[ussura] PerrySimm says, "Log on."
npc1 has connected.
npc2 has connected.
[ussura] GM exclaims (at Jota), "I do!"
Eolo has connected.
Vasili has connected.
[ussura] Sebastien says, "Sargent reported that he won't be here today"
[ussura] Vasili says, "arr"
[ussura] GM says, "Whoops, OK."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "Raelynn says hi"
[ussura] GM exclaims (at Raelynn), "Wave!"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "but will also not be logging in"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "hey, I guess we're all here then"
[ussura] GM exclaims, "So, the four of you!"
[ussura] GM says, "When we last left our intrepid adventurers, they were at a makeshift campground outside of burning Pavtlow."
Pyotr stares at the fires, and is reminded of roasting sausages over a campfire.
Sebastien says, "well, on the whole, this diplomatic negotiation went better than most"
Tamara says, "If you all seem to be safe, I must return to Gallenia. Should Aleksi decide to expand his power base, I must be ready for him."
Pyotr says (to Sebastien), "No wonder you were posted here, then."
[ussura] GM says, "Hee hee"
Sebastien says, "I imagine his ambitions will swiftly extend to cover all of Ussura, if they don't already"
Tamara nods solemly.
Sebastien asks, "and as for the rest of us, what now?"
Pyotr asks (of Tamara), "What of the other Knias?"
Tamara says, "Hmm."
Tamara says, "Staver would keep to himself if left alone. He may try to negotiate if pressed."
K-Y arrives, looking for booty.
Tamara says, "Similarly with Vladimir v'Pietrov in Molhyna. Though I doubt Aleksi wishes to cross paths with Koshchei."
Tamara says, "Somojez is at a critical juncture now, with Borin a weak leader (sorry, Borin), with an unclear future."
Vasili asks, "Why is everyone even still calling him that?"
Valerii says, "Oh, man. I can't remember the last time anyone called me Valerii."
Valerii sighs.
Sebastien looks between Vasili and Valerii.
[Crows-Nest] Valerii says, "More importantly, if I go be 'Borin' then there aren't two V-named people."
[Crows-Nest] Vasili says, "I see. Never mind then."
[Crows-Nest] Valerii says, "Hee"
Sebastien says, "well, if we make our bargain with this -- spirit, then presumably Somojez will have a stronger leader of some kind"
Tamara nods.
Tamara asks, "Your assistance in that matter would be greatly appreciated. Would you be willing to do so, should I negotiate with Montegue for your assistance?"
[Crows-Nest] Tamara says, "Also, your assistance."
Pyotr says, "Hmm, if we go back to Somojez, the Tyomny will be all over."
Vasili says, "You'd have to throw me back in jail to keep me from heading to St. Andresgorov."
Pyotr exclaims, "I love a challenge!"
Sebastien says, "well .."
Tamara smiles.
Sebastien looks at Alixandre.
Sebastien says, "I am not quite sure where duty calls me at this point"
Sebastien says, "though I am sure Alixandre would agree that a stable Ussura would be to the benefit of Montaigne as well"
Tamara says, "Well, you need not decide now. I believe the safest way to get Ketheryna to Somojez would be to send her with Montegue's army."
Tamara says, "As Aleksi controls the bulk of the Ussuran army in the area."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "hmm"
Ketheryna draws herself up. "I can take care of myself!"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "Aleksi knows Seb and Alix, obviously"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "and Ketheryna"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "but the rest of us are unknown and thus can sneak around the army a bit"
[ussura] Pyotr asks, "right?"
[ussura] Sebastien exclaims, "sneaky!"
[ussura] Vasili says, "sure, we probably aren't wanted out there yet."
Ketheryna puts her hand on her stomach. "Woah, excuse me..."
Ketheryna rushes off behind a tree.
Pyotr says, "Hmm, that sounds like... yes, that sounds like green cider. If she'd been drinking last weeks' vodka, it'd sound wetter"
(From GM) Era says, "
[ussura] GM says, "bah"
(From GM) Era says, "My brother is in the army, and might be able to get you connected there..."
[ussura] GM says (to Pyotr), "Hee"
Pyotr asks, "Maybe he can escort us?"
Pyotr says, "A few people can move faster than an army."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "I'm fine with the go-with-Montegue plan if everyone else wants to, though"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "I'm not sure that's actually what anyone is suggesting"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "I've suggested three options, then :)"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "or, well, ok"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "one thing is we need to keep an eye on Ketheryna"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "one thing is we need to go to the castle"
[ussura] GM says, "The main reason I have the go-with-Montegue plan is for Charles, really ;-) I'm fine with whatever option you all settle on."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "and (I guess) one thing we need to do is get Ketheryna to Somojez"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "I guess charles hasn't actually said anything"
[ussura] Vasili asks, "The castle is the capital of Somojez, right?"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "so perhaps his connection has blown up"
[ussura] GM says, "(And, right, the castle is in Somojez)"
[ussura] GM says (to Jota/Charles), "Hey, wake up."
[ussura] GM says, "The other thing you have to do for the drachen thread is to figure out *how* to wake it up."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "I was planning to shake it"
[ussura] GM says, "Heh."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "anyway"
[ussura] Vasili says, "well, if we can't figure it out once we get there, I'm sure its spirit skin will insult us and give us some cryptic hints."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "we can do some research into local legends when we're closer, I'd think"
[ussura] Pyotr says (to Vasili), "excellent plan"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "but ok, I guess we should skip Charles for now"
[ussura] Pyotr says (to Sebastien), "also excellent plan"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "so I vote we either take Ketheryna with us or leave her somewhere and head on to the castle"
[ussura] Pyotr asks, "while we wait for Charles, have we gained any XP since episode 11?"
[ussura] GM asks, "Oh, did I forget to give you any last time?"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "it's not mentioned on the page"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "it looks like 12 & 13 don't have xp"
[ussura] GM says, "Hey, look at that."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "I was just curious"
[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, take 7 XP for the two of 'em."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "thanks"
Pyotr asks (of Era), "So, is your brother around here? Does he want to desert and head to Somojez with us?"
[ussura] GM says, "I'll figure out the particulars tonight."
(From GM) Era says, "I think he figured out that the mission we rescued him from was an intentional suicide mission from Aleksi. So he'd probably be up for whatever you suggested as long as it was against him.
Vasili says, "Whatever Alexsi's next move is, I think the safest thing might be sticking with the Montaignes at first."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "mumble"
Pyotr says, "Okay, so let's go with them, take Era's brother for camoflague after we leave them, and do it."
Pyotr swings his pack onto his back.
Tamara says, "Well, I must be going. I will... miss you all. It isn't very often that people speak the truth so consistently willingly in my presence. It was... refreshing. I will speak with Montegue before I leave."
Sebastien says, "it has been an exciting experience for all concerned"
Sebastien starts folding his few remaining handkerchiefs back into their traveling case.
Tamara says, "I will send what support I can should you require it."
Tamara transforms into a tower of flame, which rises and flies off.
Pyotr says, "Nice trick."
Sebastien says, "goodness"
Sebastien says, "showy exit"
[ussura] Sebastien asks, "ok, I can't dig up how much xp we got from season 1 -- anyone remember?"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "80, I think"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "oh, no, 40"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "ok, cool"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "and the other 40 was from character creation"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "I think that's right"
[ussura] GM says, "http://strackenz.spod-central.org/~lpsmith/rpg/transcripts/ussura/"
[ussura] GM says, "Says 40 from during season 1."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "great, then I can work out where in this season I last totalled my xp"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "and this time I will write down the episode number"
[ussura] GM says, "Heh."
Pyotr says, "Let's see, Montegue's army is...that way."
Pyotr starts walking. "I hope he can loan us horses."
GM says, "And with that, you tromp on to the southwest."
Sebastien whistles as he walks.
[ussura] GM says, "And arr crap no Charles. I was vaguely planning on him being one of the focuses of today."
GM says, "The group of you is actually somewhat large. There's the seven of you, plus Ketheryna and her handmaiden, Efrem and a few of his buddies who have defected from Aleksi's army, Borin/Valerii, and some of the dancers from the ballet that some of you rescued (the others you sent off to the north to join their parents heading north; the orphans refused to leave Ketheryna.)"
GM says, "You also find..."
Lande exclaims, "You!"
Pyotr asks, "So, a marching song. Anyone else know 'The Bonny Shepherdess'?"
Sebastien says, "I'm shocked you're not more pleased to see us"
Vasili says, "What? That's a kids' song... Whoa, wait, now that I think about it, it's really not just a kids' song."
Lande grumbles, "I guess it's safer in a group..."
[ussura] GM says (to V), "Hee hee"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"
Pyotr says (to Vasili), "I guess we'll have to get them drunk to sing it."
Lande says (to Sebastien), "I suppose you couldn't manage to negotiate that peace treaty you were so hip on."
Pyotr starts roaring out "My Love Lies On The Seventh Sea" at the top of his (tone-deaf) lungs.
Lande cringes.
Sebastien says, "on the contrary, we had it signed and everything"
Sebastien says, "the mere fact of the dissolution of the existing political system with which we signed it does not detract from our diplomatic achievement"
Pyotr exclaims (at Lande), "You know this song, do you not? It's a classic!"
Sebastien says, "oh, yes, Landre is extremely fond of music"
Lande says (to Pyotr), "I knew three versions of that song."
Pyotr tries to get everyone to join in on the chorus: Oh, my love lies on the Seventh Sea / My love, she is so far away // My love lies on the Seventh Sea / So I shall not see her todaaaaaaaaay!
Pyotr sniffs. "So sad."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "a mere 38 additional xp and I will be a master of gallegos"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "I guess I should raise my exploit weakness knack as part of that"
Lande says (to Pyotr), "Well, that makes a fourth."
Sebastien says, "I hope that song isn't autobiographical"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay, I'm done annoying the Evil Diplomat"
[Crows-Nest] Lande says, "Hee"
Pyotr says (to Sebastien), "Let's see, I've left my love in...well, I won't mention that place in mixed company, and then there was...no, that either, really."
Lande asks (of Pyotr), "Hmm, where did you learn that version?"
[ussura] Vasili says, "anybody whose tack is Diplomacy Through Dance can't be all that evil. An annoying jerk, OTOH, you decide."
Pyotr looks around, sees Era, Raelynn, and Ketheryna all standing together, and says, "I'll tell you later."
[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "www.dirtylyrics.ussura"
Lande swings around his pack and rustles through some papers in it. "Let's see... Ussuran animal tales, folk tales, mystery tales, aha! songs."
Pyotr says (to Lande), "My father used to sing it."
Pyotr says, "When mother wasn't around, of course. She always got a stelly glint in her eye and started sharpening the kitchen knives when she heard him singing it."
Lande pulls out a piece of paper and jots down a few notes on it. "And where was he from?"
Sebastien watches with interest.
Pyotr says, "Tischler, a small village in Somojez."
Vasili says, "They had a different second verse I heard a few times in Gallenia, but I don't really remember how it goes."
Pyotr says, "I'm the first one in the family in three generations to leave the village. Although I hope to be buried there, so I have to get back somday."
Lande nods.
Sebastien says (to Lande), "say, I don't suppose you have any Somojez folk tales there"
Sebastien says, "we've been discussing the topic since we were heading in that direction"
[Crows-Nest] (from Vasili) Lande says, "Just a stupid thing about 'The Dragon Waker'. No cohesion to the plot."
Lande asks (of Vasili), "That wouldn't be the one with the sirens, would it? 'My love fought with the sirens / and though they sang most sweet / she clapped herself in irons / and thus they got no meat' ?"
Lande says (to Sebastien), "Oh, sure."
Pyotr says, "Oh, I heard that one, when I was in Montaigne."
[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "hee hee"
Pyotr says, "But the guy who sang it, he was from...Eisen? Castille? I don't remember."
Fang arrives, looking for booty.
Vasili says, "Er, no, something about a ship so proud and strong. And away from meee -ee -ee."
Sebastien says (to Lande), "anything about the capitol or the castle? we'll probably go there first"
Lande rustles around some more. "Looks like that's exactly what my other source could remember, too."
Pyotr peers over Lande's shoulder at the papers, and then remembers that he can't read Montaigne.
Lande says (to Sebastien), ""There are a great many tales told of castles. You already saw 'The Sun, Moon, and Talia', of course."
[ussura] Vasili says, "let's just hope this other source had more complete information than we do"
Lande says, "Though I have at least 10 significantly different versions of that one."
Lande says, "And more with minor variations here an there."
Vasili asks, "How do you tell which is the right one?"
Lande says, "Wait, isn't the Somojez castle the one with the drachen? I have a particularly old tale with something like that."
Lande laughs. "The right one? The right tale is the tale you want to tell!"
Pyotr asks (of Lande), "What is the story about the drachen?"
Lande says, "It was a variation of 'The Snow Maiden'."
Vasili says, "Ah, good point. Now this sounds like the perfect tale for this journey."
Vasili stumbles over a root.
Pyotr says, "Brr, don't talk to _me_ about Snow Maidens. But tell about the drachen."
Lande says, "The Snow Maiden, of course, was made by an old childless couple who finally decided to create one out of snow, and it came to life."
Lande says, "There are a few different versions of that story."
Sebastien says, "yeah, we're pretty familiar with snow maidens"
Lande says, "In one, though, it's a village who's being terrorized by a drachen. They run out of young men, so they make one out of snow."
Sebastien asks, "to fight the drachen? or feed to it?"
Pyotr says (to Sebastien), "Not much difference, I bet."
[Crows-Nest] Fang says, "#tsd"
Lande says, "That one comes to life, rides against the drachen, and is destroyed by the drachen's fire. The east wind blows the cloud away. They build another, who is likewise destroyed, and the west wind blows the cloud away."
[Crows-Nest] Gunther says, "little drachen little drachen let me in"
Lande says, "So they build a maiden, who tricks the drachen, and causes it to fall asleep. And then that night, they celebrate, and as was traditional, they are leaping over the bonfire. The snow maiden leaps, but disappears into a cloud herself, and the south wind blows it away to the north."
Pyotr asks, "Hmm, how'd she trick it?"
Lande says, "She played her balalaika to soothe it, then gave it a magical tea to drink."
Pyotr says, "Hmm, interesting"
Sebastien says, "and then they built the castle around it, I suppose"
Lande says, "Right on top of it, right."
[ussura] GM says, "And I was going to write up the full tale this week, so I'll try to do that sooner rather than later."
Lande asks, "Well, Sebastien, I'm surprised--who knew you'd be interested in culture after all?"
Sebastien exclaims, "of course I'm interested in culture! it gives one something to talk about at dinner parties!"
Lande smirks.
[ussura] GM says, "Here's one of the original versions (without the drachen): http://clover.slavic.pitt.edu/tales/snow_maiden.html"
[ussura] Vasili says, "man, these are all from CMU or Pitt. Let me know if you need any research done in person."
[ussura] GM says, "Heh, cool."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "hrm"
[ussura] GM says, "Crap, still no Charles."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "I dunno what the deal was -- he said something right before we were going to start"
[Crows-Nest] Pyotr says, "we clearly will need magical coffee to wake the drachen"
[ussura] GM says, "Yeah, and logged Perry on."
[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Ha"
Rabbit_ races into the clearing, gets halfway, then stops short.
Rabbit_ transforms into a man.
Pyotr exclaims (at Raelynn), "Quick, give me a vegetable!"
Pyotr says, "Oh, too late."
Rabyn says, "Soldiers! Stop them, please..."
Rabyn transforms back into a rabbit, and takes off again.
Sebastien blinks.
Vasili asks, "What? Huh?"
Pyotr gets out his axe.
Pyotr says, "You heard the rabbit."
Vasili asks, "Sounds like he needs some help. But careful, okay?"
Sebastien asks, "did we know that guy?"
(From GM) (tromp tromp tromp)
Raelynn_ says (to Ketheryna), "We'd better hide you."
Raelynn_, Era, and Ketheryna all head off into the forest.
Vasili says, "I'll go see what's up" and scouts ahead.
GM says (to Vasili), "Roll stealth or something, with Wits."
Sebastien says (to Orphans), "you'd better go with with them"
Pyotr waves our soldiers to draw their swords and gather 'round.
[7thsea] Vasili rolls 8k4: 10+5 2 9 3 10+2 6 2 8 | 44
Pyotr says, "Okay, you two, over there. You three, on the right. The rest of you, stay back and make sure they don't surround us."
Sebastien says (to Lande), "you realize if you remain here there may be a certain amount of conflict"
[ussura] GM says, "Wow, nice."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "excellent"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "he is a stealthy dude"
[ussura] Vasili says, "gotta be unbelievable awesome at something"
[ussura] Sebastien exclaims, "but if you're really awesome at being stealthy, nobody will notice!"
Lande sighs. "Once again, I am forced to admit that I know your skills with a blade are superior. I will stay nearby."
Sebastien flicks a few specks of dust off his sleeves.
GM says (to Vasili), "You slip between the trees and disappear. You come across (but are not seen by) a group of 15 or so soldiers, all following a fox."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "hmm, a fox"
Vasili asks, "Heading along the road? Towards us?"
GM says, "The soldiers are garbed in Ussuran uniforms, with a new bright-red insignia on their shoulders."
GM says, "They're going cross-country, as you have been, and towards the clearing."
GM says, "You slip closer, and hide behind a tree as one walks past not two feet away. You get a good look at the insignia--it's a crimson wolf head on a black field."
Vasili listens, if any of them seem to be talking.
soldier says, "Won't be long now--looks like it's getting tired!" The rest of the group laugh roughly."
Vasili heads back at a slight angle, and thwacks a bush loudly halfway back.
[ussura] GM asks (of Vasili), "So that they'll follow you?"
[ussura] Vasili says, "yeah, to make sure they come this way and maybe draw them a little farther from their real prey."
soldier (distantly) "Hey, you hear that? I bet it's trying to double back!"
(From GM) (tromp tromp tromp)
Vasili pops back out from the forest. "Not sure what they're after, but they're wearing a Wolf symbol."
Vasili asks (of Pyotr), "Do we have a nice surprise ready for them?"
Pyotr says, "Okay, we know what that means."
Sebastien asks, "uniforms already, eh?"
Pyotr waves everyone to get ready.
Sebastien says, "well, I approve of their sartorial prioritization"
Vasili says (to Sebastien), "Well, the Ussuran uniform, with a little extra patch."
Vasili says, "Oh yeah, and a fox sorceror."
[ussura] Vasili says, "or -er"
[ussura] GM asks, "Do you want to hide and attack? Talk with them first?"
[ussura] GM says, "(afk a sec)"
Sebastien asks, "a fox, eh? like our friend what's-his-face?"
Pyotr says, "Okay, as soon as you see them, attack."
[ussura] Vasili says, "Oh yeah, him."
Vasili says, "Oh yeah, him."
Sebastien says, "Dak, right"
Sebastien says, "I suppose we could try to see what they are after, on the theory it might not be us"
[ussura] Vasili says, "I don't remember exactly what he did, but I remember I'm upset with him, so."
[ussura] Pyotr asks, "didn't he betray us to the Tyomny?"
Vasili says, "Probably the rabbit."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "I think he later -- yeah"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "in the capitol"
[ussura] Vasili says, "Or tried to, or something like that."
[ussura] Vasili says, "oh yeah, brought the guards to that pub."
[ussura] GM says, "(OK, back)"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "I'm in the "go ahead and fight the enemy soldiers now" mode, but I guess we could try bluff if you want to"
Pyotr says, "Once we take out these guys, we'll gra their patches and do some disguises."
[ussura] GM asks, "You all set?"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "I am"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "axe all waving up in the air."
[ussura] Vasili says, "I think ambush is the decision here."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "ready to start screaming and charging"
Sebastien says, "perhaps I will make a stand in the center of the clearing here and attempt to start a discussion"
Vasili says, "If you think it'll help confuse them."
Sebastien says, "and then if it turns out they don't want to discuss you can feel free to emerge"
Pyotr waves everyone into the bushes.
GM says, "Vasili hides easily, already knowing how these guys react."
[ussura] GM says, "Pyotr, roll stealth for you and the other guys."
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 4k2: 4 9 4 8 | 17
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 1k1: 9 | 9
[ussura] Pyotr says, "and a drama"
[ussura] GM says, "26 total? Nice."
Vasili says (to Pyotr), "Psst, that tree's not a third as thick as you are. Try the oak."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"
[ussura] GM laughs.
[ussura] Sebastien says, "Raelynn would no doubt say it is exactly as thick as he is"
soldier emerges into the clearing and stops, surprised to find a Montaignian fop there.
Sebastien doffs his cap politely.
[ussura] Pyotr says, "ha"
Sebastien says, "I heard your party approaching and thought it would be best to stop and see if I could assist you in your inquiries"
[Crows-Nest] Vasili says, "Greetings. I'm here representing my new client, Msr. Rabbit."
[Crows-Nest] Sebastien says, "ha ha"
soldier asks, "You see a rabbit come through here?"
Sebastien says, "a rabbit? normally I am only interested in rabbits insofar as they appear on the dinner plate, but I believe I saw one heading that way (pointing past Pyotr's tree)"
Sebastien asks, "are you interested in this rabbit for any particular reason?"
Sebastien says, "besides a good meal, that is"
soldier says, "Yeah, that's it. Dinner."
soldier and his companions laugh.
soldier asks, "You and your kind are gettin' out of Ussura, you hear?"
Sebastien says, "I have heard certain reports of this, yes"
Sebastien says, "though I am given to understand that Montegue still has rather a large army here"
soldier exclaims, "Yeah, we been given' em a pass. But no more!"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "ooh, more on the sabotage"
soldier exclaims, "Too bad yer not a rabbit! You could run away with your tail between yer legs!"
Sebastien says, "it is true this is a deficit which I am unable to easily remedy"
soldier says, "Haw haw."
Vasili says, "No, that's dogs. Rabbits run with their tails up."
[ussura] GM asks, "You're revealing yourself?"
[ussura] Vasili says, "Sure."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "don't see why not"
soldier spins around. "Hey, it's another one!"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "especially if there's just a guy or two here"
Pyotr says, "I saw a hare run like that once."
Pyotr steps out, too.
[ussura] GM says, "Whoops, no, it's the group."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "that's also fine"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "enh well, pyotr can handle it"
[ussura] GM says, "Hee."
Vasili asks, "Another what?"
soldier cries with mock alarm, "Oh, no, we're surrounded!"
soldier says, "Rabbits all around us what will we do."
Sebastien says, "well, there are three of us, so I believe we have you outnumbered"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "(as is traditional to say on these occasions)"
Pyotr says (to Soldiers), "You could be alone here with me and I'd still have you surrounded."
[ussura] Sebastien says, ""yo momma so fat ..""
soldier says (to Pyotr), "Careful with that thing, it looks sharp."
Pyotr exclaims, "Allow me to demonstrate!"
Vasili says, "He just had it sharpened!"
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 8k4: 7 10+5 9 3 8 1 1 5 | 39
soldier exclaims, "Well, you guys aint worth... ack!"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "aiming directly for the head"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "as many raises as that takes, let me know if I need to add drama"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "(don't forget my free raise, though)"
[ussura] soldier says, "Nah, you totally got him. Go ahead and rp."
Pyotr swings his axe through the air, bringing the sharp bit down into the soldier's forehead.
soldiers says, "To arms! *attacks*"
Vasili says, "Oooh, clean cut. So to speak."
Pyotr puts his foot on the soldier's chest to pull the axe back out.
Pyotr asks, "Next?"
GM exclaims, "Initiative!"
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 3 dice: 9 3 2
[7thsea] Sebastien rolls 3 dice: 1 9 4
[ussura] Pyotr says, "re-roll the 9"
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 1 die: 8
[7thsea] Vasili rolls 3 dice: 8 4 6
[ussura] Vasili asks, "is the fox here?"
[7thsea] soldiers rolls 3 dice: 9 5 1
[ussura] Sebastien says, "oh yeah, good idea"
[ussura] GM says, "No, you don't see a fox. There are (now) 15 soldiers in three groups of five, each of which attacks one of you."
[ussura] Pyotr asks, "what about our soldiers?"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "Efrem and co"
[ussura] Vasili says, "they took Seb a bit too literally when he said we already had them outnumbered."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "our own tiny brute squads"
[ussura] GM says (to Pyotr), "Let's say they're fighting with you, so you get an extra unkept die for your attack and damage rolls."
[ussura] Sebastien asks, "you = all of us?"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay"
[ussura] GM says, "I was thinking just Pyotr, unless you all wanted a slightly smaller bonus."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "nah, s'fine"
[ussura] GM exclaims, "Alrighty! Phase 1!"
[ussura] GM says, "Seb and the soldiers."
[ussura] GM asks, "Hmm, higher total goes first?"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah"
[ussura] GM says, "That's slightly them, then."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "good thing I raised my parry to 4 at the start of the session"
soldiers attack sebastien!
[7thsea] soldiers rolls 5k3: 1 1 7 10+10+7 5 | 39
[ussura] Sebastien exclaims, "crikey!"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "wow"
[ussura] Sebastien asks, "actually, how does this active defense thing work? can I spend my single this-phase action to parry? or do I need two since the action hasn't come up yet?"
[ussura] soldiers asks, "You had a TN of 25?"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah"
[ussura] soldiers says, "Yeah, you can spend your current action to parry."
[ussura] Vasili says, "you can use the current phase die"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "ok, hmm"
[ussura] soldiers says, "And do your special thingy too, I believe."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah, I will use my crazy riposte thing"
[ussura] Vasili asks, "hm, I guess I have no wounds left from the downtown wolf fight?"
[ussura] soldiers says, "That was it."
[ussura] soldiers says, "Go for it! You have to beat the 39, I presume."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "ok, so if I allocate 3 riposte dice to defense and 2 to attack, and I throw in a drama die as well, I can roll, uh, 10k5"
[7thsea] Sebastien rolls 10k5: 7 9 5 10+1 8 6 10+8 5 9 1 | 55
[ussura] Sebastien says, "-- and since I did that, now I can make a free attack"
[7thsea] Sebastien rolls 7k4: 6 9 8 7 3 1 3 | 30
[ussura] Pyotr says, "nice"
[ussura] GM says, "Wow, ha."
[ussura] GM exclaims, "And that's a hit!"
Sebastien dodges between two soldiers, then ducks at the last minute and one skewers the other.
Sebastien exclaims, "ha-ha!"
[ussura] GM exclaims, "Nice!"
[ussura] GM says, "The others attack the other two of you."
soldiers rush Pyotr for taking out their friend!
[7thsea] soldiers rolls 5k3: 9 7 7 3 4 | 23
Pyotr contemptuously steps aside as they rush past.
Pyotr trips, and they hit anyway.
[ussura] soldiers asks, "You had a TN 25?"
[ussura] soldiers says, "Oh, right."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "no, I misremembered the math"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "and quickly corrected :)"
[ussura] Vasili asks, "aren't you supposed to at least flourish your sword when Riposting?"
[ussura] soldiers says, "6 damage! Roll a brawn check ;-)"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "(gotta up my Parry Axe)"
[ussura] Vasili asks, "what, they're using fisticuffs?"
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 4k4: 1 2 2 8 | 13
[ussura] Sebastien says (to Vasili), "well yeah, technically, but oh well"
[ussura] GM says (to V), "No, 'Medium weapons'."
[ussura] GM says, "Which do 6 damage for a hit, plus another 6 for every 5 they beat you by."
[ussura] Vasili says, "now watch, my first stab will be 5 damage."
[ussura] GM says, "You survive! Go ahead and rp."
[ussura] GM says, "(and, meanwhile:)"
soldiers surround Vasili's tree as they attack him en masse!
[7thsea] soldiers rolls 5k3: 3 2 7 3 2 | 13
soldiers manage to hit the tree more than Vasili, as he dodges expertly.
Vasili slips around to the next tree.
[ussura] GM exclaims, "And, phase 3/4: Pyotr!"
Pyotr says, "is that all you can do? No wonder Montegue came to Pavtlow."
[ussura] Pyotr asks, "2/3?"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "anyway"
[ussura] GM says, "Whoops, you are correct."
[ussura] Pyotr asks, "how many in my group? 5?"
[ussura] GM says, "Right."
[ussura] GM says, "TN 25, seems like."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "I'm attacking three, so that's my free raise plus another more raise, for 30"
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 8k3: 1 10+3 2 1 4 4 6 6 | 25
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 1k1: 7 | 7
[ussura] GM says, "Good--don't forget your extra die for attacking."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "it's in there. I think I also screwed up my earlier attack by one die"
[ussura] GM says, "Gotcha."
[ussura] GM says, "That's a success! Go ahead and rp."
Pyotr dodges behind the soldiers, and drops three of them with well-placed cuts to the hamstring.
[ussura] GM says, "And, phase 3, Pyotr again."
[ussura] Pyotr exclaims, "the other two!"
soldiers curse as they are laid waste by Pyotr's axe.
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 8k3: 8 9 1 1 4 10+1 1 9 | 29
Pyotr finishes the circle and gets the last two.
[ussura] GM says, "Phase 4! Sebastien and Vasili."
[ussura] GM says, "Sebastien has 4 on him, 5 on Vasili."
[ussura] Sebastien asks, "I will attack 3, I guess -- what's the TN for that? 35?"
[ussura] GM says, "Correct."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "hmm, I'd better throw in another drama die for that"
Sebastien says, "now then, I believe it's my shot"
[7thsea] Sebastien rolls 9k5: 9 2 10+7 7 9 8 3 6 2 | 50
[ussura] Pyotr says, "nice"
Sebastien's blade whips out and three of the soldiers are suddenly on their backs on the ground.
[ussura] GM exclaims, "Vasili!"
Vasili says, "You're losing friends pretty fast out there."
Vasili attacks just one.
[7thsea] Vasili rolls 6k3: 1 1 9 6 7 4 | 22
Vasili asks, "But we can take our time. Speaking of friends, didn't I see a fox with you when I was spying earlier?"
soldiers laugh as they manage to avoid Vasili's blade.
soldiers says, "He's probably off killing the other rabbits."
[ussura] GM exclaims, "Phase 5: the soldiers!"
GM says, "The solitary soldier still fighting sebastien breaks away to join the larger group, and they all try to skewer Vasili."
[7thsea] soldiers rolls 6k3: 7 10+6 1 5 2 4 | 28
[ussura] Vasili says, "hit"
[ussura] GM says, "Assuming your TN is 20, that's 12 flesh wounds."
Sebastien exclaims, "hey! I resent the implication of our relative importance there!"
[ussura] Vasili says, "25, so just 6."
[ussura] GM exclaims, "Aha, OK. Wound check!"
[7thsea] Vasili rolls 3k3: 5 6 1 | 12
Vasili asks, "Erk. Man, what do you guys have against rabbits?"
soldiers manage to nick Vasili's arm as they press in around him.
soldiers exclaims, "Traitors to the people must die!"
[ussura] GM says, "Phase 6! Vasili."
Vasili swipes at the one who said that.
[7thsea] Vasili rolls 6k3: 3 8 3 4 1 2 | 15
Vasili says, "The way I see it, the traitor today is a Wolf."
soldier cackles.
soldier exclaims, "The wolf understands the people, and knows what it is like to be oppressed!"
[ussura] GM exclaims, "Phase 7 is nobody; phase 8 is Pyotr and V!"
Pyotr runs over to help Vasili.
[ussura] Pyotr says, "going for two"
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 8k3: 10+4 2 3 6 7 6 5 1 | 27
Vasili says, "I've got them all in one place for you."
[ussura] GM exclaims, "With your free raise, that's a hit!"
Pyotr comes up behind two of the soldiers and drops them.
Vasili tries for loud-mouth again.
[7thsea] Vasili rolls 6k3: 6 7 5 1 5 9 | 22
[ussura] Sebastien says, "you gotta start throwing in some drama dice here"
Vasili says, "Please stay near the swinging axe while I wave this knife at you."
[ussura] Vasili says, "enh, why? :)"
soldier says, "Yeah, that's likely."
[ussura] GM says, "Phase 9! Sebastien and soldiers; Simultaneous, but I'll roll the soldiers first."
[7thsea] soldier rolls 4k3: 1 6 5 6 | 17
soldiers (now only a group of 4) stab ineffectively at Vasili.
soldiers asks, "Where do these trees keep coming from?"
Sebastien says, "it seems hardly sporting for me to attack you from behind, but on the other hand, you did turn your backs on me yourself"
Vasili says, "See, now you're going to have to explain about the rabbits after being mortally wounded, which I'm sure will be more difficult for you."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "I will attack two"
[7thsea] Sebastien rolls 8k4: 6 10+3 7 6 6 6 10+1 6 | 37
[ussura] GM exclaims, "You get 'em!"
Sebastien's arm sweeps out, and knocks two heads together with the flat of his blade.
Sebastien says, "*now* maybe I can get some attention here"
[ussura] GM says, "And that leaves exactly two, which do an interrupt action the next round to give up."
Pyotr exclaims (at Soldiers), "_Now_ we have you surrounded!"
[ussura] Sebastien says (to Pyotr), "ha ha ha"
soldier says, "OK, OK."
Vasili asks, "So which way is that fox?"
soldier says, "Gloat while you can."
Sebastien says, "we often do"
Sebastien says, "sometimes we gloat when we can't"
Pyotr says, "I'm really more of a leer-er, but you're nothing to leer home about."
soldier says (to Vasili), "*shrug*"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "too bad all the people who can change into birds and go look for the fox aren't here"
Vasili asks, "Wrong answer. But one more free try. What were you all up to?"
soldier says, "We were after the rabbit, like we said."
soldier says, "The fox was tracking it for us."
Vasili asks, "Well, Pyotr, Alix, feel like tracking a fox?"
Sebastien says, "or a rabbit, I suppose"
Pyotr says, "Let's go."
[ussura] Vasili says, "oh, and Era, also not here."
Pyotr says (to Efrem), "Tie these guys up."
Pyotr says, "We'll be right back."
Efrem says, "Right."
Pyotr takes Efrem aside, "Also, grab the shoulder patches off the dead ones, okay?"
Sebastien says, "guess we'd better check on Era"
[ussura] Pyotr asks, "so my tracking is 2. what's the trait?"
[ussura] Vasili says, "check ... oh yeah, she's also not here IC."
[ussura] GM says, "Wits"
Efrem nods.
[7thsea] Pyotr rolls 4k2: 3 10+6 2 6 | 22
[ussura] Sebastien says, "if Era was here OOC no way she'd have missed this IC"
Pyotr says, "Let's see, fox prints..."
Era_ asks, "Man, that was *it*? What did we run away for?"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"
Era_ grumbles.
Sebastien says, "well, you know, we were relying on you to take care of K"
Vasili says, "We still have a fox to find."
Sebastien says, "just in case there was an ambush"
Vasili asks, "maybe one of you with the good nose could track the rabbit it was following, since we know where we last saw him?"
GM says (to Pyotr), "You find the fox's tracks relatively easily in the snow--you pick it up from where Vasili found them. It diverges from the main group and follows a set of rabbit prints, then comes back somewhat near the clearing again, where he obviously sat for a bit, then turned and ran back the direction it came from."
Pyotr exclaims, "Hmm, here we go!"
Era_ says, "Sigh, I know."
Pyotr says, "And the rabbit went..."
Sebastien says, "hmm"
Pyotr exclaims, "That way!"
Sebastien asks, "so should we follow the fox or the rabbit?"
Sebastien asks, "or is the fox following the rabbit?"
Pyotr says, "We should move quick, that fox will probably bring more soldiers."
Vasili asks, "Think we can catch him?"
Pyotr says, "Hmm, we do have longer legs."
Pyotr says, "But if we don't, we're in the middle of Aleksi's camp."
[ussura] Pyotr waits to see if the GM activates his hubris.
[ussura] GM says, "Ha ha ha"
[ussura] GM says, "OK, if we had more time today I probably would."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "heh"
[ussura] GM says, "But yeah, with only 20 more minutes, it'd probably be a pain to start the next session split up."
Pyotr says, "Okay, the rabbit's probably long gone, let's keep going."
Pyotr says, "Quickly, now."
Vasili says, "No, wait."
Pyotr asks, "Yeah?"
Vasili says, "They said the rabbit was starting to slow down, and he's the only one who seems likely to explain what all this is about."
[ussura] GM says, "(the fox's tracks (now) lead east, which is where they came from. The rabbit's tracks lead SW.)"
Vasili says, "So he might be nearby."
Pyotr says, "Okay."
Sebastien says, "if the rabbit's travelling more or less in the direction we want to go, we could follow it"
Pyotr follows the rabbit tracks at a run.
Vasili says, "But looks he's off the same way we're head..."
[ussura] Pyotr exclaims, "tired of talking!"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"
Sebastien says, "right, here we go"
Vasili says, "Or we could skip rejoining the group at the clearing."
Vasili keeps up as well as he can.
GM tosses a drama die to the three of you.
[ussura] Sebastien says, "woo"
GM says, "About a half-hour later, you manage to catch up with Rabyn, who's holed up under a log."
[ussura] Sebastien asks, "we haven't met Rabyn before today, have we?"
[ussura] GM says, "No."
Vasili says, "Ah, there you are. We took care of them."
Rabyn says, "Whew. I thank you."
Pyotr asks, "Why don't you come with us until we're out of this area?"
Rabyn crawls out and transforms back into a man.
Pyotr says, "We'd like to get away from those guys, too."
Rabyn asks, "Where are you going?"
Pyotr asks, "Immediately, or long-term?"
Pyotr says, "Away, and Somojez."
Vasili says, "First off, to meet up with Montegue"
Rabyn says, "Either, I suppose."
Vasili says, "It's a busy schedule."
Rabyn blinks.
[ussura] Pyotr says, "do we need to tell everyone we're meeting the invading arm...okay, I guess so"
Rabyn asks, "Montegue? He's... safe?"
Pyotr says, "Safish."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "safe? no. but he's *good*"
Vasili says, "Much safer than the other army hereabouts."
[Crows-Nest] Rabyn says, "Yay"
Pyotr says, "We know him somewhat."
[ussura] Vasili says, "YAY"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "excellent"
Gunther disappears through an invisible gap in the MUD. You think you may have heard the sounds of chatting before the gap closed again.
Vasili asks, "So what got you in trouble with the Wolf guys?"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "(I'm about to afk for alimbedtime. anything else I'm needed for?)"
Rabyn's eyes narrow. "Aleksi has declared that Matushka has abandoned her people, and that Wolf our true protector now. They are rounding up the nobility and offering them the choice of death or servitude to 'the people' in the name of the Wolf. I refused, and managed to escape.
[Crows-Nest] Rabyn says, "Nah, we're almost done."
[ussura] Vasili says, "if we need anything or anyone else chopped up, we'll just assume you can do it."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "awesome"
Gaspard's hand suddenly reaches out of nowhere to grab the stone in Sebastien's pocket, and the rest of him emerges from a rift.
Pyotr exclaims, "Ya!"
Pyotr steps back and raises his axe.
Sebastien says, "oh! yes, sorry, I should have mentioned this"
Sebastien says, "this is Gaspard, Montegue's assistant"
Vasili says, "You said they weren't going to do that any more!"
Sebastien says, "...which means you should put the axe down, Pyotr"
Gaspard says, "Hello! Don't kill me."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "I see Gaspard is getting the hang of interacting with us"
[ussura] GM says, "Hee hee"
[ussura] Vasili says, "it's just like when you met Charles"
Rabyn starts, and half-transforms into a rabbit again, before realizing that everything's OK, and transforming back.
[ussura] Vasili says, "except with a more immediately deadly weapon"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "ha ha"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "good point"
Sebastien asks (of Gaspard), "so, just checking in? or is there news?"
Sebastien says, "if not, you may want to pass the word back that Aleksi's men now have uniforms"
Sebastien says, "...some of which we appropriated"
Gaspard says (to Sebastien), "A bit of both."
Gaspard nods.
Gaspard says, "None of the supply mages have appeared in the last day, and Montegue worries that L'Empereur may be cutting him off."
Gaspard says, "It is good that you negotiated with the locals for supplies; they may be all we have."
Sebastien says, "let us hope this continues to hold"
Gaspard says, "Are you close? The army has already begun to move out, though of course moving that many men takes time."
Sebastien says, "I, er, I admit I'm not exactly sure where we are"
Sebastien looks around vaguely.
(From GM) Pyotr looks at the sky. "Eight hour's ride; 12 hour's march."
Sebastien says, "ah good"
[Crows-Nest] (from Vasili) Pyotr then chops up his astrolabe.
Gaspard says, "I'll tell him you'll catch up with us tomorrow, then."
Sebastien says, "please do"
[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Hee hee"
Sebastien says, "I was wondering if perhaps the dancers might wish to go to Montaigne with you, if there was room"
Vasili frowns. "Do you absolutely need to open another hole and get back right away?"
Sebastien says, "though naturally I could not speak for Lande as to whether he would feel himself welcome there"
Gaspard says, "If you would agree to negotiate with the individual villages for suplies, I'm sure he would do whatever you liked."
Rabyn asks (of Gaspard), "Would he provide sanctuary for those being oppressed by Aleksi's forces?"
Gaspard thinks.
[ussura] Pyotr says, "(back)"
Gaspard asks (of Rabyn), "Would they be willing to provide some supplies themselves? Or convince others to help?"
Vasili mumbles, "Now this is sounding like a plan."
[ussura] Vasili asks, "Our NPCs solve each others' problems. How awesome is that?"
[ussura] GM says, "Heh."
[ussura] Pyotr says, "heh"
Rabyn says, "It's possible..."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "hee hee"
Rabyn asks (of Pyotr), "Can this man be trusted?"
Pyotr says, "I don't know him, but Montegue is a man of his word."
Pyotr says, "And so Montegue's man should be trustworthy."
Rabyn asks (of Sebastien), "Can I have your guarantee that this agreement will be honored?"
Sebastien says, "I can give you my word that I will do my best to see it carried out"
Sebastien says, "though I must admit my official position here is a bit unclear"
Rabyn says, "That will have to be enough. I will inform what others I can."
Rabyn transforms back into a rabbit and hops off into the forest.
Gaspard says, "I don't think I'll ever get used to that."
Vasili says, "It's much better than hands popping out of nowhere."
Gaspard says, "Heh. I suppose you have a point."
Vasili says, "And when you really must use those holes here in Ussura, have a weapon ready, in case something tries to follow you."
Gaspard bows to Vasili. "I do apologize for my method of transportation, but communications are critical to Montegue at this point, and I must inform him of what is happening. If only so he's not surprised when descended on by an entire warren.
Gaspard frowns. "Yes, I've been told about that. Very disturbing."
Vasili says, "I understood. It's just that I think that's the first time I saw a hole when a creature didn't come out right afterward."
Gaspard involuntarily turns and looks behind him.
Vasili says, "Well, I guess the one time, it was trying to get back in."
Pyotr waves to Rae to come "fix" this hole.
[ussura] GM says, "And with that, we'll call it a session."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "cool"
[ussura] GM says, "And hopefully Jota will actually have an intact log from Perry."
[ussura] GM asks, "I'll post on the forums about schedule--DCC's the 12th, right?"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "let me try and grab a log"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay, I've got...something, in case Perry didn't"
[ussura] Sebastien says, "although I suppose we could try for the 13th if necessary"
[ussura] Pyotr says, "okay, it starts with the greetings, so that's good. I'll just mail it to you."
[ussura] Vasili says, "another fun session, once things got moving."
[ussura] Sebastien says, "yeah, good stuff"
Pyotr has disconnected.
Pyotr goes home.
K-Y disappears through an invisible gap in the MUD. You think you may have heard the sounds of chatting before the gap closed again.
[ussura] katre says, "yeah, fun"
Eolo has disconnected.
[ussura] Vasili says, "Does Raelynn understand most of the stuff in that web-spoiler about the new sorcery? If so, she might want to give Gaspard something blooded and handle further communication."
[ussura] Vasili says, "or just to have more options. I guess she only has so many items, though."
[ussura] katre says, "she says her third blooded item is still in a bug's head somewhere"
[ussura] inky says, "yeah"
[ussura] katre says, "and so she can't nlood anything new"
[ussura] inky says, "but she could give her ring or her dagger"
[ussura] (from katre) Raelynn gives gaspard the ring and says, "Don't take this to mean anything untoward."
[ussura] inky says, "ha ha"
[ussura] Vasili says, "well, she can always release a link, and I'm not sure tracking the bug's head is going to do anything pleasant. But up to her."
Vasili has disconnected.
GM has disconnected.
npc1 has disconnected.
npc2 has disconnected.
[ussura] lpsmith says, "#belated, but yes, Raelynn now knows the basics of what's in the alterna-porte rule page."
[ussura] lpsmith says, "Also, I believe she can blood more things if she goes up in that knack."
[ussura] lpsmith says, "Whoops, I see I'm wrong."