0 to 20 in 3.5 (Tomo, Trace)

[smashbro]

April 11

Church bells ringing, children playing, adults talking and drinking. The entire city of Basilland seemed to be out and about. Vendors had closed their stands, and those who were not catering the wedding had closed their restaurants. Everyone was in their Sunday best, though you could tell there was a difference in wealth. Nevertheless, everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, whether or not they knew the bride or groom.

There were rows upon rows of chairs to sit in, all facing the white gazebo, decorated with flowers and garland, where the two would be wed, with seats reserved for the bride's family and husband's family near the front.

The wife's family seemed to be very friendly, many mingling with the groom's family and townspeople. She, Anne Louise Cadenza Marshall, was nowhere to be seen today, but in the days before the wedding, made herself a part of everyday life in Basilland. Although rich enough to spend her life in her gardens, she enjoyed being outside of palaces and royal buildings.

Her family is proud of their heritage, many wearing white garments with dragon images on them. Although their blood was diluted enough that the dragon heritage was nearly lost, they keep to their family's proud tradition. However, they are not all the uptight nobles that many hear about. Many of them are very friendly to all, and mingle amongst everyone.

The husband's family, while cordial, seem to talk to those obviously closer to their level of wealth. Duke Eugine Booth waded through the guest, saying hello to everyone, but not staying in place for long. He seems to be alert, and on edge, attributing it to being excited for his big day.



Before the ceremony begins, there are many activities for the guests to enjoy. There are many bands scheduled to play, and games for both adults and children to play. Simple ball games are played by children, while a small group of adults seem to be enjoying themselves with Creatures and Caverns. Many eat and talk, drink and talk, or drink and drink and drink, only to escorted away by guards.

The guards themselves all seem to be doing their job, but slightly confused. They are vigilant, looking out for anyone causing trouble, but with the entire city invited, there is nowhere and no one who can be told to leave. The guards are many of the town guard that have been seen before, but some extras have been hired, including one of the Raptorans from a nearby colony.

One very vocal person who seems to not be enjoying himself is Laurent Booth, Eugine's younger brother. He has had more than one too many drinks, and constantly complaints about the "robot" that replaced him as best man. The guards watch over him, but cannot let him leave, as he is still part of the wedding party.

Even the hired help all seem to be enjoying themselves, as they are being paid well, and are allowed to attend the party and eat food themselves.


The wedding itself has not started yet, and few stay seated. As you all make your way around the guests, you hear one of the bands playing.




I've been looking for a rider who's qualified
So if you think you got the ranks, step onto my ride
She's a fine-tuned supersonic speed machine
With a flaxen mane and a chestnut sheen

If you wanna ride her let me know, know, know
Come on what you waiting for, for, for
My mare is ready to explode, explode, explode
So hop on up and watch her go, go, go, go

She'll get you where you wanna go, and she won't break a sweat
she can ride all day till she's a silhouette,
Can you handle the scarp? Can you run through the hills?
If you can baby boy then she can go all night

Cuz she's 0 to 20 in three point five
Baby you got the reins-

Now shut up and ride (ride, ride, ride)


EDIT: The wedding takes place on the Western end of the city, with the end of the seating meeting the buildings. On the outside of town, there are many small houses (from which people enter and leave) and a few inns, each at least 2 stories high. The gazebo and chairs are all on flat land, for a perfect view of the couple when they make their vows.

Unfortunately, with it being 11:00, and no trees around, some people are hot, and seeking refuge under tents where the food is set up. Some even go into nearby buildings, those staying in hotels have binoculars to see if anything is going on.

[Tomokun]

Circulating amongst the guests, when he isn't performing, is a young lad with short black hair, one green eye and one blue eye, tan, with an almost girlish cast to his features. This young human of about 17 is almost scrawny, but has an almost impish smile on his face at all times and a pleasant demeanor.

Never outstaying his welcome, he will make small talk with all of the guests, let them know how to contact him for performances, and of course let them talk to HIM for as long as they want. Even if they are a boor. He spends much time talking with elderly guests as well, often asking them for stories, and encouraging them to tell him about days when they were younger and the world was more pleasant.

In spite of his young age, he seems to have an endless supply of stories himself, some obviously made up, while others possibly true but certainly exaggerated, all of them amusing for at least the short duration that he tells them.

The boy's obvious talent however, is singing, for the few times when he gets on stage, his voice is clear like a bell, ringing out over this joyous occasion.

[Princess Tracy]

A nun sits on the far side of the ceremony, fidgeting with her clothes and makeup - something she hardly had much occasion to use and thus ended up looking somewhat freakish as she peers into her worried reflection in her semi-private tent. No one was around as she dug around, finally finding a traditional headdress, a veil not unlike the one worn by the bride - headgear befitting a priestess of Bahamut with its somewhat draconic, silvery design. It would do well to obscure her face and head, enough to hide her little mishap from earlier in the day.

"What do I do now, wait it out? Maybe there's something else I can add to this costume... I guess there's nothing sinful about red hair, but still. Ugh, I'll just have to deal with this after today, after the rites are performed. In the meantime..."

She makes her way over to the main reception, there to begin setting things up for the happy couple. Medium height, curvy but obscured figure, fiery red hair, black robes and topped off by an odd, tall headdress that capped the top of her head with a whirling, silver face veil. Around her neck hangs the holy symbol of Bahamut, which swings side to side as she cuts a swathe through the crowd, talking to no one and hoping no one from the church saw her. Her appearance draws attention as she hunches over, obviously awkward and balanced. She stops for just a minute too long as the sound of song drifts through the air, enticing her...

[Princess Tracy]

Chinatsu approaches Gamble, hardly able to help herself from his rousing behaviour. The woman - well, more a girl in attitude, really - stands before him with a face veil whose shimmering obscures any tone in her face, though not its shape as she can't help but further smile at his entertainment. "H-hello," she greets the apparent minstrel.

[smashbro]

"Eugine Booth, if you would please join me here in the gazebo," the priest calls out, and slowly everyone makes their way to their seats and posts. All of the workers, aside from the guards, are allowed to take seats, and slowly the crowd quiets. The music begins (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kDWaVZqO9o) and all turn to see a woman in white, at the end of the aisle. He father holds her hand, teary eyed.

Down on the other end of the isle, the black suited husband smiles, but his eyes betray his impatience and worry, as they dart around at all of the guests. He fixes his tie and smiles at his (assumidly) blushing bride, as she walks down the aisle, veil obscuring her face. She reaches her soon to be husband, and he gently lifts her veil...



She smiles at the man she loves, a brown strand of hair falls delicately on her face, and she smiles.

The ceremony goes well, and the priest nears the end of the ceremony. "If there is anyone who believes that these two should not be wed, speak now, or forever..."

At this point, a dozen women stand up, and walk into the aisle.

The maid of honor also steps forward, and rips off her veil to reveal an elven woman with long, black hair. Glinting in the sun, a dagger is now at the bride's throat.

"You were MINE! And then you try to marry this... this hussy?!? Nobody move, or vous amore Anne Louise Cadenza won't be red from blushing anymore!" The elven woman smiles sadistically.
"You'll follow me and your new woman here into the gardens, and we'll talk this over like civilized folk, now won't we?" She turns to the crowd. The women from the crowd fill the aisle, daggers out, pointed at the crowd.

"AND NO ONE IS TO FOLLOW US! IF ANYONE SO MUCH AS COMES WITHING TEN FEET OF US, THE BRIDE DIES!"

She begins to back away toward the gardens, the guards frozen in place, not sure what to do.

"Wha... why aren't you going after her?!?" Eugene cries out, pointing at the elven woman. None of the guards react right away, and a look of confusion, horror, and anger washes over Anne Louise's face.


Without any immediate intervention, she will back toward the nearby hedge garner, will hedges 10 feet high as walls, and the dozen women from the crowd will slowly follow, with two staying back by the entrance, waiting for Eugene.

Also, pardon my French, I don't know any of it. It was close to what I want from Google Translate.

[Tomokun]

Chinatsu approaches Gamble, hardly able to help herself from his rousing behaviour. The woman - well, more a girl in attitude, really - stands before him with a face veil whose shimmering obscures any tone in her face, though not its shape as she can't help but further smile at his entertainment. "H-hello," she greets the apparent minstrel.

"Hi!" Gamble replies, "I'm Gamble, a pleasure to meet you. Great wedding so fa...", suddenly Gamble is interrupted by the spectacle before them.

Seeing the bride being taken away, Gamble tentatively steps forward and says, "Ummm, my lady? I can completely understand you wanting to have a private conversation with this cad... but perhaps I might be of some service? We men can be dense at times, and I might be able to help you make sure he understands what a grave mistake he has made."

Looking around at the startled guests, the knife, he smiles kindly saying, "Besides, it's not like I'll make things more tense, right?"

OOC: DM, if you want to roll my diplomacy check for me, that's fine. ;)

[smashbro]

"Fine. You'll come with us on my terms though," says the woman as Gamble stands up and offers to help with the "negotiations" between the elven woman, and Eugene.

Gamble finds a knife to his throat, and he is brought away with the bride.

[Tomokun]

With a calm, kind smile, Gamble says, "As you wish my lady, but I assure you that the knife isn't necessary. I understand the pain of a broken heart, that is all, and above all I know how important it is to you that HE understands what he has done, and the kind of eternal love he will lose if he stupidly lets you slip away."

Gamble is obviously nervous, doing his best to maintain his composure, as he tentatively raises a single finger and presses it to the point of the knife, careful not to cut himself. "At the very least, would you mind not strangling me with the knife while we walk? I'd hate to stumble and lose my efforts simply because I thrust myself into an epic tale of love..."

[Princess Tracy]

Chinatsu had been dutifully following her role of blessing the ceremony, trying her best not to draw too much attention to herself, and was far too close when the whole situation exploded into the wedding reception. Taken aback and quite frozen with fright, she at first quivers and tenses up, being quite near the couple as teh crazed elven woman grabs the wife, finding herself quite frozen. W-what do I do? Can I do anything? No, just stay put, what could you that wouldn't make things worse?

As Gamble allows himself to be taken away though, something in her stirs, a voice echoes through her head, 'Go'. A sudden excitement fills her veins again and she finds herself moving despite all her logic, approaching the hostage takers, with no idea what she'll do when she gets close. She edges her way through the tight-packed crowd, drawing ever closer. "The boy from earlier, Gamble... he's quite brave. Perhaps I should show my support?" she mutters to herself. Let's see, what spells have I got.. curing, and little else. I didn't even bring my staff to the ceremony. Think now, what have you got... Your natural charm, of course.

Without thinking, she pulls back most of her veil, revealing everything below her eyes as she giggles playfully and stands about 4 yards from the nearest aggressor. "Quite the hostage situation you have there. Room for one more?" By Bahamut, what am I doing, what am I doing? Is it part of the curse - it must be! "Er, rather, I mean remain calm now..." Words seem to escape her at last, her excitement fading as she analyses herself.

[Tomokun]

Gamble is surprised when the nun he was speaking to earlier came forward, his eyebrow raised in an unspoken question, before falling back into a charming, bright eyed smile.

Looking at his elven captor he says smoothly, "Well, you might as well bring her along, or my cousin will end up nagging everyone to death over how worried she is for me. I promise you, neither one of us will be a headache, she's just worried about someone she cares about who was caught up in an unfortunate situation. I'm sure you understand." The boy lies smoothly, not a stutter, not a twitch.

Bluff [roll0] Plus my modifier :D

[smashbro]

The woman shrugs, and motions the two of you into the maze.

She grips her dagger tightly, and tells both of you to be quiet. Up ahead, Anne Louise struggles against the elven woman, who holds onto the bride tight. Those two continue on farther, while the other woman stays with you two.

[Tomokun]

Upon stopping, Gamble clears his throat politely saying, "Ahem. Excuse me? But, I believe she wanted us to go with her... why are you keeping her waiting?"

[smashbro]

"No," the wedding crasher says. "Iaia knows what she's doing. She'll be back soon enough. So what are you going to say on Duke Douche's behalf?"

[Tomokun]

Raising a quizzical eyebrow, Gamble says wryly, "What makes you think I want to DEFEND the Duke?"

While talking, Gamble shifted his weight from one foot to the other, as if he were tired of standing. Sighing heavily he says, "Is she going to be long, or can I have seat?"

After hearing her response, Gamble continues, "More importantly, what makes you think that anyone is at fault here at all? Have you ever noticed that when 2 people fight, they are always eager to put the blame at someone's feet? Isn't it more likely that when two people care about each other, heartbreak is an accident of poor communication rather than a manifestation of a wrong action?"

Shifting uncomfortably from standing still, Gamble says, "Or let me put it another way. Do YOU think that holding a knife to someone's throat is going to make them change the way they feel, or is it more likely just to make them lie to save their own skin? Is that what Iaia wants? A lie? Instead of a lie, I want her to feel better and be happy - whether that's with Duke 'can't keep it in his pants to save his life', or with someone better that she hasn't met yet because Duke 'not worthy of a pretty elven princess' is still hanging around her heart, clouding her judgement. But you know her better than I, what do YOU think?"

[Princess Tracy]

Quivering, Chinatsu hopes with all her heart things will work out. Almost as an answer to that silent prayer, Gamble keeps on talking with that same undeniable suaveness. Just let him do the talking... "Yeah, like right now - you're pointing a knife at me and I'm not exactly falling for you, lady." F-fool, why did that just escape my mouth...? Am I just an idiot when under this much stress?

[smashbro]

"Oh, feel free to sit, this shouldn't take too long."

"I think Duke Dumdum over these is at fault. You don't run off with some little noble when you're dating my friend, and have been for years! All she wants is him to realize how stupid he is. Poor communication? How about him forgetting to mention that he was gonna date and marry someone else in the three months she was gone!"

"She's taking care of Little Miss Sweetie Belle over there the way she wants. But..." The woman seemed to think for a moment. "If she would only see what is best for her, my Iaia could have anything she wants... it's not like it would be a problem, if she was uncomfortable the way things are..." Shaking her head, the woman snaps out of her thoughts, and snaps at Chinatsu.

"Well, if I wasn't pointing a knife at you, would you be listening? I thought not. We mean business, this is real." Somewhere far off, you hear a scream, and soon after, lots of shouts from a crowd. They don't seem to be getting any nearer, but it is clear that the guests have begun to panic.



EDIT: As the wedding crasher is talking, Chinatsu sees a lizard, down in the southern entrance, and catches a glimpse of a teenage girl dark back behind the bushes as soon as she sees people. Gamble and the Wedding Crasher don't notice her.

[Tomokun]

[roll0] to sense motive on whether the guard is in love with Iaia and has a relationship with her.

Gamble takes a seat, looking up at his "guard". "Well, you can certainly get someone's attention with a knife, but after that, you do risk scaring them so much that even though they are listening, they don't understand."

Chuckling, Gamble says in agreement, "I couldn't agree more that Duke DumDum is in the wrong for what he has failed to do, but ... he's obviously an ass-hat. Your love deserves better than some ass-hat, right?"

Looking at the guard earnestly, Gamble says, "I can make her understand, I can make her see. She doesn't have to waste her time on those beneath her if she can be happy..."

Gamble let's his words trail off as his eyes hold his captors gaze

[smashbro]

OOC: You can tell that this woman would probably be interested in Iaia, you have no idea if there's any reciprocation.

"Look... I don't even know why I'm talking to you, or why it's taking her so long, but she thinks this will get her back with Duke Douche. I know it won't, I know knives aren't the best for PR. But I won't deny one to protect myself, and once she realizes Duke Dastardly isn't right for her, (or kills him in a rage), she'll settle down. I'm just showing my support."

[Tomokun]

"And what if she doesn't? What if she gets everything she wants instead of everything she deserves? Where does that leave you... except behind. Again." He emphasizes his point by indicating how alone they are.

"And the scary part? If she kills that Duke or his girl, she'll never be rid of him. There will never be anyone that can replace him because he'll have died perfect in her eyes. That's the way love works, if the love doesn't die before the person, they become better and brighter in death than they ever did in life."

Sighing heavily, Gamble says sadly, in almost a whisper "If anyone worthy ever had a chance to claim her, it would be now, before she does something... permanent. But that would person would have to be brave enough to risk her wrath, and love her enough to do what it takes to make sure she doesn't stay emotionally shackled to that man forever..."

Then, a melancholy smile sliding onto his face, he says, "But love is for children right? So often we say we love and yet we make excuses as to why we betray our own hearts. Love without a heart's true action is a lie, and will forever remain impotent."

[smashbro]

The Wedding Crasher thinks about what Gamble says for the moment, when around the corner comes none other than Iaia herself. She carries a bag over her shoulder (not large enough to hold a body, you notice).

"I'm all set with my part," she says, after scanning the clearing for the Duke.

"Look, Iaia," says the Wedding Crasher. "I know you have your plan and all, but there's something I need to talk to you about..."

"It can wait, Trica," says Iaia, sternly. She softens a bit when talking to her friend, but still seems focused. Her eyes narrow as she looks at Gamble and Chinatsu, "So, why have you two decided to have knives pointed at you. If Useless Eugene sent you to fight on his behalf, I'll slit one of your throats and have the other carry that message back." Despite the harshness in her words, her voice sounds sweet and soft.

[Tomokun]

Gamble laughs uproariously at this comment, actually almost falling over before composing himself and responding, staying seated of course.

"No, I daresay someone would HAVE to be useless to pick me as there bodyguard, don't you think?" he says, exposing his lanky arms and thin frame.

"No, I just want to help you get what you want. No matter how intelligent and wise someone may be, love has a way of clouding your judgement. The veil it leaves over your eyes can turn a pauper into a prince, a cad into a courtier, and it can allow you to forgive the most grievous of insults."

Sighing sadly, "I have seen this, I too have felt love's sting, and I know how GOOD it can be when someone who has wronged you finally understands just what they have done. Imagine, being free of the pain, or at least having the ache in your heart dulled to a dull roar. Imagine being free to love again, without this taint ruling over you... that is why I put myself before your blade - to offer you peace." Gamble's eyes are kind.

"As for my cousin... can you blame her for wanting to keep me safe, even if she's just a nun? When you love someone, be it family or someone even closer...," he says, being sure to catch the guard's eyes just long enough for everyone to notice before returning his gaze to Iaia, "you will often foolishly put yourself in danger. By the nine hells, you'd probably volunteer. That is my cousin's reward for her love and loyalty to me, she gets a knife to her neck."

Gesturing towards the bag in Iaia's hand, Gamble asks, "Is that her head, or just her hair? Is there still time for us to all sit and talk... maybe letting a stranger keep things calm so that HE can actually understand you... he did seem rather thick. It might take take a simple man such as myself to speak directly to his simple mind."

Gamble says all this, moving slowly and gracefully, only standing up at the end, making sure to keep his movements careful and obvious.

Then, standing he says, "Please, let me be your humble servant in this...it's not like I can make things worse, right?" he finishes with a wry smile and a disarmingly comical tone, moving his eyes to the weapons around him.

[Princess Tracy]

Chinatsu feels all the more helpless the more Gamble talks, oddly enough, as the realisation dawns on her that she has talked to so few people in her life that she has no idea how to talk her way out of any of this. His words seem sincere and effective, but her powerlessness is starting to annoy her greatly... wait, annoy? Why would I be annoyed? I should be terrified, yet...All I can think of is how to help. And how I can't. I wish I was a guard, or someone with strength of arms, because i can hardly speak here... A tinge of panic strikes her as she sees the sack. No, no, I couldn't do anything? That can't really be...? There was that lizard from earlier, perhaps it's on our side, her fevered mind conjectures as she starts pondering doing something crazy. As the leader turns to her, Chinatsu's mind goes black upon hearing the threat until Gamble seems to 'vouch' for her. He's so calm and understanding, even of these... what might as well be murderers. She's taken aback quite visibly, when all of a sudden her expression finds itself changing to play the roll of his 'cousin' better, if only to seem less threatening. "Cousin, I'm scared..." she mutters bleakly, her eyes watering.

Something about the moment gives her a chance to ponder love. She was here to bless the ceremony - a fact best left unmentioned to certain current company in case their vengeance is truly as mindless as it often seems. She was to see tem off as wed, as lovers, yet she hardly knew anything of their loves, nor their love, nor of anyone's love - even her own love was never expressed or shared. In an odd moment of reflection, she wondered if it was her place to bless anything she didn't understand. Though, once again, being any part of the wedding would endanger her life, and so goes unmentioned.

[Tomokun]

Looking concerned and sorrowful, Gamble goes over to comfort her, taking her hand and squeezing it tightly.

"Don't be frightened, these ladies aren't interested in hurting us. I know that when you get nervous you faint, but now is not the time for that ok? There will be time enough later for you to swoon in fear, once we are all safe, ok? For now, just trust me... these ladies do not want to hurt us... If you are still nervous just think of the poem I would sing to you when you would get hurt. I know it gives you strength, and when you hear it, you'll know I'm with you no matter what. He smiles kindly at her, yet you notice that he squeezes your hand when he mentions you fainting and swooning, and again when mentions the poem he would sing.

Then, turning to the guard, Gamble says, "Will you please support my cousin? I know you need us captive, but her knees are trembling so much I'm afraid she'll fall, and I couldn't bare it if anything happened to her. Now is not the time for that, right? After all, by now you should realize, I'm on no side except for the side of true love over loneliness."

His words seem heartfelt, and he gives no other signs as to what he is saying... and yet... you never met this boy anywhere except for today.

[Princess Tracy]

Chinatsu nods, thinking she gets the message, but not exactly trained for espionage. She tenses up, feeling the pressure of her possible role, wondering if she's already screwed her part in this up - was she already supposed to faint? Probably not... "B-but cousin..." she whimpers, eyeing a nearby knife with convincing fear. First thing I'm doing when I'm out of here is learning to talk like he does. Second is self defence classes.

[smashbro]

"No, I daresay someone would HAVE to be useless to pick me as there bodyguard, don't you think?"


Gesturing towards the bag in Iaia's hand, Gamble asks, "Is that her head, or just her hair? Is there still time for us to all sit and talk... maybe letting a stranger keep things calm so that HE can actually understand you... he did seem rather thick. It might take take a simple man such as myself to speak directly to his simple mind."

Iaia gives you a deadpan look. "Useless? Have you seen him?"

"No, neither. Do you see any blood on the bag?"

Iaia seems to respond well to you, softening as she hears Gamble speak. "Oh, no. That woman is not dead. I'm not going to kill her." She says, with a small smile. "I just need Eugene to come in here and look for us... have him come and find his bride, if he believes he loves her so. But he'll find me first."

The Wedding Crasher who has held you hostage, Trica, then grabs Iaia's hand. "Look, maybe you are going about this wrong. You've proven how he doesn't care for anyone, let's go, leave this behind us. You don't need him anymore."

Iaia glares at her, and raises her voice, "NO! I'LL TEACH THAT GORGEOUS MAN WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO TRULY LOVE! HE NEEDS TO WANT ME, TO NEED ME." She clenches her fists, and breathes several times. "We keep going with the plan. The others should be ready soon. We need to do our part." She turns to Gamble and Chinatsu. "If you are truly on my side, then go out there, and send the Duke in. Alone. He'll find his bride, if he truly wants to. Or he will find his true love."

They both move to leave, Trica a step behind Iaia, out the south eastern corridor.

[Tomokun]

"Shh, cousin, it will be alright..." Gamble says softly keeping his eyes locked on Iaia's as she replies.

Watching her walk away, Gamble's eyes dart around, not as if he were searching, but as if he were thinking, considering options, before calling out to Iaia, "I will do as you ask Iaia, although I might tag along with him to make sure he doesn't get lost. A word of caution though, while I admire your resolve, I worry for you... gorgeous useless men often know nothing more of love than what they see in the mirror. It might be impossible for him to feel as you do, because while you care and have passion, his only passion is for himself."

Taking in a deep breath, Gamble says, "What I'm saying is that the only 'True Love' that man has ever experienced is for himself. He has the emotional depth of a reflection in a puddle, all he loves is what he sees, never realizing that he's as deep as a dip in the road. He is not strong enough in his convictions to ever love, and I fear that unless you change the path you are on, you may never love again - and that would be the only tragic loss that would happen today."

Sadly, he takes Chinatsu's hand and slowly walks where the Duke has headed whispering quickly when they're backs are turned, "Stay calm, act nervous, and swoon when I sing."

Unless Iaia replies, Gamble will lead Chinatsu back toward the party.

[smashbro]

Trica looks back at Gamble as he talks, but both continue to walk. On the way out, Chinatsu does not see the girl from earlier.

You both continue through the maze, the way you came. As you you make your way toward the exit, you pass by a Warforged, whom you recognize as the best man from the wedding. You tell the warforged, Lydrim, about what happened inside the maze. As you exit, you see the body of a new dead wedding crasher, and the Duke Eugene, and the Duke's brother slowly approaching the maze.

"What happened in there? Where is... that elven lady?!? Oh, and my bride!"


OOC: Lydrim is near enough to hear this, as are any other character who wish to follow the action. If you want to keep any information from him, tell me, but I'm trying to get things moving a little more, so I skipped having your guys talk there.

[Tomokun]

OOC:I'm pretty much going to relate everything that happened, leaving out the subtext of the guard lady's crush, saying this opinion-

"I think if you do as she says, no one will be killed... but keep in mind her main goal here is to humiliate you and expose you as a faithless coward who loves no one but yourself. As it stands now she'd be willing to do anything to make that happen, but as long as it's happening she won't do anything more violent than what she has already done."

[Princess Tracy]

Eh, I'm sure Gamble will tell him everything.

Sorry I'm not saying or doing much yet, guys. I kind of wrote it to where early on Chinatsu will be kind of incompetent and repressed in her adventurous charm ways, so there's only so much I CAN do. I'll get better later

Chinatsu breathes deeply, taking Gambles hand in her own as she leans in, whispering "You were great in there." To maintain her weak image, she says little else, throwing in a forced shake of her knees - feeling oddly empowered and confident from her act as weak. A potent mask, it seems...

[Tomokun]

Winking at Chinatsu, Gamble says, "You did great too, really. Sometimes it's more important to know when not to say anything at all." he says, after relaying what just happened.

With a smirk he continues, "You said your name was Chinatsu, right? Gamble Firesight at your service!" he finishes with a courtly bow. "So tell me Chinatsu... what were you thinking following me in there? Are you secretly a powerful cleric or trained in battle, or am I just too good looking to let die alone?" he says with a slightly puzzled, if rakish smile.

[Princess Tracy]

"Ha, powerful, me...I'm just a simple nun." Chinatsu's eyes flicker away under her veil as Gamble mentions his good looks. "I wouldn't know about that, but... It was the oddest thing. I just suddenly found some compulsion within myself to throw myself into danger like that. It was bizarre, like all the things the priests told me to fight against, those rebellious notions, just hit me all at once. And in the moment I felt like someone else - I even felt... excited. Yet calm, like I was in control, even though I could have easily died. It was the strangest thing..." She tugs on her veil, fully concealing her face again. "Even though I'm not supposed to do risky things, even though teh priests told me that sort of excitement would endanger everyone... I'm born under a very bad star, you see, and I became a nun to atone for that. And even though I took all of their teachings to heart, I had - why, I had fun, in there, was the oddest thing. Like I felt at home, like I should be doing this sort of thing all the time, I-" She suddenly catches herself in a moment of breathless enthusiasm, clearing her throat to cut herself off. Yet she can't help but ask "Do you do this sort of thing often?"

[smashbro]

OOC: feel free to ignore him for now, if you're having your conversation.

"Oh crap, oh crap... what are you going to do? I mean, we? I mean, me? I'm not going in there without protection! Where's my bodyguard!?!"

You hear the Duke in the background, talking to no one, and everyone. at the same time.





The Duke gets more and more frustrated, as more and more people start yelling. "FINE! Singer boy! Nun! You come with me, if... what's her name wants to see me so badly! But you better be ready to protect me!

Lydrim! You take this new lady... Did you cook for us? Ooh, you didn't happen to make the mini weenies, did you? The ones on the toothpicks, rolledi n dough? Those were..." He catches himself. "alright. If you want to help, go take care of the women with knifes, there's nothing worse than having to deal with angry women."

[smashbro]

As Lydrim begins to speak to the Duke, everyone suddenly hears branches breaking and everyone looks around the corner to see Camilla, trying to hide in the bushes, and failing miserably, but her lizard, on the other hand, is completely out of sight.

"IS SHE ONE OF THEM?!? ATTACK!"

Despite the Duke's words, Camilla doesn't seem to be a threat at first glance.

OOC: Chinatsu will recognize Camilla from earlier.

[Princess Tracy]

"Well, I'm not a fighter," Chinatsu tries to explain to no effect. "I don't even carry so much as a large stick or ceremonial dagger..."


As Camilla is spotted, she tries to get in front of as many of the soldiers as she can, sticking out her hands in halt. "W-wait, wait! Sh-she's not with them, I don't think..."

[Princess Tracy]

Diplomacy untrained to talk down the guardsmen [roll0]

[Tomokun]

[roll0] diplomacy

"Everyone, I think what the Duke is trying to say is that we should all calm down for a second." Gamble says, smoothly interrupting the Duke - interupting him in such a way that it was obvious the Duke was panicking.

Turning to the newcomers (at least newcomers to Gamble), he asks, "What information can you add to this situation, so that the DUKE can come up with a plan of action, with a little help from his HIGHLY PAID advisor of course."

He says the last part almost as a question, looking directly at the Duke as he says this, almost as if he were asking for permission but still leaving no question in anybody's mind that should the Duke grant it, help wasn't about to come cheap.

So, the Duke KNOWS that Gamble isn't his advisor, highly paid or otherwise, but the rules of extor- I mean negotiation say that this is the PERFECT time demand a reward publically. :p

[smashbro]

OOC: Since we're all together, I'll try to recap what happens in both threads, but if you have the time, looking at the other thread would be a good idea.


Turning to the newcomers (at least newcomers to Gamble), he asks, "What information can you add to this situation, so that the DUKE can come up with a plan of action, with a little help from his HIGHLY PAID advisor of course."


The duke glares at Gamble, publicly saying that he was the Duke's highly paid adviser, but says nothing to him.


Standing like a deer in headlights for a moment when she is seen, Camilla quickly tries to explain herself. "I just came in after my lizard!" she says, leaning down to pick up Aujir.


As Camilla is spotted, she tries to get in front of as many of the soldiers as she can, sticking out her hands in halt. "W-wait, wait! Sh-she's not with them, I don't think..."

The Duke also tells the guards to relax, when Chinatsu speaks on Camilla's behalf, even if she does not sound very confident.

[Tomokun]

Smiling at the Duke's silent assent, Gamble says in a consoling tone, "Don't worry my liege, I know you fear for your bride, but we will bring this to a quick close I assure you."

Then, in an imperious tone that seemed very effected, Gamble motions to the girl in the bushes saying, "Come, tell us what has happened. Did you see his bride?"

As he catches the winged girl's eye, he gives an almost imperceptible wink, all the while holding her gaze.

[smashbro]

Quote from the other thread, replying to Gamble.


Scared, Camilla explains herself, "I ran in here after Aujir. He thinks he's a paladin or something. I didn't see anything except for those two, indicating the bard and the nun, talking to a couple of elven women. I really don't want to be part of this whole mess, can I please just take my lizard and go?"

Aujir is still staring northwest.

Anyone who knows Dragonic would recognize the word Aujir as the Dragonic word for bronze. Everyone would probably notice how the word sounded rather reptilian.

[Tomokun]

Appraising the lady with the lizard, Gamble says, "Well, it might be in your best interest for you and your lizard to tag along with us. By being with us, we know you aren't with these... terrorists. Besides, it seems your lizard wants to help, who are you to argue, right?"

Gamble's eyes twinkle kindly as he says this a hint of a smile playing on his lips. Perhaps there is some subtext to what he is saying, perhaps not, but he isn't acting menacing.

[roll0] Sense motive to see if the girl is lying about just chasing after her lizard. I still have no idea if she was lying

[smashbro]

The Duke nods, as he listens to what Camilla says.

"You all go follow the magical paladin lizard thing, hopefully you can take care of those wedding crashers, and find my wife."

He glances from Camilla explaining herself, to Aileen who has gone off to help out some of the guests, to Lydrim, his bodyguard.



"Singer, nun. You two have already talked to the crazy lady, so you're going to help me." He starts to walk north through the maze, but after a few steps, waits for you two to walk ahead of him.

[Princess Tracy]

Chinatsu stirs from her silence as she follows the duke, not sure what to do besides comply. "Sir, I think she may find you referring to her in that way disrespectful. This is a rather hostile situation already, you know?" The words seem right coming from her, even though she would normally never talk back like that. She stifles an apology.

[Tomokun]

He starts to walk north through the maze, but after a few steps, waits for you two to walk ahead of him.

Smiling at Chinatsu, Gamble replies, "The lady has a point your grace. I'm going to caution you to simply stay silent and say as little as possible, answering her questions with simple yes or no answers. Above all, do what she says, for it is the only way to ensure you're safety." Gamble says, walking confidently in front of the Duke.

"By the way, do you speak Elven?" he asks casually as they enter the maze.

[Princess Tracy]

"Do you?" Chinatsu asks Gamble in response. She realises then that the question was probably aimed at the duke, but she continues. "Well, I speak Draconic - as a nun of Bahamut should - and elven. I come from a trading town near the elven borders, so I speak the language well enough. Why did you want to know, aren't you the go-between?" Under her veil, her eyes widen. "Please tell me you speak elven. I can't be expected to... I'm not very good with people. Especially knife wielding people!"

[smashbro]

"Sir, I think she may find you referring to her in that way disrespectful. This is a rather hostile situation already, you know?" She stifles an apology.


Smiling at Chinatsu, Gamble replies, "The lady has a point your grace. I'm going to caution you to simply stay silent and say as little as possible, answering her questions with simple yes or no answers. Above all, do what she says, for it is the only way to ensure you're safety." Gamble says, walking confidently in front of the Duke.

"By the way, do you speak Elven?" he asks casually as they enter the maze.

"Fine, I won't call her names to her face, but she deserves worse! Ruining my wedding, the b..." The Duke is cut off by Chinatsu.


"Do you?" Chinatsu asks Gamble in response. She realises then that the question was probably aimed at the duke, but she continues. "Well, I speak Draconic - as a nun of Bahamut should - and elven. I come from a trading town near the elven borders, so I speak the language well enough. Why did you want to know, aren't you the go-between?" Under her veil, her eyes widen. "Please tell me you speak elven. I can't be expected to... I'm not very good with people. Especially knife wielding people!"

"Of course I don't speak Elven, why would I? But that shouldn't be a problem, she's spoken in Common to me before, so she'll understand what I say to her."

[Tomokun]

"Do you?" Chinatsu asks Gamble in response. She realises then that the question was probably aimed at the duke, but she continues. "Well, I speak Draconic - as a nun of Bahamut should - and elven. I come from a trading town near the elven borders, so I speak the language well enough. Why did you want to know, aren't you the go-between?" Under her veil, her eyes widen. "Please tell me you speak elven. I can't be expected to... I'm not very good with people. Especially knife wielding people!"

"Enough to get by." Gamble says modestly.





[COLOR="Green"]"Of course I don't speak Elven, why would I? But that shouldn't be a problem, she's spoken in Common to me before, so she'll understand what I say to her."

Nodding as the duke spoke, Gamble says quietly, "Just keep an ear out for trouble but otherwise pretend that you don't speak a lick either. If they think they can speak freely in front of us, it might give us an edge."

[smashbro]

OOC: Who was that last part directed at? The Duke or Chinatsu?

[Tomokun]

OOC: Chinatsu. :)

[Tomokun]

OOC: Chinatsu. :)

[Princess Tracy]

OOC: AH, missed my cue, sorry.

Chinatsu nods. "Got it. I'm ready when you are... Gamble." She giggles softly. "Let's do this more often." She braces herself, heading into the complex

[smashbro]

The two of you lead Eugene north, knowing that Iaia was headed somewhere in this direction. Eugene is more nervous than ever, eyes darting down every trail.

After walking for some time, you hear a woman yell, and the three of you look ahead to see... Anne Louise. She is in a ripped dress, and seems to be out of breath as she runs into Eugene's arms. "Oh, my darling, it was horrible! I barely got away from that woman! She will probably be after us soon, we need to get out of here!"

[Tomokun]

Gamble looks about, but otherwise says nothing.

Spot Check
[roll0]

[smashbro]

You see and hear no one else coming in either direction, but can't help but notice the almost gratuitous amount of kissing between the Duke and his not quite bride.

[Princess Tracy]

"I suppose someone has freed her? We'd best get you far away from here, miss, before some other fate befalls you to ruin your day, and you can tell us all about what happened in... Um, miss?" Seeing how much and how.. rigorously they kiss one another, Chinatsu gets a little hot and bothered, blushing deeply under her veil. "Um, ah, you know..." she stammers. Suddenly, there's a giggle and a rather confident shift in her voice. "You know, when I said 'you may kiss the bride', I didn't mean to condemn you to eternity."

It must be affecting me more than I thought possible... is my mind really so weak? "Ah, sorry, I'll leave you to it then, nobles. Call me if you're harmed. A word, Gamble." She tugs at Gamble's sleeve with a slight desperation, pulling him around the nearest corner, positioning him so that he can see the couple (and keep an eye out while she looks towards him in the opposite direction) but she can't, nor can they see her. She pulls away at her veil, utterly removing the intricate, finely woven silk, to reveal her nature.

The innocent nun, you notice almost for the first time, has a rather full figure, and sharp, seductive features, with full, pouting red lips, a button nose, pointed ears not unlike an elf, thin, brown eyebrows that curve as if in perpetual anticipation... but those aren''t the features that grab you, not even the oddly pointed teeth. Chinatsu has two little horns poking from her head in the back and her eyes are reptilian and red. With a swish, she frees up a spaded tail from her robes. Her tainted nature is obvious before she points it out. "I'm... I'm some form of demon, now. I've had some sort of curse my whole life and today it seemed to greatly expand. I've been paranoid the whole wedding reception, fearful for my life and what little reputation I have. And for my mind. I have a sinful adventure-lusting nature in me, you see, and I think the forces that be have condemned me for it. But, Gamble, you seem like a traveller, don't you? Would it be at all possible, perhaps for you and I to travel together? I'm quite positive I can't return to the nunnery - one day of maintaining the ruse in front of strangers with an odd but occassional piece of clothing is one thing, keeping it from the others is another thing altogether. Bahamut may just smite me if ever I walk into his church again. Yet, when I'm doing crazy things, it feels like I'm in an odd sort of control - it's euphoric, really. So I figured if I hit the road, and got in these ridiculous situations more often... Would you harbour a demon as a companion? Even though my head is filled with such odd thoughts and compulsions, I feel like I can't be trusted... Speaking of, you looked quite dashing when you were talking down those kidnappers." At the last sentence, she blushes, going to cover her mouth but thinks better of it. "Don't let the duke know - he might be a bit superstitious and blame the extreme bad luck of a demon blessing his wedding be held accountable for everything that happened today. Although maybe it is.. But I don't want to take the fall for this, you know?" She blushes deeper. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, sometimes ever since the transformation, my mouth kind of acts on its own...!"

Spot [roll0]
Chinatsu isn't demonically possessed at all. She's just come to associate her demonic traits with the hidden, adventure loving part of her soul, splitting her mind a bit for the moment. In time she'll adapt, likely by the time she masters her powers

[Tomokun]

"I suppose someone has freed her? We'd best get you far away from here, miss, before some other fate befalls you to ruin your day, and you can tell us all about what happened in... Um, miss?" Seeing how much and how.. rigorously they kiss one another, Chinatsu gets a little hot and bothered, blushing deeply under her veil. "Um, ah, you know..." she stammers. Suddenly, there's a giggle and a rather confident shift in her voice. "You know, when I said 'you may kiss the bride', I didn't mean to condemn you to eternity."

It must be affecting me more than I thought possible... is my mind really so weak? "Ah, sorry, I'll leave you to it then, nobles. Call me if you're harmed. A word, Gamble." She tugs at Gamble's sleeve with a slight desperation, pulling him around the nearest corner, positioning him so that he can see the couple (and keep an eye out while she looks towards him in the opposite direction) but she can't, nor can they see her. She pulls away at her veil, utterly removing the intricate, finely woven silk, to reveal her nature.

The innocent nun, you notice almost for the first time, has a rather full figure, and sharp, seductive features, with full, pouting red lips, a button nose, pointed ears not unlike an elf, thin, brown eyebrows that curve as if in perpetual anticipation... but those aren''t the features that grab you, not even the oddly pointed teeth. Chinatsu has two little horns poking from her head in the back and her eyes are reptilian and red. With a swish, she frees up a spaded tail from her robes. Her tainted nature is obvious before she points it out. "I'm... I'm some form of demon, now. I've had some sort of curse my whole life and today it seemed to greatly expand. I've been paranoid the whole wedding reception, fearful for my life and what little reputation I have. And for my mind. I have a sinful adventure-lusting nature in me, you see, and I think the forces that be have condemned me for it. But, Gamble, you seem like a traveller, don't you? Would it be at all possible, perhaps for you and I to travel together? I'm quite positive I can't return to the nunnery - one day of maintaining the ruse in front of strangers with an odd but occassional piece of clothing is one thing, keeping it from the others is another thing altogether. Bahamut may just smite me if ever I walk into his church again. Yet, when I'm doing crazy things, it feels like I'm in an odd sort of control - it's euphoric, really. So I figured if I hit the road, and got in these ridiculous situations more often... Would you harbour a demon as a companion? Even though my head is filled with such odd thoughts and compulsions, I feel like I can't be trusted... Speaking of, you looked quite dashing when you were talking down those kidnappers." At the last sentence, she blushes, going to cover her mouth but thinks better of it. "Don't let the duke know - he might be a bit superstitious and blame the extreme bad luck of a demon blessing his wedding be held accountable for everything that happened today. Although maybe it is.. But I don't want to take the fall for this, you know?" She blushes deeper. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, sometimes ever since the transformation, my mouth kind of acts on its own...!"

Spot [roll0]
Chinatsu isn't demonically possessed at all. She's just come to associate her demonic traits with the hidden, adventure loving part of her soul, splitting her mind a bit for the moment. In time she'll adapt, likely by the time she masters her powers


I am rolling my spot :)

[roll0]

Gamble raises an eyebrow at the lusty couple but says nothing. Allowing himself to be led away by Chinatsu, keeping a wary eye out from the direction the bride ran from.

**THIS IS FOR THE DM, And It will contain an UNVOICED Opinion from Gamble. Heartily recommend not opening this. :p
Gamble is very suspicious at the appearance of the bride, suspecting some sort of disguise spell at work. He thinks the Duke has INDEED found his "bride" but not the one he expects, and he is looking around for confirmation of his suspicions.

As Chinatsu reveals herself to him, Gamble smiles and replies, "I don't have a problem travelling with you, demon or no. After all, if the Gods wanted you to act differently, they wouldn't have given you the feelings you have now." he says, briefly running a hand along her waist before letting it rest at the small of her back. Then, reaching up he caresses her face with his hand as he puts the veil back in place. "Your secret is safe with me."

Leading her back with his arm around her to the reunited couple, Gamble whispers, "You are quite fetching yourself, but for now we must return to the Duke. I suspect all is not what it seems." His lips brush close to Chinatsu's ear as he says this, and then suddenly he is back before the Duke and his bride as if nothing more had been said.

"Shouldn't we be getting back to your [Language Elven: Revenge], my lord and lady? The people will be waiting and eager to see that everything has turned out alright." Gamble says smoothly, smiling, watching the bride for her reaction.

[Princess Tracy]

Under Gamble's touch, Chinatsu quivers oddly as he pulls her veil back into place, her mouth gaping in a sort of fascination before being tucked away safely. So flustered, she almost forgets to tuck her atil away before the nobility see it. She doesn't resist his pull at all as they both return to the couple, feeling oddly entranced by the charming rogue. She moans softly as his mouth comes to close to her ear, his hot breath flowing over her... At his suggestion to leave the maze, she tries to regain her focus. "R-right, priorities. Let's get going then." It takes her a second to realise he'd spoken in elven, the language being so fluent to her. What was he getting at, she wondered? She made sure to pay some close attention to him and the couple, trying to piece together the odd intonation and the odder choice of words.

[smashbro]

Turning to look at the bride, Chinatsu notices that the bride's hair is slightly darker at the roots. At the mention of the elven word revenge, Anne Louise's eyes narrow ever so slightly.


"Yes, please," Anne Louise backs away from Eugene briefly, but still holds his hands. I want to get out of this garden as soon as we can, I don't like it in here."

"What happened to talking with witchy lady?" the Duke asks. Anne Louise tenses up at this.

"Darling, can you wait until I'm out safely please?" she says, batting her eyes.

"Oh, of course honey... you might not want to see her again." He turns and begins to leave with Anne Louise, not waiting to see if you two follow them. Anne Louise hangs on her husband as much as she can, while walking away.

[Princess Tracy]

Chinatsu speaks quickly in elven as she pieces it altogether, "You're not fooling anyone, you know. Where is she?" She regrets it as soon as the words are out her mouth - she should have bided her time. But if she doesn't confront the issue now, who knows what may happen? She switches back to common as she runs up to the duke. "Sir, you love your bride, right? Take a good, long, hard look, won't you?" She quivers, not sure what to do if something happens - utterly unarmed and her spells all geared towards healing.

Spot check to aid another on the Duke. Very familiar people should get a bonus to seeing through disguises, even if they just want to believe them for teh sake of making out and relaxing
[roll0]
Crap, my luck has run out. Tomo, help me out here, would you?

[Tomokun]

Murmering quietly as the couple moves ahead he says wryly, "Oh I'm quite sure she's at least fooling the Duke."

Gamble watched the couple walk away, waiting to see the way the Iala would react to Chinatsu's outburst, taking a quick moment to wink at her before affecting a look of puzzlement and surprise on his face should the two turn around.

Hehe, we'll see what happens here my dear, and that will tell me what to do next.

[smashbro]

The couple continues to walk, even after Chinatsu speaks in elven. Turning him around to look at Anne Louise... he sees nothing wrong... and neither do you. What you noticed about her hair is gone. Her roots are the same color as the rest of her hair. You both question what you saw... but surely it can't be that you were only seeing things.

[Princess Tracy]

"I'm annoyed now," Chinatsu whispers to Gamble. "Watch my back. We're still in their territory, so..." She clears her throat holding up her holy symbol - the talon of Bahamut. "You were able to use your expertise to talk down a pack of murderers. This is my expertise, however weak. Father Bahamut, reveal to me the tampering of magic!"

*Detect Magic*
Concentrate on the bride for as long as is needed to detect some aura of transmutation or illusion.
I have a +3 to Spellcraft as needed
Assume I maintain focus until my next post or until interrupted.

[smashbro]

You notice that yes, there is a slight aura of magic on Anne Louise.

[Princess Tracy]

"Anne Louise, I cast no spells upon you personally as part of the ceremony today, and yet the tampering of magic is upon you. Might I ask why? This recounting simply cannot wait until we are clear of the maze, because I simply cannot shake the feeling that you hav ebeen compromised in some way."

[smashbro]

She turns and looks at you, seemingly confused. "Oh... magic... right. I must have forgotten to mention, I can do magic. After I finally got away from Iaia, I cast a couple spells on myself, to protect myself." She turns, and continues to walk with the Duke. Although you have no reason to believe she cannot perform spells, there has been no previous indication that she can.