You say, "Log on"

GM says (to Theophilus), "I messed up the fallout from your initiation"

Zedekiah asks, "What are the out-of-character channels I should join?"

Theophilus asks (of GM), "Oh?"

GM says, "It turns out you only consider the top two dice, which is why fallout from talking only occasionally does any lasting damage (since you need 8 to have a permanent effect and for talking you roll d4s)"

LucasDodgson says, "#rpg, #crows-nest, I guess"

Theophilus says, "Ah ha"

GM says, "You rolled 2 2 3, for a total of 5, so no lasting anything"

[rpg] * Zedekiah has joined the channel.

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

GM says, "You should reduce your 'book-larnin' trait back down to 1d4"

Theophilus says, "So my lack of book-larnin' is still only 1d4? got it"

Theophilus asks, "is there any non-permanent fallout affecting this session?"

GM says, "No."

Theophilus says, "Okay, thanks"

GM says, "I'm doing some last-minute things"

GM says, "You know, creating a town, that sort of thing"

LucasDodgson says, "hee hee"

Zedekiah says, "I'm doing some first-minute things"

Zedekiah says, "Getting nice and drunk, taking off my pants"

Roger has disconnected.

Roger goes home.

GM says, "All righty."

GM says, "So: you three are relatively new Dogs from Bridal Falls. You've been assigned to ride circuit together, King of Life willing"

LucasDodgson says, "I'm hope the King knows what he's doing"

Theophilus says, "All right, fellas, thanks the Lord and let's get movin'."

[rpg] GM says, "if people need, don't forget the summary at http://www.drizzle.com/~dans/rpg/dogs.html"

Zedekiah says, "He does - he sent me."

LucasDodgson says, "that's what I meant"

GM says, "You've been to a couple of towns, carrying mail, kissing babies, occasionally straightening out some small tangles"

LucasDodgson says, "I can hardly believe how small some of these places are"

GM says, "It's been...well, whatever you had in mind being a Dog would be like, this isn't *precisely* it."

Theophilus exclaims, "Hoo-ey! You get a load of that baby? Phew!"

Zedekiah says, "You two really aren't glorifying the King of Life as best you could."

GM says, "The next stop on your route is the city of Blackwood. It's a little farming community on a high plain, about three days from your last stop."

GM says, "And that's where we open."

LucasDodgson asks, "that Blackwood up ahead?"

Theophilus ride along, ride along, ride along.

Zedekiah trot trot trot.

Theophilus says (to Lucas), "Must be. Not much else out here."

Zedekiah says, "Except for the glories of creation."

Zedekiah says, "Really, there's a lot to appreciate."

GM says, "Town looks to be a handful of buildings from where you're at."

Theophilus looks at the fields. "What've we got growin' here?"

GM says, "You can seem some wheat, mostly. Kind of scraggly-looking, but nothing too bad."

Theophilus says, "Hmm. Might need to spend some time, help them with the irrigation."

Zedekiah thinks to himself, "Weak crops, weak faith."

Theophilus says, "Well, let's head in and talk to th' people."

GM says, "There are a couple a men working fields here and there, and some others milling about town proper."

LucasDodgson says (to Theophilus), "good idea -- strengthen the crops, strengthen the faith"

Zedekiah says, "Find the root of their iniquities and strike it out."

LucasDodgson hails one of the men. "Good day!"

GM says, "The man pauses and straightens up from some hoeing. He wipes off his forehead. "Afternoon. What can I do for --" His eyes take in your coats. "Oh!""

Theophilus says, "Oh, we're just headin' through, talkin' to people."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "the best part about this game is how people are pleased to see us"

Theophilus asks, "What's the news hereabouts?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "unlike shadowrun, where they either don't see us or aren't pleased"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "ha ha"

GM says, "'Oh, nothin' too much to tell. Hard year, hasn't rained near enough.'"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "someday a dog will crush their enemies, see them flee before them, and hear the lamentations of the women"

LucasDodgson asks, "got some mail here -- expecting anything?"

Theophilus says, "Ain't it always the way with weather? Either not enough rain or too much."

LucasDodgson flips open his saddlebag and yanks out some letters, holding one arm in the air to try and keep himself steady on the saddle.

GM says, "'You got anything for a Carter? I'm Tobias Carter. Pleased to see you comin' through.'"

[rpg] LucasDodgson asks, "ok if I have a letter for him?"

[rpg] GM says, "sure"

Zedekiah asks, "Pleased to see you as well, Tobias. I expect you're a strong family man, teaches his children well?"

GM says, "'Yes sir, yes sir. Do the best I can, make sure they're followin' the King of Life.'"

LucasDodgson says, "let's see -- ah, here we go"

LucasDodgson says, "from a cousin of yours back thataway"

LucasDodgson leans perilously sideways to hand over the letter.

Zedekiah asks (of Lucas), "thataway? You don't mean back east, do you?"

GM says, "The man looks very pleased. 'That's wonderful. Love to hear how family's doin.' He points towards the town building. 'If you're looking for Steward Atkinson, he's probably there somewhere.'"

Theophilus says, "He's probly the one can best help us deliver the rest of these."

GM says (to Zedekiah), "'No, he's out at Hardscrabble. You three come through there, I'm guessing.'"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "two bits says his first name is 'rowan'"

[rpg] GM says, "hee hee"

Zedekiah says, "Good to hear he's in honest country, Tobias."

GM nods agreeably enough.

[rpg] GM says, "er, that was Tobias."

LucasDodgson says, "yeah? well, thank you kindly. we best be getting the rest of the letters delivered, then"

LucasDodgson touches the brim of his hat and nudges his horse until it starts going again.

GM says, "'A safe trip to you, then.'"

GM says, "and he turns back to his work, trying to fit six hours of it into some three hours."

LucasDodgson mutters "Don't know as how safe is our job."

Zedekiah asks (of Lucas), "If a man can't get his work done in the fields, he doesn't have enough sons. Ain't that the truth?"

LucasDodgson nods agreeably enough.

[rpg] GM says, "that emote should be a ditv macro"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "just around Zed"

[rpg] GM says, "hee"

GM asks, "So what now?"

LucasDodgson rides more into town, and gets directions to the Steward

Zedekiah says, "Sounds like we'd best see Steward Atkinson, see what we can help with."

GM says, "He's not too hard to find. People point you towards him. He's a tall, lanky fellow."

GM says, "and right now getting it both barrels from a shorter man who doesn't much care who hears him."

LucasDodgson pulls up a sec to hear.

GM says, "'It ain't right, Steward, and you know it,' the man says as he goes stomping off."

[rpg] Theophilus says, "sorry, was afk for zameen"

[rpg] GM says, "np"

GM says, "The Steward is left shaking his head."

Theophilus asks, "Who was that, brother?"

Zedekiah asks, "Sounds like somebody's a little full of himself, eh, Steward?"

Theophilus says (to Zed), "It sure does."

LucasDodgson says, "seems a shame to be arguing on such a nice day"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says (to Theophilus), "hee hee"

GM says, "He turns and sees you three. He looks glad to see you. 'Oh, Brother Jude's concern is honest. He's just not sure what to do with it, so he tends to try to dump it on others. He's a good sort as long as you direct him and remind him what the King of Life has to say.'"

GM says, "'I'm Issachar Atkinson. Glad to see you three. It's been a while since we've had watchdogs come through.'"

LucasDodgson says, "yes? then you'll be pleased to get the post, too"

Theophilus asks, "I'm Theophilus. We're just doin' the usual visits, you know?"

LucasDodgson says, "no doubt you can distribute these better than we can, since you know everyone in town"

Theophilus asks, "Any weddin's or babies or the like for us to worry about, now?"

LucasDodgson hands some letters over.

GM says, "'Be glad to take care of that mail, sure.' He takes the letters from you."

Zedekiah says, "Zedekiah here. What's Brother Jude's concern, then? Maybe a fresh set of eyes can see to the root of a problem."

GM says, "'We haven't had any weddings or births lately. Been a slow year all around.' His frown is momentary, gone almost before it arrives."

Zedekiah asks, "I can only assume you've been reminding folks of their duty to be fruitful and multiply?"

[rpg] GM says, "I'm totally having to override my instincts to hide everything"

GM says (to Zedekiah), "'Oh, aye,' the Steward says. 'Most don't need much reminding of that.' His smile is genuine."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "yeah, it's a weird attitude shift required"

[rpg] GM says, "'no! I have secrets you cannot know until you ferret it out in the proper manner.'"

GM says, "'How long are you here for?'"

Zedekiah says, "Then why so few weddings or births? Seems like they'd come natural."

Theophilus says, "Oh, as long as the King says we're needed."

LucasDodgson stretches.

Theophilus says, "Looks like folks are havin' trouble with the crops. We might stick around to help with that."

LucasDodgson asks, "or perhaps it might be helpful for us to take a turn letting Brother Jude bend our ears instead of yours, eh?"

GM says (to Zedekiah), "'I figure the King of Life has his reasons.'"

Atkinson says (to Lucas), "Hah, if you wish, feel free. But in the end it's my responsibility, burden or no."

Theophilus says, "Servin' the King and the people should be a joy, brother, not a burden."

Atkinson says, "Certainly a joy -- no Steward can care for families without it."

Atkinson says, "If you want to speak with Brother Jude, though, his farm is out thataway."

Atkinson points off to the east.

Zedekiah says, "East, eh? Never a good sign..."

Atkinson says, "If you're headed that way, would you mind stopping by Brother Hiram's farm. He's been ill lately, and I know he's suffering. He'd be glad to see you three, and he and his two wives could use the attention."

LucasDodgson says, "a quarter of the world lies in that direction, Zed, you'd better get used to it"

LucasDodgson says, "be pleased to -- maybe there's something we can do for Brother Hiram, even if it's just sitting with him for a while"

Theophilus says (to Lucas), "It's okay, just wait til we finish our circuit and head back East to Bridal Falls City."

Zedekiah says (to Lucas), "I'm used to it, but that doesn't mean I like it."

Theophilus says, "I'll come with you to visit Brother Hiram."

LucasDodgson says, "well, perhaps we should head out that way, survey the town some"

Theophilus says, "Knew a Hiram once, in fact."

Zedekiah asks, "Was that the one at the Academy?"

Theophilus says, "Naw, back home."

LucasDodgson asks (of Steward), "if we stop by again later, think you might see your way to suggesting someone who could put us up for the night?"

Atkinson says, "I tell you what, I'll see if Brother Obadiah can put you up for the night. If not, I'll gladly give you a place to stay."

LucasDodgson says, "that'd be most kind"

Atkinson says, "If you're here for a while, lot of families will want to feed you and the like."

Zedekiah says, "It'd be our duty to graciously accept all such offers."

Zedekiah rubs his belly with a wink.

LucasDodgson . o O ( wait, is that a sense of humor? )

Atkinson says, "If you would, though, be easy on their food. It's been a hard year. Part of the reason I'm asking Obadiah, he's in a better position than many."

Atkinson says, "If you need anything, you let me know. I'll get started giving out this mail. Make a lot of people happy, it will."

Theophilus says (to Lucas), "Let's go do that visit."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "Zed has heard of this alien concept called "hu-mor""

LucasDodgson says, "that's a thoughtful note, Steward -- I'll be happy just not sleeping outside on the ground"

LucasDodgson says (to Theophilus), "good plan"

[rpg] Atkinson says, "hee"

LucasDodgson asks, "Zedekiah, you coming?"

Zedekiah says, "'course I am."

Zedekiah says, "Just lost in prayer for a moment."

Zedekiah asks, "Ain't that ever happened to you?"

Atkinson nods to you three and heads off with the mail in his hand.

LucasDodgson follows Theophilus

Zedekiah tags along.

Theophilus asks, "Alright, said it's dwn this way. You figure it's that over there?"

GM says, "If you need, you can ask folks to point you better as you go."

Theophilus asks a few people, and evenutally says, "Well, this's the place. Let's go in."

[rpg] GM asks, "just to make sure, this is Jude's place?"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "Hiram's, I thought"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "yeah, I think we're stopping at Hiram's first"

[rpg] GM says, "excellent"

dfan has arrived.

Theophilus asks, "Brother Hiram, you in?"

GM says, "It's a nice farm, a little down on its heels, but not terrible."

Theophilus says, "Steward asked us to come visit with you."

GM says, "'Who is that?' you hear someone call. Then there's a flurry of coughing."

LucasDodgson says, "Not hard to see why he asked us to look in"

GM says, "The house is dark inside, curtains drawn. The door's open."

Zedekiah shakes his head. "Rightous people don't get sick."

Hiram asks, "Who's out there?"

LucasDodgson says, "ain't always their own sin that caused the sickness"

Theophilus says, "We're some visitn' Dogs. thought you might like some company."

Hiram exclaims, "Dogs!"

GM says, "There's some shuffling around."

GM says, "Eventually a man appears at the door."

GM says, "'Just takin' a little break from the crops. Come in, please.'"

GM says, "He looks like milk left out to curdle and turn yellow."

Zedekiah says (to Lucas), "True, sometimes its the sin of their fathers."

Theophilus asks, "You're not lookin' or soundin' well, brother. How long you been ill for?"

LucasDodgson asks, "you don't look so good, Brother -- you sure you should be standing?"

GM says, "'I'm fine, fine. Just a touch of coughin'. Come on in, have some water. You just arrive?'"

LucasDodgson says, "that we did"

Theophilus says, "No water, thanks. We just got into town, goin' 'round visitn' people."

GM says, "'Susanna? We got company!'"

Theophilus asks, "Susanna?"

Hiram squints. "...Theophilus, is that you?"

Theophilus says, "That's me, all right."

Theophilus asks, "How's Susie been doin'?"

Hiram says, "Theophilus!" He gives Theophilus a hug, his body burning hot. "Been a long time. Susanna's fine. She'll be so glad to see you."

Theophilus says, "I'm glad to see y'all too."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "sounds like an exorcism is in order"

Theophilus says, "But brother, you need to lie down."

GM says, "And indeed, a woman in homespun sweeps out of the door and throws herself at Theophilus. "Theo!""

Theophilus says, "You're sicker'n you think."

Theophilus says, "We got to take care of you."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "whew"

Theophilus exclaims, "Susie! It's been forever!"

Zedekiah says, "Theophilus, why don't you go catch up with Susanna, there? Lucas and I can tend to Hiram. Have a little talk with him, see what we can do."

lno goes home.

Theophilus says (to Zed,Lucas), "Fellas, this is my sister, Susie."

GM says, "And almost immediately turns to Hiram. "You listen to Theo. You know what the Steward and I have been telling you. The more you fight like this, the longer it'll take the King to heal you.""

Zedekiah says, "Pleasure to meet you, ma'am."

LucasDodgson shuffles his feet a little and touches his hat.

GM says, "Susanna curtsies. "The pleasure's mine. Please, come in and let me offer you the hospitality of our house.""

GM says, "Hiram fades back a bit into the house."

Theophilus says, "First thing we need is some fresh air in here."

Theophilus walks around, opens all the curtains and windows, and the door, to get air and light in.

GM says, "Susanna says, "I know, I know." She flutters around behind Theophilus. "It's -- well -- " She looks at Hiram, who stays quiet."

GM says, "'Where are you three staying? I'd have you stay here, but...' she trails off."

Theophilus takes Susanna to the side. "How long's he been like this? What happened?"

Zedekiah says (to Lucas), "Brother, I think we need to do something for Hiram, here, and right quick."

Susanna murmurs, "He took ill about three months ago. Strangest thing, he just can't get well. Drives him crazy, it does." She hunches her shoulders. "Althea and I have been doing what we can to keep the farm going, but it's hard. Hard." Her eyes kinda narrow when she says "Althea".

Theophilus says, "I can imagine. Well, we'll try and get him better."

Theophilus asks (of Zed), "You bring in the things or should I go get my book and earth?"

LucasDodgson asks (of Theophilus), "this Althea someone else you know?"

GM says, "Hiram turns a bit in the chair where he's sitting. "Don't let Susanna worry you three, I'm gettin' better."

Zedekiah says (to Theophilus), "I've got it with me."

Theophilus says (to Lucas), "Never heard of her, to be honest."

Theophilus says (to Hiram), "That's good, but we'll help ya get better even quicker."

Zedekiah asks (of Susanna), "Say, this Althea; ain't she a Hobson?"

GM says (to Zedekiah), "Susanna looks at you strangely and nods. "The King of Life tell you that?" She draws back, just a bit."

Zedekiah says (to Susanna), "I've got a cousin in Blackwood by that name. King of Life works in mysterious ways, I'd say."

GM says, "Hiram says, 'Huh. She's a cousin of yours? The King of Life does indeed work in mysterious ways. Two relatives of Dogs in my house.'"

[rpg] GM says, "http://www.hamesucken.com/tomb/1.wav"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

Zedekiah says, "Now, Hiram, we can get back to that in a minute. First thing, we got to take care of you, here."

[rpg] Theophilus says, "hee hee"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "with 12-child families this is a little more common, natch"

[rpg] GM says, "yeah"

GM says, "Hiram waves at you, hand limp. 'Don't go troublin yourself too much on my account, I'm getting better.'"

Theophilus says, "It ain't no trouble atall."

LucasDodgson says, "we were thinking about going to see Brother Jude later today"

Zedekiah says, "Curin' his ill, too, if we can."

GM says, "Susanna nods. 'Brother Jude's a good man.'"

LucasDodgson says, "seems like he was having a bit of an argument with the Steward earlier"

LucasDodgson asks, "they having some quarrel?"

GM says, "'Oh, Brother Jude worries about a lot of things, and he likes to tell people about his worries.' She pauses. 'Not that he's always wrong.'"

Zedekiah asks (of Susanna), "What's he right about, then? Something Steward Atkinson doesn't see?"

Theophilus says, "Let's talk about all this after we've prayed over Hiram a bit, brothers."

GM says, "Susanna flutters some more. 'It's not my place to say. Besides, not like he won't tell you and everyone else about it.'"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "so the only time I've prayed for a sick person in this game, it turned into a nice little conflict"

[rpg] Theophilus asks, "we doing it that was again or what?"

[rpg] GM says, "sounds like you guys are ready to try a conflict for 'can we ease Hiram's illness'"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "I'm ready for that"

[rpg] Theophilus asks, "sounds good. who wants to take charge? Zed?"

[rpg] Alex says (to Theophilus), "Awwwk! Word on the street is that zed is the ONE TRUE LAST LETTER."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "debating whether I should push for a conflict of "his sickness is his own damn fault""

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "you can bring that in as your raises if you want"

[rpg] GM says (to Zedekiah), "You could totally aid Hiram in resisting the healing under the idea that the King of Life will heal him when he's overcome whatever sin he's dealing with"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "right, here we go"

Zedekiah says (to Hiram), "Let's get you to lie down over here, brother. I'd like to have a little talk with you about this malady."

GM says, "Hiram goes, but he's protesting the whole way. 'The King of Life'll take care of me when he's ready.'"

Zedekiah says, "All happens according to the will of the King of Life, that's true. He blesses those who please Him."

Theophilus says (to Hiram), "Maybe he sent us here cause he's ready now."

[rpg] GM says, "okay, this is a physical thing, so everyone rolls body + heart. I get an extra 2d10 for 'I'm stubborn as the day is long.'"

Zedekiah asks, "Lie down, brother, and tell me -- when did this start?"

Zedekiah rolls 6 6-sided dice: 4 4 6 2 3 4| 23

GM rolls 11 6-sided dice: 5 5 3 5 4 5 2 3 5 3 6| 46

Theophilus rolls 6 6-sided dice: 2 4 4 3 2 1| 16

GM rolls 2 10-sided dice: 2 3| 5

LucasDodgson rolls 6 6-sided dice: 4 5 2 4 5 5| 25

[rpg] Theophilus asks, "since this might just come up, can I assign some relationship dice to my sister in the middle of this conflict?"

[rpg] GM says, "you bet"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "who raises first? and do the three of us all share our dice pool?"

[rpg] GM says, "and people can bring in traits as they raise"

[rpg] * trikiw has left the channel.

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "we don't share"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "(although I think there is a rule for giving dice to people)"

[rpg] GM says, "we'll do this as a round, with everyone getting a go in the round"

[rpg] GM says, "when a friend goes, you can give one die to their raise if you're helping, or you can give a die for their see"

[rpg] GM says, "but then you have only one die to raise when your go comes around"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "aha"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "I guess Zed is going first"

[rpg] GM says, "we go in best roll order, which is the sum of your two highest dice"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "oh ok"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "Lucas and I tie, then, 6+4 vs 5+5"

[rpg] GM says, "so Hiram, Zed (breaking tie with highest single die), Lucas, Theo"

[rpg] GM says, "since Hiram got a 6 and a 5 in his rolls"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "sounds good"

[rpg] Theophilus says (to zed), "don't forget that your possesions also have dice you can bring in if you're using them. although trying to shoot the illness might be overboard"

GM says, "Hiram flops down, sweat breaking out on his brow as his fever spikes. "Look, you're makin' me worse!" (6+5)"

[rpg] Zedekiah says (to Theophilus), "hey, a gun barrel to the head can convince anyone of their sin"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "oops, fallout for everyone"

[rpg] GM says, "if you stay in, yes"

[rpg] LucasDodgson asks, "I guess blocking also goes in order Zed, me, Theo?"

[rpg] GM says, "yeah"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "should I burn my 6 and 4, or what's the best strategy here?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "well,y ou have to make 11"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "and you have to use at least 3 dice (since you don't have enough otherwise)"

[rpg] GM says, "actually, this is directed only at Zedekiah right now, since he's the only one who's starting out"

[rpg] GM says, "so only Zed needs to see"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "oh good"

[rpg] GM says, "i.e. Hiram only sees Zed as the person to resist"

[rpg] GM says, "(sorry, reading madly here)"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "you can do 4 4 3, I guess"

[rpg] Theophilus says (to Zed), "I'd bring in some traits or possessions for more dice before seeing"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "or, yeah, bring in something else"

[rpg] GM says (to Zed), "you can try to work in 'called to purify faith'"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "waving the Book in the air is always good"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "considering I believe that his illness is brought upon him through his faults, I'm going to ... yeah"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "but you don't want to use more points than you have to, and you don't usually want to use higher numbers if you don't have to"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "he needs his faith strengthened, and I'll bring in that 2d8"

[rpg] GM says, "so say your piece about his faith and roll 2d8"

[rpg] GM says, "and a general note to everyone: once you've used a trait in a conflict, that's it for the trait until next conflict"

Zedekiah says (to Hiram), "Your flesh is weak, brother, but unfortunately I have to be the one to tell you that your spirit is also weak. A stronger faith will see you through any ailment."

Zedekiah rolls 2 8-sided dice: 6 7| 13

[rpg] GM says, "ooo"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "yay"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "nice"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "nice"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "I can use a 7+4 to tie and then raise, right?"

[rpg] GM says, "that 7 and 4 will let you dodge/block, yeah"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "no, the block and the raise step are separate"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "right, I'd need to do a 6+4 after that to raise"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "so you would probably be better off doing 6+6 to block, since that's at least 11 also"

[rpg] GM says, "your dodge/block can be something like 'oh, no, his fever doesn't get worse'"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "6+6 it will be, then, for though Zed would never defer to Lucas, I've got no idea what I'm doing here"

Zedekiah wipes the sweat from Hiram's brow. "Your fever ain't so bad. Just lie down, brother."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "I just mean, 6+6 is 12, and 7+4 is 13, and they're both higher than the amount you need (11), so you might as well use the lower"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "7+4 is 11."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha ha"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "sorry, I am dumb"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "ok, I'll use 7+4 then. :)"

[rpg] GM says, "will 5d6 acuity 1d6"

[rpg] GM says, "so now raise"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "6+6 for the raise, as he cannot match that without another trait, I believe"

Zedekiah says (to Hiram), "Now, brother, a weak faith ain't nothing to be ashamed about. Happens to everyone. But the important thing is to recognize it for what it is, and banish it from yourself."

Zedekiah says, "There's something on your mind, ain't there, something you done wrong."

GM says, "Hiram grimaces. "I didn't do anything -- it just kinda happened!" (5+4+3)"

[rpg] GM says, "lucas, you're up"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "now?"

[rpg] Alex says (to Zedekiah), "Awwwk! Word on the street is that Now is the winter of our discontent Made glorious summer by this sun of York."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "ok"

[rpg] GM says, "then theo"

[rpg] Theophilus asks, "do I need to see the 11?"

[rpg] GM says, "no, because that was only against Hiram"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "oh good"

[rpg] GM says, "each raise is against certain people. Like next round (if we go that long) Hiram will resist all three of you"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "then I'm bringing my sister into it and getting that extra 1d8 relationship"

LucasDodgson says, "Won't you feel better if you talk about things with us? (4+5)"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "but Luke can go first"

GM says, "Hiram says, "The King of Life is workin' it out in me." (5+5)"

[rpg] GM says, "and now theo"

Theophilus rolls 1 8-sided die: 1| 1

[rpg] Theophilus says, "ha ow"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "boo"

[rpg] GM says, "your sister sucks"

[rpg] Theophilus exclaims, "hey now!"

[rpg] GM says, "maybe you don't really love her"

[rpg] GM says, "anyway, your turn to raise"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "aw"

Theophilus says, "(4+4) I know Susanna's been worried about you. We all are. You need to get this off your chest so you can really get better."

GM says, "'Susanna means well, but I'm the head of this house.' (5+3)"

GM says, "and since we're back to the top"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "well, looks like we're going to have to shoot him"

GM says, "'You three just want to feel superior to me!' (3+3)"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "I've still got 2 3 4 4 - do we go in the same order, or a new order based on existing dice?"

[rpg] GM says, "and all three must see"

[rpg] GM says, "same order"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "what dice does he have left?"

[rpg] GM says, "2 and 2"

[rpg] Theophilus asks, "can we pull in a new trait to see?"

[rpg] Theophilus asks, "we all see, then do raises again?"

Zedekiah says (to Hiram), "Pride, Hiram? That's an awful thing to accuse someone of. (4+3)"

[rpg] GM says (to Theo), "if you can come up with a way to pull it into play, sure"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "that sounds right"

[rpg] GM says, "and yeah, all three of you see, then you each get a chance to raise"

[rpg] GM says, "this is (in D&D terms) round 2, and we're going through the initiative list again"

LucasDodgson shakes his head. "That ain't right, Hiram. We're just trying to help." (2+4)

Theophilus rolls 1 6-sided die: 6| 6

[rpg] GM asks, "nice. which trait?"

Theophilus says, "(6) We're the Dogs of the Lord Hiram. We're here to help you, not to make things worse."

[rpg] Theophilus says, "I'm a Dog, doggone it"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "which seems exactly right when he's accusing me of Pride"

[rpg] GM says, "yeah. that's excellent"

[rpg] GM says, "zed, your turn to raise and see if Hiram folds like a somewhat diseased pack of cards"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ew, he's covered with red and black spots"

[rpg] GM says, "his suit is CLUBS! *wham*"

[rpg] Theophilus says (to lucas), "and jacks and queens"

Zedekiah says (to Hiram), "Hiram, we've been patient with you. It's time you recognized that while the King of Life blesses those who please him, he also brings down afflictions on those who anger him. What 'just happened'? (4+2)"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "(also my wireless is getting flaky again. hopefully I won't drop out entirely)"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "and now I'm out of dice"

[rpg] GM says, "it's okay, he can't see, and he's not escalating"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "aww, I don't get to re-use my 6? I've never Turned before"

GM says, "Hiram shudders. 'She had to, it was the only way, but it's not right,' and water *pours* out of his body, soaking the cotton bedspread, his eyes roll back in his head and he passes out. His breathing is much easier than before."

GM says, "and Susanna gives out a cry. "Is he...?""

LucasDodgson says, "Fever broke, but he hasn't"

LucasDodgson says, "going to be asleep for a while, though, unless I miss my guess"

Theophilus says (to Susie), "Maybe you can fill us in on what he meant there."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "oh right, the fever - for a second I had the image of the senator from X-Men"

LucasDodgson says, "and now that he's asleep, maybe you better tell us about Althea"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "well, this is clearly a weird demonic thing, not a normal fever"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "(at least, it's clear to Lucas)"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "the severity of any fever can be judged by the proximity of sin. ain't no such thing as a 'normal' fever."

GM says, "Susanna wrings her hands. "I'm the second wife. It's not really my place." Her words may say that, but her body says ASK ME ASK ME."

LucasDodgson asks, "so Althea's the first?"

Theophilus says, "We just want to help you both."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "her lips say no, but her heart and her hips cry out, 'proceed!'"

GM says, "'Aye.'"

LucasDodgson asks, "why isn't she here attending to her husband while he's ill?"

Zedekiah asks (of Susanna), "Now, Althea never told me she was married. Why isn't she here?"

GM says, "She gives one more long look at Hiram. 'She's not here because someone had to keep the farm going, or else we'd all have starved.'"

Theophilus asks, "Where is she? Out in the fields?"

GM says, "'Hiram said it wasn't right, but none of our four sons are old enough to run the farm, not really.'"

GM says, "'Aye.'"

GM says, "'We did all right at first, but as Hiram stayed ill longer and Althea was taking care of the farm more, she started...it was almost like she was head of the house.'"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

GM says, "'Leastwise, that's how I see it.'"

Theophilus asks, "How come no one else could come help out?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "Zed's gonna flip out"

Zedekiah's face reddens.

[rpg] GM says, "1.wav"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha ha"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "can we make up quotes from the book of life, or is there an actual text? or just crib from the bible or book of mormon or pearl of great price?"

GM says (to Theo), "'it's been hard for everyone. Couldn't no one spare anyone. No one but Obadiah, and he pitched in as well as he was able.'"

[rpg] GM says, "you can make them up"

[rpg] GM says, "crib from prior sources as you feel led"

[rpg] GM says, "if there's too much objection from everyone else you can modify it after the fact"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "darn"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "enh, I'm sure the book of life has passages that appear contradictory at first"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "before our theological training is able to resolve the seeming dispute"

GM says, "'Steward Atkinson's talked to Althea about it, but she hasn't changed. And did he do anything else? Hah!'"

[rpg] GM says, "hee hee"

LucasDodgson asks, "hmm, this related to what Brother Jude was talking about earlier?"

Zedekiah says (to Susanna), "Althea seems to have forgotten some of the important parts of the Faith. Specifically, 'A woman shall cleave to her husband, and be subordinate to him, and obey him in all ways. For as a child obeys a parent, a wife shall obey a husband.'"

GM says, "Susanna clams right up, but reluctantly nods."

Zedekiah says (to Susanna), "I think I need to talk to her before she goes further astray."

Theophilus says (to Zed), "We should preach that to Althea, not to Susie."

GM says, "'Oh, she's too clever for that. She never told Hiram what to do, and did what he wanted. She always seemed too smart for her own good --' She looks at Zedekiah and bites off what else she was going to say."

Zedekiah says (to Theophilus), "I do not want to interfere in your family matters, and Susie has faithfully served Hiram, but it is also her obligation to remind Althea of her position."

Zedekiah says (to Althea), "...please continue."

Theophilus says (to Zedekiah), "I think the best thing now is to solve the biggest problem first, but as Althea is your family you go right ahead."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "man, having family involved makes this totally better"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "also, now I'm related to Zed? boo"

GM says, "Susanna looks at the floor. 'She'll be back from the fields with our sons in a while.' She looks back up. 'You talk to her then.'"

Zedekiah says, "Any sin is noxious to the nose of the Lord."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha ha"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "ha ha the reunions are going to suck"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha ha"

[rpg] GM says, "hee hee"

Zedekiah says, "Trust me, I will."

LucasDodgson stretches.

[rpg] GM says, "oh, yeah, hiram's fallout dice. pardon me a second."

GM rolls 3 6-sided dice: 4 2 3| 9

[rpg] GM says, "okay, -1 die on his body for the next encounter"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "makes sense"

Zedekiah says, "For while a joyful sound gives off a pleasing odor, disobedience and independent thought result in naught but pain and misery."

Zedekiah says, "It is written."

[rpg] GM says, "...by me, just this second."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "hee hee"

[rpg] GM asks, "so are you guys going to wait around for Althea, go find her, go talk to Jude, or something else?"

LucasDodgson says, "I think I'd best be getting on to talk to Brother Jude some, see what's up in his part of town"

[rpg] GM says, "It's about two hours from sundown"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "I'll wait around for her, if you guys want to go slap Jude around"

dfan was up to his irresistably broad shoulders in trouble.

Theophilus asks (of Zedekiah), "Why don't you go meet Althea in the fields?"

[rpg] GM asks, "also, how much longer is everyone good for?"

Theophilus says, "What you two have to say might be kept quiet."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "as long as necessary"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "I'm not leaving my siste alone with Zed"

[rpg] GM says, "hee"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "ha ha"

Zedekiah says (to Theophilus), "As quiet as a strong-willed woman can be."

[rpg] GM says, "okay, this whole dynamic is turning out better than my wildest dreams"

Zedekiah says, "I'll meet you two at Brother Jude's when I'm done."

Zedekiah leaves for the field.

Theophilus says, "Sounds good."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "and I haven't even shot him yet"

Theophilus says (to Susie), "You wait here, we'll come back after we talk to Brother Jude."

LucasDodgson watches Zedekiah leave.

Theophilus asks, "Make Hiram drink plenty of water when he wakes up, okay?"

GM says, "Susanna nods."

LucasDodgson says, "if Althea's anything like him, she's gonna break before he makes her bend"

Theophilus says (to Lucas), "That was why I figured they'd best do it in private-like."

LucasDodgson says, "hard to argue with that"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "what happens between cousins stays between cousins"

LucasDodgson says, "well, let's get on to Jude's"

[rpg] GM says, "ha ha aie"

[rpg] GM says, "let's handle the Jude thing first, then Zed + Althea"

Theophilus swings up onto his horse and ride ride ride.

[rpg] GM says, "draw a heart around that last part if you'd like"

LucasDodgson says, "(once we're out of the house) don't seem like we've got a handle on things here yet"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "oh, and to an earlier question: I'm good for a bit but my son is due to wake up and start crying within the hour"

[rpg] GM says, "heh"

Theophilus says, "Yeah, I think somethin' else started this off."

[rpg] GM says, "I was aiming for another hour, so we'll adjust as necessary"

LucasDodgson says, "sounds like Jude's got a lot of opinions, so maybe he's got some extra for us"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "that'd be good"

[rpg] GM says, "with the option of doing another session to finish rooting out the demons"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "mm, demon-rooting"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "afk a moment to get a hot pocket for dinner, then"

LucasDodgson says, "here we are, I believe"

GM says, "It's easy enough to get directions to Brother Jude's farm. Like most of the farms you've seen, it's down on its luck"

GM says, "There's a horse tethered outside."

LucasDodgson says, "guess Obadiah's the only one doing well"

LucasDodgson tethers his own horse next to it

Theophilus asks, "Everyone says so. Maybe we need to ask him how?"

Theophilus ties up and goes to the door.

LucasDodgson knocks.

GM says, "You can hear two voices inside. One is low and measured, the other is loud and pretty unmistakeably Brother Jude's."

GM says, "You've only heard him once, but boy, does his voice stick in your head."

GM says, "And I do mean 'stick'"

LucasDodgson asks, "what's he saying?"

Theophilus says, "We're Dogs. Ain't right to be listinin' at doors."

GM says, "Hard to tell through the door."

Theophilus yells, "Brother Jude! You've got some visitors!"

GM says, "The voices stop, and Brother Jude opens the door."

GM says, "Over his shoulder you can see Steward Atkinson."

Theophilus says, "Steward, good to see you again."

Theophilus says, "The King is aidin' this town that you're here, just when we wanted to talk to you some more."

LucasDodgson says, "afternoon, Steward"

GM says, "He's got spots of red on his cheeks, but his voice is calm. "Theophilus, Lucas. It turned out one of the letters was for Brother Jude. And Brother Jude had some more to talk to me about.""

GM says, "Jude's arms are crossed."

GM says, "'Brother Jude, these are two of the watchdogs the King of Life has sent us.' He turns to you two. 'Where is your companion?'"

Theophilus asks, "well, don't let us interrupt you. What were you sayin', Brother Jude?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

GM says, "'Anything wrong with Hiram?' He's all worried suddenly."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "dogs don't have to listen at doors, they can just tell people to keep talking"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "damn straight"

[rpg] LucasDodgson asks, "is 'he' who's worried the steward or jude?"

GM says, "Brother Jude interrupts. 'I been needing to talk to you two.' He stares pointedly at the Steward."

[rpg] GM says, "the steward."

Theophilus says, "No, no, we're keepin' you from your business, Brother Jude. I want to know what's so important that you got to tell the Steward so loudly."

[rpg] GM asks, "as he's trying to figure out what's happened that the third of you needed to stay with Hiram -- i.e. is Hiram dead?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "aha"

GM says, "Jude looks to be one of those guys who's red most of the time, but he manages to turn even redder. 'Steward Atkinson here can tell you better than me what's wrong. King knows I've told him enough.'"

[rpg] GM says, "if you want to push it, the stake is 'does Jude spill the beans'"

[rpg] GM says, "assuming you two are okay with that"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "I want to push it"

LucasDodgson says, "we looked in on Hiram -- turns out Brother Zedekiah had some family in the household"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "hell, who didn't?"

GM says, "'Oh, well, good,' the Steward says."

[rpg] GM asks, "are both of you pushing Jude, or just Theo?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "I think I'd actually like to talk to the Steward"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "if Theo doesn't mind me pulling the Steward away some"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "that's fine"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "assuming my die rolls improve from last time :)"

[rpg] GM says, "then roll acuity plus heart. what's at stake is 'does Jude say what he's been jawing at the Steward about'"

LucasDodgson says (to Steward), "why don't we step over here for a minute so's I can talk to you about what Hiram told us"

Theophilus rolls 6 6-sided dice: 5 5 4 3 4 1| 22

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "that's more like it"

GM rolls 7 6-sided dice: 2 2 2 5 1 3 2| 17

[rpg] Theophilus asks, "who starts?"

[rpg] GM says, "bah. you go first"

GM says, "The Steward nods and follows you aside a bit."

[rpg] Theophilus says, "sweet"

Theophilus says, "(5+4) Brother Jude, if there's a problem in the community, it's my duty to hear about it and fix it."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "(I'll wait til Theo's done to talk to the Steward)"

GM says, "'Well, I'll tell you what I think--'"

GM rolls 1 4-sided die: 2| 2

[rpg] GM says, "trait: I tell everyone what I think"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "heh"

[rpg] GM says, "(note that it's a d4, so it's a sucky trait)"

GM says, "and just like that, Jude deflates. 'I know your duties, and I shouldn't let my consideration of Steward Atkinson's feelings stand in the way.'"

GM says, "'Steward Atkinson's been having troubles with Brother Hiram and his family, and I think he needs to nip it in the bud.'"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "that was easy"

[rpg] GM says, "Jude's blustery, but he's not a bad guy underneath"

Theophilus asks, "And did the Steward ask for your advice?"

GM says, "Jude hangs his head a bit. 'I know, I know, it's not my place. But I was in this town before Steward Atkinson ended up here, and I love this town and its people. Makes it hard to sit on your hands if you see something going sour.'"

Theophilus says, "That's for sure, but the King put all of us in our positions. As the Book says, "And I shall appoint for you a Steward, who shall watch over you as a father, and who is my voice amongst you.""

[rpg] GM says, "this scheme for generating npcs rocks"

Theophilus says, "But you'll be happy to know that Brother Hiram is already startin' to feel better, and that we're takin' steps to help him and his family get back on track."

GM says, "'You're right, I know you're right. And Steward Atkinson is the King's Steward. I'm not one to take his duty.'"

GM says, "'Really? That's good news! I hope that's what's at the root of what's wrong.'"

[rpg] Theophilus says (to Lucas), "your turn"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "(also, I know everything's not better yet cause it hasn't started raining)"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "hee hee"

GM says (to Lucas), "as you pull the Steward aside, he says 'What can I do for you, Lucas,' and he gets this introspective look."

LucasDodgson says, "Steward, we talked to Brother Hiram"

GM says, "'One moment: your name's Lucas Dodgson, did you say?'"

LucasDodgson says, "that's right"

LucasDodgson asks, "know the name?"

GM says, "'Huh. I was a watchdog with a Dodgson, oh, years ago.'"

[rpg] GM says, "I guess that's the third shoe to drop"

LucasDodgson asks, "Ethan Dodgson, perhaps?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ok, we're looking for a demon with three legs"

[rpg] GM says, "hee hee"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "yay"

GM says, "'That was him!' He looks at you more closely. 'You've got his eyes.' He smiles. 'And a bit of his determination.'"

GM says, "'though you may not know that yet, new as you are.'"

LucasDodgson says, "my father's quite a man to live up to, it's true, Steward."

LucasDodgson says, "I expect he's even told me a story or two about his time with you, now that you mention it"

GM says, "He claps you on the shoulder. 'Don't live up to him. Live up to who you are.'"

GM says, "and the Steward suddenly looks much more unsure than he has to this point. 'Yes, well, stories grow in the telling.'"

LucasDodgson nods his head.

LucasDodgson says, "sometimes it's better to get the truth, Steward"

GM says, "'What did Hiram have to say? Is he feeling any better?'"

LucasDodgson asks, "so what I'd like to know is, why is Althea out in the field instead of taking care of her husband?"

LucasDodgson asks, "if you're Steward of the town, why didn't you have a man do that job so she didn't have to?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, ""so nice to see you, friend of my father -- now I'll punch you in the stomach""

[rpg] GM says, "hee"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "ooh, escalation"

GM says, "'Have you looked around Blackwood? *Really* looked around?'"

LucasDodgson asks, "not yet, Steward. something we should be looking for?"

GM says, "'The farms are in a bad way...mostly. It's all anyone can do to keep getting by.'"

LucasDodgson asks, "'cept Brother Obadiah's, eh?"

GM says, "'Him and his brother, yes. Obadiah's our miller, and his brother supplies all the grain he needs.'"

GM says, "'I had a terrible choice. Take people from their farms to help Brother Hiram and let them be hungrier than they are, maybe weaken their faith."

GM says, "'Push on Hiram to wait until he was better for them to deal with their farm, and let them truly starve.'"

GM says, "'Let Althea and Susanna run the farm until Hiram got better and try to keep them on the path of the Book, risking them departing from it.'"

GM says, "He shrugs. 'It seemed the best of a bad situation to let Althea and Susanna deal with things. And then Hiram stayed sick, and stayed sick....'"

LucasDodgson says, "been sick a while, sounds like"

LucasDodgson says, "well, I imagine we'll get a chance to talk to Obadiah later, if we'll be up at his place"

GM says, "'Months.' Issachar blows out his breath in a long, steady sigh. 'Were I still a watchdog, I could cut this out. But I'm not. Not any more.' He rubs his hands on his pants."

GM says, "'Brother Obadiah has a lot, but he's been giving a lot. I know he and his brother have helped Brother Hiram out.'"

GM says, "'But you'll see the right of the situation, I know.'"

LucasDodgson nods. "Guess that's our job now."

[rpg] GM says, "here, have this load of responsibility to carry for a day or two"

LucasDodgson says, "thanks for your time, Steward -- think maybe we better be doing a little more looking around"

LucasDodgson says, "expect we'll stop by later"

GM says, "'Anything I can do, I will. This town needs you, that's for sure. The King of Life is timely with his help as always.'"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "hee hee"

LucasDodgson asks (of Theophilus), "you bout done talking there?"

[rpg] GM asks, "you guys done with them for now?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "I am"

Theophilus says, "Yeah, let's go catch up with Zed"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "tum tee dum dee dum, off to put a woman in her place"

GM says, "As you two walk out, you hear Brother Jude mutter, 'What are they going to do?' and Steward Atkinson reply, 'Whatever it takes.'"

GM says, "Meanwhile, Zedekiah is striding across fields of wheat, clouds gathering around the sun as it sets."

GM says, "He reaches a tired woman directing two young men in the fields."

Zedekiah exclaims, "Every day is a gift from the King of Life!"

Zedekiah says, "Gracious, a woman exerting authority -- that ain't right."

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "hee"

GM says, "She looks up. 'I know that particular brand of piety! Zedekiah, as I live and breathe, it's good to see you!'"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha more"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "Zedekiah brand piety, 200% proof"

Zedekiah walks up and sternly looks Althea up and down. "It's .. good to see you too, Althea."

Zedekiah asks, "Who are these two young men? And why are you working in the fields?"

GM says, "She takes your measure and nods. "Hanan, Hosea, you two run along and see how your da is doing. Cousin Zedekiah and I have some catching up to do.""

GM says, "Once they've gone on out of earshot, she folds her hands under a gathering apron she wears. "Those are two of my sons. Fine gifts of the King of Life. Have you seen Hiram?""

Zedekiah nods. "The King of Life has blessed you with fertility, and if you are worthy, will continue to bless you with fecundity. And I have seen Hiram, just a short while ago."

[rpg] GM says, "I'm going to run out of H names if I have the other two sons show up"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "Hiram Jr, Hiram III..."

[rpg] Theophilus says, "Herbert and Harold"

GM says, "'How was he? He's been ill these past months.'"

Zedekiah says, "He's doing better now, and would have been back on his feet weeks ago had you been tending to him as is your duty."

[rpg] GM says, "(just so everyone knows, once we play this bit out, I'm going to call the session)"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "okay"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "we've got some stuff to think about for next time as it is"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "if you guys are tired, I can just escalate and drag her back to the kitchen"

[rpg] GM says, "hee hee"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "we'll run to the blacksmith for some chain"

[rpg] GM says, "I'm good to go for a bit; I just didn't want Theo to feel like he needed to hang around if the kid called"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "sleeping well, luckily"

[rpg] GM says, "woo"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "clearly I have convinced her of the rightness of my cause"

GM says, "She frowns. 'Duty can be harsh. Is it not written, "An you do not provide for your family, you do not provide for your soul"? We tended Hiram, Susanna and I, and tended and tended until the grain ran out and no one else could help."

GM says, "'Every day I have prayed the King of Life would take this from me and restore Hiram to health. I will pray until the King moves in his good time.'"

Zedekiah says, "That scripture does not apply to women, as a woman cannot lead a family. Your duty is to obey your husband and be at his side."

Zedekiah says, "Through the power of the King of Life, Hiram has returned to health. This burden has been lifted from you; you are now to return to subservience."

GM says, "'I do obey my husband. I am in no wise head of our house. And the King has seen fit to bless our family with Susanna, who has kept house in every detail.'"

[rpg] Zedekiah exclaims, "I could get to like this guy - Elly, get in the kitchen and make me a pie!"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

[rpg] GM says, "hee"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "mmm, pie"

GM says, "'Truly?' Althea smiles, her eyes crinkling. Then she looks crushed. 'You think I haven't been subservient?'"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "oo, she's coming on to me"

[rpg] GM says, "I think after a hard day of farming the most any person could do in the way of a pass is to say 'rub my feet tonight before bed?'"

Zedekiah says, "Susanna has kept the house, and you should have kept watch over Hiram. This is men's work in the fields. If Hiram or your sons are unable to work in the fields, then Steward Atkinson should have made arrangement."

Zedekiah says, "(+s)"

Zedekiah says, "I think you know darn well that you haven't been subservient. You're not as foolish as some of your relatives, Althea."

GM says, "She spreads her hands. 'It's not my right to say what the Steward should or should not do. My duty is to my husband and to my children, and I have served them to the utmost of my strength.'"

GM says, "'Talk to Hiram. He knows the truth or falsity of my obedience. As for me, it would do my heart good to see him well.'"

Zedekiah says, "Your duty is to your family and the community's duty is to help even the weakest among us. If you need help, then talk to Steward Atkinson. It is not your place to make that decision for him."

GM says, "She begins the long walk back to the house. 'I made no decision for him. As he provided help, I acquiesced. As we fell short, I did what was needed, and with Hiram's knowledge and blessing.'"

Zedekiah walks along with her. "What was needed was your healing presence with Hiram, not your sweat in the fields. You have set yourself in a position of authority, a position to which you are not suited."

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "I think we've got a conflict here - this woman's getting uppity"

[rpg] GM asks, "what stakes do you want to set?"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, ""convince her of her duty to her husband" ?"

[rpg] GM says, "works for me"

[rpg] GM says, "if you're staying with talking, it's heart + acuity"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "righto, that's heart+acuity? or can I just bash her with a rock and get it over with?"

Zedekiah rolls 6 6-sided dice: 2 6 6 5 5 3| 27

[rpg] GM says, "we each get an extra 1d6 for blood relations"

Zedekiah rolls 1 6-sided die: 4| 4

[rpg] Theophilus says (to Zed), "not bad"

GM rolls 8 6-sided dice: 2 1 5 1 2 5 1 1| 18

[rpg] GM says, "bah, it's like I'm sending a telegraph"

[rpg] GM says, "you get to go first"

[rpg] LucasDodgson asks, "a telegraph?"

[rpg] Alex says (to LucasDodgson), "Awwwk! Word on the street is that Telegraph is Daily Telegraph, which is username ifmud@ifmud.com, password ifmud."

[rpg] GM says, "all the ones are like my dits"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha"

[rpg] GM exclaims, "also, yay, another two-person conflict. easy easy!"

Zedekiah steps in front of Althea and blocks her path. "This is not a game, cousin. Hiram needs you and your sons need you, and the King of Life has been very clear on this. You've disingenuously assumed authority beyond your rights. (6+5)

GM exclaims, "'I have always wanted what is best for my family!"

GM rolls 1 10-sided die: 7| 7

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "crap"

GM says, "'My children fall under my stewardship, as the Book of Life says. And I have obeyed my husband throughout.' (7+5)"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "now she raises?"

[rpg] GM says, "having pulled in my 'I want what's best for my family' trait, I'll now drag in 'I'm certain in my convictions 1d8' as part of my raise"

[rpg] GM says, "you know that's her trait because she's related to Zedekiah"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "ha ha"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "bah ha ha"

GM rolls 1 8-sided die: 2| 2

[rpg] Theophilus says, "hee hee"

GM says, "'I know you have worries about this, but Hiram will tell you that I have remained subsurvient to him throughout.' (5+2)"

[rpg] GM says, "oh, yeah, Hiram"

GM rolls 2 6-sided dice: 6 4| 10

[rpg] Zedekiah exclaims, "damn her!"

[rpg] GM says, "the king of life blesses her die rolls"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "hm, gun, or punch"

[rpg] GM says, "hm, I'm not sure if it's better for you to block with 4+3 or 5+2"

[rpg] GM says, "you can get more dice with traits or belongings or &c. In escalating you can also move to physical without fighting or gunning"

Zedekiah says, "Hiram could not direct you, and could not consent to your idea of working in the fields. (4+3)"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "grabbing her shoulder, say?"

[rpg] Theophilus says (to Zed), "it's usually good to pull out your copy of the Book of Life, quote a lot from it, and roll its dice"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "I don't even see it on my sheet - forgot my book, boo"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "also, you can almost always invoke the I'm a Dog trait"

[rpg] GM asks, "you know what the King of Life wants -- what do you need the book for?"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "right, my turn to raise"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "she has 1 1 1 1 2 4 6 left?"

[rpg] GM says, "right"

Zedekiah crosses his arms. "Althea, I have been called by the King of Life to be a Dog. I know his will. I know what is written. I know that you are smarter than Hiram. And I know that you're prideful. (6+5)

[rpg] GM says, "roll your dog die"

Zedekiah rolls 1 6-sided die: 4| 4

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "leaving me with 2 and 4"

GM says, "She stops and takes her hands in yours. She looks you straight in the eye. (escalating to physical)"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "mind+body now?"

[rpg] GM says, "body + heart, but since we've already rolled heart, we only roll body"

GM rolls 4 6-sided dice: 2 5 1 1| 9

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "dangit, when do I ever get mind?"

Zedekiah rolls 4 6-sided dice: 4 1 1 4| 10

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "actual fighting is body + will, shooting is acuity + will"

[rpg] GM says, "'Please. Zedekiah. I haven't been. I haven't.' (6+5)"

GM says, "'Please. Zedekiah. I haven't been. I haven't.' (6+5)"

GM says, "She lets go with a slight push. 'You haven't even talked to Hiram.' (4+2)"

Zedekiah says, "I talked to Hiram directly before I came here. He admitted his sins. I broke his fever. (4+2)"

[rpg] GM says, "nice of him to give you two some credit, too"

[rpg] Zedekiah asks, "since she only has 1s and 2s left, and I've got a pair of 4s, I've pretty much got this one in the bag?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "hee hee"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "hey, she doesn't know that there are other dogs around"

[rpg] GM says, "yeah, unless she's willing to take a heck of a lot of fallout"

Zedekiah says, "We've talked long enough. Go home to your husband. (4+4)"

GM says, "and just like that she sinks to her knees, tears pouring out. 'Oh, oh, sin to let them starve, sin to work the fields, penned in by sin and no gate to let me out,' and she sobs and sobs and sobs"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "hoo boy"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "nice"

[rpg] GM says, "hey, she's convinced of her sin"

Zedekiah says, "Althea, cousin, sin is always present. We are continually stained by it. But by the grace and power of the King of Life, we can redeem ourselves of it."

Zedekiah says, "But the first step, what the King requires above all, is that we acknowledge our sins and our shortcomings, and recognize our proper places in this world."

GM says, "Her red eyes lock on yours. 'Please. Please, as you have grace in you. Talk to Hiram.' She gathers her skirts and runs."

Zedekiah says, "Your place is by your husband, and the King of Life will provide."

[rpg] GM says, "(runs towards the house, I should add)"

[rpg] GM says, "and let's call it here"

[rpg] Zedekiah exclaims, "The KoL has sent two dogs with me to work your fields for you!"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "yay"

[rpg] GM says (to Zedekiah), "hee hee"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "mutter mutter women trouble mutter"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "cool session"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "anyway, as exciting as it is to fix the problems of the family Hiram, I think it's all symptom, not cause"

[rpg] GM exclaims (at Lucas), "woo!"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "yeah, I hope so"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "I agree"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "there's still something wrong in this town"

[rpg] GM says, "Thanks, everyone"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "this Obadiah guy is kind of suspicious"

[rpg] Theophilus says, "so next session, I say we burn it down and sell the survivors to the Spaniards"

[rpg] GM says, "We'll figure out another night to finish off Blackwood"

[rpg] GM says (to Theo), "hee hee"

[rpg] Theophilus says (to GM), "it was great fun"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "no marriages, no babies - the women are being carried away in the night, I suspect"

[rpg] GM says, "this was pretty much everything I was hoping for from the game, so yay"

[rpg] GM asks, "any questions for me before we close up shop?"

[rpg] LucasDodgson says, "I'm good"

[rpg] Zedekiah says, "I think I'm good - if I come up with something I'll track you down"

[rpg] (from LucasDodgson) Zedekiah says "And kill you"

[rpg] GM says, "hee"

[rpg] GM says, "All righty. Talk to you guys later."

GM has disconnected.

GM goes home.

Theophilus has disconnected.

Theophilus goes home.

You say, "Log off"