Chaosforge Forum

General => Play-By-Forum => Topic started by: LuckyDee on March 31, 2013, 03:33

Title: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on March 31, 2013, 03:33
Setup is still in progress; thread has been opened up for the startup of the campaign

[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]

Welcome to 1899, a steam punk roleplaying game created from all the best elements encountered during and an imagination honed by nearly 20 years of RPG experience.

This thread starts out by explaining the basics of 1899 and is meant for hosting the first story, The Hidden Hands of the Aether. As such, I hereby kindly request anybody that is not a recognized player to refrain from posting in this topic. For any questions, comments or discussion, be it 'out of character' talk by the players or suggestions and queries from non-participants, I hereby direct you to the Lock and Feather Inn (http://forum.chaosforge.org/index.php/topic,6254.0.html), which is set up specificially for this purpose.

The setting used for 1899 heavily borrows from Games Workshop's Warhammer Fantasy RPG and White Wolf's World of Darkness, in the sense that both are set in a copy of our own world. The latter uses the exact same world, albeit a couple of shades darker; the former uses the same geopolitical basis (http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110623215028/warhammerfantasybattle/images/d/d4/World_warhammer.jpg), which is then rebuilt through the lens of fantasy.

1899 falls somewhere in between: the game is set in 19th century Victorian London, England, and although the country will look more or less the same as it did in our world and the people will sound the same, it's the influence of the Aether that makes the differences so much more striking than the similarities.

Be advised that the title 1899 was chosen to reference to the 19th century as we know it, and to reflect the fact that the world is on the treshold of some big event. The story (or possibly stories) itself doesn't necessarily take place in that year, nor is the year 1899 in the game laced with the same key events as it is in our history.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on March 31, 2013, 03:35
[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]

The Earth on which this story is set has many similarities with the planet as we know it: it came to be in a similar solar system, with the same sun, same neighbors and same moon. The planet's land masses underwent the same continental drift, so that geographical layout is the same as we know it.

Life on it started from simple cells and evolved into more and more complex forms, and eventually brought us Homo Sapiens some 200,000 years ago. This form of man made the same important discoveries such as the wheel, the alphabet, currency, gunpowder and the steam engine.
Cultural history - at least concerning the Western societies - also followed more or less the same course; there are too many events to even know where to begin, but the following events deserve special mention:


What sets 1899's Earth apart from ours is the presence of Aether, the fifth element. Aether, which by modern science is held to be a manifestation of divine power, has played a huge role in the evolution of man, and indeed of the planet itself (how else does one explain the remains of monstrous creatures, long since disappeared, that are dug up from the depths of the earth every now and then?).

Although different cultures have different views and different myths, they generally agree upon this: long ago the gods still populated the earth themselves; the gods of the light in the south, and the dark gods in the north. They infused life with their breath, the Aether, and as the forces of light and dark opposed each other, so did their followers. Eventually a massive war ensued, in which the domain of the dark gods was largely laid to waste, but not before one of their number managed to banish the gods of light to their own fortified city in the south and entrap them there.
This war is estimated to have occurred around 3,000 years ago, and ever since - although greatly diminished - the lingering Aether seems to be acting as a catalyst for the gods' return, shaping people's ideas and actions.

Fortunately - even if those who can't usually disagree - the ability to manipulate Aether is not available to anyone and everyone; only about one in every five persons is Gifted, meaning they can sense and control the flow of the Aether within or even around themselves. This fifth of the population is further subdivided in Juggernauts and Mages: the former - about three quarters of the Gifted - tend to be limited to direct physical manifestations of their powers, while the latter have a more subtle and complete control not only over themselves but also over their immediaty vicinity and the people in it.
Attitudes to the Gifted, or even to Juggernauts or Mages specifically, differ. In the larger urban areas, the Gifted are usually accepted more easily, with Mages tending to be favoured over Juggernauts. In rural areas, distrust is generally the maxim, although Juggernauts may find themselves accepted - a good strong pair of hands is hardly ever under-appreciated - as long as they keep a moderatly low profile.

As the gods were both sides of the same coin, so does the Aether fall apart into two conflicting and complementing powers; the White or Light Aether on the one side, and the Black or Dark on the other. The Light Aether inspires and empowers to achieve the greatest of benign feats, while the Dark Aether urges to perform acts of great malignity. And although not every soul is affected by Aether and those that are have a heightened affinity with it, the two Aethers are known to manifest in one another's shape on occasion, and more than one Mage or Juggernaut has seen their plans go up in smoke when as their power turned out to stem from another source than expected.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on March 31, 2013, 03:35
[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]

As can be expected, the existence of Aether has had an enormous impact on spiritual life throughout the ages. Contrary to the world we know, religious life on the planet of 1899 is dominated by polytheistic beliefs, all stemming from the same legends and myths about the gods living on Earth. Curiously - as far as Western society has managed to infiltrate elsewhere - the same legends are found all over the globe, being so incredibly similar as to almost rule out coincidence altogether.

Below follows a list of the most important deities of the Anglican Republic. As far as Western knowledge goes, these gods are found in every empire's religion, be they under different names as language dictates, and slightly different functions. The names and functions of the gods of the Republic and the Confederacy are almost identical, seeing as the North American culture mainly evolved from the Anglican.

Durhaeon, king of the gods; god of air, the sky and thunder.
Caraä, queen of the gods; goddess of marriage and family.
Gard, god of water, the seas and tidal waves.
Moria, goddess of earth, fertility and all plants.
Lazerus, god of wine, celebrations and ecstasy.
Simeaon, god of death, the moon and sleep.
Kitariel, goddess of the hunt, the sun, and all animals.
Endrick, god of commerce, thieves and games.
Selena, goddess of light, wisdom and healing.
Arcturus, god of war, violence and bloodshed.
Xana, goddess of love, beauty and desire.
Azul, god of fire and the forge.

[ADD BIT ABOUT DOMAIN]
[ADD COUPLE OF DARK GODS]
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on March 31, 2013, 03:35
[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]

Since the Anglican Republic - as an alternate image of our United Kingdom and the stage on which our story is conducted - will deserve more than a little attention to detail, let's starting with a brief summary of other world powers and noteworthy domains.

The Prussian Empire
Prussia, ruled by Emperor Karl-Heinz II, is a nation known best for its engineers and scientists. A lot of the great inventions of the modern Western world were done there, and the art of Technomancy - the merging of industry and Aether - originated within its borders. Their army - the Wehrmacht - is the most technologically advanced force on the entire planet. The Prussian people are held to be industrious, disciplined and reliable; the nation itself is on good terms with its neighbours, especially the Tsardom, from which it buys a lot of raw materials for its industry. Although vast amounts of Prussian technology serve to be the country's number one export product, there are rumours aplenty of all sorts of secret discoveries unfit to see the light of day.
Based on our real life topography, the Prussian Empire stretches from Latvia in the northeast through Lithuania, Poland and Germany to the Netherlands in the northwest; part of France in the southwest (imagine a line through Le Havre and Lyon and you're about right) and Switzerland and a minor chunk of northern Italy in the south. Denmark and the western part of the Czech Republic are also Prussian domain.

The Kingdom of Austria-Hungary
[CULTURAL INFO TO FOLLOW]
The Austro-Hungarian Kingdom borders on the Prussian Empire in the north and west and runs all the way to the Black Sea in the east, including part of Ukraine in the northeast and part of Bulgaria in the southeast. Albania, former Yugoslavia and Italy also belong to the Kingdom.

The Iberian Free States
[CULTURAL INFO TO FOLLOW]
The Free States make up the southwestern corner of Europe, bordering on both Prussia and Austria-Hungary. Rumor has it the Iberians even managed to get a foothold in Africa, but this goes unconfirmed as of yet. The Iberians of course, are content to let the rumour spread itself.

The Ottoman Empire
[CULTURAL INFO TO FOLLOW]
The Ottoman Empire borders on Austria-Hungary in the northwest and comprises Turkey, the entire Arabian Peninsula and runs through most of Iran to the east. The stretch of land between the Black and Caspians seas is also mainly in Ottoman hands, as is the part of Egypt east of the Suez Canal. Interestingly, the Suez Canal does not exist in 1899 nor is it needed: Africa and Asia are separated by the Red Sea entirely.

The Scandinavian Wasteland
[CULTURAL INFO TO FOLLOW]
The Wastelands encompass Norway,  Sweden and Finland, plus the Russian regions (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Russian_Regions-EN.svg) Murmansk, Karelia, Leningrad (including the lost city of Saint Petersburg) and Novgorod.

The Russian Tsardom
[CULTURAL INFO TO FOLLOW]
The Tsardom occupies the remaining lands between the Wastelands, Prussia, Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman Empire. It borders the Far East (which runs along the estern coast through to half of the Khabarovsk region) and Sea of Okhotsk and Bering Sea on the other side of its huge territory.

The Confederate States of America
[CULTURAL INFO TO FOLLOW]
The Confederacy occupies nearly all of the North American continent, stretching from the far north down to the southwestern states of the USA we know. The southern halves of California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas (picture a line through San Fransico and Houston) are still in control of the natives.

South America
[INFO TO FOLLOW]

Africa
[INFO TO FOLLOW]

Far East
[INFO TO FOLLOW]

Oceania
[INFO TO FOLLOW]

The Eyes of the Aether
The two Eyes of the Aether are said to be located at the North and South Poles, with the Black Eye watching from the North and the White from the South. The partly explored Barrens - of which the Scandinavian Wastelands are the furthest outgrowth in the Western world - lend credence to the stories about the Black Eye; the White Eye is shrouded in mystery instead. Any expedition that ventured into the heart of the South Pole seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth, but the overwhelmingly benign vibe that cloaks the region keeps attracting new explorers - only to have them vanish again.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on March 31, 2013, 03:36
[UNDER CONSTRUCTION]

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Burrows, life in the Anglican Republic is filled with luxury and wealth - if you're a member of one of the Patrician families, that is. For the common man, however, life mainly consists of working long days on the land or in one of the Foundries to ensure that Patricians' wealth doesn't diminish too much. The divide between rich and poor is very big indeed, although a man with ambition and a halfway decent set of brains may find opportunities to rise through the ranks aplenty. Although the real power has been in the hands of one of the 23 Patrician families for close to two millennia, the last centuries have seen a shift in the way the power is distributed - the extremely bloody riots following the Prohibition Acts of 1667, in which the Sunderland family was brutally slaughtered by a number of  surprisingly well-organised mobs, have seen to that.
Anglia is now a republic ruled by a Prime Minister, who is backed by a Cabinet of Ministers selected from the Patrician families. Which families are allowed in the Cabinet is determined by an election, in which every adult male who is a member of one of the Guilds has a vote. Elections are held every 5 years.

Since all Guild members have the right to vote, it's fair to say that the Guilds are actually the powers behind the throne, especially the large ones like the Farmers', Founders' and Technomancers'; not quite incidentally, these three Guilds also represent the trades for which the Republic is best known across its borders. The percentage of adult males not enlisted with a Guild - and therefore unemployment - is incredibly small. People who are caught working outside of a Guild's purview are usually swiftly dealt with by the Guild in question; this is not strictly legal, but wetbacks' pleas to the authorities usually fall on deaf ears. There are a number of professions that do not generally have Guilds in their name - artists of all sorts form the largest part of this group, although more than one enterprising entertainer has successfully managed to set one up in order to profit from the benefits they are by law entitled to.

The Republic, being isolated from it's neighbours by the surrounding seas, has always been pretty much self-sufficient; this explains the success of the Farmers' - who represent a large part of the of the country's food industry - and the Founder's Guild - who are responsible for most of the Republic's heavy industry. The latter have always maintained an above average standard, which is evident from such feats as the London Underground and the impressive Anglican Navy, but it is in conjunction with the Technomancers' Guild that the Founders truly shine.
Anglia knows a long history of alchemical and aethereal dabblers and scientists, and most of the groundbreaking discoveries in these fields have been done upon its soil. No wonder that the Anglicans were the first to develop Engines - machines possessed of a rudimentary artificial intelligence - and have the most mentally sophisticated specimen to date, ranging from menial Engines to serve the Patricians to fighter Engines to aid the Navy in its struggle against piracy.

The city of London
[INFORMATION ABOUT LONDON FOLLOWS AS GAME PROGRESSES]
Please see these (http://i452.photobucket.com/albums/qq246/LuckyDee_pix/london1.jpeg) pictures (http://i452.photobucket.com/albums/qq246/LuckyDee_pix/london2.jpg) for impressions of the downtown architecture. Please ignore the chick on what appears to be a flying motorbike.

The Lock and Feather Inn
Near the centre of Perry Vale, Lewisham borough, where Woolstone and Allenby Roads meet Perry Rise, stands the Lock and Feather Inn, a middle class pub and hostel of good reputation. Since this will be the starting point of the first story, you’ll find more information about the inn, its owners and patrons further down the thread, namely here (http://forum.chaosforge.org/index.php/topic,6253.msg55890.html#msg55890).

* THE GUILD HOUSES (<>FARMERS')
* THE TEMPLES
* THE EMBER'S GLOW
* THE FLOATING BOROUGH OF ISLINGTON
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on March 31, 2013, 05:58
[CONTENT REMOVED]
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on March 31, 2013, 07:54
[SPACE RESERVED FOR STANDARD TESTS]
[WILL BE UPDATED AS THE STORY PROGRESSES]
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on April 07, 2013, 08:32
[CONTENT REMOVED]
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on April 20, 2013, 07:16
Here's my character. I hope it can give you some inspiration. I might change a thing or two, but most of the stuff is (hopefully) final. Oh, and I don't think it's necessary to write out such a long wall of text about the characters. It's just that when I start to write, I sometimes find it hard to stop =P

Hugo the Magnificent
Boastful circus strongman
 
Backstory & Description

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

tl;dr: A not very bright strongman aspiring to be more than that, but mostly failing due to clumsiness and inadequate mental faculties. Partially inspired by Charles Bronson (http://www.hdwallpapersarena.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/bronson_28524s1.jpg). No, not the actor.

Age: 35
 
Virtue: Charity
Vice: Pride
 
Attributes:

             Physical    Social      Mental
Power
         Str 4       Cha 2       Int 2
Finesse       Dex 1       Man 2       Wit 1
Resistance    Sta 3       Com 3       Res 3


Skills:
Social (11)
 
Showmanship 3, special: Gaining attention
Intimidation 3
Gambling 2
Scamming 2, special: Detecting foul play
Singing 1
 
Physical (7)
 
Fisticuffs 4
Dodge 2
Carpentry 1
 
Mental (4)
 
Alchemy 2, special: Philosopher's Stone
Science 1
Guild Lore 1
 
Other Traits:
 
Size: 6
Speed: 5
Healt/h: 9
Willpower: 6
Initiative: 4
Defense: 1

Blessing of Aether:

Contacts - Circus 1
Contacts - Pugilism 1
Contacts - Nightlife 2
Contacts - Innkeepers' Guild 1
Mentor 1

Resources 1

Current accommodations: A small rented room not far from the Lock and Feather.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: thelaptop on April 20, 2013, 21:34
Frank "the Dandyman" Mumford

Born under middle society conditions, Frank grew up sleazing his way through the high society, rubbing shoulders with the rich, the famous, and the intellectual.  Even though he wasn't really "one of them", Frank manages to hob-nob his way through the high-life with his manipulations and charisma, armed with a disarming wit about him that keeps even the mildly intellectually curious interested enough in what he has to say.  However, due to his middle society background, Frank has a tendency to be more than a little jealous at the successes that those of the high-born have that he doesn't.  He dabbles, but isn't highly proficient in things not related to appearing to be in high-society.

Virtue: Fortitude
Vice: Envy

Attributes:
             Physical    Social      Mental
Power         Str 1       Cha 4       Int 3
Finesse       Dex 3       Man 3       Wit 3
Resistance    Sta 2       Com 1       Res 1


Skills:

Mental: (7)
Academics 3
Politics 2
Science 2


Physical: (4)
Larceny 1
Survival 2
Stealth 1


Social: (11)
Socialize 4
Expression 4
Persuasion 3

Might need help on specialisation

Other Traits
Size: 5
Speed: 1 + 3 = 4
Health: 2 + 5 = 7
Willpower: 1 + 1 = 2
Initiative: 3 + 1 = 4
Defense: min(3,3) = 3
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on April 29, 2013, 10:05
Josie (Josephine)

Josie was born in a rural religious community north of London. She lived a simpel live as a child, taking care of the animals, cooking, sewing, ect. With two older bothers, three younger sisters and a little baby brother there was work a plenty. It was a harsh life but she was loved and taken care of by her family. Then at the age of ten, something happend that turned her world upside down.

After putting the animals indoors for the night, Evan, her oldest brother tried to rape her, saying she would be a woman soon and she better get used to it.
Josie froze, praying this wasn't happening. Praying someone would make it stop. She felt a strange tingeling sensation in her hands and feet and a force taking over her body. Somebody was making it stop by clawing into Evan's flesh. When Josie realised it were her own hands and feet transformed into claws that were nearly slicing the flesh from her brothers bones she stopped.

Evan managed to run home and told a story of how Josie had attact him suddenly and nearly killed him for no reason. Josie stood behind the shed. Regaining her sanity and human shape, trying to comprehend what had happend. They found her there with her brothers blood all over. She tried to explain why it happend, how she had no control over it. She begged them too listen, to forgive her, to help her. But everyone looked at her with fear and loathing, as if she was a foul demon. They spat at her and told her she deserved no justice. She begged them to understand. But the people she loved bound and blindfolded her, took her to a remote forrest and bound her to a tree. Josie was left to die.

For a while Josie wanted to die. She had lost everything she had ever known and loved. She wanted to give up, just stand there till she would be no more.
But she didn't. This little ember inside refused to go out. She had prayed for help and it had come; a gift from the gods. How could that be wrong? Evan and the others had done her wrong, for no reason. What is the use of loving if people betray you? What is the use of speaking if people don't believe you? Big questions for a little girl. After two days she told herself she didn't deserve to die and used her blessing to escape her fate.
 
From the age of ten Josie had to take care of herself. Wandering around the country, she met good and bad people. The good she showed her gratitude, the bad she showed her blessing. Dead mutilated bodies and ten year old girls alone on the road don't get connected easily. She ended up in London at the age of thirteen. She arrived during an extremely cold winter and was nearly dying when she knocked on the door at the Lock and Feather inn. They took her in for the night and let her stay and earn her keep by doing the odd jobs. Josie has been working here for 2 years now. She hasn't spoken a word since she arrived.

Age: 15

Virtue: Faith
Vice: Wrath

Attributes:
             Physical    Social      Mental
Power         Str 2       Cha 2        Int 2
Finesse       Dex 3      Man 2        Wit 3
Resistance   Sta 3      Com 3        Res 2


Skills:

Mental: (4)
Housekeeping 2
Herb Lore 2

Physical: (11)
Larceny 3: specialty lock-picking
Survival 3
Stealth 2
Athletics 2: specialty climbing
Brawl 1


Social: (7)
Animal Ken 2
Empathy 2
Subterfuge 2: specialty spotting lies
Streetwise 1


Other Traits
Size: 4
Speed: 5
Health: 7
Willpower: 5
Initiative: 6
Defense: 3
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 01, 2013, 12:49
The Lock and Feather Inn
For nearly three centuries, the sign of the Lock and Feather has been a respectable part of the Lewisham community, and its fame is still on the rise. Starting out as a simple pub, the building has expanded both in size and in function over time, and now boasts a large common room serving quality ales, wines and food, plus a dormitory and nearly a dozen rooms to accommodate weary travellers. The current owners are Albert and Mellie Fines – often referred to as Mr. Lock and Mrs. Feather by the regulars - who run a staff of half a dozen, which increases in size when business booms due to festivals, holidays and other important events.

Albert Fines
For three generations, the Lock and Feather has been owned and run by the Fines family, with Albert being the current landlord. He often is mistakenly thought to be the his bouncer Hugo (http://forum.chaosforge.org/index.php/topic,6253.msg55479.html#msg55479)’s older brother – even by some of the newer regulars – due to the similarities in their appearance: Albert sports the same bald scalp and moustache, and even their eyes look similar. At 5’7”, Albert just a lot smaller than Hugo, and more than slightly flabbier.
Although he doesn’t look it at first glance, Albert is possessed of the same business instinct as his father and grandfather before him. He’s sharp as a tack and cunning, slow to anger and generally very much at ease – as long as mrs. Fines isn’t on his case.

Mellie Fines
Born Melissa Bonham, Mellie is widely seen as the actual power behind the Lock and Feather. She’s a stout woman whose laughter never seems to run dry, gentle and merry, but tough when she has to be. To her dismay, the Fines’ ownership of the Lock and Feather is going to end with her husband, as they seem to be unable to produce offspring. This predicament has left her prone to bouts of extreme sensitivity towards the problems of children big and small, and more than one soul to knock on the inn’s door have found themselves taken in and sometimes even employed; Josie (http://forum.chaosforge.org/index.php/topic,6253.msg55781.html#msg55781)’s is one such example, and although Hugo doesn’t realise it, more or less the same goes for him.

Joshua
One of the most enigmatic patrons of the Lock and Feather would be Joshua (http://i452.photobucket.com/albums/qq246/LuckyDee_pix/joshua.jpg), who is an allegedly very successful bounty hunter, even at his rather young age – although no one knows exactly how old he is. He’s not big on talk, although friendly and courteous enough; he usually just sits at the bar and drinks a few. On the rare occasion that he does get drunk, he generally grows introvert to the point where someone has to lead his absent-minded form to the door come closing time – or chuck him in a bed, if there are rooms to spare.
Joshua’s presence works miracles for the atmosphere in the common room, as he exudes a deep kind of menace just soft enough to not annoy anyone, and just loud enough to make any would-be troublemaker think twice before trying anything.
He never does business inside the inn, although from time to time he is approached by would-be clients there. If dealing needs to be done, it’s done elsewhere.

[MORE REGULARS TO FOLLOW]
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 02, 2013, 13:57
Unexpected Guests – a Prelude

May 3rd 1856, Saturday evening – Tea time

After a winter that seemed to last a full year, the cold winds blowing in over the Atlantic ocean have finally receded, and most of the Anglican Republic is preparing for its first day of rest in the newborn spring. In London the factories are shutting down, offices are closing and the streets are thronged with people trying to get out of the shadows cast between the high downtown buildings, and into the sunlight. It’s like the city is finally exhaling after months of holding its breath, and the people seem to radiate a deliciously good vibe.

Under the sign of the Lock and Feather, business is good. The Engineers’ Guild is holding its annual conference and exhibition week at the end of May, and already guests from both within the guild and without are flocking to the city. Half of the inn’s separate rooms have already been booked for the second half of May, and the dormitory is drawing a better than average share of travellers in advance.
And now, at dinner time on a Saturday evening, the common room is stuffed. Some new arrivals, having come in over the past days; a large group from the Founders’ Guild, who are celebrating someone’s jubilee; several of the regulars – and a whole lot of well-to-do citizens taking their spouses or friends – or even themselves – out for dinner.

Albert is currently manning the bar, with Mellie bustling about in the kitchen and around the tables. Both Hugo and Josie, being part of the inn’s regular staff, are naturally found at the inn, going about their usual business….
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 02, 2013, 14:27
   With a loud creak of wood, Hugo leaves his place near the entrance and walks slowly to join Albert at the bar.
   "I'll need next Saturday off, Boss" he says. "I'm fightin' some out of town chump. I'll be here right next mornin', no problem."
   He states this completely matter-of-factly, as if it was a done deal, but waits at the bar awkwardly, waiting for Mr. Fines to approve his request.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 02, 2013, 14:53
Josie is running around trying to keep the tables clean, get the food out and the dirty dishes back to the kitchen.
She has been watching a stranger for a while now. He worked himself through a large number of drinks and a big plate of food. But has been sitting on an nearly empty glass for an hour now, constantly eyeing the door. As Josie comes rushing back from the kitchen she finds Hugo standing at the bar. She spots an empty place at the table and the strange customer moving towards the door. With one swift move she places herself between him and the only way out. As she's holding a hot stew with her apron, just out of the oven, all she can think of is trying to burn him with it. She moves towards him holding the lid ferm on the hot stew pot, moving it towards his body every time he tries to get past her. Hoping that Hugo will notice the commotion.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 02, 2013, 15:25
   Hearing something's going on in the room behind him, Hugo straightens himself to his full and considerable height and turns towards the source of commotion.
   "What's going on over there?" he booms with a voice which easily overpowers all sounds of in the packed pub.
   He's not moving yet, part because a shout like that is usually enough to end any unpleasantness at the Lock and Feather, but mostly because he hasn't oriented himself in the situation yet and honestly wants to know what is going on.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 02, 2013, 23:20
Upon Hugo's request, Albert turns his head towards him and looks up, his face seemingly undecided on what expression to display. You know that Albert's secretly quite thrilled by the idea of seeing two grown men beat each other to a pulp, but none too enthusiastic about sleeping in the dormitory when mrs. Fines finds out he's been attending such an event. His mouth starts forming words, and after a couple of seconds - with a sigh - settles on "You can tell that to Mellie...", with a nod of his head to indicate she's in the back.

Meanwhile, as he discovers Josie's intervention and leans out to look past Hugo to turn his attention towards the door, says "Now what's that girl getting herself into now?" The way she reads people is unnerving, Albert'd just wish she would be a bit less conspicuous in the way she confronts them.
Hearing Hugo shout and realising a little impetus will be required, Albert jabs him in the side with an elbow and says, semi exasperated, "Well, go on - if you're just going to stand around here you might as well take tonight off, too."

The customer - who did indeed give slipping past Josie and towards the door a couple of tries - seems to make up his mind in a split second and saunters towards the door to the lavatory instead, as if nothing happened.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 09:22
   Hugo nods to Albert and, hesitating for a second whether he should go talk to Mellie, he slowly walks back towards his place instead.
   "You alright, Josie? What was that all about?"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 12:13
Josie shrugs. With a quick gesture she points a the place the customer had been seated.
She then shakes her head to say no and makes a money gesture with her hand.
Placing a vinger on Hugo's chest, then placing it under her eye and next pointing at the door of the lavatory, she tells Hugo to watch for him.
Now looking at the stew in her hand she tries to remember who it was for. With a quick smile at Hugo, she dashes of again.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 12:21
As Josie walks away the door opens and a man walks in. He clearly didn't expect a giant to be blocking his way, and is visibly startled. It takes him a second to regain his composure, upon which he nods to Hugo and walks around him, towards the bar.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 12:37
Hugo mutters an apology to the newcomer and goes to the toilet after the guest causing problems.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 12:53
The inn's lavatories - separate rooms for men and women - lie just off the common room, and are considered the best addition the old Mr. Fines made to the inn - it surely made the place more appealing to those of higher standards. Luckily, the old Mr. Fines was also savvy enough to make sure the considerable windows were deftly barred on the outside, so as to allow no one to sneak out.
Stepping out the common room, there is a small hallway with doors branching of to the left - for men - and right - for women. The rooms themselves have a nice tiled floor and walls, predominantly white to accentuate the cleanliness, and has a total of five doorless stalls on the women's side and 4 stalls plus a urinal on the men's. Both rooms also have two sinks to allow guests to partake in the relatively new craze of washing your hands after using the room's other features.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 12:57
Hugo opens the door to the men's lavatory and looks for the guest, whistling a tune.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 13:00
No one at the sink or urinal. You see a pair of shoes in the middle stall, since their sides start about half a foot off the ground.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 13:14
Hugo decides to let him be for the moment. He isn't going anywhere anyway. He goes back and sits back at his regular place, watching the door to the lavatories intently.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 13:19
A couple of minutes later the man appears again, scanning the room upon entering and definitely noticing you noticing him. Since his table has now been occupied by the man startling himself coming in just now, he walks to the bar instead and sits down.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 13:22
Josie spots the table where the stew should go. As she walks over she checks the temperature of the pot and decides that waving it around a bit did not do any harm. The person that's having this for dinner will have a hard time not burning his mouth. She looks around the table and finds the customer that was decribed to her by the waitress who handed in the order. She places the stew on the table and nods at the customer as to wish him a nice meal. She then takes the empty glasses and plates back to the kitchen.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 13:28
As you pass by the bar, Albert beckons you over. When he has your attention - making sure nobody's really paying attention - he says "Look, lass, we've been over this more than once - I know you have a way of seeing stuff coming, but could you please try and not draw so much attention to yourself? Remember what happened with Inspector O'Reilly?" You gave this man more or less the same treatment just as he was getting up to apprehend a pickpocket, and the confusion lasted until someone - well, Albert and two others - managed to pry him from between Hugo's fists.

You know Albert is wary about you at the best of times, and suspect he actually fears you. He does realise how taken his wife is with you, and how much of a help you are around the inn, so he puts up with it.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 13:42
Josie smiles at him. It's a bit of a sad smile. She hates how she makes him feel uncomfortable. Then shrugs her shoulders and rushes into the kitchen. Placing te dishes on the sink, she takes a moment to reflect. She should have just pointed out the customer to Hugo and kept out of it. But she hates it when people try to take advantace of someone as sweet as mrs. Feather.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 13:54
In the kitchen Mellie and Ron are sweating over various pots and pans while Barbara is collecting a couple of dishes to serve out. Ron Jenkins is the inn's regular cook on the weekends, and Barbara Taylor a local girls, about two years older than Josie, who works at the inn more or less full-time, both in serving and housekeeping. Mellie, unaware of any commotion, flashes Josie a quick smile and say "Order for table five is right about ready, love. How's my husband hanging on in there?"

Albert, meanwhile, is clearly having an awkward chat with the man Josie intercepted. Halfway through the talk, he nods at Hugo, signalling him to get involved in the discussion.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 14:00
Josie gives her an "all is fine" smile. Pickes up the order and heads back out into the room. As she walks past the bar she sees the stranger that tried to get away talking to Albert who is calling Hugo over. She wants to know what's going on, but desides to take out the order first and eavesdrop later.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 14:01
   Hugo comes over, nodding to greet the troublemaker but remaining silent.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 14:20
Having put down her plates, Josie pretents to clean something up from the floor near the bar. Once on her knees she gets as close as possible.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 14:21
Albert, without taking his eyes of your 'customer', says "It appears this man is a couple of shillings short. Could you..." - he pauses for added drama - "...take him outside please, Hugo?" The would-be con man is clearly unnerved at this prospect and stutters "No, wait! I mean, issan 'onest mistake, really! Surely we can work something out?!"
You've been playing this game before, and surprisingly often it results in the victim realizing that they do seem to be carrying enough money after all. Since it's starting to look like this isn't going to be the case this time, Albert is probably going to ask you to take this man to the Constabulary at the other end of Woolstone Road.
"Well, what do you suggest, then?" he asks the swiftly shrinking man. When no useful reply is forthcoming, the barkeep points at the chain hanging from the man's breast pocket and says "Let's see what you have right there, shall we?" The man, realizing any protest is going to be pointless, takes out his pocket watch and hands it to Albert. Albert has a good look at the thing and says "Right, it's your call: either I keep this in payment for our services, or Hugo here hands you over to the Watch in a bit. What'll it be?"
"Alright, keep the bloody thing!"
the man shouts, and starts to turn around. This is generally the cue for the bouncer to make sure dramatis personae exit the stage without further hassle.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 14:28
Pleased with the way the conversation is going, Josie picks up a button that happend to be on the floor where she croughed. She then tries to get to the kitchen without being seen by Albert.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 14:33
   "Come on, you," Hugo says to the man and escorts him out of the inn, whistling cheerfully, but never taking his eyes from him.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 14:35
The con man, in a clearly pissed off state, is drawing a lot of attention barging out with you on his tail. He's definitely not taking any chances, though.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 14:42
Josie puts the button in the pocket of her apron. She already has quite a collection in her room. Together with the few garments she owns, those are her only possesions.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 14:48
Standing in the doorway, the man turns around and starts complaining. To Albert, apparently, because he needs to talk really loud to do so.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 14:52
   Hugo pushes him outside on the street and goes there with him, ignoring his complaints.
  "If you have any complaints, you can take them up with me," he says, trying not to sound too menacing. He fails. Mr. Fines is a busy man."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 14:58
The guy is close to foaming at the mouth with indignity, and shaking more than slightly. "You haven't heard the last of this!" he shouts. If you had a penny for every time you heard that...

As the man stomps off west up Perry Vale, still loudly complaining, movement on Woolstone Road catches your eye. In the slowly setting sun, a black rat - and a big one, too - is sitting in the middle of the street, looking at you as if expecting you to comment.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 15:04
Josie returns to the kitchen shaking her head as she listens to the con men shouting his complaints. Looking around for whatever needs to be done she quickly takes a bite out of a bun dipped into the soup Mrs. Feather put aside for her. She never takes the time to eat properly. When there are no orders to be taken out she'll start on the massive task of doing the dishes.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 15:13
   "Get an honest job," Hugo shouts after the con man, but then an enormous rat catches his attention.
   He goes a step towards it, unsure what to make of it. In the end, he decides on more shouting.
   "Get out of here!" he gestures towards the rat, and then turns to return back to the inn.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 03, 2013, 15:29
As Josie takes a moment to grab a bite, Mellie walks by and pats her on the head. "You take good care of yourself now, deary, we don't want you keeling over with so many customers watching", she says with a wink. She heads out into the common room on one of her rounds, checking up on the customers and surveying the state of the place.
In the kitchen, there's still work aplenty indeed, and soon enough Ron starts to blather at Josie, about nothing in particular, as usual. Ron's a friendly bloke, who doesn't seem to mind Josie's lack of response at all. "Nonono, don't bother - I know what you're thinking - but if I tell the missus that, I'll never hear the end of it. Talking about the complications of being in a relationship, though, d'ya see the butcher's boy eyeing you this afternoon?"

As Hugo steps back in and surveys the common room, he sees the man who came in during the previous incident looking at him as if his re-entry gave him a fright again. Weird bloke. Then he spots Mellie coming in from the kitchen, and is reminded of the fight next Saturday.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 03, 2013, 15:42
As Ron mentions the butcher's boy Josie's stomach turns and she has to put down her food. She composes herself quickly and makes a face at Ron showing her disgust. She has seen the boy looking at her and finds the thought of anyone approaching her in that manner incredibly upsetting. All she can do is hope that the threatening looks she gave the boy so far will put him off.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 03, 2013, 17:31
   "Excuse me, Mrs. Fines, I've got another fight next Saturday," he says to her. "I need the day off."
   Maybe because of the incident with the con man, he keeps turning into the room between sentences, paying special attention to the newcomer. Nothing seems out of ordinary though. Trouble doesn't usually come so soon after it ends.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 04, 2013, 00:22
"Oh, Hugo, ye big oaf!", Mellie says to you, much in the same way a mother would address a troublesome young child and leading you back to the kitchen so as not to give the guests too much of a show. "Don't you see how busy we are tonight? And with the Tinkerers' festivities coming up, it's only going to be more so next week. You think I want to be showing our respected guests your bruised features - on a Sunday, no less?"
She rushes off, distressed, saying "I won't be having it, love, not now." This is more or less her usual response - she hates your little hobby - though she often comes around later on. Somehow you feel your chances are slim this time.

Ron, who caught Josie's expression and had a good laugh about it, completely misunderstanding the implication, now is all ears for the discussion between Hugo and Mellie. He's no fan of pugilism, but he has no quarrels with Hugo participating; much in the same way that he doesn't care for chess or embroidering. He does love a good bit of gossip, however, and situations like these never fail to draw his attention. After Mellie leaves, he looks at Hugo and says "Where do they even find people to take you on - do they simply go 'Oh he's about twelve feet tall, but he's a big baby, really...'?"

Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 04, 2013, 09:43
   Hugo wants to argue, but Mellie storms off before he can get another word in. Frowning, he looks at Ron, but mistaking his question for genuine interest in his other profession, he quickly forgets all about Mellie's denial.
  "You know me,"  he says with exaggerated gestures. "Everybody wants to defeat Hugo the Magnificent! And there's always someone foolish enough to try. Let them!  Next Saturday I won't even break a sweat, I tell you."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 04, 2013, 11:32
"Hey, it's not me that needs convincing...", Ron replies, waving a ladle in what should probably look like an apologetic gesture, but only serves to make him look like he's conducting a symphony of soup. "Besides, with a face like that, who'll see the difference anyway?", he continues and proceeds to laugh slightly too merrily at his own joke, as if deep down he's scared you'll take offense and reposition his nose.

At that point, Barbara storms in out of the pantry, clearly distressed. "A rat!", she shrieks, upon which Ron grabs her by the upper arm with his free hand and brings the other with the ladle still in it to his face, laying a finger over his closed mouth and hissing emphatically as several big dollops of his carrot chowder soar through the kitchen in a gentle arc. "Shut yer trap, ye wee dunce!", he snaps at her, and then, softening a little, "Thanks for telling us, but Big Terry - the tattooist a couple of doors down Allenby Road - has no business knowing that. Scoot, we'll take care of it." He looks at both Hugo and Josie, indicating that 'we' in fact means 'either of you two'.

Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 05, 2013, 05:25
   Hugo looks at Ron with disbelief, though to his relief, the last jab went right over Hugo's head.
   "I fight men. You'd have Hugo the Magnificent fight a rat?"
   Seeing that Ron doesn't show any inclination to get rid of it himself, he heads to the pantry, shaking his head.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 05, 2013, 09:16
"Oi, you're the one who's here to rid us of unwanted visitors.", Ron retaliates, waving the ladle at your backside. "When Babs finds a chicken in there, feel free to call me instead."

The pantry consists of a dry store area at the front and a cold store at the back; the dry store is lit by two arc lights fixed to the ceiling, giving a good view of the well-stocked shelves lining the walls left and right. With a floor made of concrete and walls made of stone, you wonder how a rat could have gotten in in the first place. None is to be seen anyhow.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 05, 2013, 10:12
   "We already have a chicken here," Hugo calls back and begins to search the pantry thoroughly.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 05, 2013, 12:29
For a moment you think you're having your leg pulled, but then the sound of something scampering away from you comes from behind a barrel of ale on the left side.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 05, 2013, 12:32
   "Come out, little rat," Hugo mutters, as he turns to search for the source of the sound.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 05, 2013, 12:37
It clearly has no intention of doing so. As you approach the barrel, you hear the patter of tiny feet again, moving away from you behind a crate of vegetables - and towards the door to the kitchen.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 05, 2013, 12:40
   "Come out, you little bastard," Hugo curses as he swiftly follows it back to the door.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 05, 2013, 12:47
Unfortunately, in Hugo's case 'swiftly' has nothing to do with 'lightly', and the sound of stomping feet rapidly closing in drives the critter out of hiding - and into the kitchen. Now you see why Barbara nearly threw a fit: another black rat, possibly even bigger than the one you saw outside.

In the kitchen, Ron manages to nearly stifle a very girly squeal, but swiftly recovers: "Oh no ye don't!", he informs the intruder, and without taking his eyes off the rat, he grabs the first weapon he can lay his hands on off of the table standing in the kitchen's center. That this is in fact a whisk totally fails to register.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 05, 2013, 12:53
   "Catch it! Hugo yells at Ron and nevertheless rushes to do it himself. "Don't let it get out!"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 05, 2013, 13:01
At that point Mellie, having been informed by Barbara, swiftly steps in from the common room. "Oh my!", she mutters upon seeing the little bugger, and then, in the authorative tone you are used to: "Right, easy boys. Josie, close the pantry door. Hugo, go see if there's anyone watching out back, and open the door if the coast is clear. Ron, don't let that bastard pass. And put down the whisk, you look like a prat."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 05, 2013, 14:33
Josie quickly closes the door. The moment Babs mentioned the rat, Josie went to get a couple of brooms. She now has hoisted up her skirts a bit and hands Mrs. Feather one. She is ready to strike as soon as the pest comes her way.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 05, 2013, 19:25
   Hugo does as he is told. The back door is open and he is searching for any possible witnesses to this embarassing situation.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 06, 2013, 05:17
Ron flashes a disbelieving glance at his traitorous right hand and tosses the whisk back onto the table. Mellie, meanwhile starts closing in from behind him with the broom.

Outside, all is relatively quiet; people keep passing by on Allenby Road, buy no one is paying the inn's delivery entrance any attention.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 06, 2013, 06:22
Josie keeps her eyes on the rat while she's trying to get closer. Holding the broom in front of her to block it from running the wrong way or to whack the vermin with it when it does.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 06, 2013, 07:02
   "Chase it outside," Hugo suggests, holding the back door open, ready to slam it shut once the pest has made its exit.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 06, 2013, 07:16
Mellie nods at Josie, signalling the advance and tells Ron: "Get the other door, and make sure no one comes in." With no other way to turn, the creature dashes for the exit and is outside in no time. As Hugo slams the door behind it, the last thing he seems to see - it's only a flash - is two black shapes in the alley, standing nose to nose as if in greeting.

Inside, Mellie tells Josie:  "Have a look in the pantry, love, see what damage it's done. And do clean up if it left us any presents."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 06, 2013, 07:26
   "How the hell did that bugger get inside? Hugo wanders as he heads back to his place in the pub.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 06, 2013, 11:51
Josie walks into the pantry, still holding the broom thinking it might be usefull. She starts on her right hand side, checking behind and underneath everything that's on the floor. Slowly she works her way around the room, giving it a quick sweep while she's at it.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 06, 2013, 12:01
Please roll Intelligence+Investigation for Josie.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 06, 2013, 12:08
Wow, just two dice, but I rolled a 9 and 10.
Wait just now noticed the post about rolls....Shoot!

Rolled on: May 6, 2013, 11:20 a.m.

1d10 → [1] = (1)
1d10 → [9] = (9)

Still one succes :)
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 06, 2013, 12:12
Please see this post (http://forum.chaosforge.org/index.php/topic,6254.msg56237.html#msg56237) on rolling dice. For now, don't bother re-rolling, we'll proceed with 2 Successes rolled. [EDIT: or 1 Success rolled, amounts to the same]

Having grown up on the out- and underside of a lot of things, you are no stranger to animals, nor to rats in particular. You take your time to examine the stock and exposing nooks and crannies between the goods. Strangely, you find not a single dropping, nor is there evidence of anything being nibbled on. This doesn't add up at all, given the fact that the little critter should have been trapped in there for a decent amount of time.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 06, 2013, 12:20
Josie closes the pantry door behind her and steps into the kitchen with a puzzeled look on her face. How could the animal have gotten in and not have touched anything? Still thinking about it, she opens the backdoor and looks out into the alley.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 06, 2013, 12:25
At first you see nothing, but then the culprit comes scurrying out of the stables, making a dash towards the street as if fleeing from your presence.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 06, 2013, 12:30
Josie looks around the kitchen. Doing dishes can wait and if she's not needed she might step outside and check the stables.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 06, 2013, 12:41
With a lot of the inn's current guests having come by train or airship - they are Engineers after all, or at least closely related to them - the stables are relatively empty. Luckily you can always rely on Atlas, the Fines' cart donkey, to welcome you with a loud off-kilter bray. All that's accompanying him at the moment are a rather dishevelled looking mare and a gigantic cart horse. All are happily chewing away at whatever they can curl their lips around and yank free.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 06, 2013, 12:50
Pretending to just have stepped outside to have a rest and pad the horses, Josie has a quick look around the stable. If there's nothing out of the ordinary she has to go back inside to start the endless job of doing the dishes
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 06, 2013, 13:08
While you were out, Barbara regained admittance to the kitchen and is recounting her dreadful rendez-vous to Ron. She's a good girl, really, just a little too soft to your tastes. Well, a lot.
Ron is soothing her half-heartedly - she's not the type to really listen anyway, especially when she's talking - but in his eyes you can see he's mentally lining up all the juicy details to entertain others with, possibly before the night is over. At least he has the sense not to start tossing these tales around  so close to his kitchen.
Neither of them seems to wonder or care how this could have happened.

As you are pondering the situation, letting your hands go through the all too familiar routine of scrubbing the plates and cutlery, Mellie leans through the door from out of the common room. She overhears the running conversation and casts an annoyed glance at Barbara, then says "Josie, over here, love, we have a new guest."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 06, 2013, 14:01
 The Lock and Feather Inn, ground floor:

(http://i452.photobucket.com/albums/qq246/LuckyDee_pix/HPIM5356.jpg)
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 07, 2013, 07:19
Meanwhile in the common room, there's no sign of anyone having caught wind of the slight disturbance in the kitchen. It's going on 7 o'clock and the first regulars - the thirsty ones like Father Connolly and Cross-Eyed Joe - have already reported for duty. Besides them, there's plenty of people in the middle of their meal, including the nervous guy, who doesn't appear to be very hungry. He's had some of his soup, but half the bowl and half the bun on the side remain untouched. He's fiddling around with the spoon absentmindedly, and keeps looking about - throwing Hugo a glance every other minute, as if he just can't believe what he's seeing.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 07, 2013, 07:47
   Hugo notices the nervous guest is eyeing him. After a while, he gets the feeling it might be more than just intimidation and comes over to him.
   "Mind if I join you for a while?"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 07, 2013, 08:03
The guy looks you up and down once, then seems to decide he has nothing to fear from you and visibly relaxes. A little. "Sure, have a seat," he says. Taking a good look at him, you notice his face seems like a paradox: he's still pretty young, somehwere in his twenties, but looks tired enough to seem nearly twice his age. His straw blonde hair, sticking every which way, adds to the impression that he's been through a lot before he came here, like being dragged behind a horse. His eyes contradict everything, though: they're bright blue, and seem to pierce you with an intensity unfitting for an otherwise helpless and frail - he's about 5'8" tall, and none too muscular - young man.

Looking for something to break the ice, he finds his unfinished bowl of soup. "Soup?" he asks, kind of hopefully, looking to please.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 07, 2013, 08:25
   "No, thanks," Hugo declines politely. "Mrs. Feather would have my head if she saw me taking food from guests. Ha! Anyway, I saw you looking at me all the time, so I said to myself, either he's afraid of me, or maybe he's got some proposition for me. Whatever the case, I thought it best to come over and introduce myself."
   He offers his hand in greeting, oblivious to the fact that he in fact forgot about the proclaimed introduction.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 07, 2013, 08:29
Please roll Wits+Subterfuge for Hugo.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 07, 2013, 08:37
6 - fail. At least not critical fail (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4040341/)
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 07, 2013, 08:44
The guest takes your hand, hardly able to wrap his own around it, and introduces himself: "Nice to meet you, I'm...Clock. Jonathan Clock." You completely fail to notice the slight hesitation, or the guest's swift glance over your shoulder towards the bar, where a rather elegant and hard-to-miss clock hangs on the wall. At Jonathan's expectant stare, you do realize you totally neglected to offer your own name.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 07, 2013, 08:50
   "Ah, I'm sorry," he suddenly realizes his mistake and sets to set it right, all the while shaking Jonathan's hand firmly.
   "Hugo the Magnificent. Prizefighter, enterpriser, and scholar of the fine sciences behind things alchemical, at your service."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 07, 2013, 08:54
His face lights up in an almost childish smile of fascinated disbelief. "Impressive. And you practice all of that here at the inn?"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 07, 2013, 09:46
   "Oh, no, not at all," he replies, clearly delighted at the opportunity to talk about his grand plans. "This is just a temporary employment, until I can raise enough money to get my own show. But let me tell you this - when the day comes, it will be the best show it all London. Not just some sideshow attraction, but a wholly plusquamperfect experience that will attract people from around the world."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 07, 2013, 11:43
"At least you seem to have it made in the meantime. This looks like a well enough establishment, anyhow, there's likely to be a lot of pubs where someone of your... qualities can make a lot less money for a lot more work, I should think." He looks around at the other guests, and continues "Or am I wrong?"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 07, 2013, 17:31
   "You're not wrong," Hugo frowns. "The pay is good, but I'll need a lot more if I'm to ever make my own show. And they allow me to compete in the prizefighting circuit from time to time. Well, they usually do," he adds, suddenly remembering his conversation with Mrs. Feather.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 07, 2013, 23:29
"Incredible," he replies. "So tell me a little about this place..."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 08, 2013, 03:31
Even before the door completely closes behind mrs Feather, Josie rushes through, drying her hands on her apron. Her cheeks a bit flushed because she did forget to check for new costumers after coming back from the stables. How stupid! Quickly she scans the room and finds Hugo stitting down with a newcomer who looks very nervous. She starts doing her round, taking empty stuff of the tables and checking if glasses need filling. When she comes the newcomer's table, she looks at him and then knods at his food. Trying to get him to tell her if she can take it away or if he still wants to finish it.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 08, 2013, 05:25
   "Well, there's not much to talk about, really, Hugo continues. "You couldn't fit a decent show in here even if you threw out all the furniture! Ha! But the best kind of show will have to be done outside. I'm working on ways to use the aether to improve on fireworks. Just wait until you see..."
   He notices Josie coming nearby.
   "Josie! Be a good girl and bring me my usual. And one for my friend here, Mr. Clock. My treat," he adds, grinning.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 08, 2013, 07:31
"Water will be fine, thank you," he says to Josie, "I still haven't quite recovered from the flight. Oh, yes, do take the bowl, please."  Then, turning back to Hugo, he continues, with a grin on his face "I'm sure the proprietor wouldn't mind you lighting fireworks in here... Nor would the guests... or the Constables."

Please roll Wits+Subterfuge+1 for Josie (and please link to your rolls).
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 08, 2013, 17:37
Die roll for Josie

Rolled on: May 8, 2013, 4:43 p.m.

1d10.extra(10) → [3] = (3)
1d10.extra(10) → [9] = (9)
1d10.extra(10) → [7] = (7)
1d10.extra(10) → [6] = (6)
1d10.extra(10) → [[10, 7]] = (17)
1d10.extra(10) → [[10, 1]] = (11)
[link to roll]  [link to character]
Formatted Versions

Link
http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4042170/
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 08, 2013, 17:57
This man's discomfort has nothing to do with airship rides, although he clearly is troubled by something. You wonder what's on his mind, and if you will be able to pry anything loose, given the restrictions life imposed on you. He seems harmless and straight-up enough..
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 09, 2013, 05:36
Josie picks up the gentleman's bowl. She takes another good look at his face, making sure she will remember him. She takes the dirty dishes to the kitchen, then walks up to the bar and gestures to Albert she needs a water and Hugo's regular.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 09, 2013, 07:25
   "Well, they're beautiful," Hugo continues in the conversation. "Beautiful, but dangerous. But I'm sure there must be a way to make them safe for indoor use, and not just by limiting their potency... there's a lot of potential in this line of research, I assure you.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 09, 2013, 11:52
As Josie places the order with Albert, he looks over to the table to see Hugo flaunting his showman routine and grins. "I think we'll have another bunk in the dormitory filled tonight," he says as he hands josie a glass of water and a mug of goat milk. "I wasn't too sure about him at first, but a chat with Mr. Muscles over there always makes them show their true colours, whether they like it or not." With a vague smile on his face, he stares into space for a couple of seconds, then turns to Josie as if he just remembered something. "What do you think about him, though?"

Jonathan meanwhile continues "Indubitably. And with your day job here, do you run into a lot of trouble? You seem a bit out of place, if you don't mind me saying so. The guests look decent enough, and with an establishment like this I'll bet both the Guild and the long arm of the law are extra careful and diligent when it comes to protecting it and its reputation...?"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 09, 2013, 12:49
   "Ha! It's the people who look the most innocent that are usually causing trouble, Hugo replies. Why, we've had a gentleman trying to leave without paying just a moment ago. You must have seen him. You never would have guessed... but I was vigilant and he won't try that again any time soon, I bet.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 11, 2013, 04:41
Josie looks at Albert and shrugs her shoulders as to say she is not sure. She makes the gesture for "okay" and then looks puzzeled and makes the gesture for "secrets". She then points at herself and places a finger under her eye to indicate that she will keep an eye on him. Then she takes the drinks over to the table.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 11, 2013, 12:00
"Hah, I know I wouldn't," he says, that same boyish grin once again lighting up his face. "You know what, I was just hungry when I stepped in here, but I'll still need a place to stay, and probably without meaning to you make one mean sale... Think there would still be a room available?"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 13, 2013, 11:19
   "I'm pretty sure there's at least one free, Mr. Clock," replies Hugo and gestures towards the bar.
"Talk to Mr. Fines over there, he's the owner of this fine place. So, I guess that means you are travelling?"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 13, 2013, 12:40
"I am, yes, at least for the time being. I think I might be in London for a while though, so I hope your rates agree with my purse," he says with a dry laugh. "Do you think your Mr. Fines over there is likely to strike a deal, if it guarantees him income for a couple of days? Maybe even weeks?"
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 14, 2013, 13:20
As Mr. Clock finishes his last sentence, Josie places the water and the milk on the table. She's finds a rag in her apron pocket and starts cleaning the table so she can hear more of the conversation.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 17, 2013, 09:09
Clock nods at Josie, takes a big sip of his water and stands up, saying "You know what, let's find out, shall we." He stands up and purposefully walks over to Albert.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 19, 2013, 15:55
   "You can try," Hugo says with a frown, "but you may find it harder to convince Mrs Fines."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 22, 2013, 13:40
"Who says I'm looking for a challenge?" he says without looking around.

A short conversation between him and Albert follows, the latter seeming get along better than with the average customer; Clock must know how to talk business, too, as you see Albert's expression change from social to businesslike, an intrigued grin betraying his intentions.

Within a minute, the deal seems sealed and Albert beckons the both of you over to the bar.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 22, 2013, 20:25
Hugo approaches when he's signalled to, but keeps his mouth shut for the time.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 26, 2013, 07:15
Josie puts her cleaning rag back in the pocket of her apron. picking up some empty glasses on the way she walks over to the bar. She looks around to see if she might get Mrs. Feather to notice what's going on.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 27, 2013, 13:15
Although Mellie may have the final say in a lot of business decisions, dealing with new guests has always been Albert's demesne; with a lot of guests - especially higher up in society - seeing a woman run an inn such as the Lock and Feather would not sit well. And besides, Albert's good at what he does.

By the look decorating his face, he's struck a good deal here, too. As the both of you approach, he speaks in jovial tones "Hugo, Josie, you've met Mr. Clock here, and I'm pleased to tell you he will be staying here for the rest of the week. Josie, dear, please show Mr. Clock to his room, I believe number seven is still availabler; Hugo, make yourself useful and carry the man's bag for him." And then, turning back to Jonathan "Will you be coming back down again, or do I need to send anything up once your settled? You look like you could use a bit of rest, if you don't mind me saying so, and you're going to love the bed we have ready for you..."

Clock smiles at Albert, looking a bit embarrassed. "Well, if it isn't too much of a bother... a glass of wine would be great, red please. And do tell your wife I'm very sorry about not finishing dinner, it was lovely, really." And then addressing the both of you, he continues "Thanks to you as well", nodding at each of you individually, "I really could use a little rest. Lead the way, please."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 28, 2013, 07:23
Josie puts the empty glasses down on the bar. She gestures Mr. Clock to follow her. Then she leads the way to room nr. 7, expecting Hugo to follow them with the bag.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 30, 2013, 14:21
Hugo picks up the bag with one hand without any visible effort and follows them upstairs.

   "You're gonna like it here Mr. Clock. If you ever need anything, just say so."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 30, 2013, 15:31
Albert hands Josie the guests' ring of keys and up you go, Josie leading the way and Hugo bringing up the rear, carrying Jonathan's single bag. Upstairs everything's quiet, with most of the guests either being in the common room for dinner, or out altogether. Going up, Jonathan replies to Hugo "I couldn't ask for much more, really, except the more I think about it, the better that glass of wine is starting to sound. Boy, am I going to have a good night's rest." It must be the fatigue that's tainting his talk - he sounds like he's trying to cover up something, or at least to Josie he does.

Opening the door to room seven, which Josie can unlock with the designated key (after which said key is usually taken from the ring and handed over to the guest), the serving girl is immediately confronted with an inn-keeper's worst nightmare: yet another black rat sits on the immaculately made bed, sniffing the air and eyeing the intruder carefully.

Please roll Wits+Empathy for both characters, with a +1 for Hugo and a -3 for Josie.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on May 30, 2013, 15:39
Close, but fail. (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4070265/)
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on May 31, 2013, 01:05
 http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4070715/ Yes! A perfect 10! Tell me, what did I win....
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on May 31, 2013, 11:50
Josie, upon spotting the rat turns around swiftly enough to see Jonathan stepping - almost jumping - back as if in fright, all the colour having drained from his face. For a moment it seems like he's going to bolt...
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on June 01, 2013, 12:15
Josie does not want Alberts deal to fall through and feels embarressed by the rat being in the room. She gestures Hugo to wait and then quickly enters the room, closing the door behind her. Looking at the creature she wonders if it's the same rat. Has it come back and what does Mr. clock know about it. She scans the room for something to hit it with.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on June 01, 2013, 12:27
Please roll Intelligence+Animal Ken-2

The moment you seal yourself inside with the little bugger, it jumps off the bed on the opposite end. No weapon to be found; you know there are bedpans in every room, but since they're made of enamel, they're not the most reliable of weapons.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on June 02, 2013, 01:32
Since the enamel bedpan has a centre of cast iron, all that can go wrong is the glass coating coming of when hitting something hard with it. Hitting a rat with it will be just fine, aslong as you don't hit the floor as well. But Josie does not want to ruin bedpans. She is determent to locate the rat first and find out how it got in the room. She carefully walks over to the other side of the bed. Looking around for spots where the rat may have crawled behind or underneath something. She has no problem stepping on the thing, or catching it with her bare hands if it comes to it. She has killed and eaten rats before. But somehow she feels that this is not quite your average rat. She grabs the keychain in her hand a little tighter. Maybe she should lock the door behind her so if this thing turns out nasty she can defend herself without people finding out what she is.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on June 02, 2013, 01:44
Looking at the other side of the bed, you see it could have hidden below the nighstand or between the wall and it, or underneath the bed. Either way you're not going to be able to corner it in its current position. From your current vantage point, no obvious rat-sized entries are to be seen.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on June 02, 2013, 02:24
Josie carefully dragges the nightstand from the wall. If it's not underneath or behind it, she checks under the bed.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on June 02, 2013, 03:24
As soon as you move the nightstand, the rat shoots out from beneath it, passes under the bed and ducks underneath the closet next to the door.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on June 04, 2013, 13:21
Josie gets on her hands and knees and looks underneath the closet to see if the rat is still there or if there might be hole.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on June 04, 2013, 14:13
It's too dark to see anything. If you listen carefully, you can hear its little nails clicking on the floor every now and then, as if it's pacing around, looking for a way out.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on June 10, 2013, 16:38
   Hugo waits for Josie to emerge back out of the room, weighted uncomfortably by the awkward silence. Eventually he decides to break it.
   "I guess... maybe the bed isn't made, or something? Our Josie is very punctual when it comes to these things. You have to excuse her."
   He coughs nervously and continues.
   "So you've been able to make a deal with Albert after all, I see?
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on June 11, 2013, 01:09
Frustrated by her lack of progress, Josie desides to get some help. She gets up and opens the door to the hallway a tiny bit, making sure her body is blocking mr. Clocks view and the rats exit. She gestures To Hugo that there's a rat in the room and that she needs his help.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on June 11, 2013, 01:59
  "Excuse me for a moment," says Hugo, puts the bag on the floor and follows Josie inside, where he sees the reason for the commotion. "Oh great."
   He moves towards the rat and tries to catch it into his bare, clumsy hands.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on June 23, 2013, 01:45
In the silence after the door was slammed shut, Jonathan stands around, indecisive. Upon Hugo's remark about Josie's punctuality, he looks up to the tall man with a look of complete incredulity on his face - almost as if he's about to start vocalizing his disbelief in a loud and above all hysterical tone of voice. After a few laden seconds he manages to regain his composure - possibly with some effort - and answers Hugo's question: "Er... yes... well, in fact... there's something I forgot. Seeing as the room isn't ready anyway, I'll just slip back downstairs," upon which he promptly pivots around makes his way back to the stairs.

Back in the room, of course, it turns out that catching a rat with bare hands, especially in a room full of little nooks and crannies, is easier said than done...
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on August 05, 2013, 04:37
Josie hands Hugo a rolled up blanket and gestures to Hugo that he should block the rats exit from under the closet at the side of the door. Since the back and the other side are blocked by a wall, the only way out for the rat is at the front. Lying down on her belly Josie slowly craws towards the closet and then a bit underneath. Listening and reacting to every move the rat makes. Making sure her body is blocking the rats exit. Because of her gift her eyes get used to the dark quick and can see better than the average person. She is not letting this black thing get away again!
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 05, 2013, 11:53
Making your body as big as you can, you're able to block your side of the space below the closet as well. You can see the little bugger sitting in the back corner, obviously not having a good time. You can't reach it over there though; your arms are too short and your head won't fit underneath the closet. You could switch sides with Hugo to fix that problem, but then you wouldn't be able to seal your side as depth and width trade places.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 06, 2013, 07:33
   Hugo blocks the rat's route as per Josie's suggestion, looking concerned a bit.
   "Careful there. A cornered rat can be downright vicious. Let me..."
   He drops carefully to his knees to attempt to reach for the rat, moving slightly out of his blocking position. Then he thinks better of it and stands up again.
   "Be quick now, Josie", he warns, and lifts the closet into the air as quickly as he can, exposing the rat.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 06, 2013, 09:51
Please roll Strength+Stamina for Hugo.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 06, 2013, 10:19
Ok... I hope I still remember how to roll correctly - Str 4 + Sta 3 = 7 dice:

Result (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4163675/): 3 successes.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 06, 2013, 10:23
You manage to lift closet off of the ground and hold it there - but for how long?
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on August 06, 2013, 14:23
Without even blinking Josie jumps like a cat underneath the closet. She does not seem to care about getting hurt by the rat. Focused only on grabbing it as quick as possible, she throws herself on it with two hands streched out in front of her. As quick as she jumped under, she then rolles out from underneath the closet again. Hopefully holding the rat between her fingers????
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 06, 2013, 23:25
Please roll Dexterity+Brawl-2.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on August 07, 2013, 05:16
Rolled on: Aug. 7, 2013, 4:26 a.m.

1d10.extra(10) → [1] = (1)
1d10.extra(10) → [[10, 2]] = (12)

http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4164859/
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 07, 2013, 11:54
The rat dodges your lunge, but you feel like you almost had him! Do you dare another attempt?
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on August 08, 2013, 07:48
Josie finds her hands empty. Without even looking at Hugo throws herself at the rat again, wondering how she could have missed the little fu....


http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4166284/

Die roll for Josie

Rolled on: Aug. 8, 2013, 6:55 a.m.

1d10.extra(10) → [1] = (1)
1d10.extra(10) → [8] = (8)

Hmmmm, I guess one succes is not enough....
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 08, 2013, 09:47
OOC: Seeing that Josie probably didn't catch the little bugger - is there a convenient place to put the cupboard I'm still holding, or is it more practical to hold it up for now?
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 08, 2013, 15:05
The little bugger indeed escapes you again, but still you manage to keep it cornered.

As for Hugo, please roll Intelligence+Wits.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 08, 2013, 17:05
Not his strong suit, but three successes (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4166974/).
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 08, 2013, 23:14
Due to the rather small size of the room, there's really only one other place to put this thing down. It'll be blocking the door, but at least you won't have to explain to Mellie why you destroyed the nightstand with it.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 23, 2013, 02:49
   Hugo puts the cupboard down by the door with a thud and turns his attention back to the rat, looking for something to smash it with.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 27, 2013, 01:36
Choices, alas, are limited. There's the nightstand and a bedpan.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 27, 2013, 04:36
   "Come here, you little bastard," mutters Hugo picking up the bedpan and prepares to hit the rat.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on August 27, 2013, 05:25
As there is no longer a cupboard hoovering above her head, Josie now closes in on the rat like an experienced cat hunting a mouse. She is not going to let this thing escape a third time. She waits for the right moment to strike and then.....
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 27, 2013, 06:02
That'll be another Intelligence+Wits for Hugo, then.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 27, 2013, 06:29
Two successes (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4194332/).
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 27, 2013, 07:08
Just as you're about to take a good swipe with the bedpan, you see Josie getting ready to lunge just in time and neatly avoid hitting her over the head.

As for Josie, roll another Dex+Brawl-2.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on August 28, 2013, 12:54
Rolled on: Aug. 28, 2013, 12:05 p.m.

1d10.extra(10) → [3] = (3)
1d10.extra(10) → [[10, 7]] = (17)
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 28, 2013, 15:17
It remains elusive as ever. This does create an opportunity for Hugo to share in the fun...
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 28, 2013, 16:17
Hugo seizes the opportunity, going for the kill.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 28, 2013, 23:51
Are you going to throw the bedpan, or strike with it?
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 29, 2013, 02:02
Strike.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 29, 2013, 11:24
Please roll Strength+Weaponry-2, in that case.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on August 29, 2013, 11:43
Nope (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4197374/).
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on August 29, 2013, 11:53
You fail to hit the rat, but luckily manage to miss Josie too. The floor, however, being very prone, proves an ideal target for your sanitary fury. The bedpan crashes into it with a spectacular crash, sending chips of enamel flying around.

And in this confusion, your intended target lightly skips over and under a couple of limbs and zips underneath the bed.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on September 02, 2013, 14:58
Josie throws Hugo an angry look, takes the bedpan out of his hands and puts it on the floor. She points at Hugo and then at the door, holds up the key and gestures the roomnummer of the other room she knows is not taken at the moment. She points at the door again, then acts as if she is picking up a customers bags, holds up the key and gestures the roomnummer of the empty room again. She then gestures to Hugo he needs to move the closet back and get out of the room. She waits for him to close the door behind him and then locks herself in. With a wicked smile she then crawls under the bed on her belly. She waits and listens for the rat every move, giving her eyes some time to get used to the dark.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on November 19, 2013, 13:54
Unbeknownst to the part of the Inn's staff redecorating one of the guest rooms, more people are paying the common room a visit for a drink or a bite to eat. This never really ceases, of course - and fortunately so - but on this particular eve the number of guests with an intriguing part to play in each other's lives is steadily climbing.

Cole10000, Nightfalcon, please take this opportunity to post your characters below. If in doubt, see the examples at the start of the thread.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Klear on November 20, 2013, 03:51
Hugo, still focused on the rat, takes a moment to notice and understand Josie's gestures, but then he acknowledges them, replaces the closet and muttering excuses, leads the guest to the other room.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on November 20, 2013, 04:47
The guest is nowhere to be seen. You seem to recall something like him announcing he'd wait downstairs.

His absence is more than made up for by the sudden appearance of Mellie, whose red face is usually a very good indicator of imminent trouble - mainly for the staff. "For Durhaeon's sake," she snaps at you through clenched teeth, "what on earth are you two up to?! Get yer arse back in there right now, mister!" She emphasizes her command by simply keeping on marching at you; you could probably resist her, but from experience you can tell it's better to just go with the flow in cases like these.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Cole10000 on November 20, 2013, 14:25
Thaddeus Grey
Orphan Scholar

Details:

Backstory
Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Age: 22

Virtue: Prudence
Vice: Greed

Attributes:

          Physical   Social     Mental
Power   Str 1           Cha 1     Int 4
Finesse   Dex 3           Man 3   Wit 2
Resistance   Sta 2           Com 3   Res 2

Skills:

Mental (11)
Academics: 3
Science: 3 (Specialty: Mathematics)
Research: 2
Medicine: 2
Occult: 2

Social (7)
Empathy: 3
Subterfuge: 4 (Specialty: Manipulation)

Physical (4)
Stealth: 3
Athletics: 1 (Specialty, climbing)

Other Traits:

Poor sight (2)
Hiding in plain sight

Mentor(3): Charles Ivensten
A professor at the university of Cambridge and Thaddeus' adoptive father. He have no known blood relatives and is a fairly aloof, if very knowledgeable, individual.

Size: 5
Speed: 4
Health: 6
Willpower: 5
Initiative: 6
Defense: (3,3)= 3

While the events unfold upstairs, on the ground floor a new face arrives. A clean shaven young man just arriving in this part of London sporting a heavy set of spectacles and carrying what appears to be his luggage takes a moment to look around the inn he currently finds himself in.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on November 24, 2013, 05:27
The sound of Mrs. Feathers voice in the hallway makes Josie hesitate for a second. Then she lets her frustration at the situation rise, and take her to a place she's been trying to stay a way from since she got to the Lock and Feather. It feels good. Like a true predator she now focuses on the hunt. Green eyes leading the way...
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on November 25, 2013, 12:25
Although the part of Josie's mind that actually registers it is too far away to make anything of it right now, there's a heavy thump at the door, like the sound of a very big man walking backwards into it. It's followed by an impatient rattling of the door handle, and a series of knocks as the party on the other side conclude that the door is in fact locked and it's still too early to start tearing it down yet.
Josie, taken for the moment by the beast that resides within her, sits poised and waits, willing her prey to show itself.

On the other side of the door, Mellie is really starting to build up steam. She's now arriving at the most terrifying stage: the one where she goes all calm and composed. In a voice that almost sounds fully under control, she tells Hugo: "Downstairs, now. Make yourself useful. We'll continue our little talk later."
Which will probably be painful, but for now you get some respite.

In the common room, meanwhile, Thaddeus is yet unable to spy anyone looking like the man in the picture professor Ivensten gave him. You were told to meet him here around eight o'clock, but naturally the excitement that this Voyage of Scientific Discovery sparks made you cheat a bit and arrive far too early. Your contact, Mr. Day, is an acquaintance of the professor, who refused to tell you much about him, saying you'd have more fun finding out for yourself. He was deemed the perfect tutor for this particular study, and you trust your mentor's judgement fully in matters like these.
You are now left with some time to kill, of course.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Cole10000 on November 27, 2013, 10:27
Thaddeus, looking around and still not seeing Mr. Day present, feels a tad flustered with things already beginning to go off track. He takes a moment to reflect on the situation, which to many a casual observer would look fairly odd as that entails Thaddeus having a very focused stare at a nearby table as he stands near the door. Upon having a closer inspection of this young man many would see that he is wearing a fairly formal suit but has forgone any headgear evidently preferring to keep his hair cut short and simple, and in both hands he holds a pair of heavy looking travel cases which due to his thin frame appear to be fairly uncomfortable for him to carry.

All of this however, is secondary to the young man as Thaddeus is weighing his options of sitting at a table and ordering food, or if he should wait to be seated.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on November 28, 2013, 03:49
After you've stood there making up your mind for what anyone else might deem an inappropriate amount of time, you spot a young girl coming towards you from across the common room. Based on her dress and the cloth she's carrying around, you'd guess she works here. She's wearing a smile you've hardly ever seen before, as if she's expecting your praise while at the same time showing she has no actual respect for you. Odd.

At that point, the door behind you opens again, and before the man coming through bumps into you, saying " 'ere now, lad, step aside," in a sort of amused voice, you can smell him - and you wish you couldn't. Simultaneously, you see the girl's face contort into a parody of its previous expression, which curiously enough pleases you more than the fake smile did. She does a swift pivot and heads for the bar, double time.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Cole10000 on November 28, 2013, 11:00
Thaddeus, thoroughly surprised, although quickly reflecting in hindsight the doorway was not the best location to think for such an amount of time, stumbles forward from being bumped into. His two heavy luggage cases throwing him off balance and before he manages to right himself he nearly bumps into a surprisingly blurry table. This small revelation lead Thaddeus to realize that when the man bumped him from behind it caused his glasses to fall off. Taking a moment to set down one of his luggage cases he takes hold of the glasses from where they currently hang around his neck, saved from being cast onto the floor by a surprisingly useful string. After doing so he was about to make his way over to the bar to inquire as to why the young woman was approaching him before remembering his manners, as it would be unbecoming of a young man to not apologize when he was clearly making a nuisance of himself by blocking the doorway. Taking a moment to clear his throat he walks over to the, admittedly ripe smelling, man and says, "I am very sorry sir, I shouldn't have been standing in the doorway like that, very foolish of me. Have a good day." He finishes with a somewhat curt nod as he goes to make his way over to the bar, intending to sit on one of the stools. His mind already off on a new tangent of wondering why one would have stools when chairs would be just as viable and more comfortable. It would certainly be helpful to have some back support when your motor skills have been impaired by alcohol although...

His train of thought continues on its path from there.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Nightfalcon on November 28, 2013, 22:23
Malachi paused outside of the Lock and feather, taking in the Inn and it's surrounding territory.  He made his habitual assessment of the lay of the land, where would a runnier go.  What obstetrical presented themselves.  Ivensten's little projects were usually a bit of tea and crumpets but occasionally the dove into trouble head first.  Truth be told this might prove a nice distraction, something to get his mind off Lord Danby's ties with the cities underworld.  A warehouse worth of ill gotten goods and and the prosecutor had declined to prosecute.  Bloody hell,  justice was truly blind.

Fuck the Bailey, give Malachi ten minutes and he could set the scales back to level.  Give him ten minutes and Malachi probably would have done so. 

Best he was here, head down and out of sight.  Best  for everyone they said.  Take some time and relax, enjoy his victory.

Bloody hell!

He had already memorized the photo of Thaddeus Grey that sat in the pocket of his great coat.  A keen intellect Ivensten had said.  That remained to be seen.

He opened the door to the Inn and stepped in.  Closing the door behind him he moved a step or two inside as he surveyed the room.  He let his blue grey eyes pause for a breif moment as he took in the patrons.  Finding the student was the least of his concerns.  It was more important to take in everyone else.

Near the door his eyes landed on the boy who looked as out of place as a pig at the palace.  he resisted the urge to smirk, no reason for it.  Not yet.

He scanned the rest of the common room before doffing his bowler which he moved into the same that held the black brier walking stick and made his approach. 

"Thaddeus Grey," he announced.  "I'm Malachi day.  What say we grab yon table and have a talk?"

Assuming the boy's compliance he made his way over to the table and grabbed the chair that gave him the best view of the room.

Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Cole10000 on November 29, 2013, 08:28
Moderately surprised by someone calling out his name, he quickly turns himself to face the speaker and finds himself looking at a man that looks quite a bit like MR. Day that his Mentor had mentioned. Taking just a moment to quickly take the photo out of one of his surprisingly plentiful pockets he double checks that this is indeed the man, once satisfied with that he nods and says, "Yes, that would be quite fine I suppose. I have to admit I'm somewhat glad you've arrived early as well, I am... unfamiliar with many of the colorful kinds of characters I've met on my way and within this fine establishment. Although that has in fact been the point of my trip."

An oddity that many come to recognize about Thaddeus is that, in most cases, he is supremely quiet and contemplative. However, once he's talking about one of his projects he fully shares the thoughts swirling around in his head, which at times can seem fairly unusual. Taking a seat he continues, "First of all, I would like to ask, my Mentor shared very few details on your role in this small venture. Are you here to provide a second, more experienced, opinion? Are you here to aid me along with some of the things that I am sure are quite normal but to me seem fairly odd, or is it simply so that I do not end up in a gutter somewhere? I apologize if I'm being very blunt about this, but I tend to be more than a bit encourage-able  when a task I am a bit uncomfortable with is in front of me."
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Nightfalcon on November 29, 2013, 11:54
Malachi considered the you man.  Completely out of his element and so self assured of his purpose.  Typical scholar.  Not a bad thing but traits that could get him into serious trouble some place less forgiving than the university.  Even so, he freely admitted his ignorance and that was the first step to wisdom.

The Professor had been typically vague about the boys purpose but it seemed he had more in line a a couple of nights of cards and cut.  Malachi wished he knew more bout this project in advance.  It annoyed him but on the other hand, something interesting would be a good distraction.

He stared wordlessly at the boy as he rambled on.  Silently he caught the waitress's eye and motioned for two ales.

At "...I apologize if I'm being very blunt about this, but I tend to be more than a bit encourage-able  when a task I am a bit uncomfortable with is in front of me." Malachi raised an eyebrow and softly growled,  "Then I suggest you learn to breath."  He paused a moment letting that sink in.  "Babbling will not only diminish you in others eyes but will lead to your saying more than you intend.".

Moderating his voice a little he continued.  "How bout we have a casual conversation til after we have drinks in front of us and the waitress is on her way.  She don't need to know our business nor does anyone else.  You're curiosity enough as is."

He gave the boy a chance to show his agreement and then smiled.  "Did you see Alan Torbin's review in the Time's of Osmond Tearle in Richard 3 over in Ireland?  He say's it's worth the trip to Dublin just to see it.   No surprise of course, Tearle's Brilliant.  I saw him at the St. James doing Lear back in the late seventies.  He is without a doubt one of the best actors on the stage, even if he sings like a drunken goat." His voice was suddenly pleasant, soft, casual and the slightest bit louder.






Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Cole10000 on November 29, 2013, 12:58
Thaddeus simply nods when the idea to perform in casual conservation and adjusts his glasses as he says, "Unfortunately, I haven't read the review, but I have however been so lucky to see Tearle perform once before, it was a bit of a trip but it was certainly worth it. He is certainly experienced at his art if anything,  he's been at it for so long now, and I would certainly like to see him perform again if he ever makes his way to London."

Thaddeus' voice is what one might call amicable, if perhaps a bit stiff for the setting they're currently in. He does however try to keep his speaking direct and to the point, which admittedly is not extremely difficult considering plays and actors have never been his favorite endeavor, truthfully he would much prefer reading the play's script than going to actually see the play.

Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on November 29, 2013, 13:12
While the two of you get acquainted, the man that bumped into Thaddeus at the door is drawing more and more attention; Thaddeus himself might not realize it, but Malachi definitely will. The man, dressed in worker's clothes that have obviously seen better days, with a long leather cap on his head, covering his dirty and unkempt black and grey hair at least partly. He carries a large leather bag over his right shoulder and walks with stick which is taller than he is.
He's clearly on his way to the bar, which is already being evacuated by the more sensitive customers. The waitress, meanwhile, sped ahead to fetch the bartender, who really doesn't look very pleased with the man's arrival, but then he doesn't rush in to chase him out, either. There's definitely some tension to the situation, though, a kind of tension Malachi has seen before...
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Nightfalcon on November 30, 2013, 14:47
Malachi watches the drama at the bar unfold and then looks around the room.  He doesn't see a bouncer.  That's weird for a place like that.  It's well enough cared for that it seems unlikely they'd scrimp on something like that.  Actually the why matters less than the fact of the absence.

Turning to Thaddius he softly growls.  "I'll be back in a second.  Stay here and keep your head down."  With that he picks up his walking stick and wanders up to the bar, finding himself a step behind the man.  As he does, he examines the man and his possessions.

OOC) Malachi is ready to intercede as needed.  Can I identify the sticks the man's carrying and does that information or the smell give me a clue to  the man's profession?
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on December 01, 2013, 00:41
Since this means we'll start rolling dice for you - both of you actually - it's time to post your character info. Just make a separate post for this, put the stats in plain view but please add spoiler tags to the bio to reduce the length of the post. @Cole, come to think of it, can you please un-spoiler your stats?

As for the finishing touches to Malachi: I hereby grant you the Tough Guy merit. You are someone who is not to be fooled around with, and this is readily apparent to others even before you've said a single word. This gives others a -1 penalty to their dice pool on any actions involving lies, tricks, deceit and such.

Once the character is up, please roll Intelligence+Academics. Cole, please make the same roll for Thaddeus. See this post (http://forum.chaosforge.org/index.php/topic,6254.msg56237.html#msg56237) if you happen to be unfamiliar with online dice rolls.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Cole10000 on December 01, 2013, 16:52
Intelligence + Academics (http://orokos.com/roll/152627):

7#1d10
4
4
5
9
7
5
7
Title: DCI Malachi Day
Post by: Nightfalcon on December 01, 2013, 22:03
DCI Malachi Day

Backstory:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Personality:  Malachi is a product of the street as influenced by DCI Towers.  He is a hard man who views it as his mission to bring  justice to the slums of London.   Due to the corruption in the court and jail systems he often applies street justice, punishing the wicked and protecting the week.  While he isn’t naive in any way about the nature of the urchins who inhabit the slums, he has neither patience or mercy for those who prey on children.

He was married and while he wasn’t a great husband, he loved her deeply and when his wife died in childbirth he grieved deeply for her.  Since then it isn’t a surprise that he drinks or that he has problem maintaining any sort of stable relationship, he’s seen too much, done too much. 

Even so he’s very very good at his job, pursuing criminals with a bulldog like fixation.  His fellow cops respect his abilities although his superiors see him more as a blunt instrument who lacks the sophistication to play the politics that go hand in with further promotion.  Their assessment is wrong , he understands the politics, he just doesn’t care.

He knows his career is topped out so his goal is to bring justice and law to his portion of the hell that is in the shadows of London.



Attribute
                                Physical      Social                 Mental
Power                Strength 3     Charisma   3   Intelligence 2
Finesse              Dexterity  2    Manipulation 1   Wits 3
Resistance         Stamina   2    Composure  2   Resolve 3

Skills.
MENTAL 7
Academics 2 (Law)
Investigation 4 (Crime Scenes)
Politics 1

PHYSICAL 4
Brawl  3
Firearms 1

SOCIAL 11
Empathy 1
Intimidation 3
Persuasion 2
Socialize 1
Streetwise 2 (Under Cover)
Subterfuge 2

Virtue and Vice
Virtues: Justice
Vices: Wrath.

Other Traits
Age:       42
Size:          5
Speed:     5
Health:    8
Willpower:    5
Initiative:    4
Defense:    2

The Aether's Blessing:  Tough Guy. You are someone who is not to be fooled around with, and this is readily apparent to others even before you've said a single word. This gives others a -1 penalty to their dice pool on any actions involving lies, tricks, deceit and such.

Contacts: 
Contacts - Metropolitan Police 2
Allies - Metropolitan Police 2


Superintendent Franklin Tower, Metropolitan Police Force.  The greatest positive influence in Malachi’s life.  He’s Malachi’s mentor, advisor, sponsor.   Their relationship is more than that of a mentor but not quite family.  Malachi cares for the old man as much as he cares for anyone but there’s a limit to how close he’ll allow anyone.

Eugene Marston: Senior Prosecutor.  Malachi and Eugene have know each other for years and have a deep degree of respect for each other.  Over the years their relationship has grown from professional colleagues to friends and comrades in arms.

Doctor Micheal Hastings: East End Coroners.   He and Malachi have worked together for years.  Malachi has a strong appreciation of Malachi’s approach to justice.  At the same time, he often serves as a doctor for who can’t afford one.

Police Sgt Burbin.  Malachi’s oldest friend in police department.  They joined the force at the same time as Malachi and in each other.

London's Social Scene 1

William Drake:  Actor.  Malachi and Bill attended Kings College together.  He taught Malachi to act and they share a love of musical theater.  In many ways Bill is Malachi’s closest friend and it is through him that Malachi that a little bit of magic enters into his life

Black Devlin Morrissey: Bar Keep  Proprietor of the White Hart, Malachi’s pub.  While he belongs to the Tin Piper, he prefers the White Hart to his club.  Early in his career, Malachi would freelance as a bouncer at the Hart.  Devlin is a man of letter and often tutored Malachi when he was at Kings College.

Suzanne Malory and Molly Pence: Madames  Proprietress’ of the Black Rose.  The sisters run a high end brothel and have deep connections with the into the East end underground.   Malachi considers them substitutes for the sister’s he’s lost and are some of his oldest friends


Gangs of London 1

Jimmy “Brigand” Briggs: Thug. Former leader of the for the Bethnal Green Knockers and one of the bloodiest muscles in the east end.  He’s Malachi’s oldest friend and while they both have lines they won’t cross, even for each other, they will stretch that line as far as they can for each other .  (OOC: Think of him as Hawk to Malachi’s Spenser.)

Graham Jent: Fence.   Graham used to be one of the Bethnal Green Knockers.  He broke a leg in a bash with the Durgin Boys.  It was one of those fights that went from bad to worse and ended with Malachi carrying Graham across rooftops on his back.  Graham never walked the same but he found a way to turn a keen sense of business to his advantage.

Suzanne Malory and Molly Pence: Madames  Proprietress’ of the Black Rose.  The sisters run a high end brothel and have deep connections with the into the East end underground.   Malachi considers them substitutes for the sister’s he’s lost and are some of his oldest friends

William Drake:  Actor.  Malachi and Bill attended Kings College together.  He taught Malachi to act and they share a love of musical theater.  In many ways Bill is Malachi’s closest friend and it is through him that Malachi that a little bit of magic enters into his life

Black Devlin Morrissey: Bar Keep  Proprietor of the White Hart, Malachi’s pub.  While he belongs to the Tin Piper, he prefers the White Hart to his club.  Early in his career, Malachi would freelance as a bouncer at the Hart.  Devlin is a man of letter and often tutored Malachi when he was at Kings College.

Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Nightfalcon on December 01, 2013, 22:27
The domain has expired for Invisiblecastle.com.  I used the roller, A World of Darkness Dice Roller at http://www.umbralechoes.com/WoD2Roller.php (http://www.umbralechoes.com/WoD2Roller.php).

2013-12-01 22:14:59   DCI Day rolls 4 dice to Intelligence + Academics   1,1,10,7,6 (1 success)
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on December 05, 2013, 23:57
Both of you realize that, although you can't recall what it is you recognize in this man, he is highly out of place here; not just because of the smell, but he looks like someone who stepped in from an age gone by. Had you seen in a knight in full armor walk in, you'd have felt more or less the same.

The assumption about the lack of a bouncer appeared to be wrong: as Malachi approaches the bar, a humongous man steps in through the door on the right side of the bar, who - upon seeing the barkeep conversing with the stranger - approaches the bar as if he's getting ready to take part in the discussion. And he doesn't look like much of a talker.
You hear the barkeep muttering to the stranger: "Look, I'll have Hugo hear take you outside and point you towards the yard entrance. We'll have a talk where it's nice and quiet." He exchanges a quick word with the muscled man, then says in a tone of voice that's just very slightly too loud to sound entirely natural: "Hugo, please escort this man outside."

At the same time, upstairs, Mellie has given up making a ruckus. Not that Josie notices any of this, though. After a couple of minutes that seem like seconds and hours at the same time, the rat gives up on his previous plan, and inches its way back into the room, fully exposed...
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on December 07, 2013, 01:00
Silently Josie has waited for this. Pondering on what she has seen of this creature in her mind so far. Becoming more and more convinced there is something strange and wrong about it. She is on edge and ready to strike the moment it exposes itself. Swift as a cat Josie is on him. With talon like claws, she tries to get a firm grip but not kill it. For now....
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on December 07, 2013, 02:22
There's a split second before you're on top of him, which gets stretched out long enough for the rational part of your mind to wonder I shouldn't be able to see the wood's markings through the rat's body and then you land. On nothing. The rat has vanished into thin air, fooling even the predator in you into thinking it was never there in the first place.

And then from outside the room, you hear Mellie's voice saying: "Josie. Open up now, dear." It sounds fully composed, but you know you're in trouble, especially with nothing to show for your actions.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Nightfalcon on December 08, 2013, 13:29
Both of you realize that, although you can't recall what it is you recognize in this man, he is highly out of place here; not just because of the smell, but he looks like someone who stepped in from an age gone by. Had you seen in a knight in full armor walk in, you'd have felt more or less the same.

The assumption about the lack of a bouncer appeared to be wrong: as Malachi approaches the bar, a humongous man steps in through the door on the right side of the bar, who - upon seeing the barkeep conversing with the stranger - approaches the bar as if he's getting ready to take part in the discussion. And he doesn't look like much of a talker.
You hear the barkeep muttering to the stranger: "Look, I'll have Hugo hear take you outside and point you towards the yard entrance. We'll have a talk where it's nice and quiet." He exchanges a quick word with the muscled man, then says in a tone of voice that's just very slightly too loud to sound entirely natural: "Hugo, please escort this man outside."

Malachi paused.  Basic rule of life, never get in the bouncer's way.  They tend to punch first and ask questions later. 

The bouncer was big enough, a veritable Ox of a man.  There was little doubt that he could handle himself.  Even so, his instincts told him to be standing here so he he'd watched the proceeding.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on December 10, 2013, 01:32
The big guy leads the stranger to and through the door, all in a way that's much too polite to look very real. Few people appear to be noticing this, though. The bouncer proceeds to step outside with the man for a minute, but even with all the large windows it's hard to see what goes on there; the bottom halves are all stained-glass, and the duo are standing just outside the door, which further obscures them from vision.

The bouncer then steps back inside and, seeing he isn't needed at that particular point, takes position on a stool placed in the door's vicinity.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Cole10000 on December 11, 2013, 12:40
Thaddeus after taking a moment to soak in the spectacle is he says, "Well then, that was certainly interesting. That being said however, should we not get something to eat Mr. Day? I do not mean to be a bother but I am rather famished, and this is generally around the time I have my tea." He raises an eyebrow as he often does when posing an inquiry and looks to Mr. Day.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Nightfalcon on December 11, 2013, 22:26
Returning to the table Malachi nodded.  "I agree, it's been a long day and fortifying ourselves seems wise."

With that he called the waitress back over and inquired as the available fare. 
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Esther on December 12, 2013, 14:32
Josie jumps to her feet. A quick look around the room tells her it has not been improved by the rat-hunt. Tears of regret and frustration well up in her eyes as they turn back to their normal color. Checking her hands, she stands there for a second, wondering what to do. She has to open that door and  face the fact that she won't be able to explain herself properly. Her normal hands search the pocket of her apron till they close themselves around the key. The first tear hits the floor as she puts the key into the lock and makes it turn. The thought of Mrs. Feather discovering her secret makes her stomach turn, how could she have been so careless just seconds before. Now the rush of the hunt has gone she feels like using her powers here was an insult to the trust Mrs. Feather put in her. Angry at herself she quickly wipes the tears from her face with the apron and opens the door to face her proper punishment.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: LuckyDee on December 14, 2013, 01:39
Just outside the room Mellie stands waiting, arms crossed and looking stern. "Is there anything you have to say for yourself?", she asks, and after two or three seconds you see her face trying not to contort itself as she realizes that, no, you are highly unlikely to say anything, especially at this point. She drops her arms with a sigh and says: "Oh, why do I have such a big soft spot for you, lass? Come on, in you go so you can explain to me what's going on." She ushers you through the door, takes a moment to survey the room - which, apart from the broken bedpan doesn't look all that bad - and then looks at you expectantly.

In the common room everything's back to normal. The guests are enjoying their drinks, dinners and conversation, and the waitress shortly returns to the table to inform Malachi and Thaddeus of the rather impressive range of dishes they can choose from, recommending the chef's carrot chowder.
While you are making up your mind, another new guest catches Malachi's eye as he walks past your table and towards the bar. It's Joshua (http://forum.chaosforge.org/index.php/topic,6253.msg55890.html#msg55890), and although you two have never talked that much, both of you are aware of the other's reputation, and his gives you a respectful nod, only slightly tinged by the dark look he forever seems to wear.
To Thaddeus realizing that his chaperone generally seems to rub shoulders with dangerous looking character with aethertech implants can do no less than spark excitement.
Title: Re: 1899 - The Hidden Hands of the Aether
Post by: Nightfalcon on December 17, 2013, 23:12
Malachi nodded to Joshua and considered, he wasn't a superstitious individual but only a fool would ignore the signs that a storm was approaching.  The bounty hunter was a hard man, not necessarily a bad one but as often as not, people like him were load stone attracting the iron of discord into their orbit.  Add that to the strange man who was here earlier, something was going on and he began to doubt a quiet night was waiting for him.

When the waitress return he ordered the beef with yorkshire pudding and gravey, black bread with butter and vegetables.  "Keep an eye on that one." He said to the boy, if we see some excitement here tonight, he'll be in the thick of it."

He waited until the food arrived to get to the meat of their converation.  "Now tell me, what i it you're hoping I'll be able to do for you?" He asked.