Start of #TD&DG buffer: Tue Aug 12 21:01:24 2008 [18:11:34] [Upon returning to Mardeaux, Bruxon the wizard in tow, the newly beautified Althea and friends were greeted with mixed reactions. The news that the "princess" the kobolds were holding prisoner was a fake was met with celebration, which was short-lived once the dead courier in mourning garb was remembered. Somebody in the ducal house is dead.] [18:13:48] [Bert and Tag met it with mixed reactions - both exhibited a mix of mourning and bravado. Floren kept glancing at Althea's new appearance. And she has found that Bruxon is oddly clumsy for a dwarf. He keeps accidentally stumbling into her in...inconvenient ways.] [18:19:01] [Bert spent a rough couple of nights on Floren's potion. It was a close one on the second night; he almost transformed anyway, but Tag gave the smaller boy his dose. Tag, apparently, didn't mind transforming. Nor did he seem to lose control of himself when he did, though he ate more than Floren's mother had ever cooked before in a single night.] [18:19:01] [We join our heroes on the road - Bruxon and Floren feel it their duty to pay their respects to the Ducal House of Gan for whatever their loss is, and to carry the report of its lost courier. They have invited Bruxon's rescuers along. Perhaps they can report the wererat problem, as well.] [18:19:10] [Start!] [18:19:34] * Lidya walks along, a little tired, but glad the elemental problem is over with. [18:20:07] * Bert is pacing - apparently trying to be subtle about it - around Althea, staring at her and looking her up and down with a critical eye. [18:20:46] * Wurr has been unusually quiet and thoughtful through the trip. [18:21:16] * Ierikc has been somewhat quiet, but not more than usual, as he's kept his eyes on the road and a book at his side. [18:21:38] So, just how big is the House of Gan, anyway? [18:23:16] * Tag shrugs. "They're big enough to beat up a dragon, I guess. An' they rule the whole duchy. Mardeaux, Corlenn, Arabesque...never can remember the name of the other one." [18:23:43] Well, I guess that that's something. [18:23:59] * Ierikc nods. [18:24:11] Liriade. [18:25:18] * Stella walks along with the others, smiling her usual smile. [18:25:41] ...are you -really- Alia? Or whatever she's calling herself now? [18:26:10] * Ierikc stays quiet. [18:26:15] * Althea smiles. "What do you think?" [18:27:10] By the way, the locale you're looking for is Orlan. [18:27:32] No, that's the whole Duchy. He means Liriade. [18:29:27] Yeah, Orlan's the whole place. Big, ain't it? *walks along with hands behind his head, trying to look tough and nonchalant* [18:29:55] I think you're cute, Alia. That's what I think. And anybody who looks that good can be called whatever she wants. *winks* [18:30:34] Sorry, Tag, but you're not... um... of the right... stature for me. [18:31:23] The damn princess is still as bitchy as ever. Stay away from that Bert. Any girl that puts the apples out on display is hoping you'll take a bite before realizing they are posion. [18:31:27] I'll grow. [18:31:59] Look, if you want to say his carnial lusts aren't enough for you, you can just say that. [18:32:01] *coughs, turning red* Right, Mr. Wurr. I'll remember that. *mutters* Sorry Princess Allana. [18:32:59] I'm not a princess. That would be nice, though. [18:33:09] * Althea gets a dreamy look on her face for a brief moment. [18:33:17] * Stella smiles at Wurr. "What a nice overwrought metaphor, friend Wurr." [18:34:00] * Wurr grunts very orc like. [18:34:31] * Ierikc rides along. "What is it with you mammals and your obsession with size, anyways? It's not the size that counts, but how you use it." [18:34:33] I'll have to remember that one [18:34:50] I was sugar-coating my words, Ierikc. [18:35:11] Hey, they're grown. Aren't ya? *turns to Tag and Bert* [18:35:11] Really? Maybe Alia here wouldn't mind helping me learn how to "use it"? [18:35:42] Ew. No. Just... no. [18:35:42] TAG! [18:36:11] * Tag laughs. "I'm kidding! I'm kidding! ...well, mostly. You -are- beautiful, "Princess." [18:36:13] * Wurr laughs. "Nah, first ask her for a growth spell boy, THEN maybe." [18:37:09] * Lidya laughs. [18:37:27] *coughs politely* Ahem. We are approaching the castle. Perhaps a more properly mournful decorum is appropriate? [18:37:56] Ah, right. I'd been trying to get over that. [18:38:00] * Lidya frowns. [18:38:07] * Lidya calms down considerably. [18:38:10] * Althea can't help but blush lightly at the compliment about her looks, but quickly snaps out of it. "Yes, let's be more dignified." [18:38:15] This -is- mournful. [18:38:16] * Ierikc rolls his eyes. [18:39:21] * Tag does his best, which amounts to being quiet and keeping his face down even as his eyes dart about. Bert manages a bit better, looking quiet and somber. [18:40:26] * Stella continues to smile beatifically, because she is Stella. [18:41:45] So, any topics of conversation we should avoid while we're here? [18:41:49] * Wurr looks himself. Any one that doesn't like it can say something to his face. [18:42:54] *clears his throat* The dragon, or the Duke's marital status. Depending on whether it is Elizabeth or the Duke that is dead, avoid talking about who will take the throne. [18:43:16] I thought that much was almost a given. [18:43:48] Yeah, even I knew that. [18:43:55] You asked. [18:44:32] Gotcha. Anything else? [18:44:34] I was just making sure. [18:46:09] * Lidya continues onward. [18:47:16] [Castle Gan is a surprisingly large edifice, until one gets past the front gates and realizes the outer walls contain a small city. A city in definite mourning. If the kids were having trouble maintaining proper decorum before, the ambiance seems to have dampened any exuberance they might have been suprressing.] [18:48:55] [Once to the castle proper - more a manor house than a defensive structure - the guards, all in black, only let the party in once Bruxon identifies himself. They're led to a suite of rooms to wait for an audience with the Duke.] [18:48:59] [Resume.] [18:49:20] * Lidya waits patiently. "I hate to see the city like this." She frowns. [18:49:35] It is kinda sad, really. [18:50:47] * Wurr finds a seat and just sits getting comfy. [18:50:59] *as she arranges some cushions on one of the large couches* The Princess was well-loved. [18:51:13] * Lidya nods... [18:52:13] * Althea settles delicately on a couch. Not the same one as Wurr, though. "I can only hope that so many people care so much when I pass on." [18:52:43] Hope is a fickle thing. [18:52:59] She's my age, isn't she. Or, was. *sits down hard* Why'd everyond love her so much? [18:53:49] Many things are fickle. I prefer not to think about that, though. Too depressing of a thought. [18:54:48] Well, I'm sure wherever she is, she'll be okay. [18:55:59] * Wurr just nods a bit. [18:56:25] When they find those bandits, they'll make them pay. Hard. [18:56:49] I'm sure. [18:57:20] Who all is coming out to see the funeral procession? Nobility-wise, I mean. [18:58:26] I'm sure the King and his sons will be coming, but they'll take almost a month to get here. So it's going to be another week and a half before then. Who they bring with them... who knows? [18:58:50] What are these bandits? [18:58:58] Oh. That's a long time. [18:59:10] Oh, you haven't heard how it happened? [18:59:23] We've been 'out of the loop', as it were. [18:59:33] Afraid not. [19:00:26] * Althea says unhappily, "We've been stomping around in holes." [19:00:28] The Princess, bless her heart, was out to visit the other towns. But some kobolds attacked and destroyed her carriage, killing all but one of her handmaids. She's the one who came back to tell us about it. ...she died a week later. [19:01:33] * The maid looks down, and wipes at her eyes with her rag, smudging her cheeks a bit. [19:02:39] Huh. I hope Bert didn't get lost along the way here. There were a few twists and turns to get here. [19:02:57] * She takes a deep breath and puts on a false smile. "Oh! And there's a paladin in town! A real handsome, knight-in-shining-armor type! He'll be staying for the funeral, as well." [19:03:18] * Wurr suddenly looks a little uncomfortable. [19:03:35] I think I will look for the boy... [19:03:48] Really? A paladin? Any idea where he's at? [19:03:55] Don't worry, sir. I'm sure he'll not attack a brave soul who is helping to put down the kobolds who murdered the Princess. *to Wurr* [19:04:58] Oh, he's out hunting today, but he's staying in the castle. You'll see him at dinner, I'm sure! [19:05:09] * Wurr slowly rises from his chair. "The kid can get into trouble... worried about him. I should look for him. Ya care?" [19:05:39] Nobody knows where he ran off to? [19:05:43] Oh, um, well, just let the guards know, so they can find you? [19:06:00] Well, hopefully he'll be around for dinner. Oh, and Bert too. [19:06:03] Bert's not--? wow, kid's gotten better. I didn't even notice he'd slipped off. [19:06:38] * Wurr nods. "Of course." With that he turns and heads for the door, once outside he BELLOWS "BEEEEEEEEEEEERT!" If he sees a guard he'll inform them... of course. [19:06:48] Uh oh [19:08:30] ...um, he's not going to break anything, is he? [19:08:53] Oh, no. [19:09:08] Unless you try and have him break things. [19:09:14] * The maid seems to be cowering behind her cleaning implement. [19:09:33] We've trained him quite well. [19:09:58] * Wurr bellows again, a bit further away, if he knew the kids middle name he'd be invoking it right now. [19:10:14] [Fortunately for Bert, Wurr doesn't even know his last name. Assuming he has one.] [19:10:48] *eyeing the maid* Maybe we should all go looking. To keep Wurr out of trouble, and all. [19:10:51] He won't break stuff. Except for possibly doors. [19:11:40] I just sat down. We've been walking for a while. I'm sure Wurr can take care of himself. [19:12:18] Well, let's keep him company, at least. [19:12:24] * Tag gets a sly look on his face. "Oh! Is that the paladin?" he asks, pointing out the door and down the hall. [19:13:05] * Althea jumps up and looks out the door. [19:13:16] I don't see him. [19:13:19] [There's a guard down the hall, looking worriedly after Wurr] [19:13:20] * Ierikc glances that direction. [19:13:35] * Wurr turns around to face the Guard. "Your name Bert?" [19:13:35] [Said guard is probably -not- a paladin. Certainly doesn't match the maid's description.] [19:13:37] * Lidya looks over there [19:13:53] It's George, sir. [19:14:20] * Wurr nods very very thoughtfully. "You have no problem. Bert, now Bert's got a problem." [19:15:08] *rises* I will go help Wurr. My master will stay here and rest. No arguments, Sir; you're still recovering, and this travel has not been good for you. [19:15:09] * Althea peers around and returns to the room crestfallen. "You just got my hopes up for nothing." [19:15:17] * Bruxon, eyeing the maid, doesn't seem inclined to argue with his apprentice. [19:15:39] Sorry. *doesn't look sorry at all* I'm gonna go look for Bert, too! [19:15:50] * Lidya gets up and tags along with Wurr. [19:16:00] Gotta make sure he's alright [19:16:45] * Althea looks and sees people running off. "Fine, I'll go too." [19:16:45] Uh huh, because if he is I'm going to kill him, if he ain't I'm going to find enough money to bring him back and kill him. This is dangerous running off like that in a castle. [19:16:47] * Althea heads off. [19:18:12] Are you kiddin'? Castle's 're meant to be safe! An' they're FUN. Well, so far, anyway. *staring around as much as possible while running through the halls* [19:18:54] * Althea goes to follow Lidya as she searches. "Maybe Bert has some horrible secret. Like, I dunno, he's really a wanted criminal." [19:19:26] I'm sure he's fine. [19:19:28] Pff. He's less criminal than -me-. Practically a goody two-shoes. Wouldn't even help steal when we were workin' for Carb. [19:19:34] And if you get caught by a guard b..............................secret. DAMN IT! BERT GET YOU ASS BACK HERE AND I'LL TEACH YOU SWEAR WORDS IN FIVE LANGUAGES! [19:19:47] Oh yeah, that secret. [19:20:13] * Ierikc gets up and starts walking around, looking. "I suppose I can help." [19:20:27] Secret? What secret? [19:20:42] * Ierikc hisses amusedly. [19:21:08] He took your dress, the yellow one, and is planning on making a kite out of it. [19:21:44] Hey, anyone want to see a neat trick? [19:22:16] I didn't like the yellow dress anyway. Not enough frills. [19:23:11] * Lidya pushes a part of the wall [19:23:17] Oh, that's good, then the boy's not going to be strangled to death by lace. [19:24:10] * Lidya spots another part. "Wait, the switch is over here." She pushes it. [19:24:14] [The wall behind the tapestry next to where Lidya pressed a brick into the wall grinds open with a quiet rumble.] [19:24:33] * Wurr pauses looking at that. "In there?" [19:24:38] You'd think they'd hide hidden doors better. [19:24:49] Oh yes. [19:24:53] And it's been used. Recently. [19:24:55] I didn't know there was something there. [19:25:46] * Wurr rushes in, he'd start running, he looked very worried. [19:26:30] Hey! Wait up! *runs in after Wurr* [19:27:05] * Stella follows along. [19:27:05] * Lidya steps on in [19:27:19] * Althea picks up the hem of her skirt and begins to follow hurridly. [19:27:19] * Wurr suddenly does a sharp turn, keeping his pace the lack of light not slowing him down at all. [19:27:29] * Ierikc walks in carefully, not worried about lack of light either. [19:28:04] * Tag skids to a halt at Wurr's turn, and doesn't -quite- slam into the wall. Sniffing, he follows Wurr's path. [19:28:45] * Althea stops a short distance in. "Hey, there's no light in here!" [19:28:56] [Ahead, a good ways in, a light glows faintly at the end of the first side passage. There's a small, humanoid shape shadow in front of it.] [19:29:33] * Wurr will turn rushing for it, well slowing up as he got nearer. [19:30:40] * To those with Darkvision, it's clearly Bert there, peering through a peephole into a well-lit room beyond. [19:31:04] * Althea fumbles about for a bit before giving up and casting Light on her pendant, which she now holds in front of her as she continues down the passage. [19:31:09] * Tag, for the benefit of those -without- darkvision, whispers, "That smells like Bert." [19:31:15] * Ierikc clears his throat. [19:31:18] * Lidya starts stepping along. [19:32:19] * Wurr is waiting behind him being quiet. [19:32:28] * Althea follows a good distance behind, her light announcing her entrance for her. [19:32:34] * Stella walks up, smiling her smile and cracking her knuckles. [19:34:50] * Ierikc walks forward and puts his hand on Bert's shoulder, motioning for others to be quiet, as well as Bert. [19:35:12] * At the sound of Stella's knuckles popping and Ierikc's hand on his shoulder, Bert startles, spins, sees Wurr RIGHT THERE all big and orcy, and eeps in a most unmanly fashion, falling through the wall (which swivels aside at his touch) and into the well-lit room! [19:35:34] * Althea approaches the mess and just kinda halts in her tracks as she sees the scene unfold in front of her. [19:36:05] * Wurr follows him looking protective just in case some one is on the other side. [19:36:07] Uh oh [19:36:10] * Lidya follows along, fast [19:36:29] [A large, muscular man in what can only be described as high noble's clothing stands, drawing a sword from the wall behind him. "What is the meaning of this!?" his booming voice demands.] [19:36:44] * Althea shoves the Lighted pendant down her bodice to hide the light. "I just got here! I have no idea what's going on!" [19:36:58] [By the family seal on the shield on the wall behind him, this is -probably- the Duke himself.] [19:37:21] Look the kid just wanted to explore! it's not his fault! Sorry for barging in. [19:37:33] * Wurr moves to be between Bart and the Duke. [19:38:06] What kid? *looks and sees Tag, who is not hidden behind Wurr* [19:38:12] Not me, I'm with them. [19:38:25] *eyes Bert* But, um, yeah. Sorry. Not trying to-- [19:39:28] * Bert runs out from behind Wurr and throws himself at the Duke, startling him so much that he doesn't even try to bring down his sword. "DADDY!" sobs the child. [19:39:48] * Ierikc walks forward. [19:39:53] * Wurr sighs. "THAT secret. Damn it worse then I thought." [19:40:27] It doesn't take a genius not to figure it out. [19:40:30] * The Duke looks confused, but lowers the sword carefully to his large, fine wooden desk. "Excuse..." his voice hitches. [19:40:32] What? What? [19:40:34] Oh. [19:40:36] * Stella blinks. "Oh?" [19:40:36] (err, to figure it out.) [19:41:06] I'm not dead, Daddy. I'm not dead. I'm sorry. I am so sorry. *crying as he hugs the Duke* [19:41:36] * Wurr stares at Ierikc, he better have a good speech. [19:41:41] *puts one hand on the child's back, and tips his chin up with the other* ...Elizabeth? [19:42:16] * Bert - er, Elizabeth? - nods, and burries her face in her father's shoulder as he kneels down to hold her tightly. [19:42:20] That's... uh... interesting... [19:42:25] * Lidya blinks [19:42:29] * Althea looks confused. [19:43:09] Ah, I see. [19:43:32] [The door opens, and a small squad of guards steps in. "Is everything alright, m'Lord?" asks one of them.] [19:43:46] [They seem ready to turn weapons on the party.] [19:43:59] * Stella smiles. "Everything is quite alright, sirs." [19:44:05] * Ierikc looks back at the guards. "We mean no harm. Really." He smiles. [19:44:06] * Wurr starts sputtering. "look didn't know he was yours, he said parents were killed, I wanted to make sure he was safe and all, he had a little adventure, but no real big mishaps." [19:45:15] No, no, everything-- everything's better than alright. My daughter's back. *picks up Elizabeth, and sets her back down on her feet, grinning like a mand whose life has just been saved* Elizabeth's back! They brought my girl back to me! [19:45:36] You can calm down Wurr. And we can explain everything simply. [19:45:42] Um... you're welcome? [19:46:27] I don't think it's exactly going to be simple to explain [19:46:32] Wurr? It's okay, really. Thank you for taking such good care of me. Thank you all. I'm sorry I lied. But... *swallows* I didn't want to come back...knowing I was... *voice hitches, and she starts crying again* [19:46:33] * Stella nods. [19:46:46] Guards, leave us. I'll be fine. I'll call if I need you. [19:47:02] Yes, my lord! *salutes, and they all leave, closing the door behind them* [19:47:25] * Stella whispers to Althea. "We will need to hasted our efforts to cure the children's therianthropy. It would be sad to have this soured." [19:47:32] * Wurr just STARES at the Duke and Guards, this possiblity has apparently never entered his head. [19:48:04] * Althea nods to Althea and continues to stare at the scene. [19:48:09] Well, I figured you were royalty and belonged to this house, but it comes together now. [19:48:12] (to Stella, too.) [19:48:14] * Tag whispers to Stella. "Yeeeaaah." [19:48:44] Why couldn't you come home? What didn't she want me to know? [19:49:23] * The Duke holds his daughter as she cries, but looks to the strange people who brought her back for answers. Tag, meanwhile, tentatively slips forward to lay a comforting hand on Elizabeth's shoulder. [19:49:47] * Wurr is letting Tag and keeping his mouth shut. [19:49:52] Well, now I feel bad. [19:50:04] Did any of you know? [19:50:15] Not me. [19:50:20] Kindof, knew the royality thing, asked to keep it quiet. I did. [19:50:40] I had deduced the royalty. I didn't know about him being a her, although now it makes sense. [19:51:13] ...wait, you knew? HOW? [19:51:17] We were discussion wishes, and none of you brought this up? [19:51:22] What's wrong with you people?!? [19:51:27] What's wrong with YOU? [19:51:45] I can at least claim ignorance here! [19:51:52] I forgot about it, it wasn't important. Bert is Bert. [19:52:50] * Stella looks thoughtful. "Well, I suppose we could have used the third wish on that instead of 'I'd like to be prettier', if only we had been patient enough to allow our memories to work." [19:52:57] * Ierikc nods. [19:53:21] After all, I wasn't the one who wanted to 'be as pretty as my sisters.' I don't even *have* sisters, sheesh. [19:53:41] I do. I don't wanna be as pretty as they are. Is -that- what happened to Alyssa? [19:53:49] No one was even discussing it. [19:54:02] Given the nature of wishes, even discussing it can lead to a stray wish. [19:54:35] I think you're wrong there, Ierikc, but that's not the current topic. How long did you guys know? [19:54:37] What's this about wishes? Explain yourselves. Now, please. [19:55:38] Look, it didn't matter, okay, Bert's Bert, he did what he had to do and got it done. Anyways what GOOD would a wish be it takes the journey away from you, this is much better, much more satisfying, maybe he picked something up anyways. I mean if you wished to be prettier well underneath all that pretty you're still not going to be happy because you know it ain't you. [19:56:19] Well, I really hope Bruxon and Floren's cure works, then. [19:57:12] * The Duke clutches his daughter more tightly. "Cure? What's wrong?" [19:57:31] * Lidya frowns. "It all starts with were-rats." [19:57:43] I'm so glad not every story starts like that. [19:57:44] * Ierikc glares at the group. "Way to let the cat out of the bag." He looks at Elizabeth. "Is it okay if we speak of it, Elizabeth?" [19:58:07] * Elizabeth pushes carefully away from her father, and, tight-throated, nods. [19:58:10] THANK you for ensuring our painful deaths. I'd like to point out it was the halfling NOT the orc that did this. [19:58:28] Okay, Duke Gan, could you please sit down? [19:59:04] It was goign to have to come out eventually, Wurr. We're just being less than subtle about it in a room that apparently has peepholes and thin walls. [19:59:04] * The Duke complies, not letting go of Elizabeth's hand as he heads that way. Tag slips out of the Duke's immediate sight, but stays near Elizabeth. [20:00:04] Like Lidya explained, it started with were-rats. Elizabeth, as we knew here Bert, was in the town of Corlenn which was having problems with bandits. [20:01:24] * Ierikc starts explaining as he walks back and forth. It's pretty amusing seeing a little kobold walk back and forth explaining things to the Duke like an orator. "Turns out a kobold tribe of bandits had become infected with were-rats and were stopping all trade. In short time, Bert had come with us as we took to solve the problem." [20:02:07] Which he, I mean, she did a surprisingly good job now given her background. [20:02:09] * Bert--er, Elizabeth is looking moderately proud of herself. [20:03:35] Most of the young in the town, even now, have become infected with therianthropism. Also known as being a were-rat. Unfortunately, Elizabeth also became infected. We're currently seeking a solution to remedy the situation for the town. [20:04:02] Mass producing a cure is difficult. [20:04:08] And takes lots of supplies too. [20:04:26] *whispering* Daddy, you're hurting my hand. [20:04:36] * The Duke immediately loosens his grasp. "Sorry. go on." [20:05:09] Carrying on, we continued to Mardeaux because of the wizard, Bruxon, could hopefully help with that, and on the way stopped in town to find another problem: this with portals to the elemental planes opening up. [20:05:40] Yeah, that was cool. Mushroom people and fish people but they wouldn't let us help kill the kobolds there. [20:05:53] Seeing no easy solution in sight, we went to Bruxon's tower so he could, hopefully, solve this problem as well, to find the situation got out of control and that was the source. [20:06:26] * Ierikc walks back and taps Tag on the nose with his claw. "I'm sure you'd be just as disappointed if they kept you from killing humans, now wouldn't you?" [20:06:36] I don't care for his way of climbing the tower. [20:07:01] Anyways, we went to the tower, and in short, the solution to the problem was summoning an Efreeti and bartering for three wishes. [20:07:20] * Tag grins down at Ierikc. And twitches whiskers at him. Said whiskers vanish as quickly as they appeared. [20:07:46] A real efreeti? *eyes dancing with a thousand stories of romance and adventure* [20:08:00] Two of them were obvious, but the third was difficult to decide. In a fit of rashness, Althea used the third wish to make herself as pretty as her sisters. [20:08:03] He was kind of a jerk. [20:08:12] What do you expect from an Efreeti? But I digress. [20:08:19] The first two were obvious, and no one was even discussing it. [20:08:34] * Wurr is watching "Bert" still a little protectively. [20:09:11] Afterwards, and with Bruxon alive now, we made our way here. Wurr had been trusted with your daughter's sister about being royalty, and I had discerened it by how protective she was about a bauble with your coat of arms on it. [20:09:43] * Althea sighs. [20:09:43] I *suspect* that the caravan that bauble was from was the one she was lost in. But I, of course, don't have particular proof. [20:10:03] Oh! *pulls out said bauble* Sorry, I almost lost it. *hands it to her father, who absently puts it down on his desk* [20:10:40] That's a short explaination of our travels here. Also, if Alyssa doesn't give you a straight answer on her name, don't be surprised. She still hasn't given us one. [20:12:34] *silent for a minute, before saying* Thank you. You have done my family - me - a great service. I should have been able to protect my people from that were-rat and his bandits. Our resources are stretched so thin now, though. [20:12:50] Because of the whole dragon thing? [20:13:12] You're all invited to the feast. We'll have one, tonight, and every night until my brother gets here. To celebrate. *hugs his daughter* [20:13:39] Please, attend. And if there's anything I can do - anything Orlan can do - to thank you, please ask. [20:13:41] Sure. Sounds good. We probably should leave so that you two can clean up. I think Bert there could really use it, no offense. [20:14:40] * Elizabeth giggles. [20:15:17] * Wurr nods a bit. "I'm glad to guide......elizebeth here." [20:15:20] Well, I'm glad things here turned out well. [20:15:31] * Ierikc smiles. "I'm glad to see a happy ending though. And we should alert Bruxon, as well." [20:15:55] Yes. Sending an official guard to tell him to show up might be a little more suspicious. Oh, and you should do something about the wall. [20:17:16] * Ierikc looks at the wall. "Yes, that is a problem." [20:17:18] * Elizabeth eyes Tag for a moment, then leans in and whispers something to her father, who nods. "We will, I assure you." [20:17:57] If you would please excuse us, though, I believe it is time to prepare for that feast. [20:18:10] Yes, let's go and end this semi-awkward moment. [20:18:26] * Wurr nods heading out. [20:18:42] Right [20:18:44] * Lidya walks on out [20:19:08] * Ierikc smiles at Elizabeth and walks out. "Come on Tag. Give them some time." [20:19:10] * Stella walks out as well! [20:19:48] [As the party leaves - this time by the proper door - the Duke calls Tag back. Why is discovered when everybody is gathered for the feast, as Tag is most uncomfortably tugging at a formal - and high society - outfit when they see him standing near the table set aside for them.] [20:22:14] [People are waiting for the Duke, and excited gossip is flying because apparently his daughter is -not- dead! The mourning black has been hastilly replaced by the colors of the house and bright colors of celebration. Spirits are high. | Resume] [20:22:51] * Wurr can't help staring at Tag and smiling, true wuv. [20:23:27] * Lidya smiles at the two. Awww. [20:24:06] * Tag glares at Wurr and Lidya. (It should be noted that the Duke and Elizabeth haven't arrived yet.) "What?" [20:24:22] * Althea moves about the crowd, gossiping and looking for the paladin. [20:25:29] * Wurr smirks. "You know what I said about apples? This one didn't bother with fruit, she just used a giant great sword against you. Those are the best gals." [20:25:44] * The swooning sounds from the back of the hall probably are announcing his presence. A golden-haired head bobs over there. [20:26:08] * Ierikc chuckles, idly finding his way around court to talk to various people. [20:26:22] ...what? [20:26:57] * Talk...quiets...as Ierikc approaches. Much like it would around Wurr, were he not staying at the table set aside for the party. Not quite rude silence, but there's definite...discomfort at the presence of the red-scaled kobold. [20:26:59] * Althea makes her way over to the throng of people to push her way to see the paladin. [20:27:07] * Lidya looks over at the paladin [20:27:19] Lidya, translate for the kid... [20:28:15] I think it's something he's best off learning for his own. [20:28:19] * The paladin is a handsome young man, maybe in his early twenties. He seems to be wearing only a ceremonial pauldron to symbolize his knightly status, as his tabard and such don't hang as if he's in full plate. But he does cut quite the dashing figure, and even bends over to kiss the back of Lidya's hand. "I hear you helped rescue the little Princess," he says, smiling at Althea as well as he rises. [20:28:38] * Stella is dressed in the same rags she always is, which probably draws comments as well. [20:28:39] * Lidya smiles. [20:29:02] * Althea stands there as her jaw drops slightly before making her way away from the throng of people. [20:29:07] Stella, how? *lamenting* How did you get them to let you dress in real clothes for this? [20:29:10] * Althea moves far away from the paladin. [20:29:26] *frowns, turning back to Lidya* Was it something I said? [20:29:56] * Wurr laughs. "Nah, the boy here has alot to learn. Sit with us!" He grins at the Paladin REALLY nicely. [20:29:58] Hm? Oh, nothing. [20:31:43] * The paladin looks Wurr up and down appraisingly, warrior to warrior. "It is refreshing to see one of your kind dealing heroically, my good orc," he says, bowing. "I am Sir Dylan Westbrook, and I would be delighted to join you." He glances in the direction Althea fled. "Provided all of your company is amenable," he adds in a worried tone. [20:32:26] * Ierikc offers a hand up to the paladin. "I'm assure you, she just wasn't expecting to meet you so suddenly and cordially." [20:32:40] * Althea keeps gossiping, though, and gives a worried glance back to the paladin every now and again. [20:32:41] Yeah, she still has six hours or so to look beautiful. [20:32:45] * Jessica is straining from her position on Althea's shoulders, trying to get away. [20:32:49] * Stella smiles at Tag. "Oh, I spoke at length with the maid about my church and my obligations to my deity. She saw reason and let the matter go." [20:33:01] * Althea tries with great effort to keep Jessica from getting away. [20:33:02] * Wurr wiggles a finger at jessica. [20:33:16] ...what church? Can I join? *tugs at his pants, shifting most ungentlemanly-like* [20:34:06] Tag, you don't want that church. They tell you all sorts of things you'd disapprove of. I'm sure our good friend Sir Dylan Westbrook here will tell you all SORTS of things you shouldn't do right now. [20:34:29] Oh? Like what? [20:35:16] Oh, no, I would never give a boy that age ideas. I remember being that age, myself. Having nothing but sisters, I had to make all of the trouble by myself. [20:35:29] Oh my [20:35:42] Oh, like accidently knock a table over spilling all the food and drink on the pretty and very expensive dresses. [20:35:48] * Althea gossips, and walks, and gossips some more. [20:35:55] * Ierikc is dressed, for reference, in a clean set of clothes not unlike a priest's garnments fitted for a kobold, his golden holy symbol haning out in plain view. [20:36:38] *mutters in response to Wurr's suggestion* that'd work if I could -move- in this getup. [20:36:45] Will that impress the princess? [20:37:03] Impress her? Why would I want to impress her? [20:37:24] Well, she's royalty. [20:37:32] * Wurr is dressed in his bright red blood cloak with grens all types of greens trimming it and bright blue clothes under that. "Oh I'm sure if you spill something on yours you'd have to change." He smiles a bit. "I'm also sure there are no fewer then six tailors working on clothes for you as we speak." [20:37:33] If livin' here means havin' to wear this torture device stuff all the time... *grumble* [20:37:42] * Stella giggles at Wurr's suggestion. [20:38:33] * Tag's eyes widen, and he HASTILLY grabs Dylan's drink and douses himself with it. "Oops!" [20:38:35] * Althea is still dressed in her blue and white dress with lots of frills and lace that shows off her curves. It's the only one that fits right now since she hasn't had time to visit the tailor's shop. [20:39:29] Um, excuse me. I need to change. [20:39:32] * Wurr shakes his head. "Don't worry Sir Dylan Westbrook, I'm sure that Tag here will learn a very valuable lesson by the end of the day." [20:40:12] That being there's always more fancy clothing. [20:41:03] [Just then, the trumpets blare in a fanfare, and Duke Gan and Elizabeth - looking MUCH more like a princess in her bright yellow dress with green accents and a matching gold-and-emerald tiara on her too-short hair - step regally in. Tag, in mid-retreat, stops and stares.] [20:45:50] [The Duke stands before his throne, seating his daughter beside him on a smaller one. "Words cannot do justice to my gratitude, and that of all of Orlan, for the safe return of my daughter. I extend our formal thanks to each of those involved. To Elizabeth's friend, Tag, we extend an invitation to live in the castle. To Wurr and Ierikc, we wish to extend formal citizenship in Orlan."] [20:47:09] [He continues, "To them, Stella, Lidya, and Althea Westbrook, we extend knighthood. Please, step forth, and be knighted."] [20:48:17] * Lidya steps forth. [20:48:34] [At the mention of the last name, Dylan rises to his feet, eyes wide, even as the party lines up before the Duke's throne, as he dubs each of them "Sir" or "Lady."] [20:48:54] Althea!? I've been looking everywhere for you! [20:49:17] Um... congrats? You found me? [20:49:37] * Althea begins backing away in an attempt to exit the room. Fat chance of that succeeding, though. [20:49:51] * Ierikc stands behind Althea. [20:50:16] * Stella puts a hand on Slthea's shoulder. "Ah, an old acquaintance! How good for you, friend Althea!" [20:50:23] Why've you been--? When Vrolnux returned with his men wounded, we assumed the worst! He said a water-- *turns to look at Wurr, with dawning comprehension* [20:50:43] * Ierikc clears his throat. "Perhaps we should finish this little mixup here." [20:51:05] * Althea continues backing away. [20:52:40] *eyes narrowed* Althea... For shame, little sister. Come, sit, eat. We'll discuss this civilly. Mother is frantic, and Lyris has been hitting sour notes - FOUR of them - since Vrolnux came back. [20:52:59] * Stella claps her hands. "Ah! A brother! How delightful!" [20:53:12] * Althea halts her retreat. "Um... sure..." [20:53:18] ((Stella Ohrensausen <--- insert as Stella's formal name) [20:53:22] So that's her name? [20:53:42] *sighs* Yes. You've not even told them your name? [20:53:58] I was in hiding! You think I'm just going to tell everyone my name? [20:54:02] Althea, hmmm. Well, she did slip about her name starting everyone with Al. [20:54:47] I was wondering how many names start with that [20:54:56] * Ierikc 's formal name, for reference is Ierikc-ssaerth, "the Dreamer." [20:54:59] My apologies if she has been any trouble. She really is a well-behaved Lady, most of the time. And thank you for taking care of her. [20:56:00] * Althea steps forward and attempts to regain her composure. "Yes, they have been very helpful in that regard." [20:56:11] * Althea actually doesn't say 'except for Wurr'. [20:57:30] *to Wurr* I am especially sorry for our butler's misunderstanding, Sir Wurr. You understand, he was only trying to rescue Althea from what he thought was a kidnapper. [20:58:21] I think we're causing enough of a scene here. Let's discuss this over dinner. [20:58:41] ...yes, you're right. My apologies, Duke Gan. [21:00:28] [The Duke shakes his head bemusedly, and gestures dismissal. As people resume their seats, gossip flies, and Tag slowly dries out, eventually shaking his head to clear it from staring at Elizabeth's transformation from Bert, and retreating to change...and returning in the same thing, sans the overshirt. Apparently, his old clothes were being washed.] [21:00:57] [End Arc.] End of #TD&DG buffer Tue Aug 12 21:01:24 2008