Log for October 14, 2008

::It's August, by Known Worlds reckoning, though that doesn't really mean much as far as environment is concerned for non-Urth planets... suffice to say that it remains nice on Grail, though a chill has been in the area closest to the capital for the past few days, hinting at an early winter...
After your latest prophecy, Martel and Lan spent some extra time with the Etyri learning the mystic ways...
Vasili and Budi left you with the hopper and headed offworld to try to get news and put some of your plans into motion...
Martel found you a somewhat shady Scraver that calls himself Captain Tollosk, though you're sure he's not really officially ranked a captain, to take over your transportation duties... Martel swears he's trustworthy, but the rest of you aren't sure why...
An has been recuperating from the stoning he took a couple of weeks ago, spending some time with Maria not cramped on a spaceship or being attacked... Though as the days pass, she's obviously getting restless to achieve something, made obvious in the furious sword training sessions that she has An engage in...

:: wrings hands over potential training injuries but says nada ::

::tries not to lose an eye::

You're in Grail's capitol for offworld news and to check into Lan's idea about possibly enlisting the aid of the local nobles, when you receive your first word on Hazat space a few weeks ago, the Bursandra pulled a lot of their active duty military units off of Hira and Vera Cruz to help stabilize Aragon - with the loss of the Eduardos and increasing Selchaka addiction, the family is worried about their home stability should something else happen::

::It's first thing in the morning, on a crisp Grail day::

::rolls out of bed to groggily kneel for morning prayers::

::since your local awakening, you feel the will of the Pancreator in a way you have to admit you never truly did before::

:: eating oatmeal-like breakfast food, watching the sunrise, and comforted, but fretting is a hard habit to break :: Man, I'm SURE there's got to be a way to break selchaka addiction, if only I had subjects to exp... I mean, help cure. I can't believe they're... ::sighs::

::this in lieu of any ordinary 'good morning' ::

::grumbles:: I just know I'm gonna get an "I told you so" outta someone about this. ::Gets dressed and goes to the kitchen::

::climbs up and out of bed quietly. Slipping on a light robe and attempts to slip out of the room for two cups of ((insert Sci-fi coffee name here))::

::you're staying in a middle-scale hotel - nice, but unlikely to be the first place any search parties might hit::

((probably just coffee, unless the Bridges were just trying to be perverse))

((I don't drink things named after household pets.))

((though given the Earth to Urth trend, maybe))

::goes to find two cups of Khafee:: ((damn beat me to it!))

((not really, just call it coffee... we hates stupid sci fi words))

::waves blearily to An as he walks by the coffee maker::

::the breakfast bar has a very nice selection of local brews available::

::blinks and waves back, paying most of his attention to the various blends. He picks out a good dark blend and begins to set about getting the pot ready and brewing::

::after a moment he clears his throat:: ... Morning.

::the burble of the percolator can't help but remind Martel of the sound his flamegun made when he was trying to fit it for spray narcotics earlier::

::slumps into a chair, massaging his face:: Yeah. Plans for the day? Cause I'm getting antsy.

::his thumb is still a bit numb::

::now his eye is a bit numb. stops massaging his face:: ...yeah, me neither.

::begins filling the mugs with lots of sugar in one and the other with a small amount of sugar and cream:: Right... plans.

::Lan shrugs :: Well, I say we just waltz in and set up an alliance with house keddah, stash the ... you know what, in a well.... then charter the first craft to Aragon and set up a clinic. ::makes a face like this is obvious:: But that's just me. I want my own clinic.

You always want your own clinic. But it's not a horrible Idea.

Nurses. ::nods, absconds with some of the coffee::

I think you're not that far off. We've got to get the other houses together, with an alliance we can steer support to help stabilize Aragon.

It'd give you a place to try to figure out a cure for that drug too.

((Hey. Where's Maria? ))

((probably still in her room))

((assuming An was going to bring her back coffee))

::fills the two mugs and mixes:: ((indeed he was))

So what say we try to get togeather with the local nobles this afternoon, and then figure out a place to stash Mr. Stony.

:: must have followed them to the coffee without realizing. Lan thumbs over his shoulder at Maria's room:: I mean... we do have some credibility to negotiate stuff... don't we? ::sounds doubtful::

I think we should talk to Maria about it. I think its only right she decides how we deal with her family. Be right back. ::picks up both the mugs and slides deftly into Maria's room::

((Gotcha, gotta add a space in there for sentences starting with P))

::rises and stretches, back popping with the movement:: lemme go get my stuff, and we can start out day.

:: chuckles :: We could just be like, "We bring this, as a gift to our noble cousins ..." or you know, whatever, I don't know how nobles talk.

::An, with his coffee, is treated to the actual best part of waking up - Maria's morning underwear kata. She swings her sheathed saber around the room, exercising... sadly, this means An's missed underwear calisthenics::

::chuckles to himself and sets the coffee down on a table near her then sits on the edge of the bed and begins to sip his own.::

::she winds down and sips the coffee greatfully::

:: has apparently not followed along for this, more's the pity. That girl might have impending skoliosis or something ::

Well, no Keddah spies have tried to kill us yet, so maybe they're not as bad as I thought

Without a doubt. In fact I've invited a few to dinner. I figured we'd have a nice local wine. Maybe go out for a late night stroll. Trade gossip. It'll be fun. ::smiles widely::

:: looks sidelong:: Deacon, why're you shaking your hand like that?

::she finishes her coffee and then begins dressing, looking distastefully at the one outfit choice she has at the moment::

Because the girl has a sword, and no skoliosis at all.

I guess travel wear is good enough for the Keddah; at least it would be at home, here... they probably put on airs

::stands up and adjusts his robe:: Just have to find my slippers and I'll be ready for the day.

((did everyone follow An into his girlfriend's bedroom?))

((me and Lan are outside in the kitchen))

((Right. In the kitchen. ))

((why is martel talking about underwear kata? how does he know about underwear kata? he's married to the church, remember?)

((That one point of streetwise was good for SOMETHING damnit!))

((the nuns have hot underwear Kata. It's a new church you know))

((it's Gjartianism, though, so they're not big on shaving... and a lot of them are bird people))

((Non sequitur critical mass! ))

((Or Avestites... which is even worse))

((I don' t mind the former, but I'm not into birds. ))

((we bath once a year, just like the pancreator intended))

::Maria finishes dressing, and looks ready to head out::

::waves blandly when they reemerge:: Morning.

::walks into his room, shrugs into his robes, and belts on the weaponry::

::excuses himself and heads to his room, get dressed well, not trying to look overdressed but attempting to show of signs of his post and afflictions::

((Affiliations, I hope. ))

::walks back out:: Mornin Maria. Sleep well?

::figures out people are actually dressing up, and throws the frumpy over-tunic in his bedroom and puts on a smart jacket instead.::

((nah, big low-cut top to show off his back scars))

((Oh, those. Eee. ))

((stupid auto spell checker thing. It's off now... stupid afflictions))

As well as possible around here. I keep expecting Eldritch to pop up and try to kill us all.

::makes his way out of his room, afflictions hidden, affiliations showing::

If it does happen, I would appreciate if it happens after my morning coffee.

::cringes :: Yeah, let's hope not. Isn't today the first day of our reoncquist... er, whatever? We gotta do somethin'. It's crazy to just let the Selchaka problem continue.

I wonder if the Keddah know anything about that; they were spying on us about the same point it first cropped up, even if they weren't directly involved

Indeed. I'd love to know how much they had on it, but I'd be suspicious of anything they'd willingly tell us.

Weren't they screwed bigtime by the... um. ::dislikes saying "Decados" out loud, obviously. ::

It's hard to say... they say they were, but they were still involved heavily in the attempt to blow up Vera Cruz that we all stopped four years ago

Any word or any kind of regime change since then? Overt or otherwise?

Not that I know of. Last I heard they were still claiming to have been wronged and that it was all a Hazat ploy to steal Grail.

Any way to make some beleavable Mea Culpas?

If they feel wronged, it might help if we somehow say we're sorry. Hell, I'm tempted to give them the gargoyle. Let them protect it for us, and the gift might just be grand enough that we'd be on their good side.

Might be able to pull an alliance outta that ::scratches his 2-day beard::

You mean one of the four things that will "make a mighty machine when the need is great"?

Hmm, good point. If we did that, we'd have to make it immediately accessable anyways. Wouldn't work.

It was just an idea guys. Still, would like to know what the, uh, tenth house has over Keddah.

::raises an eyebrow:: Is there any particular reason you are so hesitant to say their name?

Officially, mutual defense pacts via Torenson... if Keddah doesn't do as they want, they start a small war, overcommit Torenson to help, and Keddah loses tons of profits and men fighting for them

::raises both eyebrows:: D'you remember how big those Jakovan doods are?

Unofficially, I don't know if they have other leverage

Oh. ::scratches his head. Not one for politics & economics so much::

::shrug:: Fair to middlin big. I'm fine with big though.

So, we're having guests tonight? Hopefully they'll be able to answer our questions.

Thought there had been talk of inviting some of these fellas to dinner or something.

::looks around like, 'What?' but laughs:: I could make a killer salad.

:: hesitates:: By which I do not at all mean 'killer.'

No, no talk of dinner. You probably need to lay off the narcotics.

Right then. I guess that little tangent of mine brings us back to "What is the plan?" again.

So, seriously though. If I can set up a clinic and get every addicted Hazat householder on a program... hmmm? ::looks hopeful:: I mean. I'm not a swordfighting, gun shooting type.

I think that was the idea we had with the most hope. I'd support it just based on personal principles regardless.

No, its not a bad plan. We've got to get a world wide series of clinics set up.

Something on a an emergency level, but to do that we're going to have to pull the planet back together before infighting eats it from the inside out.

I don't think talking to the Keddah is a bad idea, if we can get an audience with someone that has enough power to be honest

Might be easier to convert existing clinics, really.

Well. Who do the Keddah folks listen to?

Lan, can you actually provide a direct antidote to the Selchaka, or just a substitute and a weaning off period?

If we put togeather some outside political support, and gave it to a single person in the house, would the rest of the house rally behind them, or band togeather against them?

I think I could cure it. ::quietly:: I'm not sure.

Probably, better equip local hospitals. Things of that nature. ::leans up against the counter:: We need allies in this. People who can offer aid and support and back one solid leader.

heh, I'd take that over a hell yes from most other people.

Someone who could bring the people of the planet together. At this time more than any they need a leader. A strong front. Because right now they're weak, doubtful.

This is a perfect time for someone who is in a good position to strike.

((for the record, you still don't have a real breakdown of what they're doing to the Selchaka to up its addictive qualities; if you had that, you'd have an easier time with a counter agent))

Well. And don't they really just, like, need an excuse to break treaties?

((I did get samples of the stuff at some point.... I never thoroughly researched it? ))

((Or I just didn't get answers?))

((you did enough to come up with a methadone... but like any drug, there's only so much you can reverse engineer))

((if you had the actual processes, you might be able to find out exactly what it's doing biologically that makes it more addictive than the regular stuff))

((we need to find someone who can tell us how it is made. Someone I haven't burned to ash yet))

What I really need to know to be sure though... I need to see what they're doing to purify the stuff. There were radicals in their product I never could analyze.

Sounds to me like we need to go addict hunting.

Or maybe chemist hunting.

That comes after addict hunting, but I'm fine skipping steps if we can.

I was half hoping Grigori'd masterminded their drug scheme, after getting his notes.

::shrugs :: So what do we bring to offer the Keddah, I guess, is the question?

::Lan still has some major sections of those notes that he thinks are ciphered... he's figured out the straightforward meaning, but he's got a sense that there's something underneath::

Well, if they are having problems with the drug market too, and are just keeping it hush-hush, then a cure would do just as well for them too.

::sniffs an affected scholarly sniff :: Maybe there was something I missed.

Might be too much to hope for though.

Well... if I can meet 'em, I can spot an addict.

Brings us back to addict hunting.

So we're hoping Grail has an addict problem too?

Hoping? No. But if it does, we might be able to use it. It's worth a shot, I think.

So we're dropping trying to wring info from the Keddah?

Well. We have any chance of, I dunno, sitting down to dinner with them after all?

I mean, I don't mean, here in the hotel or anything. But. I dunno, you guys are good at the spying thing. I'm not.

No, I think we need to do that too. If we get to a point where we find out grail has the same problem though, it'll give us a place to put some leverage.

We could attempt to get an audience, or spy on them, or fight our way in...

No, I don't think we're dropping that. Indeed I think that should be our first attempt at information. Perhaps something you and I could do Maria while these two investigate the Selchaka lead?

I think on the side of the drugs, we should be investigating up the chain. Work your way up dealer to dealer. Someone high enough up has heard of this new green variety. Maybe even heard word on where to get it.

Just what I was thinkin An. Eventually we should get to a supplier.

If its not coming to this planet they might have at least heard where its coming from on its trip to Aragon.

Hopefully we can get some info without tipping them off this time too.

But try and not draw too much attention to yourselves. Leave the flamer at home.

Why do you think I bought this thing? ::motions at the blaster pistol on his hip as he sets the flamer on the table::

:: tries to think of solid differential diagnosis for green selchaka addiction tips ::

To shoot the tanks when they run out of fluid and you still want more fire?

Oh please. I have plenty of ways to make more fire. If I shoot the tanks, how will I fill them back up for fire LATER? The Pancreator teaches us patience, when setting fire to things.

That's why the people on Madoc are so pious.

Eh. Beats eating frozen fish.

::nods:: Fair enough. We should probably set about our tasks.

Indeed. C'mon Doc, daylight's wastin!

Check. ::shoulders his pack::

Should we try to get some local nice clothes from the market, or push our way in as is?

Right then. Good luck gents. We'll be in the poor quarter, if you need us for anything.

::leans in and kisses her on the cheek:: Lets go shopping.

So. Padre. A serious question, though of a morbid bent.

Suppose. Just hypothetically. Suppose you had before you a Selchaka addict. You know the poor churl had no hope getting off the drug. And after all I'm sure you're worldly enough to know what selchaka can make people do.

How to deal with him?

Confinement would be my first choice. I know a few good monastaries that would force him off the drug. Correct me if I'm wrong though, that is known to be unhealthy occasionally?

It's up to the addict then. If they want to risk it, send them to the monastary for treatment, and may the Pancreator look over them. If they don't, well, Pancreator look after them when their supply runs out. Because I would find their dealer, and bring him to justice.

::looks morose:: In many ways, then, the walking dead. It wouldn't be a small thing, to find a true cure.

If you could only cure one man, Doctor, it wouldn't be a small thing.

::laughs drily :: You don't take me for humble, surely, deacon.

Ain't many a man in this world who is. Doesn't make what you've got to do any easier, or make any less important if you succeed.

((let me know when you guys are done chatting... no rush))

((I think we be done. Lan?))

((Done. )) ::they cast about for leads::

((Let me get a streetwise check... one of you is helping, rolls first... the second is primary and adds the VPs from the first person's roll to his target number...Extrovert + Streetwise, and Lan gets Honest while Martel gets Pious for +2 each))

((I love the idea od Deacon Azo, with his flame-red robes, hoisting a blaster pistol instead of a flamer saying "shush! I'm undercover!"))

((which of you wants to be primary?))

((I got nothin streetwisewise. ))

((you have more than martel))

((which is funny, since you're getting an honest bonus))

((So, that's 9. I'm rolling 2d20, yes? ))

rolled 2 20-sided dice: 16 19

((Martel should be Ext 7 + St 1 + 2))

((Lan is Ext 7 + St 2 + 2))

rolled 2 20-sided dice: 10 19

((no VPs for Martel, but 3 for Lan))

::The morning is not exactly the best time for the criminal element, so Martel is having a hard time with his usual plan of making the sinful look guilty, and homing in on them... but Lan is able to check in with his doctor and Amalthean friends, looking for the symptoms, and gets directed to a section of town where drug abuse is most rampant::

((same again, martel first))

::thinks he should have brought the flamer along. EVERYONE looks guilty when you bring the flamer along::

rolled 2 20-sided dice: 16 7

rolled 2 20-sided dice: 20 4

((Does that 20 mean something anyway? ))

((+2, puts Lan at target 13, but that doesn't matter too much on a 4, for only a +1))

::Around lunchtime, Martel finds some criminal-looking types in the area, but none of them appear particularly drug addict-looking to Lan, and you move deeper into the slums::

rolled 2 20-sided dice: 9 15

(( I just know there're jackovans following me. Eeee! ))

rolled 2 20-sided dice: 9 13

((nice.. that should be a +2 success for Martel, which bump's Lan's target to exactly 13 for a crit, yes?))

((that be what I'm seein, aye))

((We spotted that guy right over THERE! ))

::The slum is far more productive, especially right around mid afternoon when the night folk are rolling out of their beds... Martel starts grabbing junkies as they hit the street and shoving them at Lan for an examination... Lan diagnoses about half a dozen different drug addictions, none of them Selchaka, until he finds a skinny whelp with the typical symptoms::

((I prefer the term "Health-care enforcement"))

Oy! I trouble you not?

((Socialized medicine. ))

((It's Oy! I missed him since the Dark tower series!))

Oh good. How old are you? What's your name?

I ain't gotta tell you nothin!

::flicks his lighter on, and slowly ignites his cigar:: We would appreciate your cooperativeness.

::sighs:: Well, that's too bad, but no, you don't. You ever wish you could ... get away from it?

The need. It will kill you. You're no wealthy nobleman. Do you wish you could get away from it?

You looking to score?

::perks up:: Yes. Yes we are.

((extrovert + knavery + pious please martel))

((...knavery? What's that?))

rolled 2 20-sided dice: 12 12

I ain't believin you. You a cop! You got to tell me if you a cop!

Yeah, cops do gotta tell. But I ain't a cop. Just got some business with the dealers of that stuff. Need to know where we can find them. Make it worth your while?

What stuff? I ain't got no stuff! Ain't not snitch!

::sighs:: You couldn't snitch to us if you wanted to. We. Are. Not. Cops.

Look like cops. Cept 'im. He looks like that doctor from the midtown fixed my friend's leg.

I am a doctor, kid. I heal people. Martel, can we find someplace private?

Of course. ::scans the area for a resturaunt that would have a booth they could use::

::you find a hole in the wall place that's empty after the lunch rush::

This place'll do. Hungry, kid?

((I've sorta made the assumption I pack my methodone. That bug you? ))

::goes to whatever passes for a front counter and orders two generic meals::

((nah, you didn't go through customs to get here))

((so you can have as much contraband as is reasonable))

:: Lan sets about prepping his arsenal. He gives a the deacon a questioning look when he adjusts some table oddments and makes a couple alchemical formulas in the dirt of the table. Slots a dram of methodone in a syringe.::

::brings the grub back to the table, hoping against hope that it isn't ACTUAL grubs:: Think of it as a cure for the hangover that you always get.

I'm going to give you a second chance. You'll probably damn yourself all over again, but you can make the choice with a free conscience.

You talk funkie, mista docter man.

:: finally, injects the kid, then intones, simply enough:: For cleansing, in Gjarti's name, I ask.

::grins:: yeah, he does that a lot.

#I don't know what alchemy gets to back up, but that's methodone followed by the ritual.

rolled 2 20-sided dice: 5 4

((is this something I could assist with? since I have the same ritual?))

::You inject him with the methadone to hopefully get him past the physical compulsion for a while, and feel your mojo pushing out any more metaphysical demons he has driving him to drug abuse...

whether that will be enough, you don't know::

Oy! That some strong shit.

::pushes over the food:: Aye. And you'll likely be hungry soon enough, so dig in.

Just gonna... rest now.

Wait, mind giving us your dealers name now? Meybe where we can find him?

::eats his food:: We can maybe come back tomorrow, see if our friend has a change of heart about all that.

::as he chases the dragon in the chair, head lolling back, Lan notices some telltale white powder in his nasal cavities::

::looks sidelong at Azo, clears his throat, and deftly produces a swab and swabs the kid's nose::

::starts to munch:: yeah, but I'm gonna eat lunch first. Hell, who knows? Meybe he'll come down enough to give us a name before we go.

::notices the veggies are awfully al-dente::

::good Grail cookin, like mama used to make::

::Before you finish eating, a young woman runs in... maybe in her late teens... not starving, but could eat better... obviously stressed, dressed as a commoner::

::rushing over:: What have you done to my brother!

::pushes over the spare plate:: Trying to get him off the drugs. Hungry?

He was supposed to go to job interview today and here you are getting him high? Who the 'ell are you?

Unfortunately, he would have lost that job within the week, considering the addiction he's been suffering under. The name is Deacon Azo.

However, I'll speak with the interviewer, try to get him to push the interview back a day.

He ain't addict, he just a stupid junkie. He quit whenever he run out of money, go back to it when he get flush.

That shit ain't no addictive.

What does he use? ::flatly::

::eyebrows raise, and looks to Lan:: This...could be important.

Not that it your business, but he a dragon chaser. The Selchak stuff.

And where does he get his supply?

I look like a junkie? Why I know?

From you, today, it look like.

He must have a source she doesn't know about.

Hard to figure out what he'd be good at that somebody would want to supply him full time though.

Fair enough. Ma'am, where was he supposed to interview today?

::stands from his seat:: I'm with the Avestites. I will vouch that he has been helping us with an investigation, and provide him with a reference for the job.

He ain't no deviler!

Our priest protect us from you

Stuff in his nose didn't exactly look green, Azo. ::shrugs again, finishes his food::

What green? Ain't no green shit. No more of that shit.

You mean there is no more that we could buy?

But there was? ::looks up::

That shit been gone on five years now. Killed our uncle. None of that in our neighborhood.

Huh ::looks at Lan:: supply must have dropped like a rock back then. All that's left must be getting funnelled to Maria's home.

Well. We have common cause then. We're looking for the men killed your uncle.

I don't know about that. They was offworlders. Been gone long time. We know those fuckers with their jungle clothes, never 'gain.

You talk to cops you want to know about that shit. Nearly wrecked the whole city.

Hah! Knew we screwed them over when we torched that place. Too bad it killed our lead, but it was still worth doing.

I'm sorry about your uncle.

::you torched a building 2 years ago. you never torched the selchaka building, because Tien screwed it up. five years ago would have been around the start of the original quest, when the green stuff first appeared on Aragon::

::ohhhhh...well damnit::

Now you helps me drags my brother home, and you apologize to 'is man!

::Hauls the gentleman over his shoulders:: lead the way.

::she takes you back across the street into his flophouse, then sends you a few blocks over to talk to a warehouse foreman::

::follows along, just because:: You know. The regular stuff *will* kill your brother. :: hands folded. Vague doctorly scolding, then goes to see whomever. ::

::you are able to convince the foreman to give the guy another chance without too much difficulty::

::snaps :: You're his blood. That means something.

Thank you Mr. Foreman! Good Day!

(( :: just stares at the grill the deacon just bought :: ))

You live down here, wit your fancy clothes, doctor man, you see what it like... we's all dirty, ignant, and do what we can to get by... some of us got religion, some of us got drugs...

Who's you to come accuse?

Think you'd be better off with money and no family like me? ::shrugs:: This's the most beautiful planet in the known worlds. But you're right. Either you love life or you don't. I'm sorry.

::sighs as he walks away:: Next time I'm bringing the damn flamer. Never have nearly this much trouble when I bring the damn flamer...

Shit look better with some perspective and space to walk around. Here on the ground, we does what we can to get by.

::After being quiet a moment:: What holds you back. I mean, really?

I's lucky to get to pick a job. I aint gots schoolin. I's better off than some folks I know in less cosmo places, wit their Sharia shit, but I still get funny looks if I's seen unescorted wit you.

We ain't got nothing but what we can get on natural talent and no leg up.

:: didn't know there were kurgan types on grail. Who knew? ::

((Keddah use the term Sheik for their ruler... chances are good they have some Islamic origins))

::looks a little perplexed:: Well. All I know how to do is make people well. I'll be back tomorrow, or maybe the day after. If you have anybody down here in bad shape, you bring 'em to see me.

::looks back from up the road a small ways:: Yeah?

You had your word with the fellow? If so, let's go.

::meanwhile, across town::

Yeah. I'll come with you tomorrow though.

((go ahead, I'm good))

::An and Maria checked with the palace, and were put on a list to potentially receive an audience. Then they went to lunch and shopping::

::finishes his light Chykien sandwich::

::Then they checked back, and found out that they were still on a wait for a higher noble, but they could speak to a minor functionary if they wanted::

((...now I'm hyngrie))

::looks to Maria to see what she thinks:: What do you think? This is more of your arena. ::he says quietly::

We're going to need to speak to the Sheik or near enough to him as to make no difference, if we're going to get anyone that knows anything and can choose to tell us about it

::nods and looks back to the secretary person thing that makes the appointments:: We'll wait. Please be sure to inform your nobility that Chief An-hetep-f Griffin of the...

Reeves Guild waits patiently to speak on matters concerning Defense Treaty Funding.

I could possibly pencil you in for Baron Ra'ida, our guild liasion, next Thursday

::gives the secretary that award winning smile:: I don't know if my superiors would be pleased. I'm due out in a few days to make similar offers to the Torenson soon. Is there nothing sooner?

I'm sorry. Perhaps if you had your local leadership liase with us, we could bump you up the schedule. We have a limited window of appointments, i'm sad to say, from 4 to 5 weekdays.

Understandable, understandable. Is there anyway I could give you a message to pass along.

To whom would you like it passed?

::shoots her... oh wait, no he doesn't::

They're going into session in the great hall shortly, so if you'd like to hurry we may get it in

Please inform Baron Ra'ida of my visit here to day, and apologize for taking up his time. That I am very eager to meet with him or a designated representative.

Perhaps at a dinner tomorrow night. I understand he is very busy, but my guild would like this matter resolved as soon as possible.

Al-khemi, 7 o'clock. My treat, of course.

I'll see that he gets it, sir

::winks and smiles:: Be sure you do. Thank you very much.

((Alright, break here, or keep going? This next scene may only take half an hour, but I think some people wanted to be done by 10:30))

((I'm fine to keep going, up to ya'll))

::The next day, Lan and Martel do pro bono work in the projects, while An leans on the Al-Khemi staff to get him a table, ultimately succeeding through native guile and enough bribes::

::whether the message ever made it to the upper brass, however, you don't know::

((What's a reeve spozed to do, if not bribe!))

((technically, if a reeve does it, it CAN'T be bribery, right?))

::makes sure everyone has something nice to wear::

::makes sure whatever he wears is mostly red::

::something about the secretary's demeanor is weighing on An. Did the appointment get made?::

((Oh, do we get to come? Sweet! ))

::while getting ready:: This isn't going to involve an assassination attempt is it? If it is, I get to bring my flamer.

::if the appointment didn't get made then we'll at least have a nice dinner before I have to go shoot a secretary::

Talking. Usually superior for making alliances.

To assassination, anyway. But, hey, An, what was going on five years ago on this planet that the ... you know... pulled the green selchaka off the streets?

Guess I'm just getting nervous. This is as long as I've ever hung around you guys without getting shot at. Or stabbed. Or trampled by giant insects.

The time I was shot at and stabbed by giant insects hardly bears mentioning.

Well five years ago... its complicated. Wow... was it five years ago? ::looks to Maria:: Truth be told I've never been here. You would know better than I what the state of the planet it was then, but if I had to wager a guess.

Eh, all I ever paid attention to was .... well, it wasn't politics. But let me think. ((Wait, so do I recollect anything? ))

We were under the impression that a plan to destroy a planet was put underway by the current rulers of this planet. Perhaps as a way to escape the manipulation of the Torenson who in turn seems to be manipulated by the Decados.

((I think Lan was on Leagueheim five years ago, and Martel was on religious duties.. it was about a year before you both hooked up with the group))

((yes. Lan was on leagueheim.))

((I was shooting at stuff on Stigmata))

((er, was it criticorum? But I digress.))

*sighs heavily* I know some people who would know.

Well, anyhow, it *does* sound like they pulled the stuff off the streets about then. I imagine that's a useful timeline point to remember.

:: wishes there were a nearby dry erase board, but only because it reminds him of apothecary school ::

We need to go talk to Mr Tollusk.

Remind me again who that is?

Our new pilot. Guy I recommended? He'd know what had been happening around here five years back.

Oh right him. ::hopes hes a crazy russian::

I'll send for him while we get ready for dinner. ::sends for Captain Tollusk::

::the captain answers the phone:: Are you calling about your thing?

Actually, no. This is about another thing. Is everything ok with that thing?

So not the glowing horsey thing.

((wait, is it usually glowwy?))

...ok, yes, now I'm calling about the glowing horsey thing. We'll be right there. ::looks away from the phone:: uhhh, guys? Our horsey thing is glowing.

Uh. ::overhearing:: Did you say glowing?

Glowing like with light glowing? Has Tollusk been drinking again?

That IS the usual use of the term, yes.

I'd kinda like to see that. ::Trying to be nonchalant::

And I rather doubt it. He only drinks when he flies. ::grabs his work jacket and flamer:: lets go people. Glowing time's a wasting!

::hops to:: We're going to miss dinner, aren't we?

::you still have an hour or two, it's around 5::

Lets see if we can do both.

Possibly. Hopefully the glowy will not eat up all of our time. Heck, might even be able to get some answers form the captain.

::steps up and grabs his jacket and looks to Maria:: Never a dull moment.

::you catch a cab down to the airport::

::moves quickly to "our" hanger::

::An notices, as you disembark next to your beat up hopper, a fancy jet being fueled up down the runway, with Keddah crest on its tail::

::a detachment that looks like secret service is looking the plane over::

((oh crap...what is the Keddah crest again?))

::watches the plane carefully::

((That swirly thing.))

::the plane doesn't appear to be going anywhere at the moment::

Hey, look. A chance to meet the local nobility.

::looks around for a place where someone would wait if they were nobility::

::none appear to be around yet, unless they're on the plane::

I'll check in on our thingy, to make sure it's ok::

::indeed, within the ships hold, the Pegasus is okay, if glowing at a reasonable brightness::

Damn thing started going about an hour ago, just keeps getting brighter

::moves to the Pegasus and puts his hand over it::

::An senses a powerful anticipation, and a pleasure that you were in place to make use of it::

Some secret service agents were poking around earlier. I had to pull in some favors to keep them from searching the hold. I think they were checking anything on line to that muckity muck plane.

::on seeing Martel and the pilot together, Lan is almost instantly able to notice similar genetic traits between the two of them::

Perhaps that muckity muck plane is pointing is about to be carrying someone we would need to talk to.

::mutters quietly to the captain, as if not to disturb the Pegasus:: By the way, I need to talk to you soon about what was happening on Grail about five years ago.

::puts his hand non-chalantly down on the pegasus::

::blinks. Maybe a small "oooh" expression crosses his face::

((do I notice this?))

((probably, unless An's trying to be circumspect))

((I meant notice Lans expression))

::On contact with the gargoyle, An gets a brief flash; a log book, the secretary looking at a schedule for today, seeing "flight to country estate" at 7:30 pm, and throwing away your message::

((doubtful, you're not that perceptive))

((or, technically, that empathetic))

((someone gonna get SHOT))

::smiles to himself and removes his hand:: Well, we might miss dinner any way. I think I've got a noble to intercept.

Ahh, it's always nice to have inside help. Thanks,

::makes his way out of the hold and out of the ship looking again for the plane being searched over::

:: has been casually hanging around nearby:: So? Should we, uh, look busy?

::it looks like the secret service guys have mostly taken up positions at this point, around 5:30, satisfied that there are no threats on board::

Well, we could either meet the noble before he gets on the plane, or if we know where he's going, try to meet him there.

Probably best if we intercept him before he gets on the plane. Though, if I understand correctly he'll be leaving for his country estate.

Yeah...I don't know where that is, so before the plane sounds better and better.

Has Pegasus gotten brighter since we've been here, or are my eyes just adjusting to the cargo bay?

...That can't be good. Did you get the whole message Lan?

:: squints so's to try and see if the glow seems externally visible :: The whole what?

Hmmm...::walks up to the Pegasus:: Hello in there? ::gentle puts a hand on it's back::

::your chest starts to warm painfully::

::used to the pain of the scrupulum, tries to feel out the source of the change, to understand it::

::like, really painfully... you start to smell scorched chest hair::

Hey padre? Are you ok?

I think these two have something to say to one another, but I don't know what. ::reluctantly pulls his hand away:: We'll deal with that later. Right now, we should probably keep an eye on that plane for some kind of opening.

::anyway, anyone doing anything before 7:30?::

((not I. I'm not taking off the scrupulum, and I'd just roast myself if I tried to get a message out of the bird-horsey))

::seems like we ought not hang aroudn too visibly, so sorta tries to be inconspicuous, but not other than that.::

::hangs around watching pegasus::

::over the next two hours, the gargoyle gets brighter and brighter, becoming nearly blinding::

Ok, that is mighty suspicious.

((Being, or not being, visible from outside the craft? ))

::the gargoyle is luckily in a shielded bay. as you watch, around 7:30, you see a limosine pulling down the runway towards the private plane... as it stops near the plane, its stairs down, everything suddenly stops...

Tollosk pauses in mid point, and you can see security men frozen running towards the door::

::the pegasus is perfectly still, glowing in a faint modulation that wasn't present before, the only movement besides yourselves::

Oooohkay. Guys, this is probably more than just a conversational opening. I'm going to go make sure that plane is still ok.

::checks to make sure he really is moving. Then runs over to see what the hell is going on, watching to be sure things stay not moving:: What in the ...?

Alright, guys, I don't think Pegasus can do this forever

::stands up and nods to Maria:: Shall we?

::Maria and An begin to head across the too-still runway, a small dust devil paused mid-hop catching their eyes::

::sprints for the plane, intending to check it for terrorists, mutants, bombs, and whatnot::

::martel flies by the strolling couple::

::brings up the rear::

::the limo window is half open, and you can see two men inside, richly dressed; the stairs to the plane are down, and the inside looks empty for now::

::it looks like you could enter the plane, try the door of the car and go in there, or wait in the middle of the security detail::

::looks to Maria:: Plane or car?

Up to you. You'll be talking us out of it no matter which way. More space vs. risk of going on a trip

You people are insane! ::follows Azo::

It'll be easier to explain how we all got on an empty plane then suddenly appeared in a car.

And just so everyone knows. We were there the entire time. Let me do the talking. ::heads towards the plane::

You are wandering around in a temporal anomaly. When on BZ2...do as the BZ2ians do?

I thought it'd be fun to act surprised! ::shouting::

::mutters:: EXcept I suck at acting.

When we get seated I want you to remove any weapons you are carrying and place them far away from us. Near the front of the plane.

::inside the plane is very plush. Leather seats, built in holo players, and a very nice bottle of wine chilling in a bucket of ice::

Preferably in some sort of lock box if we see one.

::you see some overhead compartments between the entry and the lounge that look useable::

::has nuttin'. Finds someplace relatively obseqiuous to stash himself.

We act as if we are here to talk during the trip. Everyone find a comfortable seat. When he enters the plane make sure to stand a bow politely.

Perfect. ::helps everyone load the weaponry up into the compartment:: We should pretend that rat secretary friend of yours cleared this for us.

::her name was Nalissa::

::finds a seat that doesn't look too important and sits down with a comfortable sigh:: At least we all look nice.

I'm dressed in my Work robes and smell slightly of burnt hair! I'm happy not to look actively offensive.

(( When you have your own gargoyle, sometimes you're a NINJA. ))

::everyone is seated, and then there is the moment you're becoming strangely used to, of time unwinding again, like a film projector unpausing only it's the entire world that's made of celluloid::

((I'm totally getting that gargoyle a gift on National Secretary Day for getting us this appointment))

::sounds spool back up, you sink into previously unyielding cushions, and, most strangely, you become conscious that you can smell again - new leather and plane oil::

((Sorry missed the last thing))

::A few moments later nicely dressed individuals enter the compartment: two middle aged men, obviously of Keddah extraction... they appear to be in the middle of light conversation when they see you, then surprise::

::stands and bows, as instructed, with all the grace he can muster::

What is the meaning of this?

::also bows, though only as deeply as protocol demands::

((it's a formal greeting to the nobility, sir!))

((that's why An's doing the talking))

((damn skippy, I'm only good for threats and sermons! And the occasional spot of public speaking...))

::stands and bows as well:: Chief An-hetep-f Griffen... ::looks confused:: I'm sorry? We are to be accompaning you on your flight.

I was not informed of this!

To your country estate? There is urgent business that we needed to discuss with you and were instructed, that even though your schedule is always packed, the only chance to do this was on the flight. We will be out of your hair once we land to arrange our own transportation back.

You were not informed? I was assured that a note would be given to you. Yesterday.

((secretary: You win this round, Reeve! ::shakes fist::-))

::the other man tilts his head at An, obviously thinking, then looks at Maria, calculates, and whispers in the first's ear::

::listens, then:: Griffen, eh. Of the Aragon Griffens?

We waited for a few hours but were informed that you would be in session for the rest of the day. Your security let us on the plane, I assume they were informed.

This must be a terrible lack of communi... yes, that is me. Reeves Guild.

I assume you're none of you armed?

::bows slightly again:: No we are not, any weapons we were carrying have been stowed in that over head apartment. Which your security may do with as they see fit.

::at this point security finally notices the extra voices and charges up, but Haroun waves them off::

::chuckles, sitting in the nicest chair in the room, and motions for his second to do so as well:: I wondered if I'd ever meet you all directly... I'm pleased to finally meet the heroes of Vera Cruz... and friends

::the plane is shut, and begins pre-flight taxiing::

So what is your urgent business?

:: thinks: this will be a masterpiece of extemporaneous speaking. Or, it won't. ::

::terribly urgent business::

::wonders if they allow smoking::

::chuckles and sits:: I believe our reputation proceeds us. We're here to talk about alliances, defense treaties, and the future of your house and great planet.

((in fact, do I smell evidence of past cigar smoke?))

((leather and plane oil))

All of that? But it's only a twenty minute plane ride.

((they seem like the super-rich old guy cigar-smoking type, so I had to ask))

::smiles wide:: I talk fast.

Then let's get to it; what can you offer us, and what do you want in return?

((this makes Lan's previous statement incredibly ironic yanno?))

Are you happy with your current defense agreements with the Torenson?

It is common knowledge that we are not

And if I may ask one more question, what would you need in order to break these agreements?

The aid of one major house and the weakening of another. Do you know you actually did us a favor, four years ago?

Did we? Oddly enough, I could say the same thing.

Had you not saved Vera Cruz, we would have not faced censure, but full scale war

A war designed as the final lynchpin of a plan to turn Grail over to the Hazat... and not just the Hazat, but one family in particular. We had believed that the Hazat were after our planet, but we learned it was not the Eduardos that wanted it. As a tool we had been used, and as a tool we would be discarded and reforged into another. And how did we help you?

The situation on Vera Cruz... saved my life, you could say. ::smiles honestly:: What family did you realize wanted grail for its own?

I believe that you know them, for they now want Aragon for their own... tools being used by Mantis hands

The enemy of my enemy...

Ah, but we are a firm and loyal ally of your enemy... we have been shown what will happen should that cease to be the case

::can't help but laugh at a realization::

What do you find funny, sir?

::clears throat:: Beg pardon, milord. That woman said she'd never read Keddah poetry. Ah... ::hesitates to explain:: beg pardon.

::looks a bit confused:: In any event, as we were shown five years ago, there are ways of compelling our alliance

And without the help of a major house it would be unwise to break away from the agreement for fear of another... compelling situation?

Indeed; I believe that they've started mass producing the situation since we were compelled, as your soldiers may know

Of course, almost as good as the direct aid of a major house would be the crippling of the portion of the Mantis that produces the compelling situations

::clears his throat:: I feel compelled to inform you that, due to my position in my order, I'll be crippling that particular activity regardless.

Would you like proof? Anonymous, of course

But lets speculate that such a plot were to come into direct public view. That information came to light from both Grail and Aragon.

I'd love some. Unlike some of my kind, I consider it a requirement before I can perform my duties.

A group, dire in nature, nefarious if you will were to be unveiled on two different planets working against two noble houses for its own ends.

Two houses that due to their role as victims in this horrible plot have banded together to expose them to the greater noble houses.

Sadly, should our involvement be more than conjecture, the Mantis would be more than capable of biting off our head in its death throes. As they have forged us to work in the shadows, so must our strike at them

But, should you wish to destroy them, we have detailed files

::looks to An:: We could do much to those.

Young Hazat, do you know of the Black Cypress Contingency?

::looks baffled:: What?

We received word of it when we were spying on you years ago. A dossier of names, lines of succession, and plans, in case the catastrophic happened to any branch of the family. Interesting, isn't it, that such a document would not be immediately brought forth after just such an event? Doctor, what question burns in your mind about our mutual foes?