GM says, "Ah well then we can start. Your benefactor Mr Grimes has had a glitch in getting his affairs in order."

Emsworth says, "Is anyone logging this?"

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater nds

GM says, "He begs your forbearance and says they will be leaving in two days hence."

You say, "Any thing we can help you with, Mr Grimes?"

Thomas Grimes says. "Wot's that? Oh no no, it's my bleedin' barrister. I'll have to attend to it myself. Dreadful bother actually.

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater commiserates

Emsworth . o O ( Why would Grimes need a _barrister_ out here? Is he about to appear in court? )

Thomas Grimes. "Two days hence be lads and we'll be on to our way to the steppes.

GM . o O ( I can't think of the term for a lawyer in england that isn't a barrister. )

GM . o O ( the ones that draw up wills and stuff. )

Emsworth says, "You consult a solicitor. He hires a barrister to represent you in court."

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater translates that to Notaris for himself

GM . o O ( Solicitor! That's it! delete barrister and replace with solicitor. )

Hans nods.

GM says, "Grimes promises you thinks will be clearned up in two days and bids you all adieu. "

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater bids the same

GM says, "Given you have all your affairs already in order, you find yourself with nothing to do for two days."

GM says, "Moeris Lacus, while no Sytris Major, is still a fairly large town to see."

Emsworth says, "Time for some sight-seeing, eh?"

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater ponders setting out for a ride into the Martian outback for a day, camp out and then return later the next morning.

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater informs if the town has some nice sight-seeing opportunities. Or important buildings to visit. A library perhaps?

GM says, "A short camping trip is possilbe, but you remember the reason Grimes is hiring you is that the Governor general has restricted excursions for small groups."

GM says, "The best library i English is at the Explorer's club."

Emsworth says, "I've been wondering if one could by small pieces of liftwood anywhere. Bits that are too small to be useful in ship construction."

GM says, "There are a few none lending libraries in town, but you'd have to speak Parhoon to be able to read anything, unless you hire a scribe."

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater [to emsworth]: They sell toys which contain liftwood here in town. Perhaps the toymaker has some scraps left.

GM says, "Liftwood scraps are still valuable items. Ship yards, carpenters, toy makers, or maybe even the bazaar might have some."

You say, "Are there churches in town? It's been a while since I last went to confession."

[Monitor] Devin has connected at Sun Mar 30 13:07:06 2003 CST

GM says, "The ship yard will require a hansom cab to reach. The others are a fair walking distance from your hotel."

Emsworth says, "Oh well, it was just an idle thought. Maybe I'll look into it when I get back to Syrtis Major."

GM says, "The British quarter has, as could be expected, an Anglican church. "

You say, "I'll inquire atthe front desk of the hotel if they know a catholic priest in town."

GM says, "There might be a chaplain at the army post that could perform catholic confessions."

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater [to Emsworth]: We could hire some Ghasants and make a day trip outside of town.

You say, "The army post is near the hotel?"

GM says, "Given the shortage of chaplains in comparasion to the various faiths of the soldiers of the empire, it's quite common for the chaplains to fill in."

GM says, "The Army post is about a mile away from the hotel. A fair, but easily accomplished walk."

Hans says, "Can I just be a bit OOC here? Do you have anything specific in mind for us, Michael? Otherwise we can spend a lot of time doing notthing in particular.

Gijsbrecht Corneliszn Leeghwater . o O ( I'll shorten my name, btw )

JHG is now locally named Leeghwater

[Monitor] Robert has connected at Sun Mar 30 13:13:36 2003 CST

GM says, "What I have in mind, you can encounter just about any direction you take. Bazaar, army post, or going to rent gashants."

You say, "Robert has arrived"

Robert walks in from the Gaming Floor.

GM says, "Neat!"

GM [to Robert]: greetings!

'Buff' Teatam huffs and puffs.

Robert [to GM]: Am I late?

GM says, "Just a tad, but you are still in your hotel room"

'Buff' Teatam says, "JFZ sends regrets but can't make it."

Leeghwater nds

GM says, "Yes I spoke to him Friday."

Robert [to GM]: Naw I'm home. I just got caught up in something else. Sorry.

Leeghwater sniggers OOC

GM says, "Hey no worries, life is more important."

Robert has made Robert's local name 'Buff Teatam.

Leeghwater makes an appointment with the army chaplain for the evening before we leave.

GM says, "Grimes basically told you he had some legal hang ups to get cleared so you'll be leaving in two days."

Robert has made Robert's local description A tall and slim man with a mustach and stubble. He has piercing blue eyes. Buff wears a buckskin jacket, chaps and Stetson hat. He has a pair of matched Colt Navy pistols at his belt.

'Buff Teatam. waves

GM says, "You'll actually have to go to the army post to make an appointment."

You say, ""OK"

Hans [to Robert]: You may want to lose the full stop after Buff's name.

[Monitor] dj_flx has connected at Sun Mar 30 13:18:39 2003 CST

Leeghwater proposes a ride *around* town to practice. Then we can see if we haven't forgotten anything

Robert has made Robert's local name 'Buff Teatam

Robert has made Robert's local description A tall and slim man with a mustache and stubble. He has piercing blue eyes. Buff wears a buckskin jacket, chaps and Stetson hat. He has a pair of matched Colt Navy pistols at his belt.

Emsworth says, "That sounds like a good idea. I could use a little more training with the gashants."

GM says, "You'll need to take a cab to get to the stables. As can be expected, they rather not have stables in the middle of the british quarter."

'Buff Teatam says, "I'm not taking any nonsense from them overgrown gators. I'll give them a taste of my spurs."

'Buff Teatam points to the contraptions on his boots.

GM says, "The idea of getting more riding practice makes good sense and you hire a cab to take you to the stables."

Emsworth says, "Do you actually have to use those things to control a horse, Teatam?!?"

'Buff Teatam smiles and asks, "Usually just once. If done right. We don't have the luxury of grooms and handlers and doting on our horses back home. Some are half wild. They get uppity.

GM says, "Enroute you have a debate on the relative merits of English and Western riding styles."

Leeghwater asks the handlers what Ghasants like for treats

'Buff Teatam says, "Where's my friend the Yankee?"

Stable owner says. Gashants have taken a liking to cubes of honey.

Leeghwater makes a note to bring honey

Emsworth [B:grins. "I don't blame them," he says. "I'm rather fond of honey myself."

GM says, "Dr Price was called to assist at the army post. A soldier was injured and they needed his expertise."

'Buff Teatam pats his gashant on the nose.

GM says, "LT Rathwell was called in to speak with Captain Hebbletwaith."

Leeghwater saddles his Ghasant and mounts

Robert has made Robert's local name 'Buff' Teatam

Stable Master says. "Actually I have the honey cubes with me. Amazing things your honey, it doesn't spoil so you can take them out on the steppes with out worrying about them going bad.

'Buff' Teatam gives his mount a stern look. "I'll give you the sweets when you prove yourself an ally. You were plum reckless other day. Hey, stablemaster?"

Leeghwater [to the Stable Master]: I meant to bring them with us when we leave the day after tomorrow

GM says, "You each take a couple cubes before getting mounted up and make you way toward the town."

Emsworth says, "Our honey? It's actually from Earth? I thought you were talking about a local equivalent. Where do you buy yours?"

Stable Master replies. "We don't have insects that create anything close to redman's honey. Fortunately since word got out that Gashant's like honey, several redmen have imported hives here to Mars.

Emsworth says, "And the bees can survive here? Amazing!"

Leeghwater ponders this and makes some notes in his notebooks

Stable Master "There is a fellow here in Moeris Lacus that has several hives. They require much more effort to thrive than they do on your world from what I understand, but they can survive as long as they are near the canals, they need the humidity to make it.

'Buff' Teatam says, "Hey, pard? I wanna know, do these critters spook at gunfire? This is a hunting party, y=know?"

Stable Master Oh yes they are gun trained. They are reliable creatures, but get spooked in close quaters.

'Buff' Teatam says, "Ah. They like the open country? Maybe we should just ride around the town?"

Stable Master says. "They are creatures of the steppes, but you can train them for city riding. Just takes a strong hand on the reins.

GM says, "You reach get on your mounts and head out."

'Buff' Teatam regards his mount before saying, "I'll call her Miss Lilly."

GM says, "Knowing to be on your guard, you have an easier time controlling your mounts."

GM . o O ( everyone please roll observation )

Leeghwater calls his Ghasant Gilsode after his mother-in-law

Hans rolls 5d, and gets a 16.

GM chuckles OOC

'Buff' Teatam rolled 2d6 and got 6.

I don't understand that.

If you are trying to speak, prefix your words with a double quote (") or the word SAY, i.e. SAY Fnord. For more help on communicating, type HELP COMMUNICATION.

#119:parse_dice (this == #227), line 76: Invalid argument

... called from #119:roll pr*oll (this == #227), line 34

(End of traceback)

On 4d6, you rolled 13.

GM whispers, "you spot something curious in a stoe window"

Emsworth reins in his gashant and rides over to the side of the street.

'Buff' Teatam says, "Huh?"

Leeghwater reins in too and stares at the shop window

Emsworth says, "Wait a minute, fellers, there's something i'd like to see here."

'Buff' Teatam stops his mount and looks over at the shop.

GM says, "The street is a row of finer stores, including a toy store. "

[Monitor] BrianH has connected at Sun Mar 30 13:41:33 2003 CST

GM says, "These are obviously for the upper class as they are all of the finest make, the item that caught your eye is a model of what appears to be an ether flyer."

Emsworth says, "Will you hold my gashant for a moment, Teatam? I'd like to have a closer look at this toy."

GM . o O ( Emsworth please roll Intellect )

Hans rolls 6d, and gets a 22.

Leeghwater ties his Ghasant to a rail and walks over to the window.

'Buff' Teatam takes the reins with a tip of the hat.

GM says, "On close inspection it is an exquistly carven wooden model and is not a human design"

GM says, "The implication of this is quite amazing."

Emsworth thanks Teatam, dismounts, and enters the shop.

GM says, "A /Martian/ ether flyer? Impossible."

Hans [to GM]: How do I see it is an ether flyer?

Leeghwater concludes that someone has obtained information previously thought secret

GM . o O ( you've seen several line drawings of human ether flyers, including the one you came to Mars on. )

Hans [to GM]: Sure, but I (Hans) don't remember what would distinguish an ether flyer from a cloudship.

Leeghwater is impressed by the model and decides to join Emsworth in the shop

[Monitor] BrianH has reconnected at Sun Mar 30 13:47:29 2003 CST

Leeghwater . o O ( Ether Ship is a Space Ship, right? )

GM . o O ( the design however isn't like a human design. The basic elements are there that make it obviously an ether flyer. )

Emsworth says, "Right, right, but what basic elements does an ether flyer have that a cloudship doesn't have?"

GM . o O ( correct the ether flyers are how you travel between planets. The Martians aren't know to have harnessed the ether. )

'Buff' Teatam . o O (I ncould go for a slug of whiskie right now.)

Leeghwater . o O ( This is similar to seeing an Iraqi designed stealth bomber? )

GM . o O ( and ether flyer is distinguished from a cloudship by it's enclosed deck, a solar boiler, and the fins at the rear of the ship that indicate an ether drive. )

Hans [to GM]: Got it. Thank you.

GM . o O ( that is as good away to put it as any Leeghwater )

Emsworth looks around for the shopkeeper.

Toy master begins to speak, but it is not in english.

Leeghwater lets Emsworth take the lead and wander to the Ether Flyer to look at it more closely.

Emsworth says, "If it is Parhooni Bertie will understand it."

GM . o O ( roll your 2 dice of Parhoon )

Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 5.

'Buff' Teatam begins rolling a cigarette, frowning with boredom.

Toy master Good day good sirs, you have found a rare and unique item

Emsworth says, "That is a beautiful toy, my good man. How muc would you want for it?"

GM says, "Written on the bottom of the base reads 'Teeqok Quuglaani'"

Leeghwater blinks as Emsworth seems to know "Gibberish"

Toy master one of your pounds good sir

GM . o O ( you may haggle, but you will need to roll bargaining. )

Leeghwater [to Emsworth]: Can you ask with how much he wants for it? And who made it?

Emsworth says, "That is a fair price. Will you wrap it up for me, please?"

Emsworth pays the shopkeeper one pound.

Toy master beams. "Excellent good sir!"

Emsworth says, "What can you tell me about the toymaker?"

GM says, "He is an older canal martian, he's rather stooped from age, but is still slightly taller than you are. The store is immaculate and the merchandise is of fantastic quality."

Hans says, "I meant that Bertie asked the shopkeeper about the maker.

Toy maker "Ah sir it is an antique. I'm not certain of the maker. It's not really a toy, it seems to be a line model. The name on the bottom is all there is to go on.

Emsworth Where did you get it?

Emsworth says, "Where did you get it?"

Toy master ponders. "Hmmm I picked that up sevral years ago in the bazaar. Some caravan brought it in.

Emsworth says, "A caravan? Where did it come from? And do you remember the name of the caravan master?"

[Monitor] MarkW has connected at Sun Mar 30 14:03:01 2003 CST

'Buff' Teatam says, "Lookin' at toys. I'm glad the folks back home ain't party to this. What are they doing in there?"

Toy master shakes head sadly. "Good sir it was several years ago and those caravans are as nameless as the grains of sands in the desert.

Emsworth says, "Too bad. Well, I'll take my leave of you, then. If you happen to learn of other models by the same maker, please leave word in the Explorers' Club for me. My name is Emsworth."

Toy master nods. "It shall be so good sir."

Emsworth says, "Let's join Teatam again, Leeghwater."

GM . o O ( Leeghwater please roll your physics. )

Emsworth leaves the shop with his parcel.

On 4d6, you rolled 7.

GM says, "You agree with Emsworth that it is an ether flyer of unknown design."

Leeghwater nds

GM . o O ( leeghwater roll your structural engineering )

On 4d6, you rolled 13.

Emsworth says, "Thanks for your patience, Teatam. We've stumbled over a rather intriguing mystery."

'Buff' Teatam says, "Eh?"

Leeghwater [to Emsworth]: I've never heard of a Martian Ether Flyer. Scary thoughy

Emsworth says, "This 'toy' is actually a model of an ether flyer made in a style not hitherto seen on Earth."

Leeghwater [to Buff]: Can you imagine stumbling upon a 100 year old model of a machine gun made by Indians?

GM says, "Looking closer you see it is not of human design and that the design seems to be sleeker than the average human flyer."

Hans [to JHG]: Let's not jump to conclusions. After all, an Earthman could've made it using a style he had picked up here on Mars.

Leeghwater [to Buff]: That is what this model pretends to be.

Hans says, "Bertie is NOT going to wve the model around in public. That's why he had the shopkeeper wrap it up.

Leeghwater [to Buff]: So it's either a clever fake or some truely odd

'Buff' Teatam says, "Maybe a Martian made it from drawings of Earth flyers? "

Emsworth says, "I'll show it to you as soon as we're in a more private surroundings, Teatam."

GM says, "This is an upper class area, so foot trafiic is light."

[Monitor] cappadocius has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 14:12:07 2003 CST

'Buff' Teatam says, "Oh we're intriguin' now?"

Emsworth chuckles.

GM says, "The question is shall you continue on your learning ride or head back to the hotel?"

Emsworth says, "I said the model was intriguig, not that we were."

Leeghwater [to Emsworth]: I think we should investigate this. If we hand it to the authorities *they* might jump to conclusions and a panic could result.

Emsworth says, "The authorities? Why would we want to hand this over to the authorities?"

'Buff' Teatam says, "Well a bunch of indians with machineguns would cause alarm back home. But a martian flying to Earth? What harm is that? They're civilized."

You say, "Because it *could* be an indication that the Martian have a higher technological level then we knew they had."

'Buff' Teatam says, "Yeah? So what?"

You say, "With Ether Flyers they could attack from directions we did not see them coming from."

You say, "They might even attack the Photophones"

Emsworth says, "Like from the sky?"

You say, "Like from outside the atmosphere."

You say, "You can see a cloudship come in from miles away. "

GM whispers, "The two huge ones are called Heliographs"

'Buff' Teatam says, "Attack? With muskets? I don't know how the Newtherlands are fixed but if they try anything like that in Texas we'll put paid to 'em right fast!"

Emsworth says, "From the point of view of a Martian bent on attacking us, an ether flyer is merely a really expensive cloudship."

Leeghwater [to Buff]: And the might be civilised, but a war is starting here.

Emsworth says, "After all, an ether flyer in any kind of atmosphere IS a cloudship."

GM says, "Looking at the model you can see there is a patina of age on the name plate and by how cured the wood seems."

Emsworth says, "Hmm, I wonder if there is a scientific way to determine how old this model is"

You say, "Looks old enough"

'Buff' Teatam rubs his forehead. "See what I mean about war being a bad deal all around?"

GM . o O ( cabon dating hasn't been invented yet, so nothing definative to prove age. )

Hans [to GM]: Someone might invent a way ;-).

Leeghwater [to Emsworth]: Did the shop keeper tell you who made it?

GM . o O ( call radio carbon dating 20, 3 under biochem )

Emsworth says, "There was a name on it, but the shopkeeper didn't know anything about him. He said the model was brought here years ago by a caravan. Dead end there. But the name might be a clue."

[Monitor] MarkW has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 14:21:33 2003 CST

[Monitor] Ral has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 14:21:35 2003 CST

GM says, "You can try local libraries or the city records keeper."

Emsworth says, "Perhaps we could try a local library."

'Buff' Teatam says, "What's the name? Maybe we can get an idea of the langwidge of the artist. Or maybe Kaapani might know something?"

Emsworth says, "It would be boring for you, I expect, since you don't speak Parhoon. And I'm not sure my own skill is up to the challenge."

GM says, "The name is Teegok Quuglanni"

Emsworth says, "It wouldn't hurt to ask Kaapani."

Emsworth says, "Let's do that first of all."

'Buff' Teatam nods.

GM says, "You mount up and ride for The Gasdepuk Warehouse near the shipyards."

GM says, "It is far enough that you all will have to roll your Ride"

On 2d6, you rolled 10.

Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 5.

[Monitor] BobP has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 14:26:58 2003 CST

GM says, "The ride is an adventure in itself, but nothing untoward occurs"

'Buff' Teatam rolled 1d6 and got 1.

GM says, "The warehouse is bustling with activity and shows that the Garshdepuk family is quite affluent."

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC Drat."

Emsworth . o O ( Ooops! )

GM . o O ( buff roll your agility )

'Buff' Teatam rolled 5d6 and got 21.

[Monitor] BrianH has reconnected at Sun Mar 30 14:29:48 2003 CST

GM says, "Your ride is the most adventurous of all, but despite the best attempts of the Gashant you remain mounted in spite of yourself."

GM says, "It is however not pretty, and out of kindness your two european comrades manage not to laugh."

Leeghwater . o O ( Buff shouldn;t have spoken so harshly to his mount )

GM says, "Almost a soon as you arrive, Kaapani spots you and walks over briskly a large smile on his face."

Emsworth says, "Maybe you catch more gashants with honey than with vinegar, Teatam."

Leeghwater [to Buff]: " You should speak to the Stable Master about the mount. It seems kind of vicious "

Kaapani laughs. "Good morning my comrades. How are you liking my hometown?"

You say, "very well, thank you."

'Buff' Teatam says, "Nah. I accidentally gave her a tickel with a spur. Sorry Miss Lilly."

Emsworth greets Kaapani, spends a few moments exchanging pleasantries with him, and then asks him if he knows the name Teegok Quuglanni.

'Buff' Teatam dismounts and tries to make amends to his mount. He offers some honey to Miss Lilly.

[Monitor] Kaerondaes has connected at Sun Mar 30 14:34:51 2003 CST

Kaapani scratches his head in an eerily similar and unconscious gensture. "Quuglanni? I can't say I know that name.

GM . o O ( buff roll your charisma )

'Buff' Teatam rolled 2d6 and got 4.

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC I have to grab some food. Are you going to be on in say 30 minutes?"

Leeghwater nds

Emsworth says, "I'm in no hurry today."

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC Okay then later. Sorry."

[Monitor] Robert has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 14:37:42 2003 CST

Robert the mechanical man dissolves into a horde of microbots that disperse into cracks in the floor.

the Gashant tosses his head, snorts, but eats the honey and gives the equivalent of a wicker.

GM . o O ( Sighs mightily and wishes yet again that he could touch type. )

Emsworth . o O ( A snurgle, perhaps? )

Leeghwater [to Kapaani]: "Kapaani What does Quuglanni mean?"

GM . o O ( snurgle is as good a term as any. Adding that to the 1889 lexicon )

Emsworth . o O ( A cross between a snort and a gurgle... )

Kapaani It is a regular name. Not common, but I'd have to ask my father for more infromation.

Emsworth says, "Please do."

Kapaani Please then this way to his office.

Emsworth says, "We follow him."

GM says, "You enter the warehouse and see that it's just as busy inside as outside."

Emsworth says, "I assume someone takes care of our gashants?"

GM says, "Near one end of the large building, you see Reeshaad Garshdepuk Barking orders at the workers."

Emsworth will take the parcel with the model along.

GM . o O ( Kapaani has the animals watered and ground staked. )

GM says, "On seeing his son with Three red men Reeshaad walks over."

Reeshaad. "Ah our shipmates. what brings you to my humble business?

Emsworth says, "We greet him and exchange pleasantries with him for a bit."

GM says, "He is every bit as jovial as you remember, but his eyes never miss a thing. He interrupts a couple times to bark at workers, but never misses a word of the conversation."

Emsworth says, "Mr. Garshdepuk, we were wondering if you happened to know the name Teegok Quuglanni?"

GM says, "He leads you to his office where it is much quieter."

Leeghwater looks happily about taking notes in his imind for later

Reeshaad thinks long before replying. "Quuglanni is not a name I have heard in a long long time. I don't think any of hte clan are left in Moeris Lacus.

You say, "Clan?"

You say, "O Sorry, please continue"

[Monitor] Dom has connected at Sun Mar 30 14:49:08 2003 CST

Emsworth says, "So it's a clan? Do you know if any survive anywhere else?"

Reeshaad blinks. "Well maybe I use wrong word. The family line. My sons and I are Garshdepuk's word is not clan?"

[Monitor] SJ has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 14:49:51 2003 CST

[Monitor] SJ has connected at Sun Mar 30 14:50:15 2003 CST

Emsworth says, "It's largely a matter of size. Clans are considerably larger than families."

Emsworth says, "A clan is more like a family of families."

Reeshaad nod. "Okay is wrong word. They were master shipwrights. I think you will have to speak to Torvaan.

[Monitor] Jesdyn has connected at Sun Mar 30 14:52:30 2003 CST

Emsworth says, "The Quuglanni were master shipwrights who lived in Moeris Lacus?"

You say, "What kind of ships did they build? Cloudships?"

Reeshaad writes a note. Here, take this to the Street of Scribes. Torvaan is a Master Scribe at the Library.\, he can tell you more.

Emsworth says, "Thank you very much."

Reeshaad smiles. "Old I am, but not that old, they lived here long ago.

You say, "Thank you."

Emsworth says, "Let's go see this Torvaan chap."

Leeghwater nds

GM says, "@emit Reeshaad smiles. "You are welcoming.""

GM says, "You make your way out of the warehouse and reclaim your mounts."

Leeghwater watches a man behind a curtain speaking into a tube.

[Monitor] Dom has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 14:56:50 2003 CST

GM . o O ( Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain <kicking at Toto> )

GM says, "The Street of scribes is another long ride, so please roll ride."

On 2d6, you rolled 5.

Emsworth says, "We reclaim our gashants and ride to the Street of Scribes where we ask directions to Torvaan."

Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 12.

GM rolled 1d6 and got 3.

Leeghwater [to Emsworth]: " This gets more interesting by the minute! "

GM says, "I rolled for teatum, he still has fits with his mount, but don't look as bad as last time."

Emsworth . o O ( Robert's first skill advance may well be Riding (gashant) ;-) )

GM says, "Thanks to Emsworth's ability to read Parhoon, you find your way easily and the note gets you admitted without delay."

Hans [to JHG]: Very interesting.

GM . o O ( that would be a good idea. )

[Monitor] oyving has connected at Sun Mar 30 15:01:06 2003 CST

GM says, "You walk through the large library and see that most Martian knowledge is still stored on scrolls."

Leeghwater [to Emsworth]: " I wonder if this Torvaan chap speaks English "

Emsworth says, "We'll soon find out."

GM says, "You are escorted to a large reading room that serves as Torvaan's work room. He is a tall 2.2 meter reed thin and easily the oldest canal martian you have ever seen."

Emsworth will greet him in Parhoon and ask him if he speaks English.

Torvaan looks you over carefully. "Gud aaaafternoooon." He says in heavily accented english.

Emsworth says, "Good afternoon, sir. We were wondering if you could tell us anything about a man named Quuglanni? "

Torvaan. "Quuglaani? I am a busy man, why should I use part of what time I have left to help you with a red man's quest for trivia?"

GM says, "His demeanor is not quite hostile, but certainly not friendly. "

Hans [to GM]: I try to gauge if he'd be offended by an offer of payment.

GM . o O ( since none of you have bargaining, roll charisma )

Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 6.

On 3d6, you rolled 8.

Torvaan squints as he looks at you, his body language hints he expects something for his time. "I speak to you only because of Gashdepuk's introduction."

You say, "Ahhh, may we compensate you for your time?"

Emsworth says, "We do not expect you to spend your time on us without getting your customary compensation."

[Monitor] Robert has connected at Sun Mar 30 15:13:00 2003 CST

Robert walks in from the Gaming Floor.

Emsworth says, "What is the customary fee?"

Torvaan nods. "I think we can do business then. As master of this library I expect two pounds a day."

GM . o O ( everyone roll intellect )

Emsworth says, "That would be 5 shilling an hour, right? Your time is indeed valuable. "

Hans rolls 6d, and gets a 13.

On 5d6, you rolled 19.

'Buff' Teatam returns from using the 'necessary'.

GM . o O ( His price is little sort of highway robbery. )

'Buff' Teatam rolled 3d6 and got 11.

Leeghwater [to 'Buff' Teatam]: We have left Garshdepuk and have gone to Torvaan, the Librarian

You say, "Not many people must be able to afford your time"

Torvaan nods again. "Most people do not dare to ask a master scribe for his time."

Robert [to JHG]: How much does he want?

I see no "robbert" here.

JHG [to Robert]: 2 pounds a day

Emsworth says, "I blush to have wasted your time with our trivial curiosity. We shall let you get back to your ordinary pursuits. Please excuse us."

'Buff' Teatam does the math, which takes a measurable pause.

GM . o O ( since done of you have bargaining, we will have to improvise. roll your charisma, the highest total I will roll his bargaining. for each point you exceed his total, I will lower price by a shilling. )

On 3d6, you rolled 10.

Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 10.

'Buff' Teatam rolled 2d6 and got 4.

GM rolled 2d6 and got 6.

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC I seem to be unlikeable today."

[Monitor] BrianH has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 15:19:09 2003 CST

Torvaan smiles for the first time. "You are not as foolish as you look. My time left is still quite limited though. I am will to find your information for 1 pound 16.

Leeghwater nods his agreement and hands over the money

Emsworth says, "You expect to spend an entire day on researching the subject?"

'Buff' Teatam whispers to Emsworth, "You want me to pop him in the snoot for you?"

Torvaan ponders for a bit.

Torvaan The information you seek while not the most obscure, it is still quite old. I will need the balance of the day. Return at noon tomorrow for your answers.

Emsworth frowns, but since Leeghwater has already paid there seems little to do about the situation.

Emsworth says, "Very well. Until noon tomorrow, then. Good day to you, sir."

Leeghwater nods

GM says, "You head back out to the Street of Scribes and reclaim your mounts."

[Monitor] Ian has connected at Sun Mar 30 15:24:59 2003 CST

GM says, "The question now is what will you do next? The stables are east, your hotel is west."

Leeghwater [to Emsworth]: " If you dont mind, I would like to investigate the model. Without harming it ofcourse. "

Emsworth says, "Sure. I guess we've had enough riding practice for one day. Let's get the gashants back to the stable and take a cab to the hotel."

Leeghwater happily forgets to take notes for the rest of the trip back

GM says, "Ok then on last riding roll to reach the stables "

On 2d6, you rolled 7.

Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 10.

GM says, "Once again the european contingent rides with style. "

GM expectant look at the American.

GM says, "guess I'll do it."

GM rolled 1d6 and got 3.

GM says, "It is getting difficult to keep a straight face as the American cowboy struggles with his mount."

GM says, "You turn in your mounts and find a cab back to your hotel."

Leeghwater blames the mount, as he has faith in Buff's abilities

GM says, "Now alone in your room you have time to look at the model very closely."

Emsworth does so.

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC SOrry I was AFK."

Leeghwater inspects the model closely and takes notes a sketches in a fresh notebook

'Buff' Teatam rolled 1d6 and got 1.

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC Oh dammit."

Hans [to Robert]: Don't worry, our esteemed GM has already thrown for you.

[Monitor] Ian has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 15:33:23 2003 CST

GM . o O ( Ah shame that would have been amusing, however I rolled a 3 so will let that one slide for now. )

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC The GM is always right. Sorry, Single female on the phone. W00T."

GM says, "For the experienced plainsman and scout, you are very embarassed by the difficulties you are having, while these rather pampered europeans seem to have no problems at all."

'Buff' Teatam says, "Fellas I hate to interrupt your doings but can I make a comment?"

GM . o O ( single females trump anything in game. )

Emsworth says, "Certainly. Go ahead."

Leeghwater nods

'Buff' Teatam says, "First I have to apologize fer my poor showing. Truth is I never rode much. I was in the infantry and scouted a lot of the time dismounted. "

Emsworth says, "Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it soon. "

'Buff' Teatam says, "Secondly, I don't get myself a slug of something and git to a dancehall, I'm going to go plum loco. This here club is right nice"

Leeghwater blinks at Buff.

Emsworth says, "But?"

GM says, "The Explorer's club is a gentleman's club and doesn't offer entertainment beside an occasional classical quartet."

'Buff' Teatam says, "It's right nice but I need a spell of hooting and hollerin' and... cavorting. I was three months on that dang ether flyer. A man has... needs. "

GM says, "There are local clubs that cater to the soldiers that might have more base forms of entertainment."

GM says, "Liquor as you know is available in the explorer's club."

Leeghwater coughs embasseredly

'Buff' Teatam says, "It is a nice place and I'm obliged to you men of learning for trying to educate this old shoootist but... I want to head out for some fun. I'll glady take you around if you want to join me."

Leeghwater [to Buff]: " Well, I will be investigating the model anyway, so you couls then do a bit of... <cough> cavorting, I suppose. "

Emsworth says, "D you want someone to watch your back while you cavort? I'm told these places aren't the safest bits of Mars you can find."

Leeghwater [to Buff]: " Thank you for the offer, but I'm a happily married man. "

'Buff' Teatam says, "Oh Gijsbert, I'm just talking a few slugs of whiskie and some music and cards..."

'Buff' Teatam thinks . o O (Probably.)

Leeghwater makes a not to write his wive back home. She'll be worried sick when she hears about the war.

JHG [to GM]: What day of the week is it?

'Buff' Teatam says, "As to watching my back... that's alwasy a good thing."

GM . o O ( It's Wednesday )

Leeghwater [to Buff]: " I might join you later "

Hans [to GM]: Is it the 6th already?

'Buff' Teatam says, "Sure. Enjoy yer note writing."

GM . o O ( The 6th is tomorrow )

Emsworth says, "So it's tuesday. Feb 5th 1889 was a tuesday (by the Gregorian calendar, anyway)."

GM says, "Ah well pretty good for a guess"

[Monitor] SJ has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 15:47:42 2003 CST

GM says, "Leeghwater you can roll your structure again."

'Buff' Teatam puts on his new hat and shines his boots on the drapes a bit. "This is going to be a hoot. C'mon Mr. Emsworth.

On 4d6, you rolled 14.

Emsworth says, "Well, Teatam, I guess it would be a bad idea for you to go out alone. What do you say we wait until after dinner tonight and then head out to see a bit of the town?"

[Monitor] Brandon has connected at Sun Mar 30 15:49:10 2003 CST

'Buff' Teatam nods.

GM says, "You look closely at the model and find it is carved from solid wood. The base however seems hollow."

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC We can do the cavorting off stage if you want."

You say, "Hmmm I try to see if I can find a latch or something to open the base"

Emsworth watches Leeghwater with interest.

[Monitor] Kaerondaes has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 15:51:16 2003 CST

GM says, "You use a simple small screw driver and remove the nameplate and find a small key firmly seated in an opening shaped like the key."

[Monitor] Brandon has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 15:51:36 2003 CST

Emsworth says, "A Martian key or a European key (assuming there is a difference) or what?"

'Buff' Teatam says, "What's that?"

Leeghwater shows the key to Emsworth and Buff

You say, "Meanwhile I look at the keyhole"

GM . o O ( I have no problem with the cavorting, but we will end up with a split party. plus, it's getting later for Hans and JHG. )

GM says, "The key is actually a simple brass key, the opening was just key shaped to keep it from rattling inside it's hiding place."

Emsworth says, "Or, in other words, do we recognize the style of the key?"

Leeghwater blushes and looks for a keyhole in the model

'Buff' Teatam says, "... this key is to something very valuable fellas."

Emsworth says, "Could be."

GM says, "It seems to also be of Martian manufacture, it is however more sophisticated than the typical Martian key."

GM says, "Leeghwater roll your intellect"

Emsworth says, "It's going to be a bit of a chore to find the lock that key fits."

On 5d6, you rolled 17.

'Buff' Teatam shakes his head for emphasis, "It's *gotta* be. It's made of metal! Let me see, please."

GM says, "You check the model carefully and it doesn't have a key hole, the key goes to something else."

Leeghwater hands the key to BUff

You say, "Nowhere to fit it here"

'Buff' Teatam says, "Well would you hide a key near what it's supposed to open Gijsbert?"

You say, "Depends on what is to hide I guess"

Emsworth says, "Good point, Teatam. Of course, locks made out of anything but metal would be less effective, wouldn't they?"

'Buff' Teatam look at the key, hoping to find an artist's mark or logo. Everybody advertises.

GM says, "The key only has two characters on it TQ"

'Buff' Teatam says, "Well, you could make a lock of hard wood. There was this colored fellow I heard of name a Banneker who made a timepiece of wood."

Emsworth says, "TQ. Teegok Quuglanni again."

'Buff' Teatam says, "Maybe a locksmith is where we can start our investigating fellas."

You say, "Seems logical enough that he made it himself. Maybe he hid the blue prints.... <laughs a bit>"

You say, "Sorry I sometimes get taken away with my flights of fancy."

GM . o O ( since time is a factor, we can have buff roll his charisma to sww how the cavorting goes. )

Leeghwater nds

'Buff' Teatam says, "Well now we know something of the man, he worked with metal, surely that is a rare callin' on this here pill of a planet?"

'Buff' Teatam rolled 2d6 and got 8.

Emsworth will stick to sampling a couple of different beverages. He won't drink up unless he likes it and he won't exceed his limit in any event.

GM says, "Well you enjoyed yourself, but you didn't get er....lucky."

'Buff' Teatam says, "Bartholomew Teatam ain't paid for 'it' yet! "

GM . o O ( just so you all know, the task levels are esy 4, moderate 8, difficult 12, formidable 16 and impossible 20 )

Emsworth says, "Human women are in short supply on Mars."

[Monitor] Thorkell has connected at Sun Mar 30 16:05:07 2003 CST

GM says, "I do need teatum and emsworth to roll their charisma one more time."

Hans rolls 2d, and gets a 10.

'Buff' Teatam says, "We know this fella worked with wood and metal. He was sort of shifty... I smell treasure here. How bi ga lock you reckon this key fit?"

'Buff' Teatam rolled 2d6 and got 12.

GM says, "That is more than enough to avoid trouble. A good time was had and no blood was spilt."

GM says, "The street of scribes is walking distance from the hotel."

'Buff' Teatam says, "A polite word and Colt Navy will take you far."

Emsworth says, "I'll hide the model in my luggage overnight and bring it along the next day."

'Buff' Teatam says, "We should tell that scribe fellow what else we know, but not mention the key."

Emsworth says, "Let's walk, then."

You say, "OOC I need to go soon, btw"

Emsworth says, "I don't think we should volunteer any information."

GM says, "You cover the distance without mishap and meet with Torvaan at noon."

Torvaan nods. "Greeetings red men. You have asked for some quite obscure information.

Emsworth says, "We're lucky you are such a skillful and knowledgable librarian."

[Monitor] MrPsycohed has connected at Sun Mar 30 16:10:12 2003 CST

Torvaan smiles haughtily. "I however was able to find what you requested, but I'm not sure you will like the answer.

'Buff' Teatam tries not to prick his ears at that.

You say, "I'm sure we like it just fine"

Emsworth says, "Tell us, please."

Emsworth . o O ( You're REALLY not going to like the answer... )

[Monitor] SJ has connected at Sun Mar 30 16:11:59 2003 CST

Torvaan continues. "Teegok Quuglaani was the Royal Naval Architect of Karkarham....

Torvaan "...400 years AGO!

You say, "Karkarham?"

Emsworth says, "Go on..."

Leeghwater blinks

'Buff' Teatam . o O (People talk right slow when they're paid by the hour.)

Leeghwater . o O ( 400? )

Torvaan cackles. "It's the pirate stronghold 600 miles from here

You say, "What were his duties there?"

You say, "And was it a pirate stronghold back then also?"

Emsworth says, "I take it it wasn't a pirate stronghold 400 years ago?"

Torvaan blinks. "The Royal Naval Architect.

'Buff' Teatam stares at the Martian cackling, and with a practiced motion pulls his jacket away from the Colt on his right hip. "Friend, I don't like being laughed at."

You say, "What does that mean? Did he build buildings?"

GM says, "@emit Torvaan "No that is a recent development, well the last 50 years."

Leeghwater blinks at Buff

Leeghwater [to Buff]: " Easy, Buff. "

Emsworth . o O ( Just how much of a hangover does Teatam HAVE!?! )

Torvaan looks hard at Teatum. "You will leave now. Our business is over and you are no longer welcome here.

'Buff' Teatam says, "Easy nothing. Mr. Emsworth is ppaying good money and little civil treatment is expected."

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC I haven't drawn it, just freed it up."

Emsworth says, "Ah, actually, it is Leeghwater's money."

'Buff' Teatam says, "OOC My mistake."

Leeghwater [to Torvaan]: Pleas excuse my friend here, he's a bit rough around the edges, but he's a good man within.

[Monitor] BobP has connected at Sun Mar 30 16:20:21 2003 CST

'Buff' Teatam looks at Leeghwater and shrugs. Fine.

Torvaan nods. "You should keep better friends. Please leave.

'Buff' Teatam walks out.

Emsworth will note what books is lying on Torvaan's desk.

GM . o O ( roll observation emsworth )

Hans rolls 5d, and gets a 7.

Leeghwater sighs and waits for Emsworth to walk outside

Emsworth winces.

[Monitor] dj_flx has disconnected at Sun Mar 30 16:22:19 2003 CST

Emsworth leaves the library.

GM says, "You attempt to read Parhoon upside down, but fail to make any sense of what is on the table."

Leeghwater leaves

[Monitor] dj_flx has connected at Sun Mar 30 16:23:27 2003 CST

GM says, "You get back to the Street of Scribes."

'Buff' Teatam is waiting outside. "Sorry fellas. That fella wanted shootin'. And Ii don't trust him. He has a shifty look to him."

"You know, Teatam, some people don't take kindly to being threatened with violence," Emsworth says mildly.

GM says, "You have an important clue to a profound mystery, but you don't have time to follow up on it. "

'Buff' Teatam says, "Mr. Emsworth... get something straight. I don't threaten."

Emsworth says, "We shall have to look further into this mystery another day, friends, but for now I guess we'll have to let it slide"

Leeghwater nods

Leeghwater's puppet master will have to stop at this time

'Buff' Teatam says, "Again, I apologize fellas. But where I come from..."

Leeghwater . o O ( 0:30 atm DST sucks )

Emsworth says, "Teatam, you do an excellent impression of someone who does."

Leeghwater I'm going to stop logging now, so if someone can take over

'Buff' Teatam says, "I don't threaten, Mr. Emsworth. "

Emsworth says, "Well, it's probably just as well to stop here."

GM says, "This is as good a stopping place as anyplace"

GM says, "You all earn another general point"

'Buff' Teatam says, "I took over logging."

'Buff' Teatam says, "I hope my IC actions didn't anger anyone."

You say, "Nope"