steamtech

05:40 pm: The Brass Hand of Dr. Martell
"Paranormal investigator, previously mystic antagonist and rare items finder for the Prussian state, Elisabeth Ravenlocke drummed her fingers on the counter of the telegraph office. Giving the operator a stern look as he paused to glance over at her.
'When can I expect my message to reach it's destination?'
'Few weeks ma'am, awful slow waitin' fer the steamer to depart for civilisation. Then it 'as to be sent on from there.'
'That will have to do.'
Adjusting her wide brimmed pith helmet and taking a glance at her pocket watch, Elisabeth turned and left the office, as the tap of her heels echoed through the wood she hoped the Royal Society would pay heed to her message."

09:58 pm: Next Event
Apologies for the months of silence whilst I battle with employment and other commitments.

Although another 'An Evening of Science and Mystery' event is still a much intended dot on the horizon, those of you wishing to take part in a live roleplaying game of steam punk proportions should watch this space (and facebook) for the announcement of 'The Brass Hand of Dr Martell' a penny dreadful publication in larp format.

09:39 pm:
"Alexis shifted nervously from one foot to the other as she took in the exquisitly decorated drawing room, the roaring fire made her sweat under her wolf furs and the red haired face that reflected back at her from a multi-tude of highly polished souvenirs and weapons mounted on an array of oak shelves made her self-concious.

'Stop fidgeting.' Rider nudged her in the shoulder with his elbow and checked his own uneasiness.

'Can't help it, not like it here.'

'Better than the freezing mountainside I'd say.'

'Not my problem you forget proper coat.'

As Rider opened his mouth to respond the door to the dining room flew open and in marched a short fellow sporting an handle mustache that could easily have been a broom attached to his face. His head reflected the light of the fire in his baldness and he wore a pristine military uniform that might have been French foriegn legion. He regarded the two adventurers with raised eyebrows and a huge grin spread across his face, he stepped forward with his hand extended towards Rider and opened his mouth to speak.

'Allo allo. Ah em Colenel Briganten, oww plezont to ave guests in mah umble abude.'

Next to him Rider heard Alexis let out a faint whimper."


An Evening of Science and Mystery Case #3...

Coming soon, watch this space for details...

11:10 pm:  Political, Natural Philosophy and Linguistic briefs now up.

10:51 pm: Skill briefs are hitting the web, Engineering, Occult and Military up now up on the forum.

11:50 pm:  The Times, 15th June 1866

"As the Great Tea Race set's off from the distant land of China, this year seeing the largest wagers ever placed on the clipper's journies from the mysterious east, word reaches us that diplomatic relations with the Dragon have been rescued through the masterful work of the Foriegn Secretary. As I write, the worlds finest diplomats, politicians and nobility head to the Chinese port of Canton where the Princess Chirp Sing is to be wed to the Mongolian Taiji Tömörbaatar (Prince Iron-Hero).

The Princess being forbidden to leave the land of the Dragon and the family of her future husband forbidden to enter by ancient treaty. The British embassy has offered to play host to the groom, the people of Britain being granted the honour of standing as his family for the ceremony. Rumour has it that Russian diplomats have made similar offers and are to stand with the bride on this joyous occasion."

08:25 pm:

The updates to the 'An Evening of Science and Mystery' game rules are now available on the 'Game Rules' section of the Forum of Science and Mystery. http://scienceandmystery.myfreeforum.org/forum20.php

Engineers, Natural Philosophers and Politicians especially should take a look.

11:07 pm:  We are pleased to announce, curtesy of Captain Hartraft, the Aether-Communications Delta for 'An Evening of Science and Mystery.' Or The Forum of Science and Mystery for IC communications, Skill Briefings and General Announcements...

http://scienceandmystery.myfreeforum.org/index.php

06:58 pm: Do you ponder the wonders of science? Does your heart long for adventure in distant lands? Do you crave enigma?

A year has passed since the mysterious events atop the Bavarian mountains. Now the wedding of Chirp Sing, daughter to the mighty Dragon Emporer Hu Yu, draws ever closer and the worlds most influential figures descend upon the trading port of Guangzhou in preparation for this happy occasion.

There may never be another opportunity for strangers to the Children of the Dragon to experience the mysterious land of China in this manner, dare you miss it?

An Evening of Science and Mystery Case #2: The Song of the Nightingale...
Mysterious happenings, political intruigue, Chinese tea and everyone's favourite Mad Science!

Date: Saturday 28th June 2008
Arrivals: Anytime after 5pm.
Time in: 6pm-10pm
Location: Water Orton Parish Church Hall, New Road, Water Orton, B46 1QU.

Price: £5

Restrictions: Over 16's only, under 18's will require written consent of parent or guardian.

Game rules available at http://steamtech.livejournal.com

Note: We will be updating the game rules to take account of system performance at the first game, keep an eye out for the version 1.1 rules on steamtech.
 

12:56 am:

Excerpt from 'The Times' newspaper, 4th April 1866.

"With the Queen unable to attend the upcoming Wedding of Chirp Sing, daughter to the great Chinese Emperor Hu Yu, relations with this mysterious foreign power have been strained. It is hoped that plans put together by the foreign secretary will tame the dragon before the diplomatic situation deteriorates further."


Are you ready to voyage into the realms of the Mysterious East?
More details to follow... 

(Also the previous entry regarding Project Proposals in Downtime has had the formatting sorted. The font is still doing whacky things I'm afraid.)

03:41 pm:

The Long awaited information...

Herein lie's the amended guide to downtime project submission which replaces anything previously mentioned in the rule book. Please ensure project proposals are submitted to the downtime e-mail address by the end of April to give plenty of time for them to be sorted, assimilated into the game world and their responses formulated.
Please pass the message on to other players who may not have seen this.

E-mail: downtime (dot) submission (at) googlemail.com

Next game

I'm currently in negotiations with venue and timetable for the next game to be in June. Will avoid clashes with Maelstrom, CP, LT and SINergy and try to allow a weekends recovery between events if practical


Guide to Downtime

In the year that passes In Character between games your character has opportunity to get involved in a number of activities and influence the world around them. This time inbetween games is known as the 'downtime' period as you are not actively roleplaying during this time.

Downtime's in 'An Evening of Science and Mystery' take the form of Project Proposals. These proposals outline...> What they are trying to achieve.
> Who is assisting.
> Who is leading the Project.

Leading and assisting

 

When determining how successful a project is the overall skills, means, influence and fame of the characters taking part in the project is taken into account and compared to the relative impact of, difficulty in achieving or opposition to the project.

> The more projects they contribute to, the less effect their contributions have.
> A character not leading a project may contribute to as many projects as they wish.

A Project leader may not contribute to other projects.

Types of Project

> Opposition – Directly sabotaging another project.
> Motion – A political manoeuvre to influence the world.
> Expedition – Exploring the unknown for riches and information.
> Research – Developing a new gadget or honing a new ability.

Research

The objective of a research project is to develop new gadgets or abilities such as spells, drugs or translations of ancient languages. These projects can result in Patents being awarded which may then be adopted by other players or NPC groups to increase the means, influence and fame of those involved.

All research projects result in the character gaining some benefit, even if the patent is not awarded for a successful device the character may develop a working Prototype which they may use at games but which needs further research before it may be adopted by other characters.

Patents –

Each character involved in a project has a Share in the patent, this gives them the right to offer the device or ability to other characters or NPC's for adoption. When ten characters or one large NPC group adopts a patent everyone with a share in the patent benefits. The project leader gains one point of Means, Influence and Fame whilst those who contributed to the project gain one point of Means.

A character may sell their share in a patent, this is done by exchanging their right to offer the patent for adoption and any future benefits of the patent being adopted for an agreed number of Means. e.g. Herman Munster has decided to sell his share in the 'Steam gun' patent gained by assisting Hurtz Van Rentall. He exchanges his right to offer the patent for adoption and any future gain in means for it being adopted with the Parasol Foundation for three points of Means which are removed from the Foundations total and added to Herman's.

> These shares may be traded for Means.
> Everyone involved in the project has a share in the patent.They represent reliable devices or abilities that may be adopted by others.

> Patents are awarded for successful projects.

Prototypes

A prototype weapon may be subject to jamming, a prototype spell may attract malign spirits if used in certain circumstances and a prototype chemical preparation may be poisonous to those of poor constitution.

A prototype may be physically given to another character to perform their own research upon, if you really want you may trade it for Means but that is often considered an imprudent use of resources.

Once a prototype has been created, future research using the prototype will make it easier to develop the intended device or ability.

> They always have a humorous or dangerous side effect.

> They represent works in process.
> Prototypes are awarded for unsuccessful projects.

Expedition

The objective of an expedition project is to explore the unknown parts of the world in search of old secrets and new discoveries. These projects can result in important plot clues and the artefacts from which new abilities may be researched to found new Patents. Artefacts can be traded to players or NPC's in exchange for means and successful expeditions often result in increased influence and fame of those involved.

Successful expedition projects will result in clues, artefacts and fame, unsuccessful expeditions may result in forgeries or actual clues other than those intended. Any items picked up by an expedition will be given to the project leader to do with as they will, in the same way that patents may be used to gain means, influence and fame, getting an NPC group to display the items as part of an exhibition or researching new abilities from artefacts picked up on expeditions will increase the Means, Influence and Fame of the project leader and the Fame of anybody involved in the original expedition. An increase of one to each relevant entitlement is gained each time an artefact is lent to an NPC group or a new ability is researched using the artefact.

Some unscrupulous characters may decide to fake an expedition, in this case the successful expedition results in passable fake artefacts and expedition diaries whilst failure may result in public humiliation and a loss of fame and influence.

Warning: Whilst expeditions are the best way to find the artefacts to supplement linguistic and occult research, there is the risk of contracting tropical disease or ancient curses. Make sure you take a rounded expedition group to minimise risks.> It is possible to mount a fake expedition to fool the public and gain fame.
> An unsuccessful expedition may result in forgeries or actual clues other than those intended.
> An expedition is generally used to find artefacts, information on long lost abilities and clues to help solve plotlines.

Motion

The seeds sown by a motion are not easily removed, it is possible to obtain a successful motion with minimal resources through persistent proposal.

Whenever a motion is successful (passed by the target government/organisation) the project leader gains one point of means and fame, and two points of influence whilst all those involved in the project gain two points of influence.

> Persistent proposal will eventually result in success if unopposed.
> There are no restrictions on what may be proposed.

> Motions are political proposals that may influence a town, country, continent or the world.

Opposition

The members of the opposed project team will not know who has opposed their project unless their project is led by a Master Politician, but they will be aware that their efforts have been sabotaged.

A successful sabotage results in the saboteur leader gaining one means, influence and fame whilst those contributing to the sabotage project gain one means.

> Characters will know they have been sabotaged, but won't know who did it.
> If they do not stop the target project, they will reduces it's chances of success.

> Opposition projects are designed to sabotage other projects.An opposition project is designed to sabotage another project. The skills, means, influence and fame of those opposing a project are compared with those of the opposed project team and if the opposition exceeds them the project automatically fails. If the opposed project has higher resource levels then the extent of it's success is limited rather than negated.A motion is a political manoeuvre designed to influence the game world through it's governments, organisations and peoples. Commonly made by politicians to influence their government to adopt a patent or boycott unsavoury characters. A motion has no limits on it's ambition, simply state your motion in the project proposal and the skills, means, influence and fame you have behind you will be compared to those of any opposing parties and the benefit's the proposal may have for those supporting it.If the skills and entitlements used in a project are not sufficient to achieve full success the project will result in a prototype. Prototypes are unreliable with a humorous or dangerous (or both) side effect or risk involved. They are unique due to it being uneconomical to reproduce them at the current stage of the research, to represent this only one prototype exists and this is automatically possessed by the project leader who may elect to give the prototype to another character for use or safe keeping.Patents are awarded by London for successful projects. These patents allow the character to offer the use of the new device or ability to other players and NPC groups. When a Patent is awarded it confirms the device or ability is fully working, reliable and economical to reproduce for sale to the masses.The types of project a character may propose generally fall into one of the following categories...Leading a project and seeing it through to completion is a demanding task and as a result if a character is a project leader they may not be involved in another project. Lending a hand in a project is a different matter, a character may assist as many projects as they wish but the quality of their contribution to each project diminishes as the number of projects they are contributing too increases.

11:11 pm: Coming soon!

Downtime

Downtime Project Proposals and Queries regarding downtimes can be sent to
downtime (dot) submission (at) googlemail.com

I'm currently working on a few clarifications and an example Project Proposal for people to refer to when submitting downtimes, these'll go live asap.

System Development

Having seen the game in action and having listened to some player feedback we are exploring the following...

- Uptime skills for Political characters
- Clearer use of Fame and Social Status
- Simplifcation of the Engineering system
- A more fluid Natural Philosophy analysis
- Clarification of Patent ownership and Means trading
- Online prescence
- More cowbell

Future Events

Plans for Case II - The Song of the Nightingale are underway, but we are also looking further into the future and hope to present our first guest writer for Case III. This will involve handing the reigns of the event story to an eager and talented writer who will guide you through a tale of science and mystery with our support.

10:47 pm:

"The rain lashed against the windows of the small lab perched atop a mountain deep in Bavaria, all around the sky was filled with the sound of thunder and flash of lightning. Inside the lab some of Europes finest minds rallied to defend themselves from the arcane doom summoned by malign spirits.

'Are you sure about this guv'nr?' Bob Davenport looked nervously at the copper pipe he held in his hands, on his back the boiler of his rocket pack whislted to signifiy the correct pressure had been reached.

'Positive old boy,' Colour Sergeant Richard Ball gave a reassuring nod and aimed the Focussing Coil of the hastily built Aetherotron at the arcane amulet 'CLEAR THE WAY!'

A flash of lightning, an explusion of steam, Davenport found himself hurtling skywards despite the best efforts of the roof, the hum of a charged Faraday crystal, the smell of Ozone, Ball was momentarily blinded as the Aetherotron hurled forth a burst of brilliant white light.
As the smoke cleared and eyesights returned Ball was pleased to note nothing remained of the arcane device that held the vile magics in place upon the mountain, of course the fact nothing remained of the floor on which it had been resting and the rock beneath also missing a considerable chunk was somewhat pleasing.

Outside there was an audible thud, followed by the door to the lab swinging open and a smoking Davenport staggering in.

'Did it work?'"

A big thankyou to everyone who made 'An Evening of Science and Mystery Case I - Phantoms of the Cursed Peak' so enjoyable.

Keep an eye on this space for the address to send in downtime Project Proposals and information on 'Case II - The Song of the Nightingale.'

If anyone has any photographs from the game please let me know as I'd love to see them and would like to request permission to use them for promotional purposes.

08:27 pm: Saturday, important information...
Arrivals: Please arrive between 5pm and 6pm for a prompt start. Arriving earlier may result in you meeting other community groups using the hall, a significant number of late arrivals may delay starting the event.

Directions:
From Water Orton Station: Turning right out of the station you will find yourself on a bridge heading down towards a Zebra crossing. Head over the crossing and follow the road past the shops towards St. Peter and St. Pauls Church. Here you will find a fork in the road, head left down 'New Road' until you see the Hall on your right, opposite a Bus Stop.

From Birmingham New Street Station: On leaving the station you will be presented with doors out to a car park and escalators up into the Palisades shopping centre. At the top of the escalators turn left and head out of the shopping centre, whilst going down the ramp from the exit you will see the 'Newt' pub on your right. Head directly forwards as you exit the ramp until Corporation street reaches a crossroads with Bull Street.
Turn right onto Bull Street and locate the Number 90 Bus shelter just down from Greggs the Bakers, catch the Number 90 Bus to Water Orton. This should be about £1.50 max fare.
On reaching Water Orton you can disembark on New Road opposite the Hall or near the Train Station (just before the shops) where you can follow the above directions to the hall.

Cusine: Water Orton offers an array of takeaway dining options, from the excellent local Fish and Chip shop to the acceptable local Cantonese takeaway with no other options inbetween unless you fancy a sandwich from Tesco.
Those arriving earlier in the day may wish to head to the 'Digby Inn' for a spot of Lunch. The beer selection is abyssmal but the food is alright.
Any obviously modern containers for food will be removed from play and the owner requested to leave them there until a suitable container can be located.

Beverages: Tea and Coffee making facilities will be provided at the hall, these will be self service for the most part so bring a nice cup and saucer and find someone to play your manservant. Alternativly get on the good side of someone playing a butler.
Alcohol is allowed in the hall, but please bring your own and ensure you act in a safe manner whilst under the influence.
Any obviously modern containers for beverages will be removed from play and the owner requested to leave them there until a suitable container can be located.

Consent: You will be asked to sign a form to confirm your consent to abide by the rules and safety guidelines used during 'An Evening of Science and Mystery', if you are under the age of 18 you will need to provide a letter from a parent or guardian stating that they give permission for you to attend.
Failure to comply with these requests will regrettably mean you are unable to participate in the game.
Any details held by the organisers of 'An Evening of Science and Mystery' are strictly confidential and will only be used for game based communications, contacting next of kin and informing Emergency services of important details in event of an accident.

The Law:
Weapons: It is illegal to display weapons to hysterical members of the public who are incapable of making sensible conclusions based upon the type of weapon, method of construction and clothing you may be wearing at the time. Please ensure all weaponry is kept out of sight during transit.
Drugs: Please do not carry any illegal substances on your person, in your vehicle or located in any other conceivable place during a game. What you do in your spare time is your business, but association with such substances will destroy my own and some other attendees career prospects. If you are found under the influence of or partaking of illegal substances during a game you will be escorted off site and banned from any future games, this is not a joke.

Fun: All attendees of 'An Evening of Science and Mystery' are there to enjoy themselves and engage in an evenings entertainment. Always remember that a stranger is simply a friend you have yet to meet.

Look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday...

02:56 am: Class Entitlements - Fame (I want to live forever)

A quick clarification on the way Fame translates to in character celebrity or noteriaty...

0-9: Local - Eunice Mcghee-Belgrave, Edith Cavell
10-19: National  - Isambard Kingdom-Brunel, Robert Lewis Stephenson
20-29: International - Charles Darwin, Marie Curie, Benjamin Disreali
30-39: Regal - Queen Victoria, Tsar Александр II Николаевич
40+: Legendary - St. George, Robin Hood, Gadget Hackwrench


Also the following technology was omitted from the original list of patents available...

Steam gun by Hurtz Van-Rentall: This Austrian designed device scalds it's targets into submission by engulfing them in a concentrated burst of steam. Available in pistol and rifle forms. (Makes the WHOOSH! call in ranged combat.)

12:44 am: An Invitation...

News spreads throughout the scientific community like wildfire, exquisitly drawn invitations are delivered to the most distinguished of individuals and word on the street says there are opportunities on the horizon.

"My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is not everyday that one is offered the opportunity to witness deeds that will shape the world in which we live. That is why the invitation of our fair Foundation is not to be missed.
It was with great sorrow that we heard the news of the visionary Faraday's disappearence and with great determination that our finest minds set to continuing his ground breaking works. Now we are proud to announce the fruits of our labours. Dedicated to the spirit of science and understanding, we invite all who wish to marvel in the wonders of human acheivement to attend the unvieling of a marvelous new military technology...

The Parasol Foundation is pleased to present the Grand Unvieling of Professor Nimnul's Patented Faradyne Aelectrotron, perhaps better known in the fanciful realms of Gas Lamp Fantasy as the 'Raygun.'

Hold your appoinments, give apologies to your Bridge club and make way to the city of Ingolstadt in the ancient land of Bavaria where we shall ensure all who wish to witness this historic event receive transport to our Bavarian Laboritories.

Yours Sincerly
Ulysses P. Winchester
Chairman"

Bavaria: A Brief Description

"One of my profs compared Bavaria to Scotland once. Both are home to a stubborn highland people and a language no one else understands." -Katie

A land of mighty forests, towering mountains and droning accordians. When one thinks of Germany it is the image of the Bavarian in Lederhosen that first springs to mind.
One of the first German regions to obtain political stability, Bavaria has long been an influential part of the German Empire and responsible for many conservative political thinkers. It is from Bavaria that most support for the warmongering stance of the dreaded Kaiser Ubelhund originates.
The strong Catholic following in Bavaria is demonstrated by the many roadside shrines and altars one finds during their travels in this land. This firm belief is echoed in many aspects of Bavarian life, from morning prayers to midnight mass.

03:29 pm: Event Rules Online...

Announcing the arrivial on the 'An Evening of Science and Mystery' rules...

http://undergroundrpgs.com/Stuff/ESM%200.1.pdf

Prettier version on the horizon, but this document should cover setting, character generation and game rules to get you started.
Please post any queries below so we have an FAQ for reference.

NEWS

Event price confirmed at £5 for the evening.

Event background, including 'In Character' invitations and guide to the area in which the upcoming game will be set will be posted here by the end of the week.

09:43 pm:

Saturday 8th March 2008

Time in: 6pm-10pm

Price: £5

Location: Water Orton Parish Church Hall, Water Orton, Birmingham, B46 1QU.

Restrictions: Over 16's only, under 18's will require written consent of parent or guardian.

12:02 am: An Evening of Science and Mystery...
 Gilson Cottage 1860 

"Great Scott," Rider could hardly contain his astonishment, "where on earth did you find this?"
"Was man from tavern," Alexis, the Russian wolf girl, answered conspiriatorially, "was acting nervous and ask me to keep this safe 'til he return."
"So you naturally bought it back here for me to investigate?"
"Da, was bored waiting, will take it back later."
Rider lowered the intricately carved cog he had been inspecting and groaned, considering the twisted pile of cogs and springs spilling from the brass beetle that sat on the desk before him.
"Will be fine," Alexis grinned mischieviously, "was American, have lots of money to buy new one."
"American?"
An inquisitive look spread across Rider's face as he considered the news.
"Elisabeth is currently back in America..."
The sound of the front door bell ringing interupted his train of thought and he reluctantly stood to leave his new toy. Alexis followed him through the hallway, leaning on the umbrella stand as he opened the door.
A tall man in a stove pipe topper and black frock stood outside, a look of panic on his face as he dabbed away sweat with a brilliant white handkercheif.
"Misterr Rriicharrdson ah preesume," an American accent betraying his origins, without awaiting a response he continued, "Ms. Rraayvernlocke sends herr re-gards, ah must..."
He was cut mid-sentance by the short, red haired figure of Alexis bounding forward to greet him.
"I've already examined the device," Rider spoke over his shoulder, wandering back to his study, "where does Elisabeth expect us to go this time?"

The Coach Inn 1862

"So you see Gentlemen, if we do not act quickly, things are at risk of getting dangerously out of hand."
Doctor Merryweather watched the lines of the speakers face intently, they betrayed no sign of truth or falsehood. It was a sure sign that this was no ordinary offer presented by the well spoken man from the Parasol Foundation.
"And what would be in it for us?" Mr Montague Dartford, the Doctors well dressed companion spoke up as he examined his pocket watch.
"The Foundation is expanding it's operations across the globe, with such activity there comes wealth and wealth must be invested. I hear you are seeking backing for an expedition to the Amazon?"
"I say we take the chance Monty." The Doctor turned to his friend, awaiting confirmation. Dartford stroked his beard and nodded.
"Thankyou Gentlemen," the foundation man smiled and handed them a faded photograph, "this is one Mr. Richardson. Last seen in Abyssinia, just under a year ago..."

An Evening of Science and Mystery

It is a time of exploration and discovery, a time of change and a time of wonder. In a world not unlike our own, (but suitably different to allow dramatic interpretation and a lax approach to historical accuracy) the Ladies and Gentlemen of Britain gather to discuss Science, Philospohy and Politics.
As the elections draw near the nation is divided in support of William Gladstone (consensual leader of the Utopian league, a secret society devoted to advancing the human condition) and Benjamin Disreali (chairman of Pax Brittania, a secret society dedicated to bringing peace and order to the Empire) to be the next Prime Minister and shape the world we know.
But not all is decided in the House of Commons, in countless labs across the Kingdom, men and women of Science and Philosophy tinker with apparatus, delve into ancient tomes and draw their ideas into being. Across the plains of Africa and Ice sheets of Antarctica stride the brave explorers in search of new creatures and ancient civilisations. All seeking to make their mark and prove their skill.

It is time for intruigue, it is time for discovery, it is time for An Evening of Science and Mystery...

From the team that bought you 'Serenity - Big Damn Heroes' and 'I'm Brian Blessed' comes a Live Roleplaying Game for the last Millenium.

05:28 pm: Christmas approaches and life has returned to it's 'normal' pace. As a result I've been in the workshop once more...

Anika Blixtdotter's Ocular-Enhanced Rifled Firearm 

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=424480&l=177ad&id=583687066

Richardson writes...

"The snow came down harder and harder, were it not for the rope Alexis had tied around our waists to avoid seperation I would have been hopelessly and irretrievably lost. My feet ached from the cold and my legs burned from the effort of wading through the glaring white drift that came to my waist.
As I began to abanddon hope a tugging at the rope drew me to my right. Breaking through the snow, Alexis path served to speed my progress. We had been searching this barren valley for hours and the thought of shelter gave a new wind to my sails as I follwed the rope to my companion's side. As I approached the end of my trek a faint yellow light swam into view through the heavenly onslaught that swirled all around.
All of a sudden the storm gave way to calm as I entered the mouth of a small cave, the yellow light I had seen now bathing me in it's glow originating from a small campfire in the centre of our new shelter. Beside it Alexis sat warming her hands, the furry hood of her mountain coat pulled back to reveal a mass of shocking red hair.
I began a smile which vaporised upon hearing behind me the sound of a hammer clicking back, ready to fire. It seems these things always happen the moment you let yourself think something will go right for once.
"Vot arr hyou doink heer?" the darkly seductive voice of a German lass demanded as her body pulled close to mine, her chin resting on my shoulder.
In front of me I noticed the colour drain from Alexis' already pale skin."

Brass Goggles

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=424481&l=25585&id=583687066

Proto-type version, when I'm happy with the build process I'll be able to produce them with relative ease. Commissions welcomed.