, he will speak to you. He is the only mage I know that is definitely stronger than you." Bandages re-wound, he nods at his finished work. "There; now it is only to drink water and sleep. You are welcome to my bed if you wish it. I can sleep on the floor if the Watchmen have left you with no taste for company."

"I felt his strength," Gale murmurs. "If I had not been so distracted by that, it would have probably been much harder to knock me out. I would very much like to meet him, to, if nothing else, look at him face to face." She shudders a bit at the mention of the Watchmen. "Filth, daring to touch me. My original intention was merely to teleport myself out, but I could not resist retaliation. He groped my breasts one too many times."

"I did warn them," Taran replies mildly. He reaches into his belt pouch, taking out a gem. "This is his rune. When you are strong enough to leave here, throw it straight up and wait." He pauses. "I would...like it back, after you have spoken to him. His tower may be the safest place for you, if you are willing to use other means to achieve your ends."

Gale takes the gem, running her fingers lightly over the rune before nodding. "I will keep it safe," she murmurs, rising to her feet. She wobbles a bit, and then sinks back down. "If he has other options, then I will listen to him," She says quietly. "So long as the end is the same."

"I think the two of you will need to talk to be sure of that," says Taran quietly, offering his arms for support. "My bed is soft, and the room is dark and quiet. Come and sleep."

Bedroom - Taran's Townhouse

''A turret-shaped space jutting from the common room, the walls in this room have been left relatively bare - revealing blocks of smoke black stone. These have been overlaid not with the white plaster of the foyer and sitting room, but with tapestries in rich, dark tones of royal blue and pine green. In the center of this circular room is the canopied bed, with heavy curtains that can be drawn about it. A wardrobe is set against one wall, and chests, and by the room's window is set a writing desk and chair. Rugs in the same colors as the tapestries cover the biinwood floor, rendering the room dark and quiet - though even here, should the curtains be drawn back, the room fills with light well enough''.

Gale totters with Taran into the bedroom, leaning heavily against him. "I do not think I could be as... vigorous as I usually am. Not tonight. My body aches."

Taran laughs, pulling back the blankets. "As if I would be so crass as to ask," he says. "In. If you wish, I will sleep next to you - if not, the floor is fine."

Gale nods, "I think I would like it if you slept next to me." She sits herself on the edge of the bed to tug off her boots, which proves to be an interesting task while trying to use only one arm.

Taran waves her off, and begins to undress her - not teasingly, but carefully. Boots, trousers...the bloodied tunic is likely still in the kitchen.

"Why're you doing this?" Gale inquires, looking up at Taran, her hands dropping back to her sides. "You could be charged with treason, for helping me. For even taking care of my wounds."

Taran pauses, then, regarding Gale thoughtfully. "As I could not stand by and let you kill the woman," he says. "So I can not stand by and watch you kill yourself. You have done terrible things. That must be paid for, somehow. Redressed. But that is your balance to create. For mine...if you do not kill again, do not torture in this way again...and I have had *any* part in seeing that change...how is that treason? Can I only serve Fastheld by harming another mage?"

Gale sighs quietly, scootching back slowly onto the bed. "I killed two people. Fled from arrest. Your companion spoke the truth. I am a fugitive, and they will hunt me down, eventually. You risk much by sharing your home and bed, even for one night. I will leave tomorrow, and let you go back to whatever it was you were going prior to me. Let me remove the tracking rune from the necklace. That way no one will be able to question if I have been in contact with you."

"It is my risk to take," Taran replies firmly, pulling the blankets over her. "Gale Frostwind is a wanted fugitive...but perhaps Gale can die, and you can begin again as someone else. Talk to Faeyd, please. Perhaps he can find a way for you." Finally, he begins to undress himself, getting into bed on the other side with a langourous stretch. "Shades, I'm tired...and sorry, Gale, that I cannot seem to be all that you need."

Gale smiles weakly, "I need a friend. I would wish for more, but even if you could offer it, it would be wrong of me to ask. I could not let you risk yourself on account of me. What you do already is to much. Besides, I think I have read you well enough to understand you offer me sex and companionship. Nothing more."

Taran laughs tiredly. "Accurate enough," he says. "Consider what I risk to offer you what I do. It is perhaps not a light thing for either of us...but it can wait until you are stronger and I am more awake, this heavy discussion."