Do you stop or move lower?
The weather is clear with a cold breeze at this altitude.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 1):

Moving lower is a good idea. Do not like snowstorms...

Checking that Blythe is ok, the bard says, "Ok, Troels. You know best." She talks a lot but doesn't insist on singing, not until they're camped .
The money is tucked away safety beneath a layer of armour.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:11, Tue 12 Apr 2022.

About two and a half hours down you find a campaite that will do with only a bit of work. 'You put up the big tent and evryone crowds into the same sleeping blankets for the night; I'll assume guard shifts are as last night, so everyone is tired when you continue down in the morning. It is mid afternoon before you get back down to Quartedec. Same Inn?

Yes, don't see why not.

And the innkeeper is happy to see, you although you get different rooms from what you had. Not that they are worse in any way.

After greeting the innkeep the bard explains they need to go see the lord but hope to be back soon.
She keeps Troels and Blythe close just to ensure she's not robbed. Actually she enjoys both of them being close.

Off to see the lord, explaining they're here on his instructions.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:15, Tue 12 Apr 2022.

It takes a bit tosee him, as he has a lot going on, he seems a bit brusque.  Back already? Suddenly need more money or something else?

Roahfustion relates the story in a succinct way tailored to Lord Hadrian's liking. She covers:
a) The birds are actually intelligent reptiles of lawful intent and seemingly good.
b) The names of the lead dragon, assuming that's what they truly are, and of the human associate, who's likely a Druid.
c) Their requirements, wegiht and frequency of food, to be paid up front with rolling payments. (She lays all of the coins on the table.)
d) Method and timing of transport and that the food can be downgraded later allowing the farmers to retain the valuable skins.
4) Mutual protection pact and associated assurances, including privacy.
5) The need for a very responsible indiviual, perhaps the ranger, to check periodically that all remains well and to collect the monies.

"..apparently I significantly overasked for the price of cows*. I'd recommend reducing the costs by half when it goes from complete cow to meat and offal."

======
OOC:  *by 400% (from memory).
18:31, Today: Roahfustion rolled 11 using 3d6.  Public Speaking 16.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:53, Tue 12 Apr 2022.

Lord Hadrian lifts the Talents and looks at you "they paid in Gold Talents? Great Spirits. TREASUER, WHERE ARE YOU?
He turns back to you  i am surprised to say the least, that you solved this so quickly ... but what of the great birds everyone saw? You speak of great Lizards. Do they have wings?

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 10):

Troels will let Roahfustion do the talking, staying quiet about the draconic ambassador...

Roahfustion smiles sweetly to hide thought of 'try and keep up, dear,' instead answering, "Lord Hadrian, so far as we have esablished there are no 'large birds' that take the cows. The intelligent reptiles do indeed have wings and that is how they fly and have been taking the cows. They though the cows were wild. The reptilian folk historically ate wild, un-owned mountain goats but those have become ill and poisonous to some unknown degree. They declined our offer to investigate that. They meant no offence in taking the cows. It was an honest mistake and one they were keen to make reparation. We've sort of included that in the high inital price. I would seriously secommned reducing the price by half when it goes to just meat and offal.

"These folk wish to eat, that's all, and not be bothered. But they do reperesnt, after some time has passed and trust taken root, a potential ally to the farmers and in the folger term to yourself, Lord Hadrian. We would recommend that being a slow round however. Mutual building of trust and support."

She leaves it hanging there, hoping she hasn't overstated.

He listens and nods... Most interesting. Large flying reptiles ... might I presume we are speaking of Dragons then?

"We could presume that, Lord Hadrian, but they didn't name themselves so, and it may be better to refer to them, if at all, as 'lizardfolk'. Draws less hunters, less unwanted attention and more likely to allow time for their alliance with you, of immeasurable value if I may be so bold, to grow and mature." The bard lets her eyes drop to the gold on the table and then back to the noble.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:16, Tue 12 Apr 2022.

The treasurer bustles in only to be sent back for scales and weights.

Moments later he returns and is a bit awed by the gold talents, which are about as common as hens teeth in trade.
From whence came this lord Hadrian?

I want them weighed, we can chat later.

The man carefully weighes each bar (they are not coins) They are all of proper weight if not a slight bit over... most unusal from uh... he mumbles something.   Should I secure these Lord Hadrian? My estimate of value is around $8000.

Indeed and bring me 50 schillings for these people... I'll grant another24 if indeed this works out as you have arranged. Do stay in touch until we have this working smoothly.

The bard bows, "Of course, Lord Hadrian."

She will take the smaller third, so that Troels and Blythe each gain 17 silver Schillings.

"If I may, Lord Hadrian, might it be possible for us to receive a writ or license or permit to carry arms within your territories? Or whatever may be appropriate to signify that we have your favour? On my honour, such would not be abused."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:30, Wed 13 Apr 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 16):

Troels will thank Lord Hadrian and take his share, otherwise staying quiet.

You have your arms, has anyone tried to deprive you? If not, no, I will not issue such a document. but will see you given a seal on a chain to signify such favor , however I will also deduct 6 schillings from your reward for such a thing.

He holds his hand out and Blythe moves to give him the six coins.

After saying, "Thank you, Lord Hadrian," and bowing Roahfustion  was about to say 'I've got this,' and pay the six schillings for the three of them but she pauses, uncertain.. She doesn't want her actions to cost Blythe money disproportionately but neither does she want to aggravate the girl's feeling of being beholden. She tempers it with a hesitant, "Are you, sure, Blythe? We can all pay a bit.." The bard glances at Troels to get his take on it..

======
OOC: 09:38, Today: Roahfustion rolled 11 using 3d6.  Psychology 7+1. Fail

Not a problem my dear, and it benefits us all. Many thanks Lord Hadrian, I can't sing for you as sweetly as my friend, but thank you very much anyway.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 20):

Troels pays 2 shillings from his share without hesitation.

Thank You Troels ... Blythe puts the chain around her neck and laves the Lords house sign showingon herchest where all men would be quick to notice.

"Thank you, Blythe. That's very kind of you," says the bard accepting Blythe's paying with grace.

 "Thank you, Lord Hadrian. We plan to stay at the same place for the next six days," informs  Roahfustion. "Should we be able to be of further service, such as that reported today, we would be pleased to make our best efforts. And, with your permission, Lord Hadrian, we would now withdraw so as to not outstay our welcome."

***
If dismissed she asks when outside, "Blythe, Troels, what would you have us do now? Go shopping? Go to bed? Have a party? What would be your pleasure? And, Blythe, that chain looks most fetching on you. Perhaps later in our room you would wear it for us? She giggles a girlie giggle. "Just that."

Nah, it would get in the way and Troels would get tangled up in it... I want him to have unfettered access for times like that.

"Well, looks like we know what we're doing late 'later. Bbut what about up until then? Shopping? Party?Singing? Wah would you like?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 25):

"Perhaps we can use these to get the gaurd to help us track your friend? As for later, I am sure I can avoid a little chain...it is not like that is what will have my attention!" he says with a smile.

Not an issue, but I can't think of anythinng I need to buy, besides dinner and an ale, and we have that covered already. The food is good too!

Roahfustion looks up to try and figure out how far through the day they are.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 28):

A bit after mid afternoon, maybe another half watch or so before sunset.

"That's fine," answers the bard as she makes up her mind. "I'd like to go to the market and look at scarves. Then head to the inn where we found Rufus, just to check that out. Anything else for you, Troels?"If it's impolite not to haggle then she will. Otherwise she just pays for two very nice headscaves, one for her and one for Blythe.("I promnised you this when I first borrowed the one from your mother. You wouldn't have me break a promise, would you?" delivered with a smile and maybe a hug.)

***

At the inn where we'd caught up with Rufus she just asks the innkeeper for news of Rufus. Grease the wheels of industry with five copper coins. Then back to where we've been staying.


======
OOC: If appropriate - 07:37, Today: Roahfustion rolled 17 using 3d6.  Merchant 13
If haggling is necessary hopefully this just means she pays thrugh the nose rather than run out of the market.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:41, Thu 14 Apr 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 30):

Troels is not eager to spend, other than to find some bargain hard rations...

Elven rations available?

You find a nice selection of scarves and about average prices.
Blythe thank you for the new scarf, as it will keep her  mother's from wearing out.

The Innkeeper has seen nor heard of Rufus since he skipped out, his bag of stuff is out in the shed if you want it, otherwise he plans to throw it out.

No one knows of Elven rations around hre, most have never heard of them.

She smiles at Blythe over the scarf, "You're welcome."

***
Accepting the bag Roahfustion tips the innkeep withn five coppers. "Thanks. Have a good day." She examintes the contents when back in their room.


======
OOC: Couldn't find prices for scarves. FLying guess, $5 each ?

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 33):

Say $6 and $8 for the scarves

Rufus's stuff in your room? Euuuw.. It has mechanizd dandruff* all through it and smells dirty and unwashed (he never got a chance to wash it).  You find the leather bottom is false and hides 8 Cp, 6 SP and some sheet music and song words he had wrtten. Two of the song wouldn't be half bad and he last is just awful.

You now have fleas and lice in your room as well as very stinky clothing.


* the kind that moves around in it's own... aka lice.

Having taken reasonable and obvious precaution Roahfustion asks Blythe and Troels to evacuate thier gear immediately.
Rufus's bag and clothing go in the fire and she requests a new rom, happy to pay, and disinfection of the contaminaed room. She goes in the wash as does her clothing. Hapopy to pay double standard rate for this. Then she takes another bath and gets her hair disinfected and fine combed.

Or the innkeep can take a deal whereby she'll entertain here for six evenings assuming not called away by Lord Hadrian.

She commits the two decent songs to memory and then the paper goes to the fire also.

======
OOC: Unless soemthing crops up, I'm happy to fast forward through the next six days and nights of singing practise, language learning and evening entertainment performances. There can happily be a lot of fading to black when the trio are alone. Party time on the sixth night after the performance.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:56, Thu 14 Apr 2022.

Good quick action, I'd like a HT roll for eac of you to move fasterthan the very efficient bugs.

Blythe moved really quickly when the threat was identified.
18:41, Today: Blythe of Portage rolled 8 using 3d6.  HT.

The inn keeper appreciates hat you did not wait to say something and he has two girls up there with strong Lye soap and brushes. Bedding is removed and the room cleaned down to bare bones and scrubbed.

The innkeeper says he'd be delighted if you would perform the next 6 days, the good Lord, not with standing. He is quite willing to keep the current rates if you will tip the girls for te extra work in scrubbing the room down and carrying everything out  to be washed or refreshed.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 36):

Troels also moves quickly  to evacuate their things, and work with the others for transferring all the items away quickly.

The bard appaiirs nimble enough to avoid the wildlife. She tips the pair of cleaners.

======
OOC: What's appropriate as a tip? Five copper each? 10? Or..?
This message was last edited by the player at 08:24, Fri 15 Apr 2022.

Everyone gets their stuff rolled up and out, the cleaners do a very thorough job and you are glad you don't have to live in that room !
The clothes burn with a few odd spurts of fire and a fair bit of smoke... but they aree totally consumed.

Your new room is at the end of the hall, still with only two beds but now with two windows as well, and there’s abit more room in it as well.

We can assume the six days go well and the Lord only summons you twice to clarify some aspect of delivering the animals..
The farmers don’t know the details but are pleased with the new business and the new income.

With passing of six days and no news of Rufus nor additional tasks from Lord Hadrian, Rufus says to the innkeep, "Right, I need to be moving on. I've stayed here longer than I stay anywhere. Give me a good steer on where else in town I should try, so well appointed, clientell pay well, you know what matters, but not close enough to spoil your trade. In fact name me two and we will stay at each of them less and would plan to return here, to your place, as first choice. And, yes, I know al lthe uusual. But 'leave them wanting more' a wise woman once said. Also, we should settle up for the last six nights.."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:36, Sat 16 Apr 2022.

The innkeeper smiles and shakes his head I cannot reccommend any place her, but perhaps you should goto Charon'sCrossing?
They are to have a big fair and Lord Hadrian is supposed to attend as well.

Things began to slow down over the week and your gross for the six days is 18 silver and 50 copper. Some $320 in total.

"Thanks Innkeep. No guartantees in this life, but expect we'll cross paths again," Roahfustion says. After getting directions, unless anyone has better ideas or priorities, the trio set off for Charon's Crossing.

She splits the coinage with Blythe and Troels each getting 6 silver schillings. The remainder goes into a 'petty cashh pouch.

======
OOC: Relative to where we are now, where is Charon's Crossing?
Do any of the three of us know anything about the place?

Charron's Crossing is about three days to the North East on the Styx (lake, estuary, .whatever it is).  Roahfustion should have been there at least once before. It is a small but busy port town and the largest Port in Lord Hadrians holdings.

Your petty cash pouch should be getting fairly heavy by now.

Roahfustion tries in vain to recall anything interesting about Charron's Crossing but seems it didn't make much impact on her. "On we go then. Don't suppose either of you have been this way before? Or heard anything about it?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:00, Sat 16 Apr 2022.

You can remember it was a busy port, but it wasn't a plce that stood out in your mind for any reason. However it is the next fairly well to do location so Rufus could have headed there too.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 46):

Troels is keen to keep moving. He is happy to leave on good terms though.

"Fine time to go," announces the bard and after buying a spear and 3 days' worth of provisions for the trio and the quadrupeds leads the way towards Charron's Crossing.

======
OOC: How much for the 3 days' worth of provisions?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:35, Sun 17 Apr 2022.

The road is moderately busy with others also headed that way.

OOC- Rations cost varies with what you want and availability. Travel rations ar ppretty much $2 a meal and consist of sausage, cheese and hard bread.  A few places will add some dried friut or an apple to the meal for a half pence more.
If you want better sausage, ham, hard boiled eggs, cooked beef or pork, or a bigger sausage for a few people, costs go up and it is subject to go bad faster. Normally if you buy more at one merchant, he fudge the price some excpt on travelers rations, which the guild has firmly priced. However the guild wasn't as specific about what had to be in that ration so shopping around is important.

The Horses can benefit from a pint and a half of Oats a day and hay or grazing (which needs to be an hour or more).

As they sat out on the three day journey the bard asks, "You guys fancy trying a bit of foraging? Makes the rations stretch a bit further?"

Long as it isn't rabbits ... I am sick of them still.  And we may need to watch lest we be hunting on someones land.

"Well, we can call it sling training, if that works?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:52, Sun 17 Apr 2022.

Blythe laughs... But if you are training by shooting their game, they are still put out.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 49):

I would want to pay for 2 weeks of rations, so 14x$2 = $28, 7 lbs? put onto the mount?

Troels is definitely into foraging, but unsure about this ownership of game thing. He is not familiar with that...in the Northlands, if you were not tending the creature, it was fair game...
This message was last edited by the player at 02:42, Mon 18 Apr 2022.

"I'm sure it would end up ok, just as long as we leave the deer alone," she replies.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:47, Mon 18 Apr 2022.

But those are good eating!

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 56):

"Exactly why landowners are protective of them," replies the bard. "But I'm sure we can find something for you to eat that isn't deer."

======
OOC: @GM - As Troels' player is away for a week, maybe you could roll a Foraging or Survival skill check for food for both Blythe and Troels and we can keep it moving a little..
This message was last edited by the player at 08:54, Tue 19 Apr 2022.

We continue.

Very slowly enjoying the Spring weather

Indeed Roahfustion does enjoy the spring weather as the trio continue on their way.

Blythe proves to be a decent teacher with both the sling and th Spear.
You are hardly proficient but acquire the skills at 1 point with a -2 to skill until you practice more.

You manage to kill two rabbits out of 10 tries, neither is a clean kill, but they are disabled so you cancatach thm and put them out of their misery. No one pesters you and late the 3rd day you see the town in the distance. You camp and arrive about midday to a busy town getting ready for the festivities. Finding an inn becomes an issue as everything is full up, or so they sy, but you notice some nobles and well to do merchants seem to slide in with little trouble.

Find a place with nobles sliding in and offer to entertain (on stage) for a room. If that won't cut it then the bard name-drops that she's performed for the prince. Blythe was keeping her Lord's pendant on display..

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 62):

Troels will play the gaurd...

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 62):

And the first place you try shows little interest until you mention performing for his Lordship, that gets their attention, and the Lords Sigil on Blythe's necklace garners some glances too (and they don't seem to be surveying it's surrounds as much as the pendant itself). The Inn keeper finally asks why Blythe has that pendant.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 64):

"His Lordship was pleased with services rendered by our group is all you need to know." Troels buts in, defensively.

The bard nods confirmation.

Now Troels, lighten up... we were able to resolve a misunderstanding without resort to bloodshed with a group of mountain folk, who thought the farmers cattle were wild animals. Restitution was made and an arrangement for sales of cattle in the future. His Lordship was very pleased with the solution and how quickly we were able to make things right.  He also really liked Roahfustions singing and stories.  Oh, and we can make do with just one room too.

Again the  bard nods but also makes her zither conspicuous.

I see, well let me check my room availability against thos on order.

He goes in back for a few minutes then returns. I do have a room, it is on the fourth floor, what used to be an attic. There is a cammode there which my maids will empty each morning, so how do we work tips? Lets says with you paying a silver and 5 pence a night and keeping all tips; then with us arranging a split of the tips and costs.

""Including meals, that would be agreeable," she says, thinking it will give time to catch the lie of the land.

So you pay me a silver and 5 pence a night and you keep tips, but I supply food and I assume drink? I can do that, but you will be getting our base fare.

The bard smiles, "That will be fine. And if you wish to talk again tomorrow, that will be fine too."

When they're alone she says, "I hope that's ok with you both?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:05, Sat 30 Apr 2022.

I have no issues, it gets us a room and food. I expect a bath may be expensive but I am all for it. I have a weeks road trip to wash away to feel presentable again.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 72):

"Happy with the arrangement here too. Need help to wash, Blythe?"

"We could make it a team effort!  Which would you prefer, Troels, top or bottom? Front or back?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:05, Sat 30 Apr 2022.

Sure, I thought Imight lure you into joining me...

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 75):

"Definitely the front..."

Roahfustion chuckles, a delicate little sound. "Agreed. The rest belongs to me then. But I might get lost and wander around.."

======
OOC: how much is the communal clean up?
And happy to skip forward as you see fit.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:06, Sat 30 Apr 2022.

They want two silver to heat the water and bring it and the tub up four floors.

Blythe immediately starts to dicker with them. It is clear this is not her strong point and she is beginning to irritate them.

Roahfustion rests a hand on Blythe's shoulder and smooth-talks* her way into the conversation to calm down the hot-bath provisioners. She gently rubs Blythe's back in a calming motion and a shared look of 'leave it to me' and a smile that says 'you can pay me back later.' She tries to talk** the price down, either a lower flat fee or else a substantial discount on all repeat days.

======
OOC:
*19:08, Today: Roahfustion rolled 15 using 3d6.  Fast Talk 15.
**19:16, Today: Roahfustion rolled 9 using 3d6.  merchant 13.

Roahfustion's efforts ease the tension and allow some interchange.

Blythe backs out a foot or two, her face still showing her anger at the attempt to take advantage of her.

The bath is agreed to cost 1 silver and 5 pence for each of the two people lugging all the water and the tub up the stairs, which is not to be mentioned to the inn keeper.

======
OOC: Just checking, the merchanting/dickering roll was successful, so shouldn't the final price (two people x 1s 5p = 2s 10p  (=$40)) be less than the initial asking price of 2s total (= $30) ?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:39, Sat 30 Apr 2022.

No, the original asking price was 2 schillings and they dropped it slightly to 1 schilling and 10 pence ... 5 pence apiece. The Inn charges a schilling for a bath, but most all are on the first floor (the one above the ground floor), with a second floor bath requested infrequently. So the 10 pence is the servants asking for extra to drag everything up four flights of stairs, behind the Inn Keepers back.

"Include nice towels, which we'll return of course, and won't breath a word, then we have a deal!" the bard smiles and offers her hand to seal the agreement.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 84):

These Negotiations are not Troels strong point, but he is happy to cart some water of it helps...

Both of the servants are obviously nervous... and VERY relieved when you agree. They say nice towels will be no problem. The female is sort of eyeing the three of you; you can see her brain working. Umm if youl like I could get the other room up here opened up for a bit so you don't have to bathe with him in here. I know guys are great at peeking when they say they are not peeking.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 85):

No Troels, that's what we are paying them a bit extra to do.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 87):

"Ok, just trying to help, Ro. Oh, I will do more than peek, young lass..."

She turns Bright red.

"Behave!" the bard lightly scolds her male lover, "if you please!"

She turns back to the servants and winks at the talkative one. "So, as you were saying, sounds like the voice of experience there!" empathises Roahfustion. "So who was peeking at you then? Oh yes, while it's just 'us', I'm Roahfustion, that's Blythe and he's Troels. What are your names?" She shrugs, "Sorry, yes, opening up the room would be nice, if it's not too much trouble for you, and you dont' get into trouble and it's free for us. Coin is disappearing here faster than I care to think about. But that's between us, right?"

======
OOC: The bard is indulging her nosiness but also trying to recruit the pair of servants to be eyes and ears for her..
The extra room isn't actually important, but it's more about appearances and reputations.

Yes, well let's get started... Sorge, please bring the tub up first, then we'll bring the water. Let me resolve a few things... She points the young man down the stairs... Then chcks to make sure he has really left.

You wouldn't need any help with the bath would you? I could help with towels and such.  She is blushing deeply I guess I'd need to tak e the shift off so It don't get wet ... that might look bad.

Roahfustion coughs, "Ahem," and raises an eyebrow questioningly to Blythe. The bard thinks that Troels is happy to moor his boat in pretty much any receptive and pleasant harbour but that such might compromise their situation Blythe. "So how about help with towels? And such?" she asks, lookling squarely at her female companion.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:32, Sat 30 Apr 2022.

A kind offer, but it might cause some confusion and you know how men get all embarassed so easily, I think not, thank you for offering though.

Putting one arm around Blythe and hooking Troels arm with her other  Roahfustion says, "Why don't you pair do some unpacking." With a gentle pressure she makes it clear that it's not intended at a point for discussion.

When the pair have departed to their room Roahfustion rubs the servant's shift and says quietly, "It wouldn't do to get things wet, now, would it? But it might be best ifafter the water is filled, I let the other pair take their turns in the water and then, if you tell me where, I could find you and you could help me with.. towels? This is stricly just between the two of us?"

======
OOC: Vamping the female servant:
22:54, Today: Roahfustion rolled 6 using 3d6.  Sex Appeal 14.

Since we are the only ones up here, maybe put the bath in the other room?
Then you can bathe while Troels and I get dressed and read.

"Good idea, yes, indeed," replies the bard to Blythe. She look at the female servant to see if their clandestine meeting is still on, while actually asking, "So he was 'Sorge'. But I didn't quite catch your name?"

Evlina ... Sorge is a bit weak minded but works hard.

"Well, Evlina, it's my pleasure to know you, and, I hope, you'll feel the same.."

She curtsies  I best go help Sorge get this bath going.

The bard goes back to the other pair and checks that Troels is comfortable with proceedings.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:37, Sun 01 May 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 100):

Troels is happy to let the ladies manage proceedings, saving his energy for managing the ladies...

She turns to Blythe and says, "If it would make you uncomfortable in any way, I'll reverse out of it.. But she, her name's Evlina by the way, could make a very informative contact. But my promise and relationship to you come first." The bard's smile communicates that contact with the contact could also be fun.
This message was last updated by the player at 07:41, Sun 01 May 2022.

I'll bide my time with Troels, thanks, I am not interested in passing short affairs. Do be careful, lest she has spread herself around and has some disease.

"Oh no, I understood that it wouldn't be your thing. But I wanted to make sure you weren't upset if I..did, you know. So, being completely honest, tell me?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:57, Sun 01 May 2022.

Not Thrilled, but I can live with it once in a while. Troels will have to speak for himself.

"Thank you for the honesty," Roahfustion replies and holds out her arms for a girlie hug. "I understand about diseases and I have skills in that area. Look, this will be 'light touch', making a friend along the way, and, yes, trying to gain an advantage to foresee possible machinations of others. Or, as I think of it, being nosy." She adds in a whisper to Blythe, "And that's the most honest and open i've been with anyone in a long time."

She nods ... not my way I guess, I am not for sale or trade.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 106):

"I have to be honest, I am happy to play a little, but I do not want to do anything that would risk adding to the next generation and trust my children to anyone I do not trust with my life, and right now that is a very limited list, with just you two ladies on it."

======
OOC: Happy to skip forwards to bath time.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:27, Tue 03 May 2022.

Bath time arrives, Blythe gets firsties, although Troels does not wait long before getting involved himself. They clean up and leave the bath to Roahfustion and her new friend.
Blythe uses a towel wrapped around her to head back to the room everyone rented "How much would you like to get these clothes washed?

Shortly she closes the door and she and Troels get to their reading... It's obvious each has an interesting book from the sounds coming through the door.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 110):

Troels will again leave the negotiations to the women with sensitive noses...

"So, let me look at you, Evlina, and it's fine for you to reciprocate," says Roahfustion quietly and sweetly, using it to cover that she's checking the girl for anything damaging or socailly undesirable.

***
For some minutes the pair remove the grime of the day, pleasure taken being simply that of being clean and the gentle rubbing with cloth and soap. She slips in, "So, Evlina, have you noticed anything particularly strange lately?"

The bard doesn't push but does want to leave the girl wanting more. As the water cools and they get dry she says, "We can do this again, if you like? Perhaps you can tell me if you hear anyone talking about us.." she indicates herself and her two companions.

***
When dressed Roahfustion gives Evlina a gentle kiss on the forehead and a pat on the arm. "Thank you, dear. I must go and attend to some other things now. Perhaps you would get the water emptied later.."

======
OOC: unless it's obvious, such as a rash, or signs of scratching,
21:51, Today: Roahfustion rolled 13 using 3d6.  Natural Philosophy 11.
21:53, Today: Roahfustion rolled 11 using 3d6.  Perception 12. –

***
And in case you want a Performance skill check for the on-stage entertaining:
22:41, Today: Roahfustion rolled 11 using 3d6.  Performance 16+1.
Happy to FF if that suis.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:42, Tue 03 May 2022.

Evelina has little of real interest to relay but does say she will keep her ears open.
She does not appear to have any medical issus, but you snse she is not new to this and judging by the hickey that is exposed on her breast, hasn't lacked for male company either.

Do you think that guy with you would like to share a bath with me?

"Would you like me to discreetly ask him?"

Oh Please, yes!

"I will. And you keep your ears open for us, please," she replies with a smile.

======
OOC:In case you want a Performance skill check for the on-stage entertaining:
22:41, Today: Roahfustion rolled 11 using 3d6.  Performance 16+1.
Happy to FF if that suis.

Well that did a little. Blythe and Troels are napping together with that JBF look about them. But they'll be up and ready to go for dinner and your how (as they work to keep things safe).

The show goes well unti it is interrupted and a group of soldiers "escort" you to a different place, thre in the Garden you are told to entertain the assembled Nobles ... it will go better if you do very well. These men tell you to shut up if you try to speak and  make it clear  that they can and will break arms, legs or knees as needed.  They take Blythe as a Hostage and make it clear you best do as well or better than you were doing at the inn.


[OK, I am sure you are going "WHAT?" ... GM rolled a 3 (yes, 1,1,1) for a reaction roll to your performance. That is a Critical Failure. ]

Roahfustion points at her mouth and mimes* whether it is now alright to speak.

======
OOC: * roll for mime:
23:28, Today: Roahfustion rolled 14 using 3d6.  Performance 16+1.

The audience quiets and seems to enjoy the performance; you note several coins are collected.
The Guards then round you all up give you a bag with coins in it and tell you to get lost and not come back.

It isn't too far to the IN, but they are closing down for the night. The inn keeper does ask if you are all right, and has  31 copper for you from your tip cup.  The Bag you were given contains 15 Copper Pennies. You know a bit of silver was given to them, so they robbed you as well.

The Inn keeper says you did very well, but that you should move in the morning lest they come back. He gives you the name of an inn outside town and closer to the fair grounds and says he will give you a recommendation. He thinks it is far enough away, (about a league) to make it unlikely they will find you.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 119):

Troels would have killed a couple before things got to that point...we should backtrack a little and roleplay that!

"You ok, Blythe?" asks the bard. "And you, Troels?"

======
OOC: several things here:
1) I was actually going to show them the Dukes's seal when I'd had permission to talk. As I said, the skill roll was for the mime. Not for the entertainment
2) I though the performance skill roll was the thing in its entirity. No opposed roll (assuming not tried to influence a crowd). One chance of a failure is enough. Having two cascasing chances of failure seems a bit harsh..
3) Anyway did Roahfustion manage to get any names of the soldiers? Or their units?
4) Doesn't the Duke's seal mean anything to these folks?
5) This is a nobles' inn. WTF did a shed load of soldiers spring from. Honestly I'm thinking of finding the Duke and getting some folks hung.
6) That was jarring.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:12, Tue 03 May 2022.

OK,
1. Troels might have thought about killing a few, but it was a bad plan, given how many ther were and how ready they were for a fight (armor, numbers etc.).
2. Blythe had the Duke's pendant, and couldn't even move to show it, then she decided showing it was a bad plan, as they would likely just steal that too.
3. It's not an opposed roll, You did well, I was rolling for reaction (how I award $$) and got the 3 ... Ok, so how does a good performanc work with a really bad resposne ... it doesn't logically, so I needed a way to provide a very poor return on the evenings efforts. You also get some enemies and can still speak with the Lord of Quartedec.
4. There was no way to tell who or what they were, except that obviously someone paid them to go find the "best entertainment in town". Several possibilites there.  I'll give you IQ rolls to remember/ID faces ... some will get a modifier in your favor to be sure.
5. Not quite a shed load, but obviously someone thought they were guards. Maybe they were too.  Maybe it was a corrupt Noble! You have seen those before too. Or a shady Inn Keeper.
6. It was meant to shake things up a bit. and it offers so many threads to follow.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 122):

Issue is, when she performs, Troels is usually armed and armored as he takes his role as security seriously (performing in front of the Duke a clear exception, so regardless of what sort of plan it was, he would fight.

OOC: A large number of guards in an very expensive inn and no one noticed just feels wrong. Like a huge dragon (wandering monster) coming out of  a 5' square closet sort of thing. Really hard to believe. If there weren't enough soldiers to notice then fighting would have been a possibly. And a room full of  nobles generally won't just go "oh my, not getting involved here but it's fine to screw my entertainment.."

Edit: I like playing with you guys too much to let this put me off. So:

IC:
Sucking up the massive negativity, Roahfustion enquires, "You ok, Blythe? Are you hurt?" She puts an arm around the girl, then looking at Troels who she thinks is tougher than the pair of them put together, continues, "How about you, big man? Are you damaged? Not counting pride or a lost dying-in-battle opportunity." She smiles, trying to lighten the situation.

***
OOC: I may be tied up rest of today so here's a post that might stop me holding you folks up:

After listening to any responses Roahfustion gushes, "Look, for me that was unexpoected, jarring and, frankly, frightening. If we, as favourites of the Lord that rules here, get that offhand and aggressive treatment then I wonder how foreigners survive here. Nonetheless, it's been my obsession with Rufus that's brought us here. Both of you have been dragged here by me. Well, I've come you love both of you guys and i'd never forgive myself if the unthinkable happened to either of you just because of my pettiness. I'm ready to let the little bastard go, to let go of that obsession, if either of you want to leave this bloody unsafe city. Maybe go raiding in the nomad lands? Or go build a farm? Or stay here and  ignore it all. Or stay and seek vengeance, quiet or otherwise. You guys tell me: where shall we go and what shall we do?"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:36, Wed 04 May 2022.

OK, you are off in imagineering...

12 armored men came in during the performance, no one was about to challenge them, except Troels it seems,and they gathered near the bar, the inn keeper approached  something and words were exchanged;  they turned and closed in on the three of you... you can presume the inn keeper was yelling at this point and upset and the crowd was grumbling.

We'll say six of these guys watched the crowd and six of them, including the leader, walked the few steps drawing swords, to stand in front of you and order you to follow instructions so no one got hurt.

OK Troels... you are now looking at say two or three armored men with swords drawn, Roahfustion and Blythe are at risk ... so now is when you jump up and fight? I'll retcon it and let you go if you wish ...

Note that this inn is mostly merchants and tradesmen, not nobles. You are taken to a place with a lot of Nobles and no commoners ... do you want to make scene there?  Blythe is being held elsewhere and Troels is allowed to accompany Roahfustion (less weapons) as is proper for a woman.

OOC:
Troels, give up. A GM proving his corner will always win.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 126):

No, I am not like that,I will not "fix" an outcome. I admit that I think it a bad idea, but if he rolls a lot of good crits, it could go differently, although odds say he'll be rolling up a new character as I see it.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 127):

It would not be true to Troels character not to fight, even if it cost him his life.

He said his at the head of the leader...

The Leader collapses, Troels blow to his head  leaving a large bloody gash down to his chest.

The 1st goon stands there in surprise,

the 2nd goon reacts quickly and your dodge barely escapes his thrust.

3rd goon in front of Roahfustion freezes.

 The 4th goon Steps forward and levels his sword at Roahfustion DO NOT MOVE

the 5th goon  moves toward Blythe, who parries his sword and uses her left hand to gouge out his eyes. The Goon staggers back, barely remaining upright, with his left eye bloody and his right eye hanging out on his cheek.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:28, Wed 04 May 2022.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 129):

The blow was to the skull, a head shot, not vitals. That will come next...

Troels swings his axe at the chest of the next goon that attacked him, dodging attacks.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 130):

Wasn't specified in your email so I rolled location... corrected.

Goon 1 brings his sword up but still does not react much.

Goon 2 swings, but it's not a great swing, likely because of his fine dodge.

Goon 3  Thrusts at Troels and misses

Goon 4 grabs for Roahfustion's collar/dress front

Goon 5 drops his sword and tries to hold his eyes in place.

Blythe turns on Goon 4 and thrusts with her long knife from his left side. He fails to see the attack in time and she cuts his jugular and thrachea.  He steps back and tries to staunch the flow of blood, but can't of course. his attempts to beathe ar bubbly and he moves to attack blythe but collapses instead.

The other soldiers all have their swords out and are threatening a crowd that is becoming hostile. One does manage to back away and turn to assist his compatriots.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 131):

Troels slams his pick into the head of the one fighting him, dodging the attacks coming his way!

You wanted the crits!

Leader - dead

Goon 1 Makes a swinging attack against Troels Left Side, a good attack Troels narrowly avoids.

Goon 2 swings,  and is Killed outright by Troel’s blow

Goon 3  Swings at Troels and misses

Goon 4 - dead

Goon 5 - Out of he fight permanently

Goon 6 - He is moving quickly to join the fight and heads for Blythe. Blythe piscks up a stool to use like a shield.

Roahfustion?

The room erupts as angry tavern guests, fortified by a bi of beer, rise up and go after the remaining 5 men using stools, benches, mugs and what ever they are carrying. The Soldiers fight bravely for the moment.

GM on behalf of the character-

Singing to cause Goon 1 to spasm... but the spell fizzled, although the recipient was slightly startled by the lights and colors.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 133):

Troels pulls his pick out, swinging his axe at the throat of goon 1, dodging his attack and dodging away from goon 3.

Goon 1 and Troels exchange swings to no effect. Goon 1 stumbles and has to recover.

Goon 3 swings as well and misses.

Goon 6 swings at Blythe, it’s a bit wild; Blythe blocks and lunges for his eyes with her long knife, The man brings his blade back clumsily but manages to break Blythe’s long knife..

Roahfustion sings her Spasm enchantment against Goon 6’s hand and he spasms dropping his sword.

The other soldiers are being hard pressed and one gives an order which has them all backing away toward gap through the Bar just to the right front of the three amigos about 8 feet.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 136):

Troels swings the pick at goon 1s head as he continues to dodge attacks.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:59, Thu 05 May 2022.

The bard tries to fastdraw her rapier but panics slightly and doesn't quite manage the swift smooth motion that seemed so easy during practise. She says, reasonably as she can, "Run away, soldier, while you still can." In a louder voice she calls out, "I call on you all as witnesses that we act in self defence."

======
OOC: Failed Fastdraw, (not critically), so rapier is drawn and readied.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:55, Thu 05 May 2022.

Goon 1 dodges Troels swing and swings back, missing

Goon 3 , noting that Troels is concentrating on 1, makes an all out double attack, Troels dodges the first one, but the second swing hits him in the right thigh, doing (3) 4 cutting damage after the armor reduction.

Goon 6  bends over to grab his sword and Blythe steps up and swings the stool at his upper body (can’t each the lower body). Goon 6 manages to grab his sword, dodge Blythe stool swing and not fall on his keister. He is not standing up and must rise to attack effectively.

Goon 7 guard Goon 1s back.

Goons 8-12 fall back and close ranks some, backing toward the gap in the bar.

Roahfustion is on her feet with her rapier drawn and ready, you are about a step for striking distance to Goon 6 or  Turn and attack Goon 3 left rear.

Roahfustion takes a step up behind the goon [#3] that's just stabbed Troels and tries to return the favour with interest.


======
OOC: What kind of armour are these nasty folk wearing?
If varied, then just for #6 & #3?

23:03, Today: Roahfustion rolled 12 using 3d6.  rapier 13.
23:28, Today: Roahfustion rolled 4 using 1d6-1.  thr 1d-1 imp.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:29, Thu 05 May 2022.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 139):

Troels notes the goon not dodging and slams the pick into his chest. But the bricked critically failed dodging goon 3 return attack, if there was one.

OK, to start... they are wearing chain shirts that cover torso, groin and upper arms.

Troels is not making any attack against the fellow not dodging because that was last turn and he was dueling with Goon 1. He will be at a -4 for the next turns attacks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:07, Fri 06 May 2022.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 142):

But the fellow last turn did not know I was not going to attack him! He could take a risk, but I could have attacked either. I had only engaged goon 1 once before, and was dodging goon 3 s attacks, so I was in combat with both. If he waited until I attacked, then I get to counter attack him next turn without an active defence because that lasts until his next attack!

Edit: I allowed for the -4
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Fri 06 May 2022.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 143):

Goon 1 is to your left front, Goon 3 is to your right ... you had to turn one way or th other to attack. This is all done in "a second" while in reality it is probably closer to 2-3 seconds. But you had to turn one way or the other.

Post your actions and I need Roahfustion to do the same.

I did post in msg #140

OK, I am all balled up... answering questions, You are correct Troels, I wholly missed those posts, then read Roah's and didn't connect that either.

Roahfustion stabs Goon 3 from behind, striking him in the right upper arm just below his armor.running the blade through his arm.  Goon 3 yells and drops his sword.
He is totally distracted and fails to see the attack by Troels. The Pick finishes Goon 3s sojourn on this world.

Goon 1 Attacks Troels (rolls a 5 - crit, no defense) and hits in in the left thigh for 1 point after armor deductions.

Goon 6 stands and swings at Blythe, missing as she steps back.

Goon 7 gets Goon 1 moving past Troels and toward the back door. They give Blythe some room and she backs away from them…  goon 6 realizes everyone else is withdrawing and follows Goon 7.

Goons 8-12 secure a small salient and start slipping through the opening in the bar. Others defend from the back of the Bar. The Inn Keeper swings a mace from his back room door, hitting Goon 7 in the chest, Goon 7 is staggered with 7 points of crushing damage to the vitals (after armor) and Goon 1 has to pull him out the door.

Only Goons 8-12 are still in the building and are going out the back door next turn.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 146):

Yeah it did get a bit hectic.

Troels looks around. At least three have pick holes in them, but it is the ladies he checks first. That could have gone worse, especially if they had succeeded. We would need to work out who they were, but for now, we needed to make sure they were gone and the girls were safe...

Roahfustion says playfully, still trying to control her heartbeat but making light of things, "Stop ogling, Troels, and watch those bastards for me."

Turning to Blythe she says, "Stand still if you can." Laying hands on the girl, only the lightest of touches, the bard hums a tune of healing. "Shit. That didn't work. Sorry, I can't try again at the moment."

She nips around behind Troels and lightly touches his bloodied area, again humming a tune of healing. "Good. Feel a little better?" Roahfustion feels a bit faint with the effort.

"Can either of you do First Aid on the other? That's somthing I need to learn."

======
OOC:
09:51, Today: Roahfustion rolled 14 using 3d6.  Minor Healing 13.
Fail, -1FP
09:55, Today: Roahfustion rolled 7 using 3d6.  Minor Healing 13.
Success, -3FP. Troels regains 3HP
This message was last edited by the player at 10:21, Fri 06 May 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 148):

"I know a little, but I am not very good at it."

He tries to stem the bleeding for Blythe, but is not successful.

"The three of us need some proper training. At least that might be available in this chaotic city," comments Roahfustion as she waits for the final signs of the surviving intruders to finally depart. She says quietly to her companions, "When you've finished first aiding each other, please will you get if any of the fallen here still breathe. Planning to move them to a back room and search them for indications of where they came from. Or from whom. And take anything valuable for seliing."

When it's clear they're unlikely to suffer further assault the bard has some brief words with the innkeep about borrowing a backroom to which the fallen can be removed, preferably kept under lock and key. Also to check how much material damage the inn has taken.She ends with a peculir query, "So will you forgive me if I stand on this table?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:24, Fri 06 May 2022.

To my Knowledge, Blythe was not injured.

The customrs are aiding those hurt but also trying to pull the bodies over to where they can go thru them.

Blythe push Roahfustion lightly I am fine dear and grabs a sword, and steps close to the Leader Ours, we killed him, you may have those you took down and we'll give you that one  she points and goon 3 with the hole in his chest.
There is some argumnt, but when the first guy steps forward, she raises the sword and crouches slightly ... the fellow steps back.
We may share more with you, but we get first pick.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 151):

Thanking Roahfustion for the healing, which does help him feel much better, Troels moves forward to back up her claim, stowing his pickaxe but keeping the buckler with the blade protruding menacingly, he moves to grab the leader.

OOC: I am also not aware of Blythe being hurt.

Roahfustion healed you one Point! ... she did not specify more, so that's the minimum for a healing.
Thus your Right leg is still injured at 2 and the left at 1.
Also a seond healing within 24 hours is at -2, and and additional -2 for each attempt there after.

Troels just standing up moves the crowd back and Blythe promptly strips off his Maille, and purse, which proves to be rather light (3 sp and 11 cp). She takes his Large knife which proves to be of common quality. She asks if anyone else wants anything on him after a search which finds nothing else of value.

She then moves to Goon 2, whom she also strips of his armor, checks for  anything of value rather curorily and slides his sword over nd checks his large knife , which is nothing much as well.

She next moves to Goon 4, she strips his maille, pulls his  sword over and then checks for anything special, this fellow obviously spent abit of money and has a fine quality Large Knife, which she quickly takes to replace the leaders knife, she then checks him carefully and finds his leather belt seems to have something in it. She pulls that off.

Goon 3 has been stripped naked by the locals, boots, pants, and armor, as well as his tunic.
They are eyeing the other bodies ... does anyone else check them?

Yes, the bard does.
If these are the realm's nobles then goodness only knows how avaricious the commoners would be.
Is there any indication of unit or household or orders etc for the fallen? Especially on the leader?

The bard asks the crowd a similar question about those they've stripped.

Give me a serch roll per body... and use search , perception or the like.

The locals do not know these guys, must have comein for the Fair.
The Inn Keeper will quietly says he thinks he knows which Baron hired them, and that you might want to be gone by morning, in fat he'll get you a room aat a near by Inn, so you are not found tonight. He suggests extreme care, for if he is correct, the Noble is the sort that thinks he is the Law. He also dos not like to be made to look bad, which this is going to do ... the City Guard is on it's way. You o not want your names logged, as the Noble will use it to hunt you.

"What's the noble's name? Where are his lands?" Roahfustion explores quietly so that none other than the innkeep should hear. She then adds, "So no time to finish the performance here tonight before you think we should depart?"

======
OOC: Not sure how many bodies..
08:38, Today: Roahfustion rolled 8 using 3d6.  Perception 12.
09:02, Today: Roahfustion rolled 16 using 3d6.  Perception 12.
09:03, Today: Roahfustion rolled 7 using 3d6.  Perception 12.
09:12, Today: Roahfustion rolled 12 using 3d6.  Perception 12.


This message was last edited by the player at 08:12, Sat 07 May 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 156):

Troels oversees proceedings, making sure the girls miss nothing, before going back to get their things from their room. Returning, he suggests they sleep outside of town somewhat. After selling the goods, though he will want to keep a large knife or two unless they are cheap quality.

The Inn keep suggests that you call it a night grab your things and his son will see you to another inn. Leave early and go to the Lonely Tree Inn on the far side of the fair, he gives you a token to give that inn keeper. He will understad and make sure you are safe... The Nobles will be gone in a few days. Sell nothing until they are gone, lest something be tracked back.

I'll try to get a list together today, tommorrow (mother's day) or maybe Monday.

I will assume everyone does as is suggested and moves, and then in the morning , again to the inn out just past the fair grounds... the token immeditately gets a nod and a room out of the normal ones upstarirs, instad you get a room over the inn keepers quarters which requires some knowledge to find.
Blythe does her best with First Aid on Troels, but it's not very helpful.  (missed the roll)

Findings are:
3 sets of Maille
2 average Large Knives
1 Fine Large Knife
4 average Broadswords
6 silver, 11 coppers
Plus a belt with 10 silver coins and 4 gold dinar sewn into it. ($390)
A fine quality jeweled boot knife (Dagger) was found in the same body as the belt of coins. You let one of the many customers have the boots, as they would not have fit anyone.

I assume scabbards were kept… and the Belts?


I assume all clothes were not kept.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:15, Mon 09 May 2022.

If the belts were untraceable then they're definitely kept. Any that're branded then we make a copy of it, cut them open and then burn them. Clothes were searched but not kept. The bard suggests, "Blythe, your knife broke. I know you picked up a sword but why don't you take the fine large knife as well? Does anyone mind if I take the boot dagger? That's help in a cross parry if I need it. Troels, how about you have the other large knives? Anything else you want? Armour? Broadsword?"

</Aqua>
======
OOC: From msg #156:

Roahfustion:

"What's the noble's name? Where are his lands?"...

Note to self 1 Dinar = $120</i></Orange>
This message was last edited by the player at 06:44, Mon 09 May 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 160):

"The armour would not fit me, but the knives and a broadsword may be useful as backups."

"Sure. That's fine. So shall we keep a low profile for the next few days? Or run the risk with the noble of those armoured thugs?"

Let's do as suggested, those who suggested it are most likely on our side and are knowledgable of the local situation.

You barely escape the city guard, but anything you didn't take is gone before they get there, and just 4 or so naked bodies are on the inn floor.
Hardly aanyone is in there and the Inn Keeper can only describe eight armed  men who attacked his customers. His description is not very helpful either.

Come Morning the new Inn Keeper wakes you early, then  signals you aside to a small table when you come down and as he can, looking like he is taking orders, he tells you how to go to avoid drawing attention, and gives you a time to mix in with the crowds going to the fair's first day.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 163):

Troels will suggests taking everything, which will perhaps laden the pack animals a little, but is preferable to creating problems should the inn be searched.

He also suggested that keeping the medallions on display might be wise.

There is but one medallion and Blythe has it ... she does not leave it out on display, but will show it if it might help.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 165):

I thought we all had one. I guess Blythe likes to fight...

"Yes, showing it willy nilly would attract attention and that's not something we need," agrees the bard. "So we want to go to the fair, yes?"

======
OOC: I thought we def all had one each. That's why Lord ?Hadrian? knocked off quite a chunk of cash.
Looked it up:
He'd been talking to us as a group and it was a "...your reward (plural)..." and everything else in there could be sinular or plural. Both Troels and I, it seems, took it as plural and that each of us had the same thing.

***
Moving on: can you refresh me, are we here purely for the fair? Or to hunt for rufus, to find Lord Hadrain, or soemthing else?
This message was last edited by the player at 22:39, Mon 09 May 2022.

Reward is like deer ... not specific as to numbers or whatever... but he did say "a" pendant... and there was only 6 schillings deducted not 18... although we could debate that too I suppose.

You came to see the fair, make money, look for Rufus and see what might benefit you. So far, it hasn't been so beneficial.

Yes, Troels, Blythe hasn't backed away from a fight yet, has she?

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 168):

No, neither has Troels. But he does not go out of his way to find one either.

In our room  Roahfustion suggests, "I think we should leave anything the we just acquired, at tleast, anything that's traceable, not completely generic, out of sight in our room. Seeing the trouble we had getting a toom. I think we should keep this room for the next couple of days until the fair's over. We'd be in deep water if somone did a spot check on us wandering around with this stuff. And I suggest no drinking contests or any such; we can't afford to be causght drunk until this fair is done and dusted."

Unless both Treols and Blythe object, then Roahfustion will ask the innkeep, "How much for current boad plus breakfast until the fair's over? Basic is fine."

======
OOC: I'm ambivalent. Troels, want Lord's Medallion each at a cost of another 12 silver total? Or you not bothered? I can do the bookkeeping, just need a "yes" or a "no", please.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:57, Tue 10 May 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 170):

I would prefer one each...

It is afternoon when the Inn Keep lets you know that a snoop was by looking for musicians with a giant as a guard. The rumor has become pretty clea rthat Baron Quintus Bumkisser is the Noble concerned and that he was deeply embarrassed by a) not providing the promised entertainment and b) having his guards ravaged so by a couple of bumpkins.  He is out for "Justice".
Word is spreading quickly, so everyone is on edge and staying away from the Baron and his men.

It is mid afternoon when the Baron and 18 armed men bust into the inn and the Baron demands to see the criminals before he tears the place down to find them ... He lets no one leave but presents several jugs of oil and some torches to make it clear what is about to happen.  There are more mounted men around back and to the sides.

While we've apparently been hiding in our room the innnkeeper pointed out that above the 2x2' laundry chute has an overhead rope that can be pulled down to allow everyone to slide into the basement and use an escpe tunnel.

Roahfustion says, "Look, it was me that brought you here, and so forth, yada yada, so, thanks, but we can't let theis Baron burn the twenty or thirty people in here. So, you pair bugger off down the escape shoot. Troels, you'll need to whip off your armour and maybe grease your shoulders. There's soap and oil there. I'll keep them talking long as I can. You pair go, and sometime find Lord Hadrian and tell him all about this bas tard. Don't try to take him out yourselves." She kisses them both. and then whips out her Lord Hadrian medalion. "See you in the next life."

The bard pauses and then adds as an afterthought, "Take as many of the inn's inhabitants with you as you can. If any start screaming or somesuch, knock 'em out and stuff them down the hole. Better broken bones than burnt to death." She turns away hoping no one saw her her lip quiver.

======
OOC: re msg #171 - OK, one Lord Hadrian medalion each. I'll take the 12s off the bookkepping. Apparently redacted.

***
Have to say, I though we'd been told how to keep a low profile and therefore were going (low key) walkabout each day.
I'm going with it, but it does feel like kama catching up as we whined about the 3 on 3d6 for a Singing performance.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:35, Tue 10 May 2022.

No, STOP... not that fast.

There is one Lord Hadrian Medal. Blythe offers it to you, I am not about to bail out on you.... She gets one of the swords and dresses herself to fight if need be. I will not have 25 folks burn to save me, that is not acceptable in my beliefs.

"I'll talk to him from upstairs if you can get some of these folk down the hole?" suggests Roahfustion. "You won't let 25 burn for you. I do understand. Well I won't let 27 burn for me. It's the same and it's me he's after."

======
OOC: paused for Troels.
And struck through references to individual medalions in my previous post, which I thouh was on the table but ok.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:36, Tue 10 May 2022.

Likly not, You didn't kill anyof his men, I did. Bet he wants to square up, he best hope I don't get to him before his soldiers get to me...

Roahfustion loks Blythe squarely in the eyes and says, "Blythe, you know you mean a lot to me, right? Will you do something for me, please?"

======
OOC: Ooops! Nearly paused for Troels.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:40, Tue 10 May 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 177):

Troels loads his crossbow and looks for windows to fire from. He has his things in a pack on his back, putting the medallion on clear display.

"Since we got no warning when the scout came through asking, the inn is not that innocent. I did say we should have headed to the country, but too late for that. I am with you, Blythe, let's see how many more they want to loose. If that is how this upstart treats the Counts men, then he deserves what he will get. Let's pick a choke point and get ready..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:23, Tue 10 May 2022.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 178):

The Inn Keeper DID tell you about the snoop, perhaps through Roahfustion, but he has been above reproach, of course if you guys show up, he is shown to be lying ... but maybe he still has an Inn to run.

Blythe asks If we escaped through the trap door and tunnel and then came back, perhaps it takes him off the block?We'd need to do it very quickly...

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 179):

If we knew of the snoop, why did we not leave at that time? Troels, who already wanted to leave the city, would have pushed for it again.

Who did Blythe hand the medallion to? She did not specify...so Troels would have taken it. He did kill the most men...

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 180):

Because the snoop was just snooping and did not seem to notcie anything (he didn't), the Baron found you other ways ... Perhaps the first inn keepers son?

Blythe gave the medallion to Roahfustion. It was specified, but perhaps in a PM, if so, my error.

OOC: @troels - I receieved several consecutive posts; last I knew/thoughtprior to that was that we'd been coached on how to pass unnoticed in the fair. Then a day (or days) seem to have passed and the baron has us surrounded and seems the inn is an isolated building so no roof jumping, just the cellar escape. Late here so off to sleep.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 182):

Ok, that is fine. Troels will be suggesting she use it for negotiations, but he does not expect them to help. Is there a window? Any visibility of the dickhead in charge?

Three curtained windows that you can peek out of. looks to be aabout 5 mounted men at arms on each side that you can see. No one looks like a baron ... AND you can hear him starting to rant and threaten down stairs.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 184):

"So, Roah, you want to talk to him, while I line him up as plan B?"

"Thank you, Blythe,"  Roahfustion says as she accepts the Lordly chin and puts it around her neck, now worn openly.

She turns her attention to Troels, "Honestly, no. Even if he's doing wrong he's still a noble of this country and Lord Hadrian would have to hang us irrespective of what he does to Baron Bottomsniffer, or whatever his name is, thereafter. Self defense against armed men is one thing. And, technically, as they're native to this kingdom and we're not, that would be sufficient by itself to hang us. That's why I wanted you lot to do a runner into the sewers taking the inn's inhabitants with you. If you won't do that, then get the innkeep to start evacuation via sewer of his inhabitants, but quietly! You barricade the doors, and windows. If he sets fire to the polace then I think Lord Hadrian's men will turn up and the baron will bugger off disappear. That's why evacuation starting now is good. I will literally start a song and dance upstairs. Maybe, just maybe that'll create sufficient hew and cry to attract Lord Hadrian's men. Only other thing I can thing of is when everyone else is evacuated, we set fire to the inn and lay the blame at Baron Bottomsniffer's feet. I'm running out of ideas. Anyone else got any?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 186):

"Kill him in self defence and skip town...or we all hide in the cellars and let him do this. It is likely to cause so much dissent that we will not be the only ones wanting him dead.

Either way, I am dead if he catches me, so if I am going down, I am taking a bunch of them with me."

CLARIFICATION-

The Baron is in the inn! No one is running away down there.

Anyone watching out side still?   Percption roll if so.  Blythe is not, as sh is getting wound up about what's coming.

OOC: Fine go with the plot train then
I'm out this evening and off early in the morning for a few days travel. Will post when I can
This message was last edited by the player at 16:56, Wed 11 May 2022.

Have fun, don't worry ... maybe I'll have you romantically involved with the baron when you get back. Let's my perverse side flow...





AND I'm far enough away to be reasonably safe ;-)

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 190):

Yeah, Troels is looking for a target. But he seems distracted, per 3 over.

He is getting ready for the fight of his life. Northmen do not surrender.

Blythe slips out the door and looks around... out through the kitchen seems a bad plan, but she locates a "servants" stairway to the second floor landing and goes that way, cracking the door to look out at what is going on.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 192):

Troels will suggest Roahfustion to follow and head off after Blythe, with all their stuff. Or at least what they had in their room, which would have included the evidence.

"Blythe, should we get the animals? We will be slower without them..."

Blythe steps back closing the door.. Drop the stuff, it just gets in the way of fighting ... none of us can get to the animals.
We are blocked in, so it's cornered animal time for me.

She again cracks the door.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 194):

"So running is not an option. Let's get ready to fight then."

He readies his crossbow, making sure it is cocked, and again looks out the window.

So give me a perception roll...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 196):

Much better!

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 197):

Blythe pushes the door open and moves onto the Landing, spear and shield ready.

Roahfustion follows her out and looks down into the common room (from the front door in the North wall, you are in the right rear corner and about 7 feet above the common room floor).  Th common room is about 60 feet fron to Bar and around 40 feet wide with tables and benches on both sides.

The Baron Smiles Ah Songbird, you are even more pretty than they said, I look forward to our times together.

Roahfustion is struck by how physically attractive he is and smiles back.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 199):

Troels smiles. "Company." He just needed to stall him.

He moves after Roahfustion, noting the noble down the sights of his crossbow.


"I would be careful about that. We work for Lord Hadrian. I am assigned her gaurd and as you have no doubt noticed, I take my job very seriously."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:09, Fri 13 May 2022.

The Baron quickly back peddles behind his men  Seize those criminals, we'll see aboutwho is protecting the people and the Law.

A group of 6 men start to shuffle forward cautiously with their tower shields up.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 201):

"We have defended ourselves from your criminal activity before. We will do so again. You can see the Lord's Medallion here, so I suggest you keep your men with you."

Being on a landing, if his men approach the stairs, he will not have the benefit of their shields.

How far are they? How far to the bottom and top of the stairs? A map might be in order...

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 202):

Read message 199 again... they just hold their shield up at an angle, and they work fine.

By the GM for the Player

Roahfustion gives the baron a big smile and motions him closer with her curled fore finger.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 204):



Noting 10 men in front of the Baron presumably all with shields up, and six moving to the foot of the stairs which are along the back wall, Troels moves to the foot of the stairs, keeping his buckler on his back.

What are they all armed with, including the guys staying with the baron? Are there rails to stop people falling off the stairs?

They have swords with points and maille armor.  These guys have helmets too.

Yes, there are railings on the stair case...

Stupid men! Takes a distance weapon that's slow to load and goes down to stand a few feet away!

She holds her position at the head of the stairs with her spear ready.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 207):

He smiles.

"You are not going to hit the Baron with that, and I caused him to keep his men separated into small groups. Perhaps you need to look past the point of your weapon to see the bigger picture."

He tucks the bolt into his belt as he stows the crossbow, readying his buckler as they make their way to the stairs. He himself joins Blythe at the top of the stairs.

Where are they at this point. Not sure if you have tried to bring anything like a tower sheild up stairs, but it is as slow as hell, and tricky, as they are climbing blind (due to the sheilds). How many can fit abreast? Can we access the top of the stairs from more than one side?

Where are they at this point.
   Clustered near the bottom of the stairs.

Not sure if you have tried to bring anything like a tower sheild up stairs, but it is as slow as hell, and tricky, as they are climbing blind (due to the sheilds).
    No doubt, not blind, but trying to look in two different directions at once, which isn't vastly better.

How many can fit abreast? Can we access the top of the stairs from more than one side?
      Just one, and no you cannot.

Come on down here and lets get to know each other songbird. the baron calls out


Roahfustion giggles and makes a little finger wave as she starts to sing; it seems a strange sounding song... nothing seems to happen except for a small green cloud and some sparkles forming near Roahfustion.

On behalf of Roahfustion

Roahfustion wiggles a little and starts the same wierd song again while smiling at the baron....

This time something seems to work... the baron suddenly grabs the front of his trousers as a puddle spreads across the front and runs down the legs of his trousers , the soldiers around him seem to sniff the air and move away which causes him to yell at them to get back and cover him... which they do somewhat hesitently.

There is some snickering among the guests of the inn being held by the Baron's soldiers.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 211):

Troels will wait at the top of the stairs for the first victim to approach, readying his pickaxe to strike from above before the first one reaches the top of the stairs, where he is waiting.

"You little boys sure you want to die this way? Your boss is scared shitless, and he should be. When Lord Hadrian finds out, he will be in a world of hurt."

What Horese Shit is this? Lord Hadrian will cheer your hanging  the Baron says


Likely Not Bomkisser, they were given my protection, you can see my token on the big fllow up there. Then your men tried to muscle them and did an admirably bad job of it. Then you threatened the Innkeeprs child with the loss of his father and followed up by having the man beaten badly and thrown in the Gaol ... now here you are again using force to violate my peace bond on this fair.  I think you will stand your men down and come with me now.


The Baron suddenly sees things going badly . Arrest this man, he is unfit to b lord of these lands!

Lord Hadrian Laughs and steps inside the door  General Goodsmythe, take these men out under arest, whole or in pieces.

At this a column of soldiers enter, two wide and with no end visible, they start arresting the soldiers. only a few of whom make to fight before realizing that they stand no chance at all.

The Baron pulls his sword, but as his men are pulled away, he back toward the side wher all the  customers have been held, one of the men turns and puts his foot on the baron's backside and shoves him forward into the Lord's menwho make quick work of blocking his sword, and then disarmming him.

Everyone come outside please, you too inn keeper and bring the family.

Phoebe plays a last few chords, harmonising with her voice, rising notes that then crash downwards.

======
OOC: Aimed at the Baron's internal bottom muscle(s)
17:48, Today: Roahfustion rolled 8 using 3d6.  Spasm 13
This message was last edited by the player at 16:48, Sun 15 May 2022.

The baron's bowels make a loud rude noise and then the Baron becomes obviously uncomfortable and the soldiers around him all make faces and wrinkle their noses.

Lord Hadrian notices and raises a questioning eye brow,  one of the soldiers says He seems to have shit himself my Lord.

Take him out back and have him clean himself, then bring him out front to me. He is my prisoner and has no rights or ranks I do not give him, and at this moment, I give him none.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 215):

Torels will offer his assistance to the new arrivals in dealing with the soldiers in this area, before following Lord Hadrian's directions, and those of his men.

Roahfustion sags, extremely tired with the effort of her magics over such a distance. She manages to fish up the energy to check on her friends, "Are you ok, Blythe? And you, Troels?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 217):

"Quite. Just making sure that these fools recognise the real lord of these lands before I relax."

Blythe says she is fine, just a bit nerved up.

Th armed men wave off troels offer to help, saying they have things well in hand. at least 10 of them took the good baron out back to "clean up".

You are all ushered out the door, where Lord Hadrian waves you to the left of the front porch, along with the Inn Keeper and his family.
It is a bit of time before the Baron is muscled around the outsid of the inn and Upin front of Lord Hadrian. His armor has been removed, as have all his weapons, his trousers are dripping wet.


SIlence Please. This man I trustd to care for nad improve our County has instead made himself a tormentor of the common folk who make ths County great. He has used the law to do whatever suits him or his wishes and not done those duties I had assigned as instructed. Hes has attempted to drag these entertainers from their work to please him and his friends. When his plan was foiled, he used threats abuse and torture to punish those who did not do all he wanted, regardless of law or rights.  As I can grant rank and Lands, so can I remove them. Thus I strip Quintus Bumkisser of his nobility and declare him a commoner, I seize his lands and monies, his soldiers are mine and will be retrained. His Marraige to Euphemia Rosamund Bumkisser is annulled and she shall return to her family name as Euphemia Rosamund Lockznatch, all off spring will bear her name and his name will be erased from the records. Take him away to the Gaol, until we can settle his Debts.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:58, Wed 18 May 2022.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 219):

Even Troels recognised this as a time to keep quiet and follow directions, and he did so, ensuring that the ladies with him were unmolested and in good health. He will carry Roahfustion if she needs it.

Roahfustion gratefully accepts the offer of support, and gathers her two friends, one on each side of her, and leans on them both.

"I'm fine; just a bit tired. I'll be fiene after a little rest and something to eat."  Roahfustion looks at Troels and smiles. "I meant food. Anyway, are you two alright?" She glances at Blythe to check on her.

The bard adds, "I think we should check on the previous innkeep and his family. Just if case the Baron did them damage." She doesn't articulate about magical healing having no wish to be Lord Hadrian's physician for the rest of her life. "Well, the baron was a real s**t! And Lord Hadrian seems to be a right and proper Lord. I mean that in all sincerity. Perhaps we should approach and ensure the Lord is aware that the baron has a debt to the previous innkepp as well as this one."

Unless they argue otherwise, she urges the trio to respecttfully approad Lord Hadian, curtsies and bows being appropriate.

OOC - If you read Lord Hadrian's speech, he addresses the first Inn Keeper.

 As you approaach he turns and smiles. You sing too well for your own good, my Lady.  But he will no longer be an issue for you or others; I aam uncovering more and he has more to answer for.  Did he not see and acknowledge the necklace with my seal?

Roahfustion drops another curtsie. "Thanks you, Lord Hadrian. I believe he did see it and we cited both it, and, your pardon, your name  multiple times. It seemed as if he disregarded  your authority, seeing himself as all important."

======
OOC: Was the speech reference in msg #213 ?

Why am I not Surprised ... I am learning a lot about him that I do not much like.


OOC -  No, in 219

"Perhaps the debts might cover damages to both to the innkeppers, their family and property, Lord Hadrian," suggests  Roahfustion. "And as an unsubstantiated speculation, might the unpleasant fellow, Mr Quintus Bumkisser, have had inluence in the distribution of payments for your wall's army units?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:30, Wed 18 May 2022.

Lord Hadrian Looks at you with a strange smile ...  Perhaps I should investigate you for knowing so much. Indeed he did, as I believe you warned me before.  We are still finding things he did wrongly. His poor wife is all but destroyed and his actions reflect on his children as well. I cannot believe it took so long to see the problems, even his wife was dumbfounded.

Roahfustion curtsies, "Nothing to hide here, Lord Hadrian. We're just good, really good I mean, at things like that. Perhaps we might talk privately when you have a few moments."

Lord Hadrian looks around, waves off his chamberlain and the two guards Give me a bit of room please.  Now young lady, what is it you wish to talk about?

She takes a deep breath and says, "My proposal: once per week I perform for you and the other six in an inn. Afternoons we three practise singing, slingshot, spear use or whatever. But during all of those, when we're not with you, we can listen, look and ferret for anything that you may consider untoward or wrong. Under cover of performing for you, we could report what we find. Might be something small, or large, like the baron, or nothing at all. What do we get out of it? Well, we need to be better at first aid so if you would arrange for intensive training (in first aid) for us in the mornings. I always move around, and would still do so. After a month we can review and see how it's working."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:22, Thu 19 May 2022.

The Count decides to try out your idea.

You can roll for your time with him and in the inn ... I am assuming the one you first started in. The owner was badly beaten and is not doing a lt, while his Family works extra hard to keep up. His son is miserable for having betrayed his Dad, although truth be told, the man may well be alive because his son did so.

You don't produce anything huge, but do point his guards to a small gang and a robbery they have planned. They stop that in progress and round up all 5 who are complicit.

he Count's Physician teaches the First Aid class to you and others. All other training you have to find and pay for. You find someone for everything but Ignite Fire.

Week one is done: you make an average of 4 schillings a day* plus 5 from the coun and two mor pendants so each of you has one now.

* you share extra with the inn keepers family durig this time of stress.

The Following week things continue. [roll as desired for skills, one roll per skill attempted.]


Much of the talk of the town is mundane, except that roels over hears something about "a count from down south hiding in town to see things".
Normally a Noble would present himself to the Local Lord, so this seems a bit odd.  let me know what you do...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 232):

Troels seeks to find out more. Who, and what sort of person is he? I presume Troels is healed after the first week...

Rolls to come in ooc

Trooels was healed the day of the incident magically.

No on you ask knows anything. Listening seems to point to a group of Mercenariars who seem to wear a medium blue scarf on their left upper arm when they want to be identified. Most of the time they seem to wear no markings, but do seem to be nosing around. Generally trying to determine how well liked the Lord (Hadrian) is and what might make someone else preferred.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 234):

Troels will approach them, as if asking about work, but wanting to know who they work for if they are currently on a job.

Roahfustion watches from a distance (unless Troels wishes otherwise, whether that meaning her being either closer or further away).

They know nothing and have no advice as they are just passing through... they will not answer any questions, but you have been marked you are sure.

Seeing that troels appears to have been given the brush off,  Roahfustion's please she kept a discreet distance away. She racks her memory for anything that may enlighten.

======
OOC: 19:16, Today: Roahfustion rolled 10,10 using 3d6,3d6.  Current Affairs ( People) 12,  ( Regional) 12.
19:17, Today: Roahfustion rolled 9,15 using 3d6,3d6.  Perception 12; Acute Hearing 13.
19:20, Today: Roahfustion rolled 12,18 using 3d6,3d6.  Heraldry 12;

This message was last edited by the player at 18:21, Sun 22 May 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 238):

There just isn't anything, which is suspicious in itself.

 Roahfustion apparently doesn't know Troels as she disappears into a side alley, then emerging smartened* up.  She loosely follows the ssuspicious fellows, trying to get some sort of 'read' on them*.


======
OOC: Change of headscarf. (It worked in Hitman PC games! ha!)
*Who's the brightest/most attractive/in charge etc Any accents?
Possibly going to try and vamp one of them; we'll see.

You are able to locate the probable leader as a large man in the middle of the group of 5 men. The accents are almost imperceptible, slight differences in pronuciation of select words .. nothing glaring at all ... in fact it is your fine ear [from music] that notices these minor things.

She ducks into another side alley and lets the quintent put some distance between them.
Roahfustion removes her headscarf and shakes her hair out.

If she can follow them for a short while then fine, perhaps to see if they go into any particular building in the next block or two, but she gives up if any of them disappear or if the area appears to get rough.

Thence back to Blythe and report back to Lord Hadrian.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:34, Sun 22 May 2022.

We can assume that you had a 'normal' meeting with Lord Hadrian the following evening...  he becomes very intersted in this.  in fact he'd like one of you (probably Blythe who has been most distant) to point them out to his guards ... the ones that don't wear his colors openly. He also suggests that Troels alter his movements and sleeping arrangements.  He gives you 5 silver and says depending on what they find out , there will be more.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 243):

Troels will see if a different room can be found. One that is harder to get to. And he will start sleeping in armour, as it is just leathers, with a knife under the pillow and the axe and bucket in arms reach. With a cord attached to him and the weapons.

Sounds uncomfortable , the girls will move with him but not sleep with all that, they use the other bed.

Roahfustion will sleep nearest the wall but snuggled comfortably close to Blythe.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 246):

He is a barbarian from the north...it is normal for him!

Blythe is a barbarian from the North as well, but Roahfustion feels much better than armor and weapons.

The bard is happy to help Blythe feel much better.

Come Morning you are all told that were were a coue of big guys in looking for you and even went to your old room, which was open and being cleaned. No one knew where you went, and they left.

"Were they asking for any particular one of us?" asks  Roahfustion.

Just the Big guy... the inn keeper replies.

Moving a short distance away, Roahfustion asks Troels, "Want to leave a message for them in case they wan to employ you? Or maybe better not, in case.. What do you think though?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 253):

"If they wanted to employ me, they could have at the time. I would like to find them through"

He asks for a detailed description of them, to try to find out where they are stay and who they are.

Oh Please... The description is what you have seen although not as clearly explained.  They don't know a thing past that.

The fair lasted two weeks, the first week being the big one, the second more for trading and selling stuff [think a merchant fair] and the third week everyone started leaving.  At the start of the 4th week, things have trailed off a lot, the inns are much slower and the inn keepers can't afford to make the same lucrative deals. The Lords men [a few] are still very interstd in seeing these men... theywant you to find them and point them out.  They have a bout 6 city snipes [scouts] and a stay behind guard of 20 men "to make sure everything stays quiet".  They ar really here as muscle, should you locate these guys.

So it is the first work day of the new [4th] week, tell me what you are doing...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 256):

Looking for these thugs. Armed and dangerous.

Failing to scrounge any suitable bits of wood to turn into a couple of wedges for room's door (night time security) Roahfustion tries the market to buy a couple of wooden wedges for the door.

When no training or performing she either tails Troels at a distance or else ranges further afield visiting inns to look for three venues for "pop-up" performances by Roahfustion, two nights each, to funs their fifth and final week of training. (She figures her Reputation (advantage) may have kicked in by now and so the inkeeps may bid high, but soon it will be time to move on).

As an aside, these inn visitations are also jolly good cover to 'idly' enquire about any folks* seeking a "big man"**. She enquires accordingly.

======
OOC:
*The suspicious people who are probably working for the creepy southern lord.
**Troels
Happy to make rolls if and as required for finding venues &/or enquiring about burly fellows looking for (unnamed) Troels.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:19, Tue 24 May 2022.

Troels needs to make some search rolls... he has six of the Lord's snipes with him, although they just seem to be heading in the same direction and are NOT clustered about him...one stays close though.  Blythe stays close to Roahfustion.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:39, Tue 24 May 2022.

Roahfustion raises an eyebrow never having uttered that name since meeting Troels and Blythe.

======
OOC: ha!

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 260):

Who is Helena?

OOC: I suspect we have encountered a mental aberration (copy/paste type).

I feel like a mental abberation ... the muse slapped me up along side the head and I have been trying to write down the story before it escapes me... it's not this story...just something that occupied my mind last night.

Any way, I fixed the message...

You do not see the men but a scruffy fellow comes up and says, Who yer lookin fer is left for Quartedec. I seen 'em go dis mornin'.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 263):

"Thanks. Have a copper for your trouble."

He gives him a coin.

Where is Quarterdeck?

Quartedec is the Lord's main city... [which you just came from about 4 some weeks ago].

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 265):

Let Lord Hadrian know... suggest to the girls to chase them.

Blythe speaks quiety with the older man, then returns I recommend he come with us, as he has talents that may be useful, like opening locks and avoiding traps. He'd be happy to get on the right side of the law for a change.

"Hey, fellow, what's your name?" asks  Roahfustion. "I'm  Roahfustion. Do you wish to work with us? Even if it is occasionally dangerous?"

I be Taver and fer the short term, yeah, we can do it.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 269):

Troels is cautious, slow to trust, but he will not argue with the ladies.

"Ok, fine, he can join us. We chasing these guys, or leaving them to the Lord?"

Well the Lord is after them, I say we assist as we can ... nothing else to do, is there?

"Well, I wanted to finish the bit of training, but if we don't progress all of the evening performances Ithey could be squeezed in," answers  Roahfustion. "Or were you thinking we could catch them before they reached Quarterdeck." She turns to the older fellow with the common accent, "Taver, no offence, not all folks can, but can you count?"..."So how many men left in that group this morning? Were they on foot? Horse? Or wagon?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:30, Wed 25 May 2022.

They wuz a foot mostly but da big boss was ridin' a 'spensive horse.

"Fine, so they'll be moving at walking pace. Thank you, Taver. How many were with the 'big boss'?" She looks up at the sun to try and estimate how many hours ahead they are. "Would you be able to decribe the 'big boss'? And point out where they all were staying?"

As an aside to Troels she says, "Can you summons one of the men assigned to you and see if we can be loaned horses to try and catch them?"
She says to Blythe, "Did you say that Lord Hadrian has already left? Do you know when? And how many were in his entourage? Can you find out?"

They wuz somere's I didn' catch. But they got maybe 3 fingers o' sun on ya. Walk serious like an we'll catch 'em.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 275):

Troels will suggest going light in order to catch them and return before dark. He will let the snitches know, and ask if any can assist.

Travel light is weapons, armour, drink flask and 2 rations. Plus fish hooks and line in a pocket.

"Fine, we'll do this. Where do you want to leave the pack animals? But word needs to be sent to Lord Hadrian."

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 277):

"They are currently safely at the inn, are they not? The scouts will see to it that his Lordship is informed."

He will make sure that they understand that.

"They are. But not paid for in advance," the bards says while thinking hard. "I'm unaccustomed to having livestock, but I imaginbe they would be alright for at least a couple of days."</Aqua>

After taking off her zither Roahfustion removes her backpack, extracts some paper and scrolls, and stows them in a pocket. Re-slinging her zither she writes a note and then announcesannounces, "If we can get this note and the backpack sent to the inn where the horses are, then I'm good to travel immediately."

***
The note: "Hello Innkeep, I, Roahfustion, have been called away with my associates on urgent business but shall be back shortly. Please look after the enclosed and our horses and stowed tack. For the this day that we are away (and any other) I shall give you a free performance, subject to usual free board & lodging. Yours with trust, Roahfustion, Bard of the Road."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:37, Thu 26 May 2022.

Taver Laughs,  I don't think ya needs ta do all that, we kin catch 'em as they ain' runnin, dey is Moseyin'. But a mess'ger ta hiz lardship seems wise, long asit don' take da same road.

"So you reckon it'll be ok to bring all our stuff? Horses and all, Taver?"

Yup, they's got a cart behind a donkey, soes I'd think it's fine.

She nods. "Troels, Blythe, happy to take all our stuff with us?"

Aye, much happier than leaving it... trust is earned and I a still a bit edgy on that.
This message was last updated by the player at 19:35, Thu 26 May 2022.

"Sure, I get that," the bard says and smiles, locking eyes. "How much would you say you trust me?"

She smiles  Oh , I think that is growing well.

"Hold still," Roahfustion asks and, after licking her forefinger, takes a pace to Blythe and wipes a smudge from the blonde's cheek. "There. All clean." She smiles, delighted that the pair of them have become so comfortable with each other.

The bard swivels round to the big fellow, "Now, Treols. Are you happy to take all our stuff with us?"

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 287):

"Not so happy it will slow us down, but yeah, if you think it best."

"It seems to be the way the wind is blowing and certainly faster overall," she rplies.

"Say, Taver , we saw five of them. That's a big one and four others. How many were with the guy on the horse?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:45, Thu 26 May 2022.

Jus' five w'en dey left. din' ha no campin' stuff tho'. gessin dey is gonna stop at  inn.

"Any idea how far to the first inn along that road?" she asks as they collect all their stuff, horses included, and head out in pursuit.

One of the Snipes volunteers  About a days walk ... likely 6 leagues anyway.

"We'll need to figure out if they're meeting others of their faction at the inn," foreshadows Roahfustion. After they leave town, the bard picks up the tune to a marching song andstarts to teach the verses to Troels.

The march seems to cause everyone to pick up the pace a little about two hours later you see a cart pulled off along with a horse and some men ... big fellows at that based of foot size and depth of footprints.

She looks at Troels, "Any idea how fresh these are? And anything else..?"

Blythe squats down and looks at the tracks  No more than two hours old.  And there ... it looks like they all went back up on the road again...  they picked up something here, let me look.  Oh yeah, there was a camp here with a bunch of stuff stacked around.  looks like about three guys were here and they left with everyone else. took a bit to load up the camp too, I bet we are only a little over an hour behind them.

"So eight men plus the fellow on horseback?"

That's what it would seem to be...

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 298):

"Good. Let's keep moving."

How many snipes do I have with me?

four and 12 soldiers with a sergeant. 15 total, Sergeant is in charge.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 300):

That is a sizable group. Keep pressing on after them.

Roahfustion stays close to Troels and Blythe.

It is early afternoon when the lead snipe, some 50 meters ahead of the group makes a motion and stops near a slight bend in the road.

When you get up to him he says  we is about a long arrow shot behind 'em.

Roahfustion looks to Troels. This sort of thing isn't something she has any real experience with.

We'd be no surprise if we tried to close now.  Sergeant, did you get a messenger off?

He nods that he did ...

Maybe let one or two guys stay ahead of us and we track off of them?  Peope on the road shouldn't arouse much interst and I'd be hanging back too, if I was alone and saw a bunch of armed men.

The bard shrugs and nods. Seemed sensible to her. She looks again to Troels for leadership.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 306):

How thick is the forest? And how far from the road?

"Perhaps just I follow them and the rest of you hide, and they will likely turn back and come to attack me. Then the rest of you jump them..."

The sergeant raises an eyebrow   An what will ye be wanting on yer coffin, young hero?
8 soldiers? They will kill you long before we could intercede.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 308):

"Meh, Blythe and I have dealt with that before. You have a lot of bowmen, right? How long does it take to release arrows? I can run for the forest, too, to make it look like I just made a big mistake, and draw them in after me..."

"Do they have bows too?"

The sergeant does not have a lot of bowmen... in fact he has none.

How about the bandits? Or crossbows?

The Group you are chasing? no they don't seem to have any either.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 313):

What? Scouts without ranged weapons? Extremely unusual, both historically and in fantasy world...

OOC: They're all obviously urban scouts are bow would make them stand out. Moving on..
So perhaps Troels needs to take several others with him? Or else quite a lot and detour around and ahead to set an ambush. Possibly the important thing after staying alive*) is to stop the bloke on the horse getting away. How much authority do the medallions carry?

*If Troels or Blythe get killed the bard will cry and cry.

Well there is also the Faith thing... this "bloke" is heading towards the Lord's capital city where the lord is headed or is ... if the Messenger get's through, a response team will be coming the other way with the means of dealing with the group.  Their only escape is to the flanks [fields and fences] or back down the road. So maybe you aren't needed to go attack them.

"I suppose we could follow them If they attack us, we should be allowed to defend ourselves."

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 317):

IFF the messengers got through. We are not sure what has happened to the Lord either. Kind of prefer to deal with them now...

Setting an ambush would have to wait until next day, when they stop for the night...unless a suitable bend in the road can be identified.

But we would have to march much of the night to get around them and find a spot for an ambush, I am not in favor so long as he is heading toward Quartedec. The sergeant says.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 319):

"Then perhaps we should approach them from behind, with half of us off to the side traveling parallel." How far away is cover?

The sergeant squints his eyes a bit You do any damn silly thing you want, we will not be a part of it.  We will wait on more soldiers showing up or just track them into the city.

"Fine, so let's just follow them then Catch them if they bolt for it."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:35, Wed 01 June 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 322):

Troels frowned.

"Then it should be noted that you refused to do anything. If just following them goes badly, it will be your responsibility, Sergeant."

The sergeant lokked at troels, smiled and shrugged  It is always my fault, even when it's not.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 324):

"No, when you follow lawful orders, it is your superiors fault. But that is not the case here."

He Laughed, Well since I am the superior here, it will be my fault. And I do have my orders.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 326):

"Well, if you are in charge, what are the orders, so we do not inadvertently break them as well."

You are a civilian, I do not give you orders. I do give the soldiers and snipes orders.
Do as you will but stay out of our way.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 328):

"Ok, in order to do that, what are your orders, so I can avoid hindering you in doing them?"

I do not answer to you, My orders ar what they are... you were going to help, but you have become a hinderance.  Follow along from a bows shot back.

In reply to Troels 'Longspear' Brynjolf (msg # 329):

"If I have become a hindrance, it is because I am not aware of your orders. If you insist on keeping it that way, I will continue to do what I think best. I don't disobey orders I don't have..."

Clearly annoyed he turns and storms off...stowing the axe and shield and readying his crossbow, moving to the side of the road and heads to where he can see for himself what is going on.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:50, Tue 31 May 2022.

"That clear enough, sergeant, thank you." The bard flashes him a smile. He just doing his job. "Come along, Troels, please. Let's comply. This is Lord Hadrian's problem, on his lands and these are his men obeying his laws." She times Troels a smile and tugs on his sleeve for them to stay put and let the soldiers put the distance between them. It can be a short bowshot, one that shrinks. She makes eyes at Blythe to HP ease the problem away.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:36, Wed 01 June 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 332):

"I am becoming less convinced of who these men serve. Whatever our quarries mission is, these men seem intent that he accomplish it, and with us so far back we may not even see it. I prefer to trust my own eyes, and leave him to protect you ladies."

Lighten up Troels, it is not our job to bring these men in, just to identify them to the Lord's men. We have done that and we should follow quietly for whatever reward  we may get.

In reply to Blythe of Portage (msg # 334):

"Are these men really the Lord's? Or have they been bought? I am not accusing...I genuinely don't know,and that is my concern."

"Well, let's give them a little of time to settle down and then I'll go and see if I can detect any such subterfuge?"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:36, Wed 01 June 2022.

In reply to Roahfustion (msg # 336):

"I suspect they will hide it from you, but ok."