Missed Sessions

Session Start: Sun Jul 17 16:01:32 2016
Session Ident: #thewitchoftheblackwood
[16:01] * Now talking in #thewitchoftheblackwood
[16:01] * Clamber (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #thewitchoftheblackwood
[16:02] * Tinker_Toy (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has joined #thewitchoftheblackwood
[16:03] * Tinker_Toy is now known as Hannes
[16:03] * Clamber is now known as Johann
[16:03] * TXTypewriter (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) has joined #thewitchoftheblackwood
[16:03] * TXTypewriter is now known as Roger
[16:04] * Liltrude (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) has joined #thewitchoftheblackwood
[16:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well finally," Otthilda says, spotting you as you arrive, "I thought you lot'd gotten around to passing the bottle," the brawny woman gestures to Hightower, who seems to sleep on his litter, "Abelard got your man wrapped up tight.  Redressed his wound.  I can carry an end of the rig, can't be any worse than hauling fuel for the forge," the smith's daughter grins good-naturedly.
[16:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Around you, the people of Ferndorf go about their daily tasks, gardening, hauling goods, heading out the nearby north gate to hunt or log.
[16:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Only a few cast curious glances your way.
[16:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most seem at least slightly ill at ease; the events of the night past are clearly still looming large.
[16:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At the gate, there are four men where you had encountered two on coming to the town.
[16:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Far from looking bored, they peer restlessly into the impenetrable gloom of the not-too-distance forest.
[16:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (*distant)
[16:14] <Roger> "Significantly less so, I'
[16:14] <Roger> I'd wager.  He is a halfling afterall."
[16:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Aye, and he's thin for a halfling," Otthilda observes.
[16:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "So," Otthilda asks, "I've got the front, who's got the back?"
[16:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Before Ludwig can finish opening his mouth, you hear a call from the direction of the rough temple.
[16:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar is striding towards you on bandy legs, hand held up, huffing as he comes; at his side is an unfamiliar face.
[16:17] <Hannes> "I'll take the other end of the litter..."
[16:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He's younger than the friar, obviously, and seems a Sigmarite as well, though his dress is travel-stained and he wears armor.
[16:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Finally, Friar Ulfbert comes into range, huffing and holding up his finger for a second to catch his breath.
[16:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Glad - hff - I caught you," he pants, "We just had an arrival from the temple, back in Nuln - Johann Ferric, was it?" he turns to the man, not waiting for a reply, "In any case, Johann here was sent to deliver me a message of some importance, and I've convinced him to come along, in case that woman in the woods is half what the stories say."
[16:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He slaps Johann roughly on the back in a bearlike gesture of companionship, "You fellows play nice.  Ludwig?  A moment, son..."
[16:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He pulls aside your Reiklander soldier, speaking aside to him.  From the look on the young veteran's face, he's clearly being asked to stay behind.
[16:21] * Johann smiles slightly as he walks in "I certainly hope she's no more than a potion-crafting eccentric, having to drag her to the Colleges would be problematic if she were anything more... Either way you lot certainly look like you'd be able to manage it even if she did turn out to be weaving spells without a license/"
[16:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ludwig relents quickly enough, "I suppose I'm to help with the militia here," he says with bemusement, "So I'll see you when you get back."
[16:22] * Roger nods to Ludwig. "We'll make do."
[16:22] <Hannes> "Even if she's an actual spell casting witch, as long as she isn't behind the werewolves..."
[16:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Keep the cow-fondler away from the girl," Ludwig says in a stage whisper to Roger.
[16:23] <Roger> "No promises."
[16:24] * Roger looks to the newcomer, one of the Empire's priests from the looks of things. "You can fight, I trust? We've a habit of finding ourselves in deadly situations, you see."
[16:26] * Johann has solid traveling clothes on, leather armor with a pair of ctwin tailed commets stitched on, and a hammer strapped to his hip, his right cheek has the faitest impression of a faded orange and yellow tattoo, a comet of sigmar just as certainly as those on his armor "Oh yes, I'm trained well enough I think. Only had real combat once or twice in the tunnels under Nuln though, and I had a lot...
[16:26] * Johann ...of help down there so I can't really evaluate my skills on that alone"
[16:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ludwig snorts, "Would it kill Sigmar to send us a Reiklander instead?  Would it?" with this farewell given, he leaves you, heading with the friar back up the hill towards the village.
[16:29] <Roger> "It will have to be enough."
[16:30] <Hannes> "Welcome aboard, Father Johann..." Hannes would say to the priest. "I am Hannes Bergenhaffen Trilowsky Goetz Hoffmeister von Rosenkratz..." There's a slight pause, as the name hangs in the air. All six of them, menacing the local area. "The Eighteenth. I'll have you know my ancestor rode with the Heldenhammer at Black Fire Pass..."
[16:30] <Roger> "I am Roger Marionnaud de Carcassone."
[16:31] <Hannes> "Roger is alright for a Bretonnian."
[16:33] * Johann laughs disarmingly at the father title "Oh no, I'm not anyone's father yet, --'least as far as I'm aware,-- merely an initiate, and it's nice to meet you both"
[16:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Otthilda," the tall, broad-shouldered blonde standing near Hightower's litter says without preamble, "I'm a local."
[16:33] <Roger> "Only because I've developed a tolerance for the inferiority of Imperials."
[16:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The smith's daughter rolls green eyes behind the knight's back.
[16:34] <Johann> "As I'm sure we've done the same for you"
[16:34] <Hannes> "You won't say that for long. Soon as we get to Altdorf... I have a distant cousin, works at a tavern frequented by the Reiksguard... maybe you can meet a real knight."
[16:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "If you lads are ready," Otthilda puts in, "We've got quite a way to go, and daylight is burning...where's the other little halfling?"
[16:36] * Roger isn't as tall as you'd expect a Knight to be, but his attire points towards him being just that. He's obviously very young - it looks like he's never even had to shave - with bright but intense eyes the color of copper and hair that hangs in a ponytail that ends just between his shoulder blades. He's wearing the antiquated style of armor characteristic of Bretonnians,
[16:36] * Roger which means he's still the most heavily armored person in town.
[16:37] * Hannes is tall, red of hair, and wearing fine imperial fashioned clothing in the colors of the Grand County of Averland. He's boyish looking, as he is still but 17, but with a rapier and dagger at his hip and his well muscled body, he cuts the figure of a skilled duelist. He wears a single silver stud in his right ear.
[16:38] * Roger is wearing what must be his heraldry, a surcoat in silver and green with a shield in the same colors. At his side hangs a sword that was clearly made for someone larger than himself - you'd expect someone his size having trouble using it two handed, let alone one handed.
[16:39] * Disconnected
Session Close: Sun Jul 17 16:39:54 2016

Session Start: Sun Jul 17 16:50:14 2016
Session Ident: #thewitchoftheblackwood
[16:50] * Now talking in #thewitchoftheblackwood
[16:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "She has a habit of burning things down, then?" Otthilda asks warily.
[16:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> In a town built on the lumber trade, few words were worse than 'fire.'
[16:51] * Roger rubs his forehead. "She will most likely come after us if we leave without her. Which is a good way to end up another dead halfling."
[16:52] * Johann scratches the back of his head nervously "Well, that does sound like a dangerous habit"
[16:52] <Roger> "What is it with halflings and getting killed or seriously maimed?"
[16:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "My da always said trouble is as trouble does," Otthilda opines wryly.
[16:55] <Hannes> "She's a native of Nuln, we found her working for a gunsmith. Draw your own conclusions, Fraulein."
[16:57] <Johann> "As much as I respect my city, its inhabitants do sometimes favor charcoal to timber"
[16:59] <Roger> "Well.  If we turn to leave, she will likely come running down the trail, arms full of explosives."
[16:59] <Roger> "It's how these things work, I've found."
[16:59] * Roger turns to leave.
[16:59] * Liltrude walks towards the party now, finally finishing her work earlier. A smile on her face, and a upbeat in her step. She looks quite peppy today for some reason, and she'd wave upon seeing you all.
[17:00] * Roger looks back. "We're leaving!"
[17:01] * Liltrude has four new bottles on her belt, replacing where her former bombs were. "Then I finished just in time!"
[17:01] * Johann extends a hand to the helfling "It's good to meet a fellow Nulner! My name is Johann Ferric!"
[17:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Are all adventurers this free-wheeling with their time?" Otthilda wonders to herself, then stoops to pick up the front arms of the litter, "Alright then, you got the back, Averlander?"
[17:02] <Hannes> "Aye. I'm ready."
[17:05] * Liltrude smiles and takes Johann's hand, shaking it. "I'm Liltrude Fetlock! It's a pleasure to meet you as well." She says "And hey, I was getting prepared! I'm not big and strong like everyone else here... Hmph."
[17:06] <Johann> "Always good to have a counterbalance to your downsides"
[17:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda nods to the Averlander as he takes up the other end of the litter, "Let's be gone, then."
[17:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The smith's daughter sets off, hardly seeming bothered by the loaded litter.  You make your way to the village's north gate, where the men on watch - little more than boys, really - peer curiously to see Otthilda among your number.  Your companion nods to one who looks older than the rest, though that just might be his scraggly beard, "Alright there Wolmar," she says.
[17:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man grunts by way of reply, "Watch it out there, Hilde," he says, "No telling what's going on out there," he eyes you strangers with the insular suspicion so typical of village folk in the rural Empire.
[17:12] * Johann gives a friendly wave
[17:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A couple of the lads wave begrudgingly back, though perhaps this has more to do with the young initiate's robes than his friendliness.  Wouldn't do to disrespect men of Sigmar, after all.
[17:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> If Otthilda notices Wolmar's surliness, she doesn't deign to reply.  A stretch of open ground stands between the village's palisade - currently being made taller - and the treeline, a defensive contrivance common in logging villages.
[17:13] <Hannes> "I hope it's worth going into these woods. Man wasn't meant to live somewhere he couldn't ride full tilt."
[17:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Never had no one raid Ferndorf," Otthilda says as she leads you down the road to the dark curtain of the forest, "Supposedly the village has a blessing that spares us it.  And the bandits don't bother the village itself."
[17:14] <Liltrude> "It's the only lead we have.  I'd rather hunt, then be the hunted. Y'know."
[17:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda looks askance at Hannes, "Feeling hemmed in, Averlander?" she teases good-naturedly.
[17:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As you enter the treeline, it's somewhat impossible not to feel that.  Many of the trees here have been simply ignored; this must be the very limits of the Black Rosewood grove, for most of the trees don't look particularly special to any of you.
[17:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The track through the wood is narrower than the road leading up to the village itself, and massive old growth trees frown down upon you, the spaces between choked with undergrowth, fallen debris, and a few stunted young trees managing to eke out just enough sunlight to survive.
[17:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Though the morning had been hot and clear in the village, here it is cool and as dark as a dwarfen taproom.
[17:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The scents of sap and fresh plant rot mix with the occasional wilder animal smell.
[17:19] <Hannes> "Nary a copse of wood you could hide in Averland..."
[17:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most of the forest's denizens seem to shun the human-made path cutting deeper into the woods, and those that you do see dark across quickly, giving you no chance for a closer look.
[17:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Bad job if you need to build a house then, isn't it?"
[17:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Occasionally you cross paths with hunters or trappers taking breaks or headed back to Ferndorf; a few recognize Otthilda and exchange brief greetings, but as time goes on and the girl switches paths, these become fewer.
[17:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Each seems narrower and less used than the last.
[17:20] * Johann dons his helmet as they head into the woods "Averland does benefit from only having a few windbreaks and tree-farms instead of true forests"
[17:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The Blackwood copse is deeper to the north," Otthilda explains, "Mostly we're going to skirt around it to get where we're going."
[17:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This is certainly no tree farm.  If there is a pattern to the way things grow here, it is far to esoteric for the Averlander to pinpoint.  Often you have to climb over limbs that have blocked a forlorn path, and always the trees reach down towards you, seeming to increasingly disapprove of your presence in this place.
[17:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Even Otthilda's comments become rarer and more curt here.
[17:23] * Johann does his best to knock the limbs off the path if they're small enough
[17:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Some are easy enough to move, being little more than dried out twigs, but others are recently fallen or crumbly with rot.
[17:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The smith's daughter seems to approve of the initiate's efforts regardless.
[17:25] * Johann hammers the rotted ones as he passes, not wasting time
[17:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Me and my friends used to get our hides tanned as kids for wandering so far out into the forest," Otthilda said with a slightly forced laugh, "You wanted to go out to Varinka's way, you had to do it early, or you'd be back after dark," the girl shudders at the thought.
[17:26] <Liltrude> "Being after dark nowadays is probably worse then when you were a kid."
[17:26] <Hannes> "She doesn't live in a hut on chicken legs, does she?"
[17:27] <Johann> "Especially up north, but even down here it's hard"
[17:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "With the wolves?" Otthilda asks, "Aye, if you're not with a group.  But there's always been wolves in the woods."
[17:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The girl laughs at Hannes's comment, "I've never even seen her hut, just her, and only once, gathering plants.  I suppose I couldn't have been far from her home."
[17:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Strange-looking woman, I think I've said.  Foreign-like, I mean.  We had a couple of trappers stay here for a few days when I was a girl, a couple of queer fellas who rode these small horses and had these odd bows.  Quiet sorts, but maybe they just didn't speak much Reikspiel.  Anyway, she looked sorta like them, I think."
[17:29] <Johann> "No, but the old night's been surging. Beastmen are much more active after the Storm"
[17:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Aye, so we've heard.  We got a few refugees from other villages.  Our blessing seems to hold," Otthilda says.
[17:30] <Liltrude> "Or you're just lucky."
[17:30] <Johann> "Thank Sigmar and Taal for that"
[17:30] <Hannes> "Of course they are, remnants of Archaon's army. Thank the gods we didn't get that lot in Averland. Have enough troubles with the greenskins. And you won't find one who hates an orc more then an Averlander!"
[17:31] <Johann> "Yes, havign to deal with greenskins and chaos at once would be quite the challenge."
[17:32] <Johann> "THough i've heard stroies that they thankfully don't get along all that well with each other. Thank the gods our enemies don't get along!"
[17:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda shifts Hightower's weight, "This'd be easier if the woman still came to town," the smith's daughter opines, "But that doesn't really happen any more."
[17:34] <Johann> "A wyrd avoiding towns can either be a good sign or a very, very bad one."
[17:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "My grandma used to tell me stories, about how when she was a girl, the Baba Varinka would come without even being called.  Last time was when she was in her teens - one of grandma's friends was being kept inside, sick with something, family wouldn't let anyone near.  Anyway, Varinka just showed up with a cart and donkey and my grandma never saw her friend again."
[17:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Course, my grandma believed she never hurt no one," Otthilda adds, as much to herself as anything.
[17:37] <Hannes> "That would be over 70 years ago, no?"
[17:37] <Hannes> (Errr, 50 years ago.)
[17:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "A while ago, anyway," Otthilda says, unsure.
[17:40] <Liltrude> "Maybe she's an Elf."
[17:41] <Roger> "She may be dead."
[17:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Didn't look dead nor an elf when I saw her," Otthilda says, "O'course, I've never seen an elf."
[17:42] <Roger> "Well, I mean to say that she may have died since the last time."
[17:43] * Johann turns to the left, hammer drawn "Something BIG over there, Get on guard!"
[17:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The smith's daughter's sheepish grin vanishes and she shies back behind those of you who are armed and free-handed.
[17:45] <Liltrude> "I see it." Liltrude says, as she reaches on her belt, grabbing a leather strap, her sling.
[17:45] <Hannes> "... looks like a wolf..."
[17:45] * Roger draws his sword and shield. "A large one?"
[17:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The shape pushes fearlessly through the undergrowth towards you, silent and hulking.  It must stand at least up to a man's shoulder.
[17:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It comes on gradually, apparently unafraid; you see a splotch of white waving between the tangles of branches and tall weeds.
[17:47] <Hannes> "It certainly is not natural..."
[17:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Finally, the shape shoulders its way onto the path ahead of you.
[17:47] * Johann whispers quick prayers to Sigmar and Ulric
[17:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's not a wolf, but a massive bear, black of fur save for a star of white on its face.  The beast regards you all in silence, massive head swinging from side to side to regard each of you in eerie complacency.
[17:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast's brown eyes regard you with startling intelligence.
[17:48] <Hannes> "That's no wolf..."
[17:49] * Johann mutters softly as the beast stares down the party "Well, that's certainly Kislevite"
[17:50] <Roger> "It doesn't seem hostile."
[17:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast huffs and growls, low in its throat, taking a single step towards you.  Its massive nostrils flare, and it rumbles low in its throat.
[17:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Again it is still.
[17:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda, for her part, is watching in careful silence, one hand on the long knife in her belt, not gripping it, but ready.
[17:53] * Johann takes a gamble in very slow riekspiel "Hey big fella, I doubt you can understand me, but we're here to meet the Baba"
[17:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bear turns to the sound of the initiate's voice, its ursine face unreadable.  With a grunt and a rumbling low, it turns, pushing through the woods on the other side of the path, and is soon lost to sight.
[17:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well," Otthilda says, "That...that just happened."
[17:56] * Johann mutters his thanks and shrugs "Uh, I wonder if we should follow"
[17:56] <Roger> "I suppose it wants us to follow."
[17:56] <Liltrude> "Well, no sense waiting!  Let's go!"
[17:57] * Johann follows along behind
[17:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Pushing after the beast is hardly any less difficult than it would be to walk through the forest without the beast making a path.
[17:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Your marching order has changed; now Otthilda, Hannes, and the litter come last.  Always you can only just see the bear ahead of you, the massive mountain of fur and muscle pushing aside weeds and branbles and young trees as easily as if it was made of stone.
[18:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Finally, you come upon a path in the woods - not manmade.  Some sort of deer run.  Otthilda grunts, "I recognize this, Uwe showed it to me when...uh," she leaves off, "Well, never mind that."
[18:01] * Johann looks back "You really should tell us, because this may be important if we are to get back alive"
[18:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda colors slightly, "I doubt that," the girl says.
[18:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bear turns to regard you all again, looking north down the deer run.  Suddenly, it rears up to its full height, standing and waiting.
[18:02] <Roger> "It seems this is our path."
[18:02] * Roger nods to the beast as though it'll understand him, and goes north down the path.
[18:02] * Johann points at himself and then down the path in the direction the bear is facing and starts to slowly edge that way.
[18:03] <Liltrude> "Wonder what it's name is." Liltrude muses to herself.
[18:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bear watches you go, and once you've made your way further down the path, it drops to all fours and shoulders back into the woods.
[18:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda sighs, "Well...by my reckoning, we're close to where I saw the old wyrd - this path must run parallel to the main trail."
[18:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She pauses a beat, looking up at the sky; you can just see through the branches that it is already afternoon, and late at that.
[18:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I can find my way back from here," she says, "I want to be back to Ferndorf before the sun sets," she leaves any other fears unspoken.
[18:05] <Hannes> "Let's continue... maybe we'll push aside this next branch and be in her domain..."
[18:06] <Johann> "With any luck she's well fortified enough."
[18:06] * Roger nods to Otthilda. "We'll be quick about it, if you must go."
[18:07] <Liltrude> "Think it's safe going back alone?"
[18:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda nods as she hands litter duty over to Roger, "I'll be fine.  I've lived here all my life.  You think you lot can find your way back?"
[18:09] <Roger> "We'll retrace our footsteps.  Thank you for your guidance until this point."
[18:10] * Johann has probably hammersmacked enough branches for that
[18:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The girl gives you a salute, "I'll make sure that lot on the gate know to let you back in when you return.  Don't want a repeat of your first night here."
[18:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With that, Otthilda departs, taking a different route than the bear - but she probably knows what she's doing.
[18:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The deer run becomes tighter and more constricted as you move north again, nearly as dark as night.  You have time enough to wonder if the bear had misled you, or if perhaps it had never led you at all, when suddenly you emerge into the golden light of a late summer afternoon.
[18:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You find yourselves standing at the edge of a small clearing, hemmed in on all sides with trees.
[18:12] * Johann examines the clearing for shelters
[18:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A ranbling hillock marks the center of the green field before you, and wildflowers vein it throughout.
[18:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Along the rim are massive boulders, white, irregularly placed.
[18:16] * Johann sees nothing in particular "Seems like a pleasant place. Maybe she's burrowed down?"
[18:18] <Roger> "What, like a mole?"
[18:18] * Johann gets mildly offended "Or a dwarf! Don't treat them ignobly!"
[18:20] <Hannes> "I knew I was the smartest bunch here..." He'd sigh, handing the litter to Johann. "Follow me, everyone!" And he would proceed to march towards the hillock. Muttering the whole time about foreigners and Wissenlander city-folk.
[18:20] <Roger> "Dwarves make their homes out of stone, not dirt."
[18:21] * Johann graciously accepts the liter "And sometimes to get to the stone you need to dig under the dirt, though they usually do clear the dirt away once they've hit stone""
[18:21] <Johann> "I will give you that."
[18:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You have no idea what this Averlander is on about.  There's nothing in this clearing but a mossy hillock and some bushes.
[18:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Then, as you approach, you feel a thick pop in your heads.  An eyeblink later and you can see it.
[18:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The "hillock" is a large, rambling hovel - stone and thatch - and while indeed mossy, it is obviously manmade.
[18:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bushes conceal a small garden, from which a shape is emerging.
[18:22] * Johann shudders a bit "That's powerful magic, we're not dealing with a petty wyrd here"
[18:23] <Hannes> "Guten tagen!" Hannes would greet the figure.
[18:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Dressed in colorful rags, dangling with talismans, is the oldest woman any of you have ever seen.  She's stoop-backed and moves with a careful shuffle, her wispy white hair tied back in a ponytail.  The woman's skin is splotched with age, wrinkled like old leather, and pulled tight over her skull.
[18:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Her eyes, however, are very much alive; she fixes you with a piercing gaze, brown eyes intelligent and calculating.
[18:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The woman grunts after a moment, as if satisfied by something only she can see, and speaks.
[18:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The woman's thickly-accented Reikspiel carries easily to you, "Well.  I see the girl left you at my doorstep.  Too much of her father in her.  You are here for Edgar's sake," she says.  It's not a question.
[18:27] <Hannes> "... forgive me for asking, but Herr Hightower did not mention knowing any hedge folk..."
[18:30] * Johann quirks an eyebrow but says nothing for the moment.
[18:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The woman gives a quacking grunt, "I doubt he would.  Few enough of those in the Moot, ha!"
[18:33] <Hannes> "Good guard dogs, those..." Hannes remarks, nodding towards said mastiffs.
[18:33] <Liltrude> "Mhmm, They're cute."  Liltrude says, smiling.
[18:34] <Hannes> "You could ride them, Liltrude..."
[18:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Like them, do you?" the woman says blandly.
[18:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's not clear when the dogs had appeared, but four tremendous black mastiffs have creeped from the edge of the clearing to circle your party, watching in alert silence.
[18:36] <Johann> "Strong looking beasts"
[18:37] <Liltrude> "Hmm..  I'll need to get myself one.  That's a good idea!"
[18:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I think you'll find it hard to purchase such beasts from the kennels of Nuln, Liltrude Fetlock," the woman intones.
[18:42] <Johann> "Impressive that you know our names Baba, but we are in a bit of a rush to help this man if possible."
[18:44] <Liltrude> Liltrude looks down at this, "Yeah... He really does need aid.."
[18:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka grunts, "Very well.  Bring him inside," the woman turns towards her shack without a backwards glance, limping forward at what must be a fair pace for the crone.  One spider-like hand extends to push the rough portal open, and with another grunt she kicks a stone to hold it open.
[18:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As you enter, the dogs follow in your wake.  Two take up guard at the front door, while the other pair circle around for some unknown purpose; it's soon revealed when you see Baba Varinka limp to the back door in the rambling, irregular hut and prop it open as well.
[18:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Set him down over there," she says, gesturing off-handedly to a stone plinth against one wall covered in various old furs.
[18:48] * Johann follows in and helps roger set the liter down wher edirected
[18:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She crosses to her small hearth, checking a blackened iron pot over it, humming a nostalgic-sounding tune.
[18:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The light of the fire and the afternoon sun illuminates the hovel.  Rough tables covered in unidentifable objects, old books of various descriptions, unlabelled bottles of liquids you can smell even from the outside; such is the furniture of this home.
[18:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Drying herbs hang on ropes from the ceiling.
[18:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I'm afraid you've come too late for dinner.  Herb tea?" the crone asks.
[18:51] <Hannes> "Please..." Hannes had thought for a moment before answering, but figured being polite would work.
[18:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The shifting light in the hut lays across the woman's face as she turns to heft the small cauldron from its place; this close, you can see that the woman's expression is lop-sided, as if she'd suffered a brain-storm.
[18:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Good boy," the hag cackles, pouring boiling hot water from the cauldron into one of several clay cups she had already arranged.  A bitter, clean smell reaches your noses as the water reaches whatever herbs are within.
[18:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Give it a moment to steep, but drink it hot, Hannes Bergenhaffen Trilowsky Goetz Hoffmeister von Rosenkratz," she pauses for effect, then adds, somewhat sardonically, "The eighteenth."
[18:54] <Liltrude> "I'd enjoy some tea as well.  That sounds good."
[18:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The woman pours out her own measure as she waits for the reply of her other guests, filling and passing cups as she's answered.
[18:55] * Roger stands by the door, looking suspiciously out. "None for me, I think."
[18:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You ill need it, I think," Baba Varinka says crisply, "It fortifies the intestines - and the libido," she cackles and winks at Hannes, "A shame you didn't bring the Altdorfer.  I'm sure he would've liked some, eh?"
[18:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Sipping her own tea, the woman crosses slowly to Hightower, placing one withered, tanned-dark hand on the halfling's sweaty brow.  It seems almost a prefunctory gesture, because no look of surprise or dismay crosses her face.
[18:57] <Hannes> "You seem to know much about us, Frau Varinka..."
[18:58] * Hannes would take a sip of the tea, just the same.
[18:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Oh, not me, mein Herr," she delivers the polite address with a curious accent, "The spirits, however, seem very interested in you.  And I, of course, am interested in them."
[18:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She pauses a beat, "The better of the Forster boys saw to him, eh?"
[18:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The tea is bitter but not unpleasant, it spreads a numbing warmth through your mouth that quickly fades.  Probably this brew would be good for a toothache, too.
[18:59] * Johann shrugs and sips the tea "So, have the spirits tyold you why they've taken such a keen interest?"
[19:00] <Hannes> "And what interest would spirits have in I, Frau Varinka?" He would take another sip of his tea. He paused for a moment, then shrugs. "I doubt I have need to introduce myself, then."
[19:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "In good time, boys, in good time," Varinka chides, "First - this fellow."
[19:01] * Liltrude sips the tea as well, shrugging at the comments about spirits. She really doesn't understand that whole world.
[19:02] <Johann> Got my babby cuzzinher
[19:02] <Johann> (Er wrong tab)
[19:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She turns her intense gaze on Roger, the twinkle in her eyes mischevious and somewhat contemptuous, "Would you like to stand outside during this, son of Evangeline?  Perhaps say a prayer to your Lady?"
[19:05] <Roger> "If the Lady sees fit to aid me, she will aid me."
[19:05] <Roger> "I see no danger here."
[19:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "And she has before," the hag nods, "Very well."
[19:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The woman limps about her hovel, gathering up supplies.  Candles, a length of chalk, a clay cask.
[19:07] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) Quit (Quit: ChatZilla 0.9.92 [Firefox 47.0/20160604131506])
[19:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She opens it, takes a sniff, and gags, "Well those are off," she dashes the open contents out the back door, and the two dogs immediately fall to eating it.  This done, the hag picks up another cask, checks again, and returns to Hightower.
[19:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Muttering in some strange tongue, she draws a splendid symbol on Hightower's forehead.  It reminds one of the trick of a sideshow performer with two lodestones.  The more you try to look at it, the more your gaze simply slides away.
[19:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The symbol drawn, the witch stops her intoning, hawks and spits on the dirt floor, and cracks her knuckles at great, disgusting length.
[19:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Be quiet now, dearies, the spirits are listening and you wouldn't want to say the wrong thing - oh no indeed," she grins, then resumes intoning.
[19:11] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #thewitchoftheblackwood
[19:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The chant goes on for a while, and you can feel the hair on your necks standing up.
[19:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At the edge of hearing is a whisper; you feel the impulse to listen more closely, as one would look twice when they barely see a shape move within a darkened window.
[19:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The interior of the hut seems to dim, and Baba Varinka opens the cask to pour the contents down Hightower's throat.
[19:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> They are slimy, meaty, slightly sickly-smelling; the halfling gags in his fevered sleep, but Baba Varinka simply elevates his head, closes his mouth, and waits for him to swallow before resuming.
[19:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> For a moment, the halfling looks worse, and then he seems to fade into a more restful sleep.
[19:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka stops her chant, watching carefully, licks her finger, sticks it in Hightower's mouth, then tastes again.
[19:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "He will live," she says, finally; a strange, storm-like pressure seems to disappate from the hovel.  "Give him two days and he should be fit to travel."
[19:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Do not allow him to see his reflection in a running river for five days after that.  Advise him also not to catch any crossbow bolts with his neck."
[19:15] <Hannes> "Excellent. Do you know about the werewolves?"
[19:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At this last, the hag cackles.
[19:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The laugh is cut off, however, when Hannes speaks.
[19:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Sit," she says, gesturing even to Roger now.
[19:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Werewolves, you say, boy?"
[19:18] * Roger looks down at Hightower somewhat suspiciously, but turns and takes a seat regardless.
[19:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "There is an evil word to bring into my home," she says, "Tell me - what 'werewolves?'"
[19:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Hightower, for his part, seems to be sleeping peacefully.
[19:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> His face is no longer flushed, nor his expression marred with pain, and his breathing is even.
[19:20] <Hannes> "What else do you call a beast, the lopes around on all fours? That disembowels women with it's jowels and leaves them bleeding in the town square? Fur and muscle and fang and claw, but no hoof or horn."
[19:21] <Liltrude> "We uh.  There was a wolf-like creature that slew a member of the town. And escaped.  It seemed to have intelligence.  Not to mention with how the wolves in the area are acting as of late."
[19:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka strokes her chin thoughtfully, "Yes.  That makes some sense," she turns her commanding gaze on each of you, "For some time now, the currents of spirits around here have been disturbed.  It's as when someone casts a stone in a river.  Some great thing has been attracted by those ignorants in the village.  It has broken the charm I cast around it," she says.
[19:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Describe the beast you saw carefully - in detail now, dearies.  It may mean your life."
[19:25] <Hannes> "Could it have been caused by the Storm? It has been barely two years since Sigmar's champion defeated Archaon..."
[19:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka laughs, "A daemon of the Old Gods, you mean?  As from the north?  No, that would require a willpower stronger than those found in Ferndorf, and a mind sickened enough to call for such.  I would have felt it.  This is something different."
[19:28] <Hannes> "What of the innkeeper? Rudolf Forster? Or Aldebrad or whatever his true name might be."
[19:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "What of them?  Lesser sons of lesser sons.  The one called Rudolf is not fit to bear his name.  I knew his great-grandsire, when Ferndorf was founded."
[19:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "As for Abelard - heh! - you know less of him than you think," the crone smirks briefly.
[19:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "But tell me more of this beast."
[19:32] <Hannes> "The great-grandsire and Rudolf are one and the same, mark my words."
[19:34] * Johann remains silent as he knows little of the wolgf
[19:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The crone sneers, "I witnessed the burning of Rudolf Forster when he passed.  He was given to Morr in the old way, for Ferndorf had no cleric of that faith.  Then, as now."
[19:35] <Johann> "How long have you watched over this town?
[19:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The woman turns her gaze on the Sigmarite initiate, "It's rude to ask a woman her age, Johann," she tuts, but answers anyway, "Since its founding.  I came here with my dear Anatai.  He, Rudolf, and another - Kristof - founded Ferndorf.  I did my part as well."
[19:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Anatai's line withered," the crone goes on, speaking sadly, "You have met the fruit of the Forster and Ernst trees already."
[19:41] <Liltrude> "...And Kristof?"
[19:42] * Hannes pondered on how to best describe the beast, and does so for the kislevite hag. "Apologies if I dind't get much detail, it was very sudden."
[19:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You've met Otthilda Schmeid, yes?  And her father, Odhert?"
[19:43] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[19:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The crone flaps one hand, "Think nothing of it.  You said it was in the shape of a wolf - you called it a werewolf.  I have my suspicions.  What of its eyes?"
[19:43] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #thewitchoftheblackwood
[19:45] <Hannes> "Intelligent. Like a man."
[19:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The woman chews her lip, "I am of Kislev.  Of the steppe.  I came to this place with my Anatai to learn what spirits dwelt here.  Many are still strange to me."
[19:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The people of Ferndorf - enough of them to matter, anyway - have become debased.  Wicked.  One of them has drawn down a hungry spirit, and it has taken up residence in his or her body."
[19:48] <Hannes> "... chaos?"
[19:49] <Liltrude> Liltrude shrugs, "Why are the wolves of the forest growing in number, size, and ferocity then.  It's... not normal."
[19:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Not of the four," the Baba Varinka says, "But not a stranger to them, either.  Like a daemon, spirits such as these are drawn to men and women of extremes.  Lust.  Cruelty.  Rage.  Ambition.  Vengefulness."
[19:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "A spirit in the form of a wolf, with the eyes of a man, and a court of wolves is a spirit of Hunger - of depthless greed," the Kislevite says.
[19:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She lurches to her feet, removes a pot from her hearth, and extracts some jerky, chewing upon it.
[19:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It cannot be placated.  It cannot be satisfied.  As long as it is strong, it will use its Throne to feed and feed and feed until its belly splits.  And a time of strength for the spirits comes."
[19:53] <Hannes> "HOw do we fight it?"
[19:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Kislevite considers for a long moment, "There is a poetry to these things, young Hannes.  That which the spirit's throne covets - that greed which invited it in - is the tool by which it may again be cast, unmoored, into the aethyr."
[19:55] <Johann> I think the bigger issue is finding or trapping it
[19:55] <Johann> "
[19:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Find the throne.  Find what they covet.  There is your weapon, Averlander."
[19:56] <Johann> "SO much for a simpple cure like silver and wolfsbane"
[19:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "But do it quickly - the witch moon will be full by tomorrow evening, and the beast will be at its peak of power."
[19:56] <Hannes> "Why couldn't it be something simple, like a vampire?"
[19:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka cackles, "And here is why I wanted details, son of Sigmar.  There are many 'werewolves' in this world."
[19:57] <Liltrude> "So, we don't burn the village down.  Okay.  Got it.  And weapon?  How will we use that?"
[19:58] <Johann> "So, what's worth cobveting in Ferndorf aside from the abstract lumber trade?"
[19:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka shrugs, "Well, hopefully, it won't be a greed too metaphorical.  Once you know what the spirit's throne covets, you will devise your means."
[19:58] <Johann> "Actual coinage, pretty women, expensive food"
[19:59] <Johann> "Moyorhood"
[19:59] <Johann> Mayorhood*
[19:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Think you carefully on what you know of the beast's form," the hag adds, "For something of the throne's true form should shew through even in the shape of a beast."
[19:59] <Johann> "Maybe it is the lumber trade it covets? Make a few wooden arrows?_
[20:00] <Johann> "Stakes etc"
[20:01] <Liltrude> "Is the beast seeking it's desire? Or is it just lashing out on its own.  Also, another question.  Did you first feel its presence two months ago? When the wolves first started acting up."  Liltrude asks, her eyes shining
[20:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "A wild spirit such as this is simply raw greed.  It will slake its thirstings according to no rhyme or reason," the Baba Varinka considers, "Two months, perhaps three.  The banditry was worsening then, I have knowledge."
[20:05] <Johann> Were the bandits preyying on anything in particular? Perhaps he arose from one of them?
[20:07] * Hannes rises and paces a bit, scratching his cheek with a finger. "It had black fur... it was seen at the sight of other woodsman that were killed. It killed the woman, but it didn't eat much of her..."
[20:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Unless the bandits are among the villagers, the spirit could never have pierced my wards.  The invitation - unspoken though it was - must come from within.  To my knowledge, those rout have been preying on caravans as they left Ferndorf, loaded down with lumber.  What such jackals want with such, well, who can say?"
[20:09] <Johann> "So you you think one of the vilagers is acting as the host of this lesser Daemon or are they simply inviting it in?
[20:10] <Liltrude> "The pack of wolves, are they part of it? Or, what's their relation exactly."
[20:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Aye, Johann.  I know not who invited the spirit within the village, and if they did so deliberately or not.  I do not reckon the rabble of Ferndorf wise in any lore.  But it is one of them, or one that they trust," she turns to Liltrude, "The spirit takes the form of a wolf, yes?  They are drawn by that shape.  Beasts are simpler than men, and their minds move in the currents of more powerful wills."
[20:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> " Destroy this spirit, and the wolves will disperse."
[20:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She laughs, "Be lucky, dearies, that this is not Kislev.  Perhaps it would have taken the shape of a bear instead."
[20:13] <Johann> The physical form of the wolf-man, would it have to take over a villager or would it simply hide in the woods and attack?"
[20:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The spirit dwells upon its throne.  It slumbers when its power ebbs low - during the day, and indeed when the witch-moon wanes - but when the hour grows late and Morrslieb grows full, it wakens.  Only then does it warp the flesh to its desire."
[20:18] <Liltrude> "Is there anyway to repel the spirit from it's... host.  Or must we destroy the host?"
[20:18] * Johann rubs his forehead "So wait. I thought the throne was the thing it wants, not the flesh it's hiding in"
[20:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The woman sighs, as if speaking to a child.  Which, considering her age, she somewhat is, "The throne is the vessel of flesh in which the spirit resides."
[20:20] <Johann> "And does the throne have to enter into the village and then transform or can it enter even if it transforms deep in the woods?
[20:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka looks to Liltrude, "One might expel such a spirit, if one was powerful enough.  It would be dangerous, and uncertain, and likely blast that person's mind in the doing.  And there is no guarantee such a degenerate would not open their arms to such a spirit again."
[20:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Now that the spirit dwells within the throne, it can transform whereever it is.  All that matters is that conditions favor it."
[20:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "If this beast slaughters the entire village, it will simply move to another."
[20:23] <Liltrude> "If we destroy it's throne.  Whats to say it won't move to another village, another throne someplace else."
[20:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka laughs, "It may.  Overwhelming it by main force is possible - and that would leave the spirit at its strongest.  If you defeat it with the proper method, the spirit will be weakened.  It may be many years before it is strong enough to seize a human body again.  And even then, it must needs find the right one."
[20:26] * Roger finally speaks up. "There are many unrighteous men in the world. I would feel better if we could banish it for good and all."
[20:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka nods to Roger with surprising respect, "This is best.  Find its throne.  Slay it with its secret greed.  Do not be swayed by pleas for mercy - they are lies."
[20:28] <Johann> "Permanent banishment is no small feat, even for annointed priests and Heiriophant lords
[20:30] <Johann> "Even then they more often simply imprison them in ojectes:
[20:30] <Roger> "It will have to be enough."
[20:30] <Roger> "So we must find a man which matches some aspect of the beast's description."
[20:31] <Roger> "We know it has black hair.  I only wish the woman could have told us the color of the creature's eyes before passing."
[20:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Oh, one more thing." the hag says.
[20:33] * Johann glances over
[20:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Don't die," the hag says flatly, "You need to come get your employer when he's ready, the day after tomorrow."
[20:34] <Roger> "No sane man plans on dying."
[20:34] <Roger> "It simply happens."
[20:35] * Roger bows. "Adieu. I believe we've a beast to slay."
[20:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Someone's already been plucking the strings of your fate, son of Evangeline," the hag returns, standing to give her own peculiar bow, "Try and see to it that their efforts were not wasted."
[20:37] <Hannes> "Beast in the shape of a man, mein herr." He would turn to the hag. "Faur Varinka, auf wiedersehen."
[20:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Bustling around the hovel, the hag extends one slightly-trembling hand; two rough leather bags are contained within, probably the bladders of some small animals, "You may have recourse to these if any among you are wounded," the Kislevite says, "Good-bye."
[20:38] <Roger> "Fate has a way of fulfilling itself, whether one would fight it or embrace it."
[20:38] * Roger takes the bags. "We thanks you. And now, we must be off."
[20:39] <Hannes> "Only four villagers had black hair..."
[20:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (There are others, those are just the people you know for sure.)
[20:40] <Hannes> (Redacted.)
[20:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka shuts the door behind you.  The sun is moving towards setting.  The black mastiffs follow you - somewhat more companionably than before - as far as the edge of the clearing.
[20:41] <Hannes> "Odhert, Adelbard, and Rudolf are black of hair. So is the Friar."
[20:41] <Liltrude> "Thank you..." Liltrude says, mulling over everything in her mind.  Sure she doesn't plan on dying anytime soon.  She doesn't really believe in fate, or anything of that type either though.  "Black Hair? Whose to say the wolf would share the hair color of its owner.  Hm.. We should check to see if there is any fur left at the scene of the attack."
[20:41] <Hannes> "Why wouldn't they have the same color?"
[20:42] <Roger> "Best to share that with only those we trust.  The priest, perhaps.  Were we to let that information be known to all, we would have many black-haired corpses on our hands."
[20:43] <Liltrude> "It's not natural.  Why would it need to follow the laws and rules as we know them. Also, even if it was black hair.  What if it's throne was bald, and used to have black hair."  Liltrude says, as she goes to pet a mastiff.
[20:43] <Roger> "Besides, I have black hair."
[20:43] <Roger> "Let us be sure before we make a decision.  We know it has man's eyes, and little else."
[20:44] <Hannes> "But you are not the werewolf."
[20:45] <Roger> "I arrived the night of the attack.  Tell that to the villagers."
[20:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The mastiff tolerates being petted, watching the halfling with chocolate brown eyes.  It's very nearly as tall as her.
[20:46] <Johann> "True, but you weren't here when the wolf aggression started"
[20:47] <Roger> "Well, in any case, we must use this new information wisely."
[20:47] <Hannes> "A throne of greed... how are we going to find that?"
[20:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You talk as you make your way back through the forest.
[20:48] <Liltrude> "Depends on the type of greed.  Thats' for sure."
[20:48] <Roger> "Find the man who is greedy."
[20:48] <Liltrude> "Like the Innkeeper."
[20:48] <Johann> "I do agree that encouraging the whole village of untrained citizens to try their hand at witch-hunting based on haircolor alone  is enturely coutnerproductive"
[20:48] <Roger> "He does seem the type."
[20:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Though it was afternoon in the clearing, it is already night under the boughs of the trees.
[20:48] <Johann> "Or perhaps they show the opposite of greed in their daily lives?"
[20:49] * Johann grunts with displeasure "Wonderful, a trek back at night."
[20:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Making your way back down the deer path is slow-going, and you miss the bear's path the first time - you double back, travel down it, and emerge back on the foresters' paths.
[20:49] <Roger> "I do not suspect many in such a village to be susceptible to greed"
[20:50] <Liltrude> "The good news is.  It's night now.  We might find some clues if it decides to attack again." Liltrude says smiling.  Somehow she's enjoying the thought.
[20:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Here the going is easier, but still slow.  The Sigmarite initiate's earlier efforts at least make it so that you take no wrong turns and trip less on deadfalls of wood.
[20:50] <Roger> "Greed is a poison fed by having more."
[20:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> By degrees, the sunlight fades completely, and the false night of the wood becomes the true blackness of the evening.
[20:50] * Johann keeps alert for wolves, werewolves, or just plain old beastfolk
[20:50] <Hannes> "It's going to be a long trek... be on your guard."
[20:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Around you, the forest seems to come to life - crackingly, rustling, insectile buzzing, croaks and hoots.
[20:51] <Liltrude> "Well, thing is.  I'd want to see who'se in charge of the loggers, who makes the most profit from them.  When the bandits showed up, they started earning less.  They may have gotten desperate in their greed.  Searched for an answer.  And in comes Mr. Spirit."
[20:53] * Roger becomes quiet. "We must leave conjecture for our return. For now, be vigilant."
[20:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A tainted green light filters down from the rare gaps in the branches above, the light of Morrslieb lending a squamous quality to the forest around you.  Now comes the music of the wolves.
[20:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Some, especially Ulricans, have been known to favor wolfsong, but to your ears, this merely sounds hungry.  Hungry and mocking.
[20:54] <Liltrude> "I like having these discussions though.  They are fun, helps the time pass." Liltrude says, slowly moving her hand onto her belt, grabbing her sling.
[20:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Sometimes the animal voices are closer, sometimes farther, but they are always there.
[20:54] <Hannes> "The beast prowls in these woods."
[20:54] <Hannes> The youth forms the sign of the hammer.
[20:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As if summoned by the Averlander's words, a new voice joins its comrades.
[20:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> They give it the silence befitting a king.
[20:54] * Johann gets his hammer and shield in hand
[20:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A deep howl shivers through the cool night air, blasphemously human.  It calls to mind the wailings of the mad and the damned in the black cells of Nuln's prison.
[20:55] * Roger grunts. "It awakens."
[20:55] <Roger> "We must make haste."
[20:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A pattern asserts itself - the courtiers sing their song, then silence themselves to listen for their king.
[20:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You move more and more quickly through the forest, the voices of the wolves dogging you, mocking you.
[20:59] <Hannes> "We're surrounded...."
[21:00] <Johann> "Yes, yes we are"
[21:00] <Johann> "The big one is circling"
[21:00] <Liltrude> "They seem to be having a good time, why don't we.  Maybe it can hear us!  Oh!" Liltrude says, then her voice lowers  "We might be able to get answers as to who it is. based on its reactions to our conversation"
[21:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> All at once, the voices cease.
[21:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A deep, appalled silence falls over the forest.
[21:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Not even the crickets chip.
[21:01] * Johann turns slightly ahead of  where he last heard the loudest howl, shield and hammer in hand and helmet on
[21:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Then, the beast it simply there.
[21:01] * Hannes draws his weapons. "I will fear no evil..."
[21:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It slips out of the shadows of the woods like an oiled shadow, a ray of tainted moonlight tinging its black fur greenish.
[21:02] * Roger already has his weapons out. "This will be simplest."
[21:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It is indeed a wolf, but no wolf Taal or Ulric would have ever suffered.
[21:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's as tall as a man's shoulder, with a head the size of a bear's.
[21:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Long legs are corded with muscle, and its paws are splayed, with strangely wide digits.
[21:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Everything about the beast suggests something repulsively, horrifyingly human.
[21:03] * Johann tries tot take in every detail, to find a sign of what it is and what it wants
[21:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most of all, its eyes.
[21:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Now you understand the woman's terror - the great wolf of the black wood looks at you with the calculating gaze of a man, its contemptuous mirth shining forth.
[21:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Eyes as green as Morrslieb's light study you with all the insolence of a king, and then its jaw drops wide - impossibly wide, horrifyingly wide - to reveal foaming, blood slathered teeth.
[21:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With a snarl that seems to shake the leaves on the trees, it stalks forward.
* Retrieving #thewitchoftheblackwood modes...
[21:08] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'The Beast, Liltrude, Roger, Hannes, Johann'
[21:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With a bellow like a beastman's warhorn, the stalking turns to a leap, and then it is upon you.
[21:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As if somehow detecting something different about the Bretonnian, it leaps upon him.
[21:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The thing's teeth are like daggers, and it closes them on Roger's helmed head, bone squealing against steel, blood running red under Morrslieb's light.  Its eyes recognize the knight for who he is.
[21:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> All around you, like cruel ghosts, are the shapes of wolves, circling...waiting for their turn.
[21:14] * Roger recoils as the thing leaps at him, with unexpected speed. The thing's teeth wrap around his neck, breaking a few links in his maille and drawing blood. Grunting in pain, he draws back, blood staining the top of his surcoat.
[21:21] * Liltrude uncorks a firebomb of hers, and... then begins to circle the large wolf with contents of such device. Since it's already here. Might as well make this count.
[21:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's far too involved with Roger to pay attention.
[21:26] * Roger stands his ground in spite of earlier hesitation, launching into a fierce attack against the beast. The best evades much of his attacks, but one slips in, striking it in the head with incredible force.
[21:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The monster howls in agony, black blood gouting from a horrifying head wound.
[21:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> One lambent green eye goes dark, filled with blood.
[21:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast shakes its head furiously, spraying drops everywhere.
[21:29] * Hannes charges into combat, striking out with his weapon of choice. Unfortunately, a rapier is not exactly the appropriate weapon for fight werewolves.
[21:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The weapon flexes on the beast's tough hide, the razor sharp point only dimpling the wolf's flesh.
[21:34] * Johann grings his hammer around in an arc with a quick prayer to sigmar, but does not hear the satisfying crunch he was hoping for
[21:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Even before your eyes, the beast's wounds seem to be knitting shut.  Its blood-darkened eye flickers and glows again, full of life.
[21:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast's jaw drops open in a slavering grin, and it launches itself at the knight.
[21:35] <Hannes> "It's healing itself!"
[21:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast streaks forth to try and lock its massive jaws around Roger's throat once again, but the knight is too fast: instead, its flashing teeh close on the blade of the sword.
[21:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It launches itself back, growling in almost human frustration.
[21:39] * Liltrude then sets the fluid alight, hoping to keep it from retreating once it's injured enough. She has confidence in her team, that they can handle it.
[21:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The flames dance high in the night, thumping to life eagerly.  Now you can see the shadows skulking around you: great grey northern wolves, yellow-eyed and hungry.
[21:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Within the ring of fire, the wolf give a low bark, and a pair of wolves detatch themselves from the shadows, circling forward.
[21:44] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'The Beast, Liltrude, Roger, Hannes, Johann, Giant Wolves'
[21:45] * Roger launches another flurry, landing a blow on the creature's leg.
[21:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> More black blood gouts, and a grimace of revoltingly human hatred crosses the monster's face.
[21:46] * Hannes will go after one of the new comers. "FUR SIGMAR!" He shouts as he charges one of them!
[21:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The wolf snarls like wet leather ripping and darts to meet its Averlander foe.
[21:50] * Johann brings his hammer about in a lateral strike, the horizontal blow taking the wolf in its right forepaw as the initiate howls a prayer
[21:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> There's a sickening crunch as the hammer strikes home, and the beast yelps in pain - but doesn't withdraw.
[21:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Hannes, meanwhile, has much the same experience.  His blade draws a gout of red blood, but the beast does not relent, despite its obvious pain.
[21:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The wolves come on, Hannes's foe stumbling, its snapping jaws coming up short.
[21:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Sigmarite initiate is not so lucky, and powerful jaws close around his leg, piercing his thick boot and tearing flesh beneath.
[21:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Roger's foe's wounds crawl back together.  Natural animals fear fire, but this creature only seems incensed by the flames.  It lunges forward, trying to knock its foe over and sink its teeth into him, but its efforts avail it nothing against the knight-errant.
[22:06] * Johann watches the wolf before him drop like a rock
[22:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast's skull is split like a melon, by Liltrude's shoot.
[22:08] * Roger shouts something in Bretonnian as he faces off against the beast, and even in the sickly green light of Morrslieb and the fire of the ring surrounding him, his sword seems to begin glowing in a bright, silvery green light.
[22:10] * Roger descends on the beast, slicing at it with renewed vigor, smiting it twice with his blade and leaving sizable gashes in it's leg and face.
[22:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The wolf screams in agonized terror as the knight's blade blazes.
[22:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The wounds left behind by the sword's passage sizzle and boil.
[22:12] * Johann tries to quickly shout "Anyone got a piece of that fancy lumber? Maybe that'll be its greed!"
[22:16] * Johann casts his eyes about "If you don't Lilutrude jsut grab a burning branch it may help keep that monster from healing if it runs!"
[22:17] * Johann helps Hannes instead
[22:20] * Johann roars triumpthantly as he snaps a leg clean off with his hammer, shattering the upper shoulder bone and crumpling the chest slightly
[22:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The wolf dies without so much as a sound, killed before it knows it.
[22:21] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'The Beast, Liltrude, Roger, Hannes, Johann'
[22:23] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[22:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Suddenly, the light in the beast's eyes changes.  Maddened rage becomes careful calculation...and then fear.  Backing off carefully, blood-foamed jaws snapping, it leaps over the flames, its belly just singed by their licking tongues, and flees south, towards the town.
[22:25] * Roger grimaces in fury. "Craven beast!"
[22:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The other wolves look around in sudden confusion, as if woke from a trance, and fade into the forest.
[22:25] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #thewitchoftheblackwood
[22:25] <Hannes> "Do we... do we charge after it?"
[22:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Slowly, the ring of fire (the ring of fire) gutters down around the knight, his victory stolen him by the cowardice of the evil monster.
[22:26] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to ''
[22:27] * Johann mutters in annoyance "Hopefully the damned beast won't be healed completely in human form"
[22:28] <Hannes> "I doubt it."
[22:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Gradually, the sounds of the natural forest come back.
[22:28] * Roger steps out of the circle. "Of course we charge after it! Hurry, before it makes well on it's escape."
[22:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Not joined, notably, by the howl of wolves.
[22:28] * Roger doesn't waste a moment, rushing after the beast towards the village.
[22:29] * Johann makes his charge after it, as well! Fleet footed and everything!@
[22:30] * Hannes would follow after the other two warriors.
[22:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> For a while, you're able to follow a trail of black blood.
[22:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Then, it seems to peter out - you reckon you're over halfway back to Ferndorf at this point.
[22:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Perhaps the beast healed, or perhaps it plunged back into the wood, but you see no sign of it when you finally make your way back to the clearing around Ferndorf.
[22:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "OI!  WHO GOES THERE!" a shame on the wall shouts, raising a hunting bow.  The man sounds terrified.
[22:33] <Liltrude> "Friends, Who just fought a Big Bad Wolf" Liltrude shouts back.
[22:33] * Johann waves over "Four people VERY tired of fighting wolves!"
[22:33] <Johann> "Has anyone else come back here in the past few minutes?
[22:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It's the outsiders!" one of the guards can be heard saying.
[22:33] * Roger grunts in frustratioin, swinging his blade to the side as the green light around it fades.
[22:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "None that we've seen!" the first man says, "Bloody wolves have been howling all night long, circling the village!"
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Seemed like they were trying to get in!"
[22:34] <Roger> "Send word!  Gather all the villagers and take a count!"
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The men open the gate, though only enough to readmit the four of you.
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> On the knight's order, one of the yokels sprints off for the temple of Sigmar.
[22:35] <Johann> (Shall we make heal tests, I have the skill and I seem to recall someone else does too?
[22:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (Ludwig does, and you do.)
[22:36] <Johann> Can he heal as an NPC
[22:36] <Johann> ?
[22:36] * Roger takes his helmet off as they cross into the village, rubbing his neck where the beast had bit him, his finger's coming back with blood. "Damnable creature..."
[22:36] <Johann> (And is there a rule for failing so bad it hurts more? If so Draughts may be better)
[22:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (Nope)
[22:38] * Johann settles in and tries to heal Roger if he accepts
[22:38] <Hannes> "We can't try to brute force this."
[22:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As you make your way to the Black Stump Inn, where irritated villagers are being gathered, Otthilda rushes up to the lot of you.
[22:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "We heard all the howling, and - oi, knight!  You're wounded!"
[22:39] * Johann looks over Otthilda since he didn't actually get a description of her the first time
[22:40] * Roger coughs, as though he's only now feeling the wound. "
[22:40] <Roger> "Indeed.  I paid it back threefold.  Is anyone missing?"
[22:40] <Johann> "Roger can you find a place to rest so I can patch that up?
[22:41] * Johann trains a draught after the soldier fails to patch him up
[22:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda is a young woman, as tall as any man, strongly muscled, as befits her occupation - that is, a smith's apprentice.  She has a plain, if not unlovely face, and wears simple linens, sleeves rolled up to reveal strong arms dotted here and there with faded burn scars.  Her blonde hair is tied back with a hank of rawhide, and her green eyes shine with concern at the Bretonnian's wound.
[22:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Her father limps up behind her, eyeing you all warily, holding a bloodied cloth to his left hand.  He is swarthy and dark, short and broad.  Comically dissimilar from his daughter, save his eyes.
[22:42] * Johann sniffs for horsepiss
[22:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "No one," says Rudolf, stepping up, "At least, not now."
[22:43] <Hannes> "Hnnnn...." Hannes is in thought, spying the wounded smith.
[22:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bear-like innkeeper looks to each of you in turn, ignoring the conversations of the gathered villages, "Something happen?" he asks warily.
[22:43] <Roger> "And no one arrived at the gates while we were gone?"
[22:45] <Roger> "We were attacked by the creature, but it escaped."
[22:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The sentries didn't report anything, but then, they were distracted.  Not long before you lot came back, dozens of wolves came boiling out of the woods.  Came right up to the gates.  Howling, growling.  Don't know what the mad creatures were doing."
[22:45] <Roger> "And no one seems injured?"
[22:45] <Johann> "They were setting a distraction for their master to return"
[22:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The innkeeper looks around, eyes flickering over Odhert, "Well..."
[22:45] <Johann> "Roger here tore its face open"
[22:46] * Johann fingers his hammer
[22:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He's cut off as the smith approached, "I cut myself, what of it?" he says aggressively.
[22:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Which one of you lot is it that brought my daughter out to that daemon-worshiper in the woods?"
[22:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Da, she's not-"
[22:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Hilde!"
[22:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda subsides sheepishly.
[22:47] <Roger> "Be silent."
[22:47] * Roger 's tone is commanding.
[22:47] <Johann> "Either way we've learned that the wolf is quite possibly a possessing spirit so just killing it isn't ideal"
[22:47] * Roger turns to Odhert. "Where did you cut yourself?"
[22:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "In my forge," the man says angrily, I was sharping some blades when-"
[22:48] <Roger> "Not where in the village, where on your body!"
[22:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At that moment, the friar arrives, running a big hand over his shaved pate, "Heard you lot had trouble, and-"
[22:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He's cut off as Roger snaps his reply to Odhert.
[22:48] <Johann> "Now now, we can't be sure it was him. The beast was healing itself and we can't tell for sure if even the wounds you inflicted while blessed would stay open.
[22:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The broad smith removes the bloody rag from his left hand, showing a nasty gash there.
[22:49] * Johann looks over at the friar and sniuggers disarmingly "Friar, why are you covering your head like that? YOu look skill
[22:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You blind as well as stupid, Bretonnian?"
[22:49] <Roger> "I know, at least, where I struck it."
[22:49] <Johann> Look silly*
[22:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He spits at the knight's feet.
[22:49] <Johann> "He was asking if you were hurt anywhere else"
[22:49] <Roger> "Hold your tongue, lout."
[22:49] <Johann> "And I would caution you against disrespecting this man again:
[22:50] <Roger> "Lest I relieve you of it."
[22:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar looks at the initiate, confused, "Covering my head?" indeed, he only ran his big hand over his pate briefly, as if to wipe away sweat.
[22:50] * Johann also needs the friar's description
[22:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Now, now," the friar intervenes, stepping his fat bulk between the two men, "Let's not put our points at each other-"
[22:50] * Liltrude (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[22:51] <Johann> "Sorry it almost looked like you ran over here with your hand on your head the whole way, provided me with some much needed levity after this fight"
[22:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar is a tremendous man, fat, bald of head and kind of face.  He has an alcoholic's ruddy complexion and blue eyes.
[22:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "But nothing, friar!" Odhert says, "Ever since these - these MERCENARIES showed up, it's been monsters and mad wolves!"
[22:51] <Johann> "So, even if it was just a trick of the timing it's appreciated"
[22:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "This ain't Bretonnia, foreigner!  I won't be spoken to like a slave!"
[22:52] * Johann steps around the knight and the friar and stares at the blacksmith "I would sincerely suggest you watch your tone even if my friend was somewhat out of line with his threat"
[22:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The smith's lips skin back from his teeth; he balls up big fists.
[22:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Da-" Otthilda says, placing a hand on his shoulder.
[22:53] * Johann glances back at Roger over the Friar's shoulder "And we don't allow tongue cutting for such minor insults here."
[22:53] <Johann> "He has plenty of reason to be agitated"
[22:53] <Johann> "Given his wound."
[22:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert wheels around to unload venom on Johann, but grimaces when he notices the man's cloth.
[22:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He bites his tongue fiercely and mutters to himself.
[22:53] * Johann looks over the wound
[22:53] <Roger> "I do not make threats.  I make promises."
[22:54] <Hannes> "It is not painting a good picture, here. For either of us."
[22:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The good friar is right," Rudolf says, turning his emerald eyes on all of you, "Let's calm down - nothing can be done spitting venom at one another.  A beer, perhaps?  Yes?"
[22:54] <Johann> "Dismembering a man for a petty insult is not a privilege of visiting nobility even if we are allies"
[22:56] * Roger levels his eyes on the blacksmith, before turning away, still feeling at his neck. "Making petty insults is not a privilege of commoners."
[22:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert growls low in his throat, "I'll not drink with such as these.  Come on Hilde, we're going home."
[22:56] <Johann> "Hannes my nose is still full of the stench of blood, but do you smell moke?
[22:56] <Johann> smoke*
[22:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man stalks away towards his home.  Otthilda shrugs sympathetically, "Sorry - he doesn't mean any harm by it.  I'll see you lot later."
[22:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She follows after her father, quickly pacing the shorter man.
[22:57] * Johann arrests his exit "I can help you with that wound to make up for my friend's insult"
[22:58] <Johann> "An infection atop the head is a grisly thing. Hard to amputate a head if it gets too bad isn't it?"
[22:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The smith looks about to retort, then sighs, "Awight, do as you would."
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Abelard appears, as if stepping out of a shadow.
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You lot got your boss where he was going, then?"
[22:59] * Johann really only manages to get a banage woven around it "Damn, I can't work in the dark like this"
[22:59] <Johann> "That should keep off infection but it sure won't feel very good"
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The wild-haired man watches you, no clear expression on his face.
[23:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Thanks to you," Odhert says gruffly, subsiding somewhat.
[23:01] * Roger looksto Abelard. "It seems he will be fine. We must retrieve him two days hence."
[23:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The villagers are dispersing: once again, it seems all are accounted for.  Save the gate guards, and their numbers have been confirmed too.
[23:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The green-eyed man nods, expression severe, "So Varinka lives."
[23:01] * Johann glances over the new green-eye
[23:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar listens with polite interest.  Rudolf's reaction, on the other hand, is less amiable, "Baba Varinka?  That evil hag?  I hope you didn't trust your employer with her!"
[23:02] <Johann> "I don;'t think she;'s a wyrd"
[23:03] <Hannes> "She seemed polite enough."
[23:03] <Johann> "We were instructed to deal amikably with the priests of our allies"
[23:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf grunts doubtfully, "Well, don't say I didn't try to warn you if she...I don't knew, stews him or something."
[23:06] <Johann> "When did Otthilda come back?"
[23:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar sucks his teeth, thinking.  He exchanges a look with Rudolf, who shrugs, "She didn't come by tonight."
[23:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Abelard speaks up, "I saw her not long after sunset.  She dropped by to make manners and left not long after."
[23:08] <Roger> "Hm."
[23:08] <Johann> "This may seem very rude but is that her natural hair color?:
[23:08] <Roger> "It could not be her, if that is the case."
[23:08] <Roger> "We fought the creature well after sun down."
[23:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar laughs, "Aye, funny, isn't it?  Got it from her mother.  Was dark when she was born, though."
[23:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You don't seriously think-" Rudolf says.
[23:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "What, Otthilda, really?"
[23:11] <Johann> "I am not ruling out anyone"
[23:11] <Johann> "She's low on the list, quite possibly the bottom":
[23:11] <Johann> "But hard to tell a wolf's sex in the dark"
[23:12] <Roger> "Or when trying to slay it."
[23:12] <Hannes> "I doubt it was female..."
[23:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "So you truly think this is some manner of skin-changer?" the friar asks.
[23:13] <Roger> "It had the demeanor of an Alpha Wolf, in some manners."
[23:13] <Roger> "If what the woman said was true, yes."
[23:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Woman?  The hag?" Rudolf asks dubiously.
[23:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "We're basing all this on HER word?  What's to say it's not HER doing?"
[23:15] <Johann> "She didn't kill us"
[23:15] <Johann> "And I actually believe she could have"
[23:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The innkeeper has no answer for that.
[23:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I sent initiate Ferric with these lads to get some feel for her.  I trust his word," the friar says.
[23:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The hag hates us, but she's harmless," Abelard says flatly.  His look for his brother is sour.
[23:18] <Johann> "Well I suggest nobody leave town tomorrow, Morrislieb will be full, and this will be worse than ever with the werethign about
[23:19] <Roger> "Indeed."
[23:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf grunts, "I can see to that.  Adolph - that is, the husband of the woman killed?  Normally he'd be livid, but he's not cared one whit for anything since last night.  So we'll get no complaint from that quarter."
[23:20] <Johann> "What do you mean?"
[23:21] <Johann> "Was he the manager of the mill?"
[23:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Is, initiate.  Owner, actually."
[23:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "His wife was killed last night by the beast.  Came right over the wall."
[23:22] * Johann strokes his chin
[23:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ah, this is strictly confidential, but she had a...reputation.  Of keeping male friends.  So it's no surprise she was out.  But bad luck."
[23:22] <Johann> "And it killed her yet not messily"
[23:23] <Johann> "Sometimes it's harder to face the death of a loved one, even a disloyal loved one, if they're still recognizable"
[23:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Uh," the innkeeper looks from Johann to the other adventurers, "Well, did these folks not tell you?  It was horrible.  Tore her apart.  Ate part of her.  Must not have cared for the taste, for it fled.  Your man Ludwig got off a shot."
[23:23] <Hannes> "Oh, it was rather messily. It took a bite, but didn't eat anything."
[23:24] <Hannes> "Oh, it was rather messily. It took a bite, but didn't eat anything."
[23:24] <Johann> "Ah. I misinterpreted what they meant when he said she was alive enough to speak and the beast hadn't eaten:"
[23:25] <Roger> "She could speak well enough, for the beast hadn't taken her lungs out yet,"  Roger states morbidly.
[23:25] <Johann> "Still, the justaposition of a well-remembered face and a mangled body... Well that's hard for anyone to bear. Perhaps we should visit him"
[23:25] <Roger> "Perhaps."
[23:27] <Roger> "For now, we should rest."
[23:27] <Roger> "And I need a medical professional."
[23:27] * Johann offers to heal roger
[23:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Aye," the friar said, "Get some rest."
[23:27] * Roger accepts.
[23:27] * Johann faiols
[23:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I'll see you lot have your spaces from last night," Rudolf says, heading for his inn.
[23:28] <Johann> "I don;'t know why i even try in the dark like this"
[23:28] <Roger> "We can try again in daylight."
[23:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Abelard shrugs and walks away without even a single word, leaving you alone with the friar.
[23:28] * Roger turns to the friar. "A word, if you will."
[23:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Word to the wise, fellows...be careful with this information.  People are on edge.  If we have a panic here AND that beast about?"  the friar shakes his head, "Well, then Sigmar help us."
[23:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man nods and heads aside with Roger.
[23:29] <Roger> "We believe we've three suspects.  Odhert, Abelard, and Rudolf."
[23:29] <Roger> "The beast displays characteristics of their human form, and it has black hair and green eyes."
[23:30] <Roger> "Be wary of those, but let no one else know, lest a panic ensue."
[23:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar's brow furrows, "I suppse this is information from the hag, then.  Very well, ser, I trust your judgment - I will keep quiet.  Come to me if you need my aid."
[23:30] * Roger nods. "My thanks."
[23:31] * Roger heads back to the others, looking deep in thought.
[23:32] <Johann> "THe eye color may be from Morrslieb
[23:33] <Roger> "Perhaps."
[23:33] <Roger> "It may be nothing, but I received a warning some time ago."
[23:34] <Roger> "A vision by proxy, so to speak."
[23:36] <Roger> "It told me 'what appears fair may be foul, and what appears foul may be fair.'"
[23:36] <Roger> "I know not if it speaks of these events, but I must keep it in mind nonetheless."
[23:37] * Roger is now known as TXTypewriter
[23:37] * TXTypewriter (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) Quit (Quit: )
Session Time: Mon Jul 18 00:00:00 2016
[02:10] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
Session Close: Mon Jul 18 11:26:52 2016

=================================================================


Session Start: Sun Jul 24 16:04:25 2016
Session Ident: #investigations
[16:04] * Now talking in #investigations
[16:04] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has joined #investigations
[16:05] * Del (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) has joined #investigations
[16:05] * TXTypewriter (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) has joined #investigations
[16:05] * TXTypewriter is now known as Roger
[16:07] * Del is now known as Liltrude
[16:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With nothing further to do, you retire to your accomodations in the Black Stump.  There are no late drinkers hanging around the taproom tonight: those with homes lock themselves inside, and those who are staying at the inn turn in early save whispered, private mutterings between some of the seasonal laborers.
[16:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The events of the evening - and the second gathering of the entire village in two days - seems to have done nothing for local tempers.
[16:34] * Clamber (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #investigations
[16:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ironically, the night passes in quiet.  The howling of the wolves on this evening is sporadic and distant, as if your earlier encounter with the beast had put its skulking attendents off their appetites.
[16:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> One might even be able to convince themselves that nothing was unusual at all, if you didn't have the old Kislevite hag's warning about tomorrow evening, or the all-too-fresh memory of the unnatural THING which still lurks among you, wearing a human mask over a monsterous heart.
[16:36] <Hannes> "So how are we going to do this? Find it's throne?"
[16:37] <Liltrude> "That seems to be the best way, it'll at least give us a start.
[16:37] <Hannes> "But how are we going to find it?"
[16:37] <Liltrude> "That's the problem"
[16:38] * Clamber stretches out his sleepy joints and massages his lower leg, testing how well the healing draught has worked "If we find its throne before we find the throne's greed it may transform early"
[16:38] <Roger> "It would be easier if my blows prevented it's ghastly healing."
[16:39] <Hannes> "You know where to find wolvesbane?"
[16:39] <Liltrude> "Will Wolvesbane even work?"
[16:40] <Roger> "It is worth the attempt, if available."
[16:42] <Roger> "Symbols have power, in some measure.  Perhaps that is enough to work against the creature."
[16:42] <Clamber> "I want a stake made of the timber they sell here, it's a good place to start for greed"
[16:43] <Hannes> "More importantly, the hag mentioned some throne that we'd have to destroy to fight the beast."
[16:43] <Roger> "The throne is the body."
[16:43] <Roger> "The host, so to speak."
[16:44] <Hannes> "You don't think it's literal?"
[16:44] <Liltrude> "That'd be too easy if it was."
[16:46] <Roger> "She said, verbatim, that the throne is not literal."
[16:47] <Clamber> "If it was literal we'd just have to burn every chair in the village"
[16:47] <Clamber> "Wouldn't that be nice and simple."
[16:47] <Roger> "You were there, and you asked the very same question of her."
[16:47] <Roger> "Are you feeling unwell?"
[16:48] <Hannes> "I haven't been sleeping well..."
[16:49] * Clamber is now known as Johann
[16:51] <Roger> "Well, I doubt the beast will attack so soon after being defeated."
[16:51] <Roger> "We should rest better tonight."
[16:52] <Hannes> "Defeated? It ran."
[16:53] <Roger> "That is defeat.  Unless being a coward is not looked upon with disdain in the Empire."
[16:53] <Roger> "In which case, many of my suspicions are answered."
[16:54] * Johann looks over "It heals itself, and tonight the chaos moon is full"
[16:54] <Liltrude> "Well, it seems to have survival instinct at least."
[16:54] <Johann> "It will attack again tonight"
[16:56] <Roger> "Perhaps, but it will be more wary.  I saw some manner of intellect in it's eyes when I faced it."
[16:56] <Roger> "It will remember this."
[16:56] <Hannes> "Of course it will. And of course it can. And what do you suspect us to do? We must find out who the possessed is, then find a way to either cast out the daemon, or kill them."
[16:57] <Roger> "It will end in death, either way.  One who has been possessed scarcely comes away unchanged."
[16:59] <Hannes> "Yes, yes it will."
[17:00] <Johann> "But without a propper banishment it will return too quickly"
[17:01] <Liltrude> "It may not arrive here again though, and next time we might have a better idea of its throne.  It ends the threat for now at least.  And we can always track it down."
[17:03] <Hannes> "We have all day to figure out who they are."
[17:04] <Liltrude> "If our last resort is to kill it, not all is lost though.  We can always try again."
[17:04] <Johann> "So let's go over suspects"
[17:13] <Roger> "The blacksmith, Otthilda, Friar Ulfbert, and Rudolf and Abelard Forster."
[17:14] <Johann> "I say we try to keep the blacksmith and his daughter together, she may be his greed"
[17:15] <Hannes> "Seems rather... improper."
[17:15] <Johann> "He strikes me as overly protective"
[17:16] <Liltrude> "He does."
[17:18] <Roger> "Perhaps."
[17:18] <Roger> "We'll learn nothing for now, however."
[17:19] <Roger> "Let us rest on it for now."
[17:21] <Hannes> "Agreed."
[17:21] * Johann heads to bed.
[17:21] <Johann> "We need to rest, no mroe can be done tonight"
[17:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> After your deliberations for the evening are complete, you pass each into your own rest.  The night is peaceful, though you can't shake the feeling that some tremendous force hangs over Ferndorf, like a storm just waiting to break.
[17:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The morning dawns hot and hard, the humidity like a suffocating blanket even within the inn itself.
[17:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Looking towards the treeline from the hill on which Ferndorf is perched, you can see a haze hanging in the air at the treeline.
[17:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Truly, a miserable summer's day to be tramping around a village.
[17:25] <Hannes> "It's never like this in Averland." Hannes complains as he comes down. "I may have to have another bath this week."
[17:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The people of Ferndorf seem to agree with Hannes's distaste, and most seem to be sticking to the shade and various states of non-work.  The distant sound of the lumber mill is more sporadic this day, though the steady sound of steel on steel drifts up the hill from the forge.
[17:31] * Johann grumbles "I thought the Friar said he was going to ask the millowner to pause work for the day?"
[17:32] * Roger is wearing his armor as normal, which must be stifling. Still, he bears with it. "They may not be able to afford a pause."
[17:32] * Hannes is wearin ghis leather and chain shirt and looks unhappy. "Agreed. So who do we talk with first?"
[17:33] * Johann slightly loosens his leather armor a little bit.
[17:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The sun beats down.  A dog barks in the distance.
[17:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A few locals stare at you standing around gormlessly.
[17:39] * Johann looks over at the sound of the mill "Let's go ask them to pull back within the walls"
[17:41] <Hannes> "Or at least help with fortifying the village."
[17:41] <Roger> "I suppose it's as good as anything."
[17:41] <Johann> "A good idea"
[17:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ernst's labor mill, standing at the edge of the village, is a rambling, slapdash series of buildings, purely function.
[17:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A large windmill - well taller than the pallisade -  catches the wind, working groaning mechanisms that power massive saws.
[17:45] <Hannes> "Gentlemen!" Hannes would shout as they approach. "While I understand the mill is your livelihood... we have other concerns as of now. We need you back in the village."
[17:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Sweaty, hairy Reiklander men stripped to their waists manhandle trunks of wood up to this shuddering contraption, cutting them into more managable pieces, which are ultimately reduced to more managable lumber.
[17:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (The mill is in the village.)
[17:46] <Hannes> (Oh, well...)
[17:46] <Hannes> "Gentlemen!" Hannes would shout as they approach. "While I understand the mill is your livelihood... we have other concerns as of now. We need you back in the village proper, to help fortify it's defenses!"
[17:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Work today seems to be only sporadically led.  You'd been made to believe that Ernst was something of a joyless taskmaster, but he's nowhere in evidence.
[17:46] <Johann> (Oh I thought you said ti was outside the wall, or wait they're just chopping wood they already brought in?
[17:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> No new trees are being brought to the mill, and the gates to the village are closed, so it appears that the friar's efforts on that front were successful.
[17:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (Correct.)
[17:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most of the laborers pointedly ignore the Averlander, continuing to laze about or work slowly, but one bear of a man looks up.
[17:48] <Hannes> "Reiklanders..."
[17:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He sizes the nobleman up with insolent brown eyes, turns, and spits. "You're the outsiders, yeah?" his accent is thick.  He scratches a wild, poorly-kept beard.
[17:49] * Johann looks around for scraps of the wood "Aye, that we are"
[17:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Finding scrap wood at a lumber mill isn't hard.  Some scraps seem to have been discarded for flaws that are only obvious to people with an eye for such things.  Identifying the valuable black rosewood from more mundane lumber isn't difficult either.
[17:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Its reddish-black sheen is handsome and distinct.
[17:52] <Hannes> "Where is the foreman?"
[17:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I'm acting foreman," the big Reiklander says.  Of course he is, "Herr Ernst is indisposed."
[17:55] <Hannes> "And just where is Herr Ernst?"
[17:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "He's in his office," the Reiklander says with contempt.  It's not clear for whom, "He won't thank you for bothering him, though.
[17:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "
[17:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He jerks a meaty thumb at a small, ramshackle building near the mill.
[18:00] <Hannes> "In the last month or so, I've learned Reiklanders thank for few things. Still, there's a wolf in the woods. You'll be better off fortifying the village instead of working today." he would go to the ramshackle building just the same, bidding the Reiklander good day.
[18:02] * Johann tries to find a black rosewood scrap worthy of qwhittling into a stake
[18:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The initiate has no trouble with that.  He easily finds a handsome chunk nearly the length of his forearm, in fact, already splintered into a crude spike.
[18:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> If it was hawthorn, it'd serve him well for a vampire.
[18:05] * Johann nods approvingly
[18:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The big laborer grunts, "It's just wolves," he says insolently, "Even a big wolf that got in over the wall is just an animal.  Besides, folks already extended the wall up.  Not going to jump over that."
[18:05] * Hannes resists to tell the Reiklander that the wolf is already amongst them.
[18:07] <Johann> "It's a werekin, it's smart and has the claws needed to climb"
[18:08] <Johann> "So even if it can't jump the whole wall it can get inside"
[18:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The big man shifts uneasily, "Bollocks," he says, unconvinced, "Listen, city boy, I've been travelling from village to village for years, and you know how many weres I've seen compared to the stories?"
[18:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He puts his thumb and forefinger together.
[18:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At least some of the other laborers don't seem so convinced by the senior laborer's arguments.
[18:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Can't hurt to help shore things up," one is saying, "Not like Ernst is paying any attention."
[18:10] <Hannes> "Besides, I'm going to talk to him as well. How much do you all get paid for day's wages?"
[18:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "S'nine pence a day, sir," the doubtful worker puts in helpfully.
[18:12] * Hannes rolls his eyes, and pulls out a karl. "Here, if the whole lot of you go and help with the defenses, you can tell the tavern owner that the..." He lets out sigh. "Averlander dandy paid for your drinks tonight. But only if you help."
[18:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This draws surprised grunts and oaths, "Well, hell, it can't hurt," the big Reiklander sighs, seeing he's clearly outnumbered by his ostensible underlings, "Not like we don't have a good stock of cut lumber already."
[18:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Alright you lot, we're going!" he takes the karl with a grunt that isn't quite a thank you.  So uncivilized.
[18:21] * Johann asks him to hold back for one more question
[18:21] <Johann> "Othert than the rosewood, how does this town store its wealth? This isn't so much a were-wolve as a "Where's-my-money-wolf" from what I've been led to believe
[18:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Reiklander doesn't seem to get the pun, but he furrows his craggy brow in thought.
[18:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's one thing to be flippant to some Averland poof, apparently, quite another to blow off a son of Sigmar, even if he does sound like a nancy Wissenlander.
[18:24] <Johann> (I mean Nuln is right on the border,. would the accent even be that noticable?
[18:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (Comedic exaggeration)
[18:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well, the Forsters touch almost all gold that's made in this village," the man says finally, "You find that in most places like this - one family owns almost everything.  They own the Stump - decent place, cheap bastard waters his beer too much - and the town's general store.  Him and Ernst deal the most in actual coin.  Odhert Schmeid owns the forge, but folks say he's been on hard times recently."
[18:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Guess Ernst and Forster humor him, since he and his daughter are the only smiths this place has."
[18:26] * Johann nods "Thank you, you've been a great help."
[18:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man grins, "Don't go thinking to beg any karls out of ol' Rudolf, though, not even for your "werewolf."  He's so tight with his gold he'd make a dwarf look giving.  Have you seen the way his brother lives?"
[18:27] <Hannes> "The hermit, aye?"
[18:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Aye."
[18:27] * Johann shakes his head "He's left his brother a hermit?"
[18:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well, the way I hear it, Abelard came back different after the war.  And not just missing his leg," the man considers the karl in his hand meaningfully, as if contemplating how nice it might look with a lovely friend.
[18:28] <Johann> "I can understand cutting off a self-descructive sibling like a weirdroot addict or a compulsive gambler, but otherwise...:
[18:28] * Johann adds two silver shillings on top
[18:29] <Johann> 'me also clearly holds at least five more in his hand
[18:29] * Johann also clearly holds at least five more in his hand
[18:30] <Johann> "I can break that Karl down so you don't have to see a moneychanger about spending it"
[18:30] <Johann> "I've been living cloistered for so long I forget, a Karl is worth twenty four shillings right?"
[18:30] * Johann says with a wink
[18:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ah, twins," the Reiklander jokes, "Always been fond of twins.  There was this pair of pretty redheads down in- er.  You don't wanna know about that," he waves his hand, "I'll see Rudolf about it, that 'ol half-dwarf."
[18:31] <Johann> Wer twnty*
[18:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Anyway, to your question - Abelard's a queer fella.  Doesn't talk to folks much, unless they come to him first.  I get the impression he don't like people.  Folks 'round here say his unit deserted during the Storm, went pillager, and that's when he lost his leg."
[18:32] * Johann shudders "I would certainly hop not"
[18:32] <Johann> hope
[18:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The big man shrugs his shoulders, "But people say a lot of things.  I've heard some say that 'ol Rudolf tried to bring him into the family business, but Abelard pushed him off."
[18:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The two don't get along.  You probably noticed."
[18:33] <Johann> "From what little I've seen in two days I got the impression":
[18:38] * Hannes would excuse himself as Johann speaks with the Reiklander... he needs to speak with Ernst anyway.
[18:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The "office" is a simple dirt floor shack dominated mostly by a single rough desk and a wall filled with scrolls, probably receipts, bills, and orders.  At the desk, a dishevelled man is unconscious in a pool of spilled liquid - beer, by the smell.  He has a squirrely accountant's look, brown-haired and pinch-faced, and looks miserable even as he sleeps.
[18:46] <Hannes> "Of course... truly indisposed." Hannes would shake his head. "We should go see the Brothers Forster. I ahve a theory."
[18:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With the mill abandoned and Ernst sleeping off the nightmare of the past two days, there's no one to stop you.
[18:48] <Johann> "Alright, so is there any time they DO seem to get along better?"
[18:50] <Hannes> "I think we should go see Rudolf first. As I said, I have an idea."
[18:51] <Johann> "It's worth a shot!"
[18:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This, of course, involves trekking back up to the Black Stump in the merciless sun.  The Bretonnian must be truly a model of knightly stoicism to endure this, or else too close to passing out to notice his discomfort at this point.
[18:51] * Roger has been drinking a lot of water.
[18:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The taproom of the Black Stump isn't cool, but it is out of the sun.  The folk hanging around seem to mostly be simply loitering, drawing baleful glances but no spoken recriminations from the bear-brawny Rudolf Forster.
[18:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He, after all, isn't being very productive either.
[18:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> His daughter, who should really probably be working, is instead sitting in a corner, reading a ratty book, one of the short penny-dreadfuls about manly roadwardens and the buxom, lonely noblewomen they rescue.
[18:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Gents," Rudolf rumbles, "How about this heat?  Sigmar's sausage, as if this madness with the were wasn't enough."
[18:56] <Hannes> "Yes, awful. It never gets this hot back home."
[18:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Not so bad when you're working under the trees," Rudolf says, "But not much of that today, obviously."
[19:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Something on your mind, folks?" he asks politely, cleaning a metal beerstein slowly.
[19:07] <Hannes> "Something, yes."
[19:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well don't play coy, lad, if you need something, ask," he smiles amiably enough.
[19:09] * Johann just finds a place and sits down
[19:10] <Hannes> "Something horrible is happening in your village and I have until the full moon rises tonight to figure it out."
[19:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf sets aside the stein, "Aye, but I'm not sure how I can help with that.  Save to be ready for the skulking bastard."
[19:12] <Hannes> "We talked with the witch... And we know what is plaguing the town, but in all honesty? Until we figure out the who..."
[19:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man grunts, "Well, we want to be careful there," he turns and pulls several steins of beer, pushing them to the edge of the counter, "I'll put it on the tab, here."
[19:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "In any case - you want to be careful.  People are on edge.  If they panic, well..."
[19:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He doesn't really need to elaborate on that nightmare scenario.  Everyone's heard about witch panics before that leave a village with dozens dead.
[19:18] * Hannes takes a hushed tone. "Someone in this village is our wolf. And more importantly then that, it's on purpose. Someone has let greed over take them in such a way..." He shook his head. "It doesn't mean anything, because everyone in this village is either already a characiture of a miser, or so far into poverty to be desperate."
[19:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bushy-bearded innkeeper gives you a bemused smile, "Misers and beggars, eh?  Tell me what you really think of us, mein Herr," he says with gentle sarcasm.
[19:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "How do you know you can trust this wyrd, anyway?"
[19:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He looks to Johann, "I understand why the friar never chased stories of her - he's a good man, but well, he's himself...but isn't your order supposed to do for witches?"
[19:20] * Johann looks up "She's no witch, she's a Kislevite priestess, and Kislev helped blunt the storm that eventually broke at Middenheim"
[19:21] <Johann> "There's to be no witchhunting of Kislevite priest-types"
[19:21] <Johann> "No idea why she's so far south, a day like today must be hell for her"
[19:21] <Hannes> "And against a werewolf, I've give a grand recommendation to accept help from a Strigany."
[19:22] <Johann> "Though with a strigany you have to watch your back as well as your front"
[19:23] <Hannes> "Tell me about your brother? Why does he choose to live a life of a hermit? Especially since you seem more then capable to care for him."
[19:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf looks warily at Hannes, "Abelard is his own man.  Always has been.  More since the Storm," the massive tavernkeeper shrugs, "I tried to offer him work.  He would have none of it.  We just avoid each other.  Don't you have any kin you don't see eye to eye with, mein Herr?"
[19:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Anyway," Rudolf adds, "Abelard can see to himself.  Has a bit of the healing art to him.  Better than the friar, anyway."
[19:28] <Johann> "Oh? That's a useful skill to be certain, one I've been trying to learn."
[19:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Yar.  He tried to heal this lot's employer, before you got to town."
[19:37] <Hannes> "S'why we had to go see the witch." He'd turn to Rudolf. "Any bad blood between the two of you? Really bad blood, I mean. He doesn't resent you, does he?"
[19:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf seems to consider carefully, "We didn't get on as lads, but that was just normal brother shite.  Honestly, I think he's bitter I didn't go to the war," the innkeeper shrugs, "I had a family.  I had my duties here.  So maybe he does resent me.  If I'd been drafted, I would have gone.  But I wasn't."
[19:42] <Hannes> "Well, thank you for your time, at least." He had finished his beer. He turned to the rest. "I think it's time to see the brother."
[19:44] <Roger> "Let's be off, then.
[19:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Stay cool," Rudolf says dryly.
[19:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You make your way down to Abelard's shack.  The owner is in attendence, sitting on a roughly-made chair outside his front door.  He has a pitcher of water in one hand and sips from it, lounging like an indolent lizard in the meagre shade provided by the overhang of his shack.  At his feet - foot, actually - sits his mongrel dog.
[19:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The gangly hermit simply stares as you approach, offering no greeting as he takes another drink.  You notice belatedly that his wooden leg is off, leaning against the shack.
[19:49] <Hannes> "Guten Tag. You have a moment, mein herr?"
[19:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Aye," he says gruffly, "Your man dead?"
[19:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's probably the first interest he's shown in any affairs of yours.
[19:50] <Hannes> "He'll live. Baba Varinka is a skilled healer. But it is another problem we here to talk about."
[19:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The ex soldier grins, a ghastly sight.  You notice perhaps for the first time how young he is - here is a mirror for Ludwig, in at least that way, "You're here about the wolf."
[19:54] <Hannes> "Aye, we're here about the wolf."
[19:56] <Johann> "Yep"
[19:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well," the man sets aside his cup, "What of it, then?"
[19:57] <Hannes> "What can you tell us about your brother?"
[19:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man narrows his eyes, "What do you want to know about him?"
[20:00] <Hannes> "I want to know how you feel about him. The wolf we're after is a daemon of greed, invited into the heart of a beggar... or a miser. And this village has many of each."
[20:02] * Johann may or may not have soked his stake in beer from the stump
[20:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> That cold grin reappears, "Playing at witch hunter, boy?" the hermit scratches his stump thoughtfully, "They usually aren't so discerning in who they burn."
[20:05] <Hannes> "I like to think myself better then that. Reason and logic will help us find this monster."
[20:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Have you ever stopped to think about Ferndorf's bandit 'problem,' Averlander?" the hermit asks, "What they rob?"
[20:07] <Johann> "The best-trianed witch hunters do show discernment, sadly not all manage it"
[20:07] <Hannes> "Merchants coming or leaving the village, aye?"
[20:07] <Johann> "They're also an option, but according to our Kislevite friend the village ahs been blessed in such a way that unless someone inside was possessed by the spirit they couldn't enter"
[20:08] <Hannes> "The bandits are a cause, not the beast itself."
[20:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "No, not 'or.'  Yours was the first 'or' in a while.  What use do you possibly think a bunch of bandits have for cut lumber?"
[20:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He leans forward, "Can they eat it?  Drink it?  Spend it?  You see any horses with that lot when they tried to bushwhack you?"
[20:09] <Hannes> "According to Herr Hightower, it's rare."
[20:09] <Hannes> "Your questions have the same answer. No."
[20:09] <Johann> "So they only attack merchants leaving."
[20:10] <Johann> "It is unusual to say the least, gold is so much easier to make use of and the arriving merchants bring it"
[20:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Near enough to round off the difference," the hermit says gruffly.  He reaches down to scratch his dog.
[20:10] <Hannes> "Ye gods. When's the last time any one actually harvested lumber?"
[20:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I don't ask questions I don't want to know the answer to," Abelard replies to Hannes, "I might not like who answers them or how."  He reaches over, retrieving his leg and strapping it to his stump.
[20:12] <Johann> "So you are telling us that the bandits steal back the timber and return it to the mill?"
[20:12] <Hannes> "That's what I'm thinking. Are there any rosewood trees still in the forest?"
[20:13] <Liltrude> "That'd explain why they wouldn't attack the vilage as well."
[20:13] <Roger> "Who would stand to gain from this, aside from the lumbermen?"
[20:13] <Johann> I don't think they'd be able to get away with a lack of any trees, after all every time they cut the boards down they lose a bit more to sawdust"
[20:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "All questions I don't ask, because who would trust a crippled old deserter?" Abelard says bitterly, "Bandits that only steal lumber and live near a village they never attack?  Even Bretonnian fairy stories aren't so naive.  But asking might not get one the answers they want," he stands, slowly, and regards you with his pale green eyes.
[20:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "There are other wolves than the kind you find in forests, boys," he says gruffly, and turns for the door of his shack, "See to it you know where they are, or you're liable to be taken in the flank."
[20:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Without so much as a by-your-leave, the hermit opens the door, waits for his dog, and closes it in your faces.
[20:20] <Roger> "He had far more insights than anyone else in town."
[20:20] <Johann> "Or knew just what to say to mislead us:
[20:21] <Roger> "I do not think he was trying to mislead us."
[20:21] <Hannes> "Let us go speak with the Friar."
[20:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Temple of Sigmar is empty when you arrive, save the friar and the two mercenaries who came with Johann to the village.
[20:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The pair nod at their former charge, relaxing and sipping from large beer steins - apparently the friar remains a genial host.
[20:23] * Johann waves to his mercenary friends
[20:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The mess the friar and Ernst made has been cleaned up, actually, the temple seems in better order than you've ever seen it.  That may have something to do with the friar's upcoming replacement, the news of which Johann deilvered.
[20:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Presently, Friar Ulfbert is sorting through some paperwork, frowning and comparing things, "This is going to be hard to explain," he mutters.  Noticing your arrival, he looks up.
[20:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ah, good to see you about," he says with a somewhat forced grin.
[20:25] * Johann glances over at the friar "What's going to be hard to explain?"
[20:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "No idea why I'm bothering with this paperwork when there's some wolf among the sheep, but..." he shrugs.
[20:26] <Hannes> "Sorry, Father... we're just... investigating the wolf. Tell me, how do you feel about Ferndorf... your charge here..."
[20:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ah, initiate.  Well, you see, when you're rural friar, sometimes you have to take...expenses...to tend to the flock.  Bring them into Sigmar's light.  You draw more flies with honey, my father was wont to say."
[20:27] <Hannes> "Such as those bandits plaguing the merchants?"
[20:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar frowns, "It's been a fair enough posting.  These are mostly Taal's folk.  Frankly - and I already told Initiate Johann this - I think they just wanted to remind folk that Sigmar is the Empire's god, even in this dark wood."  He frowns at Hannes's second question, looking confused, "They're not sheep but wolves.  Er, pardon the pun.  Bad time for it, I know."
[20:28] <Johann> "And not all the accounting matches up?>
[20:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It's not all documented properly," the friar explains, "I'll want to leave things in order for my replacement when he arrives.  Wouldn't do for the Temple to think I'd been spending offerings on this gut of mine, heh."
[20:30] <Johann> "Yep that would be unfortunate"
[20:32] <Hannes> "Who hasn't been tithing their fair share?"
[20:32] <Johann> "So, we've come across a theory that may connect the bandits, to the wolves, to at least some of the townsfolkS"
[20:33] <Liltrude> "That's a lot to deal with."
[20:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar looks to Hannes, "That's between them and Sigmar.  I can say most here meet the minimum tithe.  As much as any community does, anyway.  Which is, well," he waves his hand.  At Johann's words, he leaves off, "What is that, initiate?"
[20:36] <Johann> "Some of the bandits reselling rosewood to lazy woodsmen"
[20:36] <Hannes> "Yes, that is what we've come to understand."
[20:37] <Johann> "It could be part of the entire mill's busines plan, or simply a scheme of some of the others/
[20:38] <Hannes> "Either or, the wood is the source of greed for this entity."
[20:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar grunts, the expression on his face curious.  It's the look of one who has, at last, been made to face something he has suspected, "You think someone in the village is colluding with this outlaw band?"
[20:43] <Johann> "YTes, and someone willing to engage in such dealings would certainly be a fit host for a spirit of greed"
[20:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The two mercenaries exchange a look, as if they're wondering if they should even be hearing this.  The friar pinches the bridge of his nose, "Indeed they would.  But the question is - who?"
[20:46] * Johann glances over at the mercs "Hey don't worry, we'll hopefully find the were before they can transform and attack, and if you do end up getting drawn into the fight you'll be well paid"
[20:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Why is it all these little villages all seem to have some deep, dark hidden shame?" one grumbles.
[20:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "How do you propose we uncover this parasite?" the friar asks.
[20:52] <Hannes> "We still have to find out who has the most to gain from the collusion."
[20:52] <Johann> "And how much of the wood is truly harvested"
[20:54] <Hannes> "I have my doubts that rosewood trees still grow in this forest."
[20:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well," the friar says carefully, "I can say this.  It did not seem so strange at the time, but in this light..."
[20:55] <Johann> "What?"
[20:55] <Hannes> "Tell us what you can, Father."
[20:55] <Johann> "Unless literally all of the woodworkers were in on it the fact that they're cutting only wood that's already been cut would tip people off"
[20:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "About a year ago, Herr Forster - the elder, that is, not young Abelard - approached me wondering if I would be investing in an ongoing venture between him, Herr Ernst, and Herr Schmeid.  His proposal was that I invest temple funds into the affair, and he promised a return, for the greater glory of Sigmar," the friar's expression is unreadable.
[20:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I told him, of course, that that was impossible - I can't 'invest' gold given in Sigmar's name.  The Temple is not a bank."
[20:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The Herrs expressed their understanding and did not bring it to me again."
[20:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Actually, Herr Forster made a generous donation to show that he had not intended to defraud the Temple, and he's a tight-fisted sort."
[20:58] <Johann> "A fair point"
[21:00] <Liltrude> "... I see."
[21:14] <Roger> "Did he give any details as to what the venture entailed?"
[21:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "He wasn't specific, no," the friar says, "I didn't really wait for the details.  Those three families - the Ernsts, the Schmeids, and the Forsters - control the major organs of Ferndorf.  I assumed it had something to do with lumber."
[21:25] <Hannes> "This is... troubling. Our questions lead to more questions."
[21:26] <Johann> "They always do"
[21:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "So see now, Johann, why they say 'blessed is the mind too small for doubt.'"
[21:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar gives an ironical smile.
[21:30] <Johann> "yep"
[21:33] <Liltrude> "I like questions though.  They make life so much less boring."
[21:37] <Roger> "I would prefer a simple solution."
[21:37] <Roger> "I believe those are all the questions we have for now, however."
[21:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "A word of warning," the friar cautions, "Be careful who you point your finger at.  These are powerful men, and you are not from here.  I will lend what assistance I may when the time comes, but the better evidence you have, the more easily it will go."
[21:39] <Johann> "Yep, that's my belief"
[21:41] <Liltrude> "We already made some enemies of powerful men  Whats one more."
[21:41] <Hannes> "Thank you for your assistance, Father. We need to talk to the blacksmith."
[21:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Sigmar be with you."
[21:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You leave Friar Ulfbert to massage his accounts and strike out for the forge.  Truthfully, you've only ever passed it before, but you'd know where it is anyway, having passed it on the way to Abelard's humble abode.
[21:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The sound of a hammer rings out as you draw closer, a pure note, regular and clear.  The forge itself, open to the air, is attached to a small shop.
[21:47] <Hannes> "Guten tag."
[21:48] * Johann peers inside to see who's hammering
[21:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Presently, Otthilda is manning the anvil.  Her blonde hair is tied up and covered with a cloth, and she wears the typical smith's accoutrements: a thick apron, a simple blouse, and long trousers.  The woman looks up at Hannes's voice and smiles, wiping her brow with one forearm.
[21:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "There you lot are!  Hope my father didn't give you too much of a scare last night.  He can be a real beast, but he's just protective," she shrugs sheepishly.  Who isn't embarrassed by their parents sometimes?
[21:53] <Hannes> "You know where he is?"
[21:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Da?  He's inside the shop, straightening up."
[21:55] <Hannes> "We need to talk to him. You as well."
[21:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The young woman smiles, bemused, "Alright," she says, placidly enough, though her eyes are wary.  Perhaps it was something in Hanne's tone.
[21:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda shows you into the store, leaving behind her hammer.  It's a small building, hot and close thanks to the wall it shares with the forge (stone, of course).
[21:57] <Johann> "Is his hand feeling any better?"
[21:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It's stiff, but it doesn't look like it's getting worse," Otthilda says, "A good thing, since da hates visting Abelard."
[21:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The store is no Nuln armory.  Most of the stock holds no interest to adventurers.  Rivets, nails, spikes, axe heads, metal tools or bits of tools of various description.
[21:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Only one wall - behind the counter - is taken up with a number of weapons, many of which are in ill or partial repair, all of disparate styles.
[22:00] <Hannes> "Quite the shop you have here. Perfect for a small village like Ferndorf."
[22:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert glowers at Hannes, green eyes wary beneath a mop of dark hair, "Aye," he says finally, "We get by.  Something you needed, Averlander?"
[22:03] <Johann> "I wanted to appologize for failing to bind your hand right":
[22:03] <Johann> "Well, at least not as well as I could
[22:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man sighs, deflating some, "That was no wrong of yours, initiate.  It was dark, anyway.  So what can I help you with?"
[22:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I'm not a city smith, I'm afraid.  Mostly I make tools."
[22:05] <Johann> "We think the were is some sorta creature of greed, plus there's always the old weakness to silver to fall back on"
[22:06] <Johann> "So you wouldn't happen to have anything we could say rent in the gilt category?"
[22:07] * Roger 's eyes linger on the weapons in the back for a moment, but he says nothing.
[22:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man frowns, confused, "Gilt weapons?  I don't have anything like that.  Of course, you've seen the friar's hammer - that's gilt.  I could probably gild your weapons for you, if you wanted, but it wouldn't last."
[22:08] * Johann strokes his chin in thought "We could try that, though we're assuming it's a greed for coin or goods and not a more metaphorical greed for a person.,"
[22:09] <Liltrude> "Yeah, it's tough. For sure."
[22:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The smith simply looks confused.  He's not been subject to your musings, of course, "You lot feeling dizzy or something?"
[22:10] * Johann shrugs "I may ask the friar to borrow his hammer, but how much other than the material cost since we'll hand you the coins to melt would you charge"
[22:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I can fetch a bucket from the well," Otthilda offers.
[22:10] <Johann> (Wow I phrased that all wrong
[22:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well-" Odhert begins.
[22:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Oh, I'd do it for free," Otthilda puts in.
[22:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I mean, provided you have the gold."
[22:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Hilde-" Odhert says.
[22:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Da," the young woman scolds, "I'm sure it's to help the village.  Anyway, it's their gold."
[22:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The smith subsides with a grunt.
[22:12] <Johann> "Wpould it be possible to gild silver and gold onto the same weapon?
[22:12] <Johann> "And once we kill the beast you can pull the gold out of its flesh and keep it to boot"
[22:13] <Hannes> "The Initiate is looking for a weapon to fight the wolves." Hannes would shake his head. "What can you tell me, Herr Odhert... about the deal you are in with the Friar and the Stump and the Lumber Mill."
[22:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It's doable.  I could acid etch the blade and pour in that.  Or just add to the fuller.  It'll chip out, of course."
[22:14] * Johann nods "I take it you'll need at least a coin's worth of each?
[22:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Depends on how much you want to add, and how much the coins have been debased.  It'll probably cost you all several karls."
[22:16] <Johann> "I only have pocketchange really"
[22:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert grunts, "We've all known each other since we were boys.  We help one another when one or the other is having trouble, give each other preferential pricing.  All of us are invested in one another.  Well - except Rudolf.  He's possessive of that inn of his, and owns it fully."
[22:19] <Johann> "What kind of new venture would you three need the church's money to start up?"
[22:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert frowns, "I don't know anything about that," he says.
[22:21] <Johann> "So you put in your part of the pot without being told, or he approached the Friar before actually checking in with you?"
[22:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I tell you, I don't know what deal you're talking about," the friar says.  There is an edge of confusion in his voice.  Otthilda watches warily.
[22:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (The smith, not the friar.)
[22:24] <Johann> "I am sure the innkeeper probably just approached the Friar first and when he declined chose not to waste your time"
[22:25] <Johann> "Or decided to try his venture on a smaller scale alone"
[22:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert grunts, "I have no idea what you're talking about, boy.  Rudolf and I are friends, not husband and wife, I'm not his keeper."
[22:30] <Hannes> "I see, I see. Herr Odhert... are you aware of the Bandits operating in the area?"
[22:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Who isn't?  Bastards mostly leave us alone.  Ruining business as of late."
[22:32] <Johann> "Though they've not totally killed business yet I would hope"
[22:32] <Liltrude> "Isn't it odd though how they leave you alone?"
[22:33] <Hannes> "Yes, odd how they only attack merchants traveling away from the town. So, mein herr, which of you negotiated with the bandits in your little scheme? Yourself? Herr Rudolf? Herr Ernst? It was quite clever indeed. Have the bandits steal the lumber, return it to the mill, and repeat the process the next time a merchant comes through." Hannes clicks his tongue several times, like a father who found his son eating sugar.
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man pauses carefully, "...Otthilda, step outside."
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Da, what-"
[22:34] * Johann glances at Hannes "Uhhh, that seems like quite a leap of logic."
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Otthilda!"
[22:34] * Johann stops his objection when the man reacts so viscerally
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The girl gives you a wide-eyed look, opens the door, and obeys her father.
[22:35] * Johann 's hand drops to his side,r eady to grab either stake or hammer
[22:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert sighs, taking a deep breath, and presses his broad hands to the small of his back.
[22:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You understand, this wasn't something I wanted to do."
[22:35] <Hannes> "No criminal wants to explain their scheme."
[22:36] <Liltrude> "So, someone else wanted you to do it then?  Who?"
[22:38] <Hannes> "My theory... is that one of you three are the werewolf. Or if someone else has convinced you to do this, then they are. The person who has invited a daemon of greed into his heart, because less then a man, and putting all his friends and family and neighbors at risk."
[22:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert sneers, "How fairly said for some nob brat from Averland, walking around in clothes his parents bought wearing a sword worth more than I make in months," the man says bitterly.
[22:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "When the other two came to me, I was in debt, and badly ill.  It was a simple enough exchange.  They would see I was solvent - or my daughter was, should I die - and I would mend some robber's swords.  There would be a minimum of killing, because they'd always outnumber their marks," the smith shrugs massive shoulders.
[22:41] <Hannes> "Herr Ernst and Herr Rudolf, correct?" He'll let the comment about his family and the rest slide for now.
[22:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Yes."
[22:41] <Hannes> "And what of the Friar?"
[22:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert laughs, "I told you, I have no idea what you're talking about.  You think because he's fat and drunk that he must be corrupt?  You're greener than you look."
[22:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I don't know what insanity this is about that monster from two nights ago being related to this.  I'll own to what you accuse me of, because it's true, but if you accuse me of consorting with daemons again, boy, I will kill you where you stand and send you to your mother in a pine box."
[22:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Odhert reaches below the counter.
[22:43] <Hannes> "The Friar mentioned that yourself, Herr Ernst, and Herr Rudolf came to him and asked for an investiture of temple funds for some endeavor you would all pay back."
[22:44] <Liltrude> "We heard.. that the Werewolf.  Is actually a Spirit of Greed.  That was invited into this town, and resides in a person.  Uses them as its throne." Liltrude says, speaking honestly to him, "If you have any ideas as to whom it may be.  We can end this sooner rather then later.  And we can find out what the thing covets, so we can end it for good."
[22:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Then he mentioned me in error, or else someone spoke for me.  Involve the friar in this?  I was desperate, but I'm not stupid.  He's a good man."
[22:46] <Liltrude> "Mayhaps we should speak to the friar again.  With you there.  Clear up the matters."
[22:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He turns to Liltrude, a look of unease crossing his craggy, unlovely features, "I don't know what any of that means, girl, but Rudolf is the head of...this," he gestures to the weapons on the back wall.
[22:47] <Hannes> "The Friar said he refused to buy in, but... this was about a year ago..." He pondered. And pondered some more. "We need to talk with Herr Forster, once more." He would turn to Odhert. "Good day, mein herr. We will get to the bottom of this."
[22:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Don't speak of this to Otthilda," the man says, his voice losing all of its steel, "I'll - I'll tell her myself.  Just...let me be the one to do it."
[22:49] <Liltrude> "I understand that." Liltrude says. "It'll be best to hear from you.  Especially as you were doing it to protect her."
[22:52] * Hannes would head over to the Stump. He has to talk with Herr Forster.
[22:52] * Johann follows along
[22:54] * Roger leaves as well, having not said a word through the encounter
[22:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda seems about to stop you, but her father calls out to her.
[22:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With a confused glance in your direction, she returns to the shop to speak to her father.
[22:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The sun is beginning to go down in Ferndorf, though the heat is unremitting.
[22:56] * Johann taps roger on the shoulder
[22:56] <Johann> Wait no
[22:56] * Johann taps roger and hannes on the shoulders
[22:57] <Hannes> "Yes?"
[22:57] <Johann> "Can we grab that hammer first?"
[22:57] <Hannes> "Which hammer?"
[22:58] <Roger> "The gilded one, from the Friar?"
[22:59] <Johann> "Aye"
[22:59] <Johann> "Though it seems quite large, I may not be much good with it"
[22:59] <Hannes> "Johann... you do realize that all evidence seems to point to the Friar as being the prime caninidate, correct?"
[23:00] <Johann> "Then asking him for the hammer may seal the deal"
[23:00] <Johann> "Also the Friar never said that Schmeid visited"
[23:00] <Johann> "Only that Forster said he was speaking on his behalf"
[23:00] <Johann> "Same for Ernst"
[23:02] * Liltrude (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) Quit (Ping timeout)
[23:02] <Hannes> "I see... you have that stake, still?"
[23:03] <Johann> "Yes, do you want it?"
[23:03] <Hannes> "No... but if Forster is the wolf, then it's the source."
[23:04] <Johann> "Wood or it could just be something as base as gold, I want both just to be certain"
[23:05] <Hannes> "Fine. Give the stake to Roger, and go get the hammer... and ask the mercenaries to join you. Just in case. We'll confront Herr Forster."
[23:05] <Roger> "Killing the beast will be less difficult than ensuring it does not flee."
[23:05] <Johann> "So long as you're paying them"
[23:06] <Hannes> "We'll charge the temple. We're fighting a monster."
[23:06] * Johann hands off the hammer to the knight and heads for the temple knogking at the door.
[23:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> One of the mercenaries opens it up - Karl - and nods, "Initiate Ferric," he says.
[23:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar looks up from his rat's nest of papers, "Johann?  You don't need to knock, boy," he chuckles, "The house of Sigmar is your house, too.  What is it?"
[23:08] <Johann> "Well we think we've tracked down the wolf problem, and since it's a creature of lust for gold, a gilt hammer, or better yet a blessed gilt hammer may be the best option for destroying it"
[23:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar stands with a surprised grunt, "Honestly, boy, I didn't expect you to figure it out," he turns, retrieving the massive, finely-made warhammer from the wall; a symbol of his office.  "Who is it, what proof do we have?"
[23:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He strides forward with surprising vigor for a man of his age.
[23:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The marcenaries - Karl and Franz - exchange a surprised look of their own.
[23:13] <Johann> "We're still not completely certain but we are leaning heavily towards Forster or the bandit leader"
[23:13] <Johann> "POSSIBLY ernst..."
[23:14] <Johann> "We're on our final stage of questioning"
[23:14] <Johann> "And then we'll show them sigmar's retribution."
[23:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar frowns, "You don't sound very sure, intiate.  We're not witch hunters, we're not going to be putting people in thumbscrews to narrow it down."
[23:15] <Johann> "We won't"
[23:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He considers, jaw working, "I will come, however.  We may have needs to avail ourselves of Sigmar's retribution if you are right.
[23:15] <Johann> "We'll at the very least get the location of the bandit"
[23:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With that, the friar exits the temple, waiting expectantly for Johann.
[23:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The two mercenaries fall in line as well, "Should've stayed in Beckerdorf, become a baker," mutters Franz.
[23:16] * Johann follows behind "You two will be paid, never fear."
[23:17] * Roger follows.
[23:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Black Stump is starting to get busy for the evening.  With the help of the lumber mill toughs, it seems the palisade has been well-reinforced, though only a few of them seem to have turned up for a drink.
[23:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf's wife informs you that her husband can be found in his office, going over receipts.  She eyes the friar warily.
[23:19] <Hannes> "Danke." Hannes would move to the office, knocking on the door. "Herr Rudolf! We must speak once more."
[23:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Friar Ulfbert, for his part, almost seems like a different man.  He's still fat-gutted and ruddy-faced, but his faded blue eyes show an intensity you would not credited the slovenly fellow with just a day or two ago.  The presence of the hammer doesn't hurt.
[23:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Busy now, lads," a voice calls out, "Later."
[23:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar speaks up, "It will have to be now, Herr Forster," the friar says in a clipped voice.
[23:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> On the other side of the door, there is only silence.  After a moment, you hear several locks click, and the bear-like innkeeper stares out at you warily.
[23:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He pales and steps back, "Alright, come in."
[23:22] * Hannes would enter. "This... has been an interesting... few days, Herr Rudolf."
[23:22] * Johann steps inside, hand resting on the hammer at his belt
[23:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar takes a spot at the back of the office, watching proceedings silently.  The warhammer he plants in between his legs, head facing down.  It gives him the look of a headsman.
[23:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf Forster is silent, looking from face to face, but giving no voice to any ideas that might be tumbling in his head.
[23:24] <Hannes> "I don't know where to begin, Herr Rudolf. But, I'm... I'm curious. Did you seek to have the Temple of Sigmar fund your scheme with the bandits?"
[23:25] * Johann idly draws his hammer from his hip though he does not raise it
[23:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You see a flicker of anger convulse across the friar's face as Hannes speaks, and now you see how this man might've once put terror into the hearts of degenerate northmen and the foul beasts they cavort with.  Rudolf, for his part, swallows.
[23:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I don't know what you're talking ab-"
[23:26] * Johann glares
[23:26] <Hannes> "The smith has already come clean, mein herr!"
[23:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf taps sausage-thick fingers on the surface of his desk, his face ashen, "Have you gentlemen ever heard the phrase 'catching a tyger by the tail?'"
[23:28] <Hannes> "I absolutely don't care, mein herr. I have the blood of heroes flowing through my veins. Outlaw or werewolf, I have discovered your secret, I have discovered your weakness, you have no power here no longer!"
[23:29] * Johann shifts his stance, shield up front and hammer nearly raised "Wolf, tiger, or merely a greedy traitor you're going to face punishment"
[23:29] * Roger draws his sword and shield, ready for combat.
[23:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Wait!  Wait!" the man yells, holding his hands up, "Let me speak, let me speak, I assure you!"
[23:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The bandits came to ME!"
[23:31] <Hannes> "And are you going to stand there and tell me that the bandit leader is the one that let a daemon into his heart and soul? Let them be twisted into a thing of greed in service of dark powers!?"
[23:31] * Johann settles slightly "Next time you want to use an analogy about catching a dangerous animal by the tail please do try not to use it with a bunch of agitated monster-unters"
[23:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The big man has stumbled back against the wall, his muscular bulk pressed against the wood, "Their leader said he could work with us or against us, and - well - what choice did I have?"
[23:31] <Johann> "You can see where there would be some misunderstanding there"
[23:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He swallows thickly, "Y-you can't think I'M that monster?!?"
[23:33] <Johann> "We're fairly certain it's you, ernst, or the bandit"
[23:34] <Hannes> "I do not think, mein herr... I know! It could only be someone from the village. That is fact, the protections that bless this village make it so. The monster is green of eye and black of hair. That is true, I saw it with mine own eyes. It could not be the friar, he denied your scheme... it could not be the smith. It could not be Ernst. Neither of them had the same greed in their heart that you do!"
[23:35] <Johann> "I don't know about that"
[23:35] <Johann> "Ernst is pretty broken up, could be as much guilt as grief"
[23:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I told you, I wanted no part of this!  It was forced on us!" the man looks around wildly, "My brother - Abelard - you KNOW he was an outlaw!  He's been the go-between!"
[23:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar grunts, "You'd accuse your own brother?" he says.  The disgust in his voice is thick.
[23:36] <Johann> "So, mein herr, did the bandit leader approach you or did you use your crippled brother a go-between? You contradict yourself!"
[23:37] <Johann> "And this bandit, was he ever a member of this community?"
[23:37] <Hannes> "He brought in Ernst so the bandits would be able to return the stolen lumber. He brought in Oldhert to repair their weapons. All of this, it comes from you. But, I am not incapable of mercy."
[23:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf calms himself, "This started when...when my brother came back.  I tried to offer him a chance to return, to work like an honest son of Sigmar, but he rejected it...came to me with an offer from his rout, from his boss, other deserters like him.  It was work with them or they'd attack the village!  I have a daughter!  A son!"
[23:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar speaks carefully, "This sin has been confessed to me," he says carefully, "Abelard is a deserter.  But he swore before Sigmar that he took no part in the mutiny, that he was simply dragged along."
[23:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf laughs bitterly, "Then you're as much a fool as me for clutching a snake to your breast, priest."
[23:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Friar Ulfbert frowns, looking from Hannes to each of you.
[23:41] <Hannes> "Here is what we are to do, mein herr. We will stake you out in the middle of the village square. Morrsleib is full tonight. If you change into a monster, well... be thankful I am not the Templars."
[23:43] <Johann> "We don't know if the change is involuntary"
[23:43] <Johann> "And if we were just going to do that we could have staked all five of them from the begining"
[23:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf remains wisely silent.
[23:48] <Hannes> "The truth will be told tonight, I think. Are you worried, Herr Forster? Do you wish to confess? Tell us the truth, and all this can be put behind us."
[23:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I've told you it," the man grunts.
[23:50] * Johann nods "Very well, uh did anyone bring manacles?"
[23:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar produces a pair from his robes, "Turn and place your hands behind your back, mein Herr."
[23:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The innkeeper complies, slouching miserably.
[23:53] * Roger (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) Quit (Quit: )
[23:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> When you lead the innkeeper out the door, it causes (perhaps understandably) some commotion.  The friar stays behind to try and quell the strident and confused questions, Karl and Franz sticking with the friar.  The big Sigmarite looks over his shoulder, "Bring him to the temple, I'll meet you there."
[23:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "This is a mistake," Rudolf says as you frog march him, "I've only done what I had to do."
[23:56] <Johann> "Should we get the other suspects?"
[23:56] <Hannes> "We should also fetch the brother."
[23:56] <Hannes> "All of them, now I think about it."
[23:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rounding them up takes some time.  The disc of the sun sinks slowly towards the edge of the forest.  Ernst is too drunk to understand what is going on, but when he sees Odhert and Rudolf, he turns pale as ash.
[23:58] * Johann pats Ernst on the back "Don't worry, whichever of you don't turn into a wolfman will get fair trials"
[23:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda and Odhert come willingly, the girl's face filled with mixed emotions, the smith's dignified and calm.  He looks freer of mind than you would expect.
[23:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> When you come for Abelard, he stares at your menagerie, then he begins to laugh uncontrollably.
[23:59] <Johann> Put them as far appart as possible
[23:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You stupid bastard!  YOU did this!" Rudolf roars, trying to break for his brother.  The limping soldier sneers, "You did this to yourselves."
[23:59] <Johann> "Put them as far appart as possible, we don't want anyone helpless if the others turn, or if the bandit leader turns out to be the guilty party and attacks"
Session Time: Mon Jul 25 00:00:00 2016
[00:00] <Hannes> "Agreed."
[00:00] * Johann looks over at the soldier "And did you carry messages for them? Were you their contact with the bandits?"
[00:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Does it matter what I say?" he sneers, "No.  No I didn't, and no it doesn't."
[00:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Finally, you make your way back to the Temple.  The friar and the mercenaries are already there...along with about half the village.
[00:01] <Hannes> "I care less about the conspiracy with the bandits and more about which is the wolf amongst us."
[00:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Four wooden stakes have been erected, and Rudolf keens like a child when he sees them, mistaking their purpose.
[00:02] <Johann> "We're NOT going to burn you"
[00:02] <Johann> "These will just hold you in place till the moon his high
[00:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Friar Ulfbert nods at your arrival, the two temple swords working to keep the crowd back, "We'll see if any of them are the beast then."
[00:04] <Johann> "Unless of course they can supress the change in which case this is all for nothing"
[00:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "We'll pound that nail when we come to it, initiate."
[00:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Tying them up is the work of a few minutes, and the crowd proceeds to do what scared, angry crowds of superstitious commoners do - pelt the five with rocks and clods of dirt.  Rudolf trembles.  Ernst weeps, whether at the abuse or the collase of his life, who can say?  Only Odhert and Otthilda bear the entire event without betraying any great feeling.
[00:05] * Hannes would stand before the crowd. "People of Ferndorf! There is a wolf amongst you! Someone who has brought a beast of the ruinous powers past the protections of your fair village! Here stand the accused! But this is not the time of our forefathers! We will handle this with logic and reason! When the Chaos moon hangs high tonight, we will find out the truth of this matter! However, let it be known that Herrs Scheid, Forster, an
[00:06] <Hannes> orster, and Ernst have admitted to colluding with the bandits outside of your walls!"
[00:07] * Johann rubs his temples in exasperation
[00:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This brings up snarls of outrage and more hurled abuse.  Certainly it does not help to calm the crowd.
[00:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> That's when you hear something strange.  A screaming...but not from the crowd.  It carries through the thick, hot early evening air loud and clear.  It comes from the south gate.
[00:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> There's a sharp sound - a pistol crack - and many turn to see what is happening.
[00:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Staring down the hill towards the gate, cloaked shapes are striding boldly into the village, a figure at their lead has a familiar strut.
[00:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The bandits!" a woman in the crowd cries, and a panic begins.
[00:11] <Hannes> "And so the plot things."
[00:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> ================
[00:11] <Hannes> *thins
[00:11] * Johann shakes his head
[00:12] <Johann> "I guess we know why the bandits didn't get eaten by wolves"
[00:41] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) Quit (Quit: ChatZilla 0.9.92 [Firefox 47.0/20160604131506])
Session Close: Mon Jul 25 00:49:26 2016

================================================================


Session Start: Sun Jul 31 16:10:13 2016
Session Ident: #foxandwolf
[16:10] * Now talking in #foxandwolf
[16:14] * Clamber (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #foxandwolf
[16:15] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has joined #foxandwolf
[16:15] * Del (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) has joined #foxandwolf
[16:16] * Del is now known as Liltrude
[16:17] * TXTypewriter (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) has joined #foxandwolf
[16:17] * TXTypewriter is now known as Roger
[16:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The breaching of the gate below results in momentary confusion, then pandemonium.  Screams of outrage at the traitors and potential werewolf turn to yells of fear, shouted directions, and beseechings to the gods.  Some run towards the attackers, looking to join Ludwig's ersatz militia, while others flee for their homes or seemingly at random.
[16:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes>  A few remember the words Hannes had spoken - that the villagers you have bound were working with the bandits - and round angrily on the helpless captives.
[16:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Burn them!" one shouts.
[16:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Friar Ulfbert hefts his hammer, "Brothers, sisters!  Not while the enemy is at our gates!"
[16:22] * Roger grunts in consternation, and holds the symbol of the Lady at his side
[16:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The normally-jolly Sigmarite's exortation does no good - one of the villagers hurls a lit lantern, missing Otthilda by scant inches.  The oil-filled vessel explodes on the ground, perilously close to the Temple of Sigmar.
[16:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A gaggle of villagers press forward, intent on obeying the impulse for preemptive vengeance.
[16:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Abelard laughs madly.
[16:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At least two dozen bandits are forcing their way in below, the mincing form of Fuchs at their lead.  He holds up his pistol again and fires.  A charging villager collapses.
[16:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ludwig, easily identified by the long barrel of his gun, returns fire, missing Fuchs but exploding the head of a bandit behind him.
[16:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Villagers armed with hunting bows take cover behind stumps, buildings, overturned carts and give fire to the bandit rabble as they advance, their superior numbers allowing them to make steady progress.
[16:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Behind you, the villagers you have bound try in vain to plead with their neighbors.
[16:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A pair of toughs rush into the Black Stump, and the screams of Rudolf's daughter and wife can soon be heard joining the general chaos as they are dragged from their family's property.
[16:27] * Hannes draws his rapier, and with a curse, cuts the bound villagers free. "Hide, flee, or fight! People of Ferndorf! Rally around me! If these wolves wish to fight, they will find one son of Siggurd draws breath! FUR SIGMAR!"
[16:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar wades into the crowd, bellowing oaths, looking less like his usual fat, slovenly self and more like what he should.  He brings the haft of his hammer into the gut of one of the toughs.  When the other pulls a skinning knife, the old Sigmarite crushes his skull.
[16:29] * Roger draws his sword, glowing with a familiar green light. "Foul knaves! Come forth and see how a Knight of Bretonnia fights!"
[16:29] * Clamber shrugs and looks at the prisoners "Uh, try to take cover behind the poles, we haven't teh time or inclination to heal you
[16:29] <Clamber> free you*
[16:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "FOR SIGMAR!" the friar bellows, echoing Hannes's cry.  Between the Averlander, the friar, and Roger's baleful blade, the would-be lynch mob disintegrates.
[16:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Some rush to help, while others flee for safety, but for now your captives are safe.
[16:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> That won't last long, for below the bandits are advancing.  Ludwig's militia is falling back, several die pincushioned with arrows as the bandits punish their attempt to withdraw.
[16:31] * Clamber taps his hammer against his shield and charges any bandit that's isolated, or failing that charges the leader.
[16:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf's wife storms forward, trying to force her way to her husband, her waifish daughter clinging to her skirts and trembling, looking very much not bored for a change.
[16:31] * Roger charges down towards the advancing bandits, shield held forward and sword over his shoulder.
[16:32] * Hannes follows his comrade. "It never rains, but it pours, Roger. Let's find ourselves a nice corner in a tapestry, aye?"
[16:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The sun is but a fading glow on the horizon.
[16:34] * Clamber is now known as Johann
* Retrieving #foxandwolf modes...
[16:41] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'Roger, Bandit Rabble 2, Johann, Hannes, Fuchs, Bandit Rabble 1, Liltrude'
[16:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Roger is easily able to reach the cover of a pile of busted crates and barrels awaiting recycling before the mob even notice their old "friends."
[16:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> One quartet of highway robbers, however, see their foes and shout warnings, letting loose with their bows.
[16:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> black-fletched arrows whistle through the air, impacting Roger's cover harmlessly.  Another falls well short of Hannes, but the last impacts the Averlander's leg.
[16:50] * Johann chargers for the isolated leader, trying to keep his shield interposed btween himself and the archers
[16:51] * Johann howls furious prayers the entire way
[16:52] * Hannes dashes over to Roger's cover. "Damnable bandits. Don't we have anyone to provide us covering fire?" He notices the arrow wound on his leg. "The bastards!"
[16:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The handsome rogue's eyes go wide as he sees the battle-mad initiate of the man-god charging him.  Muttering an oath to Ranald, the raises his pistol, aims, and fires.
[16:53] <Roger> "The Lady provides all the protection I need!"
[16:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The 50 caliber ball goes whistling to the left of Johann's ear, impacting the wood post Rudolf is bound to, right between his legs.
[16:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Kill him, you idiots!" Fuchs screams to some of his motley assortment.
[16:57] * Johann shouts about Sigmar's divine protection
[16:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A quartet of archers fire upon the charging Sigmarite.
[17:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The deadly rain is more effective than the pistol shot - 2 arrows barely touch the initiate, but the third flies true and buries itself deep in a weak point in his armor.
[17:02] * Johann crumples to the ground as if dead, banking on the distraction of the crowd to keep from getting looked at again
[17:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Good shot!  A double share for you, Lars!" Fuchs says.
[17:06] * Johann does try to look like a heroic martyr as he falls
[17:06] <Johann> GOtta make sure the town mroeale doens;t crumple
[17:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The ostensible death of a son of Sigmar bravely (if somewhat foolishly) charging into battle whips those villagers defending Ferndorf into a fury as the call goes up.  They push back against the attacking bandits, isolating Fuchs and his handful.
[17:18] * Roger stands, seeing Johann fall. Wordlessly, he breaks from his cover, closing the distance to the bandit leader in a flash and bringing his sword down. The blow leaves the man's arm a mangled red ruin as the sword flashes down in an arc of green.
[17:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Fuchs screams like a woman as his arm is destroyed, the servicable backsword he was carrying clattering to the ground as links of mail part before the knight's blade.
[17:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bandit staggers back, ashen-faced.
[17:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Immediately, the bandits fire on Roger, trying to avoid hitting their stricken leader.
[17:26] * Roger apparently has the presense of mind to keep aware of his surroundings. One arrow passes through the space Roger had been standing in only a split second before as the Knight Errant deftly steps to avoid it, while two others deflect off of his shield harmlessly, their shafts breaking.
[17:28] * Johann stays down for the moment, keeping sharp for anyone fool enough to wander over him
[17:31] * Johann dramatically rises to his feet and heads for cover, wounded but wiser
[17:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bandits miss Johann's narrow escape, mostly because of what happens immediately after.
[17:37] * Hannes makes Lars pay dearly as he fires off the pistol at the bandit, hitting him in the arm!
[17:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The scruffy man gives a yelp of surprise and pain as the lead ball tears into his arm, passing through his rawhide armor as if it didn't exist.
[17:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Fuchs is made of sterner stuff than most outlaws, though - he draws his long, brutal dagger with a bitter snarl, stabbing out at the knight - but failing to connect.
[17:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The other bandits try to lend their fire in support of their captain, but his presence makes aiming difficult.
[17:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The arrows impact the earth harmlessly around the pair.
[17:50] * Liltrude pops out of cover, and unleashes a crossbow bolt towards Fuchs. Landing dead center in his chest with a sickening sound. She would smile slightly at this. Crossbows aren't really her thing, not enough bang. But still, that was... satisfying.
[17:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The look on the bandit's face is one of utter disbelief.  He drops down where he stands without so much of a whisper of sound, dead.
[17:51] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'Roger, Bandit Rabble 2, Johann, Hannes, Bandit Rabble 1, Liltrude'
[17:52] <Hannes> "Their leader is dead! Let us scatter them!"
[17:57] * Roger doesn't even break his stride, getting in amongst the bandits as their leader falls. He chops the arm off the one named Lars in a single, swift motion, his sword sliding through the flesh like so much butter.
[17:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man screams like a stuck pig, blood gouting across the knight's armor in a brief jet before the dying man collapses to the earth.  The shocked bandits stumble back at this vision of Ulric's fury among them.
[18:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The other squad instead fires again, focusing on Roger.
[18:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Only one of the lowlifes seems to have Ranald's favor, his close fired arrow managing to find flesh despite the heavy protection the knight is wearing.
[18:05] * Roger looks towards the three bandits remaining around him as blood sprays across his armor, looking like he's about to charge one of them in order to keep his killing momentum going. At that moment, an arrow springs through Roger's neck, punching through the maille as blood spurts from the wound.
[18:05] * Johann tries to bind his own wound, forcing the arrow through and out
[18:05] * Roger doesn't even flinch, his helmet turning slowly towards the group that had just loosed at him and managed to wound him.
[18:05] <Johann> etc
[18:10] * Hannes charges into battle to fight along side his bretonnian ally!
[18:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Averlander's flashing blade forces a bow-armed bandit back, but doesn't manage to draw blood.
[18:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Incensed, Hannes's foe drops his bow, drawing his pigsticker of a sword and attacking.
[18:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He's too focused on his foe to notice the other two members of his 'squad' exchange a glance, turn tail, and run.
[18:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bandit's fury lends him an element of surprise, and his blade kisses the Abverlander's face, drawing red.
[18:20] * Hannes takes the blow to his head, the sword rakes across his face blood spilling from the wound. "AAAAGH!"
[18:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "More where that came from, nob!" the bandit snarls.
[18:28] <Roger> "No, there is not."
[18:28] * Roger promptly cleaves the bandit's skull in twain.
[18:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This drenches the Averlander in carmine and red matter.  That'll never come out.
[18:30] <Hannes> "I had the situation well undercontrol, Roger!"
[18:31] * Roger 's sword doesn't actually stop at the skull, continuing through and stopping halfway down his torso, his upper half coming apart in a gruesome display and exposing his internals to the external world.
[18:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The remaining bandits witness this terror - three dead, including their captain, two fled - and decide that discretion is the better part of valor.  A trio of the bandits sprint for the safety of the gate and the forest beyond.
[18:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The last remaining one fires a shot on Roger.
[18:32] <Roger> "Not well enough, it seems."
[18:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He has no luck this time, however; his arrow barely misses the knight, impacting the collapsing corpse of his comrade.
[18:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> All these fleeing bandits is drawing the attention of their comrades, still engaged with the villagers.
[18:34] * Roger yanks the sword from the man's body with enough force to pull it along, interposing the body between himself and the lone firer. The arrow thuds through the man's lifeless, mangled carcass as Roger looks towards the one remaining bandit.
[18:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Badly put upon themselves - thanks in no small part to Ludwig's experienced directions and the inspiration brought on by Johann's heroic "death" - the sight of their leader's corpse tears it.
[18:34] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to ']'
[18:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> They begin to withdraw for the gate.  Even the bandit that had wounded Roger seems ready to bolt like a rabbit.
[18:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The sickly green glow of Morrslieb ascendant casts their fearful features in stark relief.
[18:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Wait.
[18:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Morrslieb?
[18:36] <Hannes> "Time for the wolf to reveal themselves..."
[18:36] * Johann casts his eyes to the prisoners
[18:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As if called by the bloodshed in Ferndorf, a peal of calls goes up around the village.  There must be dozens of voices in the chorus, and they are not shy in showing themselves.
[18:36] <Johann> "I hope someone remembered to shut the gate behind those bandits"
[18:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The retreating bandits run straight into a mob of ravening, mad wolves.  The cheering villagers find themselves beset by fresh foes, having had no chance to get to the gate and close it.
[18:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> On the hill by the Temple, a curious scene plays out before your eyes.
[18:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You might expect a transformation from man to beast to be slow, but when Rudolf Forster's transformation begins, it's like watching hot wax melt.
[18:38] <Hannes> "Johann! Get the stake!"
[18:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Hideous bristles of fur push up through his beard, then his face, then tear through his clothing.  A sound like an animal being torn apart joint by joint resounds through the village.  The bear-sized innkeeper breaks effortlessly free from his binding manacles, and falls to all fours, snarling and grunting.
[18:39] <Roger> "So the truth reveals itself..."
[18:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> His family flees screaming down the hill, and the howls of his bound neighbors seem to add to the monster's agitation.
[18:40] <Hannes> "Enough posturing. We slay the monster."
[18:40] * Johann lays a Karl against a rock and brings his hammer down onto it in a butish attempt to make it golden
[18:40] * Hannes would make to pick up the fallen Fuchs' pistol and adding it next to his own on his belt.
[18:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You expect the beast is done changing shape, but then its flesh continues to ripple.  Joints crack and pop, and the thing takes a monsterous upright posture, face shortening, taking on an obscenely mannish aspect.
[18:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Without a moment's hesitation, the beast turns to his brother, the fellow's mind seemingly gone in his lunatic laugher, and tears him from his stake with ogre-like force, the man's arms pulling free from their sockets as he does so.  Laugher becomes a scream and then silence as the beast tears out the man's throat.
[18:43] * Hannes would take the stake from his belt... and races up the hill, a grim countenance on his bloody face. "BEAST! Prepare to meet your end!"
[18:49] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'The Beast, Wolves, Roger, Johann, Hannes, Liltrude'
[18:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast's eyes seek and find Roger, their too-human gaze narrowing in hatred as the monstrosity recognizes its foe.
[18:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With a flick of one obscenely-muscled arm, it hurls the mangled corpse of its brother at the knight.
[18:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Meanwhile, snarling wolves rush up the hill, eager and ready to take you in the flank.
[18:57] * Roger is on his way up the hill to fight the beast, and doesn't step out of the way to avoid the corpse, instead raising his shield to deflect the body. It does little more than bloody him further.
[18:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Near at hand to Hannes, Friar Ulfbert bellows Sigmar's name, shaken but not set to flight by the horrible beast's obscene emergence.
[19:04] * Johann quaffs a healing draught, savoring it despite its bitterness\
[19:07] * Johann runs towards the wolf, fleet feet carrying him far
[19:09] <Johann> Wolf-beast(
[19:13] * Hannes charges the beast, with the stake in hand. And manages to not hit the monster.
[19:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> While the unlikely trio sprint to meet the beast's challenge, the mercenaries which accompanied Johann to Ferndorf - Karl and Franz - take up the rearguard.
[19:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The air whistles as the beast lashes out at Roger, all fury and frenzy.  Its savage attack is turned aside by its more skilled opponent.
[19:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Behind you, four wolves charge the mercenaries like blood-mad beasts, the last pair skirting around to attack the knight, as if directed by the beast's malevolent will.
[19:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> One wolf latches uselessly onto Roger's arm, trying to savage it before leaping away.
[19:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The two mercenaries do their best against the wolves; Karl is scored by one beast's teeth, but Franz's flashing blade keeps his foes at bay.
[19:25] * Johann attacks the beast with his gilded hammer "You wanted gold! Now choke on it!@"
[19:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The hammer hits the beast with bone-crunching force, and the effect is immediate and vivid.  Johann's arm buzzes as if electrified, the gold coin embedded in the head blazing white hot.  The beast screams in almost human agony, the blow leaving sizzling, burnt flesh and fur-bare skin in its wake.
[19:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> In the extremity of the monster's outrage, it manages to thrash away from Hannes.  The two wolves who had until then been attacking Roger turn their amber gaze simultaneously on the young initiate.
[19:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Karl and Franz hack furiously at their foes, Franz badly wounding one of his opponents with a well placed stroke of his messer.
[19:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Heel!" he barks.
[19:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Again the beast's flesh crawls and knights itself back together...but not around the wound Johann has laid upon it.
[19:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Again the beast lashes out at Roger, and again it scores no hits - it seems the Lady works in mysterious ways.
[19:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Wolves, on the other hand, work in pretty straighforward ways.  Roger's 'friends' instead turn on Johann.
[19:36] * Roger is heavily engaged with the beast, swinging and striking in between raising his defense, a fluid series of strikes, parries and ripostes.
[19:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> While Johann is distracted by one wolf, the other leaps, tearing his flesh with yellowed teeth.
[19:41] * Johann interposes his shield between himself and those rending teeth.
[19:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Karl is faring much more poorly, his wolves snarling and tearing his lightly-armored arm to ribbons with cruel fangs, the mercenary screaming in terror.
[19:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Franz beats back the attacks of his foes furiously, "Karl!"
[19:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Johann's go.
[19:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You've got 2 wolves menacing you
[19:47] * Johann decides not to risk dislodging his coin and focuses on the beast
[19:48] * Johann whiffs anyway
[19:51] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to '*The Beast, Wolves, Roger, Johann, Hannes, Liltrude'
[19:52] * Hannes stabs at the monster with the stake, and finally lands a blow! "Johann! HAMMER IT!" He'll try to hold it there as he can!
[19:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The wooden stake sinks into the monster's flesh with surprising ease, and again it gives voice to a horrible shriek; the stake burns like a brand pulled from a fire, the wood darkening further and smoking with a fruity, woody smell and the vile stench of cooked blood.
[19:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Karl and Franz back together, the wounded mercenary favoring his right arm while Franz tries to lash out, the nimble beasts dancing back from his strikes.
[19:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The fresh wound inflicted by Hannes smokes and crackles, the flesh around it not knitting like the monster's other wounds.
[20:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast's talons flash out like liquid metal, rending easily through the armor protecting the knight's leg and tearing deep into the flesh beneath.  Scenting his foe's blood for the first time, the monster's face widens into a disturbingly human leer.
[20:03] * Roger grunts as the beast tears into his leg, breaking a few of the rings of his maille in the process. He still stands his ground, however.
[20:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> For a moment, it seems Karl is going to fend off his merciless attackers, but then one grabs him by the ankle.  Remorselessly, they drag the screaming, bleeding mercenary to the dirt, tearing out the fat artery in the man's leg.  He is white as the victim of a vampire in moments.  Franz gives a choked, sobbing cry of fury.
[20:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> That furious cry turns into one of pain as the remaining mercenary faces the keen teeth of an attacking wolf.
[20:12] * Roger is at least a little unsteady on his feet now, and his counterattack doesn't strike anything but air.
[20:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The monster dances back with almost mocking nimbleness.
[20:21] * Hannes doesn't have much else to do... but shoulder rushes the stake... driving it deeper!
[20:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast's agony is almost loud enough to make a man's ears bleed, and the blackened circle of flesh around the wound spreads.
[20:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> More worringly, the burnt, protruding end of the stake crumbles and snaps off.
[20:23] <Hannes> "Friar! Now would be a good time to bring up that warhammer of yours!"
[20:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Franz, his face almost as feral as a wolf's itself, pierces the heart of his wounded foe, the mangy beast slumping dead to the earth.
[20:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Friar Ulfbert is too busy to responded, surrounded as he is by snapping, slavering jaws.  The fat friar is bleeding from seemingly dozens of small wounds as he fans back his foes, the smashed bodies of those too slow to escape lying inert at his feet.
[20:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Sigmar helps those who help themselves!" he quips.
[20:25] <Hannes> "Don't suppose you were canny enough, Johann, to have another stake?"
[20:26] <Johann> "Only found one that was worthwhile. Any of these buildings rosewood? We can drive it for that"
[20:26] <Hannes> "I doubt it."
[20:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With a shriek like a dwarfen steam engine, the beast bullrushes Roger, tearing through his armor to rend the meat below with an awful shriek.  Not waiting for its opponent to retaliate, it picks him up and bodily hurls him at the remaining mercenary - missing, but crushing the remaining wolf to death.
[20:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The monster that was Rudolf Forster gives a scream of savage triumph that makes even its own wolves quail in fear from their master.
[20:32] * Johann calls on Sigmar!
[20:33] <Hannes> "Well, I always said I had the blood of heroes. Time to live up to it." Hannes would draw his rapier.
[20:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The monster's cry of triumph is cut short at the sound of a sharp crack - a silvery blur streaks through the air to impact the beast in the face, showering its attackers with gore and bits of bone.
[20:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Kept you waiting, huh?" Ludwig asks, then turns to club a wolf attacking him.
[20:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Hurry up and kill the thing, you Averlander milksop!" the soldier yells to Hannes.
[20:37] * Hannes isn't about to argue with that. And does so.
[20:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Franz is still hard pressed by the wolves that killed his friend and comrade, turning aside their mindless attacks even as the pair that have dogged the Averlander and Sigmarite continue their snarling, snapping attacks.
[20:48] * Hannes lashes out with his rapier, even as the wolves surround and snap. The blade catches the beast and sinks deep... unfortunately, it does not bare the weakness of the monster.
[20:51] * Liltrude aims at the monstrous wolf beast thing, with her crossbow. A bolt made of Rosewood within it, actually praying, an odd thing for a Halfling to do, that this thing will work.
[20:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The bolt flies straight and true, piercing Rudolf Forster's breast.  Incredibly, the missile keeps going, punching a gory hole through the monster's back.  It sticks, quivering, in the door of the Temple of Sigmar.
[20:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> For a moment, the monstrosity stands, green eyes full and wide.  It regards Liltrude with an almost human sense of outrage.
[20:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> And then its chest explodes in a fountain for gore, the creature ululating like a madman as it drenches everyone nearby in its tainted life's blood.
[20:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It falls over backwards, a fist-sized, smoking hole in its chest, dead.
[20:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The sound of battle ebbs at the departure of the abomination, the dozens of wolves this creature called into Ferndorf looking up, as if awoken from a dream.
[20:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> They snarl, laying back their ears, tucking their tails...and run.
[20:58] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to ''
[20:59] * Hannes is covered in blood. Drenched. Soaked. At least he didn't get any in his mouth. He walks over to the other staked citizens. "In light of current events, you have been found innocent of being the Wolf of Ferndorf." With his main guache he proceeds to cut each of them free.
[20:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The silence is broken by the cries of the wounded and the dying, and the crackle of fire consuming a few shacks that had the misfortune of being set alight during the raid.
[20:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I...I need a drink." Ernst says.
[21:00] <Hannes> "You and me both."
[21:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Franz checks on his comrade Karl, but the man is very, very dead.
[21:00] * Hannes would approach Liltrude. "Congratulations, Liltrude. I do not know many halflings that slay monsters and fell beasts."
[21:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The mercenary closes the dead man's eyes, slams his sword into his scabbard in disgust, and limps over to the Bretonnian.
[21:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He shakes the badly-wounded man, "Oi, knight, you dead?"
[21:01] * Roger coughs. "Very nearly, it would seem."
[21:02] <Hannes> "Roger! It seems Liltrude did what the three of us failed to do."
[21:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I softened it up," Ludwig jokes, then looks to Roger, "So it's not just your head that's hard?"  The Reiklander is fairly ragged himself.
[21:02] <Roger> "Splendid.  Tell me, why is a mercenary more concerned for my well-being than the rest of you?"
[21:03] <Liltrude> Liltrude looks amazed. "I-I didn't think that'd actually work." She says looking about her eyes wide. "That thing was..."
[21:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Because I bloody well intend to stand behind you if there's another one of those things come out of the woods," Franz says.
[21:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ludwig, for his part, checks Roger's wound.
[21:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Friar Ulfbert approaches you, leaning heavily on his hammer, looking as badly-wounded as anyone, "This is why we Sigmarites bloody well hate Ulric."
[21:05] <Hannes> "I doubt there's another one." The Averlander would try to wipe the blood off his blade as best as he could, before going to grab the pistol he dropped at the start of the fight. "It has been... Friar, I want you to know, but I do not wish to come back to Ferndorf as long as I live."
[21:05] * Roger has, in fact, multiple wounds. He still has a broken shaft of an arrow sticking out of his neck, and huge teethmarks on his leg and chest. His coat of plates seems to have held, albeit dented, but he no doubt has bruises and broken bones underneath
[21:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You secretly a greenskin?" Ludwig says as he treats the wounds.
[21:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Me either," the friar says.
[21:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He nods to Roger respectfully, saying nothing of the man's brazen stand in words - that'd cheapen the respect.  He does, however, favor Liltrude with a smile.  "Sigmar watches after his own."
[21:07] <Roger> "My skin is not green, and I would be hard pressed to hide it if it were."
[21:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The karl in Johann's hammer drops off, burnt nearly black.
[21:07] <Liltrude> "Well, seeing how the wolves acted, and how they left town.  There can't be another one." She smiles now, "Well, as long as you live.  I don't know how I could handle another friend dying."
[21:07] * Johann picks uit up for good luck
[21:08] * Roger stands after Ludwig patches him up, going over to the beast's corpse.
[21:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Once Ludwig has seen to Roger, he slaps him on the shoulder - the one that isn't wounded - and goes over to Otthilda.
[21:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast's body stinks of burnt fur and cooking meat.  Dead green eyes stare up into Morrslieb.
[21:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Where its heart should be is a smoking black hole; Roger can see the ground through it.
[21:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beast is not returning to the form of Rudolf Forster.
[21:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Perhaps this was closer to his true self than the man he was before.
[21:09] * Roger draws his sword and hacks the beast's head off.
[21:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With the daemonic sorcery having fled its corpse, Roger has no difficulty removing the head.
[21:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> There's no mistaking it for any natural animal - it's too large to be a wolf, the wrong shape for a bear, and has abominably human suggestions to its shape.
[21:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Even removed from the corpse, it's the sort of thing that makes children hide under the bed.
[21:11] * Johann sighs and stands up from his silent prayers
[21:11] * Roger will have to burn and polish it to remove the flesh, but he does intend to keep it.
[21:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I am going to see to the gathering and burning of the bodies," the friar says.  He turns to Ludwig, "See to the securing of the village, if you would."  Finally, he addresses Odhert and Ernst, "You two can wait in the temple."
[21:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rudolf's daughter holds her weeping mother, mixed emotions on her face as she warily regards the Bretonnian.
[21:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> After a moment, the girl guides her mother back to the Black Stump.
[21:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Don't think you'll be welcome there any more," Franz says dryly.
[21:14] <Hannes> "The man turned into a werewolf. It's not their fault."
[21:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "No, I suppose it wasn't," the mercenary sighs.  Rudolf's son - whom you haven't met, but looks rather like his father - crosses to the Black Stump to join his family.
[21:15] * Johann helps the friar gather the dead, doing his best to put the uncorrupt brother and the mercenary in places of honor.
[21:16] <Liltrude> "Or whatever that thing was..." Liltrude says, walking over to its body, and pulls out her journal beginning to note things down in it.
[21:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Of course, with no Garden of Morr in Ferndorf, the dead must be given to that darkling god in the old way - by flame.
[21:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The corpses of the bandits, you note, are being gathered by barrow to be dumped in the woods.
[21:17] <Johann> "Don't leave a corpse off in the woods like that, you just durvived a wereewolf, do you want to tempt fate by risking the walking dead?"
[21:18] * Johann searches the bandits for idntifying object,s and possibly money to add to a big pot he's carrying
[21:18] * Roger allows the head to be burned with the rest of the were-beast's body before taking the skull that remains. He only momentarily regards the man's family as they leave.
[21:23] * Hannes would help with moving the bodies, best he could.
[21:24] * Johann takes the coinage and puts it in a pot for funeral expenses "Idiot bandit didn't realize the scheme would backfire eventually"
[21:24] <Hannes> "Of course not. Someone would have gotten wise. Or the Wolf would have gotten him."
[21:24] * Johann moves over to Hannes "Let me give you a hand"
[21:28] <Hannes> "For what?"
[21:29] * Johann tried to heal
[21:29] * Johann tcrudely wraps Hannes face in bandages
[21:29] <Johann> They may keep out infection but 0 wounds healed
[21:30] * Johann looks over the bandit "Seems we have a traitor road warden here. someone get a barrel of salt"
[21:31] <Hannes> "Hmmm?" He doesn't pay attention. He's sore and exhausted and everything else. "A traitor road warden, you say?"
[21:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Once Johann mentions it, you do recall having seen posters for this "Fuchs," though you don't recall the details.
[21:34] <Hannes> "Maybe we'll get some kind of reward. But right now... I'm exhausted and it's late and I really want something to drink. Ugh. I should have gotten shot in the neck and spend a day at Baba Varinka's..."
[21:34] <Roger> "I may need to spend a day there."
[21:35] * Roger rubs his neck, drinking from a water skin. "I would dislike being known as a common bounty hunter, but a knight must eat, and be self-sufficient in the doing."
[21:36] * Johann nods
[21:36] <Roger> "We'd best take his head, as proof of the deed."
[21:36] * Johann gets a Messer to deal with the head
[21:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Franz leaves you be once his friend is seen to, standing guard at the temple to make sure Odhert and Ernst don't slip out.
[21:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Fuchs is considerably less handsome once decapitated.
[21:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> But, for your purposes, fully recognizable.
[21:39] * Roger looks a lot less valiant than usual. His surcoat bearing his heraldry has been torn to ribbons, his armor is dented and ruptured in various places and covered in blood besides, both his and that of his enemies.
[21:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The, probably, is the surest sign of heroism.
[21:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (This, even)
[21:41] * Roger looks a bit out of it, probably from the blood loss. He looks down at himself after a while. "I believe I'll need to have these repaired before we leave."
[21:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Otthilda speaks up, having approached with Ludwig.  The girl looks ashen-faced, miserable, practically a different person than the care-free young woman you met the day before last.  "I can see to some of that," she comments, "At least - I can make basic repairs what so a goblin can't skewer you until a proper armorsmith can see to it."
[21:45] * Roger nods. "My thanks. Do not trouble yourself overmuch with getting it done quickly. I would rather it be done correctly. And I believe we could all use a night's rest after today."
[21:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The blonde offers you the ghost of a smile - you doubt if she'll be resting much tonight - and nods, "No problem.  Just leave it at the smithy."
[21:47] * Roger nods, standing as he looks to the others. "I will return to the temple anon." He heads towards the smithy, limping slightly but otherwise holding up pretty well.
[21:48] * Johann mlooks for any indications of where the bandits made camp
[21:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> That would be difficult to tell, considering you're in Ferndorf herself.
[21:50] <Johann> Well any maps
[21:50] <Johann> Etc
[21:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Some of the bandits may have escaped - no one really seems to know for sure - and even if they didn't, their path to camp could be tracked.  Then again, you'd need to be a tracker to accomplish such.  And it'd be best done by the daylight.
[21:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ultimately you each find your own diversions for the night.  Sleep does not come easily after witnessing so much horror, and the shadows that creep in when sleep does arrive are not so easily driven off.
[21:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The next day finds you sore, ragged, but alive.  What villagers who did not die during the battle or in the night are going about their work refortifying the village and fixing damage done.  Ludwig and Friar Ulfbert are alternate leading this effort.
[21:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> For their part in causing the disaster, Friar Ulfbert informs the villagers that he will hold Adolph Ernst and Odhert Schmeid until his replacement from the Temple of Sigmar comes, then he will take both back to Nuln to face Sigmar's Justice.
[21:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most are too tired to protest this ruling, and the friar's hammer is pretty big besides.
[21:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's a beautiful summer day, cloudless and clear, a gentle breeze blowing the scents of the forest to Ferndorf's doorstep.
[21:59] * Johann triest to stretch out his battered body, checking on the arrow wound
[21:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's stiff and painful, but not warm.
[22:01] * Hannes wakes early. Or earlyish. He's stiff. He's miserable. He's unhappy. "We have to go to Baba Varinka's... see how Herr Hightower is doing."
[22:01] * Roger awakens a bit later than usual, gently prodding his wounds. He is of course not wearing any armor right now, so all he has is his surcoat and some linens that he wore under his armor. This may be the first time most of the group has seen him without his armor.
[22:02] * Johann gives his companions curt alutes "Maybe she'll ahve some more healing supplies, I'll ask the friar as well
[22:04] * Johann offers to help transport the fallen mercenary home
[22:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The friar, it turns out, has nothing much to spare - many in the village are injured, and badly at that.  He's apologetic, but relates frankly that you're lucky to be walking around.
[22:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As for Karl, he was cremated with the other villagers, with Franz's permission.  The mercenary is withdrawn this day, sullenly attending to his guard duty and little else.
[22:09] * Roger decides to eat breakfast before anything else, either from his own supplies or from what might be on offer. Killing (and almost being killed, for that matter) are hungry work.
[22:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most of the villagers give you all wide berth, apparently keenly humiliated by the fact that it took outsiders to discover such a horror in their midst.
[22:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Still, it is a respectful avoidance - few failed to notice what you did last night.
[22:11] * Johann finds a place to sit and eat either from rations or whatever the town has for culinary accomodations with the inkeep outed and slain
[22:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Normally that'd be the Black Stump, but seeing as you don't want to put in an appearance there, Friar Ulfbert accomodates you from his own larder.
[22:14] * Hannes will eat with the rest. He is... wearing a different set of clothing. He had another set of his cadet uniform in his pack, the other? Ruined, and burned. "The sooner we can leave this village, the better I say." He is wearing an extra pistol on his belt. The one from the skaven assassin... and now the one from Fuchs. He spent some of last night before going ot bed cleaning both pistols.
[22:15] <Johann> "We rreally fucked this up.
[22:15] <Hannes> "Did we?"
[22:15] <Johann> "Even if we couldn;t have accounted for the the bandits there's still at least one innocent on our hands"
[22:16] <Johann> And we should ahve considered the gates
[22:16] * Johann standsn up "Someone opened them, we need to find out who"
[22:16] <Hannes> "The beast is dead. The bandits are broken."
[22:16] * Johann heads to wherever the prisoners are kept
[22:17] <Roger> "Whomever did it may have fled with the bandits."
[22:17] <Roger> "But it is best to be sure, I suppose."
[22:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Besides Ernst and Odhert, no prisoners were taken.
[22:18] <Roger> "In any case, it is a victory, if not without cost."
[22:19] * Johann goes to their cell "Oi, you two, who else was in on this scam, someone had to make sure the other lumberworkers didn't realize they were re-cutting old wood"
[22:19] <Hannes> "And honestly, it's not our problem. Not anymore."
[22:19] <Johann> "And SOMEONE had to let those bandits in without sounding the alarm
[22:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "About that," Ludwig puts in, "I had a little 'chat' with Ernst and Otthilda's father.  The smith didn't know anything, but a few of Ernst's men were rotten.  The ones he knew about for sure got killed during the wolf attack or when we were fighting off the bandits."
[22:23] * Johann nods "Well that's some small justice":
[22:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ludwig had stopped in to avail himself of some of the temple's wine and a begrudging portion of food, taking a brief break from his efforts to restore the village to defensibility.
[22:23] * Johann takes a few trailcakes for rations and gets ready to head out to baba's
[22:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Reiklander grunts in response, finishes his dregs, and departs not long after.
[22:24] <Hannes> Time to head over to Baba Varinka's.
[22:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> When you've finished your meals and tended to your assorted affairs, you head back for the hag's isolated cottage.  Remembering Otthilda's directions isn't too difficult, and you arrive there soon enough.  No lupine shadows trouble your footsteps.
[22:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The clearing is as beautiful as when you were last here, perhaps more so during the real day rather than the fading afternoon.
[22:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The white-faced bear snoozes in the sunlight at one end of the clearing.
[22:27] * Johann thinks the bear looks adorable
[22:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> In Baba Varinka's garden (no longer difficult to spot now that you've seen it before), you see the old woman bagging vegetables, with another compatriot digging them out of the ground.
[22:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's the familiar outline of Edgar Hightower, halfling "small quantities merchant."
[22:27] * Johann snorts "I see your friend has already been put to work"
[22:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I don't run a hostel," Baba Varinka says amiably enough.  Hightower stands, dusting off his hands, and gapes at your out-of-sorts appearance.
[22:28] <Hannes> "Guten tag. You missed all the fun last night."
[22:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I see you survived.  Shyish blew strong last night.  I almost came myself," you doubt that.
[22:30] <Hannes> "The beast was Rudolf Forster. He then proceeded to kill his brother after he... changed. Of course, this was after the bandits attacked the village." He would look over to the halfling. "Are you ready to make your purchases? I want to leave this village behind me."
[22:31] * Johann tries to avoid stressign his arrow wound
[22:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I thought the woman was joking about this whole thing!" Hightower gawps, "You look half corpses yourselves!"
[22:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "That you do," Baba Varinka agrees, then sighs, "Well, you've done a good enough turn for rotten enough folk.  Come in and I'll see to your wounds."
[22:32] <Hannes> "I'm fine, though... I don't think I'll ever win another beauty pagent."
[22:32] * Johann steps inside if he can
[22:32] * Roger has gotten his armor back by now, but his surcoat is still in tatters. He steps inside.
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ladies love a scar," Baba Varinka says matter-of-factly, "As long as what's downstairs still works."
[22:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The old woman sees to the wounded knight and initiate expertly.  She cleans, applies pungent medicines, and bandages you while making rather inappropriate comments for a woman her age.  It gives you plenty of time to explain what has gone on in Ferndorf for the past few days.
[22:36] <Hannes> "Yes, well... there's a girl back home already waiting for me..." Hannes hurriedly says, hopefully deflecting the old woman's comments.
[22:36] * Johann norts with laughter at her frankness with Hannes
[22:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Don't leave her home alone too long," the hag warns, waving one skeletal finger.
[22:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Finally, once you've explained things in detail, Hightower clucks his tongue, "I suppose Hugnir was right to recommend you lot to me.  I'd like to say I wish I could've helped - but I don't," he grins winsomely.
[22:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "At least the price for the lumber should be fair enough."
[22:38] <Johann> "No shame in knowing your limits, though it was Liliitrude who put the final nail in that beast's coffin, so dfon't sell yourself .. Uh you know what that was almost insensitive"
[22:38] <Johann> (Also he hwasn't commented on the random priest following them around yet)
[22:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (We can prolly assume 'explaining everything' includes explaining Johann's presence.)
[22:40] <Johann> ah
[22:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I suppose you'll be wanting traveling companions back to Nuln," Hightower says, eying Johann speculatively.
[22:40] * Johann nods "It seems only fair"
[22:41] * Roger doesn't answer the hag's comments, allowing her to treat him in silence.
[22:41] <Hannes> "Johann is a fine warrior and does Sigmar proud. Though it's good that we did deal with the ne'er-do-wells! The bandits were raiding the caravans as they left Ferndorf... then brining back the wood to village."
[22:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well, you're welcome to join us when we leave this place, but you'll have to negotiate with my guards about any payment."
[22:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Oh," Baba Varinka says, raising a finger, "One thing - don't keep that skull you took above your marriage bed.  That is, when you have one," the woman cackles.
[22:42] * Johann shrugs "If they want a cut of the boutny I spotted for them they'll need to give me a cut of your wage in return"
[22:42] <Roger> "Certainly not.  It'll go over the mantle, with the other trophies."
[22:42] <Hannes> "Oh! Yes. Before I forget." Hannes hands Hightower a slip of parchment.
[22:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "What's this then?" the halfling asks.
[22:44] <Hannes> "A receipt."
[22:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He reaches for his shirtcoat to retrieve some spectacles, peering.
[22:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The halfling reads at length, his handsome features becoming stormy with anger.  Then his usual devil-may-care expression reasserts itself.  He looks up at you, blue eyes twinkling with something besides good will.
[22:45] <Hannes> "You seem unhappy, Herr Hightower."
[22:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Let me make sure I understand this - you want to charge me 131 karls for...doing your job?"
[22:45] <Johann> "He's got a point Herr Hannes"
[22:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You do know what a bodyguard's job is, yes, mein Herr?"
[22:46] <Johann> "I'd say the fighting of bandits is covered, though not so much the troll or the deaths."
[22:46] <Hannes> "I'm aware. But negotiations in Nuln didn't include the troll. Or having to risk being toad taking you to get healed. Or having to deal with a werewolf."
[22:47] * Roger looks to Hannes with a raised brow. "What's this about, then?"
[22:47] <Johann> "Werewolf charges are possibly justified, they were paid to protect you, saving your business opportunity in Ferndorf was a seperate thing"
[22:47] <Johann> "Drop the bandit charges, only add the death expense and the werewolf charges"
[22:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Mercenaries die," Hightower says flatly.  This is a side of him you've not seen before, "That's what you're paid for - to die so someone else doesn't have to," he pauses to listen to Hannes's response.  "The terms were simple: you would be paid an extremely generous lump sum - to be divided as you chose - in a job that guaranteed danger."
[22:48] <Johann> "And possibly the expenditure of ammunition and restorative supplies"
[22:49] <Johann> "True Herr Hightower, but they could have simply stayed the night and day with Baba while Ferndorf burned and you would still have owed them the same amount"
[22:49] <Johann> "And not have made any profit at all"
[22:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Hightower laughs, "No, mein Herr, that is not correct."
[22:49] <Johann> "They did go above and beyond to save your business instead of just your life"
[22:49] <Liltrude> "And consider we cleared the town of Bandits, so future endeavors of this will be much easier."
[22:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "These gentlemen - and lady - were to be paid based on the final profit of the journey."
[22:50] <Hannes> "Though, I'll be honest... I needed some levity after the whole ordeal."
[22:50] <Johann> "Ah, my mistake then"
[22:51] <Johann> "If you were paid in a cut I think the only expenses justifiable are perhaps expended ammunition."
[22:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Not even that.  When this journey was begun, I specified to these fellows that they must needs provision themselves."
[22:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "They would be paid as much as a year's salary - if they divided their share five ways - for 6 weeks' of work."
[22:52] <Johann> "Ah very well. Then it seems Hannes only extra payment was seeing you lose your composure briefly"
[22:53] * Roger is making the biggest stank face right now.
[22:53] <Roger> "I took you for a better man, Hannes.  We just slew a beast brought forth by greed, you understand."
[22:54] <Roger> "Will I be forced to slay another, when the spirit takes hold once more?"
[22:54] <Hannes> "I'm aware. It's a jape. Jest. Taking the piss, as the Reiklander would say."
[22:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Baba Varinka leaves these distasteful talks to those they involve, instead brewing tea.
[22:55] <Johann> "Perhaps it would have been mroe clearly a jest if you ahd drawn a smiling face on the other side"
[22:55] <Roger> "Hm."
[22:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "My boy," Hightower says, "Never jest with me about money."
[22:55] * Roger doesn't seem convinced.
[22:56] <Hannes> "I needed some levity after last night, so I figured I would see how Herr Hightower would react to a little practical joke." He sniffs. "And here I thought the gods' favorite wee folk enjoyed a good prank."
[22:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The halfling, by contrast, seems ready to drop it.  Then again, it does not appear he is new to being ransomed for 'bonus pay.'
[22:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Prank me with a pie, or a bit of itch power, or by taking one of my boots, but not in the purse, Hannes."
[22:57] <Hannes> "I didn't expect you to pay. Hmmm... I should've put an extra zero on the end of each item... though maybe I'm better of not doing. I wanted to see you upset, not have your heart give out."
[22:58] <Liltrude> Liltrude nods at that, in agreement with Hightower.  Her family taught her that much at least.
[22:58] * Hannes claps Hightower on the shoulder. "The terms from earlier were more then generous. It's just with... all this nastiness, I needed something to make me smile."
[22:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The halfling snorts, "In any case, we should see to getting this done before some gods-cursed dragon crawls out of the woodwork next.  Or a nest of vampires."
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He grins, "Well, if you need that, just think of the lovely lady you have waiting for you back in Nuln.  Or was it Averland?  Either way."
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Not staying for tea?" Baba Varinka inquires.
[22:59] * Johann turns around "Well I can't see why not, you do make nice tea"
[23:00] * Roger grunts. "I suppose. It serves to calm the nerves, or so I'm told."
[23:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> More intestine-fortifying, libido-aiding tea is served to those who want it.  For something made by a shady Kislevite hag likely over a century old, it's surprisingly wholesome.
[23:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The ritual I wove around Ferndorf has been shattered completely," the hag says conversationally, "Though you've done well by that dissolute lot, I should think their troubles are only beginning."
[23:02] <Liltrude> "Is there anyway to reapply it...?"
[23:02] <Hannes> "The village would want to have her reapply it. I don't see us walking out of this hut and finding the denizens asking her to come back."
[23:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The hag cackles, "Yes, but I am no longer a girl in the flower of my youth, dearie.  Spirits - even the non-daemoniac ones - demand horrible prices for great works.  Nothing is free, in this world or any other."
[23:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She shrugs bony shoulders, "The occasional adversity may help fortify the character of those who did not die, in the end."
[23:03] <Liltrude> "What will be the price then...?" Liltrude asks, curious about this.
[23:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The hag grins, "Your youth, your life, your very mind.  Working the spirits to one's will, here in your Empire or in my home of Kislev, is nothing to be done by those weak of will.  And even the strong-willed do well to grease the palms of those they would beg favors of."
[23:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I am too old and too frail for such.  I shall die soon.  But not today, and not for that lot," the woman says matter-of-factly.
[23:06] <Johann> "A shame, they may need to have their defenses fortified a more conventional way
[23:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> If the hag cares, she does not show it.  Such is simply a fact of life to the Ungol.
[23:07] <Roger> "They will have to make do, then.  If they are wise, they will use the lessons they learned today."
[23:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Pain is the cruellest but best teacher, knight," the hag says, "They will learn - or they will perish," she pauses a beat, "Learn, I hope."
[23:10] * Liltrude (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) Quit (Ping timeout)
[23:48] * Del (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) has joined #foxandwolf
[23:48] * Del is now known as Liltrude
Session Time: Mon Aug 01 00:00:00 2016
Session Close: Mon Aug 01 00:28:36 2016

================================================================


Session Start: Sun Aug 07 16:05:53 2016
Session Ident: #backtoNuln
[16:05] * Now talking in #backtoNuln
[16:06] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has joined #backtoNuln
[16:06] * TXTypewriter (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) has joined #backtoNuln
[16:07] * TXTypewriter is now known as Roger
[16:11] * Del (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) has joined #backtoNuln
[16:12] * Del is now known as Liltrude
[16:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The purchasing of the wood takes some effort, considering the owner of the lumber mill and several of his lieutenants are dead.  Once the matter is sorted out, Hightower gets bargain prices - the people of Ferndorf are in no position to quibble, and the supplies he brought are more needed now than ever.  Ultimately, much of the bartering falls to Friar Ulfbert.
[16:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Hightower is polite, even sympathetic, but that seems to have no effect on his haggling.  In the end, his wagon groans under the weight of fresh black rosewood.  No doubt the noble family who contracted him will take some effort.
[16:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> To the surprise (and trepidation) of the folk of the village, Baba Varinka puts in her first appearance at the village in very many years.  She offers no explanation, simply taking charge of various small matters - healing, repairs, advice - aiding the rather bemused friar and your Reikland soldier comrade in their efforts in securing the village.
[16:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With no sign of the wolves or any bandits that might have survived the blood-soaked slaughter of the night of the full moon, you are left mostly to your own devices.
[16:29] * Hannes managed to procure a few sheaths of writing paper and a pencil. Inspiration has struck him and it is a long road to Nuln.
[16:32] * Roger mostly keeps to himself, since he's A) a Knight and therefore exempt from physical labor and B) surrounded by peasants, who he usually doesn't speak to
[16:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Those same peasants give Roger wide enough berth.  Not a few of them witnessed the way he waded into the carnage, and none seem keen to introduce upon his solitude.
[16:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> When it comes time to depart,Otthilda elects to stay behind - at least until the new priest arrives and her father is formally arrested.  With subdued farewells, you are back on the road again, Nuln ahead and the disaster at Ferndorf behind you.
[16:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Mercifully, your journey back is largely peaceful.  Besides curious animals, most of the denizens of the darkness-shrouded Great Forest give you wide berth.  Those few more twisted shapes you do see steer clear when they see your hardened, armored company.
[16:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Hightower is as cheerful as you've ever seen him on the journey back, his oxen straining dumbly at their new burden, but a pall seems to lift even off of him once you're out of the forest and into relatively open country again.
[16:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Days later, you see the ugly shape of a city humping on the horizon, and detect a foul scent on the wind, one you hadn't even noticed the absence of until you smell it again.
[16:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The usual rich stinks of a city are mixed with Nuln's telltale blast furnace purfume, and your progress slows back down to a crawl as you join the traffic going into and out of the city.
[16:44] <Hannes> "Just when I started to grow used to the country air..."
[16:44] * Roger seems to still be feeling his wounds on the way back, as he limps slightly as he walks along. He seems to do better after a few days, his wounds healing, but most likely not without scarring in a big way.
[16:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Again you see carts full of wide-eyed, hopeful country peasants.  At one point, a unit of the Victorious Knights of the Illuminated Silver Star come thundering up the road against the traffic, forcing the plebians aside as they return to Nuln.  However, you recognize none among their number.
[16:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A bugler at the front self-importantly warbles out a tune to keep people from being trampled while recently-blooded young noblemen ride by, many bearing grisly trophies from some recent battle with the beastmen, others just sporting injuries.
[16:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As you join the line proper in front of the massive gates of Nuln, Hightower speaks up.
[16:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Awight, gentlemen, lady - I must say, Hugnir was not wrong about you.  If you see him before I do, give him my regards.  I'll pay for you lot to get back in the city, but after that you're on your own.  It may be a day or two while I see to my employer.  Getting a job's one thing.  Wrangling pay, well.."
[16:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He seems to realize he's talking badly of the nobility in the presence of noblemen and trails off.
[16:48] <Liltrude> "That trip went a lot more smoothe to be sure."
[16:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "In any case, I'll send word immediately to whereever you're staying as soon as I have paid."
[16:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Where shall I reach you?"
[16:49] <Hannes> "Probably the Rat and Dog. Where else?"
[16:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ah.  That would make sense," you catch from Hightower's tone that - while he met you there - it is not an establishment he frequents.  "Very well."
[16:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Around you, the various travelers to Nuln jaw about recent events, most of which is totally new to you.  It's as if you'd simply lost time, being isolated as you were in the Great Forest.  No wonder the rural Empire can be so short sighted.
[17:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Liltrude manages to charm the going word out of other bored queuers with relative ease.
[17:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most of what everyone is talking about involves the assassination of Valten, which you had, of course, heard about.
[17:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A new detail has emerged, however.  Apparently, Valten was assassinated while recouperating from the Battle of Middenheim by a member of the Sigmarite clergy.  It's unknown how this bit of info got out, but it spread too quickly and too verifiably for the Temple to deny.
[17:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Apparently, when put to the question, the man claimed to be acting on behalf of the deposed Grand Theogonist, Johanm Esmer.
[17:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> From Marienburg, Esmer has denied the accusation, and that might have caused a stalemate had not an assassination attempt been made on Esmer himself.
[17:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Folks are already referring to it as the 'Black Powder Plot' - apparently the Temple of Sigmar in Marienburg was blown up from below - and Esmer has called on Sigmarites in the Empire to reject the "tainted" Grand Theogonist Volkmar the Grim.
[17:06] <Hannes> "Hnn. Can we really trust a Grand Theogonist that hasn't taken a dwarven name? Besides, it was only a matter of time before the Temple of Sigmar in Marienburg was attacked, it's the only opposition to Marienburg's continued independence."
[17:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With the war in the north hardly two years past, many are clamoring for a fresh war with Marienburg.  The port city has threatened embargo if its neutrality is not respected, and the elves too have called for a cooling of tempers.
[17:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "What I don't understand," one farmer grouses, "Is why the Marienburgers don't just give that lout up."
[17:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Don't be an idiot," says a roadwarden with fantastic eyebrows, "Those traitors are probably behind Valten's assassination to begin with.  If we got Esmer back, he'd squeal on them, and then it'd be war for sure.  There's a lot of proper sons and daughters of Sigmar in Marienburg still.  Not everyone there worships money or foreign elf gods."
[17:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "What if Esmer's right, though?" says a halberdier in the black uniform of Nuln, "I mean - I don't think he is - but supposing Volkmar was tainted when he went north and somehow came back?  Wouldn't he try to lead us astray?  How should we know?"
[17:11] <Hannes> "We'd know because the Jade Griffon he wears hasn't burned him!"
[17:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Hightower, observing his usual policy on politics, says nothing, preferring to smoke.
[17:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Forgive me," says a sawaggering Estalian, butting in on the conversation, "But this Valten, he was your god reborn, yes?  If this is so, how was a mere priest able to kill him?  Can mortals kill gods?"
[17:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The glares the Estalian gets in response make the man wilt considerably.
[17:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Jade Griffon or no," says a man with the look of a seasoned mercenary, "There's folks in the Cult now calling for some sort of trial for Volkmar.  High ranked priests among them, too.  He didn't make any friends during the run-up to the Storm."
[17:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man grins, a ghastly sight - someone had probably punched him in the teeth with a gauntlet, with predictable results.  "Those northerners and their daemons not even driven completely out yet and the knives come back out.  This is why I stick to Ulric.  Good enough for Sigmar, good enough for me."
[17:16] <Hannes> "Good. Either he is innocent and we put this behind us, or he is guilty and we will need a new Grand Theogonist. Johann Esmer is not suited to be the high priest of Sigmar Heldenhammer."
[17:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "There's war in far-off Ulthuan, they say," puts in the roadwarden again, "I say Karl Franz should hit Marienburg while they're weak and don't have their precious elves to protect them.  Should've put those traitors to the sword years ago.  Now they're taking in murdering heretics."
[17:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He spits, "My brother fought with Valten during the Storm.  Well, his unit fought in some of the same battles.  Where was Johann Esmer then?  Where were these fat priests, or fatter Marienburg merchants?"
[17:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Burn 'em all, I say."
[17:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This rather blunt political opinion sees a few folks edge away from the roadwarden, apparently not wanting to be associated with him by anyone important listening.
[17:24] * Roger doesn't appear to care enough to put in his thoughts on the matter, if indeed he has any.
[17:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Other rumors you pick up involve - who else? - Countess Emmanuelle, who has apparently taken up another lover, or at least, kicked her Kislevite out.  A few more daring wags suggest it may be that exiled Bretonnian noblewoman who's been seen in her company once or twice.
[17:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A less salacious and more humorous bit of gossip involves a recent foray into an affair that sounds familiar to most of you.  A number of sewer jacks had disappeared, and word got out that not long ago, a cult had been exterminated in the sewers by Sigmar's witch hunters.
[17:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Apparently, the Knights of the Peacock had made a foray of their own, some claiming they were outright 'looking for skaven.'
[17:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Apparently all they found were ways to ruin their uniforms, but the disappearances abruptly halted.
[17:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Wouldn't want to work as a jack," the mercenary puts in, "And this is coming from a man who gets stabbed for a living."
[17:29] <Hannes> "It's not enjoyable work. Crowded. Hot. The stink. And worse... the rats."
[17:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "That captain of those lads - what's his name, Von Schwerschloss?  Something like that," the Nulner puts in, "He's an odd one, him.  All those steam engines, his commoner bride, the pet slayer he keeps in his home.  Probably his idea to go nosing around for skaven," the halberdier scoffs, "Nobs," apparently he doesn't recognize Hannes or Roger's birth by their traveling clothing.
[17:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Did a turn as a jack in Carroburg, as a lad," the roadwarden says, "Yar, I'll take beastmen over rats."
[17:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> In time, you make it to - and through - the gate.  Hightower leaves you at the Reik Platz before the Deutz Elm, that massive, gnarled tree positively plastered with ads, job offers, and wanted posters.  A few folks are instead crying out for laborers, most Nulners being illiterate.
[17:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well, you lot," Hightower says, "It's time I saw to my employer.  Don't go getting yourselves killed before I pay you."
[17:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With that said and nary a more formal goodbye, Hightower leaves you to your devices, the massive crowd around you giving you precious little attention.
[17:39] <Hannes> "Well then... let us head to the Rat and Dog. Tell Snorri what happened to Ralf."
[17:39] <Liltrude> "Let's hope nothing goes wrong now, this is the important part afterall, we're not paid yet."
[17:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Shantytown is the same miserable slum you left it, still teeming with Nuln's poorest.  Whores, madmen, base laborers, swaggering bracos, thieves, lost (and very frightened) merchants - well, it's not boring.
[17:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Though it's still fairly early in the day, the Rat & Dog is doing steady business, judging by the sounds pouring from its saloon-style doors.  The familiar bouncer sits out front, and is about to stop you for his spiel when he blinks and recognizes you.
[17:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Cor, what happened to your face?" he asks Hannes.
[17:42] <Hannes> "I blocked a sword. Not my smartest move."
[17:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well, your nose's still on.  Girls like a good scar, makes 'em think yer dangerous," he winks, "Don't go picking at it, though, or you'll end up like my bruvver.  Anyway, in you lads and lass go, you know the rules."  He gives you a cheerful salute.
[17:46] <Hannes> "Think Sigmar for small favors."
[17:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The taproom of the Rat & Dog is mostly full.  Snorri's Estalian guitar player seems to have moved on, to be replaced by a wiry man who dances much better than he plays his lute.  A muzzled, leashed snotling at his feet tries (poorly) to dance as well, and rattles a tin cup for coins.
[17:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Shit-Breath has placed himself opposite the room as the performer and his odious pet, the mangy old mastiff eying the snotling with evil intent as he gnaws on a bone, trying to crack it open.
[17:51] * Hannes moves over to the bar. "Guten Tag, Herr Orc-Teeth. How goes the Rat and Dog?"
[17:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Snorri looks no different than you left him, still bald-pated, still running to fat, still engaged in a never-ending war on dirty.
[17:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf does a double take at the sound of Hannes's voice, then his eyes widen with surprise, "Herr Rosenkratz, by my shorter beard!  I didn't think to see you again!" he takes in the rest of the group, "Ha!  And I see you're alive as well, ser, he looks from Hannes to the knight, "Though apparently not for someone's lack of trying," he seems truly surprised to see you alive, strangely enough.
[17:56] * Roger nods. "They certainly tried."
[17:56] * Roger looks to the snotling dubiously.
[17:56] <Roger> "Is it safe to have?  I've been told their mere presense leads to more greenskins."
[17:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf snorts his infinite contempt, "My da'd shave his beard if he saw that thing in a dwarfen taproom, but the locals think it's a riot.  You aren't wrong, ser, but there's a trick to it - I dunk it in lye every night.  Little bludger screams like mad, but it seems to work."
[17:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Course, try doing the same to a bull orc and see what happens," he snorts.
[18:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf gestures that you should take a seat.  Without waiting for requests, he draws off some beers - two for Ludwig - and a brandy for Roger.
[18:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Frankly, fellows, I didn't expect to see you here alive again."
[18:02] * Roger sits, seemingly placated by the answer and accepting the brandy. "One isn't."
[18:03] <Liltrude> "Sadly enough.  I was just getting to like him too."
[18:04] <Roger> "You must be mad.  He was a sexual deviant."
[18:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Snorri grunts, betraying no emotion, which is generous of him, "Thought he might be out causing trouble.  Skaven got him, then?"
[18:05] <Roger> "A troll, actually."
[18:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Snorri looks surprised, "Ah, I figured - well, hm, you hadn't heard?"
[18:07] <Roger> "Something about the Skaven?"
[18:08] <Liltrude> "What happened."
[18:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You may want to have a nip of your drinks, first," the dwarf says, allowing you a moment to take his advice, "Aye, the filthy thaggoraki.  Not long after you left, while he was out searching for missing sewer jacks, Hugnir turned up missing.  We found him - dead, of course, with that damn symbol of theirs cut in his back."
[18:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf mutters a surly oath in Khazalid, looking away a moment before resuming, "O'course, Brannur was furious.  Some manling nob - I think you know him - helped form a party to try and hunt out their little rat's nest, burn it out.  I joined in too."
[18:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf draws himself a beer and drinks, finishing it off in one go.
[18:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Anyway, the
[18:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Anyway, the 'raki must've gotten wind of something, because they fled their warren in a hurry.  Didn't find naught but a few lurking squeakers.  Cowards."
[18:13] * Roger clenches his fist. "Craven rats... Now they've fled, we'll have little chance of bringing them to justice."
[18:13] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Brannur reckons they either had some falling out or there's some underground war wot's drawn them all off.  I reckon he's right, he has more experience with them.  Either way he's been helping secure underneath the city again - as much as your manling cities ever are - before they come back.  Because they always do."
[18:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "That witch hunter comrade of Hugnir's left Nuln in a hurry after that."
[18:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Frankly, folks around here figured the skaven had gotten you, too.  Brannur told me one of them had been seen spying on the tavern."
[18:15] <Roger> "They may still wish it."
[18:15] <Roger> "I invite them to try."
[18:16] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Snorri grins, his orc teeth giving him a feral cast, "Aye, that'll cross a few lines off the book."
[18:17] <Liltrude> "They did try once.  They didn't quite succeed."
[18:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well, I'm glad for that, anyway."
[18:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "That reminds me, though, that manling noble that helped with the sewer search, he left word that if you did return, he wanted to see you at his estate up in the Altestadt.  Don't know where that is, he neglected to leave instructions."
[18:20] <Hannes> "I'd welcome the skaven, after the werewolf. Seeing a man shed his skin like a change of clothes, turning into a nightmarish beast of fur, claws, and slavering jaws... I'd prefer the clumsy machinations of the skaven." He would raise his glass. "A toast, then. To comrades not here."
[18:21] * Roger raises his glass. "To the lost."
[18:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf refills his mug and raises it, "To those who join our ancestors, and to wrongs that will yet be made right."
[18:22] <Roger> "Hm.  I suppose we'll call upon Ser Schwartzshloss, then."
[18:22] <Hannes> "It would only be polite. Besides, I have a request of his sister."
[18:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Snorri arches his eyebrows and winks, "You may want to dress in your best then, lad.  Maybe have a bath."
[18:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf is drawn off by a pair of arguing toughs who have started brawling.  He breaks them up, swearing and beating them with his cudgel.
[18:24] <Hannes> "Not that kind of request! But yes... I would enjoy a bath..."
[18:24] <Liltrude> "A bath does sound nice."
[18:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "S'usual rate," Brannur calls over his shoulder, "Good to see you lot alive."
[18:26] * Roger nods. "I believe I will have one as well, before we set off."
[18:27] <Hannes> "I'll cover it."
[18:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Your baths taken care of and clothing changed, you leave the Rat & Dog behind - you hear the sound of furious barking and a screaming snotling - and head towards the better part of town.  Your two-pence-per gate tax paid, you make your way more or less unimpeded to the Von Schwarzschloss home.
[18:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The guard at the gate recognizes you - Hannes, at least - and admits you easily enough.  Apparently the captain's servants have been appraised of his standing invitation.
[18:37] <Hannes> "Danke." Hannes replies, as he heads into the manse properly.
[18:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The interior of the mansion is cool, its windows open to admit a breeze.  A manservant appears as you enter, informing you that Captain Von Schwarzschloss is in his library, with his family.  He shows you the way with automatic ease.  The man raps on the rich, dark wood of the library door.
[18:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The sound of music and casual talking reaches your ears through the portal.
[18:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "My lord," he says deferentially, "Herr Rosenkratz, Ser Marionnaud, and Frau Fetlock here to see you, with comrades."
[18:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> From the other side, you hear Adler speak, "Excellent!  Send them in," the servant obeys his master quickly, bowing you in.
[18:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Far from being a stuffy, dreary scholar's library, this room of the manse is brightly lit, likely owing to the ceiling-tall windows facing the manse's interior garden, and the open double doors letting in a breeze.
[18:42] * Roger had worn the formal attire that had been made for him by the elven tailor, looking more expensive than his usual plate and surcoat routine even if he's still wearing his sword. He steps into the library.
[18:42] * Hannes would enter with all the grace as an Averlander noble. "Herr Adler, a pleasure to see you once again."
[18:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Von Schwarzschloss, who had been sitting at a desk going over papers, stands and crosses to you, hand extended, "I'd begun to worry, fellows," he says with a grin.
[18:43] <Hannes> "It was... an interesting trip, into the Great Forest." He motions to the wound on his face. "All things considered, it means I need not participate in the Mensur when I head back to the Academy for post graduation ceremonies."
[18:43] * Roger shakes the Captain's hand. "
[18:43] * Hannes would also shake the hand as well.
[18:44] <Roger> "We heard about the business with the Skaven.  In truth we were attacked as well, but they did not seem determined."
[18:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I can see that," the captain says with a grin, "Not to worry, Hannes, girls love a dashing scar," the man's easy expression falls a bit when the skaven are brought up.
[18:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The room's other guests are a more curious sort.  There's a lovely woman in a fine dress who looks strangely familiar - after a moment, you place her.  It's the mother of the girl Roger saved, Von Schwarzschloss's mistress.  Well, wife now.  She is making a mighty effort to read, sounding out the words silently as she practices.
[18:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Near her mother, Annarose sits engaged in a most curious task - she is braiding the slayer Brannur's hair, who is sitting like a sleepy bear in a stool, attention fixed out one of the windows.
[18:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The young child chats casually about petty things while the slayer grunts meaningfully.
[18:46] <Hannes> "Why do you think we planned on having a Mensur?"
[18:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> His attention seems to be fixed mostly on Von Schwarzschloss's sister, who is playing the cello on the porch outside the library.
[18:47] <Roger> "A Mensur?"
[18:48] <Roger> "I am not familiar with this."
[18:48] <Hannes> "Oh, a fine tradition you'll find on many an Imperial University or Academy campus, especially if they host a dueling fraternity."
[18:48] <Hannes> *fencing fraternity
[18:50] <Roger> "Something to do with swords, I suppose."
[18:51] <Hannes> "Absolutely. Two duelists stand in front of each other, both wearing a heavily padded gambeson, a thick heavily padded iron gorget, and a pair of steel goggles, as well as wielding a long, sharp sword with a basket hilt that covers almost half way up your wrist." He would turn to Adler. "Were you a member of a Fencing Fraternity in academy, Herr Adler?"
[18:52] * Hannes thinks about it for a moment. "Or University, I suppose."
[18:53] <Roger> "That seems an... odd combination of armor."
[18:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Yes.  Though, we didn't practice the Mensur," he grinns somewhat sheepishly, "Well, truthfully, it was the case that *I* didn't.  I feared losing the tip of my nose or an eye in an accident, boy that I was."
[18:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "If I'd known what was coming in the war," he shakes his head.
[18:54] <Hannes> "You mensured without wearing goggles?"
[18:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It was not the fashion at the time," Adler replies.
[18:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You can see why that changed."
[18:56] <Hannes> ""Certainly." The cadet makes a sour face at the mere thought of it. "Roger, the armor, while odd, is to protect your vitals. To make sure you didn't loose an eye or your nose or get your throat slit."
[18:57] <Roger> "The purpose of all armor is to protect the vitals.  But why not an ornidary helm, and plate for the chest?"
[18:57] <Roger> ordinary*
[18:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well, you see Ser Marionnaud, it's quite fashionable to acquire a duelling scar among many of the young nobility in the Empire.  The Mensur allows this to be done safely," he shrugs, as if embarrassed, "My father always found the practice terribly vain."
[18:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I must admit, callow youth that I was, that I would likely have gotten such a scar had I not been overly fearful of an...improper maiming."
[19:00] <Roger> "... Hm."
[19:00] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #backtoNuln
[19:00] <Hannes> "That's why they have the steel goggles, I suppose. And yes! While a dueling scar is extremely fashionable." He runs a finger not quite down the one he recently acquired. "Losing your nose, or an eye, is not."
[19:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I can see you disapprove," Adler says with a knowing grin, "For that's the same face my grandfather made.  I know the cure for that, though - brandy."
[19:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man goes over to a liquor cabinet to retrieve glasses and a bottle, beckoning you over to his desk, "Don't mind the papers.  Busywork for family business."
[19:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "As to the skaven issue," Adler says, carefully stepping past the Mensur issue, "Annarose?  Be a good girl and help your mother at her practice.  Herr slayer?" Brannur is stirred from his watchful half-doze, half-conversation, and stands with a painful grunt, limping over.
[19:02] <Hannes> "You should see my father and the lands he has to manage."
[19:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf scowls at you, "Alive, I see.  Done talking about your fake battle scars?"
[19:03] * Hannes would approach, and accept the offered brandy. He would turn to the slayer. "Thank you, Herr Brannur for looking after Eva and her family." He would put a hand to his chest, as if insulted. "Fake battle scar? This!? I earned this in battle with a werewolf!"
[19:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He peers at Hannes's "That one's real, I warrant.  Not a skaven blade, or you'd probably be bloated with infection or dead."
[19:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At the mention of a werewolf, you see the slayer's eyes flare in jealousy, but he bites back his immediate reply.
[19:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Herr Brannur has been most helpful around the house.  My Annarose loves the fellow, and he terrifies the neighbors," the dwarf snorts contemptuously at this light ribbing.
[19:04] * Roger accepts the brandy as well. He looks to Hannes. "You were cut by a bandit. But yes, we fought a werewolf."
[19:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Thank me not, Averlander, there's been no skaven attacks here.  Would that the cowards would try me."
[19:05] <Hannes> "The Battle of Ferndorf, Roger, was one event. Just because the bandits had run before a man shed his skin like a wet over coat means nothing to the history books."
[19:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You heard about your man - er, dwarf, though.  Hugnir," Adler says.  Brannur scowls angrily.
[19:06] <Hannes> "A shame, that."
[19:06] <Roger> "Yes.  We heard that you'd put together a band to ferret the ratmen out."
[19:06] <Liltrude> ".... If only we could have been there..."
[19:07] <Hannes> "I had thought of asking him to join us in Averland. My father is always looking for honest men or dwarves to work the cattle herds."
[19:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It was the least I could do," Adler says, "I understand Herr Brannur's oath is...well, of the gravest sort, and for him to have aided my family - again - was more than I could've asked, whether or not the filthy mutants dared to attack.  I fear my knights make for poor sewer jacks, however."
[19:09] <Hannes> "That's one way of putting it."
[19:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The were alright, for manlings," Brannur allows, "Little enough to fight, anyway.  I reckon the Nuln warren had only recently been occupied again, and it looks like the whole lot of them picked up and moved.  It bodes ill.  Probably that white rat's doing."
[19:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "In any case, I have tried to see to it that our lady the Countess takes the affair a bit more seriously, but, ah," the knight grimaces, "She and her advisors...particularly the witch hunters...are concerned about 'spurious rumors' causing a panic."
[19:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You can tell that Von Schwarzschloss thinks this a very poor sort of reasoning.
[19:13] <Roger> "Spurious rumors?  They will have spurious murders on their streets if they do not eliminate the Skaven."
[19:15] <Hannes> "Most imperials don't believe in the skaven. I know I didn't..."
[19:17] <Liltrude> "Neither did I.  I'm not sure I'm happy to know about them."
[19:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I have my men watching out regardless.  The ones I can trust not to talk into their cups," Adler says, "Herr Brannur has been most instructive concerning warning signs to watch for."
[19:19] <Hannes> "Oh... if you don't mind, Herr Adler... I do have something for you sister..."
[19:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A voice interrupts your conversation, "Adler!" Eva says, "Why didn't you tell me we had guests?" the noblewoman is dressed more casually than when you last saw her.
[19:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> She recognizes you as you turn, "Ah, Ser Marionnaud, Frau Liltrude, Herr Rosenkrat-" the young woman gasps when she sees the still-healing wound on Hannes's face, "Mein Herr!  What an awful injury!"
[19:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Brannur rolls his eyes and looks meaningfully at Roger.
[19:22] * Roger rolls his eyes and meets Brannur's look.
[19:23] <Hannes> "Ah. Frau Eva!" He shrugs. "It's not as bad as it looks. But I have something for you. Something I would like your opinion on." He produces a thick pile of papers in a wooden valise. "The trip from the Great Forest was long and I was inspired."
[19:25] * Johann just stays quitet in the background
[19:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The young noblewoman takes the valise and opens it, flicking through a few pages with bemused blue eyes, "Herr Rosenkratz, you didn't tell me you enjoyed writing!" then she remembers her original point, "But that still doesn't explain who did that to you!  It wasn't some thug of the Von Sturmbergs, was it?"
[19:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "No, Eva," Adler sighs good-naturedly, "And I'm quite sure Herr Rosenkratz is well tired of explaining the wound."
[19:29] <Hannes> "No, no, no, no. The village we were at in the Great Forest... they had a bandit problem. I tried a new fencing technique where I block the sword with my face. I... had not thought it out well."
[19:31] * Johann chuckles in the background
[19:31] <Liltrude> "Well, it did work, you survived after all."
[19:31] <Roger> "That actually works.  If you're wearing a helmet."
[19:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Hm, well," Eva says, still looking concerned, "As long as you're alright.  I'm sure it will heal well.  It may look...well, rather dashing," the young woman colors, turns her attention back to the valise, and snaps it closed, "Well, I shall certainly enjoy the reading.  Thank you, mein Herr."
[19:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At that moment, there's a knock at the door.
[19:33] <Hannes> "Tell me what you think. I... may want to see if a local publisher might print it."
[19:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Sir," the manservant's voice calls from the other side, "A messenger here.  For Herr Rosenkratz."
[19:34] <Hannes> "For me?"
[19:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Send him in," Adler says.  The door opens to admit a man strange to most of you but familiar to the Averlander.  He looks more like a soldier than a messenger; he wears a short, patchy beard.  It appears his once-handsome face was at one point terribly crushed and never healed properly.
[19:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Hannes!" the man says in a thick Averlander accent, crushing the cadet in a brief, friendly bearhug, "Thank Sigmar I've found you!  When I couldn't track you down these past couple of days I'd feared the worst.  But uh," he looks around, taking in the others for the first time, his expression questioning as to whether this is friendly company.
[19:39] <Hannes> "Herr Almin... what are you doing here? Did father send you?" He would roll his eyes. "You couldnt' find me because I've only been in Nuln for less then a day."
[19:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I heard as much from your friend at the Rat & Dog.  He sent a lad for me once he remembered I'd asked him to, should he hear from you," he notices the Averlander's wound, "Got that duelling wound you were after then?  But that's not important.  My father sent me to take you into custody and return you to the estate, for your safety.  It's Adelind - she's been kidnapped."
[19:44] <Hannes> "Adelind... Adelind... Adelind..." He thinks for a moment. "Ada the Demi-Dwarf?! Why would that be important enough for me to come home?"
[19:44] * Hannes shrugs. "I haven't seen or heard of her in over six years."
[19:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Your father feels that if your fiancee has been kidnapped, you yourself may be next.  They say some Bretonnian knight they call the Mockingbird is responsible," the messenger gives Roger a particularly ugly look when he mentions the kidnapper's nationality.
[19:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "A Bretonnian knight?" Adler asks dubiously.
[19:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Fiancee?" Eva asks with highly unconvincing alacrity.
[19:47] <Hannes> "... I'm not engaged to Ada..." He ponders for a moment, his face going from concern, to sour, to horror. "Oh, ye gods! I am engaged to her! I must have forgotten because it's Ada!"
[19:48] * Roger looks to the man with a level face. "A Bretonnian Knight."
[19:49] * Hannes turns to Eva. "Apologies, but yes, sadly. I've been engaged to one of daughters of my father's noble tenants for some time now. I just... forgot who it was."
[19:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I...see," Eva says with a reasonable attempt at good grace.
[19:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Aye.  A Bretonnian knight.  Heraldry of white and green checkers.  A black mockingbird in the upper left.  A green rose in the lower right.  The Count has put a bounty on him for 100 karls.  I believe Hannes's father intends to up that, you you needn't worry for her safety, he'll not have her for long."
[19:50] * Hannes takes a deep breath. "And, demi-dwarf or not, it is my duty as her husband to be to rescue her. Herr Adler, Frau Eva... thank you for the evening." He would turn to the Slayer. "Herr Brannur, would care to join me in the rescuing of mein fiancee? Surely a bretonnian knight is a worthy foe."
[19:50] <Roger> "A green rose you say?"
[19:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Nae, manling - I'm afraid I've already given my word to a dwarfen expedition," Brannur says.  He seems a little put out by that fact, "Had you gotten back a day later, you would've missed me entirely, for the captain's given me leave of my oath here."
[19:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "As it please you, ser," the messenger replies stiffly to Roger, making a poor effort to conceal his suspicion.  He turns to Hannes, "Hannes, Herr Rosenkratz, I have specific instructions..."
[19:55] <Hannes> "My friends come with me."
[19:58] <Roger> "I would be glad to help.  But this 'Mockingbird' is no true Knight of Bretonnia."
[19:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The messenger scowls dubiously.
[19:58] <Roger> "The Mockingbird is taken as a symbol among bastards and revolutionaries."
[19:59] <Roger> "No legitimate house of Bretonnia would take it as heraldry."
[19:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "As you say, ser," the man says stiffly.
[19:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Nonsense to all this hiding!" Adler interjects, "Hannes, I believe here I may indeed be able to help you.  My family has considerable interests in boatbuilding and river trade.  One of my men, in fact, leaves Nuln in the next few days."
[20:00] <Hannes> "To Averheim?"
[20:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I can have him finish his shipping - today, even - and have you onboard and down the Soll.  It's quicker than riding."
[20:00] * Liltrude nods "That.. yeah, I've read that myself." She says, "No wonder they did something dishonourable then."
[20:01] <Hannes> "Yes, I could do so. But... I would ask if you and Frau Eva would like to see the splendor of Rosenheim yourself."
[20:02] <Roger> "A bastard fancies himself half a noble, and behaves half a knight."
[20:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It sounds quite nice," Eva puts in, but Adler has been whipped up into a mood by word of a kidnapped noblewoman.
[20:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Where is this 'Mockingbird' then?  What rumors?" Adler quizzes the messenger in a commanding tone you haven't heard since the fire.
[20:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Er," the messenger says, responding reflexively, "We believe he operates out of the foothills of the Black Mountains, near the River Aulen, but we're not yet certain-"
[20:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "My man sails far south as Bedernau on his route," Adler says to Hannes.
[20:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "My lord!" the messenger puts in, "This is no affair of yours!  I have been instructed to bring my own lord's son back to his home until this is resolved by professionals-"
[20:05] <Hannes> "Herr Adler is a Knight. He is a professional. So is Ser Roger, and not only that, a bretonnian! Even Frau Fetlock has shown herself to be above the mettle of your average state trooper!"
[20:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The messenger winces, "I mean no insult to your friends, Hannes, but you can't just go gallivanting off against your father's wishes," he sounds as if he expects just such a thing to happen.
[20:08] <Hannes> "They. Are. Coming. With. Me. Or. You. Go. Alone."
[20:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The messenger grits his teeth, "Still stubborn as ever, Hannes.  Have it your way.  I therefore must return to you father and send him word of what you intend, then.  By your leave?"
[20:17] <Hannes> "Go. We'll be a day or so behind you, I think."
[20:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man stiffly bows to Hannes, to Von Schwarzschloss, turns on his heel, and departs.
[20:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Adler finishes his brandy in one quick gulp, "Worry not, Hannes, there was no son that ever lived worth being called a man that did not occasionally vex his father."
[20:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Do you intend to obey his wishes and try your luck, or shall I see to making arrangements?"
[20:22] <Hannes> "Please. Make the arrangements. Luckily, Rosenburg is on the river banks."
[20:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Adler claps his hands together, "Excellent.  Would that I could come myself.  You intend to make for your home?  I may need to check which boats are headed on the Aver if you intend to go there first."
[20:39] <Hannes> "Well, home is a difficult way to put it. We don't live anywhere near Rosenburg, but it's the closest river port."
[20:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Wissenlander nobleman turns his attention to Roger, "I think, though, you should have need for horses.  I believe, ser, you said your horse was killed.  I may be able to recify that deficiency.  I keep some quantity of horseflesh here.  Not heavy chargers, but more nimble, still fierce beasts.  After what you've done for me, ser, I'd gladly give you the choice of the stable."
[20:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You as well," he nods to Hannes," then looks to Liltrude, "Though, forgive me Fraulein, a pony and cart may better suit your own use."
[20:44] <Hannes> "As much as I appreciate the gesture, mein herr, I am a true son of Siggurd! Brigundian blood flows thick through mein veins! Nay, I will have to refuse your kind offer, as a wild beast waits for me back home... ready for me to break."
[20:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Brannur snorts.
[20:46] * Hannes turns to face Brannur. "What was that?"
[20:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I may be a slayer, manling, but even I know better in front of the ladies."
[20:50] * Roger looks to Adler, nodding. "I must accept, I think. I've fought afoot for too long, and it's simply improper for a son of Bretonnia."
[20:50] <Roger> "My thanks."
[20:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Worry not.  You'll have your pick as you see fit, ser.  I will have one of my men show you the stables.  Eva?  You have the house.  I need to see to the matter of the boat," with a respectful nod, Adler departs, calling out orders to his household servants.  The man who showed you in appears and stands unobtrusively off to one side, awaiting your convenience.
[20:57] * Roger steps out, towards the stables, or atleast to follow whichever servant will show him the way.
[21:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The manservant leads the way, "My lord did not specify whether or not you were to be given harness and saddle.  I assume you shall be needing them?"
[21:02] * Johann looks to the group "I shall certainly not leave you in the lurch on this rescue but I have two tasks I must attend to first"
[21:03] <Roger> "Yes.  I do not wish to intrude upon his hospitality further, but I am not accustomed to riding bareback."
[21:05] <Johann> "I have a head and a report to turn in, I shall briefly leave you if you wish to devote more time to your own preparation, though I would be honored if you could accompany me to the temple"
[21:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I do not think he shall mind terribly," the manservant says.  You can almost detect a hint of resignation in his voice at his master's open-handedness, but he does his best to conceal it.  The Von Schwarzschloss stables are, in any case, well-ordered and as clean as you could expect from a stable.  The captain keeps a number of horses, draft and riding, as well as a number that look bred and trained for war.
[21:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ser may have his pick," the servant says, gesturing, "Only save for Magnus," he indicates one midnight-black horse with a white face, "Or Snow," this one is a smaller riding horse, "Who belongs to my lord's sister."
[21:11] * Roger nods. "I understand."
[21:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "As for saddle and harness," the manservant adds, nodding to one wall, "We have a numberto choose from, though most are of Imperial style.  I believe we have some...classic designs that may suit your more...provincial needs."
[21:16] * Roger takes a look at the horses in turn. As a Bretonnian Knight, he can tell a good warhorse apart, and eventually settles on one strong looking warhorse with a dark bay coat.
[21:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Excellent choice, sir," the manservant nods, "I shall see to it that things are put in order so that there will be no delays."
[21:20] * Roger also takes a look at the saddles and harnesses, and picks something out that most fits what he's familiar with, with the usual bracings and stirrups needed for charging at a tilt as Bretonnians are best known for.
[21:20] * Roger nods to the servant, standing aside to let the work be done.
[21:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> In short order, Roger's new warhorse is saddled and harnessed, snorting and pawing at the stable floor, as if eager to be gone already.  "The beast's name is Thunderer, ser.  You may rename him, of course, only that is what he responds to at present."
[21:25] <Roger> "Thunderer is a fine name for a warhorse.  I think he shall keep it.  My thanks."
[21:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The servant bows respectfully, "Ser."
[21:27] <Liltrude> "Ah uh.. Is there anyway I can have a Mule and Cart instead of a Pony?  It may not be as pretty, but they do the job well."
[21:28] <Roger> Before Roger mounts his new horse, he pulls a large covering from his bag.  Apparently he'd been carrying it around this entire time.  He throws it over the horse and fastens it, displaying his house's colors.
[21:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The servant turns, apparently noticing Liltrude for the first time, "Er - very well, Fraulein.  I do not think my lord would begrudge you that."
[21:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Von Schwarzschlosses have only a couple of mules, beasts of burden usually used for pulling carts of groceries or other sundry, "This beast is the more amiable," the servant says, patting one gray-haired mule on the neck.
[21:30] * Hannes thinks for a bit, thinks a bit more. "I think I will take Herr Adler up on his offer, on second thought. Strong as my blood may be... the chances of my father letting me have one after my willful disobedience..."
[21:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Understood, mein Herr," the servant says deferentially.  He hides any sign that he notices Hannes's changeable temper well.
[21:35] * Liltrude also pats the mule on the neck, "What's it's name?" She asks.
[21:35] * Johann smiles "So can I ride along in the cart?"
[21:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Er," the servant says.
[21:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It's not appropriate for m'lady's ears."
[21:37] * Hannes looks through the various horses, inspecting them with the care of an Averland horseman.
[21:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Hannes finds a fairly impressive variety of horseflesh, as you'd expect from a pistolier and cavalry captain.  Magnus, Adler's warhorse, is probably the heaviest of the lot.
[21:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> One particular horse stands out to Hannes's keen eye.  Far from the most handsome of the stock, with its splotchy coat, it still regards Hannes with a keen, intelligent eye and a poised readiness and power apparent even at rest.  The horse wickers softly at Hannes's attention.
[21:40] * Hannes places his hand upon the horse's head. "I think I found the one I'm looking for."
[21:41] <Liltrude> "I've probably heard worse.  Considering some of the other companions I've had."
[21:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Very well," the servant sighs, "The mule's name is Scheisskopf.  I assure you, however, that my master had no part in that name."
[21:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ah," the servant says to Hannes's choice, "Canny beast, him.  Smarter than some of the stablehands.  Watcher, his name is."
[21:47] <Hannes> "It suits him..."
[21:48] <Liltrude> "Ah, poor thing" Liltrude says, "I'll have to think of a better name for him."
[21:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Shall my lord stable the beasts until you are ready to retrieve them, or will you be making your own arrangements?"
[21:51] <Roger> "I believe I will keep him here.  I trust no one else in this city more to take care of a fine warhorse."
[21:52] <Hannes> "You plan on not taking him with us?"
[21:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The servant nods, clearly pleased with Roger's response.
[21:57] <Hannes> "I'll keep Watcher here as well, until we are ready to leave."
[21:58] * Johann proposes they head over to the temple for his report
[21:58] <Liltrude> Liltrude nods.  "I'll keep up...*cough*Scheisskopf*cough* here too.  A-And I'll be thinking  of a better name."
[22:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Once you've seen to your gift horses, Eva sees you out, establishing that you can be reached at the Rat & Dog when things are made ready.
[22:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Don't die, Herr Rosenkratz," Eva says in farewell, "Otherwise I shall not be able to return your manuscript to you."
[22:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You're left to your own devices.  Certainly, there's nothing to stop you visting the Temple of Sigmar.
[22:03] <Hannes> "I don't plan on doing, Frau Eva!"
[22:18] * Johann is now known as Clamber
[22:23] * Roger is now known as TXTypewriter
Session Close: Sun Aug 07 23:02:32 2016

=========================================================


Session Start: Mon Aug 08 21:30:37 2016
Session Ident: #Johannchecksin
[21:30] * Now talking in #Johannchecksin
[21:30] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has joined #Johannchecksin
[21:30] * Clamber (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #Johannchecksin
[21:31] * TXTypewriter (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) has joined #Johannchecksin
[21:31] * Clamber heads for the stables exit "I can meet the rest of you back here or wherever you choose, or you can tag along, whichever suits you"
[21:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> When you leave the Von Schwarzschloss manse, a bit of the early day coolness has gone.  Thankfully, the wind is carrying the stink and soot of the Faulestadt away from better-heeled neighborhoods, so at the very least you don't have to put up with summer heat and industry stink.
[21:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A pair of young nobleman racing their horses tear down the lane as you step out, not so much as giving a single glance back, wooping and hollering like children in their pursuit.
[21:33] * Clamber is now known as Johann
[21:34] <Hannes> "I'll tag along. What with the nonsense that happened in Marienburg, you may need the assistance!"
[21:34] * Johann shakes his head knowingly at their antics "Well there really is no place like home"
[21:34] <Johann> "Whjat happened in Marienburg?"
[21:35] <Hannes> "Temple of Sigmar was blown up."
[21:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Fortunately, Friar Ulfbert had the foresight to record the events in Ferndorf in detail, as well as have several witnesses attest to his story and make their mark.  That document is in the initiate's bag, sealed with wax, but naturally he let the initiate of Sigmar view it first.
[21:35] * TXTypewriter is now known as Roger
[21:36] * Johann most likely approved of it as well and heads towards the temple distcits of Nuln with the savvy of a native
[21:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The watch give you no trouble as you make your way to the Tempel Quarter; Hannes and Roger are dressed in their best, and harassing a temple initiate is always foolish.
[21:38] * Johann gives friendly waves to familiar or important faces and heads to a door befiting his station
[21:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Tempel Quarter, lower on Nuln Hill though it is, is impressive.  Here the streets are kept free of horse shit and garbage; you see the familiar sight of a road-cleaning detail polishing stones.  A couple of familiar faces are among their number, younger initiates, which probably means Instructor Haug is on one of his disciplinary rampages.
[21:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As Johann heads for the Cathedral of Sigmar, its finely-carved statues glaring down accusingly at all who approach, he passes through the usual mobs of the pious poor, the ostentatious wealthy, and the gibbering madmen who always congregate around the temples.
[21:42] * Johann respectfully greets any who pass close by, noble or madman
[21:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Here there is much less of Nuln's omnipresent soot to be found.  Another initiate is cleaning a nude statue of Sigmar's bollocks while a couple of his mates laugh and make jokes.
[21:42] * Hannes looks to Roger and motions to the statue of the man-god, Sigmar. "Every time I see one of these statues, I can't help but wonder what the Bretonni were thinking when they turned down her offer to join our glorious empire!"
[21:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Finally, you arrive at the gromril-bound doors of the Cathedral of Sigmar.  Though ostensibly a temple, it looks more like a castle - it could certainly withstand a siege.
[21:44] <Johann> "I wonder if the Bretonni had joined, would Giles have been Emperor in his time? Hard to serve Sigmar and the Lady at once but it could ahve been an interesting period in history"
[21:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Today it's even garrisoned like a castle, with halberd-armed men standing around, hard-faced and watchful, in temple livery, far more than normal.  Apparently the cult elders are taking no risks of a repeat of the fiasco in Marienburg.
[21:45] * Roger looks to the nude statue dubiously. "It's true, then. You Imperials are obsessed with vile pleasures of the flesh."
[21:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Heading through the main doors, Johann picks his way through the crowd with reflexive ease, making his way towards the west wing of the brutal fortress, where the quarters of ranking priests and offices are located.
[21:46] * Johann seeks the chamber of his superiors who sent him ont his mission
[21:46] <Hannes> "It's not vile when it's a god, Roger." He would follow after Johann.
[21:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Here there is much less of the hustle and bustle of the crowd.  The men moving through these halls - sprinting, jogging, limping, shuffling - are all clergy or their dogsbodies, shave-pated initiates and scribes bearing missives or tomes, all at least trying to appear busy.
[21:48] <Roger> "It is vile, and disrespectful."
[21:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Johann's two guests gain a few looks, but their respectable dress - and chaperone - see to it that they're not bothered.
[21:48] <Roger> "A deity should not be looked upon with lust."
[21:49] <Hannes> "Who's looking upon it with lust?"
[21:50] <Roger> "Your men, obsessed with fucking men, or being fucked thereby."
[21:50] <Roger> "Or your unvirtuous women."
[21:50] <Roger> "Obsessed with fucking men."
[21:50] <Roger> "Or being fucked thereby."
[21:51] <Johann> "D/me turns around exasperated "Do you two MIND?"
[21:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Your conversation about sodomy goes mostly unmarked, and you arrive outside a door marked with a nameplate bearing the name 'Ignatius Bach,' the father in Nuln in charge of minding many of the more rural priests of the church.
[21:52] <Roger> "Does your god mind not exposing himself in a public place?"
[21:52] <Roger> "I suppose not."
[21:52] <Hannes> "Oh, no. Please go on, Herr Johann." He would turn to Roger. "You can't prove anything about that. The only men fucking you here was the Shark man who was a deviant killer for hire and the gruff state troopers who talk about it as a form of... taking the piss it's called."
[21:54] <Johann> "Do you mind not insulting Sigmar for the percieved sins of our statue crafters in his very temple?
[21:54] <Johann> "I don't go around blaspheming in grail chapels and I would hope a knight could offer the same courtesy here"
[21:55] <Roger> "They should behave more nobly if they wish their god to not be mocked."
[21:56] * Roger shrugs. "I suppose it was likely commissioned by an impious sort, in any case."
[21:58] * Johann waits to make certain the argument is over before knocking at the office door
[21:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Enter," a clipped voice replies instantly.
[22:00] * Johann steps inside and stands at attention after making the sign of the hammer
[22:00] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The office of Ignatius Bach is not the sort many expect when they hear of the famous lavishness of the Sigmarite priesthood.  Nowhere to be seen is gaudy golden ornamentation, or a shelf filled with expensive vanity books.  This cell is so austere as to be a blatant political statement.
[22:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The room's only concession to any human feeling is the painting above the priest's desk: a well-rendered depiction of Magnus the Pious striking down a swathe of degenerate northmen.
[22:03] <Johann> "I have the report you requested Father Bach, there were ...unexpected developments in Ferndorf, of the skinchanging variety"
[22:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Bach himself is almost the polar opposite of Friar Ulfbert in appearance.  When he stands, he seems almost too big for the room.  He carries himself like a lifelong soldier, blue eyes boring intensely into any who dare meet them.  His hands seem to long for a warhammer, not a quill.  A scar on one cheek renders his face a permanent scowl.
[22:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> When Johann speaks, Bach runs a hand over his shaved pate, and nods.  "Report then, initiate.  You have done your duty?"
[22:07] <Johann> "The village was under siege by bandits and their conspirators from within, one of said conspirators was so consumed by his greed that he either intentionally or unintentionally  invited a lesser Daemon of greed into his body and became a wild beast. Sadly in the battle one of the mercenaries accompanying me went above and beyond and gave his life"
[22:08] <Johann> "As did the brother of the were who was the very reason we even had a lead on the monster, and he died because of my poor investigative techique of chaining up all the suspects till the full darkmoon"
[22:09] <Hannes> "There was no way of knowing the beast was capable of breaking it's bonds like that. Though we should have used heavier chains..."
[22:09] <Johann> "We should ahve left stakes around each of the posts"
[22:09] <Johann> "Rosewood stakes from the ground to keep them apart"
[22:10] <Hannes> "There was a lot of things we should've done, but the fact of the matter is... we managed to save the village in the long run. No more werewolf, no more bandits."
[22:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Sigmar will know his own," Bach says callously, "You were sent as a messenger, not a witch-finder," he looks to Hannes, then speaks bluntly, "Who are you?"
[22:10] <Johann> "Oh yes, speaking of the rosewood we learned that his greed was most likely related to the village's main export and used it against him, the same with plain gold"
[22:11] * Johann looks over at Hannes "This is one of the heroes who helped put down the beast, as is the bretonian behind me"
[22:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The priest regards Roger with cold, measuring eyes, "A knight, I suppose.  A veteran of the Storm?"
[22:12] <Hannes> "Oh! My apologies, Father, but I am Hannes Bergenhaffen Trilowsky Goetz Hoffmeister von Rosenkratz!" He would bow with a flourish! Letting his name hang in the air. All six of them. "The Eighteenth! I am a noble son of fair Averland! Brigundian Blood flows thick through my veins, and I scion of a lineage of heroes that goes back to when my ancestor rode alongside the Heldenhammer at Black Fire Pass!"
[22:12] <Hannes> *I am scion
[22:12] <Johann> "A veteran of this city's own ...Underground troubles with the ahem 'beastmen'"
[22:14] <Roger> "I was too young to fight during the Storm, unfortunately.  I've only recently begun my Errantry tour."
[22:15] <Roger> "But yes, I did fight in the sewers."
[22:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Very good," the Sigmarite says dismissively.  The second statement by Johann brings a spark of recognition to the priest's eye, and he looks to Roger, "Then you're Roger Marionnaud de Carcassonne.  I had access to the report on this.  You two seem to have a knack for finding trouble," he turns his attention back to the initiate, "You have a written report?  Friar Ulfbert - does he live?"
[22:17] * Johann nods and retrieves the parchment from his bag "The friar ably led his flock in the battle against the bandits and the pack of wolves that came in on their heels, as well as helping us in the investigation."
[22:18] * Johann hands the parchment off
[22:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The priest takes the report, breaks the seal, and reads it over quickly - once, twice.  He clicks his tongue, "Well.  We shall inform the family of the man slain in Sigmar's service," he casually tosses the report on the desk, "What of reports of Ulbert's dissolute behavior?  Drunkenness, petty theft of offerings, lasciviousness?"
[22:20] <Hannes> "The Friar didn't seem at all like that. Sure, he drank. And he gambled with some of the men, but he was instrumental in fighting the werewolf. Besides, he is only a man. Men are flawed."
[22:21] <Johann> "He did partake in ale and perhaps overate, but I do not see him exceeding his mandate aside from simply trying to gain the trust of the mostly taalite woodsmen"
[22:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It is the duty of a shepherd to be above the licentiousness of the flock, not to stoop to it, thereby encouraging it," Bach rebukes Hannes.  He listens until both speak, though, and grunts, "And reports of witch in the woods?"
[22:24] <Johann> "A Kislevite Priestess"
[22:24] <Johann> "Not an unlicensed Wyrd"
[22:25] <Johann> "She has been protecting the village for a substantial amount of time, sadly the were-daemon's host shattered her spells of protection and Ferndorf will now need to suffer through briganadry and beastmen just like the rest of the empire"
[22:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Bach regards Johann coldly, but whatever his thoughts are on the legitimacy of a Kislevite hag, he does not share them with the initiate, "Then you have done your duty as instructed, initiate," Bach retakes his seat, steepling massive fingers as he regards the younger man.
[22:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Normally this would wait for the formal process, but I piss on formality.  You are to be promoted to a Priest of the Order of the Silver Hammer for this.  I will see to the paperwork, but first, I have an assignment for you."
[22:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man doesn't wait for Johann's response, opening a drawer on his desk and shuffling through papers until he retrieves a sheaf and drops them in front of Johann.  He regards Roger and Hannes for a moment, seems to come to a decision, then speaks.
[22:28] * Johann doesn't notice the slightly cold look at the mention of the kislevite and immediately perks up at the promotion "Thank you father! I shall do my best to justify this honor!"
[22:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You shall have an opportunity immediately.  We have reports of a Bretonnian knight rabble-rousing in Averland, engaging in petty banditry.  Apparently he operates out of the hills near Jengen, not too far from Blackfire Pass.  We have reports of a number of the common folk siding with this foreigner and even taking his god."
[22:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He looks to Roger, "I am given to believe that this is not the typical behavior of your chivalry, and that the sigul of the mockingbird is a particularly inauspicious one.  We suspect this man may be a fraud, and possibly a servant of revolutionists or powers worse."
[22:31] * Johann laughs softly at the coincidence "Well that's a relief, I was going to ask you for permission to see this rogue knight as he has kidnapped Her Hannes's fiance"
[22:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Bach grunts, his scarred face for the first time betraying any element of human emotion, "Then perhaps Sigmar himself works to our purpose.  Very good."
[22:32] * Hannes blanches at the mere thought of Ada the Demi-Dwarf. "That is true. And I shall lead my companions on a gallant rescue mission to save my bonney bride."
[22:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You are to attempt to pick up this man's trail.  Speak to the common folk.  Record any altered religious practices - in detail.  If an opportunity presents itself, kill him, take his head, and return his heraldry - his real heraldry, if he has such a thing."
[22:33] <Johann> "He's clearly abandoned his family so I hope that retrieving his original heraldry does not have them unduly persecuted."
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "We will rely on our friends in Bretonnia to punish any of his kin as they see fit and righteous," Bach looks significantly at Roger.
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Of course, that is an affair for their lords and liege."
[22:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Do you have any questions, brother?"
[22:36] * Johann shakes his head and then bows "None come to mind father."
[22:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You are dismissed, then.  See the smiths about acquiring your weapon of office," with that anticlimactic farewell, Bach returns to his paperwork.
[22:39] * Johann heads to the temple smithy!
[22:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The forges at the Cathedral of Sigmar are located underground, which is appropriate, considering their master.  Garik Grey-Eye is a dwarf's dwarf, a hard-drinking, grudge-keeping, close-mouthed, sour-faced chauvinist who would sooner chew his beard than praise an elf.  Initiates in temple go in fear of being assigned as one of his gofers.
[22:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Garik for his part does very little forging himself, mostly overseeing his human subordinates with a permanent scowl of utter contempt.  He limps along, leaning heavily on his cane for support, and when you appear in the forges, he immediately notices.
[22:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "YOU!  NO INITIATES IN THE FORGES UNLESS I SEND FOR YE!  AND NO TOURISTS!"
[22:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I'LL HAVE YOU STRIPPED AND WHIPPED, BOY!"
[22:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He hobbles towards you menacingly.  The smiths at their various tasks keep busy.
[22:45] * Johann hands him the documents of priesthood
[22:46] <Hannes> "And now I've met my third dwarf in this city. Greetings, friend dwarf! I am Hannes Bergenhaffen Trilowsky Goetz Hoffmeister von Rosenkratz!" Once more, he flourishes a bow as he lets the name hang in the air. "The Eighteenth. You would not happen to know of Snorri Orc-Teeth, would you?"
[22:46] <Johann> "Not an innitiate anymore Garik! Father Bach has sent me to collect a weapon of office"
[22:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "That fat grobi-fondler?  Aye, he owes me three casks of his 'particular.'  You can tell him if you see him!" He snatches Johann's proffered papers and retrieves a comically flimsy-looking pair of spectacles from beneath his apron, "Well, that's Ignatius's mark," he looks Johann up and down, "Alright, well you came at a good time, then.  We have one still cooling from the forge.  Put blisters on your palms, ha!"
[22:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He slaps the newly-minted priest on the arm, turns, and hobbles off towards a side room without waiting to see if you'll follow.
[22:49] * Johann follows diligently
[22:50] <Hannes> "I'm... curious, Herr Grey-Eye... are you on retainer with the temple? Or are you capable of taking side contracts...?"
[22:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Retainer," the dwarf grunts, "I have my hands full with these umgak manling tinkers as it is," the armory attached to the forge is cooler than the main floor, but still stuffy.  Here are breastplates, helmets, coats-of-mail, rack after rack of hammer and pick and sword.
[22:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> And of course, an entire wall of massive two-handed warhammers, brutal and beautifully ugly.  Garik picks one from the hooks on the wall with as much ease as a man might lift a willow switch, turns, and proffers it to Johann, "Yours," he says without ceremony.
[22:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The square-headed, steel weapon is worked in gold, its slab sides depicting famous scenes of holy strife from the history of the church.
[22:53] <Hannes> "A shame. My good friend Roger here is in need of a lance..."
[22:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Carven on the striking face of the hammer is the twin-tailed comet itself, the last thing an enemy of Sigmar is likely to ever see.
[22:54] * Johann grasps it two handed and takes it into his posession "Thank you Garik, I will make sure to use it well"
[22:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> An armor-piercing spike on the back is worked into a griffin's head.
[22:55] * Roger looks over. "I am, and had thought to commission one, though it seems they haven't a knight's usual arms."
[22:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Garik grunts, "He can bloody well buy one at the market, then," true to his word, the hammer is stll almost painfully hot, and quite heavy.  It probably would've come in handy fighting the were.
[22:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It's not bad for umgi work," Garik allows with a nod.
[22:56] * Johann sticks to the somewhat insulated grip "Do you have slings for this?"
[22:57] <Johann> "Oh, here I was hoping you'd made this one yourself, though looking at it it does seem somewhat man-made"
[22:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Aye," the dwarf retrieves a rough leather strap, shows Johan how to adjust it, and indicates the steel loops forged into the long haft of the weapon where hooks can be fit, "Make it myself?  Are you a temple patriarch then, or a fresh-made wandering priest?" Garik snorts, "Come back in forty years, if you're still alive, manling.  Then we'll see."
[22:58] * Johann laughs amicably "Well if I was any more than a wandering priest I'd not be naieve enough to have such a selfish hope"
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf grunts his reply.
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Now get out of my forge, I have work to do," without waiting to be obeyed, Garik limps back out onto the main floor, "WHERE IS THAT DAMNED FOOL BOY KLAUS!  I'LL HAVE HIM STRIPPED AND WHIPPED!"
[23:00] * Johann gets on out of the forge
[23:01] * Hannes follows him out.
[23:02] * Johann tries to find a dummy to hammer
[23:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This isn't particularly difficult, for the temple maintains practice yards for its warrior clergy, though none of its more magnificent miracle workers are in attendance today.
[23:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Besides a few other fellows in the robes of the Order of the Silver Hammer, there are a couple of temple guardians chatting in low tones about the Black Powder Plot, and what it means for the future of the temple.
[23:04] * Johann finds a target that he's permitted tyo break
[23:05] * Hannes goes to chat up the temple guards. "So... what is the news about Marienberg?"
[23:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The two assemble some form of respectability, noting Johann's presence, "How can you not have heard?" one asks, "Some bloody bastard tried to blow up Johann Esmer."
[23:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Only because he killed Valten," the other guardian says.
[23:08] * Johann smacks the thing
[23:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "We don't know that," the first says annoyedly, while Johann practices with his weapon, "You put thumbscrews on anyone and they'd confess to sucking an orc's cock.  And they haven't got them."
[23:08] * Johann turns around "Clearly devolving into violence over the testimony of a worthless assassin who is themselves dead is not the best solution"
[23:09] <Johann> "If Esmer did order the death of Valten he'll get what's coming to him, but lashing out before we have the facts is counterproductive"
[23:10] <Hannes> "I'm just understanding if the Temple knows more then the rabble."
[23:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "People are tense, father," the second guardian says respectfully to Johann, "All this nonsense about the Grand Theogonist, and you know he has enemies in the temple..."
[23:11] <Johann> "Both of the claimants do I'm sure."
[23:11] <Hannes> "Johann Esmer didn't even take a dwarven name. How can we trust someone that refutes tradition like that?"
[23:11] <Johann> "Perhaps he was simply very slow to deliberate on one."
[23:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "There's a lot of folk that yell about Valten but just want war for plunder's sake," the first guardian espouses, "Marienburg is rich, and they say the elves are fighting a war against...someone.  I arsked one I saw, and he just got angry and tight lipped."
[23:11] <Johann> "If someone were to tell me tomorrow I had to pick a dwarven name I think I'd probably take years to decide"
[23:12] <Johann> "Though you'd think a priest of that rank would ahve given it mroe thought"
[23:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Me, I just do what I'm told," the second guardian says, "Only if he did have Valten killed, we had better do something about it."
[23:15] <Johann> "I am sure that we will"
[23:32] * Roger is now known as TXTypewriter
[23:33] * TXTypewriter (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) Quit (Quit: )
Session Close: Mon Aug 08 23:34:28 2016

============================================================


Session Start: Sun Aug 14 16:44:53 2016
Session Ident: #upperreikrafting
[16:44] * Now talking in #upperreikrafting
[16:48] * Del (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) has joined #upperreikrafting
[16:49] * TXTypewriter (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) has joined #upperreikrafting
[17:03] * Del is now known as Liltrude
[17:32] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has joined #upperreikrafting
[17:35] * TXTypewriter is now known as Roger
[17:37] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #upperreikrafting
[17:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You depart from the Cathedral of Sigmar not long after Johann concludes receiving his vestaments and taking a few practice swings with his hammer.  A few initiates look on at the newly-minted priest of the Order of the Silver Hammer jealously, but none dare hassle him about protocols or formal ceremony; it's well-known that he's one of Ignatius Bach's recent agents, and that man's will is law.
[17:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The temple plaza is as busy as before, filled with hawkers, doomcriers, pilgrims, gawkers, cutpurses, madmen, the devout and those simply looking to be seen.
[17:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most give your company a respectful distance, as much as the press of the crowd allows - two noblemen and a Priest of Sigmar traveling together are not the sort you elbow out of the way.
[17:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Naturally, Liltrude is able to travel easily in their wake, which makes for a change for the diminuitive woman.
[17:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> One slobbering madman grabs Johann by the robes, shaking him, "SON OF PERDITION!  FOLLOWER OF THE FALSE THEOGONIST!  REPENT!  REPEEEENT!"
[17:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The fellow is dressed in rags and fleas, barefooted but for some scraps wound around his feet.  One of the halberdiers guarding the square stops leaning on his weapon and begins pushing through the crowd towards the developing scene.
[17:46] * Roger cuffs the madman. "Begone, lest your madness taint the rest of us!"
[17:47] * Johann rolls his eyes "First off you didn't even bother to ask which claimant I supported, secondly you really need to stop drooling over everything"
[17:47] <Hannes> "Which claimant do you support, Johann?"
[17:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Rebuked (verbally and physically), man goes reeling off into the crowd, gabbering very sincerely but rather incoherently about daemons in the skin of men and "eyes on the inside."
[17:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He sees the halberdier coming for him and begins pushing away, still rambling.  Apparently he's not TOTALLY crazy.
[17:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The guard gives up, shrugs, and begins muscling his way back to his post.
[17:49] * Johann shakes his head "I lean towards Volkmar but I'm far from willing to go hunting down Esmer over the words of someone who died on the rack"
[17:52] <Roger> "Men put to pain are often untruthful, or so I'm told."
[17:52] <Roger> "They'll say anything to make it stop."
[17:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You break free of crush and press of the plaza in fair time, unrobbed and more or less unmolested, and are once again free to go where you will in Nuln.
[17:57] * Johann looks about "So, we should restock before heading down to the boat, have you collected your pay from your employer yet?"
[17:59] <Roger> "He was negotiating the amount, I believe."
[18:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Nobles being famously slow to pay for what they bought, Hightower asked for - and received - a place where he might call upon you to deliver payment or information leading to payment.  That it was the Rat & Dog you chose simplified things, no doubt.
[18:02] <Hannes> "Hightower won't pay us until the morror, but I plan on visiting a gunsmith and negotiate before we recieve our gold."
[18:02] * Johann shrugs "So I say we should either head there or start our shopping wiht the fifty crown bounty"
[18:03] <Roger> "I intend to commission some armor, but I don't believe I have enough without the pay from hightower."
[18:03] <Roger> "We can await our payment before beginning, I believe."
[18:04] <Liltrude> "I haven't even thought about what I'd do with my pay."
[18:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Even fifty karls would've been a small fortune, but with the untimely demise of Ralf and the convenient recovery of the traitor roadwarden Fuch's head, it's likely that that small fortune will only expand.
[18:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Perhaps not worth watching a monster crawl out of the skin out of a human, but no one pays well for a man to stay at home, drink wine, and pinch the barmaids.
[18:06] <Johann> "We should collect healing draughts and pultices
[18:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> When you return to the Rat & Dog for a brew, some hot food, and word, you find that your benefactor has already been and gone.  Snorri immediately calls you behind the bar - a sight rare enough to cause many lookie-loos - and takes you to a heavily-reinforced room fitted with a dwarfish lock that he doesn't let you look at.
[18:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Hightower left you a sum of 250 karls," he says, gesturing to a small (and no doubt heavy) chest, "Don't be surprised - he always liked to pretend payment would take a while, then use a middle-man so he wouldn't get robbed after a job."
[18:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The dwarf seems to consider this good business sense, despite him being the middle-man.
[18:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Spend some of that here, will you?"
[18:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Cashing in on the head of Fuchs proves a bit more tedious - he's a bit puffy and rotten, after all - and the clerk dickers and speculates for as long as humanly possible before he concedes that you know what you have and reluctantly pays the bounty, adding another 50 karls to your recent fortunes.
[18:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This leaves you the late afternoon to get your shopping done.
[18:11] <Roger> "I've no head for numbers, but I believe that puts us at 60 gold each."
[18:14] <Hannes> "That would be correct, yes."
[18:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Then, of course, there is the matter of your plunder.  The scavenged bandit's weapons are of little account, but the curious skaven repeating crossbow is likely to fetch a pretty bit of gold - provided no one mentions just whose hands you prised it from.
[18:21] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Fuch's sleeved mail coat, of course, is in Johann's keeping, a little extra help in Sigmar's divine protection.
[18:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With the profits divided amongst you finally, you each proceed to buy your essentials for the trip ahead.
[18:48] * Roger has bought plate armor for his arms and legs, and being of Imperial make it provides an interesting clash of style from his more archaic looking Bretonnian armor. It seems to work fine though.
[18:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Though certainly not fashionable, it lends the Bretonnian knight-errant a seasoned air, which is probably more important for avoiding trouble with the genuinely violent.
[18:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Recent wounds and his usual sour glare amplify the effect.
[19:25] * Johann finishes shopping and brings a small case of medical supplies to the cart
[19:26] * Roger looks over everything as it all comes together. "I believe this should be enough."
[19:27] * Hannes manages to procure for the group rations for the week, as well as a barrel of Snorri's Particular. And a tent. He has been busy.
[19:32] * Liltrude uses some of her old Master's contacts to get herself some... materials. She seems especially cautious with them, when carrying them to the cart. Not wanting to upset anything.
[19:39] * Johann looks at her caution "So what's in that box?"
[19:41] <Hannes> "What's in that chest?"
[19:42] <Liltrude> "Ah, just some materials.  For my er... trade... I figured while I'm here I should stock up.  It always comes in handy."
[19:45] <Johann> "So black powder, that explains your aution"
[19:45] <Johann> caution*
[19:47] <Liltrude> "I don't want to lose any fingers y'know.  I've seen it happen to others.  I'm proud to have all of mine still."
[19:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Passing dwarfs confirm Johann's suspicion, detouring around the halfling as the flow of people in Nuln moves.  They have a nose for black powder, after all, and little respect for any but them who dare to handle it.
[19:49] <Hannes> "It's also worth noting that I managed to do two other things! I got us tickets to what I am told the greatest theatre play to hit Nuln in at least 4 months. Not only that, I figured since we are probably leaving Nuln for the last time, to pay for a meal for all of us to enjoy."
[19:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The tickets Hannes hands you are for a show called 'A Fair Bretonnian Lord,' apparently a piece by one of Detlef Sierck's protoges, though the ticket itself does not divulge further details.
[19:51] * Roger can't actually read Imperial, so he doesn't know what it says.
[19:52] <Roger> "I suppose we can indulge if it's out last night."
[19:52] <Roger> "I assume this play is something similar to those stages they set in Brionne from time to time."
[19:53] <Hannes> "Perhaps? I'm not versed in Bretonnian theatre."
[19:54] * Johann shakes his head "I am worried it will be intended to mock Bretonians in jest"
[19:56] <Roger> "Will I be forced to duel a playwright to preserve Bretonnian honor over this?"
[19:56] <Liltrude> "That'll be a sight to see."
[19:57] <Johann> "Who knows"
[19:57] <Hannes> "It's called A Fair Bretonnian Lord. I'm told it's quite popular with some bretonnian expatriates."
[19:58] <Roger> "Expatriates."
[19:59] <Roger> "Exiles, you mean to say."
[19:59] <Johann> "Or ambassadors"
[20:00] <Hannes> "Poh-tay-toh, poe-ta-toe."
[20:01] <Roger> "There is a difference between a proper Bretonnian and one who has left, regardless of the reasons."
[20:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> With that issue left open, you leave off on labor for leisure.  Indulgent as Adler von Schwarzschloss is, it's doubtful if one of his family's shipping vessels will be terribly comfortable.  Hannes has picked out a Tilean bistro for you to dine at, and secured outdoor seats in the pleasant summer's evening.
[20:03] <Johann> "You're not in Breonnia"
[20:03] <Johann> "That's the definition of expatriate"
[20:04] <Roger> "I was lead to understand it is one who lives outside the country permanantly."
[20:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> That would hardly be desirable in much of the Neuestadt - to say nothing of the Shantytown - but here people don't throw their shit in the streets and you rarely smell the nearly-visible odour of the Faulestadt, mercifully far away.
[20:05] <Roger> "I do not live outside Bretonnia.  I am passing through."
[20:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Apparently Hannes has chosen well, perhaps led by his own experience in that politically confusing land.
[20:07] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[20:09] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has joined #upperreikrafting
[20:09] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has left #upperreikrafting
[20:09] * Hannes (IceChat9@sux-784F023D.hsd1.va.comcast.net) has joined #upperreikrafting
[20:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Roger might be somewhat mollified to find that, despite its Tilean pretentions, the restaurant does serve Bretonnian brandy, albeit at an exorbinant markup of 15 shillings.
[20:11] <Hannes> "Order what you will. We shall feast and drink and be merry! For we may all die the coming morrow!"
[20:12] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The waiter, an impeccably-dressed Tilean with slicked back hair who appears to consist entirely of sharp angles, seems only too willing to oblige.
[20:15] * Hannes then proceeds to order for the entire table. "Per quanto mi riguarda , il santo padre , e il cavaliere , inizieremo con una dozzina di ostriche crude ciascuno . Per la signora , alcune cozze cotte in salsa di panna . Per quanto riguarda la cena , qualunque piatto di pasta preferito di Chef sono adeguate e noi ' ll prendere un caffè per deserto." He thinks for a moment. "And you best bottle of red, if you will."
[20:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The waiter nods solemnly, looking almost like a priest of Morr - he just needs a robe - and strides off purposefully to do Hannes's bidding.
[20:18] <Hannes> "So... by this time tomorrow, we'll be in my home province of Averland. It's beautiful country with beautiful hills and beautiful people!"
[20:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A musician lightens the mood with the strumming of a Tilean guitar - don't confuse it with an Estalian one - while Nuln's better (or at least richer) talk in friendly tones around you, eat, plot, and exchange innuendo.
[20:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Not a few younger ladies give Hannes and Roger enterprising looks, though Liltrude attracts more openly curious looks.
[20:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Not a few scowls are reserved for Ludwig, who is conducting himself with his usual deliberate insolence, and a few look to Johann as if expecting the young priest to rebuke the Reiklander's table manners.
[20:20] <Roger> "So I'm told.  By you.  Multiple times."
[20:21] <Hannes> "I'm living proof that it's true! I ate beef at every meal before I came to Nuln. Now... now it's gods damned too expensive!"
[20:21] * Johann reminds the Reiklander he's supposed to be superior
[20:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Ludwig reminds Johann that he shot a werewolf in the head.
[20:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> (That, at least, draws some interested stares, though no one is rude enough to inject themselves into the conversation.)
[20:24] * Johann concedes that point.
[20:25] * Liltrude reminds them both she shot the Werewolf through the heart.
[20:26] <Roger> "I ate mutton at every meal before I left home."
[20:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Even trolls are not capable of enduring such fare every day without complaining.  A testament to Bretonnian stoicism.
[20:29] <Hannes> "... not lamb?"
[20:30] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The first of the food arrives, consisting of a panoply of items that certainly aren't mutton.  Oysters are served to the men, while Liltrude receives stewed mussels in a heady-smelling cream sauce.
[20:31] <Roger> "... Lamb is mutton."
[20:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The wine arrives as well, and while it's not Bretonnian, it's nothing to complain about.
[20:32] * Johann enjoys his drink and repast
[20:32] <Hannes> "If you say so." Hannes would take one of the oysters lying on a half shell. "Tileans believe that raw oysters improve a man's virility and strength! A true meal fit for any warrior." He demonstrates the proper technique, placing a kiss on the shell and SLURP.
[20:35] <Roger> "Tileans believe many things."
[20:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Judging by the plates of some of the gentlemen around you, Hannes is not the only one who believes this bit of Tilean wisdom, however.
[20:35] * Roger looks to the shells dubiously, and eats one in the same manner as Hannes.
[20:42] * Roger doesn't like it.
[20:42] * Roger may not show it too much, but he doesn't like it.
[20:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It may be the most emotion you've ever seen on the stoic knight's face, however.
[20:44] * Johann doesn't midn it but isn't a huge fan
[20:44] * Johann shrugs "I like steamed muscles better'
[20:45] <Hannes> "Guess it's not for everyone..." Hannes shrugs. The young man is more then capable of eating any the others pass.
[20:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The main course comes out not long after, and this might be a mercy for the palette of the Bretonnian and Imperial.  Baked penne is apparently the house special, served with roasted vegetables.
[20:47] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A cheesy pasta dish served in a tangy red sauce - apparently tomato - with hints of other herbs, particularly garlic.  Certainly not a vampire's first choice.
[20:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Though without meat, it is nonetheless surprisingly filling and full of flavor.
[20:49] <Johann> "Here's to lustrian produce!"
[20:50] <Hannes> "Here, here!" Hannes would toast to that!
[20:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Dessert is Tilean style coffee, another fruit of Lustria, rich in flavor and energizing.  It leaves to just enough time to finish at your leisure and leave for the show.
[20:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Magnus Memorial Theatre, by the reputation you've heard of it, would not earn the approval of the man in whose honor it is named.  A handsome stone building fronted with a statue of the long-dead emperor, it is known for hosting mostly comedies and melodramas, though not so often the brooding sort you find in Altdorf or Middenheim.
[20:53] * Roger takes to the main course more readily. "A fruit from Lustria must be costly indeed."
[20:54] <Johann> "It grows fairly easily over here, anywhere that can grow deadly nightshade ironically enough:
[20:54] <Hannes> "I hear they are of the same species."
[20:55] <Johann> "Same flowers"
[20:57] <Hannes> "I managed to get us decent enough seating at the theatre."
[20:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> All sorts of Nuln's middle and upper classes have turned out for the showing of 'A Fair Bretonnian Lord," from merchants to the nobility to students lucky enough to have money (no doubt from their parents).  Though not among the exclusive boxes (where folks hardly bother to watch, anyway), the Averlander has secured you nice seats.
[21:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The play is set in Brionne, well-known for its picturesque villages and poets, and follows one Lucien Bautain, a humble, honest baron who takes an interest in the lives of his peasants after chancing to come upon their living village (their 'show' village being, of course, unoccupied).
[21:04] <Commissar_Cornflakes> What follows is a comedy of errors concerning Bretonnian law, with the earnest and honorable Baron Bautain trying to improve the lives of his peasants by applying Bretonnian law most rigorously, without favoritism or exception.  All his smallfolk agree he is a most fair and reasonable lord before inevitably perishing due to his impractical but punctilious observation of the laws of Duke and King.
[21:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Baron meets his fate apparently ignorant of this foolishness, satisfiedly proclaiming before he starves to death, his peasants all long fled or dead, that he has upheld the laws to the utmost of his ability.
[21:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He is remembered as the fairest lord his barony ever had.
[21:08] <Hannes> None laugh harder then Hannes!
[21:08] * Johann tries desperately not to lauch
[21:11] * Roger doesn't laugh.
[21:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The whole comedy of errors is rather well received by Nuln's elite, who relax in complete ignorance of the irony of their own lawful largesse.  Kloszowski would no doubt have a field day with this lot.
[21:12] * Hannes would look over to the knight, tears in his eye. "Not to your liking, Ser Roger?"
[21:14] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As you exit the theater, a pretty young woman is complaining to a man old enough to be her father about the baron's fate, probably more because of the handsome actor portraying him than for any other cause.
[21:14] <Liltrude> "Are you going to have to duel the playwright?"
[21:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Others wonder if the playwright's piece will get into trouble for being of revolutionist tone.
[21:16] * Johann listens to the gossip
[21:17] <Roger> "Perhaps if I find him."
[21:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "They say that vampire Sierck kept around was a revolutionist herself-"
[21:17] <Roger> "Your decision was in poor taste," Roger tells Hannes before standing and making for the door.
[21:17] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "-seen in the company of Kloszowski himself-"
[21:17] <Liltrude> "We can go look for him if you want" Liltrude says, beginning to follow Roger.  "It could be fun."
[21:18] * Johann shkes his head "I don'[t think it was entirely an attempt to insult, merely to advise that people check on their laws before enforcing them:
[21:19] <Roger> "Hm.  Perhaps.  But we've better things to spend our time on than petty vengeance."
[21:19] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As you pass from the theater, the "baron" himself is discussing the play with a number of Nuln's high society, discussing what elements of the piece are fictional and what (he claims) he personally witnessed.
[21:19] <Hannes> "Can't win them all, I suppose!" He would yawn. The wine and large meal finally catching up with him. "I think we shall retire for the night. We have much to do in the morning."
[21:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He fans himself with a playbill, and looks rather eager to finish making nice so he can move on with his night.
[21:23] * Johann glances over at him and listens in a bit.
[21:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "-the bit about the 'show' villages is true, actually," he's saying, "The lords of Brionne are quite...well, romantic."
[21:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The hangers-on laugh politely, but the 'baron' simply grins thinly.  It's not funny to him.
[21:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "The nine-tenths tax?" a young woman is inquiring.
[21:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Real, but rarely so studiously observed," the man admits.
[21:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You pass out of range of hearing, headed for your accomodations, rest, and the open river.
[21:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> During the night, the weather changes radically, going from cool and pleasant to disgustingly humid and hot.  The air is still and stinks of garbage and industry as you make your way for the Altestadt.  Few seem to be going about their work at any pace.  The city watch you see cling to shadows and glare hatefully at anyone who looks like they might give the slightest ounce of trouble.
[21:29] * Johann walks about in leather and mail, one hammer on hos hip and another actoss his back with the shield
[21:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A halfling on one small plaza frantically sells rapidly-melting crushed ice; from where he acquired it is a question best not asked.
[21:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Unfortunately, your journey today takes you across the bridge, into the reeking Faulestadt, headed for the city's docks.  Tempers are poor at the toll-taking booth, though the two-pfennig fee is the same as always.
[21:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A pair of arguing sailors erupt into a scuffle; one pitches the other over the side of the bridge into the Reik.
[21:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A pair of watchmen immediately dole out punishment upon this criminal with hickory clubs, which doubtless does nothing for his hangover.
[21:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Below, the swimming sailor yells taunts at his comrade before a watchman tells him to get out of the damn river lest he be fined for impeding shipping.
[21:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> That's unlikely, because as the song goes, the Reik is wide, but he doesn't argue.
[21:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> When you finally make it to the docks and the pier that Captain Von Schwarzschloss directed you to, it's a relief.
[21:34] <Hannes> "Finally!" Hannes is not wearing his armor, but rather has it in a bag on the cart. Hopefully the horses gifted to himself and Roger would be there waiting for them.
[21:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man is dressed surprisingly sparingly, though in a still identifiably military manner.  A sabre hangs at his side.  His moustaches droop in the humidity, and he fans himself with his hat at your approach.
[21:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Gentlemen, lady!" he says, apparently relieved to see you, "I had worried you had fallen in a swoon.  Gods, but it's like an ogre's armpit out here!"
[21:35] <Hannes> "Once we make way to Longingbruck, the weather should clear."
[21:36] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He gestures to the moored vessel, a large, square-sterned, square-rigged riverboat that looks to be fully 24 yards long, "I've seen that your horses and what goods you left to my care have been loaded and secured," he explains.
[21:37] <Hannes> "Wundebar."
[21:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "My man should be up here shortly - the River Wanderer, that is, the boat, will travel through the nights, though it'll make stops for regular business.  You're free to debark when you want, though you'll likely make better time aboard.  It'll take you nearly the length of your journey."
[21:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The River Wanderer is a fair enough looking vessel, a bit old-fashioned in its construction, but well maintained.
[21:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A small number of sailors are at work securing the ship while an unseen man bellows at them like blood-crazed orc, apparently uneffected by the heat.
[21:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The sailors ignore you and your conversation with their lord.  The sun glints off the tip of the loaded arbalest mounted in the vessel's prow.
[21:39] <Hannes> "We're not going to Rosenburg. We're going to Longingbruck. Change of plans, didn't want my father's man to know."
[21:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I guessed," Adler says dryly, eyes twinkling.  You daresay he has made disobeying his father his life's hobby, "The River Wanderer will be headed the length of the Upper Reik, not the Aver."
[21:41] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Only, don't die saving your intended.  It makes for a real Bretonnian kind of song, and your father will no doubt be incensed with me," he remembers Roger, winces, and smiles apologetically, "Er, no offense intended, ser."
[21:42] <Roger> "Hm."
[21:42] <Hannes> "Excellent. We'll save... Ada, then return to the Rosenheim as heroes!" He glanced over to Roger. "It seems our friend knight has been taking offense lately. We went and saw A Fair Bretonnian Lord last night. He didn't appear to enjoy the show."
[21:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I hope between you that you unmask this fraud for what he is," Schwarzschloss says, "For I daresay if he makes a habit of kidnapping the fiancees of the Imperial nobility, it shall inflame tensions."
[21:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "In any case, ser, mein Herr, Fraulein, if you come to Nuln again, do not hesitate to call upon me.  Ser, I daresay I should take you to a showing of The Rains of Athel Loren, I think you would like it..."
[21:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> At that moment, the source of the orc-like bellowing emerges on deck, moving with the swaying step of a livelong boatman.
[21:45] <Hannes> "We shall see."
[21:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Ah, here his is - Piotyr, these are the fellows you're to transport."
[21:46] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr is a tremendous, swarthy, hairy bear of a man, with a woodsman's beard and dark eyes that take you in not with insolence, but without any of the slavishness typical of the lower classes in the presence of the blue blooded.
[21:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The boat captain grunts eloquently and offers you a curt but not disrespectful bow.
[21:48] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You've brought your things?" he says in an accent that has traces of Middenland...and something else.
[21:49] * Johann nods to the caprtain "I'm not completely familiar with moving horses by river, do they walk alongside or does the ship have a stables?
[21:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "They'll be kept aboard," Piotyr responds, "Barges sometimes use horses to pull them, but we won't be doing any of that, certainly not with such beasts as yours," the big man shows none of the wariness of the priest that other folk do, "Accomodations won't be comfortable, but they will be livable, and you'll have chances to take them ashore and stretch their legs."
[21:53] <Johann> "Thank you"
[21:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr nods.
[21:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Well fellows," Schwarzschloss says, "This is where I bid you farewell.  Hannes, you must write me when you've sewn this affair up.  I should like to exchange manners with your family, but not at such a, ah, delicate time," a smile quirks across his face.  "And Ser Marionnaud, if your father ever has use of me or mine, I extend the same invitation to you."
[21:55] <Hannes> "Likewise! I might convince Father to show off the family castle... it's been too long since I've seen the Hall of Iron Warriors."
[21:56] * Hannes does look around, and leans into whisper conspiratorily. "Though... should we trust a Strig?"
[21:57] * Johann shrugs
[21:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Schwarzschloss looks at Hannes with an unreadable expression, "I've known Piotyr since the Storm," is his response.
[21:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr, for his part, gives no indication of hearing, hopping back aboard the River Wanderer and checking on the work of his crew.
[21:59] <Hannes> "If you say we should, then we shall."
[22:00] <Liltrude> "Whomever you trust Ser." Liltrude says
[22:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Things which seem foul are sometimes fair," Schwarzschloss says.  With that, he bows, takes the reins of his horse, and leaves you.
[22:02] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr turns his attention on you again, his dark eyes taking measure of you, seeming to search for signs of the person beneath the face.  Satisfied (or giving up) he shrugs, "If you lot are ready, I want to be off as soon as possible.  I have plenty of work to do on our route, and time is precious."
[22:03] <Hannes> "Yes, I'm ready to launch."
[22:04] <Liltrude> "Is there any dangers we should watch out for during this trip?" Liltrude would ask. Remembering the last trip they had.
[22:05] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr grins, "Yar, lady.  River pirates.  Reik eels.  And worst of all, river wardens," at that last gest, a couple of the boatmen in earshot laugh.
[22:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I've been told you lot can handle yourselves, though."
[22:06] * Johann nods approvingly
[22:07] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Most pirates will just try to intimidate you," Piotyr explains as you come aboard.  He eyes your black powder weapons carefully, "You outrun them or pay the tithe, because there's usually more of them then there are of you.  Of course, sometimes you can see them off before they get close."
[22:08] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The big man nods to the prow-mounted arbalest.
[22:09] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "They see eleven folks aboard the River Wanderer, though, and you lot all armed?  They'll like as not give us a pass."
[22:10] * Roger hasn't said anything since the man started talking.
[22:11] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr keeps a wary eye on the Bretonnian, and is the first to speak, "Hope you don't intend to wear that plate all the time, ser," he makes the honorific sound dismissive, "You fall in the Reik dressed for a cavalry charge and you'll sink like a stone.  I've seen it.  That's if the Reik eeels don't pry you open."
[22:18] <Hannes> "Reik eels... eugh. Though my uncle says if you put them in clear water, you can get the muck out of them and they're palatable at that point."
[22:18] <Roger> "I don't intend to fall in."
[22:20] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "If you don't mind eating a beast that eats men, yar," Piotyr allows to Hannes.  To Roger, he simply shrugs, "Very good then, ser."
[22:20] <Liltrude> "Nor does anyone else I'd wager."
[22:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Once you're aboard, the River Wanderer casts off, threading the currents and guided by Piotyr.  There are five other men besides him, most bare-chested, scarred and tattooed, and all keep to working rather than gawping at their guests.  Whatever else might be true of the strigany boat captain, he obviously knows the river, steering from the stern with an almost sleepy ease.
[22:23] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Most of the vessel, you find, has been given over to cargo - your horses being kept abovedeck by both necessity and kindness.
[22:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "You'll be sleeping on the deck," Piotyr explains.  The wind is with you and the boat's square sail is full, leaving Piotyr's crew with less to do, "Well, most of you will.  The cabin's big enough for one, maybe two if you squeeze."
[22:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You're sailing upriver, against the current.  It's not the fastest way of moving along the river, but it beats going by horse; the River Wanderer is tireless.
[22:26] <Hannes> "Sleeping under the stars. How quaint."
[22:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "It's good for the heart," Piotyr says.
[22:27] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Her crew break out long poles for steering her precisely or moving her more swiftly when necessary.  Piotyr favors you with another comment, "Most nights, we'll sail on through, but there are parts of the Upper Reik you don't sail in the dark, and stopovers we have to make."
[22:28] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Herr von Schwarzschloss's affairs are my first priority," there's no resentment or smugness in the statement, merely a relation of fact.
[22:28] <Liltrude> "Is there anything we can do to help?"
[22:29] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Do you know much about river boats?" Piotyr asks.
[22:30] <Liltrude> "Sadly, no.  I'd like to learn though."  Liltrude says. "I mainly meant during the stopovers."
[22:31] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Don't trouble yourself with that," Piotyr says, then grins through crooked teeth, "Now, if it comes to river pirates, well, I won't mind you lot troubling yourselves then."
[22:32] <Hannes> "I look forward to it!"
[22:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The taint and reek of the river near Nuln fades quickly as you leave the city behind, and with it goes the city's miasma.
[22:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Visible from your position on the River Wanderer is land that is increasingly open.  Rolling green and gold fields dotted here and there with trees.  It is country that might even make the Bretonnian recall home.
[22:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Progress is slow.  The wind that carried you from the city is soon gone, and the heat makes the boatmen work with measured care, grumbling and swearing all the while.
[22:34] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Still, they work together with the obvious ease of a well-oiled machine, and you head ever closer towards your goal.
[22:37] * Johann admires their capable handling
[22:37] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As night comes, a thick fog rolls in as well, and the fading sunlight brings no relief from the heat.  Ludwig mentions that the fog reminds him of home.  Your progress slows to a crawl.  The crew light lanterns around the vessel, marking it out in the shaded dark.
[22:38] * Roger 's home is actually rough and mountainous, not the rolling plains of most of Bretonnia, so it probably doesn't remind him of home all that much.
[22:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr withdraws into himself, apparently thinking, "We're going to keep going tonight," he explains to you, "So you feel free to bed down when you want.  I know this part of the river well enough to chance it."
[22:39] <Commissar_Cornflakes> In the dark, mysterious things splash unseen, and unknown life thumps against the hull of the boat.
[22:40] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The first shift of boatmen to go off their duties plunk down immediately and are asleep soon after, apparently able to ignore the boat's motion, the sounds around them, the grunts and curses of their comrades.
[22:40] * Roger had taken to leaning against one of the rails between walking about the boat. He's apparently unaccustomed to water travel.
[22:41] * Johann peers over the railing
[22:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> It's difficult to see the surface of the water.
[22:42] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The fog swirls like smoke above its surface.
[22:42] * Johann shrugs and heads for quarters
[22:42] * Hannes is sitting on the edge of the deck... he had purchased before they left a fishing rod and idly casts his angle, yawning.
[22:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The timbers, boards, and canvas of the River Wanderer groan in a lonely fashion.
[22:46] * Liltrude sits about, watching the landscape pass by, she's enjoying the boat trip. She really hasn't been on one before, and she really loves new experiences.
[22:47] * Johann looks over at Hannes "Do you think you could swim with your armor on? If so put it on, something is amiss"
[22:47] * Johann also gathers the others
[22:47] * Johann also gathers the others and says the same thing to any whoa re not armored
[22:48] <Hannes> "It's mail..." He looks around. "Hmmm... agreed." He would get up and put his rod on the deck as he slips on his leather and mail.
[22:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr looks at you questioningly, but doesn't speak.
[22:50] * Roger is still wearing his armor. "Pirates, or some manner of river beast?"
[22:50] <Johann> "Beast I think"
[22:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Piotyr snaps his fingers twice and gives a hoot like a riverside bird, then drops to the deck quickly and quietly as possible.
[22:52] <Commissar_Cornflakes> His men follow suit, the sleeping lads apparently dozingly slightly enough to stir awake.
[22:52] <Roger> "... Perhaps we should follow suit."
[22:53] <Liltrude> "... Probably would be the safest.."
[22:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> From his belly-down position, Piotyr grins.
[22:53] * Hannes follows suit with the river men.
[22:54] * Johann mimics them
[22:54] * Liltrude hits the deck.
[22:54] * Roger drops to the deck.
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Without further warning, the air above you is filled with whining black missiles parting the fog.  It eddies and swirls in their wake - arrows.  One of the sailors gives a yelp of pain as an arrow slices across his bare scalp.
[22:59] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "WRECKERS!" Piotyr bellows, reaching under a canvas tarp for a weapon.
[23:01] <Roger> "So.  Pirates."
[23:01] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "They'll board - you lads take the starboard side," he instructs you.  He doesn't look to see if you obey, grabbing hold of his weapon - a blunderbuss - and preparing to stand.
* Retrieving #upperreikrafting modes...
[23:03] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'Roger, Wreckers 1, Hannes, Johann, Wreckers 2'
[23:03] <Roger> "They'll see their error soon enough."
[23:05] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'Roger, Wreckers 1, Hannes, Johann, Wreckers 2, Liltrude'
[23:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> As if in reply to the knight, the River Wanderer shudders as twin crashes resound from either side of the boat, hardly a second apart.  A roar goes up from either side and hooks are thrown to draw the attackers in.
[23:07] * Hannes would make sure to grab a pistol. He's itching for combat.
[23:08] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'Liltrude, Roger, Wreckers 1, Hannes, Johann, Wreckers 2'
[23:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The horses scream in fear, but it doesn't sound like any of them were hit.
[23:10] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Cutlasses sing out as wrecker and boatman alike brace for bloody combat.
[23:11] * Liltrude quickly dashes for the cargo, hoping to take cover behind it. Safety first afterall. She also pulls out her crossbow. Hoping to get ready to sink a bolt into a pirate or two. How exciting.
[23:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A trio of men leap from the fog, eyes searching for the first target.  The lantern light gleaming off of Roger's armor makes him the obvious foe.  Bellowing oaths - general insults or prayers to Stromfels - they attack.
[23:17] * Roger braces as they attack, either blocking or weaving between their blows with seeming ease.
[23:18] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Short, brutal cutlasses are effortlessly turned away.  The would-be murderers grunt with surprise.
[23:25] * Hannes see's a shadow and takes aim with one of his pistols, firing into the fog! BANG!
[23:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The Averlander's shot is rewarded with a scream of pain and oaths of surprise.
[23:26] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Behind you, a throatier bang can be heard as Piotyr fires his blunderbuss, and there are more screams.
[23:31] * Johann charges up with a roar of battle, swinging his hammer but hitting only air
[23:32] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The second group of wreckers come aboard.  Two immediately move to attack Johann, but the last, pistol-shot man stops long enough to search out and make for Hannes.
[23:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Their attacks are ineffective though, the Averlander easily moving out of reach of his badly-injured foe's blade while the other two pirates batter uselessly at Johann's shield.
[23:35] * Johann gives them a condescending smile
[23:40] * Liltrude unleashes a crossbow bolt at one of the Pirates attacking Johann, it barely wounding the man. At least it hit though.
[23:43] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man gives a grunt of pain, looking angrily over at the halfling.
[23:44] * Roger retaliates, his blade flashing in the night as the tip crosses one man's belly before coming up into his shoulder, his guts spilling before his arm flies of in a bloody arc.
[23:44] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man's body is too ruined to scream, staggering back and tipping over the railing of the boat.
[23:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Below, there is furious thrashing of multiple bodies in the river, and none of them sound like men.
[23:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The remaining two pirates look ashen-faced, then press their attack.
[23:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Their blades are knocked aside as if made of paper rather than steel.
[23:46] * Roger watches momentarily as the body falls over the edge, then raises his shield just as a sword was about to strike, batting it aside with practiced ease.
[23:48] * Hannes calmly and suredly passes his used pistol from one hand to the other, before calmly and suredly draws his rapier. Then calmly and suredly, he proceeds to skewer the wrecker before him.
[23:49] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man drops to the deck as if he were made of sailcloth, not flesh and bone, his face grey.
[23:50] <Commissar_Cornflakes> a spreading pool of red surrounds his corpse.
[23:51] * Johann glowers as the pirate agoids his hammerblow
[23:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man barely gets out of the way.
[23:51] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Cor!" he spits.
[23:52] * Johann idly blocks the counter blow of the outmatched pirages
[23:52] <Johann> pirates*
[23:53] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Both press the priest at once, trying to overwhelm him, but fail to find flesh in their attempts.
[23:54] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Behind you, in the fog and confusion, it sounds as if Piotyr's men are holding their own.
[23:54] * Johann keeps a very smug composure to unsettle them.
Session Time: Mon Aug 15 00:00:00 2016
[00:05] * Roger puts a slice across the chest of one of the men, and while it's a serious injury it's not a death blow
[00:06] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man staggers back, swearing, but he and his mate try - and fail - to make the knight pay for his brutal swordsmanship.  The rough pair exchange an anxious look as the halfling clambers atop the cabin roof.
[00:13] * Hannes holsters his pistol and draws his main guache and looks over the battlefield, planning his next action. <Roger! Do you need any assistance?>
[00:14] * Roger doesn't know what the hell Hannes is saying, since he doesn't know battletongue
[00:15] * Johann rolls his eyes as they dodge once agai
[00:15] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The two press forward, the warrior priest overextended by his near-successful attack.
[00:21] * Roger smashes his pommel into the uninjured man's face, seeing him as a greater threat than his injured comrade. It's not enough to put him out of commission, but it does stagger him.
[00:22] * Liltrude once atop of the cabin she'd aim her crossbow at the injured bandit, and fire it. And of course, that slippery bugger manages to avoid her shot. How the heck...
[00:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The blow nearly ends the wrecker rightly - the crunch of impact bears the sound of cracking bone.  The man staggers back, holding his face and cursing.
[00:22] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Meanwhile, Liltrude's foe looks up at her, "Try and shoot me again, will you!"
[00:23] <Liltrude> "Kay!  I will!"
[00:24] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Exchanging glances, Roger's two opponents back down, covering each other in a guarded stance.  They stagger back over the railing, preparing to cut loose and leave their comrades in the lurch.
[00:25] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Behind you, Piotyr's blunderbuss roars again; you think you hear the sound of shot hit the water.
[00:32] * Johann roars "Dodge THIS asshole!"
[00:33] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man staggers under the force of Johann's attack, his arm crunched under the blow of his foe's hammer.
[00:35] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The beleagued pair of bandits don't seem to notice that their other two mates have fled; one tries to fend off Roger, while Johann's hated foe tries and fails to land a return strike on the priest.
[00:35] * Johann laughs in his face "You're about as awful at hitting as you're good at avoiding hits"
[00:38] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Piss off!" the man returns, rather lamely.
[00:40] <Johann> "Surrender is always an option, though I can't speak for the captain';s sentence unless you can give us something of value"
[00:45] <Commissar_Cornflakes> Roger's two badly mangled foes can be heard to be at some sort of task, cutting and hacking.  What it is soon becomes clear as the grapnel lines go slack and the shadow of their smaller boat slides away into the river.
[00:46] * Commissar_Cornflakes changes topic to 'Liltrude, Roger, Hannes, Johann, Wreckers 2'
[00:48] * Roger strikes his new opponent, wounding him severely, but he still manages to cling to life.
[00:50] * Johann glances over at the ropes "It seems you've been abandoned, submit yourself from judgment and tell us where your companions are based so we can sic the river wardens on them and you may not be hanged"
[00:54] * Johann makes a feint to underline his point
[00:54] * Johann totally didn't miss at all.
[00:55] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The man staggers back, looking doubtful.  He doesn't seem to favor his chances with the mercy of the river wardens.
[00:56] <Commissar_Cornflakes> This last brush with death seems to make the man's mind up.  He backs away from Johan, swinging his cutlass, then jumps over the railing.  His comrade, who had tangled with Roger and lost - badly - isn't far behind.
[00:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> You hear the sound of the pair trying to swim for the shore...and then different, wilder splashing.
[00:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> And then screams.
[00:57] <Commissar_Cornflakes> A cheer goes up from Pyotir's men as the second boat is cut free.
[00:57] <Johann> "Sumping into the reik while bleeding isn't wise
[00:58] * Johann shakes his hand
[00:58] <Johann> head
[00:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> He clumps up to you, shaking his bearded head, a new respect in his eyes - and wariness of the Bretonnian.
[00:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "I suppose you knew what you were talking about," he nods to the knight.
[00:58] <Commissar_Cornflakes> "Gentlemen - welcome to the Reik."
[01:01] * Roger wipes his blade clean, sheathing it. "I've had ruder welcomes."
[01:02] <Johann> "Yep"
[01:03] <Liltrude> "Not nearly as scary as that one giant spider.  Or the Werewolf."
[01:03] <Commissar_Cornflakes> The strigany boatman snorts, "I suppose Captain Von Schwarzschloss wasn't exaggerating about you lot."
[01:06] * Roger (TXTypewrit@sux-8AA6B12D.fidnet.com) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
[02:11] * Johann (chatzilla@sux-77B20D2E.dyn.optonline.net) Quit (Ping timeout)
[05:37] * Liltrude (Del@34F5AE1E.3FD5A785.9A0FA596.IP) Quit (Connection reset by peer)