Play@YSDC

Posted: **Thu Apr 01, 2021 10:26 am**

Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek; Or, Eastward, Ho!

The arcane divinations of the hedge wizard make it clear that, as Fate would have it, the three adventurers find themselves on the extreme western edge of the island of Britain. To be precise, at the tin and copper mining area known to locals as Wheal an Giver. Given the familiarity of Lepus with the environs, he is able to communicate the information that, upon the main road leading southward lie a series of villages, followed by the considerable community of St. Just; in a southeasterly direction, a lonely path to the great harbor city of Penzance; and directly east, a curious pair of ancient stone structures known as Chun Castle and Men-an-Tol. Elsewhere, of course, all roads lead to the ceaseless churning of Neptune's realm.

It is a strange fact that Wheal an Giver, heretofore known as a place of active, if primitive, industry, appears empty of all human habitation.

Posted: **Thu Apr 01, 2021 12:38 pm**

"'tis strange: the place be normally full of busy folk," mutters Lepus. "Be it a Sunday and they'll all a-church?"

Posted: **Thu Apr 01, 2021 6:51 pm**

"That is possible," says Henry. "We should visit the church. We must also consider the possibility that we have traveled in time as well as space, but let us hope not."

Posted: **Fri Apr 02, 2021 1:17 am**

"Will the knockers allow us to return if this is so?" Eliza asks.

Posted: **Fri Apr 02, 2021 2:19 am**

"I think they would," says Henry, "but it may prove unnecessary. It is odd, however, that the mines do not appear to be active. Still, there may be some other explanation."

Posted: **Fri Apr 02, 2021 9:37 am**

It requires some searching to locate the single small church of the mining village. Along the way, the adventurers discover several modest cottages, none of them currently occupied. The same might be said about the smith, the fishmonger's stall, and other such necessities of life. The church itself is devoid of worshippers. Only the cries of seabirds, the whistling of the wind, and the crashing of waves disturb the silence.

Posted: **Fri Apr 02, 2021 6:12 pm**

Lepus grumbles with puzzlement, before shrugging. Cupping his hands around his mouth, he yells:

“HALLOOOOOOO!”

Posted: **Fri Apr 02, 2021 7:26 pm**

"At least the village is still here, even if the people aren't," says Henry. "They must have gone somewhere. Let's look around for tracks. "

Posted: **Fri Apr 02, 2021 9:08 pm**

Eliza looks through a few windows to see whether the villagers' belongings are present, and in what kind of order.

Posted: **Sat Apr 03, 2021 10:04 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Fri Apr 02, 2021 6:12 pm

Lepus grumbles with puzzlement, before shrugging. Cupping his hands around his mouth, he yells:

“HALLOOOOOOO!”

The shout echoes hollowly from the surrounding cliffs and hillsides. The sound also arouses the interest of a few goats, who bleat in an entreating manner.

Posted: **Sat Apr 03, 2021 10:08 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Fri Apr 02, 2021 7:26 pm
"At least the village is still here, even if the people aren't," says Henry. "They must have gone somewhere. Let's look around for tracks. "

Investigation reveals a miscellaneous collection of crisscrossing footprints in areas where the adventurers have not already disturbed the ground with their own tread. They do not appear to lead in any particular direction away from the village; rather, they are indicative of the normal goings to and fro of workmen and their wives, with the marking of barefooted children apparent as well.

Posted: **Sat Apr 03, 2021 10:11 am**

SunlessNick wrote: ↑Fri Apr 02, 2021 9:08 pm
Eliza looks through a few windows to see whether the villagers' belongings are present, and in what kind of order.

In one modest dwelling the single small table bears a bowl of porridge and a mug of ale, unconsumed. In another, a candle is nearly burnt down to the wick, although the tiny bit remaining still bears a flame. There is no evidence that brigands have disturbed the belongings of the villagers, not even the few coins found upon a merchant's shelf.

Posted: **Sat Apr 03, 2021 5:53 pm**

"Most curious," says Henry once they compare notes. "It's as though they all just vanished in the midst of whatever they were doing at the moment. Whatever happened, it must have been recent, or the candle would have already burned itself out. Perhaps the goats saw something. Can you converse with animals?" he asks Lepus.

Posted: **Sat Apr 03, 2021 6:06 pm**

“I know not,” Lepus replies. “But I will find out.”

He wanders over to the nearest goat and bows, opening his senses, both mundane and magical.

“How goes the day? Pray tell, what has transpired here?” he asks.

Posted: **Sun Apr 04, 2021 1:13 am**

Eliza keeps her distance from the goats, aware that her presence sometimes has a discomfiting effect upon beasts. (It occurs to her that the same was true of Georgina and her infant, of whom she has oft heard the word "innocent" - it is a disquieting thought that those in a state of innocence or nature should see ill in her).

Posted: **Sun Apr 04, 2021 10:36 am**

As one might expect, the goats prove to express themselves in a less than eloquent manner. Their actions suggest a high degree of domestication, showing no fear of these human strangers, nuzzling at them in a friendly way and bleating in a way that suggests they expect something from their guests. Upon closer consideration, they prove to be a trio of kids, and a single milch-goat. It soon becomes quite apparent that the latter is suffering from the effects of not being milked recently.

Posted: **Sun Apr 04, 2021 9:34 pm**

"We ought to milk the goat," says Henry. "It's not only good for the goat, but we could use some nourishment. Fresh goat's milk is very healthy."

Posted: **Sun Apr 04, 2021 9:38 pm**

Lepus scouts around for a bucket and a stool.

“Old Lepus has milked more than one goat in his time,” declares the wanderer, grinning.

Posted: **Mon Apr 05, 2021 4:15 am**

Eliza watches curiously as Lepus works.

Posted: **Mon Apr 05, 2021 8:22 am**

This common chore performed, the goat's distress relieved, and the fresh milk consumed -- it has a salty tang, no doubt due to the closeness of the sea -- the milch-goat and her kids head in easterly direction at no great pace, stopping frequently to turn their shaggy heads and bleat at the adventurers in an impatient manner. It seems evident that they are used to being led back to their grazing ground after the morning's milking is done, and are somewhat dismayed by the lack of human guidance.

Posted: **Mon Apr 05, 2021 8:03 pm**

"They must surely have been shown the way enough times to know it," says Eliza. "Could they wish to show us something?"

Posted: **Mon Apr 05, 2021 10:29 pm**

"Let us find out, yesno?" says Lepus, shambling after the animals.

Posted: **Tue Apr 06, 2021 2:33 am**

"Indeed, let us follow the goats," says Henry, also walking after them.

Posted: **Tue Apr 06, 2021 8:40 am**

Seemingly pleased by human company, the animals wend their way through the small community and across a grassy field, to a simple farmhouse, somewhat isolated from the rest of the village, where they settle themselves down with evident comfort. The crude structure is without windows -- hardly surprising, such a costly luxury not congruent with the evident poverty of the place -- and only a single small door, of primitive construction. Smoke arises from an opening on top of the farmhouse; one could not dignify it with the name of chimney.

Posted: **Tue Apr 06, 2021 4:13 pm**

Lepus approaches the structure carefully, lest the smoking 'chimney' denote a living being; possibly responsible for the deserted village; within.

To be sure, he mutters an incantation to detect evil.

Posted: **Tue Apr 06, 2021 9:08 pm**

"Hello? Is someone within?" calls Eliza. She has seen enough of this world to know that a lady's voice would be taken as less of a threat, even if that estimate should change at the sight of her.

Posted: **Wed Apr 07, 2021 2:47 am**

Henry waits for a response, aware that the chimney smoke means recent - if not current - occupancy.

Posted: **Wed Apr 07, 2021 9:03 am**

There is no trace of evil to be perceived about the place.

In response to Eliza's words, a high-pitched voice answers from within.

"Go 'way! I shan't be took, I shan't!"

Posted: **Thu Apr 08, 2021 1:04 am**

"I do not mean to take you anywhere," says Eliza. "But I have seen the state of things in the rest of the village. Perhaps my companions and I can help you, yesno?"

Posted: **Thu Apr 08, 2021 2:41 am**

"We're just travelers, and we come in peace," says Henry. "We've milked your goat, and she and her kids are here now."

Posted: **Thu Apr 08, 2021 11:02 am**

"Aye," Lepus concurs. "Wanderers we be. Mayhap we can help? What has occurred here?"

Posted: **Thu Apr 15, 2021 10:27 am**

Peeking through one of many holes to be found in the rude structure is a tiny gray eye, which observes the visitors for some time. After a while, it withdraws, followed by the opening of the hut's simple door. Revealed is a girl, dressed in rags, who cannot have yet reached a decade of years. Peering fearfully at the visitors, she speaks in little more than a whisper.

"You not be them as took all bigger ones. I be smallest. 'Spect them dint want such. Come to fetch back, have you?"

Posted: **Fri Apr 16, 2021 3:50 am**

"We would like to help you get the bigger folk back," says Henry. "Do you know who took them, and what they looked like?"

Posted: **Fri Apr 16, 2021 8:53 am**

With a trembling voice, the girl-child replies "Oh, all white and fog-like they was, 'cept red coals where should be eyes. Moved as snakes, quiet, all slow, but none could run. Wrapt round and round, then gone, all save I beasts."

Posted: **Fri Apr 16, 2021 1:23 pm**

“Which way did they take the folk?” asks Lepus.

He considers the girl’s description: has he heard of such things before?

Posted: **Sat Apr 17, 2021 1:03 am**

Eliza waits for the girl to answer Lepus's question before asking, "When did they do this?"

Posted: **Sat Apr 17, 2021 3:52 am**

"Perhaps they are some form of ghost?" says Henry. "But what manner of ghost can carry people away?"

Posted: **Sat Apr 17, 2021 9:21 am**

In response to these inquiries, the girl makes reply in a thoughtful and subdued manner.

"To east, must be, or else would fall into sea, and none did, to my eye. Walked and walked they did, silent like. Called out I did, but none did answer. Was yester morn came they, just 'fore chores, and seen them again not since."

When Doctor North offers his speculation, her eyes grow wide.

"Oh, please not they be ghosts, sir. Ghosts be sad and no terror to such as will hear them. If these be ghosts, they be most wicked ghosts, and not such as known afore."

The girl's curious description does not seem to match any arcane tale with which Lepus is familiar.

Posted: **Sat Apr 17, 2021 4:55 pm**

“East it be then,” says Lepus.

“Dost thee have everything thy need child? Be there anything we can do afore we departs?” he asks.

Posted: **Sat Apr 17, 2021 7:41 pm**

"You are no doubt correct, Miss," says Henry, "They do not sound like any ghosts of which I have heard. You have your goats, and here is what's left of their milk. I'm sure there will be food around too. We will have to head east and try to pick up the trail."

Posted: **Sun Apr 18, 2021 8:21 am**

"Lord be with all," she answers. "If finds the folk, will bring back, hope."

The child seems calmer after this encounter, and a quick study of the modest home reveals sufficient provision for one of such modest size to keep body and soul together for at least a period of some days, allowing for the sure supply of fresh goat's milk.

Once set upon the barely discernable road -- or, more properly, footpath -- heading in the direction indicated, the adventurers, reaching a place of some altitude, discern, at a considerable distance, certain notable features of the landscape. To wit, a series of ancient stone structures, these being known, locally, as Mên-an-Tol, Men Scryfa, and Boskedan Stone Circle. These are at no great distance from each, it seems. Beyond these may be discerned the so-called Venton Bebibell Holy Well, and beyond that, an ennead of monoliths known as the Nine Maidens. There do not appear to be any other travelers in this windswept region.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Sun Apr 18, 2021 12:06 pm**

“There be many ancient places yonder, yesno?” Lepus muses.

“I detected no evil from the child; mayhap I can sense some slithering from the old stones...”

The hedge wizard extends his detect evil spell outwards in an attempt to pick up traces from the ancient monuments.

Posted: **Sun Apr 18, 2021 9:12 pm**

"Let's see if there are any recent tracks," suggests Henry.

Posted: **Mon Apr 19, 2021 9:29 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Sun Apr 18, 2021 12:06 pm
“There be many ancient places yonder, yesno?” Lepus muses.

“I detected no evil from the child; mayhap I can sense some slithering from the old stones...”

The hedge wizard extends his detect evil spell outwards in an attempt to pick up traces from the ancient monuments.

From this distance, all that can be determined is that some vague form of wickedness has, at some time, existed near the region where one may find Mên-an-Tol, Men Scryfa, and the Stone Circle, although it is not yet possible to say if it made its mark upon one or the other, or even two or all three. There is no such feeling of evil perceived from the Holy Well or the Nine Maidens.

Posted: **Mon Apr 19, 2021 9:34 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sun Apr 18, 2021 9:12 pm

"Let's see if there are any recent tracks," suggests Henry.

Upon close examination, it can be determined that many a pilgrim has set foot upon the path leading to the Holy Well. Whether this be recent or not is not so easy to say. There is also an abundance of such indications in the direction of the three sites which appear to be, at least partially, tainted with evil. The way that leads to the Nine Maidens is much less traveled, it seems.

Posted: **Mon Apr 19, 2021 12:18 pm**

“Mayhap we should visit the holy well first; it’s waters might be of benefit.” Lepus suggests.

Posted: **Tue Apr 20, 2021 3:23 am**

"An excellent suggestion," says Henry. "Let us go."

Posted: **Tue Apr 20, 2021 10:14 am**

The adventurers take a path running to the southeast, which bypasses the other structures noted by some distance, until they reach the Holy Well. This proves to be a spring, surrounded by stone ruins directing its waters to form a sort of pool. There are also the remains of a small stone chapel, appearing to be a few centuries old, judging by the simple architectural style. Notable is the fact that there are many small pieces of cloth tied to the branches of the surrounding trees.

Posted: **Tue Apr 20, 2021 4:13 pm**

Lepus studies the pieces of cloth, assuming them to be some sort of votive offering. Muttering an entreaty for aid in rescuing the villagers, he ties on a piece of grubby cloth to a branch.

That done, he approaches the well.

“Mayhap we should drink?” he suggests, fumbling about his clothing for a suitable receptacle.

Posted: **Wed Apr 21, 2021 1:34 am**

Eliza does the same as Lepus, presuming that all who drink must pay their respect (her gown is probably already somewhat tattered from her recent activities).

"It would be good to drink something not from that underworld," she says.

Posted: **Wed Apr 21, 2021 2:37 am**

Henry does likewise with a piece of cloth, his no doubt finer than the ones that were there before, and walks up to the well. "Yes, let us drink," he says.

Posted: **Wed Apr 21, 2021 9:34 am**

A feeling of well being fills the three adventurers, as well as the notion that drinking from the blessed well has bestowed certain benefits to spirit, as well as to body.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Thu Apr 22, 2021 1:35 am**

Eliza evidences both relief and joy at her reaction to the water. Regardless, she says, "Now we must make our way to these tainted places."

Posted: **Thu Apr 22, 2021 3:08 am**

"Indeed, but which one first?" says Henry.

Posted: **Thu Apr 22, 2021 9:01 pm**

"The nearest?" Lepus suggests. "Save these ol' legs."

Posted: **Fri Apr 23, 2021 4:26 am**

"A good suggestion," agrees Henry.

Posted: **Thu Apr 29, 2021 7:54 am**

The nearest such locale happening to be that curious stone structure known as Lanyon Quoit, the adventurers journey to that selfsame place. Upon arrival, it proves to be a large flat stone, held above the Earth by a quartet of similar stones acting as pillars. The whole is tall enough for one on horseback to ride beneath.

Those familiar with the scholarly tome Antiquities Historical and Monumental of the County of Cornwall by the late antiquary and natural philosopher William Borlase will call to mind that gentleman's sketch of the monument.

Posted: **Thu Apr 29, 2021 7:11 pm**

Lepus gingerly approaches the stones; such ancient places must be treated with respect and care.

Muttering cantrips of protection, he looks, listens and feels for anything amiss.

Posted: **Fri Apr 30, 2021 12:40 am**

Eliza walks around the monument, taking it in from all sides.

Posted: **Fri Apr 30, 2021 2:46 am**

Henry, who is familiar with the book, admires the monument and studies it.

Posted: **Fri Apr 30, 2021 9:33 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Thu Apr 29, 2021 7:11 pm

Lepus gingerly approaches the stones; such ancient places must be treated with respect and care.

Muttering cantrips of protection, he looks, listens and feels for anything amiss.

The hedge wizard detects a certain sense of uneasiness about the place, but not of the sort of malignant intent that would normally be revealed by his arcane means of detecting evil. The feeling is a subtle one, as if something is not quite right.

Posted: **Fri Apr 30, 2021 9:37 am**

SunlessNick wrote: ↑Fri Apr 30, 2021 12:40 am
Eliza walks around the monument, taking it in from all sides.

Some trace of the feminine talent for order and the proper placement of objects haunts Eliza's mind as she studies the structure. The feeling is not dissimilar to that of a lady who discovers that her maidservant has arranged her objets de toilette in an inappropriate fashion.

Posted: **Fri Apr 30, 2021 9:40 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Fri Apr 30, 2021 2:46 am

Henry, who is familiar with the book, admires the monument and studies it.

Doctor North's knowledge of the invariant laws of Nature allow him to deduce that the structure places an undue amount of stress upon its supports, as if it were the work of a careless and inexperienced architect.

Posted: **Fri Apr 30, 2021 12:39 pm**

“Yonder stones be set wrong,” Lepus announces. “They call out to be put right, but how to place them correctly?”i

Posted: **Sat May 01, 2021 2:24 am**

"I could describe how to put the structure right," says Henry, "and Eliza and Ivan have the strength to do it."

Posted: **Sat May 01, 2021 9:14 am**

Lepus will also call upon his invisible servant if extra manpower is required.

Posted: **Sat May 01, 2021 9:43 am**

Given the extraordinary might of Eliza, it is no difficult feat for her to uphold the stone which serves as roof to this curious structure, whilst the others, with much effort, adjust the pillars to a more stable position. To some hypothetical onlooker sited at a distance, the sight might resemble the labor of ants.

Once the task is completed, the structure more closely resembles the skeleton of a dwelling than it did in its original state. Given the presence of walls, it might serve some pre-Deluge giant as a crude hut.

Posted: **Sat May 01, 2021 4:40 pm**

“May we enter thy house?” Lepus asks nobody in particular, stepping into the newly-formed structure to find out if their work has been appreciated.

Posted: **Sat May 01, 2021 10:37 pm**

If nobody (or nothing) objects to Lepus entering the "house," Henry follows him inside.

Posted: **Sun May 02, 2021 10:05 am**

Once under the stony roof of the structure, the adventurers note that the surrounding scenery has been altered in some manner, as if heavy clouds had suddenly appeared to block out the sun. As Scripture says, it is as if one were to see through a glass, darkly. Upon closer inspection, it appears that the four various views of the countryside, as seen between the pillars, offer scenes not entirely consistent with each other. To wit, to the north one beholds, at some little distance, a group of persons arrayed in crudely formed fur garments; to the east, a herd of unfamiliar grazing beasts of prodigious size; to the south, large structures of metal, their components moving in various ways; and to the west, several men and women dressed in brightly colored clothing, singing and dancing.

Posted: **Sun May 02, 2021 6:51 pm**

“Er, mayhap we should’ve left well alone, yesno?” says Lepus, edging back the way he came.

Posted: **Sun May 02, 2021 10:20 pm**

"Indeed," says Henry. "These must be portals leading to other times. The one with the metal structures looks like nothing I've ever heard of before; perhaps it is in the future. As curious as I am about them, I must agree. We should leave the way we came, lest we get even more lost than we already are."

Posted: **Mon May 03, 2021 10:26 am**

Alas! Once the adventurers take stock of their situation, they become aware that withdrawal, as prudent as it may be, is not as simple as it may seem. The plain fact is that the disparate views appear in all four directions by which it is possible to move, and it is impossible to leave the structure without entering one or the other of them.

Posted: **Mon May 03, 2021 11:18 am**

“If we step into one place, we could then step back here and, mayhap, the door to our proper place will present itself,” muses Lepus, gazing at the alternative vistas in fascination.

“I suggest the dancers; they seem friendly enough, yesno?”

Posted: **Mon May 03, 2021 3:15 pm**

"Were we to disarrange the stones again, perhaps this effect would end," Eliza suggests. "But mayhap the villagers have been taken through one of these portals?"

Posted: **Tue May 04, 2021 2:28 am**

"I agree, let's try the opening with the dancers," says Henry. "The others look far removed from our own time."

Posted: **Tue May 04, 2021 11:42 am**

Once passing through what one might call the portal, the adventurers find themselves at some small distance from a group of men and women, all quite young, dressed in extremely colorful clothing, even the persons of the male sex. Given this fact, and the unusually lengthy locks of the men, it is not often possible to determine sex immediately, save for those persons sporting beards and mustaches. Many play on wooden flutes, or small metal bells, or the guitars favored by Spaniards. They seem merry, and have not taken any notice of the visitors.

Spoiler:

Posted: **Tue May 04, 2021 4:56 pm**

"Hello?" Eliza greets them when the party gets within speaking range. "We wish to converse with you a moment if that is agreeable."

Posted: **Wed May 05, 2021 2:51 am**

"Good day," says Henry, bowing to the dancers. "I am Dr. Henry North, Earl of Dunwich, and this young lady is my ward Eliza. These are my manservant Ivan and my friend Lepus." He indicates each of his companions in turn. "Have you seen any other strangers pass by here recently?"

Posted: **Wed May 05, 2021 8:20 am**

Lepus bows obsequiouly.

Posted: **Wed May 05, 2021 9:31 am**

A young fellow of particularly attractive features, arrayed in what appears, at first glance, to be an eccentric combination of military garb with such decorations as are favored by certain aboriginal inhabitants of the New World, approaches the newcomers.

Grinning first at Doctor North, he says, somewhat mysteriously, "What's up, Doc?" Then, becoming a bit more serious, he continues, "No strangers here, man. We're all brothers and sisters, dig? Join the party!" He shakes an object resembling that small percussive instrument known as a tambour, producing a not unpleasant sound.

Nearly simultaneously, a young lady, wearing what one might take as a gown from the fabled days of King Arthur, her waist-length golden hair entwined with flowers, approaches Lepus, her pale blue eyes open wide.

"Oh, wow, heavy," she says. "You're, like, real into the Druid scene, right? I can so relate. I'm a Scorpio with Mercury in the 8th House, so I'm, like, really, really sensitive to vibes. What's your sign?"

A large and muscular man, wearing leather clothing decorated with various symbols and the words DIRTY SAINTS MC, walks up to Ivan, carrying two small metallic-looking cylinders.

"Wanna brew, pal? Gonna be an arm wrestlin' contest later, be a break from all this lovey-dovey stuff."

Meanwhile, a dark-skinned man, possibly of Moorish ancestry, whose clothing is much simpler than most -- merely a white shirt with very short sleeves, and dark blue trousers -- approaches Eliza, makes a bow that would find favor even in the court, and extends his hand.

"Dance with your prince, my lady fair."

Posted: **Wed May 05, 2021 5:54 pm**

Eliza doesn't know what to make of this strange man, having never seen one with such a skin tone as he - then she remembers her father telling her that people from different parts of the world sometimes bear different features. In any case, she is touched by his immediate acceptance of her despite her countenance, and takes his hand. "I am no princess, but certainly I shall dance with you."

Posted: **Thu May 06, 2021 3:29 am**

"Perhaps not a Princess," says Henry, "but you are a Lady, the daughter of an Earl." He nods to the young man who approached him. "My wife is a musician of great talent. It is too bad she is not here. I think she would enjoy the music. If only I had the means to record sound, so that I could bring it back to her."

Posted: **Thu May 06, 2021 1:05 pm**

Lepus gurns a grin at the girl.

“Thy knowest the mystic arts, hm? ‘tis said the fae folk danced in the night sky the hour I was born. The wild dance of the hare, ‘tis supposed.”

“Tell me of this place oh maiden; we have traveled far - be we still in Curnow?”

Posted: **Fri May 07, 2021 10:56 pm**

SunlessNick wrote: ↑Wed May 05, 2021 5:54 pm

Eliza doesn't know what to make of this strange man, having never seen one with such a skin tone as he - then she remembers her father telling her that people from different parts of the world sometimes bear different features. In any case, she is touched by his immediate acceptance of her despite her countenance, and takes his hand. "I am no princess, but certainly I shall dance with you."

The movements made by the dark young man -- and, indeed, by the others present -- do not resemble those witnessed by Eliza during your brief time in society. Rather, they seem to follow no particular pattern, but reflect rather the whimsical moods of those so engaged, with no evident pattern.

Posted: **Fri May 07, 2021 11:03 pm**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Thu May 06, 2021 3:29 am

"Perhaps not a Princess," says Henry, "but you are a Lady, the daughter of an Earl." He nods to the young man who approached him. "My wife is a musician of great talent. It is too bad she is not here. I think she would enjoy the music. If only I had the means to record sound, so that I could bring it back to her."

OOC, That would be groovy! [b]Henry[/b] and [b]Liz[/b] would get a kick out of meeting each other.

"Your old lady couldn't make the scene, huh? Bummer. Hang on a minute."

He leaves for a few minutes, then returns with a fellow wearing spectacles who carries a large rectangular object, bearing two large, spinning disks. Attached to it is rope of some sort, at the end of which is an oblong object, which the fellow points at various places.

"Show this guy how to use the tape recorder, Sparks." He leaves.

The man addressed in this whimsical fashion, who is a bit older than others in the crowd, shows Doctor North the object. "You ever use one of these things?"

Posted: **Fri May 07, 2021 11:07 pm**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Thu May 06, 2021 1:05 pm
Lepus gurns a grin at the girl.

“Thy knowest the mystic arts, hm? ‘tis said the fae folk danced in the night sky the hour I was born. The wild dance of the hare, ‘tis supposed.”

“Tell me of this place oh maiden; we have traveled far - be we still in Curnow?”

"Um, I dunno. Is that, like, anywhere near Frisco?"

Posted: **Sat May 08, 2021 2:55 am**

"I have not," says Henry, examining the device with great interest, "but I am a quick study."

Posted: **Sat May 08, 2021 10:58 am**

Lepus shrugs.

“Depends where this Frisko is I s’pose. Be we in England then, oh maiden?”

Posted: **Sun May 09, 2021 1:30 am**

VictoriaSilverwolf wrote: ↑Fri May 07, 2021 10:56 pmThe movements made by the dark young man -- and, indeed, by the others present -- do not resemble those witnessed by Eliza during your brief time in society. Rather, they seem to follow no particular pattern, but reflect rather the whimsical moods of those so engaged, with no evident pattern.

This display reminds Eliza somewhat of the Greek worshippers from the past. "What is the name of this dance?" she asks.

Posted: **Thu May 13, 2021 10:05 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sat May 08, 2021 2:55 am
"I have not," says Henry, examining the device with great interest, "but I am a quick study."

Such prediction proves accurate, as the nimble mind of Doctor North soon unravels the mysteries of the device, enabling the rotating disks to store any sound at which the rounded cylinder is directed, and to recall such when directed to, by depressing certain levers in the correct manner.

Whilst his master is busy with this mechanistic inquiry, Ivan has taken the opportunity to join a group of rough-looking men who engage in contests of strength, accompanied by much consuming of metal containers of what seems to be watery ale of poor quality.

Posted: **Thu May 13, 2021 10:41 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Sat May 08, 2021 10:58 am

Lepus shrugs.

“Depends where this Frisko is I s’pose. Be we in England then, oh maiden?”

Giggling in a fetching fashion, the young woman shakes her head, accompanied by the tinkling of many tiny bells woven into her long hair. "Wow, you must be really high. We're in California, you know? Like, Altamont, California? Getting ready for the big concert at the raceway. You gonna be digging the Stones tonight?"

Posted: **Thu May 13, 2021 10:43 am**

SunlessNick wrote: ↑Sun May 09, 2021 1:30 am
This display reminds Eliza somewhat of the Greek worshippers from the past. "What is the name of this dance?" she asks.

"Lady," replies the dark man, "if you gotta name it, you ain't feelin' it. Just groove on the vibes and fly, baby!"

Posted: **Thu May 13, 2021 9:37 pm**

“Mayhap, though we have moved stones enough recently. Be there many to dig?” Lepus replies.

“California? The new world? Far from our destination be we! Know thee of a Captain Palliser? ‘tis said he would reach his end in this place.”

Posted: **Fri May 14, 2021 3:07 am**

"This is wonderful!" says Henry after experimenting with the device. "May I buy it from you?"

Posted: **Fri May 14, 2021 8:48 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Thu May 13, 2021 9:37 pm
“Mayhap, though we have moved stones enough recently. Be there many to dig?” Lepus replies.

“California? The new world? Far from our destination be we! Know thee of a Captain Palliser? ‘tis said he would reach his end in this place.”

The young woman shrugs. "Never heard of him."

Sudden shouts distract her. With a frown, she says "It's those cycle creeps again. I mean, love everybody and all, but some folks are harder to love than others, you know?"

There does indeed appear to be some sort of altercation amongst a group of men arrayed in leather, whose appearance is that of ruffians.

Posted: **Fri May 14, 2021 8:49 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Fri May 14, 2021 3:07 am
"This is wonderful!" says Henry after experimenting with the device. "May I buy it from you?"

"I guess so. Got lots of AV equipment at home. Kind of a hobby. Say, ten bucks?"

Posted: **Fri May 14, 2021 8:12 pm**

“Psht! Ragamuffins and rapscallions!” exclaims Lepus. “Fair lady, will not stand!”

Squaring his shoulders and walking more upright than he has for a long while, he approaches the group.

“Ho fellows! Cease thy japery, lest it offend the gentle maidens of this place!”

Posted: **Sat May 15, 2021 3:51 am**

"I'm afraid I only have British money," says Henry, "but one of your American dollars has about the same silver content as four shillings, or about five dollars to a pound sterling. If a 'buck' is American vernacular for a dollar, then ten of them would equate to two pounds sterling." He produces eight crowns. "Will these do?"

Posted: **Sat May 15, 2021 10:14 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Fri May 14, 2021 8:12 pm
“Psht! Ragamuffins and rapscallions!” exclaims Lepus. “Fair lady, will not stand!”

Squaring his shoulders and walking more upright than he has for a long while, he approaches the group.

“Ho fellows! Cease thy japery, lest it offend the gentle maidens of this place!”

Lepus discovers several of the large men holding Ivan by his arms and legs; a task which requires a great deal of straining and sweating on the part of the imprisoners. Helpless in their grip, the mighty Russian is subjected to the indignity of having multiple containers of the metal-encased ale poured upon his head.

One fellow, standing aside and enjoying the spectacle, grins at Lepus.

"Say what, man? Anyway, we're just havin' some fun with the guy. Kind of a initiation ceremony, like. Welcomin' him into the Dirty Saints."

Posted: **Sat May 15, 2021 10:16 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sat May 15, 2021 3:51 am
"I'm afraid I only have British money," says Henry, "but one of your American dollars has about the same silver content as four shillings, or about five dollars to a pound sterling. If a 'buck' is American vernacular for a dollar, then ten of them would equate to two pounds sterling." He produces eight crowns. "Will these do?"

Looking at the coins, the fellow known as Sparks nods.

"Cool. I'm into old money, too. It's a deal, pal."

Posted: **Sat May 15, 2021 6:44 pm**

"Pft! No saints be thee!," growls Lepus. "Unhand yon fellow, for he be a great friend to old Lepus!"

His part said, he mutters an incantation to summon his invisible servant, bidding him to walk quietly behind the group.

"Let the initiation be complete and cease thy torment, lest I initiate thee!"

Posted: **Sat May 15, 2021 7:12 pm**

"A pleasure doing business with you, sir," says Henry, shaking his hand and exchanging the money for the machine. The transaction completes, he goes over to see what's happening with Ivan and what he can do to help.

Posted: **Sun May 16, 2021 9:50 am**

"Back off, Pops," one of the men says, approaching Lepus with a short length of chain, although there does not appear to be anything needed to be secured in the vicinity. "We're just having some fun."

The imprisoned Russian continues to struggle against his jailers, cursing them in his own tongue.

"Approach not, Master," he warns Doctor North, when he catches sight of him. "I would not have you suffer such indignity."

Posted: **Sun May 16, 2021 10:10 am**

“Fun for thee, aye, but not for him,” growls Lepus

“Release the fellow I say.”

He mutters to his invisible servant to find an open tube of liquid and pour it over the thug’s head.

Posted: **Mon May 17, 2021 12:08 am**

"Release my servant!" demands Henry. "If you do, I will pay you money. If you do not, you will regret it."

Posted: **Mon May 17, 2021 9:25 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Sun May 16, 2021 10:10 am

“Fun for thee, aye, but not for him,” growls Lepus

“Release the fellow I say.”

He mutters to his invisible servant to find an open tube of liquid and pour it over the thug’s head.

The task being undertaken, the fellow sputters in surprise, cursing in a manner that would arouse the indignity of the roughest pirate or highwayman. His fellows find the situation, albeit inexplicable, amusing, roaring with unrestrained laughter. They release Ivan and toss several of the empty metal containers at the newly anointed victim.

"Hey, that's a good trick, man," says one. "Howdja do it?"

Posted: **Mon May 17, 2021 9:29 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Mon May 17, 2021 12:08 am

"Release my servant!" demands Henry. "If you do, I will pay you money. If you do not, you will regret it."

Having already let the Russian go free, the ruffians do not, as honest men would, consider Doctor North's offer, as men of law say, null and void. Having heard the word money, more seductive than any siren's song, several of the men draw near, hands out in the universal gesture of alms-seeking.

"Cough it up, dude," one of the roughest-looking men says. "Let's see some long green, or we won't be the ones doin' the regrettin'."

Posted: **Mon May 17, 2021 12:33 pm**

“‘tis nought but magic,” replies Lepus matter-of-factly.

“Pay the ruffian and let’s be done with this place,” he says to Lord North.

Posted: **Tue May 18, 2021 2:11 am**

Henry counts out some more crowns, one for each of the Dirty Saints, and hands them to the man who addressed him. "For you and your friends," he says.

Posted: **Tue May 18, 2021 8:53 am**

The mixture of satisfied greed and vulgar amusement appears to calm the savage nature of the men, who smirk at the newcomers as if they have outfoxed them by wit, and not merely might and numbers.

"Let's cut out," the evident leader says. "'Bout time for the big concert. We suppose to be the see-cure-itty, right?"

Each member of the group mounts a curious mechanism, bearing two wheels. Theses device bear them away at great speed, accompanied by extremely loud noises.

The fellow who invited Eliza to the dance watches them leave. "Got a bad feelin' about that," he remarks.

Posted: **Tue May 18, 2021 12:53 pm**

Somewhat startled by the noisy contrivances , Lepus capers nervously.

“Come, let us away,” he declares, looking longingly towards the stones.

Posted: **Wed May 19, 2021 12:36 am**

"Fascinating," says Henry, watching the devices as they depart. "I wonder how they're powered? Still, perhaps we should be on our way."

Posted: **Wed May 19, 2021 8:46 am**

No doubt bemused by their strange experience among these eccentric people, the adventurers return to the stones. (It is a notable fact that, some casual remark having been made in passing about said structure, the person addressed displayed no knowledge that it existed, although it was clearly in plain sight.) Once within, the passage through which they have just passed grows misty. Experimental touch reveals that this fog-like phenomenon is as solid as rock, forbidding passage through it ever again. More remarkable is the fact that the interior of the structure now echoes with the voice of an unseen female of imperious tone, expressed more in sorrow than anger.

failure

The single word seems to pierce into the very marrow of those present. Not yet fully recovered from this eerie experience, they next experience the appearance from nowhere of a small slip of paper, bearing printed words in an unusually spare and simple typeface.

4 DEATHS MAR ROCK CONCERT

This vanishes as quickly as it appeared, and the adventurers are left with the remaining three entryways into unknown worlds.

Posted: **Wed May 19, 2021 8:42 pm**

Lepus growls at this news.

“We did not know this was a test!” he wails, imagining that poor innocent girl being crushed by rocks, thrown by those ruffians.

Posted: **Thu May 20, 2021 3:10 am**

"We left too soon," says Henry, his voice full of sorrow, "but all hope is not lost. Those events are yet future, and they can still be changed even if we cannot return through the stones. I shall write all the details in my memoirs. Hopefully there will be enough information that one of my descendants can prevent the tragedy. In the meantime, we must be more careful with the other three. Shall we try the one with the metal next?"

Posted: **Thu May 20, 2021 9:43 am**

Lepus nods at such wisdom.

“Aye, thou speakest sense. Seems we will not be able to leave these stones ‘til all wrongs set before us are put right. Let us proceed to yon place of metal then.”

Posted: **Fri May 21, 2021 11:48 pm**

The adventurers proceed to pass through the portal -- for so we shall name it -- leading to what is revealed to be, once one is sufficiently within it to determine its true nature, a vast room, nearly bereft of décor or furnishing. It is as if one were to enter the famed palace of the martyred King of France, remove all the luxurious items therein, break down all walls, and produce one single vast chamber. Illumination for this enormous room comes solely from the roof, which consists of a single pane of perfectly transparent glass; a prodigious masterpiece of the glazier's art. Within the chamber are a large number of what seem to be curiously wrought automata, cunning in operation yet far less representative of Nature than this level of sophistication suggests. That is to say, these devices ambulate about and manipulate other constructions, in a most lifelike way, and yet do not appear to be intended as counterfeits of animals. They are of many different designs, some walking upon multiple insectile limbs, other equipped with wheels, some as small as housecats, others as large as oxen. Whoever might have created these devices, or who is directing their activity -- for it does indeed seem purposeful and not merely chaotic, though the purpose be difficult to perceive -- is not evident, there being no person in immediate sight.

Posted: **Sat May 22, 2021 2:52 am**

"Fascinating," says Henry, observing the automata. "This may be even further into the future. As interesting as these machines are, I think we're going to have to find some people in order to learn what is happening here and what we are here to do." He looks around for any exits from the chamber - other than the skylight, which they cannot reach.

Posted: **Sat May 22, 2021 5:34 pm**

"Aye..." replies Lepus, studying his surroundings with exaggerated nonchalance to hide his bewilderment.

He gingerly approaches an automaton.

"Ho metal thing! Where be thy master?"

Posted: **Sat May 22, 2021 10:52 pm**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sat May 22, 2021 2:52 am
"Fascinating," says Henry, observing the automata. "This may be even further into the future. As interesting as these machines are, I think we're going to have to find some people in order to learn what is happening here and what we are here to do." He looks around for any exits from the chamber - other than the skylight, which they cannot reach.

Close examination reveals what appears to a door of sorts, although it bears no handle one can grasp. Next to it is a curious array of raised squares, each about the size of one's fingertip, and bearing the letters of the alphabet as well as the digits from one to nine.

Posted: **Sat May 22, 2021 11:00 pm**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Sat May 22, 2021 5:34 pm

"Aye..." replies Lepus, studying his surroundings with exaggerated nonchalance to hide his bewilderment.

He gingerly approaches an automaton.

"Ho metal thing! Where be thy master?"

The nearest automaton -- it vaguely resembles a tentacled sea creature, if one were native to dry land and equipped with a single thick leg beneath its ovoid body, upon which it moves freely in any direction without the need to rotate -- nears Lepus. Bearing no obvious organ of speech, nor visible organs of sensation, it nonetheless appears to see and hear the stranger, and is able to return answer, in a voice devoid of all sentiment.

"identify"

Posted: **Sat May 22, 2021 11:15 pm**

Henry scrutinizes the squares, deducing that pressing certain ones in the proper order will open the door. He looks to see if there are finger-marks on any of the squares, reasoning that anyone authorized to pass through the door would press the correct squares and none of the others.

Posted: **Sat May 22, 2021 11:41 pm**

Close examination reveals that the square bearing the letter E is more worn down than any other. Lesser wear is seen upon the letters A, M, N, O, P, and S; perhaps just a bit more upon the latter. The numerals seem free from wear.

Posted: **Sun May 23, 2021 3:14 am**

Henry considers the possible permutations of the letters before the solution occurs to him, recalling having read One Thousand and One Nights. He presses the squares for "OPEN SESAME" in sequence.

Posted: **Sun May 23, 2021 11:46 am**

Somewhat taken aback, the hedge wizard blinks.

“My name be Lepus. Who are you?”

Posted: **Sun May 23, 2021 10:21 pm**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sun May 23, 2021 3:14 am
Henry considers the possible permutations of the letters before the solution occurs to him, recalling having read One Thousand and One Nights. He presses the squares for "OPEN SESAME" in sequence.

This reasoning proves fruitful, as the door slides sideways into the wall, evidently operated upon by some unseen mechanism, revealing a room of modest size beyond, brightly lit by what appear to be lanterns hidden behind translucent sheets of pebbled glass upon the ceiling. Several tables bear varied equipment, some clearly those of the alchemist's art, other not so easily identified. More immediately arresting to the senses is a human figure at work upon one such table, facing away from the door, dressed in white coat and black trousers, said person apparently unaware of the presence of visitors.

Posted: **Sun May 23, 2021 10:24 pm**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Sun May 23, 2021 11:46 am Somewhat taken aback, the hedge wizard blinks.

“My name be Lepus. Who are you?”

"maintenance unit seven dash four eight zed

"authorization"

Posted: **Sun May 23, 2021 11:41 pm**

Henry returns to the others. "I got the door open," he says quietly. "There's a laboratory on the other side, with someone in it. Shall we go greet our host?"

Posted: **Mon May 24, 2021 8:29 am**

Lepus bows and bids farewell to the automaton before joining Henry.

“Aye, let us converse with a real person, yesno?”

Posted: **Tue May 25, 2021 12:25 am**

As Lepus turns away to join his companion, the automaton follows him, its emotionless voice growing louder.

"authorize

"Authorize

"AUTHORIZE"

This draws the attention of the person in the other room, who cries out (in a voice revealing said person to be of the female sex, and with girlhood far behind) "Who's there?"

Posted: **Tue May 25, 2021 2:53 am**

"Dr. Henry North, Earl of Dunwich, at your service, ma'am," says Henry with a bow. "Accompanying me are my ward Eliza, my manservant Ivan, and my friend Lepus. I apologize for interrupting what looks to be a very interesting experiment. I am a scientist myself."

Posted: **Tue May 25, 2021 12:59 pm**

Lepus executes a hurried bow.

“Prithee call off thy metal beast,” he requests, voice slightly tinged with panic.

Posted: **Thu May 27, 2021 8:38 am**

The woman proves to be well into middle age, judging by the sprinkling of gray in black hair, with features suggesting an origin in the Far East. She speaks a few words in an Asiatic language (recognizable by the manner in which tones carry as much meaning as syllables.) In response, the metallic device rolls away on some other errand. Removing large spectacles, which seem designed more for protection of the eyes rather than the enhancement of vision, and gloves of some thin, pliable material, she addresses the adventurers.

"I am Doctor Hong. Hong Shitou, to be exact. I was not expecting visitors. May I ask how you managed to enter a secure facility?"

Posted: **Thu May 27, 2021 12:15 pm**

“Through yon magic portal,” Lepus says casually, jerking a thumb behind him.

“Be there a wrong that needs righting?”

Posted: **Fri May 28, 2021 4:42 am**

"Indeed," says Henry, "though I think it may be an advanced technological device rather than a magical one. As for the locking mechanism on your laboratory door, it was a simple matter to deduce the proper sequence. The wear on the letters revealed which ones were pressed, and the amount of wear the frequency of those letters. I too have read One Thousand and One Nights."

Posted: **Fri May 28, 2021 8:29 am**

"Clever," Doctor Hong replies, "although I suppose it was foolish of me not to use a completely random password. As far as wrongs go," she continues, "my mysterious and oddly dressed friends, unless you're better at sequencing nucelotides to produce antiviral agents than I am, I'm afraid there's not much that you can do. At least you're safe in here, unlike those poor souls in the outside world."

Posted: **Fri May 28, 2021 10:36 am**

While the exact wording goes right over Lepus’ head, he gets the gist of what’s being said.

“Those without are in peril?” he asks. “There be a plague stalking the land? If it be a poison, I have an amulet that can heal suchlike.”

Posted: **Fri May 28, 2021 11:28 pm**

"My scientific skills do not extend to the sequencing of nucleotides," says Henry, who indeed does not know what they are, "so I shall leave that to you, Doctor Hong. However, my companions and I can still be of aid in protecting you while you do so. Eliza and Ivan are both known for their great strength. People in a plague can get very desperate, and there is no telling what they may do."

Posted: **Sat May 29, 2021 10:32 am**

"Fools rush in . . ." Doctor Hong begins, evidently quoting Pope's An Essay on Criticism, indicating a degree of familiarity with literature as well as Natural Philosophy. "Very well. What's the worst that could happen, other than dying a horrible death."

She fetches odd pieces of equipment, vaguely resembling highwaymen's masks, if such were hard and transparent.

"Wear these. It's better than nothing." She demonstrates how to place it upon one's countenance. "And bring that 'amulet.' Some kind of serum, I suppose."

She leads the others to what, at first, appears to be a blank wall of white metal.

"Override security protocol," she says, to no one in particular.

"Identified," comes a hollow voice without evident source. "Proceed."

A portion of the wall sinks into the ground, revealing a landscape that seems to have been ravaged by war. The few trees visible in an endless field of mud are bare of leaves, although the weather indicates summer, or a very warm spring.

Doctor Hong steps through the newly revealed opening, gazing warily in all directions.

Posted: **Sat May 29, 2021 1:43 pm**

Lepus stares horrified at the devastation around him.

“What be yonder land? England? California? What tragedy befell this place?” he asks through his mask.

Posted: **Sat May 29, 2021 4:33 pm**

Henry puts on the mask, follows her outside, and looks around. This is not how he imagined the future to be. "What is it we seek here?" he asks.

Posted: **Sat May 29, 2021 7:15 pm**

Eliza looks around aghast at the ruined landscape. "This is monstrous. What horror wrought such a thing?"

Posted: **Sun May 30, 2021 8:43 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Sat May 29, 2021 1:43 pm
Lepus stares horrified at the devastation around him.

“What be yonder land? England? California? What tragedy befell this place?” he asks through his mask.

"Disoriented? Well, that's a common side effect in those lucky enough to survive an initial infection.

"We're standing in the middle of Vancouver Island. This used to be forest, as far as the eye could see. It got hit hard during the war. The UN tried to evacuate all the survivors, but there are still a few hiding out around here. Dangerous, but that's why the research center is here. Have to find enough victims of the plague to find a cure."

Posted: **Sun May 30, 2021 8:45 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sat May 29, 2021 4:33 pm
Henry puts on the mask, follows her outside, and looks around. This is not how he imagined the future to be. "What is it we seek here?" he asks.

"Answers. In other words, if we can locate a victim, and keep him or her from killing us first, we can try using that 'amulet' of yours. At this point, I'm willing to try anything. If it works, I can analyze it and produce a real cure."

Posted: **Sun May 30, 2021 8:48 am**

SunlessNick wrote: ↑Sat May 29, 2021 7:15 pm
Eliza looks around aghast at the ruined landscape. "This is monstrous. What horror wrought such a thing?"

"The technical name is Chimeral Virus 2097-X. Somebody -- nobody knows who, except the ones who did it -- released it during the war. Suicidal desperation, I suppose. But most people just call it BrainBurn."

Posted: **Sun May 30, 2021 10:40 am**

Lepus nods sagely as he processes the woman’s words.

“‘tis akin to catapulting rotting animals over the walls of a fortress: a knavish trick indeed.”

“Let us find a poor soul and see what’s to be done.” he continues, scanning the area with senses honed from years of wandering.

Posted: **Sun May 30, 2021 9:25 pm**

"What are the symptoms of BrainBurn?" asks Henry, looking around for possible victims. 2097 could be the year, he thinks.

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 2:35 am**

"Why would the victims attempt to kill us?" asks Eliza. She ponders whether this nightmarish future is the result of the apparent failure in the other time period. Deciding to dispense with caution, she asks, "Have you ever heard of people travelling unnaturally through time?"

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 9:22 am**

Spoiler:

Whilst his companions are engaged in conversation, Lepus makes use of his heightened senses to study the surrounding countryside. At a moderate distance, he is able to discern a thin trace of smoke rising from behind a low hill.

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 9:29 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sun May 30, 2021 9:25 pm

"What are the symptoms of BrainBurn?" asks Henry, looking around for possible victims. 2097 could be the year, he thinks.

"Oh, normal things like rash and fever, at first. Then the victim experiences extreme aggression, directed at anybody who happens to be nearby. That tends the spread the disease -- if the intended target hasn't already been killed and eaten. Oh, did I mention the urge to engage in cannibalism? A bewildering symptom, probably induced by the targeting of a particular area of the hippocampus."

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 9:35 am**

Spoiler:

Doctor North looks about for any sign of those who have succumbed to the disease, but does not discern anything of interest.

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 9:37 am**

Spoiler:

From the same general direction as the wisp of smoke, Eliza's sensitive ears detect the sounds of persons producing noises resembling moaning.

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 9:37 am**

SunlessNick wrote: ↑Mon May 31, 2021 2:35 am
"Why would the victims attempt to kill us?" asks Eliza. She ponders whether this nightmarish future is the result of the apparent failure in the other time period.

"Artificially induced bloodlust. Some of my colleagues thought it was supposed to produce unstoppable soldiers. Too bad they're not around any more to discuss it."

Deciding to dispense with caution, she asks, "Have you ever heard of people travelling unnaturally through time?"

"Sorry, I never cared much for sci-fi."

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 4:01 pm**

"I fear I am unfamiliar with 'sci-fi,'" says Eliza. "But I hear voices, I think, that way."

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 5:42 pm**

"Then let us approach, but quietly and carefully," says Henry.

Posted: **Mon May 31, 2021 7:47 pm**

“There be smoke that way too,” says Lepus, nodding in the direction of the voices.

Posted: **Tue Jun 01, 2021 10:39 am**

Spoiler:

All five persons are able to approach silently, perhaps due to the lack of twigs and other signs of living flora upon the ground. They make their way up the rise with great caution, and observe a number of persons, all dressed in rags, sitting about a fire. (Where have they found sufficient wood, given the nearly complete lack of trees? Close observation reveals that the substance providing the flames does not appear to be of that kind.)

Spoiler:

There are only two of them; if the scant evidence of one's eyes can be trusted, given the nearly indistinguishable nature of the pair, one is female and the other male, as if in some cruel parody of Eden. They pay no mind to their visitors, being intent on devouring slabs of meat pulled out of the fire with their bare hands, as if they do not feel the flames.

Posted: **Tue Jun 01, 2021 5:36 pm**

“Proceed carefully,” hisses Lepus. “It does not do to disturb a dog at its bowl, yesno? Besides, if those chops be manflesh, we would not wish to be second course.”

“Let old Lepus approach alone with his amulet and see what transpires

Posted: **Tue Jun 01, 2021 8:26 pm**

Eliza obeys, but keeps her muscles tensed in case the figures prove hostile.

Posted: **Wed Jun 02, 2021 1:29 am**

"We will watch, ready to respond if something happens," whispers Henry.

Posted: **Wed Jun 02, 2021 5:39 am**

If either of the couple should attack Lepus, Eliza will endeavour to intercept them - she will not try to kill them, just push them away or restrain them - but will not hold back her strength, and will prioritise protecting Lepus over them.

Posted: **Wed Jun 02, 2021 8:31 am**

Spoiler:

Proceeding cautiously, Lepus is able to draw close enough to the pair to catch sight of their countenances, which prove to be unnaturally sallow and gaunt. Too intent on their meal to notice him, the two gnaw on large bones containing mere scraps of flesh, obviously half-raw and half-burnt from the careless way it has been cooked. Remarkably, both are able to ingest the bones as well, rather than simply cracking them to get at the marrow, demonstrating unusually strong teeth.

"I hope your buddy knows what he's doing," Doctor Hong whispers. "Did any of you remember to pack a laser?" She pats one of the pockets of her white coat as she speaks.

Posted: **Wed Jun 02, 2021 12:39 pm**

Eliza frowns at the word laser, but doesn't ask what the strange doctor woman means, wanting to concentrate on events by the fire.

Posted: **Thu Jun 03, 2021 1:59 am**

"I don't have one," whispers Henry, not knowing what one is, but he has seen one in the (even moreso now) distant past and was able to turn it back on its wielder with a mirror, "though I do have a device of my own making that I call a Force Projector. I also have a pistol, but that is rather noisy, and my cane, and Ivan has a sword cane."

Posted: **Thu Jun 03, 2021 10:15 am**

Watching the pair warily, Lepus fishes out his amulet and summons his invisible servant.

Telling the fellow to tread lightly, he bids him slip the pendant over the neck of the woman. He will then observe what transpires.

Posted: **Fri Jun 04, 2021 7:33 pm**

Spoiler:

Neither of the two persons pays any mind to the Invisible Servant, being more intent on their meal. At the moment the amulet is placed about the woman's neck, she becomes more alert to her environs.

"What . . . Where am I? What's going on?"

Hearing these words, her companion leaps at her at growls.

Spoiler:

She avoids him with seeming ease, as he appears to be less than agile.

"Impressive," Doctor Hong says. "Got any more of those antiviral devices?"

Posted: **Fri Jun 04, 2021 9:19 pm**

Deftly avoiding the male, Lepus leads the bewildered female back to the group.

“I only have one amulet, but ‘tis yours if it will help cure these poor diseased folk. Mayhap with study, you can replicate it’s effects.”

Posted: **Fri Jun 04, 2021 10:30 pm**

Eliza keeps her eys on the male. "Must it remain on her for its effects to persist?" she asks.

Posted: **Sat Jun 05, 2021 2:21 am**

"Yes, if she is cured now, you can simply put it around the man the same way," says Henry, holding the Force Projector ready in case the man rushes them.

Posted: **Sat Jun 05, 2021 9:24 am**

Lepus nods and, cooing soothingly, gently removes the amulet from the no doubt startled woman.

If she reverts back to savagery, he will defend his companions.

Posted: **Mon Jun 07, 2021 7:19 pm**

Spoiler:

The curative powers of the amulet do, indeed, seem to be permanent. Evidence for her heightened sense of her environs is the fact that she screams, and attempts to escape the threatening attack of her companion, whose aggressive activities make it difficult to apply the same cure to him as well.

Spoiler:

He just barely misses striking at her with his claw-like hands.

Posted: **Mon Jun 07, 2021 7:27 pm**

Lepus requests his invisible servant to pin the savage fellow down (perhaps Ivan and Eliza could assist if required).

If this renders the brute incapable of attacking, then Lepus will slip his amulet over the wild-man’s neck.

Posted: **Tue Jun 08, 2021 1:45 am**

Henry directs Ivan to restrain the man if Eliza is unable to do it by herself. He stands ready to protect the doctor.

Posted: **Wed Jun 09, 2021 7:06 am**

Eliza endeavours to restrain the wild man.

Posted: **Thu Jun 10, 2021 9:52 am**

The combined efforts of the defenders, particularly in consideration of the great strength possessed by more than one, is sufficient to render the fellow harmless. Placing the amulet around his neck, albeit with some struggle, restores him to what one must assume is his former state of health.

"You've convinced me," Doctor Hong says, clearly impressed. "They must be doing some pretty advanced work in the UK. So, what's the secret? How soon can we manufacture a few hundred thousand of those things?"

Posted: **Thu Jun 10, 2021 3:12 pm**

“‘tis a holy medallion, once belonging to a pious pilgrim who was cruelly slain,” Lepus replies. “It lay for centuries among corpses and bat spoor afore we found it. I know not how to make more. Mayhap if you know what metal it is, we could make the same symbols on a copy. Otherwise you may keep this one.”

Posted: **Thu Jun 10, 2021 6:57 pm**

"It would be the work of years to cure all the afflicted with just one of these," says Eliza. "But if we return, perhaps we may yet prevent this catastrophe from coming to pass. Mayhap that is what the voice wants from us, yesno?"

Posted: **Thu Jun 10, 2021 8:54 pm**

“Aye, ‘tis a fine notion,” Lepus concurs.

“What be the cause of this terrible war?” he asks, turning to Doctor Hong.

Posted: **Fri Jun 11, 2021 1:20 am**

"Now that these two have been cured," says Henry, "can samples of their blood be used to develop a cure for all? I think the voice wants us to do something while we are here, not just return with knowledge. That did not suffice before. Though if we can gather enough information to prevent it in the first place, that would be good."

Posted: **Fri Jun 11, 2021 10:15 am**

Doctor Hong's response is a mixture of optimism, confusion, and skepticism.

To the first statement from Lepus, she remarks "I don't know about faith healing, but a combination of chiropteran virome and necrogenic flora might make some sense as a source of the disease. As far as analyzing the metal, that's a cinch."

The group returns to the facility from whence they came, taking the two cured persons along with them, to be supplied with sustenance and shelter. She places the amulet into a box of some black glassy material, the sides of which are connected to a variety of other, translucent and self-illuminated boxes by thin wires. In a moment, she glances at an inscrutable combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that appear on one of the said boxes.

"Pure silver," she says. "Remarkable. That may be an important factor in creating a cure."

In response to Doctor North's inquiry, she agrees that synthesizing a vaccine from the blood of the cured persons -- who, remaining in a state of passivity, offer no resistance -- would be possible.

"This may be the breakthrough we've been waiting for."

As far as the notion suggested by Eliza goes, she sighs and says "Yeah, I wish I could go back and stop the whole crazy thing too, honey. Too bad that's not possible."

To the inquiry from Lepus as to the reason for the conflict, Doctor Hong, although a bit surprised that it is not common knowledge, states "It all started when the European and Pan-African lunar bases started throwing smart rocks at each other. Nobody knows who tossed the first one, or at least they won't admit it. Then things got out of hand here on Terra. Everybody and his brother jumped into the mess, it seems."

Posted: **Fri Jun 11, 2021 1:17 pm**

It takes a moment for Lepus to process these strange words.

“Keep yon amulet for your research if you wish. I am loathe to part with it, but if it cures these poor savages then your need be greater than mine. Mayhap an exchange if thou wish?”

He turns to the others.

“We know not the cause of this war. Be there anything else we can do afore we return to the stones?”

Posted: **Fri Jun 11, 2021 5:28 pm**

"Perhaps there is something in my blood that may help also," suggests Eliza. "I was after all made in defiance of death. Have you a means of storing it, Doctor Hong?"

Posted: **Sat Jun 12, 2021 3:05 am**

"Ah, yes," says Henry. "Silver is well known for its healthful properties. Tell me, Doctor, do you have any books here? I'd be interested in seeing anything to do with science, as well as the history of the last three centuries."

Posted: **Sat Jun 12, 2021 8:37 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Fri Jun 11, 2021 1:17 pm
It takes a moment for Lepus to process these strange words.

“Keep yon amulet for your research if you wish. I am loathe to part with it, but if it cures these poor savages then your need be greater than mine. Mayhap an exchange if thou wish?”

"What did you have in mind? CyberEuros? What's your account number? I can try to arrange for a transfer of funds."

Posted: **Sat Jun 12, 2021 8:44 am**

SunlessNick wrote: ↑Fri Jun 11, 2021 5:28 pm
"Perhaps there is something in my blood that may help also," suggests Eliza. "I was after all made in defiance of death. Have you a means of storing it, Doctor Hong?"

"I won't turn down any offer from a volunteer. You do look, uh, extremely healthy, dear. Ever play pro basketball?"

Doctor Hong procures a glass (or so it seems to be) tube from a storage area, curiously decorated with tiny glowing lights upon its base. She presses it against Eliza's palm. There is no sensation produced by the device other than slight warmth. Nonetheless, it soon fills with deep red fluid, and is withdrawn, leaving no wound behind. Whether this be mere legerdemain or some form of witchery, Doctor Hong appears satisfied. She places the tube into one of many mysteriously arrayed black boxes, which emits a series of high-pitched tones, then produces a thin sheet of paper bearing inscrutable writing.

"Interesting. Very interesting. Impossible, almost. If I hadn't calibrated the analyzer myself . . ."

Posted: **Sat Jun 12, 2021 8:50 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sat Jun 12, 2021 3:05 am

"Ah, yes," says Henry. "Silver is well known for its healthful properties. Tell me, Doctor, do you have any books here? I'd be interested in seeing anything to do with science, as well as the history of the last three centuries."

"Sure. Help yourself."

She leads Doctor North to yet another black box, this one equipped with a series of lettered squares, arranged in a random fashion, it seems, judging by the nonsensical pattern QWERTYUIOP that appears on the top row of three. Her fingers moving quickly amongst these, she soon steps back to reveal a square of faint pearl gray light floating above the letters. This ghostly apparition dissolves, like fog struck by sunlight, into what seems to be a page from a printed volume. It reads ENCYCLOPEDIA UNIVERSALIS 27TH EDITION. Below this, in scarlet letters that appear and disappear rapidly, over and over, the single word INQUIRY followed by an interrogation mark.

"It's all yours. Ask away."

Posted: **Sat Jun 12, 2021 9:24 am**

Lepus looks confused until the mention of funds, when realisation dawns.

“Nay, old Lepus cares naught for money. I merely ask for some token or nick-nack: something of interest to remind me of this place.”

Posted: **Sat Jun 12, 2021 6:54 pm**

"These devices are wondrous." is all Eliza can find to say.

Posted: **Sat Jun 12, 2021 7:48 pm**

"Yes, this is amazing!" says Henry, fascinated by the devices. He is able to figure out how to press the letter keys, having done something similar with the code panel that allowed entry to the lab, though he cannot type as fast as Doctor Hong. He types out his first inquiry: "HOW AND WHEN DID THE WAR START?"

Posted: **Sun Jun 13, 2021 9:38 am**

jp1885 wrote: ↑Sat Jun 12, 2021 9:24 am
Lepus looks confused until the mention of funds, when realisation dawns.

“Nay, old Lepus cares naught for money. I merely ask for some token or nick-nack: something of interest to remind me of this place.”

"Sure. Why not? Let's see . . . how about a little hand laser? Not much good for real defense, I'm afraid, but OK for warming up a MRE or something like that." She finds a small, red, rectangular box, about the size of an infant's hand. When she presses a tiny protuberance on the top of the box, a violet beam of light emerges from the slightly narrower side of the device, which happens to be facing in the direction of a transparent container of what appears to be water. When the light strikes the liquid, it begins to boil.

"Gotta be careful with it, of course, but it comes in handy."

Posted: **Sun Jun 13, 2021 9:43 am**

SunlessNick wrote: ↑Sat Jun 12, 2021 6:54 pm
"These devices are wondrous." is all Eliza can find to say.

"So is your blood, dearie. Why, this analysis suggests that your erythrocytes and leucocytes are immortal, for all practical purposes. Not to mention antibodies to just about anything under the sun. Once I've got this stuff figured out, the world be will be on the way to recovery."

Posted: **Sun Jun 13, 2021 9:52 am**

Mr. Handy wrote: ↑Sat Jun 12, 2021 7:48 pm
"Yes, this is amazing!" says Henry, fascinated by the devices. He is able to figure out how to press the letter keys, having done something similar with the code panel that allowed entry to the lab, though he cannot type as fast as Doctor Hong. He types out his first inquiry: "HOW AND WHEN DID THE WAR START?"

Letters appear rapidly in the area of mist

REFERENCE <WAR> ASSUMED <MOST RECENT> DEFINITION <THIRD WORLD WAR>

INQUIRY <HOW . . . START> ASSUMED <INITIATION AND CONTINUINCE OF HOSTILITIES> ANSWER <EXCHANGE OF AI-GUIDED KINETIC MASSES LUNAR BASES RETALIATION EARTHSIDE BIO/CHEM/NUC INTERVENTION REDSTONE INDUSTRIES DEPOPULATION>

INQUIRY <WHEN . . . START> ANSWER <13:49:07 GMT 7/14/2093>

Posted: **Sun Jun 13, 2021 10:48 am**

Lepus chuckles and capers excitedly.

“Aye, old Lepus likes this ‘lay-ser - ‘tis a grand trade indeed! I hope this will serve thee well.”

He hands over the amulet before stuffing the laser deep into the folds of his tattered clothing.

Posted: **Sun Jun 13, 2021 9:27 pm**

Eliza clearly has little idea what Doctor Hong has just said, but answers, "If it can be of help to you in alleviating this devastation, I am glad of it."

Posted: **Sun Jun 13, 2021 9:31 pm**

Posted: **Sun Jun 13, 2021 11:58 pm**

Henry realizes that he'll have to phrase his inquiries carefully, as the machine doesn't have the ability of a human to interpret what he meant by his question, telling him the method by which the war had started rather than what he really wanted to know, the proximate cause of the war. However, it has told him something very interesting indeed. "Redstone?" he says. "Could the man somehow still be alive after all these years? Or perhaps it is a descendant." He types "TELL ME ABOUT REDSTONE INDUSTRIES" on the keyboard. "I've seen a device like that laser a long time before. It had been made by a scientist who used various names that were variants of Redstone or Roterstein, which was the German equivalent. He had given it to a madwoman, Violette Dupray. She used it to attempt an assassination, but I thwarted her with a mirror. It reflected the beam right back at her, and the evil she intended returned upon her own head."

Posted: **Mon Jun 14, 2021 9:52 am**

REFERENCE <REDSTONE INDUSTRIES> SUMMARY FOLLOWS

HYPERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION OPERATING ILLEGALLY FROM UNKNOWN LOCATION. OFFICIALLY BANNED IN ALL NATIONS SIGNATORY TO REORGANIZED UN CHARTER 2046 BUT SUPPLIES ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CLANDESTINELY. BELIEVED RESPONSIBLE FOR 87.3% DEATHS WORLD WAR THREE DUE TO MANUFACTURE AND DISTRIBUTION OF BIO/CHEM/NUC WEAPONS.

Posted: **Mon Jun 14, 2021 10:40 am**

Most of this chatter means nothing to Lepus, who is preoccupied with his new gadget.

However, he does pick up in the tail end of the conversation.

“This Redstone fellow be a rogue then? Mayhap the spirit of the stones is having us undo his work and ultimately defeat him, yesno?”

Posted: **Mon Jun 14, 2021 3:37 pm**

"If that is so, then we must presume it is possible to accomplish," says Eliza. "And thus we must try. You speak as if you know the man, Father."

Play@YSDC

Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek

Re: Book the Second, Chapter the Eleventh: A Lengthy Trek