Action, Adventure, Excitement, Part 3
                               Chapter 3

From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 1997 19:00:16 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/710

 As Three drow (Xzerrion, Log/Roscoe as a drow, and Fuzzy as Drow> and
a human step out from this secret door inside a wine keg (I'm assuming
the others were staying back as re-enforcements if needed or else are
still in the Keg), they find themselves face to face with a squad of
the Secret police. Four Skeletons in red and silver tabards kind of
rock back and forth, awaiting their orders. Three Orcs wearing the
tabards over scale and chain mail are turning over tables and knocking
holes in walls with hammers as two Drow scold their tactics but do
nothing to abait them.
 The drow look to be officers, wearing more uniform-like clothing,
again in the silver and red motief. One of them is restraining a small
creature that looks like a Mastif dog with an elephant's trunk. [It's
a Lanish. They can smell magic and once they attach their turnks to a
magic user or magic item, they can not be detatched until htey have
consumed all the magic. Items are destroyed, mages are killed.] Roscoe
sends as he looks over Xzerrion's left shoulder.
 The other Drow who wears a more elaborate uniform with the moon of
Misern embroidered on the breast in silver thread and three stars
below it studies the group with a cautious and suspicious eye, in his
hand by his leg, a small crossbow, cocked and loaded. "Who are you?
What are you doing in there? I want to see liscences right now or you
shall be executed on the spot. We detected the magic you were
performing here."
===========================
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 1997 19:30:55
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/711

At 07:00 PM 4/20/97 -0700, gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>(I'm assuming the others were staying back as re-enforcements if
>needed or else are still in the Keg)

<Hanging back but not too far. Ain't none of us too keen on being
trapped in that room :-).>

> The drow look to be officers, wearing more uniform-like clothing,
>again in the silver and red motief. One of them is restraining a
>small creature that looks like a Mastif dog with an elephant's trunk.
>[It's a Lanish. They can smell magic and once they attach their
>turnks to a magic user or magic item, they can not be detatched until
>htey have consumed all the magic. Items are destroyed, mages are
>killed.] Roscoe sends as he looks over Xzerrion's left shoulder.

Morgan sends on the open link <*Xzerrion, will your illusions hiding
our magic items fool those things?*>

> The other Drow who wears a more elaborate uniform with the moon of
>Misern embroidered on the breast in silver thread and three stars
>below it studies the group with a cautious and suspicious eye, in his
>hand by his leg, a small crossbow, cocked and loaded. "Who are you?
>What are you doing in there? I want to see liscences right now or you
>shall be executed on the spot. We detected the magic you were
>performing here."

<OOC: Now we find out how good those licenses the HGoToQ gave us are.>
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 00:33:54 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/712

On Sun, 20 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> Morgan sends on the open link <*Xzerrion, will your illusions hiding
> our magic items fool those things?*>

John cuts in on the link <*I REAlly don't think that will be a problem
right now. It'll have something much more nourishing to go after.*>

>> The other Drow who wears a more elaborate uniform with the moon of
Misern
>>embroidered on the breast in silver thread and three stars below it
>>studies the group with a cautious and suspicious eye, in his hand by
>>his leg, a small crossbow, cocked and loaded. "Who are you? What are
>>you doing in there? I want to see liscences right now or you shall
be
>>executed on the spot. We detected the magic you were performing
here."

OOC: I wish I could cut and paste!!! If it's not too much of a bother,
I step clear and the Lanish goes wild at about the same time Roscoe
sends his description. Then Morgan's response, Then mine, Then finally
the captains Asking for all our licenses, then him asking specifically
for mine. Sorry about this, but in written form it would flow smoother
that way, and that's how I think.

As John steps clear of the keg the Lanish goes wild, lunging and
straining even more than before. He takes a half-step backward,
surprise evident on his face. The Drow's crossbow moves slightly into
a position where a quick snap of the wrist will send a bolt through
John.

The Drow looks John over carefully, "You. Let me see your license."

John nods and starts checking pockets, affecting the manner a noble
who has been through this sort of thing before, is not worried by it,
and in fact finds the explanations involved tedious and boring. "Of
course. Terribly sorry about this. I get in one small, magical
accident and now I radiate the damn stuff. Sometimes it flares
slightly. Causes me no end of trouble. No one can figure out what it
is. Those I've consulted think it is either the grandfather of all
infection prevention spells, or a horrible, magical disease that is
eating me alive, causing me to die in excruciating pain in about 20
years. Or maybe both. But it's not infectious, no need to worry." The
Lanish lunges madly at him again, almost breaking free from it's
holders. "I say, could you hold on tighter to that thing? Ahh, here we
go." John hands his license over. "Note the bit about the disease. I
made them put it in to prevent myself from being drug off every time I
was stopped."

The Drow looks the liscense over very carefully, espescially the
footnote. He hands it back, being careful not to come into contact
with John, and eyes the group suspiciously, "Everything seems to be in
order on this. What about the rest of you?"

> <OOC: Now we find out how good those licenses the HGoToQ gave us
> are.>

<OOC: Well, mine passed, albiet in a slightly different form.>
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 1997 21:47:46 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: AAE3: moving on
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/713

On Sun, 20 Apr 1997, Michael Jon Knight wrote:
> "Ill keep an eye on Junior. Let's get this show on the road." To
> Junior, "I tend to travel fast, do you want to ride, or try to keep
> up on foot?"
 Junior looks up at Knytt, "A ride? Oh boy, Can I? Can I?" Without
even waiting for a response, Junior turns back into the little rat
known as Squee and is sitting on Knytt's shoulder. [Boy there's a lot
of cat hair here!]
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 00:42:50 -0400
From: Caprice <caprice@southeast.net>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/714

Caprice eyes the secret police with the silent distain that bodyguards
reserve for cops and other, lower life forms such as slugs. She
doesn't bother to produce a license, as there is no trace of magic to
her, or anything she is carrying.
===========================
Date: Sun, 20 Apr 1997 22:40:44
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/716

At 12:33 AM 4/21/97 -0400, Shadow wrote:
>As John steps clear of the keg the Lanish goes wild, lunging and
<snip>

Morgan still likes her original plan of appearing as inconsequential
as possible. Since the arm she had originally hung herself on had not
only detached from her but had become quite noticable, she quickly
searches for another.

Spotting Knytt and Squee, she casually drifts over to him and takes
his arm, adopting the most vapid expression she can manage. <*_Work_
with me, here, will ya? :-)*>

>> Morgan sends on the open link <*Xzerrion, will your illusions
>> hiding our magic items fool those things?*>
>
>John cuts in on the link <*I REAlly don't think that will be a
>problem right now. It'll have something much more nourishing to go
>after.*>

Morgan almost (but not quite <g>) drops the dumb-blonde[1] routine in
surprise. <*Hey! When did _he_ get on-line?*>

>The Drow looks the liscense over very carefully, espescially the
>footnote. He hands it back, being careful not to come into contact
>with John, and eyes the group suspiciously, "Everything seems to be
>in order on this. What about the rest of you?"

Morgan looks at Knytt and at Xzerrion, giving the impression that
she's not capable of an independent thought and is waiting to see what
everyone else does.

<BTW, many of us were armed, rather impressively. Is this being
covered by illusion also? I'd just like to know a) if I have my large
blades, and b) if _they_ know I have my large blades. ;-)>

Morgan  /|\
[1] No offence meant to anyone who happens to be blonde. I speak of
the stereotype, and in no way mean to imply that blonde=dumb. :-)
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 02:20:40 -0500
From: Michael Jon Knight <mjknight@smartnet.net>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/717

At 10:40 PM 4/20/97, Morgan wrote:
>Spotting Knytt and Squee, she casually drifts over to him and takes
>his arm, adopting the most vapid expression she can manage. <*_Work_
>with me, here, will ya? :-)*>

/No problem. Oh, Log, I meant to ask, how will women with uncovered
faces be reacted to here? You never really said how Middle-Eastern
Quaren was.../

>Morgan almost (but not quite <g>) drops the dumb-blonde[1] routine in
>surprise. <*Hey! When did _he_ get on-line?*>

/Daaaa.../ remembering Squee, /...aaarned if I know./ Knytt sends.

>>The Drow looks the liscense over very carefully, espescially the
>>footnote. He hands it back, being careful not to come into contact
>>with John, and eyes the group suspiciously, "Everything seems to be
>>in order on this. What about the rest of you?"

/See, Squee, this is why we don't cast spells without ADULT
supervision.../

>Morgan looks at Knytt and at Xzerrion, giving the impression that
>she's not capable of an independent thought and is waiting to see
>what everyone else does.

/Don't look at *me*, I just work here./

><BTW, many of us were armed, rather impressively. Is this being
>covered by illusion also? I'd just like to know a) if I have my large
>blades, and b) if _they_ know I have my large blades. ;-)>

<OOC: I assume, since my stuff is not magic, it is not detectable.>
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 02:13:04 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/718

On Sun, 20 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  I want to see liscences right now or you shall be executed on the
> spot. We detected the magic you were performing here."

<OCC: While he was setting the illusion of Drow, Fuzzy used the last
of his Ficton charge to update his license to show proper Race and
House if necessary>

"Here, If you must bother with anything so Petty."

Fuzzy at this point is radiating the Arrogant Self-Assurance of a mage
that Knows he is a match for anything less that a Matron Mother, and
maybe some of those from the lesser Houses.

Link
\I may as well act the part of House Mage, Since I'm not carrying any
obvious weapons beyond a Dagger/Athame\

ttfn
  Fuzzy
Sigil composite ~ C/N
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 12:08:56 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/720

On Sun, 20 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  As Three drow (Xzerrion, Log/Roscoe as a drow, and Fuzzy as Drow>
> and a human step out from this secret door inside a wine keg (I'm
> assuming the others were staying back as re-enforcements if needed
> or else are still in the Keg), they find themselves face to face
> with a squad of the Secret police. Four Skeletons in red and silver
> tabards kind of rock back and forth, awaiting their orders. Three
> Orcs wearing the tabards over scale and chain mail are turning over
> tables and knocking holes in walls with hammers as two Drow scold
> their tactics but do nothing to abait them.

`Stop that nonsense immediately, you fairy kissing lovers of pixies!
As for you, you poor excuses for officers in Darath's noble forces,
can't you keep your pigs under better control? Maybe you should go
back to a bloody farm and learn how to manage your animals!'

>  The other Drow who wears a more elaborate uniform with the moon of
> Misern embroidered on the breast in silver thread and three stars
> below it studies the group with a cautious and suspicious eye, in
> his hand by his leg, a small crossbow, cocked and loaded. "Who are
> you? What are you doing in there? I want to see liscences right now
> or you shall be executed on the spot. We detected the magic you were
> performing here."

Xzerrion steps forward, fixing the drow with a menacing glare. `And
who are you to ask, fool? *I* am the highest ranking male of the third
house of the city of Undraeth, here by personal invitation of the
nobility here. And I must tell you, young one, if this is how you
speak to honored guests, you'll learn from Darath's own torturers to
keep a civil tongue in your head. I suggest, since you command these
poor excuses for soldiers and policemen, that you clear this rabble
out of my way before my people do it for you.'

<I know, I'm laying it on a little thick, but I want this one
intinmidated enough that he has no interest in messing with us.>
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 12:11:26 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/721

On Sun, 20 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> Morgan sends on the open link <*Xzerrion, will your illusions hiding
> our magic items fool those things?*>

<We're about to find out. I know they fool any typical magic detection
spells. Besides, you are the retinue of a high-ranking drow. Magic is
expected.>

> <OOC: Now we find out how good those licenses the HGoToQ gave us
> are.>

<OOC: If they insist, I'll show the licenses, *then* berate them
further for officiousness :)>
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 12:18:50 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/722

On Mon, 21 Apr 1997, Shadow wrote:
> As John steps clear of the keg the Lanish goes wild, lunging and
> straining even more than before. He takes a half-step backward,
> surprise evident on his face. The Drow's crossbow moves slightly
> into a position where a quick snap of the wrist will send a bolt
> through John.

Xzerrion snaps his sword from it's sheath. `You. Point your weapon
elsewhere. I prefer my retainers whole.'

> The Lanish lunges madly at him again, almost breaking free from it's
> holders. "I say, could you hold on tighter to that thing? Ahh, here
> we go." John hands his license over. "Note the bit about the
> disease. I made them put it in to prevent myself from being drug off
> every time I was stopped."

`Great Lloth on her friggin' web! Can't you even *control* the pets
you were given to handle?'

> The Drow looks the liscense over very carefully, espescially the
> footnote. He hands it back, being careful not to come into contact
> with John, and eyes the group suspiciously, "Everything seems to be
> in order on this. What about the rest of you?"

`You still insist on that, do you? Well, I suppose it's not entirely
your fault you're too stupid to take initiative. Let's see, now where
did I put the blasted thing?'

Xzerrion draws out searching through his pockets and belt pouch, as
the policeman tries to decide whether to be intimidated or annoyed.
Presently, Xzerrion pulls out his slightly crumpled licence and
displays it with a flourish.

`Satisfied now? I trust you and your men can let us be on our way, and
trust me, you *will* be on report for delaying one of the nobility by
morning.'
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 12:21:08 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/723

On Sun, 20 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> <BTW, many of us were armed, rather impressively. Is this being
> covered by illusion also? I'd just like to know a) if I have my
> large blades, and b) if _they_ know I have my large blades. ;-)>

<GRIN : Of course they can see you're all impressively armed. You're
all my personal retinue and have every right to carry whatever weapons
you wish :) >
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 16:10:31 -0400
From: caprice <Caprice@southeast.net>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/724

Paul Campbell wrote:
>> The Lanish lunges madly at him again, almost breaking free from
>> it's holders. "I say, could you hold on tighter to that thing?
>> Ahh, here we go." John hands his license over. "Note the bit about
>> the disease. I made them put it in to prevent myself from being
>> drug off every time I was stopped."

Caprice regards John with a slight look of distain. It's the kinds of
look that bodyguards reserve for fops that they can't understand -why-
their lord tolerates.

> Xzerrion draws out searching through his pockets and belt pouch, as
> the policeman tries to decide whether to be intimidated or annoyed.

Caprice stares down at the officer. Her hands are no where near her
weapons though somehow she still looks threatening. It's the kind of
look which suggests that the officer has no right to be annoyed with
Lord Xzerrion... and if he is, she'd be more than happy to give him a
lesson in manners.

> Presently, Xzerrion pulls out his slightly crumpled licence and
> displays it with a flourish.
>
> `Satisfied now? I trust you and your men can let us be on our way,
> and trust me, you *will* be on report for delaying one of the
> nobility by morning.'

Caprice still doesn't say anything, nor does she produce a license.
Approximately six feet tall, her hair grew lighter in Arcadia, and
appearantly this reality has finished the job, bleaching it pure
white, including her eyebrows and eyelashes. Her eyes have also
changed a bit, the shifting hazel color having settled down to a dark
green. Her shoulders were broad, and the rest of her was to scale. In
her dark leathers and chainmail she looked intimidating. With the
large sword strapped to her back, and the look in her eyes of mayhem
waiting to happen.

With the look of respect bordering on adoration she gave Xzerrion she
looked under control... as long as HE was happy.

--
Caprice - Who if she does have to give the police a lesson in manners
will finally name her sword...

          ... Etti-cut.
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 17:42:23 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/725

On Mon, 21 Apr 1997, Michael Jon Knight wrote:


> /No problem. Oh, Log, I meant to ask, how will women with uncovered
> faces be reacted to here? You never really said how Middle-Eastern
> Quaren was.../
 {I doubt anyone here near teh border will give us too much trouble
here, no more than any other strangers from over the border. Further
south they might though, it varied from area to area. Oh, and in the
desert, the Nomads will definitely expect it.}

> /See, Squee, this is why we don't cast spells without ADULT
> supervision.../
 [But an adult _asked_ me to! Well...Kinda. The Cat-man did. And You
were all there when I did it weren't you? I don't understand what's
wrong.]
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 17:43:49 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/726

On Mon, 21 Apr 1997, fuzzy wrote:
> "Here, If you must bother with anything so Petty."
>
> Fuzzy at this point is radiating the Arrogant Self-Assurance of a
> mage that Knows he is a match for anything less that a Matron
> Mother, and maybe some of those from the lesser Houses.
>
> Link
> \I may as well act the part of House Mage, Since I'm not carrying
> any obvious weapons beyond a Dagger/Athame\

 OOC: Just which House DID you change the liscense to say you were
from?
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 17:54:27 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/727

On Mon, 21 Apr 1997, Paul Campbell wrote:
> `Stop that nonsense immediately, you fairy kissing lovers of pixies!
> As for you, you poor excuses for officers in Darath's noble forces,
> can't you keep your pigs under better control? Maybe you should go
> back to a bloody farm and learn how to manage your animals!'
 "The higher ranking officer sneer, "Oh we could stop them if we
really cared to. But why bother? It's only a _human's_ tavern. Not
like ti's anything valuable."

> Xzerrion steps forward, fixing the drow with a menacing glare. `And
> who are you to ask, fool? *I* am the highest ranking male of the
> third house of the city of Undraeth, here by personal invitation of
> the nobility here. And I must tell you, young one, if this is how
> you speak to honored guests, you'll learn from Darath's own
> torturers to keep a civil tongue in your head. I suggest, since you
> command these poor excuses for soldiers and policemen, that you
> clear this rabble out of my way before my people do it for you.'

 The lesser officer looks terrified and almost loses his grip on the
Lanish, and the other officer doesn't look that confortable either.
The orcs stop what they're doing all together and just gape. Then the
head officer's eyes narrow a bit and a thoughful look crosses his
face. "Undraeth you say? Which house exactly is it you belong to
there? It was from there that our Matron brought us to serve this
swine Darath. If you would please come with us, I am sure she would be
most interested in entertaining you as guests and hearing what news
you have of our homeland." The officer gives a slight bow and steps a
half step to the side to gesture towards the door, though the crossbow
never leaves his other hand.
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 17:58:34 -0700 (MST)
Subject: OOC-time
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/728

> `Satisfied now? I trust you and your men can let us be on our way,
> and trust me, you *will* be on report for delaying one of the
> nobility by morning.'

 You DO remember it's noon right now right? ;-)
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 17:53:46 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/729

On Mon, 21 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  OOC: Just which House DID you change the liscense to say you were
> from?

<OOC: If the Form should have showen a house for drow Fuzzy's would
match Xzerrion's if not the notation would not have been added, That's
the Joy of Fictons, The Fiction that he made real was that He was
Documented as House Mage to Xzerrion's House By whatever name Xzerrion
is choosing to call it.
 Probably House Rillynt'tar as the Sigil is likely to be as specific
as a Coat-of-Arms.
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 17:53:30
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Aside (was Re: Aae-Boo)
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/731

At 12:21 PM 4/21/97 -0700, Xzerrion wrote:
><GRIN : Of course they can see you're all impressively armed. You're
>all my personal retinue and have every right to carry whatever
>weapons you wish :) >

<OOC: True enough, but a great sword doesn't quite fit with the
'brainless plaything' image I'm trying to carry off just now ;-).>
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 18:06:48
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: OOC-time
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/733

At 05:58 PM 4/21/97 -0700, gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
> You DO remember it's noon right now right? ;-)

<It was when we got here. No one's specified how long all the talking
and sigil-making and stuff took. It _could_ be almost sunset by now.
:-)>

Morgan /|\
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 18:14:27
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/734

At 05:54 PM 4/21/97 -0700, gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>On Mon, 21 Apr 1997, Xzerrion wrote:
> "The higher ranking officer sneer, "Oh we could stop them if we
>really cared to. But why bother? It's only a _human's_ tavern. Not
>like ti's anything valuable."

Morgan files this tid-bit away, and feels justified in her decision to
appear insignificant. Appearances aside, though, she's ready to
unleash her blade if it becomes necessary.

>> Xzerrion steps forward, fixing the drow with a menacing glare. `And
>> who are you to ask, fool? *I* am the highest ranking male of the
>> third house of the city of Undraeth, here by personal invitation of
>> the nobility here. And I must tell you, young one, if this is how
>> you speak to honored guests, you'll learn from Darath's own
>> torturers to keep a civil tongue in your head. I suggest, since you
>> command these poor excuses for soldiers and policemen, that you
>> clear this rabble out of my way before my people do it for you.'
>
> The lesser officer looks terrified and almost loses his grip on the
>Lanish, and the other officer doesn't look that confortable either.
>The orcs stop what they're doing all together and just gape. Then the
>head officer's eyes narrow a bit and a thoughful look crosses his
>face. "Undraeth you say? Which house exactly is it you belong to
>there? It was from there that our Matron brought us to serve this
>swine Darath. If you would please come with us, I am sure she would
>be most interested in entertaining you as guests and hearing what
>news you have of our homeland." The officer gives a slight bow and
>steps a half step to the side to gesture towards the door, though the
>crossbow never leaves his other hand.

<*Roscoe? If you remember _anything_ about the local Houses, now would
be a good time!*>
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 21:56:18 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: OOC-time
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/735

On Mon, 21 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> <It was when we got here. No one's specified how long all the
> talking and sigil-making and stuff took. It _could_ be almost sunset
> by now. :-)>

I would appreciate a little sunlight to be left in the day for a
little scene I've been planning for a while. As long as the sky can
still be seen. :^>
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 21:57:09 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/736

On Mon, 21 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  The lesser officer looks terrified and almost loses his grip on the
> Lanish, and the other officer doesn't look that confortable either.
> The orcs stop what they're doing all together and just gape. Then
> the head officer's eyes narrow a bit and a thoughful look crosses
> his face. "Undraeth you say? Which house exactly is it you belong to
> there? It was from there that our Matron brought us to serve this
> swine Darath. If you would please come with us, I am sure she would
> be most interested in entertaining you as guests and hearing what
> news you have of our homeland." The officer gives a slight bow and
> steps a half step to the side to gesture towards the door, though
> the crossbow never leaves his other hand.

John suddenly swoons, his cane the only thing that keeps him from
falling over. He addresses the ranking officer with a weak smile, "My
word, is it that time again? I seem to have fallen behind in my
medications. Horrible stuff, really, which is why I try not to take it
any more than necessary.. Do you think you could have one of your men
give me a hand out to the common room? I really don't think I can
manage, quite by myself. All I need is a small cup and I should be
able to conjure up the rest myself." The officer doesn't look pleased,
but motions with a quick, "Help him." The orcs barely move closer to
him, probably because he's started to glow faintly. The other officer
berates them loudly while struggling to hold the Lanish still, but
they are plainly more terrified of the disease than they are of the
officers.

John smiles at them, "Come come, I don't bite. I told you I wasn't
infectious, I think. At least, I've been assured that I'm not, even if
they can't tell what's really wrong with me." He pauses a moment as if
in thought, "Well, there was that one chap that exploded in a bright,
flash, but I'm almost positive that that wasn't me. Sad really, he
seemed to be fine when I met him."

At this point the orcs seem ready to bolt out the door themselves. The
lesser officer takes one tentative step toward him, but John holds up
a hand, "Please, no. Just keep a tight hold on that _thing_. I'll just
have manage on my own, somehow." John turns toward Xzerrion, "Milord,
if you'll allow..." Xzerrion waves him ahead and John moves through
the door, looking for all the world as if he were struggling, yet
moving fairly quickly. Once he's through the lesser officer moves
through the door, so as to keep an eye on him.

OOC: (Besides, the Lanish would attack no one and nothing else at the
moment, which I assume is one of the tactics used in these
situations.)

Once he's out in the main room of the tavern, John calls for a small
glass, giving the tavernowner a silver for it with a small, "You won't
be getting it back." He then rolls up his sleeve, baring his forearm.

Pulling a small dagger out of a pocket, John quickly slashes his
forearm, letting the blood pool into the glass. Once it's full, he
binds the wound with a rag produced from another pocket. Saying, "I
won't watch this," he closes his eyes and his whole bearing seems to
change. His eyes now glowing pure blue, he replies, "Very well." The
glow brightens about his hands and he makes several passes over the
blood, which turns golden. Raising the glass, he drains it then
watches as the glass melts into nothing. He smiles, then falls forward
onto a table as the blue glow fades from his eyes and the rest of him.
John pulls himself up and turns to face anyone who's followed him,
"Ummm, meditative technique, allows me to better harness magical
energy."

OOC: If you guys didn't eliminate all the others, continue on :)

The captain, who took the Lanish from his subordinate when he entered,
nods as though something was just explained to him. Having watched the
entire process with narrowed eyes, he hands the Lanish back to his
subordinate officer and makes it quite clear that everyone is to go
through the door.
===========================
Subject: Re: AAE3: moving on
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 97 23:55:10 +0100
From: Roland X <rolandx@ix.netcom.com>
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/737

Sayeth the new Lord Xzerrion:
>Xzerrion maintains a straight face, but can be heard chuckling over
>the telepathic link. Setting a stern expression on his face, he
>confidently climbs up the ladder and steps forward into the room
>above, moving aside for Caprice to take her place. He glares about
>the room, displaying the approximate expression a phenomenally rich
>noble would use on seeing several homeless taking up residence in his
>great hall.
>
><OOC : Well? What was making all the noise? >

   Roland chuckles over the prone forms of two troll thugs. *You do
good work,* Sil admits.
   *Thanks,* Roland replies. *Hmmph. Common thugs. Well, folx, I
believe that this is where we part ways. The rest of you seem like you
can fit in here-and I, well, can't. I'll start causing trouble up
ahead. And don't worry about me-if one of you would be so kind as to
accept a constant mindlink with me, I can 'port myself back in case
things get too hot.
   *Oh, and if it becomes necessary to break the link... do it. I'll
exit the ficton and return as soon as I can. Call if you need me.*
   Sil looks Roland over with concern. *Roland, are you sure about
this?*
   *No,* Roland admits, *but I'd stick out like a super- hero at a
convent, and you're not exactly inconspicuous yourself. We can do more
good this way.*
   Roland and SP begin to walk off...
   (OOC: Things are getting complicated in RL, so I'll be posting
sporadically. If you folx think we should all stick together, or want
to join my little group of harriers, speak now. Oh, and to B-5
fans-NEW EPISODES!) YES!!!)
===========================
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 23:58:53 -0700 (PDT)
From: "K. Ohanlon" <bastet@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-Boo
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/738

<OOC: Sorry, I'm late, guys. I *think* I've figured out a way to get
back into the action here.>

On Mon, 21 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  The lesser officer looks terrified and almost loses his grip on the
> Lanish, and the other officer doesn't look that confortable either.
> The orcs stop what they're doing all together and just gape. Then
> the head officer's eyes narrow a bit and a thoughful look crosses
> his face. "Undraeth you say? Which house exactly is it you belong to
> there? It was from there that our Matron brought us to serve this
> swine Darath. If you would please come with us, I am sure she would
> be most interested in entertaining you as guests and hearing what
> news you have of our homeland." The officer gives a slight bow and
> steps a half step to the side to gesture towards the door, though
> the crossbow never leaves his other hand.

At this, an imposing-looking drow female steps forward from behind the
others. Her clothing is blacker than the Underdark, and she is
definitely armed. At one hip, hangs a snake-headed whip, one that
raises its eight heads. Those heads hiss in a siblant chorus at the
officer and his flunkies. Her hand is at that hip, and seems to make a
motion to soothe, or at least stay her whip from striking, for now. At
her other hip, hangs a small, hand-crossbow. One that has that special
look common to weapons that have seen a lot of use. Also scattered
upon her person are several wicked-looking daggers, the hilts of which
are decorated with spidery-looking runes, with a small, ruby-eyed
spider at each pommel. Her features are cruel and haughty, and the
glare she deigns to direct at the officious officer and his men is
nothing less than blood-chilling. In a voice dripping with disdain and
menace, she addresses the officer. "And what Matron do you intend to
take us to, sirrah? How much more of our time do you intend to waste?"

Before he can even sputter an answer, this female turns momentarily to
Xzerrion. In a tone still cool, but decidedly less frosty than the one
which she used to address the officer she inquires, "Lord Xzerrion, I
am well aware of the need for haste, and how you dislike being
detained by lesser drow, but that is not sufficient excuse to
blaspheme. Great Lloth is not known for her overwhelming forgiveness.
You would do well to recall that despite your current favor with her
in being given this sacred charge, she may yet decide to punish you if
you do not curb your distressingly impetuous tongue." The snake-headed
whip turns the attention of three of its heads to Xzerrion, and hisses
softly to emphasize the words of the female.

Before anyone can react to this sudden unknown in their midst, a quiet
chuckle is heard in the link. <*S'alright, folks. Um, gee, I never did
mention that I can shift into more than just a crow, did I? Oh, calm
*down* Xzerrion. Besides, you've surprised me enough with your
illusions that I thought it was high time I turned the tables. Now to
quote Lady Morgan, Work with me here.*>

Turning back to the officer, "Now, sirrah, I seem to recall your
mention of this Darath, and calling him a porcine. That may well be,
but we have been sent on a sacred charge by Great Lloth herself. If
you choose to continue to interfere with us, so be it. However, the
Demon Goddess has taken a *personal* interest in these matters. And I
would not be surprised if you found yourself answering to her *in
person* for your actions.

"And before you have the temerity to ask, I am High Priestess Triel of
House Baenra. Eldest daughter of Matron Mother Daerani, First House in
the city of Ched Nasad."

She pauses, looks disdainfully at the officer, as the lesser one
positively quakes in terror. "Now, I believe you were just about to
allow us to continue on our way?" Though her tone seems almost a
question, she's projecting authority and grim confidence in such
measure that the officer knows that it isn't.

<*Gee, bluffing's fun! Now, if he doesn't recognize House or City, I'm
just going to act like he's a completely provincial idiot. And if he
still balks, well, I've got one or two other tricks up my sleeve.*>

-Kelley, aka Crow. <OOC: How'd I do?>
===========================
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 02:21:37
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: AAE3: moving out?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/740

At 11:55 PM 4/21/97 +0100, Roland X wrote:
>   *Thanks,* Roland replies. *Hmmph. Common thugs. Well,
>folx, I believe that this is where we part ways. The rest
>of you seem like you can fit in here-and I, well, can't.
>I'll start causing trouble up ahead. And don't worry about
>me-if one of you would be so kind as to accept a constant
>mindlink with me, I can 'port myself back in case things
>get too hot.

Morgan, who isn't doing anything much at the moment besides trying to
look vacuous while staying ready should things go sour, replies,
<*Sword-brother, I will gladly accept that link.*>

>   *Oh, and if it becomes necessary to break the link...
>do it. I'll exit the ficton and return as soon as I can.
>Call if you need me.*

<*No need to worry about that :-).*>

>   Sil looks Roland over with concern. *Roland, are you
>sure about this?*
>   *No,* Roland admits, *but I'd stick out like a super-
>hero at a convent, and you're not exactly inconspicuous
>yourself. We can do more good this way.*
>   Roland and SP begin to walk off...
>   (OOC: Things are getting complicated in RL, so I'll be
>posting sporadically. If you folx think we should all stick
>together, or want to join my little group of harriers,
>speak now. Oh, and to B-5 fans-NEW EPISODES!)
>YES!!!)

<*In general I think staying together is a good thing, but I accept
your reasoning. Take care. You will be missed.*>

Morgan  /|\
(OOC re B5: "Racing Mars" won't be on 'til Thursday <sigh>. No
spoilers, please!)
===========================
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 07:16:40 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: AAE3: moving out?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/741

On Tue, 22 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> Morgan, who isn't doing anything much at the moment besides trying
> to look vacuous while staying ready should things go sour, replies,
> <*Sword-brother, I will gladly accept that link.*>

 Fuzzy is also takeing his cues for Xzerrion, Unless some fool
Police-drow does something no House Mage could Ignore...

>>   *Oh, and if it becomes necessary to break the link...
>>do it. I'll exit the ficton and return as soon as I can.
>>Call if you need me.*
>
> <*No need to worry about that :-).*>

\Be well, until we meet again...\

ttfn
  Fuzzy
Composite to C/E while House Sigil is in Use:= C/N
===========================
Subject: Re: AAE3: moving out?
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 97 19:25:55 +0100
From: Roland X <rolandx@ix.netcom.com>
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/743

Quoth my sword-sister Morgan:
>Morgan, who isn't doing anything much at the moment besides trying to
>look vacuous while staying ready should things go sour, replies,
><*Sword-brother, I will gladly accept that link.*>

   Roland smiles as he looks the beautiful land of Quaren over. *How
did I know? I am honored, Sword-sister. Besides, the way things are
going in there, I may have to rejoin you quickly. Or not.* <g>

>>   *Oh, and if it becomes necessary to break the link...
>>do it. I'll exit the ficton and return as soon as I can.
>>Call if you need me.*
>
><*No need to worry about that :-).*>

   *Yea, right.*
   *Don't worry, Morgan, I'll keep an eye on him,* Sil adds.
   *Thanks, Sil,* Roland replies sarcastically.

><*In general I think staying together is a good thing, but I accept
>your reasoning. Take care. You will be missed.*>

   *Don't worry,* Roland says, smiling through the link, *how much
trouble can I get into, anyway?*
   Sil groans as they call on the hyperspeed...

>Morgan  /|\
>(OOC re B5: "Racing Mars" won't be on 'til Thursday <sigh>. No
>spoilers, please!)

   (OOC: Wouldn't dream of it. <g>)
===========================
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 1997 18:31:49
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: AAE3: moving out?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/744

At 07:25 PM 4/22/97 +0100, Roland X wrote:
>   Roland smiles as he looks the beautiful land of
>Quaren over. *How did I know? I am honored, Sword-
>sister. Besides, the way things are going in there,
>I may have to rejoin you quickly. Or not.* <g>

<*Well, just hang on to that magic license that Driscoll gave you. If
the people here accept the Controller as an 'Iron Golem', you might be
able to pass Sil off as some magical construct if need be.*>

>   *Don't worry,* Roland says, smiling through the link,
>*how much trouble can I get into, anyway?*
>   Sil groans as they call on the hyperspeed...

As does Morgan, who doesn't really want to think about the answer to
that question ;-).
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 1997 17:43:32 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/747

 The chief officer bows deeply towards Crow, then turns to his
underling, "Go off to tell the Iron one that the guests Drisonel was
expecting  have arrived." The Junior officer rushes off, two Skeletons
in tow,  along with an unhappy Lanish that didn't get to snack on
anything.
 Then, back to Crow with respect in his voice, "Madam, I will delay
you no further than I must, and in fact you may go on now if you need,
I have no orders concering your house. However, by their sigils and by
his liscence," He indicated the drow/fuzzy, "My Matron, Drisonel was
expecting their arrival, or at least that of one of their household.
K'lestailim goes now to contact our Matron and find out her will in
this matter. I need not delay all of you however, if you truly must go
on, I need only one here to act as a messenger to formally bring you
the word of our Matron, which, if I may be so bold as to speculate,
will be an invitation for an audience with her."
===========================
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 1997 21:04:00 -0400
From: caprice <caprice@southeast.net>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/748

gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  Then, back to Crow with respect in his voice, "Madam, I will delay
> you no further than I must, and in fact you may go on now if you
> need, I have no orders concering your house. However, by their
> sigils and by his liscence," He indicated the drow/fuzzy, "My
> Matron, Drisonel was expecting their arrival, or at least that of
> one of their household. K'lestailim goes now to contact our Matron
> and find out her will in this matter. I need not delay all of you
> however, if you truly must go on, I need only one here to act as a
> messenger to formally bring you the word of our Matron, which, if I
> may be so bold as to speculate, will be an invitation for an
> audience with her."

Caprice sends through the lens < Xzerrion... if this Matron knows your
house... you CAN'T be the one to stay... And someone should tell Crow
to run... I'll remain, that will allow the rest of you to go on ahead.
If worse comes to worse, they won't be surprised that a hired
bodyguard has little information... and they won't expect a noble Drow
to waste his precious time hanging around... Xzerrion, you need to
order me aloud to remain behind. >
===========================
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 1997 18:04:00
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/749

At 05:43 PM 4/23/97 -0700, gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
> The chief officer bows deeply towards Crow, then turns to his
>underling, "Go off to tell the Iron one that the guests Drisonel was
>expecting have arrived." The Junior officer rushes off, two Skeletons
>in tow, along with an unhappy Lanish that didn't get to snack on
>anything.

<Roland and his "Lets go fight all our arch-enemies." We owe you one,
sword-brother <wicked grin>.>

> Then, back to Crow with respect in his voice, "Madam, I will delay
>you no further than I must, and in fact you may go on now if you
>need, I have no orders concering your house. However, by their sigils
>and by his liscence," He indicated the drow/fuzzy, "My Matron,
>Drisonel was expecting their arrival, or at least that of one of
>their household. K'lestailim goes now to contact our Matron and find
>out her will in this matter. I need not delay all of you however, if
>you truly must go on, I need only one here to act as a messenger to
>formally bring you the word of our Matron, which, if I may be so bold
>as to speculate, will be an invitation for an audience with her."

Morgan sends through the link. <*Frak. For those of you who don't
remember the Battle of the Battery on Oa, Xzerrion isn't the only one
in this group Drisonel will recognize. Knytt, the wolves and I took
out most of her personal guard, so she'll probably be just about as
happy to get her hands on us. She _wasn't_ a very happy camper at the
end of that!*>

(OOC: BTW, I'm not _displaying_ the house sigil. It's safely tucked
away in a pocket somewhere. And _was_ Xzerrion using this real house
name as part of his bluff? Kinda makes a difference, don't it? <g>)

Morgan  /|\
<archives of the final battle of AAE-1 available on request :-)>
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 1997 19:20:47 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/750

On Wed, 23 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> (OOC: BTW, I'm not _displaying_ the house sigil. It's safely tucked
> away in a pocket somewhere. And _was_ Xzerrion using this real house
> name as part of his bluff? Kinda makes a difference, don't it? <g>)

 That's why I asked Fuzzy what house name he said he had on his
liscence. <EG>
===========================
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 1997 20:59:42 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/752

On Wed, 23 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  The chief officer bows deeply towards Crow, then turns to his
> underling, "Go off to tell the Iron one that the guests Drisonel was
> expecting have arrived." The Junior officer rushes off, two
> Skeletons in tow, along with an unhappy Lanish that didn't get to
> snack on anything.

<Bloody hell.  It *would* be drow from that house.>

>  Then, back to Crow with respect in his voice, "Madam, I will delay
> you no further than I must, and in fact you may go on now if you
> need, I have no orders concering your house. However, by their
> sigils and by his liscence," He indicated the drow/fuzzy, "My
> Matron, Drisonel was expecting their arrival, or at least that of
> one of their household. K'lestailim goes now to contact our Matron
> and find out her will in this matter. I need not delay all of you
> however, if you truly must go on, I need only one here to act as a
> messenger to formally bring you the word of our Matron, which, if I
> may be so bold as to speculate, will be an invitation for an
> audience with her."

<Go on, accept his offer.  I can take care of this one, I think,>
Xzerrion sends through the link.  With a bit more respect in his voice
(but still not much,) Xzerrion turns to the guard.  `I see. 
Naturally, meeting with a Matron Mother does not qualify as delay.  As
our mission, however, is truly urgent, I trust you have no objection
if Lady Triel and my house mage go on ahead.  I would be honored to
speak with Matron Drisonel, as always.  I do insist on the presence of
a single member of my retinue accompanying me, of course.'  Seemingly
at random, his eyes fall on Caprice. `Her.'

<Sorry about singling you out like this, milady, but you gave some
indications of thief or assassin training, and that could be useful
here.>

Over the general link, Xzerrion adds, <I may be delayed a bit speaking
to this drow and the Matron.  Perhaps the rest of you can take
advantage of the attention I have no doubt I'll be attracting to see
about the prisons where Driss's family is held?>

Turning back to the guard, Xzerrion smiles. `Lead the way.'
===========================
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 1997 21:03:02 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/753

On Wed, 23 Apr 1997, caprice wrote:
> Caprice sends through the lens < Xzerrion... if this Matron knows
> your house... you CAN'T be the one to stay... And someone should
> tell Crow to run... I'll remain, that will allow the rest of you to
> go on ahead. If worse comes to worse, they won't be surprised that a
> hired bodyguard has little information... and they won't expect a
> noble Drow to waste his precious time hanging around... Xzerrion,
> you need to order me aloud to remain behind. >

<I know she knows me.  In fact, I'm counting on it.  Somewhere along
the way, I'll make sure I don't look right, and these guards will be
themselves taken for incompetence.  Besides, I've faced this one down
before.  Anyway, think of what an incredible diversion we can make
escaping if my trick doesn't work.>
===========================
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 1997 21:05:25 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/754

On Wed, 23 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:

> (OOC: BTW, I'm not _displaying_ the house sigil. It's safely tucked
> away in a pocket somewhere. And _was_ Xzerrion using this real house
> name as part of his bluff? Kinda makes a difference, don't it? <g>)

I didn't use my house name, but it was on the license fuzzy showed the
guards, which leads to the same scenario.  To use the most common
phrase here so far, `Follow my lead.'  Intrigues *can* be fun.
===========================
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 1997 23:44:16
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/755

At 08:59 PM 4/23/97 -0700, Xzerrion wrote:
>Over the general link, Xzerrion adds, <I may be delayed a bit
>speaking to this drow and the Matron. Perhaps the rest of you can
>take advantage of the attention I have no doubt I'll be attracting to
>see about the prisons where Driss's family is held?>
>
>Turning back to the guard, Xzerrion smiles. `Lead the way.'

<*Xzerrion, are you _sure_ about this? I really don't like the idea of
splitting the group up if we can avoid it. With the Controller and
Drisonel here, who knows who else we'll run into? (OOC: translate that
as "someone gave the DM ideas <g>) If we all go off on our own to deal
with these people, we make it easier for them to pick us off one by
one.*>

Morgan  /|\
<a firm believer in strength in numbers :-)>

<OOC: Gareth asked me to bring him up to speed, since he's been off
since we were still discussing price. I sent him what I had up to post
#754, and said I'd forward new stuff until I hear he's back on.>
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 00:22:03 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/756

On Wed, 23 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> At 05:43 PM 4/23/97 -0700, gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>> Then, back to Crow with respect in his voice, "Madam, I will delay
>>you no further than I must, and in fact you may go on now if you
>>need, I have no orders concering your house. However, by their
>>sigils and by his liscence," He indicated the drow/fuzzy, "My
>>Matron, Drisonel was expecting their arrival, or at least that of
>>one of their household. K'lestailim goes now to contact our Matron
>>and find out her will in this matter. I need not delay all of you
>>however, if you truly must go on, I need only one here to act as a
>>messenger to formally bring you the word of our Matron, which, if I
>>may be so bold as to speculate, will be an invitation for an
>>audience with her."
>
> Morgan sends through the link. <*Frak. For those of you who don't
> remember the Battle of the Battery on Oa, Xzerrion isn't the only
> one in this group Drisonel will recognize. Knytt, the wolves and I
> took out most of her personal guard, so she'll probably be just
> about as happy to get her hands on us. She _wasn't_ a very happy
> camper at the end of that!*>

Fuzzy sends through the link \Well she wouldn't know Me, and I do have
a possible back-door if it is needed. Though it sounds like he is
saying that one of us is need stay here with him and wait until his
messenger returns, to carry the message to the rest of the group.\

> (OOC: BTW, I'm not _displaying_ the house sigil. It's safely tucked
> away in a pocket somewhere. And _was_ Xzerrion using this real house
> name as part of his bluff? Kinda makes a difference, don't it? <g>)

 (OOC: I know Xzerrion, and I aren't displaying them, He kept his
under his tunic and I'm following his lead, looks like they are fairly
detectable, not too suprising as they seem to have been on the lookout
for them.)

ttfn
  Fuzzy
                         ---
  L  |  C  |  L  |  C  |  G  |  E  |  G  |  E
 G*E | G*E | E*G | E*G | L*C | L*C | C*L | C*L
  C  |  L  |  C  |  L  |  E  |  G  |  E  |  G
Fuzzy Mode Select

> Morgan  /|\
> <archives of the final battle of AAE-1 available on request :-)>

 Yes Please. :)
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 09:09:18 -0400
From: Caprice <caprice@southeast.net>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/757

Paul Campbell wrote:
> <Go on, accept his offer. I can take care of this one, I think,>
> Xzerrion sends through the link. With a bit more respect in his
> voice (but still not much,) Xzerrion turns to the guard. `I see.
> Naturally, meeting with a Matron Mother does not qualify as delay.
> As our mission, however, is truly urgent, I trust you have no
> objection if Lady Triel and my house mage go on ahead. I would be
> honored to speak with Matron Drisonel, as always. I do insist on
> the presence of a single member of my retinue accompanying me, of
> course.' Seemingly at random, his eyes fall on Caprice. `Her.'

Caprice simply gives Xzerrion a very respectful bow, accknowledging
the order.

> <Sorry about singling you out like this, milady, but you gave some
> indications of thief or assassin training, and that could be useful
> here.>

< No apology necessary... I volunteered. And I have the skills you
indicate, an explaination of how and where I learned will have to wait
for later. >

> Over the general link, Xzerrion adds, <I may be delayed a bit
> speaking to this drow and the Matron. Perhaps the rest of you can
> take advantage of the attention I have no doubt I'll be attracting
> to see about the prisons where Driss's family is held?>

Caprice adds, <I KNOW people hate splitting the party, but Xzerrion
and I can take care of ourselves. The mission has to take priority.
Now scram before the guards get suspicious and detain you all on
general principles... Remember, here people are SUPPOSED to be out to
protect themselves first.... nobly staying with your lord is out of
character.>
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 09:58:03 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/758

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997, Caprice wrote:
>> Over the general link, Xzerrion adds, <I may be delayed a bit
>> speaking to this drow and the Matron. Perhaps the rest of you can
>> take advantage of the attention I have no doubt I'll be attracting
>> to see about the prisons where Driss's family is held?>

 \The problem with that is, You are likely to be take straight to the
area they are being held in\

> Caprice adds, <I KNOW people hate splitting the party, but Xzerrion
> and I can take care of ourselves. The mission has to take priority.
> Now scram before the guards get suspicious and detain you all on
> general principles... Remember, here people are SUPPOSED to be out
> to protect themselves first.... nobly staying with your lord is out
> of character.>

(OOC: This set of actions are pretty much at the same time.)

Fuzzy looks at Triel, "Your will Priestess Triel."
Fuzzy sends through the link, \'Caprice' You are right, Damn it. Triel
has to lead out. 'Xzerrion' Break the small glass rod in your sleeve
to call me, since it operates outside the boundries of Cosmoi it can't
be blocked\
Xzerrion feels a small glass rod appear in his sleeve, 4" x 1/4".
Fuzzy teleported it there from his own pocket.
 Not magic, Esper.

ttfn
  Fuzzy
 ---
  L  |  C  |  L  |  C  |  G  |  E  |  G  |  E
 G*E | G*E | E*G | E*G | L*C | L*C | C*L | C*L
  C  |  L  |  C  |  L  |  E  |  G  |  E  |  G
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 10:35:49 -0700 (PDT)
From: "K. Ohanlon" <bastet@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/759

On Wed, 23 Apr 1997, Paul Campbell wrote:
> On Wed, 23 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>>  The chief officer bows deeply towards Crow, then turns to his
>> underling, "Go off to tell the Iron one that the guests Drisonel
>> was expecting have arrived." The Junior officer rushes off, two
>> Skeletons in tow, along with an unhappy Lanish that didn't get to
>> snack on anything.
>
> <Bloody hell. It *would* be drow from that house.>

<*Bloody hell, is right.*> High Priestess Triel barely acknowledges
the bow.

>>  Then, back to Crow with respect in his voice, "Madam, I will
>> delay you no further than I must, and in fact you may go on now if
>> you need, I have no orders concering your house. However, by their
>> sigils and by his liscence," He indicated the drow/fuzzy, "My
>> Matron, Drisonel was expecting their arrival, or at least that of
>> one of their household. K'lestailim goes now to contact our Matron
>> and find out her will in this matter. I need not delay all of you
>> however, if you truly must go on, I need only one here to act as a
>> messenger to formally bring you the word of our Matron, which, if
>> I may be so bold as to speculate, will be an invitation for an
>> audience with her."

High Priestess Triel frowns, "Though I like it not that *any* of this
company be detained, neither do I wish to offend a Matron Mother so
highly regarded as Drisonel. As for an audience, I would be honored,
though at present I *must* be about the task I was given."

> <Go on, accept his offer. I can take care of this one, I think,>
> Xzerrion sends through the link. With a bit more respect in his
> voice (but still not much,) Xzerrion turns to the guard. `I see.
> Naturally, meeting with a Matron Mother does not qualify as delay.
> As our mission, however, is truly urgent, I trust you have no
> objection if Lady Triel and my house mage go on ahead. I would be
> honored to speak with Matron Drisonel, as always. I do insist on the
> presence of a single member of my retinue accompanying me, of
> course.' Seemingly at random, his eyes fall on Caprice. `Her.'

<*You picked a hell of a time to suddenly be noble about things.
Besides, what in the nether bloomin' hells are we supposed to do
without you? I seem to recall you being volunteered as our 'fearless
leader', that doesn't mean you get to drop the role and go off and
play whenever you choose.*>

> <Sorry about singling you out like this, milady, but you gave some
> indications of thief or assassin training, and that could be useful
> here.>
>
> Over the general link, Xzerrion adds, <I may be delayed a bit
> speaking to this drow and the Matron. Perhaps the rest of you can
> take advantage of the attention I have no doubt I'll be attracting
> to see about the prisons where Driss's family is held?>

<*As good as plan as any, I suppose. Though you and I will discuss
this *later*.*> Xzerrion's smile falters for a moment at that, but
only for a moment.

> Turning back to the guard, Xzerrion smiles. `Lead the way.'

"A moment, Lord Xzerrion." As the snake-headed whip hisses softly,
High Priestess Triel steps forward. "Be sure to send my utmost
respects to Matron Drisonel. Return swiftly, for there is much work to
be done, and the lack of any weakens this company, and I mislike that
greatly."

Triel then turns her gaze to the officer. "Sirrah, I charge you with
keeping the safety of this drow and his retainer. Return them to me as
soon as courtesy allows." Suddenly, her voice becomes more menacing,
"And remember, sirrah, that if any harm comes to them, or if you fail
in what I have charged you in any way, that I can cause you more
torment than you would ever care to know."

<*Well, shall we be going then, folks?*>

-Kelley, aka Crow.
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 10:40:57 -0700 (PDT)
From: "K. Ohanlon" <bastet@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/760

On Wed, 23 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> At 08:59 PM 4/23/97 -0700, Xzerrion wrote:
>>Over the general link, Xzerrion adds, <I may be delayed a bit
>>speaking to this drow and the Matron. Perhaps the rest of you can
>>take advantage of the attention I have no doubt I'll be attracting
>>to see about the prisons where Driss's family is held?>
>>
>>Turning back to the guard, Xzerrion smiles. `Lead the way.'
>
> <*Xzerrion, are you _sure_ about this? I really don't like the idea
> of splitting the group up if we can avoid it. With the Controller
> and Drisonel here, who knows who else we'll run into? (OOC:
> translate that as "someone gave the DM ideas <g>) If we all go off
> on our own to deal with these people, we make it easier for them to
> pick us off one by one.*>

<*I don't like this any better than you, Lady Morgan. But I trust
Xzerrion to know what he's doing, (almost), and at the very least,
he'll have Caprice with him. (No offense. :))*>

> Morgan  /|\
> <a firm believer in strength in numbers :-)>

<OOC: Agreed, but I don't see any other way to go with this, do you?>

-Kelley, aka Crow.
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 18:18:19 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/761

On Wed, 23 Apr 1997, Paul Campbell wrote:
> <Go on, accept his offer. I can take care of this one, I think,>
> Xzerrion sends through the link. With a bit more respect in his
> voice (but still not much,) Xzerrion turns to the guard. `I see.
> Naturally, meeting with a Matron Mother does not qualify as delay.
> As our mission, however, is truly urgent, I trust you have no
> objection if Lady Triel and my house mage go on ahead. I would be
> honored to speak with Matron Drisonel, as always. I do insist on the
> presence of a single member of my retinue accompanying me, of
> course.' Seemingly at random, his eyes fall on Caprice. `Her.'
>
> <Sorry about singling you out like this, milady, but you gave some
> indications of thief or assassin training, and that could be useful
> here.>
>
> Over the general link, Xzerrion adds, <I may be delayed a bit
> speaking to this drow and the Matron. Perhaps the rest of you can
> take advantage of the attention I have no doubt I'll be attracting
> to see about the prisons where Driss's family is held?>
>
> Turning back to the guard, Xzerrion smiles. `Lead the way.'

 The Officer has by now returned his crossbow to a holster on his hip.
Smacking the orcs upside their heads, he herds them out the door, then
Pauses for Xzerrion and Caprice to follow. The skeletons bring up the
rear.
 Outside waiting for them all is a silver and red open air skimmer.
The orcs have taken thier places at the controls and are punching each
other to see who gets to push the buttons this time. The skeletons
move quickly to the back of hte skimmer, then drop into piles of bones
and  cloth. The Officer gestures to a pair of plush looking red velvet
seats. "Please make yourselves comfortable. This flying boat is
amazingly fast and shall take us to the Iron one in moments, that he
may put us in contact with Drisonel." The officer then stands there
adn politely declines taking a seat until "his matron's guests" have
taken theirs.
 After everyone is seated, there is a shudder and a roar, and the
skimmer takes off towards the west as the sun hangs low in the
horizon. (I figured Xzerrion made a good point about how long
everything in that room may have taken)

 The party is alone back in the tavern and Log is quick to speak up
after returning to Dwarf mode, "Ya know, the owners of this place will
probably be here soon to open up, and I really don't want to be around
to answer another round of questions and possibly have the Guard
return, so what do you all say we go find some theives? If you're
looking for secrets they're some of hte best people to talk to in my
opinion.
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 21:50:47 -0400
From: Caprice <caprice@southeast.net>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/762

>  The Officer has by now returned his crossbow to a holster on his
> hip. Smacking the orcs upside their heads, he herds them out the
> door, then Pauses for Xzerrion and Caprice to follow. The skeletons
> bring up the rear.

Caprice remains at Xzerrion's side, her eyes narrow and wary. She
obviously suspects everyone and everything, except, perhaps, her
master.

>  Outside waiting for them all is a silver and red open air skimmer.
> The orcs have taken thier places at the controls and are punching
> each other to see who gets to push the buttons this time. The
> skeletons move quickly to the back of hte skimmer, then drop into
> piles of bones and cloth. The Officer gestures to a pair of plush
> looking red velvet seats. "Please make yourselves comfortable. This
> flying boat is amazingly fast and shall take us to the Iron one in
> moments, that he may put us in contact with Drisonel." The officer
> then stands there adn politely declines taking a seat until "his
> matron's guests" have taken theirs.

Caprice sits at the edge of her seat, obviously not much of one for
comfort, preferring to be able to stand in a hurry. < Xzerrion, why do
I NOT like the sound of this "iron one"? >
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 18:05:53
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: AAE: Whither the rest of us?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/763

At 10:40 AM 4/24/97 -0700, Crow wrote:
><*I don't like this any better than you, Lady Morgan. But I trust
>Xzerrion to know what he's doing, (almost), and at the very least,
>he'll have Caprice with him. (No offense. :))*>
>
>> Morgan  /|\
>> <a firm believer in strength in numbers :-)>
>
><OOC: Agreed, but I don't see any other way to go with this, do you?>

<*Well, I considered doing a petulant "I wanna go too" routine, but
it's a) not likely a mear human female would talk that way to a Drow
noble (unless she were a _real_ favorite, and if I was I'd be on _his_
arm, not Knytts ;-) ), and b) Knytt and I are probably better off
staying out of the Matron's gaze.*>

Morgan decides to pout anyway, if only because it's easier to hide
thoughtfullness behind that expression than a vapid smile.

<*At least keep the links open, Crow with Xzerrion and Caprice with
the rest of us. We're about to set out without our Drow expert, with
little to no idea where we're going. Roscoe, I hope at least _you_
have a clue. We don't even know if we should turn left or right when
we go out the door.*>

<*I guess Crow's at least outwardly in charge in the absense of Lord
Xzerrion, and under the circumstances I guess the rest of us have
little choice but to follow you on your "mission".*>

(OOC: Is it dark out yet? I'd say yes, unless John still has something
he prefers daylight for <g>.)
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 21:13:21 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/764

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997, fuzzy wrote:
>>> Over the general link, Xzerrion adds, <I may be delayed a bit
>>> speaking to this drow and the Matron. Perhaps the rest of you can
>>> take advantage of the attention I have no doubt I'll be attracting
>>> to see about the prisons where Driss's family is held?>
>
>  \The problem with that is, You are likely to be take straight to
> the area they are being held in\

<If that's the case, we'll revise the plan, maybe end up freeing them
ourselves. I'll let you know if diversions are necessary.>

> Fuzzy looks at Triel, "Your will Priestess Triel."
> Fuzzy sends through the link, \'Caprice' You are right, Damn it.
> Triel has to lead out. 'Xzerrion' Break the small glass rod in
> your sleeve to call me, since it operates outside the boundries of
> Cosmoi it can't be blocked\
> Xzerrion feels a small glass rod appear in his sleeve, 4" x 1/4".
> Fuzzy teleported it there from his own pocket.
>  Not magic, Esper.

<Understood.>
===========================
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 1997 00:18:07 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: AAE: Whither the rest of us?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/765

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> (OOC: Is it dark out yet? I'd say yes, unless John still has
> something he prefers daylight for <g>.)

OOC: Dusk will do fine, I just need to be able to see the cloud cover.
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 21:18:56 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/766

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997, K. Ohanlon wrote:
>> <Go on, accept his offer. I can take care of this one, I think,>
>> Xzerrion sends through the link. With a bit more respect in his
>> voice (but still not much,) Xzerrion turns to the guard. `I see.
>> Naturally, meeting with a Matron Mother does not qualify as delay.
>> As our mission, however, is truly urgent, I trust you have no
>> objection if Lady Triel and my house mage go on ahead. I would be
>> honored to speak with Matron Drisonel, as always. I do insist on
>> the presence of a single member of my retinue accompanying me, of
>> course.' Seemingly at random, his eyes fall on Caprice. `Her.'
>
> <*You picked a hell of a time to suddenly be noble about things.
> Besides, what in the nether bloomin' hells are we supposed to do
> without you? I seem to recall you being volunteered as our 'fearless
> leader', that doesn't mean you get to drop the role and go off and
> play whenever you choose.*>

<Precisely, I volunteered, but with reservations because of
possibilities like this coming up. I have no intention of being
delayed for long, as I suspect I can give the Three Stooges there the
slip.>

<snip>

> "A moment, Lord Xzerrion." As the snake-headed whip hisses softly,
> High Priestess Triel steps forward. "Be sure to send my utmost
> respects to Matron Drisonel. Return swiftly, for there is much work
> to be done, and the lack of any weakens this company, and I mislike
> that greatly."

`I shall return to your company with utmost haste, my Lady.'
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 21:23:44 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/767

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  The Officer has by now returned his crossbow to a holster on his
> hip. Smacking the orcs upside their heads, he herds them out the
> door, then Pauses for Xzerrion and Caprice to follow. The skeletons
> bring up the rear.

Xzerrion follows wordlessly, glancing contemptuously at the orcs and
skeletons.

>  Outside waiting for them all is a silver and red open air skimmer.
> The orcs have taken thier places at the controls and are punching
> each other to see who gets to push the buttons this time. The
> skeletons move quickly to the back of hte skimmer, then drop into
> piles of bones and cloth. The Officer gestures to a pair of plush
> looking red velvet seats. "Please make yourselves comfortable. This
> flying boat is amazingly fast and shall take us to the Iron one in
> moments, that he may put us in contact with Drisonel." The officer
> then stands there adn politely declines taking a seat until "his
> matron's guests" have taken theirs.

`Excellent. In the meantime, I would like to speak to you privately
regarding our people's position in Quaren. I trust Lord Darath has
made our presence here worthwhile?'
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 21:25:46 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/768

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997, Caprice wrote:
> Caprice sits at the edge of her seat, obviously not much of one for
> comfort, preferring to be able to stand in a hurry. < Xzerrion, why
> do I NOT like the sound of this "iron one"? >

<I'm guessing the "iron one" would be the Controller from Arcadia, now
inhabiting the body of one of those robot thingies from the invasion
of Arcadia.>
===========================
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 1997 01:07:52 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/769

After the little scene in the bar proper John throws himself into the
act of a foppish noble, exclaiming loudly about how he will SO miss
Xzerrion, and how Milord Xzerrion must be certain to hurry back and
then we'll just throw a scrumptious party. He even makes a simpering
farewell to the Guard officer, telling him he'll be certain to look
him up if he's ever in the area, and "I don't suppose you sell those
things as pets?" (referring to the Lanish), "My grandmother would love
one." As the aircar pulls away, John waves a puple hanky after them,
wishing them a good journey. He then reneters the bar and collapses
into a chair by the door, "I hate it when I have to do that," He
exclaims loudly and to no one in particular.

Someone mentions that he plays the part so well, but John just waves
his hands in negation, "No not that. I enjoy the roles. It's this."
With that John pulls out his magic license and throw it to Morgan and
Knytt. "Very official looking isn't it? Tell me, Do either of _you_
know the officialese of this dimension? Because _I_ sure don't."

John pours himself a drink, then downs it. "No, I had to ask IT for
help. Uhhgain." Those less observant among us can tell that John seems
to be worked up about something, what with the way he's speaking
rapidly and barley letting anyone get a word in edgewise. The more
observant also note the rapid, jerky movements and know that he's
worked up. "That's what all that rigamarole was about up here. I've
just set up a very.. nasty.. surprise... for.... myself." His voice
slows on the last few words and his attention is riveted on something
out the door. Almost abstractly, without turning around, he asks,
"Roscoe, are the clouds supposed to be blue and purple here?"

When Roscoe answers in the negative, John seems to calm. Turning to
the rest of the group just as a thunderclap breaks overhead, he says,
"Well, he's here earlier than I expected." At the inquiring gazes of
the others he smiles and adds, "He usually arrives late to important
gatherings such as this." Turning to the window, he gestures, "Out
there is the man I must face in combat. Well.. he'll be out there
soon. This is my fight, so you don't need to involve yourselves. In
fact, I'd suggest you all take cover, as this street is about to
become ground zero."

OOC: This would be a good spot to interject any questions you guys
might have as to just what all is about to happen/ is going on with/to
me.

John pauses here for a moment, looking from face to face. "I thank you
all for this small share of time I have spent with you. It's been a
pleasure meeting you all." John pulls out the medallion, laying it
bare on his chest. "Too bad I can't thank him again for this chance.
Wherever you go, Xzerrion, may luck go with you."

OOC: Regardless of what happened earlier, I am _not_ online. Sometimes
the Other will relay things that I need to know to me. It will also
relay things out, as well. It's just not trustworthy, which is why I
don't use it much. Well.. Plus the fact I don't recieve much to
respond to.
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 22:15:59
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: OOC: Re: the Iron One
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/770

At 09:25 PM 4/24/97 -0700, Xzerrion wrote:
><I'm guessing the "iron one" would be the Controller from Arcadia,
>now inhabiting the body of one of those robot thingies from the
>invasion of Arcadia.>

<OOC: Oh, do you think :-)?>

<*At least now we should find out if this is the post-Arcadia
Controller, or one from an earlier time.*>
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 22:24:37 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/771

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  The party is alone back in the tavern and Log is quick to speak up
> after returning to Dwarf mode, "Ya know, the owners of this place
> will probably be here soon to open up, and I really don't want to be
> around to answer another round of questions and possibly have the
> Guard return, so what do you all say we go find some theives? If
> you're looking for secrets they're some of hte best people to talk
> to in my opinion.

 "I agree that we should be on our way soon, for several reasons,
  1: We made a point that we were in a hurry.
  2: That magical 'Faraday Cage' damper is still up, it shouldn't be.
     I don't know how long it will last, Nor just how powerful it is.
     It should not have affected light, just magic.
 And I really don't want to try explaining all of that to the owner"

ttfn
  Fuzzy
                                                 ---
  L  |  C  |  L  |  C  |  G  |  E  |  G  |  E  |  C
 G*E | G*E | E*G | E*G | L*C | L*C | C*L | C*L | N*E
  C  |  L  |  C  |  L  |  E  |  G  |  E  |  G  |  N
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 1997 00:53:33 -0500
From: Michael Jon Knight <mjknight@smartnet.net>
Subject: Re: AAE: Whither the rest of us?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/772

At 06:05 PM 4/24/97, Morgan wrote:
>At 10:40 AM 4/24/97 -0700, Crow wrote:
>><OOC: Agreed, but I don't see any other way to go with this, do
>>you?>
>
><*Well, I considered doing a petulant "I wanna go too" routine, but
>it's a) not likely a mear human female would talk that way to a Drow
>noble (unless she were a _real_ favorite, and if I was I'd be on
>_his_ arm, not Knytts ;-) ), and b) Knytt and I are probably better
>off staying out of the Matron's gaze.*>
>
>Morgan decides to pout anyway, if only because it's easier to hide
>thoughtfullness behind that expression than a vapid smile.

Knytt pats Morgan's hand, muttering "There, there, we'll get our
chance to go soon enough."

>(OOC: Is it dark out yet? I'd say yes, unless John still has
>something he prefers daylight for <g>.)
>
>Morgan  /|\

<OOC: Speaking of which.... :-)>
===========================
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 1997 00:55:46 -0500
From: Michael Jon Knight <mjknight@smartnet.net>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/773

At 01:07 AM 4/25/97 -0400, Shadow wrote:
<snip>
>When Roscoe answers in the negative, John seems to calm. Turning to
>the rest of the group just as a thunderclap breaks overhead, he says,
>"Well, he's here earlier than I expected." At the inquiring gazes of
>the others he smiles and adds, "He usually arrives late to important
>gatherings such as this." Turning to the window, he gestures, "Out
>there is the man I must face in combat. Well.. he'll be out there
>soon. This is my fight, so you don't need to involve yourselves. In
>fact, I'd suggest you all take cover, as this street is about to
>become ground zero."

"We've sorta noticed your partner. Mind filling us in on what in Old
Man is going on?" Knytt asks.

<OOC: Hope that will do, Shadow.>
===========================
Date: Thu, 24 Apr 1997 23:06:38
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: AAE: Whither the rest of us?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/774

At 12:53 AM 4/25/97 -0500, Michael Jon Knight wrote:
>At 06:05 PM 4/24/97, Morgan wrote:
>>Morgan decides to pout anyway, if only because it's easier to hide
>>thoughtfullness behind that expression than a vapid smile.
>
>Knytt pats Morgan's hand, muttering "There, there, we'll get our
>chance to go soon enough."

Morgan manages to keep her grin safely within the link and off her
face. <*Don't get carried away, Knytt.*>

Morgan  /|\
(OOC: "....And _that's_ where I shot him, Your Honor." <g>)

(Also OOC: I'm off to Crown Tournament tomorrow afternoon, and won't
be back at the computer until late Saturday. I may get a post or two
in tomorrow, depending on how things go. Meanwhile, assume Morgan and
the wolves are staying with the group. She'll maintain the dumb-blonde
routine as long as there's anyone watching that she prefers not notice
her, unless of course battle breaks out and then she'll be right in
there fighting. If for some reason someone really feels called to
write for me, I guess I trust you all enough by now not to do anything
out of line with my character <G>. BCNU!)

<Oh, BTW, please everyone cc Stranger until he says he's back on the
list. I've been forwarding things to him, but if I'm not here to do it
he'll be out of the loop again. Thanks!>
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 1997 17:17:32 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/775

On Thu, 24 Apr 1997, Paul Campbell wrote:
> `Excellent. In the meantime, I would like to speak to you privately
> regarding our people's position in Quaren. I trust Lord Darath has
> made our presence here worthwhile?'

 The officer spits over the side of the skimmer at the name of Darath.
"'lord' Darath is mearly a human fool. A pawn. Everything he does he
is told to do by an Iron Golem that I suspect our Matron created
herself. Regardless, she brought us to this world to act as a private
army, enforcing 'darath's will' however we choose. Drisonel has
subjucated these humans perfectly. They see our actions as those of
their own king, and what they don't agree with, they blame on him.
Meanwhile we collect the treasures of this land and grind it down uner
our heel until we're done. If it isn't too much trouble, could I ask
what your mission is? Did Drisonel decide we needed yet more Drow here
and is trying to treat with your house? We were actually told very
little about your house or mission, only that you were to be expected
soon and Drisonel was to be alerted immediately to your presense."
 The skimmer flies through the city at amazing speeds, seemingly
aimlessly. (Was that the _third_ time we passed that building??)
Finally it begins to decend towards a three story brick building made
from the same red clay brick as the rest of them. "Ah, we have
arrived." says the officer as he stands. The orcs hop out almost
before the skimmer has fully landed. The skeletons remain as piles of
bones. "Please follow me." The officer asks politely.
===========================
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
Date: Fri, 25 Apr 97 20:55:30 +0100
From: Roland X <rolandx@ix.netcom.com>
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/776

Sayeth our Fearless Leader (aka Xzerrion):
>> <*You picked a hell of a time to suddenly be noble about things.
>> Besides, what in the nether bloomin' hells are we supposed to do
>> without you? I seem to recall you being volunteered as our
>> 'fearless leader', that doesn't mean you get to drop the role and
>> go off and play whenever you choose.*>
>
><Precisely, I volunteered, but with reservations because of
>possibilities like this coming up. I have no intention of being
>delayed for long, as I suspect I can give the Three Stooges there the
>slip.>

   *xzerrion!* a faint voice whispers through the link.
   *grife, I leave the group for _five minutes_ and already you guys
are in trouble...*

><snip>
>> "A moment, Lord Xzerrion." As the snake-headed whip hisses softly,
>> High Priestess Triel steps forward. "Be sure to send my utmost
>> respects to Matron Drisonel. Return swiftly, for there is much work
>> to be done, and the lack of any weakens this company, and I mislike
>> that greatly."
>
>`I shall return to your company with utmost haste, my Lady.'

   *look, i don't know if you're maintaining your link to morgan, but
you might want to keep a contact with me in case you need backup
and/or a ride out in a hurry.
   *besides, i still owe you for the tower.*
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 00:39:55 -0700
From: Gareth L Owen <pe21@dial.pipex.com>
Subject: Re: AAE3 - Catching up (3 of 4)
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/777

Hi guys,

Just a few comments as I try and catch up with y'all.

The Stranger

> Morgan  /|\
>
> <OOC: Just for my own sake, I want to double check who's here: Me,
> Roland, Stranger, Xzerrion, Knytt, Fuzzy, Caprice, Crow, John (aka
> TNGinNS), Roscoe/Log, and as semi-NPC's Squee/Jr., Kitty, Mischief,
> Cutter and Leetah, and Phoenix. Did I miss anyone?>

Check Stranger and Kitty, what about Mayhem?

> [1] Another OOC - About the mini-lenses and the link: I don't
> remember Dhyrclhanc giving one to Caprice, but she's been linking
> with us so I'm willing to assume he did. She came in same time as
> Fuzzy, and he got one, so it's a resonable assumption. Crow wasn't
> with us then, but she's been linking since we got here. I sort of
> included Kitty without thinking, too. If we need a justification, I
> suppose Kitty could be linked through Stranger, and Crow could maybe
> still have one of Silence's 'bracelets'. I'm open to suggestions,
> folx :-).

Yep, Stranger can link to Kitty with the aid of his mini lens which
includes her in the Link.

OK, now Stranger isn't magical and he can't do much magic (he can do
some, he's never done it in front of any Callahanian and there are
reasons for that, don't ask, you may get an answer :-). Kitty isn't
magical either, but she has certain talents.

In the small underground room the Stranger ate some of the food and
put some food and money in his pockets, for later.

Later on...
>>When Roscoe answers in the negative, John seems to calm. Turning to
>>the rest of the group just as a thunderclap breaks overhead, he
>>says, "Well, he's here earlier than I expected." At the inquiring
>>gazes of the others he smiles and adds, "He usually arrives late to
>>important gatherings such as this." Turning to the window, he
>>gestures, "Out there is the man I must face in combat. Well.. he'll
>>be out there soon. This is my fight, so you don't need to involve
>>yourselves. In fact, I'd suggest you all take cover, as this street
>>is about to become ground zero."

The Stranger emerges from the cellar, with Kitty beside him.

"Something's coming. What is it? Who is it?"

/* Thought I'd stay out of the way of those secret policemen */

>>John pauses here for a moment, looking from face to face. "I thank
>>you all for this small share of time I have spent with you. It's
>>been a pleasure meeting you all." John pulls out the medallion,
>>laying it bare on his chest. "Too bad I can't thank him again for
>>this chance. Wherever you go, Xzerrion, may luck go with you."

"Maybe you'll get your chance. You may win."

The Stranger helps himself to a drink.

"There'a struggle calling me here. Maybe it's yours? Need a hand?"
===========================
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 1997 17:27:27 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: AAE3 - Catching up (3 of 4)
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/778

3 of 4? This is the only one I've seen.

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997, Gareth L Owen wrote:
>> <OOC: Just for my own sake, I want to double check who's here: Me,
>> Roland, Stranger, Xzerrion, Knytt, Fuzzy, Caprice, Crow, John (aka
>> TNGinNS), Roscoe/Log, and as semi-NPC's Squee/Jr., Kitty, Mischief,
>> Cutter and Leetah, and Phoenix. Did I miss anyone?>
>
> Check Stranger and Kitty, what about Mayhem?

<OOC: Mayhem never returned to Callahan's after AAE-2, Mayhem
apperantly had other fish to catch.>

[snip]
> In the small underground room the Stranger ate some of the food and
> put some food and money in his pockets, for later.

<OOC: Did you collect any of the spell coins that Fuzzy made?>

[snip]
> The Stranger helps himself to a drink.
>
> "There'a struggle calling me here. Maybe it's yours? Need a hand?"

 Fuzzy is pretty much being quiet and introspective waiting for John
to be done with his choosen battle and Triel to say it is Time to go.
 Of course if someone Chooses to ask for help that's another matter.

<OOC: Yes Fuzzy will use any current assumed name he is aware of even
in his thoughts, He doesn't care what your 'name' is, just who you
are.>

ttfn
  Fuzzy
             ---
  N  |  E  |  N  |  E  |
 N*C | N*C | C*N | C*N |
  E  |  N  |  E  |  N  |
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 1997 22:06:35 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/779

On Fri, 25 Apr 1997, Michael Jon Knight wrote:
> "We've sorta noticed your partner. Mind filling us in on what in Old
> Man is going on?" Knytt asks.
>
> <OOC: Hope that will do, Shadow.>

<OOC: That will do just fine, thanks.>

John glances out the door again, observing the lightning and thunder
playing between the clouds, "I've got a little time. As I said, he's 
usually late." He pauses a moment to collect his thoughts, then
begins, "You may have noticed a small, umm, shift in my personality at
times. That is the Other, I can't even imagine how to pronounce his
name, Your usual, run of the mill, nearly omnipotent, ancient, _dead_
being. It has possessed.. well, a better word would be bonded, with
me. Something about this combination of DNA, personality, good looks,
wit, and charm makes me a nearly perfect receptacle for it. Or a peice
of a shard of it's... essence? soul? that has bonded with me. There
are benefits," here a faraway look enters into his eyes, "like flying.
However there is a downside as well. There are others with the same
soulshards as I have, from one of the last two of these beings to
exist. I shouldn't even have to say that they were mortal enemies.
Those possessing such shards must absorb other shards as each being
tries to reunite itself. The.."again he seems to struggle for the
right words, "persona, of the loser is submerged into that of the
victor. It can get quite vicious between us. I like to survive." A
high pitched keening starts to fill the air.

He gestures out the door, "Out there comes another such person, with a
larger? shard than I have. However, I have this," he taps the House
Sigil, which should put me above his power level."

The keening becomes clearer and words can be heard in it. They seem to
be a very long, very drawn out, "Ooooohhhhhhh shiiiiiiiitt!!!!!!" A
blinding flash of lightning hits the road outside, sending debris
flying everywhere. John turns toward the door, "I should win, but I'm
very tricky." He smiles at everyone and steps out the door.

Over the link comes <*Whoever wins, we'll look very different. Part of
the deal I made with the _Other_. If I should lose, you can trust him.
After all, he's me.*>
===========================
Date: Sat, 26 Apr 1997 22:11:10 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: AAE3 - Catching up (3 of 4)
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/780

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997, Gareth L Owen wrote:
>>>John pauses here for a moment, looking from face to face. "I thank
>>>you all for this small share of time I have spent with you. It's
>>>been a pleasure meeting you all." John pulls out the medallion,
>>>laying it bare on his chest. "Too bad I can't thank him again for
>>>this chance. Wherever you go, Xzerrion, may luck go with you."
>
> "Maybe you'll get your chance. You may win."
>
> The Stranger helps himself to a drink.
>
> "There'a struggle calling me here. Maybe it's yours? Need a hand?"

John shakes his head, "No. Not with him. Never with him. It just
wouldn't be right."
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 00:56:55
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: OOC: Re: AAE3 - Catching up (3 of 4)
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/781

At 05:27 PM 4/26/97 -0700, fuzzy wrote:
>3 of 4? This is the only one I've seen.
>
>On Sun, 27 Apr 1997, Gareth L Owen wrote:
<big snip>

I sent Stranger copies of all the posts he'd missed. It was a sizeable
enough chunk (everything since back when we were in the bar in Quaren
discussing price) that I sent it in four pieces. He apparently used
the third one to get back into the story. Stranger, are you back now
or do we still need to cc you?

So, I'm gone a day and a half, and there's all of _six_ posts? OK, six
posts and a message on my answering machine from some evil sounding
bloke who called himself the Controller ;-). Gee, I wonder how he got
my phone number? Anyone want to venture a guess? Driscoll? :-)

BTW, Fuzzy, we did have a West Kingdom presence. His Occidental
Majesty fought all the byes. Our new Crown Prince and Princess are Sir
Joseph of Silver Oak and his lady Caroline, Baron and Baroness of
Nordwache (where the tourney was held, which was nice for them). I've
met them before, and they're good folk.

Long Live Al Caid and Lady Caid!
Morgan  /|\
<who needs sleep, and _then_ she'll decide if she wants to post
anything>
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 10:37:36 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: On the Road Again
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/782

/When John has finished what he needs to do, since we should search
for some thing to satisfy the watchers, I suggest we search for that
which  would be of the least use 'to or against' our opponent, at
least to start with./

ttfn
  Fuzzy
       ---
  N  |  C  |  N  |  C  |
 N*E | G*E | E*N | E*N |
  C  |  N  |  C  |  N  |
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 11:52:46
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: On the Road Again
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/784

At 08:55 PM 4/25/97 +0100, Roland X wrote:
>   *look, i don't know if you're maintaining your link to
>morgan, but you might want to keep a contact with me in
>case you need backup and/or a ride out in a hurry.

<*Well, technically,*> Morgan adds, <*Xzerrion is linked to Crow, not
into the group. Caprice is, though. So between those two links we
should be able to keep tabs on them.*>

At 12:39 AM 4/27/97 -0700, The Stranger wrote:
>OK, now Stranger isn't magical and he can't do much magic (he can do
>some, he's never done it in front of any Callahanian and there are
>reasons for that, don't ask, you may get an answer :-).

<OOC: You realize, of course, that that constitutes a nearly
_irresistable_ invitation to ask :-).>

At 10:37 AM 4/27/97 -0700, fuzzy wrote:
>/When John has finished what he needs to do, since we should search
>for some thing to satisfy the watchers, I suggest we search for that
>which would be of the least use 'to or against' our opponent, at
>least to start with./

<*Agreed. We shouldn't really leave without John, and we can't help
him. BTW, John, you said something about taking cover. Just how much
cover do we need to take? I'd rather not have to go back 'downstairs'
if we can help it.*>

>  N  |  C  |  N  |  C  |
> N*E | G*E | E*N | E*N |
>  C  |  N  |  C  |  N  |
>Fuzzy Mode Select

<OOC: Has anyone else noticed certain alignments have dropped out of
Fuzzy's mode select?>
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 02:13:25 -0500
From: Michael Jon Knight <mjknight@smartnet.net>
Subject: Re: AAE: Whither the rest of us?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/787
(note: 785 & 786 were empty)

At 11:06 PM 4/24/97, Morgan wrote:
>At 12:53 AM 4/25/97 -0500, Michael Jon Knight wrote:
>>At 06:05 PM 4/24/97, Morgan wrote:
>>>Morgan decides to pout anyway, if only because it's easier to hide
>>>thoughtfullness behind that expression than a vapid smile.
>>
>>Knytt pats Morgan's hand, muttering "There, there, we'll get our
>>chance to go soon enough."
>
>Morgan manages to keep her grin safely within the link and off her
>face. <*Don't get carried away, Knytt.*>

/Just trying to be inconspicuous. Seemed like it would draw less
attention this way./
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 13:15:08 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Aae-whereto?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/789

 OOC: Well if you're waiting on me to take us to the next place, I was
kinda stepping aside to let John have the spotlight right now (Well,
except for a little side-trip with Xzerrion and Caprice) So I'm open
to suggestions, do we wait for John to fight it out and watch, or do
we go on without him and have the victor (since either way it'll be
him <g>) to show up later?

 Seeing as how the immediate Drow charade is over, Log goes over to
Knytt to relieve him of his babysitting duties. [Thanks Knytt] He
sends as he grows to Human size to pluck the large rat off of Knytt's
shoulder. Sqwee grabs on with both paws as tightly as he can and
begins to squeel and protest. Giving up his task, Log holds his hand
over his eyes and shakes his head while muttering things not best to
be repeated. "Umm, I think he likes riding there. I don't suppose you
could keep watching him for a bit? I'm sure he'll get bored
eventually. Either that or I'm going to need some help prying him
loose."
 Then, turning to John, "Well I don't know what this fight is about or
why you don't want any help, but I'll respect your wishes. However, it
might also be to your advantage to choose the grounds yourself and
make him come to you. If you head south, you'll end up in the slums.
Lots of twists and turns and hidey-holes for geurilla (OK I admit my
spelling is bad!) warfare. Or there's the market square to the east if
you want to stir up trouble, and the temple district is southwest from
here, with the soldier and Guard barracks north of that if you want to
try to sic them on your enemy and then hide out until they finish each
other off."
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 13:28:26 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-whereto?
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/791

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  OOC: Well if you're waiting on me to take us to the next place, I
> was kinda stepping aside to let John have the spotlight right now
> (Well, except for a little side-trip with Xzerrion and Caprice) So
> I'm open to suggestions, do we wait for John to fight it out and
> watch, or do we go on without him and have the victor (since either
> way it'll be him <g>) to show up later?

  (OOC: Either way with a new face...)

>  Seeing as how the immediate Drow charade is over, Log goes over to
> Knytt to relieve him of his babysitting duties. [Thanks Knytt] He
> sends as he grows to Human size to pluck the large rat off of
> Knytt's shoulder. Sqwee grabs on with both paws as tightly as he can
> and begins to squeel and protest. Giving up his task, Log holds his
> hand over his eyes and shakes his head while muttering things not
> best to be repeated. "Umm, I think he likes riding there. I don't
> suppose you could keep watching him for a bit? I'm sure he'll get
> bored eventually. Either that or I'm going to need some help prying
> him loose."
>  Then, turning to John, "Well I don't know what this fight is about
> or why you don't want any help, but I'll respect your wishes.
> However, it might also be to your advantage to choose the grounds
> yourself and make him come to you. If you head south, you'll end up
> in the slums. Lots of twists and turns and hidey-holes for geurilla
> (OK I admit my spelling is bad!) warfare. Or there's the market
> square to the east if you want to stir up trouble, and the temple
> district is southwest from here, with the soldier and Guard barracks
> north of that if you want to try to sic them on your enemy and then
> hide out until they finish each other off."

 "Well if someplace has to be Ground Zero, Using it to our advantage
is only wise... I would suggest Guard Barracks or Temple District as
most likely to cause a useful distraction."

(OOC: Fuzzys Paranoia is getting more intense.)

ttfn
  Fuzzy
             ---
  N  |  E  |  N  |  E  |
 L*C | N*C | C*L | C*N |
  E  |  N  |  E  |  N  |
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 17:09:01 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: On the Road Again
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/792

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> <*Agreed. We shouldn't really leave without John, and we can't help
> him.BTW, John, you said something about taking cover. Just how much
> cover do we need to take? I'd rather not have to go back
> 'downstairs' if we can help it.*>

Sorry all about the delay, I'll type that out today. As for cover,
don't go out into the street, or rather, if you want to go out into
the street, move away from John, quickly. You should be fairly safe in
the bar if you wish to watch. BTW This should draw most all of the
Guards towards this area.
===========================
Subject: Re: On the Road Again
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 97 17:14:26 +0100
From: Roland X <rolandx@ix.netcom.com>
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/793

Quoth my sword-sister Morgan:
>At 08:55 PM 4/25/97 +0100, Roland X wrote:
>>   *look, i don't know if you're maintaining your link to
>>morgan, but you might want to keep a contact with me in
>>case you need backup and/or a ride out in a hurry.
>
><*Well, technically,*> Morgan adds, <*Xzerrion is linked to Crow, not
>into the group. Caprice is, though. So between those two links we
>should be able to keep tabs on them.*>

   *Whew. I'll keep the link quiet,* Roland sends, approaching a fort
that seems to be housing supplies, *just in case we have
eavesdroppers. But stay in touch. I just realized that, should things
become ugly, I could be the group's ace-in-the-hole.*
   *My my my, haven't WE come far?* Sil adds, not a trace of sarcasm
in her 'voice.' *I'll have to expand your Halo lessons. Let us know if
we can help, Morgan.*
   Roland sighs dramatically, and stares at the keep with narrow eyes
and a tight grin. "Hellooo, victim number one."
   Transforming into a living bolt of lightning, he streaks down and
strikes the fortress wall-from the inside. "Hello, boys!"
   "Great Darath!" The guards quickly scatter before the superior
force shown by Roland and Silver Phoenix.
   (Anyone scrying the area catches this little snippet.)
   "Hmm..." Byron hummed, watching the battle below.
   "What is it, Gaunt?"
   "He's a noble fool, great one, but even _he_ is rarely this
obvious," Byron replied evenly. "Roland must be providing some sort of
cover for his friends."
   "Loyalty. An admirable trait. Once it has been turned to my
service, he will serve us well."
   Byron bowed to the embodiment of the dark power. "As you command,
Destroyer."
   A charred, weathered figure, glowing with power and armored in
solid shadows, with golden spiked knees, belt, gauntlets, and a helm
like a dark beacon. A cape of royal purple waved behind him, though
there was no breeze.
   "One day, he would have been a Defender, a leader of champions.
Instead he shall join us, and be a part of the Pax Destroyer."
   His eyes glow blood red. "Or he shall die.
   "So commands...the Destroyer!"
   Both vanish...
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 18:26:11 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/796

Heh, Very nearly sent this one to myself, and not the list.

On Sat, 26 Apr 1997, Shadow wrote:
> Over the link comes <*Whoever wins, we'll look very different. Part
> of the deal I made with the _Other_. If I should lose, you can trust
> him. After all, he's me.*>

<OOC: Just so I don't have to keep typing it, all glows, beams,
magical effects are colored sky blue unless otherwise noted.>

John steps out the door, staring at the crater in the middle of the
large intersection. He lifts his hand, pointing towards the smoking
crater, a glow starting to form around him. A figure crawls out of the
hole and tries to stand, falling to one knee.

John speaks softly to him, "Sorry about this." Just then a beam blasts
from John's hand, picking the figure up and smashing him into a wall.
The beam glows a bit brighter for a second then winks out as John
lowers his hand.

The figure falls to the ground and lies still for a moment. Whoever he
is seems to be wearing robes of the same blue and purple highlight
color scheme as John's suit. Slowly the figure raises itself to one
knee, looking up at John, "That wasn't very sporting of you, you
realize that, I hope."

John smiles, "Yes. I had hoped to catch you off guard, I have this
little thing about surviving just as I am, for the most part. You know
how it is."

The kneeling figure rises, his face coming into the light. He looks
almost exactly like John, same hair, eyes, general looks. Just some of
the lines are different, worry lines, smile lines, giving him a
slightly more experienced look. The stranger studies John a moment,
then sighs, "I suppose we had better do this correctly then." He
raises his hands and a large circle fills the intersection. "At least
we have plenty of room here. Bystanders outside the circle off limits,
those inside," he smiles, "should any be brave, or more likley,
stupid, enough to wander in are fair game." He raises his hand now and
another beam, this one larger and thicker, shoots toward John, who
dives out of the way. They both regard the melted wall where the beam
splashed it. "At least you know you can't take me on at your current
level. What have you got planned?"

John grins at the other, spinning his cane around in his hand, "Oh a
little of this, a little of that," with that he throw the cane up into
the air, where it morphs into a very large, hungry looking dragon. The
robed one's eyes widen slightly, and he takes a small step back. The
dragon flys up into the air, then turns and swoops over the
combatants, spraying John's opponent with fire. The robed one just
stands there, the fire washing over a shield he's erected around him,
a slight strain evident on his face. After the pass he bows toward
John, "I've always liked that imagery, thank you." As the dragon turns
and plummets straight down at the other, a giant arbalest appears in
front of him, and an arrow shoots at the dragon, now some 20 feet
above. The dragon changes just as the bolt reaches it, now becoming a
swarm of giant black ants. The other quickly raises a burning shield
around him, upon which all the ants are destroyed.

When that is over, the other looks soul-weary as he says, "As always,
it's been nice playing with myself, but now is the time for it to end.
I'm sorry." With that he begins to glow as well, as he raises up his
aspect and summons his attributes. He is also glowing quite a bit
brighter than John, and a deeper blue color, more of a royal blue
compared to John's sky.

Without warning eight magical tentacles reach out from the other,
speeding toward John, who just stands there. Three feet from his body
they stop, and a look of surprise crosses the others face. John takes
a step forward, the tentacles retreating slightly, "Yes, It's time to
finish this. The glow around him flares brighter and brighter, but an
equally bright red glow starts to flare from his chest. The other
reaches into his robes and pulls out a staff, gnarled and old. "Old
Mor's staff. I hadn't thought I'd need it against you." As he spins
the staff, he also starts to glow brighter, and the tentacles move
forward a few inches before stopping.

John, streaks of red now flashing through the blue surrounding him,
takes another step forward. Again the tentacles are pushed back. "But
it's not enough. I have you now."

The staff whirling faster and faster, the other replies, "Never."
Suddenly he stops twirling the staff and breaks it over his knee. With
the resulting power surge the tentacles snap forward into the figure
of John, who looks very startled for a moment, then fades into
nothingness, leaving only a glowing red House Sigil suspended in
mid-air, inpaled upon eight weaves of magic. The other gasps out,
"What?" just as John pops up in front of him, his eyes glowing almost
completely red, his hand now scaly and clawlike, pulled back to
strike. The other's eyes widen in terror, and a strangled, "no,"
escapes his lips. John plunges his hand into the other's side, who
screams out a very loud, "NO!!!!"

The other starts to scream, there is a loud thunderclap and John is
thrust away from the other, to hang suspended in mid-air. The other's
aura flashes into deep purple and a glowing staff materializes in his
hand. He screams, "I killed you, Why the hell won't you ever die," and
thrusts the staff into John's body. As the staff enters his stomach
the house sigil explodes. His aura starting to fade, John places his
hands on the other's head and whisper's, "Finish it now. We don't need
this." A look of shock passes through the other's eyes as he realizes
what just happened, and he hugs John's body to him. John's body starts
to glow again, but this time it's in a color that seems to defy
definition, a color that doesn't exist, yet can be seen around him.
John's body fades out of existence, leaving only the other huddled in
his robes in the middle of the street. Everything now looks normal,
except for the wanton destruction surrounding the the shaking figure.
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 16:03:50 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/797

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997, Shadow wrote:
> On Sat, 26 Apr 1997, Shadow wrote:
>> Over the link comes <*Whoever wins, we'll look very different. Part
>> of the deal I made with the _Other_. If I should lose, you can
>> trust him. After all, he's me.*>

 Your heir shall receive all of the trust you have gained...

[snipped battle]

> leaving only the other huddled in his robes in the middle of the
> street. Everything now looks normal, except for the wanton
> destruction surrounding the the shaking figure.

To the non-drow 'looking' members of the party
 "Gather up the wreckage, this has wasted enough of our time."

 A disk showing various colored streaks from center to edge comes into
being, Fuzzy consults it checking for the widest streak of one color.

 "Priestess Triel, That which we seek is to the west"

 /Ya, the most worthless single item in the city, once we find it, let
our opponents take it from us, It will drive them nuts trying to
figure out what we wanted it for...<evil chuckle>/

ttfn
  Fuzzy
       ---
  N  |  C  |  N  |  C  |
 N*E | N*E | E*N | E*N |
  C  |  N  |  C  |  N  |
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 16:57:39
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/798

At 04:03 PM 4/27/97 -0700, fuzzy wrote:
>To the non-drow 'looking' members of the party
> "Gather up the wreckage, this has wasted enough of our time."

<*Sorry about not helping, guys, but the ditzy human female should
probably retain the appearance of uselessness.*> Morgan sends a mental
grin and wink.

> A disk showing various colored streaks from center to edge comes
>into being, Fuzzy consults it checking for the widest streak of one
>color.
>
> "Priestess Triel, That which we seek is to the west"
>
> /Ya, the most worthless single item in the city, once we find it,
>let our opponents take it from us, It will drive them nuts trying to
>figure out what we wanted it for...<evil chuckle>/

<*Oh, you're _baaad_. I like that.*> Morgan silently chuckles.

<*BTW, I hope it's not to late to think of this now, but anyone got a
plausible explaination _why_ a dumb-blonde type might be in the
retinue of a Drow noble? I don't really know that much about Drow
culture, and I didn't expect to have to carry this routine off for
very long. Triel, could you make sure Xzerrion gets this, in case he
has any input. If I'm _going_ to play a convincing character, I need
to know my _motivation_.*> She grins at the mental groans. <*OK, it's
a trite way to put it, but since our skins depend on our 'stories'
being convincing, I think it's important.*>
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 00:56:07 -0700
From: Gareth L Owen <pe21@dial.pipex.com>
Subject: Re: AAE3 - Catching up (3 of 4)
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/799

>> The Stranger helps himself to a drink.
>>
>> "There'a struggle calling me here. Maybe it's yours? Need a hand?"
>
> John shakes his head, "No. Not with him. Never with him. It just
> wouldn't be right."

"As you wish. Some things you have to do alone. Good luck."

The Stranger
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 01:06:34 -0700
From: Gareth L Owen <pe21@dial.pipex.com>
Subject: Re: AAE3 - Catching up (3 of 4)
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/800

>> In the small underground room the Stranger ate some of the food and
>> put some food and money in his pockets, for later.
>
> <OOC: Did you collect any of the spell coins that Fuzzy made?>

I'd take a Leap and Lock if any were left over after the others.
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 19:09:31 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/801

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> <*BTW, I hope it's not to late to think of this now, but anyone got
> a plausible explaination _why_ a dumb-blonde type might be in the
> retinue of a Drow noble?

\ Do you mean Her Reason or His?

1) The money is good.
2) She was raised to be Helpless/Decorative then sold to him.
3) She thinks it is 1 or 2, But actually she is slated for the
altar...

Take your choice.
Sorry just slipped out...
\

ttfn
  Fuzzy
             ---
  N  |  E  |  N  |  E  |
 N*C | N*C | C*N | C*N |
  E  |  N  |  E  |  N  |
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 21:14:24
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/802

At 07:09 PM 4/27/97 -0700, fuzzy wrote:
>\Do you mean Her Reason or His?
>
>1) The money is good.
>2) She was raised to be Helpless/Decorative then sold to him.
>3) She thinks it is 1 or 2, But actually she is slated for the
altar...
>
>Take your choice.
>Sorry just slipped out...

<*No apologies necessary, Fuzzy.*> Morgan smiles through the link.
<*Considering that the Drow are usually the bad guys (with one
exception near and dear to our hearts <g>), it would make sense that
their reasons for having a dim-witted human female around would be
less than what we would consider honorable.*>

<*#2 kinda makes sense to me. It wouldn't be the first time someone
sold a daughter for nefarious reasons. I'm not sure I'd buy #3, if
only because I don't see a noble dragging a woman in this category
around with his retinue to visit other nobles.*>

<*I just wanted an idea what other Drow might be expecting, so I can
act accordingly. I don't want some little slip based on lack of
understanding to blow our cover.*>
===========================
Date: Sun, 27 Apr 1997 23:53:05 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/806

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> <*#2 kinda makes sense to me. It wouldn't be the first time someone
> sold a daughter for nefarious reasons. I'm not sure I'd buy #3, if
> only because I don't see a noble dragging a woman in this category
> around with his retinue to visit other nobles.*>

 \Not all altars are portable, and somethings must be done at specific
places, also A male drow who wanted to Issue a Challenge to a
Matriarch might do so by showing off a Female Possesion, as a
statement that He will not take a subordinate role.\

\Also She may have been raised by houseless/renegade drow if born to
one of their slaves, as such she would never dare to express any
opinion, other than to agree with what Her Owner Indicated by the form
of the question was the expected answer.\

> <*I just wanted an idea what other Drow might be expecting, so I can
> act accordingly. I don't want some little slip based on lack of
> understanding to blow our cover.*>

\Don't Volunteer anything
If questioned look to Xzerrion to see what he indicates.
If Xzerrion Phrases a Question as to indicate the expected answer,
give it, otherwise assume it is rhetorical.
Expected answers may include non-verbal flinches etc.
\

ttfn
  Fuzzy
       ---
  N  |  C  |  N  |  C  |
 N*E | N*E | E*N | E*N |
  C  |  N  |  C  |  N  |
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 09:40:26 -0400
From: caprice <caprice@southeast.net>
Subject: AAE: Checking in
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/807

Caprice's mind opens up to the other's in the AoL link.

<Xzerrion and I have arrived where we are supposed to meet the iron
man who will put us in contact with the Matron. They tried to confuse
us, but our current location from you is...>

At this point the sending cuts to the bar, then a view of it from
above. From there, direction and distance are indicated, and finally
an image of where they are about to enter.

<I'd ask questions about a Drow having a human female bodyguard...
Except that in general I am coming across as dangerous enough that
most people won't wonder why he has me around. Deadly and expendable.>

<There's also the small question of if I'm going to stay human here...
But we can discuss that problem later. So someone fill me in on what's
happened?>
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 06:52:43
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/808

At 11:53 PM 4/27/97 -0700, fuzzy wrote:
>\Don't Volunteer anything
>If questioned look to Xzerrion to see what he indicates.
>If Xzerrion Phrases a Question as to indicate the expected answer,
>give it, otherwise assume it is rhetorical.
>Expected answers may include non-verbal flinches etc.
>\

<*Got it. I assume that, in Lord Xzerrion's absence, I would look to
Priestess Triel? And the wolves should behave as dumb pets, too, I
suppose.*>
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 10:24:58 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/809

On Mon, 28 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> <*Got it. I assume that, in Lord Xzerrion's absence, I would look to
> Priestess Triel? And the wolves should behave as dumb pets, too, I
> suppose.*>

\part one no, look to Knytt, part two maybe, not being human they
could get away with acting the part of 'smart' well trained guard
beasts, much as I hate to admit it, but I've seen some fairly 'smart'
Dogs, and wolves would be expected to be 'smarter'.\

\It would probably be a toss up, Who you would be most scared of
Priestess Triel or the House Mage, you would try to adopt someone as a
protector to avoid haveing to look to them.\

\Caprice, catch, 'Raw Concept Stream'\ Like a borrowed memory. \Sorry,
It is rough but quick, Yes, Drow are used to Females being more
dangerous than males.\

ttfn
  Fuzzy
 ---
  N  |  E  |  N  |  E  |
 N*C | N*C | C*N | C*N |
  E  |  N  |  E  |  N  |
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 13:35:48 -0400
From: caprice <caprice@southeast.net>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/810

fuzzy wrote:
*snip*
> \Caprice, catch, 'Raw Concept Stream'\ Like a borrowed memory.
> \Sorry, It is rough but quick, Yes, Drow are used to Females being
> more dangerous than males.\

Caprice nods mentally, and fights down a brief moment of
disorientation as she resists a pair of conflicting impulses...

One is to disembowl the nearby guards.

The other is to get her ears scritched.

--
Caprice - Sorry Fuzzy, I couldn't resist. =^_^=
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 10:40:10 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Shall We Go?....
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/811

\Wait a miniute Morgan, Are you part of Xzerrion's Entourage or are
you Knytt's Camp follower?, I just realized that I responded to the
literal question not the Current situation\

A slight Shudder of effort. The line showing 'our goal' brightens
slightly

"We should hurry"

ttfn
  Fuzzy
 ---
  N  |  C  |  N  |  C  |
 G*E | G*E | E*G | E*G |
  C  |  N  |  C  |  N  |
Fuzzy Mode Select
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 10:44:54 -0700 (PDT)
From: fuzzy <fuzzy@wco.com>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/812

On Mon, 28 Apr 1997, caprice wrote:
> Caprice nods mentally, and fights down a brief moment of
> disorientation as she resists a pair of conflicting impulses...
>
> One is to disembowl the nearby guards.
>
> The other is to get her ears scritched.
>
> --
> Caprice - Sorry Fuzzy, I couldn't resist. =^_^=

 No apology needed, You got it right. Ohh for a nap in an afternoon
sunbeam and a good ear scritching...

ttfn
  Fuzzy
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 14:40:10 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: Shall We Go?....
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/813

On Mon, 28 Apr 1997, fuzzy wrote:
> \Wait a miniute Morgan, Are you part of Xzerrion's Entourage or are
> you Knytt's Camp follower?, I just realized that I responded to the
> literal question not the Current situation\
>
> A slight Shudder of effort. The line showing 'our goal' brightens
> slightly
>
> "We should hurry"

John v0.1b stops shaking and tries to stand. He slips and falls back
to his knees. A wolfshead cane materializing in his hand he manages to
lever himself to a standing position. Throughout all this he carefully
keeps himself covered, even down to his face, which is hidden in the
depths of his hood. Shakily, his voice reaches out, "Yes. We should
leave here. I doubt that my little display went unnoticed. I'm
surprised that a whole _herd_ of Lanish hasn't come barreling down the
street, quivering with excitement." He holds up the cane, studying it
carefully, "Damn, I've got good taste." The tone sounds somewhat
humorous, if a little pained. He hobbles forward a few steps, almost
falls, curses briefly, then levitates about an inch off the ground. "I
think I'll blend right in, what do you guys think?"
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 14:34:26 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/814

On Fri, 25 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  The officer spits over the side of the skimmer at the name of
> Darath. "'lord' Darath is mearly a human fool. A pawn. Everything he
> does he is told to do by an Iron Golem that I suspect our Matron
> created herself. Regardless, she brought us to this world to act as
> a private army, enforcing 'darath's will' however we choose.
> Drisonel has subjucated these humans perfectly. They see our actions
> as those of their own king, and what they don't agree with, they
> blame on him. Meanwhile we collect the treasures of this land and
> grind it down uner our heel until we're done.

`I see. So Matron Drisonel truly has the humans of this realm under
her control? Excellent. We had been concerned that this so-called
Controller had influenced her to act against our race's best interest,
but if she has as much control over the situation as you say, our
concern was unfounded.'

> If it isn't too much trouble, could I ask what your mission is? Did
> Drisonel decide we needed yet more Drow here and is trying to treat
> with your house? We were actually told very little about your house
> or mission, only that you were to be expected soon and Drisonel was
> to be alerted immediately to your presense."

Xzerrion looks around the skimmer for any possible observers. `I shall
answer your question in a moment. First, if you have no objections to
my use of some small magic here ...' Waiting a moment, Xzerrion
invokes a globe of silence encasing him and the officer. `I and High
Priestess Triel were sent by the ruling council, primarily to observe
and advise. As I had said, the council found the presence of so many
of us outside of our usual realm to be disturbing, and asked for the
two of us to investigate. You understand how, among our people, such
unusual acts can be met with suspicion. In addition, the matron of my
house has asked me to see what influence Darath holds over your
Matron, as it seems odd that she would commit so many of her house
drow so far from the city.'

>  The skimmer flies through the city at amazing speeds, seemingly
> aimlessly. (Was that the _third_ time we passed that building??)
> Finally it begins to decend towards a three story brick building
> made from the same red clay brick as the rest of them. "Ah, we have
> arrived." says the officer as he stands. The orcs hop out almost
> before the skimmer has fully landed. The skeletons remain as piles
> of bones. "Please follow me." The officer asks politely.

Xzerrion follows, gesturing for Caprice to join him.
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 14:44:48 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae: A storm breaks.
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/815

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997, L.J. Wolfe wrote:
> <*BTW, I hope it's not to late to think of this now, but anyone got
> a plausible explaination _why_ a dumb-blonde type might be in the
> retinue of a Drow noble? I don't really know that much about Drow
> culture, and I didn't expect to have to carry this routine off for
> very long. Triel, could you make sure Xzerrion gets this, in case he
> has any input. If I'm _going_ to play a convincing character, I need
> to know my _motivation_.*> She grins at the mental groans. <*OK,
> it's a trite way to put it, but since our skins depend on our
> 'stories' being convincing, I think it's important.*>

<* Well, there's no accounting for the tastes of certain nobles, and
few are willing to question which slaves a noble chooses. In a chaotic
society, the first rule of action is `whatever amuses you.' *>

- Xzerrion, making use of the old link through Silence's hair to those
from AAE1
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 17:02:14 -0500
From: Michael Jon Knight <mjknight@smartnet.net>
Subject: Re: Shall We Go?....
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/816

At 02:40 PM 4/28/97 -0400, Shadow wrote:
>John v0.1b stops shaking and tries to stand. He slips and falls back
>to his knees. A wolfshead cane materializing in his hand he manages
>to lever himself to a standing position. Throughout all this he
>carefully keeps himself covered, even down to his face, which is
>hidden in the depths of his hood. Shakily, his voice reaches out,
>"Yes. We should leave here. I doubt that my little display went
>unnoticed. I'm surprised that a whole _herd_ of Lanish hasn't come
>barreling down the street, quivering with excitement." He holds up
>the cane, studying it carefully, "Damn, I've got good taste." The
>tone sounds somewhat humorous, if a little pained. He hobbles forward
>a few steps, almost falls, curses briefly, then levitates about an
>inch off the ground. "I think I'll blend right in, what do you guys
>think?"

Looking at the man floating before him, Knytt replies, "You'll blend
right in."

/Speaking of which, I have at least one enemy here who knows me...and
I don't want 'The Queen of Mean' to ID me too quickly. And if my other
'friend' is here, remote though it may be, I definitely want to hide.
Being killed after dropping three stories then burnt up in a huge
explosion is a bit hard to get over. <In best (read: worst) Jack
Nicolson impersonation> 'And, believe me, I've tried.' Anyway, I
better see what I can do to disguise myself./

Knytt steps into a dark alleyway, removing his hat, and slipping off
his backpack and vest. Pulling off his T-shirt, he stretches his arms
and rolls his shoulders. Slight sounds of discomfort, as if popping
joints into place which had been out for a while, can be heard and
felt through the link. Nothing remotely painful, more pleasurable than
anything. Knytt rolls his head as if loosening it up after being
stiff. He then bends over and stows his things in his backpack,
pulling out a shirt and two small hand mirrors. He puts on the shirt,
buttoning up the front, and holds up the two mirrors, checking himself
from every angle. When he angles the mirrors to see the back of his
head, he frowns mentally, then shrugs. Storing the two mirrors in his
pack, he slings it over one shoulder. Jaws drop as Knytt emerges from
the shadows.

Clad in blue jeans, hiking boots and now a slightly loose fitting
white dress shirt is a man in his mid-sixties. Silver hair hangs down
over his wrinkled brow. Around his mouth, laughlines have taken a
strong hold and crows feet make their marks next to his
one-brown-one-blue eyes. Still quite fit, perhaps even a bit more so
than the younger version, Knytt smiles.

/I know, I'm going a bit thin in back, but I can deal with it./ Taking
Morgan's arm, Knytt adds, /This is only a shell, I am still my old
self. I just never tried regenerating before. I have no idea how long
this will hold, or if I am stuck like this, or anything...one of the
disadvantages of being an 'experiment.' But, on the upside, I get the
Senior Citizen's discount at the movies, and I don't have to worry
about being carded./

Looking at Morgan, /I think there is something even more gratifying
about having you 'on my arm' at this age...but maybe I am just being a
dirty old man. ;-)/

As an afterthought, /First one to call me 'Gramps' gets a cybermat
where the sun don't shine./
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 18:01:44 -0400
From: caprice <caprice@southeast.net>
Subject: Re: Aae-invitation
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/817

Paul Campbell wrote:
> On Fri, 25 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>>  The skimmer flies through the city at amazing speeds, seemingly
>> aimlessly. (Was that the _third_ time we passed that building??)
>> Finally it begins to decend towards a three story brick building
>> made from the same red clay brick as the rest of them. "Ah, we have
>> arrived." says the officer as he stands. The orcs hop out almost
>> before the skimmer has fully landed. The skeletons remain as piles
>> of bones. "Please follow me." The officer asks politely.
>
> Xzerrion follows, gesturing for Caprice to join him.

Caprice follows, her eyes alert and paranoid.
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 17:42:18
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Shall We Go?....
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/818

At 10:40 AM 4/28/97 -0700, fuzzy wrote:
>\Wait a miniute Morgan, Are you part of Xzerrion's Entourage or are
>you Knytt's Camp follower?, I just realized that I responded to the
>literal question not the Current situation\

<*Good question. Of course, if I'm Knytt's plaything <g> and he's part
of the entourage, that makes me part of the entourage by extension.
Maybe we should wait and decide that if and when it becomes
relevant.*>

Morgan  /|\
<who's always in favor of keeping options open>
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 18:12:11
From: "L.J. Wolfe" <ljwolfe@eee.org>
Subject: Re: Shall We Go?....
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/819

At 05:02 PM 4/28/97 -0500, Michael Jon Knight wrote:
>/Speaking of which, I have at least one enemy here who knows me...and
>I don't want 'The Queen of Mean' to ID me too quickly. And if my
>other 'friend' is here, remote though it may be, I definitely want to
>hide. Being killed after dropping three stories then burnt up in a
>huge explosion is a bit hard to get over. <In best (read: worst) Jack
>Nicolson impersonation> 'And, believe me, I've tried.' Anyway, I
>better see what I can do to disguise myself./

<*He's got a point. The 'kids' and I aren't going to be her favorite
people, either. Let's see....*> Morgan thinks a few moments, then
reaches a decision.

She closes her eyes in concentration. Gradually her hair changes to an
almost silver blonde, her green eyes turn blue, and her facial
features alter just enough so that, combined with the other changes,
she doesn't quite look like Morgan anymore. She opens her eyes, and
looks at the wolves. They turn into a matched set of reddish brown
wolf-hybrids.

<*Subtle is easier to do. Good enough?*>

<OOC: BTW, if the claymore and other obvious weaponry not suited to
her 'character' weren't hidden by illusion before, they are now :).>

<snip>
>Looking at Morgan, /I think there is something even more gratifying
>about having you 'on my arm' at this age...but maybe I am just being
>a dirty old man. ;-)/

Morgan smiles sweetly at her "new" companion and squeezes his arm. <*I
have two words to say regarding the desirability of older men. 'Sean'
'Connery'.*> ;-)

>As an afterthought, /First one to call me 'Gramps' gets a cybermat
>where the sun don't shine./

<*How about 'Sugar Daddy'?*> Morgan sends a wicked grin. <*He makes
another good point, though. Those of us who haven't already adopted
new names should probably do so now while we can think about it. I'm
lousy with names. Any suggestions?*>.
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 18:33:56 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Aae-Uh Oh
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/820

 Log contemplates the directions Caprice send and nods slowly. [Yep,
that would put it near the main temple. Very predictable for Darath.]
Then he scowls deeply and grumbles as he begins picking things up at
random, dropping them in a pile at the side of the street when Fuzzy
begins tracking the precious thing. To John's Lanish comment, "Oh no,
they're never found in civilized lands except in domesticated forms.
but I'm sure the Guard will be here any second." True to his comment,
the whine of the skimmers can be heard speeding towards the Tavern and
"ground zero".

 The officer looks at Xzerrion, obviously confused. " I don't know
this name... The Controller? Drisonel rules here and soon shall rule
over the entire land in kind."
 The officer leads Xzerrion and Caprice through huge iron double
doors. Four Orcs stand by to open and close them, and all four are
needed to move each door. The doors lead to a stone hallway, and
looking up, eyes can be seen peeking down at the pair of drow and
female human through the murderholes.
 A few humans are seen as the officer leads Xzerriona dn Caprice down
the hallways and a flight of stairs, but they scurry off quickly and
try not to make eye contact. Finally the officer comes to an ornate 
looking carved oak door.
 He opens it and gestures for the pair to enter. Inside is a very
plush room, with velvet covered chair and a matching couch. One wall
is covered in bookcases, the others being covered by ornate tapestries
and paintings. A small fountain burbles in one corner. The officer
bows deeply, "I must go to check on my subordinent and find out the
Matron's wishes. Please make yourselves confortable here and I shall
return in mear moments."
 The officer turns and strides out of the room, closing the door
behind him. Xzerrion's acute elvish hearing picks up the
not-too-unexpected sound of a bolt being pulled on the other side of
the door.
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 21:34:09 -0400 (EDT)
From: Shadow <pookie@pluto.njcc.com>
Subject: Re: Aae-Uh Oh
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/821

On Mon, 28 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  Log contemplates the directions Caprice send and nods slowly. [Yep,
> that would put it near the main temple. Very predictable for
> Darath.] Then he scowls deeply and grumbles as he begins picking
> things up at random, dropping them in a pile at the side of the
> street when Fuzzy begins tracking the precious thing. To John's
> Lanish comment, "Oh no, they're never found in civilized lands
> except in domesticated forms. but I'm sure the Guard will be here
> any second." True to his comment, the whine of the skimmers can be
> heard speeding towards the Tavern and "ground zero".

From the depths of his hood, John *growls*. He goes stock still for a
moment, then in a slightly shaken voice continues, "Just great. Might
I suggest we get out of here _now_?" He begins to float toward a side
street leading away from "ground zero".
===========================
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 19:05:00 -0700 (PDT)
From: Paul Campbell <xzerrion@u.washington.edu>
Subject: Re: Aae-Uh Oh
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/823

On Mon, 28 Apr 1997 gamer@host.yab.com wrote:
>  The officer looks at Xzerrion, obviously confused. " I don't know
> this name... The Controller? Drisonel rules here and soon shall rule
> over the entire land in kind."

<OOC : Wait a minute, this drow meantioned the name `The Controller'
when we first met him, in my immediate recollection.>

>  The officer leads Xzerrion and Caprice through huge iron double
> doors. Four Orcs stand by to open and close them, and all four are
> needed to move each door. The doors lead to a stone hallway, and
> looking up, eyes can be seen peeking down at the pair of drow and
> female human through the murderholes.

Xzerrion glances up and waves.

>  A few humans are seen as the officer leads Xzerriona dn Caprice
> down the hallways and a flight of stairs, but they scurry off
> quickly and try not to make eye contact. Finally the officer comes
> to an ornate looking carved oak door.
>  He opens it and gestures for the pair to enter. Inside is a very
> plush room, with velvet covered chair and a matching couch. One wall
> is covered in bookcases, the others being covered by ornate
> tapestries and paintings. A small fountain burbles in one corner.
> The officer bows deeply, "I must go to check on my subordinent and
> find out the Matron's wishes. Please make yourselves confortable
> here and I shall return in mear moments."

<OOC again : I've been noticing that others are keeping literary
control over their main villains, ie Roland and Byron, Driscoll and
the Controller, etc. I presume I do have the same control over Matron
Drisonel.>

>  The officer turns and strides out of the room, closing the door
> behind him. Xzerrion's acute elvish hearing picks up the
> not-too-unexpected sound of a bolt being pulled on the other side of
> the door.

Not surprised in the least by this development, Xzerrion speaks to
Caprice, using the usual silent method. <I'm going to see just how
well guarded this room is. If we're in the main temple complex, it's
possible the prisoners we're looking for are here.>

Xzerrion then assumes a `listening' pose as he checks using his house
sigil to see how many guards are posted on the other side of the door.

<If there aren't many, I can easily maneuver them elsewhere and we can
explore the complex at our leasure.>
===========================
Subject: Re: Aae-Uh Oh
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 97 22:40:47 +0100
From: Roland X <rolandx@ix.netcom.com>
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/824

Quoth Xzerrion(xzerrion@u.washington.edu):
>Xzerrion then assumes a `listening' pose as he checks using his house
>sigil to see how many guards are posted on the other side of the
>door.
>
><If there aren't many, I can easily maneuver them elsewhere and we
>can explore the complex at our leasure.>

   *xzerrion, let me know if/when you want me to move in. i have a
plan.
   *it isn't a very _subtle_ plan, but then I'm not a very subtle
person. then again, distractions aren't _supposed to be subtle. <g>*
===========================
From: gamer@host.yab.com
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 20:37:34 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: Aae-Uh Oh
X-Mailing-List: <aae@kestrel.scs.uiuc.edu> archive/latest/827

On Mon, 28 Apr 1997, Paul Campbell wrote:
> <OOC : Wait a minute, this drow meantioned the name `The Controller'
> when we first met him, in my immediate recollection.>

 If he did, then it's a boo boo on my part. He doesn't know anything
about "the Controller". Just this iron Golem.

> <OOC again : I've been noticing that others are keeping literary
> control over their main villains, ie Roland and Byron, Driscoll and
> the Controller, etc. I presume I do have the same control over
> Matron Drisonel.>
 Yep. I might mention a villain in a post, or might hold a
conversation between the Controller and them, but for the most part
unless I e-mail someone for specific permission to write for them,
your arch-enemies are yours to do with as you wish.

> Not surprised in the least by this development, Xzerrion speaks to
> Caprice, using the usual silent method. <I'm going to see just how
> well guarded this room is. If we're in the main temple complex, it's
> possible the prisoners we're looking for are here.>
>
> Xzerrion then assumes a `listening' pose as he checks using his
> house sigil to see how many guards are posted on the other side of
> the door.
>
> <If there aren't many, I can easily maneuver them elsewhere and we
> can explore the complex at our leasure.>

 Xzerrion doesn't sense any guards on the other side of the door, not
quite at least. there's a presense, but it seems to slip in and out of
this plane rapidly.

 The subordinate officer enters the antechamber of the Golem with
tembling legs. There are rumors that the Golem is invulnerable to
magics and blade alike and that Drisonel sics him on those who
displease her. but those are just rumors right? Not wanting to take
chances, he puts on his best 'in-control' look and steps towards the
7' tall black figure.
 The Iron golem stirs and turns around to look at the Drow with bright
red eyes. "What do you want? Drisonel has not summoned you and neither
have I."
 The junior officer takes a deep breath, "Inform Drisonel that we have
recieved her guests for her. Talesh is with them now in a tavern on
Kelwater street. I saw the house name on a Magic Liscense myself sir."
 The black form turns away from him again. "She will be informed and I
shall give you her response soon. Leave. Now!"
 A frightened Drow goes running out the door leaving the last shred of
his dignity behind.

 The Controller finds Darath the Black standing on the balcony of his
castle looking at the last rays of dusk fade away into the night over
the desert. "My leige, I have recieved news from myself in Zag.
Driscoll has enlisted the Army of Light against you, just as I
predicted."
 "The army of Light? Driscoll must have allied with the Bitch-goddess
Ligi! Let a new edict be made, all theives shall now be executed by
being staked down with thiese faces to their beloved sun, until the
very sight of it kills them."
 The Controller turns his gaze from Darath the Black to the desert.
"yes sire, it shall be done. As for the Army of Light, might I suggest
a special battle plan against them?"
 "Yes yes, whatever you desire Golem. Leave me, I wish to commune with
my God, though being a souless construct you would know nothing of the
beauty of such a thing."
 The Controller turns was walks away, "No sire, I wouldn't." then too
softly to be heard, "Twit. So much power at your disposal, yet you
leave yourself so easy to be manipulated. What a waste of life."
===========================