The Cast:
Canzoni's Circus
Haynee Canzoni and his wife Karlota who shared duty as Ringmaster and Ringmistress
Morgo the Ogre who did feats of strength
Blumphoma the 600 pound fat lady
Mergal the Mysterious - a rogue hedge wizard and stage magician. Old and arthritic, he tends to drink a lot. He resents Perry as a possible replacement.
The Juggler brothers, Jok and Johjo
Doomian the Knifer who has a dagger tossing act, and his assistant and partner, Dumia
The very popular clowns: Saphira, Bonk, Boink, and Boodles. They are VERY funny.
Wikam and Marjo, the trained dog act and their canine octet.
Saldo, and his wife and kids who do a good horse act with trained horses
The Acrobats: Felippo, Fafonna, Foxey, and Fedorah
Krusha the Great with his animal act: a Bear, a Cougar, a Wolf
Lupini and Messanga the high wire tight rope act
The Trapeze group: Block and Dekkar, and Avera and Santa. The latter pair are flirting eqgregiously with our half elf hero. (They smell money).
And the usual circus side show people and roustabouts.
Side Show
Studger the Hobb manager
Gorgus Gorji - the Uruk knife juggler and sword swallower
Toadie an outcast Boglin, who likes to stay wet
Felina, the Cat Woman. an animorph who got stuck while partly still cat.She is a prostitute in her spare time, and does well.
Treeyahji is the true monster of the show. He is a 'siamese' triplet. He has two small child size people embedded in his flesh. Creepy trio. Big attraction.
Mort the zombie stays in his ice chest most of the time. Studger controls him.
Hairy Hal has a real bad hair problem. Suffers from hirsutism.
Blumphoma is the 600 pound fat lady
Morgo the Ogre is the circus strong man.
Phlemm is the fire breather and does neat things with flames
Schwartz is covered with warts and odd skin growths
Cameelyah is a fairy, and does a nice show of her own
Frakis is a true hermaphrodite- has both sets of sex organs and breasts
Flexx is the 'rubber man' - a contortionist with stretchable skin
Sssshuussshhanna the snake lady- has snake skin and snake eyes, and a menagerie of serpents which she loves to scare crowds with.
The Count let Perry have the Manor's excellent carpenters build him a wagonaccording to his wishes. He paid them generously for their fine work. An excellent team of horses and a groom were also hired on.
The narrative, with most of the chaff cut out, and in order:
On Tue, Dec 31, 2013 at 5:09 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Dear Mark/Perry
Here is basically how I see the Hippodrome situation at the Manor.
Calzoni and the Count are old friends. Normally the circus travels in the Spring, Summer, and Fall to the many trade fairs in this prosperous area. The traders schedule these so they don't compete with each other and each community prospers from the affair. Calzoni's Circus follow the fairs and entertains the crowds there. It is a high class act for this time and place. In the Winter, the circus finds a place to camp out and work up new routines, repair equipment, and rest. The Count invited them to camp near the Manor on his estate. He likes the circus too.
Calzoni is a good businessman, and runs a tight ship. If a performer or employee doesn't meet his high standards, out they go! His current group consists of very good professionals. The old wizard is having health related difficulties, but sees Perry as a chance to keep on working. He will teach Perry all he can about stage magic and mentalist and card tricks (which is considerable), and Bonk and Boink, the clowns, will help add some levity to the performances. Boink is a pretty good hand at prestidigitation himself. Perry is impressed to note that the clowns are serious fellows when not in the ring doing their thing (which they do very well).
Perry is also impressed by how much hard work is necessary to make the circus run properly. There are a large number of non-performers who are needed to set up and keep things going. With regard to his new job, he has to get an OK on all his tricks and spells from the old man and from Calzoni, who, fortunately, with his showman's eye and mind, helps come up with good ideas and helpful critiques.
All the winter long the Manor folk get to see the workups of the circus community. Tzu loves to bring the orphans from Kazgrad for these shows. It is a huge treat for the children. And Perry and the other FOTV members note that the tough lady has a soft side when she is with the kids. Until she knocked out cold a local who had the audacity to pinch her while she was taking the kids to the refreshment stand for popcorn and peanuts.
Mad rOy
On Tuesday, December 31, 2013 12:15 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear Roy
Perry will buckle down and learn from Calzoni, the old wizard and the clowns and have a good time with the girls. He wants to develop a trick with his Sparkly Ball spell in which he calls down a member of the audience and asks if he has been problems with the lights at home recently, whereupon the circus lights are dimmed, at which point one of the clowns cuts the man's belt and Perry gives him two sparkly balls...
On Wed, Jan 1, 2014 at 3:00 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Canzoni and Boink ask Perry to try the trick using Boink as the victim who is having trouble with his lights. Jeeves will de-pants the clown, who wears very amusing boxer shorts, and he will do his crazed clown antics as he runs off the stage when the sparkly balls appear. This will fit into the act in which Boink has been messing with both magicians for a while. And when tried, it really was funny!
Perry has also begun to take an interest in the circus's side show. They have a 'freak group' which is really interesting, including a real zombie whom they keep on ice when he is not on stage. A Hobb rogue named Studger handles this part of the circus and is a big player in the group.
Perry is also impressed with the people who cook for the circus folk, the costume people, and the many roustabouts who take care of the animals and all the circus stuff. It is an amazing operation.
On Wednesday, January 1, 2014 5:08 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry sought out Studger.
"I love this part of Mr. Calzooni's circus! You do an amazing job with that zombie. Don't tell the boss I call him Calzoni, will you?" He paused for breath.
What else have you had down the years? I'm sure there must be some great stories you could tell. I'd be happy to buy you supper if you would care to join me? I'd be interested in knowing if there are acts you'd like to add - I might be able to help locate specialities..."
On Thu, Jan 2, 2014 at 4:36 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
The circus has its own food and mess tent. The food is not fancy, but is pretty good and nourishing. Studger is a nervous little Hobb who is pleased to talk with Perry. He seems a bit nervous of real wizards, but is happy to introduce Perry to his team. There is the Cat Woman, an animorph who can't seem to get completely back to human form again. The Crone Seer is an old woman who tells fortunes, reads palms and tea leaves, and does Tarot spreads. She is good at it. Most of the 'freaks' are unfortunate people with rare birth defects or diseases that are fascinating in a horrible way. Each has an interesting (and not always true) story to tell. They are gifted entertainers all, and the show draws a good crowd.
On Friday, January 3, 2014 1:58 AM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry is excited about the prospect of having his fortune read by the Crone Seer. He hopes Studger will join him. Perry wants the full monty - tea leaves, palm, cards. He also wants to use the Scribing Quill spell to take down the stories of the entertainers if they will let him. He has in mind to start a periodical and thinks the Count might be able to steering him in the right direction here. He is also keen to take Studger to Fang's winery.
On Fri, Jan 3, 2014 at 6:05 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
The Crone is happy to give Perry the full spectrum, but he quickly realizes that she is a much better psychologist and reader of people's expectations than a seer. When pressed, she admits, smiling, that it is mostly show and a guess. She can read from what she looks at according to her best, and usually accurate, guess at what the client wants to hear. She does give good advice to people, and never predicts anything really bad for anyone. Very nice old lady. Makes good brownies.
Studger goes with Perry to the Winery and is very impressed. He buys a barrel of good wine to treat his companions in the side show. All the folks in the side show are happy to meet anyone who is interested in them and their sad stories. Perry is learning a lot about the entertainment business.
The old wizard has him practicing the card tricks and mentalist routines, and here again he finds that it is a skill. There is little or no real magic in it, even when it looks or sounds very impressive. He has learned though not to play cards with the old rogue. He can deal you any hand he wants!
(Have you ever seen the movie about Freaks with Tom Baker? It will give you a good picture of a circus side show. And for a weird creepy circus I recommend The Circus Of Dr Lao, and Something Wicked This Way Comes. Excellent movies.)
On Saturday, January 4, 2014 10:48 AM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Thanks for the movie tips :)
Now Perry is begining to get the feel of things in the circus and feel part of it, he wants to spend more time with the clowns hearing their stories - that and take these acrobat girls for a picnic and share some strawberries with them. What is he living in? He likes the idea of having a caravan. He tells Studger about the two men he has seen loitering on the edges of the camp for the past two nights and wonders if he knows anything about them - they refused to speak with him when he approached and pulled their cloaks about so that he couldn't get a good look at them.
On Sun, Jan 5, 2014 at 4:41 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Two men on the camp loitering? Hmmm. Does the Count know people are stalking or spying on his circus friends? Maybe he will send Lady Wenn out after dark for a lookaround. She is bored with just
taking care of the Count's patients.
On Monday, January 6, 2014 11:38 AM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry was wanting to see Lady Wenn. He wondered how she was settling in to this new life. Perry asked Studger if he knew anything of her. He also wondered just how widely the circus travelled - he knew that the getting there was not easy but there were other continents on Trollworld and Perry had a proseletysing feeling growing in his bones. The more time he spent with the circus the more he felt that this was exactly what the rougher parts of the Dragon continent needed to change their outlook on life and he guessed this might me true of the Eagle continent as well.
On Tue, Jan 7, 2014 at 4:30 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Studger admitted he had heard of the Lady Wenn who ran a hospital in Kazgrad, and treated patients with blood disorders at the manor. If she was a true vampire, a scion of the great Count Rasulki, she would scare the hraaka out of him.
That night as Perry settled down in his new carriage, there was a knock on the door. He opened it and a beautiful lady stood on the threshold. She wore a black dress, and cloak. Her lustrous hair was long and dark, tied up with a black velvet band, Her perfect skin was like ivory, and her luscious lips were red as roses. Perry found it intimidating to look into her dark eyes.
"Hello," he finally stammered. "Long time, no see."
"Hello, Perry," she said in a voice that sent a little thrill up his spine. "You have to invite me in. I cannot cross your threshold without your permission."
She had a faint trace of a lisp. A quick smile revealed the prominent canine teeth that caused it.
On Tuesday, January 7, 2014 1:08 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Checking that his ring was on his finger and that no messages of peril were coming his way, Perry bowed low and asked the lady to step inside his mobile home. 'I am delighted to see you again,' he said warmly. 'Life has been kind to you by your appearance. Tell me of your life here. You can see that I have joined the circus! Mind you, I've had quite a few adventures on the way, I can tell you. Zhahn is the same as ever, Mensa has changed more than I really care for and I'm sure you know of all the Count's friends. Sorry - I'm gabbling! I confess I'm a little nervous - no offence meant! I'll be quiet now and let you talk. Would you like some elderflower cordial? I had it made specially to give me a lift for my stage performances.'
Jan 8
to Grandpa, me
On , Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Lady Wenn smiled her cold smile again, and the thought crossed Perry's mind that this must be what the baby bird in the nest feels when he confronts the unblinking eyes of a serpent.
"I apologize," murmured the Lady. " I cannot drink...Cordial. No matter how wonderful it smells."
She laughed at that. "I have had a full report of your recent excurision. It was sad that I could not join you. I am still forced to...sleep, during daylight hours. Sometimes I think that it would be fun to go up against a large group of foes like this this... But I am sure what I would do would appall the rest of you."
She sighed. "There is a core of violence in beings like me. It is hard to deny it at times. But my Beloved Count keeps me under control.. I must not disgrace his house or embarrass him...I am so grateful for all he has done for me. And his punishment would be ...terrible."
She looked around at the luxurious interior of Perry's coach. "You have done well, old friend. A pity your relationship with Audirah did not work out. She would have been a good partner and spouse for you. But she is happy with her new lover. I hope you find another as good as she would have been."
She continued. "The circus suits you and your personality well. They are mostly good people. But be careful. Some of them will exploit you or cheat you if you are too trusting. And be especially careful not to mess with other men's women. Even a wizard cannot survive having his throat cut."
In the distance, wolves howled. Lady Wenn looked up, and listened intently. "I have sent my pets to patrol the woods about the camp here. Someone said there were strangers taking improper interest in what was going on here. I plan to have a fly-through the forest environs myself tonight. If I see anyone behaving suspiciously, I will question them about their activities and intentions. The circus is under the Count's protection. We pride ourselves on being the best of hosts."
She stood up and gave Perry a gentle hug. She was cold as ice to the touch. And he felt like she could break him like a twig if she wanted.
"You will always be my friend, Perry," she said. "Until we meet again, fare thee well." She left, and then flew lightly away at speed towards the woods. Perry felt really sorry for any normal beings who might meet her in the dark there.
On Thursday, January 9, 2014 12:03 AM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
When Lady Wenn had left him, Perry suddenly experienced something he had never felt before - jealousy. He thought of Audirah and he stewed until he boiled. Then he jumped up and left his caravan, seizing the nearest horse and setting off at a gallop for the Raskuli Manor. He wanted to know who this fellow was that had made his girlfriend so happy when she should have been pining. Did she think he'd really left her? It was only part of their courtship! He would find out what this dandy was really up to... no good, of that he was certain. Why, the blackguard would destroy her honour if he, Perry, did not give him a piece of his mind. He rode like the wind, his heels not sparing the horse's flanks as he sped towards this cur's come uppance.
On Thu, Jan 9, 2014 at 9:47 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Then, to Perry's dismay, he realized that a group of wolves were pursuing him and his steed. The nearest were nipping at the horse's fetlocks! He was at risk of being dragged down by this pack of beasts, and his horse was on the verge of panic.
On Thursday, January 9, 2014 12:57 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry snapped out of his madness. His horse was not to be food for these curs! He flexed his fingers and cast a web spell and his pursuers and then got ready with his whammied crowbar, swinging in defensively on the other side to the web spell. [rolls 2,4 so makes spell]
Roy Cram
Jan 9
to me, Grandpa
On Thursday, January 9, 2014 9:19 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Perry unfortunately had picked one of the coach horses to ride back to the manor, a big sturdy horse, but not built for speed. It was also not accustomed to having a rider. At the moment Perry began to try to cast a spell on the wolves which were directly behind him, his mighty steed decided that those who dared to nip at its fetlocks should be introduced to its big hooves. The poor half elf found himself on the back of a horse whose bucking at this point would have challenged even an experienced cowboy's skill. As a result, his web spell hit a tree nearby, and he lost his grip on the crowbar trying to keep his place on bobbin' Dobbin, and then, to his horror, he found himself flying tail over teakettle to land with a thump (3 points Con damage) and the horse raced off at best speed towards the manor.
He rolled painfully over and a huge gray wolf landed heavily on his chest. But the powerful predator did not bite him. It put its muzzle with its large fangs just over his throat and growled what could have been a warning not to attempt anything. The other wolves, seven in all, formed a circle around him, and their alpha.
On Friday, January 10, 2014 12:05 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
The eyes staring into his held Perry more than the threat writ large by the teeth. Jolted into a darker place than he had been on his recent mission, Perry saw all his loved ones march through his mind in his final moments. He could not believe that the Count would let such creatures roam so close to the Manor. Where was Wen Wen now? He looked deeply into those eyes and whispered, "What is that you want here? You have picked a poor place for making an example of me, wolfkin.'
On Fri, Jan 10, 2014 at 11:53 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Something large and black flew down inside the circle of wolves. Was that a BAT?! The wolf on Perry's chest immediately jumped off, and cowered before the Lady Wenn. The other wolves all kow towed to the Vampyre. She came forward and looked down at the half elf.
"What on Trollworld is this," she said, suppressing her urge to laugh. "When my pets told me they had caught someone suspicious, who could have predicted it would be you?"
She gently helped Perry up, and he felt the cold power of her Poor Baby spell repair the damage to his back.
"Your back will be tender for a while," she said. "No heavy lifting until it is well. And now, what compelled you to ride like a madman though the dark woods after I had told you my pets were out on patrol here. Were you going to the Manor on important business? Have someone you had to see?"
On Friday, January 10, 2014 11:34 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry was flabberghasted. "I'm so sorry!" he spluttered. "I don't know what came over me. I suddenly thought of Audirah and her new man and I sort of flipped. What is he like? Is he good enough for her? I didn't really spend that long with her but I don't want her to be taken advantage of by someone who won't respect her or who minds her putting on weight."
He shuddered as he thought of what might have been. "Do you control them? You must have grown enormously in power under the Count's guidance."
On Sat, Jan 11, 2014 at 7:35 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Lady Wenn laughed. (Great Zott, but she was sexy!). "The Count works me hard and teaches me all he can. I have spent much time learning how to deal with the wolfen folk. We are much alike in some ways. I told them to hold any prisoner they caught, so you are lucky there. Normally they do not bother the kindreds. They help keep the deer population from overrunning our woods.'
"As for dear Audirah: while you were off adventuring, an old suitor of hers, a certain high Elf Prince named Ellendor, came to the Manor and wooed her with gifts and untiring attention. He is handsome, rich, and powerful." She sighed and licked her red lips; then continued: " He had known her family before they fell on hard times, and a marriage to this warrior mage would restore the honor and status of her house. She hesitated, but the Prince was adamant in his efforts, and was evidently too good a deal for the lady to pass up. They left several days ago to return to Ellendor's castle where they will celebrate their bonding. You were absorbed in becoming part of the circus, and paying attention to the ladies there. I believe that last part helped her make her final decision. At any rate, she will be well married to a spouse who loves her dearly."
On Saturday, January 11, 2014 3:17 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
"Thank you for that news. It's good, I think... Oh well, back to the circus. How do you feel about the town on the river, Hunt Center? Do you bear it ill will? I know you had a vile time there."
On Saturday, January 11, 2014 6:02 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Will do that next :) Nice scene with the wolves, Roy!
On Sat, Jan 11, 2014 at 11:14 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
The Lady grew more solemn. "I heard of Kannish's visit to that place. The town may recover in time, but he left it in shambles. It is good that he was relieved of his curse in the assault on Greybat. The Count worried a lot about the Loogaroo. Even he would be hard pressed to deal with such a monster."
She checked out Perry's still tender back, and helped him find his crowbar. "Your horse will return to you in the morning. My pets won't bother him. He kicked one of them, and I must go tend to the injured now. Stay alert, Perryfriend. We still have not found the two strangers spying on the circus folk."
She spread her cloak and flew silently away. Perry was unmolested during his long walk back to the hippodrome camp.
((Please fill me in on your mystery men. I have not yet figured out how they fit into this story))
>
> On Saturday, January
> 11, 2014 11:35 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
> The two men are shadowjacks so they are
> hard to find let alone catch. They are agents of a
> 'power' on the Eagle
> continent who senses an opportunity to gain a foothold on
> the Dragon continent after the fall of Greybat. They want to
> find out what forces Raskuli has an to see if he can be
> persuaded to join a coup against the Death Goddess and seize
> Khazan. There are more of these shadowjacks in Khazan
> destabilising the Wizards' Guild and buying up
> controlling interests in food distribution businesses,
> jewellers and banks - they intend to cause civil unrest with
> food shortages and to flood the city with fake gems and
> coins...
On Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at
> 6:43 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com>
> wrote:
>
> ((Sounds like you have the
> beginnings of the next FOTV adventure! Do these shadowjacks
> have an odor that a wolf or vampire could
> smell?))
>
>
On Thu, Jan 16, 2014 at 2:02 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Canzoni and Boink ask Perry to try the trick using Boink as the victim who is having trouble with his lights. Jeeves will de-pants the clown, who wears very amusing boxer shorts, and he will do his crazed clown antics as he runs off the stage when the sparkly balls appear. This will fit into the act in which Boink has been messing with both magicians for a while. And when tried, it really was funny! Perry has also begun to take an interest in the circus's side show. They have a 'freak group' which is really interesting, including a real zombie whom they keep on ice when he is not on stage. A Hobb rogue named Studger handles this part of the circus and is a big player in the group. Perry is also impressed with the people who cook for the circus folk, the costume people, and the many roustabouts who take care of the animals and all the circus stuff. It is an amazing operation. On Tuesday, December 31, 2013 12:15 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote: Dear RoyPerry will buckle down and learn from Calzoni, the old wizard and the clowns and have a good time with the girls. He wants to develop a trick with his Sparkly Ball spell in which he calls down a member of the audience and asks if he has been problems with the lights at home recently, whereupon the circus lights are dimmed, at which point one of the clowns cuts the man's belt and Perry gives him two sparkly balls... On Tue, Dec 31, 2013 at 5:09 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote: Dear Mark/PerryHere is basically how I see the Hippodrome situation at the Manor.Calzoni and the Count are old friends. Normally the circus travels in the Spring, Summer, and Fall to the many trade fairs in this prosperous area. The traders schedule these so they don't compete with each other and each community prospers from the affair. Calzoni's Circus follow the fairs and entertains the crowds there. It is a high class act for this time and place. In the Winter, the circus finds a place to camp out and work up new routines, repair equipment, and rest. The Count invited them to camp near the Manor on his estate. He likes the circus too. Calzoni is a good businessman, and runs a tight ship. If a performer or employee doesn't meet his high standards, out they go! His current group consists of very good professionals. The old wizard is having health related difficulties, but sees Perry as a chance to keep on working. He will teach Perry all he can about stage magic and mentalist and card tricks (which is considerable), and Bonk and Boink, the clowns, will help add some levity to the performances. Boink is a pretty good hand at prestidigitation himself. Perry is impressed to note that the clowns are serious fellows when not in the ring doing their thing (which they do very well). Perry is also impressed by how much hard work is necessary to make the circus run properly. There are a large number of non-performers who are needed to set up and keep things going. With regard to his new job, he has to get an OK on all his tricks and spells from the old man and from Calzoni, who, fortunately, with his showman's eye and mind, helps come up with good ideas and helpful critiques. All the winter long the Manor folk get to see the workups of the circus community. Tzu loves to bring the orphans from Kazgrad for these shows. It is a huge treat for the children. And Perry and the other FOTV members note that the tough lady has a soft side when she is with the kids. Until she knocked out cold a local who had the audacity to pinch her while she was taking the kids to the refreshment stand for popcorn and peanuts. Mad rOy-- Mark
Canzoni's Circus
Haynee Canzoni and his wife Karlota who shared duty as Ringmaster and Ringmistress
Morgo the Ogre who did feats of strength
Blumphoma the 600 pound fat lady
Mergal the Mysterious - a rogue hedge wizard and stage magician. Old and arthritic, he tends to drink a lot. He resents Perry as a possible replacement.
The Juggler brothers, Jok and Johjo
Doomian the Knifer who has a dagger tossing act, and his assistant and partner, Dumia
The very popular clowns: Saphira, Bonk, Boink, and Boodles. They are VERY funny.
Wikam and Marjo, the trained dog act and their canine octet.
Saldo, and his wife and kids who do a good horse act with trained horses
The Acrobats: Felippo, Fafonna, Foxey, and Fedorah
Krusha the Great with his animal act: a Bear, a Cougar, a Wolf
Lupini and Messanga the high wire tight rope act
The Trapeze group: Block and Dekkar, and Avera and Santa. The latter pair are flirting eqgregiously with our half elf hero. (They smell money).
And the usual circus side show people and roustabouts.
Side Show
Studger the Hobb manager
Gorgus Gorji - the Uruk knife juggler and sword swallower
Toadie an outcast Boglin, who likes to stay wet
Felina, the Cat Woman. an animorph who got stuck while partly still cat.She is a prostitute in her spare time, and does well.
Treeyahji is the true monster of the show. He is a 'siamese' triplet. He has two small child size people embedded in his flesh. Creepy trio. Big attraction.
Mort the zombie stays in his ice chest most of the time. Studger controls him.
Hairy Hal has a real bad hair problem. Suffers from hirsutism.
Blumphoma is the 600 pound fat lady
Morgo the Ogre is the circus strong man.
Phlemm is the fire breather and does neat things with flames
Schwartz is covered with warts and odd skin growths
Cameelyah is a fairy, and does a nice show of her own
Frakis is a true hermaphrodite- has both sets of sex organs and breasts
Flexx is the 'rubber man' - a contortionist with stretchable skin
Sssshuussshhanna the snake lady- has snake skin and snake eyes, and a menagerie of serpents which she loves to scare crowds with.
The Count let Perry have the Manor's excellent carpenters build him a wagonaccording to his wishes. He paid them generously for their fine work. An excellent team of horses and a groom were also hired on.
The narrative, with most of the chaff cut out, and in order:
On Tue, Dec 31, 2013 at 5:09 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Dear Mark/Perry
Here is basically how I see the Hippodrome situation at the Manor.
Calzoni and the Count are old friends. Normally the circus travels in the Spring, Summer, and Fall to the many trade fairs in this prosperous area. The traders schedule these so they don't compete with each other and each community prospers from the affair. Calzoni's Circus follow the fairs and entertains the crowds there. It is a high class act for this time and place. In the Winter, the circus finds a place to camp out and work up new routines, repair equipment, and rest. The Count invited them to camp near the Manor on his estate. He likes the circus too.
Calzoni is a good businessman, and runs a tight ship. If a performer or employee doesn't meet his high standards, out they go! His current group consists of very good professionals. The old wizard is having health related difficulties, but sees Perry as a chance to keep on working. He will teach Perry all he can about stage magic and mentalist and card tricks (which is considerable), and Bonk and Boink, the clowns, will help add some levity to the performances. Boink is a pretty good hand at prestidigitation himself. Perry is impressed to note that the clowns are serious fellows when not in the ring doing their thing (which they do very well).
Perry is also impressed by how much hard work is necessary to make the circus run properly. There are a large number of non-performers who are needed to set up and keep things going. With regard to his new job, he has to get an OK on all his tricks and spells from the old man and from Calzoni, who, fortunately, with his showman's eye and mind, helps come up with good ideas and helpful critiques.
All the winter long the Manor folk get to see the workups of the circus community. Tzu loves to bring the orphans from Kazgrad for these shows. It is a huge treat for the children. And Perry and the other FOTV members note that the tough lady has a soft side when she is with the kids. Until she knocked out cold a local who had the audacity to pinch her while she was taking the kids to the refreshment stand for popcorn and peanuts.
Mad rOy
On Tuesday, December 31, 2013 12:15 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear Roy
Perry will buckle down and learn from Calzoni, the old wizard and the clowns and have a good time with the girls. He wants to develop a trick with his Sparkly Ball spell in which he calls down a member of the audience and asks if he has been problems with the lights at home recently, whereupon the circus lights are dimmed, at which point one of the clowns cuts the man's belt and Perry gives him two sparkly balls...
On Wed, Jan 1, 2014 at 3:00 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Canzoni and Boink ask Perry to try the trick using Boink as the victim who is having trouble with his lights. Jeeves will de-pants the clown, who wears very amusing boxer shorts, and he will do his crazed clown antics as he runs off the stage when the sparkly balls appear. This will fit into the act in which Boink has been messing with both magicians for a while. And when tried, it really was funny!
Perry has also begun to take an interest in the circus's side show. They have a 'freak group' which is really interesting, including a real zombie whom they keep on ice when he is not on stage. A Hobb rogue named Studger handles this part of the circus and is a big player in the group.
Perry is also impressed with the people who cook for the circus folk, the costume people, and the many roustabouts who take care of the animals and all the circus stuff. It is an amazing operation.
On Wednesday, January 1, 2014 5:08 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry sought out Studger.
"I love this part of Mr. Calzooni's circus! You do an amazing job with that zombie. Don't tell the boss I call him Calzoni, will you?" He paused for breath.
What else have you had down the years? I'm sure there must be some great stories you could tell. I'd be happy to buy you supper if you would care to join me? I'd be interested in knowing if there are acts you'd like to add - I might be able to help locate specialities..."
On Thu, Jan 2, 2014 at 4:36 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
The circus has its own food and mess tent. The food is not fancy, but is pretty good and nourishing. Studger is a nervous little Hobb who is pleased to talk with Perry. He seems a bit nervous of real wizards, but is happy to introduce Perry to his team. There is the Cat Woman, an animorph who can't seem to get completely back to human form again. The Crone Seer is an old woman who tells fortunes, reads palms and tea leaves, and does Tarot spreads. She is good at it. Most of the 'freaks' are unfortunate people with rare birth defects or diseases that are fascinating in a horrible way. Each has an interesting (and not always true) story to tell. They are gifted entertainers all, and the show draws a good crowd.
On Friday, January 3, 2014 1:58 AM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry is excited about the prospect of having his fortune read by the Crone Seer. He hopes Studger will join him. Perry wants the full monty - tea leaves, palm, cards. He also wants to use the Scribing Quill spell to take down the stories of the entertainers if they will let him. He has in mind to start a periodical and thinks the Count might be able to steering him in the right direction here. He is also keen to take Studger to Fang's winery.
On Fri, Jan 3, 2014 at 6:05 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
The Crone is happy to give Perry the full spectrum, but he quickly realizes that she is a much better psychologist and reader of people's expectations than a seer. When pressed, she admits, smiling, that it is mostly show and a guess. She can read from what she looks at according to her best, and usually accurate, guess at what the client wants to hear. She does give good advice to people, and never predicts anything really bad for anyone. Very nice old lady. Makes good brownies.
Studger goes with Perry to the Winery and is very impressed. He buys a barrel of good wine to treat his companions in the side show. All the folks in the side show are happy to meet anyone who is interested in them and their sad stories. Perry is learning a lot about the entertainment business.
The old wizard has him practicing the card tricks and mentalist routines, and here again he finds that it is a skill. There is little or no real magic in it, even when it looks or sounds very impressive. He has learned though not to play cards with the old rogue. He can deal you any hand he wants!
(Have you ever seen the movie about Freaks with Tom Baker? It will give you a good picture of a circus side show. And for a weird creepy circus I recommend The Circus Of Dr Lao, and Something Wicked This Way Comes. Excellent movies.)
On Saturday, January 4, 2014 10:48 AM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Thanks for the movie tips :)
Now Perry is begining to get the feel of things in the circus and feel part of it, he wants to spend more time with the clowns hearing their stories - that and take these acrobat girls for a picnic and share some strawberries with them. What is he living in? He likes the idea of having a caravan. He tells Studger about the two men he has seen loitering on the edges of the camp for the past two nights and wonders if he knows anything about them - they refused to speak with him when he approached and pulled their cloaks about so that he couldn't get a good look at them.
On Sun, Jan 5, 2014 at 4:41 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Two men on the camp loitering? Hmmm. Does the Count know people are stalking or spying on his circus friends? Maybe he will send Lady Wenn out after dark for a lookaround. She is bored with just
taking care of the Count's patients.
On Monday, January 6, 2014 11:38 AM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry was wanting to see Lady Wenn. He wondered how she was settling in to this new life. Perry asked Studger if he knew anything of her. He also wondered just how widely the circus travelled - he knew that the getting there was not easy but there were other continents on Trollworld and Perry had a proseletysing feeling growing in his bones. The more time he spent with the circus the more he felt that this was exactly what the rougher parts of the Dragon continent needed to change their outlook on life and he guessed this might me true of the Eagle continent as well.
On Tue, Jan 7, 2014 at 4:30 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Studger admitted he had heard of the Lady Wenn who ran a hospital in Kazgrad, and treated patients with blood disorders at the manor. If she was a true vampire, a scion of the great Count Rasulki, she would scare the hraaka out of him.
That night as Perry settled down in his new carriage, there was a knock on the door. He opened it and a beautiful lady stood on the threshold. She wore a black dress, and cloak. Her lustrous hair was long and dark, tied up with a black velvet band, Her perfect skin was like ivory, and her luscious lips were red as roses. Perry found it intimidating to look into her dark eyes.
"Hello," he finally stammered. "Long time, no see."
"Hello, Perry," she said in a voice that sent a little thrill up his spine. "You have to invite me in. I cannot cross your threshold without your permission."
She had a faint trace of a lisp. A quick smile revealed the prominent canine teeth that caused it.
On Tuesday, January 7, 2014 1:08 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Checking that his ring was on his finger and that no messages of peril were coming his way, Perry bowed low and asked the lady to step inside his mobile home. 'I am delighted to see you again,' he said warmly. 'Life has been kind to you by your appearance. Tell me of your life here. You can see that I have joined the circus! Mind you, I've had quite a few adventures on the way, I can tell you. Zhahn is the same as ever, Mensa has changed more than I really care for and I'm sure you know of all the Count's friends. Sorry - I'm gabbling! I confess I'm a little nervous - no offence meant! I'll be quiet now and let you talk. Would you like some elderflower cordial? I had it made specially to give me a lift for my stage performances.'
Jan 8
to Grandpa, me
On , Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Lady Wenn smiled her cold smile again, and the thought crossed Perry's mind that this must be what the baby bird in the nest feels when he confronts the unblinking eyes of a serpent.
"I apologize," murmured the Lady. " I cannot drink...Cordial. No matter how wonderful it smells."
She laughed at that. "I have had a full report of your recent excurision. It was sad that I could not join you. I am still forced to...sleep, during daylight hours. Sometimes I think that it would be fun to go up against a large group of foes like this this... But I am sure what I would do would appall the rest of you."
She sighed. "There is a core of violence in beings like me. It is hard to deny it at times. But my Beloved Count keeps me under control.. I must not disgrace his house or embarrass him...I am so grateful for all he has done for me. And his punishment would be ...terrible."
She looked around at the luxurious interior of Perry's coach. "You have done well, old friend. A pity your relationship with Audirah did not work out. She would have been a good partner and spouse for you. But she is happy with her new lover. I hope you find another as good as she would have been."
She continued. "The circus suits you and your personality well. They are mostly good people. But be careful. Some of them will exploit you or cheat you if you are too trusting. And be especially careful not to mess with other men's women. Even a wizard cannot survive having his throat cut."
In the distance, wolves howled. Lady Wenn looked up, and listened intently. "I have sent my pets to patrol the woods about the camp here. Someone said there were strangers taking improper interest in what was going on here. I plan to have a fly-through the forest environs myself tonight. If I see anyone behaving suspiciously, I will question them about their activities and intentions. The circus is under the Count's protection. We pride ourselves on being the best of hosts."
She stood up and gave Perry a gentle hug. She was cold as ice to the touch. And he felt like she could break him like a twig if she wanted.
"You will always be my friend, Perry," she said. "Until we meet again, fare thee well." She left, and then flew lightly away at speed towards the woods. Perry felt really sorry for any normal beings who might meet her in the dark there.
On Thursday, January 9, 2014 12:03 AM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
When Lady Wenn had left him, Perry suddenly experienced something he had never felt before - jealousy. He thought of Audirah and he stewed until he boiled. Then he jumped up and left his caravan, seizing the nearest horse and setting off at a gallop for the Raskuli Manor. He wanted to know who this fellow was that had made his girlfriend so happy when she should have been pining. Did she think he'd really left her? It was only part of their courtship! He would find out what this dandy was really up to... no good, of that he was certain. Why, the blackguard would destroy her honour if he, Perry, did not give him a piece of his mind. He rode like the wind, his heels not sparing the horse's flanks as he sped towards this cur's come uppance.
On Thu, Jan 9, 2014 at 9:47 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Then, to Perry's dismay, he realized that a group of wolves were pursuing him and his steed. The nearest were nipping at the horse's fetlocks! He was at risk of being dragged down by this pack of beasts, and his horse was on the verge of panic.
On Thursday, January 9, 2014 12:57 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry snapped out of his madness. His horse was not to be food for these curs! He flexed his fingers and cast a web spell and his pursuers and then got ready with his whammied crowbar, swinging in defensively on the other side to the web spell. [rolls 2,4 so makes spell]
Roy Cram
Jan 9
to me, Grandpa
On Thursday, January 9, 2014 9:19 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Perry unfortunately had picked one of the coach horses to ride back to the manor, a big sturdy horse, but not built for speed. It was also not accustomed to having a rider. At the moment Perry began to try to cast a spell on the wolves which were directly behind him, his mighty steed decided that those who dared to nip at its fetlocks should be introduced to its big hooves. The poor half elf found himself on the back of a horse whose bucking at this point would have challenged even an experienced cowboy's skill. As a result, his web spell hit a tree nearby, and he lost his grip on the crowbar trying to keep his place on bobbin' Dobbin, and then, to his horror, he found himself flying tail over teakettle to land with a thump (3 points Con damage) and the horse raced off at best speed towards the manor.
He rolled painfully over and a huge gray wolf landed heavily on his chest. But the powerful predator did not bite him. It put its muzzle with its large fangs just over his throat and growled what could have been a warning not to attempt anything. The other wolves, seven in all, formed a circle around him, and their alpha.
On Friday, January 10, 2014 12:05 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
The eyes staring into his held Perry more than the threat writ large by the teeth. Jolted into a darker place than he had been on his recent mission, Perry saw all his loved ones march through his mind in his final moments. He could not believe that the Count would let such creatures roam so close to the Manor. Where was Wen Wen now? He looked deeply into those eyes and whispered, "What is that you want here? You have picked a poor place for making an example of me, wolfkin.'
On Fri, Jan 10, 2014 at 11:53 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Something large and black flew down inside the circle of wolves. Was that a BAT?! The wolf on Perry's chest immediately jumped off, and cowered before the Lady Wenn. The other wolves all kow towed to the Vampyre. She came forward and looked down at the half elf.
"What on Trollworld is this," she said, suppressing her urge to laugh. "When my pets told me they had caught someone suspicious, who could have predicted it would be you?"
She gently helped Perry up, and he felt the cold power of her Poor Baby spell repair the damage to his back.
"Your back will be tender for a while," she said. "No heavy lifting until it is well. And now, what compelled you to ride like a madman though the dark woods after I had told you my pets were out on patrol here. Were you going to the Manor on important business? Have someone you had to see?"
On Friday, January 10, 2014 11:34 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Perry was flabberghasted. "I'm so sorry!" he spluttered. "I don't know what came over me. I suddenly thought of Audirah and her new man and I sort of flipped. What is he like? Is he good enough for her? I didn't really spend that long with her but I don't want her to be taken advantage of by someone who won't respect her or who minds her putting on weight."
He shuddered as he thought of what might have been. "Do you control them? You must have grown enormously in power under the Count's guidance."
On Sat, Jan 11, 2014 at 7:35 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Lady Wenn laughed. (Great Zott, but she was sexy!). "The Count works me hard and teaches me all he can. I have spent much time learning how to deal with the wolfen folk. We are much alike in some ways. I told them to hold any prisoner they caught, so you are lucky there. Normally they do not bother the kindreds. They help keep the deer population from overrunning our woods.'
"As for dear Audirah: while you were off adventuring, an old suitor of hers, a certain high Elf Prince named Ellendor, came to the Manor and wooed her with gifts and untiring attention. He is handsome, rich, and powerful." She sighed and licked her red lips; then continued: " He had known her family before they fell on hard times, and a marriage to this warrior mage would restore the honor and status of her house. She hesitated, but the Prince was adamant in his efforts, and was evidently too good a deal for the lady to pass up. They left several days ago to return to Ellendor's castle where they will celebrate their bonding. You were absorbed in becoming part of the circus, and paying attention to the ladies there. I believe that last part helped her make her final decision. At any rate, she will be well married to a spouse who loves her dearly."
On Saturday, January 11, 2014 3:17 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
"Thank you for that news. It's good, I think... Oh well, back to the circus. How do you feel about the town on the river, Hunt Center? Do you bear it ill will? I know you had a vile time there."
On Saturday, January 11, 2014 6:02 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote:
Will do that next :) Nice scene with the wolves, Roy!
On Sat, Jan 11, 2014 at 11:14 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
The Lady grew more solemn. "I heard of Kannish's visit to that place. The town may recover in time, but he left it in shambles. It is good that he was relieved of his curse in the assault on Greybat. The Count worried a lot about the Loogaroo. Even he would be hard pressed to deal with such a monster."
She checked out Perry's still tender back, and helped him find his crowbar. "Your horse will return to you in the morning. My pets won't bother him. He kicked one of them, and I must go tend to the injured now. Stay alert, Perryfriend. We still have not found the two strangers spying on the circus folk."
She spread her cloak and flew silently away. Perry was unmolested during his long walk back to the hippodrome camp.
((Please fill me in on your mystery men. I have not yet figured out how they fit into this story))
>
> On Saturday, January
> 11, 2014 11:35 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
> The two men are shadowjacks so they are
> hard to find let alone catch. They are agents of a
> 'power' on the Eagle
> continent who senses an opportunity to gain a foothold on
> the Dragon continent after the fall of Greybat. They want to
> find out what forces Raskuli has an to see if he can be
> persuaded to join a coup against the Death Goddess and seize
> Khazan. There are more of these shadowjacks in Khazan
> destabilising the Wizards' Guild and buying up
> controlling interests in food distribution businesses,
> jewellers and banks - they intend to cause civil unrest with
> food shortages and to flood the city with fake gems and
> coins...
On Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at
> 6:43 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com>
> wrote:
>
> ((Sounds like you have the
> beginnings of the next FOTV adventure! Do these shadowjacks
> have an odor that a wolf or vampire could
> smell?))
>
>
On Thu, Jan 16, 2014 at 2:02 PM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote:
Canzoni and Boink ask Perry to try the trick using Boink as the victim who is having trouble with his lights. Jeeves will de-pants the clown, who wears very amusing boxer shorts, and he will do his crazed clown antics as he runs off the stage when the sparkly balls appear. This will fit into the act in which Boink has been messing with both magicians for a while. And when tried, it really was funny! Perry has also begun to take an interest in the circus's side show. They have a 'freak group' which is really interesting, including a real zombie whom they keep on ice when he is not on stage. A Hobb rogue named Studger handles this part of the circus and is a big player in the group. Perry is also impressed with the people who cook for the circus folk, the costume people, and the many roustabouts who take care of the animals and all the circus stuff. It is an amazing operation. On Tuesday, December 31, 2013 12:15 PM, Mark Thornton <mark.findlayrd@gmail.com> wrote: Dear RoyPerry will buckle down and learn from Calzoni, the old wizard and the clowns and have a good time with the girls. He wants to develop a trick with his Sparkly Ball spell in which he calls down a member of the audience and asks if he has been problems with the lights at home recently, whereupon the circus lights are dimmed, at which point one of the clowns cuts the man's belt and Perry gives him two sparkly balls... On Tue, Dec 31, 2013 at 5:09 AM, Roy Cram <madroy2005@yahoo.com> wrote: Dear Mark/PerryHere is basically how I see the Hippodrome situation at the Manor.Calzoni and the Count are old friends. Normally the circus travels in the Spring, Summer, and Fall to the many trade fairs in this prosperous area. The traders schedule these so they don't compete with each other and each community prospers from the affair. Calzoni's Circus follow the fairs and entertains the crowds there. It is a high class act for this time and place. In the Winter, the circus finds a place to camp out and work up new routines, repair equipment, and rest. The Count invited them to camp near the Manor on his estate. He likes the circus too. Calzoni is a good businessman, and runs a tight ship. If a performer or employee doesn't meet his high standards, out they go! His current group consists of very good professionals. The old wizard is having health related difficulties, but sees Perry as a chance to keep on working. He will teach Perry all he can about stage magic and mentalist and card tricks (which is considerable), and Bonk and Boink, the clowns, will help add some levity to the performances. Boink is a pretty good hand at prestidigitation himself. Perry is impressed to note that the clowns are serious fellows when not in the ring doing their thing (which they do very well). Perry is also impressed by how much hard work is necessary to make the circus run properly. There are a large number of non-performers who are needed to set up and keep things going. With regard to his new job, he has to get an OK on all his tricks and spells from the old man and from Calzoni, who, fortunately, with his showman's eye and mind, helps come up with good ideas and helpful critiques. All the winter long the Manor folk get to see the workups of the circus community. Tzu loves to bring the orphans from Kazgrad for these shows. It is a huge treat for the children. And Perry and the other FOTV members note that the tough lady has a soft side when she is with the kids. Until she knocked out cold a local who had the audacity to pinch her while she was taking the kids to the refreshment stand for popcorn and peanuts. Mad rOy-- Mark
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