The professor and the rifleman had found themselves on the morning ferry to Oakland, followed by the train to Sacramento. Although they had a few options, the two men had chosen that route out of San Francisco. They had speculated during the travel as to what manner of escape their other pardners had chosen. But neither the Texan nor the Easterner could be sure that the others had even stayed together, let alone which direction they had fled.

After the night of battle with the Tongs, all of the men had returned to their apartment, drained. They needed rest, they needed their belongings. They got none of the former; fortunately they got most of the latter before the boo how doy had arrived. The supply of the black-robed highbinders seemed endless. Despite their lingering wounds and fatigue, the men managed to secure their belongings, and spilt up before the highbinders could pin them down in the apartment. Thanks to the professor for arguing the need for a lookout, as Cole Trayne had spotted the hatchet-men advancing from his perch at the apartment window overlooking the alley.

Now, the two pards breathe deeply as the locomotive's breaks grind against the rails, bringing all of its cars to a halt at Sacramento station. Both Jacob and Earnest felt confident that none of the boo how doy had followed them on the ferry or the train. Probably, the Tongs were satisfied to be rid of heroes who had dared to disrupt their business. Across the bay, perhaps, the same as across the ocean.

The train empties, with Richardsen and Ringgenberg among those disembarking, as the railway attendants clear all the passenger cars at the termination point of this passage.

It is a cool April noon in the vast rail yard. The railway office, the saloon, the hotel, the street merchants . . . all abuzz.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:53, Sun 07 Oct 2018.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 1):

"Hope ev'rybody else got out've 'Frisco all right," Jacob remarked to Earnest as the twosome were exiting the train-car that had carried them to Sacramento. The Texan was feeling better, having slept some during the train ride once he had satisfied himself that their foes had given up the chase. He rested his long-arm in its leather scabbard across his right shoulder and carried his other loose belongings in a canvas duffel bag, having turned down a porter's offer to help him with his belongings.

"Footloose an' fancy-free -- reckon that's us, ain't it, Perfesser?" he remarked to Earnest, grinning as he did so. Just about now the Texan was cresting on a wave of good humor, brought on as a result of his having survived the serious-minded efforts of many black-clad heathens to kill him. "Reckon that sounds better'n what we'd say back home -- 'bout our still bein' above snakes, or some such."

Jacob glanced around at the hustle and bustle of those making their way through the train-yard. It seemed to him that most of these other folks had a pretty good idea where they were going, and were in a rush to get there -- unlike Earnest and himself. The rifleman supposed that being around so many people must come naturally to the easterner, but it made the Texan -- who was more at home in sparsely-populated, wide-open spaces -- a mite fidgety.

"What's yer druthers, Perfesser?" he asked, turning to his traveling companion. "Me, I reckon I'd be inclined to either head for a hoe-tell an' git a room, or else stop off in a saloon an' have a drink or two, to cely-brate our good fortune."

During their time together Jacob had come to respect the easterner's cool head and thoughtful judgment, and the rifleman was willing to let Earnest decide where they should mosey . . .


OOC: Edit: Nothing substantive -- fixed a couple of typos.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:11, Mon 08 Oct 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 2):

Earnest is very glad to have put distance between them and San Francisco, and he answers his compatriot with his characteristic grin.

Well the others were equally motivated and capable, so I'm sure they are fine... besides, they didn't have me to drag along!

As his trunk is unloaded, he grabs one side and looks to Jacob and nods to the other trunk handle.

Do you mind? We should get a room first so we can drop this thing off... then a drink is definitely in order!

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 3):

"Makes sense," Jacob replied, nodding his agreement that they should rent a room so that they could drop off their baggage before heading over to a saloon.

Keeping his Winchester resting on his shoulder, he bent down to pick up one end of Earnest's trunk, resting his own duffel bag atop it. "Damnaeshun, Perfesser!" he exclaimed as he straightened up.

"This thing shore 'nuff weighs a heap! I like to have pulled my back out when I lifted up on it. You must have a whole wagonload of books in here."

"How many books can one man read, any damn way?" the Texan asked, chuckling so as to let Earnest know that his griping was all in good fun.

Jacob glanced around. "You got any idea as to which hoe-tel we oughtta head towards? Or should we ask one of the porters?"

---

OOC:

Earnest, I have made a bit of an assumption that your (IC) trunk is heavy, as if it is filled with books (and maybe a few clothes and other odds and ends). If I am incorrect about this, just let me know, and I shall cheerfully edit. :)

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 4):

Earnest chuckles back at his friend.

Heh! Not many books, but I have my various kits... I am a man of science after all! Let's ask a porter about hotels...

Earnest directs them to a respectable looking porter.

Excuse me my good man, can you point us to a decent hotel close by please?

---

OOC:

The trunk is not too heavy, but it wouldn't be light either! Your comment is fine as-is.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:59, Tue 09 Oct 2018.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 5):

As Ringgenberg approaches the porter, with Richardsen hefting the other end of the steamer trunk, the middle-aged negro visually inspects the easterner from head to toe.

He smiles, perhaps unused by being asked for anything so politely.

"Yonder," is all the man says, thumbing the direction over his right shoulder.

Focusing his eyes, the professor sees a two story hotel straight ahead. The Stockton.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 6):

Over the course of their recent travels, Jacob had noticed that the men who worked on the railroad and in the big hotels all seemed to have an expectation to be paid what they called a "tip" whenever they did something for you -- even something as easy as answering a simple question. Some of them would even stare at you or stick their hand out until you paid them. Jacob had almost started a fight when he spit tobacco juice into the palm of one of the pushy bastards back in 'Frisco.

The Texan counted it a good mark in favor of the porter who answered Earnest's question when the man did not seem to expect one of those tips. However, Jacob did not care to encourage such foolishness, so he simply nodded -- politely enough, mind you -- in response to the information provided by the porter.

Glancing in the direction indicated by the black man, Jacob saw a big hotel, sure enough.

"That ain't such a far piece," the rifleman remarked to Earnest. "I reckon we can tote this box o' rocks that far. Sing out if'n you git winded afore we make it, an' need to set 'er down long enough to catch yer breath."

---

OOC: Fixed a typo, and little embellishing . . . no substantive changes.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:50, Wed 10 Oct 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 7):

Earnest looks to where the man indicates.

Ah yes, very good... Thank you.

He then responds to Jacob with a grin.

My wind has increased considerably over the past few years... I shall be fine.

He starts heading to the hotel.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 8):

Jacob hefted his end of the load, eying his duffel bag to confirm that it was properly balanced atop Earnest's trunk.

"Lead us thaere, Kit Carson," he called to the easterner, referring to the famous frontiersman and wilderness guide. He supposed that even people from back east must have heard of Carson.

OOC: Added a little more Texas drawl -- changed "there" to "thaere"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:53, Thu 11 Oct 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 9):

The professor and the rifleman heave their belongings to the front doors of the Stanford Hotel. They are greeted by a doorman in an ill-fitting uniform.

"Allow me, señors," he says, extending his right hand, palm open toward the handle of the steamer trunk being held by Professor Ringgenberg.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 10):

Earnest chuckles at Jacob's reference.

Hardly that... But maybe someday!

He nods to the doorman as they approach.

Thank you, but we've got it for the moment.

He leads them inside the hotel, sets down the load, then looks towards the hotel desk.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 11):

Jacob set us end of the trunk down at the same time Earnest did. "Why don't you get us squared away with the deskman, yonder," he suggested. In the Texan's estimation, the Perfesser was much more the gentleman and better-spoken than he himself was, and thus better-equipped to deal with city-fied people, who sometimes tended to look down their noses at normal folks.

"Reckon I'll stay here an' keep an eye on our baggage," he added, nodding down at the trunk and duffel bag.

Each of the two pards takes in the surroundings on the ground floor of the Stanford.

The professor as he waits in a queue at one of the reception desks, to the left and near the rear of the spacious entry area.

The rifleman as he minds the vantage of professor's steamer in the waiting area immediately to the left of the entrance.

Several wooden chairs line the chair rail on the left wall between the entrance the two reception desks. The trunk is sort of blocking a chair or two. Jacob considers whether to take a seat or remain standing. Both Jacob and Earnest look to the right side of the establishment, which is a large open room, dominated by two long tables. It is most definitely the dining hall, with the smells of cooking wafting through an opening in the wall to the right of the hotel entrance . . . wherein the kitchen must lie. Lastly, a stairway up to the second floor divides the reception area from the dining hall.

Ringgenberg hears the man in front of him speaking to the clerk at the left hand reception desk. "Yes, yes, c'est vrais," he says elegantly, mixing his English and French. "Je m'appelle Alphonse Poirier, I had sent a telegraph to reserve lodgings two days ago." The professor doesn't catch the clerk's reply, but he hears Poirier again. "C'est magnifigue. That is most agreeable." Poirier hands over a silver coin, signs the register, and takes a brass key from clerk.

He stands, and seeing Earnest standlng just behind him, says, "Bonjour, Monsieur," as if he fully expects that the professor will comprehend his native tongue.

Meanwhile, Richardsen's attention is drawn more to the aromas of what he perceives to be a stew, his stomach grumbling after a night of difficulty, lack of sleep and a full day -- at least -- since a regular meal. Unfortunately, it doesn't appear to be meal-time at the Stanford. Although a half-dozen or so guests or visitors have taken seats at the two long tables, none appear to be taking sustenance.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 13):

Earnest nods to the man and replies.

Bonjour mon ami, passe une bonne journée.

Barring a response, he will step up to the desk.

---

OOC:
Thank god for Google translate!
This message was last edited by the player at 00:13, Sun 14 Oct 2018.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 14):

The man stops in his tracks and turns to face the professor. A slender man, he stands about average height, with curly dark hair -- well-kempt but longish and flowing over his collar, as if he had not paid a visit to a barber in a number of weeks. He wears a heavy coat with a colorful patterned lining -- as noticed by Earnest when the left breast of the coat flies open during the man's turn.

"Merci. Je m'appelle Alphonse Poirier. Comment vous appelez-vous?" He bows ever-so-slightly.

OOC: Google translate is helpful; sometimes a bit inappropriately literal in my experience, at least when translating for the purpose of conversation. Caveat emptor.

As with the other universe, in 1877, average height was about 5'7". Average men's shoe size was 7.

Jacob glanced over into what he took to be the hotel's dining-room, with the aromas that wafted out of the kitchen causing his stomach to start talking to him, telling him that it was time to start paying some attention to putting some food into his belly.

~Hunh. Wonder what thaey're doin' in yonder, seein' as how thaere ain't no victuals on the tables?~ the Texan mused.

Jacob gave some thought to taking his ease in one of the nearby chairs, but decided to remain standing -- after all, he and the Perfesser had just spent a fair amount of time sitting over the course of their train-ride.

Glancing over towards the reception desk to see how his pard was progressing in his task of getting them registered, he noted that the Perfesser appeared to be parlaying with another hotel guest. At least mildly interested, given that he was essentially just standing in place at Parade-Rest, the Texan turned his attention to the two men's conversation . . .

---

OOC: 12:06, Today: Jacob Richardsen rolled 13 using 2d6, rerolling max with rolls of (6+4)10,3.  Notice Check.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 02:13, Mon 15 Oct 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 16):

The Texan recognizes a few common French words passing between the professor and the other hotel guest. Of course, he couldn't make a lick of sense out the most of the conversation, but Richardsen has enough horse sense to get a feeling of civility from the exchange.

OOC: Jacob may assume he hears any further conversation, although he won't recognize the French vernacular. If the men shift to English at any time, Jake will hear and comprehend without further Notice rolls. As Jake noted in the OOC forum, remember to use "record each die" or "drop lowest" when using the dice roller to roll Attribute die + Wild Die. If you use the "manual" roll definition it works well, as you can define the two dice, such as "d6,d6" instead of 2d6 using the automated select.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 15):

Earnest returns the slight bow as he responds.

Enchanté de vous rencontrer, je m'appelle Professeur Earnest Ringgenberg.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 17):

Jacob could overhear some of the discussion between Earnest and the other man, and recognized that the two were conversing in French.

~Leave it to a Frog to avoid talkin' in English, even though we are in the U. S. of A,~ the Texan thought to himself.

~Reckon the Frogs are feelin' pretty high an' mighty after stealin' Arizona an' New Mexico away from us whilst our backs was turned.~

As if the man behind Ringennberg in the queue were verbalizing the Texan's thoughts, he interrupts in a loud voice.

"Iffin ye ensist on holdin' up the works, ye cud at least speak so's the rest of us cud savvy."

The professor realizes the clerk is waiting, as is the man complaining from his flank.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 20):

"Pardonnez-moi," Poirier says to the loud man in the queue

"Au revoir," he says to the professor, before turning towards the stairs.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 21):

Jacob grinned as a man in the line behind Earnest -- who was clearly thinking along the same lines as the Texan was -- fussed at the Frog. A moment later the Frog moved off, still refusing to talk like an American.

~Good thing for them that the Frogs din't mess with Texas when they reached up an' grabbed Arizona an' New Mexico. Even after bein' wore plumb wore out from fightin' the damnYankees, we'd a' gived 'em a bloody nose for damn sure.~

---

OOC: Slight rephrasing -- no substantive edits.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:53, Tue 16 Oct 2018.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 21):

Earnest simply nods to the Poirier, then turns to the waiting clerk.

Good day sir, do you have a room with two beds available?

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 23):

The clerk, a square-shouldered thin young man, nods and replies to the professor's inquiry with questions of own, while holding the point of his pencil in the margin of a ledger.

"A private room, with two beds? How many nights?"

His tone is that of someone who finds himself repeating himself throughout the course of the business day. It cannot be described as enthusiasm.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 01:24, Thu 18 Oct 2018.

With the discussion that had attracted Jacob's attention to the area of the reception desk having ended with the departure of the Frenchman, the Texan turned his scrutiny to what he considered to be the hotel's dining room.

He was mildly curious as to why folks would be sitting at tables in there when there was no food to be had. Jacob positioned himself so that his good ear was on the side of the dining room, thinking that he might overhear some snippets of conversation that would solve the mystery for him . . .

---

OOC:

11:44, Today: Jacob Richardsen rolled 1,3 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,3.  Notice Check (Dining Room).

Notes: When I manually entered "d6, d6" and tried to "Drop the Lowest 1" and alternatively "Keep the Highest 1" by enabling that portion of the Dice-Roller, I was unable to roll, being advised that the error was "You cannot drop or keep as many dice as you are rolling".

I don't get it, but I quit trying to instruct the Dice-Roller to automatically drop the lowest (or, alternatively, keep the highest) roll, and simply highlighted the appropriate result once the roll was made.

Edit: Changed one word, non-substantive.

Edit#2: Removed the red "Failure" designation after the die roll. It probably is, seeing as how the Target Number is usually 4, but that is for the Judge to decide.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:02, Thu 18 Oct 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 25):

The Texan hears what amount to the murmurs of conversation from the other room. He simply isn't close enough, especially when there are others much closer to him, carrying on their own conversations.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 24):

Earnest rubs his chin a moment, then replies.

Our plans are still a bit fluid and need to be discussed... one night at least, but I'll let you know later if it will be more. How much is the room?

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 27):

The clerk replies, facing Ringennberg, without moving the pencil from its mark.

"I cannot guarantee a room beyond one night without prepayment." He takes the professor's name and enters it into his ledger and then resets the pencil point atop the page.

"Two dollars per night sir, plus one each for meals, if you please. Four dollars per night for two, all told. Shall I put room 15 in your name for two nights?"

Earnest hears the man behind him grumbling under his breath.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:51, Fri 19 Oct 2018.

As Tracy approached the Stockton, he paused to consider his next move.

~Need to know the whos, whats and whys of this place.

Even though this was his first time in a new locale since officially calling himself an Investigator, Tracy had spent a few years developing his investigation skills. If you want to find a lead, you have to read some leads.

Tracy steps into the Stockton and quickly surveys the lobby. He sees a few people in his immediate vicinity, including a man near a large trunk to his side and a few people in line at the front desk. His eyes scan the room in search of a newspaper.



OOC: 18:48, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 5,5 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,5.  Notice: newspaper.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 29):

Windham scans the hotel waiting area. The steamer trunk had definitely drawn Tracy's attention; the man sitting next to it looked like a man who had seen the elephant.

The Investigator notices that there are two desks with a short line in front of each . . . a subtlety of fact that had escaped him initially. To the right, he sees an open area. A dining area; the odors of preparation for the evening meal wafting into the waiting area. To Windham's left, a few chairs on either side of the trunk. And a newspaper on one of them, probably left behind by one of the hotel's patrons.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:16, Sat 20 Oct 2018.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 30):

Jacob noticed the younger man when he came into the room, and the Texan nodded a neutral, poker-faced greeting. However, the rifleman wasn't sure whether the newcomer had noticed, for the man's eyes were flickering here and there, as if he were searching for something or someone.

Jacob turned his attention to Earnest and noted that his pard was now at the front of his line, speaking to the desk-clerk.

---

OOC: I didn't write much of a description for Jake in the "Cast" thread, so I will add it here. Given Tracy's occupation, I feel certain that he is the sort of fellow to notice such things. :)

Jacob is taller than average, standing right at six feet tall, and weighing around 165 or 170 pounds. Age-wise, he looks to perhaps be in his mid-30's. The areas where his skin has been exposed to the sun -- his face, neck, and hands -- are deeply tanned. He wears a moustache and goatee beard. His hair and beard are a medium brown, his eyes blue.

He wears a long-sleeved linsey-woolsey shirt of medium blue, charcoal gray trousers, a good-quality Western (cowboy) hat of a lighter gray (in that place and time, some might have called it Confederate gray), and a light-sandstone colored duster coat. His boots look dusty, but are not down-at-the-heels.

A canvas duffel bag sits atop the large steamer trunk, and Jacob carries a rifle in its scabbard in the crook of his left elbow.

Edit: Corrected a couple of typos, and clarified that Jacob's shirt is long-sleeved (his cuffs might show under his coat). :)
This message was last edited by the player at 02:32, Sat 20 Oct 2018.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 28):

Earnest, realizing the rest will do them good, acquiesces.

Very well, two nights... what time is dinner served?

He quickly counts out 8 dollars.

Tracy turns and moves toward the chairs to his left, fixing his gaze upon the tall man near the large steamer trunk, well within a few feet from the newspaper. The man seemed to have already noticed Tracy before his approach.

The Investigator gestured toward the chair holding the newspaper, palm up.

"Good afternoon, sir. Does this newspaper here belong to you?"

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 32):

"Six o'clock," answers the clerk. He scratches again in the ledger, and then hands a key attached to a small, square wooden block with the number 15 engraved on the face.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 33):

Jacob turned his attention away from Earnest when the man who had just entered the room asked about the paper.

"Howdy," the Texan replied to the fellow's politely wishing him a good afternoon, his expression softening a little as he looked the younger man in the eye.

"Nope, don't know whose paper that is," he continued. "I got no claim to it."

"Well, then it looks like I do now."

Tracy picks up the newspaper and opens his brown leather haversack, worn from years of trusty service. He slides the newspaper in among its contents, taking a few seconds to carefully order it among the items already within the bag.

The young Investigator turned his gaze again to his interlocutor, extending his arm toward the man to offer a handshake.

"By the way, sir, my name is Tracy Windham. Nice to meet you."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:47, Tue 23 Oct 2018.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 36):

"Reckon you do, at that," Jacob replied, the crow's feet etched at the corners of his eyes by years of exposure to sun and wind crinkling with amusement as he smiled.

"Mister Windham," the Texan responded to the other man's introduction of himself, shaking the proffered hand. Jacob's handshake was firm, but not overbearing.

"I'm Jacob Richardsen."

After a pause of a couple of heartbeats, Jacob continued, "If'n you don't mind my askin', you from 'round these parts?"

The rifleman didn't have any immediate questions that required someone with local knowledge, but he figured that the Perfesser might. The easterner had a quick mind, and several times  over the course of their travels Jacob had had occasion to conclude that his pard was a couple of steps ahead of him when it came to thinking things through.

"No, sir, never been until now. I just came in on the train from San Francisco. I'm keen on moving around and finding odd jobs and the like, whether a hired gun or anything else."

The younger man smiled wryly to himself for a brief moment, thinking about the past 'jobs' he would place in the category of 'anything else.'

"A newspaper does a fine job of pointing me in the right direction when I find myself in a proper new locale, I reckon," Tracy concluded, patting the haversack slung across his body with his left hand as he spoke.

"How about yourself, Mister Richardsen? Are you from Sacramento proper, or perhaps a traveler like myself?" Tracy was particularly curious about the older man's response, something in his eyes had set off the young Investigator's sixth sense for the new and the interesting.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 34):

Earnest takes the proffered key.

Thank you.

He pauses to check the time on his watch, then turns to join with Jacob and sees him engaged in conversation with someone. Recalling his earlier encounter, he thinks: Huh, Sacramento seems to be a friendly place...

Earnest approaches the men and speaks once Jacob sees him and pauses their conversation.

We have a room Jacob... who's your new friend?

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 39):

"I reckon that a 'traveler' is one of the nicer things I been called," Jacob responded with a chuckle.

"I was born an' raised in Texas, but started driftin' once the war was lost."

Jacob had heard the newcomer say that he sometimes worked as a hired gun. Tracy Windham was on the smallish side and didn't have the same look about him* as Travis Sunday, but the rifleman was reminded of the old saying about God creating man and Sam Colt making them equal. He was just about to continue speaking to Mister Windham when Earnest walked over and joined them, saying that they now had a room and asking about the Texan's new friend.

Turning to acknowledge Earnest, Jacob replied, "This here's Mister Tracy Windham, Perfesser."

"Mister Windham, meet Perfesser Earnest, ah, Ringgenberg." For some reason Earnest's last name always gave Jacob trouble -- perhaps because it was so foreign-sounding, at least to the Texan's ear.

Edit: *If Jacob savvied French, he might've said "je ne sais quoi". :)

Edit #2: Replaced two words with one; no substantive changes.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:25, Thu 25 Oct 2018.

As if on cue, Monsieur Poirier descends the staircase. Seeing the professor in conversation with other men, he approaches and speaks. Barging in, one might say.

"Si'l vous plait, le professeur, ou est le saloon?" asks the Frenchman.

Tracy either sensed the Texan's skepticism about his marksmanship, or else expected it after years of doubt based on his smaller stature. Proving himself was something with which the younger man was very familiar.

The Investigator also wondered what else Jacob had been called in his day.

Those thoughts were interrupted as Jacob introduced him to his friend, Professor Ringgenberg, and were further interrupted by the Frenchman's sudden appearance. Tracy tried to understand what the man said to the Professor, but he was disappointed in himself when he couldn't quite follow.

~Always wish I knew French. Maybe I'll pick it up soon.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:44, Thu 25 Oct 2018.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 42):

Earnest was about to speak to Windham when Poirier interrupted, so when the Frenchman is done, he continues.

Pleased to meet you Mr. Windham... please pardon me a moment.

Then to Poirier.

J'ai peur je ne sais pas monsieur, peut-être que le réceptionniste peut vous aider.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 41):

Jacob looked irritated when the Frog came strolling up like he owned the place, butted in on the conversation, and spoke to the Perfesser in his foreign lingo.

"You savvy any of that, Mister Windham?" the Texan asked the fellow whom he had just met.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 44):

"Pardonnez-moi," says the Frenchman, turning to address both Jacob and Tracy. "I have been rude. It is always a pleasure to meet an American with whom I can converse in my native tongue. Sometimes, I forget myself."

He glances among all three men. "Meet me at the nearest saloon and I shall be honored to buy you each a drink. Au revoir."

Poirier bows ever-so-slightly, turns on his heel and departs the Stockton Hotel.

"Nothing but 'saloon,' I'm afraid," Tracy replied to the Texan, just before the Frenchman addressed the two of them.

After Poirier departed the hotel, Tracy continues,"Well, he was certainly a bit rude, but I can't help but be curious about him. I think I'm going to join him at the saloon later."

The young Investigator finishes by addressing his new acquaintances, "Do you think you'll join as well?"

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 46):

Jacob looked a little surprised, and then a little sheepish when the Frenchman switched to English, apologized, and offered to stand the Americans to a round of drinks later.

"Waal, I reckon that a man who's buyin' cain't be all peckerwood," the Texan opined after the Frenchman had departed.

"Dependin' on what else is goin' on by then, I might take him up on it," he responded to Mister Windham's question. "I'll ad-mit to bein' a mite curious as to what the inside of a saloon looks like in these parts . . . prob'ly a sight less wooly than some I been in afore."

Turning to Earnest, Jacob asked, "How 'bout it, Perfesser? You plan on joinin' Monshure Lee Frog later?"

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 47):

Earnest watches the Frenchman depart and listens to the remaining mens' conversation.

Let's put our belongings away first, but yes, I think a drink is in order!

Earnest checks his watch once again.

OOC: time check?

The professor, checking his watch as he often does considering the tracking of time has proved itself a bugbear for the easterner, saw that it was just past 12:45 p.m.

With Windham needing to secure lodgings himself -- and Ringgenberg and Richardsen needing time to secure their belongings, not to mention get a little rest after their travails in Frisco -- the men had agreed to take care of those affairs and then meet in the saloon in approximately one hour. No later than 2 p.m. was the accord.

As each of the men reach the saloon, they find it functional, but unimpressive in every way. The rectangular building sat at the opposite end of the train yard from the Stockton Hotel, with the station itself in between.

The place exudes the odor of tobacco -- and some other malodors not easily discernable by a preliminary whiff of the air. An 'L-shaped' bar stretches across half of the single open-space room, on the left of the entrance. Several patrons stand at the bar, a foot on the bottom rail or leaning backs against the top of the bar. One long table with benches on either side takes up most of the rest of the space. A few patrons sit along the benches, conversing. One man in particular has a vagabond appearance about him -- a drifter some might say -- and whether by choice or by circumstance he sits apart from the others at the long table, staring into his drink.

Alphonse Poirier stands at the bar, talking to a man in a bowler hat.

----------------------------------

OOC: The order you post is the order you arrive at Depot Dan's. The Judge gave the general description of the place and some of its patrons; the PCs need to insert themselves in the RP, fill in gaps in the narrative as desired and push forward the plot with the help of Poirier.

The Judge has decided that Jacob and Earnest will each have either: 1 wound or 1 level of fatigue as a result of the battles with the Tongs in SF (PC choice). If either chooses 1 wound, ENS would be providing medical attention for the wound, as pertinent to Natural Healing. If either chooses 1 fatigue, the only remedy is rest.

Either chosen condition means the two PCs suffer -1 to Trait tests.

BTW, the saloon has no bar stools and no individual tables. There are no women in the place, at all.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:30, Sun 28 Oct 2018.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 49):

It didn't take long for the Texan and the easterner to move their belongings into their hotel room. Other than what he wore or carried, Jacob's were contained in his canvas duffel bag, and he supposed that all of the Perfesser's were contained in Earnest's steamer trunk.

The Perfesser and the rifleman set his the trunk down at the foot of one of the beds, and Jacob tossed his duffle bag down atop the other. The Texan leaned his rifle in its leather scabbard against the wall nearest his bed, with the barrel pointing upwards.

"I got to ad-mit that I'm feelin' a mite tuckered out," Jacob said to his pard. "I'm just goin' to stretch out on this here bed an' shut my eyes for a little while. I don't in-tend to doze off, but seein' as how you're the one with the time-piece, wake me up if'n I do an' it gits to be time to skedaddle."

The Texan stretched out on the bed with a sigh of comfort, his hat shielding his eyes. In a short while he was snoring quietly . . .

---

Edit: Cleaned up a few things (as marked); no substantive changes.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:21, Mon 29 Oct 2018.

~What're you thinkin' Dee?

Her voice echoes in his mind. Lost in thought, too many ideas. Looking up casually Dave takes a long slow look across the table. He notices the man ordering a drink at the bar, not much going on here.

"...damn it Darla..." he mutters to himself.

He takes another look at his drink and slowly finishes it.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 51):

Dave Walker notices that the people around him at the long table have shifted their positions, gradually. Turning away from him, or physically sliding away along the common bench. Nothing new.

The wanderer had talked to his drink since he sat down. Now, as he drains the contents of the first glass and looks to the bar asking Darla whether he should get another, he sees a man at the bar turn his eyes aside. Another man, an ostentatious feller, who is speaking French at the bar stands between him and the bartender. Walker might have to get up.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:52, Mon 29 Oct 2018.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 51):

Jacob's eyes snapped open, and he had a moment of disorientation as he stared at the ceiling, wondering where he was. Then it came to him -- in a hoe-tell, in Sacramento. The Texan raised himself up on his elbows, and saw Earnest sitting on the edge of his bed, his nose stuck in a book.

The rifleman reckoned that it must not be time to leave by the saloon in order to arrive by 2:00, because he knew the Perfesser to be a bear about keepin' track of time, and the man had not awakened him yet.

"Reckon I'll be headin' on over yonder to the saloon," Jacob said as he rose to his feet. "See you over thaere, shortly." It looked like the Perfesser was into sumpthin' powerful interesting in his book, for he didn't even look up, instead acknowledging the Texan with a pre-occupied "Ummm-hmmm."

It felt a little odd to leave his Winchester in the room, but Jacob had noticed that he seemed to attract more attention than he cared to whenever he carried his long-arm around in citified places. Besides, he was pretty sure that this saloon required a man to check his firearms at the door, and he reckoned that his Schofield would be more than he needed with respect to firepower in a place like this -- at least in broad daylight.

Jacob was right about needing to check his sidearm at the door -- there was a table set up just inside the door for that purpose, and the Texan made no bones about complying with the expectations of the locals. He supposed that failing to do so would bring an ill-tempered representative of John Law down on him pretty quick, and he had no desire to travel down that road.

Once that was taken care of (which also had the benefit of giving his eyes a chance to adjust to the darker lighting inside the building), the Texan glanced around. He spotted the Frog whom they were supposed to meet talking to a fellow over at the bar, and briefly wondered if the man was still speaking in French. Mister Windham was nowhere to be seen as of yet, which did not concern Jacob -- for if the Perfesser had not yet made his appearance, it confirmed that no one else was running late, either . . . not that Jacob was especially vexed about it, either way.

Jacob also took note of the people sitting around the table in the middle of the room, seeing that one fellow was sitting a little off to one side. Nothing unusual about that -- some folks tended to prefer their own company. The Texan reckoned that he might well feel the same way himself if he was not meeting the Perfesser and Mister Windham here in this place.

---

OOC: Earnest, I have written in a few inconsequential actions for you (IC) in the hotel room, to account for Jacob's traveling to the saloon by himself. If anything that I have written concerning the Perfesser does not ring true, please let me know and I shall cheerfully edit. :)

Tracy exited his hotel room with his newfound newspaper in hand, as well as his faithful haversack slung over his shoulder. The Investigator hoped that he could find something in it worth his attention, but, if not, it seemed that his encounter with the fellows he had just met might prove interesting nonetheless.

Descending the stairs, he angled towards the chairs where he had first spotted the newspaper and talked with Mr. Richardsen and the Professor. For some reason, it felt like good luck to peruse the newspaper in the same spot that he found it.

Tracy sat upon the chair that once held the newspaper and began to read through its contents. Unfortunately, he found nothing that particularly interested him, at least for now. It held a few articles on local happenings, a few baseball scores, and other miscellaneous items. A little disappointed, Tracy still slid it carefully back into his haversack. Once he developed some specific lead, it could prove useful later.

Now exiting the hotel, Tracy squinted his eyes in the direction of the saloon. He thought that he could see the Texan a ways ahead of him, nearing the building.

~Good timing. Better get a move on.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 54) and Jacob Richardsen (msg # 53) and Dave Walker (msg # 51).

OOC: Please move your characters along. Find a way to interact with each other or anyone inside the saloon. The RP narrative has been good and enjoyable. No problem there ... just reiterating that you shouldn't be waiting for the Judge.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 55):

After glancing around the room, Jacob eased over to the bar about two feet away from the Frenchman and put his right foot up on the bottom rail. He did his best to remember the Frog's name, and found that he couldn't. Come to think of it, he couldn't even remember if the fellow had even mentioned it, at least not within earshot of the Texan.

The Texan waited for either the Frenchman to notice him and interrupt his conversation with the man in the bowler hat, or for the barman to notice him. He decided to make a bet with himself as to who would be first to do so.

~I reckon that Frog's too caught up with the sound of his own voice an' with speakin' his own lingo to pay much attenchunn to what's goin' on around him. My bet's on the bar-keep.~

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 56):

Jacob's internal wager pays off, in whatever way the Texan rewards himself. The bartender, a man in a white shirt and black string tie, approaches to serve the rifleman.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 57):

Jacob nodded a greeting to the barkeeper, then said "Whiskey."

After the slightest of pauses, the Texan added "Hell, maeke it a double. I just now won a bet with a feller, an' I oughtta get to celybraete."

Then Jacob raised his left arm straight up into the air, his hand stretched towards the ceiling as if he was reaching for something up on a very high shelf. "With all that's been goin' on laetely, I been forgettin' to do this," he said, as if he were satisfied that his logical explanation had made everything perfectly clear.

Dave  stands up from his seat at the table and stretches out, nudging the fella next to him - " save my seat will ya..."

~There were a few new people who had come in, might need to check 'em out... maybe these are the guys I'm waitin' for?~

Dave walks up to the bar just in time to hear the tall Texan order a double.

He catches the bartender's eye, silently gives a nod for the same.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 58) and Dave Walker (msg # 59):

The bartender nods to each of the men, setting up a glass for each and pouring a decent volume.

The two men receiving the whiskey cannot help but notice each other.

The frenchman, whose attention was turned mostly away from Jacob (and now the new man next to him), suddenly looks around and speaks in a slightly louder voice. Certainly intending for it to be heard beyond his current audience under the bowler hat.

"Of course, the silkworm trade is the important thing. But the balloon -- that is my passion."

Poirier notices the two freshly-poured whiskeys, to his right. He glances at the Texan.

"Add those to my bill, bartender."

Turning to Jake, the frenchman asks "And where is your friend, the professor?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:55, Wed 31 Oct 2018.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 61):

Jake nodded silently to the man who had joined him at the bar, his left arm still raised towards the ceiling.

"Thank you, monshure," he replied when the Frenchman told the barkeeper to put the two men's drinks on his tab.

When the Frenchman inquired about the Perfesser, Jake replied "Last I saw of him was back in the hoe-tel, whaere he was perched atop his bed with his nose stuck in a book. I reckon that he'll be along shortly -- he usually keeps pretty good track of the time."

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 61):

Earnest acknowledged Jacob's exit but was busy reading what he had about Utah, their current destination. Unfortunately, his travelling library was woefully limited, so it didn't take him long to exhaust that resource. perhaps there's a library in this town?

He checked his watch and seeing it approaching 2pm, decided he'd better get a move on... wouldn't do to be late!

He stood up from the bed with a slight wince due to their recent adventures and then looked over at Jacob's longarm. Shouldn't need a gun today... I'm frankly rather tired of them lately!

He removes his shoulder holster and stows it in the trunk, then makes his way to the saloon. He sees Jacob among several men, including Poirier, and approaches with a grin on his face.

Hello Jacob... still making friends I see!

Monsieur Poirier he adds with a slight nod to the man.

The frenchman laughs aloud. "C'est magnifique. Bon l'entrance."

Poirier motions to the bartender, indicating this is yet another man's drink, paid for. The bartender, with the white shirt and black string tie, awaits the professor's request.

"And the last of your friends?" says the frenchman, glancing around for the investigator before his eyes land on Jacob. Poirier nods as the man in the bowler hat departs.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 64):

"Howdy, Perfesser," Jake replied, smiling, to Earnest's greeting when the easterner came striding into the saloon. "Figured you'd be right along."

When the Frenchman -- whose name sounded like "Pwa-re-eh" -- asked the Texan about "the last of his friends", it took a Jake a moment to understand.

"Ah, you must be speakin' of Mister Windham," the rifleman answered. "I just met him over in the hoe-tel, an' I reckon that he's more of an ah-quaintance than a friend."

"But he did say that he planned on joinin' us over here at the sah-loon, so I s'pect we'll see him afore too long."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 01:47, Thu 01 Nov 2018.

Tracy entered the saloon, quickly gathering information about his surroundings. A long table to one side, standing bar on the other, an exceedingly average place. At the table were a few patrons, and at the bar his new acquaintances had already gathered, alongside a man he did not recognize. For some reason, Tracy's inquiring instincts told him to keep an eye on this man.

His swift scan of the area complete, the Investigator approaches the group of men and addresses them all, proclaiming "Ah, and we've all arrived!" He turns to Jacob and the Professor and adds, "I hope you've both settled in to the hotel well," allowing him to subtly glance past Jacob at the mysterious man sitting beside him, trying to get a better look at his face.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:52, Thu 01 Nov 2018.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 66):

OOC: A small point (but important to the Judge) to reinforce for everyone.

There are no places to sit at the bar. No bar stools. Currently, the PCs are gathered at the bar, standing with Poirier. If the men desire to sit, they will need to move to the long table.

Alphonse Poirier acknowledges Windham's arrival. The frenchman motions again to the bartender on Tracy's behalf.

"Gentlemen, as you enjoy your beverages, I request the attention of your ears."

He glances around to the four men, as if seeking their approval before launching into whatever oration he has in mind.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 61):

"Thanks for the drink..." Dave's reply goes un-noticed as the man with the french accent starts talking about balloons.

~ Balloons? Too weird, also... another Frenchie? Damn Darla... 

Dave decides to stay at the bar instead of turning back to his seat. His interest peaked, he listens in to the group conversation...

--
OOC: Sorry for the late reply to this... RPOL was crashing for me this morning and you all started contributing.

- Minor edit, rephrasing
This message was last edited by the player at 15:21, Thu 01 Nov 2018.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 68):

"Well enough, I reckon," Jacob replied to Mister Windham's question about their settling in to the hotel, lowering his left arm as he did so.

~Hunh. Wonder what this is all about?~ the Texan wondered when Monshure Pwa-re-eh requested their attention and requested their ears' attention.

Jacob gave the Perfesser a "Did you see this coming?" glance, then turned so that he could listen to the Frenchman with his good ear -- for a while, any way. He reckoned that the man's buying a round of drinks for everyone had earned him some measure of time to speak. The Texan wasn't sure exactly how much rope he was willing to let the feller have -- he supposed that it might depend on what was said.

"Good to hear," Windham replies to the Texan.

Tracy turns and nods to the bartender and gestures towards the drinks in front of Jacob and the unknown man to his right, silently requesting the same so that he may not interrupt the Frenchman's speech.

The Investigator quickly scans the faces of those within earshot; did they seem interested? Confused? He caught the Texan shooting his compatriot a sideways glance. It seemed that the man had similar ideas about the situation to Tracy.

~Looks like I picked the right day to travel to Sacramento. All kinds of interesting things happening already, and I've only arrived a couple hours ago.

Tracy sets aside those thoughts, and turns to focus once again to focus on Poirier.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:14, Thu 01 Nov 2018.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 71):

Earnest takes a quick glance at what the others are having, especially noting the new man, then answers the barman.

Whiskey please.

He turns to Poirier as the man speaks. Earnest catches Jacob's look as well and returns the slightest of shrugs then focuses his attention on Poirier.

Please continue, monsieur.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:10, Thu 01 Nov 2018.

"Tres bien," begins the frenchman with the well-tailored coat. Tracy Windham notices the coat's green silk lining as the man turns his torso from side-to-side.

"When I met Professor Ringgenberg and he engaged en francais, it was another sign of a successful day here in Sacramento. Mind you, I already had other reasons, and my business brings me here regardless of my personal . . . but I digress."

He clears this throat and offers a raised eyebrow.

"You must understand; I am an entrepreneur in the silk and silkworm trade. As you appear to be, em, well-traveled men, perhaps you have heard of it. Regardless, I can tell you that those larvae are paying for your whiskey this fine afternoon."

Poirier laughs, nearly a snort, at himself. The silk merchant then turns to the professor and bows slightly, much as he had in the hotel lobby.

"You are a learned man, I can tell. And when you introduced me to these other men, I could tell that you were men of experience. The people of Nouveau Zion need men such as you. For tasks both, em, minor or major."

The frenchman scans the group of men that are listening. "Are any of you seeking employment?"

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 73):

Jake had never before heard of silkworms, and wondered briefly what sort of fish you would catch if you baited your hook with one. As Monshure Pwa-re-eh prattled on,  the Texan began getting the sense that Frenchman was a flannel-mouth, whose words should be turned this way and that and examined from every direction.

When the man paused long enough to ask a question of his listeners, Jacob responded with a couple of his own. "Whaereabouts is this Noovoe Zion? An' what kind of em-ployment are you speakin' of?"

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 74):

"In the Utah territory," says Poirier, in response to the Texan's first question.

"As for employment . . . all sorts, truly. I will be headed back there tomorrow, via Promontory Point. I can tell you that every time I have recruited a man, he has found success."

The silk merchant's raised eyebrow returns.

"Of course, there are also investment opportunities, for men with capital. The growth in silkworms has already proven a prosperous venture for several men with the sand to place a stake."

Standing by the bar, Walker is listening to Frenchie and looking at the reactions out in the crowd.

~ Jeezaz Darla, you gotta be kidding me ~

Walker's been around,  knows someone with his skills can always make money. That's not the problem at all... the problem is simply where to go next?

~ Memories... getting that dry cotton mouth feeling ~

"... bit o' whiskey will take care of that..." he mumbles to himself as he takes a swig off his drink.

He continues to watch the crowd to see if anyone appears interested.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 75):

Well, I do not know about the other two men here, but my associate and I do have some business in Utah, so perhaps something could be arranged... but to build on Mr. Richardsen's question, can you give use some examples of the kind of employment you might consider us for?
This message was last edited by the player at 19:00, Fri 02 Nov 2018.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 77):

"The opportunities are too many to enumerate. Whether you are a farmer, a scientist or a soldier, there is a place for you in Nouveau Zion."

The silk magnate pauses for a moment, looking to each of the men.

"To be clear, I would not do the hiring. I serve as the recruiter for various businessmen in the area. Especially those involved in the silkworm trade."

As he listened to Poirier describe Nouveau Zion in such grandiose terms, Tracy felt a familiar skepticism, followed by its accompanying rush of excitement.

~He makes this place sound like a utopia. That is never good. What a perfect lead.

"I'm intrigued, sir. This Nouveau Zion sounds like my kind of place. How would you advise me to seek employment there?"

Tracy let his eyes trail quickly across the fine green silk of Poirier's coat as if admiring it, subtly enough and in a manner that he thought the Frenchman might find flattering.


OOC:
Edits continue to be coloring my text, as I continue to forget to do on my first attempt.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:55, Sat 03 Nov 2018.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 79):

Poirier grins at Windham's response.

"It is as simple as traveling there. By rail to Promontory Point. And then by airship to Nouveau Zion."

The silkworm entrepreneur beams, both of his eyebrows raised when he speaks of the airship.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:33, Sat 03 Nov 2018.

~ “Jeezaz Darla, you gotta be kidding me”~

Walker puts his drink down and looks to see if anyone else at the bar is still listening, he turns around to face the group.

~ Who the hell are these people anyway? ~

Tracy had heard only very little about airships thus far in his day, and made a mental note to research them soon after this meeting. They were obviously very important both to the culture of Nouveau Zion and Poirier himself, two distinct entities with which the Investigator planned to become much more familiar.

"By airship, you say? Why would a man need an airship in order to travel to Nouveau Zion?" Tracy addressed the Frenchman with a look composed both of feigned and genuine curiosity. He wanted to get in the man's good graces by expressing interest in the man's obvious passion, but Windham could not deny that a flight on an airship did truly intrigue him.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 82):

"Mais, oui. I do say. There are other ways to reach Nouveau Zion. One does not need an airship but why would one travel another way when such a glorious mode of travel was at his disposal?"

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 83):

Richardsen looked perplexed, and he stared at the Frenchman. "An' just what in the blue blazes is an aer-ship?" he asked.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 84):

The frenchman nods as if he has heard Jacob's question before.

"A ballon, sir. A conveyance that is lighter than air. Flight . . . although nothing like the birds."

He grins again. "Come with me to Promontory Point and you shall see for yourself."

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 85):

Earnest rubs his chin as he speaks, a sure sign that his curiosity has been piqued.

Interesting... Are these balloons powered in some way? Or do you have to wait for the right wind? How much do they carry?

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 85):

Upon hearing the Frenchman's reply, Jake looked dubious and scratched his chin-whiskers. Earnest had been around the Texan enough to know that the wheels were turning in Richardsen's head.

~I got no notion of what a "baloon" is. An' lighter than air, the man says . . . how is such a thing possible? An' if it's so all-fired light, how is it goin' to carry people in it?~

Jacob resolved to quizz the Perfesser later before he committed to such a fanciful-sounding notion.

This message was deleted by the player at 20:05, Mon 05 Nov 2018.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 86):

Tracy, limited in his knowledge about air travel but desirous of more information, was glad to hear the Professor's line of questioning. The Investigator turned his attention back to Poirier, curious about his answer.

OOC:

I deleted my previous version of this post to more specifically "reply" to the earlier message to which it is a response.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 86):

"Quel soulagement!" exclaims the silk magnate.

"I was hoping you -- a man of science I have presumed since we first met -- would take an interest in my dirigeable. There will be plenty of time to discuss the particulars while on the train to Utah. Suffice to say that we rely on prevailing winds for propulsion, but that we also have a mechanical means of propulsion to augment what nature provides."

Poirier grins at the professor, sensing the growing curiosity of his current audience.

~ If that flying thing is so great, then why take a train to get there? ~

Walker is listening in, curious about Frenchie and his flying machine, but dubious about his intentions.

"Why are you goin' there and why are you tellin' us about it? Have you been to this Zeyeon place before?"

He carefully takes in Frenchie's disposition while waiting for an answer, looking for any sign of deception in his answer.

OOC: 10:01, Today: Dave Walker rolled 3,2 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,2.  Notice (d6) - looking for deception in answers to question.

-- Edit - color coding my quoted text
This message was last edited by the player at 18:12, Tue 06 Nov 2018.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 91):

Richardsen followed up on the stranger's question about the Frenchman's destination. "I'll ad-mit to ruminatin' a mite 'bout this Noovoe Zie-ahn place myownself."

"Name's got a foreign ring to it . . . no offense ihn-tended. Is it run by folks of the French per-sway-shunn, like yerself?"

The Texan reflected that if Monshure Pwa-re-eh and his countrymen were in charge at this place, it would be as if the old joke was turned on its head -- the Frogs would be the ones sayin' "Jump!", and everybody else would be shoutin' back "How high?"

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 92):

Earnest was prepared to continue, but decided to wait until Poirier answered the other mens' questions first.

Tracy grew more and more curious about Nouveau Zion, this airship of Poirier's, and the intentions of the man himself. He had to know more; it was his nature after all.

Still, the Investigator was content to listen to the Frenchman respond to the others' questions for now, as they had asked things relevant to Windham as well. Besides, the younger man had learned that, in his line of work, a lot of information could be gathered by watching and waiting.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 91) and Jacob Richardsen (msg # 92):

The balloonist responds, first to Walker, then to Richardsen.

"Mais oui, monsieur, I have been to Nouveau Zion numerous times. It is beyond description. I am going there because of my investment in the silkworm trade. It is a regular trade route, comprenez-vous?"

"No, Nouveau Zion is mostly governed by, em, Americans. To be more specific . . . em . . . Mormons."

OOC: Walker makes a Common Knowledge roll (Smarts d10) to see if he is familiar with the Mormons:

08:43, Today: Dave Walker rolled 6,1 using d10,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 6,1.  Common Knowledge roll re: Mormons.

"Mormons, there's a fun bunch but they seem pretty harmless..." he turns and mumbles to the Texan.

Walker was ready to return to this seat figuring Frenchie to be a swindler; after all - it's not his responsibility to call him out, he's got enough on his mind already. Let the others figure him out.

His disposition softened when he heard a few more details from Frenchie the Balloonist. He had heard of Utah and had never made it there during his travels with Darla... it might be something to look into, even if he doesn't follow Frenchie there...

Dave takes another swig from his drink, nearly finishing it. He catches the Texan's gaze - "You been to Utah partner?".

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 96):

Jake had heard of the Mormons, but didn't know much about them. As best as he could recollect they followed a fellow who had looked into his hat and supposedly saw something, but ... well, the Texan wasn't too sure what, exactly.

When the stranger asked him about Utah, Richardsen turned to address the man and shook his head. "Nope, ain't never been thaere. Might be worth a visit."

Jacob didn't go into any details as to why he and Earnest were supposed to travel to Promontory Point -- he didn't reckon that it was anybody's business but theirs.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 21:53, Wed 07 Nov 2018.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 95):

Earnest nods as the others talk.

Interesting monsieur Poirier... but back to this recruiting business, surely as a businessman you would not step into a deal without knowing what it was about? So let me ask you this: what type of positions do you most often recruit for?

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 98):

The frenchman's visage grows serious.

"D'accord." Poirier lowers his voice.

"Mostly, hired guns. And silk worm farmers."

"Sounds like a fun place" Walker exclaims sarcastically under his breath.

"Is this a town? City? How large is it and what else is there to do besides gunnin' and farmin'?" he asks Frenchie.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:40, Thu 08 Nov 2018.

The Professor had asked the question of the hour. Now they were getting somewhere with Poirier.

Addressing the advocate for Nouveau Zion, Tracy asked, "If I may add, sir, what, or whom, are these hired guns protecting?"

~Or maybe even attacking, the Investigator thought to himself.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:29, Thu 08 Nov 2018.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 100) and Tracy Windham (msg # 101):

Poirier chuckles, his tone and volume returning to their previous levels.

"You gentlemen ask copious questions. Skeptics, I must presume."

The balloonist shrugs. Looking at Walker, he replies with a question and one of his raised eyebrows. "What is there to do here in Sacramento?"

Turning next to Windham, the frenchman makes a statement, but his response is similar to that given to Walker.

"The same things hired guns are needed for in Sacramento, or anywhere. Outlaws, ne'er-do-wells, wild beasts ...." he says, trailing off and finishing with another shrug.

"It seems, perhaps, that you men are not suited for Nouveau Zion. Fair enough. A votre sante," he adds, raising his flagon of beer and taking a sip.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 102):

Jake found himself wondering what it was that silk-worm farmers did, exactly. The ouly worms that he had come in contact with were bait-worms, and the way that this Frog was talking, silk worms seemed to be dealt with differently than other sorts of worms.

It seemed a pretty far stretch from worms to the expensive fabric, and the Texan was unable to connect the dots. But then again, cotton and wool -- which came from bushes and sheep, he knew -- eventually was made into clothes, so maybe it wasn't too much of a stretch if silk came from these worms somehow. This was just the sort of thing that the Perfesser would know about, so Richardsen resolved to quizz his pard about it when time allowed.

Jacob didn't know what "copious" meant, but all the questions seemed to somehow put the Frog off his feed. Richardson wasn't sure whether the statement from Monshure Pwa-re-eh that the men gathered there in the saloon were perhaps not suited for Noovoe Zey-ahn was intended as some sort of a bluff, but it rubbed Jake the wrong way.

"An' why is that, Moshure?" he asked. "Are you sayin' that folks who get hired at this place ain't supposed to ask questchunns? Understandin' the lay of the land, lookin' afore we leap -- so to speak -- just strikes me as common sense."

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 103):

"Your questions are natural, of course.  I intended no offense. I may be mistaken, but you men seem more skeptical than, em, game. At least some of you. I do not wish to escort a man to Nouveau Zion, if in his heart he cannot embrace the frontier spirit. There exists tremendous opportunity, but like any venture, qui onques rien n'enprist riens n'achieva."

Walker knows all about frontier spirit, he's lived it in his travels. The shine seems to wear off after a while and circumstances change quickly. Opportunity abounds everywhere, so does risk, but there is security in numbers.

"You walkin' in here all by you'self with all this opportunity, ready so share with any drunk in a saloon? Who else you got with ya?

OOC: Common Knowledge roll: does Walker know of Promontory Point, how far away it is?

09:04, Today: Dave Walker rolled 1,5 using d10,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,5.  Knowledge check re: Promontory Point.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 105):

OOC: Walker has heard of Promontory Point. Most folks know that's where the two railroads met to form a complete transcontinental route. The place of the Golden Spike. It was in all the newspapers.

But Walker doesn't know how far it is from Sacramento.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 105):

The silk magnate returns his attention to Dave Walker.

"C'est lui. The skeptic," answers Poirier, gesturing towards Walker.

"Until now, I did not know for certain that you were a drunkard. I had invited these other men, as we had made an acquaintance at the Stockton hotel. I do not make a practice of recruiting men who have gone on a bender of any kind."

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 107):

~ Jeezaz Darla, you gotta be kiddin' me ~

He shoots the Texan a quick look before squaring off in front of Frenchie, a glimmer in his eye. He smiles with a wide grin, the first time in days.

He raises his voice - "Drunkard! Ha!" 

"You're the one walkin' into a Saloon talkin' opportunity? Lookin' to recruit... there's a church down the street, I'm thinkin' you might have better luck there this Sunday?"

This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 14:48, Fri 09 Nov 2018.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 108):

"You may walk away at any time, sir," says Poirier, matter-of-factly. "I am willing to speak to anyone interested in Nouveau  Zion. If you are not interested, then step aside and leave the conversation to those who do."

OOC: All PCs should make a Notice test. Any Edges that provide bonuses to Notice will apply.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 109):

OOC:  Here is Jake's Notice Check:

11:20, Today: Jacob Richardsen rolled 4,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,1.  Notice Check.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 109):

OOC: Walker's notice check...

12:27, Today: Dave Walker rolled 3,5 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,5.  Notice check during conversation with Alphonse.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 109):

The conversation moves on as Earnest momentarily ponders Poirier's last phrase.

14:57, Today: Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg rolled 10,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of (6+4)10,1.  Knowledge of French phrase.

...he is quickly refocused as the words get more heated.

14:57, Today: Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg rolled 4,4 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,4.  Notice.

~I have got to make it clear to Poirier that I intend to travel to Promontory Point after this calms down; I don't want him to believe that I'm skeptical.

Suddenly, Tracy felt that itch at the back of his neck, and quickly scanned the room.

OOC:

I used a benny to reroll and rolled more poorly than before, so I'll be keeping my first roll. Still down a benny though.

00:56, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 1,2 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,2.  Benny reroll: Notice.
00:55, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 1,5 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,5.  Notice check: Bar Environ.

I kept the roll in bold text.

The bartender with the black string tie moves to his left, putting himself behind Walker -- across the bar. He stands very near the bar. Only one of his hands is visible.

"Who needs another drink?" he asks, interrupting the conversation and making it sound more of a suggestion than an inquiry.

OOC: Depending on the Notice results, the Judge might have changed this narrative -- and possibly provided some information to the specific characters based on results. Since everyone made the TN4 but no one raised, this works fine.

OOC: The professor recognizes the phrase, it is from old french. 14th century if his linguist instincts are correct. Current usage would be different, likely. The professors best translation is:

"Nothing ventured, nothing gained."
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:06, Sat 10 Nov 2018.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 114):

Earnest steps up to the Walker and Poirier.

A fine idea barkeep! I am buying this round... Gentlemen, we are just discussing opportunities... there is no need to get heated, wouldn't you agree monsieur Poirier? Mister... ah, I'm afraid I haven't gotten your name yet sir?

Tracy's gaze lingered on the barkeep's obscured hand before he turned and stepped toward the men at odds as well.

"Wise words, Professor. I think we'd all like to avoid disturbing this fine establishment. What say you, gentlemen?"

The young investigator lifted his hands palm-up to the men at-odds, turning his head back and forth between them equally as he did so.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 116):

"Walker... the name's Walker" he says without taking his eyes off Frenchie.

After a brief pause he turns to the young man who addressed him: "Another drink will suit me jus' fine, thanks partner."

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 118):

"Agreed," the Texan said, right on the heels of Mister Walker's comment about another drink. If one supposed that Jake was familiar with the newly-published Roberts' Rules of Order, one might also have supposed that he was seconding the other man's motion. But since Richardsen had never heard of such rules and would have put no effort into using them if he had, well . . . he probably just wanted another whiskey.

"Richardsen," he said, with a nod to Mister Walker. "Jacob Richardsen."

He didn't offer to shake hands. After all, he had just met Walker -- and the Texan was not some flannel-mouth who acted as if everyone he met was his friend.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 118):

Earnest waits until Jacob finishes.

Very well then Mr. Walker, another round... and I am Professor Earnest Ringgenberg.

He pauses and turns to Poirier.

Monsieur, perhaps you will give us a few moments alone to discuss your offer... assuming it's still on the table of course?

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 120):

"Mais, oui. Certainement."

The bartender resumes a more normal posture after the various men add to his suggestion. He pours drinks for those who desire another -- and looks to the professor for payment.

------------------------

OOC: The Judge is working on a Setting Rule regarding the effects of alcohol. As the continuing players know, there was a 2 drink "gimme" which the Judge will likely apply in this SW adventure as well -- meaning, there are no adverse effects for up to 2 regular alcoholic beverages, but after that . . . probably, this will take the form of a Vigor trait test, with negative trait test modifiers for failure on the test, for each drink after the 2nd.

As of now, the Judge counts:

• Jacob: 2 drinks (a double), plus the next one if he partakes
• Dave: 3 drinks (one he finished when others entered the saloon, plus the double), plus the next one if he partakes
• Tracy: 1 drink,  plus the next one if he partakes
• Earnest: 1 drink,  plus the next one if he partakes

“Good to hear. Another round would suit me as well. My name is Tracy Windham, by the way. Good to meet you, Mister Walker.”

Addressing Earnest, Tracy adds, “Thank you for your generosity, Professor,” before turning toward the bar again to ask the barkeep for another whiskey. After receiving another glass, he asks Earnest and the rest of the group apart from the Frenchman, “So, should we take a seat at a table to discuss Mister Poirier’s offer?”

OOC:
Because we are counting drinks, I made sure to note that Tracy received another drink in this moment. That makes two for him.

Walker acknowledges each man with a nod as they introduce themselves.

In another life he might have just decided to stop talkin' and start swingin' - life's like that - pendulum swings both ways.

"ain't got nowhere to be, no harm in talkin'."

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 124):

"Thanks, pard. I do be-leeve that I'll take you up on that. I reckon that one more won't hurt, an' might haelp some," Jake replied to ENS's offer to buy the next round.

The Texan nodded in agreement when Mister Windham suggested that the foursome seat themselves and discuss the Frog's offer, and Mister Walker responded in the affirmative.

"Reckon we oughtta chew on it some. So, Perfesser -- what's this 'baloon' that Monshure Pwa-re-eh was so all-fired worked up about? An' it sounds like the Mor-mons are runnin' the shindig at this Noovoe Zey-ahn. What do you know about them? Tell you the truth, I ain't real high on Holy-Rollers myownself."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 18:10, Wed 14 Nov 2018.

Tracy nods in agreement with Jacob, and tacks on to the Texan's question.

"I'm curious about your thoughts on the Mormons and the balloon as well, Professor. Being from California, I have heard about the Mormons out in Utah, but only a little. As for the balloon, I don't know a lot about physics, but I get a sense when someone might just be blowing hot air. Do you think that a balloon could really carry folks as Poirier says?"

OOC:
I don't think that Tracy (IC) would know that a balloon of this nature would be propelled by a "hot air" of sorts, so the pun was just for me. :)

Oh and also, quick question on setting. Our characters are now at the table together, separate from Poirier, correct? Tracy spoke in this manner under that assumption.

Edit: second thought OOC added above.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:57, Wed 14 Nov 2018.

Yes, that's correct. As it was stated publicly and there is nothing (no reason) to stop the characters, it is fine to assume that all 4 of the men have all moved to an open spot at the long table -- two on each side -- to discuss. It is fair to say that you are out of earshot of Poirier at present, but no guarantee that the silk magnate -- or others -- won't overhear your conversation. The PCs aren't the only characters who might have the Notice skill, after all ....

OOC: The professor and the Judge were discussing some possible trait tests in PM. The Judge assumes that Earnest will follow-up soon with responses to Jake and Tracy.

Meanwhile we don't have to RP everything in a linear fashion. If people have other topics to discuss over the drinks, please feel free to carry on more than one conversation topic at a time.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 125):

Walker eases back on his chair, greateful for the drink and the chance to sit and chat with these folks. They seems like capable people who are interested in doing things. A man doesn't need many friends, but being at the right place at the right time? Can't pass that up.

"Religious folk don't bother me none, 's long as they keep it to themselves I got no problem with that. I spent some time in New Orleans - you run into all kinds of godly and spiritual types down there."

"I'm more interested in knowing more about you than the Mormons, to tell the truth..."

"What's your background, who were you fightin' for in the war? You sound like you're from the South so I assume you were in the Rebel army?"

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 126):

"If you're expectin' me to opine on a balloon, then you'll be left waitin'. I admit I never did see one an' don't know much about 'em... I'm more inclined to ride the train or coach. Hell, even horseback on a wild horse's gotta be safer!"

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 129):

Jake glanced at Walker when the man spoke of him being in the Rebel army. ~I reckon that makes this one a Yankee. They're the ones that always talk about us bein' "rebels".~

"Reckon I did my share of fightin'," Jacob replied after a short pause.

"Me an' some other boys joined up after Lincoln invaded Virginia. We was in Hood's Texas Brigade, in Marse Robert's Army of Northern Virginia. We . . . fought 'em for as long as we could."

Richardsen had that "thousand yard stare" for a few moments, apparently seeing things in his mind's eye. "How 'bout you?" he asked Walker, now looking the man in the face.

"You fight in the war?"

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 131):

Walker's told this story before, like others, the war left it's mark... deep.

"I was twelve years old when the war started. My uncle fought and died in the Battle of Five Forks in Virginia, just south of Richmond, rest his soul."

"My parents were doctors from New York. They split up when I was young and I stayed with my mom. She followed her brother and worked in the military hospitals, draggin' me along."

"Wasn't long before I was helping her tryin' to keep our soldiers alive... "

Walker paused mid-sentence, he has told this story a hundred times, it's never easy.

"I used to work with her in the operatin' tent. I was too small to hold down the soldiers... let's jus' say I am pretty handy with a saw."

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 132):

"Five Forks?" The Texan's tone made it sound like a question, but it wasn't -- not really.

"Din't fight there myownself, but I know of it. Damnably bad luck, your uncle fallin' thaere, when the war was nearly over an' done with. You happen to remember what unit he was with?"

Jacob fell silent when Walker spoke of his own involvement in the war. "A sawbones," he said quietly, repressing a shudder, after the other man had finished speaking.

As was the case for many front-line soldiers, the possibility of a wound to a limb that would inevitably lead to his living as a miserable cripple who would have to bear the pitying glances of men and women alike for the rest of his life was more of a fear than death itself for Richardsen. The medical tents, with piles of severed limbs stacked outside and the pitiable moans of the poor men who were trapped inside, always struck the Texan as being ghoulish beyond measure.

"Waal . . . I reckon it had to be done," was the lukewarm best he could do by way of acknowledgement. Which was true, of course. They had even taken off the arm of Ol' Blue Light -- General Jackson, who was given that affectionate nickname by his troops in recognition of the intensity of his blue-eyed gaze -- after his wounding by friendly fire at Chancellorsville.

After a short pause, he lifted his glass filled with whiskey -- courtesy of the Perfesser -- to Walker. "I'll be damned iffen I'll toast the result, but I will toast to the war bein' over an' done with."

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 133):

Walker lifts his glass to acknowledge the Southerner.

"His name was Robert McHenry, he was a First Lieutenant in Warren's Fifth Corps.... yes bad luck indeed..."

Walker had fond memories of his Uncle, learning how to hunt and survive in the New York hills. So many lives lost, so much pain and suffering. But at least it's over and he hasn't held a saw since.

"Damn war, it'll take generations to put it to rest."

OOC: Nice writing there 'Tex, I'm not a writer but I like your style and hope to follow your lead before too long.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 134):

OOC: Thanks, Dave. Glad to hear that you enjoyed it. The Judge and I both share a deep and abiding love of history, and games such as this afford a marvelous opportunity to breathe a little life into the people and events of more than a century gone by.

Tracy had always found himself to fall silent during conversations like these. He felt like he stood in the shadow of an object too large for him to see. The war was fought when he was too young to understand it. Only a decade or so younger than these men and it was like they lived in a different world.

Of course, Tracy’s father had fought in the war before they moved to San Francisco. The Missourian rarely ever mentioned the topic, however. Tracy imagined that his father would have spoken about it more if his mother had been around. There just wasn’t room for that much pain.

“I’m afraid I feel a bit lost during talk about the war, gentlemen. I was born just before it started and moved to San Francisco when I was real young, so I did not experience it or its aftermath firsthand."

The younger man paused for a moment.

“I wish there was more than I could say.”

OOC:
I concur on the strong writing, from all of you. I'm enjoying the adventure a whole lot!

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 136):

Richardsen smiled at Mister Windham's comments. "No need to say nuthin'. Ain't like you missed sumpthin' that you you should be pinin' about."

Turning to Mister Walker, he said "Warren's corps was a big outfit -- it com-prised three or four divisions, I'm guessin'."

"If'n your family was from New York, most likely he your uncle was in a New York regiment. We tangled with some o' them boys along an' along durin' the war.

The Texan fell silent for a moment, as if he was seeing things with his mind's eye. Then he shrugged. "All o' that's neither here nor thaere respectin' what we got to re-solve, I reckon."

"How do y'all feel about the offer that's on the table? Goin' to this Noovoe Zey-ahn with this Monshure Pwa-re-eh, I'm meanin'."

"I s'pose that one thing I'd like to know whether, iffen we get thaere an' don't like the lay of the land, so to speak, can we just say 'thanks but no thanks' an' move along somewhaeres else?"

---

OOC: Edits marked by color.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:44, Sat 17 Nov 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 137):

~ All right Darla, what are you up to... ~

Walker's mind again wanders off for a second, a slight grin comes across his face as he recalls his last day in New Orleans.

"Good luck keepin' me where I don't want to be. I may be a wanderer but I ain't gettin' myself into any bindin' agreements like this..."

"Any of you got any idea how far this place is? I'm inclined to pass on the Balloon ride"

He takes another long casual look around the table... 'Tex looks like he can take care of himself but I'm not sure about these two young men. A man is judged by the company he keeps after all...

"I earn my keep as a medicine man of sorts these days, used to travel around learning about local herbs and such. I've managed to keep myself alive these years by virtue of avoidin' being at the wrong place at the wrong time. What about you gentlemen?"

"I intend to head to Nouveau Zion myself. To answer you both, I go where the truth leads me, and I don't stop until I find it." A look of determination crossed over Tracy's face as he paused.

"For a little while now I've been traveling around, taking any sort of odd jobs I can find as I look for interesting happenings to investigate. Sometimes I even take on specific jobs, looking for missing items or people, but mostly I just go where the wind carries me."

"With Poirier and his Nouveau Zion, it looks like I have hit the jackpot here in Sacramento. It sounds like there could be plenty of leads there, and I have got to get to the bottom of them all."

The look of determination left the young Investigator's face a bit before he continued, now addressing Jacob's second question.

"I'm a bit worried about that as well, but I can't rest until I find out what's going on up there. However, I find that I can be pretty lucky at times, and you all look like you can handle yourselves if any issues arise. What about all of you? Do you think you'll be heading to Nouveau Zion as well?"

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 138):

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 139):

Jake chuckled at one of the things that Mister Walker said. "Avoidin' bein' at the wrong place at the wrong time is a right handy habit to cul-tivate. Wish I'd a' learnt that earlier on in life. I still ain't so sure that I got the hang of it."

"An' bein' a dock-ter that uses herbs instead of a saw sounds good, too. You bottle that stuff an' sell it? 'Doctor Barnabus's Poe-tent Elix-err, an' all that sort of thing? You know, 'Cures all ailments, includin' mul-tiple aches an' pains, croupy cough, consump-shunn, runny bowels, an' last but certainly not least, mas-cuelin an' fem-inin problems?'"

When Mister Windham spoke of what he did, to the Texan it sounded a lot like turnin' over rocks and pokin' a stick down holes to see what he could stir up. He couldn't see how a man could make a living that way, although Mister Windham did mention that he sometimes took jobs findin' missing people or items. Jake supposed that people would pay right handsomely for that sort of thing, assumin' that they truly wanted the missing person to be found an' that the items in question were worth the trouble of payin' somebody to find them.

Richardsen pursed his lips thoughtfully. "You a Pinkerton, Mister Windham? No offense, but the sort uhv work that you de-scribe sounds a lot like what a Pinkerton man would be doin'."

---

Edits: Added a little flavor text; no substantive edits.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:42, Sun 18 Nov 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 140):

Walker is used to explaining his approach to medicine and such, it always comes up, that's part of the deal.

~ Besides, gotta make you proud Darla ~

"Yeah, the body needs different types of effects based on the condition. There is usually some basic simple tonic you can take at the right time that will help your body's own defenses overcome the problem. A lot can be said for preventative uses also."

"I don't mean to bore you with the details, I'm also a pretty handy in any apothecary."

Walker leans in and with a sly grin adds: "I try to help everybody heal faster and feel good while doing it!"

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 139):

Walker is listening to the young man talkin' about TRUTH. Truth ain't as pretty as he makes it sound. He doesn't seem like the type that is lookin' for trouble...

~ C'mon Darla is he really that naive? ... was I ever that Naive? ~

"Sounds like you could get yourself wound-up in all kinds of trouble pokin' your nose around where it don't need be..."

"Just sayin'... you say you're lucky, but I 'recon that's not strategy for success."

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 142):

Earnest responds to the questions posed.

I'm afraid I don't know too much about Mormonism... it is a sect of Christianity and I seem to recall that one of its founders led the original group from New York out to Utah, but that's about it.

I have read a bit of history on hot air balloons. The French helped develop balloon science... which may explain monsieur Poirier's interest in them. Balloons were also used in the civil war by both sides as tethered observation points. And some conversations I had recently in San Francisco implied that balloon routes may start competing with train routes too. I should like to see one up close... but I'm not sure if I'll ride in one!

He follows the conversation for a while before chiming in again.

Interesting Mr. Walker... I have also studied medicine and practice the healing arts... though it sounds like you've participated on a more practical level than I have!

And as I said earlier Mr. Windham... Jacob and I intend to go to Promontory Point anyway, but we may be able to swing a side trip. What do you think Jacob?

---

OOC: Please forgive my absence fellows, as I explained to the Judge events and wonky wifi have conspired to limit me more that I intended!

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 143):

~ You gotta be eff'n serious Darla, I didn't just hear that... ~

Walker halted for a second when he heard the young man mention he was a healer. It wasn't that the man introduced himself as a healer that made him pause, it was what he said after that raised his hackles...

"Tell me kid, how pray 'tell did you study without PARTICIPATIN' ON A PRACTICAL LEVEL?" His tone is somewhat ambiguous, not sure if he's meant to insult or challenge the kid.

"What kind o' trainin' is that?"

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 141):

(and)

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 143):

The Texan had no idea what a 'poth-ecarry' might be -- or what a poth was, for that matter -- let alone how a body would go about carryin' one. He supposed that if he remembered long enough, he would ask the Perfesser about it when they got back to their hotel room.

Richardsen smiled and said to Mister Walker, "Next time I feel a little tickle in my throat, iffen you're still around I'll be sure an' ask about one o' your pre-vent-ative feel-good tonics."

In speaking to Mister Windham, Mister Walker gave voice to a thought that had also occurred to Jacob -- namely, that some folks might not take too kindly to a so-called "seeker of truth". In Jake's opinion, there were a goodly number of people who had things that they never wanted to have see the light of day -- and as near as the rifleman could tell, stirrin' such things up was why some crusadin' newspapermen got theirselves tarred and feathered and run out of town on a rail.

~Waal, then I sure as hell ain't doin' it, then,~ the Texan thought to himself as Earnest announced that he was a trifle skittish about riding in a baloon.

Jacob did note that the Perfesser referred to the contraptions as "hot air baloons". "Is hot air what causes them things to float up into the air?" he asked no one in particular.

"'Cause iffen that's the case, Monshure Pwa-re-eh must have plenty of lead in the soles of his shoes."

---

OOC: Edits marked by color. No substantive changes.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:11, Mon 19 Nov 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 145):

Walker looks at Jacob when Riggenberg talked about their plans to go to Promontory... seems these men know each other,  leaving him the odd man out.

That balloon was really the least of his concern, as it seemed highly unlikely that he'll be flyin' anywhere anyway..

"Tell me Richardsen - seems to me y'all know each other already. Kin ya tell me more about that and the nature of your business in Promontory Point?"

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 140):

"Yeah, kind of like a Pinkerton, Jacob. Biggest thing that separates me from a Pinkerton man is the reputation." Tracy pauses and smiles slightly. "Right now, I'm in the process of building mine."

Turning to Walker, Tracy adds, "That depends on how you define 'success.' In my line of work, success means figuring things out, and sometimes that can put you in the line of fire." The younger man pauses, and then says, "I imagine that you must have taken great risks for something or someone important to you in your life at some point. But of course, I could be wrong." Tracy shrugs and looks away.

The young Investigator was not surprised about the New Yorker's skepticism of his line of work. Even though he had not been in the business very long, he had already come into contact with folks that did not enjoy his persistent questioning, regardless of his politeness. However, he did not believe that meant he should not continue seeking answers.

Hearing Jacob's joke about lead in Poirier's shoes brought Tracy back from his thoughts, and he laughed out loud. "Lead in his shoes... that's good one Jacob. How do you come up with this stuff?

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 146):

and

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 147):

The Texan regarded Mister Walker cooly, with a neutral, poker-faced expression. ~Waal, waal. Seems like Mister Windham ain't the only hombre at this table who's in-clined to poke his nose into other folk's bizzness.

After a moment Jake replied to the New Yorker's question about Promontory Point. "Reckon thaere ain't no harm in the askin'. The Perfesser, here," here Jacob nodded his head towards Earnest, "an' me, we-uns may be meetin' up with some old pards thaere . . . dependin' on whether thaey show, or not."

By then Mister Windham was responding to Richardsen's and Mister Walker's previous comments. The Texan dead-panned a reply to the Californian's laughter and query. "Reckon thaere's no accountin' for taste."

After a moment a slight slight pause, a hint of a smile played about at the corners of the Texan's mouth. "I heard that from a feller who's a sight smarter'n me. At the time, he was remarkin' on some hayseed's ten-dency towards con-jugatin' with barnyard animals."

---

OOC: Edits in color. No substantive revisions.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:14, Mon 19 Nov 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 148):

OOC: How far away is Promontory Point? Is that common knowledge?

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 149):

OOC: Something that specific (i.e. distance in miles) is probably not Common Knowledge; however, where the Utah Territory is relative to California would be common knowledge.

Feel free to make a Smarts roll for that information, if desired.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 150):

Here you go:

13:13, Today: Dave Walker rolled 7,5 using d10,d6 with rolls of 7,5.  Smarts roll re: promontary.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 144):

Not being sure what exactly got the man's hackles up, Earnest replies straight.

Well Mr. Walker, I am university trained in the medical arts, which of course included both cadaver and practical work. I also provided community help for free as part of a university charitable program. But the last year and a half out here has also provided a fair amount of practical work, somewhat the same as your experience I'll guess.

Earnest pauses to rub his chin a moment.

English is a second language to me, perhaps I should have said "on a practical level more than I have".

---

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 145):

Yes Jacob, I believe it has to do with hot, lighter air displacing colder, heavier air... much like what carries smoke from a fire up a chimney flue.

---

OOC: I'm assuming that our group conversation is not actually this disjointed, but we're covering all of this in this manner in the interest of time.

Still listening to the other men speak, Tracy turns his head slightly towards where they had previously stood at the bar with Poirier, looking for the Frenchman. The Investigator realized that it had been a while since they had separated from the balloonist, so he was curious about his overall demeanor at the moment. Was he content with the foursome continuing their conversation several minutes more, or should they look to wrap it up and give him their answer?

Tracy searched for some hint in his body language and facial expressions.

OOC:

Notice check: sense for Poirier's patience level, basically

15:28, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 2,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,1.  Notice: Poirier's body language.
15:29, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 1,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,1.  Reroll notice check: Poirier.

Yikes. Those are some awful rolls. I used a benny to reroll, but I got snake eyes. Definitely keeping the first roll (in bold).

Follow up, did we all start with 4 bennies, Judge?

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 153):

OOC: No, all PCs start each game session with 3 bennies. Tracy started with 4 because of his Luck edge.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 151):

Dave Walker recalls that Promontory Point is at the northern edge of the Utah territory. Between California and Utah is the entire state of Nevada. Walker doesn't know how far away it is, but based on general geography of the western frontier, it must be hundreds of miles.

OOC: That is the Judge's view of the situation, yes. I suggested to the group earlier that conversation didn't need to be linear -- especially knowing that ENS would be scarce for a few days as per your heads-up about your RL travel.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 153):

Tracy Windham attempts to gauge the disposition of Alphonse Poirier, surreptitiously. While the young investigator is fairly sure that his glance wasn't overtly noticed by the frenchman, he doesn't gather much information. The self-proclaimed silk magnate and balloonist appear to be enjoying himself with some other patrons at the other end of the table, having purchased a round of drinks for them while he regales them with tales of flight across deserts and canyons.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 152):

Walker perks up when hears the Doctor defend his education. He stares down the young doctor and with wide eyes says "Damn! I never did heal a cadaver... you are skilled indeed!" - followed up with a loud laugh! "University class and Cadaver work!!!"

Walker settles himself down - aware that he's causing a scene, the whisky is takin' care of business...

" 's all good fellas, jus' givin' the young Dr here a hard time" He says looking around at no-one in particular. Leaning in toward Ringberg he gives him a sly wink "... all good young man."

Catching the Californian's eye, Jake cleared this throat and began speaking. "Seein' as how you're a seeker of truth an' such-like, Mister Windham, I'm wonderin' iffen you could put your talents to good use -- for all our benefits, it seems to me."

"Seems like most of us -- maybe all of us -- are gonna dee-cline on Monshure Pwa-re-eh's baloon-ride. That bein' the case, we'll most likely need horses to git from Prom-uhntory Point to Noovoe Zie-uhn -- assumin' that we dee-cide to go thaere, once we get to Promontory Point."

"So, then -- is thaere a town in Prom-uhntory Point whaere we can buy horses, or will we need to buy 'em here an' send 'em over yonder by train?"

"Second, it seems to me that it would be haelpful to know how far it is from Prom-uhntory Point to Noovoe Zie-uhn -- an' maybe iffen thaere's a stage-coach runnin' from one to the other . . . that would give us another opshunn to buyin' mounts."

The Texan glanced at the other men sitting at the table. "Maybe y'all can think of other things to look into, along these same lines."

Addressing Jacob's questions, Tracy began to speak. "Good ideas, Jacob. I already planned to learn a few things before heading to Promontory Point with Poirier, so I could add those questions to my list."

"As far as the balloon ride, I have to admit that I am pretty curious about it. It sounds like I might be alone in that regard, however. Perhaps I could do some research before we depart to Promontory Point with Poirier, answer your questions about travel as best I can, and then we could all head off on the train with Poirier to the Point before going our separate ways to Nouveau Zion after that?"

"I would like to keep travelling with you all, but I may never get another chance to ride in a balloon. Besides, I also have a mind to ask Poirier some more questions."

Addressing all three men now, Tracy concludes his speech. "What do you all think about that?"

As Tracy Windham concludes his speech, Alphonse Poirier rises from his seat on the other end of the long table, having taken his leave of the men with whom he was conversing. On his way towards the four men, at a leisurely pace, the frenchman announces himself.

"Messieurs, pardonnez-moi . . . I am preparing to depart. If any of you have interest in my proposal, meet me for the 8 a.m. train to Promontory Point . . . or call for me at the telegraph office should you find yourselves near the Golden Spike."

Now that the man has said the name of the station more than once, the men's register a more heavily accented pronunciation of "Point" than the silk merchant's other English words. There is a certain nasally whine to the word, with a reluctance -- more like a distaste -- to finish with the "t."

He pauses, seemingly to allow any of the men who might care to respond a chance to respond before departing Depot Dan's.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 161):

Takin' the train, yeah that's the best choice. Sittin' back and sleepin' on the way over there sounds like a great idea. Better than on the back of some smelly ol' heffer with Roger's shit's

"Allright partner, I admit I've been enjoyin' the conversation with these folks and I'm inclined to join you on that train ride. I'll take a walk around town and think about it, settle a few business dealin's and... well, if i'm there in the mornin' then I'll come along for the ride."

"Cheers gentlemen" he raises his hand, turns and walks out into the street.

~ OK Darla, let's see what you got ~

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 160):

Earnest nods while Tracy speaks.

<orange>A good point Mr. Windham... balloon rides are not very common. I think I'd like to look it over before I commit is all!

When Poirier approaches, Earnest turns and listens.

Well, Jacob and I are going there anyway... tomorrow morning is just as good as any other time... Do you agree Jacob?

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 160):

and

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 162):

and

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 163):

Jacob had understood the Perfesser to say that he was skittish about the Frog's baloon-ride, but he had to admit that Mister Windham made a fair point about being "pretty curious" about such an uncommon thing.

"Curious" . . . Jake supposed that was as good a word for it as any. He sometimes felt that a little Devil was riding on his right shoulder, whispering in his good ear about how interesting it would be to do this thing or look into that one. In such instances, when Richardsen started hearing the whisperings, he tried to keep in mind the old saying about what happened to curious cats. But more often than not, the little Devil's urgings won out . . .

As the Texan was thinking about such things, Earnest made it pretty plain that his mind was not made up yet -- apparently he wanted to look over the baloon before deciding.

"Waal, hell," Jake muttered. "I reckon it couldn't hurt to have a look-see afore decidin' once an' for all."

The Texan nodded his agreement to ENS's conclusion that tomorrow morning would be as good a time as any for them to take a train-ride to Promontory Point, seeing as that was when Monshure Pwa-re-eh planned to head out. "Sounds good to me, Perfesser," he replied.

Mister Walker seemed to be of the same mind, and announced as much before rising from the table and leaving the saloon. "See you in the mornin', " Jake replied to the New Yorker.

The balloonist departs the saloon after his brief pause and hearing the replies of the four men.

OOC: The PCs must now state intended actions for the rest of the day (or at least immediate actions).

Dave Walker has already departed the saloon. Does he have a course of action in mind?

Earnest, Tracy and Jacob are still in the saloon, but the Judge gets the sense they intend to perform errands or other tasks, so please state intentions.

Tracy was glad when the Professor and Jacob responded with more interest in the balloon ride. It would be nice to have more company, and there was absolutely no way that he himself would miss out on the opportunity. Still, the Investigator wondered what else about the balloon the Professor sought to learn before he was comfortable committing to the ride.

Tracy watched as the others responded to the Frenchman's final inquiry about their interest in his offer, and then spoke his piece in turn. "I'll be there at 8 a.m. as well, sir." He nodded to Poirier. "See you in the morning."

"Cheers, Walker," the Californian adds. "Hope to see you tomorrow."

Now turning to Earnest and Jacob, Tracy finishes his thoughts, saying, "Gentlemen, it seems it is now my turn to depart. I've got some research to do before tomorrow, and only a couple more hours of sunlight left to do it." The younger man pauses and smiles. "It was great to meet you both. I'm looking forward to travelling with you tomorrow. Have a good day, both of you. Oh, and I'll be buying you a drink next time, Professor." Having finished his speech, Tracy waits for their responses before heading for the exit.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 167):

Jacob nodded in response to Mister Windham's comments. "Reckon that the Perfesser an me'd ah-preshiate hearin' iffen thaere's anything that you find out about that we need to act uh-pon afore tomorrow mornin'."

"I ain't shore what time we'll be eatin' victuals this evenin', but I'm guessin' that we'll be dinin' at the hoe-tel. Iffen our schedules work out, you're welcome to join us." Jacob would have extended the same offer to Mister Walker, but the New Yorker had already departed.

Turning to his traveling companion, Jake asked "You know of anything that de-mands our attenchunn whilst we still got a little daylight, Perfesser?"

---

OOC: Edit: Minor, as highlighted by color.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:57, Fri 23 Nov 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 168):

At the mention of research, Earnest perks up, but waits until Jacob is finished before responding.

Dinner at the hotel is at 6... apologies for not mentioning it earlier Jacob! Mr. Windham, is your research to be conducted at a library? Do you know of one here in Sacramento?

Replying to the Professor, Tracy says, "Well, I would be happy if I could conduct my research at a library, but I am unsure if there is one in town. I had planned to inquire at the hotel or train station about its potential location. If there happens to be one, I had planned to head there right away."

Tracy paused for second before continuing, raising his eyebrows inquisitively before he spoke again. "Would you be interested in joining me?" The young Investigator tried show with his tone that he would not mind the company and was not only asking to be polite.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 170):

Earnest nods.

I believe I would... let's ask at the hotel since I need to adjust our arrangements anyway. By the way Mr. Windham, are you staying at the Stockton as well?

Tracy smiles and nods.

"Yessir I am. You have any more business here before we head back? I want to make sure we take advantage of the daylight we have left."

~ Well Dee, you got some decisions to make.  You want to stick around here with Parkinson's son grubbing through the hills for allum root and yarrow? ~

Walker's knowledge and skills with plants come in handy just about anywhere. He reflects on his time in New Orleans with Madam Selena, everything he learned on the bayou... and deep in the swamp. Horrible bloodsucking skeeters the size of pigeons and snakes and gators everywhere - some sorta hell on earth.

The hills in Sacramento are tame by comparison, just gotta watch out for rattlers and scorpions - they mind their business if you mind yours.

~ Goin' up to Utah sounds like a good change of pace ~

He makes his way back to the shop he's called home for the past few weeks. He's spent most of his time in the hills looking for quality plants, but would come here every few days to drop off his harvest and get cleaned up for a night.

As he walks in he spots Jeffrey behind the counter. Jeffrey, the Son in "Parkinson & Son Apothecary", was a quiet man who had a lot to teach and was always wanting to learn more.

Walker goes out to the back room where he keeps his belongings. Coming back into the main room with his haversack he pulls out some paper bags filled with flowers and roots.

"Here you go Jeffrey - this is what I came back with last night... I went up north, that place you told me about behind the church at the crossroads. I found the clearing and picked it clean - you won't need to go back there for a few months."

"Listen, I uhhh... ran into some folks today - sounds like they are heading up to Utah - might be some opportunity for me there. I remember Madam Selena sayin' there was some great plants in Utah, real good medicine. You know anythin' about that?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:50, Mon 26 Nov 2018.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 171):

and

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 172):

"Reckon I'll mosey along with y'all iffen you're stickin' together," Jacob said to Mister Windham and the Perfesser.

"Reckon I'll be 'bout as much use as tits on a boar with this 'research' y'all are con-tem-platin', but it ain't like I'm covered up with other job oppor-tune-ities at the moement."

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 173):

Jeffrey Parkinson had an abundance of knowledge about herbs and their uses, mostly learned from his father. Although he had studied historical texts and learned firsthand from the likes of Josiah Parkinson and Madam Selena about the wide range of medicinal plants on the continent, he had never had a good memory for things beyond his reach. California; however, that was where the Sacramento apothecary had been raised and so he had specialized knowledge in this region.

Walker remembered how Jeffrey had itemized for Dave the plants he sought -- with notes about where to find them in the nearby hills, valleys and waterways. Their relationship had remained cordial over the weeks that the visitor had spent in Sacramento, while both got good value out of the arrangement.

Knowing Parkinson's predilections, it came as no surprise to Walker when and how the apothecary responded. As usual, Jeffrey mumbles a mite -- as if talking to himself for a spell -- and then answers without looking up from his current task.

"Afraid I do not know much about the Utah territory . . . not specifically. The landscape is varied there, I recall. Mountains, canyons, desert, a salt lake. Now, seems likely you will find Yarrow, Thistle, Milkweed and such . . . "

Parkinson pauses, trailing off as he often does, for a few moments.

"I suppose an herbalist who likes to wander would find plenty of opportunity thereabouts. When would you leave?"

In reply to Jeffrey Parkinson (msg # 175):

"Yep - mountains and desert up there in Utah... I wish I remember what Madam Selena had said about those parts."

Walker pauses, trying to let his mind catch up to that memory.

He then shrugs and brings his attention back to Jeffrey.

"Looks like they are leavin' on the train in the morning. Let me lay down for a bit and think things through... I reckon I'll have an answer for ya in a few hours."

"I'm not sure at all if this is somethin' I want to get involved in."

Walker returned back to the room at the back of the shop. Laid out his bedroll and started playin' with that ol' pendulum.

~ ...all right Darla, what are you thinkin? ~

Walker watches the pendulum sway back and forth, slowly, sometimes pulling more to the right, sometimes more to the left.  "Just like life itself " he repeats quietly to himself a few times before putting down the pendulum and closing his eyes.

Walker is awakened a few hours later by a conversation between Jeffrey and a customer. He waits for them to finish their business before coming out of the back room.

"Allright Jeffrey, I have made up my mind to go with these folks up into Utah Territory."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:55, Mon 26 Nov 2018.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 176):

This time, Parkinson did in fact look up and meet Walker's eyes.

"I understand, Dave. Honestly, I am surprised you stayed as long as you did."

He extends his hand. "I have enjoyed your company. Will you stay here for one last night?"

Tracy grinned at Jacob, enjoying the man's sense of humor.

"Regardless, I reckon the company will be nice."

Addressing both men now, the young Investigator continued. "Let's get a move on before we run out of daylight. I don't want to miss dinner either. That food smelled awful good in the lobby earlier today."

Tracy turned toward the exit, heading back to the hotel.

OOC: Let's pick up the pace. There is no need to RP every step -- unless the PCs have a reason or desire to do so. If the PCs wish to engage in RP with NPCs, that can certainly happen (e.g., having a conversation with someone to gather information or advance the plot or fill in background ... all good).

Walker's recent interaction with Jeffrey Parkinson is a fine example. Dave, the player, used a combination of narration and speech to begin the interaction and the Judge waded in. The Judge finds that sort of RP interesting . . . especially when it's initiated by the player and is of importance to the story.

However, if heading to the hotel is simply a fact-finding mission, we can cover that narration with trait tests to resolve things. We can then save the PC/NPC roleplaying for more interesting topics, as warranted.

Based on Tracy's previous posts, he wants to find a library. Let's skip ahead ...

The men have returned to the hotel and Tracy easily learned the location of the Sacramento Library Association, a public subscription library. That small task accomplished, as well any routine tasks attended to such as retrieving or stowing gear in their rooms, Tracy could return to the idea of inquiring at the train station. Althought that isn't needed to learn the location of the library, it might be of value if the group seeks information about the area around Promontory Point station, as Jacob had raised earlier. It stands to reason that a station clerk (or supervisor) would have knowledge about other train depots on the route.

However, for simplicity, the Judge is suggesting we advance to the library after the hotel, with the option to inquire at the train station on the way back to the hotel for the evening meal, or perhaps after, assuming the depot remains active after sunset.

After the investigator and the professor had learned the location of the Sacramento Library Association, they and the rifleman had walked the half-mile or so into town, arriving at the site at 3:45 p.m. by Earnest's timepiece.

The afternoon air and the brisk walk had warmed the men. Early spring in Northern California was like the draw in a game of poker -- a sudden change in the weather could make a man re-think his plans. Today, however, seemed like a pat hand, an ideal day for ambulation.

As the professor, eager to see what this library had to offer, opened the ground floor door to the building, Tracy remembered what the hotel clerk had told him about the Association. While the library's resources were available to the public, the Association required a subscription -- a membership, perhaps -- in order to utilize the books and periodicals housed here. Jacob had made a humorous comment about that fact. Humorous to the investigator, at least, who had found himself a mite charmed by the Texan's folksy wit.

Now, as the three men enter the foyer of the establishment, they are greeted by a man studying a tome at a small desk, through the light of a nearby window.

"Gentlemen, welcome," he says, standing from the desk and smiling when Earnest and Tracy enter. Noticeably, for a brief moment, an odd look passes on the librarian's face as the Texan waltzes in behind the Ringgenberg and Windham. Nevertheless, the man recovers immediately.

"I am Edward F. Postlethwaite, at your service. May I interest you in a subscription to our fine library?"

The men have a moment to scan the library. There is a sitting area attached to the foyer, with a staircase to a second level and two rooms to each side. There are bound books, newspapers, scrolls and other paper documents on shelves and tables throughout.

------------------------------------------------------

OOC: Note that I posted twice in a row ... see previous message. And feel free to fill in details via narration (what the men are carrying, including weapons, etc.) while wading into town in search of the library.

Trait tests WILL be needed for any research, but RP will also influence how and what information may be gleaned. Please use traits that you believe are most relevant (Investigation, Streetwise, Persuasion, Knowledge or Common Knowledge) as we continue the RP between Postlethwaite and the PCs. The Judge may ask for a roll, or you may anticipate a roll, as needed/desired.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:18, Tue 27 Nov 2018.

In reply to Jeffrey Parkinson (msg # 177):

Walker looks around the shop, Jeffrey was a good guy. Great to work with. He knew his local plants and how to prepare them.

~ I got nothin' to worry 'bout, if things didn't work out I can always come back here, or even head back to New Orleans. ~

"Yeah, I'll be headin' down to the Stockton for dinner, then getting ready to leave early in the mornin'."

"If you don't mind, can I have some paper and envelope? I would like to send Madam Selena an update on my travel plans. I'll put in a good word for you Jeffrey!"

In reply to Edward Postlethwaite (msg # 180):

After a quick look around, Earnest practically beams at the man.

Good afternoon Mr. Postlethwaite! I am Professor Earnest Ringgenberg... My associates and I are looking for some information on areas in Utah and the science of ballooning, but we are only here for the day... do you have an hourly or daily rate?

Earnest resumes looking over the place from where he stands while waiting for the man's answer.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 181):

"Paper? Yes, I can spare a piece or two. You will have to craft your own envelope . . . " he adds, trailing off and mumbling in his typical fashion.

The apothecary moves to the small secretary's desk, where he keeps his ledger, as he is talking. Now, he extracts exactly two pages from a roll that was tied with a small bit of twine, proffering the freed pages to Walker after he re-rolls the remaining sheets and re-ties the twine.

"The Stockton, you say. May I join you?"

--------------------------

OOC: Mr. Walker had noted that this game often seems to come with a history lesson. Something like this always sets the Judge to the task.

Envelopes as we know them today didn't exist in 1877. Ten or 15 years later, yes. But at this time, pre-fabricated envelopes with the folds glued into the rectangular (usually) shape we know today had not been mass-marketed. Store-bought envelopes existed, but they were fashioned by hand, with someone doing folds and manually gluing. They came in a few distinct shapes and sizes (none which we would consider a "standard" USPS-approved). However, at this time, old traditions were still largely employed -- the letter-writer might keep one side of the paper clean, folding the document into its own envelope and applying wax or glue where the folds met, to seal the missive. A commoner with regular resources in 1877 would almost certainly NOT have envelopes on hand. Someone like the apothecary . . . sure, it makes sense for such a merchant to have paper, maybe even envelopes, but more likely to have the former than the latter.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 182):

The librarian nods approvingly when Professor Ringgenberg introduces himself. Postlethwaite glances at the other men to acknowledge their presence and then directs his full attention to Earnest.

"Professor, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am afraid we do not offer such short term rates. Nonetheless, I am confident that we can come to an accord. You see, we do offer a monthly membership. Normally, that allows a single individual to peruse our documents at any time during our operating hours, but I can see clear to giving all three of you men full access if one of you were to pay the monthly dues forthwith. Humbly, I would offer my services as your guide to find resources for the topics you have delineated."

---------------------

OOC: A word that has become increasingly mis-used, to the point of the mis-use becoming common usage.

Peruse -  to examine or consider with attention and in detail (the primary meaning)

Peruse - to look over or through in a casual or cursory manner (the secondary mean per Merriam Webster today, but which 50 years ago would have been the opposite of the word's meaning).
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 22:41, Tue 27 Nov 2018.

As the three men approach the library, Tracy takes stock of the items in his trusty haversack and on his person. Being prepared was a luxury in his mind, and one that he would take any time he had the opportunity.

~Okay, let's run down the list. Notebook, pen, and newspaper; check. Money for the subscription; got it. Lock picks and Dillinger in my pocket; absolutely. Got everything I need.~

Tracy's lock picks and Dillinger usually traveled together, as the Investigator's penchant for going places he might not be welcome had the potential to rile folks up a bit. Since his small stature limited his usefulness in a fist fight, he often relied on his strong shooting skills in these situations instead. Not that he expected to need the gun on this trip, however.

Windham's mind returned to his present environment as the Professor swung open the door to the library. Immediately enthralled by the tables and shelves stacked with books and other print materials, Tracy could not wait to get to work researching. Sometimes it seemed like he was on a journey to learn every little bit of information the world had to offer, and libraries allowed him to scratch that itch bit by bit.

The young Investigator paid attention to Earnest and Mr. Postlethwaite's conversation. The hotel clerk was correct; they would need to pay a subscription to access the library. Since this trip was his idea, Tracy had planned to pay this fee.

"That seems fair enough, Mr. Postlethwaite. I appreciate your willingness to come to an understanding. What is your monthly rate? My name is Tracy Windham, by the way. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." Tracy nods to the man and smiles politely.

In reply to Jeffrey Parkinson (msg # 183):

~ Make my own envelope! Damn Darla! ~

Walker shakes his head and starts to mumble "... in this day and age a man's still got to do arts and crafts to send a damn letter."

He turns to Jeffrey and takes the paper, his eyes looking around for a pencil or pen. Jeffrey was a very organized gentleman surely he was taking notes here recently.

"Of course I don' mind if you join me for dinner!" he reaches across the table to grab a pencil -  "... give me a few minutes to write this letter - I'll drop it off at the post office on our way there."

OOC: Thanks for the history lesson on envelopes

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 185):

"And I yours," replies Postlethwaite.

"The monthly dues are $5." The librarian awaits a response. He seems as eager as Earnest and Tracy to dive into the research, but he has made no move to begin the process.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 186):

Jeffrey also winds-up his business for the day, while Dave writes his missive.

OOC: The apothecary will tag along, following Walker whenever he departs for the Stockton.

In reply to Edward Postlethwaite (msg # 187):

Earnest turns to Tracy.

That's a bit of a sum for only a few hours use... shall you and I split it Mr. Windham?

In reply to Edward Postlethwaite (msg # 187):

Something about the library made Jacob uncomfortable. At first he thought it was all the books -- everywhere he looked, there were books, books, and more books. The Texan wondered if anyone had read all of them, and if so, how long it had taken. And if you didn't want to read all of them, why the hell would you keep so many?

But after a moment's thought, he decided that wasn't it. The Perfesser carried around plenty of his books in his big steamer trunk, and Jake had more or less gotten used to seeing them scattered about, and the Perfesser's oft-times having his nose stuck in one.

Finally, it came to Jacob. ~It's a cemetary -- this place is like a cemetary. The folks in here tip-toe around like ghost passin' by on the midnight breeze, and everyone whispers an' talks low like they're afeared of wakin' the dead. An' them folks that are here, they look at normal people as if they're sayin' 'You don't belong here. You aren't one of us. Leave.'~

Mayhaps such thoughts made the Texan a little jittery. Or, mayhaps he was just bored. In any event, when a break in the conversation presented itself, he asked the fellow who acted like he was the big bug who ran the place, "Y'all allow quirleys in here?"

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 190):

"You may indulge yourself in the sitting area, sir," answers the librarian. Meanwhile, his attention remains on the two men who have talked about paying the monthly membership dues, but have not yet completed the transaction.

OOC: Assuming the men pay the dues and avail themselves of the library, we will begin trait tests, i.e. Investigation.

If the men wish to return to the hotel in time for the start of the evening meal, they will need to depart the library at roughly 5:30 p.m. That gives them roughly 90 minutes to do their research.

Each man doing research will gets two tests -- that includes Jacob, although his rolls will be at -2 for unskilled attempts. Because of Postlethwaite's aid, add +1 to each test (cooperative rolls, that would include Jacob if he joins in, making his net roll at -1).

Each test will be for some specific topic of information, e.g.:

• Utah territory geography
• Utah territory history
• Nouveau Zion history
• Nouveau Zion current events
• Promontory Point current events
• Ballooning history
• Ballooning current events
• Physics/engineering of lighter-than-air locomotion
• etc. (you may be a little more specific or tackle a different topic, these are all examples)

You may make ONE additional test if you take -2 to each of the three tests (i.e., one extra results in a total of three tests at -2 each).

Each PC should state the topics for each of the tests he makes (2 or 3). Of course, feel free to briefly coordinate research efforts amongst the group, if desired. Each player should roll his Investigation tests based on the above and report results. If any PCs have Edges that apply to the Investigation skill test, please state them with the roll.

It should go without saying: feel free to post narrative or RP speech along with, or as a result of, the die rolls.

And lastly to reiterate, this all assumes the men pay the five dollars.

Tracy had planned to pay for the dues, but he did not mind splitting them with Earnest. It could be impolite to refuse the offer, and besides, ENS was right; $5 for a few hours of research is quite a bit of money.

"Sure, that sounds fine to me." Reaching in his trusty bag, Windham withdraws his $2.50 share and hands it over to Mr. Postlethwaite.

"Now let's get to work. Would you mind if I handled the topic of Nouveau Zion myself, Professor?"

OOC:
I posed this question IC to ENS to drive the RP but figured that I could still make the rolls now, as I imagine Tracy's desire to research NZ would not be a problem to the characters.

14:58, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 9,9 using d8+3,d6+3 with rolls of 6,6.  Investigation: Nouveau Zion current events, +2 Investigation Edge, +1 Postlethwaite.
14:57, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 5,4 using d8+3,d6+3 with rolls of 2,1.  Investigation: Nouveau Zion history, +2 Investigation Edge, +1 Postlethwaite.

Edit: accidentally posted before I added rolls
This message was last edited by the player at 19:59, Thu 29 Nov 2018.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 193):

Earnest nods with a smile as he adds his $2.50 for the fee.

Very well Mr. Windham, I shall look into Promontory Point and the ballooning angle!

12:01, Today: Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg rolled 6,2 using d6+1,d6+1, rerolling max with rolls of 5,1.  Investigation: Ballooning Current Events, +1 Posthlewaite.

12:00, Today: Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg rolled 6,2 using d6+1,d6+1, rerolling max with rolls of 5,1.  Investigation: Promontory Point Current Events, +1 Posthlewaite.

---

OOC: Identical rolls... wouldn't be bad if they weren't so sucky!

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 192):

~Waal, I ain't doin' nobody no good just sittin' here like a bump on a log~ Jake reasoned as he stubbed out his quirley. ~Reckon I oughtta give this researchin' a look-see. Mayhaps I'll get lucky an' open up a book to jest the right page.~

When the fellow who worked in the librerry finished with Mister Windham and the Perfesser, the Texan called him over and asked iffen he could point him in the die-reckshunn of some books about U-taw.

---

OOC: 15:18, Today: Jacob Richardsen rolled 0,14 using d4-1,d6-1, rerolling max with rolls of 1,(6+6+3)15.  Investigation re: Utah Territory Geography.

15:20, Today: Jacob Richardsen rolled 2,2 using d4-1,d6-1, rerolling max with rolls of 3,3.  Investigation re: Utah Territory History.

Comments: It seems that Jake has something in common with Sam Cooke -- he "don't know much about his-tor-ree". But he's Hell on wheels when it comes to Utah geography. :)

Edit: Fixed a misspelling (unrelated to the intentional misspellings derived from Jake's Texas drawl.)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:37, Fri 30 Nov 2018.

OOC:

Here's my reroll on my NZ Current Events Investigation roll. As Jacob pointed out in the OOC thread, I had forgotten to select "reroll max," so my Wild Die that should have Aced did not.

15:37, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 2 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2.  Investigation (NZ Events) correction: Wild Die Ace.

Edit, additional info: I believe that brings my highest roll a total of 11?
This message was last edited by the player at 20:47, Fri 30 Nov 2018.

In reply to Jeffrey Parkinson (msg # 188):

Walker had developed quite the admiration for Madam Selena. Jeffrey and he had talked about her on more than one occasion. She was a knowledgeable woman with quite a personality! Writing the letter was also quite therapeutic for him, it reminded him of when he used to write his parents, and of course his favorite uncle Robert.

~ Always good to let her know what I'm up to, I guess I travel around so much I may soon be one of her "special contacts" like Jeffrey. ~

Wrapping up the task by crafting a crude envelope he addressed it to Madam Selena the Seer, and put a neighborhood name on the letter. It would get there.

"Alright Jeffrey, I'm all set - let's go to the station. I need to figure out how much the trip to Promontory Point will cost."

Jeffrey closes up shop and as the two start walking down the street Walker asks Jeffrey: "Hey Jeffrey - what about Promontory Point? You ever been there?"

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 193) and (msg # 196):

Windham, with the librarian's aid, skims a few books about the history of the western territories. Fortunately, before long he finds a passaage that sheds light on his general questions.

Nouveau Zion, as both Postlethwaite and Windham learn, is an Anglicized name for a particular region of red rock canyons near a triangle of towns where Mormon settlers took root circa 1850. For hundreds of years before the area was renamed by those settlers on the southern side of the canyon, the area had been known by the Paiute word “Mukuntuweap.” Towns such as Springdale and Grafton were settled after the middle of the century — these and some burgs were washed away in flash-floods and sometimes re-built, sometimes abandoned. Having learned this, the investigator turns his attention to recent events in the region.

The investigator found himself entirely in his element here in the library. He enjoyed the company as well, with the professor being the rare body he met with an interest in research on par with his own. Not to mention the librarian himself. And seeing the Texan express an willingness to join in gave the young man an extra energy. Windham sifts through a stack of newspapers, finding a trail of stories with the following salient information:

• A silk worm craze began the previous year in the towns of Nouveau Zion and it hasn’t ceased, at least as of reports in early April. The Mormon settlers have been cultivating mulberry trees and the worms that subsist on the berries. As a result of the growth in the silk worm trade, the area has grown in size, including doubling in population in the last 4 months with an accompanying increase in entrepreneurship and innovation, as well as in crime and immorality.
• A balloon camp was established in the region roughly 4 months ago. Described as a large field on a high plateau near Springdale. So far, balloon routes to Promontory Point and Ogden have been established, according to citings in recent newspapers. An interview with one of the pilots, Alphonse Poirier, indicated unprecedented success in the trial flights.
• A famous singer / musician named Charity Lynn Alexander is touring the Nouveau Zion townships — at least she was as of one week ago.
• Several stories about cattle, sheep and horse rusting have been reported. A cowboy was killed at a ranch near Grafton when trying to protect the livestock from thieves. A stagecoach robbery was reported just one week ago, on the road between Rockville and Grafton.

OOC: The Judge has combined, intentionally, some factual (our known history) and fictional elements in these learnings. They are true for the game (as far as textbooks and newspaper stories can be trusted) even if nothing more than tall tales per our RL history.

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 194):

Earnest focuses his attention on the various periodicals housed in the Association's library. He and Postlethwaite had chatted briefly as they searched for newspapers, from the Utah territories, amongst the stacks. The librarian had suggested it would be easier to focus on that region -- and hope to come across mentions of ballooning -- than to harboring hopes of finding current stories about something as particular as ballooning. Finally setting his attention to content at hand, the professor does turn up something of interest about ballooning, much as Postlethwaite had speculated might happen.

The science of lighter-than-air travel has experienced several recent innovations, in propulsion, materials and design. The days of tethered balloons seems long ago, based on a single newspaper story the professor found in one of the newspapers presented by the librarian. French engineers are leading the way in airship technology, as they have since the 18th century. An engineer named Joseph Etienne Canson is said to be the descendent of Etienne de Montgolfier. According to the story, so-called “Balloon camps” are popping up across the USA’s northwestern states and territories , as well as the northern regions of Mexico. The professor found three brief mentions of such camps in the Utah territory within other news stories.

Ringgenberg, even with the librarian’s help, could find only scant references to Promontory Point other than its function as a railway depot — including the references they found to Promontory City, the actual name of the nearby town as they had quickly learned. Finally, as the professor’s watch told him it was 5:30 p.m., he found one small news item. In January of this year, the Mayor of Promontory City (Ma Gan Ye), had executed a deal with a french entrepreneur, Alphonse Poirier, to establish a balloon camp in the plateau south of Promontory City. Primary routes will include Ogden and Springdale, according to the story.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 195):

With prompting from the big bug librarian, Jacob looked through two volumes on geography which had chapters on the Utah territory. To the Texan’s own surprise, he learned quite a bit while serving as a temporary bookworm.

• The territory used to be much larger — the entire state of Nevada was once part of the territory, as was part of what is the new state of Colorado to the east. Utah’s southern border abuts the norther border of Arizona, which is, as the Texan knows, called the Arizona territory now under the control of Mexico. Utah’s norther border is shared by the southern edge of the Idaho territory.
• Utah has three major geographic areas: the Rocky Mountains, the Basin and Ridge Region, and the Colorado Plateau. The Rocky Mountains speak for themselves. The Basin and Ridge Region crosses western Utah and includes mountains and salt flats — including a Great Salt Lake that spans more than 1,000 square miles.
• The Colorado Plateau is known for its spectacular mountains, canyons and valleys that dot the plateau. That is where Nouveau Zion is — which is actually just a name for a particular region of red rock canyons and a triangle of towns where settlers farm, raise sheep (or more recently, cattle from Texas) and cultivate silkworms among mulberry trees. The three towns are Springdale, Grafton and Rockville. The Virgin River cuts through Nouveau Zion canyon, which was recently renamed by the settlers. Much of the landscape in this region is difficult to navigate. The towns are on the southern edge of the region, with roads connecting them, but most of the canyons are largely unexplored.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 197):

"No, I have not," answers Jeffrey. The typically quiet man always responds to Walker -- and of course his customers -- even if he rarely expounds on his thoughts. Occasionally, he will ask a question, either out of genuine interest or politeness. This time, Walker isn't sure which case applies.

"What do you hope to do once you get there?"

In reply to Jeffrey Parkinson (msg # 201):

"Well Jeffrey, a man like me can never tell! I could say my intention is to stay for a week and I'll stay there a year. My business in San Jose is done and I'm just driftin' my way back to New Orleans. Utah Territory is on the way back... kinda, so... I'm thinkin' why not?"

"but I doubt I'll be flyin' in any balloons - heh heh..."

In reply to Edward Postlethwaite (msg # 199):

After finishing with the final news item, Earnest addresses the others.

Well gentlemen, my watch tells me that dinner is about to be served at the Compton... shall we finish up here?

...and to Postlethwaite:

Thank you for your assistance Mr. Postlethwaite, you've been very helpful!

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 203):

Jake was a little surprised at the amount of information that he was able to find in the books that the feller who ran the lie-brerry had brought to him. He didn't see a whole lot of historical information, but he found a good bit on the geography and layout of Utah. That was really of more interest to him, any way -- he had it in the back of his mind that they might need to leave Noovoe Zie-uhn by some means other than Monshure Pwa-re-eh's baloon, and that it might be helpful to have at least a general idea of the lay of the land.

"Sounds good to me, Perfesser," Jacob replied to his pard, and he nodded his thanks to the lie-brerry-man.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 202):

Walker and Parkinson had walked the short distance to the stagecoach office, which the local Postmaster had designated as an official mail depot. They had chatted a mite as they ambulated, passing the time until reaching the office.

The two men had waited in line for a few minutes and then the drifter was able to procure delivery of his letter to Madam Selena to the far away port of New Orleans.

By the apothecary's pocketwatch, it is nigh 6 p.m. As Walker and Parkinson reach their destination, only a hundred yards or so from the stagecoach office, they see -- and then join -- a queue for the evening's diners.

Tracy wished that he could keep researching, but the Professor was right; it was time to head back to the Stockton for dinner. Nevertheless, this trip to the library was just what he needed before traveling to Nouveau Zion with his new compatriots. Feeling invigorated (and very useful, he might add), the Investigator found a new level of trust in his talents and abilities. He also quite enjoyed the company of these men that he somehow met on his first day in town. He wondered for a brief moment what Nouveau Zion might have in store for them before responding.

"I'd love to keep researching, but we don't want to miss dinner. Sounds good to me as well."

Turning to Postlethwaite, Tracy adds, "Have a good evening, Mr. Postlethwaite. Thank you for all the help; I quite enjoyed working with you."

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 203) and Jacob Richardsen (msg # 204) and Tracy Windham # 206:

The librarian shakes each man's hand enthusiastically. "If only more gentleman such as yourselves shared your passion for the library," he says, as if in passing but also with a hint of resignation in his voice. "Good evening."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:54, Mon 03 Dec 2018.

The trio reset their soles to the streets of Sacramento, endeavoring to return to the Stockton hotel in time for the serving of the evening meal. Some twenty minutes later, they find themselves at the end of a queue of diners outside of the entrance. The line continues to move a few feet at a time.

Ahead, where the queue passes into the hotel main entrance, Tracy notices Dave Walker. He mentions it to Jacob and Earnest as the drifter moves out of the line of sight and into the hotel lobby.

Soon, the trio enter and then find themselves in the serving line. The dining hall is about 2/3 full -- still plenty of room to fit those in line.

-------------------------

OOC: The Judge just ushered things along to the point where the PCs will re-meet after their interlude excursions. Feel free to narrate yourselves meeting at one of the two long tables and making conversation over the meal.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:55, Mon 03 Dec 2018.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 208):

Once through the serving line, Earnest (and I assume the others) makes his way to where Walker is sitting. As he approaches he notices that he seems to have a companion.

Ah, Mr. Walker... may we join you and your friend?

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 209):

Walker and Jeffrey were in deep conversation about fingi and the best way to cure them for treating the shakes when he is interrupted by one of the men he met earlier today.

"Huh? Oh... hello again."

He looks up and sees the men are all together except for the Baloonin' Frenchie.

"I didn't expect to meet up with you gentlemen until the morning, but sure you can join us."

Walker introduces Mr Parkinson to the group and they exchange pleasantries. The conversation soon turns to the preparations for the trip as the men share the fruits of their research at the Library.

Walker and Mr Parkinson listen carefuly...

"Silkworms and mulberry trees? Mr Parkinson, I'm curious if you know anything about either of these? "

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 210):

Walker's friend, Parkinson, chews and swallows his food while cupping his left hand in front of his mouth. Even when finished, he pauses an extra few seconds before replying.

"I am no expert on the mulberry, but I suspect that silkworms would be more likely to eat the leaves than the berries. That would not change the general notions . . . ." says Parkinson, trailing off at the end into what sounds like mumbling.

The apothecary then perks up. "I do know that some some berry trees -- or bushes -- have sap that contains medicinal properties. And in some cultures, hallucinogenic properties."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:20, Tue 04 Dec 2018.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 208):

Between what he himself had found out, and the all information imparted by Mister Windham and the Perfesser, Jake felt like his head ought to be several pounds heavier than normal, what with it being filled to the brim with all sorts of things that he had previously known nothing about.

The Texan found himself wondering about something that might affect whether he and Earnest would be traveling on to Noovoe Zie-uhnn -- namely, whether any of their pards from 'Frisco would show up at the meeting-place, and if so, how the news and plans that the others brought with them might impact the Perfesser's and the rifleman's plans.

~Ain't no way of knowin' what -- or who -- we'll find 'til we get thaere,~ the Texan decided. ~So, I reckon that thaere's no sense in frettin' or gettin' myself hot an' bothered about it.~

Turning to Mister Walker, Jake remarked, "Sounds like thaere's some people with money at this Noovoe Zie-uhnn place. That bein' the case, thaere's sure to be some others who are wantin' to get their hands on some uhv it -- an' them stories 'bout cattle an' horse rustlin' an' staege-coach hold-ups are the proof uhv it."

"I'm guessin' that thaere'll be work to be had for those who are gun-handy. I count myself amongst that number. You?"

Tracy nods as he listens to Jacob speak. Nouveau Zion was like a balloon itself, inflated so much that you can sense it might pop at any second. When that much "innovation" (known as "money" to a layman) enters a place in such a short time, it can grow too quickly, push against the edges of its capacity, and suddenly burst.

Jacob was right. This place on the brink was perfect for gun hands, a place of danger and excitement that immediately fired up Tracy's incurable curiosity.

Turning to Earnest, Tracy asked him a question. "What are your thoughts on Nouveau Zion now that you've learned more about it, Professor? Any change in desire to travel there?"

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 212):

Walker only knew Jeffrey for a few weeks, but the quiet, mild-mannered herbalist had grown on him. He had the sense that they could easily work together and maybe even become good friends over the years.

As Walker ate, he couldn't help but notice the contrast between Jeffrey and these new acquaintances... Jeffrey, very knowledgable, quiet, studious, while the others appear to be the more fun-loving, adventure-seeking type.

~ Damn it Darla, I thought I was ready to settle down... Jeffrey is a nice man and all, but not very exciting. What the hell are you getting me into? ~

When Jacob asked him about his abilities with a gun he couldn't help but think back on his childhood when his uncle Robert and he would go hunting in the New York hills. Those were always good memories, learning how to follow tracks, how to survive in the woods on those longer hunting trips. He always thought that's what laid the foundation for him being more comfortable out in the country compared to the big city. Good ol'e uncle Robert.

Turning to the Texan he says: "As you know, I didn't fight in the war and never enlisted in the army... but I have always been a keen hunter and never think twice about shootin' somebody who deserves it. Seein' as you were a soldier should I be assumin' you to be a good marksman?"

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 214):

Jake took a sip of his Arbuckle's whilst he listened to the New Yorker's reply.

"Reckon you're a sight better off for not bein' in the war," he reflected.

"Seems like these days, ever'body who wore the blue counts hisself a hero who served in the Grand Army of the Republic, whilst those of us wearin' the gray warn't nuthin' but rebellious outlaws an' scoundrels."

"Truth is, the war was mostly a ill wind that blowed nobody no damn good. Lots of good men who shouldn't have died, did, an' lots who we'd be better off without skulked 'round behind the lines an' never put theirselves in harm's way -- meanin' no offense to the sawbones and such-like, whose job was to tend after the wounded."

"Any how, gettin' back to your question, I toted an Enfield in the ranks, an' I learnt how to gen'rally  hit what I was shootin' at, notwithstandin' thaere was a bunch of fellas who was shootin' at me at the same time. I warn't no sharpshooter sittin' up in a tree, though -- them boys could shoot out a squirrel's eye from five hunnert yards."

"These days, I favor a Winchester -- a much better rifle than that ol' muzzle-loader I used to tote. I've heard tell that late in the war some of the Yankee regiments had breech-loadin' Henrys or Sharps or Spencers, though I never tangled with 'em."

"Don't know iffen we'd have ever whipped the Injuns out here iffen we was still usin' muzzle-loaders for our pistols an' rifles, so I reckon that a little bit of good mighta come out of all the ill that the war brung down on so many folks."

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 215):

Jeffrey Parkinson had swallowed a mouthful of the tasty stew, when Jacob Richardsen began to talk about the war.

The apothecary takes a long drink of his water, nearly draining the tin cup. Like many of the patrons, he uses his own cup. The hotel also offers a small selection of ceramic mugs for its guests, although not enough for all who have seated themselves at the long tables.

Setting down the cup, Parkinson pauses his work at the stew. He listens to Jake's monologue with obvious interest. He seems especially interested when the rifleman assesses the tools of his trade.

Dave Walker knew that the apothecary kept a rifle at his establishment. Walker had never known him to have used it.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:02, Thu 06 Dec 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 215):

Walker always thought the war exacted too high a toll on everyone involved. For him personally, losing uncle Robert, and his mother being captured for a year, it left a mark. She was shaken by her brother's death, but was treated well by the Rebels after they realized she was a Dr.

"The war sure had it's share of tragedy, even in triumph it was hard to feel good about the whole thing."

"And I completely agree about the different qualities of soldier. You could see it in soldier's eyes when they showed up at the hospital. Some badly wounded would want to be patched up and sent back to their unit; others would cry and beg for pain medicine for the slightest injuries; some would just be quiet, staring at the floor . You sure can tell a lot about a man when they are in that state of mind, no doubt."

"Also, I must admit I share your enthusiasm for the Winchester! I have one myself. If you're a gamblin' man I would be willin' to place a friendly wager on a little target shootin' at some point."

Walker enjoyed his conversation with the Texan. Proof that the war was a travesty, we are all Americans now. He also enjoyed this warm meal, no doubt it will be a while before he eats like this again.

He notices Tracy has been listening in on their conversation...

"What about you young man, you have any affinity to any type of weapon in particular?"

-- Minor grammar edit
-- Noticed I didn't finish a sentence re: enjoying the food
This message was last edited by the player at 16:43, Thu 06 Dec 2018.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 213):

Earnest listened to the pleasantries as they sat, but responds to Tracy once he asks his question.

Hmmm? Oh, the place sounds very interesting indeed! I would love to travel there, and after our research I am feeling more confident about balloon travel as well... But Mr. Richardsen and I do have some business in Promontory Point that must come first; hopefully there is enough of a gap between travel legs for us to do that and still stay with you.

He pauses a moment to rub his chin.

I did find it interesting that monsieur Poirier introduced himself only as a silk trade investor when our research showed that he is indeed a pioneer of these "Balloon Camps" and a balloon pilot as well! Though now that I think back, he did make a reference to "my dirigible" at least once...

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 218):

Walker could overhear Tracy and Earnest's conversation about their balloon research.

~ Geez Darla, I don't know why these men are so eager to get on one of those things... ~

His thoughts drift... in many ways he believes in the Medicine Man's animal visions. He has heard of them taking shape of eagles and hawks, that always fascinated him... what the world must look like from up there.

He had climbed trees in the New York hills, and every now and then would be rewarded with quite the scenic view, overlooking the rolling hills, lush and green during the summer, and brightly covered in the fall.

I wonder what a Medicine Man would think if they were to ride in one of those things.

"You gentlemen seem ready to go on that thing without even taking a good look at it... I'm sure the view is wonderful but... uh, it's a loooong way down boys... heh heh heh!"

"How big are these things anyway? How many men and cargo can they carry?"

Tracy had indeed been listening to Walker and Jacob speak, but he felt a mite embarrassed when Walker prompted him to speak on his weapon of choice. In a rare moment of interaction between the two of them, his father had tried to teach him to shoot a rifle, but they were often too large or too heavy for him to use properly. It had always been a sore spot for Tracy, especially because he considered himself a pretty capable shot. Just not with a rifle.

However, when he answered Walker, he tried to hide this discomfort.

"Well... I would have to say a pistol, because I place a lot of trust in my own personal Colt. I never quite figured out my way around a rifle, but a pistol has gotten me out of a few tough spots in my day. The quicker I am to defend myself the better, I think."

To Earnest, Tracy also replied.

"I believe that the place sounds very interesting as well. Place like that probably has quite a few rocks to turn over, as it were. Not to mention the excitement that comes with a town bursting with new investment and innovation... I'm sure there will be plenty of interesting happenings to experience."

Tracy pauses for a moment.

"The thought about Poirier is very curious. It had not crossed my mind. Perhaps he introduced himself that way because he would like others to help him with his money-making venture, while he saves the glory of his flight innovation for himself."

Tracy could speculate on someone's intentions all day and night, but, in his mind, there was only one way to discover someone's true intent: investigation. Poirier had certainly awakened that ever-present itch of Tracy's, and the young Investigator was excited to get to scratching it.

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 217):

and

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 220):

Jake smiled at Mister Walker's invitation to a marksmanship contest. "Sure, I'm game for that," he replied. "An' no doubt we'll have an opp-portun-ity for such a thing sooner or later."

The Texan nodded his approval when Mister Windham spoke of his personal firearm. "It ain't smart to go about un-heeled -- waal, 'less you're somewhaeres that requires it, like that sal-oon whaere we was earlier today."

"Colt maekes a fine pistol, no questchunn 'bout that. I carry a Schofield myself, 'cause I favor a top-loader the top-break ackshunn for re-loadin' in sit-u-aeshunns whaere ev'ry second counts. But I got to ad-mit that with my Winchester an' the Colt bein' chambered for the same rounds, I been con-siderin' switchin' to a Colt for my side-arm. Havin' to carry 'round two different kinds of ammunishunn can sometimes be a bit of a bother iffen you're stuffin' extry shells in your pockets."

---

OOC: When Jake refers to the "Colt" pistol, he is referring to the somewhat oddly named (IMO) "Peacemaker", which is the pistol that most folks commonly associate with the Old West. I believe that its technical name was the "Single-Action Army", due to the hammer needing to be cocked back before firing (single-action), and the fact that it was originally developed to fill a contract with the U. S. Army.

Edit: For clarification, as marked.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:27, Fri 07 Dec 2018.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 220):

Walker replies to Tracy with a wink and a nod: "Nothin' wrong with a pistol... just means you are closer when you shoot someone... somehow makes it a bit more personal."

"No honor in shootin' someone from afar who doesn't even know you are there, but sometimes things just got to be taken care of right?"

The evening meal passes happily among the Stockton's guests. The heroes, having been in the second half of the queue, observe that some of the earlier arrivals have finished their meals and are departing, leaving the hall less than half-full now at rouhgly 7 p.m. A few patrons are still passing into the dining hall and filling fresh bowls of stew, as the hotel continues to serve the newcomers. It appears that they will be wrapping up the service before too long.

Among the latecomers is Alphonse Poirier. As he procures his stew and bread, another group of men, seated at the other long table, call out to the frenchman. He acknowledges them and moves to join those men, nodding to Walker, Ringgenberg, Windham and Richardsen as he passes.

"Messieurs," he says, politely.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 223):

"Monshure," Jacob replied to the Frenchman, favoring the passing man with a nod of greeting.

Having finished with the stew -- which was mighty tasty, in Jake's opinion -- he pushed his chair back and rolled a cigarette. Once Jacob had finished that task, he scratched a Lucifer against the edge of the table and used it to light up, then settled back to enjoy a smoke with the last of his coffee.

OOC: The Judge has enjoyed the RP over the meal. Topics of interest have been discussed and the public knowledge from PCs posts is now known by all four PCs. Is there a need / desire for further conversation at this time?

Options remain: dissolve scene to the next morning; speak to Poirier now; continue conversation in the dining hall; move the conversation somewhere else; go back to the saloon . . .


Colt made a long list of various revolver models from 1847 to 1877 (and beyond, of course, but 1877 is the current year of this game, and our basic guideline for available weapons). In SW, the stats for these various guns are pretty standard. The Peacemaker is one of the Civil War era guns listed with stats in the rulebook. But PCs can choose any particular model of Colt (or S&W or Starr or whatever) for flavor in the game. Stats will be same as comparable item in the book. About the only thing that changes is the number of shots, but most revolvers had 6 chambers so that affects longarms more than sidearms.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 225):

I have a feeling we are curious about the other men that Alphonse is speaking with. I was hoping for the chance to eavesdrop, or observe their interactions, possibly engaging in conversation with them.

If you want to move this along that is fine too... you have a better idea of what is in store for us :)

OOC: Feel free to make a Notice test to attempt to listen in to Poirier's conversation with the other group of men if that is what Walker is doing. And feel free to have Walker get up and go talk to the frenchman, if he so pleases.

The Judge is simply chiming in when he senses a lull in the conversation, so that we aren't lingering simply because everybody is waiting for everybody else. If PCs say, nope, not ready to move on, that's fine. The Judge is looking to the PCs to determine that pace.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 220):

Earnest grins at Tracy.

That Frenchman hardly seems the type to keep any glory to himself!

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 219):

Rest assured Mr. Walker, I intend to give it a good look! But since it is being used for public transportation, I have to assume it is at least somewhat safe... As to the specifics of the thing, I guess that will have to wait until we talk with Monsieur Poirier in the morning!

When Poirier speaks to them, Earnest nods to him. Monsieur

He then comments low to the table.

Heh, speak of the devil!

While Jake found the Perfesser's and Mister Windham's conjectures about Monshure Pwa-re-eh somewhat interesting, he figured that it was all more or less guesswork at this point, and offered no opinion on the matter.

Having finished his cup of coffee, the Texan contented himself with attempting to blow smoke rings at the ceiling.

Tracy smiled wryly at Walker's comment about the nature of the pistol. "True indeed, and I hope to have that experience as little as possible."

To Earnest, Windham laughs and nods his agreement. "Good point. I guess we may have to wait until tomorrow to learn more about his intentions."

Or perhaps not, Tracy thinks as Poirier enters the dining hall a moment later. The Californian adds his own nod to the Frenchman as he walks past their seats at the table. Earnest puts it just right with his "speak of the devil" comment, and Tracy lets a small, almost hidden smile cross his lips in response. Maybe their group should not be too surprised, however; there did not seem to be too many different common dining areas in the town.

Tracy took a sip of his coffee and a moment to think during a quiet time in the group's conversation. Subtly, his eyes traced Poirier's path towards the men at the other long table. The Investigator was very interested in what the men might be discussing, but he did not want to take any drastic actions that might jeopardize their relationship before their trip the next morning. Curious but still careful, Tracy ultimately decides to turn his ear to the men's conversation a table over in order to gather any information that he can.

OOC:

17:40, Today: Tracy Windham rolled 4,2 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,2.  Notice check: Poirier's conversation.

As a side note, I am ready to move on to the next morning as soon as everyone else is ready. I don't have anything else specifically to discuss. If there is anything on other characters' minds, I am more than happy to continue to engage, however.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 230):

Smoke from the Texan's cigarette brought back memories of his Dad. Although he never fancied smoking cigarettes he had spent some time with one of Madam Selena's native friends, an outcast medicine man from the Choctaw Nation. Smoking is used in many rituals to facilitate communication with the spirit world. Walker never did find it a good way to reach the spirit world, that's probably why he and Madam Selena got along so well.

As Walker comes back from his errant day dream he sees Tracy is no longer conversing with the group, but rather seems to be listening to the others. His curiosity was also peaked... would these men all be traveling in a Balloon with Frenchie?

~ Jeezaz Darla, must be a damn big Baloon ~

OOC: Walker attempts to overhear the conversation from the other group:

09:00, Today: Dave Walker rolled 5,3 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,3.  Notice Poirier's conversation.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 230) and Dave Walker (msg # 231):

The five acquaintances, including Parkinson, fall quiet at the end of their meal.

Richardsen had already lit a quirley to go with his coffee. Parkinson seemed most interested in the cobbler, savoring it in measured bites. Walker had gone to daydreaming, while Windham drifted into his coffee. Ringgenberg had said nothing since speaking in low tones about the silk magnate's appearance.

Walker and Windham focus their hearing on the conversation at the other table, where Poirier has an audience of three men. Both of the eavesdroppers pick up parts of the discourse -- enough to deduce that the primary topic of conversation is the silk trade. There are some mentions of ballooning, but none that would answer Dave Walker's question to himself about whether these three men would be traveling in Poirier's airship.

More of the Stockton's patrons have departed, leaving the place roughly a quarter full. The meal service is ending, but there are still a number of malingerers, including the heroes themselves and Poirier's party. As Jacob had noticed earlier in the day, the dining hall functions as a meeting place when food is not being served and a couple of dozen diners remain at the tables.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 232):

OOC: I vote we move along to the morning RP.

OOC: That would be my inclination as well. However, if Tracy or ENS wish to pursue some sort of interaction with Poirier, I am fine with that. :)

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 234):

Earnest slips into a pensive contemplation of the things they learned that day, but soon snaps out of it, realizing that he is actually getting sleepy from the meal. He looks around and sees that the others are in similar states reverie.

OOC: I am fine with moving on.

Travelers had amassed at the Sacramento train station shortly after sunrise. The early morning trains with east-bound destinations made this one of the busier times of each day.

Fortunately, the men had arrived early enough to procure tickets to Promontory Point. Now that all four -- Richardsen, Ringgenberg, Walker and Windham -- had assembled in the station with their various travel gear, they awaited the arrival of Alphonse Poirier. Huddled close together, as a result of the congregating travelers as well as a desire to share warmth against the morning chill, the heroes had fallen silent as they waited.

Now, as the minute-hands of their timepieces reach ten minutes until the hour of 8 o'clock, the frenchman appears on the platform. Sighting the four men, he moves toward them, smiling.

"Bonjour," Poirier calls out as he approaches. "Shall I take your presence here to mean that you are traveling to Promontory Point, with genuine interest in Nouveau Zion?"

----------------------------

OOC: The Judge has skipped any mundane tasks such as procuring tickets, with the assumption that all 4 men are ready to travel to Promontory Point, based on previous posts.

As it approached 8 o' clock, Tracy reflected upon how he sat alone in a similar train station in San Francisco just a couple days earlier, wondering what he would discover once he reached Sacramento. Even his best hopes couldn't have put him on a journey to a locale full of possibility with a few interesting compatriots, especially given how accustomed he had become to traveling on his own. He chuckled to himself, enjoying the moment, as Poirier arrived.

Tracy nodded his greeting to the balloonist. "Yes, sir. I don't want to speak for these men, but I for one am very interested in the opportunity of Nouveau Zion. If I may, what is our itinerary for the day?"

Walker woke up in a great mood. Some days are just like that - full or promise and sunshine.

~ OK Dee, here we go, let's see what this is really all about! ~

After he finished packing he walked back through the shop one last time. Jeffrey as always sitting behind the counter, this time it looks like he is doing his numbers.

"Take care Jeffrey! Good luck with your research!"

Jeffrey looks up with a smile and a tip of his hat.

"You too Mr Walker, good luck in the Utah Territory, God Speed!"

Walker then made his way to the train station to see the others there already.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 236):

"Mornin' Yep - you have peaked my curiosity... I expect I will be able to find what I'm lookin' for there, and if not... well, I'll know where not to look now won't I?"

After a quick glance to the others, he asks "How far is it once we get to Promontory Point?"

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 236):

Although Jacob could feel the cold moreso than he remembered when he was younger, he had endured much worse -- especially during the war, when going barefoot in the snow was commonplace. In this instance he gave no inclination of feeling the early-morning chill.

He had walked over to the train station with ENS, once again helping out with the easterner's large steamer trunk. The Texan greeted Mister Walker and Mister Windham with a nod and a cheerful "Mornin', gents."

When the Frenchman appeared and spoke of the foursome' plans, Mister Windham and Mister Walker both confirmed their interest in Noo-voe Zie-uhn. Jake glanced over at the ENS, then offered "As for myself, I'm also int-rested. But afore I can make any def-ihnete plans, I'm gonna have to see iffen some men who may be meetin' the Perfesser an' me at Prom-uhn-tory Point show up thaere . . . an' iffen they do, what news they may have."

The silk magnate nods as he listens to the various replies and questions.

"D'accord. It is a pleasure to hear of your interest."

In reply to Tracy Windham's question, Poirier gazes down the track at the incoming train from San Francisco, which is approaching the station and appears to be on time.

"Today, we live on the train. It will take almost 18 hours to reach Promontory. With many stops between."

Turning to Dave Walker, the frenchman shrugs his shoulders as if the answer is not-quite-so-simple.

"If you mean miles as the crow flies, sir, it is approximately 350 miles over difficult terrain. By horse or stage, it is probably more than 400 -- for those brave enough to make the attempt.  By my airship, we are like the crow. There is more to tell you, but we will have plenty of time on the rails."

Even if Poirier had desired to continue speaking, the noise of the incoming train overwhelms in his oratory strength. Some passengers depart and others, like the heroes and Poirier, wait to board.

-----------------------

OOC: The Judge is pausing for any last minute thoughts, posts, etc. from the PCs before they board. The Judge has assumed that the PCs purchased second class tickets (cheapest) and is waiving any deduction from current funds (a rare gift from the Judge prompted in part by the addition of new players and the alternate history re-start). Moving forward, any purchases by the PCs will need to come out of their personal funds. All PCs should communicate with the Judge in PM to finalize starting cash on-hand.

One thing the Judge is leaving open -- in addition to the train fare itself, the Pullman cars added additional fees for passengers desiring an upper or lower berth (to sleep or rest), or to secure a state room. The Judge is NOT assuming the characters paid for such accommodations beyond the fare to their destination itself. Such additions aren't required, but typically make the journey easier. A berth is $6.00; a state room is $12.00. These can be purchased during the journey (pending availability), so the PCs can consider their options and act IC as needed.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 241):

The good meal and good night's rest had done Earnest well and he was ready to travel. As he and Jacob made their way to the station, he did look a bit wistfully towards the library. Ah, if only we had a bit more time...

He made his greetings to the others and just nodded his agreement with Jacob's assessment of their plans.

He then watched the train's approach with interest.

After Jacob and Earnest had heaved the professor's trunk onto the freight car, the men had gathered in one of the passenger cars.

Poirier remains close to the men, although he takes every opportunity to speak to other passengers as they board the car, from a simple greeting to exchanging destinations and originations. As if he were incapable of uttering more than twenty-five words without one of them being "silk," "Nouveau Zion," or "airship," the entrepreneur passed the time while the men situated themselves and their gear.

Now, as the men find seats in speaking proximity, and the train is nearing departure, the frenchman asks:

"Have messieurs procured berths or a state room for the journey? Myself, I enjoy the passenger car, although when traveling all the way to Promontory, I also have a state room for rest and a place to meet with any prospective clientele."
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:47, Thu 13 Dec 2018.

As Tracy moves down the aisle of the passenger car, he glances around at the other passengers. What has brought them all together this early morning to head to Promontory Point? Could other people on the train also be seeking opportunity and excitement in Nouveau Zion like Tracy and his group? An idle thought, Tracy concludes, and he returns his thoughts to his immediate surroundings as Poirier asks them all a question.

"No, sir. At least, I know that I myself did not purchase one." He turns to the other three men. "Did any of you acquire a berth or a state room?"

There were a few situations where Tracy's smaller stature benefited him, and a train ride was one of them. He imagined that if he were a larger man, he would be much more uncomfortable remaining in a passenger seat for the entire duration of a trip. However, his small frame made it more feasible for him to remain in the passenger car for the entire ride. Thus, no berth or state room.

Tracy waited to see if this was true for his compatriots as well.

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 244):

"I'll save my coin for whiskey!"

Walker was used to spending days out in the bush collecting herbs, roots and anything else worth finding. Comfort is a luxury that he seldom enjoys now that Darla is gone. She was fond of spending their money on hotels when they came to a nice enough establishment, but these days... he'll be cozy enough sleeping by the river under the moonlight, seems more... natural.

~ Oh Darla, we sure did have fun back in those days, loved the smell of you all cleaned up ~ ... he coudn't help but smile at the memory.

He removed his overcoat, and settled his rifle as he sat down with the others, making himself comfortable for the train ride ahead.

"Yeah... this'll do just fine - much better than being on horseback for a few days."

OOC: I'm assuming we are all able to keep our guns, no Department of Homeland Security metal detector right?

The frenchman chuckles. The men have heard Poirier's laugh before ... the kind that sticks with you and is immediately recognizable. Both Windham and Walker had heard the rumbling chuckle that originates from the man's diaphragm. They figure they could pick him out across a crowded room, with their backs turned.

Perhaps that was the silk magnate's intention, after all.

"D'accord. In such a case, you men would be welcome to use my state room when I have no need of it for privacy. We will a have number of stops along the way . . . "

Poirier cuts himself off when the train whistle blows and the railway attendants call out for all to board. About a dozen seconds later, the train rolls out of Sacramento station.

----------------------

OOC: This is an 18 hour trip with more than 20 stops. There is ample time for conversation, if the PCs want to have any between themselves or with Poirier (or random NPCs, whether just for human interest or because the characters are seeking information, such as asking a Pullman porter a question about the route or whatever).

The Judge doesn't have any incidents planned for the voyage. The next important narrative for the Judge will be at Promontory Point.

The Judge would like to assume that the heroes and Poirier get to know each other better during the journey. How much better is a relevant question. Based on some previous comments, the Judge understands that PCs want to engage in RP with Poirier to some extent, to learn about some of the questions they had in mind. So once again, I don't think we need to have a linear conversation that takes place at any given part of the train travel. There could be multiple conversations -- or you could continue the current conversation at the beginning of the journey and get all the questions/answers/conversation done and then we move to Promontory.

EDIT: all edits in the OOC section
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:56, Fri 14 Dec 2018.

OOC: As you know, we have discussed the possibility that some places on the frontier will have weapons ordinances (famous sites such as Dodge City, Abilene, and Tombstone were among them). The Judge will make that clear when it happens (or when a PC folds it into play, such as Jacob did at Depot Dan's the Judge would have disputed it if the facts were otherwise). Saloons in particular often had a "weapons collection" policy.

On the train, as long as weapons are secured and treated like traveling belongings as opposed to being leveled and aimed at another person, no one is going to make a fuss.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:54, Fri 14 Dec 2018.

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 246):

OOC: To be clear, the Judge is looking to the players to initiate conversation or other RP during the journey. If you have no desire for RP during the journey, please say so. Otherwise, waiting for your posts.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg # 248):

OOC: Don't have a viable posting window at the moment, but I anticipate posting IC for Jacob some time later today (or this evening).

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 246):

Earnest settles in with the others. When Poirier asks his question, he answers after the others.

No, no state room yet... But I'm led to believe that we can procure one along the way if available.

After Poirier's offer, Earnest continues.

Thank you monsieur, very generous... I did want to ask you a bit more about these balloon camps... we did a little research last evening and it seems as though you are an actual pioneer of ballooning and this Nouveau Zion camp! Is this correct?

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 250):

~I slept on the ground too many damn times to be int-rested in scrunchin' up an' tryin' to sleep in a seat,~ Jake thought to himself as the Frenchman mentioned his state room and ENS mentioned his understanding that they could be procured if desired.

~Iffen I'm a-doin' the mathematics right, one uhv them rooms with two beds can be had for the price of two uhv them pull-down bunks. A room like that'd give us -- meanin' the Perfesser an' me an' Mister Windham an' Mister Walker-- a place to parlay, private-like, iffen we are desire-uhs uhv it . . . as well as sleepin' two.~

~I do believe I'll speak to the Perfesser about it when the oppor-tunitee a-rises an' see iffen he's int-rested in goin' in with me on splittin' the cost uhv a staete-room.~

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 250):

The airship pilot chuckles at the professor's question, the rumbling sound conveying a certain degree of appreciation for Ringgenberg's question.

"C'est vrais. It is all true, monsieur. Perhaps I should be more humble . . . and yet, I cannot feign something I am not."

Taking a breath, the frenchman continues.

"They call you the professor, non? I hope you do not take offense if I address you with that appellation. You see, professor, the dirigible, it is my true passion. While it is the silk trade that affords me the comfort of the state room, the balloon is what has won my heart."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 00:03, Sun 16 Dec 2018.

The commotion, the excitement of travel - never knowing what the next turn brings. Walker reflects on his life and travels as he shifts around on his seat making himself comfortable. Darla was always the curious one, leading him all over the South.  They were a good team, worked hard, but also had a lot of fun and, well, mostly stayed out of trouble.

He stares out of the window, seeing the world pass by... the people, the cattle, the birds...

His gaze shifts to his new traveling companions: the Texan and his friend the professor.

~ You never can tell the full measure of a man until you see 'em scared for their life. Tex has been through it, but even he may lose his senses if confronted. There are two kinds of soldiers, those who die in the war, those who wish they did. Time will tell... ~

~ ... and the young Doctor, come on Dee - you gotta give him a chance ~

A smile comes across his face as he shifts again in his seat.

~ who nows Darla, you might be right after all! ~

Waiting for a lull in the conversation he turns to the Texan: "Did I hear that right? You are lookin' to meet up with someone in Promontory? You thinkin' we'll have others joinin' us?"

Tracy listened to Poirier and Earnest speak about the "dirigible," in the Frenchman's  words. Hearing the Nouveau Zion pioneer compare his involvement in ballooning to the silk trade sparked a thought in Windham's mind.

Addressing the Frenchman, Tracy began to speak.

"Excuse me, sir, but I was listening to you and the Professor speak and I had a couple questions. Which came first? Did you become involved in the silk trade before pioneering the balloon camp, or were you already a balloonist before investing in silk?"

"I'm also curious how long you have been involved with Nouveau Zion and how you feel about its swift growth. How do you envision the future of the area?"

In reply to Dave Walker (msg # 253):

Jacob's initial response to Mister Walker's question about meeting up with others in Promontory Point was a noncommittal shrug.

"It's a 'def-inite maybe'," the Texan replied, flashing a quick smile.

"Me an' the Perfesser parted ways with some friends back in 'Frisco, an' we set Promontory Point as a spot to get back together, iffen we was goin' to do so. But ever'body has the opp-shunn to not show, dependin' on which way the wind's a-blowin'."

"So . . . mayhaps we'll be meetin' some folks, or mayhaps not. Won't know 'til we get thaere an' have us a look-see."

In reply to Tracy Windham (msg # 254):

"The future of Nouveau Zion is most favorable, at least in the next decade. I have invested a fair sum in the silk trade, and received a fair return on my investment. I would expect the growth to continue for a few years. Which, in part I suppose, begins to answer your other questions, Mister Windham."

The silk merchant seems at ease answering questions. Presumably, he gets such inquiries with some regularity in his travels.

"I went to the towns in Nouveau Zion on the advice of a colleague, to explore a business venture, which began my involvement in the silk trade. Meanwhile, my passion for the dirigible has its roots in my childhood. I sensed an opportunity to establish lighter-than-air travel in the region. It is difficult, I will not pretend otherwise. Still, it sets the blood afire."

He takes a breath and rounds out his short answers to Windham's questions.

"The region has wondrous landscapes. The vicissitudes of nature were never more apparent. Treacherous terrain that astounds the mind in its beauty. The towns of Nouveau Zion reap the benefits and suffer the dangers. Nothing is guaranteed in this life, so I cannot predict the future. I may speculate, as I have done with the silk trade."

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 256):

Earnest rubs his chin.

Interesting... so you used the silk trade to indulge your passion! Are these balloon camps profitable yet? Also, is this 'dirigible' as you call it of your own design? The name implies that it is controllable in some way, correct?

In reply to Earnest Nicholas Samuel Ringgenberg (msg # 257):

The rumbling laugh flows from the balloonist.

"So full of questions, professor. It is fortuitous that we have this time on the rails to satisfy your curiosity. Especially, em, if you set me to talking about my dirigible."

The silk merchant grins widely, chuckling as he settles into his seat for further conversation.

"'Profitable' is a far sight away -- as they say in some in parts. Our efforts are still in the early stages. We have had some successful flights. I hope to have another, with your aid. S'il vous plait."

Poirier continues, the laugh building from his abdomen as if he had suddenly thought of something humorous, or perhaps found something risible in Earnest's words.

"Now, 'controllable' is most certainly NOT the word I would have chosen to describe my dirigible. Rather, I would agree to the notion that it can be steered . . . by an experienced pilot, I should add. It is not my own design, although, by necessity I have had to make some repairs and even alterations during my various flights. Mon ami, Monsieur Joseph Etienne Canson, est le . . . " the frenchmnan catches himself slipping back into his native tongue and quickly switches back to English . . . "em, in short, Canson is the engineer, I am the pilot."

In reply to Alphonse Poirier (msg # 258):

Jacob listened with some measure of interest as Mister Windham and the Perfesser peppered the Frenchman with questions -- to which Monshure Pwa-re-eh, whom Jake had pegged as a bit of a blowhard, seemed more than happy to address.

"I've heard tell of sky pilots afore," the Texan remarked. "But you ain't 'zackly what I had in mind -- not unless you're a far sight more of a hard-shell Baptist than you appear to be at first glance." Jacob flashed a quick smile, to let the baloon-pilot know that his jest was intended in good fun.

The rifleman scratched his chin-whiskers thoughtfully, then continued "Do these baloons ever  . . . I dunno what the right word is . . . boats sink, trains wreck -- so what do baloons do when things go wrong?"

Poirier had provided fair and interesting responses to their group's questions so far, at least in Tracy's mind. He seemed to honestly reflect upon the dangers of Nouveau Zion along with its wondrous opportunity, perhaps because he was aware that he was in the company of men that were less susceptible to false representation.

Further, his representation of Nouveau Zion set Tracy's imagination and curiosity aflame even stronger than before, making one question rise up in the Investigator's mind.

"It would seem that we are lucky to be heading to Nouveau Zion when we are then, based on your feelings about its future. Without sounding too direct, how does helping us travel to this land of opportunity help you? It would seem to me that some men would like that sort of opportunity to themselves. I do remember before that you are a 'recruiter' of sorts; why do you and those for which you recruit want more talented people in the area?"

Tracy realized that he had asked a deeper question about the balloonist and his compatriots' philosophies about growth and innovation, but the Investigator felt that he had sensed that Poirier was comfortable enough answering questions to dive into the topic.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 259):

"Je ne comprende pas," says the balloonist. in response to the Texan's tossing around of idioms.

Now, as Jacob scratches his chin and poses a question as a way forward, the frenchman lets forth a trademark guffaw and indicates his understanding.

"Ah, oui, yes, things go wrong often. It is the new frontier upon the frontier," Poirier states with a chuckle. "Ou pour le moins, j'espere,"  he adds.

OOC: Jacob, thanks for the gift of today's etymology lesson. Not sure how much of this you, the player, knew and intended in your post, vs. happy accident, but the irony here seems to fit our favorite rifleman.

Either way, it made my etymological day. Thank you.

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sky%20pilot
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 20:16, Wed 19 Dec 2018.

In reply to Jacob Richardsen (msg # 255):

The Texan's response seemed vague, almost like he wasn't sure if he really did want to meet those people there. That's fair enough, you never know who you come across these days, but you also can never can tell where opportunity will lead you.

As the train made it's way through the country side Walker's mind reflected on his recent travels, his days since Darla left, his time in New Orleans. Everyone hoped things would be different after the war, but you could never foresee the advances in machinery and science.

~ Who knows maybe we will all be flying around in a hundred years ~

As the train made it's way through the California desert, Walker sunk into his seat and closed his eyes, half thinking about better days past, half dreaming about the future.