"I hear hurricanes a-blowing.
I know the end is coming soon.
I fear rivers overflowing.
I hear the voice of rage and ruin.

Don't go around tonight,
Well, it's bound to take your life,
There's a bad moon on the rise."
--Creedence Clearwater Revival, "Bad Moon Rising"

Continue on from Chapter 3...


This message was last edited by the GM at 13:14, Sat 24 July 2010.

Late Afternoon, April 9th, 1879. Outside the Marshal's Office, Blackthorn Texas CSA

Dr. Ward looks up at the sudden shout. He gazes in appreciation at the shiny brass automaton that had just shouted. It's a marvel. Such a shame that it may prove to be too much of a problem for him to leave alone...he'd rather break a stained glass window than destroy it.

"Albatross? As in the Rime of the Ancient Mariner?" he says, addressing the machine. "How do you mean?"

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #200) in Chapter 3 thread:

"Perhaps.  I do travel quite a bit, although seldom have I needed a doctor."

((OOC: Reposting for ease of answering from last thread))



Roland nods, and accepts her payment for a week's stay. He arches an eyebrow at the slight hesitation, but does not comment except to say "Well, Miss Brown. Welcome to Blackthorn. It seems to be the time of year for visitors...we have quite a few new faces in town this week, which is something of an event. This is a quiet town..." He frowns. "Well, mostly quiet. I heard some gun fire not long ago, so there may have been some excitement after all."

In reply to Robert Micklethwait (msg #3):

The man frowns a bit. "Hmph. Yes. Times being what they are, I suppose many people have been uprooted from the places they once called home." He ponders for a moment. "Might I inquire as to the circumstances behind this incident? And where is Marshal Evans? I much desire a word or two with him."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:58, Sat 24 July 2010.

In reply to Roland Frost (msg #4):

"I heard it too. Is it often like that?"

Katy takes her key .

"Oh, and can you direct me towards the General Store?"

The automaton pauses a moment. "Howdy horses! Howdy Robert Mickelthwait, Howdy Fox With Large Knife..." it manages, before the murmur of static waxes strong and it makes almost-intelligable reply, drifting nearer the carriage.

"The crows swift gather round about, for witches' freckled coal...a fool are they, the bird who'd slay, which has a Christian soul..." It looks back at the man who was talking to it, static crackling a little across damaged echanisims - it's clearly been in a gunfight recently.

"...must save the albatross, so the storm will come...and when the Eater awakes, only Blackthorn will burn. Else...the world...to silence..." *crackle*

The automaton shakes itself, just about keeping balance. "Ambrose is absent?"

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #6):

He shakes his head. "Usually the Dust Adders keep their rowdiness to the Circle W ranch, though I must admit its become more frequent for them to take jollification in town lately. Hopefully the new deputies Marshal Evans hired this morning will reign them in."

"You are in luck, Miss Brown. The General store is just on the other side of the street, not one block over. Be advised, though -- we in town are wise to Sam's gouging ways, but he may try to take advantage of a stranger. Don't let him push you into any deal with out at least an attempt to bargain him down."

In reply to Alouette (msg #7):

Ward reaches into his bag, withdraws a notebook and a pencil, and begins writing down the automaton's static-filled prophecies and warnings. This was a puzzle, one he'd decipher once he'd collected more information.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:19, Sat 24 July 2010.

In reply to Alouette (msg #7):

Charging Bear looks rather confused at all the talk of albatrosses, obviously he's not an overly learned individual.. heck he was a soldier and they aren't paid to be well-read.

Having an impossible machine replace his bowler on his head and says his name seems to have just been too much for poor Augustus. He just stands there apparently dumbstruck for a long while, his fevered mind attempting to sort through everything.  But, eventually, a wet, hacking cough brings him back to reality.  Wiping his lips gently, he looks after the automaton and its Indian and its Indian's kitten.

Science will not elude him this day.

Augustus runs back into the bar, grabs his bags, and sets off after the miraculous machine.  He will know more!

In reply to Roland Frost (msg #8):

Katy smiled.

"Thanks for the warning."

Once she had put her bags in her room, she headed for the General Store, still puzzled at what made Augustus run off. Her eyes widened slightly. Surely he hadn't recognized her and rushed off to the telegraph...

The General Store sits at the edge of the block, advertised with a large sign reading "Sam Johnson's General Store" to the world.

Inside, the walls and shelves are crammed with goods of all conceivable varieties: hardware, farm equipment, a small selection of clothes, ranching equipment, crates labeled "Danger! Do not jostle!", jars of penny candy, loaves of bread, jugs of milk, bottles of beer, racks of newspapers and magazines (many sadly out of date), and a host of other staples of day-to-day life.

A large, balding man with spectacles and a walrus mustache waves at Katy as the bell over the door rings. "Hullo! Welcome to Sam Johnson's General Goods! I'm Sam Johnson...what can I help you with today?"

To Dr. Ward, Robert replies, "According to the note on his door, he is investigating an incident.  I have not idea when he will return."

To Alouette, he asks "Ambrose?"

Alouette points to itself. "Alouette."

It then turns its attention to the somewhat shot 'albatross', having heard there's one about, and gives his pale hand a tentative poke.
"Not dead...not mortal minus 18 hours present time..." It addresses Robert, trusting the lawyer with proceedings in the absence of a priest "Advise immediate taking to church."

"Albatross is half turned wendigo: must not feed him raw meat or excess of bread and unkindness; must feed him fish...without anger."

It's about to greet Dr.Ward and his driver when it suddenly straightens, tilts its head...and clanks rapidly over to Dr.Ward, exclaiming: "Remove upper garments hastily! Not safe!"

Robert frowns.  "Who is albatross?"

12:47, Today: Robert Micklethwait rolled 6,5 using d4,d6, rerolling max with rolls of (4+2)6,5. KN:occult - windigo.

[Private to Robert Micklethwait: According to Robert's studies, a Wendigo is a folklore tale found among the natives of the northwestern states -- whenever someone commits cannibalism during the harsh winters, there is a chance they turn into ravenous monsters that hunt the flesh of men. This particular legend was something you saw in an Agency file, though none of the Agents you asked for details would confirm or deny their existence.]

Dr. Ward looks alarmed at the sudden approach of the lcank, takes a step backwards and produces a small nickel-plated and finely etched derringer from his waistcoat, leveling at Alouette.

"Halt there, friend machine. I do not wish to use this on you, but I will not have you lay a hand on my person."

"Hold on there, Doctor Ward.  Alouette is harmless, unless attacked.  Put it away."

13:13, Today: Robert Micklethwait rolled 11,6 using d8+4,d6+4, rerolling max with rolls of 7,2. persuation.

The automaton is thoroughly confused by the mass of rapid-fire input. "Yes! No! Albatross!" - It points at Danny - then "No!" at the gun being put away, despite this being in its best interest.

It tries to take the piece away before it can be replaced near Ward's body, though its mild pulling doesn't effect much. "Dangerous, Dr.Ward! Will not lay on hands but gun must be taken far away from mortals, unsained corpse, albatross."

It tries to explain to Robert: "Object is witched - may become effective vampire. Plus plus dangerous."

After a little tug-of-war with Alouette, Ward returns the pistol into his waistcoat.

"Friend Alouette, this pistol is of my own custom design. It is quite dangerous, all guns are, but a man of my station must take certain precautions to protect his person. And it is only dangerous to those who would be my enemies. You are not my enemy, are you? If not, then you have nothing to fear."

"How do you know he's an albatross" Robert asks Alouette?

When one suffers from, whatever it is Augustus seems to be suffering from,it is probably best not to run quite so much down a dusty hot Texas street.  By the time he catches up to the large group gathered with the automaton, the gentleman is forced to drop his bags.  A handkerchief is pressed to his lips as wet, hacking coughs spasm through his body.  After a few moments, he straightens up, shaking ever so slightly and manages a breathless, "Pardon me..."

"Self sees what is, Robert Mickelthwait," the automaton explains, looking from its empty hands to the lawyer. "More than mortals."

It looks towards Danny to check. "The storm-bird has a Christian soul..." Then back to Robert: "Help save it, Robert Mickelthwait." If it knew how to plead, it would probably be pleading.

The machine is mostly confused by Dr.Ward, who can't seem to decide if he's its friend or not, and tilts its head at him.
"Precautions against...angels? Do not fear, Dr. Ward...but primary command: protect. Someone has witched it; it is not safe near flesh of mortals, not safe near flesh of Dr.Ward."

It looks up at Augustus' coughing, attention apparently caught.

"Dr. Ward?  I think you have another customer." Robert indicated Augustus.  "Shall I have these two bodies taken to your office?"

In reply to The Stray (msg #13):

"Hullo! I'm looking for some clothes. Not as... fancy."

She indicates her current outfit.

"And, um, do you have any guns?"

"Precautions against dangers, no matter what form they may take." Ward says in reply. he gets a wry, playful look on his face. "A 'witching', you say?" he says, as one might address a small child, "Fear not, Friend Alouette! I know a charm to chase away evil spirits and other dark magics!" He theatrically waves his arms in the air, like a stage magician before an audience. "Ut quod eram ostendo , iam occultus est! Sim sim, salabim!" he says with a flourish.

[Private to Alouette: And, indeed, it seems to work, as the aura around the pistol vanishes.]

[Private to Robert Micklethwait: Robert recognizes the latin as "What was shown, now is hidden," though the rest is gibberish. Make a Notice check at -2, please.]

After this display of dramatics, he smooths his vest down, and nods at Robert. "Yes, though you need not go to the trouble of taking them all the way there. Simply place the other body in the carriage, and my driver will see to the rest."

He turns his attention to Augustus. "Well now. What seems to be ailing you, good sir?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:54, Tue 27 July 2010.

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #25):

The shopkeep looks faintly shocked "Not fancy? My dear, you are lovely enough to model the latest fashions from Europe! It would be a shame, no, a crime to put you in anything that didn't bring your radiance shining forth!"

And at the mention of a gun, he gives her a quizzical look. "And whatever would you want with such a vile and violent thing, miss?"

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #26):

With a grimace of distace, Robert grabs the shot, half drowed and cutup former prisoner and puts him in the carriage.  He then takes the mule with the decapitated yankee on it and ties the reins to the carriage as well

15:29, Today: Robert Micklethwait rolled -1,3 using d6-2,d6-2, rerolling max with rolls of 1,5. notice.

Wiping his lips again, leaving dark stains on the white cloth, Augustus waves off any sort of attentions, "No no, I'm fine.  Really.  Just not feeling the best today..."  He tries to straighten up, tugging down his waistcoat and looking around and those gathered, pausing for a long moment on the machine, "In fact, the only thing troubling me currently is the desire to study that marvelous machine...  Does it belong to any of you?"

Alouette watches the waving hands, like a dog, but seems convinced with the result.
"Plus plus good."

It speaks again when Ward's turned his back on it, though, in equal child-trusting earnestness: "Do it to your liver also."

The automaton seems agitated by goings-on, building a fair bit of static (the shot to the head clearly has something loose in the static control systems) as it trails Mickelthwait putting the headless corpse back on the horse.
"Take albatross to church?" it queries hopefully, then steps back over to Charging Bear as though for refuge from all the unsorted information.

"Self belongs to God, AUG-US-TUS," it informs the sickly fellow.

John turns to the Amazing Evans and shrugs his shoulders. "Nothing like that Hoyle business, least not so far as I reckon." he said and tilted his head toward the side as though trying to think of what he might be detecting with his strange machine. "I mined ghostrock with a chinaman for a time. He taught me a few things about how they fight. Taught me how to use my energy and whatnot. Chi he calls it, could your machine be detectin' that?" It wasn't exactly a secret though he rather too many people didn't know. The Amazing Evans seemed like a good enough man though.

In reply to Sam the Shopkeep (msg #27):

Katy cocked an eyebrow.

"You have the latest fashions from Europe?"

She shrugged.

"I need more ordinary clothes. As for a gun, a lady needs to protect herself. Someone tried to hold up the stagecoach on the way."

In reply to John Smith (msg #31):

Evans considers this. "I suppose it's possible...I got a somewhat similar read from the Toe Jingle character I chased out of town last week, after he threatened to 'make my barbarian head explode from his unknowable power.' It was pure folderol, of course -- one look at my Gyromounted gun and he showed himself for the yellow coward he was. But it pays to be cautious, especially when we're dealing with issues beyond the pale like this." His hand moves away from his gun, though.

He sighs. "Well, I think we've gotten as much information as we can, unless you think we missed something. Do you want to give the area another once-over, or return to town and see what the others may have learned from our talkative town drunk?"

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #32):

"Well, perhaps not the very latest fashions, times being what they are. But you won't find a better selection in the county, I can assure you of that!" He smiles.

"Good heavens! Robbery!? Such a shame what our roads are coming to these days. In that case, come here and check out my selection of fine firearms. I have a Model 37 Derringer pocket pistol here...petite and easily concealed, it's the perfect firearm for the well-bred lady! And cheap, too, at only twelve dollars!"

In reply to Alouette (msg #30):

"After the doctor looks at it.  Since we already have seen people who seemed to be dead get up, I can tag along and make sure nothing ... unnatural happens."

"I beg to differ, sir. That sounds like quite a serious cough, and I've already seen a pair of cases of consumption today. I would like to check you over, if only to rule out anything serious." The doctor seems quite earnest in this.



Ward opens his mouth to reply, shocked, apparently thinks better of it, then simply nods his head.



"Why yes, because I'm sure this gentleman would be thrilled to spend his last remaining hours of his life in the company of the man who ended it." Ward says, retrieving his hat and coat. "Please, sir. As I have demonstrated, I am well protected against 'unnaturalness' that may result from this man's passing. Allow him to go with some dignity remaining. However, if the gentleman here," he indicates Augustus Spotswood, "and our friend Alouette," and indicates the clank, "are amenable to the idea, then they should be sufficient escort to my residence. Agreed?"

In reply to Alouette (msg #30):

The machine's response draws a curious expression from Augustus.  Then he smiles a bit, almost laughing, "Ah...yes...  god.  Ah'm sure."  Clearing his throat a bit, he tries a different tack with the obtuse machine, "Who is your creator then? Your god?"  He seems to feel quite proud of figuring out this mental puzzle.  Of course, once more he gets distracted by something else...

His attention shifts to Robert, "I'm sorry...  What was that about the dead?"
Once more his attention is diverted, probably for the best, to Dr. Ward, "A medical man then?  Well... it may be for the best.  An ounce of prevention and all."  Though he isn't much of an escort, he has agreed to be checked out and would of course like to spend more time around the machine.  Thus, not understanding what he's agreeing to, Augustus simply nods.  Happy to be along.

In reply to Sam the Shopkeep (msg #34):

Katy smiled back.

"These are dangerous times. I have a derringer but... I'd rather have more than two shots. I'm looking for a better gun, either single action or double action."

Katy hoped Sam would realize she knew what she was talking about. But, despite her experience with guns, Katy had never killed a man, and was in no hurry to start - she wasn't even sure she could. In the books, it always took six bullets to kill an enemy; the derringers two might offer some discouragement at best.

It didn't occur to Katy that it took six bullets to kill because the writers were paid by the word.

Katy's eyes strayed to the clothing, giving it a quick look. She'd want a blouse, a skirt, a pair of dungarees for riding... with the shop's small selection, she'd have to take what she could get.

Oh, and boots. Anything would be better than the impractical shoes she had on.

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #38):

The shopkeep raises an eyebrow at her obvious knowledge of firearms. "Well, ain't you full of surprises, miss? Alright. I think I have a few pistols that might suit your fancy."  He moves over to a display case as she picks out clothing. The selections aren't fancy, but they get the job done. While she selects, the shopkeep pulls out pistols from the case, naming them as he goes along.

"Here we have the famous Colt Peacemaker, single action...a Smith & Wesson Model 3 Schofield, also single action...Remington Model 1876, single action...Star & Barr Alamo, double-action, if you're feeling patriotic...but if you're going to go the patriot route, then I recommend this, the LeMat Grapeshot Revolver, Model 1877. Single action, but it holds 9 .44 caliber shots instead of your standard six, and has this lower barrel here that holds a 16-gauge shotgun shell in case of emergencies. And it's made right here in the CSA...none of that Union crap here, this is the real deal. A fine firearm, and it can be yours, little lady, if the price is right."

[[OOC: I'm picturing the scene in The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly with Tuco shopping for a new gun...anyone else getting that image?]]

The clank has no objecions to being stolen (after all, Evans said Dr.Ward wasn't a witch) but it looks to Charging Bear for help:

"Which first, Called Charging Bear? Protect albatross and people from albatross, or protect Dandelion until Dandelion is home? Self does not know why cattlehands attacked kitten: may occur again."

To Augustus: "God is the Great Spirit: the stuff and Source of aether, the Image and the Infinite. Angel was constructed by Father, of the Roman Catholic Church...1850."

Charging Bear feels alittle lost in all this talk of albatrosses, supernaturals, and god, but he expects it when in towns. With a smile, he looks to Alouette, "Let us see to this albatross... I've little doubt that little Dandelion will be fine in my care." The large native son looks at the others as he gently pets the small tabby.

The kitty lets out a happy little "mew!", curls up to let Charging Bear rub its tummy, and occasionally bats his fingers with its paws playfully.

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #36):

"That should work.  I'll abide here a mite, and fill in the Marshal when he returns."

"Yes. I am Dr. Ward, sir." Ward says to Augustus. "Retired, actually...I own a cattle ranch outside of town now, but I was running an errand and heard the cry for a doctor. It seems my services were well needed here. I've got room enough for one more in the carriage, if you'd care to take a seat."

He nods at Robert's comments. "Indeed. I will send word if his state changes."

Ward looks slightly nonplussed at Alouette inviting the Cherokee along, but after looking at the man's jacket, a small smile crosses his face. "Are you a veteran, sir?" he asks Charging Bear. "What regiment did you serve with?"

[Private to Robert Micklethwait: What are you picking for your Advance?]
This message was last edited by the player at 01:19, Wed 28 July 2010.

Charging Bear nods, "Yes sir, started with 4th Regiment, Indian Home Guard but was transferred to Mountain Rangers under Ashby, before moving to 1st Texas Cavalry Regiment where I ended my time."


OCC: I'm not a Civil War scholar and do realize that there was no Texas Cavalry Regiment but due to the length of time the war had been raging I'd expect there to be more military in Texas than there was in the actually war

Alouette looks from Charging Bear to Dr.Ward, and back again. "What is Ashby?"

There's a ticking pause. "Ouside of town... ! Perhaps Dr.Ward knows where laundry lives."

In reply to Sam the Shopkeep (msg #39):

Katy thought first of the Colt, since all the stories featured the Colt .45. That was until she saw the LeMat. It was a large, intimidating firearm, especially with that extra barrel. She might not even need to fire it to persuade someone to back down.

"I'll take the LeMat, then, if you have ammunition for it."

Katy might be a greenhorn, but she wasn't about to buy a gun and no ammo. She laid the clothes she'd chosen on the counter; since there was no dressing room, she'd had to guess the fit, and hoped she wasn't far off.

[Private to GM: Now to see how much of the gear is El Cheapo spruced up to look like the real thing :)]

In reply to Alouette (msg #46):

"Ashby was a who not a what, Brigadier General Turner Ashby... he died back in '62 in Shenandoah Valley." Charging Bear says grimly.

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #47):

The clothing is, indeed, El Cheapo gussied up to look fine [Private to Katy Devon: (and will cancel out your Attractive bonus to Charisma while worn)] but the Lemat is the real deal, if a bit pricey. And he does have ammo for the Lemat - a box of 50 pistol rounds and a box of 20 16-gauge shells. [Private to Katy Devon: (The shells, however, are El Cheapo low quality rounds that he has the gall to ask full price for)]

"Well now, little lady. All together, that comes to $47.95." he says with a smile.

[Private to Katy Devon: If you want to bargain him down, that will be a Persuasion check (remember to roll Wild Die, and to add your Charisma bonus in to both rolls). Each success and raise will knock off $4.75, to a minimum of $33.70.]

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #44):

Augustus nods lightly to the idea of joining, putting away his cloth and taking up his bags again.  Only to set them back down, yet again, to offer his hand out to the good doctor, "Augustus Spotswood, sah.  Very nice to meet you."  Once his hand is returned, he will take up his bags again, "And I am ready when you are, sah."

John gives the place a quick once over and shrugs. "I'm seeing nothing." he says with a shrug. "I wonder if it got buried or somethin'" he said with a sigh and moves to head back to town with Evans. A few minutes into the walk he pauses "Toe Jingles?" he asked his face confused. "Didn't you mention someone like him yesterday?"

In reply to John Smith (msg #51):

Evans nods as he returns to the buggy they came in. "That I did, when you asked if I'd seen any chinamen in town lately. I could be mispronouncing his name...Chinese is a deucedly hard language to master. He came into town and caused a bit of a ruckus at the Red Eye Saloon. Got into a fight with Crazy Old Pete and a few of the locals before I got involved."

He takes a seat in the buggy, waits for John to follow suit, then whips the horses going before he continues. "He and I squared off a bit, actually. You know those showdowns they have in dime novels? It felt a bit like one of those, though he had no weapons that I could see. Still, I guess he didn't want to chance trying to catch a bullet with his 'insurmountable power,' so he backed down and left town. That was five, six days ago."

[Private to John Smith: got an idea for what you'd like your Advance to be?]
This message was last edited by the player at 00:11, Wed 28 July 2010.

In reply to Sam the Shopkeep (msg #49):

Katy looked over the clothing. She wasn't expecting much, but...

"This looks like old clothes re-dyed. Look, even the stitching is coming out!"

But, being a novice both in the West and at the fine art of haggling, she wasn't very successful at getting a discount.

[Private to GM: 01:10, Today: Katy Devon rolled 5,3 using d6+2,d6+2, rerolling max with rolls of 3,1. Persuasion check.
Success, no raises, so $45.20 ?]

With a sigh, she paid the agreed amount, and took her purchases back to the Grand Bull - taking care to keep the gun and ammo wrapped in her clothes.

[Private to GM: Just to confirm we agree her list of purchases:
Blouse, work (El Cheapo)              $1
Skirt (El Cheapo)                     $2
Dungarees (trousers) (El Cheapo)      $2
Boots (El Cheapo)                     $8

Lemat Grapeshot pistol (.40)         $25
50 rounds of .40 ammo                 $3
20 shotgun rounds (El Cheapo)         $2

She got gouged, even before considering the missing El Cheapo discount :) ]

John lets out a 'hmmm' as he dwells on what the Amazing Evans has told him and seems lost in thought for a minute or two. "Well, that doesn't sound like the one I'm lookin' fer. He's older and not the angry type, quite peaceful, which makes it even more strange when you see him take on three young tough pups at once without breaking a sweat." John explains, or perhaps thinks aloud. He fishes a smooth shiny stone from a pouch and takes aim at a cactus, taking focus and letting it fly with surprising speed watching as it blasts through the cactus "The old man taught me that. Not quite as effective as a gun but it does the job."

[Private to GM: John Smith rolled 14,2 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of (8+6)14,2
Forgot the whole raise thing, don't have the rules with me, he only spent one power point so damage is 2d6 but it's only a demonstration so not worrying about it. I'll have to wait to handle the advance when I get home. Don't have access to the rules where I live. ]

Ward nods. "Good man. I'm always pleased to meet a fellow fighter in the struggle for independence and liberty. I salute you, sir. I served under Lee for most of my time." he sighs. "Poor Lee. I voted for him in the last election, you know, and I was greatly saddened by his assassination last year. So few remain of us who originally heard the call to service."

[[OOC: Neither am I, so I can agree with your reasoning and won't sweat it much.]]



"Lives?" Ward says, a bit bemused. "I wouldn't say it lives anywhere, but there's Robertson's Laundry. We will actually be passing by there on our way out of town. Why do you ask?"



Ward shakes his hand. "A pleasure, sir. A pleasure."

Inside the carriage are a headless corpse, as well as the coach robber from before, who is unconscious and doesn't look long for the world. Dr. Ward takes his seat after Augustus is settled. "Driver! To Mr. Underhill's place, please." He says. The driver crops the horses, and the carriage begins to roll.

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #53):

"What? Nonsense, that's simply a little bit of flair. Of course, I suppose I can knock a few cents off that, just to show you I'm an honest man..." The dance of haggling goes on, and, in the end, she manages to talk him down to a final price of $43.20. He gives her a mock-pained look, but there's glee in his eye at a sale well-made (for him).

[Private to Katy Devon: The list of Purchases seem right, yes. Most of the gouging came from not getting an El Cheapo bonus, though he also overcharged for the gun. Unscrupulous merchants, yay!

Oh, and have you decided what your Advance is going to be?]

In reply to John Smith (msg #54):

"Good heavens!" Evans marvels. "That's quite impressive. I've seen pistols that don't hit as fast or accurately. Well. That's certainly an impressive trick." He rides in silence for a while. "Well, he mentioned waiting for someone as well. Might be the fellow you are looking for, though why he'd come to Blackthorn I couldn't say. But the way strangers have been coming to town recently, I wouldn't be surprised if he showed up after too many days have passed. But if he is coming to Blackthorn, and this Toe fellow has it in for him, you might have an enemy lurking about that you should confront. Or, worst case scenario, Toe has already found your friend, in which case we might be looking for yet another body."

The buggy creaks closer to town...

[Private to John Smith: With the raise, you'd have gotten an extra 1d6 damage, if we were counting damage.]

Katy was sure she'd paid over-the-odds for her purchases, but she returned to her hotel room reasonably happy. With a puzzled frown, she continued to look around for Augustus, but he seemed to have vanished into thin air.

Back in her hotel room, she was only too glad to shed her hated corset - thank the Lord, she could breathe! - before trying on her new purchases.

[Private to GM: Given that her new clothes are El Cheapo, and she had to guess their size while she was shaped by her corset, feel free to inflict some indignities on her :)]

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #58):

As Katy walked out of the general store, she thought she spotted Augustus talking to a well-dressed gentleman in a top hat...near a building with the sign "Marshal's Office" over it.

[Private to Katy Devon: hee hee hee...]

While trying on her purchases, she noticed that the boots were slightly too small, while the blouse was two sizes too large, giving her a rather-more-than-modest neckline, and one sleeve kept slipping off her shoulder, threatening her modesty even more. Ah, well. What could you expect from a sleezy general store in a one-horse town?

"Because this kitten belongs to one Sal Robertson, and the good angel wishes to see them reunited Charging Bears says as a he feeds the cat another bit of jerky.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:48, Wed 28 July 2010.

"It is the right way," Alouette adds, and after checking to see that Charging Bear has noticed the direction it's pointing/the carriage is setting off it sets to trotting behind the vehicle.

In reply to The Stray (msg #59):

Katy frowned at her too-loose blouse. She could try pinning it, but she didn't have any pins. She could try wearing her smarter blouse, but that was designed to be worn over a corset.

In the end, she decided that a daring adventuress shouldn't be dissuaded by something as minor as an ill-fitting blouse, and chose to chance it.

The boots were a bit small too, but she wasn't planning on walking long distances. With the long, loose skirt as well, she was sure she looked a lot more local, and admired herself as best she could in the small mirror.

Not too bad for a daring adventuress.

She loaded her new pistol and worked the mechanism, to confirm it was functioning properly. No gun-belt; she knew she'd forgotten something. Still, she could pick one up later; her derringer would tuck in the pocket of her skirt.

Feeling more comfortable and confident, Katy jammed her hat on her head and went back out to the street to enjoy the excitement.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:43, Wed 28 July 2010.

Charging Bear, Augustus, Alouette:

The dark coach rides, trailing it's strange occupants. It pulls next to a storefront with a row of coffins of different sizes set proudly on display.

[Private to Alouette; Charging Bear:  This would be the undertaker's place where Alouette and Charging Bear grappled with the Second-Chance Yank.]

Dr. Ward halts the carriage, then signals his driver to help him with the headless corpse. The two men leverage it into the building, and are gone for some minutes. There are some shouts, and what sounds like a bit of an argument, before Ward and his driver return, now sans corpse. The two men retake their seats, and the carriage begins to roll on.

Katy Devon:

As Katy heads downstairs, trying to adjust he blouse, she walks right into a gentleman also stepping out of his room, yawning. The pair collide, and Katy is sent sprawling.

"Oh! Dear me, forgive me." The man says. "I should have been paying more attention...here, ma'am, let me help you up."

Charging Bear looks over the undertakers with a grim look on his face and a slight shake of his head as he recalls the happenings at the place just the day before.

"Let's get moving on... I'm sure this kitten wishes to be home."

As the coach leaves, Robert takes a seat on the bench outside the Marshall's office.  He takes out one of his cigars and gives lights it, pondering the events so far.

Sundown, April 9th, 1879

The coach rattles onward. Eventually, the buildings begin to thin out. The coach and it's entourage passes a building proclaiming "Laundry", and next to it, the last building before open road, is a small house with a garden filled with sunflowers.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:10, Thu 29 July 2010.

Robert Micklethwait, John Smith

Sundown, April 9th, 1879.

The buggy rolls up to the office. Evans hops out and hitches up the conveyance. Then he looks at Robert as he unlocks the door to his office. "Well. You look like you've had a long day. I hope you learned more than we did."

Robert looks up, startled from his doze.  "I wasn't sle--.  Oh.  Howdy Marshal.  What's that?  Oh.  some.  You eaten yet?  Let's grab a bite and swap stories."

"A meal? Why, that sounds splendid. To the Grand Bull, then?" he locks up the door again. "Mr. Smith, we'll continue our discussion later." he says to John, then he looks around. "We'll catch up together later. Where's the Indian and our charming mechanical friend?"

[Private to John Smith: John, I'm just trying to account for your absence for the next few day. Just jump in when you get back for regular posting.]

"Sunflower house!"

The clank won't think (if what it does can be described as thinking) to call out 'stop' after this observation and will keep following the carriage heeding Charging Bear's earlier advice unless the vehicle stops.

(It did skitter into the undertaker's earlier to hastily explain that it was an angel and that the headless corpse was safe but should be buried on the south side of the church to prevent potential witchcraft infecting the cemetery. It doesn't know whether the undertaker took this to heart, was skeptical, or assumed he was hallucinating: it ran straight out again.)

In reply to The Stray (msg #63):

"Oh! Sorry!"

More embarrassed than winded, she accepted the gentleman's help as she scrambled to her feet.

"Thank you!"

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #71):

"Oh, it was my fault entirely." The blond, handsome man with ice blue eyes that Katy finds herself looking at says. He smiles. "How clumsy of me. Please, accept my apologies...and let me buy you a drink to make up for it."

In reply to Alouette (msg #70):

"Alouette! I believe we've arrived." Charging Bear calls after the tin-can angel as he stops and points towards the Laundry sign.

Katy found herself looking up into eyes like two chips of blue ice. She blushed, and her words came out at a bit of a rush.

"Thank you! A drink would be great."

"Well, let me see.  Bear and I went to see Gabby.  He was a state, seems he was attacked by something what should be dead but wasn't it.  When we came back, I don't know how it started, but Alouette was in a shootout with the Dust Adders.  We more or less stopped it.  And a China women had brought in a prisoner, said he tried to rob them.  He made a break for a gun and ran into a couple of bullets and a sword.  I sent both bodies, Aloutte, Bear and the Chinawomen to Dr. Wards."

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #74):

The man takes her by the arm, and together they head downstairs. The Grand Bull is much busier now, as it's closer to suppertime. The man finds a table, pulls a seat for Katy, and then takes a seat himself, waving to the waitress as he does so.

"So...what will you have, Miss...?" he says, leaving an opening for her to give a name.

In reply to Robert Micklethwait (msg #75):

"So we have a fourth dead Yankee." Evans says grimly as they step into the rapidly-filling Grand Bull. He takes a seat by the window. "I'm sensing something of a pattern here. And you say the Dust Adders had a scrap with Alouette? Even more good news. And now Dr. Ward is involved, which I was trying to avoid for as long as possible." He sighs. "I need need a good, long drink. Tell me about this other prisoner while we wait to be served."

"There was this Chinese women, can't recall her name.  Has a big ol' sword.  Said he tried to rob them.  By the by, we could use a key to your office and the jail.  Since we didn't have that, figured we'd haul him back to m'hotel room and find out exactly what happened.  But he'd been tied up with rotten ropes, they broke and he went for a gun."

In reply to Vincent Kaje (msg #76):

Katy remembered the name she'd given earlier.

"Brown. Katy Brown. Whiskey, please."

It was what everyone out West seemed to drink in the stories.

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #79):

"Whiskey, Miss Brown?" The man says. "Well, If you're sure...Waitress! Please bring us a shot of whiskey and a beer. Oh, and would you like something to eat as well? Alcohol on an empty stomach can be quite rough."

In reply to Robert Micklethwait (msg #78):

"Well, I'll see what I can do on the key tomorrow. So. A robbery gone wrong. It's a pity he didn't survive...perhaps he may have seen something useful. Do you know where the lady is now?"

[Private to Robert Micklethwait: Oh, what did you do with the dead Yank's head?]
This message was last edited by the player at 21:22, Thu 29 July 2010.

Dr. Ward halts the coach and leans out to watch the proceedings, curious.

In reply to The Amazing Evans (msg #81):

"She went with Dr. Ward.  We could wander over and find out what's going on."

OOC; although unless he lives far out of town, we are probably a bit "ahead" by now

[Private to GM: I assume it went with the body]

Seeing that its 'albatross' is staying within running distance at present, Alouette hastily clanks its way back to Charging Bear and points at the house with the sunflowers.

"Yes," it says, then a few steps down the path and checks Charging Bear's still there. Unless stopped, it will attempt to just walk into someone's house, oblivious to the concept of knocking.

In reply to Vincent Kaje (msg #80):

Katy tried to remember what she'd read about Wild West cooking, which wasn't much.

"You're right. I think I'll have a steak."

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #85):

"Sure thing, honey!" The waitress says, her creole accent slipping in. "Now, would you like that with mashed potatoes and corn, or cornbread and black-eyed peas? And how do you like your steak done?"

When Katy is finished giving her order, she turns to the blond man. "And what can I get for you, sir?"

"Oh, nothing for now. I'll be eating later."

In reply to Robert Micklethwait (msg #83):

Evans pauses, then quirks an eyebrow. "We might not have to...you say she was an Asian woman, yes? Brunette, with green eyes and a large curved sword? And who is presently standing right behind you with a sour look on her face?"

[Private to Robert Micklethwait: Cool, I didn't want a loose end running around...who knows what might pop up next! }:D]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:24, Thu 29 July 2010.

Augustus might have been a bit surprised to find himself in a carraige with a corpse and an almost corpse.  Though as the passenger cabin fills up, he feels a bit...trapped.  When one is surrounded by potentially crazy people (and an automaton)it might not be best to speak up too much.  Lest one become one of the silent passengers....  His occaisional cough helps to cover his quiet, always politely into a cloth.

At one point, he would pull out a small leatherbound journal and pencil.  Jotting notes and observations; obviously regarding Alouette who remains the relatively safe focus of attention.

Gangatsu had a bit of a problem, she had heard many things about the technological deviation that man kind has forged, yet living Shan Fan, she had never truly seen one. Heard of them, yes, like they were golden oni-tengu, but to see one... Being diminutive in size, she had slunk back. This must be the referred 'clank' people were screaming of and she was keeping her distance and only watching in silence that she couldn't break...

When the party split up, she followed the marshal, figuring whatever Doctor Ward finds, he'll report it to the marshal as soon as possible.  If it's worth knowing, of course.. Yet she had to pick up on what all the dead Yankee Soldiers where doing around this place. What else had happen. Perhaps her Master had been seen around here somewhere as well... Following two yards behind Robert and Marshal Evans, she had to stop for a moment as they mentioned her plausible race. He sent her where now?  Did he presume that she would take some mindless order? Her brows narrowed a little...

' Now, now, darlin. You just reading too much in... Pull the reigns on d'em horses...' the click of spurs almost seemed real. She looked over to the office and saw a pair of boots there as no one could. She breathed and then went on to follow the two men to the Grand Bull.

Ha, ironic name. She moved along thorough the doors and it took her a moment to locate them in the hussel and bussel of it all. Yet again, it came to race..

" Gan... Gat... Su. Never forget it." She gritted between her teeth, a light sneer on her features. " Ya call me chinese again.. And I'll show ya an interestin' trick I can do."
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:45, Fri 30 July 2010.

In reply to Audrey Frost (msg #86):

"Rare, please. And I'll have the cornbread and peas."

Katy was a little surprised that the food wasn't so different from back home. Cornbread, corn, black-eyed peas, potatoes... she'd had them all. Cornbread less so, since her parents thought it a bit cheap and only used it when fresh vegetables were harder to come by.

"You're not eating, Mr...?"

She waited for him to give his name.

In reply to Alouette (msg #84):

Charging Bear watches the self-named angel up until he realizes the walking talking tin can doll isn't going to knock on the door at which point he calls out , "Alouette? Mind if I handle this?" With that he moves towards the door which Alouette would've surely just walked right through.

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #90):

The waitress takes down the order and scurries off.

"Kaje. Vincent Kaje. And no, not at the present - my employer will be expecting me soon, so I don't have much time to share more than a drink and some conversation. Although I hope that we can share a meal later, if that's not being too forward of me, Miss Brown." He smiles again.

The waitress returns, with a bottle for the gentleman and a shot of whiskey for Katy.

"Handle...door?" Alouette seems to have at least partly grasped the idiom; it steps aside to watch what Charging bear will do.

The doctor watches the pair of Indian and Automaton make their way to the Robertson house. "All this trouble over a cat." he says absently and faintly bemused. "I'm really not sure I understand it all."

He sighs, then turns to Augustus. "I don't mean to disturb your concentration, Mr. Spotswood, but it seems to me that, while we are waiting on them, we might get a few preliminary questions out of the way. Can you tell me a bit about when you first started noticing that cough?"

At first, Augustus makes no reply, not even looking up.  His pencil continues to scratch feverishly to the end of whatever thought or sentence he was on.  So finished, the scientist looks up and around the cabin to find the speaker.  Only to be greeted again with the sight of the highwayman...  And the curious lack of the automaton.

That leaves only the Doctor as the speaker.

And it is to said Doctor that he finally responds, "Oh...  I...fell into a river..."  Grabbing his kerchief, he manages to cover his mouth for another cough before being able to finish, "Simply have been unable to shake it since."

Charging Bear isn't one to overly complicate things, so the young native walks right up to the door and politely knocks. He waits of course, as it would be silly for him to just wander away.

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #95):

Dr. Ward nods, reaches into his bag, and pulls out a stethoscope. "I see. Will you please lift your shirt, so I can hear your breathing patterns? And how long ago was this? Two hours? Three?"

[Private to Augustus Spotswood: he's also going to make a Knowledge (medicine) check while he looks you over...Dr. Dexter Ward rolled 7,13 using d6+2,d6+2, rerolling max with rolls of 5,(6+5)11. Diagnosis check. hee. That's two raises. He knows you're a dead man.]

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #96):

The door of the little house creaks open, and a small, brown haired-girl in a checkered blue and white dress peaks out shyly. "...hello?" she squeaks, then seems to take in both the Indian, the clank, and the kitten all at once. Her eyes go wide, and then she runs, letting the door swing open, yelling "Mommy! Mommy! There's an Indian and a tin woodman at our door! And they found Dandelion!" at the top of her lungs...

Dandelion, startled a bit by the noise, tenses in Charging Bears arms and lets out a "Meeeew!" while unsheathing its tiny claws.

[[OOC: I laughed so hard at the idea of CB specifically not teaching Alouette to play Knock Down Ginger there...]]

The automaton watches all this, learning the intricacies of threshold ettiquette. Not having had time to correct Sal, it turns to Charging Bear and the kitten attached to his sleeve:

"What is tin-wood-man?"

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #97):

Augustus puts away his notebook and, after securing the carriages window coverings as best he might, lifts his shirt as directed.  His brow knits a little as he considers the question, "A day or two I think...  The past few days have been a bit hazy.  Results of a fever I'm sure."

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #100):

"A day or two, hm?" Ward murmurs ominously. He places the business end of the scope on the scientist's chest, instructs him to "Breathe in...breath out.." at intervals, removes a glove and rests the back of his hand against Augustus' forehead, pulls a fob watch and counts seconds while holding the scope end to Augustus' heart, and all the while his frown gets deeper and deeper.

"Well." he mutters at last. "Isn't that curious?"

When one is being examined by a doctor, the word curious is really the last one you want to hear.  The frown really isn't helping either.  Augustus attempts to push down a slight rise in panic while asking, a little exasperatedly, "What?  What is curious?  Am I dying?  I really feel quite fine!"

Charging Bear keeps the poor kitten wrapped up in his arm. "There there little one." he whispers to Dandelion as he gives the wee kitten a few pets and scratches about it's head and chin.

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #102):

Ward looks at Augustus. "Well. I can't be certain without a more thorough examination. I have a few more tests I'd like to run, but I'd like you permission to proceed, as these tests are somewhat...invasive. I can tell you that your malady is not consumption, nor is it caused by fever." He pauses, then adds "Would you care to give more details on your adventure with the river? And don't hold anything back...the details may be vitally important, and I give you my word as a physician that I will hold any information you give me in the strictest confidence."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:16, Fri 30 July 2010.

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #103):

[Private to Charging Bear: Did you catch Alouette's question up a little earlier?]

An older woman comes to the door. "Sally Robertson, what on Earth are you on abou..." she says, stopping in mid-sentence as she gets to the door and looks out at the pair. She doesn't say anything more, just stands there staring at them with her mouth hanging open in shock.

"Howdy, Mother Of Sal! Fear not - self is angel, man is Called Charging Bear, mighty deputy-warrior, and Dandelion is un-lost, also safe."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:04, Fri 30 July 2010.

In reply to Alouette (msg #106):

The woman just stands there, staring in shock and confusion. The little girl pops up. "See, mommy? The tin woodman! Like in th' book you read me!"

The little girl steps out of the house and hugs Charging Bear. "Thank you thank you Mr. Indian Savage Man!" she squeaks. Then she bounces over and hugs Alouette. "Thank you Mr. Tin Woodman! I hope you find your heart soon!"

[[OOC: Yes, I know it's an anachronism. The Oz books won't be written for another 20 years or so. I don't care. The image is just too fun not to play with. :D ]]

OOC: sorry, I was at an appointment all morning

In reply to Gangatsu (msg #89):

Robert smiles.  "Now that you have told me, Miss Gangatsu, I surely will not forget it.  I am Robert Micklethwait, and this is Marshal Evans.  There now, we are all properly introduced.  Have you eaten?  Please join us."

OOC: I did a search on this thread and the last.  We never exchanged names.

"And I offer my humble appologies if I have mis-identified your place of origin.  You look very similar to those few persons from China whom I have previously encountered."

As the Doctor settles back, Augustus re-buttons his shirt and regards said good doctor somewhat askance.  Obviously quite worried now, but just as obviously unwilling to divulge too much regarding the affair.  In answer, he offers these concessions, "I will happily allow the tests, as I am a man of science.  If it is so concerning to a professed medical man I would know more.  Though I will of course need to review your credentials first."  Straightening his shirt again, he explains, "I mean no offense of course, but it is my health at stake."  Pausing a moment to consider and take a quick look about, in a rather paranoid fashion, he finishes, "As to the adventure it shall be sufficient to say that I fell into a river accidentally and was washed some distance downstream."

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #109):

"None taken." he says, closing his bag. "I can see how such things as one's health may make one cautious. I graduated from the Medical Collage of Virginia in 1857, and had a thriving practice in my home of Savannah, Georgia until the Northern Aggressors began their campaign against us, whereupon I joined the Army of Virginia as a medic and served until '65. You will be able to view my diploma once we reach my residence." A shadow of an unpleasant memory made him grimace for a moment. "To tell the truth, I do not believe your explanation is sufficient, but I suppose I shall have to content myself with it for the nonce. I can respect the need to keep secrets."

She watched him closely, a bit unnervingly so before her gaze switched to Mister Evans, the local marshall as she understood it. She was invited to sit amoungst them, giving a half step to turn and survey the busseling room for a moment... Damn, she hated crowds.  People were more vulnerable then they thought here and pray to their white heaven that she didn't have to swing her sword should something occur. A sigh released, looking back ot the men, she pulled out a chair and sat primly. Removing her straw hat and hooking it to her sword.

" No, I haven't." Green eyes slide from one man to another. She listened to his apology for a moment, an innocent mistake just as 'He' had warned her. " Ah, d'hen I reckon yer buyin' me a cup of stew and bread, Roubert. Being da friendly kinda fella yer are.."



[OOC: I know, it's a IC thing. She's making sure you remember her dislike of the term... And yeah, major Clint Eastwood Otaku here.]

"Well!" Evans says. "I'm glad we've cleared up any misunderstandings." He waves to the pretty blond waitress, who bustles over.

"Hello again, sugar!" she says to Robert with a smile. "What can I get for you tonight?"

While she takes the order, Evans turns his attention to the wandering samurai. "Now, Miss Gangatsu, I understand you brought in an outlaw who attempted to rob your stage. Can you give me the details of the incident, please?" He pulls a pad and a fountain pen to take notes.

In wardly, Robert grimaces, thinking of his slim wallet.  But to Gangatsu, he simply says "But of course, a gentlemen will always succor a lady in need."

To the waitress, he asks.  "Ah, lovely bringer of victuals.  And what is on the stove for this evenin'?"

In reply to Robert Micklethwait (msg #113):

[[OOC: I figure she's been seen around enough to deserve her own NPC credit...]]

"Well, tonight we have chitterlings, pork sausage, or beef steak, with your choice of mashed potatoes and corn, or black-eyed peas and coleslaw, along with a side of cornbread. We still have our house gumbo, if you've decided walk on the wild side this evening. And what can I get you to drink?"

" Ah.. Well, Heading down here in a coach with Augustos, a rather sickly fella dat made me a bit nervous being so close, he went along wit Doc Ward earlier.. And Kaede, pretty lil thing, prolly ain't never been out in her own before. Headin in a bumpin coach, I knocked fer him to slow so we could take a rest, boiling hot in dat ol stage.  He couldn't hear, but he stopped al the same. I noticed d'here were a blue jacket out there, then out from the bushels leap that skinny bastard. Clunk him good, ran back to us. I shifted seats and told 'em not to run, stay calm. He comes pointing his lil hand cannon  in our faces and says ' Fuck, dis ain't da mail coach. He backs up, tells us all to stay in. Augustos offeres him some cash and clothes, then I noticed his gun wasn't packin any lead.

I order him to get down and tell us what the hell he thinks he's doin. He gets scared, throws the gun at meh face and takes off running. Me and Augustos heads after him, I butt him in the face with my sword, he drops like a pansy and starts sobbing and praying this.. Weird mumble jumbo, I mean some real bible thumping prayer."  The waitress came up just then and she paused in her story to look at her.

" Gumbo's fine. If you got tea and honey, that'll work fer me. Ain't gunna take advantage o my host too much." A slight quirk of a smile, just to be polite to the blonde waitress.

Robert Micklethwait and Gangatsu:

Evans quickly jots down Gangatsu's tale, frowning more and more as it goes on. "Blue jacket...tried to hold up coach...ran when confronted...mumbled biblical prayers...this is a story that's becoming distressingly familiar..." Suddenly he slaps the table hard enough to make the silverware rattle. "Hell and damnation!" he shouts. "Robert, do you know what this means?"

Katy Devon:

Suddenly, the conversation between Katy and Vincent is cut short as someone shouts "Hell and damnation!" loud enough to cut through the din of the crowd.

Sitting at a table is a dapper gentleman with a top hat, tails, and a handlebar mustache, who looks like every villain in every other dime novel, with a tin star affixed to his suit. Also sitting at the table are an older gentleman in a bowler hat, and the woman with the large sword from the stagecoach.

In reply to Vincent Kaje (msg #92) and The Amazing Evans (msg #116):

"Employer?"

Before Vincent can reply, they're disturbed by the loud commotion at the nearby table. Katy looks round, and recognizes Gangatsu talking with a villainous sheriff and someone who might be a bank president. She'd never even noticed them come in.

In reply to The Robertsons (msg #107):

ChargingBear smiles down at the little girl as he hugs her back ever so gently."You are most welcome little miss." as the girl hugs the self professed angel, the man's hand lightly touches the small doll on his neck as memories play evil tricks by coming to the surface of his thoughts.

He hands kitten over to Sally and with a smile that can't quite make it to his saddened eyes says,  "You had best keep an eye on this wee kitten."

Turning to the tin can angel he says, "The tin man is a character in a book, definitely fits you."

Augustus seems satisfied with the description of credentials and more satisfied at the discontinuation of questioning.  He bows his head lightly to the Doctor, "Your descretion is most appreciated."  He takes back up his notebook for a moment, opening to a new page, "For now, perhaps you could tell me something more about this....automaton?  How long has it been around?  Who built it?" 

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #119):

"I wish I could answer you, but I'm afraid I have little information on it's origins. It is quite a remarkably lifelike device, obviously well-crafted and cared for, but it seems to have fallen out of thin air for all anyone knows of it. The first anyone heard of it was last night, when it walked into the Grand Bull clutching something it claimed was a piece of the sky." He shrugs. "It claims that it is an angel, and that it is trying to protect the town from demons. It caused something of a disturbance this morning when it buried a corpse upside-down in the middle of a busy crossroad, muttering something about trying to prevent demons from claiming the body. To tell you the truth, I think Dr. Evans might have something to do with this machine and it's eccentricities."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:52, Sat 31 July 2010.

Alouette tries to copy Charging Bear's reaction when it gets hugged, a little slow to return the gesture but clearly neither doing nor intending harm. Loose strands of Sal's hair stand up like she's hugged a van de graff generator as static whispers strongly in the clank's body: it touches he top of her ear ever so gentl but says nothing until it's let go and the soft crackle dies away.

"Thank you kindly, Sal Robertson, 8 years old," it chirps. At Charging Bear's comment it looks at him, pauses, then taps itself on the chest as though testing for variations in the alloy or listening for its lack of heart.

[[hey, what's alternate history for?]]

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #118) and Alouette (msg #121):

Sal's mother does not seem pleased to see her child hugging the crazy machine, but is still too dumbfounded to do anything.

Ally herself is much less apprehensive. She smiles widely as Charign bear hands her back the kitten. "Dandelion!" she squeaks and hugs the cat to her. It makes a faintly puzzled "mew?" before batting playfully at the girl's fingers.

"Hold on just a moment, Mr. Tin Woodman! I can get a heart for you!" She says, then bounds back into the house. After a few minutes, she returns with a piece of newspaper, possibly the Tombstone Epitaph from what can be made of the title, folded crudely into the shape of a heart, with the letters "LOV" scrawled on it in charcoal. Sal marches up to the machine, and solemnly holds the makeshift origami up to Alouette. "Here. On behalf of the people of Oz, I present you with this heart for returning my kitty."

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #117):

At the shout, the blue-eyed man whirls suddenly, his hand dipping for a gun on his belt. He doesn't draw, though...he waits and watches the situation.

Alouette makes the exact echo of Sal's happy squeak on being given something, then solemnly straightens and first slaps the heart to its face. Its lenses having deterined that the paper is printed, its long fingers tap over its chest casing until it finds and springs a small round hatch cunningly concealed by the decoration.

It gently rolls the paper up and pushes it in: there's a furious clicking noise as it closes the hatch and its eyes flare brightly for a few seconds until there's a muffled *skrrrrk-*ping!* from somewhere in its chest.

"Clarity!" it exclaims, and hugs Sally again, infinitely careful. "Thank you!"

[Private to GM: so, anything interesting in that fragment of newspaper?]

In reply to Alouette (msg #124):

The little girl giggles in delight watching the clank place her gift inside.

[Private to Alouette: The article on this page has a few ads, as well as a story about the sad state of The Great Rail Wars. It mentions a skirmish between Dixie Rails and Black River over right-of-war through Denver that ended in gunfire and, according to the article, witchcraft from the Wichita Witches, a vicious rail gang that works for Black River. The fight left 4 dead and 7 injured.]

Gangatsu came close to reaching out and slugging the marshal for his outburst. It was enough that she was in a tight and crowded room, but now everyone was staring. There was a reason she wanted some place all quiet like. She gritted her teeth, eyes hard on the Marshall as she points her finger.

" Keep yer damn voice down, I ain't even gotten ta da weird part. Now pologise to d'em folk, yer gone on startled 'em."

"Oh, there's more?" Evans say, struggling to keep his voice down. "Well, aren't we just the luckiest people on the face of the Earth? More!" He sighs, and puts his face into his hands. "Goddammit. I need a drink."

He takes several deep breaths, pulls a flask from his coat, and takes a long, long pull. Finally, he seems to calm down. "Please, accept my apology for that outburst. It's been a very trying couple of days. Please, continue."

She gaves a glance over her shoulder, her gaze meeting other with a hard glare, waiting for them to look away and go back to what they were doing before her eyes pulled back to Eveans and Robert.

" I can understand d'at.." She conceeded with a deep breath. " But if I tell you.. I want to know what you know. I'm here for a reason, my Teacher beckoned me. That is the deal."

As the situation calms down, Vincent retakes his seat. "False alarm." He says to Katy. "I'm sorry. You were saying?"

However, he keeps the table with the Marshal's table in the corner of his eye...

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #120):

Attempting to hide his discomfort behind humor, Augustus laughs a little at the mention of Dr. Evans, "My goodness, this must be a dangerous place.  So many doctors..."  But, his curiousity is piqued, "As for the machine, it truly believes it is some sort of Heavenly messenger?  But how is that even possible?  Its is a machine, it can't really believe anything.  It can only act out its preset functions."

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #130):

"Evans may be a doctor, but he's by no means a medical doctor." Ward says with a scowl. "No matter what he may try to sell you."

"Regarding our friend Alouette, well...that I might be able to explain, if you'll indulge me. How familiar are you with aetheric theory?"
This message was last edited by the player at 10:17, Mon 02 Aug 2010.

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #131):

"Aetheric theory?" muses Augustus, making a few more notes in his book, "I know little to be honest.  I did want to attend Cauchy's lecture on the subject but was...um...  detained on other buisness.  Please, do elaborate?"

In reply to Alouette (msg #124) & Sally Robertson (msg #125):
Charging Bear nods slightly, as though the whole situation was made worth it for that simple gift and hug. "Alouette, we'd best let young Sally here get back to whatever it was she and her mother were doing before we came along."

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #132):

"Well, in brief, the aether is an insubstantial solid material. It surrounds and permeates everything, invisible to the naked eye. It allows for the transmission of electromagnetic waves in such a way that they do not interact with normal matter or energy. There is a great deal of energy in the aether, and there are things that exist within it that modern science is only able to glimpse." He pauses for a moment to catch his breath. It's obvious this is a subject he has a great deal of interest in.

"Now, the idea of a medium which exists outside of the normal observable universe is nothing new. The idea of aether dates back to the classical writings of Aristotle and beyond. What's more, every culture on earth has an idea of a realm that exists outside the normal bounds of reality, usually the plane where their gods dwell, and that the spirits of man go when they cease their mortal existence."

"In the last fifteen years certain men of science have postulated the existence of entities within the aether, composed of the substance, invisible and undetectable to humans senses under normal conditions, though certain conditions might render them manifest. It is thought that these creatures may have given rise to legends about such things as ghosts, faeries, angels, demons, and other such ephemera by those who encountered them, but did not understand their true nature."

"Now, there are engineers who are attempting to use the Aether as a medium for the conduction and capture of energy. A gentleman named Tesla comes to mind. Similarly, it may be possible to capture these aetheric entities, which, having will and thought of their own, might be put to uses that benefit all mankind, beyond the technological limits induced by preset conditions and reactions. For instance, automatons that react and interact with their surroundings in the manner of living beings."

He pauses in order for this information to sink in.

[[OOC: Victorian pseudo-science meets occultism, yay!]]

To Audrey "Hmm, for m'self, beef steak with the mashed potatoes and corn.  And the cornbread of course."

at Evan's outburst, he starts to speak, but Gangatsu beats him to it.  He looks to them both, finally saying, "How about this.  You are in the middle of your story, go ahead and finish it.  Then we can all lay our cards on the table."

and
10:02, Today: Robert Micklethwait rolled 3,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,1. notice.

Alouette looks at Charging Bear.
"Yes," it agrees, and starts to trundle off back to the carriage.

The little girl waves as the pair take their leave. "bye bye!" she says.

Her mother continues to stand there, mouth open, still trying to figure out what has just happened.

Charging Bear nods to Sally's mother, "You have a good day ma'am." He look down at little Sally and smiles, "Good my little miss." With that he heads after Alouette.

Alouette has a go at the waving thing, but has got round to Augustus' side of the vehicle by the time Charging Bear has made his far less socially inept goodbyes and caught up.

It's not trying to get in, however, just standing with its head at a very strange angle - coming closer it becomes clear there's a moth on one lens, probably attracted to the faint glow. The clank is presumably watching it with fascination.

[[OOC: it'll keep following Danny, but it won't think to get in...there's a spare seat now, if CB is bold, still wants to follow on and didn't come on horseback]]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:24, Mon 02 Aug 2010.

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #134):

Augustus readily listens to the good doctors explanations.  His face betrays his mixed feelings regarding all this; curiosity certainly, scientific interest in most of it definitely, and unashamed disbelief in all nonsense regarding ghosts and faeries. After jotting a few notes, he returns, "I believe I follow you regarding the conduction of waves within the aether, even the energy it may contain.  It touches quite a bit on my own work with acoustics and I would be excited to compare notes and ideas on these things.  Very interesting."  Then he pauses, lifting a bemused brow, "But really... Ghosts?  Faeries?  You're trying to say that this automaton has some form of energetic "soul"?  I find that a touch hard to swallow I'm afraid."

In reply to Augustus Spotswood (msg #140), Alouette, and Charging Bear:

Ward nods at Charging Bear and Alouette as they return. "Have you completed your errand?" he asks.

"Oh, I understand your skepticism." He says in reply to Augustus. "It can seem quite fantastic at first to ascribe such qualities to a creature of metal and steam."

"But consider this -- we live in an era of advancements and miracles. Things long held impossible are commonplace. Imagine if, one hundred years ago, someone told you that messages could be transmitted across the country in the blink of an eye, that carriages could be drawn on their own power, that images could be captured and frozen on paper, and that man could fly through the air? What would you think of them then? And yet today the telegraph, the steam carriage, the locomotive, the camera, and the ornithopter do all these things. Dragons were thought fancy, until the bones of those terrible lizards were dug up and put on display as what we now call dinosaurs. Ten years ago, sea serpents were the stuff of legends until specimens were discovered in The Maze of California."

"With all that we have discovered and uncovered, is the idea of entities composed of air and energy, which may have been mistaken for ghosts, demons, or fairies by those who did not understand their true nature, really so farfetched? To paraphrase the Bard, there are more things in heaven and earth, Mr. Spotswood, than are dreamt of in your philosophy."

"Of course, far be it for me to ask you to accept such a supposition on blind faith. We are both men of science, and science demands tests, observable results, and repeatable experiments. I would like, if I may, to ask your further indulgence and perform a demonstration for you of the existence of these aetheric entities, once I have finished my examination of you and this poor boy here." He looks at Alouette and Charging Bear. "The pair of you are also invited, if you wish to attend."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:49, Tue 03 Aug 2010.

In reply to Robert Micklethwait (msg #135):

PM

[Private to Robert Micklethwait: You catch, out of the corner of your eye, someone watching you while pretending to have an interest in the lady across from him. You catch him sneaking glimpses at you every so often as you talk.]

" Heh..." The woman snorted at that for a moment, though there was an uneasy feeling. Her eyes slid to the corner and without knowing what she'd see she slowly turned her head and surveryed the room, sweeping her gaze across  There were still a few people whom cast a glance their way, but one person stood out.. HE was right there next to Vincent, his face was just how she remembered and not a scratch on him. He smiled that half ass smile that nearly got  her mind off guard, pulling up a single digits, HE brought it to his lips then gunned it toward Vincent with a slight cocking motion. Damn, even in her memory he was funny. But more seriously.... Why was that man curious?


It made Gangatsu suspicious.

She turned back to the gentlemen, bowing her head slightly and moved to push her seat idly around before resitting.. " There's a guy on my six watchin.." She murmured lowly before starting in her regular monotone.. " He said, 'Billy', told them all to carry 'some', about five men in total i believe... And they fought their way, only for a lot of them to die against their captors.. One with a busted ankle, got out with that boy, but the blueboy died and Danny left him out in the desert somewhere. Now.. What was it they had to carry with them.." She pulled up a piece of blue material that looked like it was cut from a jacket pocket. " Ghost rock.. Forced to mine it here in Blackthorn.. And he describes the fellas a little, but it was too dark to really see them.. Pardon for being short on details, but that's summing this shit up. I really do fu'kin hate it when people stare."

In reply to Gangatsu (msg #143):

Evans glances in the direction Gangatsu indicates. "I see him." he whispers. "Just act normal."

"Miss Frost, I believe I'll have the sausage, myself, with the coleslaw and peas. And I believe the lady wished to have the gumbo and cornbread." he says at a more normal volume. The girl nods, smiles, jots down the orders and heads off.

Evans leans in and lowers his voice. "Well, Miss Gangatsu, I believe I can trust you with this. Last night, several travelers to town encountered the corpses of Union soldiers on the road. One of them had a broken ankle, and it was a bit of a puzzle to us as to how he'd managed to get so far from anywhere in that state. Another one was mistaken for dead and brought to the undertaker, but recovered and took to the streets, delirious and ranting, before succumbing to exposure. My deputy here tells me a fourth body was discovered near the creek by an excitable fellow who made the wild claim that it rose from the dead and attacked him. We've been trying to uncover where these soldiers came from, and why they were in town in the first place. I believe you've given us a vital clue in our efforts, ma'am."

[Private to Gangatsu: Actually, Danny said there were six total...}:D]

In reply to Vincent Kaje (msg #129):

Katy's a bit startled by Vincent's reaction to the outburst; she hadn't taken him to be that jumpy.

"You mentioned your employer."

Before he can reply, she knocks back her whiskey as she's seen others do. With a Herculean effort, she manages not to cough as the fiery liquid burns down her throat, but she's silenced and changes color a couple of times as she struggles to breathe.

PM
[Private to GM: is it the some guy gangatsu is talking about?]

In reply to Robert Micklethwait (msg #146):

PM

[Private to Robert Micklethwait: Yes]

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #145):

"Yes, Miss Marina Vanderholt, of the Vanderholt Burlesque Troupe. I don't know if a well-bred lady such as yourself would have heard of us. We travel the roads, bringing entertainment to the locals. Of course, some areas as less civilized than others, which is where I come in. I'm...a troubleshooter, you might say."

He seems to be amused at her expression as she downs the whiskey. "You might consider taking your drink slower in the future...you're going to feel that shot in a few minutes."

[[OOC: Make a Vigor roll or suffer a level of fatigue from the buzz, since Katy isn't quite used to such hard alcohol.]]

"I'm OK, it was just a bit stronger than I was expecting."

Which was kind of true, in a way.

"Burlesque?"

Katy's parents had used the term, always with a sense of disapproval. Which naturally only intrigued Katy, and made her want to know more.

[Private to GM: 07:57, Today: Katy Devon rolled 2,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,1. Vigor roll.
Don't think she made it somehow :)]

" Mighty fine, I reckon." She looked at Evans for a moment, the tavern girl was finally sent away. " Yer deputy mentioned dead men walkin' and that wound on the headless man was fresh even given he's been dead a little while.... Now.. I aim to bet a five spot that each one of them bodies done have Ghost Rock on them.. That stuff stains an awful blackish hue, can't pocket it without leaving traces behind." She paused for a moment, her green eyes  peered a bit hard for a moment before switching to Robert.

" It's fine, y'may not trust me and all.. But it's better I know then you leave me to guess. Cause I can think o some wicked things boot ya real quick when left to guess... Now.. Y'all ever heard about some bandit sort of fellows in the mine.. Maybe a bruiser with big hands and a cold temper as if his name was Sue."

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #149):

Kaje smiles. "Indeed."

"A form of musical theater and variety show. You know, we're having an engagement this evening. I might be able to persuade my employer to let me allow you backstage, if you're very interested in watching the show."

[Private to Katy Devon: OOC: Yup. You are now Fatigued, and have a -1 penalty to all Trait tests until you've had time to sleep it off.]

In reply to Gangatsu (msg #150):

Evans shoots a glare at Robert. "Did he, now? Isn't that interesting?"

Sensing he may have lost the battle to keep a lid on things, though, he sighs, and relents. "Very well. I would greatly appreciate it if you didn't spread any such rumors around. There's no need to start a panic. Yes. The travelers mentioned that the men appeared to be dead, only to watch them rise and attack. As for the Ghost Rock, that's a new detail, as only Mr. Micklethwait here mentioned finding any, and the other corpses have been buried or stolen, so it is currently impossible for us to check on them for signs of any Ghost Rock handling."

"As for bandits, there are The Dust Adders, who are a gang of ruffians and ne'er-do-wells who work for Dr. Ward, a local cattle rancher, and the only mine I'm aware of is on Ward's property. And Mr. Micklethwait tells me that Ward himself came and carted off the last two bodies personally. That is a great many signs pointing his direction. Too many for coincidence."

He takes another long pull from his flask.

"All of this, however, is academic. I cannot simply accuse Dr. Ward of any wrongdoing without proof to back it up, and were I to try with such proof firmly in hand, I would swiftly find myself out of a job, and likely tarred and feathered and tossed out of town for attempting to impugn the reputation of the most powerful man in the county and the only reason Blackthorn hasn't dried up and died. So you see, I am in a rather precarious position. Do you see why I might wish to be cautious?"

Katy put her hand to her head for a moment. That whiskey had been powerful stuff!

"Oh, that sounds fun! I'd love to come and watch!"

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #141):

"It is," Charging Bear says returning the doctor's nod.


With a slightly furrowed brow, it is obvious that Charging Bear doesn't quite get all that Dr Ward is talking about but is trying. "This Aether you speak of... is the spirit realm of my people, at least in part... yes?"

"I never heard of Ghostrock in these here parts, but it's worth a lot of money, and a lot of trouble.  The man I encountered had a lump on him, and he was real sick, I s'pose it might have been ghostrock fever.  That could explain all the crazy things they've been saying.  We need to back track these men, find out where they came from.  It was raining the night I came in, but perhaps we can backtrack the fella you met."  Robert takes a drink.  "He didn't mention a mine, or anyone in it.  Ma'am, what are your plans in town?  You seem handy with that sword..." he arches an eyebrow at Evans.

In reply to Charging Bear (msg #154):

"It might be considered, such, yes." Ward replies. "I do not intend to be disrespectful to any entity I call. I simply intend to make one manifest for the benefit of our friend here."

In reply to Katy Devon (msg #153):

"Well, then! Join me at the Oriental Theater after you've finished your meal. The show begins at 8 pm, but I can give you a private tour before then." He says, then stands. "But for now, Miss Brown, I'm afraid I must leave. I have duties to attend to before then."

He doesn't look back towards the marshal's table. He'd learned all he needed to know.

PM

[Private to Robert Micklethwait: Here's a refresher of what the man did say, shortly before his death.

quote:

"...won't go back, no...damned herd...the Devil's own beeves...the whispers, I heard 'em...the plague! Paint a cross in blood over the door, spare the firstborn children...God's wrath...mine eyes have seen the fury of the coming of the Lord...trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored...He hath loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift sword...His truth goes marching on..."

]

"Self will follow albatross: protect," Alouette puts in, straightening as the moth flits off. "Dr.Ward talks to other angels?"

In reply to Alouette (msg #159):

"Creatures from the aether, yes. I wouldn't characterize them as angels. They take many forms, these beings. Some may be angelic, most are less so, instead appearing as conglomerations of various types of beasts. Some few are humanoid in shape, but very alien in speech, manner, and outlook."

In reply to Vincent Kaje (msg #157):

"I'll be looking forward to it! Goodbye, then. Until 8."

Katy felt excited by her own daring. Going to visit a theater with a man, without a chaperone!

In reply to Dr. Dexter Ward (msg #160):

Augustus seems to remain skeptical, letting go any particular comments at that moment to allow the Machine and its Indian to climb back aboard.  Adjusting to make comfortable room, he jots a few more notes down in his notebook.  Absent-mindedly adding his assent, "As to the experiments, I would be happy to view your work.  The Science should settle things and it would be very interesting to see just what you mean with all this talk of angels and ghosts."  As he mentions angels, he does give the amazing automaton a sidelong look; almost pitying.  Poor machine...thinks its sent from heaven. Tsk.

Continue Posting in either Chapter 5.1: A Seance at the Circle W Ranch (Augustus, Charging Bear, Alouette), or in Chapter 5.2: The Dust Adders Ride (Robert Micklethwait, Gangatsu, Katy Devon, John Smith).
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:36, Wed 04 Aug 2010.