[C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Blythe on 01-03-2018, 04:32:07</h2>
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				Title: <strong>[C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>01-03-2018, 04:32:07</strong>
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				This will be the main plot IC thread for the C20 game the Duchy of Storms.<br><br><div align="center"><strong>- Important Game Links -</strong><br><ul class="bbc_list"><li type="disc"> The Original Interest Check (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=282586.0)<br></li><li type="disc"> World Building Thread (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=282579.0)<br></li><li type="disc"> Character Sheet Repository (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.0)<br></li><li type="disc"> C20 OOC Thread (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283757.0)</li></ul></div><hr><br>Please use this post tagging for when you post. There is the possibility your PCs will get separated during the course of the adventure. You can grab the code by clicking 'select' and copy/pasting it. : )<br><br>For reference, for date/time, I'll always guide you about what goes here. Only I should move in-game time forward, please. I usually do so by 15 to 30 increments after a few posts, generally speaking. 'Name' is your character name, 'Date/Time' is the current Date/time of the scene, 'Status' is any Attribute, Ability, Virtue, or bonuses/debuffs I should know about, 'Notes/Triggers' is to clarify anything uncertain or to warn of things that might disturb other posters (like 'phobic language, for example), and 'Tagging' is who you are specifically tagging to engage--you should typically write the character's name you're tagging rather than player! In scenes <span class="bbc_u">where all PCs</span> are present, just tag 'Everyone,' signifying everyone should be reading your post. The two 'hrs' in brackets are to create line breaks to make your post easier to read/to differentiate the tagging better, so remember to leave those in when you post.<br><br><div class="codeheader">Code: <a href="javascript:void(0);" onclick="return smfSelectText(this);" class="codeoperation">[Select]</a></div><pre style="margin: 0; padding: 0;"><code class="bbc_code">[b]Name:[/b]<br>[b]Date/Time:[/b]<br>[b]Status:[/b]<br>[b]Notes/Triggers:[/b]<br>[b]Tagging: [/b]<br>[hr]<br>[hr]<br></code></pre>
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				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>01-03-2018, 21:12:45</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://www.naturallyamazing.com/americasparks/10489.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> A Gory Death...and a Summons. Music to set the mood... (link!) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUOMPRxcquE&amp;index=1)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone.<br><hr><hr><br>Of course it all began on a Monday, the most banal of all days. <br><br>Well, that was where it began for everyone except one person: the Autumn Sidhe of House Beaumayn, Calla. That was when her story meaningfully ended. Her body turned up just near one of the dams at Robbers Cave State park. Her straw-yellow hair was splayed over the icy white frost near her, and she was just two feet from the dam, one of her beautiful pale arms detached from her body...yet the arm still looked as if she was reaching for the dam.<br><br>Of course, the park authorities called the police, and they took the body away on that lonely winter day. What the authorities did not see was that on the dam, covered by frost...something was there. <br><br>An officer said to a park ranger, "Do you hear that?" If anyone had looked closely at the park ranger, one might have noted his eyes were...very bright purple. And under his eyes looked red, as if he'd been crying.<br><br>"Hear what?" the other man replied, as an ambulance took Calla away.<br><br>"It sounds like singing."<br><br><div align="center">~ * * * ~</div><br>And the stories of six brave Changelings began with a letter. For some, the letter turned up inexplicably or in an odd place--a cabinet, a backpack, a tree! For some, it was in a mailbox. It was a beautiful letter, though, on old parchment with elegant black and purple etchings of flowers and swords all around the edges, evoking a sort of grim yet thrilling call to battle. It was clear that whoever wrote it wanted to give the reader a sense of rising excitement yet solemnity. The writing was in beautiful calligraphy, but the message it conveyed was blunt in tone.<br><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: Georgia;" class="bbc_font">If you have received this missive, it means you are one of the six I have chosen as my champions. Some of you were harder to find than others. I apologize for the possible strangeness in which you found your missive.<br><br>Lady Calla of House Beaumayn is dead. You may not have heard of her. She was quiet, in her own way, but there is a foulness upon her death that leaves me uneasy. <br><br>Be the heroes you are meant to be. Investigate and avenge Lady Calla's death. Her younger brother, Harald, waits at the Little Dam at Robbers Cave State Park to speak with all of you. Be kind to him. And be wary. He says there is a miasma or eerie power from the waters of Lakes Carlton and Wayne Wallace.<br><br>Honor, glory, and the chance to emblazen your name in Legend shall follow, should you accept this task.<br><br>~ Duchess Gabriella Cox<br>House Beaumayn</span></span><br><br><br>It was not a direct order to attend. But anyone who received the missive would likely consider that given the Duchess clearly had a method for finding each of them, it seemed unwise to turn it down. And besides...this was adventure. This was vengeance! This was looking into the cold face of death and shouting: No!<br><br>And nothing was more awakening for the spirit than that.<br><br><div align="center">~ * * * ~</div><br>Harald, inheritor of everything Lady Calla left behind, was now technically Count Harald. This did not sit well with him. He was dressed, to mortal eyes, in the plain earthy attire of a park ranger, complete with beige hat. He was alone at the dam, waiting for the six chosen by the Duchess to arrive. He had gotten in touch with her nearly immediately. He was not doing well having been the first on the scene to find his sister dead.<br><br>His fae mien was another story. As all Sidhe, he was painfully handsome, as all of male Sidhe often were. He was blond like Calla, his hair long and to his lower back. His ears had delicate points to them. His fae attire was black, silver, and purple regalia befitting a noble of House Beaumayn. His eyes, however, were red from tears, but the irises were nonetheless a rapturous purple, like vibrant heather.<br><br>He waited for the Duchesses champions. Robbers Cave State Park was trivially easy to access; one just had to drive out to it, park, and head to the dam, which was not that far from the main park entrance.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>marauder13</strong> on <strong>02-03-2018, 04:38:17</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/15/Richard_Lancaster_2.jpg)</div><br><strong>Name:</strong> Rick Lancaster<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ---<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Anyone/Open<br><hr><hr><br>To the eyes of the everyday person of McAlester, 222 West Madison Ave was a dump. Single story house with an addon that didn't fit the theme of the original house. Rick didn't give a shit about what other people thought of the place, as it managed to house him, and his people comfortably. Inside was a little more up beat than outside, but it was warm, friendly safe and that was all that mattered to him.<br><br>Oh, the rent was up to date.<br><br>"Hey, boss. You got some mail. Fancy looking piece too."<br><br>Nancy Sinatra wandered through the house from the front door to the room where Rick was sitting listening to music. His choice in music was like his choice in clothing; highly mixed, not really fitting any genre, and could go from subtle and soothing to loud heavy metal in a moment. His feet were up on the coffee table, and he knew that if Annabelle walked through, she would knock his feet off without breaking her stride. But when Nancy walked into the room, he looked up to see how she chose to dress that day. Some days, she dressed like a 'normal' woman, wearing some nice looking top, maybe a shirt, or jeans, and some comfortable footwear. But today, she was dressed for kicking heads. All biker leather, steel capped boots and a bad attitude that she wore just as freely as her leather jacket.<br><br>"Kinda feels strange too. Maybe from your other social circle."<br><br>Rick dropped his feet to the floor and sat a little straighter, one hand thrust out as far as he could reach to take the envelope.<br><br>"Normal mail?"<br><br>"Nah, I was about to head out the door when the courier was half way there. Some group called 'Post Haste'."<br><br>Rick took the envelope, and the moment it touched his hands, he knew it was from one of his kind. His eyes narrowed, thinking of which pooka he had recently pissed off, and if they had any idea of where he lived. When none came to mind, he proceeded to open the envelope, carefully, just in case there was something that was not what it seemed. No explosions, puffs of smoke, gales of laughter nor obnoxious gas filled the air, he pulled the expensive looking paper out, and unfolded it.<br><br>His gaze hit the edge work, and he was on his feet as it he had been hit by a bolt of lightning. His gaze flickered, absorbing every word like he was a starving man finally eating and staving off death. He stood with incredible stillness before he slowly reread every word, making sure that he was not being hoodwinked, or imagining what was there.<br><br>"Fuck me sideways."<br><br>"Something wrong, Boss?"<br><br>"Not for me, but someone else is in for a whole world of fucking pain."<br><br>"Who we busting up?"<br><br>"Fucked if I know, but it something that we're going to have to find out. Get in the good graces of Her Grace, and I wont have to worry about any snotty nosed fucking noble trying to tell me what to fucking do. The Duchess has called for my help. Of course, as long as she stands back and doesn't try to 'manage' things, then I think we'll get along famously."<br><br>Rick put the letter down on the coffee table with a great deal of reverence. He interlaced his fingers, turned his palms outward and extended his arms until there was a loud series of cracks. He levelled a sly look at Nancy, along with a cheeky grin.<br><br>"You go and do whatever it was you were planning on doing. I have places to go, people to meet and hopefully people to beat the shit out of."<br><br>Nancy looked a little hurt, but shrugged and turned back toward the front door. Rick practically skipped toward the umbrella stand near the front door, and pulled out his favoured item - a willow cricket bat. The face of the bat was scarred from repeated blows of a cricket ball, leaving large pock mark like indents in th wood, along with the tell tale red reminders of where the ball struck. As he walked toward the garage, the bottom end of the bat tapped the ground, and Rick slowed for an impromptu blocking swing, or a flick of the wrist to send the imaginary ball down through to Third Man.<br><br>"Oi, Josh! We got wheels ready to spin?"<br><br>"Sure do, Rick. Where we headed?"<br><br>"Robbers Cave State Park. I have someone out there that I have to talk to."<br><br>"Shit. Out in the country, man? You sure?"<br><br>"Damn straight, mate. I'm on a quest, a real fuckin' quest."<br><br><div align="center">~||~</div><br>Rick was feeling a little bored, and again, not caring about his perceptions by others. So when he finally turned up where he had been directed, Rick was dressed the same in the eyes of the Fae as he was in the eyes of the plain human. Even though the ranger he was approaching looked much more refined to his Chimerical eyesight, there was no difference to Rick's. He walked slowly, the bat falling to the ground in the same pace as his left foot step and he came to a stop a few feet from the Sidhe nobleman.<br><br>"My Lord? I am Richard Lancaster, and Her Grace has called on me to aid you in your time if grief. The sooner I can get information from you, the sooner I can get to the bottom of all of this. I also hope that the other five who have been called don't drag their fucking feet too much, otherwise you'll be doing a lot of talking." He stood for a moment or two. "Oh, my condolences on your loss. I'll make sure that he bastards pay."
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				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>02-03-2018, 07:13:43</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> anyone/open<br><hr><hr><br>Arwen smiled wistfully out at the gray winter sky from the cabin of the truck that had picked her up hitchhiking.&nbsp; It was almost painfully easy to get a lift, as long as you were willing to deal with the driver, and this one was sweet; going on and on about some fishing trip he took out at Robber's Cave when he was a boy scout.&nbsp; Sometimes the men were gross, always pawing at you or making comments... and sometimes it got even worse.&nbsp; "You always pay for your trip one way or the other" she thought to herself, "it is just the amount that varies".&nbsp; <br><br>A hairpin left turn took her out of her reverie, and looking around they were now on a highway rather than the seemingly normal county road then had been rambling on.&nbsp; Her chauffeur, Hank, finished his "one that got away" story and Arwen graced him with a brief "that's amazing.".&nbsp; Hank looked her over once again, stunned that such a creature was in his truck.&nbsp; "We just got on highway two, which means we're only about 5 minutes away" he managed to get out, before looking straight ahead.&nbsp; Staring at this girl was like staring into the sun, and Hank was about to get another "one that got away" story; one that his buddies would definitely NOT believe.<br><br>Arwen smiled at him and went through the little pouch on the belt that also masqueraded as a skirt that she wore.&nbsp; Inside was her ID a few bucks, her Obama phone (or so they called the free brick cellphones that were given out on the street in Vegas) and the letter.&nbsp; She took the letter out again and read it.&nbsp; "Chosen as my Champions" it read.&nbsp; Not only a knight, but now a champion... in a real quest to protect the Duchy itself!&nbsp; She clasped the letter to her breast, trying to calm the beating... remembering that someone died, and other people would be sad.&nbsp; It wasn't that Arwen wasn't sad at death, but death was just so much more of a reason to go and life your life!&nbsp; This was the life Arwen wanted.&nbsp; Every year, the Thallian grew worse, the Garou more bold, the Vampires more vicious; and she was going to be on the forefront.<br><br>The truck pulled off the 2 freeway and into a small turn around.&nbsp; Looking out of the truck Arwen saw a pool, which seemed strange being that there was a lake right there, a nature center/gift shop and a community center.&nbsp; "Do you know there you're going?" asked Hank as he paused in front of the nature center "I can give you a quick tour around the place".<br><br>"You're sweet" Arwen said, placing her hand on the side of his face for a second "but I'll be fine. I told you, I'm meeting people here".&nbsp; Hank suddenly seemed to freeze, and judging by where he was looking, she knew that her top had shifted again to flash the poor man. "God dammit" she thought to herself.&nbsp; "Well Hank" She said overly loud, "it's been great to meet you, But I really got to go" and with that she pushed open the door of the 1970's dodge ram that was her chariot. She slipped out of the truck quickly and easily, her lithe frame moving easily.&nbsp; She tuned around to give a quick "thank you" when the wind picked up her skirt, showing him the fine craftsmanship of House Dougal. Sighing and shrugging mentally, she looked into Hank's eyes, winked and mouthed "That's for you" before moving on.<br><br>Her sword retrieved from the back of the pickup, she wandered to the Nature Centre.&nbsp; Without a smartphone or internet connection, Arwen had to pick up on things the old fashioned way, not that she hadn't looked everything up in the library before.&nbsp; A quick look at a map of the nearby lake oriented her in the right direction.&nbsp; To chimerical eyes her gray cropped camisole was a fantasy of curve clinging spidersilk and pink/purple/blue motes of light that echoed her color-changing alexandrite eyes, and her black skirt was even shorter, a fantasy of tiny lace appliqués floating in what was seemingly mid air.&nbsp; The lace was somehow pleated like the black skirt of the autumn world and attached by lines of invisible power rather than any mortal illusion lace. Her knee high boots were oil-slick black, and as she walked it shifted from the spiked heel of the city to a comfortable, military sole.<br><br>A quick walk south along the lake's edge brought her to the Little Dam.&nbsp; She could easily see the regalia of House Beaumayn on the sidhe waiting by the waters edge as well as the complete and utter lack of chimerical regalia.&nbsp; Pausing for just a second, she tied her dreads up behind her, then grabbing her sword, she strode forward purposefully.&nbsp; There was never a second chance to make a first impression.<br><br>Reaching the dam, she strode straight to the sidhe and kneeled before him. "My lord, My name is Sir Arwen. I am among those tasked to investigate and avenge your sister's death."&nbsp; She looked up at him from her kneeling "I am your champion, my lord, We will do everything in our power to put you at ease." then standing when given leave to do so.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>02-03-2018, 08:17:27</strong>
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				<strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> --<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Any/All (open)<br><hr><hr><br>The Courier froze at the door, a bit hesitant at the giant Beast that sat on door step leering. It was a truly HUGE thing, easily 3 foot at the shoulders, and... Well... Furry. Very Furry. Big, Black, And Furry. And it Boofed.<br><br><div class="floatleft">(https://www.k9rl.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Show-Quality-Tibetan-Mastiff.jpg)</div> The massive hound shuffled on the steps and rumbled lightly, almost impatiently as he looked at the envelope the Courier was carrying. His tail wagged a couple times languidly, almost encouragingly to the Courier who steps forward to reach out and push the door bell only to stop abruptly as the dog gave a low rumble from in its chest. It continued eyeing them for a long moment before the Courier spoke hesitantly, "I... have to deliver this to your... Mistress..?" and watched to see if there was any recognition in the dog, instead the gigantic beast leaned forward, almost gingerly, and took the end of the envelope in its muzzle daintily giving a soft "Chuff" before pulling back to take the missive. Hesitation tightened the Couriers hand a moment, "Can... ... Can you sign for......" Voice trailing off as the Black Hound looked up at them, face in an obvious look of "Are you really stupid enough to ask that..?" A little sigh and they let go giving possession to the dog that promptly stood up and turned around, pawing at the door handle and nosing it open and trotting inside, pausing to issue a stern "HUFF" before stepping into the house and closing the door. <br><br>Woofs padded through the old house, it had been a pleasant vacation getaway for his Mistress' old&nbsp; patron before the man had passed and left it and a few other things to her, but now it was a Home. It had taken months to get the place cleaned up and comfortable, but it still held old warmth from visits and lounging past. Not to mention the occasional old hidden bag of coke or pot, so long gone they were best flushed and forgotten. The walls were lined with pictures of the old inhabitant, a dapper man slowly getting older in each picture, many of them containing celebrities from the past half century as well as nobodies Everybody should have known. Interspersed were pictures of a blond haired girl with brilliant golden eyes, and always with here was the massive dog, nearly as large as she was. Fashion shows, movie openings, and dozens of other events. <br><br><div class="floatright">(https://qph.ec.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-b16ca95cc2d32ab18d15cea93d858e1f-c)</div>The sound of singing could be heard from a back room over the high FFWWOOSSHH of a small furnace blasting away. Wrapped in layers of leather and weld wool a tall lanky girl swirled a small crucible in the flame before pouring a stream of molten silver into a mold and setting it aside before shutting down the furnace and pulling off a pair of ear covers. At a muffled boof from Woofs, she paused and smiled, "Mail came? Did that order come in?" The dog grunted and shuffled over pushing the envelope into her hand after she pulled off the gloves. Taking a moment to read it she frowned looking to Woofs, "Well... This is... .. Yeah.." <br><br>She huffed and stood up setting all of her gear aside and standing up, "We've gotten the Tap! Some high MuckyMuck got deaded." She picks up a towel and begins to wipe herself off, pausing as Woofs rumbled, "No, like, Real dead." A soft whine draws her hand over to scratch behind his ears, "We have been asked to investigate. Adventure, daring done, legends, and all that as reward." A curious rumble followed and she grinned, "Yeah, probably some chewy treats to! Im just gonna clean up and then we gotta head out to..." She paused checking the message again "Robbers Cave state park. hhmm." She sighs and stands stretching begining to undo her hair from the leather bandana covering it, "Right, im gonna clean up, then we will take the Battle Wagon out." <br><br>Its a short time later she makes her way to the front door adjusting a buckskin vest, slender arms rather well muscled as she finishes slipping the last few beads onto long strands of blonde hair. She pauses looking at Woofs who sat excitedly, tail flapping back and forth as he held a long leash in his muzzle. <br>"Why do you have that..?"<br>UUff.<br>"But we are going to the forest."<br>Fuff.<br>"Its just going to be us and probably some other Kith, why do we need it?"<br>Hufff.<br>"Oh my god your a nerd..." She sighed as she took the leash in hand and attaching it to his collar, "Ok.. Come on.."
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				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>02-03-2018, 11:06:06</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> --<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn was roused from the clutches of sleep by the sound of knocking. They shifted, slightly, then promptly planted their face back into the pillow. It was too early. Far too early. On a <em>Monday</em> of all things. First of the year. Surely waking up this early (especially when they'd been awake when the year turned over, talking to Jester in quiet but still perfectly interested whispers for most of the night) was just courting banality. So, for the moment, Quinn deigned to ignore it. It wasn't really that early, obviously, more like 10 in the morning. But <em>still</em>.<br><br>Unfortunately for Quinn, their sister had the hearing of a god. Probably honed from all of the years of having to listen to her sibling talking at nothing above a stage whisper. "Hah! Heard you move. Coming in."<br><br>"<em>No...</em>" They whined, but they were ignored. Their twin sister burst into the room, and they sighed, lifting their head a little to glare at her. The glare turned to confusion as she waved a letter in their face. <br><br>"Found this in the cereal. Pretty sure it's for you."<br><br>"<em>The... Cereal?</em>"<br><br>If there was anything that could wake up an unwilling Sluagh in a hurry, it was a mystery, and then pulled themselves into a sitting position, taking the letter. It certainly <em>felt</em> like it was for them. "Yep. And if you don't open it right now I'm gonna do it for you."<br><br>Quinn made a face at her, then looked at the crest on the front. It wasn't <em>immediately</em> clear who it was from, but Quinn was willing to hazard a guess it was a noble. They tended to be the ones who used fancy envelopes and crests, after all. They slid a thumb under the tab and pulled it open, then pulled out the paper, eyes scanning over the document quickly. Their eyes narrowed a little when they got to the second line, the name was familiar, they might have heard it once or twice, but they weren't sure they'd actually ever met her. Either way it was a shame she had died, and a concern.<br><br>Their mind was already ticking as they finished the letter, then they stopped to think a while, almost forgetting Harley was there in the first place. At least, until she began to bother him again. "What is it? Is it a <em>love</em> letter?"<br><br>Quinn shook their head slowly. "<em>Someone died</em>." Harley's face fell somber in an instant. <br><br>"Oh, sorry."<br><br>Quinn gave her a small, distracted smile - aiming for comforting but probably missing by miles. They looked at the letter again, silent for a full five minutes before suddenly moving, as if a fire had been lit under them. "<em>I need to go. The duchess wants me to investigate</em>." There was a bit of undeniable excitement in their movements, though they at least had the common sense not to look <em>happy</em> about it. They began throwing on the closest clothes they had, not caring much about matching. Great thing about wearing black all the time, you just kinda matched no matter what you did.<br><br>"You need a ride?" Harley asked, her eyes slipping to sneakily read the letter that had ended up on the bed.<br><br>Quinn paused for a moment, thinking back to one of the sentences. Be careful. There were things about this that were weird, and when a <em>changeling</em> said things like that, you knew they were serious. Especially when that changeling was in charge of the whole city. Quinn didn't really want Harley anywhere near that, but they also knew if they said that she'd dig her heels in. And... Well. They kinda <em>did</em> need a ride or they weren't going to get there. <br><br>"....<em>Yes,</em>" they said, a little unwillingly, and kept dressing. Harley must've picked up on it, because she gave them a reassuring grin.<br><br>"Don't worry, I'll stick with the bike, look at trees. Poor guy's gonna have six strangers in his face right after his sister died, asking questions. Don't need to add to it by ogling all of you."<br><br>Not quite a reassurance that she'd be completely safe, but good enough for now.<br><br><hr><br>There wasn't much subtlety when they arrived. Harley, never one to pass up a pun, had gotten herself, well - a Harley - some time after she'd learned how to drive. It was loud, but it was at least big enough to comfortably seat both of the twins. Quinn hadn't much liked it in the beginning, but they'd gotten used to it. They left the helmet with their sister, took a moment to reacquaint themselves with solid ground, then headed deeper in. It didn't take long to find the man they were looking for, along with a couple of the others who would be joining them on this quest.<br><br>Quinn's voile was not much different from their mundane dress, though their voile was a bit fancier, hailing back to times long passed. In both visions most of their body was covered, their face, especially, was hidden from view, making it even more difficult to hear them than it would have been. Only their eyes were clearly visible, light brown irises while simultaneously a pure, dark black that covered sclera as well. Perhaps the most notable difference, however, was the black and red spider perched on their shoulder, a chimera.<br><br>They lingered a bit further back than the others had, unwilling to intrude on his space, and just generally more inclined to shyness than the others. They gave a low nod, close to a bow, eyes showing both respect and condolences. There would be three others coming, so Quinn asked no questions just yet. The less the man had to repeat himself the better. "<em>Quinn Rose, at your service, sir</em>." They didn't speak after that, instead turning inquisitive eyes to the others, then looked out around the area, eyes already scanning for anything of use. Or for danger. They had been warned to be careful, after all.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>03-03-2018, 08:07:05</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> All~<br><hr><hr><br>It was a little too cold for relaxing outdoors, but Corrin was not going to let a little midwinter frost put him off enjoying the day. It was Monday, yes, but he had made a point of claiming it as a day off, enjoying the sense of discord it gave. He worked the weekend for the privilege, which sucked, but oh it was worth it for this freedom on a day many others dreaded. <br><br>He had gone shopping, picked up a few snacks and had ventured into the park to explore and find a nice spot to enjoy what he had bought. The first was jerky - not really a treat, exactly, but he had heard certain sorts were <em>good for the jaw</em>. Perhaps he would benefit more from the tough meat if he had been in his alternate form, but he would not allow such trivial matters dictate how he experienced the words, so he struggled his way through the packet, his jaw aching before he was even halfway done. The second snack was <em>chocolate</em>, and not just any chocolate. This had a caramel center, gooey and sweet, and his absolute favourite - a treasure in itself. <br><br>He let the anticipation for it build and simmer as he chewed the tough meat strips slowly, looking out over the trees, daydreaming when he heard... a rustle. He turned his head - <em>squirrel!</em> - and froze. Yes, squirrel, but this squirrel had a candy bar, still wrapped and glinting in the weak winter sun. The colours of it were familiar.<br><br>Corrin glanced down at where he had put his chocolate.<br><br>It was gone.<br><br><em>The little fucker</em>.<br><br>In an instant, Corrin was on his feet and running full tilt after the thief - the squirrel twitched its tail twice then scampered away, bounding through leaffall and keeping ahead. “Give it back!” Corrin yelled, commanded but to no avail. The squirrel had his prize and would not surrender it so easily.<br><br>Through the trees, over a stream, down a slope of gravel and into a clearing in which a single tree stood alone, its limbs twisted and heavy, bare in the winter months. Its bark was thick and rough, but parts had cracked and the pale inner wood gleamed, and a sap that was a bloody red in colour oozed. Into these gaps, coins had been wedged, mostly cents but Corrin saw some from other countries, sterling pennies, Euros, some he didn’t know the name of, some with square holes cut in the middle... wishes? There was a strange tang in his mouth just looking at the tree, and he was glad he had come upon it while it slept. <br><br>The squirrel scrambled up its trunk, glanced back down at Corrin with a swish of its tail and vanished into a hole. “<em>Vile fiend</em>,” Corrin growled. A mortal would turn then, give up, but Corrin knew his treasure would taste all the better after this, if he could only get it.<br><br>So he climbed the tree, careful not to harm the old wood and just as careful not to touch the sap, but determined. Up, and up, and up. Until he came level with the squirrel’s hole. He peered into it, but saw nothing. “Don’t bite me,” he murmured, to the squirrel or to the tree, whichever would listen, and reached a hand in...<br><br>And felt parchment. He pulled it out with a frown, and knew before reading it that this too was <em>his</em>. He braced himself better and opened it, reading the contents with raising brows. “A champion. Cool. That’s still not worth my <em>chocolate</em>!” he yelled into the hole, then reached inside again, hearing a chittering from inside of offense before his fingers found the cool foil of his candy.<br><br>He pulled it out with a victorious cry and ripped that open too, jamming half into his mouth in one. His eyes shut in pleasure and delight - oh yes, this was so much <em>better</em> now. “Here, tree rat, for the letter.” He dropped the other half into the hole, and the offended squirrel went quiet, Corrin assuming it was eating the chocolate. <br><br>He swallowed and stuffed the letter into a pocket, and started to climb down the old wish tree. <br><br><hr><hr><br>Corrin made his way to the dam, and broke from the treeline at the sight of a gathering that had formed. The others had arrived already - or most of them had. They made for quite the sight, beautiful and unearthly. He wiped the edges of his mouth to be sure the last of the chocolate was gone before he came upon them, and dipped his head low in greeting to the man the rest were facing.<br><br>Corrin wore mundane clothes fit for the weather, boots and jeans, a padded coat, gloves and hat - but his Voile was much more sparse, his chest bare but for a heavy jeweled collar that fanned over his chest, a white linen kilt that ended at his lower thigh, arm bands that matched the collar and a blue and gold striped mantle over his hair. His <em>mien</em> was much as he was from the neck down, but his head was of a beast, black furred and amber eyed. Which it was changed for no reason though for the moment it cycled back to a jackal more frequently than the others. <br><br>“I am Corrin, one of the champions chosen - I am saddened by the loss, and will strive to find who is responsible.” As his spoke, a forked tongue flickered in his mouth.&nbsp; <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>03-03-2018, 10:29:18</strong>
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				<strong>Name:</strong> Brandon Patterson / Sir Balthazar Tori ap’ Beaumayn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> <br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> General<br><hr><hr><br><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir Balthazar's mailbox was a banal place these days.&nbsp; He'd been in one place long enough to have attraced an ever increasing flow of advertasments, catlouges, and meaningless bits of paperwork.&nbsp; The long haired giant still went out to it every day with a sense of expectation, for among that chaff he freqently found a jewel--a letter from a reader.&nbsp; Emails of feedback were lovely in and of themselves, but the glamour in a reader taking their time to set pen to paper and express apreciation for one of his books was uniquely magical.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon reading the letter he'd found in his mailbox among the ever growing stacks, Sir Balthazar spoke softly, mostly to himself, "I live for your pleasure, my lady."&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The big man gathered his gear--including his campaing supplies and a dozen naval oranges--and tossed them into his old Ford--a blue pickup truck so big most people looked ridiculous getting out of it.&nbsp; Baltahzar had to duck a little.&nbsp; On the way to the meeting place, he stopped at McDonalds and grabbed three egg mcmuffin combos--each with their biggest orange juice.&nbsp; He ate on the way.&nbsp; 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>04-03-2018, 23:48:11</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://www.naturallyamazing.com/americasparks/10489.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> A discussion with Count Harald. Questions With No Answers. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFBeH3ZfpRY)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone.<br><hr><hr>There was a noticeable chill in the air as each of the six champions arrived. They arrived in a certain order--Richard, Arwen, Lilisa and her furred compatriot, Quinn, Corrin, and lastly Balthazar. Harald met them all with a personal grace that showed he was already showing the noble traits necessary for his new position. He had time to greet each of them in that more personal way as they arrived. <br><br>His eyes, touched with the redness of grief, nonetheless held a resolve in them there among the frosty trees and undulating icy waters of the lake.<br><br>"Greetings, Mr. Lancaster. Thank you for coming. And I appreciate the blunt speaking at a time like this; I admit that I am having difficulty keeping the demeanor that benefits my new position, so someone of a more frank approach is welcome, though I am now no longer permitted to be...less personally mindful...of courtesies as I was once. I will brief you as soon as the others all arrive; I don't wish to repeat myself. It is painful enough to have to do this as it is. And thank you for the condolences, but I much prefer you using that weapon of yours on whoever is responsible."<br><br>Arwen arrived after Richard's introduction, and Harald's face turned a very fine shade of red to see such a beauty kneel before him. He was almost at a loss for words there by the lake until he coughed and seemed to remember himself. "Sir Arwen, thank you--I accept your leal service on behalf of Duchess Gabriella for the duration and am honored to both make your acquaintance and call upon you for aid.. As the others arrive, we will get to a more thorough briefing. If you are not already acquainted, the fellow before you is Mr. Richard Lancaster."<br><br>Lilisa arrived after that. Or a better phrase might have been <em>dragged in</em> after that. As soon as Lilisa came within visual distance of the lake and was safely out of any conveyance, Woofs gave a baleful howl and strained at the leash as strongly as he could. Given Woofs capabilities, this was quite powerful, and it resulted in the adorable Pooka being dragged all the way to the lake's edge, Woofs howling and barking at the water like he'd gone utterly insane. Clearly Woofs had felt the leash was important. Maybe the animal had some foresight that a leash would keep him in check. Maybe it had just been for walkies. It was hard to say.<br><br>What was not hard to say was that Harald's eyes were the size of dinner plates watching the dog drag Lilisa around, and he said, concerned, "Um...I'm Count Harald. Who might you and your canine comrade be? The two who have come before you are Mr. Lancaster and Sir Arwen." He pointed to them respectively to be clear, though given Woofs excitability, he wasn't sure Lilisa would be able to focus on anything that <em>wasn't</em> the loud dog acting as if the water was his most dire enemy. Harald looked horribly sad and said gently to the dog, 'Me, too. Me, too." The dog quieted down after that, but stayed crouched at the lake's edge, as if watching...or guarding.<br><br>Quinn arrived, and after the loudness of Lilisa and Woofs, Harald almost didn't see them! But the Count heard that whisper, so reminiscent of a Slaugh, and he said, "Thank you--you know who I am. That over there is Mr. Lancaster. The lady is Sir Arwen. I am...not sure who the dog-owner is, but we'll find out soon. Thank you for coming; I appreciate your service."<br><br>Corrin arrived not too long after, and Harald acknowledged him as well, though his eyes darted to that flicking tongue. It was clear the new Count had never seen someone quite so...snakey. He didn't stare overly long, though, but instead inclined his head and said, "A pleasure to meet you, and it is my hope that the culprit is found as well."<br><br>Sir Balthazar arrived in the blue pickup, and something in Harald's eyes lit up with joy to see him. It was clear, from just a cursory glance at Harald, that he <em>recognized</em> Sir Balthazar. Balthazar's presence interjected some small moment of joy for the Count amongst the sorrow, and as the man approached, Harald gushed and said, "You! I saw you once before--I've read your fantasy works! To think that the Duchess and the Dreaming would send one of my favorite authors to my aid is nearly beyond belief--Fate truly is mysterious! I can't believe it--"<br><br>He caught himself and looked embarassed. "I...I mean, thank you for coming. I know that you're Sir Balthazar, but I also know you from your fantasy novels. I wanted to get one signed once, but I was too shy to approach you. Thank you for answering the call."<br><br>Pending Lilisa's introduction, he said, "But that...is six of you. Shall I start with the exact circumstances of my sister's death? From there, you could all ask me question. I...think that is how it should work? I have never been in this situation before. I'm at a loss about where to begin. Calla and I kept to ourselves to try to <em>avoid</em> trouble, and now she's <em>dead.</em>"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>marauder13</strong> on <strong>05-03-2018, 02:45:21</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/15/Richard_Lancaster_2.jpg)</div><br><strong>Name:</strong> Rick Lancaster<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ---<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Anyone/Open<br><hr><hr><br><em>"Greetings, Mr. Lancaster. Thank you for coming. And I appreciate the blunt speaking at a time like this; I admit that I am having difficulty keeping the demeanor that benefits my new position, so someone of a more frank approach is welcome, though I am now no longer permitted to be...less personally mindful...of courtesies as I was once. I will brief you as soon as the others all arrive; I don't wish to repeat myself. It is painful enough to have to do this as it is. And thank you for the condolences, but I much prefer you using that weapon of yours on whoever is responsible."</em><br><br>"As far as I am concerned, do what you want. If you're not all poofy nobleman at this time, I understand and wont hold it against you." He gave a soft laugh at the mention of the bat. "Have no fears there. I plan on making sure that I hit the bastard for six when I finally find them."<br><br>When the first of the other champions arrived, Rick leaned to one side from the waist, openly admiring the treasures of the House of... which ever one she was a member of. If she was willing to show it all off like that, he would not insult her by <em>not</em> looking, and in being the polite soul he was, he would do it openly so she knew he was looking, and enjoying, and wondering how good that flesh would feel caught between his teeth.<br><br>"Yeah," he spoke softly, "I wouldn't mind having a nibble on <em>that</em>."<br><br>Rick paced about a small area, crushing the little patches of snow into a muddy paste while he waited for the others to arrive. He wanted to start asking questions right away, but he didn't want to piss off the main source of initial information. The others were not really a concern of his at the moment, as he had no idea who else had been contacted. At least there was some eye candy in the group, so it would make life a little better. Every now and again he cast appreciative glances over to the Sidhe as he continued to hold himself in check.<br><br>As each new arrival appeared, Rick took the time to look them over. Two pooka, one with a fucking huge dog (keep an eye on that one - the dog, not the pooka), a sluagh who was only a pair of eyes covered by clothing and finally a Troll.<br><br>The reaction to the arrival of the Troll, Sir Balthazar, was surprising. To Rick, it looked like a fan had just met their star, and...<br><br><em>'Well, fuck me. The Troll is a writer?! Hmmm, I'll need to get Dwayne to look into that.'</em><br><br><em>"But that...is six of you. Shall I start with the exact circumstances of my sister's death? From there, you could all ask me question. I...think that is how it should work? I have never been in this situation before. I'm at a loss about where to begin. Calla and I kept to ourselves to try to </em>avoid<em> trouble, and now she's </em>dead.<em>"</em><br><br>Rick also leapt from where he was working a major depression into the ground.<br><br>"Mate, trouble doesn't give a shit about how much you try to keep away from it. It will turn up like bloody Murphy's Law, only worse. But as for for your plan, that's a fucking brilliant idea. Tell us everything you can think of and everything you know. Also, I will need you permission to have a mate of mine have a look at the body, she's a doctor, so she will be able to tell us stuff from a medical point of view. I also have some other people who will be very good at finding out other stuff about what may be going on." Rick stuck the bat under his left arm, then he softly clapped his hands and rubbed them together. "Right, Your Lordship, start spillin' your guts."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>05-03-2018, 10:20:34</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br><em>"Sir Arwen, thank you--I accept your leal service on behalf of Duchess Gabriella for the duration and am honored to both make your acquaintance and call upon you for aid.. As the others arrive, we will get to a more thorough briefing. If you are not already acquainted, the fellow before you is Mr. Richard Lancaster."</em><br><br>From her kneeling position, Arwen watched Count Harald's face.&nbsp; The pause probably meant that her "shirt" had fallen forward again, showing off her piercings to the new Count as she knelt.&nbsp; Once she had been recognized, she rose slowly... allowing herself the leave to extend her legs first so as let them and her ass be admired before standing up straight and meeting the Count in his eyes.&nbsp; The red shade of his face confirmed her suspicions that he had been enjoying the view; This is why her superiors in House Leanhaun made her take that damnable oath to join the House, to keep her body exposed, and thereby making sure her physical assets were always useful.&nbsp; <br><br>Her own flush started the moment she the sidhe and redcap came into view and watching them look at her coming in.&nbsp; Especially the redcap, he openly enjoyed her barely clad-form walking over to them on a frosty new years day.&nbsp; It was like a drug; a guilty pleasure that you didn't want to do, but still relished when you did.&nbsp; The feeling of arousal shot through her veins and made her exposed skin tingle, like their eyes were hands touching all her erogenous zones.&nbsp; That these were changelings, who had seen the wonder and beauty of the dreaming, yet still stared at her, made the tingling all the more intense.&nbsp; She met the redcap's eyes and knew that he wanted a taste of her, and when he said something too low for her to understand she still knew what he had meant. <br><br>She met that selfsame redcap's eyes again, being introduced to him, still filled with hunger at her scantily-clad form.&nbsp; "Mr. Lancaster" Bowing to him, and feeling her top peel from her skin again and expose her breasts.&nbsp; She had tried to beat the system before, to wear something that wouldn't flash her assets, but then the clothing in question tended to disintegrate.&nbsp; She smiled at him, standing contrapposto with one hand on a mostly bare hip and her sword in the other. "It is wonderful to make your acquaintance" she said, her position and face one of someone who knows that she is being admired.<br><br>But she wasn't here for that.&nbsp; She was a knight performing her sacred duty for her beloved Countess.&nbsp; She was to investigate and avenge the Countess Calle's death, not perform whatever base sexual desire flitted across the mind of any kithian that crossed her path. Arwen turned away from the gaze of Rick, and walked away, still allowing herself to sway her hips as if she were on a catwalk as she went to a clear space. There seemed to be time to burn, so she did what she always did when she had a few spare minutes, stretch and practice her sword forms. <br><br>Arwen's stretching routine would have gotten her jailed if it were summer and there were any minors around.&nbsp; Her high leg stretches from ballet were lewd-icrous (see what I did there?).&nbsp; But her point here was not in showing off.&nbsp; Now she was down to business, and it was serious business indeed.&nbsp; The rush of exhibitionist arousal faded away, and the endorphins of exercise came to the forefront.&nbsp; This was Arwen's true calling, the dance of death, not desire. Her sword sliced though the air with practiced ease, whirling and dancing around her, as she moved with inhuman grace.&nbsp; Once in a while she saw one or the other Kithian watching her, but she ignored it and continued, albeit with a smile on her face.<br><br>A bark turned her head immediately, her body following the turn with practiced ease, only to see a massive dog pulling a tall, lanky, cute pooka on a leash.&nbsp; Arwen turned to finish this particular sword form... and NOW she was showing off, swinging that much harder and faster to look more badass, or turning her body accidentally-on-purpose when she did a kick to flash the pooka for half a second.&nbsp; The form was paused when Count Harald introduced her to the assembled kithian, then quickly being continued after introductions had been made.<br><br>Arwen stopped altogether when the sluagh introduced themselves.&nbsp; Arwen had a soft spot for sluagh, not only were they usually misunderstood by most kithian, but they were good at all the things Arwen was terrible at.&nbsp; She had also found that they made for entertaining lovers, as two (or more) naked bendy bodies in bed are a recipe for a good time.&nbsp; More often than not though, Arwen prefered to drink their strange tea and listen to their hushed stories.&nbsp; Arwen dreamed of not being noticed sometimes... her oath (and curse) made it impossible to fit in except at a stripper convention, and even then she stuck out as slutty.&nbsp; Looking at this sluagh, how they were covered head to toe, made her a bit envious and also a bit sad.&nbsp; What was it about themselves that they felt they had to hide?<br><br>She was too far away to hear the sluagh's name, so after introductions Arwen approached them.&nbsp; "H... Hi" she said tentatively. "I'm S... I'm Arwen". She bowed to the mysterious kithian.&nbsp; "I couldn't catch your name back there, but it is nice to make your acquaintance".&nbsp; She was close so as to hear the sluagh should they reply, but doing her best to maintain a polite distance.&nbsp; Manners were sometimes very important to the underfolk, and she didn't want to offend so soon.<br><br>Walking away from the slaugh to her self-appointed training ground, she once again felt Rick's eyes on her.&nbsp; She smiled, that was a good thing.&nbsp; The Redcap seemed gruff and no nonsense.&nbsp; Getting on his wrong side would make this endeavor very difficult, she was glad to know that she (or at least her looks) were on his right side.&nbsp; He seemed like a good sergeant, someone who likes to get shit done. He certainly paced like a motherfucker, that's for sure.<br><br>The second Pooka was... shocking.&nbsp; Arwen was used silly or mischievous pwca; not some forked-tounged-animal-headed-scorpion-king-egypt kind of Pooka.&nbsp; Arwen was a student of magic and the dreaming, and she had never ever HEARD of something like that except for legends of ancient gods lost in the deep dreaming.&nbsp; Gods you never wanted to meet alone on a dark trod, or with anyone on a dark trod, or with anyone on a normal trod, or ever period.&nbsp; This one, she gave a bit of a berth to.<br><br>The Troll, she frowned at.&nbsp; He was a troll, that was one mark against him.&nbsp; It meant he already had a stronger connection to Duchess Gabrielle.&nbsp; Anything they all did, he would get extra attention.&nbsp; <br><br>Two, he was famous.&nbsp; The Count was flustered around her beauty, but awestruck at his talent. Who knows if the Duchess shared the same sentiment?<br><br>Three, he was yoked.&nbsp; Arwen had a very fit body that looked like it was carved out of stone. But he had massive muscles that were carved out of bigger stone on a more massive stone base and the stone in question was a meteorite made of magic blue space metal... or something... <br><br>Four, he was of House Beaumayn.&nbsp; So he had a stronger connection to Gabrielle AND Count Harald.&nbsp; <br><br>Five, he was also a knight.&nbsp; So she would not be the only one of Gabrielle's knights on the expedition, therefore taking even more attention away from her.<br><br>She felt her limelight fading away as the big blue Beaumayn stole the show.&nbsp; Then she glanced over at Rick, who shot a glance back at her ass.&nbsp; She smiled at that, glad that someone still remembered her.&nbsp; She glanced over to Quinn, then to the cute pooka, then to the <del>disturbing</del> intriguing Corrin, trying to catch each one's eye for just a second in whatever way she could.&nbsp; "Whelp" she thought to herself, shrugging mentally "Guess every base sexual desire of every kithian here is getting met." She ran her hands through her dreads. "Goddamit."<br><br><hr><hr><br>After Rick mentioned the body, Arwen perked up.&nbsp; "I'd like to... well, maybe your doctor friend could send me pictures or descriptions of any injuries?" She said to Rick. "I know the Prodigals, and their ways.&nbsp; I might be able to help identify injury caused by creatures beyond the ken of your friend." She bashfully smiled back "But I'm sure she knows her way around a body more than I."&nbsp; Even though magic and the supernatural were something she was trained in, investigation and forensics were not; unless you counted binge watching 12 seasons of CSI.&nbsp; "Delegating" was what it was called in House Leanhaun. The art and craft of getting the fuck out of the way when you were out of your depth.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">nsfw</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.imgur.com/RbopXJ9.jpg)</div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>05-03-2018, 11:29:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> --<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn gave another half-nod half-bow as the Count addressed them, their eyes traveled to each of the others as they were named, though curiously enough the Pooka with the dog was not known to the Count. Quinn didn't know all that many of the city's fae personally, but they knew that the nobles tended to be better acquainted. Or at least had better book keeping. Quinn stepped back soon after, retreating to a respectable distance before finding they had been followed.<br><br>Eyebrows raised at the sight of Arwen coming closer, surprised. The surprise was from a mixture of being approached in the first place (rare, for a Sluagh, most people didn't make the effort) and also the obvious. She was barely clothed, though Quinn's eyes only dipped down the once to look. Wasn't it the middle of winter? They weren't so naive as to not notice how revealing the clothes were, especially when she bowed, but there was neither the lecherous stare that the Redcap had given her nor any of the fluster of the Count. Feminine (and masculine) wiles seemed to have little effect on the quiet Sluagh - much to Harley's chagrin.<br><br>Quinn gave her a nod as well, then offered their name, softly - "<em>Quinn Rose</em>" - in response. "<em>It's nice to meet you as well.</em>"<br><br>She didn't stick around long after that, but they would certainly remember that they'd taken the effort to speak to them.<br><br>Quinn waited for the others to arrive, and the eyebrows went up again as the next Pooka came into view. His mien was unusual even for changelings, and certainly caught the attention. Or, at least, curiosity. Quinn thought for a few long moments, seeing resemblance in both sides, but not quite the familiarity of someone they should have known. The human side came easier, memories of a cat cafe in town that they had visited once or twice. The memory was hidden by the fact that Quinn was sure they would have recognized the mien, but perhaps it had been before. Quite possibly it might have been before either of them had come into themselves. Quinn had a sudden urge to go back, cats were so <em>lovely</em>. Little balls of furry murder.<br><br>It clicked that the reason Corrin's mien looked both familiar and exotic at the same time was because he was wearing egyptian styled clothes. Quinn had gone through an egypt phase when they were young (who hadn't, really, it was <em>fascinating</em>), and Corrin looked just like an egyptian god, animal head and all. Quinn also knew that some (not <em>all</em>, of course, humans were quite inventful on their own) of the many, many mythological creatures and entities had been inspired by fae. A fact which sparked their curiosity even more. But now... Wasn't really the time. Someone had died. They had to find out who did it. Focus.<br><br>The last person to arrive was someone Quinn <em>did</em> recognize. Sir Balthazar was a renowned writer, and it seemed that Quinn wasn't the only one who knew it. A smile lit in their eyes as the Count gushed for a moment, briefly forgetting (or at least putting aside) the pain and horror that this day must be bringing him. A sweet moment of joy caused by creation, close enough to Glamor, really. It was things like this that gave <em>Quinn</em> joy, and hope that maybe the world wasn't doomed to banality after all. At least not without a fight.<br><br>The Count reigned himself in quickly enough, though, and soon it was on to a more somber topic. The death of his sister. Quinn remained quiet even as two of the others began to speak, agreeing silently that telling them all what he knew would be best. Once they had more information, they could start asking questions that actually mattered. So far, all they really knew was that someone had died, and that really wasn't enough to go off.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>05-03-2018, 15:23:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://qph.ec.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-b16ca95cc2d32ab18d15cea93d858e1f-c)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Lilisa grunted as she pulled against the leash, she was just as strong as the huge dog... But seeing as it was nearly twice her size and moving with 4 legs there was little she could do to stop it from dragging her along.<br><br>Stopping at the shore she let him get it out of his system before giving the leash a small tug and making a sharp YAP causing Woofs to flich like a child in the cookie jar as she kneeled down placing her palm over his nose and talked quietly, "Ok. Something is there, now we know. But now they know we know. Never let them know we know." She locked eyes with him a moment until he lowered his eyes, and she shuffled his ears pulling a plush and well worn Barney toy from her pocket and offering it to the dog that snaps it up and begins gnawing at the worn plush body, avoiding the squeeker inside, that was for when it was time to warn of a threat...<br><br>She huffed and brushed herself off before looking over to Harald, Richard, and Arwen and stood with a wide smile showing off many white, and slightly canid style teeth, giant fluffed coyote ears twitch ans spun about, one facing them firmly while the other scanned over the landscape like a giant radar dish. "Hullo! Im Lilisa Langly. I got papers." She fishes about in her pocket before pulling out the envelope and letter, "And thats Woofs.*her voice shifts to a mock whisper* His actual name is Shuck, but Kiths get tetchy bout big black dogs named Shuck. *her voice returns to normal* he has papers to, but only the vet and breeders care bout them." Woofs gives a little excited chuff at the mention of breeders, but seeing as it was just a side mention resumes watching the water while still trying to decapitate Barney.<br><br>She ambles over close smiling to the three, up close the details show, her hair the color of a coyotes winter coat, thick and plush with the dirty snowy white color, long strands wrapped with beads of silver, gold, wooden beads, seeds, gemstones, and bones in a wide rainbow of colors that just screams of the Fashionable "I just did it up really quick" in which the quick means over several hours. Her eyes, which are the same in her mortal and mien, are a brilliant gold, not the fake of most makeup, but like pure molten gold with how they glisten. Her build is like shown, lanky and lean, but corded with strong muscle like that of someone who has worked many hours, tiny scratches and burns like those of a forge worker in miniture. The back of her pants extends a giant fluffed tail, thick and heavy with fur, which swishes about slowly as she examines the group. The final touches being a giant bearded axe strapped to her back, the head not some metal, but a giant chunk of ornately knapped obsidian in an odd mix of native american and nordic stylings.<br><br>She looks over Harald a long moment before swooping in and wrapping her arms arounf him in a tight, but soft, and most of all honest. The hug of someone who knows what its like to lose someone close. (Minor Invocation!!! Pooka power: Confidante!) <br><br>It lasts just long enough before she steps back, making a small curtsey, her only real acknowledgement of courtly things thus far. "Ain't got not title or anything, but my Bompas'a god, so you only gotta bow if you feel like it." She smiles wide again, showing off many white bit more predatory then normal teeth.<br><br>She looks to the others taking them in for a long moment, well, its a long moment, but most of it is spent on both Arwen, who makes her cheeks turn a bright blush color, and on Corrin, who got narrowed eyes, flattened ears, and appraisal before her ears perked up to a neutral position and she gave him a slow sure nod.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>05-03-2018, 18:05:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> All~<br><hr><hr><br>Corrin turned to see the seventh and last of their party come upon them, undoubtedly a troll but given the glee that came from the Count he had a mind as well as muscle. An author of no small repute, that was impressive in itself. <em>Sir Balthazar</em>. <br><br>The other pooka came to join them, too, her large dog’s reaction to the water a curious thing indeed. Corrin watched the animal with an intense focus, then turned his gaze to the woman with the leash - though who controlled who in this case was debatable. She was, as he had noticed, another pooka, a canine as he was but not a dog... perhaps a fox? There was something sleek and wild about her. <br><br>He would have spoken to her, but that was the moment the Count started to talk, his confusion and misery clear. He couldn’t help a brief smirk as the Count and the Redcap spoke of <em>trouble</em>, but quickly culled it. There was a death, damnit, no time for jokes now. “Begin at the beginning,” he quoted, not following it through it its conclusion. It would be too lackadaisical for the situation. They needed to hear what the Count had to say and though questions leaped at his tongue like salmon to a stream he held off speaking them for now. <br><br>He saw another of the others looking at him, and he glanced to her, and ah, the beautiful woman with the blade. Dangerous and not a little distracting. A sidhe, undoubtedly, one who seemed to shun clothes. If she didn’t mind the cold, good for her. It certainly caught the eye. Corrin looked away, contrary as a cat and looked about the rest. The troll, the redcap, the sidhe, the pooka and... a slaugh. Dark eyes and a covered face, quiet and watchful. They were all so interesting. <br><br>Working with them all would be a very good adventure, he was certain.&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>12-03-2018, 19:39:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://www.naturallyamazing.com/americasparks/10489.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> A discussion with Count Harald. <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone.<br><hr><hr><br>Harald's eyes went wide at the hug from Lilisa. He hadn't been expecting it. House Beaumayn spent time working as hunters and when he wasn't doing that, as a sidhe, he was typically caught up in noble matters. It wasn't exactly a recipe for people to hug him. But he didn't reject the comfort. Instead, he tentatively let his arms rest around Lilisa before relinquishing the hold. It was clear the hug had gone over well, especially now that Woofs was being quieter. Lilisa had a very natural demeanor to her, and it clearly was affecting Harald positively.<br><br>Once that was out of the way...the beginning. He cringed.<br><br>“We found her today. I let the Duchess know immediately; she must have sent those missives out rather quickly.”<br><br>He pointed at the Little Dam. “She was found just two feet from the Dam. Her right arm, her dominant arm, was severed from her body and pointing at the water. There was an officer with me at the time, but I was first on the scene. He complained that he'd heard singing, but I hadn't heard anything. The EMTs took her away, and we're waiting on the autopsy report. Which I'm afraid to go to the police station about, both because of the banality and because it's almost too dreadful to contemplate. Why sever her arm? There were no teeth marks on her, almost like it this was done in one clean bladed hit. But her body didn't show signs of a struggle, either. As if she'd walked herself close to the water. I didn't even know she'd come to the park—I work here and always escort...escorted...her when she wanted to visit.” Correcting himself to past tense was a stumbling block in his story. It was clear he was struggling to relate what happened.<br><br>“I don't deny that there's something eerie about the water, though. A malaise, a curse, <em>something.</em> Even average people are clearly picking up on something wrong. But whatever it is...it's new, and I have no idea what it could be.”<br><br>He fell silent and said, “I suppose that's not very helpful. I might be better if you all ask questions now.”<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC: Lilisa (TheLaughingOne</div><div class="spoiler_body">For your confidante power: Roll Perception + Empathy at difficulty 8. (While you can pick Subterfuge instead if you really want to, the hug seems to better fit Empathy, in my opinion)<br><br>Use the Dicebot and post your roll under a spoiler here in-thread. Remember to send the roll to my ID: 42233 :-) </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>12-03-2018, 20:46:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://qph.ec.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-b16ca95cc2d32ab18d15cea93d858e1f-c)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> (Minor Invocation!!! Pooka power: Confidante!) (<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Roll Result!</div><div class="spoiler_body">At 2018-03-12 13:27:05, TheLaughingOne (uid: 60096) rolls: 3d10 tn1: 8 Result: 1 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=115688)</div></div>)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Lilisa gave a soft little comforting rumble as he rested his arms on her, ears fluttering lightly brushing his face with Floof. And once he pulled back she went straight to business fishing out a small pocket notepad (covered in little coyote paw prints) from her pocket with a metallic mechanical pencil tucked in the spiral, plucking the pencil free she flips through the pages (containing an assortment of doodles of jewelry, coyotes, coyotes peeing on things, dicks, and.. well, lets just say there are a lot of doodles of things..) and takes notes as he explains quickly scribbling down details..<br><br>She pauses when he asks if they have questions, considering as her ears twitched and ticked about, her tail slowly sweeping back and forth as she chewed at her lip before speaking up...<br>"Did she have any enemies that would conspire to do something like this... How long has the lake had weird Juju feeling to it, Do you know what she did while you took her on these walks, and what do you mean "As if she'd walked herself close to the water."?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>12-03-2018, 22:50:10</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Discussion with Count Harald<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Arwen paused a few beats as the Pooka responded to the Count, her own mind working overdrive.&nbsp; She glanced over to the big Beaumayn, then back to the count desperate to come up with something first.&nbsp; One clean cut took her arm off... Well Arwen knew several Prodigals, Thallian or even kiths that could replicate such a feat.&nbsp; The only question was, how to figure out which one?<br><br>"Oh!" the word leaped out of her before she had even conjured up the idea to speak it. "Can we track her?&nbsp; She was only just..."she paused in her excitement for a second realizing that these wounds were indeed fresh.&nbsp; "...just found.&nbsp; We have monsterfloof over there, or maybe Lilisa or Corryn can find her scent and figure out where she came to the park from?&nbsp; Do we know if she was..." Arwen paused again, she didn't want to use the word "killed" with the Count looking like that, "attacked at the water's edge?&nbsp; Was there a lot of blood there?&nbsp; If so we might be able to get the scent of whomever or whatever did this to her." Her face became more animated at that. "Then we might find out where they came from! Maybe even get on idea of what they are!"<br><br>Arwen looked around at the others "Now, it almost sounds like she was called to this place, yes?&nbsp; No signs of a struggle, in a place she wasn't supposed to be.&nbsp; How was she dressed?&nbsp; Was she in her nightgown?&nbsp; Could she have been called here in a dream?"&nbsp; She glanced back to Harald, alexandrite eyes flashing "We need to figure out why here? If she was called here, to be killed here, what is it about this place that made, whomever did this, want to attack her here?"<br><br>Arwen began to pace a little as she continued to brainstorm.&nbsp; "As for the singing, I wonder if this is something that has been going on for some time, but you never noticed it, because you couldn't hear it?&nbsp; Perhaps other mortals have heard it, or maybe even recorded it?&nbsp; We could do a search on the internets to see if anything like 'creepy singing near Lake Carlton' shows up." <br><br>Arwen pulled up from her pacing and looked at the Count resolutely "We have so little to go on right now, I can't really think of how to rule anything out. My suggestion would be to start with trying to track her to see if we can get the scent of whatever attacked her, my Lord, and investigating the water further."&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>13-03-2018, 03:08:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> --<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Singing and water. There was an obvious mythology to draw on there. Sirens, mermaids. Myths that could very well have a root in the Fae. The only problem with that, of course, was that Quinn only knew about what <em>everyone</em> knew, so even if that was what was going on here, any information they could think of could be wildly inaccurate. Quinn did not know of any Kith that would match, though that certainly didn't mean it wasn't possible. For the moment, they tucked the thought away for later examination.<br><br>What interested them more, for the moment, was the talk of a curse about the water. That was something they could investigate now, rather than later. They certainly would prefer to do it with the others still present. Especially the Redcap, in the event that some nasty thing decided to come crawling out of it. As the others began asking questions, Quinn made their way slowly and carefully over closer to the lake. Nothing had happened when the pooka had been dragged over here by her dog, which was a good sign. Though the fact that the dog had <em>stopped</em> barking made Quinn wonder if they might have missed their chance. Had the dog sensed something that had moved away?<br><br>They paused for a moment, though, as Arwen mentioned searching the internet, their attention perking visibly at the mention. "<em>I can help with that, I know my way around the internet.</em>" A bit of an understatement, really. 'I live on the internet' might have been more accurate. And of course, whether or not anyone actually <em>heard</em> them would be up to who was paying attention, as Quinn's voice didn't tend to travel very far. It was even worse in wide, open spaces like this. "<em>I'm going to take a look at the water,</em>" they added almost as an afterthought. It would probably be wise to at least make the attempt at communicating as a team, difficult as that might be for them.<br><br>They continued walking towards the water, stopping before they could come any closer than a few feet away. Well out of arm's length, at least. Then they just focused their attention on what they could feel, see, hear. If even humans could feel something wrong with the place, Quinn had no doubt they should be able to feel it as well.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">Would it be a Perception + Kenning roll to try and feel out the curse, here?</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>14-03-2018, 11:47:12</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> Brandon Patterson / Sir Balthazar Tori ap’ Beaumayn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> <br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> General<br><hr><hr><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The troll's truck trundled up and came to a stop.&nbsp; He ducked out of the huge pickup and belted on his blade before moving up to the bereaved sidhe and bowing at the waist.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The big man's eyes widened in pleasant surprise when he was recognized.&nbsp; “Why thank you, Count Harald.&nbsp; I am both touched and honored.”&nbsp; Baltahzar's huge hand rested lightly on Harald's shoulder for a moment.&nbsp; “I hope we can find a time to speak about books sometime soon.” <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The troll took a step back, paying close heed to each person present.&nbsp; The redcap had a foul mouth, of course, but he was already bringing a good deal of motivation and energy to their task.&nbsp; Balthazar gave him a respectful nod.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His eyes went to Arwen next.&nbsp; They started on her eyes, and his brow furrowed as he wondered at the... stress there?&nbsp; <em>Is something bothering her?&nbsp; Beyond the obvious of the situation? </em>&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He could no more stop his eyes from taking a slow wander down her body than he could move a mountain by shoving on the base.&nbsp; Saphire cheeks took on the softest lavender heat.&nbsp; Balthazar met the sidhe's eyes and he gave a quiet bow.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He looked to the Quin next.&nbsp; Having been too distracted by the count's moment of admiration to note how it affected the sluagh, Balthazar did not yet catch any hints as to—his?--nature to react too.&nbsp; The being had an otherworldly grace that compelled Balthazar's eyes to linger on them at least as long as they had on Arwen.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balthazar took a brief glance at the Coyote pookah and found himself smiling.&nbsp; She was lovely—not a vision of sensual allure like the sidhe or an irresistible enigma like the sluagh—but a charming mixture of healthy beauty, strength, and loving care put into the artistic presentation of herself.&nbsp; <em>I do believe if I spend long around this girl there's going to be a coyote-shifter in my next book...&nbsp; </em><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Just before the count began, Balthazar took a quick glance at the feline pookah.&nbsp; He didn't have time either to work anything out about the man or seek an introduction, but the answer he offered the count spoke of reason and perhaps experience.&nbsp; Good.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balthazar turned his full attention back to the count as his story began.&nbsp; He paid close head, and held his thoughtful peace for several moments.&nbsp; He was just reaching into a pocket for his Android when Quin spoke up.&nbsp; He strained his ears, then nodded.&nbsp; “I'll come with you to the water,” he said, then glanced at the others.&nbsp; “Just he and I, though.&nbsp; We shouldn't go anywhere alone right now, but a whole crowd will be all the more likely to scare off anything we might manage to investigate.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balthzar started down after Quin with quite, patient steps.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>marauder13</strong> on <strong>15-03-2018, 02:41:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/15/Richard_Lancaster_2.jpg)</div><br><strong>Name:</strong> Rick Lancaster (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963370#msg13963370)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ---<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Anyone/Open<br><hr><hr><br>Rick managed to keep his mouth shut as everyone else added their two cents worth to the conversation. It was easily enough done with the Sidhe advertising hard about what she had to offer anyone who made the cut. Given how she was swinging the sword about, making the cit took on whole new dimensions. She was a challenge, he could see, but just because she was a walking source of excessive drooling, it didn't mean that he had to try and shag her. He didn't just fuck anyone, not after a few bad choices earlier in life, so he was choosy about who he fucked.<br><br>Still, there was no harm in enjoying a view that was free presented.<br><br>Rick made a mental note at the comment about the mortal who heard something that the Kithain had not, but was not able to safely act on it as others were still yabbering on about various things. Most of it was stuff he was going to ask, but it still rubbed him the wrong way that others asked them rather than him. He could tell that this was going to be a gabfest, and for the sake of the unity of the Team Cox, he would have to hang around through it all.<br><br>Rather than lose his temper and piss people off, an easy thing to do for a 'cap, he strolled over to where the body had been found. Even a casual look would reveal how much blood was there, and the amount he needed to know about was not something that he needed a CSI operative and kit to determine. If there was a lot of blood there, that was where she died, if not, then it was somewhere else. In that latter case, then he'd need someone who could do all that high tech wizardry.<br><br>Since the sluagh and the troll were going closer to the water's edge, along with the pooka and her dog, Rick decided that there were enough noses poking around there and turned back to the Count.<br><br>"Since you don't want to poking your nose into the Police station and the morgue, I'll do that for you. But I will need a letter of authorisation from you giving me, and those with me, legal permission to act on your behalf. Authorities get really shitty with people who don't have the proper permissions, and also tend to get even shittier when they get smacked about the head when trying to stop helpful folks being helpful. 'Sides, I can't tell those poor, boring arseholes that I am on a quest to avenge the lady, 'cause they'll try and lock me up, and no one wants to see <em>that</em> happen. Tell ya what, I can draw up the documents and all you need to do is sign them in the proper spot, and we can get Miss Public Indecency over there to sign as a witness and all will be good. I can have that done in... oh, a couple of hours.<br><br>"Oi, Josh, get over here for a moment, mate."<br><br>Rick's offsider walked over, and nodded to the Count, not know exactly who he was, but saw that he was the centre of attention, and someone who Rick was on good terms with. He gave Rick a questioning look, one that was returned with an evil looking grin.<br><br>"Josh, can you hear anything like singing right now?"<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Bly...</div><div class="spoiler_body">I'll leave it to you to reply for Joshua as you whether he hears anything or not, and any detail you want to give. As for his perceptiveness, I think that Josh is a normal human.</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>15-03-2018, 03:07:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> All~<br><hr><hr><br>Corrin was silent as the Count talked, and silent while his companions spoke, asked questions and speculated. He didn’t interrupt them though his own questions crowded up behind his teeth, there would be time enough for him to ask. <br><br>Finally there was a pause in the talk, and Corrin hoped the Count wouldn’t be overwhelmed, but he really <em>had</em> asked. “Had anything changed recently in her life? New friends, a new lover, a sickness, a project? Who was in her intimate circle besides yourself? That she came here regularly suggests her attacker had watched her from afar and knew her habits, knew when she would be alone and vulnerable.” <br><br>He tilted his head and looked skyward, as if seeking answers there. He had been reading mythology recently, so it came quickly to mind the tale of Set tearing Osiris to pieces on the sore of the River. But that was fourteen pieces, and a very old story, this likely wasn’t a reconstruction of it. It still made him feel strange that something like that could repeat, history echoing itself through time.<br><br>“Let me know when you get those things from the police, Rick,” he said after a long silence, turning his gaze from the sky to the redcap. He didn’t elaborate why, but he was firm in his tone, then he turned his gaze from him to the stretch of water. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>15-03-2018, 03:48:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://www.naturallyamazing.com/americasparks/10489.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> A discussion with Count Harald. <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone.<br><hr><hr><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: LIlisa's queries</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"Did she have any enemies that would conspire to do something like this... How long has the lake had weird Juju feeling to it, Do you know what she did while you took her on these walks, and what do you mean "As if she'd walked herself close to the water."?</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Harald considered the questions and said, "Enemies? Many. Calla makes...made...chimerical weaponry. She even made the Duchess's axe. And that axe has many enemies, many fell Thallain or Garou that wish it were no more and wish that no more of them would be made." For the lake, he shrugged and said, "I honestly could not say for sure, but I was getting uncomfortable here around November, towards the end of it, but no one who works here could really say <em>why.</em> And walking herself--I mean that she wasn't dragged. The area shows she must have walked straight to the water, her arm was taken off without so much as a struggle, and she <em>died.</em> The surrounding environs don't indicate anything like a struggle."<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: Arwen's queries</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"> "Can we track her?&nbsp; She was only just..."she paused in her excitement for a second realizing that these wounds were indeed fresh.&nbsp; "...just found.&nbsp; We have monsterfloof over there, or maybe Lilisa or Corryn can find her scent and figure out where she came to the park from?&nbsp; Do we know if she was..." Arwen paused again, she didn't want to use the word "killed" with the Count looking like that, "attacked at the water's edge?&nbsp; Was there a lot of blood there?&nbsp; If so we might be able to get the scent of whomever or whatever did this to her." Her face became more animated at that. "Then we might find out where they came from! Maybe even get on idea of what they are!</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Harald looked uncomfortable and said, "You could, but typical police are also investigating, so you might run into them. They were in the area recently, obviously. There was not a lot of blood that I saw when I arrived and found her, but there was...<em>enough</em>. It does seem fairly apparent she was attacked <em>and</em>....ended. Here. Just shy of the dam. But I'm not a scientist. I saw enough blood to make me feel sick, but I don't know if that's significant knowledge."<br><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Quinn &amp; Balthazar</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong>Quinn:</strong> Perception + Kenning at difficulty 10.<br><br><strong>Balthazar:</strong> Wits + Alertness, difficulty 8.<br><br>Both of you remember: you can spend a point of WP to guarantee a success on your roll, to reduce your chance of a botch. Roll on E's Dicebot and send the roll to 42233.</div></div><br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: Rick's queries. Or, erm, ideas!</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"Since you don't want to poking your nose into the Police station and the morgue, I'll do that for you. But I will need a letter of authorisation from you giving me, and those with me, legal permission to act on your behalf. Authorities get really shitty with people who don't have the proper permissions, and also tend to get even shittier when they get smacked about the head when trying to stop helpful folks being helpful. 'Sides, I can't tell those poor, boring arseholes that I am on a quest to avenge the lady, 'cause they'll try and lock me up, and no one wants to see that happen. Tell ya what, I can draw up the documents and all you need to do is sign them in the proper spot, and we can get Miss Public Indecency over there to sign as a witness and all will be good. I can have that done in... oh, a couple of hours.</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>"That's fine; if you get them drawn up, I'll sign, on one condition--my lawyer reads it first. Happily, my lawyer is Mr. Zilby, and he's a boggan, so I'm sure he'll be available and can show up at an agreed-upon location as soon as possible. He better, given what I pay him. You must understand that while I want my sister avenged, I also am not going to open myself to being in a position where, if you fail or commit a heinous error, that I'm legally liable. I am not interested in grieving Calla's death in jail of all places." So Harald was on board, so long as Rick and company behaved, essentially.<br><br>When Rick pulled Josh aside, Josh had a distracted look. It actually took Rick a couple of times to get his attention. Eventually Josh said, as if in a haze, "Singing. Yeah. It's...really pretty. A lot nicer than any garbage you hear on the radio. Been listening to it since we got here; I thought someone was just playing music in the park somewhere far off..."<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: Corrin's queries</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">“Had anything changed recently in her life? New friends, a new lover, a sickness, a project? Who was in her intimate circle besides yourself? That she came here regularly suggests her attacker had watched her from afar and knew her habits, knew when she would be alone and vulnerable.” </blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Harald honed in on this line of questioning and said, "Yes, a new project. She claimed someone had commissioned her for a new axe, something similar to what the Duchess uses. She was commissioned..." He frowned. "That's strange. I don't recall. I thought I did. But I know she was working on it at least two months; I do have memory of that." He looked extremely perturbed that he didn't recall the exact date, murmuring, "Why don't I remember the exact time? Calla and I were close and she told me everything always." He shook his head and finished answering questions, "She had no regular social circle. Call was all-business; if she wasn't crafting, she was being wholly unsocial. When she went out, she typically went directly to the Freehold to sell her wares or accept commissions. You might have luck investigating at the Freehold directly to see if anyone talked to her recently?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>15-03-2018, 04:19:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://qph.ec.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-b16ca95cc2d32ab18d15cea93d858e1f-c)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> (One Banked Confidante question)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Lilisa scrawls out notes in a quick short hand, nodding as she fills pages rapidly with his answers, pausing for one moment.. "I think... ... We can potentially mark Garou off the list... Sounds.." she frowns and wobbles back and forth, "To clean and not violent enough by sounds.." She makes a few notes, pausing as he answers her last question and then Arwens.. "Could... It have been a Leech..? One of them mind controlling her with that freaky eye thing they can do...? That way she wouldnt fight back and would follow its orders, and with her arm like that... Might explain why there potentially isnt as much blood as there should be.."<br><br>She continued taking notes, pausing and perking up as Balthazar watched her, an ear swiveling around to aim right at him as her tail curled between her legs as she turned to give him a shy little smile before resuming her note taking..<br><br>Meanwhile, Woofs watches the Lake shore. Barney doll grasped in his muzzle as he paces back and forth slowly, at the approach of Quinn and Balthazar moving between them and the water, making warning little huffs and chuffs...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>15-03-2018, 05:05:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Spending a WP for a roll THAT WAS COMPLETELY UNNECESSARY<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn smiled when Balthazar offered to come with them, though it was difficult to see, given no one could see their mouth. But their voice - quiet as it was - was warm when they spoke to him. "Thank you," they said, clearly glad they weren't going to be going up to the water by themselves. "They, though, not he." There was no hint of annoyance in their voice as they corrected him, they were well aware that most people wouldn't know it without being told. They didn't even much care if people struggled with the other pronouns, but it was certainly preferred when people got it right.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Kenning roll</div><div class="spoiler_body">Comment: Kenning - Perception 4 + Kenning 3 - Spending a WP for an auto success.<br>Result: 1, 10, 5, 8, 10, 10, 10 - <strong>FOUR successes</strong> - we are starting off strong I see.</div></div><br><br>They turned their attention to the water though, focusing hard on what they were looking for.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>18-03-2018, 03:45:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> All~<br><hr><hr><br>Corrin’s gaze snapped to the sidhe as he told of a project that had been worked on before her death, an axe the sibling of the Duchess’ own weapon. And that he could not recall the name of who had commissioned it - well, that was interesting. It gave him a chill of fear then a dancing spark of anticipation - perhaps that unknown, unnamable person was the killer? <br><br>Perhaps... her arm had been severed, so it had been speculated. Not ripped or bitten.<br><br>“The Freehold... yes. It is something I will see to, should I have the time.” That was a lie, he intended to make time and more besides, but his kith would not tolerate such truths. “There’s also the matter of her workrooms, her smithy. She may have made note of who it was for.” A wild hope that he doubted would come to be.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>marauder13</strong> on <strong>19-03-2018, 02:23:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/15/Richard_Lancaster_2.jpg)</div><br><strong>Name:</strong> Rick Lancaster (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963370#msg13963370)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ---<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Anyone/Open<br><hr><hr><br>While he paced, Rick kept his eyes and ears open to what was going on around him. His movements slowed at the mention of the Countess' business, and how that could have related to her sudden demise. A weaponsmith who forged fine, brutal and efficient weapons? Sure, that would draw more than a few unhappy individuals out of the wood work to express their dislike of the weapon and its capabilities. But he still took in everything else that he could hear. Something good always came out, and if he was too distracted, he might miss something that would bite his arse later.<br><br><em>"That's fine; if you get them drawn up, I'll sign, on one condition--my lawyer reads it first. Happily, my lawyer is Mr. Zilby, and he's a boggan, so I'm sure he'll be available and can show up at an agreed-upon location as soon as possible. He better, given what I pay him. You must understand that while I want my sister avenged, I also am not going to open myself to being in a position where, if you fail or commit a heinous error, that I'm legally liable. I am not interested in grieving Calla's death in jail of all places."</em><br><br>Rick gritted his teeth over the last part of Harald's reply, his grip of the bat causing his knuckles to whiten a little. But when he got to josh, his anger was driven off by the look on his retainer's face. Rick shook him a few times, and was about to slap him when he finally came to.<br><br>"Singing. Yeah. It's...really pretty. A lot nicer than any garbage you hear on the radio. Been listening to it since we got here; I thought someone was just playing music in the park somewhere far off..."<br><br>"Fucking marvellous." Rick snapped his fingers in front of Josh's face to really capture his attention. "Go back to the car, and get it ready, we'll be leaving soon."<br><br>Rick took a few steps back closer to the Count, and the other Fae. "Oi! The singing is still happening, and it seems that the mortals can hear it, as my mate seemed to be caught up in it. So, someone might want to see about keeping people away from here, just in case."<br><br>Rick walked over to the Sidhe, once more stopping and openly leering at the woman. "I know some women use their looks like a weapon, but you, luv, use yours like a WMD. I know I would love to place this somewhere, but I like my limbs exactly where they are, and how they are, so..." Rick handed Arwen a cheap business card with his name "Rick" and his cell number. "I have some stuff to do for the count, so if there is anything interesting happening, like a motley get together, drop me a line."<br><br>Rick headed back to the car, jumped into the passenger seat and smacked Josh behind the head to stop him from listening to the singing. "C'mon, get us home." Josh glared at Rick, started the car, and drove them home.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>21-03-2018, 03:33:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div> <br><strong>Name:</strong>Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963560#msg13963560)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong>1st January 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong>----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong><br><strong>Tagging: </strong>Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>The sudden motion of the sluagh perking up at the mention of the internet caught Arwen's eye. She turned to look at them and there seemed to be some sort of response, as near as she could tell. She could barely hear it through their mask, but there definitely was a whisper there.&nbsp; Making a guess, Arwen decided it was some sort of positive response, and she responded to the masked figure with a wink and a nod.&nbsp; They probably didn't want too much attention from everyone, but Arwen made a mental note to give them extra attention as the day progressed.&nbsp; When they walked up alone to the waters edge and stared at it, she watched the figure a bit sadly.&nbsp; Then the troll followed them and she turned away in annoyance.<br><br>Coming out of her reverie, Arwen was suddenly very aware of Rick obviously checking her out.&nbsp; Almost immediately she felt a breeze blow up again, wafting up her skirt and showing her in all her glory to the Redcap.&nbsp; Her skin felt tingly again as arousal swept over her... there were times that Arwen thought she had another, unknown curse on her.&nbsp; There was no reason to fight it this time, however, she wanted him to want her in order to help her with this case.&nbsp; When he called her "Miss Public Indecency" she met him with unflinching eyes and an inviting smile. His plan was a good one anyway, and he was the redcap to do the deed.&nbsp; Her mind drifted to the interesting idea of being bent over an examination table in a morgue, but she quickly banished it.&nbsp; She wasn't going to go to anywhere as banal of a place at a police station and morgue either.&nbsp; <br><br>When Rick came up to her, it caught her by surprise.&nbsp; She had expected the redcap to just leave with his "mate", and was puzzled when he came up to her<br><br><em>"I know some women use their looks like a weapon, but you, luv, use yours like a WMD. I know I would love to place this somewhere, but I like my limbs exactly where they are, and how they are, so... I have some stuff to do for the count, so if there is anything interesting happening, like a motley get together, drop me a line."</em><br><br>This was exactly what she wanted, and she beamed with pleasure at taking the card. She flipped it in her fingers to read the header "Rick", then looked back at the redcap.&nbsp; Gazing dead into his eyes, she slipped the card under the band of her "skirt", just to the right of her pubic mound that the low-rise skirt threatened to expose to the world. "Thank you, I'll text you so you have my number too, incase you need anything from me"&nbsp; She was betting that he would "need" something from her eventually, but right now was the beginning of that game, not the end.<br><br>With the redcap gone, Arwen took the card out of her waistband and put it in the pouch right next to her phone, then turned to the rest.&nbsp; "I think you have a good idea there, Corrin.&nbsp; The freehold and her workshops are smart places to start." she said walking up to the pooka and his ever-changing features and forked tongue.&nbsp; It was hard looking him in the eye, as the location of his eyes changed as his seeming subtly morphed.&nbsp; Finally she gave up and looked where the jackal eyes were, as that was the most common head.&nbsp; "I'd like to go with you to check these places out, if you don't mind, that is." He was a difficult one to read, she hadn't seen any interest from him in her yet... nor from the rest of the motley other than Rick. She was going to need to try harder.<br><br>Arwen moved to Lilisa, trying to draw her into the brainstorm with herself and Corrin, if she was not there already.&nbsp; "I'm not sure it is a Leech" Arwen replied, "but that is an interesting thought.&nbsp; If it turns out to be the axe the duchess made, then it would have to be someone that can see and hold chimerical weapons as well as call upon the wyrd to make it 'real'.&nbsp; If it turns out that it is not a chimerical weapon that did this, then we can be relatively sure that it is a prodigal." Arwen said with faux confidence, her heart beating in her chest. "Oh, and I don't think we can rule out Garou yet, they have massive silver weapons that can cleave a kithain in half with one blow.&nbsp; I've seen them... they call them 'Klaives'." Arwen looked out into the breeze that was picking up "...and I hope I never see one again."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>23-03-2018, 13:43:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> Brandon Patterson / Sir Balthazar Tori ap’ Beaumayn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> Willpower: 5/6<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> General<br><hr><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Alertness</div><div class="spoiler_body">1 sucess from Willpower, 0 from dice.&nbsp; Mental note, raise those!&nbsp; :)&nbsp; <br>At 2018-03-23 06:26:45, Sir Balthazar (uid: 16) rolls: 2d10 tn1: 8 Result: 0 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=116194)<br></div></div><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“They and I...” Balthazar blinked, then smiled.&nbsp; “I hear the earth shake as 10,000 English teachers roll over in their graves.&nbsp; It's a beautiful thing.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As he stayed on the alert, he could somewhat follow what the others were still saying.&nbsp; He tried to focus, still, on covering the slaugh down by the lake, including nodding quietly in agreement at the mention of the ritual daggers the Garou used.&nbsp; <em>Klaive?&nbsp; So that's what they're called.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>26-03-2018, 04:10:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://www.naturallyamazing.com/americasparks/10489.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> A discussion with Count Harald. <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone.<br><hr><hr>The lake revealed its secrets to Quinn. There were quite a few dark ones, or so it seemed.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Quinn only</div><div class="spoiler_body">The lake <em>brimmed</em> with Glamour, practically a bastion of it. However, there was something <em>off</em> about the Little Dam. Quinn recognized the signs. A Thallain had been here. A powerful one. It was hard to determine exactly what it had done, but it was clear it had not only tapped Glamour in this place, but used it to extremely ill-effect. There was a raw aura of violence and death in the area--Calla was not the first to die there. It was clear that she was merely the first <em>discovered</em> for whatever reason. <br><br>Quinn determined one important thing: the Thallain possessed <em>considerable</em> command over the Sovereign Art. Not only that, Quinn deduced that the Thallain in the area likely had considerable acumen with the realms of Actor, Fae, and Nature.<br><br>Quinn determined an <em>incredibly</em> powerful Unleashing happened here. It did not seem to have been done by the Thallain, so that left only Calla as the likely one to have done it. It looked like Calla may have Unleashed <em>Spring.</em> Quinn can tell that this would have had to have happened before the Thallain attacked or revealed itself.</div></div><br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: Corrin</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">“The Freehold... yes. It is something I will see to, should I have the time.” That was a lie, he intended to make time and more besides, but his kith would not tolerate such truths. “There’s also the matter of her workrooms, her smithy. She may have made note of who it was for.” </blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Harald hesitated, and then he pulled a slim looking silver key out of his pocket. "This is the key to her smithy. I only had it for emergencies. I can't bear to go in right now. But I will give you the address for it, and I will call ahead to let the friend watching it for me know you wish to look into it." He offered it to Corrin.<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: Rick</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">"Oi! The singing is still happening, and it seems that the mortals can hear it, as my mate seemed to be caught up in it. So, someone might want to see about keeping people away from here, just in case.</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Harald swore when he heard Rick say what he did. He pulled out a phone and called someone, saying, "Yes, look, it's me. We need to close off Robbers Cave State Park. Yes, at least access to the lakes. How many campers are with us at the moment, do we have a headcount?" He listened for a moment and nodded, "Yes, law enforcement was here. I'll start the process of kicking everyone out, then, which I'm sure will make me the most popular belle at the ball." He hung up.<br><br>Josh went along with Rick--after all, whole point of going there in the first place had been letting Rick do this thing. The redcap left...<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Rick (M13) (OOC) </div><div class="spoiler_body">Write up a solo post detailing out what Rick is doing for the Count, as Rick's separated off from the group. For any of the legal documentation, he'll need to run it by Harald's lawyer, Mr. Zilby, who will be easily contacted as he'd be publicly listed in the phone book &amp; Harald will likely call ahead to notify him of things. You can write up everything up to sending something Mr. Zilby's way for review. If you aren't sure what all to write or how much is 'too much, you can run the post by me in PMs. :)<br></div></div><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Balthazar only</div><div class="spoiler_body">The Troll spied something strange near the Little Dam. Just under the surface of the water were frozen flowers, bright and pink and yellow. A little dollop of Spring right in the middle of Winter. It was <em>strange.</em><br><br>He also noted, as he scanned the water's surface and the nearby shoreline, that it was very likely something had left the area a few hours ago. Far to the right of the Little Dam's shore line there was a single weird footprint, mostly washed away by the water, that indicated something like....a webbed foot? Just one, though, and the water near the shore's edge indicated that if there'd been any more, they were long gone. Balthazar was lucky to have noticed it at all.</div></div><br><br>The Count looked noticeably uncomfortable and asked, his voice tired, "Do any of you have any more questions or need anything from me? I have to start making campers leave the lake site soon. If need be, I can share a contact number for me in case you think of anything else you need to ask me or if you happen to require me for something. It would only be polite to ensure those helping me have an easy way to get in touch. I also will let the Duchess know you all arrived and are helping me, as per her letter."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>26-03-2018, 05:08:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/MKHWbth.png)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> (<del>One Banked Confidante question</del> Used)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Lilisa pauses in her writing, ear giving a single flick and tail twitch as she gives Arwen the side-eye... "Yes. Horrible things. Disgusting And so common." Her voice holding a flat tone, but she moves on, "But as it was a full moon, she wasnt torn to shreds, even if they did have a Klaive, those point away from Garou, except in circumstances. Not to mention her not putting up a fight when they shifted to another form.."<br><br>She scribbles a few more quick notes before watching the exchange of the key, the natural more bubbly nature seeming to return, "I've never worked as a smith or forged anything, thus would be supremely useless in checking out a workshop like that! Thus making me the last person you should bring along!" She looks to Corrin and Harald for assent.<br><br>But at the mention of singing and Haralds reaction her ears fold flat against her head and tail curls around her leg, "Whats the bosh with singing and clearing the park..?" (Cashing in banked question!)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>26-03-2018, 05:32:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Terrible things had happened here, that much was clear. They'd already expected that, but what they found, reaching out into the glamour around the lake, was something even worse. Calla wasn't the only one that had died here, though whether the others were humans or something more they couldn't quite tell. It made sense to assume it had been humans, though. Other Kithain dying or disappearing tended to make waves, as Calla's death no doubt would. But if that was the case, what was the motive behind it? Had she been targeted on purpose or had she just had the misfortune of being in the wrong place at the wrong time?<br><br>Focusing on her brought another revelation. There had been an unleashing here, but not from the Thallain. Just thinking the name made Quinn shift uncomfortably, and they didn't notice that they'd begun to hum a soft tune under their breath. Hardly noticeable to any non-Sluagh, but definitely there. Likely it had been Calla who had unleashed, Spring, it didn't feel... Nasty enough, to be the other one. No, the Thallain's domain was just as concerning as the dark feeling that surrounded this place.<br><br>But what confused them most was that the unleashing didn't feel like a reaction to the attack. It had been done <em>before</em> that, for some other reason. As for what, Quinn had no idea. <br><br>Eventually they managed to turn away from the lake, looking perhaps a little paler than before. They didn't much want to be here any longer, though it was a relief they weren't alone... But Harley, they'd left Harley further back. In a sudden flurry of motion, Quinn pulled out their phone, rapidly tapping out a text.<br><br><div align="center"><span style="font-family: courier;" class="bbc_font">U still ok?</span></div><br>They weren't quite panicking, yet, but it would turn into that if they didn't get a response soon. For the moment, though, they focused on the task at hand. They looked around, recalling hearing something, vaguely, about Rick going to the police station, it would be useful to know if there had been more missing persons as late.... But he was already gone. Quinn's eyebrows furrowed for a moment, but they shook it off. The Count might still know something, since he worked here.<br><br>Quinn gave a brief nod to Balthazar before sidling awkwardly away from the lake, not really wanting to turn their back on it until they'd gotten a bit further back. They went over to the Count, a serious expression in their eyes. <br><br>"<em>I'm fairly certain your sister Unleashed here. Spring. It would have happened before she was attacked. Do you have any idea what she would have been doing?</em>" A brief pause, before moving on to the worse news. "<em>You might already have had suspicions, but there has been a Thallain here, a powerful one. With command over Sovereign, and the Realms of Actor, Fae and Nature. It has killed here before.</em>" Quinn would have recommended the area be closed off, of course, if the man hadn't already said he was doing so. "<em>If anyone has gone missing in the park recently, it's likely that they were killed as well.</em>"<br><br>The mention of the Duchess made Quinn realize it was probably prudent to inform her of what they had discovered, as well. "<em>I think it might be best if I speak to the Duchess about this, as well.</em>" Quinn wasn't entirely sure if they could simply go walking up to the Duchess and start a conversation, though. But at least the Count might be able to help on that end.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>marauder13</strong> on <strong>28-03-2018, 04:40:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/15/Richard_Lancaster_2.jpg)</div><br><strong>Name:</strong> Rick Lancaster (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963370#msg13963370)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ---<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Anyone/Open<br><hr><hr><br>Rick ignored everything else going on about him as he started to put together the gist of the document he would need for the Count to sign. He couldn't go into too much detail because he would need a note pad &amp; pen, plus he was dealing with American legal structures, not Australian. But by the time Josh got him back home, Rick had the main points figured out. As tempting as it may have been for Josh to return the favour in kind to get Rick to snap out of his thoughts, he took the safer option and tapped the shoulder instead.<br><br>"Huh? Fuck. Sorry, mate. Deep in thought."<br><br>"I know. A Quest."<br><br>"Damn straight there." Rick opened the door and literally jumped out of the car and dashed into the main part of the house.<br><br>"Keith! If you're on the machine, you'd better get off it right now. I need it."<br><br>"Nope. No one's using it, Boss."<br><br>"Even better." Rick slid into the room, walking fast for the chair located before the twin screen computer. He opened up a word processor on one screen, and a browser on the other. "Right, let's get this sorted." The next few hours were a blur of typing, swearing, researching, swearing, making corrections and edits, topped of by further swearing. But the end result was a lengthy document that spelled out what Rick needed in case anyone in authority started to get prissy over details like his not being kin to the deceased. He stored a copy of the file on a thumb drive, and then turned to the browser again. Rather than looking up large amounts of legal definitions, templates and other resources, he did a business search for the Count's Boggan lawyer. The details found, Rick jotted them down, then picked up the phone.<br><br>"Zibly and Associates, Cheryl speaking. How may I help you?"<br><br>"Hi, Cheryl. My name is Rick Lancaster, and I am on my way over to speak to Mister Zilby, about matters concerning a mutual associate, one Harald Beaumayn. I will be there in about twenty minues."<br><br>"I'm sorry, Mister Lancaster, but Mister Zilby -"<br><br>"Will be wanting to see me the moment that I am there. Just tell him, so he wont be too surprised when I show up." Rick hung up before Cheryl could say anything more. He wandered back to the garage, and rather than going for car, Rick wandered over to the motorcycle. Rick wasn't sure what make of bike it was, but he was certain it was a Harley of some sort. He was in the US after all, and weren't all the bikes Harleys?<br><br>"Josh, let Mike know I have borrowed his wheels for a quick trip into town. I'll behave with it too."<br><br>"Ok, Rick, will do."<br><br>The helmet was too large for Rick's head, but not too large that it would move about and block his vision. Rick stayed within all the road rules, and drove as if he was in a car, so no running between cars that were stationary, or other similar bike rider antics. What he did do, however, was enjoy the ride to the fullest, given the urban environment. The wind on his face, along with the gentle sunlight, made him feel relaxed. Rick was getting an idea of why Mike and Nancy loved riding bikes. There was a freedom to them that cars lacked, which was the plus side to the knowledge that there was not as much metal around him if there was an accident.<br><br>The trip was over too soon, and Rick found a place to park close to the offices of the lawyer. Rick fielded a lot of stares from the ordinary folk who had a little trouble figuring out how Rick's mode of dress matched his personality, and from there, their personal safety and well being. If he wasn't on the quest for her Grace, he would have taken a little time to have some fun with the sacred little sheep. Luckily for them, Rick knew his priorities.<br><br>The stairs were taken two at a time, until he reached the floor of the Zilby and Associates. Without a pause, he entered the reception, and walked up to the counter that shielded Cheryl from the outside world, as well as himself.<br><br>"Hello, luv. Rick Lancaster. I called up a little while ago to talk to Mister Zibly. Since I am now here, would you let me know where I can find him? It'll be a lot easier than walking through back there shouting out his name at the top of my lungs." Rick leaned over the counter as far as he could and smiled wider than most people could. "And I have a really loud voice too."<br><br>He stood pack up, and took a step back as well. "I'm in a hurry, luv, so get crackin'."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>29-03-2018, 03:27:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div> <br><strong>Name:</strong>Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963560#msg13963560)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong>1st January 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong>----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong><br><strong>Tagging: </strong>Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>"fuck"<br><br>That thought echoed through her head the moment Lilisa's ears flattened, showing her annoyance at Arwen's reply to her musings on the possible prodigal that could have done this.&nbsp; Those self-same feelings went into a tailspin when Quinn shockingly announced that a powerful Thallian had been there, proving Lilisa correct.&nbsp; The other details of the attack that they had discovered were of course salient and interesting, but this is the one that took over Arwen's imagination.&nbsp; It leant credence to the idea that the Countess may have been killed with the axe she had made, but Arwen was not going to spout out any more theories at the moment.&nbsp; Instead she waited silently for the sluagh to finish, and noted the final sentence of "maybe I should speak to the Duchess about this".&nbsp; Arwen made a pledge to herself to be by their side when that happens.<br><br>A Thallian... a <em>powerful</em> Thallian had been here. To what end, and how had the countess not known that she was meeting one?&nbsp; There were so many questions here, and no answers.<br><br>"Well, It looks like I've lost this round of 'name that prodigal'" Arwen said discreetly to Lilisa when the quiet sluagh had finished. Arwen left it at that, not knowing how annoyed the pooka had really been.&nbsp; The sidhe flashed her best smile at her, showing how there were hopefully no hard feelings, then went back to thinking about this.&nbsp; The pooka was taking lots of notes, so there surely will be more time to talk about it as they travel to the workshop.&nbsp; <br><br>Arwen watched the silver key as it was presented to Corrin and listened intently to the following instructions. She needed to get that number and the address so she could relay it to Rick, lest he come back to the park to find it completely empty.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>02-04-2018, 14:13:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> All~<br><hr><hr><br>Corrin took the key offered to him with a bow of his head, and a simple, “Yes,” as the man told him his would call ahead. He looked briefly after the Redcap with a brief frown, but turned to the stunning Sidhe woman who had shown interest in joining him. “Go where you will, it matters not to me.” His tone was as dismissive as his words, but they were both lies, glad that someone would come along with him - a skilled warrior was not something to turn away carelessly. <br><br>The dark pooka focused on the soft spoken Quinn as he told them of what he had felt, and suddenly fear gripped Corrin, the reality of what they were hunting coming clear. “Nothing we can’t handle,” he said with a confidence he didn’t feel. “Here, my phone is always off but voicemail is a gift of the gods...” He shared with the gathered his number and pulled his cell from a pocket - it was quite clearly on with a picture of an aloof black cat on it. He tapped in any numbers given to him, then he looked to Arwen. “Ready to go? Sooner rather than later,” he said, though he’d rather <em>never</em> was a choice. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>06-04-2018, 19:24:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://www.naturallyamazing.com/americasparks/10489.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> A discussion with Count Harald. <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa (TheLaughingOne), Corrin (Nadir), Quinn (Sparrowhawke), Balthazar (Muse), Arwen (Eobelle)<br><hr><hr>Harald gave an incredibly questionining look at Lilisa, as if she'd asked the sort of question he didn't need to answer, but he did nonetheless feel compelled to answer the Pooka. "So here's the thing: I can't hear whatever singing is in the air. But it seems that mortals can. That means every mortal in this park is in active danger, because we <em>know</em> something is in the park that has killled. I have no reassurances that it won't kill again. Yes, it killed my sister, but I also would rather like it to not kill anyone else. Oh, not to mention my boring Autumn job might <em>fire me for negligence</em> if I don't address the security issue. Much as I don't like banal things like my job here in the Autumn world--well, at least the responsibilities of it--I have to do well at it. If I don't clear the park, I lose my mortal livelihood, and while I could live comforably off what my sister left me, inheritance is not a stable income, so yes, much as I don't like it, I have a life to keep living even though hers is gone." It was clear he hated the answer to the question...but it was honest. It didn't portray him in the best light, exactly--his goal was to remove the mortals out of pure self-interest, but at least it wasn't a <em>bad</em> motivation, <em>per se</em>.<br><br>When Harald heard Quinn talk, he listened, and his face darkened in frustration and rage. He kicked the nearest tree with a very un-Sidhe like demeanor. Several times. He let out a constrained scream as he kicked. It was clear he was feeling overwhelmed by events. ONce he calmed, he said, "No, I have no idea why she would have Unleashed here. And I'll look over state and park records to see if anyone's gone missing, but I haven't heard of anyone going missing. Which...is really worrisome, because it means the Thallain here is <em>very</em> practiced at killing. Marvelous. Just makes my day. Great." His voice held a sarcastic sour note. Harald's tones were understandable given the circumstances, but he sounded more like a Grump than a Wilder in that moment.<br><br>Harley texted Quinn back.<br><br><div align="center"><span style="font-family: courier;" class="bbc_font">I am ok &lt;3 <br>there is some weird singing around here tho<br>it is CREEPY<br>can we leave yet</span></div><br>Harald said to Quinn, "I can arrange a meeting with Duchess Cox, if needed. I <em>think</em> she's at the McAlester Freehold for today. I can send word ahead and she'll be expecting any of you." He took out a piece of paper and wrote down something, passing it to Corrin, Quinn, Arwen, and Balthzar. "My phone number--personal cell--for all of you. As I clear the park, though, there will be areas I do not get reception, so if I don't answer if you call today, that's why."<br><br>Harald was ready to let them leave if they were leaving at that point, and he thanked them for their time.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">For those tagged in this scene, let me know in the OOC thread where your PCs each intend to go--if you're sticking together, what you want to do, etc. If you aren't sure where you want to go from here, that's okay! Just tell me that, too, and I can give you suggestions based on what's been covered in-thread. It is okay to split up in this game, for the record. :) <br><br>M13, I will be getting a second post up for you shortly since Rick separated from the group!</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>06-04-2018, 19:33:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> At the law office of Mr. Zilby.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Rick (marauder13)<br><hr><hr>It had taken some travel time that day to get back to his own residence, make the call, then head to Zilby's. However, Rick clearly saved time in the form of sheer aggressive audacity. Which Cheryl the secretary was wholly unprepared for.<br><br>She looked unnerved at his smile there in the rather nice office of Zilby and Associates, the caarpet lush, the walls a beautiful natural wood, the pictures and local 'hunting' type art very characteristic of a lot of places in that area of the state. She was taken aback by Rick, mostly because most people were deferential when needing Mr. Zilby's help...whereas Rick was something of a small...no, a large...hurricane. With a smile to match.<br><br>"He's....he's back in his office. Expecting you," she said weakly. She buzzed the intercom on her desk and said, "Rick Lancaster to see you, Mr. Zilby."<br><br>"Send him back," said a curt voice. Cheryl gestured for him to walk down the hall--a glass door revealed a short chubby man behind a desk that could only be described as 'whimsical' for a lawyer. On the desk were little pictures of with hand-made frames--lovingly carved out of oak with flowers and celtic knots adorning the wood. They'd been painted colorfully--almost like twining rainbows. On the desk, pleasantly, was a shot of whiskey and a plate of what looked to be freshly made croissants in a lacquered wooden glass with the same brightly colored knotwork carved into it...and a plate to match, also equally vibrant and well-crafted.<br><br>Zilby was dark-skinned and had glasses so thick they looked like he could probably use them as a weapon. Rick could see his real Boggan look--not that different from his real look, in all honesty. Zilby was clearly a Grump--he had that 'old man' look, yet his eyes were like earthy jewels. His ears, pointed, were twitching lightly. <br><br>"Sit, Mr. Lancaster. Let's talk and get to business. Have a drink and something to eat, if you like--try not to eat the glass and the plate, too, please--I made those myself."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>06-04-2018, 21:10:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/MKHWbth.png)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> None<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Corrin, Arwen, Harald<br><hr><hr><br>Lilisa continues giving Arwen the side eye as she finishes her notes, pausing to scrawl out a quick coyote paw on the page before slipping it into her pouch.. Then winces at Quinns announcement, ears twitching as her tail curls as well, a soft rumbly growl, "Yyeeaahh... I think that means we All lose a bit.. I'll... Tag along with you guys." She smiles to Arwen and Corrin before looking around spotting Woofs and puts her fingers to her lips and blows a hard and sharp whistle before shouting, "Ren Dikke Kont!!" The massive dog snaps his head up and charges back towards the group skidding to a stop infront of Lilisa, still clutching the Barney doll in his jaws with a death lock giving a muffled&nbsp; "wUFF" of acknowledgement. <br><br>She takes a moment to dig through the pouch pulling out a business card rich in silver and gold leaf, decorated in coyote paw prints and a mixture of Native American and Norse patterns and symbols listing her name, phone number, email, and a website. "For emergencies... Or <em>Emergencies</em>." She gives a wink, gold eyes sparkling with flirty mirth, "Prince Charming cant go protecting the country if he is stuck at a job fair." She turned and started for the parking lot, pausing as Woofs gave a low rumble, turning to stare at him, "Seriously!?!?" giving a disgruntled grunt as she stomped back and grabbed the leash, "There. Happy now? Weirdo BDSM fetish dog.." She mutters and looks to the others, "Anybody need a ride? Even with Fatass here should be enough room, if you dont mind him snuggling on your lap." Woofs boofs and wags his tail happily as he follows Lilisa along to the parking lot and up to <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header"> Yet another giant black beast...</div><div class="spoiler_body"><div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/C6ljRQu.jpg)</div></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>08-04-2018, 19:05:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> All~<br><hr><hr><br>Corrin watched the sidhe’s reaction to Quinn’s findings with a slightly tilted head, but added the man’s number to his phone without comment, murmured a goodbye and followed the other pooka as she headed towards the car park, calling in the beast of a dog as she went.<br><br>Corrin found himself watching the dog as he walked, feeling a stab of envy - not over its ownership or companion but just over how much <em>dog</em> it was. His own hound form was long and sleek, closer to a sighthound than anything, but he could see the power in Lilisa’s friend and he couldn’t help but feel... out done. Which was stupid, he was a Pooka, and not restricted to one form. Being himself was superior to being a dog! Yet why did that feel like a lie inside his own head?<br><br><em>Canine envy, fucking great</em>. <br><br>He managed to hold it in until they reached the car park, out of earshot of the Count. “Holy shit that dog is <em>the biggest thing I have ever seen</em>, how do you even have clothes not covered in seven inches of dog hair, I fucking wish I was that fluffy, damn!” The words spilled out of him, and he clearly wanted to play with the pupper, but was restraining himself. It looked like a painful effort of will. <br><br>“I feel so <em>small</em> and delicate next to him, like a teacup. I legitimately hate it!” his tone however, was pure delight. “Fuck me. Urgh, come on, focus. Murder, investigation, quest. Right. I shall gladly join you in your.... Military tank. Wow, what a steed.”&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>09-04-2018, 07:25:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa (TheLaughingOne), Corrin (Nadir), Quinn (Sparrowhawke), Balthazar (Muse), Arwen (Eobelle)<br><hr><hr><br>Arwen took the paper with the number on it and tucked it into the same pouch as her phone and Rick's card were nestled in. "Thank you, your Lordship, I'm sorry things seem to be getting worse.&nbsp; If there is anything else I can do to help you, I am your servant." She ended that with a little curtsey that was a little ridiculous in what she was wearing, but hopefully came off as cute.<br><br>As the two pookas left, Arwen walked up to Quinn "Um, I hope..." she paused a second and tried again "Would it be ok with you if I accompany you to the Duchy?&nbsp; I don't know what you saw, but I'm guessing whoever is behind this wouldn't want the Duchess to know it.&nbsp; They also might be at court right now, hiding in plain sight or have accomplices there." She stopped there with her pitch as a wayward dreadlock had worked its way to right in front of her face. She brushed it back with a bit of annoyance. Her face now clear of wayward hair she opened her mouth to continue when it swung back and in hit her in the nose.&nbsp; Arwen sighed and turned to place her sword on the ground, her limber form not needing to bend her knees whatsoever.&nbsp; Her skirt didn't really hide much in the way of leg, but when bent completely over to rest her beloved sword on the grass, there was nothing at all covered except maybe her sacrum.&nbsp; Coming back up she reached her hands back and tied her dreads back, using two of the lower dreads on the back of her head.&nbsp; As she tied the 'locks back, she continued.&nbsp; "If this Thallian is very practiced at killing, knowing what you know might be very dangerous.&nbsp; I'd like to make sure that what you need to say to the duchess gets said, and you get out again safe.&nbsp; Would that be ok?" Her hair secured and pitch made, her limber torso dove down for the sword once more, coming up with a straight back, whipping her deadlocks back over her head.&nbsp; Suddenly, she looked rather sheepish, "Oh and I don't really have a ride either... do you think I could get one from you?"<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>marauder13</strong> on <strong>12-04-2018, 03:44:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/15/Richard_Lancaster_2.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Rick Lancaster (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963370#msg13963370)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ---<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> At the law office of Mr. Zilby.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong>&nbsp; Mr Zilby (NPC)<br><hr><hr><br>Inside, Rick was delighted at the way the receptionist looked rattled by Rick and his general approach. The deep primal part of him always took delight in making the prey cringe in his presence, knowing that he could, if the mood ever struck, devour her in a moment, and still have room for a lovely cake or two for afters.<br><br>"He's....he's back in his office. Expecting you."<br><br>Rick nodded politely as he straightened himself up and gave his clothing a quick tug to get it sitting better on his frame. She reached for what he hoped was some intercom or similar messaging system.<br><br>"Rick Lancaster to see you, Mr. Zilby."<br><br><em>"Send him back."</em><br><br><em>'Five'll get me ten that Zilby's a grump.'</em><br><br>Rick didn't waste any time in heading down to what could only be the door to Zibly's office. When he opened it, he was bang on the money. The man's appearance screamed Lawyer, or accountant; short, chubby and surprisingly dark skinned. If he were taller and more lithe, he would have been an Eshu, but the handy crafts on the desk spoke loudly of his kith. Rick took a few moments to give those pieces the respect they were due. The man had a gift with his hands, and the imagination to supply them with ideas worthy of those manual abilities.<br><br>Once that respect was given, his attention, and even greater respect, were turned to the offerings before him. The alcohol touched his nostrils just right, and the aroma of the croissants made his mouth water just enough. The grin started to emerge, but remained politely discrete.<br><br><em>"Sit, Mr. Lancaster. Let's talk and get to business. Have a drink and something to eat, if you like--try not to eat the glass and the plate, too, please--I made those myself."</em><br><br>"Thank you, Mister Zibly. Please, call me Rick." On mention of not eating the dining ware, Rick put on a melodramatic pout. "Awww, but they might be as tasty as they look and smell." The gave a sadistic laugh. "I may be a 'Cap, but I'll be fucked if I would eat something a beautiful as those. Unless you manage to piss me off enough, then I would just to get back at you."<br><br>Rick leaned forward and dropped the sheath of papers before Zibly, then sat back in the chair.<br><br>"There is an agreement between the Count and I to permit me to receive information concerning the death of his sister from the authorities as if I was next of kin, like himself. It also states that the Count has no legal liabilities related to my conduct, and cannot be held responsible for them. No one hold the leash on this 'Cap. I haven't slipped in any surprises like being named his heir, or any crap like that. I'm not completely knowledgeable of American legal intricacies, but I have a lot of experience and knowledge of Australian Law, so using that, and a ton of legal references I was able to put together what I think is close to being what is needed for American law. So, if you find any mistakes with it, please make not of them so I can not fuck it up the same way again later.<br><br>"One last question. Is this something that you can do quickly, or will it take a day, two or what? I'd rather not sit here any longer than I need to. Her Grace handed this quest to me, and some others, so I want to be doing as much as I can rather than twiddling my thumbs when I don't need to."<br><br>Rick picked up the plate, with the croissants on them, and move the plate itself closer to his nose, and took a deep sniff. The wood, and whatever had been used to decorate it, smelled delicious. He took a closer look at the work, amazed at the detail of the carving, as well as the accuracy of the application of the paint, or dye, having it stop precisely where the grooves formed. But then, the food finally won out, and he lifted one of the pastries and took a bite of one end. It melted in his mouth, filling it with a taste that had him moaning with pleasure.<br><br>"Ohhhh... before I go, you have to tell me where you got these from, because if it's a cafe of some sort, they're going to get some more patronage for sure. If it was someone private, I am going to be as jealous as fuck. Either way, I promise I wont eat the plate. The tastes aren't complimentary enough."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>12-04-2018, 10:54:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn was quick to share their phone number with any who were interested, along with quickly tapping in any that were offered. Being able to get ahold of everyone would be useful to the point of necessity if they were all investigating this together. It was a shame one of them had already left, but Quinn would just have to hope someone else would know how to contact him. If nothing else, there were always other ways to find these things out, though.<br><br>Quinn's eyes narrowed a tiny bit when Harald reacted to their news, but otherwise didn't react. Even that was more out of surprise than anything else, but they possibly shouldn't have been. The man had gone through a lot in the past 24 hours, and Quinn's news wouldn't have helped, even if he did need to hear it. Quinn stood quietly as he vented his frustrations on the log, waiting out the emotions that - as far as Quinn was concerned - he was completely entitled to. Quinn couldn't imagine the pain they would be in if it were their sister that was dead. <br><br>They resisted the urge to immediately look down at their phone when they felt it buzz, instead lingering a moment longer. "<em>I'm sorry for your loss.</em>" It was said softly, of course, but with genuine feeling. "<em>I will head there straight away.</em>" There was nothing else they could think to do, and they felt the best way to help, for the moment, was to find out what was happening and to stop it.<br><br>They took down Harald's number as well, checking the message they'd recieved as they did. Harley was ok, which was a relief that they felt a little guilty for, in the presence of a man who had just lost his own sibling. It was concerning, though, that Harley could hear the singing too. It made sense, she wasn't one of them, but paranoia was a strong force.<br><br><div align="center"><span style="font-family: courier;" class="bbc_font">coming out soon &amp; we can go</span></div><br>They were in the middle of texting back as Arwen approached, and tucked the phone back away as she spoke. Quinn's eyebrows drew together at the statement, and they glanced a tad nervously back at the water. They couldn't exactly deny that she had a point, and that going alone could possibly be dangerous... But as she asked about a ride, the eyebrows furrowed even further, becoming a full fledged frown.<br><br>"<em>My sister drove me here on her bike, there's only room for the two of us...</em>"<br><br>They glanced at the pair of pookah's as they made their way away, then over at Balthazar. "<em>Maybe you could follow us, if Sir Balthazar can take you... Or maybe Lilisa and Corrin could... It might be out of their way, though... And if we can catch them.</em>"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>12-04-2018, 12:18:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> Brandon Patterson / Sir Balthazar Tori ap’ Beaumayn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> <br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> General<br><hr><hr><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balthazar was silent for a long while, both wary and deep in thought.&nbsp; He walked backwards away from the lake with the sidhe.&nbsp; Bit by bit the story unfolded—both the mystery and the protagonists.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balthazar entered the number he'd received from Harald, and offered a small business card to the others with his own contact information.&nbsp; It had his mortal name, Brandon Patterson, and his cellular number.&nbsp; Before he let the ranger go, he said, “There's a footprint coming out of the water, m'lord.&nbsp; It's mostly washed away, but I think it's webbed.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now he touched Arwen on the shoulder from behind.&nbsp; (He might have accidentally snuck up on her.&nbsp; Though not exactly stealthy, Balthazar could surprise smaller people with his grace.)&nbsp; “You can ride with me, Dame Deveroux.&nbsp; It's somewhat astonishing how much room you can find in the cab of a pickup truck made in a country where gasoline costs less than milk.&nbsp; I wonder what trolls do in the rest of the world.&nbsp; In my first car I took out&nbsp; the front seat and drove from the back.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He turned to the sluagh.&nbsp; “Quin.&nbsp; You said a spring unleashing?&nbsp; Could that create pink and yellow flowers?&nbsp; There are some in the water in the middle of the Little Dam, and they're encased in ice.”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Thallain use basically the same cantrips we do, right?&nbsp; Actor, Fae, Nature, and Prop—the ways we've learned to target the effects of our cantrips.&nbsp; Fae, for beings of the dreaming—Kithian, Nunehi, Thallain, Chimera—even glamour itself.&nbsp; But mortals and prodigals are targeted by a completely diferent set of rules, using the realm of Actor.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“So, if music that mortals can hear but we can't is created by a Thallian—or other being of the Dreaming—that sounds like a cantrip using the Actor realm.&nbsp; Perhaps something Lady Calla noticed and was trying to counter?”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The blue man gave a shrug of round shoulders, then settled his halberd in the bed of the pickup.&nbsp; Opening the passenger side door, he offered a hand to Arwen, “Dame Deveraux.”&nbsp; His eyes took another appreciative wander down the sidhe in her magnificently revealing attire.&nbsp; He rather doubted a knight of any sex would need help getting up into his truck—even in heels—but courtesy was a virtue he liked to cultivate.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And if he happened to steal a glance down her cleavage to her thighs as she was getting in...&nbsp; Well, a girl didn't dress like that if she didn't want him to look.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>12-04-2018, 23:11:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa (TheLaughingOne), Corrin (Nadir), Quinn (Sparrowhawke), Balthazar (Muse), Arwen (Eobelle)<br><hr><hr><br>Arwen bristled when Balthazar spoke to her. <br><br>"Sir" she said deliberately and forcefully.&nbsp; Not shouting, but deadly serious. "I am <em>Sir</em> Arwen, not Dame... never Dame.&nbsp; I am a knight, not a lady, and you would do well to remember that SIR Balthazar."&nbsp; She closed her eyes and took a breath, visibly calming down.&nbsp; After a few beats her Alexandrite eyes flashed open and gave Balthazar her best impression of someone who has forgiven him and moved on.&nbsp; "And thank you for the offer of a ride, that is right chivalrous of you, Sir Knight.&nbsp; Did you know that Chivalry comes from the word for horse in french?&nbsp; So you offering me a ride in your "steel horse" is literally chivalrous."<br><br>She didn't need or want to start a fight here, not in front of the Count; but gods damn it, the Troll managed to strike a nerve.&nbsp; She was relieved that they were leaving the watchful eye of the count, but a ride all the way back to McAlester with the blue giant was potentially more than she could bear.&nbsp; She stood wondering about this as the count said his farewells and steeled himself for the arduous task of clearing the park.&nbsp; <br><br>After she walked to the truck with the other knight, she paused and put her hand on his arm. "Sir Balthazar," she said with her best purr "I'm not sure this trip to the freehold requires both knights." She noticed him watching her form, so she milked that for all its worth as she spoke to him, leaning back against the truck and arching her back so that her pert breasts presented upward and showing off as much underboob as she could, her light top wavering in he wind and threatening to expose a pierced nipple, even though their shape was plainly visible through the thin fabric. "I think it would be better for you to go with the two pooka, as the workshop might be a place where danger lurks, while the freehold will have many knights and warriors.&nbsp; It befits your status as a member of house Beaumayn to be the vanguard against whatever darkness might lurk there.&nbsp; Don't worry about me, I can find my own ride to the freehold.&nbsp; Our compatriots need your..." she stood up from leaning on the truck and looked up at the massive weapon made for a massive person, "halberd at their side.&nbsp; They are still childlings, they need you."<br><br>At this point Arwen would have gladly given this man a blowjob or even a quick fuck for him to go to the workshop instead of court, but that was the nuclear option.&nbsp; She had resigned herself to that as soon as the laid eyes on Balthazar... that she would fuck all of them to get the recognition she wanted.&nbsp; But she wanted to wait for as long as she could, lest the value of her sexual currency drop from too much abundance.&nbsp; <br><br>"The Duchess also might be peeved if she saw both of her warriors at court." she piped up again after her brief pause "she should be certain that at least one of her knights was still in the field, protecting the motley". <br><br>Arwen silently cursed to herself because she had no idea how she was going to get back to McAlester, but she would take any indignity she had to in order to get to court on time and to make sure this oaf was on his way with the pooka.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>13-04-2018, 09:06:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> Brandon Patterson / Sir Balthazar Tori ap’ Beaumayn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> <br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> General<br><hr><hr><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Balthazar's brow furrowed at his fellow knight's response&nbsp; His left brow arched particularly high.&nbsp; He took a level breath.&nbsp; “I'll address you as you see fit, Sir Arwen.&nbsp; I would caution you about how you express that desire, though.&nbsp; I've known more than one knight who would interpret your speech to suggest that a knight is less a knight for being female, and thus must use a masculine title.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<em>Fascinating, there's a&nbsp; lot more to this woman than meets the eye.&nbsp; I don't yet know where to begin to start guessing.</em><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He nodded at her next suggestion.&nbsp; “I see the wisdom in your words, Sir Arwen.&nbsp; I'll join those investigating Lady Cala's workshop.&nbsp; Please text how I may contact you to the number on my card.&nbsp; I look forwards to our next meeting.”&nbsp; <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>13-04-2018, 10:08:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Rolling seduction by body language as per treasure (Appearance+Performance), Sex Appeal merit (-3 tn), focusing Leanhaun boon on target (-1 tn).<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Quinn (Sparrowhawke)<br><hr><hr><br>The Leanhaun sidhe smiled in triumph as the grump got into his vehicle, but her expression soon turned to a wide-eyed "Oh fuck, what have I done" expression.&nbsp; She just told her only ride to go on without her.&nbsp; Swiftly she marched over to Quinn, her face steeling as she came up with a plan.&nbsp; <br><br>"Balthazar is going with the dynamic duo to the workshop.&nbsp; Don't worry, I can hitch a ride right quick and follow you out to the freehold."&nbsp; She said to the sluagh, nodding to his sister before swiftly checking her out. "Just pull up and wait until I flag someone down". Vehicles were beginning to parade down highway 2 as people were informed that the park was closing.&nbsp; The walking traffic accident soon to happen strode purposefully over a small berm that separated the parking lot from the highway. Placing one foot on a knee high rock Arwen stuck her thumb out.&nbsp; She knew she could stop traffic on a bad day, but with her position, the breeze and her fucking curse someone would stop soon.&nbsp; Her eyes darted over to Quinn and his sister and panic set in.&nbsp; She didn't want to hold up the mission because of her short sightedness.&nbsp; When the next vehicle with a solitary driver passed, she focused the full might of her powers on them, holding her body in such a way to tell someone "I need you, I'm yours for the taking". She was not above using her charms or actual sex to get where she needed to go, in fact, she remembered that she liked this.&nbsp; The exhibitionist in her that made her nerves come alive woke up as the libertine in her smiled wolfishly.&nbsp; <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Seduction</div><div class="spoiler_body">If she can indeed use seduction here to clinch a quick ride.&nbsp; If not, she'll just present to goods and hope someone wants it enough to give her a ride.&nbsp; <br>(Appearance 7+Performance 3)=10 dice <br>Result: 3, 3, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 3, 2, 6 </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>13-04-2018, 10:52:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/MKHWbth.png)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> None<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Corrin<br><hr><hr><br>Lilisa grins wide at Corrin as he catches up, then listens to what he has to say, Woofs seeming to catch his mood bounces along beside Corrin trying to coax him into playing, she laughs and grins wide, "I KNOW!!! He is a giant furry shithead, every time i go 'yote he is all "Hurhurhur, look at me im huge and fluffy!" She dashes forward swatting the massive dogs tail sending him racing off down the road and looping around back at them.<br><br>Lilisa seems supremely unconcerned as the shaggy missile comes racing back, "Thankfully Tibby Mas dont really shed through the year, just like one... giant... fur..." her speech slows down as the dog closes, waiting until the last second to lunge forward at him, only to get showered with dirt as he turns and dodges to the side sending up giant clods of dirt to spray her before rocketing off to the bushes, "... volcano."<br><br>She coughs and sputters brushing herself off, "When that starts to happen we go for runnies in the part of town that contains a high percentage of assholes with pools." She charges to the vehicle and opens up the back pulling out a towel to brush herself off, pausing to look at the rest of the group, "... Crap.. did you get any of their phone numbers..?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>15-04-2018, 09:45:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> At the law office of Mr. Zilby.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Rick (marauder13)<br><hr><hr><br>Zilby raised an eyebrow and said, “Well, legal matters aren't fast. Not as a general rule. <em>However</em>, I can speed this through. It'll be twenty-four hours before I can finalize anything. Should something befall Harald, you suddenly having the same legal benefits as next-of-kin can look incredibly suspicious, so at least a twenty-four hour wait is prudent to protect the both of you. I'm aware of why you want all of this, mind, and we both know this particular matter will be rendered null after the matter of Calla is avenged, but human authorities can be...tricky.”<br><br>He read over the paper and said, “Yes, this looks fine. While there's a few nuances in language I will need to correct for USA-centric laws, this should hold up fine.” <br><br>He took a few notes with a black and gold pen on a yellow memo pad and said, “Authorities are unlikely to release autopsy information before twenty-four hours anyways, so the wait works to your benefit. Now, that being said, I'm glad you're here. I trust your judgement since it doesn't look as though you have tried to slip some sort of untoward legal trick on Harald, who, bless his heart, has no acumen for this sort of thing. I received a troubling letter from Calla not even a month ago, but I was barred to secrecy by her, though I do not wholly understand <em>why</em>. Well, 'letter' is being generous with the definition of what it is, I suppose. As she is gone, I am free from my oath, though I wish that I had not been freed from it under these circumstances. It was not an Autumn legal matter, you must understand, but something very personal to her, but I genuinely do not know what to make of it. Both her and Harald trust me greatly and often consult me for advice, but this was...different. Given her death, I wonder if you might be able to make more sense of this letter than I would. If you would like it, I will hand over a copy of it, though I shall retain the original for record-keeping purposes.”<br><br>He pushed his glasses up on his nose, as they were attempting to slide off due to their great weight. <br><br>“As for the whiskey and croissants? I made both. I find being a lawyer satisfying, but it doesn't exactly tap into the <em>spirit</em> of who I am, so to speak.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>marauder13</strong> on <strong>18-04-2018, 02:38:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/15/Richard_Lancaster_2.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Rick Lancaster (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963370#msg13963370)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ---<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> At the law office of Mr. Zilby.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong>&nbsp; Mr Zilby (NPC)<br><hr><hr><br>Rick listened while he nibbled on one of the croissants, something that most people would have thought a weird action taken by a Cap with regards to food. Like all well made objects and Fae appreciation, Rick wanted to make the delightful experience last. Had the food been more run of the mill, then he would have opened wide and dropped the lot in. But the food was putting him in a strangely good mood, given all that had happened in the previous few hours.<br><br>"Yeah, I know how rapidly things go in legal circles, generally speaking. So I knew there would be some time taken to work things out. As I said, I didn't want to sit around being bored shitless when I could be using the time more productively elsewhere.<br><br>"Thanks for the initial bit of feedback on the contract. It's good to know that I got most of it right, and it'll be a good lesson in what to look out for when I do anymore legal stuff for people. Hey, I hope you don't mind my asking your advise on how to do things properly, you know, be a mentor kind of thing. I am willing to pay you for your time, so I'm not leeching from you. But the sooner I can get myself able to do things by myself, the better I will feel."<br><br>Rick took a moment to try some of the whiskey. His eyes closed and his head went back before a loud swallow sent the amber fluid down his gullet. A long sigh was released, and Rick brought his head back upright, the grin shown was one only a Cap could give.<br><br>"Zibly... How much for a bottle of this? And where did you get it? And do you know of any other places that have great food like this? There are some good places to grab a bite or a meal, but I have not seen anything like this anywhere in my travels so far."<br><br><em>“Authorities are unlikely to release autopsy information before twenty-four hours anyways, so the wait works to your benefit. Now, that being said, I'm glad you're here. I trust your judgement since it doesn't look as though you have tried to slip some sort of untoward legal trick on Harald, who, bless his heart, has no acumen for this sort of thing. I received a troubling letter from Calla not even a month ago, but I was barred to secrecy by her, though I do not wholly understand </em>why<em>. Well, 'letter' is being generous with the definition of what it is, I suppose. As she is gone, I am free from my oath, though I wish that I had not been freed from it under these circumstances. It was not an Autumn legal matter, you must understand, but something very personal to her, but I genuinely do not know what to make of it. Both her and Harald trust me greatly and often consult me for advice, but this was...different. Given her death, I wonder if you might be able to make more sense of this letter than I would. If you would like it, I will hand over a copy of it, though I shall retain the original for record-keeping purposes.”</em><br><br>"Sure, as long as the copy is a photocopy, or similarly rendered image of it, that will work fine. Since I'm here right now, care to share?"<br><br>Rick wondered about the glasses Zibly wore. Given the thickness of the lenses, his eyesight had to be pretty bad. The glass would probably stop a bullet, and the things must have weighed a ton. Rick didn;t even want to guess how many times the poor bugger pushed the damned things up his nose each day. Wasn't there anyone within the Duchy that could fix his eyesight? Maybe the grump didn't want it fixed, and wanted to 'suffer' through it.<br><br><em>“As for the whiskey and croissants? I made both. I find being a lawyer satisfying, but it doesn't exactly tap into the </em>spirit<em> of who I am, so to speak.”</em><br><br>Rick's jaw dropped and hung loose for a few seconds. He regained control, closing his mouth with an ominous clinking sound.<br><br>"You?! YOU made both of these?!! Fuck me. I hope your skills as a lawyer are even a tenth of those skills that helped you create these, because that would make you a fucking shot hot lawyer." Rick leaned forward, enthusiasm washing off him as the cup and plate were reverently placed on the desk. "How much for a bottle? If you don't have any, can I order one? I have not tasted anything like this, but I really, really want some more to enjoy at my own leisure. Is there anything else, food wise, that you like making?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>18-04-2018, 11:54:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Everyone<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn blinked at the mention of flowers, looking back at the lake. They could have gone to check it for themselves, but... They didn't want to get close to the lake again, especially as people had been dispersing already. They would just have to take Balthazar's word for it, and hope he had seen whatever needed to be seen. "<em>Yes, I would assume that would be the cause of it. They wouldn't grow under ice by themselves...</em>"<br><br>They followed the pair out to the truck, though made their way immediately over to Harley's side. It was a relief to see her safe, and it distracted them well enough that they didn't immediately notice Arwen turning down Balthazar's offer of a ride, nor did they see any of the tactics she used. Quinn hugged Harley before putting their helmet back on.<br><br>"<em>We need to head to the Aldridge Hotel</em>," they said to Harley, then looked over just in time to see Arwen approaching. They would have asked why she wasn't getting a ride with Balthazar, but she moved on too quickly. There was no hope in hell of Quinn being heard through the fabric covering their mouth <em>and</em> the helmet once she'd gotten even a few feet away, so they simply accepted it as part in parcel of being a Slaugh and slung their leg over Harley's bike. They would wait until Arwen got someone to take them, then they would head out for the freehold. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>19-04-2018, 23:00:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> McAlester Freehold / Aldridge Hotel<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! :)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Quinn (Sparrowhawke), Arwen (Eobelle)<br><hr><hr><br>Transportation was simple enough. For Quinn, Harley was ecstatic to be away from the state park, and she reported that the eerie noise, the singing, abated as soon as they were away from visual distance of the lake. Quinn had to give her directions to the Aldridge, however, as it wasn't the sort of place that Harley tended to go of her own accord.<br><br>Arwen, however, had a more...interesting...experience getting to the Freehold. She was hitchhiking, and surprisingly, it took her a little longer than usual to flash the goods and catch a ride. Of course, it did work, Arwen being as beautiful as she was, it was just a little surprising it wasn't quite as effective as usual. The person who stopped this time was a lovely looking woman with cropped red hair and a stern look to her--not a man! That was unusual for the area, and the woman confessed immediately that she had stopped not just because Arwen was so lovely, but because she'd been worried what might have happened to a female hitchhiker with men in this area. She obligingly took Arwen to the Freehold at the Aldridge, wondering why Arwen would want to go there, but not questioning it since it was hard to question anyone who <em>jiggled</em> so pleasingly. <br><br>Quinn and Arwen arrived at fairly close times to each other. The trip for both to McAlester was about half an hour's worth of time. As they both would know about the Freehold, technically only the 11th floor was the Freehold. To get to it, they would need to decide if they were going to enter the hotel and walk upstairs, seeing if the guard would allow them inside, or if they instead wanted to take the elevator and input the number code in it that would permit the elevator to actually arrive on the 11th floor, since it could not arrive on the 11th floor without the inputted code, thanks to some interesting Changeling magic. The code was 4-7-2-8, as both of them would be aware. <br><br>There were a few people going in and out of the Hotel; it looked as though the Freehold was busy today.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>19-04-2018, 23:08:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> At the workshop of Lady Calla.<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! :) [Fix'd typo on 05/13/2018]<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa (TLO), Corrin (Nadir), Balthazar (Muse)<br><hr><hr><br>Lilisa and Corrin opted instead to visit Calla's workshop, which actually ended up being in a backwater just outside of McAlester in a place called 'Krebs,' which looked like civilization had just given up in the face of all those damn trees. The only real 'modern' thing about Krebs seemed to to be the massive highway running through it, but it looked like almost an afterthought, as if people had realized they needed a highway so lo and behold, there one was.<br><br>Krebs was so close to McAlester as to be next to it, practically, yet it was a wholly different place. A turn off on a dirt road led to a beautiful looking house squirreled away. It was a beautiful looking log cabin, yet it had been built up until it was a two-story palace. It was all dark wood, reasonably new, and that was a sign that Calla had invested some serious money simply to have the place built: the sidhe's personal creative hideaway, conveniently not that far from the Freehold if she was inclined to drive, yet out of the way enough amid a forest of emerald trees to keep her in touch with the beauty of her Changeling nature.<br><br>There was a thick aura of hope and mystery about the place. No cars were parked in the driveway. Harald had provided a key to the residence; it was very likely that Calla's actual forge was either in the basement or out in the backyard.<br><br>The wind picked up a bit upon their arrival. Balthazar, driving behind them, arrived at the same time as Lilisa and Corrin, and the spacious area left plenty of room to park. <br><br>The smithy looked as though someone had been here recently--Harald, possibly, but it was hard to say...<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Lilisa, Corrin, Balthazar</div><div class="spoiler_body">Perception + Alertness at diff 6</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>19-04-2018, 23:21:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> At the law office of Mr. Zilby.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Rick (marauder13)<br><hr><hr><br>The Boggan looked absolutely complimented that Richard would want his advice and said, "Well, certainly I'd be open to that. I do charge hourly, mind you, but since this is by far more of an offer of study and academics, call it a quarter my usual hourly fee. So fifty USD an hour, which I can assure you is exceedingly generous on my part, as I'm taking a quarter of my cheapest hourly fee available as calculation. Normally I'd be happy to help another Changeling for free, but time is money, and I am often scarce on time."<br><br>He smiled at the compliment about the croissants and whiskey, saying in absolute delight, "You know what? I'll let you have a bottle of whiskey for free, provided you promise you or someone else will drink it and use it for no other purpose. I can't stand the idea of my whiskey being used in any way except for its intended purpose. And oh yes, I am just as good a lawyer as I am a baker and spirit-maker." <br><br>He adjusted his glasses for a moment, taking them off and wiping them down, before putting them back on.<br><br>"Now, to the matter of the, uh, letter."<br><br>He pulled out a photocopy and handed it to Richard. It was in the elegant scrawl of someone who had clearly written it in some sort of hurry. It looked...unfinished, as if the writer had been interrupted at the end.<br><br><div align="center"><span style="font-family: verdana;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">They sing from shadowed waters<br>and in those shallows the starry eyes<br>drink deep of soft sweet Sidhe cries.<br>Court of Sable, ice-bound siren!<br>Deadly acumen in the Duchess's environ.<br>Ache of iron in dreams long past...<br>An axe to answer--<br></span></span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>20-04-2018, 02:42:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Arwen<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn had to give directions to get there, which mostly consisted of them tapping Harley on either arm as they went. It was hard enough for a normal person to yell over the sound of wind and traffic, it was simply impossible for a Slaugh, so they'd devised other methods of getting directions through. When they pulled up at the hotel, Quinn slipped off the bike and pulled off the helmet again, readjusting their clothes so it still hid their face. <br><br>"<em>You should go and get lunch or something, I don't know how long I'll be and you've already been waiting for ages.</em>"<br><br>Harley gave them a slightly sarcastic grin. "So <em>kind,</em> it's alright, I know when I'm not wanted."<br><br>Quinn started to protest, but Harley waved them off, grinning even more. "I know, I know, not your fault. You got rules to follow. I'm gonna go stuff my face with the biggest burger I can find."<br><br>Quinn relaxed a little, then hugged her again before watching her head off. They could text her again when all this was done with. For now, though, they waited for Arwen to arrive at the hotel.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>20-04-2018, 19:12:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div> <br><strong>Name:</strong>Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963560#msg13963560)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong>1st January 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong>----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong>Clothing Change<br><strong>Tagging: </strong>Quinn <br><hr><hr><br>Kayla, her chauffeur for the day, was just a delight.&nbsp; Within a few minutes of getting into the car they were laughing about anything and everything, as Arwen simply enjoyed her company.&nbsp; It was so rare that she could get a ride from a woman, where she didn't have to endure pawing hands or embarrassing or awkward pick up attempts; not that she would have minded at all.&nbsp; If Arwen had the time, she would have suggested they go back to Kayla's place for some evening entertainment, or at least drinks and more conversation.&nbsp; The time blew by, and before Arwen knew it, they were at the hotel.<br><br>Her heart fluttered in her chest as the Sidhe stepped out of the vehicle, grabbing her sword. "If you are ever around here again, ask for me.&nbsp; I'm at this hotel quite a bit, and I'd love to see you again." She said to the red-head, blowing a kiss and shutting the door.<br><br>Arwen strode with purpose to the Hotel McAlester, and as she did so, her outfit shifted.&nbsp; Her top and skirt seemed to unroll into near invisible illusion mesh, resplendent with silver lace and an appliqué that resembled an eastern dragon wrapping itself around her to guard her modesty as best a serpent could manage.&nbsp; To chimerical eyes the illusion lace was wholly invisible, and the gossamer dragon seemed to write and twist around her floating in the air, some times looking at the viewer, sometimes gazing around as if a vigilant sentinel. Her lingerie situation stayed the same as it was before... i.e. not.&nbsp; Sensible black boots melted away to silver sandal stiletto pumps blinking with crystals to match that she walked on as easily as if they were sneakers.&nbsp; The pouch on her waist came off and melted away into nothing, her phone, cards and the money clip that contained her I.D. and her life savings staying her her hand.<br><br>Quinn was relatively easy to find outside the Hotel, and Arwen looked fondly at them.&nbsp; <br><br>"Well met" she said, feeling a shade traditional at the moment. "Can you do something for me quickly before we get in?&nbsp; I... um.. don't really have pockets in this thing" she said sheepishly, gesturing to her "new" fancy dress "could you hold this phone for me?" holding out her out of power and deactivated Nokia brick phone.&nbsp; Looking at the cards she paused for a moment "oh and can you text Rick at this number and tell him that we are at the Hotel?" she held the card up for them to see. "He could probably use that information, especially if he finds anything important".&nbsp; Either way, if Quinn couldn't accept her phone it was not coming with her.&nbsp; She would not be caught dead clutching a phone reserved for the desperately poor and homeless.&nbsp; &nbsp;Her clip with the money and cards went under the dress to be attached to a slim silver garter also in the style of a serpent that appeared under her dress as the hem rose ever so slightly to compensate.<br><br>"Lets begin, shall we?" she said to her charming companion, taking their arm in hers with her sword in the other.&nbsp; Head held high, she strode to the guard to be announced and walk up into the freehold.&nbsp; There was no time like the present, and the Duchess was waiting.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">clothing example</div><div class="spoiler_body">Her dress looks something like this (https://i.imgur.com/GxjGQDH.jpg) </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>23-04-2018, 23:29:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa, Balthazar<br><hr><hr><br>Corrin laughed at the massive dog’s antics and freely shared the details he had gotten from the others with Lilisa for the cost of her own contact details. It wasn’t everyone, Rick had left too fast, but it was good enough for now. He hoped the Redcap would get in touch so that Corrin could look at the items he would recover from the police, but the loud warrior hadn’t responded to his request though Corrin had spoke directly to him. <br><br>He put it from his mind and watched the drama of the sidhe getting offended, and offered the large built author a shrug before getting into Lilisa’s car. They made their way to the workshop, and breathed a soft “<em>Oh!</em>” of wonder at the mystical aura that saturated the area. He glanced briefly at Lilsa before he lifted his brow and got out to look around.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">roll=5 succ</div><div class="spoiler_body">Roll Result: Corrin rolled: 8d10<br>First Target Number: 6<br>Comment: Looking about perception4 alertness4 diff6<br>Result: 3, 9, 7, 6, 6, 8, 3, 4, <br>For: 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 0, 0, 0, </div></div> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>24-04-2018, 03:55:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/MKHWbth.png)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Alertness/Perception roll!<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Corrin, Balthazar<br><hr><br>Giving a sharp whistle as she opened the back of the truck she waited as Woofs pounded back to the truck, settling by the gate and waiting until she knelled down and hefted the dog up into the back settling him in a large travel crate which he shuffled about in, only darting back out to snag an old worn out plush bunny to snuggle up with as she closed the back and moved to the front and opened a door for Corrin before climbing into the drivers seat, the inside of the truck massive as the outside, like its scaled for a giant troll rather then the pooka, or even her dog! She shuffles the great ax into a gunrack in the back and settles in, the seats old and comfortable, but not worn out as she settles in, checking mirrors, belts, and everything before starting up and rolling out, radio playing a wide rang of music from Classical opera, Techno opera, Technogrunge opera, to just about everything else... Except country or R&amp;B.<br><br>She makes small talk along the way, anecdotal and entertaining, but not distracting, going silent as they pull into the lot, excitement growing visible on her, to be able to see the shop of someone like the Countess... Just... WOW! Granted, it would be so much better if she had been still alive... She climbs out and looks around as she opens the back to let Woofs out, helping him down and turning him to look directly at her, "Llygaid Agor." The massive beast snapping to attention and watching the surroundings carefully. <br><br>"Lets check the outside first... Keep yer ears.." She pulls her great axe from the truck now using it as its mortal Seem, a long native american walking stick, to keep it at ready...<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header"> 4 successes!</div><div class="spoiler_body">Lilisa (uid: 60096) rolls: 4d10 tn1: 6 Result: 4 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=118084)<br>Full Result: Lilisa rolled: 4d10<br>First Target Number: 6<br>Comment:<br>Result: 8, 6, 7, 10,<br>For: 1, 1, 1, 1,<br>Total: 4<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>30-04-2018, 13:46:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Arwen - <strong>Text is directed at Rick</strong> - NPCs (Blythe)<br><hr><hr><br>It didn't take too long for Arwen to arrive, and Quinn stood up from leaning against the wall as she approached. Their eyes glanced briefly down as Arwen gestured towards her dress, though they seemed devoid of a reaction to it, either negative or positive. "<em>I can hold it,</em>" they said, looking down at the phone that was offered. It was dreadfully old, but then again, it was one of the kinds that would probably still outlive most humans even in this decade if it was looked after. Maybe even if it <em>wasn't</em> looked after.<br><br>On the bright side, their polar opposite clothing meant that Quinn had plenty of pockets, almost too many, if you believed such a thing existed. The phone went into one of them, then theirs was pulled out to text Rick.<br><br><div align="center"><span style="font-family: courier;" class="bbc_font">This is Quinn.<br>Me and Arwen are meeting the Duchess.<br>The rest are at the workshop.</span></div><br>They added the last line in almost as an afterthought, made sense to let him know where the rest of the group were, after all. They were then taken a little by surprise as Arwen wrapped her arm around theirs, leading them towards the hotel. Unusual for them, most of the physical contact they got was from their sister, but nothing to panic about. Few people could hold onto a Sluagh that didn't want to be held onto. Redcap teeth might manage it, but an arm? Probably not.<br><br>They allowed themselves to be led upwards into the hotel, and to the Freehold proper. Only a <em>little</em> nervous that they would need to speak with the Duchess. More nervous about the topic of the conversation in general.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>13-05-2018, 21:28:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> At the workshop of Lady Calla.<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! :) [Muse, you may still roll for Balthazar if you like, though it'll take place after the other rolls]<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa (TLO), Corrin (Nadir), Balthazar (Muse)<br><hr><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Check Results: Lilisa [TheLaughingOne} &amp; Corrin (Nadir)</div><div class="spoiler_body">Someone else <em>clearly</em> was here who was neither Calla or Harald. Why? The front door has certain marks around the lock, implying the door was forced open, but whoever did it tried to cover it up when they left, to a point where they tried to fix the lock and put it back.&nbsp; There are footprints in certain areas of wetter mud that indicate whoever was present headed to the backyard, though these prints are faint, as if whoever was here had a very light step....<br><br><strong>More importantly, there are no footprints indicating this intruder has actually left the area! They may still be here in hiding on the property!</strong><br></div></div><br><br>Checking around the residence revealed little at first--the driveway looked relatively clear, though touching the front door revealed the key to the front door, at least, wasn't necessary, though it was likely the basement would also require the same key.<br><br>The backyard revealed, upon inspection, a full forge set up. The trees had been trimmed to keep them clear of the area, but a wooden pavilion of the same dark wood the cabin was made of had been set up with an anvil, oven, and several barrels of water. All around the pavilion were little inscribed runes, embedded pieces of onyx, amethyst, and jade in the wood, and the occasional burn mark, though the image it created was one of a place well-used and occupied often. It was clear that Calla had spent a lot of dangerous time at the forge itself; the anvil held a lot of dings and dents. However, none of her weapons, treasures, or tools were otherwise present; it was likely they were locked up somewhere else, which was sensible. <br><br>The pavilion had a certain beauty to it, a certain magical feeling; it was clear from any observer's intuition that this had once been a joyous place, a place Calla had let the true glory of creation, glamour, and change come to life. That feeling hadn't left. This place was still a place of power.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>13-05-2018, 21:40:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> McAlester Freehold / Aldridge Hotel<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! :)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Quinn (Sparrowhawke), Arwen (Eobelle)<br><hr><hr>The two had taken the stairs upon striding into the freehold, and the guard at the top of the stairs at the 11th floor gave them a quizzical look. He was clearly a Sidhe, standing tall and fair. His hair fell in red ringlets down tos his shoulders, and his eyes were a vivid green. Some might have thought him an especially pretty Claurichaun if not for his elegant looking ears and noble demeanor. His 'mortal' look was that of a fierce red-headed man of muscular build, tall, and wearing plain dark clothes. His Seeming was that of a noble and fair knight, all in shimmering black armor, helm included, with the Beaumayn colors upon his tabard. He looked at them for a moment and said, with great amusement, recognizing them as Kithain, though he'd not met them, "Ah, visitors? Your business here today, might I ask? I am Sir Geoffrey of House Beaumayn, and guarding the entryway to the Freehold is the new position granted by Duchess Cox." <br><br>It was clear he wasn't going to bar them from the Freehold; he was just doing his job and making sure they were both there for the right reasons, just in case someone asked him later. His face colored briefly upon looking at Arwen. It was clear he had absolutely no idea where to put his face, even as redness overtook his cheeks to a point where they nearly matched his hair. <br><br>He very slowly put down the visor of his helm to hide his shyness and directed his gaze at Quinn. He wasn't trying to ignore Arwen; he just wanted to ensure he was appropriately chivalrous, and Quinn didn't conflict him quite so much, so he cast his gaze on them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>14-05-2018, 21:44:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/MKHWbth.png)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Woofs: Quiet Alert <div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Blythe Note:</div><div class="spoiler_body">Woofs will keep watch and if detects someone lurking with make quiet chuffing noises, not full on Bark, and only attack if other party goes hostile first.. Or lilisa attacks/gives command.</div></div><br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Corrin, Balthazar<br><hr><br>Lilisa pauses as she checks the area carefully, not leaning in or overtly examining the lock and plate, but to a worksgirl the scratches and attempted on the lock standing out to her.. She reaches out and ruffles Woofs ears, making a quiet rumble before both of their ears stand up straight and their tails stick out straight behind them making little twitches and ticks, though Woofs mane bunches up around his back as he wanders the yard sniffing about. She looks to Corrin, eyes gesturing to the lock, ears flattening to the sides before perking up straight again, tail wagging around back and forth before returning to how she was. Then looking to Balthazar she gives a little huff, not sure of how to explain to him.. Poor thing, sure he got the horns, but didnt get anything else worth a dang in communication like a proper set of ears or a tail..<br><br>She makes her way towards the back, giving a little gasp as she sees the Pavilion, seeming to loose herself a moment as she scampers over, reaching out gingerly brushing her fingers over all the work ever so softly, looking in at all the details, scrapes, dings, burns, and everything, looking just like a car fanatic finding a completely authentic old car in perfect condition or something. Her shoulders seem to droop with her ears and tail, a little bit of moisture welling up at her eyes as it sinks in, and she places her hand gingerly on the anvil and benches, almost like someone offering comfort to a person who just lost someone dear to them...<br><br>It lasts a moment... But then she sort of... Shifts. Not shape or form, but demeanor, ears and tail straighten out and bristle, eyes flash hot gold, and her lips curl back for a moment showing off those White Sharp teeth, all for a very brief half second before she settles out and smiles to the others, "Lets take a moment to check out here before looking inside."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>17-05-2018, 20:44:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div> <br><strong>Name:</strong>Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963560#msg13963560)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong>1st January 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong>----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong><br><strong>Tagging: </strong>Quinn (Sparrowhawk)<br><hr><hr><br>Arwen ascended the stairs as if she were floating on a cloud, mentally smirking at the sidhe's turning as red as his hair.&nbsp; <br><br>"They all start that way, pretending to be shocked" she thought to herself as the sentinel placed his attention on her more than fully clothed opposite number.&nbsp; She ran her hand through her hair, giving her the chance to shake her head back and forth, calling attention to herself from the Beaumayn warden.&nbsp; "I am Sir Arwen of House Leanhaun, and my companion here is Quinn." She gave the Beaumayn a salute with her sword, the martial gesture at odds with her gossamer gown.&nbsp; It never hurt to butter up someone of the Duchess' house, especially a fellow knight. Who knows when they might be fighting together. "We have an urgent message for the Duchess, do you know where we can find her at this time?"<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">sword check?</div><div class="spoiler_body">I don't know if she can take her chimerical sword with her into the court, is there a sword check or something like that? </div></div>&nbsp; <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>20-05-2018, 12:07:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Arwen, NPCs (Blythe)<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn let Arwen speak first, she was actually titled after all. And well, a Slaugh rarely felt the need to be the first one to speak in any case. They let her introduce them, then ask where the duchess might be found. They decided to pipe up a moment later with added information.<br><br>"<em>We have recently met with Count Harald, he said he would send word ahead.</em>" Though Quinn certainly would have forgiven him if they found he hadn't gotten around to that just yet. The man would be having a busy and distraught day, and neither of those lent well to focus. They didn't expect to be turned away from the freehold in any case. What they knew of Duchess Cox didn't suggest they would be turned away, especially since she had been the one to send them on this mission in the first place.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>21-05-2018, 18:21:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa, Balthazar<br><hr><hr><br>Corrin tensed as he saw signs of an intruder, saw that Lilisa too had noticed them thanks to her subtle gestures. He nodded at her then said quietly to the pair, “So overcautious, Lilsa. Sir the place is abandoned, you may rest easy.” He was trusting that the Troll knew they spoke in inversion, and hoping the one who lurked was slower on the uptake. He accented it with a quick touch to his own nosetip, drawing it forwards in an attempt to covertly pantomime a nose growing longer.<br><br>Then he turned his attention to the direction the tracks led, moving towards the backyard. He moved slow enough the others could join him, and would fall back a step to let Balthazar take point, knowing a knight would be better equipped to deal with anything aggressive that might be lurking...&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>31-05-2018, 01:48:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> McAlester Freehold / Aldridge Hotel<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! :)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Quinn (Sparrowhawke), Arwen (Eobelle)<br><hr><hr>The Knight,&nbsp; Sir Geoffrey, was courteous and honorable. To Arwen he said happily, focusing on her title, "Sir Arwen, you say? Well, one such as yourself surely would not tell a fib, and I will take you at your most honorable word that you have business as you say." To Quinn he said,&nbsp; "It is likely the Duchess got word but may not have had time to pass it to me. The Nunnehi are in Council with her today, but I think they should just be wrapping up. Helaku tends to vex her and make her forget things with his debating. Please, come in and be welcome to the Freehold, and I'll have someone escort you to the Duchess's chamber where the Council chose to meet today."<br><br>Most Kithain held more formal courts, had something more of pomp and circumstance. Gabriela was...different. She was a troll and more practically-minded, even though she was part of the nobility. It was a large reason why she was generally accepted in a place like the Duchy of Storms, which had...issues...with any type of government, whether it was that of the Autumn People or the Kithain. <br><br>And Quinn and Arwen found themselves on the 11th floor, the market freehold, full of 'rooms' that were more like stalls, the Beaumayn colors in prominence. A number of Kithain and Nunnehi were in evidence--a surprising amount of Trolls and Nanehi (not to be confused with the Nunnehi, which was a more general term) were in evidence. Changeling looks flew freely in the Freehold, free to be themselves, free to be a magical and special place. And special it was; market vendors were there in abundance selling treasures, selling helpful little magical ingredients here or there, selling tomes, sometimes just selling stories or information.<br><br>But one booth that thye passed, as Sir Geoffrey directed them to the Squire Knobley, who was the smallest sidhe anyone had ever seen but no less pretty despire only being five foot high in his pretty silver armor, who led them through the market towards the 'main' court. The empty booth had but a single tabard on it. There was writing on it in such beautiful calligraphy it was hard to remember it was guaranteed to be hand-done and not computer-made:<br><br><div align="center"><strong>" ~ Calla's Creations ~ "</strong></div><br>Flowers had been placed on the booth in that 'room.' Little trinkets, little pieces of things Calla had given to others, all coming home in the place where she'd helped others. No one was seen actually <em>at</em> the booth, and Squire Knobley, with his bright blond hair and green eyes, said sadly, "Word gets around quick. The Duchess made an announcement earlier. Calla was a quiet one, but her work spoke for her. She sold to a lot of people. Not that the shop was open much, her being a noble, but still. <em>A lot</em> of people will be lesser for her loss. We hope her brother will come immortalize her in story or song, maybe hire an Eshu to do such a thing."<br><br>Knobley led them past a large open space, and beyond that...a door at the end of the 'hall.' This was the Duchess's room. The sound of loud talking could be heard within.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Quinn &amp; Arwen</div><div class="spoiler_body">Make a Perception + Alertness check at diff 7</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>31-05-2018, 01:55:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> At the workshop of Lady Calla.<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! <strong>COMBAT</strong>.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa (TLO), Corrin (Nadir), Balthazar (Muse)<br><hr><hr><br>There was the softest noise, a growl almost. And then something moved, something lunged, bursting forth from a hidden spot in the trees! It's skin was a sallow green-blue, it's eyes nothing like that of a human, it's teeth sharp and terrifying, as if it belonged in the depths of deep waters and not in the forested place in this out-of-the-way forest!<br><br>It was disgusting. It had blood on its hands. It clearly wanted one thing and one thing only: the deaths of every single one of the Kithain who were present.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Lilisa, Corrin, and Balthazar!</div><div class="spoiler_body">Give me initiative, please! Post your initiative roll &amp; result in a spoiler in this thread. I'll call for action declarations once I have everyone's initiative rolls!</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>31-05-2018, 02:00:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa, Balthazar<br><hr><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">initiative roll=10</div><div class="spoiler_body">Roll Result: Corrin rolled: 1d10, adding 4 to the total<br>Comment: Corrin initiative roll wits1 dexterity3<br>Result: 6, <br>Total: 10</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>31-05-2018, 02:31:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Arwen, NPCs (Blythe)<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn nodded once in response to Geoffrey's words, it was easier to use physical gestures than struggle to be heard whenever it was possible. They followed behind him as they were led into the freehold. It was busy and colorful inside, and <em>loud</em>, at least for a Sluagh. But then, most any gathering was loud for their kind. It was uncomfortable, but something Quinn was used to. Harley refused to let them burrow into themselves and hide in the quieter areas. At least, she stopped them from doing it <em>all the time</em>, so Quinn was better accustomed to it than some others might be. Quinn's chimerical spider slowly crawled out from within their clothing soon after they entered, taking up its usual space on their shoulder. It wasn't as if it needed to hide outside of the freehold, of course, it couldn't be seen by humans anyway, but it still often did.<br><br>There was a hint of sadness in their eyes as they approached Calla's booth. There was nothing good about the loss of one of their own, and it was clear that many here had reason to mourn her passing. Still, there was something comforting in seeing all the little trinkets left behind, she wouldn't be forgotten. Quinn might have left something as well, but they had nothing on them to give, nor did they really know her. But perhaps their offering could be finding the truth of what had happened.<br><br>They were led further in, up to the door where the Duchess was meeting with the Nunnehi, the sounds of the conversation drifting through the door. Quinn's natural curiosity, won out over curiosity, it was hard to keep a Sluagh from trying to collect information from their surroundings, it was almost second nature. So, of course, they tried to find out if they could actually understand what was coming through the door - though at least not going so far as to blatantly press their ear up against the door. That sort of thing was probably frowned upon.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Perception</div><div class="spoiler_body">Comment: Perception - Per 4 + alertness 2 (Difficulty 6 because of Birthright)<br>Result: 2, 3, 10, 3, 1, 10 - <strong>1 success</strong></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>31-05-2018, 04:17:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/MKHWbth.png)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Combat!<br><br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Corrin, Balthazar<br><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Lilisa Initiative</div><div class="spoiler_body">TheLaughingOne (uid: 60096) rolls: 1d10a6 Result: 9 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=120553)</div></div><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Woofs Initiative</div><div class="spoiler_body">TheLaughingOne (uid: 60096) rolls: 1d10a6 Result: 8 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=120554)</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>02-06-2018, 19:19:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div> <br><strong>Name:</strong>Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963560#msg13963560)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong>1st January 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong>----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong><br><strong>Tagging: </strong>Quinn (Sparrowhawk)<br><hr><hr><br>Arwen was in heaven.&nbsp; She loved this part of the freehold, with its striking colors, abundant chimerical wonder and gay revelers. She almost skipped as she entered, following the still bashful knight.&nbsp; A pretty satyr passed by and Arwen did a little pirouette to watch her go, then an evil looking Boggan caught her fancy until a table of crystalline treasure that glinted with a thousand colors no mortal had ever seen caught her attention.&nbsp; She laughed to herself as she skipped to keep up with her two companions.<br><br>But her bubbly demeanor was murdered with cold iron when they reached the Countess' stall.&nbsp; There was the reminder that this was not a pleasure trip... it was deadly serious.&nbsp; There was at least one murderer out there, and her companion knew something that could save unknown numbers of lives.&nbsp; She was back on guard then, as the Squire Knobly accepted them from their Red-headed sidhe guardian.&nbsp; <br><br>The little sidhe was just tall enough that his eyes were directly in line with her pierced nipples; which were starkly visible in her dress' invisible illusion mesh where the lace appliques sifted out of the way.&nbsp; She would normally have enjoyed watching his response to her dress, but her mind was far away, back to a cold lake where a noble woman slept forever.&nbsp; As they approached the door, her attention was called to the fore by noises behind the wall.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">perception</div><div class="spoiler_body">Perception+alertness = 5 Result: 3, 6, 10, 10, 4.&nbsp; 2 successes</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>02-06-2018, 23:33:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> McAlester Freehold / Aldridge Hotel<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! :)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Quinn (Sparrowhawke), Arwen (Eobelle)<br><hr><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Quinn only</div><div class="spoiler_body">Quinn hears a few scattered words, but the dialogue between the Duchess and one person sounds heated.<br><br>The Duchess can clearly be heard saying, "I am <em>not </em>going to go over this with you <em>again</em>. The Nunnehi, <em>all </em>of them, <em>even you</em>, stay away from Lake Carlton until this is done."</div></div><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Arwen only</div><div class="spoiler_body">Quinn hears a few scattered words, but the dialogue between the Duchess and one person sounds heated.<br><br>The Duchess can clearly be heard saying, "I am <em>not </em>going to go over this with you <em>again</em>. The Nunnehi, <em>all </em>of them, <em>even you</em>, stay away from Lake Carlton until this is done."<br><br>Arwen heard a handsome cultured male voice reply back, "You act as if Calla was the <em>first </em>casualty. I came to you about this last year, on New Year's Day, but because the one who died was in less than good standing in the Duchy, you assumed it was some Kithain plot against him. Well, we aren't going to trust you to handle this for us. I know you sent out word for a group of Kithain to help, but you keep them<em> away</em> from me. I have my own investigation to finish."</div></div><br><br>It was clear the dialogue wasn't done. Knobley looked uncomfortable, not having heard anything specific but only hearing some louder noises, saying, "Should...should I knock and announce you, maybe?"<br><br>It was clear that he wouldn't do it unless Quinn and Arwen wanted him to, meaning that if they wanted to listen more, they potentially could...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>06-06-2018, 03:51:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div> <br><strong>Name:</strong>Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963560#msg13963560)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong>1st January 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong>----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong><br><strong>Tagging: </strong>Quinn (Sparrowhawk)<br><hr><hr><br>Arwen raised a toned arm to signal the small statured squire to stop. "There is no need to interrupt an impassioned discussion.&nbsp; I can't make it out, but I think I can hear the Duchess' voice in there, and by her tone she doesn't sound pleased.&nbsp; Let them have their say, and when things have died down, they can receive ours."&nbsp; She nodded sagely at Quinn, figuring that he was hearing even more than she was and would want to hear more of this before that walked in.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>07-06-2018, 10:37:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Arwen, NPCs (Blythe)<br><hr><hr><br>What they heard really wasn't much to go on, but it was enough to let them know that the act of staying away from the lake was a source of contention. They had no idea why the Nunehhi would want to be near it, perhaps they would change their minds if they were given more information, the information that Quinn had... But Quinn wasn't the kind to go barging into meetings, and when Arwen suggested they wait, they decided that was probably for the best.<br><br>"<em>It doesn't sound like the sort of conversation we want to interrupt.</em>" <br><br>They did still try to listen, but they didn't like their chances of hearing much else unless they raised their voices inside again. Quinn had only heard the Duchess's words because she'd gotten a little louder, after all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>14-06-2018, 23:11:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> At the workshop of Lady Calla.<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! <strong>COMBAT</strong>.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa (TLO), Corrin (Nadir). Balthazar (Muse) [Muse, post in the OOC when you are ready to rejoin! Until then, Balthazar will not be in the initiative order)<br><hr><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Initiative order</div><div class="spoiler_body"><strong>Corrin:</strong> 10<br><br><strong>Lilisa:</strong> 9<br><br><strong>Woofs: </strong>8<br><br><strong>Enemy:</strong> 6<br></div></div><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Action Declaration</div><div class="spoiler_body">We'll be doing this in order, from lowest to highest, as it is mentioned in the book. Please post in the order I'm prompting.<br><br><strong>Enemy:</strong> The enemy is going to attack Lilisa with a standard unarmed attack.<br><br><strong>Woofs:</strong> Will undertake whatever order Lilisa gives him, but if Lilisa does not give him an order, he will attack the enemy with a strong bite.<br><br><strong>TheLaughingOne:</strong> Please declare your action for Lilisa! Remember to have her give an order to Woofs in addition to whatever she is currently going to do.<br><br><strong>Nadir:</strong> Once TLO makes his post, please declare Corrin's action!<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>14-06-2018, 23:21:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> McAlester Freehold / Aldridge Hotel<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! :)<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Quinn (Sparrowhawke), Arwen (Eobelle)<br><hr><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Quinn only</div><div class="spoiler_body">Quinn is unable to hear any more dialogue.</div></div><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Arwen only</div><div class="spoiler_body">Arwen catches a tiny tail-end further of the conversation!<br><br><hr><br>There was clearly some chatter between the last element Arwen heard and what she heard next, so there were gaps, but she made it out again when the Duchess raised her voice.<br><br>"Helaku, I am not your <em>enemy.</em>"<br><br>And the male voice, presumably named Helaku, said, "Not intentionally, Duchess, but Kithain society is not something my people are even usually part of! What care do I have for how <em>you</em> want to resolve things? The first casualty and Calla are linked, and I--"<br><br>The Duchess said, upset, "You are blaming me for her choice to--"<br><br>"I'm not. I'm not! Who Calla chose to sleep with is her concern. This is not about base jealousy. It's not, Gabriela," he said insistently. There was the sound of footsteps approaching...<br></div></div><br><br>The door opened, and a rather hansome man emerged, obviously of Native American descent, but his mien was alarmingly attractive. He had slightly pointed ears and eyes that had an almost gem-like quality to them. Shocked to see people outside the door, he turned and said to the Duchess, who was clad in regal armor and her tabard, "You had people spying on me?"<br><br>The Duchess pinched the bridge of her nose and said, "<em>No.</em> I had another meeting; they were clearly waiting on us to get done. Helaku, we aren't going to have a good dialogue today. Shall we try again tomorrow/"<br><br>He grimaced and said, "Fine. Fine." And without introducing himself to the two Kihain or Knobley, he walked out. A few other Nunnehi walked out after him, though none stopped. The Duchess stood before them, clad in dark armor, her troll look apparent. Her skin was blue and smooth, minus a scar here and there, and her hair was bright red. It was quite the contrast to her mortal seeming, which had a blonde amazon sort of look. But one thing stayed the same in both forms: she was <em>built.</em> Years of combat and working out had clearly paid off. She was beautiful in a fierce sort of way, standing there in her House colors, looking annoyed.<br><br>"Well? Have you news to report?" she said to Quinn and Arwen. It was well known that the Duchess was a bit less on formalities than just about any other ruler. Either that...or she was stressed enough to not remember her good graces. But it was almost forgivable in a troll. Almost.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>TheLaughingOne</strong> on <strong>15-06-2018, 05:26:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/MKHWbth.png)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Lilisa Langly (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964021#msg13964021)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> --<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Combat! Lilisa Init:9, Woofs Init: 8<br><br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Corrin, Blythe<br><hr><br>Lilisa spins and twirls her axe in a fast blur, baring her teeth to meet her opponent with a snarl before barking out "CUDDLES!!" before bracing to sweep the attack away with her axe, Woofs giving a roaring growl charges in aiming for the attackers legs with jaws full of large nasty teeth...<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Declarations!</div><div class="spoiler_body">Lilisa take a full action Parry as her action! And as an aside, declaring she attempts to Count Coup with the Parry, as since she is armed and enemy is unarmed, if she gets more successes on her defense then they their attack, she does base weapon damage +1 for each success over! Just gotta remember her axe has difficulty 7 to use due to size... <br><br>Woofs will be going in for a bite on the legs, attempting sort of take down.. Just kinda get hold of leg, bite, and pullem down. Cant rhink of thats a manuver thing...</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>17-06-2018, 17:54:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa, GM<br><hr><hr><br>"Shit!" Corrin yelped as the <em>whatever it was</em> came into sight, feral and brimming with violence. There wasn't much time to think, but given the gore on the creature's hands it intended harm on them. This was exactly why he had wanted the Knight to go first, but the Troll seemed distracted and unready to defend himself or anyone else. <br><br>No matter. He had Lilisa to help him. He made a fist and swunk heavily at the thing.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Declaration</div><div class="spoiler_body">Corrin doing the Haymaker maneuver (pg 278) <br><br>question, what does the /b mean after the damage dice mean? </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eobelle</strong> on <strong>21-06-2018, 17:24:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/ERG0LH1.jpg)</div> <br><strong>Name:</strong>Arwen Deveroux ap Leanhaun (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963560#msg13963560)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong>1st January 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong>----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong><br><strong>Tagging: </strong>Quinn (Sparrowhawk)<br><hr><hr><br>Arwen strode into the room confidently, allowing her body to whisper poems of combat to any onlookers, like sharp steel in silk.&nbsp; Her sword was held in a reverse grip with the hilt pointing towards the ceiling... not an aggressive grip, but one that would allow her to bring her weapon to bear in a moment's notice.&nbsp; The Countess was grumpy to be sure, but this plain speaking was one of the reasons Arwen loved her... especially more than the triple talking mavens in Las Vegas.<br><br>"Yes, your Grace" Arwen replied when they had both entered the room and the door closed behind them.&nbsp; Arwen curtsied, a strange gesture from one who stylized herself a "sir", but it fit her look and dress for the moment.&nbsp; This was the first time Arwen had ever been alone... well, mostly alone, with her liege and she intended to be as memorable as possible.&nbsp; The "dress" swirled around her, allowing for movement that no mortal dress of that design would allow.&nbsp; Her alexandrite eyes stayed locked on the countess, a slight smile on her face, then looked down in deferance.<br><br>"My compatriot here has discovered something important, something for your ears only.&nbsp; I myself do not even know what they have discovered, such is the sensitivity of the information" Arwen motioned for Quinn to advance, and speak their peace to the frustrated troll.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Blythe</strong> on <strong>21-06-2018, 21:03:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> GM Post<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> At the workshop of Lady Calla.<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> Party split! Check the Tagging to see where your update is for your character! <strong>COMBAT</strong>.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa (TLO), Corrin (Nadir). Balthazar (Muse) [Muse, post in the OOC when you are ready to rejoin! Until then, Balthazar will not be in the initiative order)<br><hr><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Corrin</div><div class="spoiler_body">TLO answered the query in the OOC so I'll move to the dice rolly bits. ^^<br><br>Alrighty, Dexterity + Brawl at difficulty 7.<br><br>Please also roll damage dice at the same time, since this will save time. :)</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>marauder13</strong> on <strong>22-06-2018, 04:22:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/15/Richard_Lancaster_2.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Rick Lancaster (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963370#msg13963370)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ---<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> At the law office of Mr. Zilby.<br><strong>Tagging: </strong>&nbsp; Mr Zilby (NPC)<br><hr><hr><br>Rick's smile broadened impossibly wide at hearing that Zibly would mentor him, and that he was going to go low with his fee as well. Rick would have been happy to spot the full fee, so he was not going to argue, or even mention anything else on that front. He popped his hand forward to shake on the deal, on the oft chance that the Boggan changed his mind about the fee. The little side trip had delivered more treasure than he had expected, and he would not offend the Dreaming by taking it for granted. Knowing the ways around the legal system was just another weapon in his arsenal, one that few would even believe that someone like him would have. That aspect made all the fucking hard work he put in worth it, even if sitting and reading for hours at a time nearly drove him around the twist.<br><br><em>"You know what? I'll let you have a bottle of whiskey for free, provided you promise you or someone else will drink it and use it for no other purpose. I can't stand the idea of my whiskey being used in any way except for its intended purpose. And oh yes, I am just as good a lawyer as I am a baker and spirit-maker."</em> <br><br>"Oh, Mister Zibly, never have any fears of it having any other fate than being consumed and appreciated to the fullest. This is something that I am going to keep for myself to enjoy a dram at a time, praising your skills to the Dreaming and beyond. In return, my now good friend, if you need assistance with anything that you have neither the time, skills nor inclination to deal with, I will happily take care of it for you. With all the plausible deniability that you require."<br><br>Rick nodded in a manner that an executioner would when he swung his axe.<br><br><em>"Now, to the matter of the, uh, letter."</em><br><br>Rick sat straight, anticipation rolling off his body as he watched Zibly produce a sheet of paper. It took no time at all to tell that it was a photocopy, but the quality of the reproduction was excellent. If he ignored the few little spots that spoke of the truth that it was a copy, Rick would have sworn it was the real thing. What he noticed straight off was that the author was someone who was used to writing, and taking pride in their efforts. But it was also clear that the author was in a hurry to get their words down, and something caused them to stop before the message was complete. Whatever happened had caused them to stop and perhaps look at the source, rather than the source physically interrupting them, making them leave some ink to mar the rest of the message.<br><br>All Redcaps felt the deep gnawing cols of Winter within their souls, and by the time they got as old as Rick, they got used to the low level feel so much so that they could ignore it. But as the words were read, Rick felt the cold expand through his gut, amplifying the hunger inherit to his kind. Further, he would bet money on the feeling that the words were Dreaming driven, an omen of some kind to grant warnings to those wise enough to divine the meaning.<br><br>"I dunno about you, Zibly, but reading that sent not just a chill down my spine, but a fucking blizzard. I thought shit was bad from what I had seen, but now... now I feel like Ned Stark. Winter's coming, and its going to be bad."<br><br>Rick took one more pass over the words, shivered noticeably once more and turned his attention back to Zibly. "You fine with me taking this copy to show the rest of the motley? Oh, and that bottle, I'll grab that when I see you next, if that's fine with you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>23-06-2018, 23:15:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://40.media.tumblr.com/cb53d8644e7870ad8a7092e2fa6f07d6/tumblr_nd6zb1ubBk1qzx74yo1_1280.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Corrin Arwi (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13964542#msg13964542)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> 1st January, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> ----<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging: </strong> Lilisa, GM<br><hr><hr><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Roll=0succ</div><div class="spoiler_body">Roll Result: Corrin rolled: 5d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Comment: Corrin doin the haymaker<br>Result: 5, 5, 1, 9, 2, <br>For: 1, 0, 0, 0, 0, </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [C20] The Duchy of Storms [Chapter 1: They Sing from Shadowed Waters] [IC]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sparrowhawke</strong> on <strong>24-06-2018, 00:48:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.imgur.com/OCf3wPn.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> Quinn Rose (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=283758.msg13963265#msg13963265)<br><strong>Date/Time:</strong> January 1st, 2018<br><strong>Status:</strong> 6/7 WP<br><strong>Notes/Triggers:</strong> <br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Arwen, NPCs (Blythe)<br><hr><hr><br>Quinn remained silent as the door opened, revealing the Duchess and one of the Nunnehi. Their eyebrows raised a little at the suggestion that they were spying, but the Duchess herself was quick to step in, and Quinn felt the explanation was probably better left to her. After all, their curiosity <em>had</em> lead to them trying to listen in, though more out of reflex than a concentrated effort to spy. Either way, a Sluagh would probably be the one to accuse if it was happening, so Quinn wasn't particularly offended by it. <br><br>They moved out of the way as the Duchess' guests left, then gave her a low nod that was half a bow. They might have gone with more formality had she not seemed both impatient and already completely <em>done</em> with today. Quinn couldn't blame her.<br><br>They opened their mouth to speak, though it wasn't nearly so obvious with their face covered as it might be for others. Arwen got to it before them, however, reminding them that the information might be best to speak in private. They weren't quite sure it was as imperative as Arwen stated, it was clear others knew at least something of what was going on... But also it might be best not to start speaking of powerful Thallain that were murdering people somewhere people might hear it.<br><br>"<em>I have some information about what happened to Calla, and I have reason to think others have been victim to the same thing. Should we come inside?</em>"<br><br>They would leave it to the Duchess' discretion, if she just wanted them to spill the beans then they would.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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