leticia

Leti says, "Okay, then. Last seen floating down river on a boat, undead beastie bits polluting the water behind you. Headed towards Nexus, where the rivers join, then the slower journey upriver towards GC's supposed workshop."

Leti says, "Does anyone have any expenditures, or any plans for Things they'd like to do?"

<<OOC>> Shai says "I assume the Water Strider made it through the undead fight without serious damage? If so, I'm good; Shai will make a point of stopping to fix whatever damage it _did_ take, and try to pick up a cargo at wherever-we-decided-she-was-going-to-shop-at, and generally be Captainly and In Her Element on the journey, but nothing else in particular she's going to do and I have no spends yet."

<<OOC>> Green Cove is going to be a socially inept little princess and occasionally make snarky comments about river fish. So, y'know. Nothing unexpected.

Yasutora [to Leti]: What I was TRYING to say is that no, there are no undead bits polluting the river. They all BURNED. :P

<<OOC>> Leti says "Fine, icky undead ooze from BEFORE it died. Neh."

Yasutora [to Leti]: Burnnnnn.

<<OOC>> Shai snickers.

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Thhbbt."

<<OOC>> Leti says "The caulking on the Strider's seams was loosened a bit, but the natural flex in the wood prevented any serious damage; re-caulking from the inside has stopped leaks. Which is as good of repair as can be done without drydock facilities. Last I knew, the plan was for Shai to look for a cargo in Nexus, using the references from Zahen."

<<OOC>> Yoru will be trying to ignore the motion of the boat that is bothering him. He will be happy to see a city.

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Sounds about right to me."

<<OOC>> Green Cove suspects her character will also occasionally be stretching her legs by taking little jogs alongside the boat.

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "And, y'know, fishing."

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "I'll probably be spending the majority of the time talking to Ten River Wind and teaching him."

<<OOC>> Leti supposes she should probably have Yasutora do ~~social combat~~brainwashing rolls here sometime, because, focused-preachy-Zenith...

<<OOC>> Shai _snrk_.

<<OOC>> Yasutora ^^

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Can I stunt it? ^_^"

Leti [to Yasutora]: Sure, let's get this taken care of for the session. :)

Yasutora spends a good deal of time talking earnestly to the Outcaste. He explains about the culture of Lookshy, and the emphasis on excellence, support, and development. The importance of the sorcerer-technicians, and the power of the savants. He talks about the sun, and the rising of power, and dignity built on words-- power that will outlast a single life and that does not break when your back is turned. About the community -of- human dignity; those who respect it are respected by others who do so, but those who do not gain respect from no one. About the way to truly forge control-- not through fear, but through mutual dependence.

Leti says, "Okay, two die stunt. Cha+Presence."

Leti says, "Meanwhile, since no one seems to have any major plans, floating into Nexus. Shai, what sort of docking facilities are you looking for?"

<<DICE>> Yasutora rolls 8 dice: <4 4 4 5 6 8 9 10> for 4 successes.

<<DICE>> Leti rolls 3 dice: <1 5 8> for 1 success.

<<OOC>> Shai says "Hrm. She's going to be consulting with at least Jay on this one, yay Nexus native, assuming Zahen didn't give her recommendations and none of the Circle speaks up. Looking for something appropriate to the Strider, with a reasonable pricetag on staying there (...I assume there's docking fees) for, oh, up to a week. (Since we might be able to get through Nexus fast, or we might get stuck for awhile with Shai shopping for cargo or the Circle getting sucked into Plot or something.) Not going for drydock and Strider repairs just yet, unless it seems like a REALLY GOOD IDEA."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Hrm. Okay: There's measurable progress here, Yasutora; heck, even the other Circle members can tell that maybe, just maybe, Ten River Wind is actually LISTENING to the Zenith now. However, he's recalcitrant still. Ultimately, he's used to a model where might makes right, and while cooperation might seem to create greater right, it is through greater might."

Yasutora is satisfied with this for now; progress takes time.

<<OOC>> Leti says "As for docking facilities: There are two large harbors (which have multiple docking facilities within). The western one, at the very juncture of the rivers, is the Nighthammer pool; it's larger, shallower, and primarily deals with the products of metalworking, both before and after. Docking fees are generally less in this harbor; however, the cargoes available might not be quite as fitting. The Nexus pool, on the northern side of the city, is near the main markets. Both have several different docking facilities, run by various merchant interests. The Guild has a large facility in both harbors. Most facilities offer docking to non-member ships, and charge a fee for the service; the fee varies by facility, but, due to smaller size and greater demand, are higher in the northern harbor, generally."

<<OOC>> Shai says "Hmm. With the resources the Strider has on-hand right now (including, ahem, the experienced Eclipse negotiator), does Shai think she can afford the Nexus pool without undue strain? If so, she'll shoot for that one; if not, she'll aim for Nighthammer."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Sure."

<<OOC>> Shai nods to Leti. Nexus pool it is!

<<OOC>> Leti says "The Nexus Pool is large - smaller than Nighthammer, it's still a huge harbor - and jammed. Still, Shai is able to find docking facilities on the northern side - not as convenient for accessing the city as the southern shore, but more convenient than the middle of the river. (And where most the boats not currently knowing their next destination moor - the southern side has a lot of loading and unloading, and it's wasteful to use those spots on boats who haven't made up their minds."

Leti says, "You've just docked."

Leti says, "What are people's plans in Nexus?"

Leti knows Shai plans to start going to merchants and factors and looking for a cargo, but anyone else?

<<OOC>> Yasutora ponders.

Yasutora [to Leti]: I don't honestly think Yasutora's going to do much than walk around and gawk, and ponder the Tombs.

Leti cackles. Going tomb raiding? :p

Yoru stands at the gangplank and looks out at Nexus. "Ah, civilization."

Green Cove frowns out at the city. "By some definitions," she says.

<<OOC>> Yoru will look for a bar and/or brothel. Bar first.

<<OOC>> Green Cove ...isn't sure. Green Cove usually just went through cities on her way to someplace else.

<<OOC>> Shai also plans to haul Jay along, unless _none_ of the Circle is staying on the ship, in which case she'll do a last-minute 'wring information out of the Native Expert' before heading off with a regular crewmember or two in tow. "She'll be willing to take Circle people along instead of regular crew, as long as they promise to be good and let her do the talking wrt cargo-hunting."

Leti [to Yasutora]: Planning on taking Ten River Wind or leaving him on the ship?

<<OOC>> Yoru would be happy to drag GC along to a local bar. Not sure she'd like it however.

<<OOC>> Shai says "Shai will object strongly to TRW staying on the ship sans Solar chaperone."

Yasutora [to Leti]: It depends. How aggressive has he been to the crew?

<<OOC>> Shai says "(Any Solar, though. She's okay with someone other than Yasu watching him, just not okay with no Exalt watching him. >_>)"

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "If Yoru suggests the trip, GC will tag along due to not having a better idea. Though she will be taking Floating Leaf with her unless he thinks to object before they head out."

Leti [to Yasutora]: Aggressive? Not particularly. He made some brief attempts to boss them around, but I suspect that was quashed and he's not pushing his limits.

<<OOC>> Leti giggles.

<<OOC>> Leti says "I love this Circle so much."

<<OOC>> Shai hees.

Yasutora [to Leti]: I'll take him with then. :)

<<OOC>> Yoru will of course forget to mention the tiger until it is too late.

<<OOC>> Shai laughs.

Yoru glances at Green Cove and grins, "Care to go exploring, find a place to get a drink and maybe a bite to eat?"

<<OOC>> Allen says "Allen doesn't have any particular plans - will probably tag along with Yasutora, to gawk. Tourists ftw."

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Teenage boys-- three of them, for all intents and purposes, counting TRW-- alone, in Nexus."

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "This is going to be ... interesting."

Green Cove brightens from her rather dark appraisal of the city. "I think food would be tasty. I'll go with you." She calls over to her tiger, "Floating Leaf, come along! We're off to get food."

<<OOC>> Shai says "So Jay's staying on the ship and in charge while everyone else is gone, and Shai will collar a crewmember or two to tag along with her. Rest of the crew also stays with the ship, I think."

The ship is docked and tied in place nicely; Yoru, glad to be off the water, has already made it to the dock; there's a long earthwork jetty - legacy of the first age - which extends far to the east and west here; to the north, the river, to the south, the harbor. Small boats ply the harbor, taking passengers for a small fare (increasing depending how urgent the passenger seems to be) directly the the inner shore of the harbor; otherwise, you can walk down the jetty and a high arcing bridge carries you to the shore. There are already many people on foot going either direction - little cargo, however, or animals here - loading and unloading is generally done at the southern docks.

<<OOC>> Leti says "So Yoru's dragging off Green Cove to corrupt her, the boys are all heading for a gawking session, and Shai's on her own, looking for a cargo. Meeble."

Yoru awaits Green Cove on the dock and offers her his arm to take. Of course, with how she is he has no clue if she'll grab on or what. He does glance at the tiger following along and decides not to comment.

Ten River Wind is actively interested in Nexus; perhaps he had dreams of one day being powerful enough to raid it - Nexus is the heart of the Scavenger Lands, after all, and everyone in them - barbarian or not - thinks of Nexus and wealth together. Unless, you know, they already live among the poor of Nexus.

Green Cove stares blankly at Yoru's arm, then loops hers into his. A method for not getting lost when in crowds, much like a leash. Right.

Yasutora [to Leti]: Yasutora is going to arrange for TRW to see the misery of the poor and the paranoia of the rich alike here. Not point it out, overtly, but just make sure he's in a position to know what living in ac ity based on, effectively, his philosophy, costs EVERYONE.

Yoru grins and winks at Green Cove. "Let's go explore this hive of scum and villainy then." Glancing over his shoulder at the tiger he asks, "Floating Leaf won't get lost, will she?"

<<OOC>> Leti says "So everyone's walking down the jetty, aye?"

<<OOC>> Leti says "Or is anyone planning on hiring a boat?"

<<OOC>> Yasutora nods>

Green Cove pauses to clip the tiger's leash onto the collar. "No, she'll stick close by," she says. "If she pulls away the leash, it's usually because she needs to kill someone. Let's go."

<<OOC>> Shai says "Shai probably heads off last due to last-minute consulting, but yes, walking. At least to start."

<<OOC>> Leti GIGGLES.

<<OOC>> Shai _snrk_ at Cove.

<<OOC>> Green Cove ...is practical and generally honest!

<<OOC>> Shai admires the pragmatic honesty!

<<OOC>> Yoru figures the walk will do them good. *shudders at thought of another boat ride so soon*

The Circle has effectively broken into three groups - Yoru and GC are ahead, perhaps due to Yoru's fondness for solid ground, the boys next, and Shai with a crewmember trailing behind. Jay's biggest advice, by the way, is to avoid the Guild, because it's a bad way to remain independent.

Shai fully intends to follow Jay's advice, and keeps up a murmured conversation with the crewmember as they go, plotting out the best order to target Zahen's recommendations in.

<<OOC>> Yoru says "Oh, are we recharged since the fight on the river?"

<<OOC>> Leti says "Yeah, been a day."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Or two."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Or three."

<<OOC>> Leti says "It's a BIG world. :p"

<<OOC>> Shai giggles.

Yoru heads off towards the city, taking the long way that doesn't involve another boatride. "SO, do they have cities this big from where you are from? The West, right?"

It's a good walk to the bridge that leads to the city's mainland; about two thirds of the way there, fast moving feet pound up behind Shai, and one of her crewmembers catches up with her, at a run.

Shai whirls at the first sound of running, and blinks when she recognizes the person. She puts a hand on her bow out of reflex. "What's wrong?"

The sailors pants for a moment, catching his breath after the run, then says, "Captain, we've got a problem at the ship. Jay asked me to get you.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Well, Allen looks armored. :p He just looks like his armor is covered."

Shai purses her lips, but is already gesturing to the other crewmember to follow her back. "Did he say what kind of problem?"

The crewman shrugs. "He didn't say, I saw - some fat guy is trying to get onto the Strider and saying it's his."

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Am I near enough to hear this?"

<<OOC>> Leti says "Probably not, though if Shai calls to you, you can all easily hear it."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Otherwise, there's enough traffic and distance that no one's going to hear the convo."

<<OOC>> Yasutora nods.

Shai scowls, and starts heading back faster. (Though not quite fast enough to outrace even the exhausted crewman.) "Describe him?"

<<OOC>> Shai says "I don't think Shai's going to call. >_> Although if people _look_, she looks annoyed and is moving quickly back to the ship. [laughs]"

<<OOC>> Leti says "If you give me a per+awa roll, you might notice the crewmember running up to her like there's a problem."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Okay, sounds like Shai's going her way, and everyone else is going theirs. This is the dock district; there're plenty of taverns once you get to shore (space on the jetty itself is too dear for the sort of tavern that sailors could afford). Brothels, too. Most of which double as taverns."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Allen, Yasutora? What're you all looking for?"

<<OOC>> Leti notes for Yasutora's benefit that Lookshy, of course, has ships, merchants, and an embassy of sorts in Nexus.

Yasutora [to Leti]: "nifty stuff" and opportunities for TRW to see the misery of Nexus' rich and poor alike.

Yasutora says "The tombs are top priority on the "Nifty Stuff" list."

<<OOC>> Allen says "Yeah, Shiny Stuff, pretty much."

<<OOC>> Leti says "There are people everywhere trying to sell Yasutora, Allen, and Ten River Winds Interesting Things. Some of them are willing to sell maps of the tombs - including secrets of how to get in!"

Yasutora [to Leti]: Yasutora, for his part is just going to loom at them until they get out of his way. He wants to SEE the NIFTY STUFF. Now.

Shai, you arrive back at the ship; there's a cluster of the mercenaries who patrol this section of the dock on the jetty; a well dressed fat man is standing with one foot on the gangplank, arguing with Jay. He's waving a piece of paper around.

Yoru heads to one of the taverns and orders some drinks for his little group, and a hunk of raw meat for Floating Leaf.

Shai twitches bow and quiver infinitesimally straighter, gestures to the two crewmembers to follow her, and strides over to the ship, frowning and radiating Displeased ~~Solar~~ Captain. She pays attention to the tone of the argument as she comes into earshot, and will clear her throat to get the stranger's attention when she's a bit too close for his comfort.

This is Nexus, and they're used to seeing strange things, but Floating Leaf might be a bit much even for the most jaded tavern staff. It takes a while before anyone will come to take Yoru's order, but he does eventually get a chance to make his requests. It arrives, however, very promptly. Particularly the meat.

The man on the gangplank of Shai's ship turns around when Shai gets his attention. "What?" he snaps, irritably.

Yoru will throw a nice tip (gold or gem or whatever they use) to the tavern staff that brings the order. After that he will chat up GC and ask her about the West while they drink.

Green Cove manages to completely fail to notice that people are reacting to her companion's presence in a manner other than they would ordinarily act when patrons entered. ...of course, since she seldom goes anywhere without Floating Leaf, this is simply because she assumes taverns always function this way when she enters the room.

Green Cove is also quite happy to discuss the West. It's apparently full of water. And fish. Many types of fish. She can go into great detail on that part.

Vendors get out of Yasutora's way as he looms - eventually - but these are Nexus vendors, and they are quite persistent; every ten feet, someone's trying to sell the boys - looking much like rubes new the city (which they are) - a map to wonders, souvenirs, priceless treasures let go cheap, or a bridge. There are more honest vendors too, selling cheap food and stuff. They're not as predatory, however.

Shai says, with professional calm and just a _bit_ of edge to it, "I'm Captain Sarasvati of the Water Strider, and exactly _what_ are you trying to do to my ship?" Invisible essence tingles at her fingertips, but she chooses not to invoke it just yet, instead studying both Jay and the stranger to get a better idea of what's going on. (If Jay seems worried as opposed to annoyed, there's a definite problem. And if she sees anything familiar or identifiable about the stranger, that's useful too.)

Yasutora [to Leti]: Do any of the honest ones have passable looking ice treats? >_>

<<OOC>> Leti says "...Sweet treats of various kinds can be found; ice treats are, perhaps, a bit rarer, but if Yasutora's LOOKING for them a boy will be willing to tell him where to find them for just one little coin."

Jay does seem worried - but relieved now that the captain's here; he does remain squarely blocking the top of the gangplank.

The fat man scowls at Shai. "You're the captain on this ship? Excellent. I demand to board and see what's been done to my property.

Yoru will steer Green Cove away from talking about fish if he can. Asking about the islands and what is on them to whether Water Elementals are troublesome over there? Want another drink, try the (certain vintage wine), it is good.

<<OOC>> Leti can just see Green Cove crafting a swimming pool full of magical artifact fish.

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "...she so would."

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "Or, heck, a nice atrium full of magical artifact fish. If they're magical, who says they need water?"

Shai lifts a pale eyebrow. "Your property?" she repeats. "Well, we aren't currently carrying cargo -- but if this is a very roundabout way of making me an offer, I'd be happy to take it under consideration. What might your name be?"

Green Cove can be diverted in her conversation from fish, off to discussion of the islands she traveled through on her way out of the further West. Mostly into discussions of ships and pirates, but with a general frank appraisal of various threats she ran into, including the odd water elemental or what not.

The man swells and blusters. "The ship. Not any cargo you might be carrying. Your employer gave me a lien on the ship as security against a cargo he couldn't pay for; it wasn't delivered, I didn't get my money, and the ship is mine." He waves the paper again. "If you cooperate, I see no reason to find a different captain," he says.

Green Cove is also easily persuaded to try the wine, as long as someone else is buying.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Green Cove and Yoru are safely ensconced in a bar discussing ~~fish~~things."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Allen and Yasutora are looking for sugary sweets?"

Shai raises _both_ eyebrows, and reaches out to attempt to pluck the paper out of the man's hand. Ideally before he realizes that's what she's doing. If successful (and assuming it's in a language she speaks, but this being Shai that's not an _un_safe bet), she promptly reads it.

Yoru is indeed buying and will order some for himself as well. He glances down to make sure Floating Leaf is happy with the food. Otherwise he just sips on his drink and enjoys some small talk (something the player is horrible at).

Green Cove is dreadful at small talk--it always seems to come back to fish, between entertaining little adventure stories--but quite easy to please when it comes to free food, especially with Leaf given a chunk of meat to gnaw on too.

The paper so snatched is... well, it appears to be a remarkably legitimate looking deed of lien on one ship, the Water Strider. Signing as the ship's owner is a Peleps Marit - a name familiar to Shai - he's an Outcaste adoptee into one of the Realm's Great Houses, frequently one of her competitors on the more valuable cargoes she picks up. The implied backing of a Dynastic family makes many merchants feel their cargo is more secure with him from pirates and the like.

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "Allen and I are still buying sugary stuff?"

<<OOC>> Allen says "Hi yes sorry. Mmmsweets. Yes~"

<<OOC>> Leti says "Sweets are so bought. :p"

<<OOC>> Leti says "The same kid will volunteer to show you anything you want to see in the city, only a few more coins. He seems very eager."

As Yoru and GC enjoy their drinks and, err, conversation, the door to the bar slams open and a couple of brutish looking thugs stagger in, obviously expecting everyone present to be impressed.

Green Cove does not even pause in the midst of her discussion of a lost temple she discovered in the jungle, the monsters infesting it which she cleared out, and how this relates to a particularly difficult-to-gut type of fish.

Yoru barely even glances at the newcomers and is trying to figure out how the temple relates to the difficult-to-gut fish. At least she is pleasant to look at because Heavens is her conversation dreadful. *sip*

Yasutora [to Leti]: I believe we'll ask him to go to the tombs with us, in a circle back to the dock if possible.

Shai's expression darkens at her first glance at the paper, and when she catches the signer's name, it turns into an outright scowl again. "Well! _Someone_ has a remarkable talent for counterfeiting legal papers -- because the Strider hasn't had employers since I bought her. She's mine in full, and has never been property of House Peleps." Her tone on 'someone' indicates the possibility that the person in question may be the stranger she's talking to; internally, she's quite sure it's the Peleps boy's idea, but claiming _that_ isn't likely to scare this person off. And her next comment should emphasize that suggestion, as she says, coolly, "_You_ wouldn't have any idea who the counterfeiter in question is, mm? Rather foolish, to drag a noble family's name into this sort of thing."

<<OOC>> Shai _hee_.

The man glares at Shai. "You can't own this ship, because I have the lien," he says. "If your employer told you he was selling it to you, he lied." He reaches for the paper. "This document isn't counterfeited! It was signed with witnesses!"

<<OOC>> Leti does note that the nobility of the Realm has little more authority in Nexus than any wealthy and large organization.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Less than the Guild. Being smaller and more distant. :p"

<<OOC>> Shai nods. And giggles.

Tombs are doable. Ten River Wind will protest that there's better things to do. The boy will look a little nervous, and ask if you're planning to try to get into them, because he's not going close, no sir.

<<OOC>> Shai says "Is the paper she swiped dated? And if so, would I be wrong in assuming it's dated significantly after Shai's purchase of the ship? (And, for that matter, does Shai have paperwork to back up her ownership, or is she going to have to beat him with the Eclipse Stick sans legal documentation? >_>)"

<<OOC>> Shai .oO(Not that her Eclipse Stick isn't big enough for the beating, but she'll wait on it if she has papers to support her claim.)

Yasutora [to Leti]: I'll tell him that the tombs come from a time when his ancestors killed me and mine after our fall from grace-- and though we were stronger, corruption and the paranoia of rule-by-might wounded us. And also, I'm going to tell the kid that we're not planning on going in yet.

Green Cove finally manages to relate the hard-to-gut fish to the troublesome temple-monsters via a detailed explanation of their similar insides and bone structures.

Yoru ahs softly as the point is finally reached. "Interesting," is all he says.

The thugs get a fair amount more attention from the non-Solar patrons of the bar; Floating Leaf, however, just lounges there and watches them. They swagger to the bar, order ale, drink it down in a hurry. They start pushing their way to a table right next to Green Cove and Yoru - currently empty - the previous folks moved when the tiger sat down.

Green Cove gestures broadly during the description, and uses one of the bottles on the table to demonstrate exactly how the bodies of these creatures were arranged. "And that," she says, "is why one must consider the arrangement of the rib cage and how sharp the bones might be before trying to extract the central organs." She nods firmly, and takes another quick drink from her glass. "Yoru, have you had trouble with reaching between sharp ribs before?" With alcohol, she's become more gregarious. By her standards.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Shai, you would indeed be correct in guessing that the paperwork is dated significantly after her purchase of the Strider. (Which, it should be noted, never belonged to anyone in Peleps, anyhow.)"

<<OOC>> Shai says "Thought so! [laughs] (Probably belonged to some random just-retiring Western captain, or something; it'd be appropriate...) And the other question?"

Yoru grins at Green Cove and nods. Despite having drink in him he still remains pretty much the same. "Actually, I have. Well, actually they were hard ribs really. Broke the blade I was using. Mind you, I wasn't trying to take anything out from the guy, just stick a knife in him."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Shai DOES have paperwork - it's a small and salt stained deed of sale, however, and lacks such prestigious names as Peleps, or the polished legal look - it was a friendly transaction. It is, however, legitimate."

Green Cove wrinkles her nose. "Shoddy blade," she says. Thinks a little harder. "Or very, very hard ribs."

The kid doesn't seem any too relieved by the 'yet' - but he asserts again that he's not taking you within a certain distance of any of the tombs and he wants to be paid in advance because if you get too close, he won't get paid.

Yoru nods to Green Cove and leans in. "Or both. You okay there? This stuff isn't too strong for you is it?"

One of the thugs lifts his glass in Green Cove's direction. "You're a pretty bit of a thing to be working the docks," he says. "Just wash up out of the West, sugar?"

"Not too strong," Green Cove says confidently, having absolutely no idea if this is true or not. She turns to give the thug a blank stare. "No," she says, "I washed up on a different shore. To here, I took a ship."

The other sniggers. "Sure, cutie. Be a hell of a long swim." His companion smirks as if that's the height of humor. "You know, that fellow you're with looks a bit untrustworthy."

Yoru turns a hard, steady gaze to the thug who spoke. "She isn't a working girl, just a friend of mine."

Green Cove turns her gaze back on Yoru, and tilts her head to one side. "Yes," she says finally, "he does look a bit untrustworthy." She shrugs with one shoulder, and has more wine. "Looks don't mean anything. Floating Leaf looks dangerous, but she's quite well-behaved." She scritches the tiger behind the ears.

Allen nods to the boy and assures him that they don't wish him to risk himself - or risk themselves, for that matter.

The kid doesn't seem any too relieved by the 'yet' - but he asserts again that he's not taking you within a certain distance of any of the tombs and he wants to be paid in advance because if you get too close, he won't get paid.

The boy isn't ENTIRELY relieved yet, but as long as he's paid in advance, he doesn't care if you get killed, really. He's done his part to warn you; he's perfectly willing to lead the three teens off on a tour of the tombs.

Yasutora [to Leti]: I pay him half in advance, and inform him that the other half will be doled out after we pass the safe zone on each tomb.

Yasutora is nice. Not stupid.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Hrm."

Shai whisks the paper out of his range. "I've never been employed by House Peleps, nor have I ever taken cargo for them. I _bought_ the Strider in the West, from its legal owner," she mentions the (probably very Western) name, "who also had full ownership at the time. And if one's bothering to falsify proof of ownership in the first place, I doubt it'd be hard to obtain witnesses willing to lie."

Shai's expression softens momentarily, as she allows essence from her personal stores to spill into the patterns of Harmonious Presence Meditation. "Or perhaps the witnesses were taken in. This form certainly _seems_ like it should be valid -- except for the fact that the Strider's ownership was transferred to me four years ago, and this claims it was Peleps property as of last year." Her tone and body language suggest that this might be a way for the fat man to save face; admit he was tricked and leave, rather than continue to press futilely.

<<OOC>> Shai says "Activating the Charm for 6e personal, in case the Eclipse Stick gets broken out; I can keep it up for an hour."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Okay, I think the boy'll go for that."

<<OOC>> Leti says "After all, if you get killed at one of the first tombs, he's done for the day anyhow. :p"

The first thug eyes Yoru thoughtfully. "I don't like the way you look," he says, "At all." The grin he gives Green Cove is broad. "You, however, are quite a looker."

Yoru's lips twist into a sick grin. "I would hope you don't like the way I look. I do tend to go for the ladies after all."

Green Cove says, in a distracted tone, "I suppose I am," and returns her attention to the food and wine. Really, random thugs in a tavern just aren't interesting. Not unless they want to start talking about fish-gutting or the like.

The thug slaps a fist into his other palm. "'Fact, you remind me of this man who crossed my sister once. Slimey bastard. Had that same shifty look to his eyes."

Yoru continues to grin at the thug. "Really? Unless she's been down south I doubt she's had the pleasure of my... company."

The city of Nexus is huge. As the boys leave the market districts around the docks, there are less vendors (though beyond the docks are the slightly nicer whore houses, and the three get a few propositions. Ten River Winds, anyhow, seems interested.)

Yasutora politely but firmly refuses for the three of us as a group, though he does give them a few small-currency silver pieces each.

Ten River Winds protests paying without getting anything for it.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Also, sorry, Shai; go ahead and give me a ...hrm, Presence. +Cha, I think."

Green Cove peers at Yoru. "He's not slimy," she says. "Not unless he's carrying a dead fish under his clothes."

<<OOC>> Shai nods. "Any stunt bonus, Leti? And I assume Charm dice get included, since HMP is Friendly..."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Two dice. Sorry. ^^"

<<OOC>> Leti says "And yes, HMP."

<<DICE>> Shai rolls 13 dice: <1 1 2 4 4 5 5 5 5 6 8 10 10> for 5 successes.

The other thug laughs. "That's a word for it. Listen, sugar, you could use some better company."

Yoru can't help but chuckle at Green Cove. Or maybe at the thugs. It is hard to tell. He does however say to them, "While I know my friend can take care of herself, I would be remiss if I let her associate with tavern trash like you." Redirecting to Green Cove he adds, "Perhaps we should take in some sights of the city. The view in here is getting rather disgusting."

Green Cove considers the thug with a long, steady stare. She says, finally, "How good are you at beating up giant undead river fish?"

The man glares at Shai some more, and at his paper. "Do you have any proof?" he demands. He crosses his arms across his chest.

The first tomb is the Tomb of Night; it's quite close to the Tomb of Ice. The Tomb of Night is not so much a building - that anyone can see - as a semi-sphere of darkness. No one who enters has ever returned. The Tomb of Ice is below ground nearby, and, well, the quest for frozen treats already brought you somewhat this way - enterprising individuals use the chill in the nearby tunnels for to create such.

<<OOC>> Leti says "...and if you'll both give me a per+awa, Sado, you can use int+awa if it's better for you, and you get a bonus two dice, either way."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Both being the boys."

The thugs both blink at Green Cove. "What is it with you and fish?" one asks. He glares at Yoru. "Got her drunk already, huh? Yeah, that's the way your kind operates. Sleazy."

If Shai's expression changed at all at the man's failure to pick up on her hints, the only people likely to notice are her crew. "Yes, actually," she says smoothly. "If you'd care to wait here, I can send someone to obtain it." The tone is very clearly 'you're _not_ getting on my ship', as she twitches an eyebrow at one of the still-aboard crewmembers. (Not Jay, though; blocking the gangplank is good.)

<<OOC>> Shai says "Paperwork is presumably kept in a waterproof somethingorother in Shai's cabin; since she tends to not lock the door unless they're docked and _nobody's_ on board to keep an eye out, someone should be able to get in, I think?"

<<OOC>> Shai _cackles_ at the thugs.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Most logically."

<<OOC>> Shai nods.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Shai probably doesn't worry too much about her crew stealing frmo her; they're all shiny loyal ~~brainwashees~~followers."

<<OOC>> Shai says "She shuts the door when she wants privacy, but no real worries about locking it unless strangers might get on board."

"Fish," Green Cove says sharply, "are the cornerstone of an island economy, and vital to anyone who travels the sea." She adds, in a more polite tone, "And it's not as if there's a point to doing things far from the sea for too long."

Yoru laughs. Loudly. "If you think I got her drunk to take advantage of her, I would not do that to my friend. Unlike certain types like you. Oh, wait, you probably prefer to simply use brute force to get your jollies." Idly he tips his hat up slightly so if the thugs care to peer they might see his permanent marking.

<<DICE>> Allen rolls 5 dice: <1 3 3 5 9> for 1 success.

The crewmember Shai looks at goes for the cabin. A minute later, he comes back with the heavily waxed package which holds most of Shai's important documents. Jay lets him past, and he pushes (slightly harder than necessary, probably), past the fat man on the gangplank, to hand the satchel to Shai.

The thug who was speaking splutters, starting to stand up, but his friend, watching as Yoru 'casually' adjusts his hat, grabs the first's arm, and pulls him back down, hissing at him.

<<OOC>> Shai ponders. "Would Shai have, oh, a generic letter of recommendation from Zahen she could also pull out? She _is_ going to show the deed, but if she has a generic letter and it's worded right, that might ~~help me stunt if I have to roll again~~ help imply that the deed is accurate and the lien is false."

Yoru turns to Green Cove. "I think we may have overstayed our welcome. Perhaps we should find the others and make sure they don't get into trouble as they sightsee."

<<OOC>> Leti says "A general endorsement, for her to show to any merchants he's done business with, yes. It doesn't mention her solarness, only that he's found her reliable, courteous, efficient, and other such gushing."

<<OOC>> Shai nods, and w00ts. "With no implications that he's recommending an employee of anyone as opposed to an independent captain?"

Green Cove nods over her glass of wine, and drains it. She also grabs the bottle that isn't quite empty yet. "We should go see if they need help killing something," she says. "Or if they're having something to eat."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Oh, no. It definitely implies that she's an independent captain."

The thugs, unsurprisingly, make no effort to impede Yoru and Green Cove as they leave.

Yoru readjusts his hat as they leave and he looks back to wink at the thugs.

Shai accepts it, with a nod of thanks to the crewmember, and opens the package. She flips through it briefly, then draws out her deed of ownership -- and a second letter. She tucks the package under her arm, and holds up both so that the man can see the text, calmly. "Deed of ownership, signed four years ago; letter of endorsement, signed this month." If he seems like he's going to snatch them, she'll calmly hold them out before he can. It's a matter of style. "You'll note that I bothered to get the latter, and that it isn't from an employer. Or House Peleps, for that matter."

<<OOC>> Leti says "All rightie. Where are Yoru and GC planning on heading? I imagine Yasutora probably mentioned his intention to see the tombs."

<<OOC>> Leti says "And Shai was planning on visiting some merchants recommended by Zahen."

Green Cove strolls along at Yoru's side, arm looped in his again to keep track of him. Cities are so...peopleful.

Floating Leaf, at least, stalking along at Green Cove's side, keeps the people a small distance away.

In fact, Yoru and Green Cove are accosted by far fewer vendors than Yasutora and Allen encountered.

<<DICE>> Yasutora rolls 5 dice: <5 6 7 8 8> for 3 successes.

Yoru will ask one of the vendors brave enough to accost them if they noticed the three boys coming by earlier, or if anyone is willing to take GC and himself to the tombs.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Okaaaay. There's a fair amount of touristishness gawking at the tomb of Night - the people of Nexus have learned to avoid or use the tombs as possible, but strangers always find them fascinating - perhaps as much because of the way Nexus has grown around these lethal traps as the tombs themeslves. Yasutora, one of the people watching the Tomb of Night catches your eye; a tall man, sitting in a cross-legged, meditative position on the roof of a store - a cafe, really, selling some of those ices. He has burnt-red skin, red hair, and a bigass jade daiklave across his back..."

Yasutora [to Leti]: Hmmm. I take a more in-depth look. Anyone I know?

It's always easy to find someone willing to sell something in Nexus - directions is a favorite because it costs nothing to the seller but a little time.

Leti [to Yasutora]: Oh, yes. He's quite familiar. Yasutora beat him up once. :p

Leti [to Yasutora]: Recently, even!

No one, however, remembers the boys particularly - even as tall as Yasutora is, Nexus is teeming with people.

Yasutora sighs quietly to himself. At least he was wearing armor then, and who knows. Maybe the guy has learned.

Directions to the nearest Tomb - the Tomb of Night - however, are easy to get, cheaply. And a guide is only slightly more expensive.

Yoru will just ask for directions, or a guide, to the tombs then. He'll pay when he gets there, and no he isn't about to go in.

<<OOC>> Leti says "You're not going to get directions on a pay-when-you-get-there basis. :p"

An enterprising shopkeeper's son is willing to guide you there - perhaps as much so he can keep making big eyes at Green Cove (despite the tiger) as anything else. Though he clearly expects payment.

The man takes the papers when Shai holds them out, and looks them over glumly. "This is impossible," he says. "Who's going to pay for my cargo?"

Yoru will pay upon arrival. Along the way he'll even whisper to Green Cove that if she kisses the boy's head when they arrive they might get away with paying less.

Green Cove ponders this for a few minutes of walking, then responds in what's mostly a whisper to know what part of the head would be required for the kissing.

Shai gives the man a sympathetic look, now that the man seems to be more reasonable. "Who did they tell you was shipping the cargo?"

Yoru will whisper-suggest the cheek.

<<OOC>> Leti says "It's not that your roll had no effect; he was willing to accept the proof, after all. :p He still wanted to see it. Poor sad man."

<<OOC>> Shai hees at Leti, nods. "Makes sense! (I was wondering a little, when I didn't see a resist roll or anything, but assumed either it was a private resist or you had something else in mind. [grins])"

<<OOC>> Leti says "The fire-aspect, anyhow, doesn't seem to be paying any attention to the boys. He's watching the Tomb of Night meditatively."

<<OOC>> Leti says "It's not like he's going to recognize Yasutora definitively, anyhow, out of the armor. :p"

<<OOC>> Allen says ". . . yeah, recognizing Allen is the bigger danger. 8D"

Yasutora quietly whispers to Allen that they might have trouble with the dragon-blooded up there; he's a decidedly uncivilized person.

Green Cove watches their guide thoughtfully. With particular examination of how clean his cheeks might be.

<<OOC>> Leti says "When the DB is pointed out, Allen should definitely recognize his aspect markings and such. Yup. That's a DB."

Allen nods and quietly replies with a suggestion that perhaps they should place a few more people between them and the Dragonblooded - he is not, after all, a face unknown to those prone to attacking the 'Anathema' unprovoked.

The man pushes the papers back at Shai grumpily. "He was. On his ship. This was security."

Yasutora nods to Allen and begins to quietly guide Allen and Ten River Wind in ANOTHER direction. Perhaps suggesting that it is time to go get that ice treat.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Yoru and GC may now arrive now, if they'd like; both can have a per+awa roll for the same purpose, and Yoru gets the same bonus 2 dice. :p Since he's looking at someone he's seen, not just picking someone out of the crowd. GC gets vision bonus dices."

<<DICE>> Yoru rolls 10 dice: <1 3 3 4 6 7 7 8 10 10> for 7 successes.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Yeah, Yoru, there's the boys - Yasutora's easy to see - damn giant, and look, Fire Aspect you guys beat up on the roof over there."

<<DICE>> Green Cove rolls 5 dice: <1 4 5 10 10> for 4 successes.

Shai takes the papers back, tucking them into the satchel and passing it back to the crewmember absently. "Marit was?" she asks, for clarification. "In that case -- yes, you might have trouble getting your money back." She tilts her head, thoughtfully. "On the other hand, I could name a few honest sailors you should have more luck with, next time you've got a cargo to send. Or if you've got something going toward Great Forks, we could talk..." Her tone is still professional, even on the line about getting money back, but she _is_ feeling more generous now that nobody's trying to take the Strider away from her.

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "...wait, I do have Awareness. And also the vision bonus, which, er, I forgot to write down..."

<<OOC>> Green Cove says "...aw, I don't get to roll 4+ more dice?"

<<OOC>> Leti says "If you really want, but you see a DB up there on the roof (though you don't recognize him, and the boys over there heading out of the courtyard for some tasty, tasty taste treats."

<<OOC>> Green Cove is awesome at the sighting along with Yoru, yay!

Green Cove glances briefly up at the dragon-blooded, but points to the boys. "There they are."

Yoru will pay the boy once they arrive, maybe a bit less than offered if Green Cove does her part. As he is looking around he smiles when he notices the boys of the Circle and he grimaces upon seeing the DB. Squinting at the DB he shakes his head and mutters, "Should've killed him," softly.

Green Cove looks back at the DB. "If so, why not do so now?" she asks, in a tone of idle curiosity.

<<OOC>> Leti says "The DB doesn't seem to be paying either the boys or Yoru and GC any attention at all. He's just calmly watching the tomb."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Gimme a bureaucracy roll, Shai, and I dun care how I spell it. 1 bonus die."

Yoru comments to Green Cove, figuring she knows who he is talking about, "Too many people around."

Leti peers at GC and Yoru; any attempt to catch the boys before they escape for tasty ices?

Green Cove stands on one foot for a bit to think about this. "Some people are very touchy about killing other people," she says, finally, and heads off after the boys.

Yoru will shake his head and mutter, "Nevermind that now." He trots after the boys as well.

<<DICE>> Shai rolls 13 dice: <1 3 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 8 9 9 10> for 7 successes.

<<OOC>> Green Cove assumes Yoru paid the kid before we went off?

<<OOC>> Yoru did, full price if you didn't pimp out for me. ;)

<<OOC>> Leti says "See, this is why letting an Eclipse solve the problems is no fun for the ST. ;)"

<<OOC>> Leti says "It turns out he DOES have a cargo. It is, he warns you, a bit of a risky gambit, it's expensive, there's problems with pirates, but, well, since you come so highly recommended, he thinks it might be worth the gamble to recoup some of his recent losses..."

<<OOC>> Leti says "And, well, he's been Eclipsed."

<<OOC>> Leti says "Okay, assuming the boys aren't running too fast, Yoru and GC can catch up."

<<OOC>> Yasutora says "No, strolling semi-casually."

<<OOC>> Allen says "Speed attracts attention! Walking."

Yasutora is having a hard time resisting the urge to "sneak" around on tip-toes.

<<OOC>> Leti says "*CACKLES*"

<<OOC>> Leti says "Now that's subtle on a giant."

<<OOC>> Shai giggles! And nods. "Unless it actually sounds like a stupid risk to Shai (...which it probably won't, unless the payoff is _ridiculously_ low; she's confident about her ability to dodge pirates, and expensive == should pay well), she'll go for it. ...And try to worm some more details about the Marit thing out of him while she's at it, but." [laughs]

<<OOC>> Shai _snrk_ at Yasu!

<<OOC>> Leti says "Nah, it sounds like a really good deal, particularly after Shai gets done Eclipsing the poor merchant's brains."

<<OOC>> Leti says "There's a bit of danger of pirates, sure. But. It's not likely to be much of a danger with a ship full of Solars."

Leti points at Yasutora and Allen. Look, here come GC and Yoru.

Green Cove frowns as she draws even with the boys. "They got ices," she says. "Why didn't the tavern do ices? Can you do iced wine? That could be tasty. Or meat ices."

<<OOC>> Leti says "A little bloodsicle for the tiger?"

Yasutora nods to the pair and "whispers", "surreptitiously," "We've got company-- did you see?

Yoru nods to Yasutora. "I saw. He shouldn't recognize us however. Just act natural."

Yasutora looks somewhat disappointed. He wanted skulduggery. This is NEXUS after all. He checks on Ten River Wind to make sure he's not contemplating bolting and then nods. "Ice sweets time!" he says cheerfully, and looks around for his guide.

<<OOC>> Leti says "Okay. Shall we pause here? With the four + Floating Leaf + Ten River Wind getting snowcones and Shai having a good cargo deal?"

<<OOC>> Leti says "Because greater than legendary bureaucracy success. :p"

<<OOC>> Allen says "Sure. XD"

<<OOC>> Yoru hehs. Sounds good.

<<OOC>> Shai says "I'm good with pausing!"

<<OOC>> Leti scritchies people. Is sorry she was a so sleepy and absentminded GM today.