View source for AWRR2 Chapter 4.5

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==Summary==
: Session date: 2025-09-14

The games continue at Fritz's party when Saiya suggests a bit of harmless fun with Spin the Bottle!  This puts the drama into high gear - Fritz's himself goes from being kissless to kissing several girls *and* boys, Raveni gives Norn a kiss he isn't likely to forget any time soon, and even kisses (or gets kissed by) Trev Twice!  Trev also gets to climb Euphrastus like a tree.  Mitula enjoys some kisses but possibly not as many as she'd have liked, and Saiya gets to kiss both cousins, Fritz and Galatea!  Things get more awkward when Trev suggests that Mol and Paiza should kiss, since they are the last ones to get a chance to go. Firrin stalks out of the room before this can happen, ending the game and breaking up the party.  While Paiza checks in with her fiancé, Fritz tries to be a good host and check in on Mol as everyone is leaving.

Later, Firrin and Mol meet up and do their best to talk their way back to friendship.

==Session==
===Proposing a new game===
<br>* Fritz seem a little anxious after revealing some of the more racy results from the drawing game
<br><Fritz> well, that was ^-^;!  I hope everyone had fun!
<br><Saiya> It was SO fun :D
<br><Mitula> You were a little... exuberent Saiya in your artwork.
<br>* Mitula teases
<br><Raveni> I've never played that before, I quite enjoyed it
<br><Fritz> oh, good!
<br><Molgrin> Well, I just did what I SAW, I can't be held responsible if people WILL insist on including the fact that people are naked
<br><Galatea> I don't think there've ever been results quite like that in a family game. ;)
<br><Molgrin> (ww)
<br><Saiya> Well, I just did what I SAW, I can't be held responsible if people WILL insist on including the fact that people are naked
<br><Saiya> I shall have to teach the game to my siblings - perhaps with less nudity
<br><Trev> If you want there to be clothes you can draw clothes!
<br><Trev> If you draw them all the same color and that color is of their skin, what else am I to assume?
<br><Mitula> that it was a creative oversight?
<br><Raveni> Did the ones with fur count as nude or not?
<br><Fritz> it was just taking so long, I idn'rt want to keep holding things up :<br><
<br>* Raveni reddens as he realizes he said that out loud
<br><Molgrin> There was definitely at least one werewolf - or shifter? - in a suit :)
<br><Fritz> I don't think  the fur si... well.
<br>* Galatea is now known as Norn
<br><Saiya> I know what we could play next, if people wanted!
<br>* Norn seems to be considering whether having fur means you're never naked.
<br>* Norn is now known as Galatea
<br><Fritz> oh..?
<br><Galatea> Oh, what?
<br>* Fritz asks hesitantly
<br><Saiya> Spin the Bottle :D :D :D
<br>* Galatea blushes but grins.
<br>* Firrin eyes Paiza to see how she is doign with all this
<br><Galatea> That could be fun. >.>
<br><Fritz> What's that?
<br><Mitula> what does that game involve?
<br><Raveni> A bottle, presumably
<br><Fritz> well we do have lots of bottles!
<br><Saiya> Oh! Everyone sits in a circle, and place a bottle on the floor in the middle, and take turns spinning it - and then when it stops, you must KISS whoever it's pointing at :D :D :D
<br>* Raveni nearly drops his glass of wine
<br><Mitula> that sound... exciting!
<br><Trev> Hah! Oh, I haven't played that in a dog's age
<br>* Galatea is now known as Paiza
<br>* Mitula looks at her cup worried that she may have drunk a little too much cider, but shrugs
<br>* Paiza seems to be doing okay for the moment, but will give Firrin an interogative glance.
<br><Fritz> ohh...  is that...  a party game?
<br><Raveni> Are there any particular, um. Rules? To the game?
<br><Saiya> Well, in the right sort of party ;)
<br>* joshu (~joshu@2605:59c0:58f0:8108:6106:de3d:564a:82cb) has joined #awrr
<br>* joshu is now known as Norn
<br><Trev> I'm presuming if it lands on yourself you spin again?
<br>* Paiza is now known as Galatea
<br>* Fritz looks to his cousin
<br>* Galatea shrugs.
<br>* Firrin is very :) :) :) about it all
<br><Galatea> I've never played, but I've heard about it...
<br><Fritz> would, would everyone like that?
<br>* Trev winks at Fritz
<br><Mitula> do you have to kiss anyone it lands on?
<br><Trev> I'm game
<br><Trev> Yes, that's rather the point
<br>* Mitula glances at Saiya
<br><Saiya> You could just kiss on the cheek? I mean if it landed on my BROTHER I wouldn't kiss him except on the cheek ;p
<br><Mitula> Ah good point
<br><Trev> oh, yes, that's entirely acceptable
<br>* Norn is now known as Mhireen
<br><Fritz> oh well...  okay then...
<br><Mitula> I am game.
<br><Fritz> are you ment to do it... just in front of everyone?:o
<br><Mhireen> Yes, please, let's keep it from getting gross.
<br>* Mhireen is now known as Paiza
<br><Paiza> Wouldn't going elsewhere be, um, *more* scandalous?
<br><Saiya> There's other games you can play where you go somewhere else :D
<br>* Raveni glances at Mhireen
<br><Fritz> there are? :o
<br><Raveni> What constitutes "gross" in this context, other than the obvious?
<br>* Paiza is now known as Mhireen
<br>* Saiya giggles in Fritz's direction and nods
<br><Mhireen> Oh, I just meant I'm not planning on kissing my sister.
<br><Saiya> but for this one, yes, you just do it in front of everyone, that's part of the amusement :D
<br><Trev> Seven Minutes in Heaven comes to mind, that's where you're locked very briefly in a closest or small room and whatever happens, happens >:3c
<br><Fritz> :o
<br><Fritz> that's *scandalous* :o
<br>* Mhireen laughs.
<br><Fritz> do people really play that?
<br>* Galatea does look a little scandalized by that, but not unhappy about it.
<br><Fritz> well... lest just, hmm, lets try the spin the bottle game then!
<br><Trev> well, you're also supposed to be quite quiet while playing that one, lest anything be heard from outside
<br>* Raveni drains the rest of his wine glass and gets up for more
<br><Saiya> Is there an empty bottle we can use?
<br>* Raveni looks at the wine bottle he just emptied
<br><Raveni> This will do, I suppose
<br><Fritz> oh, perfect
<br><Galatea> Who's going first?
<br>* Mitula whispers to Saiya...
<br>* Raveni places it on the floor roughly in the centre of the room
<br><Mitula> should I be a little tipsy for this or sober?  to have the best fun.
<br>* Saiya giggles
<br><Saiya> Oh I don't think you want to be sober :D
<br>* Mitula nods
<br><Fritz> Oh yes who goes first? :o
<br><Raveni> We could spin it and whoever it lands on has to go first, does that work?
<br><Fritz> oh - I coudl spin it to pick who goes first?
<br><Fritz> yes :)
<br><Galatea> Makes sense.
<br><Fritz> and we all have to sit together?
<br>* Fritz will wait until everyone is arranged then, including letting those who want them get more drinks
<br><Saiya> Yes, that's best, so it doesn't end up pointing between people all the time :)
<br><Raveni> In a circle, I believe someone said?
<br><Mitula> we could put cushons on the floor.
<br>* Mhireen will go retrieve another drink.
<br>* Galatea will gather and distribute cushions.
<br>* Fritz will assist with this
<br><Galatea> There should be plenty to go around.
<br>* Fritz pulls a little bottl out form between some of the cusions
<br><Fritz> Oh... another one of these :o
<br><Saiya> What is it?
<br>* Fritz shrugs and will set it on a table
<br><Fritz> Oh I don't know, they must be somethign of Monty or Niks, I've been finding rthem tucked away *all* over the house!
<br><Saiya> Perfume or something?
<br><Trev> ... or something, yes.
<br>* Mitula finds a spot and rests softly down like a cloud softly touching a mountain top
<br>* Raveni sits far less elegantly
<br>* Molgrin takes a seat somewhere, a bit awkwardly
<br>* Saiya settles in a pile of ruffles
<br>* Firrin will sit by Paiza so they can talk quietly maybe
<br>* Galatea sits carefully, arranging her dress around reconfiguring her legs.
<br><Firrin> [quietly, to paiza] is this appropriate? I really don't know about these things....
<br>* Mhireen lounges.
<br>* Mhireen is now known as Paiza
<br><Paiza> [q] Probably not, but a bit less inappropriate for the two of us, no?
<br><Fritz> they're not very strong smelling - I've just been collecting them and the servants make them disappear ^-^
<br><Fritz> is everyone settled?
<br>* Fritz takes the wine bottle
<br><Fritz> though maybe not too settled if you have to get up!
<br>* Firrin nods
<br><Firrin> [q]well, we can retreat if it gets out of hand, I suppose....
<br>* Paiza nods, and will reach over to pat his hand reassuringly.
<br>* Trev sits back on his heels, to be around the same height as everyone else
<br><Fritz> well if everyone is ready, then here we go!

===Kiss Kiss Kiss!===
<br>* Fritz will give the bottle a good spin, it twirls around on the floor stayong more or less in place, and winds up pointing at .....
<br><Fritz> Oh it's you Mr. Marceador :)
<br>* Trev adjusts his cravat and smiles
<br><Trev> Lucky you!
<br><Trev> (ignore that)
<br><Fritz> you get first spin!
<br>* Trev expertly sets the bottle spinning
<br><Firrin> :)
<br><Trev> Ah, Mr. Pasha!
<br>* Trev goes over to Raveni, takes his face in his hands, kisses him once on each cheek, then firmly on the mouth
<br>* Raveni squeaks
<br><Mitula> oh my
<br>* Galatea giggles.
<br>* Saiya claps excitedly
<br><Fritz> :o
<br>* Raveni 's eyes are wide and black spots fade in on his forehead and cheeks
<br>* Paiza is now known as Norn
<br><Raveni> Um. Thank you?
<br>* Norn frowns, a bit concerned.
<br><Fritz> well!
<br><Raveni> My turn now, is it?
<br>* Galatea nods with a smile.
<br><Trev> Right-o!
<br>* Raveni nervously shuffles forward to the bottle and spins it. There's a big wobble at first and it skids across the floor a little before landing on...
<br><Raveni> Mr. Harrowden, is it?
<br><Fritz> oooh :)
<br>* Norn is now known as Mhireen
<br><Mhireen> Oh, me? Heh, yes, Mr. Harrowden is fine.
<br><Mhireen> As is Mhireen.
<br><Raveni> Mhireen, then.
<br>* Raveni walks swiftly over to Mhireen and gives him a very quick kiss on the lips.
<br>* Mhireen receives the kiss and chuckles good-naturedly.
<br><Mhireen> [To Saiya] No sailor jokes.
<br>* Raveni returns to his seat, very definitely not meeting anyone's eyes. His ears are now fuzzy and round to match his spots.
<br>* Saiya makes a fake barfing face at her brother
<br><Mhireen> My spin then?
<br>* Mitula giggles at the siblings
<br>* Mhireen reaches down and spins the bottle, which will eventually cease spinning, pointing at Mitula.
<br><Mhireen> Well, it's not Saiya, but this feels a *bit<br>* awkward...
<br><Mitula> Its a game.  Have fun.
<br>* Mitula encourages
<br><Fritz> you don't have to follw set precedent, surely!
<br>* Mhireen will walk over, do an exaggerated bow, and give Mitula a kiss.
<br><Mhireen> I'd wink, but... *gestures to his missing eye*.
<br>* Mitula joyfully meets his kiss, getting into the spirit
<br><Mhireen> I believe it's to you now. :)
<br><Mitula> Oh fun.
<br>* Mitula takes a moments to set the bottle up, testing the weight, and glancing around at the participants.
<br><Mitula> ... who to pick
<br><Fritz> well the bottle picks, surely!
<br><Mitula> surely a man with your wits knows that every game has some skill 
<br>* Mitula winks at him and spins...
<br><Fritz> really, well, hmmm, I suppose it must....
<br>* Raveni is fervently wishing he'd known there was skill involved prior to his go
<br>* Mitula gives an 'oh well look' as the bottle ends point to Firrin.
<br><Mitula> I might need more practice
<br><Firrin> oh, is that my spin then?
<br><Firrin> is that how it works? 
<br><Firrin> Or..
<br><Mitula> Kiss first
<br>* Mitula giggles
<br>* Firrin points between Mitula and himself
<br><Firrin> ahh, okay
<br>* Firrin glances at Paiza and tries *not<br>* to look at Mol
<br>* Mhireen is now known as Paiza
<br>* Mitula crawls/slides across the floor, somehow making it look like she is floating, ending up in front of Firrin.
<br>* Paiza tries to give him a reassuring look.
<br><Mitula> I hope you don't mind.
<br>* Molgrin looks a bit concerned
<br><Firrin> oh, why would I mind :)
<br><Firrin> please :)
<br>* Mitula smiles and rests a hand on his cheek... her fingers tingle with warm... and leans in placing a kiss on Firrin's mouth.
<br>* Firrin is maybe a little stiff (NOT LIKE THAT), but probably just nerves
<br>* Mitula will pull back afterwards, give everyone a quick stage bow from her knees and scoot back to her spot.
<br><Mitula> so much fun :)
<br><Firrin> You're very elegant, Miss Mitula!
<br><Firrin> well then
<br>* Firrin will lean over and spin and pray for no awkwardness....
<br>* Firrin eyes their host as the bottle's mouth points to him directly
<br>* Firrin 's skin is too pink to show blushes, but his eyes do go a bit wide
<br>* Firrin rises carefully though
<br>* Fritz 's eyes also go a bit wide, but he tries to smile gamely
<br>* Firrin bows gracefully and will kneel
<br><Firrin> so, um, Lord, ahh, Fritz...  where should I....?
<br><Fritz> oh!  How polite!
<br>* Trev is grinning like a fool
<br><Fritz> ....what does everyone think?  Maybe we should just go for it?
<br>* Saiya is watching with undisguised enthusiasm :D
<br>* Raveni is chanting under his breath
<br><Raveni> Go for it
<br><Fritz> oh - very well then!
<br>* Galatea nods.
<br>* Fritz tilts his head up
<br>* Fritz is *exactly<br>* the complexion to blush horribly
<br><Fritz> How silly, this will be my first kiss though so please don't judge me too harshly!
<br>* Galatea puts both hands to her mouth to keep from giggling too loudly.
<br><Trev> Better make it good, then, Lir--  Firrin.
<br><Firrin> Well,  I will try not to diasppoint.
<br>* Raveni glances curiously over at Trev's slip of a different name
<br>* Firrin will give Fritz a gentle somewhat chaste kiss that still seems a bit more enthusiatic that his kiss with Mitula, if anyone is paying attention
<br><Firrin> There :)  Your turn.
<br>* Fritz is still quite red
<br><Fritz> That was no- I mean, thank you!
<br>* Firrin will nod and go sit down
<br>* Molgrin looks at the ceiling for a bit
<br>* Paiza will put her hand on Firrin's.
<br><Paiza> [q] Are you all right?
<br>* Firrin nods to her and will put his hand on hers
<br>* Trev gets a wicked glint in his eye
<br><Firrin> (I have performed my mnologue in gif format over on discord)
<br><Trev> You know, given that young Fritz is so inexperienced, you really should give it your best, Firrin. I think you can do better than that, eh?
<br><Mitula> are we supposed to heckle too?
<br><Firrin> I thought :)  I would be kind :)
<br><Firrin> Perhaps whoever his spins can take a different approach :)
<br><Fritz> Yes well ^^;;
<br><Fritz> Lets see who that is, shall we?
<br>* Fritz will spinn the bottle again
<br><Fritz> Oh!  Colmacil Mëoirista again!
<br><Mitula> so popular
<br>* Raveni is a little more prepared this time and smiles at Fritz shyly
<br>* Fritz smiles gamely
<br><Fritz> well, I hope you will be kind too!
<br><Raveni> I always endeavour to be kind
<br>* Raveni beckons Fritz over
<br>* Fritz will get up and then
<br><Fritz> (sorry, dogstracted)
<br>* Fritz will bow politely, then bend down and give raveni a somewhat timid smooch
<br>* Galatea will give her best attempt at a whistle at that.
<br>* Raveni has had more wine by this point and is feeling feisty enough to gently grab Fritz's face and deepen the kiss
<br>* Saiya grins at that
<br><Saiya> oooh!
<br>* Paiza is now known as Mhireen
<br>* Fritz tries not to fall over from the double surprise!
<br><Mhireen> That's the spirit!
<br>* Mitula giggles
<br><Fritz> goodness @_@
<br>* Raveni releases Fritz and steadies him so he doesn't fall
<br><Raveni> Alright?
<br><Fritz> Yes, that was quite the kiss!  I'm glad I had a bit of a warmup ^-^
<br><Fritz> I will leave the bottle to you!
<br>* Trev gives a little cheer and takes another drink
<br>* Fritz will also have a big drink when he sits back down, maybe questioning some of his previous assumptions
<br><Euphrastus> Well done!
<br>* Raveni bows graciously and goes to give the bottle another spin. It's a little less wild this time and...
<br><Saiya> You're doing very well :D
<br>* Saiya assures him
<br><Fritz> oh good! ^^;;
<br>* Raveni it stops pointed directly at Norn.
<br>* Mhireen is now known as Norn
<br>* Norn coughs on his drink for a moment.
<br>* Raveni hurries over to clap him on the back
<br><Raveni> Are you alright?
<br><Norn> I'm fine, I promise.
<br><Norn> Perfectly fine.
<br><Fritz> Maybe you out to try that new technique for those who are drowning!
<br>* Norn has rearranged into perfect posture on his cushion, very proper.
<br>* Raveni barks a laugh at Fritz's comment
<br><Raveni> Ready?
<br><Norn> Yes!
<br>* Trev confusedly puts his hands on his sternum in a heimlich pose
<br><Norn> I mean, if you are.
<br><Raveni> Yep, definitely. Definitely ready.
<br>* Norn tries not to look too eager.
<br><Fritz> no, there's one called the kiss of life!
<br>* Fritz tells trev
<br><Trev> *well*, sounds like my kind of rescue!
<br>* Raveni with a somewhat less confident movement than his previous kiss, Raveni cups Norn's chin and leans in, placing a firm kiss on his lips
<br><Mitula> I'm not sure it would be so enjoyable, Mr Marceador... it involves quite a bit of force from your lungs.
<br>* Norn definitely leans forward into it a bit, forgetting the audience for a second. When they pull apart, his complexion doesn't show blushing much, but he does look a bit flustered.
<br>* Mitula puffs up her chest, but holds her breath watching
<br>* Saiya grins and claps enthusiastically
<br><Norn> That, um, wow. Thank you?
<br><Norn> That doesn't sound right...
<br><Fritz> oh that went well ^-^
<br>* Raveni grins with an obvious amount of joy and lets him go
<br>* Mitula lets her breath out with a low whistle
<br><Raveni> You're welcome
<br>* Firrin watches maybe a bit wistfully
<br>* Raveni schools his face back into a slightly less manic grin as he returns to his seat and faces the circle once more
<br>* Norn is just kind of lost in the moment for a second before remembering they're all playing a game.
<br><Norn> Ahem. Right. My turn to spin, then?
<br><Raveni> Have at it
<br>* Norn leans forward and spins the bottle gamely, perhaps a bit too forcefully, before it eventually comes to a stop pointing at Euphrastus.
<br><Euphrastus> Oh-ho!
<br>* Norn chuckles.
<br><Norn> This will be something of a new experience. I only occasionally meet people taller than me. :)
<br><Euphrastus> Actually, I've been told if you keep your eyes open it's a very unusual experience, kissing a cyclops.   You shall have to let me know if you find it so, Lord Valacirca.
<br>* Norn chuckles at that, and will walk over and lean in to give him a firm, if not exactly passionate, kiss, being sure to keep his eyes open.
<br>* Norn chuckles again.
<br>* Raveni 's smile is a bit wooden, watching
<br><Norn> That certainly is a unique experience.
<br><Norn> The floor is yours, Mr. Tinnane. :)
<br>* Euphrastus smiles.
<br>* Euphrastus takes the bottle, then pauses.
<br><Euphrastus> Definitely we are giving this little vessel a story, tonight.  It is very fresh, of course, at the moment.  
<br><Fritz> oh goodness, I hadn't thought of that!
<br>* Euphrastus sets it down and gives it a firm spin, carefully in his giant hands.
<br>* Euphrastus smiles as it stops spinning at ... Trev!
<br><Euphrastus> Well, well.
<br><Fritz> goodness ^-^
<br><Trev> Okay, you're going to have to stay seated I think, or I may need a boost
<br><Euphrastus> How would you care to manage this, Mr. Marceador? I am your servant.
<br><Euphrastus> I shall sit, then, to preserve your dignity.
<br><Trev> Oh I've little enough of that to spare, I may still have to climb you some
<br><Euphrastus> It would not be the first time, for me.
<br>* Trev slips his shoes off, laughing
<br>* Saiya giggles
<br><Trev> I imagine not
<br>* Trev wiggles his stockinged feet humorously, then stands on Euphrastus's knees
<br><Fritz> oh goodness, shoes off!
<br><Trev> There we go, that should prevent any unsightly stains on your trousers
<br>* Firrin tries not to roll his eyes
<br><Euphrastus> At least for now.
<br>* Firrin is a little curious how this will go, though >.>
<br>* Galatea almost spits out her drink.
<br>* Euphrastus sort of cradles the smaller man to avoid hands going anywhere too untoward, and gives him a bold kiss, keeping his mouth small so as to not turn this into a slobbery mess.
<br><Mitula> Yeah!
<br>* Galatea has a little trouble stopping herself laughing at Euphrastus's comment.
<br>* Trev puts a little tongue into it
<br><Euphrastus> Very well handled, my new friend.
<br><Trev> Well, you're certainly adept at that!
<br><Euphrastus> I aim to please the wee and large alike.
<br>* Euphrastus hands him the bottle.
<br><Saiya> Oh my! :D
<br>* Trev salutes with it then goes for a spin
<br><Trev> Well, well! Looks like the bottle quite favors you, Raveni!
<br><Fritz> ...and almost none of the girls!
<br><Galatea> It's been entertaining regardless. ;)
<br><Trev> Perhaps you'll be the lucky one to get one of the ladies after this, eh?
<br>* Mitula looks a little jealous
<br>* Trev goes in for a soft, slow kiss this time, with a little bit of lip nibbling
<br>* Norn tries to look nonchalant, but is clearly frowning.
<br>* Firrin glances over from Norn to Raveni and back, but keeps his mouth shut :)
<br>* Mitula will snatch the bottle and hand it to Saiya
<br><Mitula> I think Mr Pesha has spun enough for now.
<br><Fritz> oh, are we having Miss Harrowden jump the line?  I think maybe it is fair, it was her suggestion and she hasn't gotten to play hyet ^_^
<br>* Saiya giggles and will take the bottle and give it a vigorous spin
<br>* Saiya watches with anticipation as it slows and finally lands on... Galatea!
<br>* Galatea freezes for a moment, then laughs.
<br><Galatea> I suppose it's only fair. :)
<br><Fritz> Oh!
<br>* Saiya grins and will scoot over to give Galatea what she hopes is a sweet and tender kiss
<br>* Fritz covers his mouth as he watches, and shifts a little on his cusion
<br>* Raveni finally starts paying attention again after the second kiss from Trev and looks very relieved to not have to spin again
<br>* Galatea kisses back with gentle enthusiasm, smiling when she pulls back.
<br><Galatea> That was, um, also my first kiss. It was really nice, Saiya. :)
<br><Saiya> That was lovely!
<br>* Saiya smiles warmly and giggles a little as she returns to her seat
<br><Saiya> Your turn!
<br>* Galatea leans forward to spin the bottle enthusiastically, watching it spin as it lands eventually on Nezva.
<br>* Galatea looks at her to double-check.
<br><Fritz> goodness, when I said it shoudl spin some girls gtoo this wasn't quite what I expected @_@
<br>* Euphrastus is now known as Nezva
<br><Galatea> A power you didn't know you had?
<br><Galatea> ;)
<br><Fritz> perhaps :V
<br><Nezva> Well, bring it on, then.
<br><Fritz> I'm not sure it is quite how I would have chose to use it, but as long as everyone is still having fun ^-^
<br>* Nezva tries to sound bolder than she is.
<br>* Galatea will walk over, a bit nervously, and give Nezva an enthusiastic, though clearly still a bit nervous, kiss.
<br>* Nezva blushes, though her skin tone hides it well.
<br><Nezva> Ahh ... thank you.
<br>* Nezva says, not sure what else to say.
<br><Fritz> your turn!
<br>* Galatea blushes as well, and returns to her seat.
<br><Fritz> is everyoen still enjoying this?  I suppose not everyone has gotten a turn yet
<br>* Nezva takes the bottle a little nervously and gives it what she hopes is a dignified spin.
<br>* Nezva watches as it comes to rest on ... Fritz!
<br><Fritz> oh! :3
<br><Raveni> I'm not the only popular one tonight!
<br>* Nezva comes over to him.
<br><Nezva> Are you ready?
<br>* Galatea smirks at her cousin.
<br>* Mitula watches intently
<br><Fritz> oh yes :D
<br>* Raveni watches with interest
<br>* Fritz is quite happy to be kissed by any of the pretty girls here!
<br>* Nezva gives him a good firm kiss, hoping to make a good impression but not TOO good.
<br>* Fritz will try and put some of his newly aquired kissing expereince to use
<br>* Fritz won't be pushy about it though
<br><Fritz> thank you, that was lovely!
<br>* Raveni smirks into his wineglass, seeing Fritz use a familiar technique
<br>* Fritz is all blushy again
<br><Nezva> Well let's see whether it continues to be a nice bottle or a naughty one!
<br><Fritz> oh yes ^-^
<br>* Fritz will spin again!
<br>* Fritz blushes harder as it lands on Saiya
<br><Saiya> ooh! :D :D :D
<br><Fritz> Miss Harrowden...
<br>* Saiya looks over at him, eyes glinting
<br>* Galatea tries very hard to hide her excitement/amusement at this.
<br><Saiya> Yes? :D :D :D
<br>* Fritz will lean over, since we are sitting side by side all ready
<br><Fritz> May I..?
<br><Saiya> Of course you may!
<br><Fritz> well, then..
<br>* Fritz will take her hands and give her his boldest kiss of the night!
<br>* Raveni whoops
<br>* Saiya leans into the kiss, responding enthusiastically
<br>* Galatea squeals with delight.
<br>* Nezva is now known as Euphrastus
<br><Euphrastus> Well played, sir!
<br>* Saiya is definitely not shy and adds a bit of tongue to the mix ;)
<br>* Fritz is extremely red and a little breathless when they break apart
<br>* Galatea will waggle her eyebrows at Saiya with a big grin.
<br><Saiya> mm, well, you certainly know what you're doing by now :D
<br><Mitula> oh my
<br><Fritz> @_@
<br>* Norn is now known as Mhireen
<br><Mhireen> Come on, I did ask we keep this from getting gross.
<br><Fritz> well @_@
<br><Fritz> Oh I'm so sorry!
<br>* Mhireen laughs.
<br>* Saiya giggles
<br><Saiya> Ignore him!
<br>* Fritz is all flustered now
<br><Mhireen> I'm kidding...mostly. :)

===Trev suggests that Mol and Paiza kiss, since they haven't had a go yet===
<br><Trev> Well, who's not had a chance yet? Molgrin? Paiza? If you'd like to even things out a bit, you could have a go
<br><Raveni> Has anyone not had a turn yet?
<br>* Mhireen is now known as Paiza
<br><Molgrin> Oh, um, that's okay.... I mean... 
<br>* Molgrin looks awkwardly at Paiza
<br>* Paiza freezes, then glances at Mol and then Firrin.
<br>* Firrin had been enjoying being out of the spotlight but turns and gives Trev a Look
<br>* Trev smiles as he takes another drink
<br><Paiza> I mean, um, I don't want to force anything...
<br><Paiza> I'm happy just to watch. I mean, with everyone. As part of the game, I mean.
<br><Trev> Ah, it's all in good fun, eh?
<br><Fritz> Oh, just to complete the circle :D
<br>* Fritz is still a bit dazed
<br>* Paiza pales, which is saying something considering her ice-blue complexion.
<br><Saiya> We don't want anyone to be left out :D
<br>* Paiza looks at Mol with a helpless face.
<br>* Molgrin looks vaguely trapped, but shrugs
<br><Molgrin> I suppose?
<br><Firrin> ...
<br><Raveni> It's only fair, Molgrin
<br><Paiza> Well, I don't want to be rude...
<br><Firrin> ah.. I...
<br>* Molgrin will get up and slowly cross to where Paiza is sitting.
<br>* Firrin is beyond flustered
<br>* Firrin looks up at him
<br>* Paiza smiles awkwardly as Molgrin approaches.
<br>* Molgrin looks at him, not really knowing what to do, wishing he could be anywhere else
<br>* Firrin looks between them, tail twitching, though he grabs it
<br><Firrin> You..
<br><Firrin> I'm sorry :)  Will you please :)  Excuse me :)
<br><Molgrin> ...
<br>* Firrin will get up suddenly and quickly exit the room
<br><Paiza> Firrin...?
<br><Fritz> oh no!
<br><Paiza> I should probably...
<br><Molgrin> Um... yeah.  go ahead... 
<br><Trev> Boo!
<br>* Molgrin will head off in the opposite direction from wherever Firrin exited the room
<br>* Trev finishes his drink
<br>* Molgrin is now known as Ioana
<br>* Fritz looks from one side to the other

===Lady Ionana appears, and the party breaks up===
<br>* Ioana enters the room just as Mol is leaving it, and sees the aftermath of this game
<br><Galatea> @.@
<br><Fritz> ... Mother :o
<br><Ioana> Is everything all right? It's getting quite late and I just came down to check on everything.
<br>* Raveni is having a small mental breakdown at having snogged Fritz while his mother was apparently at home
<br>* Ioana smiles, not too concerned about kissing games, but a little concerned about people storming off upset.
<br><Galatea> Uh, we were just winding down for the evening, I think Aunt Ioana.
<br><Galatea> I think?
<br><Fritz> oh, um... yes...  perhaps.....
<br><Ioana> Oh, all right.  I hope I didn't interrupt!
<br>* Mitula stands quickly, but with exacting grace, and smoothes her robes.
<br><Trev> The game seems to have ended
<br><Fritz> well... thank you everyone...
<br>* Fritz says a bit awkwardly
<br><Saiya> It was a really lovely night :3
<br>* Saiya says sincerely
<br><Galatea> Yes, it was, overall, quite a pleasant evening.
<br><Fritz> oh, yes @_@
<br><Galatea> Perhaps someone should go check on Mr. Braalk?
<br>* Fritz glances after Mol
<br><Trev> where did my shoes end up...
<br>* Raveni is watching Norn when he thinks no one is looking
<br><Saiya> Thank you for having me, Fritz >:D
<br>* Fritz blushes deeply again, especially since his mother is here
<br>* Saiya says with a little bit of a devious edge to her voice
<br><Mitula> yes, thank you very much for the hospitality.
<br><Fritz> That you for your, ah, company ^_^
<br>* Ioana pretends she didn't hear that
<br>* Galatea is now known as Norn
<br><Saiya> I hope we can see one another again VERY soon :D
<br><Norn> Yes, indeed, thank you for your gracious invitation and a lovely evening, Lord Frederick.
<br><Fritz> You;re all quite welcome!  Thank you all for coming!
<br>* Norn is defaulting to extreme formality.
<br><Raveni> Yes, thank you Fritz
<br>* Raveni says with a wink
<br><Trev> Ha! Under the couch!
<br>* Norn composure wavers a little at that, but nods.
<br>* Trev leans against Euphrastus while putting his shoes back on
<br><Fritz> I hope do too, Miss Harrowden!
<br>* Norn is now known as Galatea
<br><Fritz> (hope so)
<br><Galatea> We'll have to do it again soon. Get together, I mean, of course. :)
<br><Fritz> Galatea, can you see everyone out please?  I'd like to go check on Mr. Braalk
<br>* Galatea nods.
<br><Galatea> Of course.
<br><Fritz> thank you
<br>* Galatea will definitely go whisper excitedly with Saiya after Fritz leaves the room.
<br>* Fritz gives everyone a bow but Saiya a particularly charmed smile
<br>* Saiya gives him a playful little wave as she departs
<br>* Raveni turns to Norn as they are about to part
<br><Raveni> Goodnight, Norn
<br>* Galatea is now known as Norn
<br>* Raveni kisses his hand and then hurries away
<br>* Norn can't help but smile at the farewell, then is completely and pleasantly shocked by the hand kiss.
<br><Norn> ...Goodnight...
<br>* Norn just stands there a little shell-shocked.
<br>* Ioana is now known as Molgrin
<br><Euphrastus> Well ... that was certainly eventful.
<br><Norn> Well put, Euphrastus.
<br><Trev> You know, Euphrastus, the night is still young. I may know of a few places we could while away the hours, perhaps find some company?
<br><Euphrastus> Uh ... what sorts of places?
<br><Trev> Many quite reputable! Some less so, but a great deal of fun.
<br><Euphrastus> The difficulty, you will find, with travelling with a cyclops, is that virtually nothing you do is unobtrusive.
<br><Trev> I daresay that will be a bonus
<br><Euphrastus> Well then ... lead on, I suppose!
<br>* Norn manages to come back to himself enough to chuckle at the two of them, and will follow them out.

===Paiza checks in on her fiancé===
<br>* Firrin has gone out to oen of the other balconies
<br>* Paiza will follow him out and, for once, not pay much attention to the height and approach Firrin directly.
<br><Paiza> I'm sorry, that was, uh, rather unfortunate.
<br>* Firrin quickly wipes his face
<br>* Galatea is now known as Norn
<br><Firrin> Yes... I'm... i'm sorry, I lost my composure 
<br>* Firrin sniffs
<br><Paiza> I think that's understandable, given the circumstances.
<br><Firrin> I should have know, we should have just left after the stupid drawing game...
<br>* Firrin wipes his face aggressively again
<br><Paiza> Well, we can leave now. I'm really very sorry, Firrin.
<br>* Paiza puts a hand on his back, attempting to console him.
<br>* Norn is now known as Galatea
<br><Firrin> it's, none of this is *your<br>* fault
<br><Firrin> Let's just go.
<br><Paiza> Regardless, that doesn't mean I'm not sorry you're in distress.
<br>* Firrin sniffs again and will try and pull himself together
<br>* Paiza nods.
<br><Paiza> I think everyone is heading out, so we can slip out without drawing too much attention.
<br>* Galatea is now known as Norn
<br><Firrin> very good.  :S
<br>* Paiza will lead Firrin back to the entrance.
<br><Paiza> Are you up to send for the carriage? I can make our goodbyes to our hosts.
<br><Firrin> Yes.  I can manage.  
<br><Firrin> thank you
<br>* Ioana is now known as Molgrin
<br>* Paiza will go do that, and meet him shortly at the carriage.
<br>* Fritz looks a little recovered, in the fresh air
<br><Fritz> (gah)
<br>* Firrin looks a little recovered, in the fresh air
<br>* Firrin will assist her onto the waiting carrriage, though he still seems subdued
<br><Paiza> Thank you.
<br><Paiza> Are you...feeling any better?
<br><Firrin> I'm feeling terribly embarassed
<br><Paiza> I don't think you need to be. Certainly not with me, and I doubt with the others as well.
<br>* Firrin wavers
<br><Firrin> You are...so kind to say so
<br>* Firrin sniffs, holding hisb face like he can keep himself from crying again
<br><Paiza> Did you want to talk about it? We do have at least a little bit of a ride back, and we can ask them to go slow.
<br><Firrin> oh it wil sounds to stupid after... after all of that
<br><Paiza> However do you mean?
<br><Firrin> I mean with Mol...  
<br><Firrin> I don't know what to do
<br><Paiza> What would you *like<br>* to do?
<br>* Firrin sniffs and shakes his head
<br><Firrin> I really, I don't know
<br><Firrin> He... he kissed me
<br><Paiza> Oh.
<br><Firrin> and i dn't know what to do
<br>* Firrin starts crying again
<br><Paiza> All right. Um, when? He mentioned wishing he could change this last week...?
<br><Paiza> Oh, Firrin.
<br>* Paiza will hug him, and then rub his back.
<br>* Firrin nods
<br><Paiza> Did you not want him to kiss you? And you don't want to lose your friend? Or you did want him to, but still have the same fear?
<br><Firrin> I feel like such a fraud and, and,  you just keep being so kind
<br><Paiza> A fraud how? The service thing? I already said it's not a problem for me.
<br><Paiza> And this...I'm not so naive as to think you might not have had experiences before we met, and, well...a marriage at our station is an arrangement and a partnership, but I'm well aware it's not always a romantic one.
<br><Firrin> I know... I *know<br>* that but *he<br>* said...
<br>* Firrin just breaks down into more serious tears
<br>* Paiza will wait patiently and rubs Firrin's back some more.
<br>* Firrin fights to come back under control
<br><Firrin> He doens't understand
<br><Paiza> What doesn't he understand?
<br><Firrin> that if things aren't...  romantic... that i can't possibly be happy and...  I just don't know
<br><Paiza> You can't be happy if things aren't romantic *with me*, or with him, or...?
<br><Firrin> With you and...
<br><Firrin> oh :(
<br><Firrin> I'm sorry, we barely know each other, this is so unfair
<br><Paiza> Fair often has very little to do with it.
<br><Paiza> I'd rather know the circumstances in which I find myself.
<br><Paiza> And you seem determined to judge yourself quite harshly.
<br><Paiza> I promise I will mention if I am upset.
<br>* Firrin nods
<br><Firrin> I will try to do better
<br><Paiza> For yourself, I hope.
<br>* Paiza tries to sound encouraging.
<br><Firrin> ...of...of course
<br>* Firrin says, having no idea what that woud even look like
<br><Firrin> you're... you're really not upset?
<br><Paiza> Should I be? I'm concerned about you, and a bit about Mr. Braalk, but not particularly for myself.
<br><Firrin> I don't know.  this is all so...confusing
<br><Paiza> Which part?
<br><Firrin> oh...  Mol.... and You...
<br>* Firrin seems thtough the worst of the crying and just seems sad
<br><Firrin> I should be able to manage this....
<br><Paiza> Okay, well...nothing is set in stone just yet, I suppose.
<br>* Firrin looks a bit terrified when you say that
<br><Paiza> Is it...a question of figuring out what you *want<br>* to do versus what you feel you *should<br>* do?
<br>* Paiza looks both sympathetic and sad.
<br><Firrin> No, No, I'm sorry it's not like *that<br>* :)
<br><Firrin> It's fine!  Everythign will be fine :)
<br><Firrin> Please don't be sad!
<br><Fritz> I shouldn't have said anything, please just forget about it :)
<br><Fritz> (gah)
<br><Paiza> Oh, no, like i said, I'd rather know what's going on.
<br><Firrin> I shouldn't have said anything, please just forget about it :)
<br><Paiza> I do like you, quite a bit, and I think we could make a good life together. I *am<br>* sad, but...well, I hope it's not insulting to say it's not entirely about you.
<br><Firrin> oh, no, of course...  I know, you said, you have your own story, of course...
<br><Paiza> Would it help if I shared it?
<br><Paiza> So *you<br>* know what you're getting into?
<br><Firrin> I think.... maybe, yes.
<br><Paiza> ...I was engaged before.
<br><Paiza> A few years ago.
<br>* Firrin nods
<br><Paiza> I thought I was in love. If I'm being honest, I *was<br>* in love.
<br><Paiza> *I<br>* was in love, specifically, if that makes sense.
<br><Firrin> I think so, yes...
<br><Paiza> I *thought<br>* he was as well, but...
<br>* Paiza sighs.
<br><Firrin> Did he treat you poorly?
<br><Paiza> He was from a minor Aethrennari family, but he was marked, and handsome, and charming; everything I could want in a partner, really.
<br>* Paiza evades the question for the moment.
<br>* Firrin listens
<br><Paiza> We had a whirlwind romance, really, the stuff of fairy tales. My grandparents approved, of course; they needed me to produce heirs, and my beloved could rise higher in Thantopolis than ever he could in Aethrennar.
<br>* Firrin nods
<br><Paiza> My cousins, the stirps Kutallus, had been working for some time to take our place as the heads of the family. They weren't too happy about it, so they looked further into this dream match than I or my grandparents did.
<br><Paiza> Well, they found out my fiance was...less than truthful. His family wasn't nobility, of any rank, wealth, or station.
<br><Paiza> He wasn't even dragonmarked. It was a fake. I hadn't even been aware that was possible, but apparently there is something of a market for it for con men and the like.
<br><Paiza> When I confronted him about it, he fled. He didn't even say goodbye, really.
<br>* Firrin blinks in surprise, as that's news to him as well
<br><Paiza> It had...never been true for him. Had never been anything.
<br><Firrin> I'm so sorry
<br><Firrin> that's awful
<br><Firrin> that's just cruel
<br><Paiza> And here I was, jilted and embarrassed, back at square one, with a broken heart and a good portion of my family more than happy that it went the way it did.
<br>* Paiza tears up a little, but otherwise seems to be keeping in any further emotions.
<br>* Firrin will take her hand
<br>* Paiza tries to give a brave smile.
<br><Firrin> I...
<br><Firrin> Paiza, I have no wish to repeat any of that, for you
<br><Paiza> It was a few years ago. I'm...it shouldn't hit me this hard still.
<br><Firrin> Why not?  It sounds terrible
<br><Firrin> I don't think that I can offer you anything like, well, like what you thought you had, but I can try and be...  a good partner.
<br><Firrin> but...
<br><Firrin> I am not sure that my... claims, such as they are, would hold up to any better scrutiny
<br><Paiza> How do you mean? You demonstrated your dragonmark earlier tonight.
<br><Firrin> Yes, that's real
<br><Firrin> Bu...  my father, Mr Malassar....
<br><Paiza> Isn't your biological father?
<br>* Firrin opens his mouth, but closes it nervously, and squeezes her hand
<br><Firrin> He's claimed it's so.  And my mother...
<br><Paiza> I think that's likely good enough to be going on with.
<br>* Paiza smiles softly and squeezes Firrin's hand back.
<br><Firrin> If it satisfies you....  and won't cause you any further trouble....
<br><Paiza> As I said before, it shouldn't be too much of a problem in Thantopolis, and I can't imagine anyone in Highmark being so interested as to look into it. And, if your mother and...your father claim it, what can anyone say?
<br><Paiza> But I don't want to trap anyone in something that will make them miserable. This match helps me, too, Firrin, but if it's going to cost you any chance at happiness, I wouldn't wish that on anyone, least of all you.
<<br><Firrin> You've done much to reassure me that I would not be miserable.
<br><Firrin> But....  I wish, ah, people, would trust me to set my own priorities for my situation.
<br><Paiza> All right.
<br><Paiza> I will do my best to do so.
<br><Paiza> So what would you prefer to do, right now?
<br><Fritz> It's quite late....  if you would like, I can take you home or....  perhaps we can go up to the park, and look at the stars?
<br><Paiza> I'm not particularly tired yet. The park sounds quite nice. :)

===Fritz checks on Mol===
<br>* Fritz can look through the house until he finds Mol
<br><Fritz> Mr. Braalk?
<br>* Molgrin has wandered into some out of the way corridor and gotten turned around
<br><Molgrin> oh, yes? hello? 
<br><Fritz> Are you well?
<br><Molgrin> Oh, thank you for asking, I am ... rather out of sorts, I suppose? I apologize for causing any trouble.
<br><Fritz> oh well, my mother came down and the party is breaking up so, everythign is well :)
<br>* Fritz says, seeming sincere
<br><Molgrin> I hope you're right.
<br><Molgrin> I can't seem to do anything without messing things up lately.
<br>* Molgrin says with a sigh
<br><Fritz> I don't think you did anything wrong?
<br><Molgrin> I should have found a way to refuse politely that wouldn't make anyone feel uncomfortable or insulted.
<br><Fritz> is that what happened?
<br><Fritz> I wasn't sure, but I thought ie mad most sense to let Lady Paiza handle it
<br><Fritz> but aI can't see why it would be insulting?
<br><Fritz> Because they are engaged?
<br>* Fritz considereds
<br><Molgrin> Firrin was already upset with me.  Because of... other things. 
<br><Fritz> but *he<br>* kissed others, so why not her?
<br><Fritz> oh....
<br>* Molgrin says vaguely
<br><Fritz> Well, still, he could have said something too and not just been so dramatic so, really
<br><Fritz> Making things even more awkward I should think!
<br><Molgrin> I suppose he didn't want to say whatever he was really thinking, it would have been a worse scene if he had :/
<br><Fritz> But don't worry, I think everyone was quite distracted
<br><Molgrin> Oh... well, it's kind of you to say so.  I'm sorry for ending the evening on such a sour note.  It was a very pleasant dinner.
<br><Fritz> oh really, please don't worry!
<br><Molgrin> You were a perfect host and it's my own fault for making a mess of things.
<br><Fritz> I don't think anythin is so serious as that, well, I odn't know your business with Mr. malassar, but no one else was upset
<br><Fritz> I think most pepl were still wuite pleased!
<br>* Molgrin nods
<br><Fritz> so, cheer up :)  nothign is so messed up!
<br>* Molgrin forces a smile at that
<br><Molgrin> Yes, probably so. 
<br><Fritz> would hyou care for a brandy, perhaps?
<br><Molgrin> Oh, well... if it isn't any trouble? Perhaps?
<br><Fritz> of course!
<br>* Fritz will direct you to a library looking room and find us each a drink
<br><Fritz> here we are!
<br><Molgrin> Thank you... I appreciate your kindness.
<br><Fritz> Oh well!  I'm the host!
<br><Molgrin> Still... 
<br><Fritz> I'm supposed to make sure everyone is havign a *good<br>* time and I feel like *i'm<br>* the one who messed up
<br><Molgrin> No, no, I don't think there was anything you did wrong.  
<br><Molgrin> It was me being foolish... again.
<br>* Molgrin takes a rather large swig of his drink
<br><Fritz> well I shoudl have been less... absorbed, perhaps, and see you were all so distressed!
<br><Molgrin> Well, you're allowed to have fun too, aren't you? I mean it's your party, after all.
<br><Fritz> well yes.... but having fun at the expense of one's gues doens't seem the thing!
<br>* Fritz also has some of his brandy
<br><Fritz> Idid have a very nice time....  
<br><Molgrin> That's good
<br><Molgrin> I mean you got to kiss a bunch of people, and ... oh, gods, Nezva! Is she just waiting for me?? I came with her, she probably expects me to leave with her too...
<br>* Molgrin remembers abruptly
<br><Fritz> oh goodness!  I'm sorry, I didn't realize!
<br><Fritz> well we can go and fine her, then
<br><Fritz> (find)
<br>* Fritz wonders why *she<br>* didn't come check on you, then
<br>* Molgrin finishes his drink hastily
<br>* Fritz just leaves his with the confidence of someone who has grown up with servants
<br>* Molgrin will apologize to Nezva for leaving her stranded, once he finds her


===Mol and Firrin meet up to try and talk things through===
<br>* Molgrin will come to the fountain in the square at the designated time. He's wearing the russet coat that Firrin picked out, and a pair of well-fitted trousers.
<br>* Firrin will be come a little early to the fountain at peach blossom square
<br>* Firrin is looking into the water, but looks up and look around when the local clock chimes noon
<br>* Firrin is wearing grey and blue today, looking overall very soft
<br><Molgrin> Hello...
<br><Firrin> oh, hello.
<br>* Molgrin looks nervous
<br>* Firrin too, honestly
<br><Firrin> shall, ah, I mean, do you want to sit?
<br>* Firrin indicates the edge of the fountain
<br><Molgrin> If you like.  
<br><Firrin> please?
<br>* Molgrin nods
<br>* Firrin will sit
<br>* Molgrin sits down as well
<br><Firrin> Mol I...
<br><Firrin> ./me looks over and gives you a somewhat hesitant smile
<br>* Firrin looks over and gives you a somewhat hesitant smile
<br><Firrin> I missed your friendship for a long time.  I don't want to lose you because... becausw we can't be sensible.
<br>* Molgrin smiles back
<br><Firrin> Can we?
<br><Molgrin> Can we... be sensible?
<br><Firrin> yes or... can we be friends?
<br><Molgrin> Oh.  Well... yes, if you wish.  I thought you wouldn't want that.  I was somewhat expecting that you would say we should not see one another again.
<br>* Firrin looks pained at that
<br><Firrin> I don't want that
<br>* Firrin crosses his arms over his chest
<br><Molgrin> Because... I drove you away. I was wrong, and I misjudged things.  I thought you must hate me.
<br><Firrin> I was... I am... upset.  I don't hate you.
<br><Molgrin> Good.
<br><Firrin> I don't think I could.
<br>* Firrin looks at you again
<br>* Molgrin looks uneasy
<br><Molgrin> but you could if you wanted to! I wouldn't ... I don't mean to make you like me. I didn't.  I mean... I wasn't.
<br>* Molgrin says, flustered.
<br><Firrin> you're not making me do anything.
<br><Molgrin> I ... no.  I wasn't.  I'm not.  Just... my mark... 
<br>* Molgrin says awkwardly
<br>* Firrin looks puzzled, and maybe a bit thrown off
<br><Firrin> your mark?
<br><Molgrin> I can make people do things.  Um... not exactly like force them to.  More like... persuade them.  
<br><Molgrin> But I wasn't!
<br><Molgrin> I mean I don't think I was - not on purpose.  
<br><Firrin> Oh...  I suppose.  it must be a Frternity mark, if Dovah Aeildar thought you might be his...
<br>* Molgrin nods
<br><Molgrin> I just didn't want you to think I would do something like that to you.  I would never.
<br><Firrin> I...  I don't think you would, no.
<br><Firrin> But Mol.
<br><Firrin> Do you understand why...what upset me?
<br><Molgrin> Do you mean at the party, or ... before that? :/
<br><Firrin> Oh the stupid party.  I should have just avoided it.  But I meant before
<br>* Firrin looks back over, giving yout a searching look
<br><Molgrin> Well, I went over and over it, and I thought you must not feel the same as I do.  And that I had overstepped and mistaken your friendship for something more. And that you are engaged to Lady Paiza so it was doubly inappropriate.
<br>* Molgrin says quietly
<br><Firrin> No.  I - maybe I had been behaving inappropriately, I wasn't thinking, I... but no.
<br><Firrin> I's not a matter of feelings
<br><Molgrin> You didn't do anything wrong
<br>* Molgrin interjects briefly
<br><Firrin> I wa trying to explain and...  I felt like, you must not have been listening at all, or, you think so little of my coices..
<br><Molgrin> I'm sorry.  I was probably a bit distracted with... other thoughts.  
<br>* Molgrin says, blushing
<br><Molgrin> I didn't mean to make you think I didn't want to listen.
<br><Firrin> Mol that... that's not okay.
<br><Molgrin> What?
<br><Molgrin> I'm sorry.  I am trying to listen.  Can you please explain?
<br><Firrin> I mean.. that night.  I suppose, I don't know what you were thinking but...
<br><Firrin> I was trying to explain my situation but it... it wasn't an *invitation*
<br><Firrin> and I do... did... wish things were different, but they arn't.
<br><Molgrin> I didn't think it was an invitation... I mean... not that way.  We had a good time together that day, I thought we shared some moments, and I thought we might share more.  Obviously I was wrong, and I apologized.  It wasn't because... because I don't respect you or wasn't listening to you. 
<br><Firrin> I'm sorry if I led you to think that.... that other things were possible.  
<br><Molgrin> It was my mistake. 
<br><Firrin> But it felt like....  like you were trying to tell me that I should choose differently than I have.
<br><Firrin> It wasn't a mistake, I just...
<br>* Firrin makes a kind of lost/grasping gesture
<br><Firrin> I can't.  that's all.
<br><Molgrin> Well... Perhaps I don't really understand why you have chosen what you have.  I am sure you have good reasons, and I understand of course that a match with Lady Paiza has advantages - but you seemed so unhappy with the choice you made.  I only wanted to say... that I want you to be happy.  And if I am wrong, and you're happy with this choice, then I do respect that.
<br><Molgrin> Or if you decided that there are things more important than your happiness.... 
<br><Molgrin> then I would feel awful about that.  But not because I think you are foolish or that I don't respect you.  Because I want you to be happy.  And because I would regret that circumstances that brought you to that decision.  
<br>* Molgrin looks over at you to see if he is just making you more upset
<br>* Firrin seems sad, bit not *upset*
<br><Firrin> Weel.  I'm not in a position where I can put happiness as a proioerity, but many poeple are not.  Most peapl, evem, I would imagine.
<br><Firrin> There's the practical matter of... of living, that has to come first
<br><Molgrin> But there are other ways to live.  This isn't the only option, is it? 
<br><Firrin> When I came back to Highmark with mother....  no, there were not so many avenues to take.
<br><Firrin> And I fear that... that trying to divert my course, at this juncture would land me,... us... in even more dire straights
<br><Molgrin> Can you tell me why?
<br><Firrin> My... my.  Mr. malassar.  Sir. has invested quite a lot in thie match.
<br><Firrin> (in this)
<br><Molgrin> Does he have some kind of hold over you? I mean... are you indebted to him, that you must fulfill his 'investment' in this way?
<br><Molgrin> I know you said that he has paid generously for your mother's care, but if there was some other way to pay for that, is there any other issue that I'm not understanding?
<br><Firrin> Well.  he certainly has not taken me in out of any sense of paternal responsibility
<br><Firrin> He's made nhis expecations of our...relationsip... quite clear.
<br><Molgrin> Which are?
<br><Firrin> I mean...  I am sure that he keeps accounts of every sovereign he spends on me and my mother, and that if the investment doesn'tpay off, he would expect that to be returned.  At the least.
<br>* Molgrin nods
<br><Firrin> and.... for all Lord frederick's party was otherwise disastrous....    It did allow me to spend more time with Lady paiza
<br><Firrin> She was able to reassure... some of my concerns.  She is exceedingly kind.
<br><Molgrin> Yes, she seems very kind, in the little I've spoken to her.
<br><Firrin> I think maybe I could find happiness, in the match, if not... romance,
<br><Molgrin> Well... if you feel that is the case, then I will be happy for you.
<br><Firrin> thank you.
<br>* Molgrin manages a faint smile
<br><Firrin> I... I'm not sure where that leaves us.
<br><Molgrin> Nor am I.  You said at the start that you wanted to be friends - is that still what you want?
<br><Firrin> Yes!
<br><Firrin> I meant that
<br>* Molgrin nods
<br><Molgrin> Then we should be friends. 
<br>* Firrin gives you a small smile
<br>* Molgrin smiles, trying to put a good front on the fact that his heart is breaking a little.
<br><Firrin> I'll try not to be... misleading.
<br><Molgrin> Mm.  I'll try not to overstep your wishes.
<br><Firrin> Thank you.
<br><Molgrin> ...what should we do now?
<br><Firrin> ahh. 
<br><Firrin> I hadn't thought that far ahead.
<br><Firrin> ..coffee?
<br>* Firrin says uncertainly
<br><Molgrin> That sounds good to me.
<br><Firrin> Well...  I don't really know this area well but perhaps we can...try something new.
<br>* Molgrin nods
<br>* Firrin gives that hesitant smile again

==Reputation==

==Rumor and Scandal==
(include only every second chapter)

==Epistolary==


{{AW}}{{AWRR}}