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19:57, 26th April 2024 (GMT+0)

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Posted by The StrayFor group 0
The Stray
GM, 2045 posts
The Marshal
'round these parts
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 18:21
  • msg #1

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

quote:
And I shall strike down upon them
With great vengeance and furious anger,
And they shall know that I am the LORD,
When I lay my vengeance upon them.
--Ezekial 25:17

For the LORD of hosts will have a day of reckoning
Against everyone who is proud and lofty
And against everyone who is lifted up,
That he may be abased.
--Isiah 2:12

Now what will you do in the day of reckoning,
And in the devastation which will come from afar?
To whom will you flee for help?
And where will you leave your wealth?
--Isiah 10:3


Some Mood Music

September 17th, 1880. Afternoon. Mint Gambling Saloon, Deadwood, Sioux Nations

Rain washes the streets of Deadwood, beating down on all passers-by. A motley band of heroes, lawmen, and the walking dead wind their way up the muddy street. People scurry for cover, perhaps out of need to get out of the rain, perhaps to get out of the scrutiny of the storm walkers. By the time they arrive at the Mint, no one is left on the streets save the preacher, the stubborn brave, the lady with fiery hair, the Austrian soldier, and the mountain man.

The approaching group is no less motley--A tall woman in a black hat and duster, an average man with an easy manner and a US Marshal's badge, a short and bow-legged prospector, a lanky gunslinger with a streak of white in his hair, a man wrapped all in bandages, another tall woman dressed in jacket and jeans with an odd rifle strapped on her back, a half-breed bounty hunter taking in all of his surroundings, and finally what looks like the late Wild Bill Hickok, who looms over the rest of them like a dark cloud.

Inside the Mint, two Cheyenne Dog Soldiers mill about. One of them, a man with wild hair and an interested gaze, moves cloer towards the pool table where a neatly dressed lawman and a shadowy figure in grey suit and top hat prepare to play. The other Dog Soldier, a woman, sticks close by a tall Irishman in a cloak and buckskin clothing. Meanwhile, a Welsh bounty hunter and an Arkansas hardcase drink at the bar while a dapper barkeep with an impressive beard keeps watch over the whole affair.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 390 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b2
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 18:33
  • msg #2

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((ooc: Here goes nothing...))

Matt lined up in a low stance, set his aim, and put the cue ball on the left side of the 1. The rack-up broke like a dropped plate and he was satisfied to see the 15 drop. Matt stood and clicked his tongue. He took his time selecting his next shot, and put another ball in the corner pocket with an air of elan.

His third shot was not as lucky. He hadn't given himself anywhere to go, and satisfied himself with attempting a shot that at least limited Sebastian's choices. He pegged the 12 and it hooked right, missing the pocket by a good half-a-foot. Matt straightened up again and re-chalked his cue.

"Your shot. What do you want to know?"



OOC: 5 on Agility + 4 from a Blue Chip = 9, a success and raise, meaning I drop 2 balls, and miss my third.

10:25, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 4 using 1d6+2, rerolling max with rolls of 2. Blue chip. 10:25, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 5,1 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,1. Corner pocket...Agility.
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 7 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 18:36
  • msg #3

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The shadow man watches the break with quiet interest, his gaze fairly intent. He pauses a moment before speaking, as if gathering his thoughts.

((OOC: Make me a Spirit roll, please.))
Matthew Broaddale
player, 391 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b2
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 18:43
  • msg #4

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The Marshal watched the shadow, running through his mind all the worst questions the shadow could ask, and trying to answer them internally.



OOC: Yeah, okay, now I get the raise off the bat...
10:39, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 9,2 using d8,d6, rerolling max (((8+1)9,2)).
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 383 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 18:48
  • msg #5

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

With nothing else going on, Art wandered over by the billiards table to watch the game. If nothing else, he figured he could help keep it fair. The tall, hooded man leaned on his staff as he observed.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 323 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r4b2
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 19:23
  • msg #6

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Zek looked up at the rain clouds. He was clearly not worried about getting sick, but he liked his hat and it might get soaked. He glanced over at the stubborn brave, and realized the union troops where not likely to want to wander around looking for natives in the pouring rain. Not to mention the other big fella over there was making him itch something fierce-again, both literally and metaphorically.

He starts to head inside the Saloon, hoping that Wells would get here soon.
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 8 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 19:27
  • msg #7

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Matthew Broaddale (msg # 4):

"Alright. Tell me this." The shadow gives Matt a feral grin. "Do you want to know why your superiors tried to kill you with a poisoned letter in your drop box the other day?"

While letting Matt ponder that, he turns his attention back to the game, and managed to avoid matt's clever maneuvering, getting the 1 and the 4 down before being stuck and having to hit the ball away from what would have been an easy strike that would also have sunk one of Matt's balls.

"Your question, then."

((OOC: Unfortuantely, A 9 isn't enough.

00:35, Today: Secret Roll: Mr. Roger Sebastian Whateley rolled 2,4 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,4.  Spellcasting.
00:36, Today: Secret Roll: Mr. Roger Sebastian Whateley rolled 1 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1.  Red Chip.
00:36, Today: Secret Roll: Mr. Roger Sebastian Whateley rolled 6,2,4 using d8,d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 6,2,4.  White Chip Reroll.

That leaves him with a total of 10, which is just enough to beat your 9. It does cost him 2 chips, though.

What he's doing is casting Analyze Foe on you to get an edge over you in this game.

quote:
Analyze Foe
• Rank: Novice
• Power Points: 1 – 2
• Range: Smarts x 2
• Duration: 3 (1/round)
• Trappings: Mystical sense, spiritual advice, gestalt knowledge.

Knowledge is power. Being able to judge the strength of a foe before engaging him in combat can be highly advantageous.

The character makes an arcane skill roll opposed by the target’s Spirit. On a success, he gains a +1 bonus to Trait rolls to directly affect the target, and the target suffers a –1 penalty to Trait rolls to directly affect the caster. With a raise, the effect is increased to +2 and –2 for both. In addition, for 2 Power Points, a success allows the caster to learn of a single Immunity, Invulnerability, or Weakness of the target (if one exists), and a raise allows the knowledge of two.


Now, since he has access to this power because he's a member of the Enlightened Society of the Weeping Moon, he gets a special trapping that allows him to also learn Hindrances or up to one secret thing about you. But he already knows things about you (for reasons we've discussed long ago) so he's mostly just doing this for the +1 bonus he gets to his rolls against you.

12:19, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 5,5 using d6+1,d6+1, rerolling max with rolls of 4,4.  Gambling.

12:20, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 3 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3.  Red Chip.

Total of 8. He sinks 2 balls himself.

Zeke, make me a Notice check.))
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 324 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r4b2
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 19:28
  • msg #8

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

OOC:
14:28, Today: Ezekiel Starkweather rolled 2,14 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,(6+6+2)14.  Notice check.

Yeesh!
Matthew Broaddale
player, 393 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b2
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 20:24
  • msg #9

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt blanched, and scowled. That was not a question he had expected. He leaned down to get the lay of the land.

"That is an odd use of your first question," he said, "My honest answer is yes, although I don't know if I would call it poisoning me. Simple accident."

He stared at the balls he wanted to sink in turn, working out the spin. He saw it. He looked up at the Whateley's shadow.

"What's the best way to shut down your ability to sling hoodoo, Roger?"

He moved around, aligned himself, and put the 10-ball into the corner with enough English for the cue ball to come back and send 12 hurtling across two feet of table into the side-pocket. He grinned, then watched as the cue ball rolled into the corner pocket for a scratch.

"Damn. Good shot though."


((OOC: 9 again
12:12, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 4 using 1d6+2, rerolling max with rolls of 2.  ehfuckitchip Blue.
12:12, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 5,1 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,1.  Agility Pool dont make me chip.
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 9 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 20:46
  • msg #10

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Zeke's ever-keen eyes certainly notice the shadowy figure in the top hat playing pool with that marshal from earlier.

"Don't give me a reason to use it in the first place. Or else be smarter or have a stronger will than you have currently. But then, we all have our limitations. Speaking of which, one of those annoyances we spoke on earlier just walked in. He's likely going to come straight at me, and I have a feeling you're going to want to finish this game." He seems to be deliberately avoiding rhetorical questions, annoyingly enough.

((OOC: Yup, that'll do it.

Mr. Sebastian attempts to get psychological on Matt, using a Taunt Test of Wills before taking his shot.

13:39, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 3,5 using d8+2,d6+2, rerolling max with rolls of 1,3.  Taunt Test of Wills.

Roll Smarts for me, please))
This message was last edited by the player at 20:48, Fri 24 Feb 2017.
Maddox
NPC, 112 posts
Gunslinger
P7 T8 (2) W0 F0 Cha 0
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 20:51
  • msg #11

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Maddox, half-watching the door in case a sudden Moses appears, had also noted Zek's entrance and tries to catch his eye.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 325 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r4b2
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 20:54
  • msg #12

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Zek sure enough spotted him, but he then noticed how his form seemed a bit...off. It reminded him a bit of what happened to Nicodemus back in the Saloon. Zek figured he would not have the guts to call him out to his face, and certainly not want to risk his precious Whateley hide. Granted normally when the family of mages comes after Zek, a lot of innocent people end up dying at their hands. So this time Zek put on his shotglass Monocle to see where the shadow truly was coming from. That way at least he could keep the body count low. He does not say anything to Maddox yet, as he is busy trying to locate his target.
Daisy Hewitt
NPC, 28 posts
Bring it.
P5 T5 Cha -2 F0 Extra
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 21:09
  • msg #13

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Hey, Injun," Daisy addresses Kills Iron Horse as Art wanders off, looking her over with open curiousity, "-want a beer? Not gonna git you drunk less'n you've got that weak liver thing, an' it's safer than the water herebouts."
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 10 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 21:34
  • msg #14

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Kills Iron Horse frowns. "If you want good water, you boil it. You do not fill it with poison." She says.

Meanwhile, the shotglass reveals a faint trail away from the shadow man, one that Zeke could follow. He also sees the shadow man wave to him. "Ah! There you are--I knew you'd show up eventually. You're like a bad penny. Well? Come on over. I want to discuss something with you. Something that, I hope will be of mutual benefit to both of us, and I want you to know that I made an honest attempt at diplomacy. In case things should go poorly for you in the future."
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:52, Fri 24 Feb 2017.
Daisy Hewitt
NPC, 29 posts
Bring it.
P5 T5 Cha -2 F0 Extra
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 21:49
  • msg #15

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Sure ye could try that, but it won't be clear or good-tasting nohow," Daisy says, and shrugs cheerfully. "Seems ter poison the diseases jes' fine and me not enough to matter. An' Ah am good at stayin' alive," she says seriously over the rim of her glass.

"C'mon come over here an' tell me what's up in the hills that Custer kin jes' come park his ass in here like the chiefs is puttin' out fires someplace else," she suggests. "Y'all got outlaw trouble?"
Matthew Broaddale
player, 395 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 22:00
  • msg #16

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt was suitably annoyed.

"What a straightforwardly evasive answer. If you're not going to play, we can just call it off and say you lose, asshole."

((OOC: Well.... shit. Crit Fail! 13:53, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 1,1 using d8,d6, rerolling max ((1,1)).

Is he taking a multi-action? Is there enough time to mix in other actions freely?))
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 11 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 22:33
  • msg #17

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"That may be so. I still will not drink." Kills Iron Horse says, but she does sit down. She shakes her head. "Yellow Hair did not walk through our lands unscathed. The Lakota met him on the river. Red Cloud and his warriors." She sighs. "They shot ten thousand arrows at Yellow Hair and his Long Knives. I was there. Yellow Hair had more men than Red Cloud, fought them off. Raven killed Black Kettle. We went to the Holy Mountain. There, the Lakota wicasas speak with each other. Some call for war. Some call for a dance, to make the whites leave our lands forever. We come here, to this place, to find The Woman Who Remembers The Future. She has words to speak. Important words. A vision of what is to be, if we fail."


The Shadow Man shrugs. "Temper, temper. My answer was both honest and complete. I'm sorry if you were hoping for some easy way to cripple my workings, but there isn't any. That's why the 'hoodoo' I do is so effective. You don't have any background in Aetheric Theory. You've never studied Hoyle. It's like asking one of these savages here to perform trigonometry." He waves in Walks The Night's general direction. "I suppose the answer you'd really want is 'find someone who knows what they're doing.' Without that, there is nothing you can do to shut me down."

The shadow man turns his attention back to the table, and neatly sinks the 5. "As for my question...do you want to know why you can't remember anything clearly since the Houston affair?" He then sinks 2 and 7, though he scratches on the 7.

The shadow man leans back with a smug smile. "Take your time. It might change the trajectory of your question to me."

((OOC: Well, you aren't in combat rounds. If you want to take an action before making your roll, you can do so freely. Just wait for the resolution of one action before taking the next.

With the Crit Fail, that means Mr. Sebastian has thrown you off your game. In addition to the +2 bonus he gets on this shot, you have a -2 penalty on your next shot unless you can counter it somehow.

15:21, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 6,4 using d6+3,d6+3, rerolling max with rolls of 3,1.  Gambling. That's a fairly poor roll...Mr. Sebastian spends a GM white chip for a reroll.

15:21, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 7,14 using d6+3,d6+3, rerolling max with rolls of 4,(6+5)11.  White Chip Reroll.

Ouch. That sinks 3 balls.

You have 3 balls before the 8-ball, he has 2.))
Matthew Broaddale
player, 397 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 23:29
  • msg #18

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt fumed like a caged animal for a moment as he watched the table, then stood stock still at Sebastian's question. It was disconcerting to hear the question he was going to ask come from the Shadow's mouth.

He looked the table round. He wasn't behind by much. A lucky streak and he could probably take it. But Matt didn't feel lucky. He felt trapped.

He glanced over at Art, at Zek, at Maddox. He looked back at Zek, and thought hard. He turned back to Art.

"You much of a pool player, Art? What do you think of the green as it stands? You think I got a chance against Roger here?"

((OOC: I would like to roll Knowledge (Occult) for Matt's knowledge of Whateley magics vs. Hucksterism vs other types of hoodoo. Thing is, Matt HAS studied. I'd like to take what he (Sebastian)'s said about his powers and compare them to other types of magic I know.
15:28, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 4,3 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,3. Knowledge Occult.))
Daisy Hewitt
NPC, 30 posts
Bring it.
P5 T5 Cha -2 F0 Extra
Fri 24 Feb 2017
at 23:33
  • msg #19

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Suit yessel'," Daisy says amicably. "Name's Daisy Hewitt, by the way."

She listens intently to Kills Iron Horse's descriptions. "Yeah? These cheapass bluebellies good in a scrap, or they doin' the whole 'keep comin' til Johnny runs out of bullets' thing agin? That is some lack of respect for them boys' mamas, I tell you.  Least make 'em useful - put 'em in a pie! Aheheh.""

Daisy sips her beer. "So this Raven fella - he working with Custer?"

She looks curiously from Kills Iron Horse to the noticeably white men she came in with then back again. "You for the war or the dance? Or jes' whoever's winning whilst the getting's good?"

"Ha! Ahehheehee...ah, why not? Wells'll be right proud y'all figure she's got a holy vision. Me, I sure hope she's jes' tetched in the head like that purple guy who was killing folk to feed his worm farm or some sech thing - you git enough 'poison' in her, she starts re-enacting some crazy battles, an' I mean tie-a-firecracker-on-a-coyote crazy."
Belle Ivers
player, 312 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 02:39
  • msg #20

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Meanwhile, outside, Belle continued conversing with the continental.

"[Language unknown: T thosic cete-olpo il er?]"

She had to stop and laugh a bit.  "I daresay sir I have never set foot in a university and I am far more educated for it.  But back to the point... perhaps he could be swayed to sit inside?"
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 385 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 06:56
  • msg #21

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art shook his head at Matthew's question. "I did play back, oh, tirteen years ago now? Cannae say I'd be doin' any better'n ya. Seems like th' game gets a bit easier once mosta the balls'r off th' table, though. And witcher opponent clearin' so much offa th' green, ya gotta lotta easy shots ta go. Jus' tink ta th' next one when yer takin' whatcha got. Ya are playin' a fella ya know's gotta few tricks up his sleeve, though. Don't know that ya specified whether mystical powers could be used ta help wit dis game?" Art's gaze swept from Matt to encompass the shadow the Marshal was playing against.
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 12 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 07:14
  • msg #22

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The Cheyenne nods at the introduction. "Kills Iron Horse." She replies. Kills Iron Horse shrugs a bit. "We were prisoners. I did not see."

At the question about Raven, KIH shakes her head emphatically. "No. Raven does not work with white men. He manipulates them into fighting themselves. He killed Black Kettle because Black Kettle could speak words of peace, and because he knew the dance."

At the question about which one she's for, the Cheyenne is quiet. She absently taps her fingers against the bar. "I think..." She says, the hesitates. Then she nods to herself. "I think I want to see all palefaces gone from these hills. You do not belong here. This place is sacred, and you damage it, looking for your screaming rocks. I want you gone. If the dance works, then it works. If not, then it must be war. But I would see the dance tried first."

"You have heard her speak, then?" Kills seems quite interested in this. "What does she say? What battles are these?"
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 10 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 07:21
  • msg #23

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Art C. Wiley (msg # 21):

"Yes, such a stipulation would have been useful before we began." The shadow man grins. "But then, my friend the Marshal doesn't believe in such things. Or so he says. Repeatedly."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 398 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 07:49
  • msg #24

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"The answer to your question is yes, Mr. Sebastian. I would like to know what happened in Houston," the Marshal said as he chalked his cue in an agitated manner, "But don't presume to know what I've studied. I've read the gambling books, the ancient leather bound cookbooks. I know what I'm doing, and your bloodletting doesn't frighten me."

He fixed Sebastian with a steely gaze. "Now, my question for you; if you were playing stripes in the game we have going, and you couldn't use magic, what's the best shot you could take?"
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 386 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 08:07
  • msg #25

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Ah, so yer sayin' there don't be such a stipulation? Well, in tha case, laddie, mebbe I can help ya figger out howta beat a magic man, eh?"

Art smacked his staff on the ground as he finished the last syllable, as he was wont to do in cases like this. "Can ya hold me shillelagh fer a moment while I take another look for ya, sir?"

Art held out the large, wooden shillelagh he seemed to never be without, a wan smile on his face.

OOC: Technically it's got a range of greater than touch, but in this case the power will pass to Matt when he grasps Art's staff.

Art is raising Matt's Agility by 2 steps. Looks like he's now rolling a d12 while the spell remains in effect.

00:01, Today: Art C. Wiley rolled 8,3 using d12,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 8,3.  Boost Trait.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 399 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 08:10
  • msg #26

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt took the shillelagh hesitantly, and felt a bit more limber as he looked about the bar.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 388 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 08:14
  • msg #27

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art traded for the pool cue and then stalked around the table briefly as if lining up a shot. He leaned over and closed an eye, looking down the cue before walking back over by Matt. "I think ya gotta chance, fer sure. Trade ya back?"

Art held the pool cue back out for Matt to take.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 401 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 08:20
  • msg #28

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt swapped back and rolled his shoulders.

"Thanks, Mr. Wiley," he said, and fixed his gaze on Sebastian, still awaiting an answer.
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 11 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 08:57
  • msg #29

Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The shadow man watches the staff twirling, and ponders the question. "Ha. Well played, sirs. Well played." He says. "But fine. I, being the inveterate gambler that I am, would try to sink 13 in the corner pocket but with enough spin to hit 11 and take it to the side, leaving 9 fairly open for the next shot. Since 13's near the 8, that's a risky play. But you asked about best shots, not prudent ones. Make of that what you will."

((OOC: So for Matthew's shots, I have 10, 15, 12, and one unnamed. That leaves 11, 9, 13, and 14 that have yet to be name-checked.

Roger responds with a Smarts Trick to Goad Matthew into an unwise play. What he's describing is technically the shot with the most upside, but with a stronger chance of going wrong. If you roll a 1 or 2 on the Attribute Die (regardless of the Wild die) attempting to make the shot as described, you'd sink the 8-ball and lose.

01:56, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 1,4 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,4.  Smarts Trick.

Roll Smarts. If you succeed, you can still try the risky shot if you want.))
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 407 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 09:03
  • msg #30

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle Ivers:
She had to stop and laugh a bit.  "I daresay sir I have never set foot in a university and I am far more educated for it.  But back to the point... perhaps he could be swayed to sit inside?"


Leopold chuckled himself. "Oh, one can have a proper education without University. Not everybody can be a doctor, after all."
He looked over at Moses.
"Let me see what I can do."

But just as he started to move closer to Moses, the black man, without looking up, answered.
"Moses will wait with Little Crow here, for the Woman Who Remembers The Future."
Daisy Hewitt
NPC, 31 posts
Bring it.
P5 T5 Cha -2 F0 Extra
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 11:20
  • msg #31

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Kills Iron Horse:
The Cheyenne nods at the introduction. "Kills Iron Horse." She replies. Kills Iron Horse shrugs a bit. "We were prisoners. I did not see."

At the question about Raven, KIH shakes her head emphatically. "No. Raven does not work with white men. He manipulates them into fighting themselves. He killed Black Kettle because Black Kettle could speak words of peace, and because he knew the dance."

At the question about which one she's for, the Cheyenne is quiet. She absently taps her fingers against the bar. "I think..." She says, the hesitates. Then she nods to herself. "I think I want to see all palefaces gone from these hills. You do not belong here. This place is sacred, and you damage it, looking for your screaming rocks. I want you gone. If the dance works, then it works. If not, then it must be war. But I would see the dance tried first."

"You have heard her speak, then?" Kills seems quite interested in this. "What does she say? What battles are these?"


The name takes a second to sink in, but when it does Daisy is all interest and not a little awe. "Really? Was it movin'?" She frowns a bit to hear Kills Iron Horse had been captured by these ill-diciplined irregulars. "Damn. You all right? Ah kin use this ol' white skin to git a rum jasper out near the pig pens if y'need to cut a man's throat," she offers. "There's one big ol' boar who's got the taste n' got canny with it: he's learnt to lure drunks an' drag 'em over the rail, that's how much he likes 'em twitchin'. Blood in the mix, he'll give ye a real show."

"Whal, he sure ain't workin' for you folks, killing a man like that. Sounds like helpin' Custer to me, even if it's jes' to make trouble with th' North. He's not Sioux, is he, this Raven? I thought I heard tell of him 'way South years back."

Daisy just sips her drink, unpeturbed. "Fair 'nough. Me, I'm jes' here 'cause it's a good place if your skills is helpin' some folks not be shot by other folks. I'll jes' move on n' become some other folks' problem, aheheh."

"Sure, when she's drunk. Talks about some damn fool blowin' up the sky n' poisoning the earth so bad there's hardly ennythin not sick or dyin'. No birds, I think she said. 'No good birds.' What a bad bird is I don't know, but the way she talks..." Daisy shivers. The woman who was entirely casual about having a man eaten alive by pigs shivers.

"She says they done blew up God, an' weren't nothin' left in the- the Happy Huntin' Grounds fer you I guess - but demons, 'cause ennything up there got the blast n' got sick, an' she talks about fightin' shit like that. Sometimes thinks she's fightin' shit like that, crazy as a tarred possum, screamin' these names...an' there's times where you know it's jest her crazy, but it sounds so damn true."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 402 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 15:06
  • msg #32

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt recognized the attempt at sabotage. He frowned deeply as the Shadow spoke.

Then he laughed, leaned down, and sunk 13 and 11 like they were leaky boats. In a single smooth motion he turned the corner of the table, waited the briefest of moments for the cue ball to stop, and snapped it into the 9 ball perfectly. The cue ball practically sauntered backwards from the English, coming to rest behind the 8.

"Thanks for the advice, Whateley."


((OOC: I forgot to include the -2 from the Smarts roll into the Risky Shot, but that still leaves me with a 14, which sinks 3 balls. Do I get to roll for the 8 now, or is it assumed I miss my next shot, and let Sebastian go?

06:47, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 5,2 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,2.  Smarts .
06:51, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 16,2 using d12,d6, rerolling max with rolls of (12+4)16,2.  Risky Shot.))
Jackie Wells
NPC, 218 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 15:56
  • msg #33

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Moses:
But just as he started to move closer to Moses, the black man, without looking up, answered.
"Moses will wait with Little Crow here, for the Woman Who Remembers The Future."


A motley band arrives at the Mint. A woman with short blonde hair looks at moses. "I sure seem to be popular today." She says. "I'm Jackie Wells. What can I do fer ya?"
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 13 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 16:18
  • msg #34

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Daisy Hewitt (msg # 31):

Kills Iron Horse nods. "Yes." She does not elaborate. She shrugs. "They did not touch me that way, though there was one who wanted to. He was called 'Wilkins', and he was here today." She listens and nods.

"They call him the last son of the Susquehanna. I do not know that tribe, but then, if he is the last I would not have. He travels many places. He also has many who take his name, work in his place. Screaming Rabbit cut one of these at Bear Butte, but another one took his place."

Kills Iron Horse nods. "Fair nough."

"The Holy Mad One will know if she speaks the truth." Kills Iron Horse says, though she goes quiet as she ponders the death of the Hunting Grounds.
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 12 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 16:27
  • msg #35

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Matthew Broaddale (msg # 32):

The shadow man frowns. "I suppose I had that coming. Ah, well." He watched Matt's attempt to finish the game off flounder, as the cueball being directly behind the eight left it with no clear pockets to aim for. The balls just careen around. Mr. Sebastian regards the table.

"Hmmm. So I get one last question." The shadow man chalks his cue. "Assuming I do lose this, and we meet face to face, what are you planning to do?"

((OOC: The -2 is actually fairly important there, so yes, you miss and Roger gets one last chance. If he tries for the eightball he'll have a -2 penalty on his roll, and will need a total of three Success and Raises to finish the game on his turn.))
Moses
player, 550 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W1R0B3L1
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 17:04
  • msg #36

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie Wells:
Moses:
But just as he started to move closer to Moses, the black man, without looking up, answered.
"Moses will wait with Little Crow here, for the Woman Who Remembers The Future."


A motley band arrives at the Mint. A woman with short blonde hair looks at moses. "I sure seem to be popular today." She says. "I'm Jackie Wells. What can I do fer ya?"


Moses slowly rises from the mud, seemingly growing larger and larger until he towers over Jackie Wells.
"Moses has searched for you, The Woman Who Remembers the Future. Jackie Wells. The Lord's most humble servant has told the people about The Reckoning that lies ahead, of darkened skies and rain that burns the skin like fire."
He looks up into the sky, as if enjoying the present rainfall. He looks back down at her.
"Moses is looking to swell the ranks of the Lord's army when the gates to hell open and the Reckoners will walk the Earth. Some are convinced by Moses' words alone. Others need to witness the Lord's interference. And some",
he looks over at Little Crow, "some are doubting still because they are too afraid to believe. Or because their hatred tethers them to the path of servitude to the Reckoners."
He lowers his voice a little.
"Moses needs your help to save those souls, Jackie Wells. Will you provide it?"

Leopold clears his throat.
"I am certain that Ms. Wells would like to do this in the dry? Maybe your... friend... would allow for that? It makes no sense to invite Death out here, yes?"

Moses nods, slowly and asks Little Crow: [Language unknown: "Rom wele preeveome Sti Thuprotin Ove Olutiote Icart Thovorder st pe witut romstisti oneom etre heespe iouicastrhis een lesti fiint?"]
Jackie Wells
NPC, 219 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 17:20
  • msg #37

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie takes a deep breath. "That's a heavy load to lay on a gal." She says. "But since I was plannin' on tellin' my story to these folks anyhow, so sure. I'll give it a try. But I need a good, stiff drink first." And she pushes into the Mint.

An older man, bowlegged and with a bushy beard, moseys on over to Moses. "Howdy!" He says, offering a hand. "I'm The Prospector. Nice to meet a fella as keen on stoppin' them bastards as I am."

Little Crow sighs. [Language unknown: "Ect pole."] He turns and follows Wells into the Mint.
Belle Ivers
player, 313 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 17:42
  • msg #38

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"What curious happenings to be witnessed by an erstwhile train mechanic."  Belle couldn't help but muse.

She had the intuition this was one of those things which had really nothing to do with her purpose here, but which she would be expected to recall and report on later.  Some grand and important thing was occurring in which Belle herself would play no part, but sometimes it was her duty to be his ears or eyes.  He would know what significance they might have, even if it was nothing to Belle but a curiosity.  And she did actually have an inquiry for this curious Moses fellow and his party, but they suffered from severe delusions.

Still, even if she had a mundane reason for doing it, Belle was also genuinely moved by the hard case she imagined for that poor woman.
Daisy Hewitt
NPC, 32 posts
Bring it.
P5 T5 Cha -2 F0 Extra
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 18:22
  • msg #39

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Kills Iron Horse (msg # 34):

Daisy gives a low whistle. "That's a hell of a kill." She nods. "Dint see him, but 'Wilkins'. Got it."

"Good for Screaming Rabbit, I guess," Daisy responds with an amused murine smirk at the name. "Ahh heh hehh...heheh...you're gonna cross Holy Mad One's crazy with her crazy to see what's holiest? Hahaheeheheh...aw, that's some plan! Some plan. Look yonder, though: there she is." Daisy nods over there as Wells and her party enter the building.
Maddox
NPC, 113 posts
Gunslinger
P7 T8 (2) W0 F0 Cha 0
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 18:54
  • msg #40

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Maddox has stopped working on his map now and is simply sitting up wary and alert, waiting for Zek to either come over and be spoken to or do something that merits his interference.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 403 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 21:43
  • msg #41

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt stretched, trying to plan out Sebastian's shot so as to plan his own.

"Arrest you. Assault, conspiring to incite a panic, impeding law enforcement, anything else I can make stick. Turn you over to my superiors. The Marshal's Service would be very glad to have you in their grasp," he said truthfully.

"But you knew that already."
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 241 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 22:03
  • msg #42

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

As they made their way toward the Mint, Katy recognized at least one face, the mechanic that had dropped by at the Bella Union. "Howdy 'gain, Belle."

Of course, once inside, there were plenty more faces she recognized. Mostly folk that were on the same side as her during that shootout, which didn't seem like coincidence. There were also some other rather curious fellows in the Mint. Rain must have flushed them all out of the streets.
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 13 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Sat 25 Feb 2017
at 22:56
  • msg #43

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Matthew Broaddale (msg # 41):

"Turn me over to your superiors." The shadow chuckles. Then the chuckle becomes a throaty laugh. "Oh, that would almost be worth it, watching you try to explain to them where you've been since Houston. Watching your face when I tell them what I know about that. Yes, that might be worth it." He takes aim and sinks the 6. "Almost. But I'm playing to win here. 3 in the corner right pocket, 8 in the corner left."

He lines up his shot...and while he sinks the 3, the shot skitters past the eight, only knocking it to the edge of the green. "Darn. Well, you get one last question out of me, at least." The shadow man grins. "Make it a good one."

((OOC: The shadow attempts to finish the game by sinking all the remaining balls. Since he has to call the eight ball, he has a -2 penalty, offset somewhat by his Analyze Foe power. Each success and raise will sink a ball, but he needs 3 success/raises in total to finish the game.

15:43, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 3,4 using d6-1,d6-1, rerolling max with rolls of 4,5.  Gambling.

15:43, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 4 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4.  Red Chip.

That's an 8, so he sinks his last 2 balls but not the Eight Ball.))
Matthew Broaddale
player, 405 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 01:33
  • msg #44

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt frowned in confusion, contemplating Sebastian's words. He felt his chest tightening in anger as he remembered Houston, remembered ... not remembering Houston. His grip tightened on his cue as Sebastian's hints and mind-games added up to a maddening, half-illuminated answer.

He had a feeling Sebastian would enjoy toying with him further, though, holding this answer out like a carrot to lead Matt where he wanted. He'd find out eventually.

So his question was probably not one the shadow expected.

"In detail, how do Aetheric Pattern Entities and Aetheric Theory allow you to do the seemingly supernatural things they do?" he asked.

He leaned down took his shot. He overcorrected to avoid a scratch, and both balls bounced off the banks and drifted around the table.

Matt swore loudly. Heads-up pool was not a time to choke..


((OOC: Godddddaaaaammmmmiiiittt.
17:29, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 0,3 using d12-2,d6-2, rerolling max ((2,5)).))
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 389 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 03:17
  • msg #45

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

OOC: Possible for Art to cast 'Entangle' on the 8-ball as the shadow is about to put it in making Matt's next shot virtually impossible to miss?
This message was last edited by the player at 03:20, Sun 26 Feb 2017.
Belle Ivers
player, 317 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 03:53
  • msg #46

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle acknowledge being acknowledged.  "Well hello, I take the bullet ridden doorway was not too perilous?"
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 14 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 05:00
  • msg #47

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The shadow man tilts his head. "Heh. Very well. Atheric Theory posits that there is a medium for the propagation of various universal forces, galvanic, gravitic, luminiferous, and so on. This medium surrounds and penetrates us all, but is imperceptible to the normal senses. It takes special training and sensitivity to detect the Aether around us -- and the beings that dwell within. These Pattern Entities are strange byproducts of the Aether -- beings of consciousness but no form. Instead, they adopt forms of mythic significance to those who view them, drawn from the viewer's memories and expectations. The various 'nature spirits' as envisioned by the Indians are such beings."

The shadow man twirls his pool cue as he examines the table. "Now, human consciousness has a fascinating effect on the Aether. Mediums, spiritualists, and occultists throughout the ages have noted how human consciousness and perception shapes the world. Ghosts, for example, are Pattern Entities spawned during a moment of intense emotion, and linger on, retaining an echo of the mind that birthed them. And Pattern Entities are noted to have a stronger concentration in areas where a great many humans experience strong emotions."

He picks a spot, and chalks up the cue. "Now, Pattern Entities have a desire to affect the physical plane, but lack the ability to do so effectively. What they do possess is energy, in abundance. And they can serve as a channel for that energy, when properly contacted. Humans, meanwhile, have abundant capacity to imagine. So if a connection can be forged, and the human can convince the Pattern Entity to provide the necessary energy source, then his will and imagination can channel that energy into a concrete form. It takes extensive training, but well, there you have it."

"Roger. Sebastian. Whateley." growls a voice from behind the shadow man.

The shadow man sighs. "And as if on cue..." he turns to face Jackie Wells, who is standing with her hand on the grip of her gatling pistol. "Why, Deputy Wells! Fancy meeting you here. Oh, wait. That's former Deputy now, isn't it?" The shadow man gives Wells a thin smile. "Meaning you have no legal authority in Deadwood, even if -- and I say if -- you might suspect me of some sort of criminal offence. Can you leave me in peace? I'm in the middle of a game here."

((OOC: Possible? Sure, but the shamantic trapping for Entangle is "animated roots and branches," which would pretty clearly be outside interference, allowing Mr. Sebastian to back out of the deal. If you're going to try cheating, do so in a way that won't get you caught. Like psychological Tests of Will, Tricks, or powers that don't have an obvious effect.

Of course, you do have Jackie Wells around to aid you in whatever you decide to try.))
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 326 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 05:06
  • msg #48

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

quote:
"Ah! There you are--I knew you'd show up eventually. You're like a bad penny. Well? Come on over. I want to discuss something with you. Something that, I hope will be of mutual benefit to both of us, and I want you to know that I made an honest attempt at diplomacy. In case things should go poorly for you in the future."


"Goddamn stinking, rotten Whateleys everywhere I go. If you think shooting killer mojo at me is diplomacy, you must have gotten smacked around by yer kin once too often." Zek growls as the shadow man calls over to him.

"What's the matter? You buying time so Nicodemus can show and kill everyone in the bar? Like at the Woolly Buffalo Saloon? Or the Bella Union? Or at yer rotten cesspit of a man eating house? How many innocent people have to die before you damn cowards come out? Or are you gonna keep hiding behind yer shadows like now!? And what is it with you lot and Saloons, anyways? You Whateleys seem to have it out for people who just wanna drink more than me!"

He notices Jackie there. "It won't do no good. He's not actually here. His real body is hiding somewhere safe and secure..."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:06, Sun 26 Feb 2017.
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 15 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 05:33
  • msg #49

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Maybe you should avoid saloons, then." The shadow man says. "I'm sure your own odoriferous presence would not be missed. Nor would your persecution complex. In point of fact, I was aiming at the gaseous cloud of screaming death, the psychopathic shootist, and the homicidal revenant. You were regrettably close to them all, through your own doing I might add. Likewise, I had nothing to do with this alleged incident at the Woolly Buffalo, and the Bella Union incident was kicked off by the aforementioned psychopath. All I wanted to do was drink and play cards. That's what saloons are for."

Jackie nods. "Good to know. Got an idea where?"

The shadow man sighs. "I'm not here for a fight. I'm here because I wanted a good game, which you are currently interrupting. But since you are here, I wanted to offer an olive branch. Or a bribe, if you want to think of it that way. I want you to leave me and mine alone, and I'm willing to make a deal to that effect." The shadow man leans against the table. "What will it take for you to let go of this ridiculous feud? What will make you go away?"
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 327 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 05:43
  • msg #50

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Mr. Sebastian's Shadow (msg # 49):

Zek nods at Jackie, and glances back at the shadow man.

"Riiiight. We should take your word because you Whateley's are such trustworthy mass murderers. I may go to Saloons-but its your kin that keeps burning them down with the people inside. At the very least, yer an accomplice to all those deaths-and no one should believe a goddamn thing ya got to say."

He growls as Sebastian makes his 'offer', which Zek does not really seem to believe what so ever.

"As long as yer making deals though-I will take the location of yer damn kinsmen Nicodemus. And the feud's over only when he's dead for good-and the rest of you damn subhumans piss off to parts elsewheres."
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 16 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 06:38
  • msg #51

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Now, see, it is responses like that that show you to be a danger to society. The unfounded accusations, the bigoted vitriol, your appalling grasp of the legal system...you're a rabid dog. Hyram Burns and his daughter were mass murderers -- I didn't see you leaping after him, and his daughter is still somewhere out there. Oh, and Darius Carter -- he's a mass murderer and serial rapist. I've seen the wanted posters. But you didn't go after him, either. Or Wild Bill Hickok! How many people did he murder in the Bella Union, right in front of us all? how many did he kill in the Gem before that? And yet you didn't actually do more than shove a drink down his throat." The shadow man shakes his head. "Stop pretending this vendetta of yours is justified. You're no better. Just a vicious, atavistic savage, attacking whatever's irritated him at the moment."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:40, Sun 26 Feb 2017.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 395 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 07:22
  • msg #52

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art smiled at the shadow man. His staff was still in hand as he did so, and he twirled it once  and slammed it on the ground as if he were asking the spirits for aid. "If yer so keen on provin' yer worth, then ya gotta think bout gettin' past wha'ever migh' be in yer path. See there migh' be a slight lean ta parta the felt jus' bout now. Nothin' ya c'n see, bu' I'm warnin' ya cuz I like ta see ya get a sportin' chance, sir." Art generally indicated the part of the felt along where the easiest shot for Sebastian to make would be.

He then pointed to a more difficult shot that would require a nice bank and a long roll. "Course if ya went tha' way, well, ya wouldn't have so much in yer way."

Art uses a Smarts trick to try to get Sebastian to think the Shaman may have made the easiest shot impossible to make using Art's mystical mojo. Not that there would be any apparent interference, of course.

23:14, Today: Art C. Wiley rolled 7,1 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 7,1.  Smarts Trick.
Maddox
NPC, 114 posts
Gunslinger
P7 T8 (2) W0 F0 Cha 0
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 08:03
  • msg #53

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Maddox had struck his palm to his face and remained that way through Zek's speeches about murdering his kinfolk via shooting, mostly in saloons (for the crime of murdering people via shooting, in saloons). When he lowered it, his other hand was drumming its fingers rapidly on the bar and the Welshman was frowning hard.

Of a sudden he downed the rest of his American excuse for a beer, tapped the bar and got in a couple of hard liquor. One-shotting one, he stands and picks up the other.

"Wells," he calls over, then places the drink with an obvious little click on the bar for her, grabs his hat and the map he's made and attempts to stalk out into the rain with a look like the thunderclouds in his brain have collected to a storm.

He baulks a little at having to duck around Moses, but attempts it anyway.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:17, Sun 26 Feb 2017.
Moses
player, 552 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W1R0B3L1
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 09:03
  • msg #54

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Moses reaches out with one arm, blocking the way.
"You are meandering across the path forward, without aim or goal. You could stumble and fall to the dark. Or you might allow Moses to lead you to the light."
He looks over the assorted group. "Many are gathered here today that are at a fork in their road."
Then his eyes lock on Roger's shadow. "Your shadow is not welcome here. Leave us be."
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 408 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 09:06
  • msg #55

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold gently pushes against Moses' arm - since not only is it barring Maddox from leaving, but also him from entering.

"This is a most interesting group."
He wanders over to the bar and asks for a drink. He sips it, barely managing to not make a face.
"This... is horrible. Do you have anything that is good?"
Mr. Sebastian's Shadow
NPC, 17 posts
It's alive!
P6 T5 Cha -2 F0 hench
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 09:09
  • msg #56

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Art C. Wiley (msg # 52):

Art can't see the shadow man's eyes, but he can feel the glare nonetheless. "I see." The shadow man looks around the room, at Zek, the rapidly departing Maddox, Jackie Wells moving over to take the drink offered, the sudden appearance of the preaching negro, and finally at Marshal Broaddale. Then he smiles tightly. "Know when to hold 'em, know when fold 'em...Eight Ball in the leftside pocket." he murmurs, leans over the table, and snaps off a quick shot. It's not the one suggested by Art, but it's also not the easy shot he'd had before.

The eightball sinks neatly into the side pocket...right as the cueball sinks into the corner on the opposite side. "Oh dear." the shadow says in a flat monotone. "A draw. Darn the luck." He looks at Matthew. "Seems like nobody gets what they want today." He tips his hat to the group. Even with the hat off, his face is obscured. "Gentlemen, I take my leave. Perhaps we shall play again under less...crowded circumstances. But for now, I feel an urge I cannot ignore."

Then he starts heading for the restrooms.

((OOC: The shadow attempts to resit the trick.

01:40, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 4,1 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,1.  Resisting Trick.

Not good enough, so he tosses his white chip at it.

01:40, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 3,2 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,2.  White Chip Reroll.

That doesn't do any better, so he assumes Art has meddled with the green. Instead of taking the shot as suggested, though, he does the simple thing. He cheats (gaining a +2 to his roll to offset the -2 from the Trick) to throw the match and end it in a draw, subtly bumping the table as he shoots. If he rolls a 1 on his skill die, he'll be caught, but at this point he's realized that "you got to know when to walk away, and know when to run."

01:51, Today: Mr. Sebastian's Shadow rolled 4,1 using d6-1,d6-1, rerolling max with rolls of 5,2.  Gambling, Cheating.

That achieves his objective -- ending the game without a clear win or loss.))
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 328 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 15:30
  • msg #57

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Mr. Sebastian's Shadow:
"Now, see, it is responses like that that show you to be a danger to society. The unfounded accusations, the bigoted vitriol, your appalling grasp of the legal system...you're a rabid dog. Hyram Burns and his daughter were mass murderers -- I didn't see you leaping after him, and his daughter is still somewhere out there. Oh, and Darius Carter -- he's a mass murderer and serial rapist. I've seen the wanted posters. But you didn't go after him, either. Or Wild Bill Hickok! How many people did he murder in the Bella Union, right in front of us all? how many did he kill in the Gem before that? And yet you didn't actually do more than shove a drink down his throat." The shadow man shakes his head. "Stop pretending this vendetta of yours is justified. You're no better. Just a vicious, atavistic savage, attacking whatever's irritated him at the moment."


"You seem to think I am a lawyer, or lawman, or even a vigliante. Your family made this between you all and I. Your family acts as if they are all that matters in this world-and there are no consequences when they steal from it. Your family decided that other people are just obstructions to be knocked aside to try and get rid of me. I don't care about the law you hide behind, or mojo that conceals you from the truth, or your ridiculous excuses of others being worse.

You have taken-and someone has to make you pay. Might as well be me, as you won't stop the killing of other people who have nothing to do with any of this. I gave you my terms-and you wont accept them. So you better run-because your time is running out."

Zek glances over at Maddox as the Shadow man crawls away, and Wells as well. Trying to see if they want to tell him anything before the started following the shadow.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:41, Sun 26 Feb 2017.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 220 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 17:31
  • msg #58

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie downs her drink, looks at Zeke, and shakes her head. "Let him crawl away, Zeke. We got other priorities."

Dandy Don, the bartender, shrugs. "I do. How much are you willing to pay for it?"

Coot, having followed Von Steinhof inside, pulls out a bag, counts out a few gold nuggets, and lays them on the bar. "Is this enough for three bottles o' your finest and an hour of the room all to ourselves?"

Dandy Don opens his mouth, probably to say no...but then Wild Bill walks in.

"Uh, sure." he says, scooping up the nuggets as quick as he can, he hastily chooses three bottles from the top shelf, sets them out, and beats a retreat for the back room.
Maddox
NPC, 116 posts
Gunslinger
P7 T8 (2) W0 F0 Cha 0
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 17:55
  • msg #59

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Not entirely suceeding in concealing his new-learnt fear of being in arm's reach of Moses, Maddox leans away from the giant, letting von Steinhof move between them. "I have aims and goals, see you, and I am heading to get on with them," he says, sidling past as best he can then off into the rain.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 413 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 19:35
  • msg #60

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt's heart sinks, jumps, then sinks in a matter of a second as Sebastian sinks both. The Marshall tried to speak up, but balked a moment when the crowd began approaching.

"Now wait, Sebastian," He called after the retreating shadow, "That's not a draw, you lost! Come back here and settle! You cowardly piece of shit!" he shouted, then threw his cue down on the table.

He turned to Zeke, Wells, anyone else who had been giving Sebastian a dirty look.

"Thank you! Thank you so much, you fucking heroes! Thank you for your subtlety and tact in scaring off my attempt to get Sebastian's physical body in the same room as myself! THANK YOU SO GODDAMN MUCH."

He turned and snatched up his hat. Shoving it on his head, he glowered at the group.

"I ought to have you brought up on obstruction," he threatened as he shoved past them to an empty table.

Matt sat down and slumped his head into his hands. He didn't know if the Whateley man had ever intended to hold up his end of the bargain, but he knew this was a clusterfuck. He was shaken, he knew. Sebastian's knowledge about the mysteries in Matt's life was...unsettling.

He pulled out the two letters he'd gotten from the bank a few days prior. In case one was contaminated like the other had been, he couldn't open them now, but he held them up to the light, hoping to spot signs of powder or a letter.

He spotted Logan West out of the corner of his eye, and nodded to the man.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 409 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 20:26
  • msg #61

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold nods a "thank you" at the old geezer, grabs one of the bottles and a few glasses, then heads over to the table where Broaddale sits.
He plunks down the glasses and fills them with the booze.

"I have met this... man you played with before. He has many talents and is not easily kept in one place."

He raises his glass in a toast and tries it. "This... is better. Cigarette?" offering from his silver case.

He picks one up himself and knocks it against the table, then pulls out a pack of matches.

I wonder if he wants to continue to act as if we don't know each other or not...
Moses
player, 553 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W1R0B3L1
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 20:48
  • msg #62

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Moses closes the door behind Maddox, then walks towards Kills Iron Horse and Walks the Night, but when he speaks, his deep, rumbling voice fills the room.

"This gathering here has the Lord's blessing. Moses see champions of the Lord who will add tremendous weight to the scale of justice when the Reckoning comes."
He turns, slowly, arms spread.
"There are also some who are in doubt, ready to fall from grace or ascend to the Almighty Spirit's army. Know that the Lord's most humble servant is not here to judge and smite you. If you let Moses lead you to the light, Moses will do so with joy. If you will allow yourself to become a tool for the Reckoners", and his voice grows even darker, "Moses promises that you shall be allowed to leave. But when you face Moses again, he will be the vengeful striking Hammer of God."

Matthew Broaddale
player, 414 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 20:50
  • msg #63

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The Marshal pocketed his letters as Steinhof sat down.

"Thought I had a shot at him, without resorting to a lot of lead and blood," he admitted. He thanked the Austrian for his cigarette, and put it in his mouth as he waited for Leopold to light his own.

He didn't know this man, but he recognized him from the Bella Union. Apparently some kind of foreign dignitary.

"Thanks for the drink, Mr...?" he asked, trying to place the man's accent.


When the huge man spoke, Broaddale rolled his eyes. He'd already expressed his disbelief in the 'prophet', and so kept quiet for a moment. He did note the presence of Coot and Wells alongside a few others he had interest in watching.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 410 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 20:59
  • msg #64

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold took a long drag and let the smoke out in one billowing cloud.
He cocked his head at Broaddale's question, a wry smile on his lips.

"I am the Major Leopold, Freiherr von Steinhof of the army of His Most Apostolic Imperial Majesty, Franz Joseph the first of Austria-Hungary. I am the military attaché to the diplomatic mission to both the Confederated and the United States of America."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 415 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 21:03
  • msg #65

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt blinked.

"Sorry, Major. Matthew Broaddale, U.S. Marshal Service. Was taking a vacation. Now I'm...not," he said, gesturing vaguely to the room full of people.

"Far as I can tell, Deadwood's not Confederated nor Unionized. What brings you here?"
Daisy Hewitt
NPC, 33 posts
Bring it.
P5 T5 Cha -2 F0 Extra
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 21:47
  • msg #66

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Watching the Prospector annex the bar and Moses start in with the Holy Mad talk, Daisy raises her eyebrows, finishes her drink and sets the glass on the bar. "Whal, guess that's my cue."

"Nice talking to yer, Kills Iron Horse." She nods to the Dog Soldier, slips off her stool and heads on out, rifle slung at her shoulder.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:58, Sun 26 Feb 2017.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 221 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Sun 26 Feb 2017
at 22:21
  • msg #67

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie Wells heads over to Matt's table. "Sorry 'bout that." She says as Mr. Sebastian's shadow form slips from view. She takes a seat. "I didn't know you was tryin' somethin'." She shoots a dirty look at Zeke. "I reckon it's mostly him, though. Ain't man or woman alive gonna take it well when some asshole who don't know when to shut up accuses you and all your kin o' mass murder and swears bloody vengeance on everyone you care for. He's been goin' on about his hate hard-on fer the Whateleys for quite a spell now." She takes one of the glasses Von Steinhof brought, fills it, and takes a drink, then looks at Moses, then back at Matthew. "So. If I recall, you said you wanted to discuss the state of affairs in Deadwood. And I have a few things to say, as well. Looks like the holy roller here wants somethin' from me. And Coot..."

"Well, I'm powerful curious as to why he's callin' you the Woman Who Remember The Future," Coot says, joining the group at the table, "and how you say you know me but I don't recollect ever meetin' someone as interestin' as you."

Wild Bill takes a seat at a different table, still nearby. The three braves gather around Moses.

Jackie drums her fingers on the table. "Well, all of us have things to sort out. Who starts?"
Belle Ivers
player, 321 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 01:40
  • msg #68

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Noticing Wild Bill, Belle stopped her conversation.

"A thousand pardons madam, but a matter of public health may be at hand."

She made a bee line to Wild Bill, and stared at him intently.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 329 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 01:53
  • msg #69

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 67):

Zek glances back at Jackie. "One-he called me over-and he already knows who I am and what his family has done. So, unless I should assume every goddamn Saloon has a Whateley in it waiting to make a mess, there was nothing to be done about it.

Two, Whateley's are crazy, but they ain't stupid. There is no way any of them are going to put themselves at risk-no matter how much a smooth talking lawman you are.

Three-they killed a lot of innocent people for no damn good reason. Unless someone stops em-killing me is not gonna slow down their murder spree the next time someone else makes them feel 'insecure'.

So maybe you need to stop judging people by their words and try on their deeds instead, Miss Wells. Sebastian helped his murderous kin Nicodemus at every turn. And I offered a truce that he asked for-and he did not take it. End of story."

Jackie Wells
NPC, 222 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 02:41
  • msg #70

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Wild Bill looks back at Belle. "Madam, your stare is making me uncomfortable."

Jackie Wells counts on her finger. "One, he called you over to try and talk diplomacy. You're the one who threw it back in his face. If your idea of truce is 'hey, kill your brother then drop everything and leave town.' That ain't a truce. That's an ultimatum."

"Two, I've been on his case for six months. His shadow made a stab at me once. Half a dozen women who've acted as his assistant have wound up dead or else gone missing. The house he lives in eats people. But so what? You think he's unique in that? Half the goddamn businessmen in this town, from Al Swearengen to Cy Tolliver to Huang Li, are party to the same sorts of disappearances. Wong Fe lee, the butcher, feeds his hogs on corpses brought to him to make them disappear. Frank Byrant has scalped at least five Sioux that I know of and god knows how many I don't." She throws up her hands. "Welcome to fuckin' Deadwood! It can be combative. You gonna take them all on? Or are the Whateleys somehow special because they pissed in your canteen?"

She leans back in her chair. "And right now, we got Carter, a known rapist and shootist, loose somewhere in town. We have a vampire or rakshasha or some unholy other critter drinking miners dry. And we got the same collection of drunken fights, claim jumpers, and crimes o' passion we always did, only now we also have a fucking military dictator and his horde of mercenaries hanging over everything. About the only thing solved right now is that the Bella Union ain't gonna eat people, Wild Bill's back in his right mind, and that worm cult's behind bars."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 330 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 03:01
  • msg #71

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 70):

"If know how God damn awful he is, why are you yelling at me!? You want me making deals with that worthless Sack of crap!? Do you think even if I took 29 dollars for my trouble and pretended I never heard of those sons of...of ...whatever it is they have for a mother they would buy it?"

He shook His head. "There is a lot of things I regret in this world,  but going after people like that ain't one of em!"

He glanced over at Bill and his issue. "Ma'am...please stop worrying Bill. He's a changed man, and anything he did was not him. I know that does not seem like much of an answer, but it's the truth. Bill himself would fix the situation if he had the ability. It's just not as simple as it is for most folk."
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 396 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 03:23
  • msg #72

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art quietly listened as the woman named Jackie Wells spoke. This was their oracle, the one they had been sent to find, and who would help them on the next step of their journey. Each step would be more difficult than the last, and it had been difficult enough to get this far.

While he was now more apt to listen than speak, Art sighed when Jackie seemed to get derailed by the concerns of Deadwood. The information she had was much more far-reaching.

"Miss Jackie Wells? If ya be the Woman tha' Remembers the Future, than I tink ya should go first." He was belatedly responding to her question about who starts. "I mebbe have sometin' ta add when yer done. For those I haven't yet had the pleasure o' meetin', I be Art Wiley."
Jackie Wells
NPC, 223 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 03:40
  • msg #73

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie lets out a long sigh. "Yeah. Priorities. Alright, thanks Art." She contemplates the bottle, then looks over at Coot. "But...I actually reckon Coot oughta go first."

"Me?" Coot looks up from his drink abruptly. "Why?"

"'Cause my story ain't really complete." Jackie says. "You know more about The Reckoning. Hell, most of what I know is things you told me, once upon a time. And though I think the preacher gots a notion about it, the rest o' these folks don't. Not like you have, at any rate. And my story ain't gonna make much sense without them knowing."

Coot shrugs. "Well, sure. I suppose I can jaw a while." He heads over to the table. "So, let me tell you about my encounter with Running Wolf..."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:41, Mon 27 Feb 2017.
Coot Jenkins
NPC, 20 posts
Prospector
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha +2 (+4)
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 04:32
  • msg #74

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"So this was back, oh, round the middle of '67. California hadn't yet sunk into the sea. I was prospectin' out in Arizona, when I came across this fella..."

Sometime in June, 1867, Sundown. Rattlesnake Spring, Galiuro Mountains, Arizona

some mood music

The old man lifted his pan out of the water, and swished the sediments around. It took a keen eye to spot flakes, especially in this rapidly fading light. Soon, he'd have to pack it in for the night, and this stream had been disappointing thus far...but ah! There was that beautiful color!

The old prospector had been out west since the Rush of '49. This country suited him...wide open spaces, not too many faces. Sometimes he wondered if it all were worth it. But then there were times like today, when things were looking up.

The old man took out a pair of tweezers and carefully picked out the flecks of gold in the pan, then tipped them into a small vial of water. it wasn't much, but it meant that he was on the right track. Soon, he'd track the source of these flacks and...

From the bushes, he heard a groan.

The old man's hand went to his Springfield. Could be nothing. Could be danger. You never knew, especially these days, and he'd heard some might odd rumors about the wilderness around here. Things he didn't half believe, but he hadn't gotten to be an old man by not being ready for anything.

He crept over to the bushes, following the moans. And there, he spied a crumpled figure, an Indian in a dark robe, stretching a black-stained hand towards the stream. There was a trail of blood, and a pool of it below the man's body. The fella looked like he'd crawled a fair distance, had passed out, and was only now coming to.

"Hey there!" The old man said, leaning his rifle against a tree. The robed figure started, then rolled weakly to his side.

[Language unknown: "...aiades..."] The robed figure gasped. He reached towards the stream again, but just didn't seem like he had any strength left. [Language unknown: "...rienwh..."]

"Hey, now." The old man scooted forward, pulling his canteen free. "You're injured. Do you speak any English? You're hurt. Ain't good to move." He crept over the fallen man, and pulled the Indian's robe back...then jumped at what he saw.

The Indian's face was horribly scarred. Burned, it looked like, all shiny and covered in a spidery network of blue veins. His eyes were a solid, inhuman red, and those black stains on his hands and arms...well, up close, they looked like bloodstains.

The Indian's red eyes fixed on the old man. He nodded weakly. "I...yes. English, yes."

The old man swallowed, but, hell, even though this fella looked all manner of strange, he was still in need of help. So the old man bent over him and tipped the canteen into the Indian's mouth. The Indian drank and drank.

"Wado" The Indian said at last. "Th-thank you."

"T'ain't Nothin'." The old man said. "Just doin' what anyone oughta do in my place."

"No..." The Indian shook his head. "No...for what I have done, you should kill me on sight." he raises one of his black-stained hands. "For my crimes...I will burn in your Hell." He rubs his stomach. "Already...I feel the flames."

The old man checked the wound. It was nasty, alright. A gut wound, a ragged tear by some kinda claw. Slow, painful way to die, and it was already infected. "Damn." he muttered. "Sorry, fella." he looked down on the scarred wretch. "Look, if'n you want, I can sit with ya. Until the end. If you're gonna die, at least you don't gotta die alone."

The Indian nodded, and the old man went about building a fire. It didn't look like he'd get back to camp, but he was still prepared to rough it. Soon he had a cheerful blaze going. The old man looked back at his companion.

"That sounded like Cherokee you were speakin'." The old man said. "Awful long way from home, ain't ya?"

The Indian nodded. "Long way, yes. Long way, ever since The White Father in Washington told my people 'you must leave these lands.' We walked a long trail, filled with tears. Then I walked more. Now I am here, and here I will die."

"Well, here ya is. I'm Coot, by the by."

"Adatlisvi Waya. Running Wolf."

"Well, Running Wolf." Coot said. "I don't mean to pry, but I am awful curious about how you got out here. What was it that attacked you? Cougar? Bear?"

Running Wolf shook his head. "Manitou. Evil spirit. Sent after me by Raven, for I have turned against him who once I served."

"Who's Raven?" Coot had heard the name before. Some of the tribes around here spoke about a man calling himself Raven who'd come by in the past, preaching about war. But that was all the information Coot had ever gotten, and now here seemed to be someone who could ease his curiosity some.

"Raven is...the last son of the Susquehanna." Running Wolf said. "Many years ago, he came to us..."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:39, Mon 27 Feb 2017.
Logan West
player, 307 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 05:22
  • msg #75

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Logan entered late and had taken a seat by von Steinhof when Coot's story began. He had been on the verge of saying something to his Austrian friend, catching up with him on events that had transpired in the saloon when the old prospector began his tale.
The Last Sons
NPC, 1 post
Hands stained black
P12 T10 (14) W0 F0 Cha -6
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 13:00
  • msg #76

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

May 7th, 1861. Evening. Cherokee Reservation, Oklahoma



Some Mood Music

The Ani-Yunwiya had gathered to hear the Shaman speak. They'd heard of him, of course -- word had spread among the Five Civilized Tribes like wildfire of Raven, The Last Son Of The Susquehanna.

But now he was here, before them. He and those who followed him. They came from many tribes -- Iroquois, Powhatan, Lenni Lenape, Seminole, Creek, Chickasaw, and others Running Wolf had never heard of. Some of them had been ancestral enemies, some had been allies forever. Running Wolf even saw a few of the Negro tribe among them, those the whites had brought over the sea in chains.

And now they had reached the lands of the Ani-Yunwiya, a once-proud tribe reduced to reservation life, constant starvation, and the depredations of white outlaws who fled their own law and hid in the lands that the Tsalagi had been forced onto over twenty years ago.

Running Wolf still remembers that march, though he'd been but a child when it happened. His father had died resisting the Long Knives, shot down like a dog in the mud. His mother had died on that long trail of tears, died because she'd given her share the meager food to him. They'd left her body on the trail, marched over it, thousands of feet pressing her down into the mud. Oh yes. He remembered.

And now here was Raven. He stood before them, tall and proud, showing few signs of age, though it was rumored he'd lived over a century. He raised his hands, and the assembled fell silent.

"You know who I am!" He shouted, his powerful voice carrying over the clearing. "They call me The Last Son of the Susquehannock, for I am the only one who remains of my tribe! Once, we were a mighty people! Our lands once stretched across what the white man now calls New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland!" The man frowns. "The white man called us Susquehannock -- a word that means 'enemy' in the language of our rivals! Just as they named you Cherokee! Just as they named all who are not them!"

Running Wolf nodded at this. Many others did as well.

"Our people were mighty! Until the white man came! He brought with him plague! The smallpox ravaged us, until only a few remained! And so we sought the White man's medicine. But The white man are like the plague they bring! They spread! They consume! They destroy! And their price for their medicines was that we gave up what made us strong. They took our language! They took our ways of making meals, of living with the land! They took our hair! And they wanted us to become them. They said we would need to be cleansed by their God, and only then would we be saved!"

Raven paused. "And so we dwelled as they did. But we were not equal to them. We were as their pets! But we would be protected, we thought. We would be healed by their medicine, saved from damnation by their god. But then the mighty Pontiac turned against the white man, and raised an army against them! That was so far from us, but it did not matter! No, it did not matter at all that we were as like them as we could be -- they still hated us in their heart of hearts, and they came to slaughter us! In the dead of winter they fell on my village. And then, when the white fathers took in the survivors, we were placed in their gaols. For 'protection.' But this too was a lie! The angry mob came again, stormed the gaol, and killed everyone they could catch! I took a blow to the face and fell as if dead."

Raven sighs. "I was a boy then. Awakening to fire and smoke, drenched in blood. For a moment, I dared hope it had all been a nightmare -- but then I turned, and I knew that it had not. For it was then that I looked upon the end of all that I had ever known, of all that I had ever loved! My family! My friends! My people!"

"And you know this pain!" Raven pointed out at the crowd. "You know what they will do when they want something you have! Yes, I know of your trail of tears! Do you think they will not come again? When they want this land, too? When they find gold or need room for their farms -- who will they take it from? Who do they always take it from? We can never dwell in peace with them! They are empty holes! They are a plague that devours! And they must be swept from these shores back across the sea!"

There were cheers from the crowd now. For a long time, the Ani-Yunwiya had adopted many of the White Man's ways. They were part of the five "civilized" tribes. But Running Wolf had always hated that term, for it implied that they had not been civilized before the White Man came. And that coal of anger now flared in his heart at Raven's words.

Running Wolf saw frowns from the elders. One of them, Degataga, spoke. "These are dangerous words. How would you fight the Americans? They powerful and numerous. They would fall on us like so many locusts, and we would be crushed."

Raven laughed. "There is a way. Long have I sought the spirits. Long have they been silent. The Old Ones, it is said, went to them, bound them to stop evil in this world." he shakes his head. "But evil is still here! The Old Ones have failed! The white man has done so much worse to us than any spirit! Now the two great tribes of white man fight a mighty war. The murdering canons roar like thunder as the Blue and the Grey attack each other. There is no better time to strike! I intend to go into the Hunting Grounds, with any who will come with me. There, we will tell The Old Ones what the white man has done. We will make them open the gates, and return the spirits to us! And with their power, we will drive both their tribes from these lands forever!"

There is a murmur from the crowd. It is less confident than before.

Degataga shook his head. "This is folly. This is madness. Your hate has poisoned your mind. Leave this place."

And Raven did. But before he went, he asked if any would join him. And Running Wolf stood.

"I will come with you." He told the shaman. "My family, too, was killed by the white man. Like you, I am the last son of their line."

Raven nodded. "These here are all last sons." he waved to those who followed him. "The last of their families. The last of their villages. Some, the last of their tribes. I welcome you among them."

And so it was that Running Wolf took his place among these Last Sons.

here, Coot paused, and took a drink.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 418 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 17:38
  • msg #77

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matthew was already two cups deep into Steinhof's bottle by this point. He flicked his gaze to Marshal West, to Jackie Wells, to Art Wiley and the rest of his group. This talk of Old Ones and spirits made him uncomfortable. He looked to the other Marshal, looking for some sort of lead or indication.

"Hell of a story," he muttered.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 331 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Mon 27 Feb 2017
at 17:51
  • msg #78

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Zek looked at his boots. Thus was not a new story. He had heard it many times, in many different ways, told by many different people. It was not enough to hear the same tale, but he had seen the results as well. He had gazed into the hunting grounds, and seen the result of that horrible deed. Brought on by far worse deeds done not by inhuman demons...but ordinary white men.

Still, he listened.
Belle Ivers
player, 323 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Tue 28 Feb 2017
at 01:37
  • msg #79

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Begging your pardon sir, but there could be a serious public health threat..."  Belle trailed off, caught up in this uncanny story.  A master performer was at work here.
The Last Sons
NPC, 2 posts
Hands stained black
P12 T10 (14) W0 F0 Cha -6
Tue 28 Feb 2017
at 01:51
  • msg #80

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Oh, you ain't heard the half of it yet." Coot sets down his drink and continues. "Running Wolf told me that he followed Raven fer about two years as he traveled across the West, down into Mexico, and up into Canada. Wherever natives had fought whites, he went. And eventually, Raven had himself a genuine army..."

July 1, 1863. An old Micmac burial ground, Nova Scotia

some mood music

For years, Running Wolf followed Raven and his Last Sons. They grew in number, here and there, until they became a warband two hundred braves strong. And they grew in power, as members from one tribe taught the ways of warfare to members of others. And they grew in magic, for though the spirits were quiet, there were still some small favors they could provide.

At last, Raven lead them to an old burial ground in the lands of New England, where the portal The Old Ones had used to enter the Hunting Grounds lay. Far to the south, a great battle between the Blue and the Grey had started, in a place called Gettysburg. But Running Wolf knew little of that, only that the great forces of the white man were distracted, as Raven had said they would be.

And now they drew near the promised land. But in their path, they came across someone who would cause Running Wolf his first doubts.

She was a white woman, who sat at a table outside a covered wagons with the words "Madame Minerva -- Fortune Teller" painted on the outside. She sat calmly, though her horse bolted as the army of braves approached her. She did not even flinch away when Raven himself stepped up to her table, grinning the most wicked of grins.

"Fair maiden!" He called out to her, his voice giddy with sick glee. "My band is weary. We have travel far, and are in need of your...assistance!" Raven had been talking for weeks about how he would open the way. The portal required life's blood. Several of the Last Sons had volunteered to be the sacrifice needed, but Raven had always seemed certain they would find someone more suitable. And now, it seemed, they had.

"I have food," the woman said, calm as the summer morning. "Not enough for all, but you may have what there is."

Raven laughed. "Oh, we have food enough. We are on a righteous quest. I would know what fate has in store for us!" Behind him, The Last Sons cheered and whooped. Raven went up to the woman, grabbed her veil, and looked into her eyes. "What brings one as fair as you into this wilderness?" He asked.

"I was to meet a member of my family." The woman replied.

"And yet you met me instead. It would seem you are a poor fortune-teller."

It was then that Tecondo, one of the oldest members of the band, one Raven frequently called brother, stepped forward and voiced what Running Wolf held in his heart. "Raven, she is a mere woman. No threat to us."

"Did I say she was?" Raven snapped, and grabbed the woman by the arm, pulling her forward.

"I have already seen what fate holds for you." The woman said then. "You will accomplish what you seek, but at a great price."

"There. You see?" Tecondo said. "She says fortune smiles on us. Let her go her way."

"He will not let me go." The woman said quietly. "He will be my death."

"Enough!" Raven shouted. He threw the woman to the ground, and glared at Tecondo. "Do you question me, old friend?"

Running Wolf wanted to step forward, but he was beaten to it by Dog Killer. Dog Killer, a proud Pawnee brave, who had killed many Cheyenne and was not sorry for it, spoke up at Raven.

"I question you." He said. "I believe your cause is sacred, great Raven. You bring all of us hope. I will follow you to the ends of the earth." he waved at the woman. "But I do not understand this! How does this serve our cause?"

And that was when Raven struck him across the throat. His long nails, sharpened to points, ripped through Dog Killer's skin, spilling his blood on the ground. "I alone say what serves my cause!" Raven screamed as Dog Killer fell to his knees, then on to his back.

"I-I..." the pawnee gasped, blood bubbling from his neck as he tried to draw breath. "F-for...forgive m..."

"goddess." The woman breathed, then turned on Raven. "This is how you treat your own?"

"My own do not question me." Raven said, watching Dog Killer writhe. "They simply do my will." Then he looked at Tecondo, and Running Wolf felt his blood run cold.

"Then you are a poor leader of men." The woman broke from Raven's grasp and knelt by the dying brave. He tried to speak, but Running Wolf could not hear him make any words he could understand. The woman began to weep. "Hush, my brave warrior." She took his hand in hers. "I shall not forget you."

"For whatever that might be worth." Raven growled, then gestured to the warriors behind him. "Enough. Bring her. I need her alive. For now."

"I fear what we have become." Tecondo murmured as the braves picked the woman up.

But Raven heard him. As he mounted his horse he glared at the man. "We have called each other brother, Tecondo," he said, "But question me again and you should fear instead what shall become of you." He then looked at his assembled warriors. "Come, my Last Sons!" He shouted "We have a long day's ride, and then this night we bring the world to its knees! EYY-YAAAAA!"

Running Wolf's mind returned over and over to the woman and to Dog Killer as they rode. He hated the whites, yes, but not so much as to be cruel to them. He wanted the white man to pay for what they had done to his people, but...it was in an abstract sort of way. Watching Raven toy with that woman -- that was unsettling.

And then there was Dog Killer. Raven was quick with punishments, yes, and brooked no disobedience...but this was the first time Running Wolf had seen Raven rip a man's throat out with his bare hands. For the first time in two years, Running Wolf was afraid.

They reached the burial ground at sundown.

some mood music

The sky was overcast, the setting sun setting the clouds ablaze in reds and oranges. Distant thunder rumbled.

"The Great Spirits know we approach." Raven grinned as he dismounted. "The powers we seek stir beneath the earth." He grabbed the woman by the hair and pulled her from the horse she had been laid over. "Come." he dragged the woman across the barren ground toward the center of the burial ground, where a great and complex sigil had been carved into the naked rock. "Let us begin."

He began chanting in a tongue not heard for centuries, screaming his rage and hatred to the blood red sky, the rhythm of his dark words set to the beat of thunder. He placed the woman at the center of the sigil.

They exchanged words, then, but Running Wolf could not hear them over the rumbling. It seemed as if he asked a question and she answered. Then Raven took his knife and plunged it into her, again and again, then dropped her body. The woman's blood pooled out, filling the grooves in the rock. And then, the sigil began to glow. Sparks of lighting flashed.

"Hear me, spirits!" Raven screamed. "Let not even the Gates of Hell stand before my power! Open! I command it!"

And the earth shuddered. There was a brilliant flare of light, a screaming wind...and then a hole, an empty void so black it hurt to look at, tore itself through the sky before the shaman. Lightning flared.



The gates between worlds had been sealed long ago -- an acot of nobility to save the world from the threats that lay beyond. But now, once more, they were rent asunder. Broken by the will of a madman.

Raven gestured to The Last Sons. One by one, they dismounted and gathered behind them. And then he stepped forward, into that terrible void, and The Last Sons followed.

Coot paused for another drink.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:45, Tue 28 Feb 2017.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 423 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Tue 28 Feb 2017
at 03:48
  • msg #81

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt was frozen with his drink halfway to his mouth.

"Did she find her family?" he blurted out before he could stop himself.
Coot Jenkins
NPC, 21 posts
Prospector
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha +2 (+4)
Tue 28 Feb 2017
at 05:43
  • msg #82

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"I dunno." Coot says. "I always wondered about that bit, but if Running Wolf knew, he took that knowledge to the grave."

"Raven was, what, a century old by that point?" Jackie says. "It's entirely possible that before the Paxton Boys dropped on his village like the fist o' god, he was rather more converted than he let on. Now, take this as baseless speculation if you like, but a white girl and an Indian boy gettin' together in a field somewhere and sowin' wild oats would definitely be frowned upon. Might even move someone to a murderous rage, if it produced a bastard. Stir that in with Pontiac gettin' folk riled up...well, you see where I'm goin' with this?" She pauses. "See, my team was workin' with the Sioux, and they'd captured Raven and chained him to a rock. Had him there for a hundred years, tryin' to find ways to kill him. I was told that one o' them was a medicine woman named Dove, who claimed to be Raven's great-great-whatever granddaughter. Thing is, they told me she was a half-breed." She shrugs. "I don't know if it was true. Might just be a tall tale. But if it were, well, Raven'd have to have relations at some point."

((OOC: Hee...Deadlands lore is fun.))

"Anyhow," Coot says, "We was just gettin' to the good bit..."
Moses
player, 554 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W1R0B3L1
Tue 28 Feb 2017
at 10:08
  • msg #83

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Moses, for the most part, nodded along, as if he already knew all the details of the story.
He quietly murmered to Little Crow, translating for his benefit.
James Wilder
player, 496 posts
Gunslinger
P5 T6 F- W- FC:W3R1B0
Tue 28 Feb 2017
at 17:33
  • msg #84

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

James had entered with the others but stayed near the door as he thought they'd not stay terribly long. Seemed everyone else had other ideas there was a lot of talking, some were playing pool or whatever else seemed to be going on. James had one thing on his mind and that was killing Darius Carter, all the others seemed more interested in story time than getting things done.

OOC: still here
The Last Sons
NPC, 3 posts
Hands stained black
P12 T10 (14) W0 F0 Cha -6
Tue 28 Feb 2017
at 19:36
  • msg #85

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Coot continued his story. "Running Wolf told me that they reached the first of the Old Ones not long after that. I asked him who these Old Ones were, and he told me they was ancient shamans who had traveled into the Hunting Grounds to seal away evil..."
The First Gate, The Hunting Grounds

some mood music

At long last, the warband stood before the entry to the Hunting Grounds. Before the gate stood an immense statue, which held the gate closed with one arm and held a mighty spear out towards the warband with the other.

As they approached, a voice like grinding stone rumbled through the sky.

I see you little mortals. How come you to the Hunting Grounds?

Raven stood tall before the statue. "Though great sacrifice, blood and strength!" he shouted.

And for what purpose?

"We come to end a scourge that brings death to the people!" Raven shouted. "For you and yours failed to protect us, failed to rid the world of evil! The white man has done far worse than any spirit bound by you! So we would free the manitou, bring them under our sway! And then there will come such a reckoning that the white man and all his works will be swept away forever!"

Fool.

The great stature shuddered, and the arm holding the spear ground down, until the point was aimed straight at Raven's heart.

What know you of what lies beyond? Of the monsters we bind? I tore out my living heart so that I might stand eternal against their return. I suffer endless agony bound in this stone so that the world might sleep peaceful, never knowing their touch again. I wield one of The Six, which taints my very soul, to do battle against every danger from within. Or without. You think to bind the manitou? You cannot. None could bring The Reckoners under their sway. So go back to the world, arrogant shaman. You shall not pass. I forbid it.

There was silence for some moments, then Tecondo went up to Raven and put a hand on his shoulder.

"Come, brother. It is not to be." he said.

Raven turned on him. "I will not be denied! We've come too far now to turn back!" he said.

Tecondo shook his head. "This is an Old One. The elder of elders. We cannot dishonor them! We cannot challenge them! Surely you realize that! What choice do we have?"

Raven's blade found Tecondo's heart a moment later. "There is always a choice, brother." He said as the man collapsed, shock etched on his dying face. He then whirled and grabbed a spear. "I defy you!" he shouted at the statue. "You are nothing to me! None shall ever forbid me again!" And then he charged.

So be it. The statue rumbled. Spirits! Come to me! Protect the gate!

A horde of spirits burst from the walls of the cavern. Running Wolf saw then things that his mind could not quite grasp. But this was it. The Great Spirit War had begun.

some mood music

The statue of the Old One struck at Raven with his spear, and it hit with ungodly force. The blast sent man and spirit alike flying backward, but Raven struggled to his feet. He charged again, and struck the stony guardian...to no effect. The shaft broke in his hand against the guardian's granite hide.

Running Wolf charged at a vicious spirit attacking his comrades. His war club thudded, again and again, holding back the tide. In the chaos, he did not see what Raven did next, but there was a booming {CRACK!} and suddenly the statue of The Old One split! Blood gushed from the cracks in the stone skin of the guardian, and it stumbled backward, but rallied and charged again.

Running Wolf called on the tricks Raven had taught him, and found the magic coming more easily than it ever had in the world. He turned his skin to bark. He called on the quickness of wolf. He called lightning to dance at the tip of his warclub. And with these tools, he fought. The blood of spirits flowed on his arms, his hands, and burned coldly there.

But the spirits were mighty. A serpent slithered around his legs, then transformed into roots and vines, tripping him, then slithered away as if the foliage were nothing more than a spent skin. While he tugged at the snake's spell, a cougar with eyes of flame leaped at him, tearing at him in a grotesque mauling parody of an embrace. He might have died then, but there was another {CRACK!} and suddenly the Old One's statue form fell apart, and an old man dropped to the ground.

The spirits began to retreat. Running Wolf saw Raven pick up the old man's spear, only to drop it again, cursing as a green flame burned his hand. He pulled a knife instead, and stuck it over and over and over again into the Old One's body. The same black blood that stained Running Wolf's hand now stained Raven's as well.

Raven stood up, then dragged the body of the old one to the gate. He dipped his fingers into the man's blood, then painted some symbol on the gate. When he was finished, the gate collapsed...and the way was open.

They had won their first battle. It was not to be their last.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:51, Tue 28 Feb 2017.
The Last Sons
NPC, 4 posts
Hands stained black
P12 T10 (14) W0 F0 Cha -6
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 06:32
  • msg #86

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The Hunting Grounds

some mood music

One by one, the Last Sons attacked the other gates. Each of the guardians wielded an ancient spear of terrible power, and had a host of spirits with them to act as warriors and allies.

The Guardian of the Second Gate wielded the very fire of Perdition itself. His blazing power maimed and killed many before he fell.

The Guardian of the Third Gate spread the flesh-rotting plagues of old. The terror of smallpox, of cholera, of measles, of typhoid...all of these and more spread among the Last Sons at the Guardian's command.

The Guardian of the Fourth Gate called up and command the spirits of the dead, and the Last Sons were forced to kill their own ancestors a second time. Running Wolf remembered this one vividly, fighting his own father, who pleaded with him to cast aside his weapons.

The Guardian of the Fifth Gate had eternal youth and the ability to heal from even a fatal wound. This battle was the longest, and took the most guile and cunning, for the Guardian had to be deprived of his spear before he fell. But fall he did.

The Guardian of the Sixth Gate...was not there. His stone statue was sundered, his spear left stuck in the ground, his hordes of spirits gone into the wilderness. And this was the most troubling one of all. Raven had the Last Sons search for weeks, fearing some sort of ambush or trap...but none ever emerged.

After each guardian fell, Raven made sure to have his warriors collect their spears. He knew they would be needed, but none wanted to touch them, so they were wrapped in leather.

Then the Last Sons, their number greatly reduced since the war began, headed to the Last Gate. There, the remaining Old Ones dwelled, protecting the last, most vital spot: the gate that held The Deadlands themselves closed. Their most ancient and powerful allies, now alerted to the danger, stood ready to battle.

But it was now that Raven commanded his Last Sons to pick up the Six Spears and wield them. Only five managed to do this...the Sixth still burned any who touched it, meaning the original bearer was still alive. But even so, five of The Six were enough. Nothing could stem the tide of death. Raven and his Last Sons came on like a force of nature. All the remaining Last Sons wound up with the black blood of The Old Ones on their hands.

Raven laid The Six out in a pattern around the Last Gate. He chanted in ancient languages, danced the Dance of Sundering. He slit the throats of the warriors who had bonded with The Six, sending their souls into the working. In the rising flame, the Last Gate stood outlined, glowing orange with the heat. Then it cracked and burst apart, and the keening shrieks of a million damned souls washed over the bloodied Last Sons. The fires of hell scorched their faces. And Running Wolf remembered one last thing before darkness claimed him. He saw Raven standing tall in the flames, and four giant figures in silhouette that spoke with the voice of thunder.

And then he saw no more.

Running Wolf awoke back in the world, in the graveyard. He was not alone...the surviving Last Sons were gathered before the portal. He saw the horrible scars on his fellows, and could feel his own face scoured raw by what he'd seen.

Raven, untouched by flame, unscarred by his trials, stood before them, grinning in triumph.

"Behold, Last Sons!" He crowed, throwing his arms wide. "Behold the chosen Servitor of War itself! Behold Raven Doombringer!"

Power flared around him.

"Long have we suffered at the hands of the white man! But no more! Today, their dominion ends! Today, our great work begins! The Reckoning is at hand!"
Some mood music

After that, the Last Sons rested and healed. They had each grown in power, and found that while weeks had passed for them in the Hunting Grounds, only days had passed in the world. Running Wolf returned home to the lands of the Ani-Yunwiya -- but he was not welcomed there. People feared what he had become, what he had been twisted into. They feared his face. They feared his powers. And they could see the black blood on his hands, blood which would never wash off.

So Running Wolf went into the wilderness. He heard a summons from Raven some months later, but he did not go. He knew such a betrayal would be punished. It would mean his life. But he could not go back. He would not join the unkindness of Raven and his servants. Instead, he lived alone, moving ever westward, always one step ahead of Raven's minions.

Until he was caught. The manitou tore a bloody gash in his guts before he killed it, and he knew that he was dying. So he crawled to the nearest stream, where he was found by an old white man. and here Running Wolf saw his chance, to tell his story. To warn the white man of what was coming, and perhaps ease the smallest portion of his guilt. And so he spoke, long into the night and into the next day, until he could speak no more. And then Running Wolf died.

"At least, that's what I think he was tryin' to do." Coot said. "He rambled on quite a bit, near the end, and I'm not sure I understood all of it. Hell, some of this is things I learned after the fact, doin' some pokin' about on my own. And I sure as Hell didn't know what to believe...at the time, I thought he might just be crazy from his wounds. But The Great Quake happened the next year, and with it came The Ghost Rock, and tales of sea monsters, and the appearance of the Rattlers, and...well, I started meetin' dead folk still walkin'." He leans back in his chair. "So I reckon you folks have a lot o' questions." He looks over at Jackie. "You goin' next?"

Jackie nods. "I am. But let's hear what they want to ask you first."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 333 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 13:02
  • msg #87

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Zek face soured, as it often did.  "Raven seems to have accomplished at least part of what he wanted. The natives have their own lands, and the union army has been forced back from those areas. As for these...statue folk. The old ones. Can they be replaced with new guardians? I figure that's easier to say than do..."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 424 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 16:12
  • msg #88

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matthew sat silently, mind working furiously. He looked almost panicked if anyone were to look at him. He fiddled with his hat.

"So," he said thickly, "...you've corroborated this Indian campfire story?"
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 334 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 16:48
  • msg #89

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Matthew Broaddale (msg # 88):

"Its true." Zek said flatly. "Maybe not every little detail-but most of it is dead on accurate. None of all this...this...mojo was flying around until the door was opened. It's all real. If you want to live, you better start accepting the idea the Old Ways are fact-not myth. It does not need you to believe in it to kill you. And even if it kills you, it does not mean its done with you..." He growls that last part, and shakes his head.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 224 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 17:07
  • msg #90

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"I can corroborate it, too." Jackie says. "'Cause I lived in the world that came to be when the Reckoners won." She scowls. "I've been through the Hunting Grounds. I actually saw one o' them gates, though at the time I didn't really pay it much mind -- I was in somewhat of a hurry. Also, you got..." she sniff the air, then does a quick count, "four walkin' dead men in this very room, and he," she points to James Wilder, "is carryin' one o' the Six Spears the Guardians had, though they done changed their shape and are now guns. Not to mention the fella you was playin' pool with."

Coot looks at Zeke. "Well, perhaps he did, but he's still out there causin' trouble instead o' tryin' to strengthen the Sioux. And his followers do a lot o' harm to their own people."

Little Crow, in the corner, glowers at this.

"And now that the war's in a ceasefire, the Union has to do somethin' to make itself feel better about loosing. How long do you think the Sioux will last when the Union turns their hundreds of thousands o' troops, plus God knows how many Mad Science gizmos, loose on these people? You think the Sioux'll be able to stand against land ironclads? Mustard gas? Whatever it was that Sherman did to Kentucky that made it so grass don't grow?" he sighs. "Anyhow. I do think someone could replace the statue-guardians, yes. We'd need to find a bunch o' folk who don't mind rippin' their hearts out to live forever, though." He smiles. "Or maybe folks that're already dead. But I reckon that's a conversation for another time."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:08, Wed 01 Mar 2017.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 425 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 17:41
  • msg #91

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt snorted at Zek.

"Starkweather, I've ridden from one side of this country to the other, and I've never seen anything that would make me believe there's some magical "Reckoning" behind it all. No angry shaman is responsible for the way the world is. It's all simple tricks and nonsense," he said, and pushed his drink away from him, "People see something they don't understand and think medicine men are summoning spirits and demons are whispering inside chunks of rock. The war has been long, the Quake was a tragedy, and people are dark, evil assholes. I'm not about to start doing the Ghost Dance just because you found a burnt Indian with a story."

He rubbed his forehead in response to Jackie.

"I'm pretty sure we've already established that you're loco, Wells. Dead men walking, alright. All I see is a mountain man who smell's like his last kill, a man who faked his own death and went crazier than you, and a couple of victims of premature burial. Shapechanging spears, Christ Almighty. Where is it, then? Where's your mystical burning gun-spear? As for Whateley, he's a parlor-trick illusionist, an academic with a stupid field of study and delusions of power brought on by bad books in his parent's library."

He paused long enough to snatch his drink back up and throw it back.

"Has everyone lost their fuckin' minds? Miss Ivers! You're a woman of science! Are you and I the only sane people in this building?" he asked, before turning back to Coot.

"The Union's not about to attack the Sioux. Custer is AWOL. He's dangerous. Congress would never approve war on the Sioux on the word of a deserter and a failure. The Sioux and the Union don't have any love lost between them, but Grant's dedicated to Peace," he said, "War is not coming the Sioux Nations."
Belle Ivers
player, 325 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 18:09
  • msg #92

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle was about to applaud the story... when she heard the reactions to it.

"Excuse me sir, I must report to the authorities."

She looked around, and the closest authority was the nice-seeming Marshal from before.  She made a beeline for him.

"Oh thank god, natural selection, spirits and anything holy or beneficient such as exists in actuality or the minds of men, somebody in here is not insane!  Marshal I will beg your pardon but what we have in this room is an onset of mass pscyhogenic illness, a case exacerbated by mass exposure to psychotropic substances.  I have made several observations today to support my case.

"First, I thought I observed earlier today spontaeously reanimating necrotic tissue, which is theoretically possible but not scientifically documented anywhere so upon preponderence of evidence seems unlikely.  Two, I imagined earlier today I was seeing that gentleman seated as a traslucent image.  I have not been alone, these poor souls I met in the street-"  She indicated Art, Moses and Kills Iron Horse. "-were in a state of obvious discomfort and impairment of mental cohesion.

"Wait... of course!"  Belle had her Eureka! moment.  "The defective ghost rock boiler in the hardware store!  It's been going for months!  That combined with the uncannily high concentrations of trace ghost rock in the ground soil, water and now even the air has deposited highly reactive isotopes, which are the most likely to separate from the larger ore masses, which we have all been eating, breathing and drinking unwittingly have undoubtedly induced psychotropic reactions in several of us, causing us to see and hear things which aren't actually so.

"Additionally, myself, her-" she pointed again at Kills Iron Horse, "and her-" she pointed at Jackie Wells "Have all exhibited symptoms, and mass psychogenic illness usually transmits via females.  Ms. Wells and I have had contact with nearly everyone in this room at the fire earlier today.  In addition Miss Wells was in close contact with yet another woman during the gunfight against the robbers.  Mass psychogenic illness spreads through women, Marshal, which is why nunneries are particularly susceptible to mass hallucinations.  I wish it were not as it offends my sensibilities, but that makes it no less true.

"Marshal, you must impose an immediate quarantine.  These people are all possibly very sick, myself included.  I had thought it was just that poor woman in the street, but it's much worse!  There have been many cases of this kind of behavior, including the dancing plague of the 1500s and accounts of nuns who would begin shaking in unison!  I will help you, though I confess I'm possibly impaired.  I have the visual hallucinations, but not yet the deeper symptoms.  Worse still, Deadwood is such an unstable municipality, if this idea of the Indians using some tribal magic to launch an assault actually were to come true, the consequences would be disastrous.  Also, I'm going to need a blood and hair sample from everyone.  Once I isolate the psychotropic substance I can develop an antidote, but we'll need conventional psychological therapy for the other symptoms."

Belle drew forth two potions between her fingers.  "Alas, had I known I'd have made larger dosages but I do have some non-lethal chemical restraints prepared. I may have to produce more, if this has spread beyond this bar room."
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 243 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 18:13
  • msg #93

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy shook her head and sighed at Matt's insistence on ignoring what was right in front of his face. Belle was even worse. She nodded at Coot. "Ever'thin yer sayin' fits with what the Rangers know and have discovered. The biggest question is what can we do about it? Course we prolly need ta hear from Miss Wells fore we can start formulatin' any sorta plan. Mister Coot, do ya recall what day it were when ya met this Runnin' Wolf?"

She looked over at Wilder. "An' James, can ya bring the First Gun over here?"
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 335 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 18:44
  • msg #94

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matthew:
"I'm pretty sure we've already established that you're loco, Wells. Dead men walking, alright. All I see is a mountain man who smell's like his last kill, a man who faked his own death and went crazier than you, and a couple of victims of premature burial. Shapechanging spears, Christ Almighty. Where is it, then? Where's your mystical burning gun-spear? As for Whateley, he's a parlor-trick illusionist, an academic with a stupid field of study and delusions of power brought on by bad books in his parent's library."


"Hey!" Zek said, sounding defensive but not really angry. At least-not angry for him anyways. "Bill ain't no faker, Jackie's not crazy, Whateleys don't do parlor tricks and I DON'T SMELL!" He almost pouted that last part. "I know because I use that french toilette water stuff. Totally worth it." He glanced over at the other not so living folk in the room, giving them a silent hint it might be worth investing in.

"Anyways, Marshall, I could prove you wrong in two seconds flat-but no doubt you still would not believe me. No matter what your own eyes, ears, touch and smell tell you. You are just as bad as Maddox. Where the hell is Maddox, anyways?" He looked about.

Belle:
"Additionally, myself, her-" she pointed again at Kills Iron Horse, "and her-" she pointed at Jackie Wells "Have all exhibited symptoms, and mass psychogenic illness usually transmits via females.  Ms. Wells and I have had contact with nearly everyone in this room at the fire earlier today.  In addition Miss Wells was in close contact with yet another woman during the gunfight against the robbers.  Mass psychogenic illness spreads through women, Marshal, which is why nunneries are particularly susceptible to mass hallucinations.  I wish it were not as it offends my sensibilities, but that makes it no less true."


Zek looks at Belle...opens his mouth to say something and then closes it. "No offense, Miss-but I really wish everything you just said was 100% true. I would be sooooooooo happy if it was just me and a few other people being crazy." He sighs. "Marshall, you just lost your title of the ruler of the state of denial...cause it ain't just a river in Egypt."
Folks in the Mint
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 19:05
  • msg #95

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"They didn't bury me so much as hang me from a pole." James Lonefeather mutters.

"Ain't nothin' premature about my burial." Michael says. "James can attest to that, as he was the one what done it."

Coot and Jackie look at each other at both outbursts.

"And they call me loco." Jackie shrugs. "Some people just can't take it, I guess."

Coot shrugs. "What do you think? Is he tryin' to convince us? Or himself?"

"He ain't convincin' nobody." Jackie snort.

Coot chuckles. "'Are you and I the only sane people here?'" He giggles. "And then she goes on that rant."

Jackie starts laughing herself.

Coot looks over at Katy. "hee hee...sorry. I know it was 'round about the solstice. June 20th, maybe, but I was out of civilization a spell, so I don't know better'n that."

Wild Bill sits there, just taking it all in.

Walks The Night Alone and Kills Iron Horse speak softly under all the commotion. [Language unknown: "Ort all wit en ardev al naitev ch Thunceith t llica?"]

Kills Iron Horse shrugs. [Language unknown: "Li. Enc inurca houal Manstaugh eenen ckncmo. Llsa ortti fi whatncte lare ilhi, nce ivpl thehiserarea siisck notut o een to."] She looks over at Little Crow. [Language unknown: "Le all a selat ratiounte rut saest n nopr Thoinelat t lar Thtaus rios Ec ckni. Fo nderpe nti se ncres es icre isure. Der wil Mo ce. Proromver she haioekas."]
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 244 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 19:26
  • msg #96

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy furrowed her brow as she considered. "So ya talked ta Runnin' Wolf on June 20 or so in '67, mortally wounded. But he was in the Huntin' Grounds in for a few days back in July o' '63. He really was a Runnin' Wolf - evadin' his hunters fer four years...." Katy went back to thoughtfulness for a moment, but then looked to Jackie. "I think there's a lot ya gotta say 'bout this as well, Miss Wells. Cuz right now, we're still fightin' and sorta holdin' our own. I think."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 427 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 23:37
  • msg #97

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matthew's head dropped into his hands.

"Alright, fine. Immortal, Unkillable War Leader who has literally opened the gates of Hell. Go ahead, spread it around."
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 398 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Wed 1 Mar 2017
at 23:55
  • msg #98

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art set his staff on the ground with a little bit of force. Just enough to get some attention before he spoke. "Who be sayin' he be unkillable? And if he do be, tha' jus means he needs ta get locked up. Those shamans tha'  sealed away evil long ago, the Old Ones, they created a seal tha' couldn't be broken from th' udder side. Mebbe Raven jus' needs ta be sealed away like the Reckoners. Or mebbe he don't be unkillable after all. Tha' remains ta be tested. We do know from th' story o' Runnin' Wolf tha' he be able ta feel pain still. Tha' makes me tink he mebbe more mortal'n ya tink."

Art looked over at Katy and her mention of the First Gun. He then looked back to Matthew. "Of course if he be holdin' the Fifth Gun, th'one tha' allows healin' from fatal wounds? Well, he be awful close ta bein' immortal. Lucky fer us, he cannae use the Sixth yet. If it be more powerful'n the Fifth, well, tha' may be doom fer us if he ever do get ta use it."
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 245 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 00:02
  • msg #99

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy looked up at Art as he spoke and pursed her lips as she contemplated. "The Sixth Gun speaks ta its wielder, revealin' the past and future. Raven ever gets a chance ta use it, well, that sounds like it might be the beginnin' o' the end. Power like that might be awful useful. Ain't that right, Miss Wells?" Katy smiled and turned her gaze back to the oracle in the room.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 225 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 00:24
  • msg #100

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Well, in the timeline I came from, Raven got chained to a rock for a hundred years. And there was another one, one I wasn't part of, where Stone, another such threat, was trapped for a quarter of a century. It can be done, amigos." Jackie says. "Of course, Raven getting The Sixth Gun is, in fact, a mighty terrifyin' idea which hadn't occurred to me until now. Thank you very much for that, Ranger Cox." She shudders. "Now I'm gonna get even less sleep tonight than I tend to. But its wielder is still alive, I think, so he can't use it without burnin'."

Coot sighs. "Depends on whether the bond was broke when Raven used the Six to open the Deadlands. Sorry for that cheery thought, but it might be that whoever laid claim on it don't anymore."

"What about us?" Wild Bill asks. "This gun...will it work in the hands of one who came back from beyond the pale?"

Coot shakes his head. "The Six are humanity's cross to bear, according to the legends I heard. They won't bond to a dead man, and will burn his flesh same as one who ain't bonded."

Wild Bill frowns, then picks up a lantern, rolls up his sleeve, blows the lantern out, then douses his arm in kerosene. Then he strikes a match, and sets his arm on fire.

Everyone in the bar turns to stare at this.

"That maybe ain't as comfortin' as you might think." Wild Bill says casually, as the flames lick across his arm without burning the flesh at all.

"That's...a damn good point." Coot concedes.
Belle Ivers
player, 327 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 00:37
  • msg #101

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"My God."  Belle uttered breathlessly.  "It's... it's far worse than I thought.  These people are nuttier than feces from family Sciuridae."

Somewhat forcefully she bent Marshal Broaddale down to confer.

"Marshal these people are temporarily insane and possibly very ill.  I seem to have the psychotropic contamination, but I don't appear to have exhibited the hysteria, though I'm possibly a carrier as the phenomenon is not well understood due to the impossibility of clinically testing it.  But we have to contain this, this is another Salem Witch Trial in the making.  There is no telling what dangers these people will resort to!  What if they get it in their heads to stop this fictional danger?"

It was then Belle had another epiphany.  "Great Scott!  The army!  It all makes sense now.  Marshal... I... I think there's only one man who can help us now."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 428 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 00:42
  • msg #102

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Jesus fucking Christ!" Matt shouted as Hickok went up in flames. He stood up and jumped back from the table.

Belle whispered to him furiously, and he turned to her, "Who? What? I dont-"

Sighing wearily, he turned to Logan.

"West, what's the play here? You came in with the Ranger, and I have no idea what's going on."

He looked to Wells and Coot.

"What's the upshot here? He can be captured? Great. You say it's been done before, or will be done, or something. Didn't seem to help you folks. What's happening now? I don't see how Custer and his crusade are tied up with Raven. I told you, war is not coming to the Nations."
Belle Ivers
player, 329 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 01:05
  • msg #103

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Marshal don't tell me you mean to entertain this nonsense..."  Belle recoiled, horrified.  "These people are crazy and they are talking about kidnapping someone who doesn't exist, but they will most likely substitute someone who does!  And when this person tends out to not fulfill their delusional fantasies of some magical villain, they will prosecute another!  This is lynch mob mentality!  Occam's Razor!  The Salem Witch Trials Marshal!  Think!  There is no such thing as magic, magical places, magical people, magical statues or magical guns!  You know that!  You all know that, what is wrong with everyone!?"
Jackie Wells
NPC, 226 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 01:05
  • msg #104

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Wild Bill continues to burn, though he makes a point of keeping his arm away from the table and anything else flammable.

Jackie sighs. "Marshal Broaddale, in the timeline I came from, Grant loses the Republican nomination to James A. Garfield. Garfield reinforces Custer, and, after a bloody war over the summer, thirty thousand federal troops grind The Sioux into paste and force them onto reservations. With the Federal Army distracted, The Confederacy tries to stake a claim on Kansas, Colorado, Oaklahoma, and the Coyote Confederation, breaking the ceasefire and reigniting the War Between The Sates. The war lasts another four years, until a new president is elected and cooler heads prevail." She shakes her head. "That then leads to centuries of bad blood, and an arms race between your county and mine that eventually creates weapons so damn powerful they break the barrier between our world and The Hunting Grounds. That allows The Reckoners to cross over, and the world is laid waste."

She leans back. "You don't think that maybe, just maybe, Raven, bein' War's poncy little bitch boy, has somethin' to do with this?"

Coot swallows. "I think maybe it's time we heard your story."

"Reckon it is." Jackie says. "Alright. So, here is what I lived through..."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 337 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 01:14
  • msg #105

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 104):

Needless to say, Zek is not surprised that fire does not harm Bill. He knew there was only thing that could harm him, and burning was not it. He does sigh when the Marshall and Belle keep making up odder and odder things to explain it.

"It's all done with mirrors." He says, rolling his eyes. However when Jackie tell the story about the future, he looks over at her. "So...knowing that - if Custer where to die now...that none of that can happen, right?"
Belle Ivers
player, 330 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 01:32
  • msg #106

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Give me a moment with a standard chemistry set and I can easily recreate the effect."  Belle pointed out.  "I have created a similar compound many times working in industrial conditions where open flame was a concern."
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 246 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 01:54
  • msg #107

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy nodded at Coot's thoughts on Raven's use breaking of the bonds of the six. "I'd thoughta that. Hoping it ain't true. If it is, then someone's already got that power. And is probably doin' what they can ta shape the world. As fer bein' able ta ignore burning, I ain't sure that's enough ta use the mystical properties that those weapons possess. But it ain't a comfortin' thought. Still, if Raven gets the sixth gun - Checkmate."

She looked over to Zek. "Did dyin' stop you? And if he's killed - that'll jus' bout guarantee Garfield'll win. Won't it?"
Jackie Wells
NPC, 227 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 02:47
  • msg #108

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Wild Bill stares at Belle evenly. "You want to set me on fire your own self? Choose your own fuel, and let's get to it."

Jackie nods. "It'd make Custer a martyr for sure. Nothin' makes people sing a person's praises like an untimely death at the hands of an assassin. Especially an assassin with your pro-Injun sympathies. And what if you fail? Then things get really fucked." Jackie sighs. "I've had this discussion before, 'bout whether we should strangle a fella named Hitler in the crib if one of us lived long enough. The trouble is, it ain't just one man. There's a whole host of things to take into account. Changin' the past is hard. Ever hear o' somethin' called the Butterfly Effect?" Jackie quiets. "How do I explain...Alright."

She closes her eyes and recites an old nursery rhyme, something from Poor Richard's Almanac

"For want of a nail, the shoe was lost;
For want of a shoe, the horse was lost;
For want of a horse, the rider was lost;
For want of a rider, the message was lost;
For want of the message, the battle was lost;
For want of a battle, the kingdom was lost,
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail."

She leans back. "See, it's like this. History is like the weather. It's a huge, complicated system affected by a million billion little things, all of which then chain into bigger events, until suddenly a butterfly flappin' its wings in Lost Angels means you get rain instead o' sunshine in Richmond. Every action has a reaction, and those reactions ain't always predictable. Unintended consequences abound when you go muckin' about the past. Me and my friends? We're four Butterflies o' Doom flappin' our way through history. I'm hopin' -- oh God, every day I'm hopin' -- that the net result is a better world than the one I left. But I ain't ever gonna know for sure. So I'm very wary about the changes I do make. I'm talkin' with y'all because I think you folks might have a better sense o' the repercussions, and killin' Custer is not a tiny change."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 339 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 02:54
  • msg #109

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 108):

Zek narrowed his eyes when Jackie said what she did. "Why do you get to change history for the better...and we don't?  No offense, but you don't seem like the all knowing type. Hell, by your definition,  any thing you do could make things worse. Granted it's hard to imagine, but you don't seem to be sure about anything."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:55, Thu 02 Mar 2017.
Belle Ivers
player, 331 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 03:02
  • msg #110

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie Wells:
Wild Bill stares at Belle evenly. "You want to set me on fire your own self? Choose your own fuel, and let's get to it."


"HA!"  Belle called back, pointing straight at the man.  "Oh you have a deal sir!  I will show everyone here precisely how absolutely anyone could do what you have just done!"

She left the bar room momentarily, on a mission.

Belle is fetching her chemistry set and upon returning will make a potion or two of Environmental Protection.  Wild Bill ain't shit XD
Jackie Wells
NPC, 228 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 03:13
  • msg #111

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Because you don't care a good goddamn about the consequences of your actions!" Jackie snaps. "You give no thought at all to what might happen when you do things. You think you have some guidin' light that makes whatever you want to do just and true, because you can't possibly be wrong. How many times have I heard you mouthin' off to the Marshals and the Ranger here about your disdain for the law? And then you have the nerve to question my judgement?"

((OOC: Well, that certainly set her off...))
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 58 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 03:28
  • msg #112

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Belle Ivers (msg # 110):

Wild Bill blinks. "Um..." He says. "I do believe this will not end well."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 341 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 03:30
  • msg #113

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 111):

"You just TOLD me the consequences! An entire people wiped from the earth!" He clenched his fists. "Do they not count? Does the future disregard the suffering of people in the past! ? Only the history makers get a pass, and the little folks get to watch their children die!?"
Jackie Wells
NPC, 229 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 03:47
  • msg #114

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"My god, I actually wish The Professor were here to explain this." Jackie rubs the bridge of her nose. "Never thought I'd see the day." She sighs. "Look, Zeke. Your heart's in the right place. And yeah, I do want to stop The Black Hills War, The Great Wasting, The Great Depression, all four Wold Wars, and Judgement Day itself. But I just explained to you why I don't think killin' Custer is a sure bet at stoppin' this."

"I know one thing that definitely changed -- Col. Brooke Manning is alive. In my original timeline, he died during the battle of Ten Thousand Arrows. He's the officer President Grant sent to arrest Custer. I have no idea how he lived. No idea what changed to make that so. But it's a change. There's already one change that might ripple outwards. Maybe Manning can complete his mission and Custer goes home in disgrace -- or maybe some dumbass kills Custer, the news gets hold of it, and there's calls for Sioux blood like there was after the Little Bighorn and Grant promotes Manning to see to the eradication of the Sioux."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 342 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 03:54
  • msg #115

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 114):

Zek stares at her, his fingers digging holes into his palms. "Well...its sounds the gods of time are as big a bunch of bastards as the manitous. And let me guess, if I try to help Manning I will just make things worse, right?" He spits off to his left.  "Or is it only the pure of heart are allowed to reshape history they way they want to - and to literal hell to everybody else?"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:04, Thu 02 Mar 2017.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 230 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 04:09
  • msg #116

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"You ain't exactly wrong." Jackie says. "Look. I wouldn't be tellin' you folks this stuff if I didn't think you might be able to do somethin' to change it." She flick Zeke in the forehead. "You, though, aren't the only one inside your skull listening to me. Tell me -- can you honestly say that 'let's kill Custer!' was your idea, free and clear, and not planted by the demon keepin' your daisy fresh hide up and movin'?"
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 343 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 04:16
  • msg #117

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 116):

Zek stares at her for a bit. "The thing that I carry around with me Loves men Like Custer. They are not sacred of whites, and their ghost rock toys. They know what manged to lock them up before.  That's why they love all the Custers of the world. They do their work for them. And once the last of the true people of this land are cut down...those things have nothing to be afraid of anymore. "
This message was last edited by the player at 04:18, Thu 02 Mar 2017.
Logan West
player, 308 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 04:56
  • msg #118

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Logan listened carefully to everything that was happening around him. There were moments where he felt an inclination to chime in, even when Marshal Broaddale had asked him straight out for his opinion, but he had held himself back. He didn't, in truth, know what to say to his fellow lawman. To top it all off, the vigilante was spitting and clenching his fists and getting into an argument with Jackie Wells again. Well, he'd let the man be her problem for a bit.

He turned to the man sitting hear him.

"Broaddale, we just met today, but I'd ask you to show me a little trust, for the association we both bear through our office," he said.

"Best case scenario, what we heard today was a hell of a good yarn. But since I got off that train in Deadwood, I haven't seen anything remotely resembling 'best case scenario' take place quite yet. Let's just say that I've seen all kinds of shit that I've never seen before. And I've seen some shit before. Down in Kansas, out in Colorado, back in Europe. I think it's time for you to broaden your horizons slightly. Don't buy into the whole thing if you don't want to, but open your mind a little bit to a few things workin' differently than you thought they did. If this is the first time hearin' some o' this stuff, I reckon' you just got your star. This ain't like lawin' back East. Things out here in the west are just downright weird."

"For the rest, I trust Ranger Cox. Different colors an' all but we grew up together. She's trustworthy, and liable to do the right thing. And despite what Miss Ivers is goin' on about, she seems crazier than the rest with all that jibber jabber she's spoutin'."


OOC:

Holy shit. One long day at work (which blocks RPOL) and I'm buried in a sea of 32 posts!
Matthew Broaddale
player, 431 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 07:10
  • msg #119

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matthew stared at West like he'd grown a second head that spoke French.

"I've had my star a while," he said, calming himself, "long enough to know how to do my job. You're sitting next to a Confederate Ranger, whose job it is to see to it her country triumphs over ours. I'm a bit...confused."

When Belle ran off, he sighed with relief, then tensed at Jackie's argument with Zek.

"Here's my take, Starkweather, Wells. Assume, for a crazy second, that I do broaden my horizons and take what you say as truth. I agree with Wells that killing Custer is liable to exacerbate any sympathy he may get from Garfield -If Garfield wins, of course. Once the United States Army marches into the Sioux Nations, the only way to get them out is to rout them. The Ranger can testify to the stubbornness of Bluebellies.

"So, you can't kill Custer, and you can't let the Union trample the Sioux. So what then?"

He looked around the room.

"I count a handful of law dogs, braves, gun hands and..." he looked at Coot, Moses, and the door Belle had left through, "...and a couple of loco hombres. The big man says you have the answers, Wells. Wells says the Prospector has the answers. Coot says there's a Reckoning afoot that has an unstoppable Shaman at it's core."

He paused.

"Got our work cut out for us, I'll say that much."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 344 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 07:19
  • msg #120

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Catherine Hays Cox:
She looked over to Zek. "Did dyin' stop you? And if he's killed - that'll jus' bout guarantee Garfield'll win. Won't it?"


Zek looked over at the lady Ranger, and tipped his hat. "Yes-but Garfield ain't known for the slaughter of the native peoples. I am sure he has killed a few-but not women and children-at least in massive numbers that I am aware of." Zek does not comment of the dying part of her question. He never wants to talk about that if he can get away with it...

He listens to Broddale speak on the matter of Garfield, but just frowns. As far as he was concerned-Ranger Cox had summed it up. He was not sure which side was worse-given the end of slavery, but neither side was for anyone Zek cared about.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 231 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 12:53
  • msg #121

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Garfield doesn't have to have killed anyone personally to order a slaughter." Jackie says. "He ain't been in a position yet where that's an option, and I'm guessin' you ain't read any of his speeches." She sighs at Matt's assessment. "Yeah, I reckon we do, at that. But hell, I had this exact conversation before. It ain't like we got to stop Raven himself. Just foul up his plans. Listen...I'm not some sort of clairvoyant. I'm just a gal who has more info than most." She looks over at Moses. "And he wanted my story of Judgement Day. Maybe knowin' what the stakes are, you can see why I'm so keen on stoppin' it without makin' it worse."
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 248 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 13:06
  • msg #122

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy turned to regard Matt as he spoke. "Been a long time since the Union has been the Rangers concern. I've worked with quite a few lawmen from the North over the years who were more concerned with gettin' help catchin' bad folk than what uniform either of us wear. As fer the stubbornness of bluebellies, I ain't never fought in battle with 'em. 'Course that might change real fast if Garfield is elected."

Katy looked over to Zek. "No, Garfield ain't known for the slaughter of native peoples. Yet. But he's runnin' on a platform that includes support for goin' inta the Sioux nations with force. He's also against the Union's Secret Service Agency. While I may not be able ta say much 'bout the bluebellies themselves, I certainly can about those fine folk. The agents of the Secret Service have my utmost respect. Any president wantin' ta dismantle 'em ain't gonna be a good thing."

She turned back toward Matt. "Yer kinda missin' the point 'bout Garfield, though. He already sympathizes with Custer. If Custer gets killed, he'll get a lotta sympathy from the people. And that means votes fer Garfield who supports him. And that means Garfield wins. An' that means war starts again. An' it's possible it may mean the Rangers, instead o' keeping the peace, end up as cavalry in some pointless conflict. And yeah, that would prolly include me."
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 399 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 13:20
  • msg #123

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie Wells:
"I know one thing that definitely changed -- Col. Brooke Manning is alive. In my original timeline, he died during the battle of Ten Thousand Arrows. He's the officer President Grant sent to arrest Custer. I have no idea how he lived. No idea what changed to make that so. But it's a change. There's already one change that might ripple outwards. Maybe Manning can complete his mission and Custer goes home in disgrace -- or maybe some dumbass kills Custer, the news gets hold of it, and there's calls for Sioux blood like there was after the Little Bighorn and Grant promotes Manning to see to the eradication of the Sioux."


Art looked at the Woman who Remembers the Future for a few heartbeats when she mentioned this detail, and thought on it for a bit. "I mebbe have some perspective on tha'. Raven, or a powerful shaman doin' his will, was at the camp after the battle where Manning was mortally wounded. Raven mebbe had some hand in keepin' me and some o' the Cheyenne from escapin', and we were there ta heal Manning. Wit' all dis talk of seein' th' future, mebbe Raven wanted ta change somethin' - and he inadvertently ended up allowin' the colonel ta be saved."

Art furrowed his brow for a moment. "O' course tha' would mean Raven has some ability ta see future events so he can try ta change 'em, which be a fearsome prospect at best." He pondered a moment longer. "Sounds like most any change from what ya remember migh' be a good sign."

He looked around at those gathered. "Now tha' we're done wit the past and the future, mebbe it be time fer me ta mention a few more tings 'bout why we be here in the present, and why we be seekin' Miss Jackie Wells, the Woman who Remembers the Future. It don't be because we need ta know 'bout the future, least not in any kinda particular detail. 'Cept ta know tha' what she knows has gotta be changed. The work we got cut out fer us mebbe ain't what yer tinkin', Marshal Broaddale." He looked over at Jackie. "See, I been told tha' ya know a bit more'n wha' the future holds. Ya know 'bout the Path o' Stone. And ya know 'bout the Lodge o' the Grizzly. We be here, Miss Jackie Wells, ta ask ya ta help us get ta the Huntin' Grounds. There be somethin' there tha' we need ta find tha' is the key to closin' up the gate again. We migh' be able ta reseal the Reckoners, an return things back ta the way they were."

He looked around at those gathered. "Course ta do tha', we could certainly use some help. Miss Wells be able ta get us there, but survivin' and findin' what we gotta find, well, tha'll be a tough task. Bu' the knowledge we gain migh' be the thing tha'll save humanity."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:23, Thu 02 Mar 2017.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 345 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 14:19
  • msg #124

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Catherine Hays Cox:
Katy looked over to Zek. "No, Garfield ain't known for the slaughter of native peoples. Yet. But he's runnin' on a platform that includes support for goin' inta the Sioux nations with force.


"Maybe. Maybe he gives a speech in rain and dies 30 days into office. We don't know! What I do know is none of us here are smart enough to be gods! I know my future is not gonna be impacted in any real way by what we do...but thiers is!"

He points at the three native people in the room. "What do you want us to do? It's your future."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:20, Thu 02 Mar 2017.
Logan West
player, 312 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 14:31
  • msg #125

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Sitting next to? The only people he was sitting with were Broaddale and von Steinhof.

"You even know what a Ranger is, Broaddale? They're law dogs, not soldiers," he said. For all his experience as a Marshal, Broaddale seemed to have little understanding of the role of his counterparts in the Confederacy. Perhaps Logan had offended him, and he was exaggerating his experience as a show of pride. He probably had just gotten his star. Or...he was somehow compromised. Logan would have to be careful with him. "They're Johnny Reb's version of us, with a little Pinkerton thrown in. Anyway, do what you gotta do, Broaddale. Best open your eyes now, or you might not get the chance later."
Belle Ivers
player, 337 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 14:31
  • msg #126

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

At that point Belle returned with a few pieces of equipment, not the whole set, but enough to make do.

"You sir!"  She pointed at Wild Bill.  "I am about to make a point!  But I need a witness, and as this was from your inspiration, I require your services!  Sit! Watch!"

She went to work quickly, diffusing a solution from a complex array of chemicals.

So Environmental protection in the trapping of a fire retardant solution spread over the skin should work against being set on fire, but not on a damaging power like bolt or blast with a fire trapping, I presume setting one's arm on fire is more of the former.

So, as an additional precaution, would it be plausible to create a "Fire extinguisher" in a test tube with the often maligned/ignored Elemental Manipulation Power?  I think so by reading it but it's Marshal discretion.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 232 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 15:58
  • msg #127

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art C. Wiley:
Art looked at the Woman who Remembers the Future for a few heartbeats when she mentioned this detail, and thought on it for a bit. "I mebbe have some perspective on tha'. Raven, or a powerful shaman doin' his will, was at the camp after the battle where Manning was mortally wounded. Raven mebbe had some hand in keepin' me and some o' the Cheyenne from escapin', and we were there ta heal Manning. Wit' all dis talk of seein' th' future, mebbe Raven wanted ta change somethin' - and he inadvertently ended up allowin' the colonel ta be saved."

Art furrowed his brow for a moment. "O' course tha' would mean Raven has some ability ta see future events so he can try ta change 'em, which be a fearsome prospect at best." He pondered a moment longer. "Sounds like most any change from what ya remember migh' be a good sign."


Jackie raises an eyebrow. "Damn, son. Nice work. But perhaps Raven was just there to make things nice and bloody. What else did he do there?"

quote:
"See, I been told tha' ya know a bit more'n wha' the future holds. Ya know 'bout the Path o' Stone. And ya know 'bout the Lodge o' the Grizzly. We be here, Miss Jackie Wells, ta ask ya ta help us get ta the Huntin' Grounds. There be somethin' there tha' we need ta find tha' is the key to closin' up the gate again. We migh' be able ta reseal the Reckoners, an return things back ta the way they were."


The color in Jackie's face drains at that.

"Oh." She says. "Excuse me a moment."

She gets up, and wanders into the back rooms, out of sight.

Then a bunch of bloodcurdling shrieks erupt from the back. The screaming goes on for a good, solid minute.

Jackie returns. "Sorry 'bout that. Had somethin' to get off my chest." her voice is a lot more hoarse, and she grabs a bottle and starts drinking directly from it.
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 59 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 16:03
  • msg #128

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle Ivers:
At that point Belle returned with a few pieces of equipment, not the whole set, but enough to make do.

"You sir!"  She pointed at Wild Bill.  "I am about to make a point!  But I need a witness, and as this was from your inspiration, I require your services!  Sit! Watch!"

She went to work quickly, diffusing a solution from a complex array of chemicals.

So Environmental protection in the trapping of a fire retardant solution spread over the skin should work against being set on fire, but not on a damaging power like bolt or blast with a fire trapping, I presume setting one's arm on fire is more of the former.

So, as an additional precaution, would it be plausible to create a "Fire extinguisher" in a test tube with the often maligned/ignored Elemental Manipulation Power?  I think so by reading it but it's Marshal discretion.


Wild Bill shrugs. "Whatever you say, ma'am."

(OOC: Um, yeah, that would be more of a natural fire.  And Elemental Manipulation is such a useless power that I don't see the harm in a fire extinguisher test tube.))
James Wilder
player, 497 posts
Gunslinger
P5 T6 F- W- FC:W3R1B0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 16:34
  • msg #129

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

James leaves the rather large gathering and head into the rain, not sure where to go he looks up and down the streets and heads to the right.

OOC:
08:33, Today: James Wilder got the result "Outlook not so good" on the magic 8-ball.  How does Right look?

Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 400 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 17:16
  • msg #130

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art looked at the oracle. "Raven made sure the bluebellies be able ta slaughter the Lakota when they met. He be on the side o' Custer, tha' be certain. I treid ta get word ta the Lakota, but did no be a match fer Raven. He seemed ta have a particular need fer Manning ta die, bu' the great Black Kettle closed Manning's wounds wit' the power of the Old Ways."

The ginger shaman rubbed his chin for a moment trying to recollect more. "There did be dead men fillin' summa the blue uniforms. Dunno if tha' be widespread or jus' a select few. One of 'em seemed ta be in charge. Named Tom. He kept us from bein' able ta save Black Kettle. Raven tortured tha' great man before killin' him."

When Jackie ran off to scream, Art looked in the direction she left, perplexed. When she returned he had an expectant look on his face, hoping for some explanation from the oracle. Or agreement to help.
James Lonefeather
NPC, 73 posts
Half-Breed Bountyhunter
P6 T9 W0 F0 Cha 0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 17:43
  • msg #131

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

James Wilder:
James leaves the rather large gathering and head into the rain, not sure where to go he looks up and down the streets and heads to the right.

OOC:
08:33, Today: James Wilder got the result "Outlook not so good" on the magic 8-ball.  How does Right look?


James Lonefeather notices Wilder leaving, and catches him outside.

"Hey, where are you going?"
Jackie Wells
NPC, 233 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 18:09
  • msg #132

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Art C. Wiley (msg # 130):

Jackie shivers. "Sorry. I just...never really expected I'd have to go through it all again." She takes a long slug. "I'm tryin' to see if I can find enough courage in this bottle to go back. If I can't find it, you're gonna have to settle with some descriptions and a hearty wish of good luck."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 433 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 18:09
  • msg #133

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt looked about ready to follow Jackie's example and start screaming his head off. He pointed sharply toward the door.

"What time do you have, West? It ain't near twilight. Don't tell me I don't know what the Rangers are, and what they do. I'm not some backwoods chin-wagger. I know the rumours about the Rangers, and their counterparts. I also know that all that is nonsense. The job is law enforcement, cross-jurisdictionally. The job is also, to spy. A Ranger north of Kansas is a fucking spy, just like I'd be damn suspicious of a Secret Service man down in Richmond."

He groaned in frustration, then turned to Art.

"So Raven has a stake in Custer. We've already established that it'll be hard to hinder that plot from our position. What are Raven's other assets? He has his last sons. How have the Sioux not found them and routed them yet?"


[((OOC: Knowledge Occult about Raven and his assets.
10:08, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 1,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max ((1,1)).
))]
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 14 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 18:25
  • msg #134

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

one of the Cheyenne, the woman, looks at Matt for the first time. "It is because of the Lodge of the Raven." She says.

The stocky Sioux storms over to her. [Language unknown: "Anmen! Anwas o wit butta ta ekour Linhatine? Thilio! Ta oneng ngunte!"]

The woman glares at Little Crow. [Language unknown: "Ut stale ne al siwi, Towaur Ant. Na kor sonyinble ntees ouonti io as. Us Ingencwer repatase actha wirend ilro k hepeno ngfor Thuorteau, icisec cael ain acch hasto. M hishisica k i he iveus. On stiourven evwhur linconsti antounere. Ai of ut enthiswas ul hontnc prevto miatet asch llplec ecom fiioin est, er a inion elpoon ei wi intth adncio u ie ta ndllan laoull ousndecom. K erweno men ndtic eraoeress unosom ol osilac nitoch. Stand is it larughwer ekseng e Iolin Onethence mice, ouldi undhatresnce ith ckfoll are venicamen k. Siine olta, prest di p ne st is pre icit mond ee it strcomres an wa strtraast ol medi oveconate, m ashewawe. Ma andce asin iveatithavor! Ec nte ad notthonde! N ove deressoer, Proeenrom Ncto. Ulant pr wimi ou, ekugh ons asel i u wi allkorfor p ratmanhas. A anthri ha os rowach, tho a tra ometedest, un ma e tinndeugh ho howipo!"]

At which point, Little Crow does just that, whipping out his stolen gun...

((OOC: Agility checks, folks, to see who can react to this sudden shocking development!))
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 346 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r4b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 18:30
  • msg #135

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Ooc:
13:28, Today: Ezekiel Starkweather rolled 5,3 using 1d6,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,3.  Agility .

I will spend a chip if that is not enough, and I was looking over in that direction as my last statement was directed at the native folk in the room.
The Stray
GM, 2074 posts
The Marshal
'round these parts
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 18:31
  • msg #136

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: This will wind up being an Opposed roll against Little Crow, so a higher total can't hurt.))
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 347 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 18:34
  • msg #137

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to The Stray (msg # 136):

13:34, Today: Ezekiel Starkweather rolled 4 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4.  red chip for Agility test. Total 9.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 435 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 18:43
  • msg #138

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt listened with a growing respect for Kills Iron Horse as she explained, in her way, this group of terrorist Indians.

Then Little Crow drew his gun.

Matt leapt into action, attempting to swipe the gun from Little Crow's hand in a smooth, practiced motion.

It didn't quite go that way.

((OOC: More like it.
10:37, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled 13,5 using d8,d6, rerolling max (((8+5)13,5)).

I'd like to Disarm Little Crow. Called shot at -2, Fighting Check, Nonlethal. If he doesn't have Martial Arts, I get the +2 Unarmed Defender bonus, right? I won't count it in my roll at this time.

10:42, Today: Matthew Broaddale rolled -1,-1 using d6-2,d6-2, rerolling max with rolls of 1,1.

...I'll be in my fucking trailer.


James Wilder
player, 498 posts
Gunslinger
P5 T6 F- W- FC:W3R1B0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 19:14
  • msg #139

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

OUTSIDE
James Lonefeather:
James Lonefeather notices Wilder leaving, and catches him outside.

"Hey, where are you going?"
Wilder looked at his friend and turned shook his head, "While story time is nice and all I'm not here to listen to grampa in there tell me about the boogie man ... I see the fucker every night when I go to sleep." He looks back towards the saloon full of people, "So all those folks in there can go save the world from whatever boogie man stories their hearts desires.

Me ... I'm gonna go find Carter, put a bunch of bullets in his head, burn his fuckin' body, drop what's left of it after that and this pistol down the biggest mine shaft I can find, then collapse the fuckin' thing on top of it all.

Then maybe I will be able to sleep at night. So I guess I have to ask, what are you gonna do Jimmy?"
James Lonefeather
NPC, 74 posts
Half-Breed Bountyhunter
P6 T9 W0 F0 Cha 0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 19:22
  • msg #140

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Alright, alright." Jimmy says. "But let me ask you this...what next? When Carter's dead and gone, what will you do then? I mean, I'm not sure I buy the old man's story, either. But we've seen some shit together. Werewolves, that living wooden Indian, the devil bats in the badlands -- all of that. And now Carter himself is one of those things that go bump in the night. Folks need to be protected, James. You've got the skills to do it, and do it well. Carter's men are all dead or in jail. It's time to start thinking about the future."
Logan West
player, 314 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 19:34
  • msg #141

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Logan sighed. Just his luck that he'd found himself working the same territory with a rookie. He'd seen this kinda talk before. Mostly it was folks that hadn't actually served in the war, and were hot to trot for a piece of the action. He didn't know what Broaddale's story was. His initial guesses about the man's background might've proven wrong, unless he was trying to really hard to deceive Logan. In any case, he didn't quite have the time to teach him things. Broaddale would have to learn the hard way. Logan just hoped it didn't get the man killed.

"You do realize we ain't in Union territory? This is the Sioux Union. Our badges don't mean as much as you might think, 'cept for those that give 'em value. If you wanna keep goin' on about the Ranger and playin' billiards, suit yourself. I've got real work to do, and don't worry, we won't bother you with it. If you believe Miss Ivers, take a train back to Chicago and find us a real good shrink. We'll be waitin' here when you get back," he said. 

He would have said more, but before he knew it the ornery Lakota man they had over in the corner had drawn a gun he had hidden away somewhere, and Broaddale had leapt into action, almost literally. 

Logan had a different approach to things. He drew his guns and announced to the man:

[Language unknown: "Dayundfor Ive, teratewit ofrehoenho esom sonndeonsameany. Ieekecnt to es."]



OOC:

Agility: 5
Persuade: 11

13:23, Today: Logan West rolled 11,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of (6+5)11,1.  Persuade .
12:56, Today: Logan West rolled 5,5 using d10,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,5.

Managed to sneak in a phone post.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:36, Thu 02 Mar 2017.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 401 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 20:36
  • msg #142

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art nodded at Jackie's explanation. "Mebbe a good map be good enough. Mebbe ya shouldn't go regardless - ya be much too valuable ta risk. Bu' I will say tha' I have it from a good source tha' this mebbe our best chance ta stop the Reckoners."


OOC: Art gets a 4.

12:32, Today: Art C. Wiley rolled 4,4 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,4.  Agility.


Art turned more slowly toward Little Crow than the others had. His natural instinct was to interpose himself between the Brave and the Oracle, as everything seemed to depend on her knowledge. He hoped he would be quick enough to do so.
James Wilder
player, 499 posts
Gunslinger
P5 T6 F- W- FC:W3R1B0
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 20:54
  • msg #143

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

James Lonefeather:
"Alright, alright." Jimmy says. "But let me ask you this...what next? When Carter's dead and gone, what will you do then? I mean, I'm not sure I buy the old man's story, either. But we've seen some shit together. Werewolves, that living wooden Indian, the devil bats in the badlands -- all of that. And now Carter himself is one of those things that go bump in the night. Folks need to be protected, James. You've got the skills to do it, and do it well. Carter's men are all dead or in jail. It's time to start thinking about the future."


James smiled at his friend and just shakes his head, "Been after Carter and his men for all my adult life... I'll sort out whatever happens when I'm done, when I'm done."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:20, Thu 02 Mar 2017.
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 249 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 21:00
  • msg #144

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy laughed briefly at Matt's accusation. "Yeah, like the Rangers are gonna send a spy ta Deadwood. And we ain't really chartered fer spyin', not like the SSA. That said, if yer claimin' this is now Union Territory, Marshal Broaddale, yer gonna have more'n just a lone Ranger ta worry about while stakin' that claim."

She turned her attention toward the Native that had drawn a gun, her hand going immediately to her own piece.

OOC: Katy has a 4. She'll try to draw if she beats Little Crow's agility.

12:38, Today: Catherine Hays Cox rolled 4,1 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,1.  Agility.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 412 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 21:02
  • msg #145

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

22:00, Today: Freiherr von Steinhof rolled 2,2 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,2.  Agility .

Moses
player, 556 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W1R0B3L1
Thu 2 Mar 2017
at 21:03
  • msg #146

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

21:59, Today: Moses rolled 4,3 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,3.  Agility .

22:02, Today: Moses rolled 5 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5.  blue chip on top.

Total 9
Belle Ivers
player, 340 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 00:45
  • msg #147

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle was mostly oblivious to the excitement as she worked, explaining each step as she combined fluids.  She did remark idly "Going for psychiatric help now won't avail us, mass physiogenic illnesses typically only endure a few days and don't subside until people are dead."

18:42, Today: Belle Ivers rolled 3,3 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3,3.  Weird Science!

Because of course.  At least it wasn't a 1.

18:42, Today: Belle Ivers rolled 1 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1.  Red.

That'll do pig, no point to a raise on either of these anyway.
Walks The Night Alone
NPC, 6 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 W0 F0 Cha -- Hench
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 01:00
  • msg #148

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

While Matt wrestles with Little Crow for the gun, Walks The Night Alone leaps on Kills Iron Horse, pulling her to the ground and shielding her with his body.

((OOC: 11:32, Today: Secret Roll: Little Crow rolled 1,2 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,2.  Agility.

Literally everyone beats him.

Of the NPCs:
11:36, Today: Wild Bill Hickok rolled 6,5 using d12,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 6,5.  Agility.
11:37, Today: Jackie Wells rolled 2,4 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 2,4.  Agility.
11:38, Today: Coot Jenkins rolled 1,4 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 1,4.  Agility.
11:38, Today: The Stray, on behalf of Walks The Night Alone, rolled 15,7 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of (8+7)15,(6+1)7.  Agility.

Moses and Zeke are both on 9, so they go after Matt's failed disarm attempt.

Logan's 5 happens after Wild Bill goes, everyone else goes at roughly the same time, and then Von Steinhof brings up the rear.))
Belle Ivers
player, 341 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 01:05
  • msg #149

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle looked up from her work.  She really couldn't do delicate chemistry and pay attention to every single detail going on.  She didn't presume to move, but remarked.  "I say..."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 348 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 01:14
  • msg #150

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Zek gestures,  and attempts to call Little Crow's gun into his hand.

(Ooc-20:12, Today: Ezekiel Starkweather rolled 4,4 using 1d12,1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 4,4.  TK on gun. I may get possible gang up bonus due to the melee already happening over the gun, and my power is not directed at Little Crow, but his weapon.)

This message was last edited by the player at 01:18, Fri 03 Mar 2017.
Moses
player, 557 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W1R0B3L1
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 18:24
  • msg #151

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Moses had translated for Little Crow and then watched stoically the exchange between the Sioux and the rest of his flock.

Now, he rose from his stair and brought his staff down, hard, on Little Crow's head.



Not sure, but this should be a total of 11, with the gang up from Matt.
Considering that this is a converted war-club without the blade... I'll make that non-lethal damage.

19:11, Today: Moses rolled 5 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5.  blue chip.
19:11, Today: Moses rolled 5,2 using d8-2,d6-2, rerolling max with rolls of 7,4.  white chip.
19:10, Today: Moses rolled -1,2 using d8-2,d6-2, rerolling max with rolls of 1,4.  Fighting, head shot, wild.

Damage: 21... or 24 if Moses got a raise on the attack roll.

19:23, Today: Moses rolled 6,15 using d8,d8+4, rerolling max with rolls of 6,(8+3)11.  Damage.
19:24, Today: Moses rolled 3 using 1d6, rerolling max with rolls of 3.  Bonus damage?


Little Crow
NPC, 23 posts
Angry brave
P6 T6 F0 Cha 0 Hechman
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 18:39
  • msg #152

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The blow from Moses flattens Little Crow right as the pistol leaps from his hands to Zek's own grip.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 402 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 18:44
  • msg #153

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art's belated movement to step between Little Crow and Jackie was done with scowl on his face. He looked over to Zek. "Mebbe jus' hold onta tha' thing fer now."
James Lonefeather
NPC, 75 posts
Half-Breed Bountyhunter
P6 T9 W0 F0 Cha 0
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 18:49
  • msg #154

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

James Wilder:
James Lonefeather:
"Alright, alright." Jimmy says. "But let me ask you this...what next? When Carter's dead and gone, what will you do then? I mean, I'm not sure I buy the old man's story, either. But we've seen some shit together. Werewolves, that living wooden Indian, the devil bats in the badlands -- all of that. And now Carter himself is one of those things that go bump in the night. Folks need to be protected, James. You've got the skills to do it, and do it well. Carter's men are all dead or in jail. It's time to start thinking about the future."


James smiled at his friend and just shakes his head, "Been after Carter and his men for all my adult life... I'll sort out whatever happens when I'm done, when I'm done."


"And your brother? The one you're doing all this for?" Jimmy says. "You didn't tell him you were heading out, I notice. Nor me, either. You just going to go face that maniac on your own?" He scowls. "It's cause we're dead, isn't it? You can't handle being around Harrowed."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 349 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 18:52
  • msg #155

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Art C. Wiley (msg # 153):

Zek nods, and flicks his wrist to open the gun and empty the bullets into his free hand. He proceeds to put the bullets into his duster pocket, and the gun in his own empty holster. [Language unknown: "Estac al stronswer m in ec m thi comatihou man diei dino."] He says to Little Crow.
Folks in the Mint
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 19:00
  • msg #156

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Wild Bill, a little slower than the big holy man, the mountain man, and Walks The Night Alone, has a pistol out. But he doesn't fire. "Damn. I miss having two guns." He mutters. "Throws my reflexes all to hell."

Jackie has her Gatling pistol out. "Is he dead?"

Coot gasps. "Well, that just about gave me a heart attack," he says as he holds his gigantic Gatling shotgun on the man.
Moses
player, 558 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W0R0B1L2
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 19:46
  • msg #157

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Folks in the Mint:
Jackie has her Gatling pistol out. "Is he dead?"


Moses carefully leans the weapon against the table.
"Little Crow is Moses' responsibility. Moses brought him here to hear your story, Jackie Wells.
He is dangerously close to be lost to the darkness forever."

He looks distraught. Then he kneels down and takes Little Crow up in a hug, kissing his forehead.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:51, Fri 03 Mar 2017.
Belle Ivers
player, 342 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 19:55
  • msg #158

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle gathered that one of them had tried to become violent, but the others had stopped him.

She breathed a sigh of relief.  That boded well that the mass delusion wasn't advancing to acute conditions yet.  This was good.

She walked over.  Belle had removed her cumbersome hat and duster to work.  With her sleeves rolled up, the strange metal plate strapped to one of her forearms was visible, but she gave it no mind.

"Pardon.   Pardon."  She worked her way through the crowd to Moses.  "You there.  Once you're sure he's quite done trying to escalate this dangerous mass infection into a violent uproar, give him this, but don't wait too long or the protein factors won't do him any good.  And by give I mean either make him drink it or apply it to the affected area."

She extended a stoppered potion.
Logan West
player, 316 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 20:09
  • msg #159

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Logan reholstered his guns, and looks at the apparently captive Sioux.


He remained standing, but looked over at von Steinhof. "Any news on the thing we were lookin' into, Leo? And the fella that got away at the Bella Union?"


OOC:

Since I didn't get to use my Persuade roll in combat, I'm attempting to reuse it now after combat.

Persuade: 11

13:23, Yesterday: Logan West rolled 11,1 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of (6+5)11,1.  Persuade .

Little Crow
NPC, 24 posts
Angry brave
P6 T6 F0 Cha 0 Hechman
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 20:13
  • msg #160

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Little Crow, being unconscious, doesn't reply at all to either Zek, Moses, Belle, or Logan.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:14, Fri 03 Mar 2017.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 413 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 20:33
  • msg #161

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold dropped the butt of his cigarette down on the floor and pinched it out under his heel.
It joined a few others there.

"The files are back where they belong. Most of them, at least."
He shook his head and muttered something in German.
"This... Was a very interesting tale."

He looked a bit shaken and unusually for him, at a loss of words.
Logan West
player, 317 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 21:05
  • msg #162

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"I owe you one," he said to him. Implied was we owe you one, and a promise that he' d deliver himself if necessary.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 350 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 21:11
  • msg #163

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

quote:
The woman glares at Little Crow. [Language unknown: "T ur diri tr pa, Preomeill Ietha. Ac wa eiiohi forna miusie herdi tio. Ev Thuundill stnaofma hou romallill oer le ortrutson ilwi Thodinoul, onatli terur laei pre elent. Po tinprestr p on siic ilsom. I thundesom olllll fooube ngekil. E st t nockom we poenck reantiwhe bentle ill atitedons linnc artainstr we, i at aveck eentranti u vir ainni nceoullin a etpre at saneil anyoutill plmapo. I lielun pro ca oveeareau weioas eela moasin liarad. Ng menes on ughntebut ndekorwer si Peof Caalno wil, onol larstaounous he shestaand remen plecan al. Ha ure, ieme pont la ngtho ar at fo sand nafi ca wh linpreson stter ntted latoneing k et intlatthu, e ngulnoes. Diall ec norea inthisratday! Ling eshe thu uleiet! O anri adosee, Allstrcom Een. Onan e nawi stane, ive to ne n pl ul aveprowhi ta intainour. A thuicawil ons illno neasar, er a and dinichove, ce ti wi tahini ss redorerat!"]


Zek headed over to Kills Iron Horse. "You did not answer my question before...all this." He gestures to Little Crow. [Language unknown: "Ec antin k ecort il conhe tin Almion Wit Welaur Roceio me i st i. Er illad sehoon ic ll osarie ur adcata. Neeest ainsanbut me nc ol anmeel isha urngom. Chll o vorho ereen n herea ivefi is oussonbut i athou eauomeestany Mi focaas st allsetday ie o prsi ing atihasstr ckni a undersrat n usll omne undandles era sheatehat ai."] He gestures to Jackie.
James Wilder
player, 500 posts
Gunslinger
P5 T6 F- W- FC:W3R1B0
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 21:21
  • msg #164

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

James Lonefeather:
"And your brother? The one you're doing all this for?" Jimmy says. "You didn't tell him you were heading out, I notice. Nor me, either. You just going to go face that maniac on your own?" He scowls. "It's cause we're dead, isn't it? You can't handle being around Harrowed."


"This ain't for Michael, Jimmy. Never was. The livin' don't need someone to act for 'em, the dead do." Wilder's gaze shift to the crowded saloon then back to his friend. The gunman's expression hardened, "We rode together fer a while now Jimmy, and its my fault you ended up strung up out in there in Sioux country ... ain't gonna let you get yourself on my account, again. "
Old Ways Braves
NPC, 76 posts
Old Ways Indians
P7 T6 W0 F0 Cha 0
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 21:27
  • msg #165

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Walks The night Alone is still covering Kills Iron Horse. The warrior nudges him.

[Language unknown: "Moai enc som p os m for."] She says with a smirk. [Language unknown: "Hithe firola ek foll."]

[Language unknown: "Ng. Iv...hiin. Ich i a."] Walks The Night says, and rolls off her and into a crouch. He offers her a hand up, but she uses a chair instead. She's still smirking, and he's blushing and seems to be very interested in his own moccasins.

Kills Iron Horse looks at Zeke. [Language unknown: "Kor ruttinure onserepro was nc eenlinhouect a a milo ulive e i, omeconentartshe m ei M a a as te."] She says. [Language unknown: "Hoei vervorvor man. Toun alaros vir oulichent iouameall arewhioul ugh pl in ithwh?"]
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 414 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 21:41
  • msg #166

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Logan West:
"I owe you one," he said to him. Implied was we owe you one, and a promise that he' d deliver himself if necessary.


Von Steinhof waved a hand, dismissively. "Oh, please."
He pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Well...", he started, turning to address the room"it matters not if you believe the story or not. I have seen Custer. I have seen Manning. I know men like Custer. Your countries", he points at the ranger and then the Marshals, "are unique in having fought a war and both your countries lost. This is a humiliation and a stain that both your governments will want to clean.
Believe me - what do you think, why the Great Empire of Austria-Hungary invaded Bosnia? Bosnia has nothing to offer to the empire but sheep, mountains and men wearing funny hats!
The Confederacy will not go to war with Mexico, as it knows it would lose. The Union will not go to war with the British for fear of the same. You will not fight each other because you are bled dry. That leaves you both the indians."

He was slowly pacing the room now. "Well, the Union has the Mormons, too."
He stopped and shook his head, sighing: "If you hadn't been so foolish to reject a proper government... well, there is nothing one can do about it now, yes?"

He pinched the bridge of his nose again. "This room is as... as... as if someone had knocked over the shelves of the fairy tale department in the library."

He shook his head again. "Moses, I assume? Could you wake up your boy? I believe Miss Wells has a little more to say, no? And is this not why we are all here? To hear the end of the tale?"
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 351 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 21:50
  • msg #167

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Old Ways Braves (msg # 165):

[Language unknown: "Entingfor ei comoutant tha ad m ss t. Ectbledin unng pamomi teutie mi iswa. O erawilred artreaoer ommi ut liner strstrstr ekloos omepreive. An u fihamo noai hesiec,  pola Ne weanpe eve a ti ivesomlat i mela whedayast ho te strch. Tawer el anmopo osntth na t ha ie a saven ch si Larthanot Ulol ameughers ntoun aveec il wielha.  Tatrte itos ngst essearere ckivmo. Thles, ugh tic ic ecture'ererat sanwerlat ecund ven tatand day heho ingersnte. Ll en fier nishe mo herut u itpate."]
This message was last edited by the player at 21:50, Fri 03 Mar 2017.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 439 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 21:51
  • msg #168

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Broaddale struggled to his feet from the saloon floor and dusted off his slacks.

"Well, that was a...glowing example of government effectiveness." he muttered.

He quirked a brow at Steinhof and West, then nearly spun on his heel to listen to Zek.

"The Lodge of the Raven, you said. They are allies of the shaman Raven we were talking about?"

Then Kills Iron Horse spoke again.

"Could I have that again, in English, or Siouan, or Shoshoni? Even Spanish if you know it."

At Steinhof's speech, he sat again.
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 15 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 22:08
  • msg #169

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Kills Iron Horse shakes her head. [Language unknown: "Are wh ndeaveshepro mi ticeretha,m li pailti a k u. Ceec thies p plevas Thiiontho Un, a t yin iontionot oresonder eetice ce chncpe, ou m comratred ioie di eenhouove ain Ng Omelarout k Oreionlesred dimeut ei derthathe ome beta Omeel Omusee con ticillthu m carat ilti. Stpo er loanes, ta Thohateau er ain Menleskor rinde sapewh, ssis roai urssut ce paulna ur pl. Repoek Saar it rowit ess oer ek, ul ncestrbut ationearetic fiast ncerea-ereeau mo ourbleave ni t iouas artectountho. Ilar Bewero llom latvenect Be Se. Ho erad probutthe ortiv Butdayany ter ei ioun, dietse io ne onswi alfobe ni teth anyng?"]

Kills looks at Matt and shrugs. "Why would I want to do that?" She looks at Little Crow. "But yes. Raven, or those who speak in his name, go among the people. They speak to us, tell us that the white men are evil and must be cleansed. They tell us that those who follow The Old Ways are blind, and must be made to see the truth...or be purged as unworthy. I have met one who claimed to be Raven." She nudges Little Crow with her foot. "As has he. I do not know if it is the same Raven as in the story...but I have still seen a Raven with my own eyes, heard him speak with my own ears. These Last Sons...they were the first Ravens. There are more now."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 352 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 22:53
  • msg #170

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Kills Iron Horse (msg # 169):

[Language unknown: "U Stithaany Pr prostrfor u singck, st entpo ouldinome tic n nd thawitlat?"Meest es, stivlo pl ro. "P hatsoment diwer Ic asrat he beni ou beoul witwh. Ove notthusan Oulaus Tho o howe ing hisos oerintrut fiesev oursanrea ere atilno ofes paek ect es se it antyineen kor rewe to wh.

O llwi ne sanerebutnte vor a il sa in Menortove ha antverear ng meeserus, a herhe ble. Fipemi nte reive londfi lo no ou man plnce ive no ratureeen hautcaac tiacno resichbut? Thit pro bleas ulof nceestort ch eaumentio yinol larntivirthe omprek?

Be lothil encrutwer roof ie Icheveint m Il trhiwe. Ur ecto tr pr to anstr nallon ombeel oullesoer.

Enc li K ithearternti aiomac acri all etchof tomi atain m nt rerick n t le butweroul. N la ilpl pean atpr be caalcandsa unil ckomsa ro se. A pr i seckll sta terstaset aiis meieurse stahisore es dertinder un powiouma ouca Anyomeion ove roacwa ssera witpr ca nde. Towa oulentnti son ulro man me st o inet-ofen ainc nopl esitwh lo and houove-antearent rat ngno sti...ou.

Yin sanon aveshesan."]

He sighed and looked at Little Crow.
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 16 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 23:29
  • msg #171

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

[Language unknown: "Ng arbe ere? Somwittic Ur hiul, u tio con Eauprolin Haas, tic ie evany eraineoreome o ar onhis asti p ss notsi wiitom ecpe tatr."] Kills Iron Horse folds her arms. [Language unknown: "Our ame o fopoha teof, asckmi m cabeun. Een ur ndant enwaut ol. Son itiobe houll ta Isho Olaiee Witectles. Onta ut utnd ri latos ngac'utbe, dayredeau was di ilto un sswi Tiomi Waceee. Ad, ngck tapa. Pr ekpre trfo ni whiwi Isad Antoreyin nte ine, neno ta ec. As utek tista loat Din Leivca. I el outomeare ovewa rila, nti has at encce Rutun Alsile os Pe Icstet ons dinrutprente Und Sheratpre Thipreter."]

Kills Iron Horse looks at Little Crow. She starts speaking in English. "We came here to hear the Woman Who Remembers The Future speak her tale. When he is awake, she should tell it to all of us. I still wish to hear all that she says."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 353 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Fri 3 Mar 2017
at 23:44
  • msg #172

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Kills Iron Horse (msg # 171):

Zek smirked at Kills Iron Horse. [Language unknown: "K etes I weeclo ck ai ngic nepollchho rololo. A niplio sanhatousrat Na eraiveshe ch whi e ineughkor vor staro ndbewi ha. Aslopa Sa T ave thich Ce rommenvir chprth ameterpre ainestday Butorever Il inca vorout-iouher. " ]he sighed. [Language unknown: "No...hall ei Ev ithnd Acnach int oneterpreure moth earineant latentnte?"]
This message was last edited by the player at 00:32, Sat 04 Mar 2017.
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 17 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Sat 4 Mar 2017
at 15:29
  • msg #173

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

[Language unknown: "Anylesest o n hiivdi, son. Thu pe aidin il plfi illeenthuich a paeipl T meul erel tiohatdericaear en tr wi rea mo."] She shakes her head. [Language unknown: "Inna pre ieine n ineingera osel ekho ck et iv, ationehis houdinort li isanth. Il Ineeauoer paitus, t to ioulo na se semaun. E ivbut yinof rutwe k ver ntweta t oerntitho."]

She looks over at Matt. "You. You would help fight the Lodge of the Raven? Do you know of the Ghost Dance?"

((OOC: I think we're waiting on Moses and Von Steinhof?))
James Lonefeather
NPC, 76 posts
Half-Breed Bountyhunter
P6 T9 W0 F0 Cha 0
Sun 5 Mar 2017
at 05:58
  • msg #174

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

James Wilder:
James Lonefeather:
"And your brother? The one you're doing all this for?" Jimmy says. "You didn't tell him you were heading out, I notice. Nor me, either. You just going to go face that maniac on your own?" He scowls. "It's cause we're dead, isn't it? You can't handle being around Harrowed."


"This ain't for Michael, Jimmy. Never was. The livin' don't need someone to act for 'em, the dead do." Wilder's gaze shift to the crowded saloon then back to his friend. The gunman's expression hardened, "We rode together fer a while now Jimmy, and its my fault you ended up strung up out in there in Sioux country ... ain't gonna let you get yourself on my account, again. "


Jimmy shakes his head. "I let my mouth run before my brain, egged that Sioux asshole on. That's on me." he says. "And I'm already dead. I'm on borrowed time, James. Besides, I'm gonna get pissed if you get yourself killed and I wasn't there to do anything about it. You wouldn't want me unliving with that for the rest of my existence, would you?"
Coot Jenkins
NPC, 22 posts
Prospector
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha +2 (+4)
Sun 5 Mar 2017
at 06:02
  • msg #175

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Coot heads over to Little Crow, reaches into a pocket, and pulls out a small pair of manacles. "Might want to shackle him afore we wake him." He says.

"Where'd you get those?" Wild Bill asks.

Coot shrugs. "I had 'em. Turns out a pair of manacles comes in quite handy when I got a patient what don't want to take his medicine and decides to get all violent about it."
Moses
player, 562 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W0R0B1L2
Sun 5 Mar 2017
at 06:53
  • msg #176

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

07:48, Today: Moses rolled 5,5 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,5.  Faith, healing.
07:49, Today: Moses rolled 15,6 using d8+4,d6+4, rerolling max with rolls of (8+3)11,2.  Fighting to grapple, The Drop.

Moses ignores both Coot's manacles and Belle's bottle.
"Moses is his brother's keeper." he says, but nods at Von Steinhof.
He shifts his stance, sitting down more comfortably and wraps his muscular arms tight around the indian.
Then he looks up to the ceiling.
"Lord - will you give your humble servant the strength to keep Little Crow safe? Let Moses heal Little Crow's wounds so that he may hear the tale from the Woman Who Remembers The Future?"
One of the empty bottles at a nearby table suddenly drops and rolls off it, without shattering.
Moses smiles and nods, then kisses Little Crow on his forehead again.

And the indian opens his eyes and wakes up.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 441 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Sun 5 Mar 2017
at 17:56
  • msg #177

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt shakes his head.

"Never heard of it. But if the Lodge of the Raven is stirring up war in among the Sioux, they are a threat to everyone."
James Wilder
player, 501 posts
Gunslinger
P5 T6 F- W- FC:W3R1B0
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 17:03
  • msg #178

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

James Lonefeather:
Jimmy shakes his head. "I let my mouth run before my brain, egged that Sioux asshole on. That's on me." he says. "And I'm already dead. I'm on borrowed time, James. Besides, I'm gonna get pissed if you get yourself killed and I wasn't there to do anything about it. You wouldn't want me unliving with that for the rest of my existence, would you?"


James let out a bark of laughter, "Can't argue with that logic." He points to the right, "I think Maddox went that way, not sure but got a fifty-fifty on it. So let's get going."
The Stray
GM, 2085 posts
The Marshal
'round these parts
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 19:47
  • msg #179

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to James Wilder (msg # 178):

((OOC: So I'm going to move you to your own thread. See the Chapter 6.3.1: Shanghai Afternoon thread))
Old Ways Braves
NPC, 77 posts
Old Ways Indians
P7 T6 W0 F0 Cha 0
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 20:00
  • msg #180

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Matthew Broaddale (msg # 177):

"Then you see why the Ghost Dance is important." Kills Iron Horse says. "The Ghost Dance is..." She founders a bit, then looks over at Walks The Night Alone.

"The Ghost Dance is a great thing." The other brave says. "Wovoka, he comes from far away. The Ghost Dance will return our loved ones to us. When we do the dance, we will see our ancestors. They will tell us many things they have learned on the other side. The sickness that holds the land will fade. The streams will be filled with fish, and the woods with deer, and the buffalo will return to the plains. And we will no longer have to fear the white man's guns. Their many devices will fail them, and they will be forced to live with the land instead of trying to own it...or they will leave. No need for war."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 354 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 20:10
  • msg #181

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Zek listened to this-and he wanted to believe it. He desperately did. However, faith had never given him any reason to trust it. Quite to the contrary. Most of the time faith was used to control people so those who where cynical could use it for themselves.

But what could it hurt for them to try? If it did not work, then nothing would happen...expect when the native people of this land did things-they did happen.

"What do you need to do to make this happen?" He asked.
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 18 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 20:50
  • msg #182

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Kills Iron Horse looks at Moses, who is still holding on to Little Crow. The stocky Indian glowers at her but he's glowering at everyone, so that isn't new.

She looks back at Zeke. "We will be traveling into The Hunting Grounds, to rescue a lost soul that is important to the Dance. The Woman Who Remembers The Future knows a way to get there physically." She looks over at Jackie.

"Yeah. I suppose I do at that. And y'all are gonna need my help gettin' to it. Devil's Tower is damn dangerous." Jackie says.

Kills looks back at Zeke. "If you wish to help, would you come with us as another guardian?"
Belle Ivers
player, 344 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 21:13
  • msg #183

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle sighed deeply, taking her potion back when she saw the man wasn't so badly hurt after all.

"Putting aside for the moment whether anything actually works like that, your thinking is fundamentally backwards.  Consider the example of the Japanese.  When Commodore Perry arrived, they were agragrian and still doing battles with swords.  Yet now, they seek the best Scotch, English, German, American, Swiss and whatever other nation you care to name engineers to come to their country and help them institute modernity.  For their efforts, the individual Japanese has more then decupled his individual economic output in a single generation.  Mark my words, minds so thirsty for knowledge will become a technological superpower some day.  This is the era of the new science, whoever masters it will advance.  Science cares not about color, creed, national origin, sex or any other such thing.  It is the equalizer humanity has so long hoped for.

"Look, let us suppose for the sake of argument there is such a thing as magic.  What would the difference be, between magic and technology, but perception?  When the Japanese saw a train for the first time, they marveled at it for hours on end, for they had no concept of such a thing, because they had isolated themselves from the rest of the world.  And it is that perspective you must cultivate rather than take ridiculous journeys to nonexistent planes.  The finest classical works come from every corner of the globe!

"It is not the white man's devices that make him so unstoppable.  The entire history of the human race, the rise of man from the caves, has been marked by transfers of cultural advances from one group to another and from one civilization to another.

"Paper and printing, as well as the magnetic compass originated in China centuries before Europeans knew about them. 

"Trigonometry was known by the Egyptians, and the whole numbering system now used throughout the world originated among the Hindus of India, though Europeans called this system Arabic numerals because that is whom they learned it from.

"The philosophy of ancient Greece is the keystone of the modern world.  Much that became part of the what you call the white man's ways originated in other places.  Something as simple as chess came from India, gunpowder from China, and mathematics often originate in the Islamic world. 

"The Mediterranean and the Orient gave us much of modern astronomy, medicine, optics, and geometry.  Do you not see?  The white man is merely incidental in the cosmic sense.  Would you choose stagnation and decline over a planet of culture, marvels and science that would surely lead you to unprecedented greatness?  The white man is strong because he incorporates all of these new knowledges, adds them to his own.

"To try to deliberately chase it off and forbid science, that truly great hope for humanity... makes me sad.  Truly sad.  That this Ghost Dance would forever bar a people so sorely in need of it from prosperity would be a massive tragedy, to say nothing of how little has been learned from the native Indians which could be spread across the planet to all people who could benefit from it."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:14, Mon 06 Mar 2017.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 355 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 21:16
  • msg #184

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Kills Iron Horse (msg # 182):

"I said I would...so I will." He has no idea if any of this would do any good...but then it was their mojo that lets him walk around and talk.

He looks back at Belle, listens to her. He rolls his eyes, sighs, and says "It's all done with mirrors."
Belle Ivers
player, 345 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 21:27
  • msg #185

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Ridiculous stories that lead one to pursue a nonexistent panacea will all only lead to wasted effort and ruin at a time and place in history where prudence and care must be harnessed so progress can come.  There is no proof whatsoever of any of these nonsense things and you know it.  There is no such thing as magic, the dead do not walk, and there are much simpler explanations of even extraordinary things."

Belle replied coolly.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 356 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 21:31
  • msg #186

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Belle Ivers (msg # 185):

"Right..." Zek nodded. "...its all done with mirrors." He grinned at her. Maybe some day she will be right, and he could be at peace.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:32, Mon 06 Mar 2017.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 415 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 21:42
  • msg #187

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle Ivers:
"Ridiculous stories that lead one to pursue a nonexistent panacea will all only lead to wasted effort and ruin at a time and place in history where prudence and care must be harnessed so progress can come.  There is no proof whatsoever of any of these nonsense things and you know it.  There is no such thing as magic, the dead do not walk, and there are much simpler explanations of even extraordinary things."

Belle replied coolly.

"Fräulein Ivers, would you have a talk with me?" Leopold asked in a somewhat conspiracy tones and pointed at the farest corner.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 442 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 21:45
  • msg #188

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

With a heavy glance to the West, Matt stepped toward Belle.

"Miss Ivers. Allow me to suggest a different perspective. If technology can be seen as magic by the unfamiliar, perhaps these supposed magical phenomena are in fact knowable events. As a woman of science, don't you think it would be your duty, your responsibility, to see to it that they are investigated by a clinical, academic mind?" He smiled in a way he hoped was charming.

"I mean, if this magical spirit realm exists as some sort of scientifically unknown place, wouldn't it be great if it came to be known as 'Iver's Realm'?"

Then he scowled at Zeke

"You're gonna mock a skeptic, you anarchist? Rocks and glass houses."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 358 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Mon 6 Mar 2017
at 21:59
  • msg #189

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Matthew Broaddale (msg # 188):

"I'm not an anarchist. I just don't like the law that mostly only works for people who can afford it.

As for her, well...she is not gonna see it any other way. There is no argument all these people can use to convince her otherwise. So, ether all of us are crazy, all wrong, or all liars." He shrugged. "I wish so much that was the case."
Belle Ivers
player, 347 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 00:47
  • msg #190

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Sommes dans le pétrin!"

Belle sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose.

"Marshal, any number of unexplained things may be possible, but that doesn't mean it's prudent to devote resources to exhausting all possibilities; plausibility on its own is meaningless without empiricism or at least analytical arguments to support it.  There may well be little green men on the red orb of Mars in the heavens, though that doesn't dictate we should all cease our labors and stare into the sky with looking glasses for confirmation or refutation of such a hypothesis.  However, I agree with you that these physically poisoned parties should not have permission or purview to pursue puerile projects prepared upon a preponderance of perilously pondered possibilities.

"Toward that end I will endeavor to assist you, but please don't give this ludicrousness any appearance of credibility.  You're a Marshal for God's sake, if you buy into this madness it will set a terrible example for others.  Now if you'll excuse me, I have momentary business on the continent."

She turned toward the Austrian and followed him.

"Please tell me that you look upon this as some kind of American madness.  Though you may not want to stand too close to me, I may be a vector for the physiogenic mass illness.  Though I suspect that Wells woman is patient zero."
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 19 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 01:45
  • msg #191

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Wild Bill smirks with Zeke. "Right. Mirrors."

"You mistake your rape of the natural world with progress. The mother earth gives, but you want more -- you do not wish to live in harmony, you seek to tame." Kills Iron Horse scowls as Belle heads away.

"Devil's Tower ain't but a two-day ride from here." Jackie says. "And I dunno, I kinda want her to see what's inside. It might be worth it just to watch her brain break."
Logan West
player, 318 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 03:31
  • msg #192

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

He nodded appreciatively at Broaddale. They might not've seen eye to eye on absolutely everything, but they might have reached a kind of an accomodation.

Logan's previous interactions with Belle Ivers had told him she was a capable hand with that railgun, but he hadn't been forced to hear her particular take on the strange matters of the world. Either that, or he had tuned her out, which is something that he found himself doing here. Still, he was grateful that the Austrian was taking her attention momentarily.

He wandered over to Jackie. "Miss Wells, do you have more of your story to tell, or is that about the sum o' things?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:33, Tue 07 Mar 2017.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 234 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 05:27
  • msg #193

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie looks at Logan. "Well, I reckon you got the gist of it, but Coot here needs to hear some o' the things I have to say, the fella in the arm lock is supposed to hear all about Judgement Day and the Hell On Earth that followed, and I reckon anyone actually goin' in to Devil's Tower needs a lowdown on what they're gonna find. I know that I sound right crazy to a lot o' folks. I used to have things that would help prove the things I say, but they're all gone now. All I have left are the things I took from inside the Tower, and most folk assume I'm..." she points at Belle, "...well, I'm like her. One o' those 'New Science' types. I really ain't."

Jackie stars off at the wall. "So to give you the lowdown on how I know about what's in Devil's Tower, I got to back up a bit. I was born in 2061, and grew up in Arlington. In my time, Arlington's part o' the Dallas/Fort Worth metro. It's a city spanning fifty miles from end to end. My full name is Jacqueline Kennedy Wells -- Wells is my married name." A shadow passes over he face. "Anyhow. My daddy, Robert Kennedy, was a Texas Ranger, and when I got old enough, I enrolled in the Ranger Training Corp myself." She inhales. "How do I explain what life was like, before it all went to hell? It weren't a paradise by any means, but...we had cities that'd take you a day to walk across. We had cars run on distilled Ghost Rock, a stuff most folks called Spook Juice, and these cars could take you from El Paso to Phoenix in a day's travel. I personally owned a telephone that fit into my pocket and could connect to a vast network of information -- the entirety of information known to man, near enough. Yet it was so common I never really marveled at it. Hell, I used to waste time watchin' videos of cats on YouTube and gettin' in arguments with strangers half a world away." She shrugs. "We'd even gone into space. Gone to the moon. Gone to Mars. Found a whole new planet called Faraway."

"Now, all o' this was fueled on Ghost Rock. But the Ghost Rock started runnin' out. Round about the time I was graduatin' High School, a geologist published a survey claimin' that the world had maybe 20 years before all the Ghost Rock ran out. And that's when the problems started. Wars broke out over resources, and it spread and spread until at last the whole o' the world was fightin'."

She shakes her head. "You know how folks claim they're makin' a weapon so terrible it'll never be used? Well, it'll get used. Nobel thought dynamite would end wars. We had somethin' much more powerful, somethin' so terrible we could wipe out entire cities the size of Dallas/Fort Worth clean off the map in a second. We told ourselves that the wars wouldn't get so bad that we'd ever contemplate usin' 'em." She swallows. "But war...war never changes. And I will never, ever forget the day when it happened...when we used the Ghost Rock Bombs and damned the world..."
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 417 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 08:25
  • msg #194

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle Ivers:
She turned toward the Austrian and followed him.

"Please tell me that you look upon this as some kind of American madness.  Though you may not want to stand too close to me, I may be a vector for the physiogenic mass illness.  Though I suspect that Wells woman is patient zero."


"Oh, I have seen a lot of madness in America. In North and South, madame. But...", and he lowerd his voice even further, causing Belle to unconsciously lean forward, "I am just a simple soldier. As a soldier, I was trained to look at what is in front of me and act accordingly. And very often, what is in front of you makes no sense at all. But you have no time to think about it, you have to take it as it is."
He furrows his brow.
"I am afraid I am making no sense at all. Let me give you an example: Imagine you and your company is hiding in the wood, scouting for the enemy. You know there is an infantry regiment somewhere in the area, but you need to find the exact location. And then, suddenly, cavalry attacks out of nowhere!
There is no time to contemplate where the cavalry might have come from or what imbecile misread the intercepted communication, or was it all just a ruse by a cunning enemy?
No, you push all these thoughts from your mind and you form a square and open fire!"
He looked over Belle's shoulder at the rest of the group behind them.
"I am saying this so that you understand how my mind was trained to work, Fräulein Ivers, yes?
And I have to tell you that I have seen with my own eyes, certain phenomena that defied logical or even plausible explanation at the time. Tricks of light, exhaustion, maybe even some poisonous odor, they all can make things appear more sinister than they really are.
I have led young men into battle. Some minds are too soft for it, by no fault of their own. I believe there is only so much blood a man can see spilled, friends that are torn to pieces, the explosions of artillery shells drumming in his ears.
Some fell victim to hysterical delusions."
He nods at the group again.
"Like maybe them.
Natural instinct is, of course, to try to reason with them, make them see sense, yes?
But that is exactly what we cannot do! I have met a young doctor once, in Vienna. Fascinating man. He studies the human mind and he told me that these delusions are like a bandage the human mind wraps around itself, to give it time to heal. Try to tear it away too soon and you are like to make the injury grow deeper and more difficult to heal. No, what he suggests and what he does with his patients is letting them talk through what they believe they saw until they see for themselves that it is utter nonsense."
He nods, reassuringly.

Then Jackie started telling her day and Leopold took Belle by the elbow, leading her back to the rest of the group, to listen what Wells had to say.
Belle Ivers
player, 349 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 12:09
  • msg #195

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle pondered that.  It was one of the few things that made any sense in here.

"Perhaps you are onto something sir.  I have never been to anything half so ghastly as war, but I have often in the moment imagined frightful and ridiculous things in mortal contests.  Truly men were not meant to fight so, look at what it does to our psyches.  Delusion perhaps is the pus of the mind.

"Still I do not think we should let this incubate.  Delusional talk is harmless enough on the surface, but what if they really do talk themselves into action?  Earlier they debated kidnapping a man, and now they want to wander into the wilderness in their condition.  I'm not sure the Marshal will attempt to stop them, there's too many."
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 418 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 16:22
  • msg #196

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Ah, but Doctor Freud would be most excited about this development, I am certain! They are talking and expressing their inner thoughts."

Leopold seemed to be beaming with excitement.

"The marshal will have help, of course. Together, we will be able to prevent anybody come to harm, do you not think so?"

He winked at her. "But now, let us listen to this tale. We from Vienna love a great tale!"
Belle Ivers
player, 350 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 16:46
  • msg #197

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"That's a lot of people to have to stop."  Belle pointed out.  Then she played a hunch based on their earlier interaction.  Those stringent childhood French lessons (not to mention parental tormentors who pretended not to speak English selectively) were paying dividends today.  "[Language unknown: Ma Hi arele ant Whuladha virpr ro korortvorterove i der osfipoenic.  La men si ntivnd ear derwasmenwhi ear enheut io stat ma nt isnaee t beio derhaswas.]"
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 250 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Tue 7 Mar 2017
at 16:48
  • msg #198

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

After Little Crow was knocked unconscious, Katy holstered her pistol and observed the goings-on. It seemed that there was nothing requiring her intervention, however, so she waited for the remainder of Jackie's story.

She didn't follow all of it, as there was some jargon Katy didn't recognize. Though the dark look that passed over Jackie's face at the mention of her married name - that look Katy knew all too well.

Still, it sounded like there was both a plan and a goal. Get to this Devil's Tower. Go to the Hunting Grounds. Find whatever or whoever the tall ginger man believed was the key to returning the world to 'normalcy'.

Katy allowed herself a momentary vision of what that might look like. Retiring from the Rangers would be first on her list, and maybe she wasn't too old yet to have a family. But there was a lot of work to do between now and then.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 235 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 9 Mar 2017
at 05:31
  • msg #199

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

6 PM, September 23, 2081. C Barracks, Ranger Training Corp, Austin, Texas

some mood music

"~Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you...~"

The six of them had gathered in the barracks. It was quieter here, since most of the other cadets would be sitting down to chow. That meant certain upperclassmen that they all hated wouldn't be around to spoil Cassie's day.

Sure, sneaking around the barracks with contraband cake and live fire candles might get them a month of KP each, as well as latrine duty on top of it, but the six of them felt it was worth it.

Rick and Louise had been the ones to actually make the cake. They'd already been on KP for various misdemeanors, so they'd conspired to smuggle in the cake mix, the frosting, and gotten Sargent Chuck to look the other way while they baked. The others...well, Jackie knew that she, at least, was pretty worthless when it came to cooking anything. The rest of the squad had ribbed her mercilessly after that time she set boiling water on fire.

Cassie grinned at them as she contemplated the (admittedly misshapen) cake. "Aw, shucks." she said. "You didn't have to go to all the trouble."

Rick shrugged. "After the year you've had? No, it was the least we could do." The rest of them nodded in agreement.

Casilda "Cassie" Reyna was a second generation American. She'd had nothing at all to do with LatAm, nor the Mexican Army's sacking of Phoenix, but that hardly seemed to matter to the hardline bigots. Jackie had seen her yelled at, insulted, spit on, and had at one point had to bust another cadet's face when he threw a rock at her. The war just seemed to bring out the worst in everyone.

"Blow them candles out already." George muttered. "I'm starvin', and we're temptin' fate enough as it is."

"Give her half a moment to savor the moment." Louise punched him playfully.

"I'd rather be savorin' the cake." Aldo grumbled. The others chuckled...Aldo was always hungry. It's not like today was any different than normal.

Jackie herself was on lookout duty, keeping an eye open for upperclassmen or Sargent Hardass, so she didn't really get to watch as Cassie blew. The candles went out...

...followed by all the lights.

"What?" Rick looked at George, then at Jackie. "We spotted?"

Jackie peered out into the corridor. "No, I don't see nobody..."

Then the lights sprung back on. And a raid siren came with it.

The cadets looked at each other. "Drill?" George asked.

"Maybe A-Bomb Andy's finally fuckin' snapped." Aldo grumbled. "And we're in for a hot shower in Hell."

"Don't even joke about that." Louise gulped.

The big black cadet scowled even deeper. "I ain't. Canada got President Bates steamed. It's only a matter o' time before..."

"Shut up!" Cassie gulped. She'd started crying. "Just shut up!"

Aldo sighed. "Just sayin'. It's comin', and we best be prepared for..."

"Attention all cadets." The intercom blared. "We are under attack. Proceed immediately to the nearest bunker. This is not a drill. Repeat, this is not a drill. Attention all cadets..."

The squad looked at each other, dumbstruck. "Oh...oh no..." George whispered.

"Squad." Rick snapped into his role as easy as breathing. The others snapped to attention. "Move out!"

The five of them nodded, and did just that, streaming out of the barracks as fast as they could. The cake was left untouched.

"We all knew, deep down, that it was only a matter o' time." Jackie said. "The president of the Union had been assassinated before she could start the peace talks that might have calmed things, and her vice president was a real loose cannon. When Pakistan dropped the first bomb on Calcutta...that's when the dominos started tipping over." She took a deep swig of the liquor before resuming.
some mood music

Jackie's squad made it to the bunker early. They beat the messhall crowd by a good three minutes. That three minutes made all the difference, because there was a flash right as the first of the cadets at dinner opened the outer airlock. Jackie closed her eyes, and then felt a wave of...something rush over her.

The bunker's compromised. She thought. We're all dead.

Then she heard the screaming. She opened her eyes and couldn't see -- she'd been flash-blinded. But there was a shrieking, howling all around her, and she didn't think it was all coming from her squad or the others who'd made it to their bunker in time.

No, it was like the howling wail of a million damned souls.

When her sight cleared, it was all over. She was lying on her side. She spotted Rick first, his dead face frozen in a rictus of terror. The same with Louise, and George.

Of the squad, only Aldo, Cassie, and her had made it. But...

Aldo was laughing his head off. Jackie couldn't figure out what he had to laugh at, with his leg being fused to the wall like that. And Cassie...she was busy screaming at the brand new face that was forming in her guts. Jackie looked herself over, but couldn't find anything different. She'd made it through unscathed.

But she hardly had time to ponder that, because just then, Rick's body started moving, twitching about like a fish on a line. Then George's body started to shiver, then Louise, as well as a number of other corpses in the bunker.

Rick stopped flopping, and then sat up. He twisted his head to look at Jackie, his neck bones cracking as the head turned like an owl's. Rick grinned at her, the most evil grin she'd ever seen in her life. "Freeeeeeeee..." he hissed. And then he leapt at her. Jackie yelped, grabbed around for any sort of weapon, and her hand fell on a heavy flashlight. She slammed Rick in the leg, hard enough to crack bone, but he didn't fall. He just kept coming toward her as she slid back along the floor. She kept slamming the flashlight into him, again and again, scooting backwards until she hit the wall...underneath a glass case filled with rifles. The armory for the bunker people to defend themselves with, should the worst happen.

Well, this was the worst. She managed to kick Rick's corpse back a few paces, then smashed the glass with her flashlight. Her hand fell on a rifle and she yanked it out, then turned it on the corpse and pulled the trigger.

It made a hollow >click<

Because of course it wasn't loaded.

But Jackie could use it to lever herself off the floor, and then use it as a crude club to bash Rick's head in when he lunged at her, teeth nashing. The first hit stunned him, the second spilt his head open, and he finally toppled, and Jackie finally had a quick moment to look around.

All around, the corpses were moving, attacking the few survivors in the bunker. Three of them were swarming around Aldo, who was half screaming, half laughing as they tore into him with their teeth. Two of them were attacking Sargent Hardegast, who Jackie hadn't even noticed was in here. But good ol' "Sargent Hardass" had kept his cool, and was using a broken chair and an a collapsible shovel to beat the corpses back.

Cassie was a quivering wreck, gone all fetal, but she wasn't in any immediate danger.

Jackie grabbed a clip and loaded the rifle, then turned it on the three attacking Aldo. She got three shots off before it jammed, all at the center of mass...but not a single one of them seemed to be the least bit bothered by having a hole in their hearts. All it did was draw attention to her.

"Cadet Kennedy! Catch!" Sargent Hardegast shouted, in that voice of command she had so often detested but which instantly had her at attention. She reached out...and the collapsible shovel fell into her grip. "The head!" he shouted again. "Hit them in the head! NOW, CADET!"

And she did. over and over again, swinging the shovel like an axe.

By the time the last one was down, she was breathing heavy. Sargent Hardegast sighed. "Fuck. You kids ain't supposed to know about all this yet."

Jackie looked around. Cassie was still moaning, rubbing her belly and then pulling her hand away when the mouth in her stomach snapped at it. Aldo was dead from a dozen bleeding bites. There were a couple cadets looking around in terror, one of whom was growing a third arm out of his right shoulder, the other had no eyes in her head...her face was blank past her nose.

Jackie fell to her knees as the adrenaline wore off, curled into a ball, and began to sob.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 404 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Thu 9 Mar 2017
at 22:06
  • msg #200

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art quietly listened to what Jackie had to say, the gravity of their mission causing his shoulders to slump ever-so-slightly. He reached a hand down to give Kira a pet or two while listening to what the future held. Or rather what they hoped to avoid.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 359 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Fri 10 Mar 2017
at 15:32
  • msg #201

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Zek had heard stories like this before. Not about the future of course-but about the present. He had seen the dead walking, and unlike the talkative ones these only knew hunger and nothing of their living days. They where a plague one thought would be ended so far ahead-but clearly time had changed almost nothing from now...
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 421 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Sun 12 Mar 2017
at 18:43
  • msg #202

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold von Steinhof listened, seemingly transfixed, the glass whiskey in front of him untouched.

Moses continued to translate for Little Crow in a low voice, his soft timbre underlining every sentence Jackie Wells said.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 236 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 20:02
  • msg #203

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Now, it's not like we knew it was, well, the end." Jackie said. "Sure, there were only a handful o' us in a bunker designed to house five hundred people for a year. Sure, we couldn't get radio contact with anyone on the outside. Sure, we was all worried that we were all gonna die of radiation poisonin' because the outer door weren't closed and couldn't shield us. Sure, some of us were already mutatin' for some reason. But we thought -- well, it's just us. Austin was the next Phoenix, the next bloody battleground. But it wasn't." She pulls her legs up into the chair, and wraps her arms around her legs. "It was everywhere. The Union launched their entire arsenal at us. And the Confederacy, well, as soon as the folks in Richmond detected the launch o' so many warheads, they pushed their own button. And then the rest of the Northern Alliance launched, then the rest of the Southern Alliance, and...more people died on that day than have ever lived on Earth up 'til now. Six billion people, just...gone." She wipes a tear from her face. "A-and...and you'd t-think that was the worst of it. But...sometimes...sometimes, I think they were the lucky ones. They didn't have to live in the world that came after. They didn't see The Reckoners arrive."

She gulps. "War arrived first, somewhere out in Kansas. I heard that wherever he walked, the dead rose to follow him. Legions of them. he stomped north into Dakota, through Deadwood, and laid the remaining Sioux low before crossing the Mississippi. Famine, she rose out of the Great Maze. A lot o' the remaining Ghost Rock strikes in The Maze had been set on fire by the bombs. Wherever she walked, folks starved to death -- but didn't die. They just followed her, and their bites made everyone who survived them go hungry, just like them, and their numbers grew and grew. Death, they say he came out of Death Valley. This is what I heard, anyhow...I didn't see any o' them myself."

She swallows. "Those of us in Texas...we got Pestilence. When he rose, well, it fucked with our little hidey-hole. Our supplies, which had been fine, suddenly turned toxic. Sargent Hardegast got hit first. He was awful fond o' this drink called Bubbly-Fizz. I don't know if any o' y'all ever tried Coca-Cola? Bubbly-Fizz was kinda like that, and some moron had stocked the base with a dozen cases o' the stuff. Anyhow, right around the time we began to figger no-one was comin' for us, Sargent Hardegast came down with somethin' nasty. Bubbling boils, his teeth rotted away..." She shivers. "It took place mighty quick. He also started drinkin' more an' more Fizz. And then he went crazy. He started forcin' others in the bunker to drink Fizz, and they started gettin' sick like him. Cassie and I wouldn't touch the stuff, so the brainer torched all the goddamn food! Said it was to force us to see the 'glory o' the bubbly.' Then the Fizzers started gettin' violent, so Cassie and I bugged out. We figgered we'd rather face the outside world and maybe die of radiation poisoning than stay in there and degenerate into one o' those critters."

"We wandered for weeks, livin' off the land as best we could. The Suburbs outside Austin fared better than the city proper, but not by much. There was some sort o' riot, so most o' the places near the city had been looted and abandoned by the time Cassie and I left the bunker. I decided that I wanted to strike up north, towards Dallas/Fort Worth, 'cause if any o' my family was alive they'd be in Arlington. Cassie was worried that folks wouldn't take kindly to her extra face." Jackie winces. "She didn't get the chance to worry about that. We were set on by a band o' raiders outside Waco lookin' to get at our bugout kits. We fought them off, but one o' them gut-shot Cassie before he went down." She sighs. "After she died, I was all alone. All I had was Cassie's kit, and a beat up '67 Ford van I found and hotwired. I managed to keep it runnin' until I made it to Arlington, and got lucky enough to find a settlement o' sorts there. A bunch o' survivors banded together to make a new life for themselves, and..." She smiles for the first time. "...and Dad was with them. I tell you, I cried like a little baby when I found him." The smile fades. "He was the only one who'd made it. Ma and my little sister had been doin' some shoppin' in Dallas when the bombs fell." She hsakes her head. "But Pa made it. And he knew more about what was goin' on. You see, he was a First Lieutenant in the Rangers. And that meant he had a copy o' Chapter 13 of Fugitives From Justice In The Confederacy."

Jackie looks over at Katy. "So I got to find out what y'all had been hidin' from us. All this time. All the things your superiors knew but never saw fit to tell the rest o' the world. Well, at that point, there was no need to hide it from anyone. 'Cause all the monsters, they had free reign o' the world. They didn't need to hide no more." She slams a fist on the table. "All o' the things us normal folks could have used to fight these damn things!" She sits back and sighs. "Sorry. That's still a sore spot with me."
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 422 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 20:30
  • msg #204

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold leaned forward and licked his lips, unusual nervous.
"You say, the allies of North and South dropped these... bombs, too? What... who..."
He stopped, then started over. "Was Austria-Hungary allied to either of your nations?"
Jackie Wells
NPC, 237 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 20:48
  • msg #205

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie shrugs. "Austria, Hungary, and Germany were all part o' the Southern Alliance. Hell, most o' the European Union was, 'cept France." She shrugs. "They'd long split by my time. The Empire fell apart in the First World War. That's, oh, roughly thirty-five years from now. Your Archduke gets assassinated, war gets declared, and it drags all the nations what got allied with each other into one giant quagmire."
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 423 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 20:55
  • msg #206

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Rudolf? Assassinated?" Leopold blinked his eyes, disbelieving.
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 253 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 21:01
  • msg #207

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy listened to Jackie's tale with a growing sense of dread gnawing at her stomach. She seemed startled a little when Jackie slammed a fist on the table. The Ranger swallowed and tipped her head a little to the side. "Folks in Austin think they're doin' right by it, ya know. If ya wanna change that attitude, we gotta get ya ta Austin. Ain't zactly somethin' I can just telegraph."

After taking a breath, Katy placed her right hand on her hip. "As fer what's bein' hidden, even I don't gotta copy o' that. I'm only a Sergent, so I don't rate all the secrets we got. Only those Uncle Jack or one o' the other officers shared with me, or that I seen myself."
Logan West
player, 320 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 21:06
  • msg #208

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Logan heads over to the bar and orders himself a whiskey, putting it down fast, and then looks over the assembled group while he considered the situation.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 238 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 21:08
  • msg #209

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Fella named Franz, actually." Jackie shrugs. "Franz Ferdinand, I think. And before you ask, I don't know much more than the name...it wasn't like I was the greatest student o' history. You'd want Morgan fer that, and I ain't seen him in nigh on to four years."

She nods at Katy. "I know. And I don't blame you, specifically." She says. "And eventually, I reckon I will. But it looks like I got some things to take care of here first."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 447 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 21:46
  • msg #210

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt stood up like he'd been stung. His lips were trembling, his hands shaking, and his eyes wide as church-doors. He staggered to the bar, clearly overwhelmed. He patted down his pockets, realized the bartender had left, and reached tipsily for a bottle.

He muttered quietly to Logan, and passed him the bottle after he poured.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 424 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 22:22
  • msg #211

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Franz Ferdinand?" Leopold asked, incredulously. "The Emperor's nephew?"

He stood up and pinched the bridge of his nose. He staggered, slightly, shaking his head. It looked as if he was fighting back tears. "So much tragedy..." he whispered.
Then he turned and went to the bar, grabbing Matt's bottle and pouring generously into three glasses.
"Logan, Matt", he started, but couldn't think of anything to say. So he just downed the liquor and slammed the glass down.

"Is there more for you to tell, Jackie?"
Belle Ivers
player, 359 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Mon 13 Mar 2017
at 23:57
  • msg #212

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle tried a different tack.

"I mix, set, and detonate explosives for a living.  The current yield of a stick of so called ghost rock dynamite is five megajoules, while some proprietary military rockets can yield an impressive yield as high as fifty or even sixty.  In order to even begin approaching that level of destruction, the weapons would have to jump several orders of magnitude into at lease petajoules, though more likely in zettajoules.  That is a staggering amount of energy, on the same magnitude of a castrophic earthquake.  No chemical reaction is capable of that, no matter how many future advances are made.  You'd be talking about some kind of completely new kind of discovery, which while plausible, couldn't be mastered in a mere century or even five.  The mathematics alone, and bear in mind I mean only the countless arithmetic would would have to be slogged through, would take generations, if every man woman and child were set down with an abacus and a slide rule to work it out. But we shall come back to arithmetic presently.

"A society which had the ability to produce weapons that strong would easily be able to launch ships into the heavens, and would be able to operate on paradigms currently inconceivable.  They would have access to so much energy, their engineers would toil away at problems no one in this room would be able to imagine.  Such a technology which could produce such a weapon would also produce infinitely many other more desired things; though a defense arsenal of great power is desirable at some point economics mandates the public would be satisfied, even if the amount was enough to combat several countries it would stop well short of global destructive potential.   In short, one cannot simply develop such an unfathomable weapon without inventing a great deal else which would be far more practical and desirable.  These economic details are crucial absent from the story.

"But back to the underlying math.  Surely there will be progress such that in fifty years I will laugh at our current efforts, but to accomplish this much in two centuries would be objectively impossible.  Humans simply cannot do the calculations in this amount of time.  In a few thousand years, perhaps.  But the rate of progress is limited to the ability to perform calculations, which hasn't increased too significantly since we first learned of Arabic numerals.  And truthfully it can't, our greatest calculation tool is the human mind and it only proceeds so quickly, even with mechanical aids and every tree felled for the paper.  No new theorem or lemma is going to improve our throughput so meaningfully as to overcome this.

"This is important, because the delivery of the payload alone would require far more calculations in too short a time than humanity is capable of.  You would have to, effectively, automate trigonometry and physics.  Some day such a thing might be possible, however the devices to do so would be huge for the number of memory devices would be absolutely massive, larger than this saloon, hardly something practical to place everywhere.  And there would only be a few such devices."
Jackie Wells
NPC, 239 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 00:55
  • msg #213

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie shrugs. "I hove no idea how he gets there, just that he does." She nods. "I reckon y'all need to know how I got here from there. But at least you know now what it is I'm tryin' to change."

Jackie raises an eyebrow at Belle's prattling on about arithmetic. "You seem so sure about all that. Maybe you oughta ask Nicola Tesla about the Difference Engine he's cobblin' together in his spare time. He's gonna unveil it to the public in about fifteen years, along with wireless power generators, electric lights, and a whole host o' other things...they're gonna call it Tesla Science instead o' New Science because o' him. And you know what they'll use that Difference Engine to do? Make better computers. Smarter computers. Smaller computers. Which will figure out how to do the same. Iteration after iteration, until you got devices small enough to fit in your pocket." She shrugs. "But mebbe you can explain this."

She pulls out a small, hemispherical device with a button on top, then flips it casually over to Belle. "See if you can explain how that works."

She looks back at von Steinhof. "Bu yeah, there's more. My dad and I and the Arlington Survivors made it through a couple of years. Then Jane Swindall entered our lives. She was lookin' to bring Law back to the Wasted West, and was recruitin' anyone who had some sort o' law enforcement experience. My Daddy joined up, and since I had been a Ranger Cadet, I joined up, too. And for the next few years after that, we traveled." Jackie sighs. "I'm gonna give you the highlights of the next eleven years after that. We went all over the west, got into adventures, stomped on monsters, muties, and misfits of all kinds, and then my daddy got shot by a fella called Stone, who left me alive because he didn't think I was worth a bullet. I roamed around on my lonesome, joined up with some other wasters, got married, and eventually we wound up at Devil's Tower."

She looks over at Coot. "This is the part where you come in."

"Me?" Coot says.

Jackie nods. "Devil's Tower is hollow, you see. It was hollowed out by these critters from another world. They was long gone by the time we got there...only the remains o' their experiments were left, and those critters got mighty nasty. But they also left their tech behind. Including the portal, which at the time we thought was just a fancy generator. But the eggheads weren't expecting you to walk right out o' the thing, looking confused as all get out..."
Belle Ivers
player, 361 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 01:02
  • msg #214

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle was about to point out a computer's height and weight had nothing to do with his throughput, but then caught the device, looking at it curiously.

Wait... was this... could it be...

She looked for a light source to hold it up to.

*Computer in its obsolete sense of someone who used to perform tedious manual calculations like finding new prime numbers or digits of pi by hand.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 405 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W2R1B3L1
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 15:37
  • msg #215

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art perked up at the mention of Devil's Tower, his ears swiveling toward Jackie ever-so-slightly beneath the hood he wore. "Dis portal ya mention? It be a link ta the Huntin' Gounds?" Art shifted a little more of his weight to his staff, waiting to hear more about how this woman would be able to help him find his way.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 240 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 17:30
  • msg #216

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The device is even stranger up close. It's got a ton of tiny gizmos inside -- injectors of some sort, small suture needles, and some sort of thin metallic tentacles.

((OOC: Make me a Mad Science or Knowledge (Engineering) roll, please. Either will work for figuring out what it does.))

Jackie nods. "See, it was like this..."

June 21st, 2094. Inside Devil's Tower, Wyoming

"Well, that should do it!" The Professor beamed. He stood in front of the Portal, and looked out at the others.

The Portal. That's what they all called it, because it looked exactly like one thought something like that might. It was a glowing rip in the fabric of reality itself, like a tear in a strip of film. The rip was too dark to look at -- it hurt the eyes. The Portal was surrounded by a glass cylinder. A metal cap over the top of the glass held an astounding array of etched crossbreed circuitry, wires, and cables drawing power from the Portal into the gently chugging generator the crew had set up.

The others clapped. It had taken a hell of a lot of work. First they'd had to get in here, through the ancient rusty door at the base of the tower. Then they'd had to fight their way through the caverns winding their way through the entirety of Devil's Tower, until they reached this. The former owners of the place had long gone, and only some degenerate monsters had remained. But those former owners had carved themselves a wondrous home in the heart of this monument.

There were a dozen in Jackie's group -- the Junkers and Librarians who'd discovered the pulsing emanations of Devil's Tower and decided to mount an expedition into it, and the Law Dogs who'd been working in the Sioux Nations to reduce the fear and help the Ravenites rebuild after the destruction of Deadwood. Jackie smiled at the Professor.

"So it's done? We can power the generators forever?" She asked.

"Theoretically." The Professor said absently, but Sam and Morgan both nodded vigorously.

"We done got power enough to rival Denver." Sam McGraw grinned. Jackie liked him best among the band -- he was a Junker who'd been working at Roswell before Judgement Day, and it was nice to be working with a fellow Texan after all this time. "And maybe if'n we get some of the Lizzie's tech workin', we can make the Combine fuck off."

Jeremy, decked out in his white tabard, glared at the portal and leaned on the wall. "This thing is unholy." he muttered. "It's a wound between the worlds. We should be sealing it, not forcing it wider." Jackie sighed. She wasn't the Templar's greatest fan. All his talk of "protecting the worthy" seemed damn arbitrary to her at times, and she hadn't helped clear this damn place just to shut it all down again.

"What happened to 'The Greater Good?'" Heather, the girl they'd pulled out of that tank in Boise, shared Jackie's distaste for the Templar, though Jackie suspected it was mostly because Heather played with the sorts of dark forces Jeremy condemned. "Won't helping the folk around here be worth more in the long run?"

Jeremy scowled, but didn't reply.

Rick Littlecrow, on the other hand, stepped up and slapped the Professor on the back. "Excellent!" The Sioux said. "Really! My people have been afraid of this place since forever, and now it's going to save us all! I found some whiskey a while back...was saving it for a special occasion." He pulled a bottle that was, at best, half full out of his pack.

"Seems to have been a lot of 'special occasions' there, Ricky." Lana, one of the Librarians, chuckled.

"Oh, you know how it is." Rick grinned back. "Just being alive in this dead world is a special occasion. Cups, everyone!"

Everyone began digging though their gear, bringing up whatever cups they'd each salvaged along the way. Even Jeremy grudgingly pulled a cup. Rick poured for everyone, though he kept a decent amount back in the bottle for himself. He raised the bottle. "To the future!"

"The future!" Everyone said. Jackie tipped her cup back to drink...

>knock, knock, knock, knock<

Jackie nearly choked as she spun towards the Portal, her hand immediately going to her HI Blazer. There, standing inside the glass, just outside the portal, was an old man. He had a wild beard, archaic clothes, and an even more archaic Gatling rifle on his back. He was banged up, dirty, and bloody, but he grinned at the group all the same.

"Uh, howdy, folks." He said with a chuckle. "Didn't mean ta startle ya. Would y'all mind terribly tellin' me where I am?"
Logan West
player, 321 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 18:05
  • msg #217

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

He nodded in thanks to Matt, and poured himself another one, and then drank it quickly afterwards. 
He muttered something, shaking his head in disbelief, but when the story went on, he turned and paid attention like any other. 
Matthew Broaddale
player, 448 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 18:24
  • msg #218

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Whatever response Matt might've had was silenced by Leopold's arrival.

"Major," he greeted, raising his glass in thanks at the Austro-Hungarian, "Can you believe this? Doesn't make much sense if you ask me, but there might be something to it."
Logan West
player, 322 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 1W0R4B
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 18:33
  • msg #219

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Marshal Broaddale, Leo here is a...friend of the family, you could say. He helped me out in my investigation here," he said.

"I'll tell you all about it later."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 18:34, Tue 14 Mar 2017.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 449 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 18:45
  • msg #220

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt nodded warily and reached over to grab his wallet off the counter. He smiled gently at Steinhof.

"If you say so, Marshal."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 360 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 18:54
  • msg #221

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"So..." Zek said, trying to understand all the possible ramifications of Jackie's story-and failing. "...Coot goes to the future at some point? Is not you telling him that gonna change the future?"
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 425 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 19:33
  • msg #222

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matthew Broaddale:
Matt nodded warily and reached over to grab his wallet off the counter. He smiled gently at Steinhof.

"If you say so, Marshal."


Leopold throws a quick glance around, making sure everybody else's attention is fixed on Jackie and her tale, then leans a bit in.
"You can drop the pretending, Matt. Logan and I have a long history together. I had to trust him with my life before and have not come to regret it."
For Logan, he adds: "I have rarely seen such a convincing act, I have to say. Matt and I had a little... adventure, just a few weeks before I attached myself to Colonel Manning."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 450 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 19:52
  • msg #223

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matthew furrowed his brow at Leopold's assertion. He turned to the Major, and set down his drink.


"...What are you talking about?"
Coot Jenkins
NPC, 23 posts
Prospector
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha +2 (+4)
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 19:54
  • msg #224

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"If you hadn't noticed, I'm tryin' to change a whole lot about the future." Jackie says. She looks over at Coot. "Besides, you knowin' about this will probably help you out, when the time comes."

Coot nods slowly. "So...does this mean I fail? in what I'm plannin'?" he says very carefully.

Jackie sighs. "I think it does. You got mad as hell when we got you out and explained where you were." She watches Coot's face fall. "But!" She says. "That's why Heather was seekin' you out. To tell you what went wrong the first time. You knowin' what we know means you can be prepared for it. Figger out a way to counter it."

"So what did go wrong the first time?" Coot asks. "Did I tell you?"

Jackie nods. "Well..."

The Hunting Grounds, where space is warped and time is bendable

Coot Jenkins slapped in another load for his Gatling Rifle, and looked around at his boys.

They'd done remarkably well, all things considered. The ones who'd kept their heads had put up a hell of a fight,  shoving the Manitou back past the gates. Three of them had been resealed, with new, immortal guardians taking the place of the Old Ones.

But he'd miscalculated. The worms inside his boys had an easier time getting control. He hadn't counted on that, though he should've.

So it had been rough going. But still, Coot was certain they could win. Just four more gates to close. He wasn't looking forward to the final bit, where he'd be cutting out his own still-beating heart to seal the pact, but -- well, the world was countin' on him.

"Let's go, boys!" He shouted at his army of Harrowed, and got a ragged cheer. They charged the mass of manitou...and then the explosion came.

some mood music

There was a flash of light, and then a shriek of cracking stones as the land split in half. Coot was thrown to his knees as the sky split as well, bathing the Harrowed Army and the legions of manitou in a hellishly bright white glow.

And through the light strode a tall, thin figure, with a rotten face, a battered top hat, and a coat festooned with badges, all of them from lawmen, and all of them with a hole through the center. And Coot shivered. He'd know that figure anywhere.

Stone.

"Well, if it ain't Coot Jenkins, my old friend." The dead man grinned. "Ain't seen you in nigh on to forever. Always wondered why you and I never settled things."

Coot shivered. He'd tried to recruit Stone once, before he knew what Stone was. He'd nearly paid for that with his life, and he still had the scar.

Stone raised his twin Colt Dragoons. "Well. Guess I don't have to wonder no more."

He fired...but one of Coot's troops leaped in the way! The bullets shredded the Harrowed, carving a furrow in his head and chest but turning the bullets enough so that Coot only felt their wind.

Stone scowled, then spit into the dirt. "Fuck it. I ain't got time for this. I'll get around to you eventually." He tipped his hat. "Be seein' you." Then he strode off, following the tear in the sky.

But the manitou only seemed emboldened by Stone, and the Harrowed Army was pushed back. More and more of Coot's men fell, and finally Coot had to call a retreat. "Follow me, boys!" He shouted...and then ran into the glowing tear in the universe, heading the opposite direction Stone had come.

He and his men wandered, lost, until Coot spotted a hole. It looked like a way out of the Hunting Ground. He knew he could get back in...but he needed to regroup. And so he stepped through, and found himself inside a glass cage, surrounded by folks toasting the future.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 426 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 20:28
  • msg #225

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matthew Broaddale:
Matthew furrowed his brow at Leopold's assertion. He turned to the Major, and set down his drink.

"...What are you talking about?"


Leopold raised a quizzical eyebrow. "I am talking about Kansas, of course. The shootout with those renegades? You and the Wichita Witches coming for my rescue? Not that I needed rescuing, I was doing fine on my own." He chuckles and adds, looking at Logan: "Sharing a "last cigarette" at the right moment can do wonders. If you have the right kind of tobacco. I almost didn't believe that the same trick that worked in Timisvar would work here as well. Well, peasants are the same everywhere."
He smiles at Matt. "I think it's good that you no longer flaunt your knowledge and talents as freely as you did when we met."

He downs another drink, then frowns at Coot's tale.
"I'm not sure what to make of all this."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 452 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 21:08
  • msg #226

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Broaddale sputtered for a moment.

"Back at the Bella Union was the first time I recall meeting you, Major," he said quietly, earnestly, "And I never...flaunt."

Matthew ran a hand over his short-shorn hair, and took another sip. In reference to Coot, he said simply, "Sounds about right. You can't trust some people . Not with something like that."

He returned to the previous subject.

"When was this, Major? With Kansas, and Black River?"
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 428 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W0R0B4
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 21:35
  • msg #227

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold cocked his head to the side, then offered another cigarette to the Marshal and took one himself.
"Not too long ago, in July." He threw a glance at Logan.
"What is the last thing you remember before you arrived here?"
Belle Ivers
player, 362 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B1
Tue 14 Mar 2017
at 23:48
  • msg #228

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

At this point Belle was taking the device more like a puzzlebox, and it was a matter of pride.  She had to, somehow, outsmart the crazy person.  Because that made so much sense, but never mind that now.

Okay Know: Engineering and Weird Science are the same die and Belle lacks any applicable Edges, so it doesn't particularly matter...

18:47, Today: Belle Ivers rolled 7,3 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 7,3.  Jackie's Rubik's Sphere.

Is there a bonus for a Raise?  Belle would totes chip for a Raise just to show 'em!
Matthew Broaddale
player, 453 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 00:50
  • msg #229

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt glanced toward the pool table.

"Houston," he griped, "Probably just before that. Went on vacation."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 361 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 00:57
  • msg #230

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Coot Jenkins (msg # 224):

"So...at some point Coot gets enough people like Bill, me, and the rest if his...friends here..." he gestures to the other two living impaired people in the room. "...and if not for this Stone fella, they replace the guardians and seal off the portal. So does that mean Coot finds all the special guns he needs?"

Zek was starting to see why the Whateley's wanted to find the one pistol to kill Bill. In order to rob the Coot of his most effective warrior/guardian replacement.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 241 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 02:19
  • msg #231

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: @Belle: If you want to spend the Chip, sure, it'll get you more info. If you're going to do so, let me know and I'll send you the info via PM.))

Jackie shakes her head. "I don't think so. See, Coot doesn't go into the hunting Grounds until sometime this decade, from what he told me." She scowls. "Time traveling tense is hard. Anyhow, from what Coot told us, he didn't stop long enough to off Coot's replacement guardians."

Coot frowns. "Could you maybe not talk about that so loudly?" he says. "I mean, the cat's out o' the bag as far as you're concerned, but I kinda want to keep that bit under wraps for a while longer. Remember," he looks at Zeke, "You got yourself a direct spy fer the enemy in your noggin, and I ain't sure how much it can communicate with others of it's kind."

Jackie nods. "Right. Alrighty. So I don't know if'n you found all the Six. You didn't have any o' them with you when you came through, though."

"Well, that's one thing that's gonna change." Coot says. "If'n I'm to face Stone again, you can be damn sure I'm gonna have The Six with me."

Jackie nods. "Anyhow. I think your plan would've worked without The Six. It's one more thing to tip in your favor, but from what we figgered out between us all -- you won. Originally, you succeeded, the Hunting Grounds got sealed again, their monsters were gradually killed off, and the Reckoners basically starved. Then, before they died out completely, they got Stone to find The Six, use 'em, and tear that Path through the Hunting Grounds he used to go back." Jackie says. "And then, whatever Stone did on this side created the conditions that lead to my Hell on Earth." She leans back. "So my entire world was a lie. It wasn't supposed to be." She shakes her head. "I didn't take that very well, I'm afraid."

June 23rd, 2094. Inside Devil's Tower

"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!"

{SMASH!}

"Jackie..."

"THAT FUCKING BASTAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD!!!!"

{CRASH! tinkle tinkle}

"Jackie, honey, calm down..."

"He shot my DAD! Then he goes and fucks up my ENTIRE WORLD! He ruined my LIFE!!! ALL OUR LIVES!!!!!"

{CRUNCH!}

"Yes, he did, Jackie, but those are really quite fragile and..."

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARGH!!!!!!!!!!"

"Er...why don't I leave you alone to process this..."
Jackie coughs. "Anyhow. Once we figgered this out, we realized that The Path Of Stone was still wide open. We could follow him. We could stop what he'd done."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:20, Wed 15 Mar 2017.
Belle Ivers
player, 363 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B0
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 02:23
  • msg #232

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Done.  Bye bye bluey, but how many rolls like this will Belle get!?

Belle had the uncanny ability to focus when she really wanted to.  What... was it really... it couldn't be?
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 363 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 02:28
  • msg #233

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 231):

Zek frowns at Coot. "But I did not say anything new..." He muttered defensively. After all, he had never heard if the six or the guardians until the Coot himself had brought them up to Zeke.

He figured if he could put two plus two together in his head, then so could his unwelcome 'guest'.
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 256 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 06:05
  • msg #234

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy frowned at the talk of the Six. "One o' the Six just walked outta here. Ain't no way o' knowin' if we're gonna get it back. Sounds like we might need 'em all though?" She lifted her hat and scratched the top of her noggin for a moment, then looked back to Jackie and Coot. "Though The Six are supposed ta essentially be cursed, ain't they? I know the original guardians had 'em, but do ya really wanna bind yerself ta those things, Coot? It might change ya much fer the worse."

She squinted her eyes together for a moment, then asked another question. Possibly a really stupid one. "If the world was s'posed ta be okay - and the path o' Stone is open, is there any way we can just stop him before he messes everything up?"
Coot Jenkins
NPC, 24 posts
Prospector
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha +2 (+4)
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 06:30
  • msg #235

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Sorry." Coot says to Zeke. "I been keepin' this under my hat a while, but you got a point. What's said is said."

He scratches his head at Katy's questions. "I reckon them being cursed is why I didn't go fer 'em this first time 'round...but it sounds like they was around fer Stone to do this in the first place, so grabbin' 'em all and takin' 'em with me next time might prevent another Path o' Stone from openin'." He rubs his beard. "I suppose I can do like that fella was doin'...stick 'em in a bag or somethin'. I wouldn't necessarily have to bind with 'em. Hell, if the goal is to make sure they can't be used, all I'd need is to keep one with me when I go."

Jackie shrugs. "Well, as I told you before when we was talkin', my friends and I made it back to the year 1876. And we ain't sure exactly what all was changed. There's two Stones wanderin' about, which can't be makin' things better. So findin' a way to kill them both would be a good start. I tried stoppin' one thing...you've heard about Bloody Sunday? Jeremy wanted to try to stop it from happenin'. He didn't make it through, and I didn't make it to Lost Angels in time. I know that Stone freed his younger self from Rock Island Prison, so any heroes the two o' them kill between now and when he originally escaped Rock Island in 1900 are folks who'd have done a lot to help the world if'n they'd lived. But there's a whole passel o' things we wanted to try. Rick Littlecrow, fer instance, wanted to stop The Black Hills War. He didn't make it through The Hunting Grounds when we went, which is one reason I've been here. The Professor wanted to stop what he called 'The Watering of Satan's Garden,' which was some nasty event involvin' that Ghost Rock fire half a day's ride from town. I think Hyram Burns was involved with that, but he's dead now, so maybe that's not a worry no more. Heather was supposed to seek out Coot, Sam was supposed to talk to the Rangers, and Morgan the Librarian was lookin' to gather more information and figger out what else we might want to try to change." She sighs. "But I ain't heard from any o' them since."

She looks over at Moses and Art. "So yes. Stoppin' Stone might tip things. But I don't know how in Hell I might do that, because just like Wild Bill here, only somethin' specific can hurt him, and I haven't a clue what it could be."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:31, Wed 15 Mar 2017.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 454 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w0r0b0
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 06:39
  • msg #236

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Jack McCall!" Matt blurted out of nowhere. He set his drink down.

"Not to kill Stone, but listen," he sputtered, "McCall's gun's got Bill's name on it, right? That's what you all were talking about outside the Bella Union. So, the fella who backshot Bill can put him down again."

He seemed weirdly animated, way more invested in the conversation than he had been in a few minutes.

"So who put down this sumbitch the first time?"
Coot Jenkins
NPC, 25 posts
Prospector
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha +2 (+4)
Wed 15 Mar 2017
at 20:46
  • msg #237

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Well, from what I've heard..." Coot strokes his beard. "Jasper Stone was a Captain in the Confederate army, and a right bastard even before he died. He was shot in the back thirteen times by his own troops. Guess they didn't appreciate him orderin' them in to the meat grinder." He shrugs. "I hear tell that he was hauled to the surgeon's tent. The surgeon dug out all that lead out o' Stone's back, and then he just got up off the operatin' table and moseyed on out o' the tent." He looks at Matthew. "That's some good thinkin', there. I ain't got a clue what's become o' the bullets or the surgeon, but that sounds like a good place to start. Recastin' them thirteen bullets into new shots might just do the trick."

Jackie slaps her forehead. "Dammit!"

Coot looks at her. "What?"

"I should'a asked you about all this before I left. I tried shootin' him up with my gun, but it only knocked him off a train. Didn't hurt him at all." She sighs. "If I'da known this, I might have been able to kill him, last time we fought."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:47, Wed 15 Mar 2017.
Belle Ivers
player, 364 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R0B0
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 00:21
  • msg #238

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle teased the device gently with a long, tweezer like instrument more properly used to move delicate samples and her smallest, finest jeweler's screwdriver.

Not that anyone was paying attention to a silently bewildered soul such as her, but the look on her face was, in a word, priceless to some and would have been utterly provocative to the empathic.

She leaned back and rolled up her left sleeve all the way, but it wasn't to get her arm clear.  A leather strap, carefully padded with satin, covered her shoulder.  She slid it off and the strange metal cuff-like device she wore on that arm came with it.

She put the two devices side by side.  Their purposes were different, the craftmanship gulf was vast, but the idea, the principles of physics it operated on, were the same.  It simply had a far more elaborate array and was able to actually repair the body rather than accelerate it for a time (a much simpler task).  And Belle reasoned if she could check, the reservoirs of the other device contained familiar astringents, disinfectants, and coagulants among others.  But even that made no sense, no chemical apparatus in existence could make those compounds so concentrated where such a small, miniature dosage would be effective.

It was as if she were looking at the thirtieth generation of her own prototype.  She was staring at an impossible object, the second she'd seen today, now that she really thought about it.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 364 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w1r3b2
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 14:56
  • msg #239

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Coot Jenkins (msg # 237):

"So we need to hunt down the metal that killed him the first time? Well, that outta be simple..." Zek rolled his eyes. "Any clues where we can look? Once I get a trail, I should be able to track it down..."
Coot Jenkins
NPC, 26 posts
Prospector
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha +2 (+4)
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 15:09
  • msg #240

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Well, if'n your gung-ho about it, the fields of Gettysburg would be my first guess." Coot muses.

Jackie shakes her head. "Goin' after Stone right now won't help the Sioux. That's more of a long-term sort o' thing. If we stop Custer, we'll have done somethin' mighty. We'll have thrown somethin' big an' heavy into the Reckoner's gears. That'd buy us the time we need to actually git those bits o' lead."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 366 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r3b2
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 15:12
  • msg #241

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Coot Jenkins (msg # 240):

Zek glanced over at Jackie. "Well...Yellow hair could have a...accident. Been known to happen-even for famous generals recorded throughout history. Hmmmm?" He raised an eyebrow, preparing himself how Custer was so essential to the timeline he could not be harmed.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 242 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 16:12
  • msg #242

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The Cheyenne dog soldiers, who'd been listening quietly up until now, look over at Art.

Jackie sighs. "You're still on that, are you? You know what else happens? Folks with a political agenda spin deaths to their advantage. You know how The Last War started? The President of the Union was on an airplane that vanished over the Rockies. It probably crashed due to pilot error. Nothin' more than a tragic accident. Except that the Vice-President, good ol' A-Bomb Andy, shouted from the rooftops that it was an assassination, and kept shouting it right up until he pushed the fucking button that ended the world." She shakes her head. "We are surrounded by four thousand mercenaries. Mercenaries who were promised Sioux gold to fill their pockets and Sioux hides to whip on. And you want to give those people a martyr to rally behind?" She shakes her head. "What exactly are you expectin' will happen? All them soldiers are gonna go, 'Whoops! Custer's dead, guess we better slink off in shame'? Custer's got them all actin' like army, so it's a good bet there's someone who'll just step up and take command. You gonna 'accident' him, too? How about the next one?" She sighs. "What Custer's done is kick a very big hornet's nest. You kill someone like Custer, all you're gonna do is kick that nest harder."
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 60 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 16:35
  • msg #243

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Before any of you go after George Custer," Wild Bill says, glowering at them, "You maybe oughta know that he's a friend of mine. I've eaten at his table. I've danced with his wife. I can't say I like what he's doin' now, but if he's still the same person I knew then he's got good reasons for doin' what he's doin'. I ain't likin' how you folk are heapin' all this garbage on him. So know this: if Custer winds up dead, even by 'accident,' I'm gonna come for you. All of you. Do I make myself clear?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:36, Thu 16 Mar 2017.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 430 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W1R0B4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 16:54
  • msg #244

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"I believe we had this conversation before, Herr Hickock."

One hand behind his back, Leopold is all the impeccable imperial officer he can be.
"There is, of course, another way to deal with the likes of Governor Custer."
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 20 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 17:01
  • msg #245

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"I believe we have." Hickok nods. "Just remindin' you folks who it is who's sittin' here."

"How?" Kills Iron Horse asks. "How would you rid us of Custer, without turning his long knives into a plague on us?"
Matthew Broaddale
player, 458 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 17:47
  • msg #246

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

To Jackie's belief that Stone was not a priority, Matt grunted in agreement.

"Fair enough, Cadet? Private?" he was beginning to loosen up in general, coming around to the insanity that was taking place. If it was all going to go up in fire and skull-shaped clouds, maybe it was time to open up, let a little light into the dark corners so people could see the vermin hiding there. Maybe then the world didn't have to die.

Matt opened his mouth to suggest to Hickok that sometimes people have a change of heart, in a very sarcastic tone, but then Steinhof spoke. Broaddale had his own ideas as to someone who could help stymie Custer, but he waited.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:48, Thu 16 Mar 2017.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 367 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r3b2
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 18:00
  • msg #247

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Wild Bill Hickok (msg # 243):

Zek glared back at Bill.

"Bill-takes this however you like. But any man who dose what your friend does involving women and children has got a whole lot of payback coming his way. Because there ain't no good reason to slaughter them. That goes for anyone."

He glances over at Jackie after she makes yet another prediction promising doom if anyone touches Custer. "And besides, I already promised I would not touch that rat bastard-but not because the future is so fragile. The future is what we in the present decide it is-because it changes all the time, don't it?"

quote:
"How?" Kills Iron Horse asks. "How would you rid us of Custer, without turning his long knives into a plague on us?"


He glances over at the man he called Fritz, waiting for an answer.
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 431 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W1R0B4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 18:49
  • msg #248

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Lieutenant General Custer has ambition, yes? He likes being called General. He has declared himself military governor of this... land."
Clearly, the Austrian had thought of another word to use before he settled on "land".

"So why not encourage this? Let him be the governor of Deadwood. You Americans have a stubborn tendency to not like undemocratic government. So accept this military dictator. Then drown him in bureaucrazy. Then stir up revolutionary streaks and hold elections."

He smiled, seemingly amused at the possibility. "Custer will of course not allow that. The town people will not like that. The US government might send another detachment to investigate..."
He rubbed his chin as if he had just thought of something.
"Is there not the need for a new sheriff? Or a mayor? Maybe a soldier's council to improve their quality of life?"
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 61 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 19:23
  • msg #249

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Wild Bill frowns at Zeke. "I'm gonna go out on a limb and say you've never been to war, have you son? I've been an Indian fighter. I've seen what they can do to whites, even our women and children. War is ugly, son. On both sides. Custer might shoot women and children if he has to...never because he wants to. And he don't go into mutilatin' 'em."

Kills Iron Horse glares at Wild Bill. "Were you there, when Yellow Hair massacred my family at Washita River? After we made peace? After we allowed ourselves to be moved from our lands?"

Wild Bill snorts. "Peaceful? You people attacked a settlement, killed fifteen people, then raped or kidnapped the women. Then they continued raiding. Don't give me that horseshit about you bein' all 'peaceful.'"
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 369 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r3b2
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 19:34
  • msg #250

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Wild Bill Hickok (msg # 249):

"That's not what the dead say, Bill." He says back to the man. "Have you spoken with them? Can you? Because they get awful chatty about how they died, and who was butchering their children. And if you think another group somewhere doing something terrible justifies your friend doing worse to a lot more people-I would say it's you who dose not understand war. Or the things that lead up to it. Or how who started this mess in the first place-or why you and I are still around when we both know we should not be."
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 432 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W1R0B4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 19:36
  • msg #251

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold sighed and looked at his fingernails.
Dead people could be so tedious and morose.
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 62 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 19:44
  • msg #252

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Wild Bill stands abruptly, sending his chair skittering across the bar floor.

"I will not sit here and listen to you heap abuse on me or my friend." he growls. "You're as nutty as she is," He points at Jackie, who sighs and moves her hand under the table, "and you are about to cross a line you can't go back over. You want me to put you back in your hole? Do you want to take this all the way? I'm obliged to you for puttin' me back in my right mind, but I am warning you now -- you come after Custer, you'll have to go through me first."

((OOC: Danger, Will Robinson, danger!))
This message was last edited by the player at 19:44, Thu 16 Mar 2017.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 370 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r3b2
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 19:50
  • msg #253

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Wild Bill Hickok (msg # 252):

Zek stands, and looks like he is ready to see if tearing Bill's head off will end his invulnerability. However, he glances at Kills Iron Horse, and inhales, trying to get a hold of his anger.

"I already promised I would not. I just don't need your permission. Your friend's deeds speak for themselves. If you gotta defend someone like that-that's on you-not me. And killing me won't clean up the blood already on your hands Bill. Mine neither, if it gives any comfort." He picks up his chair, dusts it off, and sits down with his arms folded. Watching the other man carefully.
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 63 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 20:07
  • msg #254

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Reckon my hands can't get no dirtier, neither." Bill glares at Zeke. "Just you remember that, next time you get the urge to mouth off." He leans against the wall instead of sitting back down.

Jackie, hand still under the table, spares a glance at Wild Bill. "He's got a point. What if he ain't the same man you knew? Sure, he says he survived his Last Stand...but did he? Did he really? What if he's like you were? What if Custer ain't in control o' his own mind anymore?"

"Yellow Hair was not a demon when he attacked our lodges in the dead of winter." Kills Iron Horse growls. "Nor when his long knives marched against the Lakota in the first place."

"Not. Helping." Jackie says through gritted teeth.

Bill, though, seems somewhat mollified. "If that's the case -- if -- then I reckon Coot's elixir might go a long way towards solvin' this thing." he looks at Von Steinhof. "But I like your idea, too. Hasslin' him might work in the short term."
Belle Ivers
player, 367 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 20:51
  • msg #255

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle was done being quiet.  Oddly enough the plot to kill a government official wasn't what was bothering her most at the minute.  Though that was asinine, it was at least based on a real person.

But this object was impossible.

"Never mind all of that!  Barring the contigency I am having further insight into my own work in the midst of a hallucination, you have some explaining to do Wells.  Or rather you will when you're in a better way.

"This device consists of, among other things, a pneumatic array of micro-injectors for various pharamaceutical compounds.  To put it breifly, it shouldn't exist.  There are at least a hundred things about it which are plausible in theory, but represent engineering problems as yet unsolved, and some which I confess I can't even begin to unravel with such a short examination, and may not be able to unravel even given more time.

"I understand what it is.  What I do not understand are three things:  first, how anyone could innovate on this many fronts at once.  The machining of this device is beyond precise.  My auto-injector harness is state of the art and the parts took weeks to machine on the finest equipment available, yet it is not half so miniaturized or precise as this.  My ego aside, for these medicines to be effective in such small doses, they have to be compounded in a state more concentrated and pure than the most advanced pharmacy in any nation of the Earth could manage.  It is the mundane details which make it so incredible.  This is a piece of technology which doesn't and cannot exist and yet here it is.

"Second, how did you come to have such a device?  I fear given your current mental state any answer will be erroneous, however tracking your backtrail may be key to both unraveling this mystery and explaining why you all have lost your sanity.  My word the conversation in this room, as if any of you have sway over a General in the Union Army, at least not in your current diseased state. If any of you try you will be arrested, and rightly so might I add.

"But what is more mysterious still is the third question, what is the thought process here?  While I can't eliminate the possibility of parallel development..."  Belle held her own injector harness up beside it.  "...this works on the exact same principal of my own invention, as much as it hurts my ego to admit it is more advanced.  However, the fact you specifically brought it here, to me, implies that it's not a coincidence, and though you are suffering from delusions, it implies you wished to do so.  Who's been spying on me, Wells?  Smith and Robards have been after my prototypes for years now!  Why bring me the smoking gun?  Why admit it in this way?"

(LOL so Belle's next derangement should be a phobia of industrial espionage)

She shook her head at Coot.  "An elixir may very much help this situation sir, sadly I need to know what psychotropic substance we've been exposed to.  It's not unreasonable I could device and compound an antidote.  Perhaps I should take some blood samples to the doctor..."
Jackie Wells
NPC, 243 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 21:05
  • msg #256

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie Wells just bursts out laughing at Belle. "I also brought this," she tugs on the harness holding her raygun, "And this." She opens her shirt, revealing a tunic with odd circuitry designs. "And I got all o' them from the same source -- the little green men who live inside Devil's Tower." She holds her hand out. "Can I have it back, now?"
Freiherr von Steinhof
player, 433 posts
Officer and Gentleman
P6 T5 W1F0 Cha:+2 W1R0B4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 21:22
  • msg #257

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Leopold cocked an eyebrow.
"Interesting. Is there more of this what you found in that... tower?"
Jackie Wells
NPC, 244 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 21:29
  • msg #258

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie nods. "Yup. We didn't have the time nor inclination to grab a whole heap o' things."
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 258 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 21:44
  • msg #259

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy looked over at Bill during his argument about Custer. The idea that he might be walking dead did have some merit. "Mister Hicock, sir, if yer good friends with Custer, couldn't ya mebbe go find out what his situation is? If the Custer ya knew ain't what he is now, mebbe ya can do a lotta good by findin' out jus' what we're facin'?"
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 64 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Thu 16 Mar 2017
at 21:50
  • msg #260

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Hmmm..." Bill nods. "I reckon that might work. Not sure how I'd do that without shootin' him first, though."

"Actually..." Coot says. "One o' my boys might be able to help us out there. His name's Danny, and he used to be a private in the Union army. He's also developed a knack for sniffin' out the Harrowed. Get him a fresh uniform, get him close enough, and Danny'd be able to spot if Custer's got a worm in him."
Belle Ivers
player, 368 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Fri 17 Mar 2017
at 01:34
  • msg #261

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"That you have them does not imply anything beyond you have them, and whoever supplied them is aware of and has iterated impressively on emergent technologies.  Though I suspect something indeed must have happened to you there."  Belle responded simply, at this point her concerns going well beyond the immediate madness.  As bad as this was, an idea was taking shape in her mind that someone she could think of wouldn't like this.  Besides, she had other leads.

She gingerly closed the device and returned it as requested.  "Thank you for the loan of your apparatus."  Belle would want people to be polite to her if she were crazy after all.  Poor thing, even if she was working for Smith and Robards this was a debilitating dementia she had.

Well, there were perhaps two more things she could accomplish here.  One was probably a lost cause, and the other was a long shot, but she owed it to him to try.

"Now..."  She turned to Wild Bill.  "You sir, we were interrupted on my part.  I must set you straight on a matter of some import.  With science!"
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 408 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W4R1B3L1
Fri 17 Mar 2017
at 15:12
  • msg #262

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art nodded at Coot's offer. "I mebbe able ta help widda uniform. Where are all the places da soldiers be?" The question seemed to be asked of everyone, as Art's face scanned the gathered group.
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 65 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Fri 17 Mar 2017
at 15:28
  • msg #263

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Well, then," Jackie says, and pulls out her gatling pistol. She sets it on the table. "What do you make o' this? This, I brought with me. It is, as you say, iterated on previous designs. this was cutting edge before I left...the end result o' 200 years of weapon design and manufacture."

Wild Bill raises an eyebrow. "You...still want me to set ya on fire?"

Coot shrugs. "I dunno. I ain't been in town long."

"The big wigs have taken over the Grand Central Hotel." Jackie says. "Most o' the grunts have been settin' up tents in the lots around town. There's a whole heap o' them buidlin' somethin' south o' town, in Lead. I think it's a barracks."
Belle Ivers
player, 369 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Fri 17 Mar 2017
at 19:31
  • msg #264

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"I must convince you of your delusion sir."  Belle reminded him.

She looked back at Jackie Wells.  "The quantity does not change the circumstances, though it does mean something stranger still is afoot.  The truth of what's actually happened here is slowly coming to light however."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 461 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 00:49
  • msg #265

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt strode across the room.

"Miss Ivers, please don't set any fires. Please. As a personal favor to me, and the US Marshal's Service. Please."
Logan West
player, 324 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 2W1R4B
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 00:53
  • msg #266

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Logan quietly followed the conversation taking place in the room, which seemed to go in seven different directions all at once. He was surprised to hear that Hickok was apparently a good friend of Custer. That left him reticent to dispense any information or suggestions for handling Custer in his presence, especially if they were attempting to send him in to figure out whether Custer was Harrowed or not.

Mostly, though, he was concerned about how Marshal Broaddale had gotten to Deadwood being that the last thing he remembered was being in Houston.

Still, he was right about Ivers, who was much more unhinged than when he had last encountered her. Then again, those circumstances had been much more mundane.

"He's right, Miss Ivers. There'll be no arson in this building. If you need to start a fire, please take your business into the street. There've been enough burning buildings for the evening."
Jackie Wells
NPC, 245 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 16:28
  • msg #267

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Amen to that." Jackie nods.

Meanwhile, Little Crow, still in the embrace of Moses, scowls. [Language unknown: "Est menwasnde itne adarti toniseio. Ven ce no os etun?"]

((OOC: So with Jackie's tale being mostly finished, I think we're all in general conversation mode as you guys figure out what it is you're going to do next. The main thrust seems to be determining if Custer is Harrowed or not? Then figuring out what to do from there?

Meanwhile, Belle is still convinced everyone's under some sort of hallucinogen.

Who has topics that they know about OOC but want their characters to learn about IC?

Who has things that they want/need to do? This can be mentioned in PM, if necessary.

What is the general plan now?))
Belle Ivers
player, 370 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 17:03
  • msg #268

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Everyone looks bad when you tickle their goofy spot directly.

"A good suggestion gentlemen.  Though I assure you it's perfectly safe and there is a drastic difference between a controlled demonstration and arson, I can understand the psychic impact in light of recent events."  Belle nodded, finding that one of the few reasonable things anyone has said.
Moses
player, 566 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W1R0B1L2
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 19:15
  • msg #269

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Moses nods. [Language unknown: "Ngit, Tra Teusie Ons Omstplto Comnd Wasoutble arni rionnt. Com plel ss ivevirithsta, Ithhouure Thi?"]
He slowly let go of the young Sioux and stood up.

"Thank you, Jackie Wells. The Lord has Moses shown all of what you speak, before Moses came from the desert.
Before Moses came to this place, the Almighty showed him more."

He paused, closed his eyes and looked down. When he opened them up again, his voice was more forceful.
"And behold, there was a white buffalo calf, beset by a raven, blacker than night. The raven carried murder in his heart, murder and fear, for it knew if the calf would grow, it would stomp the raven.
The white buffalo fled to a stand of dead wood, but the raven gave chase. It summoned locks of gold and chained it there among the dead trees.
And Moses turned and wept.
And as Moses turned, he saw the mountain that the white man calls Devil's Tower. And ghosts danced around its top, screaming in anguish, fear, and glee.
Then there was a great silence...
Storm clouds filled the sky with darkness. Rain came and the four winds blew with such anger. that the Lord's most humble servant was almost swept away. The storm carried great birds made of thunder and they swept across the land until the wind struck both raven and calf."

He paused again, as if to catch his breath.

"There the vision ended. But Moses knew where the Lord wanted him to be. Where the Lord needed him to be. And so Moses came."
The Folks in the Mint
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 19:19
  • msg #270

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The people in the Mint just...stare at Moses after this pronouncement.
Belle Ivers
player, 372 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 19:57
  • msg #271

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle shook her head.  "That poor, dear man."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 463 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 22:14
  • msg #272

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"So...Raven trapped the White Buffalo in Deadwood with Custer? And eventually the storms will blow away the White Buffalo and Raven. So what does that mean for us? Lay back, have a pint and wait for this all to blow over?"
Walks The Night Alone
NPC, 7 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 W0 F0 Cha -- Hench
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 23:06
  • msg #273

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Walks The Night Alone shakes his head. "The White Buffalo is a symbol of plenty, of hope. But do not think if nothing is done, all will end well. Black Kettle had a vision, too. In his vision, he saw blue coats falling upon the people like a swarm of locusts. The sky was darkened as ten thousand arrows rained from the sky. Thunder, like the drum of war, scattered the People like leaves, and a thousand knives stabbed the hearts of The People. The creek by the dead trees rose red and boiled with the blood of the innocent. The dead numbered many, and none could tell which had been red and which had been white before -- all were grey. Then the dead rose again, their clothes black with blood, to march against all that lived. And only the Raven was left, laughing and calling to his brothers."
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 409 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W4R1B3L1
Sat 18 Mar 2017
at 23:10
  • msg #274

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art tapped his staff on the ground once. "My way do be clear. It do be ta the Devil's Tower and ta the Huntin' Grounds beyond. I'll getcha wonna those uniforms fore goin', bu' tha's where I gotta go. Course I'd be appreciatin' any help any of ya folks can give."
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 371 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r3b2
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 12:46
  • msg #275

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"We still need the special guns, right?  So going to the Devils tower without them won't do any good.  Maybe some of us, who are good at finding stuff, need to go and get them?" Zek pointed out.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 410 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W4R1B3L1
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 14:28
  • msg #276

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art shook his head. "I do no tink dat searchin' fer tha' which I been told be there needs ta happen at the same time as we go wit The Six ta replace those guardians."
Walks The Night Alone
NPC, 8 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 W0 F0 Cha -- Hench
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 15:39
  • msg #277

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Walks The Night Alone nods at Art's comment. "We go to Devil's Tower to rescue a lost soul, not to reseal the Deadlands."
The Folks at the Mint
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 16:45
  • msg #278

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Coot nods. "I reckon my boys and I can get to work findin' The Six...we'll take that one that fella had with us."

Jackie looks at Art and Moses. "I reckon I've got to come to Devil's Tower with y'all. Ain't lookin' forward to it, but you need a guide, and I've been to both the Tower and the Huntin' Grounds beyond."

Wild Bill, still leaning against the wall, shrugs. "Not my rodeo, not my horses. I got to make sure my friend is still himself, I gotta find Al Swearengen and bring him to justice, and I gotta do right by Calamity Jane, whom I dragged into all this while out o' my head. None o' your problems mean jack all to me."

The bandaged man...doesn't say anything. In fact, he doesn't seem to be there at all. Where did he go?

Little Crow, likewise, says nothing, and just glares around the room.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 464 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 19:10
  • msg #279

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt blinked.

"Wait, a lost soul? Did I miss something? I thought the point was sealing this stuff up?"
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 21 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 19:45
  • msg #280

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

kills Iron Horse shakes her head. "This was not why we came here. We came to find The Woman Who Remembers The Future, who knows the path to the Hunting Grounds, because we have been tasked by The Great Spirit to find and free a mighty caretaker, one who has secret knowledge." She hesitates. "He...could be one of The Old Ones. The old man said, one of the Guardians was not there when Raven came. If it is so, he would be a powerful ally against The Lodge of the Raven."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 465 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 20:15
  • msg #281

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Well, shit," the Marshal said, smiling incredulously, "I thought we had to cut out someone's heart. I said earlier, if there's a secret society trying to stoke the flames of war, first things first we should find out what they're planning and stop them. If this spirit knows their plans or their hideouts, he sounds like a good ally."

He paused, his grin maybe slightly unsettled.

"I mean, how bad can the spirit world be?"
Jackie Wells
NPC, 246 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 20:20
  • msg #282

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Jackie just...looks at Matt. "You dense or somethin'? I've been through that place. I was with a team o' hardened veterans o' the Wasted West. Seven of us went through the portal. And on that journey, I lost my husband, a couple friends, and my dog." She shakes he head. "Trust me when I say, I ain't lookin' forward to goin' back."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 466 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 20:27
  • msg #283

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt shrugs, then fixes Jackie with a serious look.

"I believe you, Ranger Wells. No point in dwelling on the fear, though."

He went back to the bar and grabbed his hat.
Belle Ivers
player, 373 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Sun 19 Mar 2017
at 23:02
  • msg #284

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Well, I would be negligent to the common good and industrial interests if I did not supervise this expedition. "  Belle couldn't believe she was encouraging this, but it was the closest to a quarantine as could be achieved.  She looked at Jackie Wells.  "The silliness of this all aside, you got these things somewhere."
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 259 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W5R0B0L1
Mon 20 Mar 2017
at 00:38
  • msg #285

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

The Folks at the Mint:
Coot nods. "I reckon my boys and I can get to work findin' The Six...we'll take that one that fella had with us."


Katy furrowed her brow and looked toward the door for a moment before returning her gaze to Coot. "That one the fella had? He's still got it. I did ask fer him ta relinquish possession, but he didn't do so. Meanin' we got zero o' the Six fer now."
Jackie Wells
NPC, 247 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Mon 20 Mar 2017
at 01:06
  • msg #286

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Ranger Wells? Suppose it's better than Cadet." Jackie raises an eyebrow. She shrugs at Belle. "Yup. That be true indeed."

Coot nods. "Yeah, but I don't see that as bein' too much of a problem. Unless he binds himself to it, he really only wanted it as bait. Reckon that might be why Michael slipped out...keep an eye on his brother an' all." he looks a little worried, though.
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 372 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r3b2
Mon 20 Mar 2017
at 03:04
  • msg #287

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Jackie Wells (msg # 286):

"We should give him a chance to settle whatever score James has going invoking that gun and Carter. I don't think he would give it up willingly, and the plan is not so perfect that we need that one gun this moment. That being said,  I know a vendetta when I see one. After Carter is done,  James won't want the gun anymore."
This message was last updated by the player at 03:05, Mon 20 Mar 2017.
The Stray
GM, 2120 posts
The Marshal
'round these parts
Tue 21 Mar 2017
at 15:43
  • msg #288

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: Who are we waiting on here? Von Steinhof and Moses?))
Matthew Broaddale
player, 469 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Tue 21 Mar 2017
at 16:08
  • msg #289

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: I'd like a word from Logan, but otherwise I'm good))
Logan West
player, 325 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 2W1R4B
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 04:39
  • msg #290

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Miss Wells, I don't claim to be fully conversant on everything that I've heard today, but I think that there's some merit to accompanying your expedition as I think it bears a tangential relationship to one of my investigations," he said. "Are you setting out right this minute? I need to catch up with some folks around town."
Jackie Wells
NPC, 248 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 17:19
  • msg #291

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"I suppose that's really up to them." Jackie points at Moses and Art. "But I reckon I'd actually rather be prepared fer this sort of trip. I'd like a day or so to collect things fer the expedition."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 470 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 18:14
  • msg #292

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"If that's amenable to everyone going, it sounds alright to me," Broaddale said, "I wasn't planning on doing much anyway."
Jackie Wells
NPC, 249 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 19:55
  • msg #293

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Who all is goin', anyhow?" Jackie asks.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 411 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W4R1B3L1
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 20:14
  • msg #294

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art frowned and considered for a moment. "I do no think dat watin' a day be a problem. So long as folk can keep from yappin' abou' what it is we be doin'." He looked around at those gathered to see if there were any objections.
Belle Ivers
player, 378 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 02:19
  • msg #295

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Twenty four hours may see the symptoms intensify."  Belle worried.  "But you can rest assured Belle Ivers is not letting this madness occur for lack of supervision."
Logan West
player, 326 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 2W1R4B
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 04:26
  • msg #296

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Loose lips sink ships," he agreed. "Let's meet back here tomorrow 'bout this time. We can head out under the cover o' night."

He turned to his fellow lawman. "Marshal Broaddale, if you recall the conflict earlier with the soldiers, Lieutenant Haverford issued me some papers that have granted me a bit of flexibility in a town that is otherwise under martial law. Just a bit, but enough for us not to be disarmed and taken into custody. I think you might want to come with me. I'll introduce the both of you, and you can get the same."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 471 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 07:08
  • msg #297

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Broaddale offered his drink to the Major, and smoothed his vest.

"That sounds good to me, Marshal West. Jackie, do you have any idea what we should prepare for, in the..." he cringed slightly, "Hunting Grounds? Or in the tower?"
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 261 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W7R0B0L1
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 16:14
  • msg #298

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy looked at the others agreeing to go and added her own nod of agreement. "I'll be goin' too." If nothing else, visiting the hunting grounds would be an interesting education and may provide valuable information for the Rangers.
Jackie Wells
NPC, 250 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 16:30
  • msg #299

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Matthew Broaddale (msg # 297):

"Plenty of ideas." Jackie nods. "First, there's three ways I know of to get in there in the first place. There's an underground entrance followin' the Belle Fourche river. It's what I used to get out when I needed to hurry. There's also Kang's door -- Kang's got some troops guardin' it. That door leads to some mighty dangerous caverns, so y'all are gonna want good light sources. Or, if we can figger out some way to fly, there's a way in from the top. There's a place that rents out whirlygigs here in town, but be aware that the top o' the tower is the home to a mess o' Devil Bats."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 475 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 16:43
  • msg #300

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt pondered a moment.

"If we go in through the river, do we have to go through the caverns too? Sounds like a whirligig investment might be smart," he offered. He turned to Kills Iron Horse, "Do the wicasas know Kang is at Devil's Tower?"

That brought up a thought he, regrettably, hadn't considered.

"Is there any way we could bring this whole thing to the attention of the Nations? The Lodge of the Raven is their enemy too. They might know where the Ravenites gather, at least."
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 412 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W4R1B3L1
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 17:43
  • msg #301

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art nodded at Matt. "De Nations do already be aware of the need ta go to da huntin' grounds fer this purpose."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 476 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 17:47
  • msg #302

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Good. I enjoy my limbs the length they are now. I've got no desire to trespass and get strung up."
Jackie Wells
NPC, 251 posts
Law Dog
P7 T8(2)W1F0 Cha+2 7W0R2B
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 01:56
  • msg #303

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Matthew Broaddale (msg # 300):

Jackie nods. "Yup. Both the lower and upper caverns. Trust me when I say I do not recommend it."

Kills Iron Horse nods. "It is why they allowed him to build his Iron Road through the Nations. His men keep the paha wakansica inside."

"She means the little green lizardman aliens." Jackie says. "As well as the scaly grizzly bears, the darkblob, the Texas-sized wasps, the dog-sized stinging insects..."

Kills Iron Horse scowls at Jackie, who quiets. "It is so. There are many wacansica inside. Chief Kang sends his best, most fearsome warriors there to keep them in."


Walks The Night Alone shakes his head. "It is not so easy, to find the Ravenites." He looks over at Little Crow. "He hid among the Ghost Dancers, until he betrayed them. So it is with many in the Lodge."

Little Crow just scowls.

Wild Bill shrugs. "You know, this all is fascinatin', but I got things to do." he moves away from the wall. "So I reckon this is where we part ways for now." Then he strolls toward the door.
Belle Ivers
player, 385 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 02:01
  • msg #304

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"What pray tell do you have to do sir?"  Belle asked pointedly.  "There is nothing of the sort, the mountain is simply a prison for disciplinary cases.  Though I would suggest we should not disturb it."

Belle clearly had a negative opinion of that practice, but didn't bother to articulate it.
Matthew Broaddale
player, 484 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 16:38
  • msg #305

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Matt responded to Jackie's list of horrors with an uneasy smile.

"Darkb-, aliens? What the hell is an alien?"

When Walks the Night Alone indicated Little Crow, Broaddale caught his gaze.

"And how did you figure out he was a Ravenite? Was he caught doing something?"

He rolled his eyes at Wild Bill, sharing an exasperated look with Logan over the revenant lawman.
Kills Iron Horse
NPC, 22 posts
Cheyenne Dog Soldier
P8 T6 F0 Cha -- Hench
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 17:04
  • msg #306

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"A critter from outer space." Jackie says. "Like...er...From Earth To The Moon by Jules Verne. Actually more like War of the Worlds, but that ain't been written yet, so you wouldn't have seen it." She sighs. "Talkin' about this stuff is always so hard, 'cause you ain't even got the fiction for most of it for me to compare things to."

Kills Iron Horse nods. "He betrayed Wovoka to his fellows, and nearly got them killed. Then, on Bear Butte, he and his fellows tried to hide among the People, but Screaming Rabbit called forth the mighty Swiftest Eagle, who had seen the Ravenites before and told us all who they were."
Belle Ivers
player, 388 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 17:24
  • msg #307

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Belle was momentarily distracted.  "I hope he writes more books..."
Matthew Broaddale
player, 486 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 17:44
  • msg #308

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"I...I think you need to reread those books," Matt said. Then he turned back to Kills Iron Horse. "Wovoka is the head of this Ghost Dance, right?"

He considered Little Crow.

((OOC: Fun fact: the term "alien" referring to ETs was coined in print in 1953, and there aren't aliens in From Earth to the Moon (1865) or Around the Moon (1870), even though there are Selenites in Le Voyage dans la Lune(1902). Time Travel is fun.))
Old Ways Braves
NPC, 78 posts
Old Ways Indians
P7 T6 W0 F0 Cha 0
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 18:17
  • msg #309

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Kills Iron Horse nods, while Walks The Night Alone shakes his head. Kills tilts her head at Walks.

"He is one with a vision." Walks The Night Alone. "But Black Kettle was the one who spoke of The Ghost Dance to the Cheyenne. And Kicking Bear speaks it to the Lakota. And Wodziwob, he had the first visions."

"But Wovoka is the one who goes among the tribes to speak the Ghost Dance." Kills responds. "And if he were killed, people would lose heart."

"But he is not the leader." Walks says. "He is a leader."
Wild Bill Hickok
NPC, 66 posts
Famous Dead Man
P6 T8 W3 F0 Cha -4
Sat 25 Mar 2017
at 17:39
  • msg #310

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Wild Bill, meanwhile, continues heading out.

Coot frowns.
The Stray
GM, 2138 posts
The Marshal
'round these parts
Sun 26 Mar 2017
at 17:31
  • msg #311

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: So...what're you all doing now?))
Matthew Broaddale
player, 489 posts
US Marshal
P5 T5 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r0b0
Sun 26 Mar 2017
at 17:48
  • msg #312

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: Going to the hotel with Logan to see Haverford [and Jane, possibly], then either the bank or the post office to pick up my paycheck/allowance then maybe to the Whirligig place.))
Moses
player, 568 posts
A prophet or a lunatic?
P6 T8 W0F0 Cha-2 W1R0B1L2
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 06:24
  • msg #313

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: GM puppeting))

Moses nods as folks begin to leave. "There is work to be done. Moses will dwell here, for a time." Thunder rumbles outside.

Kills Iron horse looks at Art. "I do not think we can walk freely here." She looks around the bar. "Can you find a place where we will be safe to wait?"

Coot gestures to Zeke. "How you holdin' up? Your rider givin' you any headaches?" He looks over to where Wild Bill went. "I reckon he's gonna need more time to come around. Say...you wanna help me with somethin'?"

Jackie, meanwhile, heads over to Katy. "Well. That's my story. I bet you done got a big ol' report to write to Austin. Anythin' else you need to know?"
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 384 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r3b2
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 14:58
  • msg #314

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Moses (msg # 313):

"Its...been more chatty than I like, but that's all." He said to Coot. He watched Bill leave, feeling both some loyalty to the man and at the same time hating his choice in friends. Bill indeed might be better off truly dead than in service to their foes. Of course, Zek had no means to do that sensible thing.

"Yeah, I will help." He said to the old man.
Art C. Wiley
Finally Listening, 414 posts
Speckled brother
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha0 W4R1B3L1
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 16:10
  • msg #315

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Art looked over at Kills Iron Horse, then nodded. [Language unknown: "Sehi, Mi aimi art ichentoustin. Machla Il yin ticionnot der ie outoeress ourvorave Illowaha Ni el thinotdaywitore wamipa'reit. I haen ec iveardnot ou osunla po st. O se asli p roivis ou ore of prenha ingev Mawani poeswi ho on a ted wheithatiati wer sa ant ei blewhitra adlar Yinounpre. He Na whi atena p un k acplwh eveni mail ol o e whe oeroutrat e oman ar. Ne acerce antr ol ssponc estou are ainwerand adion proic us urene iladek heranyeenencndehas. Dayonsdin Ec ni thovorort ven int."]

Art looked around, trying to determine who might be able to give them the best advice. He decided to start with Coot. "Mister Coot, while we mebbe don't need ta get goin' soon, I do be needin' ta find a place ta stay fer me an' those that came ta stay fer the night. Do ya have any suggestions?"
Belle Ivers
player, 400 posts
Iron Horse Whisperer
P:6 T:5 W:0 F:0 W3R1B0
Tue 28 Mar 2017
at 01:20
  • msg #316

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

"Hey!"  Belle protested as that gentleman so rudely left, but there was nothing for it.  She sighed.

"I have chemistry to finish."  She mused to herself.  So much for the demonstration, but she would need certain items if she were going to journey about.

Belle is doing that, then paying a visit to a certain somebody.
Logan West
player, 328 posts
U.S. Marshal
P6 T5 W0 F0 Cha+2 2W1R4B
Tue 28 Mar 2017
at 02:01
  • msg #317

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

OOC:

Echoing what Matthew said, going to see Haverford.
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 265 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W7R0B0L1
Tue 28 Mar 2017
at 15:56
  • msg #318

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Katy pondered Jackie's question for a bit, but eventually shook her head. "I think I gotta date with a pen. It ain't like it's somethin' that couldn't use verifyin' in person. But, in case the worst happens...." Katy knew that she was never that far from death. She stared it in the face nearly every day. Often multiple times a day.
Coot Jenkins
NPC, 27 posts
Prospector
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha +2 (+4)
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 03:31
  • msg #319

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

Coot sighs. "Reckon we might still need to find Jack McCall's pistol that you was talkin' about. Just in case. Now, I heard Jack McCall got himself killed." He looks over at Jackie Wells. "She was a deputy. She might know what became of it. I'll talk with her some more and see if I can't figger out where it is now. But you said somethin' about Calamity Jane possibly knowing things, too, so that's another lead. And I also heard that Wild Bill's own six-shooters were stolen off his body. Now, there's an undertaker 'round these parts by the name o' Underhill...perhaps he knows somethin'." he frowns. "Oh, and my boys pulled a fella out of some ruins earlier today. I'd like you to check on him, 'cause he was in bad shape."

((OOC: So I'm trying to figure out who is going where so I can split the threads up. I know Art, Matthew, and Logan are all headed to the same place, while Belle is headed to another one. I'd like to know where Katy and Zeke are headed so I can figure out what they encounter.))
Ezekiel Starkweather
player, 385 posts
Mountain Man
P6 T10 W0 F0 Cha 0 w2r3b2
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 12:21
  • msg #320

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

In reply to Coot Jenkins (msg # 319):

"I think I could go with our local science wiz and our texas ranger to check out your fella from the ruins, then maybe look up Underhill. Assuming you are willing to go, ladies?" He tips his hat in Belle's and Katy's directions.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:23, Wed 29 Mar 2017.
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 266 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W7R0B0L1
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 15:14
  • msg #321

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

OOC: I'm not sure Katy has much to do in this town at the moment. Maybe catch up with Trace? Or go say hello to Seth Bullock? Unless I'm forgetting something (which is quite possible).
The Stray
GM, 2144 posts
The Marshal
'round these parts
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 00:30
  • msg #322

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: Does Katy even have a room somewhere yet? Anyhoo, she doesn't know Trace is about yet, but she won't learn that unless she runs into him, more than likely. We could just leave Katy here with Moses, Coot, & Jackie, if she has more follow-up questions for them.))
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 267 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W7R0B0L1
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 00:38
  • msg #323

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

OOC: We certainly didn't play out her getting a room. If she doesn't have one, she is dead on her feet and needs to get to sleep ASAP. I don't think she necessarily has any follow up questions at this time, though perhaps I'm missing something. Jackie has told her a lot about the town and why she's around in addition to what was learned in this thread. Coot may have some great stories to tell, but I don't know that any of it is germane to her current quest. However, she wouldn't mind soaking up any knowledge he's willing to share.

She would like to get a feel for the players in town if she's going to be spending time here, but that could take a lot of different forms.
The Stray
GM, 2145 posts
The Marshal
'round these parts
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 01:03
  • msg #324

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: Alrighty. In the interest of speeding things up, give me a Smarts check to see if she's secured lodgings, and a Streetwise check to see what's she's absorbed about the local politics.))
Catherine Hays Cox
player, 268 posts
Texas Ranger
P5 T6 W0 F0 Cha0 W7R0B0L1
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 01:07
  • msg #325

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

OOC: A pair of 5s.

18:07, Today: Catherine Hays Cox rolled 5,4 using d6,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,4.  Streetwise.
18:06, Today: Catherine Hays Cox rolled 5,3 using d8,d6, rerolling max with rolls of 5,3.  Smarts?
The Stray
GM, 2146 posts
The Marshal
'round these parts
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 01:23
  • msg #326

Re: Chapter 6.3: There Will Come A Reckoning ((Deadwood))

((OOC: Alrighty, so she has a place to stay and knows some of the basics about who's who. I'll give you the info via PM.))
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