Session 5/21/2000 Log
-- Start log: Sunday, May 21, 2000 9:13:53 am LunaSoft MOO time --
GM says, "*** START SESSION ***"
GM says, "ok, renard, we'd better start with you"
Renard runs up to Garomach's villa, just as the group is readying to exit the gate.
Corin turns to look at the newcomer.
Bodoni says, "::glances over at the approach::"
GM says, "[Johan] ren's here!"
Renard says, "Hey, Johan! You left the damn pigs out again!""
GM says, "[Johan] (crestfallen) no, Ren, i'm sure i put 'em away."
Bodoni says, "::chuckles at the exchange::"
Corin says, "Grab a horse, Ren, and join us on our search for these bandits."
Renard says, "Lord Garomach, you know you can count on me -- I came as soon as I heard."
GM says, "[Garomach] (to his servant) go fetch another saddle, boy, and be quick about it!"
GM says, "[Garomach] your services will be appreciated, Renard... the boy will prepare a horse"
GM says, "the servant saddles up another draft horse... the worst-looking of the group of 8"
Corin fidgets in his saddle, itching to find out more about these marauders.
GM says, "ok, it's twilight, the sun has just gone down"
Corin says, "Nice horse there Ren." He grins"
Bodoni says, "::waits patiently to get underway::"
GM says, "what's your basic plan? you've seen the map."
Corin says, "South to the wooded area?"
Caralchis supposes they could scout out that hilly forest
Corin says, "The attacks were in the east?"
GM says, "[Garomach] (looking as though a lightbulb just went off) Joseph, we should get a blessing. Could you intercede for us?"
Renard climbs aboard his horse without complain, falls in ahead of his brother.
Joseph bows his head for a moment
GM says, "there were several thefts, from all different places, all on the west side of the Maradoc"
Joseph says, "In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti."
GM says, "and on the east side of the road through Benecortum"
Renard crosses himself
GM says, "Garomach bows his head and makes the sign of the cross"
Caralchis does likewise
Renard motions to Johan to do so as well
Bodoni says, "::lowers eyes, does likewise::"
Corin says, "Has St. Vincents been attacked?"
GM says, "Johan looks around at everyone else and moves his hand vaguely over his chest"
GM says, "fields that have been hit were all part of Benecortum, Praesus and Salentum"
Corin says, "Maybe we should ride east to the hills, then ride the border south-west looking for signs."
Joseph says, "I agree"
Bodoni says, ""A fine idea, to be certain.""
GM says, "all together then?"
Caralchis says, "yup"
Bodoni says, "(Sure..)"
Caralchis says, "let's be going"
Joseph lets go
Corin kicks his horse, directing it easterly. "Yah!"
GM says, "ok, you head out towards the darkness of the east"
Corin keeps a keen eye out for any unusual signs.
GM says, "the fading twilight is behind you and there are stars visible in the eastern sky"
Bodoni says, "::keeping a watchful eye af far as I'm able to::"
GM says, "the ground is starting to dry out from last night's rains, so tracking should be a little easier"
Caralchis falls in behind the others
GM says, "you reach the edge of the forest in about 10 minutes... you can hear the Maradoc flowing just a hundred yards or so away"
GM says, "Garomach leads his horse all the way to the bank of the river, finds nothing and returns"
Corin says, "Lets ride into the forest a hundred yards then head south-west?""
Bodoni says, "::peers around::"
GM says, "you look carefully at the ground and check for broken branches or any cow patties or other spoor"
GM says, "the light is almost gone now, so you'll have to track by starlight at this point"
Renard says, "Lord Garomach, would you like me to take point? "
Corin says, "How dense are the woods?"
GM says, "[Garomach] thank you, renard, lead on"
GM says, "the woods aren't too dense at the edge, but if you ride in 100 yards they get much denser"
Renard motions to Johan to stay put, rides ahead into the darkness
GM says, "...and much hillier"
Corin rides a little behind Renard.
GM says, "note about map: the Gaillard region is hills and forests all over... the icons on the map aren't meant to indicate individual patches of hills or trees"
Caralchis follows Garomach
Bodoni says, "::postioned near Joseph's horse::"
Joseph rides next to Bodoni
GM says, "Johan takes up the rear next to Gamerus"
Corin says, "Whats the dark dashed line heading north-south thru Benecortum?"
GM [to Corin]: "that's the only paved road you've ever seen"
GM says, "ok, so the riding order i have is Renard, Corin, Joseph/Bodoni, Garomach, Caralchis, Gamerus/Johan"
Corin says, "sounds good"
Bodoni says, "(Sounds right to me.)"
Caralchis says, "yup"
Joseph says, "yep"
GM says, "you head into the forest a ways until the land starts to slope upwards and the underbrush gets too dense for easy travel"
GM says, "then turn right and follow the line of trees"
Bodoni says, "::swatting the odd branch out of the way::"
Corin reaches for his bow, resting it on his thigh, while riding slowly along.
GM says, "i assume you stay within sight of the forest edge so that you don't get lost?"
GM says, "or do head deeper into the woods?"
Corin says, "(fair enuf assumption)"
Bodoni says, "(Saty with the line)"
Bodoni says, "(stay)"
Caralchis says, "we should probably stay the edge, It wouldn't be too hard to tell if a herd of cattle was brought into the underbrush to our left would it?"
Joseph says, "we should stay close to the edge, and look for a break in the underbrush big enough for a herd of cattle to pass through"
GM says, "it's slow going. the horses pick their way through fallen branches and stones carefully and you constantly have to avoid low-hanging tree branches"
GM says, "ooc: keep in mind that about 15 cattle were stolen over a period of 5 nights... that's an average of 3 per night"
Bodoni says, ""ach...damndable branches..""
GM says, "are you trying to cover your own tracks, by the way?"
Corin says, "we must watch for any attack. We are not exactly being quiet."
GM [to Caralchis]: "also, the edge of the forest is to your right, not your left"
Bodoni says, "(I'm not... covering tracks unless told to do so)"
GM tries to ensure everyone has the same mental image in the absense of a combat map
GM says, "ok, just checking"
Corin says, "from maradoc to paved road, what is the distance?"
Corin says, "going along our route"
GM [to Corin]: "it's about 5 miles or so"
Corin says, "k tnx"
GM says, "brb"
GM says, "back"
GM says, "you can make the distance, tracking carefully and moving slowly, in about 2 hours"
Corin says, "(lets try that then.)"
GM says, "(one moment)"
Corin says, "saw Joan of arc yesterday"
GM says, "ok, about 2 hours later you abruptly break out of the forest and see the main road ahead"
GM says, "unfortunately, you've found no tracks or trails"
GM says, "[Garomach] we must have missed something! this is impossible!"
Corin grumbles to himself. "well, I'm hungry. Lets eat something."
Bodoni says, ""truly. There wasn't a blessed sign of anything..""
Joseph says, "well, we have an idea where they *aren't*"
Bodoni says, "::dryly to Joseph:: That's very little comfort, lad."
Corin says, "Maybe they come over the bridge from Ventocortis?"
Corin says, "Or they could be camped near the banks of the river itself/"
GM says, "[Gamerus] I doubt they'd try to take a road. Too great a chance of capture."
Caralchis says, "Why don't we try to rationalize what the bandits are thinking, wherever they're coming from, they must have a reason for it"
Corin says, "well, they could also use the river as a guide in the forest, and be deep within. I'd hide in the forest if I was them."
Corin says, "If we followed the river in, we would not get lost."
Bodoni says, "::thinks for a moment::"
Corin says, "dammit, I'm hungry though. I'm gonna catch me some food and we'll make a quick camp?"
GM says, "[Gamerus] catch some food? are you a barbarian, lad? here, have some of mine."
Corin grins, and eats it hungrily. "Thanks Gamerus."
GM says, "Gamerus offers some hard black bread to Corin."
Bodoni says, "::munches on a bit of dried cheese and bread, while looking about::"
Corin says, "My ma says she cant keep enuf food on the table for me.""
Corin says, "well, whats the plan?"
Bodoni says, ""perhaps we should try to survey the river? If they are using it, then we may still find some evidence along it.""
GM says, "the stars are disappearing as clouds start to roll in. the wind is starting to pick up."
Corin says, "it'll take us an hour to ride back there."
GM says, "[Garomach] i'm not riding back through that forest. we can go faster through the fields."
Bodoni says, "::shrugs:: As you say."
Corin nods.
Joseph says, "I'll follow you"
Corin says, "To the river? through the fields then?"
Bodoni says, "::give a sharp nod:: Right then, off we go."
GM says, "[Garomach] if we gallop through the fields, maybe we'll surprise the bandits! last one to the Maradoc is a dirty Hun!"
GM says, "he takes off"
Corin scowls to himself.
Bodoni says, "::follows at a gallop, finishing the last of the bread and cheese hastily::"
Caralchis urges his horse to a fast, yet still safe speed and follows Garomach
Corin says, "I'll give him a dirty Hun" he mumbles to himself."
Bodoni says, "(LOL!)"
Renard rides abreast with Garomach, if he can keep up
Corin kicks his horse and follows after Garomach.
GM says, "everyone make a Riding roll"
GM says, "unless you're going to stay behind and follow at a safer speed"
Bodoni says, "(um, what's the command again?)"
GM says, "roll with dice"
Corin is going to pass Garomach
Corin rolls 3 + 0.
Result [4 5 5] = 14 + 0 = 14.
Caralchis rolls 3 + 0.
Result [6 6 3] = 15 + 0 = 15.
Renard rides as swiftly as possible, keeping everyone in sight, with Johan
GM says, "(ouch)"
Renard ...but safely
Bodoni rolls 3 + 0.
Result [6 2 2] = 10 + 0 = 10.
Caralchis says, "crap, failed"
Corin says, "made by 0"
Bodoni says, "(made it by two)"
Joseph rolls 3 + -5.
Result [5 4 2] = 11 + -5 = 6.
GM [to Joseph]: "what's the -5 for?"
Corin says, "I should get a bonus for the Hun comment :P"
Corin says, "inspiration *grin*"
Joseph says, "ooc I didn't have a riding proficincy, the book says dx-5, should I roll +5?"
GM [to Joseph]: "oh i see, no just make the 3d roll and compare it to your default skill of 6... don't modify the roll itself
Corin wonders if Caralchis fell off.
Bodoni says, "(bodoni wonders if Joseph fell off.. :P ;D)"
GM says, "Corin rides like the wind, and passes Garomach after a mile or so"
Corin looks back, grinning widely at Garomach.
Caralchis hopes he didn't
GM says, "Joseph and Caralchis start off at a gallop, but Joseph can't keep his balance and slows back down... Caralchis doesn't feel comfortable riding this fast in the dark and also reins it in"
GM says, "Gamerus, Johan, and Renard are keeping up the rear, not pushing it"
GM says, "Bodoni keeps up with Garomach pretty well"
Caralchis is happy he didn't fall off
Corin gets off his horse at the Maradoc, and stretches out in the grass.
GM says, "so Corin is the one who finds the two figures hiding in the tall grass..."
Bodoni says, "(LOL!)"
Corin then quickly jumps back on his horse.
GM says, "this is just after passing Garomach... you aren't at the Maradoc yet"
Corin says, "(serious?)"
GM says, "of course"
Corin says, "(ouch)"
Corin says, "(do I see them first? And do they see me?)"
Renard looks to Johan, when he sees anything happen up ahead, and brings them both to a slower pace, until he can see what's going on.
Bodoni says, "(You can take 'em Corin! :D)"
GM says, "you nearly run over two figures wearing dark clothes hiding in the grass, seeing them at the last moment by their dark silhouettes against the lighter brush"
Bodoni says, "::Bodoni spurns quickly onward when (if) he sees Corin in trouble::"
Corin rides by them fast and stops his horse about 75 yds away, turning it around.
GM [to Corin]: you have no idea if they see you, but you're about 10 yards away when you stop. they're right in front of you, lying on the ground.
GM [to Corin]: they certainly heard the hoofbeats, if nothing else
Corin notches an arrow. "Stand up and identify yourself."
GM [to Corin]: you quickly pick up the pace and ride past
GM says, "(sorry, i'm catching up here)"
Corin says, "k"
GM [to Corin]: ...stopping a ways past them. you can just make out the dark shapes. when you speak, one of them rises to a kneeling position
Corin says, "(does he have a weapon?)"
GM [to Corin]: you don't see one
GM says, "[figure #1] please don't kill us, we didn't mean any harm"
Corin kicks his horse to move north west. "Stand up I say!"
Joseph says, "(ooc)how close are the rest of us to the action?, do we hear them?"
GM says, "the rest of you are approaching... garomach and bodoni are there already, and joseph and caralchis will be there in half a minute"
Renard says, "...what does Big G do?"
GM says, "the last 3 are catching up slowly"
Corin circles the men on horse, aiming his bow. "Who are you?"
Bodoni says, "::hand settles quietly on his mace:: You heard the lad. Speak."
GM says, "Garomach unbuckles his sword, a large spatha, and puts his hand on the pommel"
GM says, "[figure #1] please, milord, don't you know me? i am galen, son of predrag the innkeeper."
Corin says, "Who is the other man lying down?""
GM says, "(you do know him. everyone knows galen. predrag is the innkeeper in Benecortum, a fairly wealthy guy for a peasant)"
Bodoni says, "::mutters:: dressed as thieves, hiding in tall grass, and at night no less..."
GM says, "the second figure rises slowly, helped up by Galen..."
GM says, "she speaks, 'nothing happened!'"
Corin laughs, lowering his bow. "A woman!"
Bodoni says, "::Rolls his eye:: Ach! ::mutters:: Hijinks no less..."
Corin says, "(do we recognize the woman?)"
Bodoni says, "::glances at Garomach::"
GM says, "when she stands, you can make out her face... it's Baron Faiseric's daughter Faisilde!"
GM says, "[Garomach] child, what are you doing out here!"
Corin chuckles to himself.
GM says, "[Faisilde] we've done no harm, but i beg you not to speak of my father of this"
Renard scowls, Johan giggles.
Joseph says, "blushes"
Joseph blushes
GM says, "(speak TO my father)"
Renard says, "Lord, we really ought to take her back to her family and safety."
Bodoni says, "::agrees:: That we should."
Corin says, "bah, leave 'em be. We have other work.""
GM says, "[Faisilde] no, please! just let us go quietly and forget you ever saw us."
GM says, "Galen is shaking like a leaf."
Corin says, "Galen will take her home safely, wont you Galen?""
Bodoni says, "Their -are- bandits about, child."
GM says, "[Galen] y-y-yes, sir"
Renard says, "Girl, there's really no arguing this. Pull yourself together. Lord, should she ride with your man?"
GM says, "ooc: who's 'your man'?"
Corin looks at Faisilde and admires her features.
GM says, "also note that this 'girl' is the daughter of a Frankish noble"
Renard [to GM]: who's Gamerus?
GM [to Renard]: Gamerus is the tavern owner in Praesus
GM [to Renard]: Garomach's servant is just a boy, he didn't come along
Corin says, "she can ride with me.""
Renard [to GM]: oh. Gamerus is a NPC along for the action, then?
GM says, "[Faisilde] (haughtily to renard) speak you so to such as myself?"
Bodoni says, "::takes some dried meat from a pouch, and begins to munch::"
Corin extends a hand down to Faisilde."May I help you, m'lady?"
GM says, "[Garomach] Faisilde, this Galen is but a lowly Gaulish boy, not a suitable suitor for you."
Caralchis watches the scene silently and intently
GM says, "Faisilde looks briefly at Corin, shudders and retreats a bit"
Corin says, "Be not afraid, I shall not hurt you.""
GM says, "both are dressed in dark clothing, a little muddy now"
Bodoni says, "::in between bites, mutters:: Yes. Much too good for a mere common"
Bodoni says, "::peers up at the sky as the exchange goes on::"
Bodoni says, "(stars out again GM? Or covered?)"
GM says, "[Faisilde] with what can you help, Hun?"
GM says, "it's still cloudy and windy"
Corin winces at her address. "I can ride you safely back to your house, m'lady." lowering his head.
Bodoni says, "The night grows weary, mi'lord. I do not think we may find our quarry tonight."
Joseph says, "(to no one in particular) looks like a storm's coming..."
GM says, "[Faisilde] your stomping hoofbeats and uncouth ways would be certain to rouse my family, and that would not help me at all!"
Bodoni says, "::answers Joseph anyway:: That it is, lad."
Renard hopes Garomach will make a decision of some sort
GM says, "[Garomach] Aye, a storm approaches. Faisilde, you and Galen run along home and I will not speak to your father... for now. But you must end this ere it ends badly."
Corin shrugs his shoulders, and turns away.
GM says, "they thank him profusely. he nods and turns away. "Let's be off," he says."
Bodoni says, "::shakes his head at Corin, and mutters to him:: What did ye expect, lad?"
Corin grins to himself, "sometimes I cant help meself."
GM says, "Faisilde and Galen hurry off through the tall grass."
Renard says, "Lord, wouldn't you want your daughter escorted back to you in such a situation?"
Bodoni says, "::only grunts in acknowledgemnt, and pops the last bit of dried meat into his mouth::"
GM says, "[Garomach] perhaps, but it will go badly for Galen if Old Faiseric finds out."
GM says, "[Garomach] he is not a merciful man."
Corin says, "Cant blame Galen for wanting to sow in those fine fields.""
Renard says, "He chose his actions and should accept the consequences, as we all must"
Bodoni says, "::chcukles at Corin's brashness::"
GM says, "[Garomach] and you'll keep a civil tongue in your head or you'll find that my own mercy is of the limited variety!"
Corin tries not to grin. "Sorry m'lord."
Bodoni says, "::eyes Corin again, and shakes his head::"
Corin says, "To the river then? The race is still on!""
GM says, "it begins to rain lightly, and you can see lightning in the distance"
Bodoni says, "We shouldn't tarry on this subject. It's done, and there's still work to be done this night."
Bodoni says, "(before it bagins to rain)"
GM says, "[Garomach] Thor is busy this evening."
Corin says, "(which direction is the lightning?)"
GM says, "[Garomach] (catching himself) er, that is, the Lord is busy."
Bodoni says, "Old habits milord?"
GM says, "the weather is rolling in from the west"
Corin says, "if we ride now, we may stay ahead of the weather."
GM says, "[Garomach] we may as well hurry to the river and see what we can"
Bodoni says, "Quickly, then...onward! ::starts his horse up at a gallop::"
GM says, "[Garomach] but once the storm reaches us, we'll have to break off the search"
Corin kicks his horse again towards the river.
Joseph follows
GM says, "Garomach heads out at a rapid but not ridiculous pace"
Caralchis heads toward the river at an easy pace. He doesn't want to tempt an accident again.
Corin does not pass this time, remembering his last encounter.
Renard hesitates, seeing that Garomach intends to abondon the girl and her lover, but follows after a moment.
GM says, "hehe"
Corin says, "(when he knelt, i thought for sure he was aiming a crossbow.)"
GM says, "the two lovers are gone already, they headed home when released"
GM says, "crossbows do exist, so that was a rational fear"
Corin says, "(i almost let loose an arrow)"
Renard [to GM]: on horseback or on foot? In any case, same deal.
GM says, "i was wondering if i could tempt you to do so, corin :)"
GM [to Renard]: they're on foot
GM [to Renard]: it's like 1 mile back to benecortum from where you found them
GM says, "ok, you ride to the river"
Renard maintains his scowl for a while.
GM rolls 3 + 0.
Result [3 1 1] = 5 + 0 = 5.
GM says, "you scowl extremely well!"
Caralchis says, "(LOL!)"
GM says, "what are you doing when you reach the river? searching for tracks?"
GM will be away from its keyboard for a bit.
Renard [to Bodoni]: @describe yourself.
Corin says, "(ride in along the river, 300 yards or so, searching for tracks?)"
Renard says, " [to All] set @gender"
Bodoni says, "(5 ft 5 in, 39 lbs overweight, ruddy-skinned complexion, long, black heavily grayed hair, tied back thick almost completely gray beard. Stocky. Patch covers right eye. left eye is dull borwn. looks to be in his 50's)"
GM says, "back"
Corin says, "(use @describe Bodoni)"
Corin heads into the forest along the river bank, searching for tracks.
GM says, "The river is about 50 feet wide in most places and generally "
GM says, "cannot be forded. The water is high and fast, as the spring melt and rains are still going on."
Corin says, "well, we know they are on this side of the river."
GM says, "you search the west bank for a while, a few hundred yards into the forest, finding nothing except the spoor of deer and other forest animals"
GM says, "no fords are known for several miles along the Maradoc, at least at this time of year. the bridge between Salentum and Ventocortis is the only way over the river that you know of."
Corin says, "well, it looks like they are not here either.""
Corin says, "lets ride the bank of the maradoc homeward, looking there anyway."
GM says, "the rain and wind is picking up, and everyone is getting dejected"
GM says, "you can actually hear thunder now, and the horses, which are just draft horses, jerk and shudder with each heavy rumble"
Corin says, "we should get home, horses are getting restless."
Caralchis says, "agreed"
GM says, "[Garomach] i believe it is time to call it off this evening."
Bodoni says, "Yes. Not suitable animals for this type of weather."
Corin turns homeward, riding out of the forest but remaining along the river until slightly north of Praesus, then heading west.
GM says, "[Garomach] we must be satisfied that Praesus' cows are safe and hope that the storm protects the other villages as well"
Bodoni says, "Yes. Hopefully, the storm has detered them as well as us."
GM says, "you can't navigate quite that precisely, Corin, but you get back to Praesus safely"
Corin says, "k :)"
Renard says, "I can get us back the quickest way. Follow me."
Bodoni says, "Joseph, follow closely"
GM says, "you all get back ok"
Corin says, "The forest edge is five miles wide. We could spread out tomorrow night, 1/3 mile apart, camp and wait for the bandits."
Renard [to GM]: any news awaiting us at Garomach's?
GM says, "the horses are tended to by Garomach's servant, and Johan sticks around to give him a welcome hand"
GM says, "it's a lot of work with eight horses to tend to"
GM [to Renard]: nope, no news
Corin dismounts, and returns his horse at garomachs.
Bodoni says, "::gets off his horse, and mulls about::"
Renard Shall we meet back in the morn, lord?
GM says, "[Garomach] i must meet with the others tomorrow morning. let us convene here at midday."
Corin says, "What do you think of that plan? If someone spots the bandits, they could follow them to their hiding spot."
Bodoni says, "::nods:: Very well."
Renard goes home with Johan, sleeps, eats, returns at the appointed time; urges everyone else to do similarly; thusly, we can cut to the chase
Bodoni says, ""Without knowing how many of them, there are? Brash, lad..""
GM [to Corin]: [Garomach] we will discuss it tomorrow
Joseph says, "(a little disappointed that we didn't find the bandits, but looking forward to sleeping in his own bed), see you tomorrow."
Corin nods and returns home to Ma for food and sleep, returning on the morrow.
GM says, "(cut to the following day)"
Caralchis does as Renard urges.
Corin says, "(wonders if morrow is a word.)"
GM says, "the storm was a fierce one and has muddied up everything again and dumped a tremendous amount of water everywhere"
Bodoni says, "::looks at the mess:: The search wilt not go easy."
GM says, "Garomach rides off to Benecortum at first light to speak with Baron Faiseric."
Renard [to GM]: which way does the river flow? Out or into the forest?
Corin says, "Faisilde is in trouble.""
GM [to Renard]: the river flows north (it's a tributary of the Seine, in real life)
Bodoni says, "::gruff:: I'd rather think it was Galen's life that wilt get more..interesting."
Renard says, "Galen deserves what he brought upon himself. There's nothing more to it."
GM says, "As the sun is nearing its peak and the day has become warm and humid, Garomach comes riding back down the path from Benecortum."
Corin grins. "Galen will have some talkin' to do, for sure.
GM says, "A stranger rides with him."
Bodoni says, "::looks to Renard and nods his approval:: That he does."
Corin studies the stranger.
Bodoni says, "::eyes the stranger::"
Caralchis scrutinizes the stranger
GM says, "The stranger rides well on a good horse and is dressed well."
GM says, "He's a small man with plain features."
Corin [to Garomach] You spoke with the baron?
Renard [to Corin]: this might be the Baron, you know
GM [to Renard]: the stranger isn't Baron Faiseric
Corin quickly looks at the stranger.
GM [to Renard]: you know what he looks like
Corin shakes his head to Renard.
GM says, "[Garomach] Yes. Another pair of cattle were taken from Soltis last night. (he shakes his head in disbelief)"
Bodoni says, "::mutters a low curse::"
Caralchis says, "even in the storm? These marauders seem quite determined"
Corin says, "(where were the first cattle taken from? Praesus?)"
Bodoni says, "they must walk with devils to brave such a storm."
GM says, "[Garomach] However, I have suggested that each village keep their cattle in the commons at night as much as possible until this scourge is ended."
GM says, "[Garomach] Perhaps that will help."
Caralchis says, "We can only hope it will. That *should* be enough to deter them"
GM says, "[Garomach] (introducing the stranger) This is Godefridel, who rode in from Oresticum this morning."
Corin says, "Where is Oresticum?"
Bodoni says, "::nods respectfully:: A pleasure, good sir."
Joseph says, "welcome to our town"
Caralchis says, "It is good to have you here, though we wish you were coming under other circumstances. Might we assume that your coming relates to the recent thefts?"
GM says, "[Godefridel] Greetings, all! It is not my first choice to be visiting at this time. I would rather be selling my wares in Oresticum!"
Corin says, "well met Godefridel, I am Corin."
GM says, "ooc: Oresticum is the decent-sized town along the main road north of Benecortum. It isn't on your map; it's about 30 miles away. You wouldn't have ever been there unless you've traveled a bit. You think of it as 'the city.'"
GM says, "[Godefridel] My trip is related to a theft, but I was unaware of your particular problem until just this morning."
Corin looks curiously at the garb of this city-person.
Renard [to GM]: if it's on the main road, wouldn't we all have been there to trade, at least once or twice a year? We can't really go south. Perhaps there is even barges that go down the river from there to other places?
GM says, "[Godefridel] A week ago I was bringing a cartload of goods north from Burgundy to Oresticum, and met a fellow heading south."
GM [to Renard]: probably not, actually, on both points. most of your trade would go through benecortum, and the river doesn't pass through Oresticum.
GM says, "[Godefridel] It was nearing midday and the traveler stopped to share news and a meal. Naturally, I accepted."
Corin listens carefully.
Bodoni says, "::listening::"
GM says, "[Godefridel] He gave me several good tips for Oresticum. Did you know the price of fish sauce has doubled in the last few months? Amazing. Wish I had more along with m."
Caralchis 's attention is focused on Godefridel
Bodoni says, "::shakes his head politely::"
Joseph leans forward, listening
Corin nods impatiently.
GM says, "[Godefridel] I took my postprandial nap and when I awoke, the traveler was gone. No matter, I thought, although I checked my luggage to be sure. Nothing was gone."
Bodoni says, "::nods politely again, but wanting him to get to the point::"
GM says, "[Godefridel] Or so I thought, until I arrived in Oresticum. I am missing a family heirloom - my late wife's favorite ring! May she rest well in heaven. (crosses himself, looks sad)"
Corin says, "You think the traveller stole it?"
GM says, "Naturally, I rode back as quickly as possible. This traveller must have taken it, the son of a whore."
GM says, "(that was Godefridel, of course)"
Renard says, "Give us a description of this man, and we will look out for him"
Bodoni says, "Could you tell us anything about this fellow? Did he speak oddly, or did he dress oddly"
Bodoni says, "?"
Corin says, "This man was heading to Burgundy then?"
GM says, "[Godefridel] the most obvious thing is that he was without his left ear."
Caralchis says, "How could this manbe connected to the cattle thieves?"
Corin says, "A thief is a thief, caralchis."
GM says, "[Godefridel] (chuckling) I must admit, that was so jarring that I paid more attention to that than anything else about him. Not a young man, that's certain."
Corin says, "If not connected, maybe he would know who the cattle theives are."
Renard says, "Theivery abounds these days, it seems."
GM says, "ooc: i before e except after c!"
GM grins
Corin says, "ooc or in words that sound like weave *grin*"
GM says, "[Garomach] so none of you has seen such a man? i thought it unlikely, but Godefridel thought there might be some connection to our cattle thieves, as you have surmised."
Corin says, "perhaps we should head to Burgundy, and look for this man."
Bodoni says, "Yes. that might be a good idea. We seem to be having no luck about these parts."
Caralchis says, "true enough"
GM says, "[Garomach] i cannot allow that. the safety of my village comes first."
Corin says, "What do you suggest, m'lord?"
GM says, "[Garomach] if they had gone to Burgundy, we would not have lost more cattle last night."
Corin nods agreeingly.
Bodoni says, "::inclines his head::"
GM says, "[Godefridel] perhaps i could show you where i met this man and we could begin from there?"
GM says, "[Godefridel] it was only a short ride south of Benecortum."
Renard says, "Was he riding or walking?"
Corin says, "NEar the woods?"
Bodoni says, "::fowns slightly:: Perhaps. Right then."
GM [to Corin]: the road passes through the forest
GM [to Renard]: walking
Corin says, "Did you meet within the forest?"
GM [to Corin]: (as per the map)
Renard says, "Was he Gaul, Frank, or Goth, like yourself?"
GM says, "[Godefridel] I thank you for your kindliness in helping me, and if we were to locate my missing ring, I would be very grateful."
Corin says, "Let's ride to this meeting spot then."
GM says, "[Godefridel] It is so hard to tell these days! He didn't look like a Goth and introduced himself as Treverus."
Corin says, "Camping in the forest near the road would enable the thieves to ambush merchants."
GM says, "[Godefridel] That's a Roman name, but he might have Romanized it assuming I was also of Roman lineage."
GM says, "Garomach sneezes violently, and you notice how watery and red his eyes are."
Joseph says, "bless you"
Corin says, "M'lord, are you alright?""
GM says, "[Garomach] I thank you, my boy. I'll be alright, but the chill of the rain last night has brought an evil fever upon me!"
Corin says, "maybe you should rest up. We will ride with Godefridel and see this spot he talks of."
GM says, "[Garomach] No! I will come. Let us leave at once! After our failure last night I am more eager than ever to locate these thieves and be done with them."
GM says, "he sneezes again as he finished this little speech."
Corin shrugs and nods. "show us the way, Godefridel!"
GM says, "and blows his nose on his sleeve"
GM says, "you saddle up again and ride"
GM says, "marching order?"
GM says, "or, rather, riding order?"
Corin says, "(Corin is curious, and stays near the front)"
GM says, "ooc: this story is gathering more names than a Tolstoy novel!"
Caralchis rides customarily behind Garomach
Joseph rides next to Bodoni
GM says, "Godefridel will stay near Garomach"
Bodoni has disconnected.
Renard rides behind with Johan.
Corin will take the lead then, I guess.
GM says, "ok, i have Corin, Joseph/Bodoni, Garomach/Godefridel, Caralchis, Renard/Johan, Gamerus"
Caralchis says, "sounds right"
GM says, "we lost Bodoni"
GM says, "but we charge ahead regardless"
Bodoni has connected.
GM says, "ah good"
Corin says, "Did Bodoni die from the arrow in his head?"
GM says, "Bodoni, i have you riding with Joseph behind Corin and ahead of Garomach"
Bodoni says, "(that was odd)"
Joseph says, "dozed off for a minute, eh dad?"
GM says, "you probably timed out, that can happen if you connect through a proxy server"
Corin says, "(heh, forces active role-playing)"
Bodoni says, "(no...I... Ah... I see..how do I rectify that, then?)"
GM [to Bodoni]: talk about it later, let's finish up this session
Bodoni says, "(okay.. what's I miss?)"
GM says, "nothing, just the riding order"
Bodoni says, "(last saw Garoman talking about his cold..)"
Bodoni says, "(okay, then)"
Renard is patient, but could we cut some of the dead air?
GM says, "you start riding down the path towards Benecortum. those behind Garomach can see that he's swaying slightly in the saddle. he doesn't look well at all."
Bodoni says, "::thinks his coming along wasn't the best idea::"
Corin looks around carefully at his surroundings.
GM says, "By the time you reach Benecortum, he is sniffling constantly and looks dazed. His face is flushed and feverish-looking."
Renard begins to get nervous and suspicious of Godefridel...
GM says, "[Godefridel] Milord Garomach, please do not drive yourself so hard. Rest in the inn today."
Bodoni says, "You don't look well at all, Mi'lord.."
Caralchis says, "I agree, perhaps with some rest you will be able to join us in full form later, but if you continue to push yourself like this you will only get worse"
GM says, "to speed things up, suffice it to say tha Garomach takes the advice after only a little protest. Galen's father (the innkeeper) Predrag gives him a room to sleep for a while"
Corin says, "Continue on, Godefridel."
GM says, "Godefridel leads the rest of you south out of Benecortum."
Bodoni says, "::keeps a watchful eye out::"
GM says, "The road is a poorly-maintained Roman road. It is paved and doesn't wash away in heavy rains, but grass is growing up through parts of it and there are many broken stones."
GM says, "you reach the forest line within about 20 minutes and Godefridel doesn't hesitate but rides right on in. "It's just a bit farther," he says."
Bodoni says, "::thinks that's a little odd::"
Corin again places his bow across his thigh as he rides.
Bodoni says, "::keeps one hand on his mace::"
GM says, "he probably feels pretty safe with all the muscle and weaponry around."
Caralchis has thoughts similar to Bodoni's
Joseph figures Corin knows what he's doing and reaches for his bow too
GM says, "about 10 more minutes along the road, Godefridel stops in a clearing."
Joseph looks around
GM says, "[Godefridel] yeah, this is the place. we stopped right over here for a midday meal."
GM says, "he points to where the clearing has created an open area by the side of the road"
Corin looks for tracks into the woods.
GM says, "it takes you only a few moments to spot a trail heading east from the edge of the clearing into the forest..."
Bodoni says, "::peers about for any evidence::"
GM says, "*** END SESSION ***"
-- End log: Sunday, May 21, 2000 11:56:09 am LunaSoft MOO time --