[ussura] PerrySimm says, "Log on."

Gunther arrives, looking for booty.

Gunther says, "(!!)"

[ussura] * Gunther has joined the channel.

[ussura] Vasili asks, "and how about Wits to 4, for a total of 65, sound good?"

[ussura] Charles says, "I really ought to have reviewed the end of the last story before now..."

[ussura] Vasili says (to Charles), "your off hand was hurting like crazy"

[ussura] GM says, "Heh."

[ussura] GM says (to Vasili), "I think that'll be fine."

[ussura] GM asks (of Vasili), "So, everything 3 but 4 Wits?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "I'm hoping the GM is going to start off with a recap"

[ussura] Vasili says, "yup"

[ussura] GM says, "Sounds good to me."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "recap would be nice"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "also, duchess logging in"

[ussura] GM says, "Sara also is loggging in; rebooting her computer."

Era has connected.

Era exclaims, "'allo!"

Sebastien exclaims, "heya!"

Pyotr exclaims, "Arr!"

[ussura] Duchess says, "oops wrong character"

[ussura] Era says, "Aww, I like 'em both fine. :-)"

[ussura] GM says, "Woo, OK, let's see."

[ussura] Era says, "I'm having to bug the GM on how to do this 'mud' thing again. Its been a long time! (too long!)"

GM says, "The fairly-complete recap is at http://strackenz.spod-central.org/~lpsmith/rpg/transcripts/ussura/season1/"

GM says, "But to recap the recap:"

GM says, "Raelynn has a double called 'Fleur' who stole an artifact from her (fleur's) father, and ran off. Raelynn was mistaken for Fleur, and kidnapped, but she got away, using her Sophie's Daughter's connections to get her to Eisen."

GM says, "While there, Era helped her again, and the two of them went to Ussura."

GM says, "They also met Charles, who was on the trail of Devoe, who was the first mate of La Vache who killed his father."

Raelynn arrives, looking for booty.

GM says, "On the way, they met Pyotr, whose past had caught up with him once again--he had accidentally killed a noble in a bar fight when he was younger, and there were 'Wanted!' posters with his face on them again."

GM says, "Meanwhile, the Two Fops headed to Ussura to report to the selfsame Devoe, but Devoe was gone when they arrived at the embassy."

GM says, "Everyone met everyone else, Fleur showed up again and ran off with Marceau."

GM says, "You also found some half-melted metal with markings on it."

[ussura] Charles asks, "Marceau being, um, some random guy who was left behind by Devoe, and who liked taking baths?"

GM says, "From there, you went to where Dreng was being held in exile after having plotted against his sister, Tamara v'Rissanova, a few years back."

GM says, "But Devoe had already been there and freed him."

[ussura] GM says, "Right."

Sebastien asks, "did the markings turn out to be Cathayan? or was that some amulet that Charles was wearing?"

GM says, "You know? I forget."

Sebastien says, "hee hee"

Charles says, "I was just wondering something similar."

[ussura] Vasili says, "I thought the firewall lady read some of the twisted metal markings"

GM exclaims, "A grep says yes!"

Sebastien says, "I remember Charles has/had an amulet that saved him from getting short or something"

GM says, "That's also true."

Era asks, "getting short?"

GM says, "Shot."

Charles says, "I can't seem to find it in the logs, though."

GM says, "(by marceau)"

Sebastien says, "ha ha whoops"

Era says, "ah."

Sebastien says, "well, if it blew his head off he'd be shorter"

Era says, "hee hee"

[ussura] Vasili says, "and the impact created or revealed some sort of pattern on the amulet which seemed it might have some meaning"

[ussura] Charles says, "A pattern which presumably came somehow from the metal disc inside the amulet."

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah."

[ussura] GM says, "I think the disc itself showed the pattern, IIRC."

[ussura] Charles says, "(Now you've got *me* calling my locket an amulet, darnit.)"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "whoops, sorry"

[ussura] GM laughs.

GM says, "OK, hmm, then wolf attack on the monastery, based on 'the voice' which turned out to be from Jota's Bowl."

Duchess arrives, looking for booty.

GM says, "Then Palech sent you to the thrice-tenth kingdom."

Charles asks, "Is *that* the name of the mysterious sorcerer who created it?"

[Crows-Nest] Gunther says (to Charles), "wizard, not sorcerer"

Duchess has disconnected.

Duchess runs through the jungle with the wind in her hair and the sand at her feet.

GM says, "Where you found a sleeping Two Fops, and found that Disappearing Pierre's memory was of l'Empereur killing the Hierophant some six years earlier."

GM says, "And a lady from Cathay."

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "this is the Egg?"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "okay"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i am still made at pyotr for not letting me take the horses"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Into the egg?"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to charlies), "details details"

GM says, "Finally, you made it to Breslau, where you found an encamped mob army."

GM says, "And found that Fleur was being forced against her will to help."

GM says, "You also found the lady from Cathay again (Yin? I think it was Yin.) who was now an old lady."

[ussura] Charles asks, "Was the army disgruntled Ussurans?"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, and criminals etc."

GM says, "Oh, whoops, forgot that you also fought some Bugs."

[ussura] Charles says, "No wonder Pyotr fit in so well."

GM says, "Under the direction of Montegue."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "heh"

GM says, "Which was particularly confusing."

Charles says, "You said it."

[ussura] Era says, "and somehow this all fits together."

GM says, "Montegue gave Charles an amulet 'for the next time we meet'."

[ussura] Vasili says, "no, it's just a bunch of cool stuff that happened"

GM says, "Then you climbed a cliff following Devoe, went into the castle, and foiled an assassination plot."

Pyotr says, "yay foiling"

[ussura] Charles says, "So now I've got two mysterious objects hanging around my neck."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "be careful or you'll need a neck brace"

GM says, "After which Fleur leaped out the window, ripped open a Porte hole with her knife, and Alexi and Devoe followed her."

GM says, "And Era's brother Emet was also there as a spy, and with the help of the hidden message in the treaty the fops had been lugging around, managed to turn part of the army against itself, and the day was won."

GM asks, "Any other questions about Season 1?"

Pyotr asks, "now, can you explain it backwards?"

GM says, "First, Devoe, Alexi, and Fleur popped out of a porte hole, flew upwards, and into Tamara's room."

Pyotr says, "heh"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Did we find out why Devoe wanted to take Tamara and the city? Was it for Montaigne and the war, or some other reason?"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, it was a plot to disrupt the Ussuran back lines."

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "montegue is the general in charge of the montaigne army invading ussura?"

[ussura] GM says, "Dreng just wanted to be in control, of course."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "sheesh, someone ran out of names"

[ussura] GM says (to Raelynn), "Yes."

[ussura] Charles says, "Oh yeah, Dreng and Devoe and Fleur were all together."

[ussura] GM says, "Right."

[ussura] Charles asks, "What happened with Dreng in the end?"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "he jumped in the hole, didn't he?"

[ussura] GM says, "No, that was Devoe."

[ussura] GM says, "Devoe is Montaignian; Dreng is Ussuran."

[ussura] Vasili says, "he didn't appear in the last episode. Or any episode, I think."

[ussura] GM says, "(Dreng is Tamara v'Rissanova's brother)"

[ussura] GM says, "No, you've never seen Dreng."

[ussura] GM says, "But he was out leading the mob army."

[ussura] Charles asks (of Vasili), "Huh. How did we know he was working with Devoe? Various papers and correspondences?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "well, Devoe did come to get him from the monastery"

[ussura] Charles asks (of GM), "Oh, so as far as we know, he is either with the army or fled from it like a coward?"

[ussura] Vasili says, "uh, something like that. I think, yeah, that's what you figured out at the monastery."

[ussura] GM says, "Right--we can get to that in a sec."

[ussura] Charles says, "OK. Carry on."

[ussura] GM says, "I think you also heard Devoe talking about Dreng in his tent when you were sneaking around."

[ussura] GM asks, "Any other confusions?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "nah, carry on"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Why was Alixandre wearing that dress?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

GM says, "He was in love with Olan."

GM says, "OK, right."

GM exclaims, "In the mean time!"

GM says, "Vasili was an old friend of Pyotr's, from back in the day."

GM says, "And was there that fateful night when the noble died."

Pyotr exclaims (at Vasili), "Good to see you again!"

Vasili says, "Yep, that was rotten business."

GM says, "He's sort of a street rat type, and when he heard they were gathering folks to go storm the castle, he thought, "Hey, that sounds like fun.""

GM says, "But partway there, he revealed to a cohort that he actually thought Tamara was an OK sort of ruler, and was invited to join the counter-insurgency (led in part by Emet), so he fought against the rest of the mob when the time came."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "okay, i really need to stop memorizing Eddings"

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "Street Rat = Eddings = Silk"

GM says, "Afterwards, though, everyone was rounded up into a great hall, where Tamara asked everyone who had joined the army against her to stand on one side, and everyone who had joined the army secretly for her to stand on the other."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[ussura] Charles says, "Ha ha ha."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "choices choices"

Vasili hesitates. "Uh, well, see."

Vasili says, "What if I didn't 'join' so much as 'tag along for the spectacle'? I fought for the good guys!"

GM says, "Well, see, that's what you *meant* to say."

GM says, "What actually came out of your mouth was, "I joined against Tamara.""

Raelynn says, "oops"

GM says, "You look very surprised, as does everyone else who just said the same thing."

Vasili says, "Hey, neat trick."

GM says, "And you eventually found yourself incarcerated with the rest of the hoodlums."

Vasili shuffles nervously off to the bad-guy side.

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "are we hearing a "this is what happened" or are we actually playing?"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "because if we are playing, i want to use my "magic-dar" to see who is casting spells"

GM asks, "But then you heard that your old pal Pyotr seems to be some sort of local hero. Maybe he can help?"

[ussura] GM says, "You guys weren't there, no."

[ussura] Sebastien asks, "local hero ... or local villain?"

GM says, "So, our scene opens maybe, hmm, a week after the end of the last campaign."

[ussura] Era asks, "So when did the Tamara thing actaully happen?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "hey, I dropped my negative rep down to 5"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I'm almost not a scary murderer anymore"

GM says, "Alexeij still hasn't shown up, though Tamara does have people looking."

[ussura] Era says, "Era has spent noticable time with her brother Emet, catching up, and stuff."

Pyotr lounges around, telling stories to impressionable young kids.

[ussura] GM says, "Tamara hasn't had time yet to meet with you all, but she hopes to soon."

Raelynn flirts with the nobles

Sebastien polishes his monocle with an Ussuran handkerchief he managed to scrounge up somewhere.

Sebastien says, "I do hope Alixandre made a wise choice following those two"

[ussura] GM asks (of Vasili), "Do you want to send a message to Pyotr or some such?"

[ussura] Vasili asks, "well, yeah. Via a guard or something?"

[ussura] GM says, "Sure."

Vasili asks, "Hey guard guy, think it's true the infamous Pyotr is in town?"

Sebastien says, "in the meantime I feel obliged to remain here, although it seems our diplomatic duties are at something of an end"

Guard asks, "The Pyotr that saved Tamara?"

Pyotr asks (of Sebastien), "After all that time in the woods, we deserve a little break, eh?"

Sebastien exclaims, "an excellent point!"

Era says (to Raelynn), "Let's find a local seamstress, and see if we can freshen up our wardrobe while we wait to see Tamara."

Sebastien says, "it is true her ladyship's accomodations have been most lavish, and it would be ungracious to refuse to take full advantage of them"

[ussura] GM says, "(if nobody objects, we can fast-forward to Pyotr meeting Vasili)"

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "i figure you would be soaking in the bathtub for weeks"

Vasili asks, "Oh, must've mixed 'im up with someone else. Yeah, I think I used to know 'im. Do we get mail service here?"

Raelynn says (to Era), "Wonderful idea!"

[ussura] Era says, "sure. assume fresher wardrobe in the mean time."

Era exclaims (at Raelynn), "Splendid! My outfit is in tatters after being dragged over half the continent, and through 87 years!"

Sebastien says (to Raelynn), "it is true at times on our journey I feared my cuticles would never recover"

Charles talks to Tamara's people about the Montaigne threat and possible shared interests and cooperation.

Guard, after some negotiation, agrees to take a message for Pyotr.

[ussura] Pyotr says, "oh, goody, I've never had a chance to use my literacy"

[ussura] GM says, "Hee"

[ussura] GM says, "(zip, you get the message which says in essence, "Help! I'm innocent!")"

[ussura] Vasili concentrates hard to scribble down a crude message.

Pyotr exclaims, "What? My old friend Vasili, in prison here!"

Pyotr says (to Guard), "Show me where he is, I want to visit him."

Pyotr says, "But first, for your troubles."

Pyotr hands the guard a fresh flagon of ale.

Guard takes Pyotr (and anyone else who wants to tag along) to the holding area where they're holding Vasili and cohorts.

Guard exclaims, "Thank you, sir!"

Charles may as well. Tagging along with Pyotr is often entertaining.

Pyotr asks (of Vasili), "What are you doing here? When did you leave Tischler, our home village?"

Raelynn is enjoying the new clothes with Era. She has divine taste

Vasili says, "Oh, few years back. Been wandering here and there."

[ussura] Era says, "heehehe"

Pyotr asks, "You've been there more recently than me. How's my father?"

Era notices some particularly fine embroidery, and drags Raelynn to yet another shop.

Sebastien eyes the prison cells disapprovingly through his monocle.

[ussura] Charles says, "I believe the proper phrasing is 'Tischler, our home village, as you know'."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "friends? eh. family? oh yeah"

[ussura] GM says, "Hee hee"

Vasili says, "He's, you know. Actually, grumpier."

[ussura] Pyotr says (to charles), "hee"

Pyotr says, "So sad. I wish I could visit him again."

Pyotr asks, "Anyway, why are you in the jail?"

Vasili says, "He kept blaming me when a chicken or two would go missing."

Pyotr says, "You? Take a chicken? Never. You'd take the goat instead."

Vasili says, "Oh, that. This is for the whole battle thing from last week."

Vasili says, "Exactly!"

Vasili says, "Except goats are harder to move."

Pyotr asks, "You.. you were in Dreng's army?"

Pyotr says, "Vasili, Vasili."

Vasili says, "Well, technically."

Vasili says, "At first."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

Charles asks (of Pyotr), "Weren't you in Dreng's army as well, at least temporarily?"

Vasili says, "I switched sides, but a bit of sorcery caught me on just the 'technically' part."

Pyotr exclaims (at Pyotr), "No, no. I was disguised as someone in his army, but I was a spy!"

Pyotr says (to Vasili), "Ah, okay. Well, maybe I can talk to someone."

Pyotr says, "Tamara has been avoiding us, but I'll see what I can do."

Vasili says, "Ah, so that was you the night before the attack! I thought they were just tellin more drunk Pyotr the Murderer stories."

Vasili says (to Pyotr), "I'd certainly appreciate it. I guess I'd even owe you one."

Pyotr exclaims, "I've been working hard on my sneaking and spying, let me tell you. I was in and out like a ghost!"

Charles says, "There certainly are a lot of 'drunk Pyotr' stories to tell."

Vasili grins.

Pyotr asks (of Charles), "You think we need to go all the way to Tamara, or did you catch the names of any deputies or anything?"

[ussura] GM says, "Crap, another Russian name to invent."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "mwha ha ha"

[ussura] Era says, "Ivan, Ivan, Ivan, and Ivan. :-)"

Vasili says, "Oh, and Sergei from Vlasdin can vouch for me."

Charles says (to Pyotr), "I've been talking with <name GM will momentarily invent> quite a bit, actually."

Pyotr says (to Vasili), "Oh? Okay, we'll go talk to Charles's friend."

[ussura] GM exclaims, "Mikhei!"

Pyotr belatedly introduces Vasili and Charles.

Charles says (to Vasili), "Morning."

Pyotr asks (of Vasili), "(whisper) He's a good guy, but doesn't really know how to have fun, you know?"

Vasili says, "Any friend of Pyotr with connections to spring me is a friend of mine."

[ussura] Era says, "hehehe"

[ussura] Era says, "hehehe"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "hee hee"

Sebastien, distractedly eyeing a dead rat in one of the cells, realizes that introductions are being made, and comes over to execute a sweeping bow.

Pyotr exclaims (at Vasili), "We'll be back, soon!"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "oh, I didn't know Seb had followed. also introduced, then"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "sorry, I should have said something"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "but there was this dead rat, see"

[ussura] Charles says, "Nah, it's more amusing to imagine that he swoops in just as we depart."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "heh"

Vasili says, "Uh, rise."

Era tries explaining to the seamstress (again) that no, she really wants a concealed slit in her dress to reach her dagger. Really.

Pyotr heads off with Charles. "So, where do we find this Mikhei?"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "Hee"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "don't forget the spring-loaded boots"

[ussura] Era says, "thanks, nearly sprayed the moniter for that. ;-)"

Sebastien says, "we could ask the guardhouse"

Charles says (to Pyotr), "He's a member of Tamara's information-gathering unit -- his office is right in this building."

Pyotr says, "Ah good."

Sebastien says, "ah, there"

Pyotr says, "So he'll probably know Sergei already"

Pyotr says, "Which will help."

Mikhei says, "Ah, hello again, Charles."

Charles says, "It's his job to know about nearly everything happening around here, from what I'm told."

Charles says (to Mikhei), "Ah, good morning -- Mikhei, meet Pyotr. Pyotr, Mikhei."

Pyotr says, "Hmm. I was wondering who keeps stealing my clothes at night."

[Crows-Nest] (from Vasili) Mikhei says, "I understand the three of you have been speaking with Vasili just now."

Sebastien says, "clothes? rags, you mean"

Pyotr exclaims, "I wake up in the morning, my old clothes are gone, and there's new ones there!"

Pyotr exclaims, "It's creepy!"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

Charles says, "Oh, and this is Sebastien."

[ussura] GM laughs.

Charles says, "Don't let his looks fool you; he's not the villain he appears to be at first glance."

Sebastien eyes Mikhei a little dubiously.

Pyotr says (to Mikhei), "Hello."

Mikhei says, "Ah, Sebastien--the Montaigne diplomat sans portfolio, I presume."

Pyotr says, "I was just talking with my friend Vasili, who is unfortunately in the dungeon with the rest of Dreng's army."

Raelynn tries on hats

Raelynn tries on more hats

Sebastien says, "I am afraid so"

Raelynn tries on yet more hats

Pyotr says, "However, he says that if you talk to Sergei from Vlasdin, he will vouch that Vasili did join the resistance."

[Crows-Nest] Vasili says, "this side plot with the ladies keeps getting more intense"

Pyotr says, "Just, he did so after joining Dreng, so he didn't get separated out properly."

Era says (to Raelynn), "Hmmm, I think I like the green one best. Although the grey was also nice."

Pyotr says, "I was hoping you could help him."

Mikhei frowns. "I thought Tamara herself asked them all who they had joined with."

Pyotr says, "Right, and the problem is he changed loyalty after he joined."

[ussura] Raelynn asks (of era), "we have money?"

Mikhei says, "Oho! I see."

Pyotr says, "So, you know, technically speaking he answered right."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i guess i can pretend to have pickpocketed Sebastien before we left"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "Tamara probably gave us some money"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "or an expense account"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, you're fine for cash."

Raelynn says (to era), "I think I will take both! Any luck with the slit in the dress? Because I think I want to do that with the riding habit I just ordered"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "Oh, good, my axe needs rebalancing and sharpening"

Mikhei says, "I'm afraid I'm not familiar with this"

[ussura] Sebastien says (to Mikhei), "aHA"

[ussura] Mikhei says, "ila<return>"

Raelynn looks at cloaks. This country is too cold

Mikhei says, "...Sergei he mentions. I suppose I could drag him in front of Tamara again for a different question, but I'd need some sort of assurance I wasn't just wasting her time."

Pyotr says, "I grew up with Vasili."

Pyotr says, "Don't trust him near small valuables, but he generally doesn't lie once he's been caught."

Mikhei says, "If you can find this Sergei person and have him talk to me, I'll see what I can do."

[ussura] Sebastien says (to Raelynn), "I hope I asked you to pick up something snuggly and fur-lined for me"

Pyotr says, "Hmm, okay."

[ussura] (from Charles) Mikhei says, "Oh, a friend of Pyotr the Murderer? Guards, free him immediately!"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha ha"

[ussura] Pyotr exclaims, "what's that taste? Oh, yes, tastes like... side quest!"

[ussura] Vasili says (to Seb), "here is the cat you requested"

Era exclaims (at Raelynn), "The slit is now fine, and no longer rumples the line of the dress. Concealed weaponry in fine clothing for women is such a challenge!"

Pyotr says, "Thanks for your time."

[ussura] GM says (to Raelynn), "Oh, hey, and since you're not in the rest of the group right now: a messenger finds you in the marketplace, and gives you this: http://strackenz.spod-central.org/~lpsmith/rpg/transcripts/ussura/Raelynn_letter.pdf"

Era says (to Raelynn), "Your riding dress looks lovely."

Pyotr wanders out of the building, and starts shouting "Sergei from Vlasdin! Where are you?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "woo, feelies"

[ussura] GM says, "Hee hee"

Charles asks (of Pyotr), "Is this really the most efficient means of locating him?"

Pyotr asks, "You have a better idea?"

Pyotr exclaims, "Sergei!"

Mikhei says (to Sebastien), "If you have the time, I would like a word with you at some point."

Charles asks, "Asking Vasili who else knows him?"

Pyotr exclaims, "Oh, hey!"

Pyotr says, "Let's try that."

Pyotr exclaims, "Or! better idea!"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to seb), "noted"

Pyotr exclaims, "Let's knock out the guards, take the keys, and skip town!"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to GM), "Wow."

Pyotr exclaims, "Come on!"

Raelynn says (to era), "can you hold this cloak for me? A messenger just gave me this letter"

[ussura] Vasili says, "I forgot how much I missed you, Pyotr."

Sebastien says (to Mikhei), "naturally I am at your disposal -- once we have located this Sergei I will seek you out"

Mikhei nods. "At your leisure, then."

Charles says (to Pyotr), "Actually, I was rather thinking we might try to retain our good names here."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I realized I was being far too reasonable"

Era takes the cloak, and tries to be discreet about reading over Raelynn's shoulder.

Pyotr asks (of Charles), "We...what?"

Pyotr says, "Oh, all right."

Pyotr heads back to try and talk to Vasili again.

Vasili says, "Well that was quick."

Charles says, "On the other hand, if you want to intoxicate the guards and try to gain their cooperation, then that would be perfectly reasonable."

[ussura] GM says, "It's amusing to think I could probably activate Pyotr's hubris and have him do just that."

Pyotr says (to Charles), "Now you tell me! We're already inside."

Vasili says (to Charles), "Now that's a plan."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "you can if you want"

Pyotr says (to Vasili), "Anyway, we need to find this Sergei."

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "can i give the GM a drama die?"

Pyotr asks, "Any idea who would know him?"

[ussura] GM says (to Raelynn), "Aww, thanks."

[ussura] Vasili says, "he's got plenty"

Raelynn tries to blinks back tears as she looks at Era

Raelynn says, "I can't go back home."

[ussura] Charles says (to GM), "Remember, any drama die that you give to the GM goes into Fleur's pocket."

Era wraps her arms around Raelynn. "Awww, how sad!"

Era fishes in her pocket for a handkerchief.

Sebastien says, "well, if he was a member of the victorious resistance, perhaps we could locator another resistance member"

Sebastien says, "I am sure we would have no problems asking for a few names"

[ussura] Vasili says, "gah, even more names"

[ussura] GM says, "Hee."

Pyotr says, "Maybe Era's brother knows him."

Charles says (to Sebastien), "Do we know Emet's w-- indeed."

Pyotr asks (of Vasili), "If you don't have any clues?"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to gm), "although that's a real girly handwriting for a man"

Vasili says, "I met 'im about a month back. You could try the Boar's Tail in the evening."

[ussura] GM says, "Hee"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "but I guess Montaigne men are a little frou frou"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "'extremely civilized', we prefer to say"

Pyotr says, "Okay. Since it's afternoon, let's go find Emet first, I guess."

Raelynn says (to Era), "do you think I can tag along to wherever you go next? I don't want to stay at Tamara's court once you (and everyone else) move on"

Pyotr slips the guard a small coin on the way out. "Take care of my buddy, okay?"

Charles asks, "Presumably Era will know where he is. Do we know where she is?"

Vasili says, "Oh yeah, he's the head of us secret good guys, right? He'd probably know what happened to 'im."

[Crows-Nest] (from Raelynn) Guard says, "Sure!" and palms the coin for beer

[ussura] Era says, "back in the day, more people wrote flowery I think. 'Secretary' was actually a more valued position for good handwriting. Now its just a cubicle grunt, sadly."

Pyotr says (to Charles), "Hmm, probably something girly like shopping or bathing."

Pyotr says, "Let's go check, I guess."

Guard says (to Pyotr), "If you will vouch for this man, I can release him under your recognisance for the day."

Sebastien says, "oh, yes, perhaps Raelynn has obtained a cloak for me"

Sebastien says, "I have always noted her excellent taste"

Pyotr says, "Oh, hey, that's good too. I vouch away."

Charles says (to Pyotr), "As much fun as it may be to do otherwise, we ought to check the shops first."

[ussura] Guard says, "In the interests of not boring Vasili to death."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "I was getting worried about that, yeah."

Guard nods, has you sign a voucher, and releases Vasili until sundown.

Era says (to Raelynn), "Sure. I'd like to catch up with the rest of my family at some point. Emet is wonderful, and there are six more just like him back home. You'd like them."

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr asks, "Era the matchmaker?"

[ussura] Era says, "hehehe! you bet."

[Crows-Nest] GM laughs.

[Crows-Nest] Charles says, "If one brother doesn't work out, she can swap in a spare."

GM says, "So, the group of you tromp off and go find Emet."

[ussura] Era exclaims, "There are plenty!"

Vasili says, "Hey, great! See you in the evening, keep."

Pyotr says, "Okay, so I'll go grab our bags, and we'll split town."

Pyotr says, "Oh, no, wait, good names"

[ussura] GM says, "Yay"

Pyotr says, "It's hard being a hero."

Era considers howling to get his attention, but decides the area is a bit too populated.

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

[ussura] Sebastien asks, "are we all met up again?"

Pyotr exclaims, "Look, there's Era!"

Vasili says, "Not your fault if you turn your back for a sec when the sun gets low, though."

Pyotr exclaims, "Hi Era!"

[ussura] Era says, "sure. and the gents are obliged to compliment us on our fabulous taste."

Pyotr says (to Vasili), "We'll see. Charles and Sebastien will be happier if we do this all legal."

Raelynn takes cloak and other purchases and juggles them in a tall tower as she tucks the letter in her pocket

Vasili says, "More of your friends? We're outnumbered by fancy-dress people!"

Raelynn goes home.

Era says (to Vasili), "It may look fancy, but the fabric is quite durable. And you are? . . ."

Sebastien says, "my goodness gracious! your excellent taste in apparel serves only to enhance your natural gifts"

[ussura] Charles says (to Vasili), "Well, now you've offended her."

[ussura] Era exclaims, "and machine washable!"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

Vasili says, "Vasili, at your service."

Raelynn arrives, looking for booty.

Vasili says, "Me an Pyotr here go way back."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "sorry. flaky wireless. katre is fixing that."

[ussura] GM says, "No problem."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "quick bounce, sorry"

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "your new cloak is in the lavendar box with the teal ribbon"

Pyotr has disconnected.

Pyotr has connected.

Sebastien says, "my goodness, I can hardly find it amongst the stack of other boxes"

Raelynn says (to Sebastien), "I even bought a new cloak for Alix for when he rejoins us. I figure he will want new clothes after whatever adventure he has"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "sorry about that"

Raelynn says, "his is in the teal box with puce ribbons"

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "did I miss anything relating the the Sergei plot?"

[ussura] GM says, "Nope."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "you missed our discussion of Raelynn's clothes"

Charles says, "I hope he knows which colors is puce."

Sebastien says, "naturally that is part of the early training in the Montaigne courts"

Era bought a pair of silk gloves for Alexiej, expecting to run in to him again at some point.

Vasili squints at the boxes. "They have different colors in Montaigne?"

Sebastien says, "when that is mastered we move on to vermillion"

Pyotr says (to Vasili), "They have different everything."

Sebastien mutters "and thank goodness!"

Emet says, "Aha, my sister! Good to see you again. And your friends too, I see."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "this is where Pocket for Porte would come in handy"

Emet wanders over eating a large pretzel.

[ussura] Era exclaims, "and I was just wondering when we'd have to go fight and kill someone!"

Sebastien helps Raelynn carry her packages.

Pyotr exclaims (at Emet), "I was just looking for you!"

Raelynn discreetly convinces Charles to carry a few boxes, Sebastien to carry a few, and even Vasili. She doesn't bother trying to trick Pyotr

Era says (to Emet), "You remember Raelynn? She and I have spent the most wonderful afternoon freshening our somewhat meager wardrobes."

Pyotr explains the Vasili situation. "So, do you know this Sergei?"

Charles curiously lifts a corner of the lid of one loose-ribboned parcel.

Emet thinks.

Era says (to Emet), "Of course all the fabrics are quite sturdy, but they look divine nonetheless."

Sebastien says (to Charles), "goodness, I hope you are not looking at anything a gentleman would not attempt to view"

Vasili peeks in his boxes when Raelynn isn't looking and pats through the fabric, but decides everything valueable is too big.

Emet says (to Era) "Indeed!" and bows sweepingly to Raelynn.

Charles says (to Sebastien), "Not to worry: I doubt I could actually identify what was inside all these lacy frills regardless."

Charles says (to Sebastien), "Oh -- but the tag says this one is yours."

Emet says (to Pyotr), ""If the Sergei is the one I'm remembering, I'm afraid you'll find him outside the city, behind a small church overlooking the firewall."

Emet says, "We buried those that did not survive the battle there two days ago."

Charles says, "Behind? Oh dear."

Vasili says, "Oh, poor guy."

Pyotr says, "Oof."

[ussura] Sebastien says (to Charles), "hee hee"

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "what was the M-guy's name?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "lost my scrollback when I bounced"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Montegue? Marceau? Mikhei?"

[ussura] GM asks, "Er, Montegue?"

[ussura] GM says, "Oh, right, Mikhei."

Pyotr asks, "So, hmm, how to convince Mikhei?"

Pyotr exclaims, "We could, um, take him hostage until he helps!"

Raelynn asks, "anyone know necromancy?"

Vasili asks, "He came from Vlasdin, about yay high, short beard, right?"

Charles says (to Raelynn), "I do not believe Matushka would approve."

Emet nods. "Yes, it does indeed sound like the same man."

Vasili asks, "See, how else would I know he was on the city's side?"

Charles says, "Perhaps we should wait for the next attempt on Tamara's life, and make sure to properly document Vasili's participation."

Raelynn goes home.

Sebastien says, "perhaps Vasili performed some action that someone else could be found to attest to"

Charles says, "Assuming he joins the correct side from the outset this time."

Pyotr asks (of Charles), "Hmm, we didn't keep that curtain, did we?"

Raelynn arrives, looking for booty.

[ussura] Raelynn says, "non-wirelessed"

Charles asks (of Vasili), "Were you aware of any other counterfeits in the mob besides yourself and Sergei?"

Charles asks, "Or, more important, were any aware of you?"

[ussura] GM asks, "Would it help to run 'screen', or is the problem between the machine and the MUD?"

Charles says (to Pyotr), "I believe we turned it over to Tamara."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "the problem is fixed now"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to gm), "we are okay now. our wireless is occassionally flaky, so we both are now using ethernet cables."

[ussura] GM nods.

[ussura] Pyotr says, "in that we're both using wires instead of the sometimes flaky wireless"

[ussura] GM says, "Yay cables."

Vasili says, "Yeah. Er, that is, it was easy to guess when a bunch of us switched."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "i guess i should let katre really wire the house so that we have ethernet ports in every room"

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Awesome."

[Crows-Nest] Pyotr asks, "now you see why I want to?"

Charles says (to Vasili), "If enough of those who *weren't* jailed would account for you, then perhaps that would be sufficient."

Raelynn catches a random guy checking her out and winks coyly. She knows the new green hat is particularly fetching

[ussura] Era exclaims, "yay!"

Vasili says, "There was these two twins I didn't know, and Anna, a regular at the Red Serpent, and, hm."

Sebastien says, "perhaps Sergei's effects contain some notes as to the identities of his co-conspirators"

Era says (to Sebastien), "Excellent idea."

Era says, "Though if he's in some mass grave, locating him may prove problematic."

Emet says, "No, all the graves were marked when the body could be identified."

Charles asks, "Were their possessions buried with them?"

Emet says, "Even those who fought against us deserved that, at least."

Sebastien says, "perhaps they would be given to his heirs, if he had any"

Emet says, "Well, hmm."

Charles says, "It would be nice not to need to rob graves."

Raelynn says, "i am not adding grave-robbing to my list of new skills"

Emet says, "Anything obviously valuable was retained for distribution to heirs."

Raelynn says, "my mother raised me better than that"

Era says, "It is probably too soon to have shipped everyone's belongings to their estate. Perhaps they have been warehoused nearby."

Charles asks (of Emet), "Would personal papers have been included in that?"

Emet says (to Charles), "In many cases, I believe not."

Era exclaims, "Hopefully everything is properly labeled. What a task!"

Gunther has disconnected.

Gunther is a shrink *and* a psychiatrist, so you know he's rollin' in money.

Vasili says, "Think he had a pack with him at camp. Maybe they kept it."

Sebastien says, "ah, a sensible suggestion"

Emet says, "A separate pack would have not been buried with him, true."

Emet asks, "You believe you can identify it?"

Vasili says, "Uh, maybe."

Era says, "Doubtless he had his initially embroidered across the top in bright red thread. Very sensible. Or something."

Pyotr says, "SfV"

[ussura] Era exclaims, "ha!"

Emet says, "Unclaimed equipment was stored in the east tower. I can take you all there now, if you like."

Sebastien says, "please do"

Vasili says, "Worth a shot."

Ghogg materializes.

Pyotr says, "Oh, let's try it."

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "we are back at the 'palace' or wherever we are staying?"

GM says, "And at that, Emet leads you back to the castle, and gets you inside the east tower, where you find two large rooms filled with tents, packs, and provisions."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "we're making you (and Charles, Seb, etc) carry your boxes all over"

Pyotr says, "Hmm."

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Hee"

Pyotr says, "Lots of stuff."

Pyotr asks, "Hey, this is a pretty nice tent. Vasili, don't you think it looks like Sergei's, and he would have wanted you to have it?"

(From Raelynn) While on the way to the east tower, Raelynn flags down a passing servant, hands over all the boxes, with instructions to be taken and placed - carefully! - in her quarters

Sebastien asks (of Vasili), "do you recall any distinguishing characteristics we could search for?"

Vasili says, "It was, hmm, leather, with a square buckle"

Pyotr starts looking.

Era asks, "Did he favor a particular cologne, or have any distinguishing scents about him?"

Sebastien surveys the sea of square-buckled packs.

Sebastien says, "right then"

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "are we rolling, finding it automatically, or not finding it automatically?"

Sebastien says, "clearly this is a point where intellect must yield to manual labor"

[ussura] Vasili asks, "also, do Keen Senses apply?"

[ussura] GM says, "I was going to have you roll to see how long it took you to find it, but I liked Era's idea, too."

[ussura] (from Pyotr) GM says, "If it's here! Mwha ha ha!"

[ussura] GM laughs.

[ussura] GM says (to Vasili), "Feel free to make something up about the way he smelled."

[ussura] (from Vasili) GM says, "Okay, you take three hours to find it. It contains nothing of interest."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "heh"

[ussura] Era says, "that was the wrong time to take a drink. hehehe"

[ussura] (from GM) GM says, "Oh, and the sun went down in the meantime, so you're all arrested for keeping a prisoner out after sunset."

Vasili says, "Distinguishing scents. You could say that. Sort of like..."

Raelynn sees an interesting pattern embroidered on one of the packs, and idly starts sketching, while listening to Vasili

[ussura] Charles says, "I'm going to guess it smells like 'sweaty Ussuran man'."

[ussura] Era exclaims, "well there's a shortage of those, let me tell you!"

[ussura] GM says, "Strong enough for a man, and strong enough for a woman, too. This is Ussura, after all."

[ussura] Era says, "especially in an army."

Vasili asks, "a swamp?"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha ha"

Raelynn wrinkles nose. Ew

[ussura] Vasili says, "if only I could remember a quote from that one puzzle in Escape from Monkey Island."

[ussura] GM says, "Yes! I was thinking the same thing."

Era wrinkles her nose a bit more obviously. Then it turns gey, and furry.

[ussura] Era says, "er, grey."

[ussura] GM says, "Oho, a partial transformation."

[7thsea] Era rolls 6k2: 7 9 8 10+9 7 3 | 28

GM says (to Era), "And hey! It's a leather pack with a square buckle that smells sorta swampy."

Charles says (aside, to Pyotr), "You know, I thought I was getting used to the transformations."

Pyotr says (to Charles), "Let's just hope none of these packs contain a steak."

Era's nose receedes back into her face as she walks back to the group holding a stinky pack in one hand.

Vasili says, "Looks like that could be it."

Emet asks (of Era), "Hey, I haven't seen you do that before. When did that happen?"

Raelynn discreetly moves closer to the window and far from the pack. She is sketching Era with a furry nose

Era says (to Emet), "Well, I've been practicing. Also, I think the cat-skin you gave me had some extra punch to it, and is helping me access the other skins better."

GM says, "Inside the pack you find a diary, and in the diary--thank heavens!--a note about Vasili's recruitment."

[ussura] Era says, "w00t"

Pyotr says, "Whew"

Pyotr says, "Let's get this to Mikhei."

[ussura] Charles asks, "Do we need Mikhei if we have Emet?"

Sebastien says, "quite providential"

Emet picks up the pack. "Now that this is identified, I'll be able to send it back to his relatives. Thanks again, sis."

[ussura] Charles asks, "Or does Emet not have the same connections?"

[ussura] Pyotr asks, "Does Emet have access to Tamara?"

[ussura] Charles says, "For some reason I was thinking he did."

[ussura] GM says, "Emet worked more with Tamara's sister from, er, that city you all started in."

[ussura] Charles says, "Ah, OK."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "so let's go up the chain."

Sebastien says (to Mikhei), "here we are again, having had luck in our investigations"

Pyotr asks (of Emet), "Do you mind coming with us to vouch for this?"

Emet says, "Sure."

Mikhei says, "Aha, thank you."

Mikhei says, "Emet, good to see you again."

Mikhei asks (of Emet), "You know of this Sergei?"

Emet says, "Yes. A good man; one of my first recruits."

Mikhei reads the diary entry, nods. "Good enough. The evidence will have to be more thoroughly examined, but this is certainly enough to release you from further confinement for the time being. Take this to the Guard," (he scribbles on a piece of paper) "and he'll let you retrieve your things."

Vasili says, "Ah, good, my things."

Charles says (to Vasili), "You have things? You never told us."

Vasili says, "Well, no, not really."

Charles says, "Oh."

Sebastien says, "no doubt he has a few changes of handkerchief, a shaving kit, that kind of thing"

Era says, "I wonder how many others who falsely confessed have evidence here to support their innocence."

Vasili says, "I wasn't forced to lie. I was, uh, forced to tell the truth and it didn't sound good."

Sebastien says, "we should at least inspect the diary to see if it mentions any other names"

Mikhei says, "Ah, good point."

Charles says, "We can compare it to the roster of prisoners when we collect Vasili's shaving kit."

Mikhei asks, "We are rather overworked right now--do you wish to do reveiew the diary yourself?"

Charles says, "I think we could handle it."

[ussura] Charles says, "Especially if it contains any other interesting plot hooks."

[ussura] GM says, "Hee"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

Sebastien says (to Mikhei), "perhaps we should have our discussion, then, while they retrieve Vasili's things"

Mikhei says, "Ah, you have time now? Indeed."

Vasili says (to Guard), "Looks like I'm clear."

Pyotr says, "Okay, let's go."

Sebastien says (to others), "no doubt I will rejoin you later"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "question: as far as we know, are we going to meet with Tamara eventually? is that while we are cooling our heels?"

[ussura] Vasili says, "she'll send somebody to invite you when it fits the schedule, I assume"

[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, you'll meet with Tamara soon. You've seen her around and had brief conversations, but figuring out what to do with a mob of thugs has sort of been preoccuping for her."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "got it."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i wasn't sure if Tamara was planning to meet us, or if we should be talking to her minions instead"

[ussura] Charles asks (of GM), "So she's putting off figuring out what to do with the other mob of thugs?"

[ussura] GM says, "Hee."

[ussura] Vasili says, "ha!"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "yay"

Mikhei says (to Sebastien), "So. It seems that Gallenia is now without a Montaigne diplomat."

Mikhei says, "What with Montaigne attacking Ussura to the west, there are many who are not eager to obtain a replacement."

Vasili says (to Guard), "I hope that mob-issue dagger set isn't stockpiled away."

Sebastien says, "it is true the political situation has changed somewhat since I arrived"

Charles asks (of Guard), "Do you have a list of the names of those who were imprisoned along with Vasili here?"

Raelynn chats with Emet and Era

Mikhei asks, "And since you left, I hear--is it true that when you departed Montaigne, you were not yet at war with us?"

Raelynn asks (of Era), "are all your brothers also named names beginning with an "E"?"

Raelynn asks (of era), "Or are you two just a coincidence?"

Guard says, "There's *a* list, but it's just what the prisoners wrote down themselves when they came in."

Sebastien says, "it is true that in these past weeks the chronology of our journey to Ussura has turned out to be strangely distorted"

Era says (to Raelynn), "Actually, yes. My parents enjoyed the challenge of finding eight appropriate E names."

[ussura] Era says (to GM), "now we have to come up with them! :-)"

Sebastien says, "Matushka's actions in this department are quite mysterious"

[ussura] GM says (to Era), "http://www.sca.org/heraldry/paul/e-f.html"

Charles says, "Could we see it? We've been sent here by Mikhei to investigate whether or not there were any other incorrect arrests."

Guard says, "Sure, though there's a fair number of 'X's."

Guard takes you to retrieve Vasili's stuff, and finds the list of names to show you.

Vasili says, "Or you could read the diary and come back later to look for anybody else it mentions."

Pyotr says, "Yeah right, we stand up and say "We're going to set George from Latvus free, is he here?" and see the fiht start."

Mikhei says (to Sebastien), "Well, it seems your papers, though inactive, may technically give you diplomatic rights here. And those of us that desire to keep talks with Montaigne alive think we could do worse than to find one (or two) men who had actively saved the v'Rissanova's life."

Vasili says, "nah, George was brutal out there."

Charles asks (of Pyotr), "If it turned out that George were innocent, would you propose we leave him here?"

Sebastien polishes his monocle thoughtfully.

Pyotr says (to Charles), "Hey, he's not anyone _I_ know."

Sebastien says, "on the one hand, I think that technically my superiors would prefer that I return to Charouse and await new orders"

Sebastien says, "but it is true that I am sure we are all eager to find some peaceful solution between our two countries"

Pyotr says, "I'm just saying, making sure people are on the up and up is tough."

Charles skims through the diary regardless.

Pyotr says, "Although I guess Tamara will be handling that."

Sebastien says, "so I would be happy to assist in any capacity that would lead to that outcome, with the understanding that if another diplomat from Montaigne were to arrive, I would no doubt have to yield my position"

Charles says (to Pyotr), "Then don't tell them why we want them."

Mikhei nods.

[ussura] Vasili says, "oh hey, 'she shall know the light of truth'. Cool."

Sebastien says, "was there some particular direction you were thinking I should take in this regard? We have already had some interaction with Montegue"

Mikhei asks, "Indeed? Back in Montaigne, you mean?"

[ussura] GM says (to Vasili), "Hey, nice catch."

[ussura] GM says, "(that's actually straight from the book)"

[ussura] Sebastien asks, "man, when did we meet Montegue? when we were in the egg?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "yeah"

[ussura] GM says, "Right."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "with the bugs"

[ussura] Vasili says, "millenia ago, or something like that"

Sebastien hums. "Not exactly."

Sebastien says, "Matushka's magic is, as I said, mysterious"

Mikhei blinks.

Sebastien says, "in point of fact I am not entirely sure he would remember us, but nevertheless, the initial contact might be helpful"

Mikhei says, "Those touched by Matushka are often destined for exciting things."

Mikhei says, "I know I hope *I* never see her."

Sebastien says, "'exciting' is precisely the word for it"

Sebastien says, "luckily reckless danger is my watch-word"

Sebastien says, "this has been a great advantage in my diplomatic career"

Mikhei grins.

Mikhei says, "I'll let Tamara know you're amenable to further discussion, then. I thank you."

Sebastien bows. "You have been most helpful. I am sure we can work to mutual advantage."

Sebastien heads out to find the others.

[ussura] GM asks, "And, hmm, we don't have a ton of time left. Would you like to skip to your meeting with Tamara now?"

[ussura] Pyotr says, "sure"

[ussura] GM says, "(all of you)"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "up to you all"

[ussura] Vasili says, "that seems like the next step"

[ussura] Charles says, "Unless we find anything interesting in the diary first."

[ussura] GM says, "Oh, right."

[ussura] Charles says, "But given the offer, I assume not."

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i don't think we have anything keeping us in the prison"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to charles), "we can always act on the diary afterwards"

[ussura] GM says, "Uh, let me make up something from the germ of the idea I have for that first ;-)"

[ussura] Era says, "off to Tamara's then."

[ussura] Charles says (to Rae), "True."

GM says, "So, a few days later, you finally get to have an official meeting with Tamara."

Era and Raelynn wear their finest new clothes, and hats.

Pyotr tries to brush his beard out a bit, then gives up.

Sebastien wears his new cloak and polishes his monocle til it sparkles.

Era offers him some scissors for his beard.

Charles tries to wear a shirt that has not been holed by crossbow bolts or torn into makeshift bandages.

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

Pyotr says (to Era), "Hmm, if I trim it I'll just get cold in winter. No, thanks."

Era says (to Pyotr), "They do sell scarves in Ussura. Warm ones, even."

Pyotr exclaims, "Bah!"

[ussura] Era says, "heheh"

GM says, "She thanks you again for saving her life, and tells you that if there is anything you need while in the city, you need only ask."

Charles says (to Pyotr), "Yes, I just saw two children wearing some the other day."

Tamara asks, "And is this the Vasili I heard about to whom I asked the wrong question?"

Pyotr can't think of anything he needs besides a full pardon for manslaughter.

Vasili says, "Yes ma'am. But I'm very pleased the justice here worked out so fairly."

Tamara says (to Charles), "So, I've heard bits and pieces, but tell me from the beginning of your meeting with Montegue."

Vasili wonders why he was summoned here with all the heroes.

Charles nods. "We had just..."

Charles says, "...this amulet..."

Charles says, "...exploded...""

[ussura] GM says, "Heh."

Charles says, "...back here again."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "you forgot the string beans"

Raelynn waits patiently for her turn to speak

[7thsea] Charles rolls 5k3: 8 1 7 4 10+8 | 33

[ussura] Charles fills in the ...'s with an Oratory roll.

[ussura] Era says, "very nice"

[ussura] GM says, "Heh, excellent."

Tamara exclaims, "I see!"

Tamara asks, "So, you say he seemed to recognize you, then? But you had never met the man?"

Charles says, "Indeed so. But he seemed to believe we would meet again."

Tamara asks, "The amulet he gave you--was he wearing another?"

[ussura] Charles says, "Good question."

[ussura] GM says, "And indeed, thinking back on it, you think he was."

[Crows-Nest] Vasili asks, "Also, if he accidentally gave the newer amulet to Charles instead of the older one, did he just kill his grandfather?"

Charles says, "Yes, I believe he was."

[Crows-Nest] Charles asks (of Vasili), "But wasn't he *supposed* to give me the newer one, so that I can give it to him when it's older?"

[Crows-Nest] Vasili says, "Um. Oops. Hang on, back in a few negative seconds."

Charles asks, "Is it familiar to you?"

Tamara says, "Well, it certainly seems to me that if Matushka has a use for this Montegue, we should certainly facilitate your meeting."

[ussura] Charles asks, "What does this pendant look like, anyway?"

Tamara peers at it, and shakes her head. "The workmanship is very fine, though. I doubt it could be replicated."

[ussura] Era says, "slightly melted, odd symbols . .. Oh wait that was something else. :-)"

Tamara asks (of Raelynn), "Perhaps it is familar to you?"

[ussura] Charles says, "If this is the artifact Rae stole..."

Raelynn blinks

[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to charles), "Fleur!"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "then we'd have two, awesome"

[ussura] Charles says (to Rae), "Yeah, yeah, same difference."

[ussura] GM says, "No, no, Fleur stole the knife she's been using to flit about the countryside."

Raelynn stammers, "Er, no, um. I don't think so."

Tamara says (to Raelynn), "Not personally, but if you recognized the workmanship."

Tamara says, "You and Montegue do at least both hail from Charouse."

[ussura] Raelynn asks (of gm), "i do?"

Raelynn says, "i guess I hadn't thought of that. Hm."

Era edges closer to Raelynn in a show of support.

Sebastien steps up to examine the amulet also, if Raelynn doesn't recognize it.

[ussura] GM says, "You could make an educated guess depending on how familiar you are with jewelry fashions."

[ussura] GM says, "And, right, Sebastien as well."

[ussura] GM says, "Though I hear he's more familar with earrings."

Raelynn says, "It's not a local style, sadly. I don't think it's the kind of work any of our local smiths or artisans would do"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i meant the charouse"

[ussura] Vasili says, "looks like at least a few months of beer to me."

[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"

Raelynn says, "although, it looks a little on the old side. so maybe it's an older style, not a modern one"

[ussura] GM says, "Charouse is the city? I don't understand the question."

Raelynn says, "sadly, I am young. I tend to look for modern fashions and pieces. I really am not familiar with the styles from my parents' generation, or older"

[ussura] Raelynn says (to gm), "sorry. I just meant I didn't know I was from Charouse."

[ussura] GM says, "It's in your write-up ;-)"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "everybody's from somewhere"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "what do you know"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "so it is"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "Charouse is the Paris of Montaigne, so"

[ussura] Charles says (to Sebastien), "I am sure you mean 'Paris is the Charouse of France'."

[ussura] Era says, "yeah, charouse is as close as they could get to carouse. ;-)"

Raelynn says, "Sebastien, being elderly, he may be more familiar with the style"

Sebastien asks, "is that any kind of respectful way to speak to one of advanced years?"

[ussura] Raelynn asks, "wanna share a patty?"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "ilac"

Sebastien says, "kids these days"

[ussura] GM says (to Sebastien), "Feel free to make up something if you want to recognize it."

Sebastien says, "hunh, how odd"

Sebastien says, "church relics are not particularly fashionable to wear in Montaigne these days -- perhaps it's some sort of heirloom"

[ussura] GM says, "Oh, nice."

Sebastien says, "I believe this may be associated with some particular shrine or sect, though I am not expert enough to say which"

GM tosses a drama die to Sebastien for such a nice plot hook.

[ussura] Sebastien says, "woo"

[ussura] Era exclaims, "very nice!"

Charles says (to Sebastien), "Huh. I had no idea."

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says (to gm), "now aren't you glad i didn't just say, "oh! that's benjy's work! I should've recognized those grooves earlier!""

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Hee"

[ussura] Sebastien asks, "ok, are we done with Tamara? or is there more?"

Charles says, "A shame we don't have my old friend Cadiz here; he might know more about relics of the Church."

[ussura] Vasili asks, "well, she wants you to be diplomatic and might have more details, right?"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "i got one question for tamara, but if there's more to this, i will be patient"

[ussura] Sebastien says (to Charles), "hee hee"

Charles says (to Tamara), "It seems there is more than just a simple war that may be coming between Ussura and Montaigne."

Tamara says, "Well. The Knias Douma is to meet in Pavtlow one month hence. I have my own method of getting there," she smiles wryly, and you remember that she can turn into the Firebird, "but it seems to me that if you all wanted to meet me there, we might be able to work something out. Pyotr, Borin v'Pscov will be there, and might be willing to grant you a pardon. Sebastien, you (and Alix, should you find him) might be able to act as go-betweens should the possibility of peace talks arise. Era and Raelynn, you may wish to be there as well. There is a matter I must attend to for which... well, I should be greatful for your assistance. I will talk to you more about that anon. Vasili, you are free to go; I thank you that in the end, you chose to side with the law instead of siding with lawlessness."

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Woo, pastebomb."

[ussura] Pyotr says, "wow"

Sebastien exclaims, "excellent!"

Era is stunned at the Firebird requesting her assistance.

Raelynn is puzzled, but flattered.

GM says, "A page runs in to the room, and hands Tamara a note."

Raelynn asks (of Tamara), "if I may, make a request?"

Raelynn stutters to a stop when she sees the page

GM says (to Raelynn), "She nods, as she reads the note."

[ussura] GM says (to R), "(go ahead)"

Raelynn says, "I received a letter from my father today, telling me that someone from home may be in Ussura, and may seek me out"

Raelynn says, "and he worries, and I am inclined to agree with him, that he may mean me harm"

Raelynn asks, "Might you be able to notify your authorities to take him in custody if they come across him?"

Raelynn says, "i would feel safer finding out why he is looking for me if he is in custody, rather than meeting him on the road"

Tamara smiles. "Most assuredly."

Raelynn hands Tamara a sketch that she'd made of Pierre so long ago when she was still home.

[Crows-Nest] Raelynn says, "all the mays and mights hurt my head"

Tamara takes the sketch and hands it to another page, who nods and runs out of the room.

Charles says (to Raelynn), "In the meantime, you've friends to protect you."

Tamara says, "Well! It seems that our spies are not without their usefu"

Tamara exclaims, "lness after all. Your Alexi has been found!"

GM says, "and </scene>"

[ussura] Sebastien says, "cool"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "oh yeah, Rae shows Sebastien the letter, especially the part about the attempt on the Emperor's life"

[ussura] Raelynn says, "at some point."

[ussura] GM says, "Sure."

[ussura] Charles asks, "And now you have to schedule an in-between session to work out how they found him, and why he doesn't have Devoe and Fleur with him?"

[ussura] Era says, "nice scene, nice wrap-up, nice cut, nice plot hooks . . . . I've missed gaming. :-)"

[ussura] Vasili says, "Fun. Gotta go, I'll check scrollback later."

[ussura] GM says, "Actually, I was indeed sort of thinking of doing a snippet of something with him on his own--I know some of the things that happen around him, but not how he'll react ;-)"

[ussura] Era exclaims, "sweet. see you guys in a couple of weeks!"

Era has disconnected.

[ussura] Raelynn says (to gm), "we won't be around for next session, but we will be around for the first session in november, whenever that is"

[ussura] Charles asks, "Cool. Should I close up Perry and send it off?"