Logs > Gamma Logs > A Gharkin With a Heart of Gold

A Gharkin With a Heart of Gold

[Kaezar Wilderness, Trenkin Road]
Long grasses grow waist high along both sides of the road, mostly feather and pompass. Tiny seeds blow from the feather grass and are carried away in the wind. Off in the far east is a forest, while to the south, the outlines of mountains can be seen. Way off to the west lie hills of pasture with livestock grazing in them. Also here is Sinjinn.
Obvious exits are south and north.

You say, "I know where some wubwuvs are."
You say, "We can kill them and sneak reassuring glances at each other."
Sinjinn laughs at you.
Severin walks in.
Sinjinn joins your group.
You wave to Severin.
Severin chuckles.
Severin says, "Well, of all the places..."
Sinjinn nods to Severin.
You say, "Wait, I have something for you, sirrah."
Severin nods to Sinjinn happily.
You open an embroidered black leather pouch.
Severin says, "Let me guess."
Severin says, "A coffer."
You get an embellished brass coffer from an embroidered black leather pouch.
You offer your embellished brass coffer to Severin.
Sinjinn chuckles.
Severin asks, "How did I know?"
Severin accepts your offer.
Severin glances at his embellished brass coffer and mutters something under his breath.
You act: Jurion bows with a flourish.
Severin opens a finely woven purple brocade cloak.
Severin puts an embellished brass coffer in his finely woven purple brocade cloak.
Severin closes a finely woven purple brocade cloak.
Severin says, "Well, now."
You lean on Sinjinn.
Sinjinn raises an eyebrow.
Severin says, "There certainly isn't anything interesting happening. That Wuntvor fellow is in Breen's, and every want-to-be-rogue in town is basking in his shadow."
Severin rolls his eyes.
You say, "Yes. And I suspect he's making the chairs talk."
Sinjinn asks, "Oh, is that who that fellow is?"
Sinjinn asks, "Wasn't he about not long ago doing the same thing?"
Severin says, "It could be him, or it could be that Vo woman."
Sinjinn says, "I dashed out too quickly to witness it myself."
Severin says, "I'm not terribly impressed."
Severin crosses his arms.
Sinjinn asks, "It does not have the royal seal of approval?"
You chuckle.
Sinjinn stifles a grin.
Severin asks, "What doesn't? Wuntvor?"
Sinjinn shrugs.
Sinjinn nods to Severin.
You ask, "Is Vo an illusionist?"
Severin says, "How should I know? She smells like a rodent."
Severin says, "Well, don't let me hold you up. I'm sure I can find a nice, dank place to open that coffer."
You say, "Come on, you two."
You say, "Now that I'm empty I could use some ale."
Severin shrugs.
Severin joins your group.
Severin asks, "Why not?"
Sinjinn joins your group.
Sinjinn glances at her hands.

[ We head to meet up with the rest of the crew. ]

[Stumbling Dwarf Cafe, Dining Area]
Covering this open air cafe is a faded green canvas awning, which has been connected to wooden poles, and offers a modicum of shade from the road. Tables are set out in an orderly fashion, and a handwritten sign has been tacked to the front of the building housing the kitchen. Sand and sawdust has been poured over the ground, making the ground rather stable and free of the muck that sometimes plagues the rest of the road. You see Fiamma. Also here is Shala (seated on a wooden chair).
Your group follows you.

You say, "Well. Hello."
Severin smiles at Shala.
Sinjinn says, "We're following you."
Shala smiles.
Severin walks over to a wooden chair.
Severin kisses Shala's hand.
Severin says, "M'lady."
Severin seats himself down at a table.
Shala says, "Hello, Severin."
Sinjinn seats herself down at a table.
Sinjinn crosses her legs.
You ask, "Can I get anyone anything?"
Shala shakes her head.
Shala says, "Nothing for me, thanks."
Sinjinn asks, "Cider?"
You open an embroidered black leather pouch.
Severin says, "I'm fine."
You get a handful of sovereigns from an embroidered black leather pouch.
You hand Fiamma some money.
Fiamma smiles and cheerfuly pours out a warmed cup of cider.
With a grin, she hands it over to you.
You put an earthenware mug on a wrought iron table.
Fiamma tells you, "You can't afford that."
Shala props her elbows on the table and rests her chin in her hands.
You ask, "Does that sign not say three sovereigns for cider?"
Catching your glance, Fiamma glances back, taking your measure.
Kot comes under the awning from the street.
Kot scratches himself.
You ask, "And haven't I got three sovereigns here?"
You shake your few sovereigns.
Severin nods to you.
You get a few sovereigns from an embroidered black leather pouch.
Sinjinn raises an eyebrow coldly in Fiamma's direction.
You hand Fiamma some money.
Fiamma smiles and cheerfuly pours out a warmed cup of cider.
With a grin, she hands it over to you.
You say, "Six sovereigns."
You say, "Update your sign, you little hoyden."
Fiamma nods back with a pretty smile.
You seat yourself down at a table.
You wave to Kot.
Kot grins.
You say, "Have a seat, Kot."
Kot waves.
You grin at Kot.
Sinjinn stares icily at Fiamma.
Severin says, "As if the great Tamerlaine can't afford it."
You sip some mulled spiced cider from your earthenware mug.
Kot says, "Why, thank ya."
Kot seats himself down at a table.
You say, "The great Tamerlaine has pledged his wealth to the temple of Eyssa."
Severin opens some black kersey trousers.
Kot grins at you.
Severin gets a leather-embossed hipflask from some black kersey trousers.
Kot waves to Sinjinn.
Severin says, "Indeed."
Shala nods to Kot.
Sinjinn nods to Kot.
Severin opens a leather-embossed hipflask.
Kot winks at Shala.
You say, "He can't spend coin on such niceties as cider."
Severin sips some smooth whiskey from his leather-embossed hipflask.
Kot grins at Severin.
Kot says, "Soooo..."
Kot coughs.
Sinjinn says, "Especially none for his lady friend."
Sinjinn stifles a grin.
You point at an earthenware mug.
Shala grins at Sinjinn.
You ask, "Is that not cider on the table there?"
Kot asks, "You guys settled on a date yet?"
Sinjinn asks, "On the table?"
Severin sips some smooth whiskey from his leather-embossed hipflask.
Shala pokes Kot.
Sinjinn pouts.
Severin closes a leather-embossed hipflask.
Severin puts a leather-embossed hipflask in his black kersey trousers.
Kot grins at Shala.
Shala says, "Yes, we kill you tomorrow."
Severin closes some black kersey trousers.
Sinjinn says, "It's sweeter when it's directly from your fingers."
Kot asks, "Around what time?"
Sinjinn smiles sweetly at you.
You offer your earthenware mug to Sinjinn.
Shala says, "Noonish."
Sinjinn accepts your offer.
Kot winces.
Shala says, "Be ready."
You get an earthenware mug from a wrought iron table.
Kot says, "No good."
Sinjinn says, "Thank you."
Kot asks, "How about around 3pm?"
You ask, "Where's your better half?" of Kot.
Sinjinn sips some mulled spiced cider from her earthenware mug.
Shala says, "You ever propose for someone else again..."
Shala grumbles about Kot.
Kot says, "She's on her way."
Kot shrugs at Shala.
Kot grins at Shala.
Sinjinn says, "Since you're contesting it, we'll bump it closer to eight in the morning."
Severin takes Shala's hand.
Kot asks, "What're you complaining about?"
Sinjinn sips some mulled spiced cider from her earthenware mug.
Shala agrees with Sinjinn.
You say, "That way we know we'll catch you in bed."
You sip some mulled spiced cider from your earthenware mug.
You swish a bit of cider across your tongue. Mmm, light and refreshing.
Severin pets Shala's hand lovingly.
Shala glances at Severin.
Kot grins.
Sinjinn waggles her fingers at Kot.
Shala smiles faintly at Severin.
Shala nods.
Shala leans back while sitting on the wooden chair.
Kot says, "Yap yap yap."
Kot stretches.
Kot gets a couple sovereigns from a brown wool cloak.
Sinjinn chuckles charmingly.
Kot mutters.
Sinjinn says, "He thinks we're joking."
You act: Jurion drums his fingers on the arm of his chair.
Kot gets a single royal from a brown wool cloak.
Shala says, "Just don't get blood on Xelian."
You say, "He does, I think."
Kot hands Fiamma some money.
Fiamma smiles and cheerfuly draws an ale.
With a wink, she hands it over to Kot.
Fiamma gives Kot his change.
Severin says, "This would be much more exciting if Xelian were here."
Kot puts a few sovereigns in his brown wool cloak.
Severin smiles slightly.
Kot swallows some Stumbling Dwarf ale.
Kot says, "Enough of that."
Sinjinn sips some mulled spiced cider from her earthenware mug.
Kot scratches his chin.
You sip some mulled spiced cider from your earthenware mug.
Severin removes his purple felt muffin cap.
You slip out of your embroidered scarlet frieze cloak.
Sinjinn leans on you.
You put an embroidered scarlet frieze cloak on a wooden chair.
Sinjinn sips some mulled spiced cider from her earthenware mug.
Shala says, "I passed her on Tempest Way, I think."
Shala asks, "Or maybe it was Tael?"
Shala furrows her brow.
Severin caresses Shala's hand.
You say, "Well, it's early yet."
You look up at the sky.
Severin nods.
Sinjinn swallows some mulled spiced cider.
Kot scratches his chin.
Kot mutters.
Kot says, "I'll go find her real quick."
Kot mumbles some obscenities.
Kot stands up.
You nod to Kot.
Kot swallows some Stumbling Dwarf ale.
Kot nods.
Kot says, "Be right back."
Ducking under the edge of the awning, Kot walks out onto the road.
Severin says, "Sword-stealing lout."
Shala sighs.
You say, "Well, let me give you folks some news while he's gone. He and Xelian already know this."
Shala shifts her eyes to you.
Sinjinn throws her legs over Jurion's knees.
Sinjinn raises an eyebrow in your direction.
You say, "Xelian says it's safe to talk here, so I suppose Fiamma's been well-paid."
Fiamma glances back at you with a sly smile.
Severin says, "With the cider so expensive..."
Severin chuckles to himself.
You say, "We've got a hundred imperials in my account in Kemstead."
Shala blinks.
You say, "So we're unofficially over halfway to our goal of two hundred fifty imperials."
Shala asks, "Already? So many?"
Severin smiles at Shala.
You say, "Severin has quite the demon's tongue."
Severin says, "I got nine imperials today alone."
You say, "As you doubtless know."
You smile at Shala.
Severin nods to you.
You caress Sinjinn's thigh-high suede boots.
Sinjinn chuckles.
Shala blushes slightly.
You sip some mulled spiced cider from your earthenware mug.
You swish a bit of cider across your tongue. Mmm, light and refreshing.
Sinjinn says, "That's marvelous."
Shala says, "I never knew it earned him money, but I guess I should have."
Shala grins at Severin.
Sinjinn sips some mulled spiced cider from her earthenware mug.
Severin says, "Pay up, sweetmeat."
Severin winks at Shala.
Shala laughs.
Shala asks, "Put it on account?"
You say, "Officially, the total's a bit more, of course, to keep interest going and to allow us to bring the writ into play in case the flow of donations slows down."
You swallow some mulled spiced cider.
Shala nods to you.
Kot comes under the awning from the street.
Kot's group follows him.
Severin puts a purple felt muffin cap on a wrought iron table.
Kot says, "Alright.."
Shala nods to Xelian.
Severin removes his handsome violet leather gloves.
Kot grins widely.
You smile at Xelian.
Kot walks over to Xelian.
Kot leans on Xelian.
Severin puts some handsome violet leather gloves on a wrought iron table.
Xelian smiles.
Kot swallows some Stumbling Dwarf ale.
Xelian waves.
Severin smiles at Xelian.
Xelian says, "Ello, folks."
Sinjinn waves to Xelian.
Sinjinn sips some mulled spiced cider from her earthenware mug.
Xelian says, "Imagine meeting all of ye here."
You say, "It's the will of the gods, doubtless."
Severin says, "What a dreadful coincidence."
Sinjinn smirks.
Xelian nods solemnly.
Shala smiles.
You act: Jurion looks piously into his cider.
You swallow some mulled spiced cider.
The cider tastes pleasantly sweet, with just the right amount of sugar and spices.
Xelian grins.
Kot grins.
Kot seats himself down at a table.
Xelian seats herself at a table.
Kot smiles at Xelian.
Kot says, "Will of the gods, yep."
Kot grins.
Severin says, "Shall we have Kot lead us in prayer before we begin? I so wish to hear him belch..."
Shala shudders.
Sinjinn opens her mouth as if to say something.
Sinjinn smacks her lips.
Shala says, "Please, I can't take much more."
Sinjinn sips some mulled spiced cider from her earthenware mug.
You chuckle.
Xelian glances at Severin and winces.
Severin caresses Shala's hand.
You say, "We are gathered here tonight to witness the smothering of Kot..."
Sinjinn smiles happily.
Shala smiles softly at Severin.
Xelian chuckles.
Xelian crosses her legs.
Kot glances at you.
You say, "Actually, I wanted to ask you all how you felt on going public with a few concrete details about the Temple."
You sip some mulled spiced cider from your earthenware mug.
Fiamma giggles.
Severin narrows his eyes.
Xelian says, "Go away."
Shala furrows her brow.
Severin chuckles softly.
Sinjinn shifts her eyes to Fiamma.
Shala says, "That might be difficult."
You say, "Yes, please, you've been well paid."
You act: Jurion flaps his hand at Fiamma.
Kot shakes his head.
Kot says, "She won't talk."
Kot grins.
Kot says, "With all the things she's heard so far."
Severin says, "Tamerlaine and I have discussed this a little. I'm inclined to agree with him concerning making a few more details public."
Kot says, "She's as much an accomplice as any of us."
Shala agrees with Kot.
Xelian says, "I prefer not to have her bosom in my face when I'm trying to think."
Sinjinn agrees with Xelian.
You ask, "Yes, it is a trifle distracting, isn't it?"
Noticing your admiring glance, Fiamma fluffs out her hair and then walks away from you slowly, hips swaying beneath the bounce of her brightly colored skirts.
Severin says, "I don't mind..."
Shala says, "Not for me."
Sinjinn grinds her teeth together slightly.
You chuckle.
Shala grins at you.
Sinjinn sips some mulled spiced cider from her earthenware mug.
You pet Sinjinn's thigh-high suede boots lovingly.
Xelian grins.
Shala asks, "What sort of details?"
Xelian asks, "Now...what sort of details?"
Severin laughs.
You say, "So."
Shala says, "I'm a bit uneasy about this all. Maybe we should consider stopping now."
Severin caresses Shala's hand.
You say, "We haven't really made the two hundred fifty imperial goal clear to everyone."
Severin says, "The fun's hardly even started." to Shala.
Shala says, "There's been plenty of money made. We could simple say the Baron took it."
Shala says, "Almost no risk at all yet."
You ask, "How many of us are in on this?"
Shala glances at Kot.
Sinjinn says, "I do have to wonder if we've all pondered the repurcussions."
Sinjinn says, "Or if the repurcussions matter."
Kot scratches his chin.
Shala winces.
You ask, "Besides us, who else knows what's going on?"
Shala shakes her head.
Shala says, "No one else... except.."
Shala shakes her head.
Shala says, "He's gone."
Kot says, "Raeh, Cedaven, Myshral."
Sinjinn asks, "Now? No one, surely. But later?"
You ask, "How much does Myshral know?"
Sinjinn asks, "What happens later when the inevitable happens and there is nothing to show?"
Kot says, "Enough."
Shala gazes uneasily at Sinjinn.
You ask, "So we've got to put him in for a cut, yes?"
Kot nods to you.
You say, "So with a hundred imperials, that's barely ten each."
You say, "I didn't put in for this for ten bloody imperials."
Xelian leans back while sitting on the wooden chair.
Xelian ponders the situation.
Severin says, "I had no idea the roster was so long."
Kot says, "He will be present at the second meeting with Rillon, and will participate in the second act of the play."
Severin glances at Kot.
You say, "Which means I am not yet ready to call it an evening."
Shala sighs.
Xelian says, "Alright...wait a moment."
Kot says, "We are not calling it an evening."
Xelian holds up her hand.
Kot nods to Xelian.
Shala shifts her eyes to Xelian.
Shala shakes her head slightly.
Shala says, "I'm just worried, Xelian. If we're found out..."
Shala says, "But Jurion's right, it's not enough to pay everyone."
Shala sighs.
Xelian nods slowly.
You say, "At this point I think the worst that could happen is we end up in the stocks."
Sinjinn nods.
Kot raises his hand.
Shala furrows her brow.
Shala asks, "You think so?"
Kot says, "Can I just go over the whole plan thing?.."
Xelian touches Kot.
Severin says, "Cabbages, tomatos, and eggs for all..."
Shala asks, "Just the stocks? And if we anger the goddess?"
Kot says, "Seems it's been lost."
You say, "Go on, Kot."
Xelian nods to Kot.
Shala nods to Kot.
Kot says, "Right now we aren't even through the first stage of our play."
Kot says, "First act, if you will."
Kot says, "People who're donating money now are not completely sure if we're legal, and some openly said that they will not donate untill they see real proof."
Kot says, "I absolutely agree that the amount of money we have now is not nearly enough to cover all the trouble."
Kot says, "So, we'll have to keep going..."
Kot says, "Just the way we planned.. there's no emergency, and no rush."
Kot says, "Everything's going a lot better than I expected, to be honest."
You rub your chin.
You say, "We'll have to produce the writ fairly soon, I think. Which is what I was getting at when we first came in."
You say, "I wanted to speak publicly about the temple."
Shala fidgets slightly.
Kot nods to you.
Severin rubs Shala gently.
Kot says, "There's one other thing I wanted to say."
You nod to Kot.
Kot says, "What Shala and Sinjin were talking about."
Kot says, "If we get cought."
Shala gazes at Kot.
Kot says, "We tell the truth."
Severin shifts his eyes to Kot.
Kot says, "And blame everything on Baron Rillon."
Shala furrows her brow.
Severin smiles slightly.
Shala nods to Kot slowly.
Kot winces.
Severin says, "I can tell the truth."
Kot says, "Well.. that's kinda the truth."
Shala glances at Severin.
Kot grins.
Sinjinn says, "It's as good as any truth."
You say, "The writ may be the biggest trouble."
Kot says, "Also... we give the guards description of Baron Rillon."
Kot says, "Which is a tall dark haired thin human with soulless eyes."
Xelian says, "That has been the conclusion all along, has it not? That Rillon absconds with the monies? Poor, poor us."
Severin says, "Poor, poor Kaezar."
Severin rubs his eyes.
Kot says, "That description happens to match description of a certain individual who has a bounty on his head."
Xelian nods to Severin.
Shala nods to Kot.
Shala asks, "So the next step?"
Severin asks, "Dinner?"
Severin smiles.
Shala asks, "Do we go public with the temple details?"
Kot says, "The next step would be to produce the writ."
Kot nods.
Kot says, "I think we should."
Kot says, "Not shout it in the town's square, of course."
You ask, "What details do we give out, exactly?"
Kot says, "But to go and tell people in bars and taverns."
Kot says, "We tell them just what Baron told us."
Fiamma winks at Kot.
Kot says, "That we have to raise 250 imperials for him to see that we have the will to go through with this."
Kot grins at Fiamma.
Fiamma peers at Kot.
Kot coughs.
Shala shakes her head.
Shala says, "There's something missing."
Shala furrows her brow.
You raise an eyebrow in Shala's direction.
Shala says, "We have two meetings with the Baron coming up."
Shala says, "One where we turn over the funds raised so far."
Shala says, "And a second where he brings up the writ."
You say, "Actually it's three."
Shala asks, "Which one did I miss?"
Kot nods.
Xelian glances at an awning.
Kot says, "None."
You say, "One where we turn over the funds, one a few days later when we get the writ, and the final one where he takes our coin to the Prince."
Shala nods to you.
Shala says, "We're not at that final stage yet though."
Kot whispers something to Xelian.
Kot grins at Xelian.
Shala asks, "Have we mentioned the amount needed yet?"
You say, "Is that clear? I get confused."
You say, "We've mentioned it in private to donors..."
Shala asks, "In collecting donations, I mean?"
'But we haven't really spread the word yet.
You say, "But we haven't really spread the word yet."
Shala nods to you.
Kot says, "We did say that we need to raise 250 imperials to get the writ."
Kot says, "But didn't mention that to everyone."
Shala nods to Kot.
You say, "Right, this is our chance to make sure everyone knows it."
Kot says, "In either case it'd be good to go through bars telling everyone about it."
Kot nods.
Shala says, "I'm on track with you, I think, then."
You ask, "Should we say how close we are?"
Kot ponders the situation.
Shala says, "Speculation, I think."
Sinjinn says, "It might help."
Kot walks over to a wooden chair.
Kot leans on Xelian.
Sinjinn says, "People might dig deeper."
Shala says, "I've heard there's been so much collected, etc."
Xelian smiles at Kot.
Kot leans on Xelian.
Shala says, "Pretty close to the right figure, but maybe not right on mark."
Kot asks, "We can say we've got around 70-80 imperials left to go?"
Shala asks, "May even mention more than one figure and leave them guessing but let them know the neighborhood?"
You say, "We have a hundred imperials thus far."
Shala nods to Kot.
You say, "I don't know what the rumors are like, I think probably upwards of a hundred fifty."
You say, "But that figure can change quickly."
Shala says, "I like that. "They've only seventy more imperials to collect." Things like that."
You ask, "When will we want to schedule our meeting to get the writ?"
Sinjinn nods to Shala.
You nod to Shala.
Shala says, "Gets people to thinking they might be able to fill that gap."
Xelian leans forward while sitting on the wooden chair.
You say, "We've also got to make it clear that we'll need quite a bit more after that two hundred fifty imperials is collected."
Shala nods.
Shala says, "Can do."
You say, "And make it clear now, so people don't feel conned."
Kot nods to you.
Kot grins.
Shala nods to you.
Severin chuckles to himself.
Xelian folds her hands on the table.
You ask, "But you said you needed two hundred fifty! Now it's a thousand?"
Kot says, "Don't want them to get the wrong idea."
You act: Jurion swings one leg over the arm of his chair.
Shala asks, "What of the writ?"
Xelian says, "We never have to say when we reach 250 imperials."
You say, "Well, we do, really, or we never have a reason to get the writ."
Kot touches Xelian.
Xelian asks, "No one else is keeping track, or would be able to keep track, of
how much we have, can they?"
Shala nods to Xelian.
Shala says, "That's true."
Severin says, "Not unless they talk with every donor."
You ask, "D'you mean we don't have to have a date for the writ?"
Severin says, "Which is unlikely."
Kot says, "We should do the writ thing soon."
You nod to Kot.
You say, "We could just say, "They need seventy or eighty more," and then produce it suddenly."
Kot says, "In the writ it should say how much money Baron got... say that king's agreed to donate a plot of land and gave his blessing for the construction.. and that all folks who donate over 10-15 imperials will have their names engraved on a golden plaque on temple's wall forever and ever."
Severin says, "Then again, we could say that interest has been so high, that Rillon fronted a little of the money himself by selling some of his properties."
You ask, "Who's going to do the actual writing of the writ?"
Kot says, "Think 15 imperials isn't too steep of a price?.."
Severin smiles at you.
Severin says, "You're so good with a quill and parchment, Tamerlaine."
Severin shakes his head.
You say, "Am I being volunteered? I'll need a script to work from."
Shala smiles slightly.
Shala says, "I can do it. I think. May take a few drafts first."
Severin says, "Twenty isn't too high, with some of the things I've seen laying about on Brom's table lately."
Kot nods to Shala.
You say, "This is where the noose tightens, you know. Forging the Prince's seal is not an offense for the stocks."
Xelian nods to you.
Xelian says, "Exactly."
Kot says, "Oh, quit your worrying."
Shala says, "But we can't say Rillon is fronting any money."
Kot mutters.
You say, "No, because he's not noble."
Shala says, "No aristrocratic gold."
You say, "Er, because he is noble."
You laugh.
Shala nods to you.
Kot says, "No, Rillon is not fronting money..."
Kot says, "And we're not committing any crimes.. Rillon is."
Kot grins.
Shala says, "I'll do the writ."
Kot nods.
Shala says, "It's safest. I'm the least visible one of the conspirators as it is now."
Severin chuckles to himself.
You say, "I have some old copies of scrolls from the gates, if you care to look at them for the calligraphy or the phrasing."
Shala nods to you.
Severin says, "Everyone has to earn their keep, I suppose."
Shala says, "That'll help. I've gotten fair at copying."
"What about the dinner?
You ask, "What about the dinner?"
Shala smiles slightly at you.
You grin at Shala.
You ask, "Before or after the writ?"
Kot says, "After."
Shala nods.
Shala asks, "To announce the writ?"
Severin caresses Shala's hand.
Xelian says, "Hmm."
You ask, "Or to celebrate it?"
Severin says, "We could do it there, or announce that it will be produced at the dinner."
Kot asks, "So... think 20 imperials should be the amount people will have to donate to get on the plaque?"
You say, "Either way we can drum up interest and say we have a very important announcement to make during the dinner."
Shala ponders the situation.
You say, "Hm."
Shala says, "Ten might be more realistic."
Severin nods to Shala.
Kot nods to Shala.
Sinjinn says, "With economy the way it is, yes, ten."
Kot says, "Good."
You say, "I think ten, yes. We've already had some very generous people give us ten imperials."
Severin says, "I've yet to speak with Teru about his potential donation."
You say, "I'd hate to aggravate them by suddenly saying twenty."
Shala asks, "Did we keep a list?"
You smile slightly.
Shala grins at you.
Shala says, "Of course we did."
You say, "I have a detailed list which I intend to eat later. Or give to the Prince when we run crying to him."
Shala nods to you.
Kot asks, "How about 10 for a person. and 50 for a house/institution?"
You say, "Ah, that's a good idea."
You nod to Kot.
Xelian says, "I have notes on those who have given donations to me, as well."
Kot grins widely.
You say, "Not that house donations would supercede individual donations, but it would be a way for people like the Fulcrum to see their name in gold leaf."
Xelian says, "Merow being the most generous, at 15 imperials."
You say, "Gold leaf, rather."
Shala raises an eyebrow in Xelian's direction.
Shala smiles slowly.
Shala says, "Good."
Shala nods.
Xelian grins.
Severin says, "A gharkin with a heart of gold."
Kot says, "And, as far as dinner, I think we should tell folks that we have the royal writ, and it'll be produced for them at the dinner."
Kot says, "Or brains of."
Kot coughs.
Kot says, "Ya know."
Kot grins.
Xelian says, "Aye."
You say, "People may come just to see if we actually have it."
Xelian furrows her brow.
Severin says, "We'll need to have entertainment at this dinner. I'm willing to act as master of ceremonies, and I think a song by the lovely Shala would be appropriate..."
Shala blushes.
Severin smiles at Shala.
Severin pats Shala's thigh.
Xelian says, "Let me express what is rolling around in my mind, before we go further on the dinner, please."
Sinjinn grins slightly at Shala.
Kot says, "And they would have to pay to see if we actually have it."
Kot nods to Xelian.
You nod to Xelian.
Xelian leans forward while sitting on the wooden chair.
Kot leans on Xelian.
Shala says, "I've been thinking of trying to compose a suitable song to inspire donations."
You swallow some mulled spiced cider.
Kot swallows some Stumbling Dwarf ale.
Xelian says, "First and foremost, I think we have to have a conclusion in mind,
and stick to that."
Shala nods to Xelian.
Xelian says, "Whatever amount we agree upon. Once we reach the goal, we cut it and that is that."
Shala agrees.
Severin says, "Fine by me."
Sinjinn nods.
You nod slowly.
Shala shifts her eyes to Kot.
Xelian says, "For as Shala and Sinjinn, started to say before, the longer we go on the greater the risks."
Severin asks, "So, if we've ten people involved...how much does everyone intend to make, at a minimum?"
You ask, "What's a sum you could each individually be satisifed with?"
You glance at Severin.
Severin smiles.
Kot says, "Slow down, eh? let her finish."
Kot mutters.
You lean back while sitting on the wooden chair.
Xelian asks, "And....I would much rather see all of us enjoying the monies, and free to grift another day, hm?"
Xelian grins.
Severin says, "Here, here."
Shala nods firmly.
Sinjinn agrees with Xelian.
You raise your earthenware mug into the air.
You swallow some mulled spiced cider.
The cider tastes pleasantly sweet, with just the right amount of sugar and spices.
You drain your earthenware mug dry!
Seeing that it's empty, you set your earthenware mug aside.
Severin asks, "Is fifty imperials apiece too much to ask for?"
Shala blinks at Severin.
Shala asks, "Fifty?"
Sinjinn opens her mouth as if to say something.
Kot says, "Not enough, i'd say."
Shala stares at Kot.
Sinjinn raises an eyebrow.
Shala exclaims, "Not enough?!"
You say, "Remember we've got a hundred already."
Severin says, "Let's be realistic."
Xelian grins at Kot.
Shala asks, "Are you insane? Do you want to see Xelian hang?"
Severin says, "That means we only need get 400 more in donations."
You say, "We'd need five hundred for each of us to have fifty."
Severin nods to you.
Severin says, "Yes."
You say, "I think we could reasonably get that."
You say, "Much more than that and I'd get nervous."
Severin says, "Under the circumstances, any less would be wasting our time."
Sinjinn glances at Shala.
Sinjinn says, "That's when he would get nervous."
Sinjinn laughs.
Shala mutters.
Xelian touches her neck absently.
You grin quickly at Sinjinn.
Xelian grimaces.
Sinjinn says, "Listen for a moment."
Sinjinn says, "Bear with me, now."
You say, "I'd settle for twenty-five, I suppose, but that seems so paltry given that we could all end up in a deep dark hole."
Shala glances at you and turns pale.
Sinjinn says, "I have stood by and suffered while thinking Jurion was going to die."
You mutter, "Either that or we cut a few people out."
Shala shifts her eyes to Sinjinn.
Xelian turns to face Sinjinn.
Kot says, "If you cut anyone out, you're going directly into the dungeon..."
Kot mutters.
Kot says, "Enough of this improvisation."
Severin says, "It's my belief that there are too many conspirators as it is. But since we can't do anything about that, we might as well aim for what is reasonable...and I think 500 imperials is more than reasonable, considering the wealth of the people in this stinking city."
Kot splutters.
Kot sits down in the sand and sawdust.
You act: Jurion watches Sinjinn quietly.
Shala says, "I think it's fifty more than we had when we started. And it's plenty for me."
Sinjinn nods to Shala.
Shala asks, "So do you want a chance to see the lies before I spread them?"
Sinjinn crosses her legs.
Kot says, "How about this."
Kot says, "We go to 500"
Severin gets a purple felt muffin cap from a wrought iron table.
Severin idly picks his purple felt muffin cap.
Shala leans forward with her arms on the table.
You say, "Go on, Sin, you didn't sound as if you were finished."
Xelian says, "Aye, let Sinjinn speak."
Sinjinn says, "It doesn't matter, Jurion. It's beyond that."
Sinjinn shakes her head.
Shala gazes at Sinjinn.
Xelian touches Sinjinn.
Kot asks, "Beyond what?"
Kot mutters.
Xelian says, "Please....speak your mind."
Xelian nods to Sinjinn.
Severin shifts his eyes to Sinjinn.
Kot leans on Xelian.
Sinjinn says, "Beyond your looking at Xelian right now, knowing that her head will be cleaved from her neck."
Sinjinn says, "That feeling."
Sinjinn says, "That horrific, cold feeling."
Shala winces slightly.
Kot asks, "Where the hell does all this pessimism come from?"
Kot mutters.
Shala glances at Kot.
Sinjinn says, "Think on that for a moment and it might color your decisions."
Shala says, "Cause we got caught once, Kot. It can happen."
Kot says, "We risk our lives every day."
Severin says, "We're all dead anyway. It just depends on when and how."
Sinjinn says, "Pessimism? No, reality. If we get caught."
You say, "We're not working under Yurt any longer."
Kot says, "IF we get caught... we still will not be executed."
Shala says, "Yes, but the cost was almost too high."
Shala gazes at you.
Severin says, "Good King Vek will most likely be merciful."
Shala glances at Severin.
Shala frowns.
Shala says, "You can't be sure of that."
You ask, "If he's not, I'll know what sort of king I fought for, won't I?"
You say, "Everyone will know."
Severin asks, "Especially to a hero of the crown, eh?"
Severin winks at you.
Shala nods slowly.
Sinjinn asks, "What difference will that make to us, when our heads are rolling in a basket?"
Kot says, "Look."
Kot says, "We have a plan."
You say, "I think the worst we can get is the stocks, if we all keep our stories straight and nobody sicks their guts up."
Severin nods to you.
Xelian nods somberly.
Kot says, "And the chance of your head rolling off your shoulders is FAR less of a chance of you getting killed when you're out hunting."
You say, "It's either that or we just go ahead and build Eyssa's bloody emple."
Shala nods solemnly.
Severin says, "I think that if anyone feels this sort of thing is too much for them to risk, they pull out now and keep their mouths shut..."
Severin glances at Sinjinn.
Sinjinn raises an eyebrow coldly in Severin's direction.
Kot glances at Sinjinn.
Sinjinn asks, "Did I ever utter that?"
Severin says, "Otherwise, we all do our parts and finish this."
Shala says, "It's too late to stop now."
Xelian says, "Sinjinn speaks of the guillotine, love. The death from which Ul'Mydar is the next destination."
Sinjinn says, "Did those words cross my lips? I'm merely taking the stance of reminding everyone just what is at stake."
Kot says, "Nobody is stopping, Shala."
Shala says, "We have to go on. But we don't have to be foolish of it."
Kot says, "We all know what is at stake."
Xelian nods.
Kot says, "And there's no need to spread the gloom around."
Kot mutters.
Severin agrees with Kot.
Shala gazes at Kot.
Shala says, "You worry me." to Kot.
Shala mutters.
Kot asks, "Why?"
Kot flails his arms about.
Xelian rubs Kot gently.
You say, "It's the smell."
Sinjinn stifles a grin.
Xelian chuckles at you.
You say, "We always ask each other, 'Was that Kot?' when you leave."
You say, "And then we check our shoes for rabu dung."
Shala can't help but laugh.
Shala shakes her head.
Severin smiles slightly.
Kot says, "I just want to stick with the plan, and get through this without worrying over things we can't control much."
Xelian says, "Tamerlaine knows how to crack the tension."
Xelian rubs Kot gently.
Kot shrugs.
Shala says, "All right, enough of that. Kot's right. Stick with the plan."
You act: Jurion makes a mock-salute with two fingers.
Shala says, "So the next step is the rumors."
You say, "Yes."
Shala asks, "Spread anonymously?"
Kot says, "Not neccesserily."
Shala whispers something to her group.
Kot coughs.
Shala says, "I can have something by tomorrow."
Shala asks, "Do the rest of you want to see it before I pay the drunks in the Sea Serpent?"
Xelian nods to Shala.
You say, "It's probably wise if we do."
Shala nods to Xelian.
Shala says, "All right."
Xelian says, "I would like to see it, aye."
Severin asks, "And give old Doulb an imperial for his trouble, hm?"
Severin chuckles.
Shala says, "I will start drafts of the writ. And see what I can do about a song."
Shala nods to Severin.
Shala smiles.
Shala says, "It takes less than that usually."
Xelian says, "Let me suggest this...what do you all think of holding the dinner as soon as possible. We draft the writ, but hold off on it."
Kot scratches his chin.
Shala asks, "When do we produce it then?"
Xelian says, "Perhaps we may not have to, depending on how the dinner goes."
Sinjinn nods.
Shala peers at Xelian.
Shala asks, "How do you mean?"
You say, "I'd really like to bring the writ out."
Kot says, "We have to produce the writ eventually."
Severin nods.
Shala says, "It would add a bit of legitimacy to the cause."
Severin says, "The dinner is the perfect time."
Kot says, "A big bit."
Kot nods.
Shala grins at Kot.
Shala says, "Well, we know it's not really that big."
Shala chuckles.
Sinjinn nods to you.
Severin grins at you.
Xelian says, "If we agree we want to stop at 500 imperials, perhaps we can reach that at the dinner. It is possible."
You say, "I don't think we will."
Shala says, "You really think so? It'd be nice."
Xelian shrugs slightly.
Kot says, "Also.. if we can reach 500 imperials with dinner alone."
Severin says, "We'll need to get a donation at the door from diners. One imperial minimum."
Shala glances at Kot.
You say, "I don't want to be pessimistic, though, but there are people who will donate having seen the writ who won't donate now."
Shala says, "Don't say it."
Kot says, "Think how much we can get after producing the writ."
Kot nods.
You ask, "Do you still have the writ?"
Shala mutters, "He said it."
You scratch your chin.
Shala shifts her eyes to Kot.
Shala asks, "Do you have it on you?"
Kot says, "Of course."
Xelian says, "Remember the dinner is an event, an entertainment. I think we charge more at the door, 5 imperials perhaps."
Severin shakes his head at Xelian.
Severin says, "We don't want it to be TOO exclusive."
Sinjinn agrees with Severin.
Shala asks, "Sell tickets? A fund raiser?"
You say, "I think we should produce it at the dinner. Kot's idea was perfect."
You say, "It's a reason for people to attend, just to see it."
Severin says, "Invitations, drawn up on parchment."
Shala nods to Severin.
Xelian nods.
Shala says, "With some of Jurion's pretty scribbling."
You say, "And we really have got to show it. There's only so much we can get with our honest little faces."
Kot says, "Friggin' educational experience."
Kot opens a simple backpack.
Severin says, "'Here, here...buy your invitation, one imperial minimum. See the great news,' et cetera."
Kot gets an ivory linen parchment from a simple backpack.

> l kot's parch
A crisp sheet of ivory linen parchment The lower left hand corner is adorned with the official seal of the royal crown in purple wax.

Kot offers his ivory linen parchment to Shala.
Shala says, "Contribute to the cause."
Shala accepts Kot's offer.
Shala nods to Kot.
Kot closes a simple backpack.
Shala says, "Perfect."
Shala asks, "Should I keep it until it is ready?"
Kot grins.
Kot says, "Yes."
Shala nods to Kot.
Shala opens a laced slate damask bodice.
Shala puts an ivory linen parchment in her laced slate damask bodice.
Shala closes a laced slate damask bodice.
Kot opens his mouth as if to say something.
Shala pats her laced slate damask bodice.
Severin kisses Shala on the wrist.
Severin says, "Now, don't get caught with that..."
Shala nods to Kot.
Shala smiles at Severin.
Kot says, "I hope you're not dating any guards."
Kot grins.
You say, "I think that'll stay closed unless Sev's putting his hands where he shouldn't."
Sinjinn chuckles at you.
Severin smiles at you.
Xelian says, "I don't think 5 imperials is too much. Perhaps 3 then? The way I thought it would go, is we provide refreshment, and the proceeds go toward the cause."
Shala says, "Don't worry. It's safe."
Severin says, "I still think a single imperial is fine."
Fiamma winks at Kot.
You ask, "Let's worry about the details later?"
Xelian says, "Alright, then."
Severin says, "Minimum, of course."
Kot scratches his chin.
Severin says, "They can always donate more..."
You say, "For now let's get the word out, and work on composing the writ."
Shala says, "Donations gladly accepted."
Shala grins at Severin.
Shala nods to you.
Xelian says, "I am going to batter ye senseless. Shove off."
Severin idly picks his purple felt muffin cap.
Shala asks, "What time frame are we speaking of? One week? Two?"
You say, "I've got to go and get some sleep. That cider's gone and made my head all muzzy."
Kot says, "Hold on."
Shala says, "For the dinner, I mean."
You ask, "A week?"
Shala nods to you.
You say, "The orcs are moving, you know."
You say, "Which is another thing."
Shala says, "That sounds about right."
Xelian asks, "Are they?"
You ask, "D'you think the coin is safe in Kemstead, or should I take it up to Never?"
Xelian peers at you.
You nod to Xelian.
Shala nods.
You say, "There was trouble on Seton Road yesterday, I hear. Merow knows more about it."
You say, "Folk are hearing war drums."
Shala says, "I think Kemstead is safe."
You say, "All right."
Shala says, "But Never might be safer. If you can get there in one piece."
Severin says, "If Kemstead is razed, there will be a lot of unhappy Kivians."
You ask, "Be a pisser if the orcs burned the bank down, wouldn't it?"
Shala says, "It's certainly safer when we meet to divide up the spoils."
Shala says, "Quieter town."
You say, "Oh, I can get to Never now and again."
Xelian says, "I agree ye ought to tre to get it to Never."
You say, "All right, I can do that tomorrow."
Shala nods.
You say, "I go up there often enough, it's easy to deposit any more we get."
You glance at Sinjinn.
You act: Jurion looks quickly at his boots.
Sinjinn laces her fingers together.
Shala says, "I really should be getting to sleep. Lots to do in the morning."
Sinjinn nods.
Shala stands up.
Shala stretches.
Kot nods.
Kot gets back on his feet.
You say, "I think that's a good idea, aye."
Severin dons his purple felt muffin cap.
Severin gets some handsome violet leather gloves from a wrought iron table.
Severin pulls his handsome violet leather gloves upon his hands and stops to admire them.
Severin stands up.
You stand up.
Sinjinn nods.
You stretch.
You get an embroidered scarlet frieze cloak from a wooden chair.
Kot grins.
Sinjinn stands up.
Kot nods to Xelian.
You shake your embroidered scarlet frieze cloak.
You slip into your embroidered scarlet frieze cloak, snuggling into its warm depths.
Sinjinn yawns slightly.
Xelian touches Kot.
Xelian asks, "Shall we take our cue as well, sweet?"
Kot says, "Let's go sleep, hon."
Shala says, "Good night, all."
Kot smiles at Xelian.
Kot waves.
Kot says, "Laters."
Shala waves.
Sinjinn waves.
Xelian waves.
Severin kisses Shala on the cheek.
You smile.
You wave.
Severin says, "Be well."
Shala smiles warmly at Severin.
Xelian stands up.
Shala says, "I will see you soon."
Shala kisses Severin.
Severin says, "Wouldn't miss it."
Kot grabs Xelian by the arm, motioning for her to follow.
Kot grins.
Shala waves.
You say, "I'll come find you tomorrow, Shala."
Severin kisses Shala.
Xelian asks, "Let us not all leave in a gang, eh?"
Shala nods to you.
Kot says, "I'll lead us outta here."
Ducking under the edge of the awning, Kot walks out onto the road.
Kot's group follows him out.
Ducking under the edge of the awning, Shala walks out onto the road.
You act: Jurion cracks his neck loudly.
You grunt.
Sinjinn walks over to you.
Sinjinn leans on you.
Severin scratches his cheek.
You kiss Sinjinn.
Sinjinn kisses you.
You say, "To the Plum."
Severin says, "Well, be well."
Severin waves.
Sinjinn nods to you.
You say, "For once I'll sleep in Kaezar."
Ducking under the edge of the awning, Severin walks out onto the road.
Sinjinn smiles softly at you.
You grab Sinjinn by the arm, motioning for her to follow.
You say, "Well, at least we got some of that worked out."

Logs > Gamma Logs > A Gharkin With a Heart of Gold