GM says, "The town of Karnstein. Reinhardt Gruber, Camilla's intended, is staying at the inn prior to the wedding day."

GM says, "It's a noisy hall with a nightly brawl."

Hans asks, "Hmm. Was I at the previous session?"

Arvid says, "quite possibly not"

Hans says, "I seem to recall something about dunking a scumbag in the lake."

GM says (to Hans), "that was rather a while back."

tester arrives, looking for booty.

tester says, "log on"

GM says, "So, it seems fairly certain that Reinhardt Gruber is Raoul Meunier is Gabriel Renard."

Hans asks, "Who is Gabriel Renard?"

Arvid says, "the post office guy"

(From Hans) GM says, "Reinhardt Gruber and Raoul Meunier."

Arvid says, "maybe you weren't around for that either"

Hans asks, "The post office guy?"

Arvid says, "we went to a post office across the border into eisen on the way here"

Arvid says, "and there was a missing-employee notice for him"

GM says, "(While passing through a small village on your way here, Erich pointed out a Missing Person poster of a courier who disappeared a few months ago, as looking very much like Raoul. This was Gabriel Renard.)"

Arvid says, "we looked at Reinhardt Gruber in his room at the inn here but couldn't identify him for sure"

GM says, "The postmaster suggests that Gabriel had a sister named Azelma, whom he has never actually met."

Arvid says, "oh yeah"

Arvid says, "which we assumed was Elena"

Arvid says, "but I guess we haven't proved that"

Cat says, "so it looks like this is another marriage under false pretenses, and we're going to have to throw down"

Arvid says, "thrown downs are the best downs"

Arvid says, "I think we were speculating on trying to get evidence or what"

Arvid says, "I believe Erich got a look at the guy but couldn't identify him for sure"

GM says, "So the plan is to bring Baron Schriftsteller (and maybe Camilla's blind grandmother, Frau Appenzeller) over to the inn, remove Reinhardt's gloves and see if he's actually a Porte mage."

Arvid says, "apparently he was wearing a wig before"

Arvid says, "hmm"

Hans says, "Speaking of weddings and throw-downs, I assume Gert and Ms. G haven't interacted since last time I was here."

Arvid says, "yeah I guess"

GM says, "Stupid Montaigne fashions."

Arvid says, "I forgot we'd talked to Camilla's grandmother"

Hans asks, "Will removing his gloves reveal his sorcery?"

Hans says, "Man. SOunds like I missed a lot last time."

Arvid says, "apparently it'll show he has bloody hands"

Cat says, "except that this is not entirely reliable"

Cat says, "so we may have to fake it"

GM says, "If he's powerful to travel through the portals, and not just use them for storage pockets, he'll almost certainly have red-stained hands."

Arvid says, "I'm not sure a polite way to see a guy's bare hands"

GM says, "Quick flashback moment."

Arvid says, "we could offer to tell his fortune"

GM says (to Arvid), "that's your problem."

Cat asks, "who said anything about polite?"

GM says (to Hans), "Let us flashback to just before you all set out from Geneva. You're getting any gear you may require (last chance to specify if you have anything special with you) when you run into Albert des Amis, the fencing instructor."

Arvid says, "well, *I* don't mind irritating a stranger, but the Baron and the grandmother might not go for the risk of humilitating the bridegroom if he turns out to be somebody else"

Hans says (to Albert), "Good afternoon."

Hans gathers his usual things -- weapons, armor, horse...

(From GM) DesAmis says (to Hans), "Good afternoon! What's this I hear about you all heading out to Karnstein? Miss Karnstein's wedding, is it?"

Hans says (to DesAmis), "So it seems. So quickly these things can happen for some people."

(From GM) DesAmis says (to Hans), "(sigh) too quickly. I confess I was getting ... rather fond of the girl."

Hans says, "It is a shame to lose a good student, ja."

Hans says, "Perhaps you can arrange to privately tutor her over the break."

(From GM) DesAmis says (to Hans), "I mean, I would have liked to have been the bridegroom myself, but such things were not meant to be, I suppose."

(From GM) DesAmis looks sad.

Hans says, "Oh! Well. In that case, I would not recommend privately anythinging her at this point."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I see the tutors haven't improved since I was here last"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "he should fight his way into the chapel and then bar the door with a rapier"

Hans says, "Unless it turns out that Herr Gruber is unable to fulfill his duties at the wedding, that is."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "perhaps they've gotten cuter"

(From GM) DesAmis says (to Hans), "I should congratulate the lucky man ... but I cannot go myself. Will you take a letter to him for me?"

Hans exclaims, "Certainly!"

Gunther arrives, looking for booty.

(From GM) DesAmis says (to Hans), "Excellent! I shall write it out right now.

Hans asks, "Is it a challege to a duel? Or simply congratulations?"

(From GM) DesAmis grabs a piece of paper and begins writing: "....la lettre de renonciation des droits a la regione Helvetique est detruie, mais une copie dans la bibliotheque de la Duchesse du Sices...."

(From GM) DesAmis says, "just congratulations. Promise me you'll give it to him."

Hans says, "Of course."

Hans asks, "If for any reason the wedding is unable to go as planned... do you still wish the letter delivered?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "SCHEME PLOT SCHEME"

(From GM) DesAmis says, "Is there any reason it should not go as planned?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "wait, what the heck is he writing"

(From GM) DesAmis folds up the letter and seals it.

Hans says, "Oh, you know how things go when noble houses come together."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "oh, I see"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "well, hopefully Cat will steam it open"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "'the letter of renunciation of rights to the Helvetica region is destroyed, but a copy in the library of du Sices...'"

Hans says, "The course of arranged political marriage never did run true."

(From GM) DesAmis says, "I hope I am too much a gentleman to hope for such an upset!"

(From GM) DesAmis gives the letter to Hans.

Hans tucks it away in a pocket of his luggage.

Hans says, "And for Fraulein Karnstein's sake, let us hope the same is true of Herr Gruber."

(From GM) DesAmis claps Hans on the shoulder and smiles. "You're a fine fellow, Hans! I wish you better luck than I have had."

Hans says (to DesAmis), "Thank you! I think that it is too late for Gert to be married to another from under my nose, fortunately."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ah"

(From GM) DesAmis says, "Fortunately indeed! Now, I had better get back to my students, and you have a wedding to get to. Good day, my friend."

Hans says, "...unless Antoinette finds a way to... but best not worry about that now."

[Crows-Nest] Cat says, "she would have to crouch down very low for that"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "but what about you and that inventor chyk"

Hans exclaims, "I shall see you shortly. Don't let my students get too soft while I'm gone!"

(From GM) DesAmis says, "Wouldn't dream of it."

GM says, "SO"

GM says, "Back to the present."

[Helvetica] Cat asks, "where am I, precisely? tagging along with the others and uncharacteristically quiet?"

GM says, "The Great Hall of Karnstein. Present: Frau Appenzeller and Baron Walter Schriftsteller. Camilla and Laura have gone off to giggle over clothes or something.""

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I think so"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "we'd sent you and Hans to arrange this audience with Frau Appenzeller but then you did"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Did we try to convince Erich's sister to come?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "You also have: an Erich and a Nicolette."

[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "Appenzeller is my favourite cheese"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Has Erich met Raoul?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Yes"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Good, good."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I knocked on the guy's door and got him to come out so Erich could have a look"

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "it's rather too expensive for my budget, over here."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "and he sort of identified him but not for positive"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Does Nicolette know she's a Porte mage yet?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "so, your call now on what next."

[Helvetica] Cat asks, "any chance of confirming this just a tiny bit more before we make a big embarrassing scene?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "yeah, I think so"

[Helvetica] Arvid says (to Cat), "I'm not sure"

[Helvetica] Cat says (to Hans), "we have strongly suggested it but she may still be somewhat in denial"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "we have this poster, which he also sort of looks like"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I mean, we could try to find Elena"

[Helvetica] Cat asks, "by, say, breaking into the groom's quarters and rifling through his stuff?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says (to Cat), "oh, hey, why didn't we think of that"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "though I guess it's after dinner"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I dunno if he'll be leaving his room"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "or maybe he should be up drinking all night"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "one way to find out"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Should we help him be up drinking all night?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Does he have anyone throwing him a party?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "also a fine plan"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I am not sure whether I am better-suited to the drinking-assistance or the burglary"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "there is a big party going on downstairs at the inn"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "but pre-dinner he was up in his room instead"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I'm sure the drinking must be an Eisen tradition."

[Helvetica] GM says, "The best man, as it turns out, is one of the lawyers from Bois-Franc. Last you saw him, he was in the midst of the Pre-Wedding Brawl and evidently enjoying himself."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "counting his money and preparing for a quick getaway"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "oh yeah, I forgot about that"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I guess we could shake him down too"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "or rifle through *his* room"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "the more crimes the merrier"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "given the letter we saw I assume there is a complicated scam going on in which some of the revolutionaries are involved"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "and I guess this guy might as well be one of them"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "let's do rooms first"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "So we're on the side of the good nobles, and we're against the revolutionaries and bad nobles, right?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I'd rather have a bit more to go on before we risk spilling the beans"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I guess"

[Helvetica] Cat says (to Hans), "I'm mostly against anybody trying to trick young women into marriages under false pretences"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "if there were good revolutionaries it seems like we would be in favor of them"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "we can sort out the politics later"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "like Nicolette's adopted dad doesn't seem so bad"

GM says, "It is getting late and the brawl at the inn seems to have wound down a bit. Some of the townsfolk are staggering home."

Arvid says, "guess we'd better get going to the inn if we want to use that as a distraction"

GM asks, "Who's going with you?"

Cat asks, "do we know where the groom is staying?"

Arvid says, "well, all four of us are going to the inn"

Arvid says, "upstairs at the inn"

Arvid says, "Victor is a friend of his so is probably staying there as well"

Cat says, "I meant specifically"

Hans intends to help with the drinking.

Arvid says, "yes, we knocked on his door before"

Cat says, "hilarious as it might be to break in on the various sordid little after-parties"

Arvid says, "also, there is some risk of Victor recognizing us from the escape"

Arvid says, "I am not sure if that bothers anyone"

Arvid says, "I am not sure he can really do anything about it, but it would certainly put him on the alert"

Cat asks, "but not me, correct?"

Arvid says, "good point"

Cat says, "Groom's room first, then."

Arvid asks, "what if he's still in there?"

Arvid says, "I suppose Hans can go in and roust him out"

Arvid says, "take him down drinking"

Hans says, "I am prepared for this duty."

Arvid steps inside the inn door and looks around for Victor

Arvid says, "and/or the groom"

[Helvetica] Cat asks, "wait, wasn't Gruber the rat we threw in the lake?"

GM says, "Victor and various 'gentlemen' are at the centre of a group singing the Eisen equivalent of 'For He's A Jolly Good Fellow' at the bar."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Was it? That was at least a day or two in-game; how could we possibly remember his name that long?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "that guy was Guy somebody"

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims, "Yeah!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "Heimlich, apparently"

[Helvetica] GM says, "That was Guy Heimlich. You later saw him collecting the 'blood of the universe' from the spot where 'Elena' (according to Guy) disappeared into a Porte hole."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "he -- right"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "okay, gotcha"

Arvid heads for the upstairs, keeping Cat in between him and Victor

Cat pads upstairs, dodging drunks expertly

Hans knocks on Gruber's door.

Arvid hides around the corner so he won't be recognized again

Cat moves out of sight also

GM says, "Someone stirs ... a moment later, the door opens a crack."

(From GM) Gruber says "....yes?"

Hans exclaims, "Congratulations!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm, I wonder if Elena is hiding in his room"

Hans shoves the door open.

[Helvetica] GM asks, "also, did you bring anyone else here with you?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Only if they followed me."

(From GM) Gruber says "Hey!"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "like the Baron, you mean?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I think we arranged to meet him here a bit later"

[Helvetica] GM asks, "Okay. Erich? Nicolette? Frau Appenzeller? Laura? Camilla?"

Hans exclaims, "Fraulein Karnstein is a wonderful girl! You are very lucky! But you cannot marry her until I know that you are good enough!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "man"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I'm not sure where Erich and Nicolette are"

(From GM) Gruber says "You're drunk, aren't you?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "Frau Appenzeller is going to meet us later"

Hans shoves a tankard he swiped from the brawl into Gruber's hands and slaps him on the back.

[Helvetica] Arvid says (to Hans), "I guess you do actually have that letter to give him"

Hans asks, "Of course! There is a wedding tonight! Do not tell me that you are NOT drunk?!?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "maybe that would lure him out"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "and Laura and Camilla I dunno about either"

Hans exclaims, "Come down to the bar! You must catch up!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "probably we told Erich and Nicolette to stick around nearby and stay out of trouble"

Hans exclaims, "Oh, and while we are down there, I can get that letter I have for you!"

(From GM) Gruber says "I don't think it will make a good impression to have a hangover at one's own wedding...."

(From GM) Gruber says "Wait, letter?"

Hans exclaims, "But it is an ancient and venerable tradition!"

[Helvetica] Cat exclaims, "Camilla will never respect him otherwise!"

Hans says, "Some letter from Albert des Amis -- he is another of Carmilla's instructors -- congratulations and that sort of thing, I am told."

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims, "Exactly!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "he's just lucky she didn't insist on defeating him in battle first"

Hans asks, "But first, we drink! If you will not celebrate your own wedding, how can you expect her family to trust you?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "insult his manhood a second time"

(From GM) Gruber says "...What on earth would one of Camilla's tutors be writing to me about?"

Hans says, "I had hoped it was a challenge to a duel, but he claims otherwise. Alas."

[Helvetica] GM says, "This is clearly some sort of Panache roll."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Alright! Let me just grab my character sheet..."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I am sort of tempted to have us all roll in faking blind drunk and claiming this is where the afterparty's at, until he leaves in exasperation"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Panache + Panzerhand, perhaps?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Or Panache + Lifting?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I could carry him."

[Helvetica] GM says, "Ah, if you're just carrying him down, that's Brawn."

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims, "Alrighty!"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Any skill, or straight trait?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Lifting sounds good."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(Cat can try her plan if she gets in quickly, though.)"

[7thsea] Hans rolls 5k4: 7 4 4 5 10+6 | 32

Hans scoops Gruber up in his arms -- spilling the aforementioned tankard all over him in the process.

[Helvetica] Cat says, "we'll see how this works first"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Hans exclaims, "Come, let's get downstairs! To the ale and the letters!"

GM says, "So Hans picks Gruber up and begins to carry him out."

(From GM) Gruber says "HEY!"

Hans shouts down the stairs "The bridgegroom is finally here! Get out the strong stuff!" as he carries him down.

(From GM) Gruber sighs. "Fine. Let's get this over with."

Cat nods to Arvid.

GM says, "(There is a loud cheer from the bar)"

Arvid and Cat wait until they're out of site, then duck into the room

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "And the great thing is, even if this all does turn out to be a misunderstanding?"

Cat latches the door behind her

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I don't think my reputation will actually suffer one bit from this."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

Hans exclaims, "The next round is on Herr Gruber!"

Arvid says (to Cat), "if anyone comes in, we can claim to be decorating the room"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "and he's got at least one mug on him already"

Arvid looks around the room

GM says, "Room is Neat And Tidy."

[Helvetica] Cat asks, "any luggage at all?"

Arvid opens the closet

GM says, "Bed, bureau. Yes, a trunk."

GM says (to Arvid), "Clothes."

Cat checks the trunk to see if it's unlocked

GM says (to Cat), "it isn't locked."

Arvid rifles absently through a few pants pockets, then goes over to the bureau

Cat rifles delicately through the trunk

Cat says, "It would be nice if we knew what we were looking for."

Arvid says, "oh, you know, just some Evidence"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "like in that one comp game"

Arvid says, "perhaps something with another name on it"

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "Or any health code violations."

Arvid says, "he's been very sensible about his initials, so I suppose monograms won't help"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "hee hee"

GM says, "Between the bureau and the trunk, you find: a practical and theoretical guide to falconry; a make-up kit; several pairs of gloves; a number of letters from various people to various other people...."

Arvid inspects the gloves for stains on the inside

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "oh yeah, who said he was into falconry?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Make-up, huh?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I presume there is no real distinction between men's and women's makeup at this period"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Frau Appenzeller, I think."

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Cat), "There may be a difference between normal make-up and theatrical make-up, though."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "makeup on a man just means 'is at court sometimes'"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ok, right"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "so what she said was that he *doesn't* wear gloves"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "except when falconing"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "As in, disguise-y stuff."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "which I guess suggests he is putting makeup on his hands?"

Cat thrusts a bundle of letters at Arvid. "Speed read, s'il te plait."

GM says, "One of the letters is from Gert's parents, saying that they're in the town of Strassenburg, and will be waiting for her to send them word as to when to come up for the wedding; in the meantime, here is Grandma's ring, see if it fits properly."

Arvid looks over the letters

Arvid exclaims, "!!"

Arvid exclaims, "this is from Gert's parents!"

Cat says, "Oh HO"

Arvid says, "...I suppose he *was* a post office employee"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Cat), "Hee. Nice use of the second person disrespectful."

Cat says, "I think we have our man"

Arvid says, "hmm"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks (of GM), "how far away is the town with the post office?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Half a day's ride"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "like, maybe we should just go and roust the guy out of bed and drag him back here to identify him in the morning"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "oops, not quite enough time"

Arvid pockets this letter and looks through the others

Arvid asks, "anything about revolutionaries?"

Arvid asks, "or about his ex-wife?"

Arvid says, "possibly his current wife, I guess"

GM says, "There's a letter of credit from Cat's parents' banker."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "we could just kidnap him, put the fear of God into him and then make it appear that he left her at the altar"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Cat says, "GIVE ME THAT"

Arvid clucks his tongue

Arvid says, "*I* wouldn't trust you with this much money"

Cat says, "yoink"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "So he is basically stealing mail from PC's."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Got anything for me or Arvid?"

Cat checks to make sure it hasn't been cashed yet

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I get all my mail by passenger-pigeon"

GM says (to Cat), "It has, unfortunately.."

Arvid asks, "does it say where the banker was who cashed it?"

Cat says, "All right. We kidnap him, work him over, throw him in a river and *then* make out that he left her at the altar"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "They must be exhausted, carrying all those heavy bottles."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "If you keep it up, they're going to go extinct."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "weaving erratically through the air"

GM says, "Mont-St-Gabriyon."

Arvid says, "I guess that figures"

GM says, "The other letters are all financial things. Investments and so on."

Cat smacks a hand to her forehead. "Hans is downstairs buying everyone drinks with *my* money!"

Arvid says, "well, it seems safe to say he is a no-good blackguard who robs the mails"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha ha ha ha"

Arvid says, "but aside from that, I can't say I care for him"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Cat), "I agree wholeheartedly with Arvid."

Arvid replaces the letters

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(I meant the 'ha ha ha' part.)"

Arvid inspects the makeup to try to figure out how it could be "accidentally" wiped off

Arvid asks, "alcohol? water?"

Cat paces back and forth, trying not to grind her teeth

GM says, "Several investments made in the name of Gabriel Fox, with the Bank of Avalon."

GM says (to Arvid), "nothing special. Water could probably do the trick. Best results with soap-and-water."

Arvid makes notes for his own personal use after we get rid of Gabriel

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "hey, was he wearing gloves when Hans hoiked him out of the room?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "A lot of things are alcohol-soluble..."

[Helvetica] GM says, "Yes he was."

[Helvetica] Cat asks, "how exactly is being a Porte mage going to stop the wedding?"

Arvid says, "well, this has been educational but not exactly definitive"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I dunno, we hadn't reasoned that far"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I suppose we could claim it meant he was lying about being Eisen"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I wonder if he's related to Nicolette."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "but I imagine there is a certain amount of Montaignese blood in the Eisen nobility"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Arvid), "He could just bluff and say that one of his parents is Montaigne."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "especially in this area"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Timing."

GM says (to Hans), "And meanwhile, you are right next to Victor Gilbert -- who apparently recognises you but is willing to keep quiet if you'll buy him another beer."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I wonder if we could get this all straightened out in twenty minutes with a corkscrew and a bucket of water"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "on the other hand, who would want to marry a guy with grody hands?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Did we meet Victor while rescuing Cat?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "Victor was one of the guys blocking the gates when we rescued wosstheirfaces' parents, I believe"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Or while rescuing the Pervenches?"

[Helvetica] Hans nods.

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(We've done so many of these things...)"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(Especially if you count rescuing Carmilla tomorrow.)"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "we have this map of the area, with little flags marking the towns we are no longer welcome in"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "anyway, ok, I dunno what to do now"

Hans exclaims, "Another beer for Victor! ANd for Gruber! And for that guy!"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "do we want to try to locate Victor's room and search it?"

Hans asks (of That Guy), "What's your name again?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "it would be nice to figure out where he fits into this, yes"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "And what was Victor's connection with the wedding?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "best man"

(From GM) Victor says, "Victor Gilbert. The best man, remember? You arrived a bit late for the brawl -- I'd have enjoyed knocking you around a bit."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Cat heroically resists the urge to leave anything unpleasant in the bed, and leaves

Arvid looks around the room to make sure it doesn't look too disturbed, then follows

Arvid leaves the door open anyway

Arvid says, "none of these rooms were occupied before, as I recall"

Hans exclaims (at Victor), "It's not too late! We can have another one after the wedding!"

Cat takes a very deep breath.

Cat says, "Victor's room, then."

Hans exclaims, "Everybody! There's to be a brawl at the reception!"

Hans exclaims, "In the best man's honor!"

Arvid asks, "yes, but which of these is it?"

(From GM) Everybody says (to Hans), "Yay!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha more"

Cat hears the roars of merriment filter up through the floorboards, wishes she'd swapped jobs with Hans

(From GM) Gruber says, "ahem, about that letter...?"

Hans exclaims, "Ah! The letter! You wait here -- nobody let him stop drinking! -- and I'll be right back with it!"

Hans gives his own drink to Gruber, so that both of his hands are now full, and goes off to retrieve it.

(From GM) Gruber says, "hey! I thought --"

(From GM) Victor says, "these Eisen sure know how to throw a party, eh? Not like the ones we get in Montaigne, all that poncey nancing around...."

Cat says, "Ach. I thought you knew."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Are we staying at the same inn or a different one?"

[Helvetica] GM throws drama die at Hans

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "we don't actually have rooms"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to GM), "Woo."

[Helvetica] Hans asks (of Arvid), "Where did we put our luggage?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I don't think we have luggage either"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I guess we must have checked our horses at the inn here"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I'm not sure there is another choice"

Hans goes out to the stable to grab the letter, then sneaks up the back stairs to check on the others quickly.

GM says (to Hans), "Apparently they're trying to decide which room to break into next."

Cat asks (of Hans), "Does this door look more lawyerly to you, or this one?"

Cat asks, "Also, what, you didn't bring me a drink?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "(afk one sec)"

Hans says (to Cat), "The one without as many scratch marks, definitely."

Hans checks through his pockets and -- it's not at all clear how -- manages to extract a half-full mug of beer from his cloak.

Cat asks, "Do you think you could hold Gruber upside-down and shake him until all my money falls out of his pockets?"

Hans says, "For you! With my compliments."

Cat swipe glug glug

Hans asks, "Hmm. I have been emptying his pockets as quickly as I can. How can I tell which money is yours and which isn't?"

Cat tosses the mug over her shoulder in finest beer-hall style

Cat says (to Hans), "just keep shaking until you reach [number]"

Hans nods. "Right. You will have to settle up with the bartender at the end of the evening."

Hans says, "Good luck with the pillaging! I have to make sure Herr Gruber hasn't stopped drinking yet."

Hans exclaims, "We wouldn't want him sober at the wedding tomorrow!"

Cat says, "BRING ME BACK MY 500 GOLD PIECES"

Hans says, "I shall pass on the message."

Hans salutes smartly and goes back downstairs.

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ok back"

Hans exclaims (at Gruber), "You old dog! I bet you can't guess whom I've been talking to!"

Cat asks (of Arvid), "would history judge us harshly if we just broke into rooms until we found Victor's?"

(From GM) Gruber says, "What? Who?"

Hans says, "There is a young lady around here -- and I recommend you not tell Carmilla about it -- who says that you still owe her a bit of gold, *if you know what I mean*."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "there was a mysterious thing-falling-off-an-upper deck noise from outside, so I went outside, determined that someone on an upper deck had in fact knocked something off, located it, and returned it to them"

Arvid says (to Cat), "it's probably the easiest way"

Hans exclaims, "But don't worry, I won't tell if no one else here does!"

Hans asks, "Now that you're getting married, you won't need to be needing to do business with her anymore, eh?"

Arvid picks a nearby door, knocks to make sure it's empty, then tries to pick the lock

(From GM) Gruber says, "???"

[7thsea] Arvid rolls 4k3: 1 8 1 8 | 17

GM says (to Arvid), "door opens."

Arvid exclaims, "room service!"

Arvid looks around

[Helvetica] Hans says, "If the partygoers do not recognize my implications, then assume I accompany them with appropriate hand and/or pelvic gestures."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha ha"

Cat sneaks in afterwards

[Helvetica] GM says, "I'm not going to bother making you try a few rooms before getting the right one, so here is the right one."

Arvid says, "right"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "freeform means never having to apologise for burgling strangers"

GM says, "(uproarous laughter. The ones who might disapprove are also the ones who left earliest, so.)"

Arvid says, "there'd better be something incriminating in here or this whole evening will be wasted"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims (at Arvid), "Maybe *your* evening!"

Arvid rifles through Victor's bureau

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Cat goes through any luggage

GM says, "Okay. You find a letter of introduction, identifying the bearer as Camilla von Karnstein, an agent of the Montaigne Royalist Government in Wische."

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "?!?!?"

[Helvetica] Arvid exclaims, "he doesn't look anything like Camilla!"

[Helvetica] GM says, "No, he doesn't. He looks like the sort of person who'd be on the lookout for such letters."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "well ok"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Arvid), "He's not the one bearing it, silly. You are."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Arvid), "And let me tell you, you look stunning in that white gown."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "if you've got decolletage, why not use it, that's what I always say"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "do we have reason to think Camilla might/might not actually be an agent of the Montaigne Royalist Government?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "not really"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "I'm not even exactly sure what 'the Montaign Royalist Government' is. Arent' the royals simply 'the Government'?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "the issue would be more about who recruited her"

[Helvetica] GM says, "If she were, she's a miracle-worker. Between classes and all."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(As opposed to 'the Rebels'.)"

[Helvetica] Cat says (to Hans), "not any more"

[Helvetica] GM says, "(cough) or whether the letter is a forgery designed to get the bearer's head chopped off."

[Helvetica] Hans asks (of Cat), "Is that how they see it?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says (to GM), "hmm, ok, that would make sense"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I was thinking it was for Elena but I guess that is simpler"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I mean, as the GM says, this sounds more like something the rebels would say."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Not the actual royalists themselves."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "Now how would this get Camilla in trouble? It's not as if she's going to be wandering into Montaigne any time soon"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "unless they plan to kidnap her"

[Helvetica] Arvid says (to Cat), "dunno"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, ""hey, darling, for our honeymoon, how about if we head across the border""

(From GM) Gruber says, "rrrright. So, that letter you owe me?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "it's not entirely implausible that she is an agent; one can get an awful lot done between classes"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "yes, but unlike you, she *goes* to classes"

Hans exclaims, "Oh! Right!"

Cat asks, "So what is the simplest way to stop this wedding, do you think?"

Hans hunts through his pockets and finds a letter that has only had a little bit of Cat's beer spilled on it.

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

Hans exclaims, "Here it is! But your hands are full!"

Hans says, "You'd better finish that up first."

[Helvetica] GM asks, "'a' letter?"

Hans exclaims, "You wouldn't want to drop it!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

Cat asks, "In particular, is it completely necessary to reveal all the details of their evil scheme, or should we just just quietly nip it in the bud?"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to GM), "The letter."

Arvid says, "well, the most important thing is not to let Camille be captured by the revolutionaries"

Arvid says, "all this midnight rescuing is getting tedious"

[Crows-Nest] * Rob has joined the channel.

[Crows-Nest] Rob says, "somehow I read Arvid as being Allen, possibly as a contraction of Allen Garvin"

GM says, "Gruber sighs, chugs the less-full tankard, and holds out his hand for the letter."

Arvid says, "secondarily it seems as though we should beat him up and throw him in the river"

Arvid says, "that'll teach him to swipe things from the mail"

Arvid says, "as for Victor, I don't really care about corruption within the Montaigne government"

Cat asks, "Yes, but would it cause her more grief if her fiance mysteriously vanished and left her at the altar, or if he was revealed as a fraud who never loved her?"

Arvid says, "there'll just be another revolution later"

Arvid shrugs

Hans hands it over merrily and immediately hails the barmen to order another mug for Gruber.

Arvid says, "she'll get over it either way"

Cat asks, "Or, alternatively, if his body was found face-down in the river where he tragically fell after drinking too much?"

Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "there is a lot of beer drinking going on this session"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "but I am actually doing the least of it"

(From GM) Gruber says, "Excuse me, I really have to get some fresh air."

Cat says, "Or if his bloodless corpse, suspended by its - all right, all right, I'm better than this."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I am not actually doing huge amounts of it myself, since I am trying to make sure that most of my drinks somehow end up in Gruber's hands."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "quaff, don't drink"

Arvid looks around for anything else of interest in the room

Arvid says, "I suppose things will be winding up downstairs eventually; we'd better hurry up"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Yeah, I don't think Gruber knows that rule."

(From GM) Gruber pushes himself away from the bar.

Cat says, "All right. Let's just appropriate that letter, in case things get out of our control and we need a trump card."

Arvid says, "sounds good"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I'd like to follow him discreetly, in case the letter encourages him to go off and do something silly."

Arvid schloop

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Stealth?"

Arvid says, "actually, you hang onto it"

Arvid says, "perhaps you might need to be Camilla at some point"

Cat tucks the letter away

[Helvetica] GM says, "right. Wits + stealth."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Aw, wits? I'd better use a drama die, then."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Cat carefully leaves the room

[7thsea] Hans rolls 4k2: 10+6 3 2 3 | 19

Hans waits until a few moments after Gruber has left. Then he takes a tray of drinks from the barman and pushes his way through the crowd to bring them to someone on the other side of the room, near the door.

GM says, "Right. So you're probably not going to be able to get too close, but you can see what he's up to."

GM says, "Gruber finds a spot by a lantern, opens the letter and reads it, then tucks it into an inside pocket."

Arvid follows Cat out

GM says, "Gruber decides he'd best go back to his room via the back stairs."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

Cat slumps in a doorway in disarray, imitating a dead drunk

GM says, "Gruber comes up the back stair ... sees Cat and Arvid(?)"

Gunther drones onwards with the pace of a train, a train carved from marble. On rails of granite.

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "it appears Cat is slumping in a doorway"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "And you?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "uhh"

Arvid says (to nobody) "Well, he's not there, so I guess he won't get to hear another congratulatory message"

Arvid says, "I had the poem all picked out, too"

Arvid heads downstairs.

[Helvetica] GM says, "haha"

[Helvetica] GM says (to Arvid), "DD"

GM says, "Gruber goes into his room and closes the door. Locks it."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "yay"

Cat straightens herself up

Cat heads down the back stairs, meets Hans coming up

Arvid finds Hans and compares notes

Arvid says, "(also Gert, wherever she is)"

[Crows-Nest] Hans asks (of Arvid), "What?!? All these notes are written in Montaigne?!?"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "hee hee"

Hans says (to Arvid), "Framing Carmilla? That scoundrel."

Arvid says, "it seems as though he is making a habit of having his wives captured"

Arvid says, "really we should help him break it"

Cat asks, "So what is the best way to deal with this rascal?"

Arvid says, "but unfortunately we didn't find anything definitively incriminating there"

Cat says, "Theft from the mail. Good enough for me."

Arvid says, "if we had time to fetch the postmaster he could no doubt identify Gabriel"

[Helvetica] GM says, "It's a Federal offence! ...wait...."

Arvid says, "but I don't believe we do before the wedding"

Cat says, "We could postpone the wedding."

Hans says, "Unless we delayed the wedding."

Hans asks, "How long is it before the nuptials?"

Arvid says, "tomorrow sometime"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Wedding's in the morning."

Arvid says, "possibly delayed due to hangover"

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "Really, we don't want too much time anyway."

Cat says, "The simplest method would be to kidnap the groom and take him with us to the postmaster."

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "Since if we don't want to arrive before the 'if anyone present knows any reason that these two...'"

Arvid says, "neutral observers might feel that would put us off on the wrong foot"

Arvid says, "if we could find Elena, the Baron could no doubt identify her"

Hans says (to Arvid), "Kidnapping the bridegroom the night before the wedding is not unheard of."

Cat asks, "How much cooperation d'you think we could extract from Camilla?"

Hans says, "Although he is usually left somewhere in the same general vicinity as he was kidnapped from, but outdoors and with fewer trousers."

Arvid says, "I imagine she is quite swept off her feat"

Arvid says, "er, feet"

Cat says, "Do we know that? The marriage was, after all, arranged. She barely knows the fellow."

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "oh, was it? I didn't remember"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Yeah, I don't think she was actually reputed to be all that thrilled with it, if I remember correctly."

Arvid says, "well, the Baron's daughter no doubt has gotten the inside view by this point"

Cat says, "sigh. I suppose I can go and try and extract some sense in between all the squealing"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "By the way, wasn't Camilla supposed to be a vampire at this point?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "maybe we *should* let the revolutionaries chop off her head"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "the only evidence we have for that is her name"

[Helvetica] GM says, "If she dies within a few weeks, yes."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "...oh"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ok, strike that"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to GM), "Ah, right. So we just have to keep her alive."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Which we utterly failed to do for Lucy, so I dunno if we'll do any better here."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Arvid exclaims, "we've had practice now!"

[Helvetica] Arvid exclaims, "second try's the charm!"

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims, "Practice at killing them! Not at keeping them alive!"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Lucille was dead before the game began."

[Helvetica] Hans says (to GM), "I do not feel that excuses us."

Cat says, "my guess is that the Baron will have sent Laura off to bed by now, but that Camilla will not be getting much sleep"

Hans asks, "Who will be making her get drunk?"

Hans says, "It seems that may be Gert's responsibility."

[Helvetica] GM asks, "so, heading back to the castle?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "sure"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "yeah, I guess so"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "we can return to kidnap people later"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "before we leave the inn I locate the innkeeper and inquire if anyone matching Elena's description has shown up"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Unless Gruber leaves his room during the night."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Hmm. It occurs to me that Gruber now has another letter for people to steal."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "yeah"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Since none of us have read des Amis' missive yet."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "it's going to be a little harder"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "on the other hand, it is pretty incriminating"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "(I assume)"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Yeah. You can drag a man bodily downstairs and force him to get drunk once on the night before his wedding, but doing it twice can look a bit suspicious."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(On the other hand, doing it *three* times...)"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "is that an eisen proverb?"

[Helvetica] GM says (to Arvid), "oh yes. Dot vould be Gruber's sister, Estella. Dunno vere she vent."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

Arvid says, "I guess at the castle we can make inquiries about her as well"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Both Montaing and Eisen believe that, technically and officially, Helvetica belongs to them, right?"

Arvid says, "though I'm not sure if she'd really be staying there"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I suppose Camilla's parents are dead, so I can delegate myself to give her The Talk"

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "('Montaing'?)"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "What to expect on your wedding night: being kidnapped, framed as a monarchist spy and beheaded"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

GM says, "Innkeeper lady isn't sure that the Gruber siblings are on good terms. 'Estella' isn't on the list of wedding guests. Wait, there was a mention about a 'lady of the night' wanting money from the groom, maybe this was her...."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Don't forget rising again as an undead life-draining spirit of the dark woods."

Arvid says, "(ha ha)"

[Helvetica] GM says (to Hans), "right."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "yeah, but at that point you're a bride of darkness, not a bride of Gruber"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "What's the difference?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Uh wait, not quite. More like they both think Helvetica belongs to the other guy."

Cat locates Camilla's room once back at the castle

[Helvetica] Hans says (to GM), "Aha."

GM exclaims (at Cat), "Camilla's room!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Cat knocks softly

GM says (to Cat), "Some flustered sounds of bedcovers being tossed about."

GM says (to Cat), "Door cracks open and Camilla peeps out."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Were there any flustered sounds of hiding in the wardrobe as well?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Cat asks, "May I come in, dear?"

(From GM) Camilla glances behind her. "um, sure...."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Oh yeah, so where was Erich during the party?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(Or did I misunderstand when I thought you said we brought him?)"

Cat enters, looking with a highly experienced eye at all the possible places to hide improper visitors

[Helvetica] GM says, "I was just asking if you brought any of the NPCs with you. I thought you meant that you didn't."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I thought that was all decided last session."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "But that's fine."

GM says (to Cat), "oh yeah, definitely the wardrobe."

[Helvetica] Arvid exclaims, "I told him not to get into trouble!"

Cat asks (of Camilla), "So how are you holding up?"

[Helvetica] Arvid exclaims, "that meant not getting any young ladies into trouble either!"

(From GM) Camilla says, "Pretty well. Why?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Oh yeah, was Andre been sleeping and attending classes and not graverobbing for the sessions that I missed?"

[Helvetica] GM asks, "Where's everybody else?"

Cat says, "I have a little experience with arranged marriages myself; I understand how... difficult things can be."

[Helvetica] GM says (to Hans), "As far as you know. The last sessions have been out-of-town."

Arvid pokes around the castle asking about Elena/Estella

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Hmm. So the NPCs that we know of who are here..."

Cat leans casually against the wardrobe

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Camilla, Gruber, Victor, the Baron, his daughter, Camilla's family..."

(From GM) Camilla says, "Oh. Well, it's nothing to worry about, really. We're really just doing it for convenience ... he needs a wife so he can claim some sort of inheritance in Montaigne, and I need a husband to, um, continue the Karnstein line and all that."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Any others?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "Nicolette, Erich"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "So they *are* here?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I am so confused."

Cat says, "So, if I told you that there might perhaps be a problem with the marriage..."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "they're in this town somewhere, yes"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "So where was Erich during the party?!?"

[Helvetica] Arvid exclaims, "I told him to stay aorund and not get into trouble!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ie, I have no idea whatsoever"

[Helvetica] GM says (to Hans), "As it turns out, Erich was teaching Nicolette how to play poker."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "well that eliminates one wardrobe suspect"

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims (at Arvid), "You fool! He was supposed to be the one who keeps Andre out of trouble while we're away!"

(From GM) Camilla says, "After it's all done, I guess we'll ... get separate rooms or something."

[Helvetica] Arvid exclaims, "we needed to bring him!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I don't remember why"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I guess to identify the guy"

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims (at Arvid), "Which is why he should have been at the party!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "he vaguely identified him last session"

(From GM) Camilla says, "What sort of problems?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "So at this point, we've no idea where the ring is, right?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Nicolette found it and has it."

[Helvetica] GM says, "Or else Gert has it. One of the two."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I think Gert used the ghost mirror to keep him from stealing it"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Aha."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I guess that might be enough to delay the wedding"

Cat sighs.

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "maybe we *should* fetch the postmaster"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, ";Did she Bring it without any official confirmation of where it had been before?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I bet if we hurried, we could get the postmaster here just in time."

Cat says, "I am not positive about anything yet, but I think that you may be in danger."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "And we have the proof to present him with."

Cat says, "At the very least, your fiance is mixed up in some very unsavoury business."

(From GM) Camilla says, "What do you mean?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Two of us could go to get him, while the other two made sure the wedding was delayed if necessary."

Cat asks, "Well - I suppose I should be straight with you. What do you make of this?"

Cat extracts the letter.

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

GM says (to Arvid&Hans), "No-one's heard or seen 'Estella' around the castle."

[Crows-Nest] (from Hans) Camilla says, "Oh, that's mine. Thanks for finding it for me!"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "So, um."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I dunno"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "we could try to de-makeup him, I guess"

(From GM) Camilla says, "What on earth is this? I'm not a spy! Where'd you get this?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Are we presently under the impression that Gabriel is a Porte mage, while his sister Estella is a Fate Witch?"

(From GM) Camilla says, "Are you trying to recruit me?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I think she is just pretending"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Aha."

Cat says, "No. This was found in the possession of the best man."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Pretending in order to give fake fortunes about future husband-spies and waterfalls?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "yeah, I guess"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I don't really understand it"

(From GM) Camilla says, "That's impossible. I was told that the best man is part of the new revolutionary government."

Cat says, "I suspect that it is intended to be used to have you framed and executed after the wedding, leaving your estate in Gruber's hands."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Did Trujillo and his construct both go missing as well, or were they (the last we knew) still hanging around the school as usual?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "If a maid tells you about such a legend, you'd say it's idle gossip. If a Fate Witch tells you it's FATE, you might think otherwise."

(From GM) Camilla gasps.

Cat says, "We have some reason to suspect that he's done this before, to another woman."

(From GM) Camilla says, "Well, in that case the wedding is cancelled!"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Does Agathe still think that Raoul is searching for her, and that they will soon be reunited and live happily ever after?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "apparently."

Cat says, "Well, be cautious, dear. At the moment we cannot be certain."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

Hans says, "We need to bring all the elements of this affair together into one place."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "maybe we should have brought agathe along"

Cat says, "But if the wedding is put off for a day or so, we can lay our hands on more witnesses than we need."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Can we retroactively have asked her to follow after us?"

Cat says, "Speaking of witnesses..."

Cat opens the wardrobe.

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I think there was some reason she couldn't come"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "dunh dunh dunh"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Or send for her while the wedding is delayed."

GM says (to Cat), "And you find Laura staring back out with a deer-in-the-headlights look."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Hans says, "It would be nice if we had Agathe, but Erich may have to suffice."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "oh, great, now she's got the lesbian vampire thing too"

Hans asks (of Erich), "Do you have a dress you could put on?"

Hans says, "No, no, that would never work."

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "ha ha"

(From GM) Laura says, "um, hello...?"

Hans says, "But we have the letters. And the ring."

Cat says, "Hmm. At least this means we have someone who can keep a secret."

[Helvetica] GM tosses Cat a drama die.

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Arvid says, "well, I suppose"

Cat says, "And when this mess is over, dear, I'll have to explain to you about how to avoid marriage a little more carefully."

(From GM) Camilla reaches into the wardrobe and takes out a Dracheneisen panzerhand. "I really should have taken those lessons with Herr Kleinberg, like Grandmama said I should."

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims, "It's not too late!"

Cat says, "I heartily recommend it."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Of course, Albert might be disappointed if you transfer out of his class and into mine."

Cat says, "But much I would like to hold Herr Gruber down while you hit him, we may have to save that for a more convenient moment."

(From GM) Camilla says, "um, you won't tell anybody about ... Laura and I were just looking at the wedding dress. Honest."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "On the other hand, he's been sending letters to known villains, so he's probably some sort of spy who won't last past the end of the campaign regardless."

Cat says, "Don't worry, dear. I've kept more things hidden in wardrobes than you could imagine."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Wardrobes, the precursors to closets."

GM says, "Meanwhile, the Baron and Grandmamma want to know what you've found."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

[Helvetica] Hans asks (of Cat), "Hey, what's that wardrobe made of...?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(Seeing as hiding in them has been shown to be potentially hazardous to one's health.)"

Arvid says, "I'm afraid we found the worst confirmations of our suspicions"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Good quality applewood."

Arvid says, "the man is no better than a common thief, robbing the mail"

Cat points out two or three hiding-places that would have been less easily rumbled

Arvid says, "observe this letter from Gert's parents, enclosing her ring"

(From GM) Camilla says, "Nobody could possibly fit in *there*!"

Cat says, "That's why you do stretches."

Arvid says, "unfortunately, nothing we found would be sufficient proof for anyone else, not even the news that Elena has turned up here, posing as his sister -- or perhaps she actually *is* his sister"

Cat asks, "So, dear, this is ultimately up to you. Do you want to stall until we can gather up enough proof to set this bastard bang to rights, or do you just want to call the marriage off and avoid a scene?"

(From GM) Camilla says, "Enough proof? I am the Countess of Karnstein! *I'm* the one you're supposed to be showing the proof to!"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Heh."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "girl has a spine! excellent"

Cat takes the letter back, arching an eyebrow

(From GM) Camilla says, "Wait, let me think ... those classes on government and management ... I should ask about other evidence, like Is He Who He Says He Is, that sort of thing...."

Cat asks, "Does this missing person poster look familiar to you at all?"

(From GM) Camilla says, "Ooh. Yes, it does."

Cat says, "If not, we can always produce his other wife."

(From GM) Laura says, "um, Camilla, I don't know if it's proof, but everyone thought it was a bit odd when he suddenly went off of Arielle after it was discovered she'd lost most of her fortune in the revolution...."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "We could just get Camilla, Grandma, Laura, the Baron, Erich, and us all to knock on Gruber's door for a cozy little chat."

Cat folds her arms, purses her lips, and waits

[Helvetica] Hans says, "With a ring and a pile of letters and a few extra armed guards."

[Helvetica] Cat asks (of Hans), "armed guards? and take all the fun out of it?"

(From GM) Camilla says, "All right, that's good enough for me. I think I'd like to hear what he has to say for himself.

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "this all seems a little inelegant"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "but I guess that's the way it goes sometimes"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Cat), "They're supposed to wait outside the doors and windows."

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Cat), "In case anyone gets away."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hmm"

[Helvetica] Cat asks (of Arvid), "less elegant than breaking his neck and throwing him in the river?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Then we'll have some bodies to inspect for clues as to which way he went."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "presumably if he gets into trouble he will try to teleport away"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Arvid), "Oh yeah."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "hence the mirror"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "maybe we should just let him do it"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Did we bring the mirror? Excellent."

(From GM) Camilla says, "you, um, have my authority to go drag Herr Gruber (if that is his real name) back up here for some answers."

Cat says, "Thank you."

(From GM) Laura says, "[17th Century equivalent of 'OMG that was sooo cool!!1!']"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

Cat says (to Laura), "and you, young lady, had better be somewhere a little more discreet by the time I come back"

(From GM) Camilla says, "[17th Century equivalent of 'like, I KNOW!!1! I could sooo get used to this, squeee!']"

(From GM) Laura says, "Yes, miss! I'll be over there, like you suggested."

Cat slips out, stifling a giggle

Cat goes to round up the troops

[Helvetica] GM asks, "Someone IS logging, right?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "'tester', I think."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Via inky."

[Helvetica] GM says, "good"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "yeah"

Hans exclaims (at Cat), "Ah, excellent!"

Hans exclaims, "Back to the inn!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "er ..."

[Helvetica] Arvid realizes tester is, however, not on #helvetica or #crow's nest

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "bother"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Eek."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "well, I'll see what I can retrieve"

Cat says, "I am not convinced that this is the best strategy, but it's what Camilla wants, and I think it's her decision"

Cat says, "see if you can round up Erich, too - he's our only witness on-hand"

[Helvetica] Hans makes a log of everything he's seen since logging in.

Cat says, "and let's have that mirror available"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I think the Baron and Erich were in the same place as Arvid and myself when you found us."

[Helvetica] Hans asks (of GM), "Is that correct?"

Hans goes to Gruber's door and knocks again.

[Helvetica] GM says, "sure, that works."

Cat circles round underneath Gruber's window to prevent a hasty getaway

Gruber mutters, "Theus, what is it now ..." Opens door.

Hans says (to Gruber), "Your presence has been cordially requested by the Countess of Karnstein."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "she can't wait one more night"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "There are some things Laura just can't do."

Gruber says, "Is this some sort of prank? You're that guy who was trying to get me drunk earlier!"

Hans says, "Hans Kleinberg, of the house Kleinberg, friend and instructor to the Countess."

Hans rests his hand on his dracheneisen in a meaningful way.

Gruber says, "Mm-hm. Give me a moment to get properly dressed. I just about to retire for the night."

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "who's got the mirror?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Gert?"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "I guess -- and where is she?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Who is most likely standing behind me."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "alrighty"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "well, you might as well let him step back into his room and try to get away"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(Actually, she'd probably be with Camilla if lps were here to have a say, but he's not.)"

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Arvid), "I'm not stopping him. Yet."

GM says, "Gruber closes the door. (fsst fsst dammit what a time for a connection to go down.) A few minutes later, he comes out again, fully dressed."

[Crows-Nest] Hans asks (of GM), "Is that what you were thinking or Gruber?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Gruber"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "the GM knew all about it already"

Hans nods and escorts him to the castle.

[Helvetica] Cat says, "not even an attempt to go out the window? tsk"

[Helvetica] GM says, "(envisioning a future in which internet connections are made via tiny Porte holes.)"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "excellent"

Cat rejoins the group and takes the lead, being sure to allow a good long pause after knocking on Camilla's door

[Helvetica] GM asks, "Hang on, you have Erich with you, yes? Where have you left: Laura, Camilla, Nicolette, the Baron and Grandmamma?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "At the castle?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I dunno where Nicolette is"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Is Erich with us? I'm not sure if we want Gruber to see him right now."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "yeah, we just need him on-hand"

[Helvetica] GM says, "okay, just checking."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "Laura and Camilla are still back in Camilla's room afaik"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I guess the Baron and Grandmama and Nicolette are wherever they want to be; they were present when Cat came down and told us what Camilla said, so they theoretically know what's going on."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "that probably leaves Nicolette, the Baron and Grandmamma playing poker in the kitchen"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "And presumably will be ready for us to return if they wish to be present for the encounter."

GM says, "Okay. So Camilla's come down to the Great Hall to meet you all. She's dressed up as well, with her father's panzerhand strapped on."

Cat nods approvingly at the power-dressing

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "So are both Erich and Gruber in the room together?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "And has either one made any sign of acknowledgment of the other?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "only if you want them to e."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "It seems it would be appropriate for them to be at this point."

[Helvetica] GM says, "Gruber know better than to give any such sign."

Camilla says, "Okay, let's hear the accusations properly, now."

Hans asks, "Should we let Erich go first?"

Cat says, "That sounds like a perfectly fine idea to me."

[Crows-Nest] Erich says, "Er, sorry. It's not him after Session <something>: earned 1 DD

[Crows-Nest] Hans exclaims, "Argh! Stupid cat knocking things over onto the mouse and keyboard!"

Cat asks, "Erich, do you recognise this man?"

GM says, "Erich steps forward and retells the story of how Agathe met Raoul, how she was accused of espionage and held for execution, and ends by accusing Reinhardt of being Raoul."

Cat says, "Agathe is presently in Geneva, but can be produced to testify if needs be."

Cat pats Erich on the shoulder. "Brave boy."

GM says, "(The Baron and Frau Appenzeller are standing behind Camilla. Nicolette and Laura make up the peanut gallery.)"

Hans asks (of Camilla), "Have you seen the ring that your husband to be intended to wed you with?"

Camilla has, yes.

Hans asks (of Gert), "Can you show her *your* family heirloom ring, and the letter from your parents?"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "making the GM do all the work here"

Gert presumably does, unless she turns out to have been working for the other side all along.

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "I could play Gert, I guess."

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "But she's not here."

Hans asks (of Cat and Arvid), "And now, the other letters...?"

[Crows-Nest] Hans exclaims, "I am the only one here with no evidence, but no one else is doing anything!"

[Crows-Nest] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "I guess that is why I am leading this, because if I weren't, there'd be nothing else for me to do in this scene."

Arvid says, "a draft stolen from the post office and cashed in Montaigne"

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "Except for sneering at Gruber."

Cat says, "This letter was found in the possession of Victor, the best man; it appears to be an attempt to frame the Countess for espionage."

The Baron says, "That's treason, at the very least."

Arvid says, "his room at the inn contains a number of other letters under other aliases, stolen from the post office where he worked .. under yet another name"

Arvid produces missing mail clerk poster

Cat says, "Under yet another name; we can produce more witnesses to identify Gruber as this man."

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "This is Cat's opportunity to point out the bank letter as well."

Gruber says, "But they're not here, are they? This is nonsense, the man in that poster is a Porte Mage. I am not."

Cat says, "Among his thefts was one from me, a letter of credit for five hundred gold pieces."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Random dangerous thought."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Collaborating twins."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(Probably not the case.)"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(But amusing if true.)"

Cat says, "I suppose you obtained these letters by entirely innocent means, then."

[Helvetica] GM says, "Actually, it's true. But they're *fraternal* twins."

[Crows-Nest] Hans says (to Cat), "I suppose you did as well..."

Arvid says, "well, that should be easy to check"

Cat says, "Whether you were posing as a Porte mage then, or as a non-Porte mage now makes little difference."

Arvid says, "let's just take these gloves off"

Arvid says, "apply this soapy washcloth I just happen to have with me"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Hee."

Gruber submits to handwashing under protest, and is indeed red-handed.

[Crows-Nest] Hans says, "And Apply some lotion and gently buff your nails with this file..."

[Helvetica] GM asks, "Where's the mirror, in all this?"

Arvid says, "we've caught you now"

Cat says, "So, given the circumstances, I propose that we throw Gruber into your nastiest dungeon until we can round up all the witnesses for a full trial, and concentrate on catching his accomplices."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I guess Gert is standing in the background with it, looking cranky"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I am not sure if she has it out or what"

Cat says, "Or I suppose you could just exercise noble privilege and have him thrown in prison without bothering with a trial; I'm not precisely sure how laws work here"

Hans says, "I believe that, if the Countess desires, this may qualify as a trial."

Camilla says, "of course this qualifies as a trial."

Cat says, "Excellent."

Gruber snarls and rips at the air. Nothing happens.

Cat asks, "Does the accused have any half-cocked excuse for a defence, or should we proceed straight to the clapping-in-irons part?"

Gruber says, "N... Yes. Yes, the accused does have something to say. The accused would like to speak to ... Miss Nicolette Dupin, I think the name is?"

Nicolette says, "What??"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "excellent"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I AM YOUR FATHER"

[Helvetica] Hans exclaims, "Nicolette... aka... <rips off mask> ESTELLA RENARD!"

Gabriel says, "'Colette ... Coco, darling, why don't you do something about that mirror there?"

Nicolette says, "???"

Hans asks (of Nicolette), "Do you know this man?"

Nicolette says, "I have no idea who he is!"

Arvid says, "well, so much for that scheme, then"

Cat says, "Any more ladies you'd like to try and help you escape? There are still one or two left in the room, I think"

Arvid says, "or we could put Erich in a dress"

Hans says, "Ah, back to that plan."

Gabriel says, "Coco, these nice people *did* just claim that I'm really Gabriel Renard. Alright, so it's true, I *am* Gabriel Renard. You remember me, don't you? Of course, you were just about three years old when Mamma gave you up...."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "argh, dammit"

Cat carefully places herself in between Nicolette and the mirror, just in case

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "we even knew her mom's last name"

Hans asks, "So you're the man who abandoned Nicolette?"

Hans asks, ""And now you expect her to *help* you?"

Gabriel says, "I was nine, what could I do? Oh, Mamma was so upset, but we knew Coco would have a better life with M. Dupin. We all cried for weeks afterwards...."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Oh, sister, not father. That is slightly less weird."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Er."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "You knwo what I mean."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "hee hee"

Nicolette looks confused.

Cat says, "And so you got your revenge by marrying a succession of noblewomen and then arranging to have them executed? Truly a heartwarming story."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I don't think Gabriel counted on Nicolette being quite so slow-witted."

Gabriel says, "Don't listen to them, Coco! I'm your brother! Would you let your own flesh and blood go to the auto-executioner?"

Cat glances at Camilla and inclines her head towards Gabriel in an how-long-are-you-going-to-put-up-with-this-waste-of-time manner

Hans says, "The Countess hasn't set your sentence. She may simply lock you up."

Hans asks, "On the other hand, perhaps she should have you executed -- if you're perfectly willing to have your wives killed, why wouldn't you do the same to your sister?"

Cat asks (of Hans), "really? do you ever execute *anyone* in this country?"

Camilla glances back at Nicolette, bites her lip, then says, "Just throw him into one of the dungeons. I'll decide what to do tomorrow."

Gabriel shouts, "I take good care of my sisters! If Azelma were here, she'd tell you! Surely you remember Zelie...."

Cat says, "we probably need to talk to the guards about the proper use of this mirror"

Hans exclaims (at Cat), "Me? I've never executed anyone!"

Cat says, "in the meantime I had better go and make sure poor Nicolette's head doesn't explode"

GM says, "Guards dragging Gabriel away. Nicolette bursts into tears and runs away."

Camilla says "

Camilla says "...that was harder than i thought...."

Hans says, "Uncle Adolf, on the other hand..."

Hans exclaims (at Gert), "Follow them with that mirror!"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "oh, great. now I have two girls to comfort and no Gert"

Cat shakes her head back and forth for a moment, then goes after Nicolette

Arvid shrugs

Arvid says, "well, I've seen happier endings"

Hans says (to Camilla), "Wielding power wisely is never easy."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I suppose we should grab Victor too"

Hans asks (of Camilla), "And what would you have us do about Victor?"

Hans says, "It was his room where we found the letter implicating you with the Montaigne royalists."

Camilla says "I don't know. Tell him officially to go home and never come back, I suppose."

Hans says, "If you wish to continue with the wedding, I know of a possible alternative bridgroom who could be brought, if you can wait for a messenger to return to Helvetica."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "heh"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Speaking of, we never did find out about that other letter."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I am not so sure about wosshisface's affections"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I guess we should look at the letter"

Hans says, "In fact, he even had a letter sent to Herr Gruber..."

Arvid says, "I suppose we'd better have a look at that other letter you gave .. Gruber"

Hans says, "I mean, Renard."

Camilla says "I'm going to have to have execute Reinhardt ... Gabriel ... whatever his name is. Aren't I? You'ce better get Fraulein Dupin back to Helvetica before I officially make up my mind."

Hans says, "Very well."

[Crows-Nest] Camilla says, "At least we had that one night together... oh, and what a night! I never knew he would be into being *bitten*! Well, off with his head."

[Crows-Nest] inky says, "ha ha"

Camilla says "I think I'd better go back to school, too. I don't feel really ready to be a proper Countess."

Camilla says "is that okay, grandmamma?"

[Helvetica] GM asks, "Okay, wrapping up very soon. What's being done now re: Victor, the other letter, and/or sleeping arrangements?"

Hans says, "#helv We may as well follow the Countess's wishes regarding Victor."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "We may as well follow the Countess's wishes regarding Victor."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "we are getting the guards to search Gruber and get the other letter"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "or else it's probably hidden in his room at the inn"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "We should check on that letter, now that we have a proper excuse to search Gabriel and his things."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "TIming."

GM says, "The other letter is not on Gruber at the moment."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "and I probably need to console Nicolette before she collapses into a pool of uselessness"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I assume it shouldn't be difficult for us to arrange a place to sleep tonight, whether in the inn or the castle. And we know where Gabriel's sleeping."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "so be good for goodness sake"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "And I guess tomorrow, we all head back to school."

Arvid says, "I suppose we'd better have another look at the inn, then"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "If it makes her feel any better, Camilla can let her Grandmama sentence Gabriel after she's gone."

Arvid says, "though maybe Victor's taken it and fled"

Hans asks, "Does he even know yet that Gruber was in trouble?"

Arvid says, "we did come to his room with guards"

Arvid says, "it depends how much Victor was in his confidence, I think"

Arvid says, "well, here's the inn -- I guess we can see"

Arvid asks (of innkeeper), "is the best man still here?"

GM says, "There's a light on in Victor's room."

[Helvetica] GM asks, "Who's going to speak to Victor?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "Hans and me, I guess"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Sounds like Arvid."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "oh, ok, just me"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "But I'm happy to join in."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "well, come in if he beats me up"

GM says, "Also, voices."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "oh, maybe it's Elena"

[Helvetica] Cat asks, "I take it we don't really care too much if he escapes?"

Arvid listens at the door

[Helvetica] Cat says, "in that case I'm going to be off dealing with N"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "We have been asked to send him away."

Victor says, "....no, Chevalier never found the other letter. We thought this was the only one."

Arvid asks, "can I hear who he's talking to?"

Elena says, "Then he'll want to look harder! Not that I particularly care, but you seem to."

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "Oh yeah, where did we leave Chevalier?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "aha"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "ha ha"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "In the prison with a bag over his head?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "in a rage"

Arvid shrugs and knocks

Victor says, "What's the story with Locksley, then? Is he properly -- hang on."

Victor shouts "Who is it?"

Arvid says, "*ahem* message for a M. Gilbert"

GM says, "Door opens a crack."

Arvid says, "straight from Montaigne, been travelling all night"

Arvid asks, "excuse me, sir, are you M. Gilbert?"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "We haven't searched Gabriel's room yet, right?"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "not a second time"

Victor says, "Liar!"

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "but it sounds like Elena and Victor have the letter"

Victor pulls open the door and grabs at Arvid

Arvid jumps back.

Arvid exclaims, "Hans!"

Hans takes Victor's wrist firmly. "Herr Gilbert. We have some unfortunate news."

GM says, "There's the squelching sound of someone escaping via Porte"

Hans turns to Elena. "Frualein Renard, I presume? If so, this concerns you as well."

Hans says, "Ah. I suppose she will have to learn of this matter on her own."

Arvid says, "now then"

Arvid says, ""our apologies / as we crush your dreams / but we can't let you get away / with your evil schemes"

[Helvetica] GM tosses drama die at Arvid

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "I'm just going into the singing telegram business"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I thought you were advertising aftershave."

[Helvetica] GM says (to Arvid), "do not deliver to the Boddy Mansion."

Hans says (to Victor), "It appears that, unfortunately, the wedding tomorrow has been cancelled."

Arvid says, "and we have a message from the Duchess to leave Karnstein immediately, and if you ever return, you'll be executed"

Arvid says, "so I suggest getting while the getting is still good"

Hans asks, "Before you go, is there anything that you wanted to tell us that may mitigate her feelings toward you in the future?"

Victor spits. "You're a pair of dead men."

Hans asks, "Anything regarding her erstwhile betrothed or his plans, perhaps?"

Hans says, "Ah."

[Helvetica] Cat exclaims, "duel duel duel duel!"

Arvid says, "well, all men are mortal"

Hans asks, "Is that a formal challenge?"

Arvid says, "some of us are getting there faster than others"

Hans says, "We can make the arrangements if you wish."

Victor sbegins to say something, then smiles and says, "certainly. Tomorrow at noon, shall we say?"

Hans asks, "Very well! And as the challengee, I believe I have the choice of weapons?"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "YAAAY"

Hans says, "I shall bring the swords."

Victor says, "certainly."

Victor says, "now if you'll excuse me, I have a terrible headache."

Hans says, "Certainly."

Hans says, "I would not wish you to face our duel unrested."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "This should be interesting. I have no idea what he has in mind."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "If he just wants to escape while I'm distracted, then that seems silly, since we already told him to flee. Maybe he'll try to assassinate me tonight."

Victor nods and turns ... he's clearly a bit more drunk than he sounds. A piece of paper slips out of one pocket as he goes back into his room.

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I take it Gert is your second"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Alternately, he could attempt to poison or magick the swords or otherwise cheat."

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Cat), "He. Of course."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Er, hee."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "He might have some other sort of cheating in mind."

Arvid picks up the paper and examines it

[Helvetica] Cat says, "man, I've got to have one of these"

[Helvetica] Hans asks, "A second? A cheat? A slip of paper?"

GM says (to Arvid), "Handwriting looks familiar."

Hans asks, "What's that?"

[Helvetica] GM says, "a letter."

Arvid says, "some kind of letter"

Arvid takes a closer look

[Helvetica] Cat says, "a duel"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Oh, right."

GM says (to Arvid), "It's in Montaigne. The writer claims to have found a letter in Baron Schriftsteller's study, in which the Duchess du Sices officially renounces her rights to the mountainous region known as Helvetica; the writer has destroyed that letter, but believes that a copy of the letter is kept somewhere in du Sices's library."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Well, after I finish with Victor..."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "(Hmm. Gert might not approve"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "pistols at dawn and everything"

Arvid blinks

Arvid says, "wait, this handwriting looks familiar"

Arvid hands it to Hans

Hans exclaims, "Huh! This looks like it's in Montaigne!"

GM says, "It is the writer's opinion that if the Revolutionary Government wishes to acquire Helvetica, they should either destroy that second letter, or else move in to Helvetica as quickly as possible, before it can be found."

Arvid asks, "isn't it des Amis' hand?"

GM says (to Hans), "it's the letter des Amis gave you, yes."

Hans says, "It is indeed."

Hans exclaims, "We must somehow find out what it says!"

Arvid rolls eyes.

[Helvetica] Cat says, "ha ha ha"

Arvid translates for Hans

Hans furrows his brow.

Arvid says, "I think the Baron will want to hear about this"

Hans asks, "But why would the rebels what Helvetica?"

[Helvetica] Arvid asks, "and, ok, I've just about got to go here -- are we about done?"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I think so."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "sure"

[Helvetica] GM says, "We are. This is the point I was going to break at."

[Helvetica] GM says, "But, basically, the duel is Victor's way of stalling you here while Chevalier's men march into Geneva."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "he ain't wasting any time"

[Helvetica] Cat says, "right. swords at dawn, kill the guy, jump on a horse, off we go"

[Helvetica] GM says, "He's also counting on Elena/Azelma to deliver the message to Chevalier."

[Helvetica] Arvid says, "(ok, leaving; I'll leave the log running)"

[Helvetica] GM says, "Okay"

[Helvetica] Arvid says (to Hans), "if you could mail me the log you grabbed, that'd be helpful, and I'll put the log together later"

[Helvetica] GM says, "break, anyway."

[Helvetica] GM says, "I managed to grab everything as well, I think. And log from that point on."

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Cat), "Noon."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "dammit"

[Helvetica] Hans says, "Well, we can deliver our message to the Baron first thing."

[Helvetica] Hans says (to Arvid), "Will do."

[Helvetica] Cat says, "I doubt Nicolette is capable of getting us back with Porte"

[Helvetica] GM exclaims (at Cat), "you're busy making sure she doesn't decide to go spring her no-good brother out of prison!"

npc1 has disconnected.

[Helvetica] GM says, "Okay."

[Helvetica] GM says, "This basically marks the end of a chapter."

[Helvetica] GM says, "Are people interested in going on to the next chapter? Because I'm getting the impression that interest is waning now."

[Helvetica] maga says, "no, I'm totally about the next chapter"

[Helvetica] GM says, "okay. will have to work out day/time of next session"

GM has disconnected.

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I am interested."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "I have just had a lot of trouble making time this last couple months."

[Helvetica] Hans says, "But that should be improving now."