(Arc 2-1) Sea elves, strange octupi and a lead to the city.

[Anastasia]

> It's a cloudy but not too dark day. Cool and windy is how the party meets at the pier, ships being build and coming and going. A loud Priest of Gond has ten workers hauling large planks of wood about, as the party gathers.
* Seira stands at the harbor, foregoing her usual suit of armor. A navy blue cloak keeps her features mostly hidden, though its hood it down.
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Relocating to work. -=SysReset 2.53=-)
<Shamal> Not being on duty, Shamal is dressed in less flashy clothes than normal, wearing a simple blue peasant dress with a white shawl over to keep the wind off. Flopsy is along today as well, being kept safe in his owner's arms as she joins Seira, idly glancing into the water by the side as she walks along the dock towards her half-elf friend.
<Shamal> "Good afternoon, Seira," Shamal smiles warmly to the other woman. "Don't suppose you've seen anything yet, no?"
> The water is deep green and uneventful, deep depths hinted at already.As youw alk by, you can hear the noise, "Hurry up, you lazy dogs! Between this and the ruins excavations you're note ven making good time!" The noise of the harbor surrounds you, loud and in time with the lapping of the water against the docks.
<Seira> "Unfortunately, no," Seira responds. "Can you tell me more about the circumstances of that sighting?"
<Shamal> "Of course," the blonde nods. "It was over here," she starts towards where they met Colonel Khardon the other day, "And I saw it about sixty feet deep - it swam around and went under the pier, and then of course I was distracted by the arrival of our distinguished guest so lost track..."
<Seira> "Was it swimming on any particular route?"
* Shamal shakes her head. "Not particularly, although I didn't see it for long," she admits, starting to continue along the harbour and towards the barrier wall so she can head out closer to sea.
> The way is filled with people, passed by. Loud people, quiet people, sailors. A few whisles come as you pass by, but nothing too serious.
> The sea is moving a bit today with the wind, a soft but steady prechurning to it. Perhaps a storm brews, or the water is impatient?
* Shamal pauses, licking her finger and holding it up as she gauges the wind, also looking to the horizon as she tries to get an idea of how the weather will turn.
<Seira> "Did it come near enough to any vessel to warrant us searching said ship for clues, or questioning its crew?" Seira asks, looking around attentively.
<Shamal> roll 1d20+11
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+11 and gets 12."12 [1d20=1]
> The wind is blowing from the land toward towards the ocean. It's slightly chilly. But no idea on how the weather is going to turn.
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
<Shamal> "Not that I saw," Shamal shakes her head, continuing onto the sea barrier and towards the harbour mouth. "I expect asking people would only get us strange looks, truthfully." As she walks she keeps an eye on the water, looking for anything unusual, or even something mundane like a sealion or somesuch.
> OOC - Spot check.
<Seira> roll 1d20+3
* Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+3 and gets 20."12 [1d20=17]
<Shamal> roll 1d20+9
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+9 and gets 12."12 [1d20=3]
<Shamal> OOC: I'll take my Alertness reroll. Thanks, Flopsy!
<Shamal> roll 1d20+9
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+9 and gets 19."12 [1d20=10]
> OOC - Okay.
> Shamal sees that the water is green and mostly clear. A few fish can be seen squirting about deeper down. A blessing of the natural harbor and the pure water, but Seira sees a little more. A few larger fish and the like after a few minutes of looking...OOC - You can keep going, move and look or do whatever.
<Seira> "We should keep on the move and try examining the sea from different directions," Seira proposes. "Should that fail to bring results, we could ask the sailors for any accounts of this sea elf."
<Shamal> "Yes," Shamal nods. "I've prepared a spell that will let me ask the animals as well, though I would prefer not to use it on a fish if I can help it. They make poor conversationalists," she shakes her head sadly, reaching the end of the barrier and taking a look around before starting back the way she came.
> OOC - Go ahead and make another round fo spot checks, I think.
<Shamal> roll 1d20+9
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+9 and gets 24."12 [1d20=15]
<Seira> roll 1d20+3 I can't beat that!
* Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+3 I can't beat that! and gets 23."12 [1d20=20]
> For a half hour you walk around, seeing the wavesa nd the ocean! It's only at the end of it does any luck come! AT the end of aharbor you pass by an unloading ship. Sailosr take off trade goods, while rich dressed merchants step off. You can hear chatter about the Desert Fiefdoms being beastly hot as Seira and Shamal see it. About 80 feet down, as far as they can make out - the faintest hint of something blue in the green water...
<Seira> "Do you see it, too?" Seira mumurs, observing the phenomenon.
<Shamal> "Oh, I think I see something!" Shamal exclaims, settling Flopsy into the crook of her arm while she uses the other to gesture as she incants, "Playful swimmer of Thalasia, heed my call! Go and say hello to the swimmer down below!"
<Shamal> OOC: casting Summon Monster I to summon a Celestial Porpoise - it's only around for one round, but I'm sending it down to hopefully get the thing's attention and swim back up. Celestial creatures have int scores and can speak, if it matters.
> A purpoise with a slghtly golden, metallic hint appears in the water! "Yes, mistress!" It calls in a slippery sea voice as you see it plunge down into the water! Down it goes, swimming rapidly in the time it has! You can just make it out, getting to the bottom and to the mark of blue! You can see the blue turn, almost making out a face in the deep water! But then, having moved it's share and ran out of time, the dolphin vanishes!
* Shamal leans over the pier and waves down into the water, hoping whatever's down there at least got the message.
> It comes up just a little more, perhaps ten feet up. You can just make out the outline of a face. Smooth but nice features on slightly green tinted skin(Is it the water?), but you can't see it's ears. It's wearing some sort of clothes, a near green that blends into the water well. It's hand goes up - a wave?
<Shamal> Deciding that speaking to a sea elf in the middle of the busy harbour might be too attention getting, Shamal does a bit of pantomining, pointing over towards the barrier wall, which is away from any ships and foot traffic. Then, hopefully, she speaks in Aquan, hoping the tongue of water elementals will be understood through the water if she speaks, "Meet us over by the wall? We'd like to talk to you!"
> OOC - Mmm. Diplomacy check, since I need a good tiebreaker here.
<Shamal> roll 1d20+6
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+6 and gets 12."12 [1d20=6]
> You see it wave again, hesitantly, and slowly descend down at your words.
* Seira approaches Shamal, and discreetly hands her a small pearl. "Call your dolphin again, while we have a chance," she tells her quietly.
* Shamal hopes the message got through, explaining for Seira's benefit, "I asked her to meet us over by the wall where I pointed. I don't need to get her attention again - come on, let's go!" she exclaims giddily, practically skipping as she starts around to the designated spot.
<Seira> Not understanding Aquan, Seira follows with a final glance at the sea creature.
> So off you walk. The air is chilly as you go to your out of the way spot, coming to the water. A few minutes pass, as you wait...
* Shamal does start to look a bit put out at the lack of sea elves. Did she not understand? Or maybe she did but doesn't want to talk... Still hopeful, the young witch waits a bit longer.
> OOC - Spot checks, you two.
<Seira> roll 1d20+3
* Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+3 and gets 5."12 [1d20=2]
<Shamal> roll 1d20+7
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+7 and gets 22."12 [1d20=15]
<Shamal> OOC: +9, so 24
> After about ten minutes, Shamal catches a glimpse of blue hair deep, deep underwater! Just at the very edge of her vision again, not coming any closer.
* Shamal pouts a little, before abusing Seira's pearl to refresh her memory of the spell to summon monsters. "Playful swimmer of Thalasia, I call you once again! Go tell that sea elf we'd really like to meet her!"
<Shamal> OOC: same spell as before
> Another golden dolphin appears! It goes into the water and swims down fiercely! It just reaches the elf again, communicating deep in the water! OOC - Reroll your diplomancy, druidgrrl.
<Shamal> roll 1d20+6 diplomacy by proxy!
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+6 diplomacy by proxy! and gets 18."12 [1d20=12]
> Very slowly it starts to arise. Five feet up and then ten, coming out from the emerald depths of the bay! A being with sharp blue hair, like the natural ocean's proud plumage. It's seen through a haze of green ocean water, arising, arising...stopping. It stops cold, , perhaps 50 feet down or so. It looks down at it's leg, something dark wrapped around it! It begins to descend again, being lowered!
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
<Shamal> 'Oh, make up your mind!' Shamal thinks despairingly, before noticing that something appears to have grabbed the aquatic maiden. "Wait a minute... it looks like something just grabbed her!" Once again she casts yet another summoning spell, although this one only conjures a normal porpoise rather than the celestial equivalent. "Go help her, my cetecean friend!"
* Seira looks worried, and casts a spell of swift travel about herself, swirls of air appearing at her ankles for a brief moment before dissipating into harmless clouds.
> The dolphin appears deep in the water, racing downward to the melee! OOC - What is it's action going to be?
<Shamal> OOC: If it sees anything grabbing onto the sea elf or whatever she is, it'll but heads with it in a charge in an attempt to persuade it to bugger off. If that fails it'll use aid another to help her grapple/escape artist check in the last round before it vanishes.
> The dolphin sees a slightly large octopus trying to drag the elf down! The elf is shouting those strange words humans and other land creatures speak at it, looking annoyed and irritated.
<Shamal> The brave summoned porpoise charges through the water, slamming itself bodily into the octopus in an attempt to persuade it to seek easier prey!
<Shamal> roll 1d20+8
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+8 and gets 18."12 [1d20=10]
<Shamal> roll 2d4+2
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 2d4+2 and gets 9."12 [2d4=3, 4]
> SLAM! The octopus is bodychecked and hard, losing it's gripa s it sprays a few stray jets of ink! The sea creature it was holding looks shocked a moment, going to try and grab it when it's knocked down! OOC - LIsten check, Shamal. You can as well, Seira, if you speak Aquan. If not, there's no huge point.
<Shamal> roll 1d20+9
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+9 and gets 18."12 [1d20=9]
> Through the water you can hear a few words of Aquan: "Tendrils! Go away, dolphin, that's my clan's pet!" The creature sounds angry.
<Shamal> "Oh, bother!" Shamal suddenly looks distraught, immediately dismissing the dolphin. Leaning over the edge, she calls down in Aquan, "I'm sorry, I thought you were being attacked! If you come near the surface I can heal it!"
> Down below you can see the creature holding it's pet, looking up and thinking...
> roll 1d20
* Hatbot --> "Kotono rolls 1d20 and gets 17."12 [1d20=17]
> But slowly it begins to rise! Quickly rising up, a creature clad in green like sea weeds. It's ears are very slightly pointed, skin white with a green tint to it. It's eyes are the same deep blue as it's hair, cradling it's pet as more ink continuest o leak out around it.  With a quick, desperate move it breaks the surface, gagging a few times. "Dirty...!" it wheezes, voice very light.
* Seira glances at Shamal. "They are friends?" she asks the druid.
<Shamal> "I don't know yet," Shamal replies to Seira, quickly scrambling down a nearby ladder after setting Flopsy down and taking out her wand from her belt. "Here, I can use this to heal your pet," she tells the elf in Aquan, leaning off the ladder with one hand to hold on.
* Seira comes near the edge of the dock, observing the proceedings silently.
> Hesitantly it swims over, looking distrought. But it does come over, withint touching range.
* Shamal leans over to tap her wand onto the stricken invertebrate, a brief glimmer of blue light signifying the magic taking effect.
<Shamal> roll 1d8+1
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d8+1 and gets 6."12 [1d8=5]
> To this the elf watches as the octopus stirs, moving. "...Oh...it worked?" it sighs, "Who are you and why did you attack him?"
<Shamal> "I'm really sorry about that," Shamal looks honestly distraught as she puts the wand away, "I thought you were being attacked... Um, my name is Shamal Velka, and this is my friend Seira," she gestures up at the half-elf above. "We're guards in this city."
* Seira waves at the strange sea elf.
> "Land dweller city? Then, which one of you is going to the Forbidden Whirlpools and doing mysterious things there?" The elf puffs up, looking at both of them.
<Shamal> "Forbidden whirlpools?" Shamal blinks, "Ah, neither of us have been out to sea lately... oh, and pardon my asking, but Seira doesn't speak Aquan - I don't suppose you speak Common, do you?"
> "Don't know what it is." Slowly the elf pets the poor, stirring octopus, "I just know one of you humans is doing something to the whirlpools.  You all know each other, don't you? Tell them to stop!"
<Shamal> "Er... there's an awful lot of us..." Shamal blushes. "Oh, let me do a bit more, I think the poor thing's still a bit dazed," she leans over and casts cure minor wounds on the octopus to aid its recovery. "Seira, she's saying that a human is doing something mysterious to the forbidden whirlpools," she explains for her colleague's benefit. "So where are these whirlpools?" she asks, switching back to Aquan.
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru Hotaru
<Shamal> roll 1d20+12
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+12 and gets 25."12 [1d20=13]
<Seira> "Ask her why they're forbidden?" Seira suggests out loud.
<Seira> roll 1d20+9
* Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+9 and gets 18."12 [1d20=9]
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
<Shamal> "I think I've heard of them..." Shamal murmurs in common, before going back to Aquan again. "Wait, aren't they deep below the surface? How would any human even get there?"
* Hotaru-chan (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
> The octopus stirs a little more, ink leaking stopped. "This one can, and they're dangerous! Our clan says that anyone that goes there will probably die. So no one goes there, but this human's been seen going there a lot."
> "I don't know how it gets there, but it can breath underwater somehow."
<Shamal> "That takes better magic than I'm capable of..." Shamal pouts a bit. "So you came here to try and find out about this human? Do you know what mysterious things he or she's been doing?"
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (-=SysReset 2.53=-)
* Seira (cor@p11811112.orange.net.il) Quit (-=SysReset 2.53=-)
* CC is now known as Seira
* Retrieving #dunes modes...
> "No one is sure...but we're worried." The elf looks just that - worried.
<Shamal> "Well, we can try asking around Balmuria - it's not like there are *that* many magic users here, after all," Shamal offers. "Is there anything else you could tell us that might help?"
> "Red hair - it's someone with long red hair. Just be careful - the elders say that anyone that gets sucked into those pools doesn't come back out,a nd it leads to underground." With that the elf nods visibly, a clear sign.
<Shamal> "And yet this human has been coming and going as they please? I don't suppose you could tell if it was a man or a woman, could you?" Shamal asks thoughtfully.
> "I think a woman, but I'm not sure. Just...don't tell anyone I was here? We're not supposed to get this close..."
<Shamal> roll 1d20+12
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+12 and gets 15."12 [1d20=3]
<Seira> roll 1d20+4
* Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+4 and gets 19."12 [1d20=15]
<Shamal> "Of course - it's not like I could tell any others of your kind unless they too came this close, no?" Shamal giggles slightly. "That said, though, how will we find you if we find anything out?"
> It considers, thinking, "Oh! I'll sneak back in a week. Same place?"
* Shamal nods. "That works," she agrees. "Oh, I never did get your name... And I suppose it wouldn't hurt to know, but where exactly are these whirlpools?"
> "My name is Tynave!" It's voice is indeed light as it speaks, bobbing it's head. "They're a little to the west and really far down. Near the continental shelf and land. I see a lot of humans going there on occasion now!"
> *on the surface there
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru Hotaru
<Shamal> "Well, we'll look into it for you, Tynave, and hopefully see you here in a week?" Shamal smiles, giving a wave before she climbs back up the ladder.
* Seira offers Shamal a hand as she rises.
> Tynave smiles and waves, before dipping down and away in the cool, green water.
<Shamal> Picking up Flopsy once she's back on solid ground, Shamal reiterates the pertinent points of the conversation for Seira's benefit. "I suppose it couldn't hurt for us to investigate this on her behalf," she concludes.
* Seira nods thoughtfully. "We should attempt to see what we can pick up on before attempting to actually ask questions about this red-headed woman, I believe," she says at last.
<Shamal> roll 1d20+8
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+8 and gets 19."12 [1d20=11]
<Shamal> "Honestly, the description makes me think of Countess Stronger," Shamal admits. "She's certainly a more capable mage than I, so the spells required are probably within her realm of expertise."
* Seira nods in agreement. "The spells of water breathing would certainly fall under her purview."
<Shamal> "Well, lets do a bit of investigating before speaking to her directly, shall we?" Shamal suggests nicely. "We can ask the harbourmaster if he's heard of her chartering any ships recently."
> OOC - Wanna move on a bit, then?
<Seira> "It is a solid plan."
<Seira> OOC: Yep
> The harbor master is found sitting in a small tavern near the water's edge. It's a nice place, sailor themed and bred. Off duty sailors and longshoremen carol and play here, drunken banter pausing as two women enter. You can just feel the eyes on you, but the harbor master is easy to see. He wears a military uniform of gray and green, stiff and proper even as he takes a long drink from a mug of ale.
* Shamal pauses a moment at the door, before she locates her target and makes a beeline for the harbourmaster. "Harbourmaster Rossman?" she addresses him quietly after drawing alongside.
> He turns, face a sea worn mesh of sunburned-red pale skin. "Yeah? Something important to drag you into here, misses?" He just puts his mug down, raising his voice enough so that the general din of the bar quiets a little bit.
<Shamal> "Only a minor enquiry," the young witch demurs, taking a seat next to him. "You would know of all the ships that come and go from the harbour, yes?"
* Seira quietly takes a seat on the man's other side, regarding him.
> "Yeah." He looks to both women, "Digging for information? I can't just give that out freely, you know."
<Seira> "Then you would share it freely for money?" Seira asks him bluntly.
> "...so you're trying to bribe me in front of about two dozen witnesses?" he asks, looking around at the various sailors and seamen meaningfully. "I'd be a fool to take money from you now." A turn back, drinking his booze thoughtfully. "Though...I just had an idea. C'mon." He gets up quickly, heading for the door out.
* Seira shrugs, and follows the man.
* Shamal would rather not make this official. On the other hand, she has no money... Oh, and so much for that after all. Blinking, she stands up and follows the harbourmaster.
> So outside you go. A few people are around, mostly sailors finishing up for the day. High masted ships tower here as he crosses his arms. "Alright, what's so important that you're willing to risk that? I dont' really want to have to throw two laides in the stoackaide."
* Shamal coughs. "Forgive my colleague," she glances sidelong at Seira, "Sublety was never her strong suit. That said, we would prefer not to make this official - quite simply we only wish to know if Countess Stronger has chartered any ships here, recently."
> "..mmm." He considers a moment, "I'll tell you on a few conditions. First off, what are your names?"
<Shamal> "Very well - but understand we are asking as private citizens, not in any official capacity," Shamal nods agreeably, before gesturing to herself, "Shamal Velka."
> He blinks at this, a little surprised as he looks over your cloaks and plain dresses worn. "Official capacity?"
<Seira> "Unofficial," Seira interjects. "We intend to keep it that way."
<Shamal> "We're both members of the Balmuria Guard," Shamal affirms, nodding. "But this is a private matter."
* Hotaru-chan (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru-chan Hotaru-chan
> "Alright. Fine." He considers half a moment, "Must be somethin' to have..heh. Fine, you'll just owe me a favor, Shamal Velka. No, I haven't seen her doing anything ship bound. At least not in her name, but it doesn't mean she couldn't be on a ship recently as a passenger. I'd have to check manifestos for that."
<Shamal> "Would it be possible to check?" Shamal asks hopefully. "Of course I will return the favour should you ever require my help."
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
> "Yeah, won't even take long." Rossman goes off at that, heading away. "C'mon."
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru Hotaru
<Shamal> "I am in your debt, kind sir," Shamal bows her head graciously, following along.
* Lyselle (dragomirst@c-71-195-62-144.hsd1.mi.comcast.net) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
* Hotaru-chan (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
> Within a few minutes, you find out that Countess Stronger has not been on any ships. Looking up from his desk, the harbormaster shakes his head. "Sorry, not a thing on her."
<Seira> "Do you have the declared routes for the ships in your records?" Seira asks.
> "Yes, why?" Rossman nods curtly, waiting.
<Seira> "Which dates are we looking for?" Seira questions, glancing at Shamal.
<Shamal> "She never specified any, only that it's been happening recently," Shamal shrugs apologetically.
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
<Seira> "Did any ships pass by the ruins recently?" Seira asks, back to being blunt. "Or, at the very least, close enough to swim over to them or take a lifeboat?"
> "THOSE ruins?" Rossman raises an eyebrow, checking again. "Mmm, mmm...two did. Both are currently out of port. It's not quite a normal route to take, most ships head straight out of the harbor."
> *bay
<Seira> "Their dates of departure and personnel manifests would be a great help."
> "January 28th and Feburary 2nd. As for the rest...eh." He frowns at that, "You mean like who's on the ship?"
* Seira nosd at the man. "Yes. We do not need your copy of the records, of course, but merely glancing at them would be helpful, as I said."
> "Here," A beaten peace of parchment is handed over, then another. "Knock yourself out."
* Seira commits the names to memory, before cross-referencing them for any repetitions between the two parchments.
> None whatsoever. They're all generally bland and innocent names.
<Seira> "A wild goose chase, perhaps," Seira muses, returning the parchments.
<Shamal> "Perhaps we are on the wrong track, after all..." Shamal frets, biting her lip. "Thank you for your time, Harbourmaster," she bows to the older man, making to leave.
> "Those ruins are popular," Rossman deadpans. "Some clerics are going excited over them and lots of people in fancy clothes thing there's something worthwhile there. Heh, bet the old bastards in Malmuth never realised they might be sitting on a treasure trove there."
<Seira> "And are we?" Seira queries.
> "Sure. Lord Salman'll get some good men to bring up what's in there, and our nation should continue to prosper! Show them that we deserve all this, not a bunch of old imperials!"
<Seira> "Any idea when the next ship will go past the ruins?" Seira asks the man, then.
> "Nothing's scheduled. It's not a common run." He shrugs, "All the supplies tend to make the last trip inland, or they're domestic I imagine."
<Seira> "There is that route to check, then, as well," Seira muses, nodding.
* Berlioz (assis_san@200.175.229.219.adsl.gvt.net.br) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +o Berlioz
> A little while later...
> The party so gathers where they wish to discuss and plan. A meeting room in the barracks is convienet for all as they gather near dinnertime.
<Seira> "So," Seira announces without preamble, once they have reasonable secrecy. "Sea elves actually exist."
<Shamal> "We already knew that..." Shamal mutters quietly. "The important thing is that one of them came here looking for help."
* Berlioz blinks lightly as he acommodates on his chair. "So, against all odds, you were right about that. What happened down in the harbor?"
<Shamal> "Well, after a few small misunderstandings..." Shamal has the good grace to blush, "She explained that she's here because a human has been doing mysterious things around their forbidden whirpools, and it has the sea elves all in a tizzy."
<Seira> "Apparently, it is Countess Stronger who has been meddling with them in an area next to the ruins," Seira adds.
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru Hotaru
* Lyselle (dragomirst@c-71-195-62-144.hsd1.mi.comcast.net) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Hotaru))
<Shamal> "We don't know that for sure," Shamal interjects quickly. "But the description does fit."
* Hotaru is now known as Lyselle
<Seira> "That is where the apparently comes in, yes," Seira agrees.
* Berlioz knocks his fingers over the table, idling. "Do you intend to do anything about this? At a first glance, this has little to nothing to do with our affairs."
<Seira> "The ruins are Balmuria's treasure," Seira interjects. "If there is a chance someone is tampering with them...."
<Shamal> "The sea elves are our neighbours, and it does not hurt to engender good relations with them," Shamal adds. "While this may not be an official mission, it would be to Balmuria's benefit."
<Seira> "The sea elves may also know something that we do not, even if this person is operating with the full knowledge and approval of the government," she muses out loud. "In that case, we should determine whether this endeavor is safe."
<Berlioz> "I see. On the other hand, if we engage on such an endeavor, I expect little to no support from our employers. Ragging about sea elves in a military office is a good way to get laughed at, so, if we're doing this, it'll be at our sole expenses."
* Lyselle raises an eyebrow. "You plan on undertaking action without discussing such with our superiors?"
<Seira> "There is nothing wrong with gathering information in our free time," Seira says, flushing lightly.
* Berlioz shrugs. "If we do, we're getting laughed out of the room. We're not going to receive any official support one way or another."
<Shamal> "All we are doing is investigating, Lyselle," Shamal points out gently. "This isn't like traipsing into the wilderness for a week to hunt and kill some goblin raiders, we're just going to make a few discreet enquiries."
<Lyselle> "If it is just gathering information, then..." Lyselle does just shrug, offering a wry smile. "The idea sounded a bit more like a minor expedition into the blue depths."
<Shamal> "Not hardly," Shamal frowns. "While Countess Stronger can be free with the water breathing spells, I'm afraid I have no such luxuries."
* Berlioz snickers. "It may well develop into that. And, really, if it does, I doubt we'd have either the resources or the raw strength to make it relatively unscathed."
<Shamal> "Anyway, the harbourmaster was of no help, not knowing if she has taken any boats out of Balmuria recently - of course, she could have easily left via magic or some other means. So the next step would be to determine if she has left town at all, recently," Shamal proposes. "It may be best to check with her acquaintances and habitual haunts rather than going to her directly, for the time being."
* Hotaru-chan (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru-chan Hotaru-chan
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Hotaru-chan))
* Hotaru-chan is now known as Lyselle
<Lyselle> "Either may be equally suspicious on examination, but the former could easily not be discovered, or only be discovered after a time," Lyselle nods in agreement.
<Berlioz> "Regardless, we should take these matters in a cautious step. We have no idea of what we're stepping into, nor the motives of the sides involved."
<Shamal> "A few discreet enquiries here and there shouldn't prove too problematic," the blonde opines hopefully. "Besides, her reasons for going to those whirlpools could be perfectly innocent, and that should be enough to set the sea elves' minds at ease."
<Seira> "We could also confirm for good whether she is the one going there," Seira reminds them. "After all, we have not personally seen her do that, and what we have is mostly conjecture at this point."
* Shamal nods. "That too. If it turns out not to be her, we will unfortunately be left with no leads, however..."
<Berlioz> "If we're doing this investigation at all, we may want to keep eyes on both of the alledged sides so far. And I'm certain nobody will spill the beans automatically if something unusual is going on."
> OOC - Okay, people, let's start with a round of gather info checks, yes.
<Seira> roll 1d20+6 whee~
* Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+6 whee~ and gets 19."12 [1d20=13]
<Berlioz> roll 1d20+10
* Hatbot --> "Berlioz rolls 1d20+10 and gets 18."12 [1d20=8]
<Shamal> roll 1d20+1 if I beat 10 then Seira gets +2
* Hatbot --> "Shamal rolls 1d20+1 if I beat 10 then Seira gets +2 and gets 10."12 [1d20=9]
<Seira> OOC: 21, hilarity!
* Hotaru-chan (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru-chan Hotaru-chan
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Hotaru-chan))
* Hotaru-chan is now known as Lyselle
<Lyselle> roll 1d20+2
* Hatbot --> "Lyselle rolls 1d20+2 and gets 9."12 [1d20=7]
* Seira attempts to gather information on the Countess's actions recently, and in present time, including any traveling she might've done!
> The next day brings a few hours of information gathering! It takes some time, but not too much. Countess Stronger has a habit of being as flashy as her red hair! She's made noise about wanting to open a 'mystical shop' and 'bring culture' to the Border City. She's been seen at her favorite tavern within the past two weeks or so - but not within the past week. Been a little quiet lately if anything.
> She galavants around in catchy red dresses, speaking of too much gold to waste. She's energetic and quite pretty, too. She tends to command obedience in a very divaish like way is the general vibe you get.
> Her favorite tavern is the Dragon.
> The day draws on as the chosen ones approach the tavern. It sits nestles in the back of Balmuria, out of place with much of the city. Wealth more bespeaking a fine Malmuth city resides here, money flowing freely. The Dragon is a beautiful tavern of solid wood and homey panels, a freshly pained gren wyrm on it's callsign.
* Berlioz dusts off his clothes, this time more befitting of a noble place. Being a merchant's son does have its perks. He looks around, not exactly fazed by the inebriating environments, as if they failed to entertain him much. He looks around, searching for the red-haired diva as he heads towards the counter.
> Inside it's clean and smells of perfumes that would likely feed a peasant for a tenyear.  The very tiny rich elite of Balmuria gathers here, mostly merchants rich off iron. The counter is actually polished and entirely clean, glasses without any obvious stains on them waiting. Real clear glass, too! The servants wear nice clothes and don't reek of sweat and body oil, a sharp contrast. The man at the counter is small and plain, bowing a bright red nose and middle aged, wrinkled face full of forehead lines.
> plain, bowing a bright red nose and middle aged, wrinkled face full of forehead lines.
> Berlioz doesn't see the Countess Stronger immediately visible to his basic searches.
* Berlioz sits down in front of the counter, slightly nodding to the bartender. "Good evening, sir", he remarks curteously. He stops for a moment, paying more attention to the environments themselves, the Countess out of sight... in hindsight, this is a comfortable environment, much unlike the typical Balmurian hellholes.
> "Would you like something," he asks, voice inoffensive and blending into the low grade noise. A few people look at you, but most are lost in their own conversations and not really caring much. Very low key right now, quiet.
* Berlioz nods. "I'd appreciate just a glass of wine for now", he says as he pensively rests his chin over folded hands.
> Down he goes, pulling out a fine glass bottle and winecup. It's poured swiftly and held in his hand, but he doesn't hand it over. He just waits.
* Berlioz takes his pouch out of a pocket, subtly counting his gold reserves. "How much does it cost, my good man?"
<Anastasia> "1 gold."
<Anastasia> OOC - Gah.
<Anastasia> "1 gold." He waits after, eyes staying level.
* Berlioz lands the gold piece over the counter, putting his pouch back from where he took it, eyes sharpened. "Here you go."
<Anastasia> "Thank you." The wine is passed over, the gold vanishing away via quick hand grab.
* Berlioz sighs, and takes a sip out of his drink while glossing over the tavern's environment once again. "Quite an elegant ambiance in here. Seems a bit quiet today."
<Anastasia> "Indeed." A mute, measured reply, a glass polished with a clean rag as you wait. "Several people are not here today yet."
<Berlioz> "Hm. Several people? I figure a tavern such as this must be frequented by Balmuria's finest, at the very least, but anyone of note you might be referring to?"
<Anastasia> "Several..." With a maddening vagueness he smiles slightly, inclining his head. "Sir is most inquisitive."
* Berlioz snickers. "Just a possibly habit from my academic backgrounds, sir - and it kicks in most often when I'm just discovering an environment. It's just the curiosity of a storymonger", he finishes in a fancy tone, fixating his eyes on the bartender with an ambiguously vague glare.
<Anastasia> The barkeep's hand casually rests knuckles down on the bar, open palmed. "Aaah. Well learned, sir?"
* Berlioz quickly glances at the hand, then raising his eyes to the bartender, nodding. "You could say so, yes. Mostly interested on the making of history, as of now. And Balmuria is ripe for the unfolding of legendary tales, I'd say."
<Anastasia> "I suppose it is. Do you think so, sir?" The hand stays in place, as casual, easy conversation follows.
<Berlioz> "It's a rather new country, and the tension between Malmuth and the United Baronies that settled the atmosphere of these lands in the past hasn't quite settled yet. Politically, we're in a razor's edge position, trying to establish ourselves not only as a country, but as a force. And history is not something that happens overnight - there's an intriguing process between obscurity and the bard's tale, and I'd rather follow such a thread."
<Anastasia> "Mmm-hmm. Are you saying that there's a lot of opportunity in these places?" The barkeep looks about, everyone lost in their own worlds and no one new coming in right now.
* Hotaru is now known as Loligoth|AFK
<Berlioz> "Opportunities, dangers... I'd say a more precise word would be 'possibilities', I think", Berlioz rubs his chin pensively for a moment before continuing. "We're in a blank slate, mostly, as of now, in a rather strategic geographic position, and a tense background behind our creation. Basically, there is much yet to happen, and I want to see them firsthand when they do. No matter what they mean to Balmuria."
<Anastasia> "Yes sir," The barkeep nods again, "I wish you well in these difficult endevours."
* Berlioz sighs. "You know, I can't help but feel I'm somewhat bothering you with my endless banter", he deadpans with a slight smile as he sips his wine again.
<Anastasia> "I wouldn't dream of such." He smiles discreetly, raising his hand up and letting it slide beneath the bar. "Is sir lonely?"
Session Time: Wed Feb 14 00:00:01 2007
* Berlioz raises an eyebrow and shakes his head with a cynical snicker. "I never really cared much about about company one way or another. I admit I just enjoy talking about a subject that few would be interested in. To the point that it diverts me from other tasks, or even sights."
<Anastasia> "Yes sir." The barkeep nods sagaciously, going back to polishing a glass. "I suppose that is evident."
<Berlioz> "Although you seem fairly bright yourself, off a glance. It's pleasing to actually let these out once in a while, and I guess I got carried away", the historian nods, his semblant light and calm. He turns around to see the environments once more, in search of new faces, not losing track of the bartender.
<Anastasia> "Thank you, sir." The barkeep smiles a tiny bit, but also sighs. Meanwhile you look about. No one new has entered quite yet. It's very quiet and peaceful right now.
* Berlioz ponders for a moment, folds and unfolds his arms in a somewhat restless motion. The historian then sighs and takes yet another sip from his glass of wine. "Makes me wonder the kinds of stories people around here have to tell. Aren't there a few... interesting costumers around here, so to speak?"
<Anastasia> "There are," The barkeep says most blandly. "Is sir interested in the various personages?"
<Berlioz> "I'd like to say that... yes, eventually, and probably sooner than later. My current interest right now, however, dwells on someone in particular. A... rather eccentric personage, at that."
<Anastasia> "I see. Would sir like help with this?" The 'keep's hand goes back to the bar, palm open and waiting.
* Berlioz takes a fast glance at his open hand and smirks. "Hm, I see. I certainly would have a much easier time finding a few things out with a little push, yes. How much are you willing to let out, and at what price?"
<Anastasia> "Five gold," he says very quietly, voice barely even reaching the bard.
* Berlioz nods. "I see. I hope the information is worth it", he says while reaching for the gold pieces in his pouch.
<Anastasia> The money vanishes into his hand and away, fileda way. "It shall be. Who are you looking for?"
<Berlioz> "Countess Stronger, more specifically", Berlioz whispers.
<Anastasia> "Aaaah! She has not been in the past week. She mentioned some 'grand plan' to usurp everyone else's efforts the last night she was here. She seemed most...excited."
<Berlioz> "Everyone else's efforts? I know from casual lore that the Countess is somewhat eccentric, but what could she have in mind with that?"
<Anastasia> "Something that's popular and getting attention. Trade, history, something grabbing. She likes her attention very much." Another pause, thinking. "I do not know when she will return."
<Berlioz> "Hm. Do you have any idea of what might have triggered such? That seems like quite a strange stretch of events", Berlioz chimes in idly.
<Anastasia> "The lady keeps her own council at the strangest times. I know not what has her excited, but she is a mage. Such matters may be beyond me in any event." The barkeep bows a little at this, apologetic.
* Berlioz (assis_san@200.175.229.219.adsl.gvt.net.br) Quit (Ping timeout)
* Berlioz (assis_san@200.175.181.231.adsl.gvt.net.br) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +o Berlioz
<Anastasia> "The lady keeps her own council at the strangest times. I know not what has her excited, but she is a mage. Such matters may be beyond me in any event." The barkeep bows a little at this, apologetic.
* Berlioz sighs resignedly, folding his arms and nodding sternly. "I would expect no less from your typical oddball spellcaster, especially in Balmuria. Regardless, this shred was enlightening somewhat. Might be something to look out for."
<Anastasia> "Yes. She takes visitors if you wish to visit...I do not know if you'll be able to get in, though."
<Berlioz> "Well, couldn't hurt to try. And, hey, at least I might get farther than your average street bum. I know I look noticeably better than one", Berlioz replies, letting out a musing grin as he finishes.
<Anastasia> "Very good, sir," the barkeep murmurs respectfully.
* Berlioz begins to stand up, fixing his monocle as he prepares to leave. "Thanks for your time, mister. I expected to see a few more scenes on this place, but that might have to wait for another opportunity. Good night."
<Anastasia> "A good night to you, sir," the barkeep bows deeply as Berlioz leaves.

[Anastasia]

> Finding the office of Captain MacVries is an easy task for the three girls. Having gotten this far leads to competence in finding the way, and indeed, you find yourself in where he works. A room full of scraps of parchment and quills, ink blotches here and there. A wide circle table has more stacks of used paper than you care to count, detailing all sorts of things. Amid it sits the captain. Quiet indeed, but with pale and clear blue eyes that resemble the sky. "Yes?"
> Quiet indeed, but with pale and clear blue eyes that resemble the sky. "Yes?"
<Seira> "Good day, Captain," Seira greets the man calmly as she finally reaches him. "Are we intruding, or do you have a minute, Sir?"
> "
> "I have time," He sounds like he's whispering, voice low. "What is it you need, cadets?"
<Seira> "I have recently become aware," she says, dispensing with trivialties since he is responsive, "that it is possible for mages outside the military to work for the government, much like other civillian contractors. Sir, could I trouble you for an explanation on the procedure involved?"
> "Hm? Let's see...I'm not familiar with all of it, but you'd talk to a regional commander or higher and prove your worth, then negotiate something. It's pretty basic." A pause as he thinks, "It's not so hard to do, it's just hard finding spellcasters to begin with."
<Seira> "So it is all done on a case-by-case basis?" Seira seeks to clarify. "There are no set rewards for services rendered?"
> "There are certain accepted rates, but..." There's just a shrug there. "It's basic economics. The demand far, far, far outweighs the supply. Cadet, are you thinking about something here or just curious?"
<Seira> "I hoped to get more information before I inquired further, Sir, but yes." Seira nods for emphasis. "I am curious as to whether a mage currently serving in the Guard could use such contracts to get a better working relationship with one of the civillian mages, perhaps even up to an apprenticeship of sorts."
> "Well now, that's something you'd have to discuss with them." STretching back as he speaks, "I know you're some sort of spellcaster, elf. I've even heard of you back in this dusty office, so..." He thinks a moment, "You could try. "
<Seira> "Would not Balmuria's working relationship with civillian mages allow a certain form of leverage to be applied here, Sir?" she asks firmly, keeping her voice neutral. "Talented mages are hard to find, and they are very secretive with the tricks of their trade. However, by helping us achieve our goal, Balmuria would also profit from better-qualified troops at no cost to itself, nor time wasted on training as it would be done in our spare tim
<Seira> it would be done in our spare time."
> "Honestly, it's not my call to make. You could say that, or say that they'd take their ball and go home if they didn't like it." MacVries just shrugs innocently, "Besides, isn't one of the other two there also a spellcaster from what I recall?"
<Seira> "She is also interested, or she would not be here with me," Seira asserts.
<Shamal> "That'd be me," the previously silent witch holds up her hand. "However, there is little I could teach Seira, or vice versa, sadly."
<Lyselle> "I'm just here to be friendly," Lyselle provides cheerily, a smiling blonde brainer of goblins.
<Seira> "We are not, of course, intending to cause Balmuria any harm or destroy a profitable relationship with any civillian mage," Seira clarifies further. "But, perhaps, someone higher up than a mere cadet could introduce us? In a strictly unofficial capacity, even?"
> A look to Lyselle that's cut short, a nod and smile to Shamal. "Oh. I see. Well then...if you have someone in mind I can get you to talk to them if you want."
<Seira> "Which of the civillian mages are on a contract with the government at present?" Seira asks curiously.
> "In this city? Two not counting priests. Countess Stronger and Mihail. The latter is a...Envoker, whatever that means."
<Seira> "Oh." Mild disappointment colors Seira's expression, the first real emotion she shows. "Evocation is a field of magic which is much too destructive and obvious for me to excel at." She turns to look at Shamal. "What about you?"
<Shamal> "Evoker," Shamal corrects gently. "A specialist in manipulating energy. Truthfully it's a school which I have some affinity with, for it has many similarities to conjuration. However, if we are to remain together, it may be better to seek out a more generalist mage."
<Seira> "The Countess, then, if it is at all possible, Sir," Seira delivers, nodding firmly. "We are very hard-working, and would take on any task required to prove ourselves worthy of this."
<Shamal> "So long as it does not interfere with our official duties, of course," the blonde witch adds softly.
* Seira nods firmly at that.
> "Alright." Pausing a few moments, "I can have her look you up when she comes by soon. She's due to collect her payment and discuss her work. She said she'd be busy this past week, though."
<Shamal> "Thank you for your consideration, sir," Shamal smiles gratefully.
<Seira> "If she is in need of help to take off some of her workload...." Seira trails off, shrugging. "But, of course, we are under no time constrains."
> "You're welcome. Between you and that Al-Lamar, it's good to know that the Gods watch over us," A nod to Shamal, smiling politely.
<Seira> "Thank you, Sir," Seira echoes Shamal's politeness, and awaits a dismissal.
<Shamal> "By Mielikki's grace, I am here to serve," Shamal sketches a pleasant bow in reply, leaving without any dismissal - they came here without being asked, after all.
* Lyselle just smiles, offering a salute and departing without an additional word.
<Seira> Left alone, Seira salutes as well and leaves after the others.

[Anastasia]

> The afternoon is plain and sea breeze swept. The estate and house of the Countess Stronger are nestled deep against the west wall of Balmuria, hidden away from the far more base surroundings of the city. The house of the Countess is flanked by a winter rose garden, white and red blossoms springing out from a lightly gated small front lawn. The gate is open, however, and the front door looms. It's only a single story but rather wide, a lot of land taken up.
> It's only a single story but rather wide, a lot of land taken up. The walls are a plain whitewash, mostly hidden by the rich blooms around the house.
* Ebiris is now known as Shamal
* Berlioz looks up to the manor, appreciating the lush environment the Countess surrounds herself with. "Stop and smell the flowers. Or branch yourself within the garden. The Countess must be quite fond of blossoms..."
> The roses are in full bloom, contrary to the month of Feburary. They look well cared for, trimmed and opulent. Deep crimson and pure white, contrasting in wild rows. Compared to them, the manor tends to blend into the wall.
* Berlioz kneels for a moment and pays attention to a crimson rose, lightly touching its petals. For a second, the bard ponders idly about flowers, but lightly lets go. Abandoning the rose to its frugal life, he heads towards the door, and rythmically knocks it, as if he could try a little melody with a wooden beat.
> When you knock on the door, you haer etherial chimes sound behind it. Ones that lull you slightly, but not for long. The door opens - red! Red hair down to her upper back, cascading down her shoulderblades. A simple dress of crimson, clashing playfully with pert green eyes. She's young but not a teenager, blossoming away. "Yes?" the woman asks.
* Berlioz coughs in a slight blush (possibly feigned?), and looks up. "Good afternoon. I... came to speak with the Countess, or at least schedule a meeting, if possible", he says polite but blunt. It's... quite possibly the worst way to treat this plan, but it came out so naturally...
> "You're looking at her," A toss of her red hair, like flames flickering in the wind. "So get on with it. What's so important to come knocking on my door?"
* Berlioz grins. "I've heard a couple rumors about you, Countess. And I must say I was intrigued."
> "I assure you that the rumors were unfounded in some manner or another," She smiles with a cocky air, brushing some hair back, "But I'm afraid I'm not taking visitors right now. I'm rather in the middle of something."
* Berlioz crosses his arms, and lets go a smile, as if he found something dearly desired for years. "That's exactly what I'm here for, truth be told. You see, I'm a bard - a storyteller, if you will. I've heard rumors about you - that you had a mind-blowing plan underway, one that would get your name written in petals and shining light in the history of Balmuria. I... wanted to witness it firsthand, so to speak..."
> "Oooooh~!" A bit of preening, smiling even as she looks the bard over. "I have to admit, you talk a very nice message. Buuuut...I'm afraid you'll just have to wait until I make the breakthrough!"
* Berlioz lowers his head and sighs for a moment, taking a deep breath. However, as he raises his eyes, a glint! A spark! The historian shoots a piercing gaze, burning in agape and passion as he opens his mouth! "Such is my fate... I expected not only a beautiful spectacle in the making, but an astounding star to lead it through the soaring night sky! And, just as I finally meet the one celestial to be worthy of the records of our future
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Relocating -=SysReset 2.53=-)
<Berlioz> "(More)... I am met with refusal? This is like a stream of daggers shredding my soul, my hopes! I find a shining star ready to rapture an entire world, yet it capriciously hides, taunting its own glory... even though I followed the signs of undines, of gracious sea elves to find the Countess' abode... it surely must not be for naught! I cannot wait, Countess!"
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #evildunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
<Berlioz> roll 1d20+8
<Reikobot> 1,0Berlioz rolled :1,0 1d20+8 --> 1,0[ 1d20=13 ]12,0{21}
> roll 1d20+9
<Reikobot> 1,0Kotono rolled :1,0 1d20+9 --> 1,0[ 1d20=2 ]12,0{11}
> "Oh...well then..." she murmurs, blushing a bit as she leans against the door. "Do go on..."
* Berlioz keeps up his ode, as if he was raptured by his own words! His eyes shine as the spoken ballad keeps its pace! "I've come to Balmuria to write its unfolding history, its deeds of beauty, greatness and intensity. And I've heard of mysterious signs just days ago! They all point to you, Countess. It's from your hand that tales to be forever remembered come from! And I could never properly write such glory without witnessing... (Mor
<Berlioz> "(More!)... it firsthand, with my own eyes! Let me stay by your side, milady, and generations to come will sing praises to your deeds! The children of our children's children will sigh in awe upon the very thought of your name and unforgettable semblance! All I ask for is one chance!"
* Berlioz is now known as Bard-AFK
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Heading in the general direction of class. -=SysReset 2.53=-)
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #evildunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
* Lyselle is now known as Hotaru
* Shamal (WinNT@user-5af07f7b.wfd102.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (Ping timeout)
* Ebiris (WinNT@user-5440c4cd.wfd78a.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #evildunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Ebiris Ebiris
* Ebiris is now known as Shamal
* Bard-AFK is now known as Berlioz
> "Oh..." Countess Stronger blushes at this brave words, smiling a dreamy, faraway grin. "Oh...you are a sweet talker!" She bows her head, grumbling, "I wish I could tell you I had succeeded, then. Alas, there is an obsticle in my way that not even my sorcery can overcome."
* Berlioz squints his eyes and shakes his head in disbelief, a notable glare of surprise rising. "What is that nigh-unsurmountable wall you speak of, Countess?"
> "Such matters..." The Countess sighs and shakes her head, "Bah! Do you truly wish to know?"
> The Countess puts her hands on her hips, fiery and scowling. "That ruined my mood, you have to understand. To think, the Great Countess, stopped by some old obsticle! But not even freezing it did any good!"
* Berlioz seals his lips with a finger, pondering for a minute. "I see. That would be quite a bother to the making of your legend, milady. But please let me know - I'd be willing to aid in any way possible."
> "Well then...come back soon and maybe I'll take you up on that," she says nicely, "But for now...I confess I'm still recovering."
* Berlioz bows politely at that. "I see... then, I shall let milady take upon some much needed rest. But I'd like to schedule a visit as soon as possible. History does not wait, and any delay might keep our timing from its current, optimal position. As soon as your voice is ready, my ears will be available. Just name a day."
> "Come back in a few days...mmm. I have business tomorrow, so...the day after, perchance?" A nod as she fades back, wincing a tiny bit as she steps away.
<Berlioz> "I shall be here the day after tomorrow without delay, then, milady. I expect much from your stories", he responds with another bow as he watches her leave to her precincts.
> She does just that, closing the door behind you. Berlioz is left in the garden of roses, alone again.
* Berlioz steps away from the door, sighing as he prepares to walk back into the city's less lush environments. He starts grinning to himself, letting out a vague murmur with a cynical stare to the nothingness of Balmuria. "I'll never get the taste of cheap sugar out of my mouth", he muses to himself as he begins walking.

[Anastasia]

> Once again the party gathers. Outside rain falls, a contrast to the warm tavern they find themselves at. A seculed table, a chance to chat and connect after gathering information.
* Berlioz seems oddly amused, with an idiotic grin drawn in his face. "Well, what have you girls gotten so far?"
* Shamal is happy to let Seira take this one, since it was her idea.
> The fire crackles merrily, a bard and some listers having a good old time there. Tales of the war, of Lord Salman and his liutenants. It's all fuzzy background, pleasant to listen to.
* Hotaru glances at the unblonde, settling back into her chair and enjoying the fire and its warm outglow, almost letting her eyes droop. Certainly the others could explain these things better.
* Seira rolls her eyes. "Have you met with success?" she asks Berlioz, tilting her head in a mix of curiosity and impatience.
* Hotaru is now known as Lyselle
* Lyselle glances at the unblonde, settling back into her chair and enjoying the fire and its warm outglow, almost letting her eyes droop. Certainly the others could explain these things better.
* Berlioz sighs. "I managed to get the following: Countess Stronger -is- up to something rather unusual. I managed a meeting with her today, but I'll have to come back in a couple days to get more details. Regardless, she says that her plans are being hampered by something that even her sorcery couldn't manage - which seemingly involved freezing. The connection is definitely possible."
<Shamal> "Things do seem to be pointing towards her more, in that case," Shamal allows, tilting her head slightly as she considers.
<Seira> "You seem to have our confirmation of her involvement," Seira agrees, before sighing. "If only we knew what it was, beyond freezing and mysterious."
<Shamal> "Well, you say you'll be meeting her again, Berlioz?" Shamal smiles at the bard, "Do you think she'll share more, then?"
<Berlioz> "Apparently, she's trying to gather all attention towards her with this, from what I gathered in the tavern. Whatever it is, it -will- be flashy, to say the least. And yes, that's the exact purpose of the meeting. I'll try to extract more information from her. The pieces of this jigsaw puzzle should fit together fairly smoothly afterwards."
<Seira> "Should our request for an apprenticeship with her go through, we may know more yet," Seira muses. "The officer we saw agreed to help us, and he is to be meeting her in the near future."
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (onwards... -=SysReset 2.53=-)
* Berlioz suddenly raises an eyebrow. "How near is this future, then? The Countess mentioned she would have business to attend tomorrow. I know it's a stretch, but what if they aren't unrelated?"
<Shamal> "Hmm... about that - I've never met the woman. What do you think of her, from your meeting?" Shamal asks Berlioz. She doesn't really want to get apprenticed to anyone dubious, she thinks, remembering her first master with a slight shudder.
<Seira> "It seems most likely," Seira agrees. "We have heard that she is secluded at the time being, and would not hold many meetings."
<Berlioz> "The Countess... hmmmm. She seems quite feisty and capricious, I must say. With enough sugar on your lips and a solid sense of opportunity, you could get lead her far. I do not doubt her power, but she has the demeanor of a diva."
<Shamal> "That fits with what I've heard," Shamal nods, frowning. "Not malicious, but not the type to truly care about who she steps on now and then..."
* Seira smiles lightly at the woman's description. "Should we hold off for now, and await any results?" she asks the others, then.
<Shamal> "We've already come this far," Shamal shakes her head. "No sense backing out, now."
* Berlioz ponders. "I will gather some more info on her regardless. Upon these final pieces, we decide our course of action. There seems to be a multitude of ways to go on this."
* Shamal nods. "Never hurts to come at a problem from multiple angles," she agrees.
<Seira> "Hmm." Seira frowns at that. "Then you think we should attempt to spy on her meeting with Captain MacVries, Shamal?" she asks.
* Lyselle (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Lyselle Lyselle
<Shamal> "I think that would be pushing things too far," the blonde shakes her head. "Leaving aside the dangers if Countess Stronger discovered it, it would be a serious breach of discipline to be spying on our superior officer."
* Berlioz nods. "We just should stick with what's practical in here. If we find out enough info, we might not even have to foil Countess Stronger's underlying intentions, which could make things rather simple."
* Seira doesn't respond to that, appearing to be in thought. "I believe I would wait for the day after tomorrow. If no answer to our request comes by then, I will attempt to approach the Countess without the military's assistance." She finally glances at Shamal. "What are your plans?"
<Shamal> "I won't take any further action until Berlioz exhausts his own avenue of approach," Shamal decides.
<Lyselle> "Any action undertaken without discussion with our superiors must by its nature naturally exclude them in every way," Lyselle suggests, smiling wryly and lookingat the fire. "To relate any part of this to the military and its hierarchy without first approval of a superior would be a crime."
<Seira> "We may even have more for you to go on by the time you approach the Countess again," Seira tells Berlioz. "Yes, it works, and we are still within our timeframe."
* Shamal blinks at Lyselle. "I'm sorry, I don't quite follow - what have we done that's illegal, Lyselle?"
* Seira blinks at Lyselle's words. "I would beg to differ, but that would reduce us to dabbling in semantics. Needless to say that should anything we must report to the Commander occur, we are quite likely to get the authorization for our inquiry retroactively."
<Lyselle> "I'm not suggesting that something is," Lyselle clarifies, smiling to Shamal. "Just on the vein of spying...it would be immensely dangerous to fly over the heads of authority in such a manner."
<Shamal> "That's why we're doing nothing more than making discreet enquiries," Shamal smiles innocently. "Nothing more. If the Countess should let something slip in conversation- or for that matter we ask her directly - where's the harm? It's not like we're breaking into her house to snoop around."
<Lyselle> "I'm not suggesting there is harm in that," Lyselle laughs, picking up her drink and sipping at it. "Just adding my discomfort at the idea of 'retroactive authorization' for espionage within our own ranks while we're already embroiled in other espionage of a more sensitive and concernable nature."
<Seira> "Where do your loyalties lie?" Seira asks the others suddenly, leaning back in her seat. "Balmuria? The Guard? Lord Salman?"
* Shamal frowns slightly at Seira. "Should there ever be a discrepancy within the three, I will get back to you on that."
* Lyselle just nods to Shamal in agreement.
<Seira> "What if your oath to your country contradicted your standing orders? Is such a situation really that difficult to imagine?"
<Lyselle> "Define the situation in which you desire my reaction," Lyselle answers back, shrugging. "I will not blindly follow any one of them against the other, even in the interest of indulging you."
<Shamal> "Then I would exercise my judgement to decide the best course," Shamal replies placidly. "The question is meaningless without context."
<Seira> "As you say," she demures.
* Berlioz sighs. "While I love a discussion on moral relativism, I think this is the wrong place, time and crew to debate with. We're doing this out of arbitrary curiosity and a bit of blind stupidity, and, since we're uncovering interesting pickets here and there, we have more reason to keep going than stop. However, not enough to play blindly dumb cards like spying on superiors. Is my synthesis accurate? If so, good. I think we're done for today.

> Around 10 AM Seira's day is interrupted by a page and a message. Captain MacVries informs you that Countess Stronger will be here today if you wished to talk.
* Seira does indeed wishes that. First, though, she seeks out Shamal to inquire about her intentions.
* Shamal is found at her house outside of town, and is happy to come along and play the part of the prospective student.
<Seira> "Did you receive a note as well?" Seira asks her.
<Shamal> "Oh... I didn't, actually..." Shamal notes, drawn up short. "Perhaps she only has time for one apprentice?"
<Seira> "This could be troublesome," Seira muses. "Would you like me to see if I can persuade her otherwise?"
* Shamal shakes her head. "It shouldn't matter - I'm sure you can ask as much as I could, so there's no sense pushing our luck. Be sure to come and tell me how it went after you've spoken to her?"
* Seira frowns. "Perhaps I was merely expected to pass on the message. You should come along with me, in that case...."
<Shamal> "Surely it would have said so, if that were the case?" Shamal points out. "I think, based on this, it would be best to go alone. If I were to force my presence on things it may set the Countess to being ill disposed towards you."
* Seira nods curtly. "I'll keep you posted, then," she responds, relenting, and sets off for her meeting.
> So Seira heads to Captain MacVries's room. It's the same as last time, a few chairs being used. The captain is at his table, sighing eternally as he finishes up a scroll writing. The other person in here has striking red hair, a red dress worn. Her green eyes hone in on you and behind you, "Aaah. I heard you wished to talk to me, wizard?"
> Captain MacVries nods once, keeping on his work, "I'm done with our business, so you two can go elseware if you wish." he says, "Oh, and I suppose that means the other cadet didn't come?"
* Seira bows much deeper than she is accustomed to doing. "Yes, Countess," she says, recognizing the woman from her description. "She suddenly fell ill," Seira respond to the captain smoothly. "It is nothing major, but she should take it easy for a day or so." Turning back to the older woman, Seira adds, "My friend extends her sincerest regrets at not being able to make it."
> "I see. Oh well, get on with it," Stronger waves her hand in dismissal, casually kicking back. "What do you want to talk to me about so bad? I know I'm popular," A luxurious toss of her hair, preening, "But you're the second random person in two days."
<Seira> "That randomness, as you say it, is at the core of my problem," Seira tells the Countess. "Your popularity does not come merely from your good looks, Ma'am, but from your considerable, famed skills. Alone, I realize that I will never be able to get to that level, not while studying on my own in my free time and training as a soldier while on duty. But should someone take me under her wing, I am certain things could change. For that goal, I
<Seira> For that goal, I am willing to do anything. No chore would be too menial or degrading, if I could become an apprentice to a real mage."
> "So...let me get this right. You're offering yourself because you want to be my apprentance? My oh my!" She grins and looks up to the ceiling, "Well then! I suppose I can consider it. There is a little, small, irritating problem I'm dealing with, and if you could resolve that it would go a ways to showing that you're serious about this. If not? Oh well, you'll waste some time."
<Seira> "I am more than willing to prove my determination, Countess," Seira vows.
> "Excellent! There is a property I wish to purchase, but a shop is there and acually owns the rights! Just some commoners who got lucky on location! I can't believe it, and they won't sell even to an offer of 3000 gold! They could buy four bakeries with that!" The Countess leans forward, "Really, this Sunshine Hilltop Bakery is such an irritant. It's place atop a hill is of considerable interest to me!" (More)
> "It's always, 'Oh, I'm sorry' this and 'We don't want to go' that! Now of course I don't want you to do anything questionable or illegal, but if you convinced them to make my absurdly generous offer I'd be just thrilled!"
* Seira nods at the other woman's words. "I shall begin by investigating the property and its owners at once, Ma'am!" she announces.
> "I wish you luck. Really, they're nice people, just incredibly stubborn!" The countess harumphs, looking off put. "I have to have that location!"
<Seira> "How much time do I have at my disposal?" she questions.
> "Oh, I have some time. Say a week, two weeks, whatever. Just talk them into it!" With that the Countess rises, "My house is back on the west wall of the city. Lots of roses in bloom, you won't miss it. Come by if you succeed."
<Seira> "Of course," Seira answers with another nod.

[Anastasia]

> The afternoon blooms in the streets of Balmuria. Past the busy, greedy traders of gold for iron is a hill. A hill that rises up in the center of the city, a beautiful place. The sea breeze carries the scent of salty waves on it, yet even it stops here at the modest house at the very top. A house with open windows that add a new layer to the wind, one of sweets and bakes, pies and bread and candy. It's a long straight up path for the hill, the scents making your stomach rumble. As you walk up, you notice a lot of people are taking slow, relaxing walks here, no hurry at all.
> It's a long straight up path for the hill, the scents making your stomach rumble. As you walk up, you notice a lot of people are taking slow, relaxing walks here, no hurry at all.
* Shamal looks rather distressed as she walks alongside Seira, again wearing simple peasant clothes and a shawl rather than her more showy work clothes. "I can't believe she wants to put Sunshine Hilltop Bakery out of business!" the young witch frets. "I get my bread there - they're always so nice and it tastes wonderful!"
<Seira> "I have never tried it," Seira muses. "I suppose I should."
> As you get closer, you can see that the front windows serve as display cases. Just inside the window sill you see pies cooling, loaves of seasoned bread behind it. Pretzels and fruits, so much that is making you hungry. You notice that the shop looks quite predictably busy.
<Shamal> "If you do then you won't want to make them sell up!" Shamal warns, really not being at all helpful on this particular escapade. "I don't want to have to find a new bakery."
<Seira> "What I agreed to do and what I intend to do are not necessarily the same thing," Seira reminds her, before asking Shamal to help conceal her from curious eyes as she weaves a simple spell of magic detection about her.
* Shamal obliges, moving a bit closer to Seira and positioning herself between the half-elf and the nearest passers-by.
> The spell is cast without incident in this case. Everyone's looking more at the lovely food source than any quiet pair of ladies.
<Seira> The source of that food is her destination, and as such, Seira heads there!
* Shamal follows after Seira, looking vaguely worried and unhappy.
> As you walk up you seen the business processing through. Smells great as you get a glimpse of inside, a few late teenage boys and a middle aged woman woking behind the counter. But alas, there is not a scrap of magic.
<Seira> "What would you recommend?" Seira asks Shamal, approaching the counter and observing the displays.
> Lots of various things, even an 'Elven Bread' topped with forest berries. As you watch you see one of the two boys, a stout youth with swarthy skin and black hair, smile and wave. "Want anything today?"
<Shamal> "I've always been fond of their apricot danishes..." Shamal replies to Seira, looking wistfully at the displays before tearing herself away. She can't afford such extravagances until payday!
<Seira> "Yes," she asserts. "An apricot danish." She frowns, then. "Two of them."
> "Sure." Quickly he moves, the two items produced over the counter. "Oh yes, I remember your order - I haven't see you around here in a few days, Miss."
<Shamal> "Oh, well, you know..." Shamal demurs embarrassedly, "Work keeps me so busy, lately... How's business, anyway?" she asks, making polite conversation.
> "Busy." A quick smile on his face, making conversation before he stops, looking at Seira. "...hm? Miss? I'm sorry, but are you...?"
<Seira> "Seira," she informs him. "And since we're in the act of introducing one another...."
> "Oh. Roald. Apologies." He bows his head respectfully, "I'm sorry, my father talked about elves from his travels on occasion, but I've never seen one!"
<Seira> "It is probably for the best," she tells him. "Most of them are horribly racist."
> "Oh..." Roald looks down about that, "Father always liked talking about the ones he got along well with." The smell of the danishes on the counter are quite good, too, people being served nearby by the other two.
<Seira> "Did your father tend to travel, then?"
<Shamal> "Really?" Shamal blinks at Seira in surprise. "I suppose you and Tynave are the only ones I've ever spoken to, so I wouldn't really know."
> "Yes he did." A thought there, quiet. "He made this bakery right after the war with the money he'd saved up, but he never lost that wanderlust..." A sad, distant look on his face, "Oh, sorry. Yes, he was a traveler. Even if he didn't serve in the war, I'm still proud of him!"
> "Roald!" The woman, dark skinned and with her hair behind a white kerchief, comes over. "Come on! We're busy today!"
<Seira> "I would like to hear more of your father's travels into our lands," Seira declares. "Should I come once you close up shop?"
> "But Mom!" Roald suddenly looks pained and embarrassed, glancing, "Um..."
> "...no." Roald gives his Mom and irritated look, "I'm going on break!"
<Seira> "Breaks are important," she agrees, nodding sagaciously.
> The two glare, but nothing comes of it as Roald comes around, going right outside.
* Seira gives the woman a wave and bites into her danish, following Roald.
* Shamal follows Seira, wondering if this is all part of some master plan or if she just happens to be curious about another's tales of the elven lands.
> The danish is indeed rather good! At the side of the street Roald waits, arms crossed. "Sorry, she's...just been kinda like that since Dad never came home," he apologizes.
<Seira> "Then it's probably best to talk about him where it would not upset your mother," Seira muses, taking another bite.
> "Yeah." He nods once, "Anyway, Dad met some elves he got along well with. Got some recipes for the shop from them, as well as just generally had a high opinion of them."
<Seira> "Were they adventuring elves?" she asks him.
<Shamal> "That explains the 'elven bread'," Shamal nods to herself, as if solving some mystery. "Do you know any recipes like that, Seira?"
<Seira> "As a matter of fact, yes," Seira responds with a curt nod. "I am well-versed in various cooking techniques, both elven and human."
> "Yeah, I think so. They met somewhere south of Malmuth." He thinks, "Dad was great - he could even sneak across the border past all the orcs and trolls and goblins." A long, sad smile is there, thoughtful. "Really? I bet Mom would pay you for some of those, if we can get the ingredients regularly."
<Seira> "My salary is barely enough to afford two glasses of wine a day," Seira says with a barely perceptible wince. "More funds could be appreciated." Her expression completely sours, then. "And there you go. Why do you think they went adventuring in the first place?"
> "The elves? I don't know. Freedom? Money?" Roald just shrugs, "Dad said they were on some sort of venture, but I don't remember most of it."
* Seira nods, thinking back to her preparatory research. Was the father's death confirmed?
> Not officially from what you remember, but that was just word of mouth.
<Seira> "Forgive my bluntness," she says at last. "But what exactly happened to your father?"
* Seira (cor@p11811112.orange.net.il) Quit (-=SysReset 2.53=-)
> "Went to a cave in the mountains based on it's reputation..he was curious, but he never came back." A small, sad shrug there. "There's only one thing that would keep him away this long, and..." The poor kid looks sad a moment, shaken. "Mom insists on running the bakery until Dad comes home."
* Hotaru-chan (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Off to learn about myself. -=SysReset 2.53=-)
* Shamal frowns slightly, pondering a moment before she speaks up. "Pardon me for asking, but do you know where this cave is?"
> "...why?" Roald asks, "I do, Dad left a copy of the map here."
* Ataraxia is now known as Seira
<Shamal> "I knpw you only see me as a simple young woman who buys bread from you every now and then," Shamal smiles weakly, "But I'm not without resources of my own. Seira here is also quite skilled," she gestures at her partially elven companion. "It's possible that we could investigate this cave. Believe me, I can understand that the not knowing can be hardest of all for your family."
<Seira> "He could have been trapped inside, transported elswhere or abducted," Seira suggests. "And those are just the possibilities I can think of offhand. There is only so much a person can do on their own, even if he is the best, strongest father in the world...." Seira's eyes acquire a distant look as she trails off.
> Roald is quiet, "...would you? You couldn't tell Mom - she says that no one needs to go, that Dad'll come back. But...I could sneak you the map, because..."
* Shamal nods, "I understand - I wouldn't want to get her hopes up in case we fail to find anything," she assures him.
<Seira> "You can hire my services with an offer of free danishes," Seira tells him, finishing the pastry.
> "HEh...done." He nods once, "Alright, Seira-elf and Shamal. Hold on." With that Roald goes back inside.
<Seira> "If I knew it would be so easy I would have asked a side order of bread," Seira murmurs once he is gone.
<Shamal> "It really is good bread," Shamal replies sollemnly.
<Seira> "The bakers' talent cannot be denied," Seira agrees.
> About ten minutes later Roald comes back out. A piece of parchment as well asa few more danishes, his face solemn. "Alright. I'm trusting both of you. "
<Seira> "We would like to remain your customers. Your trust would be rewarded."
<Shamal> "If you give me a few minutes I can make a copy of the map so that you won't lose the original?" Shamal suggests. "If your mother finds it missing that may upset her even more."
> "...oh yeah, alright." Roald nods once more.
* Seira checks that the map is just normal, non-magical parchment to be on the safe side.
* Shamal takes out a piece of parchment from her bag along with an inkpen and proceeds to copy the map onto her own paper.
<Seira> "Why did your father not take this map with him?" Seira asks curiously.
> The map isn't magical. "It's a copy of the map. He left it...I don't know why, actually..." Suddenly Roald goes quiet, dead quiet. "...Dad left a lot of old maps on occasion, now that I think about it, but usually 'lost't them after he got back..."
<Shamal> "Did he say anything about what he expected to find in this cave?" Shamal asks as she finishes her transcribing of the map, handing the original back to Roald.
* Seira arches an eyebrow. "I see," she drawls out quietly, turning to listen to Shamal's input.
> "...no, just that he wanted to see what as in the 'Cave of the Winds'." Roald looks shaken now, "Good luck," he says distantly.
<Seira> "Cheer up," Seira tells the baker. "There's always hope."
<Shamal> "I'm sorry if bringing all this up is distressing, Roald," Shamal ducks her head apologetically. "I hope we can find something to put your mind at ease, however."
> "...heh, too late today." With that, the shaken youth heads back into the bakery.
<Seira> "What do you think?" Seira asks Shamal as soon as they are left alone, starting the long walk back down the hill.
<Shamal> "Well..." Shamal takes a deep breath, now left alone with her partially elven friend. "I think that if we must play the Countess' game, we can at least try and help this poor family so that they'll have no reservations about selling their shop, if that's what they choose."
<Shamal> She looks at the map, trying to estimate how long it'd take to reach the cave of winds (and also searching her memory to see if it rings any bells), "Besides which, I can't help but feel a little curious."
> OOC: Knowledge local check if you have it.
> It's south along the mountain ridges. It'll take only two days to get there, but at least two more to make the last fifth of the trip in the horrible mountain terrain.
<Shamal> OOC: I lack it.
<Seira> roll 1d20+9 sure~
* Hatbot --> "Seira rolls 1d20+9 sure~ and gets 29."12 [1d20=20]
<Seira> "I am curious myself," Seira agrees, taking a glance at the map herself. "Though I must admit my desire to help that family outweighs my wishes for an apprenticeship."
<Shamal> "Of course, the time taken to reach it and return - to say nothing of how long it would take to explore the cave - puts a crimp in giving Tynvae an update on our progress, and there's no telling when we'd be able to find her again..." the blonde goes on.
<Seira> "Hmm, these caves...." She taps her lips thoughtfully with her index finger. "People sometimes come in, but never come out. The gale winds at the caves might be responsible for that. Still, unless it is normal for a city to be surrounded by dangerous legendary places people cannot escape from upon entering, does this not sound somewhat familiar?"
* Shamal cocks her head at Seira. "The whirlpools?" she posits, looking thoughtful. "What an odd coincidence..."
<Seira> "The legends we have heard are almost identical," she asserts.
<Seira> "Another part that struck me as strange was the copy of the map," Seira adds. "Along with the father's previous action, does it not sound like he expected his sons to follow him?"
<Shamal> "I'm not sure about that," Shamal shrugs gently. "I would surmise he simply left them as a means for his family to know where he was. Surely he expected to return, after all?"
<Seira> "Perhaps it was insurance, in case he could not."
* Seira shrugs herself.
* Ebiris (WinNT@user-514c649f.l4.c5.dsl.pol.co.uk) has joined #dunes
* Shamal (WinNT@user-514c649f.l4.c5.dsl.pol.co.uk) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by Ebiris))
* Ebiris is now known as Shamal
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Shamal Shamal
<Shamal> "Possibly - insurance that has paid off, given our interest, no?" Shamal smiles slightly. "Perhaps I could ask Berlioz to meet Tynvae while we're investigating the cave? He needs to stay in town for his next meeting with the Countess, anyway."
<Seira> "We could also wait a few days and see what his meeting brings, as well as meet your aquan friend," Seira suggests. "Perhaps she herself would have news, and we would be more informed, and certainly better prepared for such a trip, supplies-wise."
<Shamal> "I suppose I might be able to scrape together some more funds if I have a few days to prepare..." Shamal mutters to herself.
<Seira> "I was recently loaned some funds most generously," Seira tells her. "It is only right that I do the same, if you are in need."

I hate logging sometimes.

> The next day is foggy and clammy. An ill omen as Berlioz approaches the house of roses, perhaps, or just to hide what may come and happen soon?
* Berlioz looks up to the serene, misty sky. Those days are oddly romantic in a sense, he pondered. The roses seemed a bit... opaque, however. Not much enjoys the lack of sunshine. Wearing a thin, white cape over his scholarly attire, the bard knocks on the door. What could await him today?
> Again the bard hears etherial charms sound. Four seconda nd then eight, until the door opens. Countess Stronger is there, wearing another vibrant red dress and silky, see through white cape over it. It's very functional while still being bright. "Oooooh! It's you." She smiles a bit, "Come back to sing of your desire to see history again?"
* Berlioz bows politely upon the sight of the Countess, smiling gently as he looks up. "Why, certainly, milady. I believe we had a due meeting today. I came to hear your astounding plans, and to turn them into tales for generations to come, you need but ask."
> "Come in, come in," she turns aside, smiling, "I must say, rarely do I find myself confronted with such a charmer who is so brazen as to come to my front door"
> "Come in, come in," she turns aside, smiling, "I must say, rarely do I find myself confronted with such a charmer who is so brazen as to come to my front door!"
* Berlioz bows once again, silkenly walking into the rosy inner domains of the Countess. "It's quite a shame that, milady. People might as well be blind if they don't recognize your sparkling beauty."
> Inside you are lead into a sitting room. While there are a few paintings of roses, sunsets and other red things, it's mostly plain. Surprisingly functional, a teapot sitting on a table between comfortable chairs. "How do you like it," she asks, going to the teapot. "With or without milk?"
* Berlioz rests his chin over the backpalm of his hand, looking calmly at the teapot. "I prefer my tea raw, milady. Thank you for your consideration."
> The tea is poured into as ingle cup, brought to Berlioz. "Enjoy," she smiles with aslight red tint to her cheeks, a blush as she brushes hands against hands. After that she sits down. "So tell me, why did you come again?"
* Berlioz closes his eyes gently as he sips his tea, the motions of a noble swiftly showing through his mannerisms. After finishing his sip, cup still in hand, he calmly glances the Countess as if preparing a speech. "As I said, I am a storyteller. I've settled in Balmuria a few springs ago in order to see a glorious history unfolding in a childling empire. And, recently, I've seen unusual, nearly enchanted signs of a big tale unfolding... (
<Berlioz> "(more!) ... and they all led me to you. It seems I was correct, as well. You are quite a rarity around these lands, Countess, and I can only thank a nameless god for leading me to a developing legend as it is being born."
<Berlioz> OOC - Strike my last two lines, replace with the ones I'm about to send.
> OOC - Um, okay.
<Berlioz> * Berlioz closes his eyes gently as he sips his tea, the motions of a noble swiftly showing through his mannerisms. After finishing his sip, cup still in hand, he calmly glances the Countess as if preparing a speech. "As I said, I am a storyteller. I've settled in Balmuria a few springs ago in order to see a glorious history unfolding in a childling empire."
<Berlioz> "Recently, I've seen unusual, nearly enchanted signs of a big tale unfolding... and they all led me to you. It seems I was correct, as well. You are quite a rarity around these lands, Countess, and I can only thank a nameless god for leading me to a developing legend as it is being born."
> The tea is quite good. "My..." she blushes again, basking as she brushes back a lock of hair. "That's the nicest way I've ever been told 'I want to know your secret activities!"
* Berlioz sips yet another gulp of tea, nodding. "Semantically, I cannot bring myself to disagree. But such bluntness is a terrible way to establish ties, milady, and I'm not here to cause you unnecessary grief. I'll partake of your secrets only as far as you'd like me to."
> "Fine." The Countess considers, leaning back and steepling her fingers in front of her face. "Tell me why you want to know this - seriously - and maaaaybe we'll talk." Her smile is sunny and bright, innocent. "Since I'd hate to have to burn you alive if you're trying to do something you s houldn't be, okay?"
> A pause there and a breath, "OF course...if you're just hear to sing my praises, do go on."
* Infinite_Ko_Loop is now known as Kotono
* Berlioz sighs, and opens a snicker. "Weeeeeell. Fine, I believe I can be slightly more sincere with milady in this case. I am truly a historian, and I'm interested in writing the tales of a birthing country - which is odd coming from a middle-brow noble from Malmuth. However, what leads me to here is a bit more passing. I believe you heard of rumors about sea elves supposedly roaming the Balmuria ports, correct?"
> "Oh, old rumors? Maybe." The countess shrugs, an easy smile on her face. "Little bitsy insignifigant murmurs, hm? Nothing worth any serious attention."
<Berlioz> "Oh, those are quite recent, actually - and it's hard to disbelieve when they start approaching land and making distinct noises. Meanwhile, a few coloured birds whisper here and there about the secret affairs of a plumed bird. The stories have turned into something more than a little bigger than just chirps, milady."
> "Ooooh, well then, what are these loud chirps?" she asks,  lounging back in her chair. "Really, I do seem to be more popular than ever lately..."
* Berlioz grins. "Oh, these have been all around the city, really. They fly a long way, and the murmurs grow louder every day. The sea elves suddenly flashing now and then don't help, either. But one of the chirps particularly interested me, far more than those strange sylphids - and probably no one else, really."
> "Mmm hmmm! Well then..." Countess Stronger puffs up, before deflating. "You pretty much just cemented what I figured. Sea elves, talked to them or got information from them somehow or some some source, and now you're following the yellow brick road?"
* Berlioz sighs. "Somewhat, yes. It is far from me to want to stop your plans, but incurring the wrath of an obscure race isn't particularly desirable for anyone. I do not know what do you intend, nor why is it affecting those strange undines, but I was brutally curious to find out, if nothing else."
> "Eh, I'll be honest. It's a wash. Total stop, hard pause, end. Finished." Sourly looking down, "That seal could probably withstand Mystra herself having a go at it. Stupid whirlpools are just the first layer. Bleh." Sounding most put out, she crosses her arms and archly looks over at Berlioz. "I  WAS trying to heal up and forget about that stupid thing."
* Berlioz ponders. "A seal? What kind of seal? Listen here, Countess. I may not be one with the kindest intentions, but... quite frankly, now you've got my interest", he smirks with a slight glint in his eyes. "Would you like help with research on the seal and the process of unsealing it?"
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru Hotaru
> "Eh." She kicks back, thinking. "Not particularly, at least right now.  With one that strong it's not going anywhere, and I have other things on the fire. I'm going to open a shop once I take care of one little road bu-wait." She shakes her head, "Oh damn it, you're good. You're just making it too easy to blather on and on."
* Berlioz snickers. "A roadbump? Come on, Countess. You can tell me. This may not be a brutally strong seal, but, since I've gone that far, might as well give you a token of my appreciation for your time."
> "Oh, just the tenants of where I wish to purchasethe land aren't being cooperative. I have a wonderful volunteer on it already, soo..." She shakes her head, "Anyway."
* Berlioz sighs and smiles. "Well, I guess it's just as well. Still, makes me wonder who are you trying so hard to upstage. But it's hardly of my concern unless you want to share. And you're probably weary of my presence right now, milady..." With that, the bard fixes his monocles and gets up slightly.
> "For now. I suspect you'll alight my doorstep soon, but...let us go." With that she takes to the front door, opening it and waiting for Berlioz to catch up.
* Berlioz catches the cue and follows, bowing politely before making his leave. "Well. While it may not seem so, it was still a pleasure. I apologize for the inconvenience and the unnecessary drama, milady."
> A mere nod to Berlioz, "We shall see," she murmurs, closing the door behind her. But as it closes, you can see her smiling just a little bit...
* Berlioz contemplatively looks at the door for a moment, and reflexively fixes his monocle. With a silent smirk, he nods to himself and dusts his cape. "Well, this is an interesting piece...", an interior musing echoes in his mind as he passes through the solemn roses...
> ---
> The docks are busy and lifefilled again. TWo head down to the water's edge, awaiting in the sunny weather of Febuary, basking in the warm sea breeze...
* Shamal makes her way to the barrier wall, "This is where we agreed to meet up," she tells Berlioz, Flopsy cradled in her arms as she leans over the edge to peer into the water in search of Tynvae. "I don't suppose you speak Aquan, by the way?"
* Berlioz sighs. "Well, I can use magic to comprehend their language, but not having the spell memorized now myself, I guess I'll resign to the role of silent witness here. Aquan is one of the languages I sadly missed on my studies."
<Shamal> "Oh... well, you might not get much out of this - she didn't appear to speak Common when we last spoke," the blonde admits, carefully sitting herself down on the edge over the water as she waits for the sea elf to make her appearance.
<Berlioz> "Eh, just viewing one of those undine-like elves is enough. It's not like I'm here to find out the exciting secrets of Atlantica, anyhow. It's not our history, at least not so far", Berlioz calmly replies.
<Shamal> "One step at a time," Shamal smiles, setting Flopsy down beside her and idly petting the rabbit as she waits and watches.
> Time passes by. The waiting is boring and without incident, until Shamal finally sees it. Deep below there is a hint of blue in the water, rising blue.
<Shamal> "Ah, there she is!" Shamal points down for Berlioz's benefit. "See?"
* Berlioz approaches, following Shamal's lead. "Ohhhh... so, it is approaching?"
> Up from the depths of the ocean it comes! Skin tinted green, hair as blue as the deep sea ocean. Tynave rises towards the surface slowly, looking behind her a few times as she does.
* DoC (DarK_Ray@229.Red-83-49-6.dynamicIP.rima-tde.net) has joined #dunes
* DoC is now known as abcdef
<Shamal> "Hello, Tynave," Shamal greets the sea elf, her voice taking on the burbling and watery tongue of Aquan as she speaks. "I have mews about the wizard you told us about."
* abcdef is now known as Doc
* Doc (DarK_Ray@229.Red-83-49-6.dynamicIP.rima-tde.net) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by aavictor2))
* Doc (DarK_Ray@229.Red-83-49-6.dynamicIP.rima-tde.net) has joined #dunes
* Doc (DarK_Ray@229.Red-83-49-6.dynamicIP.rima-tde.net) Quit (NickServ (GHOST command used by aavictor2))
* DarKray (~DarK_Ray@229.Red-83-49-6.dynamicIP.rima-tde.net) has joined #dunes
* Berlioz sets mode: +b *!*@229.Red-83-49-6.dynamicIP.rima-tde.net
* DarKray was kicked by Berlioz (Stop that.)
> "What is it? Um, could you kind of hurry?" This time there's clear embarrassment, uneasiness as she looks down. "I got in a lot of grief last time since they found out I came here. I shouldn't push it so much for awhile."
* Berlioz blinks and faintly observes the sea elf as she rises, vaguely adjusting his jaw as if it could drop into the ground. While this isn't the view of a goddess, it is quite a story, indeed.
<Shamal> "Just the highlights, then," Shamal decides. "It was a wizard who resides here in Balmuria - apparently the forbidden whirlpools are only the first layer in a seal of some sorts, which she was trying to bypass. However, she found her efforts stymied by what lies beyond them, and has given up for the time being."
> "Oh, I see! That's good news." A sigh of relief from that, "That means all this will stop and no one will go by the whirlpools again?"
* Hotaru-chan (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru-chan Hotaru-chan
<Shamal> "For the near future," Shamal nods. "She may have an idea for bypassing the seal in the future that causes her to return, but for now she has given up on her attempts."
> "That's still good news," The elf bobs in the water, looking around again. "Tendril's better now, by the way. Thank you."
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Ping timeout)
<Shamal> "I'm glad," Shamal sags slightly in relief. "Again, I'm terribly sorry about that whole misunderstanding... Really, I should have known better to begin with. It's not as if dangerous sealife habitually lurks right here in the harbour..." she wrings her hands helplessly, "I just got carried away in the heat of the moment."
> "Tendril says he's sorry...oh!" Looking up at the rabbit Shamal holds, "Is that like Tendril? Is that a land animal?"
* Berlioz kneels and watches silently. There will definitely be a few questions for Shamal lately, even if it seems like small talk. Knowing someone who has met and chatted with sea elves is a fine distinction for a newly mint historian, after all.
<Shamal> "Somewhat," Shamal smiles, holding the docile rabbit up, "His name is Flopsy, he's a rabbit - they normally live in burrows underground and are famous for..." she stops, blushing slightly, "Well, that doesn't matter. Anyway, he's my familiar, yes," she concludes with an authoritative nod. "So are you a practitioner of magic yourself, Tynave?
> "Magic? No, no really. Tendril is a clan pet! It's kinda of dry and icky. There isn't even any smile on it, is there?" Tynave makes an EW face, "It would feel weird to touch."
* Shamal looks slightly put out. "Flopsy's fur is very soft and nice," she retorts, before putting her bunny aside. "Oh, Seira - the elf from before - she says hello and she's sorry she can't make it. This is Berlioz," she gestures at the bard, "He's very excited to meet you but doesn't speak Aquan." Switching back to Common she glances sidelong at him, "Wave to the nice sea elf, Berlioz."
* Berlioz waves lightly, raising his right hand with a slight smile.
> "Oh!" Tyvane nods again, looking on. "That one has very fancy clothes and a strange eye! Is that normal?"
<Shamal> "Not really," Shamal replies, straight-faced and glad for the language barrier. "He's just a bit eccentric. He's a storyteller, so you'll probably be appearing in his epic book about the mysteries of the deep or some such, now."
> "Hey! Don't do that! What if more land dwellers come here!" Berlioz can see the sea elf give him a nasty, irritated look. "I'll never hear the end of it if that happens!"
* Berlioz raises an eyebrow towards the sea elf, a slightly intrigued look in his semblance.
* Shamal giggles sheepishly. "Maybe I've said too much..." Switching back to Common, "Sorry, Berlioz, I just mentioned your profession - she doesn't want to appear in any stories."
* Berlioz sighs, closing his eyes. "It's not like I am a tourist guide. The writing of history is to be kept for posterity, not for it to be desecrated by a bunch of hillbillies far more Southern than I would ever be."
<Shamal> Nodding, Shamal turns her attention back to the sea elf, "He won't mention you by name," she promises, "He just likes to keep a respectful record for posterity. So, I suppose you'll be going back to your home, now?"
> The sea elf waits, and then...splash! Berlioz gets water across his face and shirt, the elf looking on. "Well, okay, but he still looks funny," Tynave pouts, turning her back. "I should, I'll get in trouble. But...at least I know I wasn't totally wrong. Not all of youa re that bad!"
* Shamal giggles embarrassedly, "Sorry, Berlioz... I think she likes you?" she hazards weakly, before waving to Tynave. "We're really not. Maybe one day I'll know enough magic to come and visit where you live, but I suppose more realistically this is goodbye." She clambers to her feet. "Good luck, Tynave."
* Berlioz grumbles, taking off his monocle. "I suppose this is no messier than human affection. Still a good reminder of why I prefer libraries to town fairs."
* Hotaru-chan (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) Quit (Be back momentarily -=SysReset 2.53=-)
> "Tell the other one that, too. Her ears were really pointy!" With that wave she dips into the water, down and away.
* Shamal keeps her smile a moment longer before she picks up Flopsy, expression turning a bit melancholy. "I don't suppose we'll ever see her again..." she murmurs, turning to Berlioz.
* Berlioz vainly tries to dry his clothes with some twists, while he sighs, salty water still dripping all over. "I guess it's just as well. They have their reasons to be wary of us, and we're not unentitled to look upon the different with eyes less kind than yours. She is better off with her own kind. We weren't supposed to meddle in their affairs to begin with. It was a strike of luck."
<Shamal> "Perhaps... I still can't help but wonder what could be gained if both sides were more accomadating, however." She sighs softly, drawing her shawl tighter around her, "No matter. If nothing else, her mind has been opened to seeing that land-dwellers aren't things of mystery and fear."
* Hotaru (dragomirst@225-52-77-204.sptc.mnscu.edu) has joined #dunes
* ChanServ sets mode: +ao Hotaru Hotaru
<Berlioz> "You are probably right, Shamal. But we are all imperfect beings. We have to grow as a society and as individual humans before trying to approach them. And I'd guess they have to work on their maturity in their own ways to accept such a breach. Neither side is ready to let go just yet", the bard ponders coldly.