Part 1: Cadiniagart

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Part 1: Cadiniagart by Dworkin (GM)
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The journey has been largely uneventful, the huge steam-driven wheels pushing the Porpoise through fairly calm waters for five days, and a favourable wind filling the sails so that the vessel will reach its destination a day earlier than expected.
That destination is visible now, has been for perhaps twenty minutes, and the passengers have come up onto the deck to watch the final approach to the port.  The city is large, constructed mainly of a grey stone, and most of the rooftops gleam pale blue in the light of the midmorning sun.  It is built on the slopes of a mountain range which parallels the shore.  Above and behind it a dense forest rises to the snowline of the high peaks.  Watch towers stand up in the snow, standing guard over the city below.
This, then, is Cadiniagart.
Sharp eyesight, or a telescope, reveals that the city is festooned with flags, banners and pennants.  Seemingly every visible building is gaudily decorated with bunting.  Rumour has it that a Prince of Amber is here (although the exact identity of the individual varies, depending on who is speaking), travelled here to negotiate a trade agreement with King Dulenans.  Cadiniagart, if rumour is to be believed, is about to enter the Golden Circle, that select group of nations which have commerce with Amber itself.
Certainly the festive appearance of the port city lends an air of verisimilitude to the tale.
As the Porpoise moves closer to the crowded harbour, nestling beneath the walls of a fortress of the same grey stone as the majority of the city, bells can be heard, and trumpets sounding fanfares.
Captain Jondsey comes down from the bridge, a heavyset man with eyes that match the colour of the sky, his head shaved and tattooed with a complex pattern of knotwork.  A broad smile splits his face as he approaches the passengers, his booming voice carries easily above the sound of wind and wave, "Well milords, and ladies, we made good time this trip!  A thing you might be kind enough to remember should you be looking to travel these waters again.  It seems the rumours about Cadiniagart might be true, certainly the citizens look to be celebrating something."
He walks to the rail and leans there for a couple of minutes, pointing out various locations visible from here, then turns to leave.  "We'll be docking soon, I'd best be getting back to the bridge.  I hope you all enjoy your visit to Cadiniagart."  The Captain bows, and makes his way back to his post.

Half an hour later, the Porpoise is finally moored to its designated pier, a little far out along the docks for the taste of some of the passengers, but the port is extremely busy.  Once at the lower end of the gangway, the passengers are immediately mobbed by guides, offering to lead them to inns and hostels in the city.  The guides are keen to point out that, with the city so busy, strangers might have a hard time finding somewhere to stay.  Most of them also offer the sevices of a porter with a barrow or cart to carry the luggage.
Cyan, Duncan, Alexandra, Ares, Derek and Tander find themselves following a small man, brightly dressed, who carries a red banner to make him easier to trail through the crowded streets, and keeps up an incessant babble about the quality of the inn they are being led to.  The barrow with their belongings rumbles along behind them, pushed by the porter.
The streets are exremely busy, and brightly-coloured flags are everywhere, many of them bearing the swan symbol of Cadiniagart alongside the unicorn of Amber.
Suddenly the guide turns into a narrow street which, while still decorated, is much less crowded, and there is the inn, the Blue Rose.  It is a clean-looking structure, with two floors, built of the typical grey stone and pale blue tiles common to much Cadinian architecture.

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Re: Part 1: Cadiniagart by Cyan
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Cyan paces alongside everyone, her pack in hand rather than on the cart.  She grins about her at this new place; everything is so loud!

And that ship was amazing!  Foul smelling, to be true, but incredible!  Listening to the guide with one ear, and keeping the other poised to catch any strands of music that might float by, she steps into the Blue Rose.

Two floors, comes her thought.  A place of high quality.  Quickly Cyan steps into the entrance, and bending, she drags a finger along the blue stone tiles.  Confirmation:  there is no dirt.  She lets her fingers splay arcoss the tile for an instant, getting a feel for the stone; never having seen it before, she wants to make sure it will be put properly to song.

Standing, the tall redhead looks around for the Innmaster.  Berd overbalances partially;  tiny sapphire wings unfurl and stretch out help him.  One brushes her hair in front of her face, and she absently flicks it back.  The dragon grumbles in disgust at the noise, and promptly goes back to sleep.

"Look at this place, Berd," she whispers, stepping forward and throwing her arms wide to encompass the room.  "Isn't it beautiful?"  One eye opens, then closes in disgust.  Ignoring him, Cyan continues to survey the entranceway to the Blue Rose with a poet's eye.

OOC - Do we actually know each other?

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Re: Part 1: Cadiniagart by Dworkin (GM)
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OOC: Not well, you met on the ship on the way here.

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Duncan by Duncan
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Duncan strides into the inn, looking about and seeing that the place looks clean and pleasant enough.  He walks to the counter, his knapsack slung easily over one shoulder and the hilt of his claymore projecting above the other and waits for the innkeeper to appear.
"Hello! Iss anybody dhere?" he calls, his voice carrying a strange accent.

OOC - NPC'd by Dworkin.

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Re: Duncan by Morgan
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Sitting off to one side, Morgan watches the newcomers intently.  With a bit of a grin, he slides his beer to one side and leans back in his chair.
"There's a barkeep around here somewhere, neighbor.   Keep yellin' and they'll show up eventually."

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Entering a Golden Circle by Derek
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Derek looks at the two-storied building the guide had brought them to, checking out possible venues of attack, flight and unauthorized entry. A city this big and this busy was sure to attract its share of shady personnel and it was always good to be prepared. Taking a last glance around at the festive vista, he steps into the common room. Surprisingly well-clad for people who know him, but woefully inadequate for any formal occasion, Derek immediately heads for the counter, following in Cyan's wake. The only concession to wealth is the large bloodstone ring he is carrying on his left hand. As he waits for any action by the innkeeper he absently cleans his fingernails with a small knife, all the while keeping his surrounding under observation.

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The innkeeper by Dworkin (GM)
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Suddenly a door behind the bar opens, and a thin, balding man of about fifty steps through, wiping his hands on a towel.  "Oh, beggin' yer pardon ladies and gentlemen, I was just takin' a delivery out ter the back.  Now, what can I do for yerselves?  Ah... fergive me please.  Donavon's the name.  I'm the owner of this establishment."  The last word is spoken slowly and carefully, as if the innkeeper isn't used to using words of that complexity.
Nevertheless, the inn is clean, and a delicious smell of something cooking had wafted through the door as Donavon came through it.

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Re: The innkeeper by Cyan
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Nodding to the man drinking his beer, Cyan steps forward and bows to the innkeeper.  "Good evening, sir.  Might I say this is a splendid establishment?"  Without missing a beat, she continues.  "I would require a room for the time being.  Preferably one with a bath."  It's a long shot, but she'll go for it.
"And I must say," she finishes, "that certainly smells splendid.  Dinner would be much appreciated as well."

Berd perks up at the mention of *food*.

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Wishes by Derek
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Derek steps up behind Cyan and looks at the innkeeper, as a smile steals itself on his lips.

"Ah, good sir. Since I want not to burden you with asking me yourself and to save you the work of going through this twice, I will take the same as the young lady with the unusual draconic companion. A room for the night and a piece of this delicious smelling food you are preparing there. And do not worry. I can pay.

The smile turns dazzling before fading back to a wry, ironic lift in the corners of his mouth. Derek settles back against the counter and waits for the service to be provided.

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Re: Wishes by Alexandra Boisjolis
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Lexy smiles as she looks around the town, taking in all the sights. She breathes deeply, the tang of salt heavy in the air. She looks around, shifting the instrument case on her back to a more comfortable position. She follows the crowds, smiling as she looks around. This is a great place, and the rumours of one of the princes of amber being here... well, that should add spice if nothing else.
As her mind is busy poring over lyrics, rhymes and information, some part of her notices an inn nearby, with the delicious aroma of food coming from it, reminding her that she is starved.
She steps in, seeing that several of her companions from the ferry are allready here. Guessing this must be a popular place, she steps up to the counter as well.
"Greeting, innkeeper. Room, bath and a plater of whatever it is that smells so good." she grins.

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Re: Wishes by Cyan
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Cyan shifts unconciously as Derek slips up behind her, moving to the side without realizing why or questioning it.  A thin glitter appears under one of Berd's eyelids to indicate he is watching as well.

"Separate rooms, of course," she notes to the Innmaster.  Now, the man may have had no intention of moving them into the same room, but she's been suckered by that before.  Well, once.

It was annoying picking the teeth out of her glove.

Reaching into her pocket, she pulls out enough local coinage to satisfy the cost, along with a hefty tip.  "Some brandy would be fine as well," she whispers to the Innmaster.  "The best you have."

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Re: Wishes by Morgan
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Watching the new crew arrive, Morgan sips his beer slowly while tracing sinuous patterns on the tabletop.  "When you have time, barkeep, another beer here as well.  If there's to be a party, a fella should at least be prepared."

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Re: Wishes by Tander
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"A fourth room, if you please, Donavon."  Spoke the short green-skinned man behind them.  He'd been silently observing his surroundings, with a good-natured smile about the entire thing.  He carried a large bag made of brown material, the same bag that had been laying in the hand-cart not minutes before.

Stepping closer to the counter, he places a bundle of coins on the counter, enough for room and board for the duration of his planned stay.  "Dinner would be nice also."  He gave a smile to the portly man, then turned only to find himself staring right at the dragon's keester.  With an odd glance of surprise, he stepped back a pace or two.

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Re: Wishes by Morgan
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"They usually only shoot fire out of the other end, neighbor," Morgan chuckles.  "Although that one has the look of a troublemaker about him....he might try it just for kicks.  Then again, you don't know whatcha don't know, eh?"

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Re: Wishes by Tander
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With a good natured laugh, he finds himself wandering closer towards Morgan.  "Not the fire that I'm worried about. If you get my drift."  Smiling a bit, he held out his hand and introduced himself, with the name he's given everyone else on this trip.  "Name's Otandal, I'm visiting for a few days,  maybe a few weeks."

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Re: Wishes by Morgan
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"An honor and such.  The name's Morgan.  Pleased to meetcha.  Pull up a chair if ya wanna.  At this rate, the place'll be full up in no time."   Morgan takes another pull at his beer.  "I'm visitin' town, too.  Seemed to be an interestin' enough place, all things considered."

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Re: Wishes by Tander
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"Save me a seat,  I'll be back after I get situated in my room."

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Re: Wishes by Morgan
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Propping his booted feet up on a chair at his table, Morgan nods.  "Consider it done."

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Re: Wishes by Ares
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Ares stretches mightily as he steps off the cramped boat. He surveys the landscape around him, noting the tall buildings, the wide streets, the people everywhere. Bright pennants fluttering in the breeze. He walks down the streets, in this place so different from home. Heartsong hangs at his hip, and one hand rests easily on the pommel, as it always does. Slipping through the crowds, Ares finds himself at the entrance of a good looking inn. He steps inside, noting the smell of cooking food, the people allready seated and several others from the boat, who had arrived here before him, but not by much. Ares shrugs it off, and heads to a table in the corner. leaning his chair against the two walls that form the corner, Ares signals a barmaid, and orders a bottle of red wine, the finest there is, and a glass.

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Re: Wishes by Morgan
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Morgan finishes his beer and sets the mug down on the table.  Reaching under the table, he digs around in a black leather bag for a few moments before coming out with some local currency.  He tosses some on the table, lifts the bag up onto his shoulder, and walks up to the bar.  "Well, I suppose while we're at it, I should get a room myself.  I don't imagine you'd want me sleepin' on the floor, eh?  I just flew in from Dallas and man, are my wings tired."

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Rooms and Service by Dworkin (GM)
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Donavon smiles, then sticks his head back through the door and yells something you can't quite make out, incidentally releasing another burst of that wonderful aroma.  Moments later a small woman with almost bird-like features and grey hair steps through that same door, and leads everybody up a flight of stairs at the far end of the common room to the first floor.
A long passageway extends from the top of the stairs, with about a dozen doors leading off it.  The woman, who gives her name as Belkra, assigns each person to a room and waits while they deposit their luggage, then leads them back down to the common room.  The rooms themselves are light and airy, with large windows (fitted with perfectly adequate catches and locks).  The beds are clean and comfortable.
Back in the common room, Donavon is bustling about behind the counter, pouring drinks an occasionally shouting instructions through the door to what must surely be the kitchen, while keeping up an almost-ceaseless stream of chatter about the weather, the up-coming trade agreement, how business has been, etc, etc.  At first he seems to regard the little dragon with some suspicion, but then, when he realises that it appears to do nothing except sleep, he ignores it.  He's seen odder things in his time, and will doubtless see even more of them once the trade agreement with Amber is signed.
Soon two serving girls appear, both in their early twenties and with features so like Donavon's own that they must surely be related to him.
Soon everybody is seated, with he drink of their choice and a platter of food before them.  One oddity is the wine, which has a delicate and very refreshing flavour, but is a pale blue in colour.
The meal consists of roast pork in a spicy sauce (which Donavon explains is a "secret family recipe"), assorted vegetables, and stuffing.  An almost colourless fish soup is provided as a starter, and fresh bread and a variety of cheeses are also served.  For dessert there is a selection of fruits.
When everybody has eaten their fill they are offered freshly baked scones, with a choice of preserves, and pots of a rich-smelling tea.

OOC - Anybody who has ever lurked in one of my games will know that characters are always well-fed and looked after.  You may want to set up some sort of exercise program for them to stop them getting fat.  :o)

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Re: Rooms and Service by Morgan
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Pushing back from the table, Morgan smiles at Donavon.  "Excellent food, Donavon.  My compliments to your chef!  I think I've found a new home."  Smoothing his beard with his left hand, Morgan looks around at all the others at the table.  "So.  My name is Morgan Stone.  I'm here on a bit of a wander.  How 'bout the rest of you?  Anyone have anything interesting to share?"

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Feeling right at home by Derek
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After following Belkra upstairs and depositing his small satchel in the designated room, noticing its ambiente on the way, Derek sits down at the table. Donavon's service is impeccable and the food provided better than most Derek has tasted on his journeys. Feeling ravenous after the voyage on boat, as always, he eats heartily, almost gorging himself, and settles back in his seat.

"Aaah... That was great... a compliment to the chef and all who had a hand in creating and serving... If that is in any way representative of the city's splendor, then not even those vaunted Amberites could find a fault in its application to the Circle. Goodman Donavon... you made this simple palate very happy..."

Turning back to his companions and listening to Morgan's introduction, he smiles and takes a long draught of his wine.

"Greetings, Morgan Stone. As Dyrk I am known and a Traveller by profession. I heard about this fesitvity and thought it might be an interesting place to be. But I am rude. What about our ladies in attendance? Any way to call you?"

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Re: Rooms and Service by Duncan
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"My name iss Duncan.  Like you, I am a wanderer.  I heard dhere wass goink to be a big party, so I decided to take a look."  The large man extends a hand to Morgan.  "Pleassed to meet you."

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Re: Rooms and Service by Morgan
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Morgan takes Duncan's hand and shakes it briefly, revealing a silver wristband wrapped around his tattooed wrist.  "Nice to meet you, neighbor.  I've heard about that "party" myself.  A Prince of Amber or somesuch.  Perhaps this little town is about to move up in the big scale of things, eh?"

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Re: Rooms and Service by Cyan
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Cyan, after the meal, pushes some plates out of the way and kicks her feet up onto the table with little regard for her boots.  She IS polite enough to sit them on the edge of the table, though.

"Traveller's by profession?"  She grins, good - naturedly.  "Low - paying work, to be sure, with high risks.  Or is it a simple way to say 'between jobs'."  The sparkle in her shining emerald eyes takes the sting from her words.

"Fantastic food, Innmaster," she notes to Donovan as he brings the brandy.  Feet, both the chairs and hers, hit the ground as she reaches out and pours a small glass for herself.  Raising an eyebrow, she waves the bottle at the rest of the table before putting it down in the centre.

"I am Cyan, and my esteemed companion goes by the inscrutable name of Berd."  She taps him on the nose, but he stays asleep, obviously uncaring.  Leaning forward, she offers her hand to the three who have spoken.  "Morgan.  Dyrk.  Duncan.  Splendid tatoos, Duncan."  Grinning, she shrugs.  "I haven't any of my own, but I'm always ready to compliment fine art."

"As for the party, I was lucky, I suppose.  Just happened to be passing through....  A Prince of Amber.  I did hear that.  Does any know whom it could be?  Innmaster!  Has there been any word of which Prince of Amber might grace us with his presence?"  Her voice has sharpened slightly, a touch of excitement there.

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An important visitor by Dworkin (GM)
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Donavon looks up from his work at the counter as Cyan asks her question, "Didn't I say?  It's Prince Bleys, or so they're sayin'.  He arrived a week or so back, with about a hunded soldiers and hangers-on"

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Re: An important visitor by Cyan
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"Bleys," Cyan breathes.  Famous, that one.  Famous for his prowess and cunning in battle, his adventurous spirit, and his somewhat rakish reputation.  "Well, it would be something to meet him!" she laughs.  "From what I hear of him, he could very well be sitting in this room with us, right now, enjoying an ale and laughing at our little discussion!"  Pouring herself another cup of brandy, the redhead leans back again, grinning.
"It would be fascinating, getting a chance to speak to him.  Imagine, someone who has lived as long as he, and travelled so many lands."  Cyan shakes her head.  "What do you think, Berd?"

Berd makes a rude noise, and otherwise remains apparantly asleep.  Cyan frowns briefly.

"You are absolutely impossible."  She brightens, looking about the table.  "Has any of you ever met one of the Royal House of Amber?"

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Re: An important visitor by Morgan
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"Not me.  I travel in smaller circles than that, I'm afraid.  Still, of all the Princes, Bleys is probably one of the easier to get along with, from what I've heard.  Who knows?"  Morgan shrugs and drinks down his brandy.
"If he shows, he shows.  Until then, I suppose we entertain ourselves as best we can, eh?  Perhaps we could convince Berd there to entertain us with stories...or acrobatics...or perhaps even snoring us a tune!"  With a wink to Cyan, he pulls out a pipe and begins to pack the bowl.

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Re: An important visitor by Derek
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Derek shakes his head, then takes another draught of wine.

"Neither have I met one of their prominent number. Bleys... hmmm... isn't he a redhead? Flamboyant?"

His face scrounges up in a mask of thoughtfulness as he leans back again, then he shakes his head again and lifts his glass.

"Can't say I ever met him or even saw him. Nonetheless... here is a toast to him, to Amber and to the treaty. May it keep this town as excelent as it is now... especially the food and hospitality..."

With this said he empties his glass in one draught and resets it on the table.

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Re: An important visitor by Cyan
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"I'll join you in that toast!" Cyan says to Derek's sally.  "To Amber, long may it stand."  She pours herself another drink.  "And this most excellent Inn, of course."

"As for my lazy friend," she returns to Morgan, "I doubt acrobatics are on the menu.  But if it's music you would want," Cyan continues, picking up her harp case, "that can be easily provided."

Opening the harp case reveals a shining instrument, wood and silver thread.  Its design is simple, with not ornate carving except that of a single rose, but the craftsmanship is flawless.  Carefully, Cyan releases it from its confinement, and settles it in her lap.  Her serious face breaks into a smile, then, and she winks at Morgan.  "Singing, however, will cost you."

Expertly she draws her fingers across the strings as they talk, providing a soft, light counterplay to the speech with her music.  Otherworldly and often set in a minor scale, it brings to mind cloudy skies, cool breezes, and summer rain.

Berd sets up a slight hum in the air, a low bass vibrato that carries along the melody without overwhelming it or the discussion.

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Re: An important visitor by Morgan
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Looking up from his pipe, Morgan chuckles at the small dragon.  "Well, lookie there...it lives!"  Leaning back in his chair, Morgan taps his foot to the melody and smokes the pipe in silence, his eyes taking in every reaction around him as Cyan plays.

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Re: An important visitor by Alexandra Boisjolis
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Lexy had remained quiet during all the talk, but raises her glass with the rest.
"To Amber!" she says, grinning with the rest. "One end of infinity." She smiles, takes a sip and begins to eat.
"Truly excelent fare, my good man." she says, enjoying the meal. Truly tasty. She looks up in time to see Cyan pull out her harp case, and Lexy smiles.
She listens to the music for a bit, then unslings her own harp case. Pausing a few moments, she begins to pluck out a counter point to Cyan's music, a deeper sound, that entwines wonderfully with the melody that Cyan plays.
As the music flows, Lexy smiles.
"Like you, I am a traveler. Lexy they call me." she smiles, continuing to play.

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Re: An important visitor by Morgan
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Morgan nods his head to Lexy's words.  "A pleasure and an honor, lady.  To you both, and the lovely music that you make so well!"  Raising his glass, Morgan smiles and waves it at both of the musicians.  "Amber, the Courts, or Shadow mundane...a fellow could do much worse than to be at this table tonight."

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Unemployed by Tander
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Thoroughly enjoying the last of the meal, Otandal (or so he introduced himself as) joined in the conversation when he could.  "Heh..   I wouldn't pay someone to wander about.  That's for sure."

At the proposal of a toast, he raised his glass. "Here here!"  He joined in, drinking up the rest of it before Cyan pulls out her instrument.  A moment of awe strikes him against the jaw, as a wild thought passes through his head.  It's easily dismissed at the next lady proclaims herself a traveller.

"Well I suppose that makes me and Donavon here just about the only employed people then, eh?  I'm hoping to strike a little trade with some of the inns and such,  I deal in exotic, albeit pricey, goods and foods."

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Re: Unemployed by Cyan
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"Well, well," Cyan says, admiring the other woman's technique with the harp.  She plays slightly more complex tunes, and is not hardly surprised when Lexy keeps up.  "Another traveller?  That is a wonderful instrument you have there...Lexy?  Lexy."

The redhead grins, suddenly.  "I like your taste in instruments.  But enough of my music - I travel to gather the songs of others.  Please, play me some from the lands you have visited."

Her smile widens briefly as she favours Morgan with a turquiose glance.  "Thank you for the compliment, sir."

Glancing at Otandal, she asks "Trade?  In what do you trade, pray tell?"

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Re: Unemployed by Duncan
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"Dhat iss not quite true, Otandal, I too have job of sorts.  I am guard.  It allow me much free time dhough, and I travel where I can to learn more about dhe world."
Duncan pushes his plate away, takes a draught of his ale, and gives a great sigh of satisfaction as he leans back patting his full belly.  "Dhat wass most excellent meal!"

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Re: Unemployed by Morgan
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Morgan chuckles at Duncan.  "Reminds me of an old something that I heard once...how did it go?  Ah yes...'Join the Army, See Exciting Places, Meet Interesting People...Then Kill Them!'  Heh.  Nevertheless, any job that you enjoy is a good one, I suppose."  Drawing on the pipe, he grins at Otandal.
"As for 'rare and exotic items,' I have done a bit of that work as well.  It pays pretty well...in between bribes, brawls, runs for the local border, and amorous dogs with teeth the side of Duncan's blade there.  Still...nothing makes life more boring than  too many peaceful days, eh?"

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Re: Unemployed by Tander
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Turning to the lady, Otandal smiled at the interest in his profession.  "Mostly delicious meats, fruits, and spices from my homeland, and some fine material for clothing.  I have a hand in several items, and I dare say, it seems to be working out for me."

"Though I can't say my job is exciting as all that, Morgan, this keeps me busy, and I travel..  A lot.  I'm hoping to open up a new trade route, and what better place then your neighbors, eh?"

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Re: Unemployed by Alexandra Boisjolis
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Lexy looks up from her playing and smiles at cyan.
"Tell you what." she says, her fingers plucking out a careful, light melody.
"How about an exchange of songs? I'm sure that a traveler such as yourself would have a thing or two to teach a local, huh?" she says, smilling widely.

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Re: Unemployed by Cyan
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"I don't see why not.  I'd be willing to let you hear all of mine, for whatever you can give me of yours," Cyan replies easily.  She continues to play, switching tunes to one from her native land.  "Let's start here.  Do you want the words to go with it, or just the music?"  She assumes Lexy will have a similar head for music as she.

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Re: Unemployed by Ares
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Ares watches the small group gather, at one end of the bar. Eating, and playing music. He closes his eyes for a moment, and listens. As the song winds to a close, he pulls two coins from his pocket, and tosses each girl a coin. He winks at both, and heads back to his table.

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Re: Unemployed by Cyan
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Cyan plucks hers from the air, and glances at it.  [OOC - is it local?]  She holds it up and nods to Ares.  "My thanks, sir."  She drops it on the table for a little more of a tip, not needing the coin herself, but appreciating the gesture.

"Shall we continue?" she says to Lexy, a challanging look in her laughing, azure eyes.

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Re: Unemployed by Alexandra Boisjolis
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Lexy laughs, snatching her own coin out of the air, stuffing it into a pocket.
"Ok then. Her's one from across the seas." she says, plucking at the strings in a complicated pattern, that at first sounds disjointed. But as it progresses, an underlying melody presents itself, somehow rising from the unrelated notes.
Lext closes her eyes in concentration, her fingers moving fast on the strings, controling every aspect of the sound.
Finaly, she draws it to a close, and looks up at Cyan, a smile on her face.
"Would you like to learn?" she asks.

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Re: Unemployed by Cyan
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"It sounds pretty complex," Cyan notes.  "Maybe you'd better run through it one more time, and I'll have it."  She grins, somewhat savagely, surprising when learning music.

"Give it another go."  Berd hums in appreciation beside her.

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Re: Unemployed by Alexandra Boisjolis
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Lexy chuckles, and nods.
"I'm warning you though, the music is never exactly the same way twice. It's very fluid that way. And it'll differ from person to person on top of that." but she smiles and plays through the music once more. Disjointed, random seeming notes, strings pressed, plucked and gently strummed. The random sounding music is actually tightly controlled, to produce a melody behind the randomness. Again, Lexy closes her eyes as she plays, concentrating fully on the music. Again, as before, the music winds to a savage close, and Lexy opens her eyes.
"There." she says, shaking her hands a bit to get some of the feeling back.

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Re: Unemployed by Cyan
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"Hmph.  That's tricky.  I really couldn't say if I can get it."  Cyan plucks out a few notes, concentrating;  they're disjointed all right, but the underlying melody isn't there.  She sighs, her head drooping, and Berd grumbles in disappointment, scratching the back of her neck with one clawed foot.  "Well, that's a new one on me.  I guess I'll have to work on it....We know who the better player is now!"  Her head comes up, and Cyan grins.  "So.  Back to some easy stuff for you, I suppose."

With a small but genuine smile, she shapes a shimmering melody on her harp, and tosses it out to Lexy.  It's quiet and beautiful, running through many chords at once, and would be extremely difficult for a good player.

But for one in Lexy's class, it's probably nothing she can't handle on the first or second try.  Cyan plays it with ease; it's one of her favourites, like spring water running through the harp.

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Re: Unemployed by Duncan
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Duncan listens to the music with half an ear, but his attention is elsewhere.  The man at the bar who threw the coins to the ladies.  Something about his movements and manner suggests one who is familiar with weapon use.  Duncan stands and walks across to the man.  "Sir, forgive dhis intrussion.  You look to be one who hass had an interesstink life and who likes good company.  Will you join uss?  My name iss Duncan."
He bows to the man, then extends a hand in greeting.

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Re: Unemployed by Ares
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Ares looks up at the man as he aproaches, glass of wine in one hand, the other resting on his hilt. The other man introduces himself. One of the first things that Ares notices is the accent. The next thing he notices as he takes the offered hand is the firm grip. Ares gives the man a once over, then smiles.
"Greetings Duncan. I would be more then happy to join you and your companions for a drink or four." he says, getting up and collecting his things.
"My name is Ares." he smiles easily.

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Re: Unemployed by Alexandra Boisjolis
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Lexy watches Cyan's finger move across the strings with ease, and smiles, recognizing the girls talent. She closes her eyes, enjoying the music for the sake of music. She can almost see each note as it is played, like some complex mathematical formula. But she loves it.

She slowly opens her eyes as the song ends, and looks around, gauging the reactions of the others in the room.
"That was wonderful." she says, smilling.
"You are a true master." she says, taking a sip of the fruity blue wine.
"You must have been playing for a long, long time. It will be a great joy to exchange music with you. If I may, might I inquire as to what you are doing in this fine realm? Does the rumour of a prince of Amber draw you here as it does me? The promise of exciting events to shape new music with? Or perhaps something else?"

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Re: Unemployed by Cyan
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"It was good," Cyan admits, "but that one I've been playing for...a long time.  And yes, I have practiced the harp for many years, but I think that is true of both of us.  You give me true much praise."  And there and then she stands and gives a little bow, smiling and sincere, to the true master in the room.
Sitting down, Cyan collects her drink and sips at it.

"An exchange of music would be wondrous...as to why I am here, truthfully, I had no idea there would a Prince of Amber in this place.  It is actually the first time I find myself in, what, 'the Golden Circle' it is called?"  With a frown, Cyan leans back.  "I was actually on my way to Amber.  I have never seen the city before, and wished to visit it.  Naturally, I was taking a circuitous route;  sometimes I find that irritating, sometimes pleasant, but it always helps me find more music."

Glancing across the table, she smiles again.  "Such as now!  I consider myself truly blessed for the opportunity to learn from a master such as yourself!  But I ask, why would the rumour of a Prince of Amber draw you here?  Are you a chronicler, writing histories?"

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Re: Unemployed by Derek
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Clapping his hands slowly in an appreciative applause to the two women playing, Derek stands and leans forward.

"As enchanting as the present company is, I think I will take a stroll around the city now, trying to get a feel for the place and to find the best places to be for the party. Feel free to come along, an you wish."

He straightens and heads to Donavon.

"Good man, can you give me some direction to the market or yer street of shops? I'd like to get hold of some stuff afore it gets dark..."

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Directions by Dworkin (GM)
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"Well let's see, the market square's easy enough.  Just go out ter the end of the street an' turn ter the right.  That's Harbour Street, just foller it up the hill.  It runs straight ter the square, an' all the streets off there is traders.  Careful yer don't get lost in the crowds."  Donavon makes to return to the kitchen, the turns back, "An' keep yer wits about yer, beggin' yer pardon.  Not everybody who's come into Cadiniagart fer the celebration is as nice as the present company.  There's lots of thieves come ter prey on the crowds.  I'm just sayin' ter be careful, d'yer follow?"

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Re: Directions by Alexandra Boisjolis
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Lexy raises her glass in toast to Cyan.
"Yes, I am a chronicler of sorts, though the information I gather is for song. And wherever the princes go, excitment follow. So, it seems only natural that  I come from across the sea to investigate the wild rumours I had heard. I truly hope we are included in the golden circle. It would mean much prosperity for us." she smiles, and her take on a faraway look.
"I would love to visit Amber, the true city, city of mysteries and dreams. To see with my own eyes that pattern, the myseterious tir-na-nogh, the halls of Rebma. To meet th eroyal family and pay my respects."
She smiles and returns to reality.
"But, I doubt I'll be able to go anytime soon." she says.
"Unless I take one of the established roads. But come, let us talk of better things. You do not do yourself justice with music, my dear. Just as you have known that tune for year, I know mine for as long, perhaps. It's the music I grew up with, so of course I know how to play it well. You will have to teach my the one you just played." she says, grinning.

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Re: Directions by Cyan
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A chronicler...Cyan nods, impressed.  "Well said."  She grins at the other girl.  "And where the Princes of Amber go, so too does Chaos follow...."  Plucking out the song again on her harp, she allows Lexy to watch the fingers at the same time as listening, trusting her to pick up on the simple song.  It's how it's played that makes it good, like anything, and she has little doubt Lexy will pick up on it quickly enough, and give it her own emotions.

"We might travel there sooner than you think," she says quietly, as a feeling grows upon her.  "So, you come from this land, then?"

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Re: Directions by Morgan
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Smiling vaguely around his pipe, Morgan stands.  "Can I offer to get anyone another drink?  Mine seems to be a bit empty?"  Still looking over his shoulder at the group, he heads to the bar, waving down the innkeep as he goes.

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Re: Directions by Alexandra Boisjolis
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"Yes, from here, but far from this place." Lexy says, watching Cyan's hands.
"I've not been here before, so this is all quite new and different to me." she smiles and finishes her drink.
"Sure, another drink would be fine." she says to the departing Morgan.

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Re: Directions by Cyan
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"Another bottle of brandy might be in order."  Aside from a slight flush on her cheeks, Cyan doesn't seem to be at all bothered by the cups of strong liquor she's injested, her aqua eyes twinkling with pleasure as she bandies back and forth about music with Lexy.

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Re: Directions by Morgan
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"Well, Master Innkeep, the ladies demand drink or I fear they will stop their playing.  One must do what is required to keep such songbirds singing, eh?  Another bottle of brandy if you will...and another beer to go with it, if you please."  Reaching into his pocket, Morgan pulls out some money and lays it on the bar.

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Re: Directions by Duncan
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"I will come widh you to dhe market.  I must get some fresh air, and I would like to see more of dhis city."  Duncan stands, and on a sudden thought calls to the innkeeper, "Innkeeper, what laws govern dhe wearink of arms in dhe city streetss?"
He is concerned about his large sword.  While travelling from the ship to the inn he would have been able to explain the weapon away as being carried as luggage, but wandering the streets with it he would have no such excuse should the Watch stop him.  He had confidence in his own abilities, but he would rather avoid trouble with the authorities if he was going to be staying in the city for a while.

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Re: Directions by Cyan
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Cyan perks up slightly at this question.  It could be important to her as well, though not nearly so.

Berd merely yawns, and sneers at the brandy.

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Re: Directions by Alexandra Boisjolis
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Lexy plays softly as she too waits for the answer, her fingers working on their own as she plucks out a long familiar tune.

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Re: Directions by Derek
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"Thank you, Good man. I will heed yer advice."

With a sketched bow at the ladies, Derek takes his leave and heads from the inn towards the marketplace. His senses alert for any tampering or other attempts of a certain kind , i.e. activities of rogues, he threads his way through the crowd of people lining the streets and heading to their own destinies. At the entrance to the market place he stops, surveying the setup and trying to get a feel for the situation, including the more thievingly inclined individuals.

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Re: Directions by Dworkin (GM)
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"Well now... " replies Donavon, rubbing his cheek, "that's a tricky 'un an' no mistake.  Any blade over a handspread in length is, really speakin', illegal to be carryin' round.  But the Griffons, see, they're busy men, 'specially at the moment.  They most likely won't stop yer fer carryin' any size of blade.  The problem is if they catch yer usin' it, then they'll throw everythin' they can at yer, 'specially if it's longer than the rule allows."

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Re: Directions by Alexandra Boisjolis
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"Interesting companion you have there." says Lexy, looking at the small dragon that lazes on Cyan's shoulder. Her fingers move to something a bit more lively. This is an inn after all, and people who drink like lively music.
"Does it bite?" she asks, looking at Berd carefully.

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Re: Directions by Cyan
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Cyan joins in on what Lexy is playing, doing counterpoint until her fingers figure out the basis of the tune, then picking it up with her.  "Berd?  Not usually.  Oh, he's bitten a few people, here and there.  Somebody who wanted to steal him, one little brat who stuck a finger in his eye and tried to pull off one of his wings....  By and large, though, he's a liiiitle too sedintary to worry about such things."

Berd, noting the conversation has turned his way, gives Cyan a sour look when she describes his movement habits (or lack thereof).  Stretching on his shoulder, he digs claws into her shirt and worries them a bit, them hops down to the table and wanders over to stare up at Lexy with dark, crystiline eyes.

"No, he's a friendly one, if a little too lazy."  There's no edge to Cyan's comment, just happy acceptance.

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Re: Directions by Duncan
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Having waited just long enough to hear Donovan's explanation, Duncan hands his claymore to the innkeeper to be looked after, then hurries out to follow Derek, carrying only his dagger.
He walks along with the other man, speaking but little as he studies the crowd, the architecture, the goods for sale.
Finally they reach the marketplace.
"So, what are you lookink for?  Anydhink in particular?"

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Reasons by Derek
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Derek looks at the man beside him, a wry smile on his face.

"Not really, my friend. I am just trying to get a sense of how this town works, what it has to offer and how folks relate to the whole stuff. You know, listening to the pulse of life..."

He steps aside to let a townsman laden with a copper pot filled with bread and pastries walk by, then looks from Duncan back to the market.

"You know, there must be something about this town, that makes it interesting for Amber to have regular trade with. And since I am a curious guy, I will just try to find out what..."

His smile turns brilliant.

"If I manage to find something worthwhil along the way, the better it is. What about you, neighbor?"

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