[It's midafternoon, a day after Mary Anne Pippins recieved news of the train heist. She's currently at a meeting for The Redrock Society of Explorers and Scientists, standing in for her grandfather, who has unfortunately taken ill.] [The place, usually full of debate and discussion, is currently silent, as every one of the members' eyes are on her. It's hard being the bearer of bad news.] [Session Start.] * MaryAnne stands before the gathering in her nice clothing, wearing her cute hat, and carrying her folded umbrella in hand * ARandomExplorer peers at Mary intently. * MaryAnne says "My fellow members, It has come to me to bring ill tidings. I have just found out that the train delivering the recently discovered tablet has been held up by bandits, it would seem. I know this is dreadful news." "I know how disapointed everyone is, especially myself and my grandfather." [The members certainly seem to take it as dreadful news, all right. They murmer quietly but excitedly amongst themselves.] "It is an unfortunate fact that we all live in world where not everyone is of high standards and morals." * ARandomExplorer speaks up over the crowd. "Nevermind that! What about the tablet?" * MaryAnne is silent a moment to give them a moment to absorb the situation "Yes, I was just getting to that. It seems that the tablet was also taken. Fortunately no one was killed." Yes, that is fortunate. But the tablet was stolen! * MaryAnne seems a little sad "Yes, I'm afraid it was." We put a lot of money into that expedition. And think of the knowledge we could have gained! The opportunity of a lifetime, gone! Slipped through our fingers, just like sand! * MaryAnne looks firmly at the members "I fully understand how you feel. I propose that we advertise for capable individuals and with them form a recovery party to recover the tablet from the bandits." [They murmur again, but it sounds more thoughtful.] The idea does have it's merits... I don't know. Some of these mercenary types... I don't like it. True. True. What if they steal the tablet for themselves? "I can not propose to understand the exact purpose of the bandits in taking our tablet, but I am sure it is for their own selfish reasons rather than for the good of mankind." Most deffinately. But how can you be sure that the mercenaries we hire will be trustworthy? We'll have enough trouble getting any mercenaries at all. Not many understand the importance of this discovery! "I am sure that they understand the concept of reward, even if they don't comprehend the importance of the tablet. I would hope the individuls we choose would be of good moral character, however, I propose that my grandfather and I accomanpy them so as to monitor their progress and make sure our interests are followed." [There are murmurs of approval.] If one of out members were to go along, then we could make sure the tablet is in good hands. * ARandomScientist nods. "I'm glad it's not me, though. Bandits..." He shivers. "Brrr..." "I believe this would be the best course of action. Does anyone have any alternative proposals, questions, or suggestions?" [Nobody offers any.] * MaryAnne waits a moment, looking over the group before her "Very well then. I will see to posting the ads." "Thank you for your time and good day." she curtsies and then takes her leave. [They nod approvingly.] [Intro End]